Fall back tonight! Monster.

It's been a long time since my last blog post! I have attempted to post multiple times, but each time I tried I was not able to type in to the content box for some reason. Last night I got the idea to try to open up my blog in Google Chrome instead of my usual Internet Explorer. Well, I tried it and it worked. It must have been a glitch with Internet Explorer 8 or something? Regardless. Here I am. :)

The past two weeks I have been very busy with training for an upcoming job. I am not allowed to say the name of the company I will be taking calls for because I don't work for this particular company, but I am allowed to say the company I will be taking calls for is Se*rs. :) See, I work as an independent contractor for Arise Virtual Services and Se*rs works with them to hire people to work from home. It's just a seasonal position through the busy holiday season, but it will be something for now. 

The training is kicking my ass. It falls right flat dab in the middle of the afternoon (2-6) and totally cramps my social life. It's hard to get my errands  and phone calls done, too. I have eight more days left and I hope they go fast. The instructor is very rough around the edges, which makes the class less tolerable. He says the most insulting and rude things to us. There are only eight of us in the class and he gets so impatient if we don't answer his questions like Johnny-on-the-spot. He says yells, 'Come on guys you should know this. Are you out of it? Are you awake' I think it's rather rude for him to ask us if we are out of it as if we are all on some some of recreational drugs. I have to stop myself from getting rude back! I just yell mean and obscene things at my monitor. :)

Alexandra my kitty is doing wonderful!! I love her so much! A couple weeks ago my boyfriend brought home another kitty. It walked up to him at the Marathon gas station and appeared to be hungry. It jumped in the car (or so he said) and he brought him home. At first I thought the poor thing looked as if he had been hit with the ugly stick, but he has since grown on me and I think he is ADORABLE!! He is full of so much energy though and Alexandra and my dogs aren't used to that. Alexandra hisses at him, Lady is afraid of him and Buddy wants him for dinner. I'm not sure what our plans are for him, but we are going to get him fixed and get him checked by a vet. My boyfriend thought his dad might want him. For now, I call him Monster.  :)

Festivals, doctor appointment

Hi friends, hope you had a good weekend! Saturday I spent the day with my friend Leslie and her little sister (Big Brother/Big Sister) Aleya. We first went to the Enon Apple Butter Festival. This is where I ate the best tasting cheeseburger ever. I wish I could mimic it at home, but I don't know what the secret is. It was well done, the bun was toasted and cheese was oozing. :) This festival was small, but had a lot of vendors and people.

Our next stop was the Yellow Springs Street Fair. I always enjoy going here because of the vendors and the people. I am a big people watcher and this place is filled with people to watch! :) The hippies with their long dread locks, tye-dyed apparel, bohemian style dresses and with their make love not war attitude...it's a win at the Yellow Springs Street Fair. :)

Afterwards we went to Leslie's and hung out in the yard while babysitting her cute curly haired grandson. He was non stop on the move. :) One minute he was on the slide, the next on the bike, the next he was feeding the dog popcorn...LOL. We also spent time with Leslie's step daughter, who was getting ready to attend her first homecoming dance. She looked very pretty.

Today I went to the doctor. I needed to give a urine sample because I'm 100% certain I have a urinary tract infection. I also have a spot on my cheek (face, not bum) that keeps recurring. It's a small dry scab that goes away and comes back every few days. I thought she would want to biopsy the skin, but instead she just froze it off. :) That was the first time I had something frozen off. It was easy and just stung a little. I wonder what else can be frozen off??? :)

When things get tough....

Last night while lying in bed, I began thinking about the things that are weighing on me. I thought about  how frustrating it is to have things burdening me and having no means of fixing them. I have family and friends who rely on god to help them get through their struggles. They say they put "it" in god's hands and he will guide them through what needs to be done. I myself have never had that "relationship" with god. I didn't grow up in a family that attended church. I cannot ever recall having a conversation with my parents that involved a higher power.

I have often thought about those who are spiritual and have faith. It seems that those who can rely on a higher power to get them through the rough patches in life, are possibly healthier and more optimistic than those who don't. I honestly don't have that and it makes me somewhat envious of those who can.

Many times on Facebook I run across a post that someone is requesting a prayer request for themselves or for loved ones. I don't want to ignore their request, but I also don't promise a prayer because I would be fibbing! Instead I respond with, "Thinking of you" or something similar. I don't know why I cannot break the wall that separates me and prayer.... it's complicating!

Many years ago while in a nursing home I received physical therapy. The Physical Therapist was friendly and struck up a conversation about her past. She admitted to not going down the right path when she was younger. She was on the verge of leaving town and giving up everything. She said while driving down the highway she received a "message" from God. She went on and on and dummy me showed interest and this fueled her fire. For weeks she would come in my room and start encouraging me to find God. She said all I had to do was ask god to come in my life and I'd be saved. Again, I didn't cave.

Looking back I realize how unethical this was. She should not have been pushing her spiritual beliefs on a patient, especially to the degree she was. In her defense though, it was something she felt strong about and it turned her life around for the better! Maybe she wanted me to feel what she felt. :)

Not so power wheelchair, Autumn, Employment?

Hello! :) As I type away, updating my blog I'm sitting in a power chair that is broken down and not serving it's purpose!! It's allowing me to sit up so I'm not in bed, which is a good thing... I'm stuck in one place and unable to move around, that's the bad thing. I operate my wheelchair with a chin control and it seems after just a couple months of use, the control conks out and doesn't operate correctly. I can move backwards and to the right and left, but not forward. I have a call in to the wheelchair company. They are trying to expedite everything so I can get a new control without waiting for insurance coverage, etc. Wish me luck! :)

Today my nursing assistant and I decorated the front porch. We gave it an autumn theme complete with pumpkins, gourds, a bale of straw, corn shock and a small broom made from corn husk. I usually don't invest the time or money on Halloween or the fall season, but this year I found a way to do it cheap. A farmer down the street has a large stand at the end of his drive way. It's full of produce, mums and items used to decorate (Straw, brooms) that are much cheaper than what you pay in the store. :)

Employment. What to say?? The position that I interviewed for last week is still in limbo. I haven't heard back. In order for me to move forward with this company, my vocational rehab counselor needed to let them know she supports my employment. I'm not certain why the need for a rehab counselor exactly, but she did let them know she supports my employment.

Job interview. Nasty neighbor and Nerdiest State is Ohio??

 

Hello! As I mentioned in my last post, Saturday I was busy filling out job applications. Well, I surprisingly received two calls Monday morning. One was regarding a work from home position and the other was a brick and mortar position around Dayton.  I was really excited to move forward with both job potentials to see how each would pan out for me.

 

Up until today, I had been playing phone tag with one girl who was from the brick and mortar place. When we spoke this afternoon, she asked me what hours I preferred and if I wanted full time or part time. I said I preferred part time and would like evenings. That is when she said the hours are from 4:30PM-1:00AM Monday through Friday. It's a 40 Hour work week. I told her I will apply again if that shift becomes a possibility.

 

At 2:00 I had an interview with the company that hires people to work from home. Right off the bat the lady who was doing the interview could not hear me. Ugh!! She called back from another phone, which was a bit better than before... but, the problem still existed. The interview was going swell, I felt confident, then she asked how many words I typed a minute. I said 25. She said, "Oh, for this position you are expected to type 30. I then politely said, "Well, in the job description it says applicants need to type 25-30 wpm. That is why I applied. Well, I thought we had worked beyond that because she kept saying she thought I was a good candidate. She then asked how I type. I explained it was an onscreen keyboard with word prediction (I can save words, type faster) and I explained how my head movement maneuvers the mouse, etc. Well, she then felt the software might not be compatible with the company's software. So, again I'm digging myself out of this assumption she has and trying to explain I have worked for many companies over the past 10 years (even their company) and it's not been an issue. She still felt she needed to escalate some questions to HR. I understood completely, but at the same time I'm worried that just the fact that the software could pose a compatibility issue, is a strike against me. Before we ended the interview she asked me to take a typing test that she would send me through e-mail. I said, "Sure" and I typed 32 wpm. Yay me, but I don't think it will get me any closer to getting this job. She sent it from an email address with a do not reply. :(

 

On a lighter note. Evidently Ohio is the nerdiest state. I got this factoid from the Dayton Daily News!! I thought that was a low blow until I saw some of the titles that the other states earned! Who does this research? and isn't there better things to spend money on?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Troy, Ohio was popular and made it in to an episode of  20/20. It was about a neighbor (A) on one side of the street who didn't get along with the neighbor (B) across the street. It showed scenes where neighbor B taunted his neighbor A with shining an orange light in her windows, he called her a whore, he let his grass and plants grow really long, he painted cruel things on his tree that referred to her son.... I would think that Neighbor A making this squabble national news would only provoke neighbor B????  Click below for the video.

 

http://bcove.me/9u5nuvg3

Manic Monday

Hello readers, I hope you had an enjoyable weekend! :) My weekend was pretty good! I ended up staying home and taking it easy. I filled out some online job applications for customer service representative positions, which ate up most of my Saturday  afternoon. That's ok though, maybe something good will evolve from that?? :)

I am still so fricking discouraged about the money that was stolen! I keep telling myself that it could be much worse! Unfortunately that is only a temporary reprieve. Ugh!! I cannot fathom how someone could be so effing cruel and steal something that was never meant for them. My mind does not operate the same as someone's who thinks it's okay to steal from others!! Unfortunately I have been in company with someone who does and possibly for a very long time. :( Loser!!!!

TGIF, shrimp festival and people who steal

Hi, Happy Friday! :) I hope my blog readers have a great weekend!! I myself don't have a lot going on this weekend. Tomorrow I will be job searching again. Boy, this has been a struggle! It's been a struggle for many people, I know it's not just me. My friend is also drinking from the same cup! He has a college degree in business (I think) and has been job searching since December. Nowadays finding a decent well paying job is like nailing jello to a fricking wall!.

On Sunday I may go to the shrimp festival. Terrapin Moon plays there from 3:30-5:30 so my nursing assistant & I might tag along. We'll see. :)

I learned yesterday that the piggy bank that houses all of our spare change that we have collected over the past few years was stolen!!! Also, a bag of coins that were all ready rolled and counted was stolen also!! It was over 1,100.00! Nothing else was missing. I am 100% convinced it was an inside job. It had to have been someone who knew we had that money and where it was kept. I am so angry! That was what we were going to use to help with kitchen cabinets...I hope karma gets the frickin loser who stole from us!!

Not only are we out a large amount of money, but for me...I feel so violated.

Doppleganger and Best dad ever

One can never ingest too much knowledge! Today while watching Kelly & Michael I learned about the word Doppleganger. It is defined as someone that looks like you, but has no blood relationship to you. I have been asked a few times if I have a twin sister who works at a restaurant in Vandalia. I have a twin, but she does not work at a restaurant in Vandalia nor has she ever. My sister and I actually look very little alike. It's funny that there is someone out there that looks more like me than my own twin does. :)

Yesterday I was watching The Talk and it got funny. The ladies were telling their viewers about a Dad who was tired of telling his daughter to change her short shorts and decided to get even one day. It happened when his wife told their daughter to change out of her slutty shorts before they go out to dinner and she said No. The girl's dad left and came back with his own man version of daisy duke's. Best Dad Ever :) I can't help to think if this was my dad wearing some denim short shorts and showing that much leg I'd find myself hiding behind a wig, sunglasses AND the menu. HeHe! In all reality though I think this dad is probably a great dad who wants the best for his daughter! He seems really cool and knows how to have fun!! :)

Relationship hiccups & Saying good bye to summer

Hello! I hope you had a great weekend! This weekend was a nonchalant one for me, but I'm not complaining. :) On Sunday I watched the Eagles/San Diego game, read from an online book called, "Pride and Prejudice" and applied for a job. On Saturday I stayed home and did some things on my computer and Friday night my boyfriend and I got in a big tiff. It's actually still in the air as we have not spoken five words since! I'm not proud of it! I have done a lot of thinking about it and not sure what to do. We both said some awful things to each other and it opened my eyes! I know we aren't  happy together like we once were! We probably stick together because it's easier. It's more convenient. We have a house. We have animals. The thing we don't have is happiness! Oh we also don't communicate! Pft!!! He had a Dr's appointment today about his blood work results. I asked what the doctor said and he said, "Not much" and kept watching the television. He didn't even look at me.

The thought of being single again and starting a new relationship makes me cringe. I won't put the cart in front of the horse just yet, but I do need to start having dialogue with him. I need to see where he wants this relationship to go or if he even wants in it anymore... Anyway....tick tock tick tock

It was a sad hour today as my nursing assistant & I packed up most of my summer outfits and tucked them away in a big plastic tote. :( I now have my sweaters out and ready to face another Ohio Winter. :) Not really, but what can I do about it?? :)

Vertigo - NASCAR

Hi, I hope you are enjoying your week! Today I went to the doctor about my vertigo and dizzy spells. She checked my ears, eyes, breathing, blood pressure and shoulder movement. Everything was fine except I had fluid in my left ear and some build up in both. The medical assistant used an elephant ear wash to clean out my ears and it was awesome!! I also got a steroid injection because of the fluid in my ear and got a prescription for motion sickness. I'd rather not take another medication, but it's only temporary. :)

I watched the Richmond Sprint Car race Saturday night. I didn't think much of Clint Bowyer losing control of his car with 7 laps to go causing a caution, but Steve thought it was odd. He said that there was no debris and didn't really understand the caution. Today it came out that Michael Waltrip Racing attempted to manipulate the outcome of the race by causing that caution. Clint Bowyer, Martin Truex and Brian Vickers got penalized 50 points, which knocked Martin Truex Jr out of the chase and put Ryan Newman in as a wild car participant. Michael Waltrip Racing also got fined $300,000 and Ty Norris, executive vice president /General Manager and spotter for the #55 car got suspended indefinitely. The crew chiefs for these 3 drivers are on probation until December 31st.

That is some dirty racing. It makes me question the integrity of these racers, the crew chiefs and anybody involved!! I'm glad they are getting penalized!!

Happy dump day!

Hello!

My Happy Dump Day is not a typo, it's a reflection on how I feel. I am in a mood! If I could get my hands on the pesky fly that keeps buzzing around me, he'd be toast. Does he know I can't move my arms and that is why he is taunting the F out of me?? It sure feels like it!!

I am angry for another reason, but am going to refrain from posting it for obvious reasons. My Mom always told me not to write anything on paper if I didn't want others to see it. (Something like that anyway). I'm pretty certain documenting my feelings on a public blog falls in that category. :) It just seems like I get f%^ked over by the ones who should always have my back! I despise hypocrites! I'm a firm believer in karma and hold on to hope that said person gets it. I am a good person and have so much forgiveness in my heart. I am getting numbed by being let down and walked on. I know when the time comes and it's my time to go my conscious will be clean. Will yours??

Anyway...

Big Brother tonight made me laugh. Amanda got booted out, which was long overdue!! She is such a bully! On the down side, Elissa also went home (jury house) and that bummed me out. :( She was my favorite and I was hoping she would win.

Happy Labor Day

Hello! Well, the long weekend is winding down and our company will be leaving in the morning. The visit went fast as it always does and that is always the worst part.

Yesterday my nursing assistant, Jean & I went to Kohl's and Walmart. At Kohl's I bought a cute dress for only $7.80 which was marked down from $70.00. :) I have a wedding this weekend and class reunion coming up in a few weeks so maybe I can wear it to one of those events. :)

Tonight we grilled out for dinner and afterwards they played corn hole. I didn't think the games would ever end. ZZZzzzz! We were outside until dark and seeing the little sand bags became a chore! It was especially fun watching Mel and Jean play against each other. :)

Steve and his dad were busy doing odds and ends around the outside of the house today and yesterday. Saturday Jean painted Buddy & Lady's dog houses and Mel put shingles on the top. :) It looks nice and Buddy is sporting a few white stripes on his ear and tail because he didn't allow the paint to dry before he trekked through his dog house! :)

It won't be too much longer before the Fall weather takes over and our warm days are behind us, unfortunately. This weekend I noticed the leaves are coming down heavy and the trees are looking bare. :(

Mumford & Sons, Wright Pat Air Force Base

Hi! Happy Saturday! :) Tonight Mumford and Sons are playing right across town and I'm green with envy! I want to be there so bad and a tad bit salty that I am not. I wonder why they chose a wee tiny town like Troy, Ohio to play??? I think they must have attached a map on the wall, blindfolded someone, put a dart in their hand, spun them around and walah, the person hit Troy. No??? :) Anyway...I will wait, I will wait for you. Hehe!

Steve took his papa bear to Wright Patterson Air Force Base today. I wasn't invited, but that's ok, I didn't want to go anyway! I have been many many times. I used to go with the residents at the nursing home as this was a yearly activity outing. I wish I could say I enjoyed myself, but honestly my mind was focused on the hundreds of stares that my fellow roomies and I captured. The wheelchairs, ventilators, oxygen tanks, moans, grunts and urine bags were like eye candy to the buses and buses of little people gathering around at their teacher's direction. I think us crippled folks were way more interesting than any of the airplanes. I wasn't amused! I remember one little girl in particular. She was so engulfed in me and my apparatuses, she failed to realize her 50 pound body was blocking the whole isle, not allowing anybody to go by her. As I was glaring at this rude little creature my dad was attempting to tell her we needed to get by her. Needless to say he was more tolerant than myself, but he also understood my frustration.

The next year my brother got the ok to take a day off school and went with me. I had not been evaluated for an electric wheelchair; therefore, he pushed me in my manual wheelchair. He pushed me really fast in the wide open area and under the planes, which was a tad bit scary for me. He enjoyed seeing my fear and laughed at me. :) I had more fun this time around because my injury was not as raw as the first time around and it was good to spend the day with my brother. :)

TGIF, Salute the Troops, pictures

Hello! Happy Friday! I hope everybody has a great Labor Day weekend! :) I'm not exactly sure what our weekend holds. We will probably have a cook out with the family and maybe a bonfire, but nothing written in stone. :)  Steve's parents have been busy laying stone in the back yard and adding some flowers and small spruce trees. The dog houses are getting painted and topped with roofing shingles, too.

A few weeks ago I submitted a story about my niece to HLN Robin Meade's Salute the Troops. I did a voice recording early this week and today it was on the air. Tia heard it and was excited. :) If you have a soldier you want to salute, it's easy. Google Robin Meade's Support the Troops and you will get the details.

I have uploaded some pictures to share with you.

Here is a picture of a praying mantis that was in one of the trees in front of our house. My nursing assistant got really close as you can see.

 

The pictures below were taken on Wednesday at my Mom's cousin's husband's house. He and his daughter have beautiful landscaping and tons of flowers around the house. 

 

They also have a beautiful koi pond with a bridge and lots of greenery.

This is a large barn set back behind the house. The last time I was here, his granddaughter got married and the reception was in the barn. Behind the barn on the left sits a large pond, with a deck and ladder.

Below is a large green house. 

 

Sam's Club, vertigo, pink area

Hello! Today was a busy day! I spent much of the afternoon at Sam's Club with my nursing assistant. I hadn't been in awhile so I needed to stock up on the much needed bulk items. :) I then came home and laid in bed for a couple hours. Unfortunately, my pink area has returned!! It seems like it returns every time company is here! It's frustrating to be back in bed again, but hopefully it won't be long!

I stood for 2 hours this evening, which went well. Standing always makes my body feel better. It stretches my hip flexors and ankles which makes my sciatica pain go away and eases my back pain. :) I have been experiencing uncomfortable dizzy spells recently and I thought being off my  antibiotic would alleviate those, but unfortunately that isn't the case. I am going to make an appointment to see my doctor next week. I have been googling vertigo and it seems most cases are the result of "crystal like substances" in the ear. Ugh! It's so annoying! I will be glad when it's gone. :)

Happy Hump Day, family, more family and e-book :)

Hello! The week is going by fast. Steve' parents arrived early this afternoon. I haven't visited with them much because I had an appointment with my case manager and afterward had a birthday party/family get together to attend on my Mom's side of the family. My Mom's cousin's husband turned 80 today so I went and visited for a couple hours. I got to see my cousins Tawni and Rob and his girlfriend, Stephanie. I also saw my cousins Becky and Marie and of course my Aunt Shirley and the birthday boy Dave. :) Good times. They live on a beautiful piece of land with beautiful landscape and a gorgeous fountain and pond. If I had the luxury of living there, I wouldn't want to leave. :)

Mumford and Sons will be in Troy this weekend. I'm green with envy and kicking myself for not getting tickets when they first went on sale. I can get tickets now, but the price is outrageous. I have a lot more I can do with $200 than go see this awesomely wonderful band! LOL!

My aunt Shirley and Tawni will be camping their all weekend!! I'm glad they get to go and enjoy the music! :)

I started reading a book Sunday called Pride and Prejudice. It was a free download with the Kindle for PC download. I'm on chapter 8 and so far it's pretty good.  :)

Family, wheelchair, flooring

The weekend is winding down and so am I. :) I have not been feeling well and think it may be due to the antibiotics I have been on  to cure a urinary tract infection. I have been light headed, dizzy, tired and nauseous for days. The good news though, I think the infection is gone!!  :) I took my last antibiotic last night, so hopefully my ill feeling symptoms will subside.

Tomorrow the wheelchair guy is coming to hook me up with some new wheelchair parts. I am going to get new tires, new lateral supports and a new back cushion. Woot! :)

Steve's Mom and dad are visiting this week. They will arrive on Wednesday, stay through the 3 day holiday weekend and leave on Tuesday. I'm not certain what's on the agenda yet, but I think they will probably be outside doing odds and ends if the weather is nice. :) There was talk about putting down a new kitchen floor while they are here, but I don't think it will happen....

See, a month ago I was strolling through Menards and found myself in the flooring section. I saw pretty wood laminate flooring that was 50% off. I liked it so much that I went ahead and purchased enough that would fit the kitchen because the sale was over the following Sunday. That flooring has been held against me since day one. He doesn't like it and wants me to return it. Returning flooring that covers a 15'x15' area is no easy task for my nursing assistant. I think he is using this as an opportunity to disagree and be argumentative! Maybe choosing the flooring on my own was a bit selfish on my part, but I have lived with him long enough to know that if we go pick it out together, it's not going to happen anytime soon. Grrrr!

Volunteer, job hunt

Today was a perfect day weather-wise and tomorrow is suppose to be the same. :) This is a pleasant way to end the last full month of summer. :)

Yesterday Steve and I went to the Humane Society. We needed to fill out some paperwork, get "in the system" and get our pictures taken before we can begin to volunteer. It took a couple months to get from beginning to end, but I'm looking forward to finally working with the animals. :) I think he is also looking forward to it, but hasn't actually said so. (He is a man of few words). He grumbled some when I elected him to be the person I volunteer with, but he got through it. Him and I have very little in common, but our biggest commonality is we are both big animal lovers!! Meow! :)

Steve was hired on as a nurse for another client last week. He now works as a nurse two nights a week from 9pm-9am. This will shift around my nursing assistant schedule a bit, but that's okay. This will not only be good for financial reasons, but also to give him more experience as a nurse and hopefully open more avenues for him.

I am still on a job hunt. I mentioned in a previous post about applying for another position with NTI. I haven't gotten a follow up call and it crossed my mind this weekend that leaving a not so pleasant  message on their facebook page could have worked against me!! :( Sometimes I am not the brightest crayon in the box and that would be a prime example!! Ugh!!

Fair and no attractions part 3

Mandy (my nursing assistant)  and I ventured off to the Darke County Fair Tuesday. We met Stephanie (my nurse) there and the three of us pigged out on fair food, looked at the animals, people watched and absorbed the hot sun. :) It was fun.

Mandy & I concluded that both our homes would not be complete until we add a Flemish giant bunny in the mix. They can be litter box trained, they are huge, have big ears and are fricking adorable!! :) Check this link out for more information. Giant bunny :)

While there a young boy took his bunny out of the cage and asked me if I wanted to pet his bunny. He took his bunny and put it under my hand. I smiled at him and told him I wasn't able to pet him myself, but I thanked him and told him he was a sweet boy. :) It's funny how some kids (and adults) will stare at the wheelchair with their jaws dropped and not say a word, but others have no issues and walk right up and feel totally comfortable. :)

Attractions part 3. I have decided not to piggy back on the previous attractions post. It's a sensitive subject to some and I do not want to offend anybody who might have a strong opinion on devoteeism. (Word?) LOL!! I will just say that I have nothing against devotees as I have said. There are certain devotees who have given all devotees a bad name and well, it's really unfortunate.

Attractions Part 2

Hello! My last post was left off with a dot dot dot (....) so today I will talk about part 2 of attractions. :)

I think it's unfortunate we live in a world where people can't be who they are without the fear of being judged and/or discriminated against by others. If people are homosexual and hide behind a persona of someone who is heterosexual, then they aren't being true to themselves or to those around them.

I often hear that gay people come out of the womb being gay and it's not something you acquire later in life. I have heard that persons attracted to persons with a disability (devotees) realize they have the attraction at a young age when they see someone in a wheelchair, or see an amputee, etc. Regardless of when or how the attraction takes place, I believe that everybody deserves happiness and should be able to have an attraction/relationship with whoever they want without being scrutinized! Unfortunately, it's not the way it is right now.

I was very good friends with a guy who was gay. Our parents bowled together, we went to high school together and we spent many weekend nights drinking and partying. Shoot, my sister went to prom with him. Now I'm laughing out loud reminiscing about us double dating on prom night! That is a whole new post!! Anyway...I never knew he was gay despite the fact he was very flamboyant!! When he first told me we were driving to Psychology Class and I about wrecked my truck! He didn't come out in high school because of the back lash he would have received. :(

When I first got the internet while in the nursing home I was introduced to devotees. (Again, persons attracted to those with a disability). I had never heard of this before, but when I did I felt relief. I felt like maybe I would find someone who will not only accept me and my disability, but maybe someone actually who prefers me with a disability. Looking back that logic is very twisted. I was so afraid I would never find love again, that the term devotee was very inviting! I was and still am a girl that needs to have a relationship, I need someone!

To be continued....

The Fair, documentary Fall to Grace, attractions that some find offensivePart 1

It's a beautiful weekend in Ohio! Friday night I went to the Darke County Fair with my boyfriend. We met our friend Maria there and her nurse, who is also my nurse. :) We had a good time, just didn't stay very long. I am hoping to go to the fair again this week because there is much of it I didn't get to see yesterday. I want to see all the farm animals and I can't forget to buy sugar waffles this time. :)

This morning I watched a documentary called Fall to Grace. This was an excellent story and I highly recommend it. It was a story about Jim McGreevey, the Ex Governor of New Jersey who came out and admitted to being gay on national television. At the time he was married to his second wife, Dina Matos and they have since divorced. (No surprise there!) :)

McGreevey has been married twice and has a daughter from each marriage. He now lives with his partner Mark O'Donnell and has changed occupations. He is a spiritual advisor and advocates for women in prison.

He said that coming out was the best decision he ever made.  He can now be himself and not pretend to be someone he isn't. It makes me think about those individuals who have attractions to not only persons of the same sex, but have attractions to someone with a disability or someone of a different race, etc. They  feel like they have to hide their attraction because others might view it as sick or twisted. It's really sad!

I will pick this up another day.

Happy Hump Day, Alexandra hiding her food and job

Yesterday I spent the afternoon with my friend Leslie. Her step daughter had a volleyball game so we went to the High School and watched the junior varsity team play for a while. I had always enjoyed attending her older daughter's soccer games and her son's basketball games and football games while they were growing up. Now that they have graduated and started families of their own, the occasion to watch their games was no longer there until Leslie remarried and gained a new daughter. :) So, now I get to watch and enjoy the games for a few more years. :)

I have learned that Alexandra likes to cover her food. When she first came to live with us I kept noticing clumps of dog hair in her food bowl. I then saw her try to paw at a folder that was laying by her dish. I asked her foster Mom if she was aware of why Alexandra was doing this. She said it was because Alexandra was covering the food for her babies so the other foster kitties wouldn't eat it. Well, today my nursing assistant showed me this. (Picture)

She covered her food with a post it note that was on my standing frame next to her bowl. :) God love her.

Yesterday I got an email from NTI letting me know they had another job posted that I might be interested in applying for. I read up on it, expressed interest and applied. I was recently disappointed with NTI for not following up with me about a previous position I was told I got. I ended up leaving a message on their facebook page showing my dissatisfaction with them. In two days someone left me a voice message about my comments on their facebook page and wanted to clear up any confusion I had. I called back and spoke to a nice lady who said the job was put on hold. She apologized that nobody made me aware of that and talked to me about my ticket to work.

Miami Valley Music Fest and Left Foot

Hi! :) This weekend was definitely a fun filled one. I spent Friday evening and all day Saturday at the Miami Valley Music Fest!! The MVMF is an annual event that is held to raise money for charity. It's held at the Eagles Campground  and thousands come out to camp and spend the weekend chillin', drinkin', dancin', singin' and god knows what else! :) Definitely a great time! The weather was perfect!! Terrapin Moon has performed there for the past 4 years and I hope they are invited back next year!

Today I watched a movie called "My Left Foot" and I highly recommend it. It's about a man with cerebral palsy who paints beautiful pictures with his foot. Not only that, but he grew up in a time that individuals with a disability were segregated and treated unfair. The movie makes me realize how having a disability now is much more "acceptable" than it was many years ago. Sometimes when I go out people come up to me and say "You're an inspiration" or "Good to see you out" or "Can I pray with you" etc. I usually respond with a thank you (or no, thank you regarding a prayer) and a smile, but I often wonder why people say the things they do. Maybe they have a loved one who has/had a disability in an era that persons with disabilities were segregated?

Here is the story  line..

Christy Brown is a spastic quadriplegic born to a large, poor Irish family. His mother, Mrs Brown, recognizes the intelligence and humanity in the lad everyone else regards as a vegetable. Eventually, Christy matures into a cantankerous writer who uses his only functional limb, his left foot, to write with. Written by Reid Gagle

Here is the link. My left foot

Plato's Closet, Kohl's and Lady & the vet

Yesterday was an eventful day! Lady got a bit too aggressive with kitty and ended up getting scratched in the eye. :( It was a good thing that she already had a vet visit scheduled for today because of a chipped tooth and a yearly check up and shots. We just added that to the list of things to check. She has a scratch that needs treated with an ointment. She got her shots, heart worm blood test, heartworm pills for a year, nails clipped and we get to leave the tooth as is for now. :)

Jean, the girls and I went to Plato's Closet yesterday. I had never been before, but I will definitely go back. I love that place! The clothes are nice and reasonably priced. I bought a cute summer blouse that will go well with a number of things I own. :) Each of the girls found a bunch of cute clothes to bring back to Pennsylvania with them. :)

Today we went to Kohl's and browsed around and then went to Petco. It was a good day. :) I realized I need a new wardrobe and a sugar daddy to support it! Hehe! Kidding! Kohl's has a lot of home décor that I would love to have, but it's so expensive compared to Walmart. :)

Bowling and mean people

In my previous post I told you the kids wanted to go bowling and thought it would be fun if the bowling alley had a ramp and I could bowl, too. :) Well, the bowling alley indeed had a ramp thing and yours truly could not talk anybody in to just letting me watch! Hehe! It was fun, though!! I came in second! :) I have not been to a bowling alley where there was a wheelchair ramp that went to the lanes. It was NEATO!!! :)

Yesterday I was on facebook and saw that one of my "friends" posted a picture of a lady at Walmart who was at the customer service desk. She was wearing a top that was torn on the side. The girl who posted the picture titled it something along the lines of "This woman looks like she got in a fight with a weedwacker SMH" I felt terrible for this lady and thought how awful it would be if this lady would see her picture on facebook with that caption making fun of her. :( Nowadays it's too easy for people to take pictures of others without their permission and post it for anybody and everybody to see. It makes me wonder how many times my picture has been taken without my knowledge and posted on the internet. Grrrr!

Family and furry friends

Hi! Hope your weekend went well! It was beautiful here. I don't think the weather could have been better. :)

Today Steve took Bridget and Maggie 4 wheeling at Hocking Hills and he will take Erin and Keith Wednesday. Erin and Keith want to go bowling today, so Jean and I are going to do that in a little bit. :) The kids mentioned to their grandma (Mom-Mom) that I could bowl with them because there is a ramp I could roll up to and push the ball. LOL. I would rather not, but if the bowling alley is equipped with one, I guess I will do it. In my mind I'm devising a plan to call the bowling alley ahead of time and bribing the person who answers the phone with a large amount of money to tell the kids that their establishment doesn't have a fancy schmancy ramp. :) ....

My Alexandra !! She is my little stinker bell! :) She sat on the tray of my standing frame yesterday and ate as I stood. She slept much of the night with me and today she came out of her hiding spot even when the doggies were in the room. We began using a baby gate at the bed room door way so she could roam if she felt comfortable. She sure enough came out purring a few minutes later. :) Buddy and Lady wag their tails and sniff her butt, which causes her to run back in the bedroom.

Alexandra, family & hodge podge! :)

Hello! Alexandra has been here 5 nights and I fear she isn't happy. I know things take time and the adjustment period takes time, but thinking that she is unhappy makes me sad! Last night she laid in bed with me for awhile, but felt the urge to sit in the window instead :) She was awake and moving around much of the night. Today she has been skittish of the dogs and the doors opening and shutting. She runs to find a safer place under the bed where she cannot be reached. Lady though goes under the bed just fine and the two of them had some sort of dialogue going on this morning. Yikes! HeHe

Family is here. :) Bridget, Jean and I went in the bedroom so they could meet Alexandra. Bridget gave Alexandra lots of attention by brushing her from head to tail and giving her lots of love. :) The kids have grown so much. They are so respectful and kind, it's amazing! :) Two of the girls sense the grief I get from their Uncle and give it right back to him. I told them I want them to come live here! :)

I need a job!! I have started to stray away from work at home jobs and began looking at customer service and call center positions in the newspaper. As much as a working from home position would be more ideal for my situation, I need to explore more opportunities.

I have often chewed on ideas for starting my own business. I haven't found that perfect idea though that makes me feel like I HAVE TO DO THIS! I know my passion is animals! I have thought that starting a doggy daycare would be ultra exciting. Also, opening a no-kill shelter, or a rescue. Those ideas seem so much bigger than me...I don't have the money, the space...On a much smaller scale I have thought about making home made natural dog treats and selling them. :)

Alexandra pt 2, phone interview and family

Last night my Alexandra was in rare form again. I laugh as I type this, but I think she's on crack. :) She was up for most of the night jumping on the dressers, jumping in the window sill, walking on my computer keyboard making my computer do noisy things, walking across the night stands, all while leaving a trail of clutter behind her. . At one point she was trying to jump in the curtain valance from behind the television. I have not had a cat in years! I forgot how agile and rubber like they are.  :)

I had a phone interview today for the receptionist position. I did absolutely terrible!! I know I did not get the job! I prepared myself for questions that might be asked, but I still bombed!! I kept tripping over my words. Ugh!! So frustrating!!

We have Steve's family visiting Friday through Tuesday or Wednesday. It will be his Mom, 3 nieces and nephew. :) I only get to see the kids once a year now, so I bet they have grown!! :) Bridget is 16, Maggie is 15, Keith is 13 (or 14) and Erin is 11.

Alexandra

I have a new addition to my home that has actually been in the works for a while. Her name is Alexandra and she is a beautiful kitty. :) She is 2.5 years old, has long hair that is a mixture of white, gray and a little bit of brown. She is a Maine Coon and has a wonderful temperament. I will post pictures soon. Yesterday was her first day here and she is coming along well. :)

Last night was tough. She meowed all night and was restless, jumping from one dresser to another. She probably misses her babies terribly. I hope tonight is better for her. Today she was put in a crate so my nursing assistant could transfer her from one room to the other without getting scratched if/when the dogs would scare Alexandra. My nursing assistant opened the bedroom door and the dogs ran up to the crate. Alexandra just looked at them and Buddy and Lady sat next to the crate and wagged their tails. Lady laid next in front of the crate for probably an hour just looking at Alexandra. I was amazed! I'm still going to take it easy introducing them.

 

I will update you more! Have a good night!



Saturday night

Hello! :) Today I am spending much of my day filling out job applications. I need to find something!!! I received an email from the lady scheduling interviews for the receptionist position I previously mentioned. She wanted some times I can interview this Wednesday. I sent her four times I can interview Wednesday, but haven't yet been told what time my interview will be conducted. I hope to hear back from her Monday, but will go ahead and fill out applications because I could very easily not get this job! I found this job on a website and have seen where MANY people want this job and are going through the interview, so I'm expecting to NOT be one that gets in. I'm not being negative, just realistic. :)

I have poison ivy (or something) that is not going away. It started out on the back of my neck, then it spread to the back and top of my right shoulder, then to the back of my right leg, then on my face around my nose and left eye. Now my forehead, cheeks and chin feel itchy and inflamed...driving me crazy! I have been using a hydrocortisone cream to cure the itch, but I think I need something more!!

My brother, his wife and their boys came and hung out with me tonight. We made taco pie which was delicious and just caught up. The boys were playing on my boyfriend's keyboard acting like rock stars. :) They were singing, waving their arms and pretending like they were entertaining thousands. :)

Filling Station, employment woes

Hello! Today was an absolutely beautiful day! Mandy filled up the kiddy pool outside and we were able to partially coax Buddy and Lady in it. With the help of some kibble, Lady got all 4 paws in the pool and sat for maybe a millisecond before she jumped out. Buddy got his two front paws in the water and well that was enough for him. :) Hopefully next time we can get them to lay down and enjoy it. :)

As I mentioned in a previous post I had gotten hired for a telesales position a couple weeks ago, but before moving forward I needed to assign my ticket to work to the company. Well, I did this last week and have heard nothing!! I emailed and left a voice mail to one of the people I have been in contact with and he has not replied. This is maddening. I have done everything they have asked of me on my end, but they have not reciprocated and I'm angry!! Training for this position began Monday so I obviously missed that deadline which was no fault of my own.

Mandy & I went to the Filling Station this evening. We had appetizers for Happy Hour and that means they were 50% off. :) The hair (not mine) that laid marinating in the ranch sauce should have gotten me another 50% off. :( Ugh!!

Happy hump day!! Kohl's clearance and 6pm

Hello! :) I'm on a hunt for a new nursing assistant and get exhausted just thinking about training a new person!! Ugh!! I wish when people started working for me they could sign a contract that stated they must work with me for 1 year!! That could backfire and work against me though, especially if the person was being a terrible aide and we didn't get along!! LOL!

Last week I had a 30% off coupon for Kohl's that was about to expire and I felt I wanted to take advantage of it!!  I bought a bunch of winter sweaters, a couple of summer dresses and a pair of gray/purple tennis shoes. I have gotten everything except my shoes, which will come Friday. :)

I also came across an online clothing store called 6pm.com. It has all name brand clothing and has a great clearance section! I bought a pair of DC shoes for 19.99 and a sweater for $11.00. Shipping is free, too!! :) Last year I bought a Billabong maxi skirt for $14.00 when the regular price is $39.99. :)

Walmart, Krogers and going curly

Today's afternoon was spent at Walmart and Krogers! While shopping at Walmart Mandy and I kept encountering people who had the gift of gab! LOL! Our first gabber was in the "camping" section. I was trying to purchase ammo, but they were out of it. This stranger began telling us the places that would have the ammo in stock and how much it was. Very nice man! I said, thank you and rolled away. He followed us to the other side of the store unbeknownst to us and began to pick up the ammo conversation again. I learned more about guns in 20 minutes than I ever will again, or so I hope. :)

The next gabby individual was in the craft section. A lady was shopping for a bobbin and was angry her brand new sewing machine didn't come with one. Ha!! I fed in to her anguish by agreeing that her new machine should have come with a bobbin! :) Mandy and I then helped the disgruntled lady find some metal bobbins and I think that it may have fixed the pain. :) HeHe

Up until today I have been taking great effort to make my hair straight. Even if its in a pony tail I have been adamant about keeping it straight. Today I did the opposite. I put this spray gel in my hair and scrunched it! :) Here it is. Spray Gel This stuff is like mousse minus the sticky residue. I liked the wavy curly look and might continue the look for awhile!! :)

Animal abuse

Those who know me know what an animal lover I am and how animal abuse affects me. When I hear a story on the news about abuse, I obsess over it for weeks and cry to the point those around me don't know what to say because I'm not very consolable. I know it's dumb to obsess so much over something that is in the past and I have no control over, but I just don't know how to NOT have the emotions.

I was talking to one of my assistants last week and she was telling me about a family member's Chihuahua and how bad it gets beaten when it pees on the floor. She also said that one time it got beaten  to the point blood was coming out of its ear. I was quiet because I was fighting back emotions and when it was obvious I couldn't hide them, I told her how I felt about this person's so called discipline technique. I cannot comprehend how adults can be aware of abuse going on and not do something to make it stop. I wish she would not have told me this for obvious reasons!! Now I'm one of those adults who is aware and not doing something to make it stop.

Ohio sucks when it comes to animal abuse laws!!!!

Saturday and RIP Frazier

Happy Saturday! :)

I don't have much going on this weekend except looking for a job. The job training for the job I was told I got, starts Monday and I have heard nothing. I did get an email from the company Wednesday that included a video and the instructions on doing my individual work plan, which is for the ticket to work. (I previously mentioned the ticket to work in my blog). I watched the video, completed my IWP and submitted it Wednesday evening so they should have everything. If there isn't another training lined up for this particular position, I saw another position on their job board that I am interested in. :)

One of my nurse's other clients had to put her service dog down this morning. Frazier was a sweet 15 year old golden retriever who had not been doing well this past week. My nurse took him to the vet this morning thinking he might just need an IV to get fluids and nourishment, but sadly that wasn't the case. RIP Frazier...you have earned your little angel wings. :)

Paris, Leslie and Menards

Hi! Today I spent the afternoon with my friend Leslie. We spent our time together catching up on the latest and greatest while she baked cookies for a church function and kept an eye on her very energetic grandson. :) Her grandson is 20 months old and an absolute overload of cuteness!!

I, being the animal lover I am, spent my time eyeing the adorable white toy poodle that was jumping up on my leg. :) She wouldn't jump up on my lap, but she would put her front paws up on my leg and look back at my nursing assistant until she put her on my lap. :)





 

 



Afterwards I went to Menards. I absolutely love that store! I get so many ideas on how I eventually want my kitchen to look like. :) My kitchen is in much needed renovation and hopefully it won't be too much longer before that happens. :) 

Cat training! Little people!

Yesterday was cat training at the Humane Society. This was our final training so now we get our names put in the system and can finally volunteer. Woot!!

The cats yesterday were so much fun! They will be fun to work with because they have so much personality and a couple in particular were a little mischievous, which is even more fun in my opinion. :) A cat named chance was sticking his arm out of his cage batting his paw at the trainer's pen. It was hard to not get distracted by his cuteness and energy!! He has been there awhile and I'm really surprised.

Little people!! When I say little people, I'm referring to children. Little children who are innocent and have absolutely no filter. :) So, I'm at the humane society yesterday. I'm sitting in my wheelchair (surprise!) in the busy waiting room, trying to find a spot where I won't be in anybody's way. I look to my right and spot the spot! I know it's a good spot because it's empty and I am blocking no paths. So, I place my chin on the control and begin to maneuver to my spot where I will remain until training begins. While manipulating myself, I hear a Mom explaining to the little girl in her arms, that it's a wheelchair and that is how I get around. I looked over and smiled. It was then that I heard her other little munchkin say in a disgusted angry voice, "That is not cool" as he raised his arm straight out and pointed his little finger directly at me!! I looked over and he had this angry scowl look on his face like me and my wheelchair repulsed him!! LOL! I said in a friendly voice with a smile, "No? You don't think this is cool" as he backed up behind his Mom and peaked out around her leg... :)

I have had 3 instances now where I have had encounters similar to this one. All 3 were similar in the fact that their (the kids) demeanor was so hostile and angry! What is up with that??

Technology, cat training and little people!

Hello! Today I was thinking about technology and how far it has become. In 1992 I was in a nursing home and spent my days watching television, sleeping, watching television, visiting, etc. It was mundane, very dull and not much excitement. This routine went on for 5 years until my friend, Pat introduced me to sip and puff, which is adaptive technology used to send air pressure in to a device. The device was a headset that had a "straw" that I blew into when I wanted to select (press enter for example) on the onscreen keyboard, which was called wivik (windows visual keyboard).

Pat strongly encouraged me to make the investment in a computer and the above mentioned technology. She said it would change my life forever and boy was she right!! It introduced me to things I never knew existed... chatrooms, disability websites, dating, meeting new people (good and bad HA!) and so much more! At the time I felt like if there was a time to be disabled or have physical limitations, that was the time because technology allowed everybody the freedom to have the world wide web at your fingertips!

Jump ahead to 2013. Technology continues to grow fast (too fast IMHO) but for c2c3 quadriplegics who have no voluntary movement from the shoulders down, it's going backwards not forward!! I cannot use touch screen! I cannot text! I feel more disabled now than I have in years and it's depressing!!

Cat training and little people will have to wait until tomorrow. I have been standing for 3 hours and getting tired. Good night!

Not guilty, Fun. nursing assistant issues

Well, he was found not guilty. I'm not surprised. I do feel though that it was a killing that would have been prevented if Zimmerman would have backed off like the cops told him to do!! He is a free man now, but will be connected to this crime and his actions for a life time! I can imagine this will haunt him forever and the people in his community who thinks he is guilty will also haunt him.

My friend Leslie and I went to Columbus last night to see the band Fun. It was a great time and Fun in more ways than one!! :) The lead singer Nate was full of energy and knew how to engage with the crowd. He said he and Emily bought roller blades in Columbus and that the other band member (Andrew) was hand drawing post cards at the hotel. :) LOL. Someone lacks adventure, but that's not a bad thing. :) The first band was Tegan and Sara, twins from Canda. They sing pop and have been singing and playing the guitar for 15 years.

Tegan & Sara

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nursing assistant issues!!! Oh goodness why?? I have a nursing assistant who has been with me for a couple months and all ready quitting! I am her first client as she has never been in the medical field. She says she is very nervous working with me and I have definitely sensed it. She is really hard on herself and hates when she "messes up" as she says. I certainly respect her honesty because this job is not for everybody! She did a good job while she was here and I let her know that, but not sure she felt better.

 

It's so exhausting training people to do my care no matter what it is. It could be teaching them to strap me down in the van, standing me, turning me, etc. The constant talking and explaining makes me winded and short of breath! I dread this!!!

 

A beautiful day, George Zimmerman and family

Hello. It's a perfect day weather-wise here in Ohio. It's 80 and sunny. :) I got outside for about an hour early this afternoon, but came in and laid down because I still have the dreaded pink area that will not stay away. Blah!!

I have been listening to the George Zimmerman trial all afternoon. The jury of 6 women must be dedicated. They have been deliberating since 9AM this morning and still going at 7:30PM...and it's Saturday. :) They asked a question about the clarification of the definition of manslaughter a few minutes ago. Does this mean they have moved past 2nd degree murder? Or maybe he will be found not guilty of even manslaughter? Hmmmm. We will eventually get the verdict. :) It feels like it could be close!

Steve and his dad have been very busy doing work in the back yard. They pressure washed the dog houses, put rocks down around the dog houses, pulled a boat load of weeds and painted the air conditioning unit. Our back yard and the landscaping around the deck tends to get neglected so seeing it get some life is a bit refreshing. :) The best thing about being outside when I was, was the first sighting of a hummingbird at my hummingbird feeder!! :) I have been waiting for a while to see one and today was the day! :) Yay!!

A couple things

Hello! :) Steve's dad arrived Wednesday. A trip that takes 4 hours on a good day, took him 8 hours Wednesday. Two hours in to the trip he needed to turn around because of flooding. He found an alternate route and came that way, but was delayed due to floods, slow traffic and debris. He made it though and we're happy he is here. :)

As I mentioned I interviewed for a position last Wednesday and got the job. The company I got the job through is a company that hires persons with disabilities who work with Rehab Services Commission. This company wants requires me to assign my ticket to work to them before I can move forward. Right now my ticket to work is assigned to rehab service commission and in order to reassign it, I need to tell my case manager, who has not returned my calls or responded to my email. So, now I'm in limbo and afraid the training class will get full. In the mean time I am going to re-educate myself on ticket to work because I did not retain the information first time around.

When I called Maximus (Ticket to Work) they were proactive and wanted to send me information about the ticket to work, how much money I can make being on SSDI and how I can make more if I have employee related work expenses as write offs. I thought that was nice and a little out of the ordinary. :)

I finally got an email today regarding the receptionist job. There has been a delay so the second round assessments will be the beginning of August.

Spread the word to end the word...

The "H" word that is!!

I heard on the news yesterday that an advocacy group in Ohio is trying to remove the word handicap from the new accessible signs. This would be parking signs, bathroom signs, etc. This group feels the term is outdated and offensive. One person said the term handicap sounds like it makes fun of people.

I have always thought words about disability are just that... words. It's semantics to me. I'm not offended by handicap, disabled, crippled, cap, etc, but I do know people who are offended by the word disabled. To these people, disabled means broken down like a broken down non-working car.

When I heard this on the news my initial thought was "OMG. Seriously!!??!!" Why can't people who rely on these accessible spaces just appreciate the designated spot whether it be a parking spot or a restroom stall and not worry about what it says or doesn't say. Next the wheelchair on the signs will be offensive and need to be changed to a picture of a cane or an oxygen tank.

As you see, I just don't get it!

Friday, DSO and the Fun. concert :)

Hello! :) Happy Friday! For some reason today feels like Saturday. There is a big music festival this weekend at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park and I'm missing it because I'm stuck in bed! Grrrr!! The people there are so friendly and fun to be around, I hate I couldn't go.

My goal though is to be healed up by Monday so I can go to the Dark Star Orchestra concert in Springfield. They play in Springfield every year and it's free admission. It's a great time and I really hope I can go. I usually bring the dogs because it's a pet friendly atmosphere, but my dogs always seem to find a fight. It's embarrassing! The following Sunday, July 14th, is the Fun. concert in Columbus. My friend Leslie is going with me and I hope she enjoys the music. :)

Carry On by Fun.

Some Nights by Fun.

We are young by Fun and Janelle Monae

Happy Independence Day!

I hope you enjoy your day with family and friends! It's going to be a wet drab day here so grilling out steaks and burgers may have to be put off a day or two. :( That's okay though, it could be worse.

My pink area has revisited and I have decided to stay in bed until it's no longer visible. I just don't understand what I'm doing wrong! While in bed, I will work on my computer, watch some recorded shows, listen to some music, look in to bum implants, etc. Hehe! :)

Yesterday I had a phone interview. I didn't know much about the position, just enough to know it was sales. I also knew the hourly wage and the hours were 5p-midnight Monday through Friday. Well, I got the job. I am glad I got the job, but sales is not something I am confident in. It's just not a strength of mine. I do think though, it will be a good addition to my resume because many customer service jobs have to offer upsells or cross sells. We will see. :)

Yesterday and today has brought on much anguish in the Fox/Schwartz household!! Our internet connection keeps going out leaving us without access to our everyday luxuries!! As much as I try to be patient and calm without my life line, it's not easy. He tends to go a little more ape shit than myself, but regardless it's hard for both of us. God forbid we would have to actually stay off our computers and communicate with each other. It would be tragic! LOL!

It certainly puts things in perspective. We rely so way too much on technology and electronic gadgets! They are like drugs!! When we suddenly don't have access to our computers and our cell phones, it brings about withdrawal!

Mom

Hello! I slept well last night, but feel like I haven't slept in days. I didn't go to bed until 1:00AM because I stood in my standing frame watching television, maybe that is why I feel like doo doo. Yawn!!

I had a phone interview Friday for a receptionist position and thought it went ok. The person I spoke with told me I will get an e-mail to schedule the next phone interview. Well, I haven't gotten that email yet and I'm getting discouraged. :( If I wasn't going to get the second interview, would she tell me to look out for an e-mail that I will never receive?? I would hope not, but I may never know. Hmmmm My paranoia is asking me, "Did I have to many ummms when I spoke? Did I say alrighty when I should have said alright? Did I say yea instead of yes?? Ugh!!!

Today I saw an elderly woman walking through the Kroger parking lot. She must have been 85. I said out loud "I wish my Mom would have lived to be that age" which caused my nursing assistant to ask what happened. I said "She was an alcoholic and died at 52" Hearing myself say that out loud made me get teary eyed and caused my voice to shake. I had not felt that sort of emotion in years!

I have held a grudge against my Mother for years! I have so much animosity towards her that it makes me seem like a cold hard rock. I feel like when I had my car accident, she immediately used it as an excuse for her actions. Her drinking, her retiring at age 44, her absence. She would go months without visiting and when she did, she stayed long enough to say hi and bye. She would reek of vodka and many often times be visibly intoxicated. I often felt like she despised me and I felt very much like I had no Mother. My dad sat back and could see what she was doing to me. He often kept quiet, but when I talked about it, he chimed in. What I didn't have in a Mother, my dad made up for it times ten. He was there for me when she wasn't.

I believe if my Mother didn't use alcohol as a crutch, our relationship would have been much better. I say this because months before my car accident her, my sister and I were like best friends. She had quit drinking and was a different person. Our time together was full of laughter and fun, not tears and hatred like it ended up being in the end. On my part anyway.

If I could change one thing about the past with my Mom it would be to have more patience and keep an open mind to alcoholism and the deadly disease it is. I would want to take back my hatred. Tell her I love her. Tell her I forgive her. Tell her I'm sorry!

Heather and I had a busy night. We first went to the Filling Station to grab a bite to eat and wash it down with a cold one. Afterwards we went to the Upper Valley Mall to process a return at JCPenney's and then off to Walmart to kill an hour before the movie started. Do you know how fast an hour goes in Walmart?? It's like 3 minutes in the waiting room at the doctor's office. Finally we ended up at the movies to watch "The Heat". OMG it's funny from beginning to end!! I like Sandra Bullock and I like Melissa McCarthy, but when you put the two of them together, it's one big belly laugh after another!! :) I highly recommend it. Read below...



The Heat (2013)
Uptight FBI special agent Sarah Ashburn is paired with testy Boston cop Shannon Mullins in order to take down a ruthless drug lord. The hitch: neither woman has ever had a partner -- or a friend for that matter.

http://www.imdb.com/rg/em_share/title_web/title/tt2404463

Happy Saturday!! :) Today I'm getting some me time, which I don't get very often. I'm very low maintenance when it comes to keeping myself amused. All I need is some loud music and I'm a happy girl. :) I really want to dance like no one's watching, but because I can't,  I sing like no one's listening instead. :)

It makes me think about my sister and I in our younger years. Dancing and singing was what we did to cure boredom. We did some pretty stupid shit! We did things that I look back on and cannot believe we even survived. Our parents had a long reign on us.

I am going to the Fun. concert in two weeks and am super stoked. I have to find someone to take me though. If I don't find someone soon I will need to sell my tickets. :(

Tonight Heather and I might go see a movie, but it's not written in stone. I have a nagging urge to go drink a beer at the Filling Station. Decisions, decisions!

Friday, Avon and jerky :)

Hello! :) It's the top of the weekend and I am trying to decide what to do for entertainment. I would love to see the movie "The Heat" with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. :) It looks hilarious!!

Steve left today to go to the east coast for the weekend because his band is playing for a private party on Sunday. He is also going to the beach and visiting his family and friends, too. Hopefully today's terrible weather won't be the weather New Jersey has tomorrow.

Is it terrible I feel like a celebration is in order when him and I part ways for a few days?? I think time away is not only good, it's a must. That is the case for him and I anyway and we both agree it's nice to get some much needed space. :)

Lately, I have kept myself busy with a couple "projects" that earns me a little money. I am now an Avon representative and also have joined jerky direct. Below are the links to both.

My Jerky Direct Page

My Avon page

I have been thinking a lot about Alexandra and Pierre. They are so beautiful and calm. Sigh!! Well, good night peeps!!

I love Paris!

Those who know me, know I have a passion for court cases and trials. I was glued to the tv during the Casey Anthony trial, the Jodi Arias trial and now the George Zimmerman trial. I'm a junky. :)

Yesterday and today there has been a witness on the stand who has been absolutely revolting. I have developed unpleasant feelings for her and I find myself wanting to watch her just so I can scream mean things to her!!! She has a terrible demeanor and she has no respect whatsoever. She said that in her culture, calling people creepy ass crackers is normal! WTF? I guess with that attitude I should not be surprised by her vile demeanor, huh?

I went to my friends house the other day. She has a poodle and I fell in love with her. Her name is Paris. To get her on my lap, I had my assistant put a long pasta noodle between my teeth so she would be enticed by something to eat. :) Here we are...

 

 

Today I met two kitties I want to adopt, Alexandra & Pierre. I fell in love with them, also. I don't know how I'm going to conquer my biggest obstacle. Steve!!! Ugh!

 

 



 

 

 

Summer is here

Yesterday was the first day of summer and the day couldn't have been more beautiful!! The sun was shining, there were no clouds in the sky and it was 85 degrees. :) Hopefully we have many more beautiful days this summer that were like yesterday. :)

Yesterday was the 21st anniversary of my being in a wheelchair, too. It's hard to believe it's been that long. I used to think I wouldn't live that long. In all reality, I used to not want to live that long. When I first got injured I heard that individuals who have a high spinal cord injury and are on a ventilator (or other means of artificial breathing) had a life expectancy of 15 years. Every year on the date of my anniversary of "quadness" I used to say to myself, "Well, another year down. I only have 7 (for instance) more years to deal with this... Nowadays I don't have too many terrible days that make me wish I wasn't here. I have down days, but not like I used to. :)

If I could tell one thing to newly injured people, it would be IT GETS BETTER! When people are new to the disability, the wheelchair, the dependency on others, etc. there is absolutely no light at the end of the tunnel. It's impossible to believe that life could appear normal again. It does not happen over night, but it does happen!

The weekend of my accident was the same weekend as the Dayton Air Show. Ironically, this weekend is the Air Show. Most years the air show is held in mid July, that is why I say it's ironic. :) I tell myself every year I want to go to the air show because I have never been! I live 10 minutes away and have never been. Maybe I'm not that interested. LOL

Today I was watching the news and learned there was a plane crash during the show. I saw the crash on the tv and knew in my heart nobody survived. The wing walker was sitting on the wing when the plane crashed and turned in to a ball of fire. You could see her arm raise up all most like she was going to brace herself for the fall. It was sad to see. You can view the story here. Plane crash

A couple things...

I have shared my cat obsession with you and if you are tired of hearing about it, well, you should stop reading! I have more to share.

I emailed the lady who fosters Alexandra. Her name is Beth. She said Alexandra is a lover. She also said Alexandra takes her paws and lifts up her hands to be petted. Long story short...Beth and I both think that it's meant to be. :) Do I think that Alexandra is going to take her little paws and lift up my non working paralyzed arms so I can pet her? No! My point is this kitty and I will make a great pair. :) I honestly want to adopt Pierre, Alexandra's son, also.

Today was dog training class. We took a little tour of their dog park and the play area and learned the do's and don'ts when handling the dogs. We took Elvis (a Bichon Frise) for a walk, which was fun. :) Next week is cat training and then we will be finished with the training.

Crazy cat lady part 2 Skype Jason Leffler

My cat saga continues, but now I'm back to square one. My "roomie" has now retracted everything he said and has denied saying I could get a cat with claws. I'm finished with negotiation! He is being so closed minded! :(

I created a Skype account today. I have really never been interested in a Skype account before, but a company I make telephone calls for, some of their clients require it. I must say I didn't realize how sophisticated it is. I was setting up my account and I got to the step to check for audio and recording settings and OMG I was on my monitor. I was on my webcam that I didn't realize I even had. I was like Shit, how do I get my mug off of here? LOL! #mortified"

The NASCAR family lost one of their own Wednesday night at a Sprint car race. Jason Leffler was killed when his car hit the wall twice and flipped several times. He was 37 years old and left behind  a son who was only 5 years old.

Crazy cat lady

Happy Thursday! :) I have become obsessed with finding me a cat. Notice I said me?? Not us.. ME. :) I know the person I live with wants nothing to do with a cat. That's ok though. He has been adamant about not getting one up until two nights ago. I caught him in a semi good mood. I told him he wouldn't have to clean the litter box or have anything to do with it, just please let me have a cat. He sort of said ok by saying that it will need to have it's front claws to defend itself against Buddy. So, now I'm on a mission to find a cat, especially before he changes his mind. My perfect kitty search, It's taking over my whole life! I still have my sights on Molly at the Humane Society along with many more from the petfinder website. I thought about allowing the viewers of my blog to help me pick out my furry feline addition for me, but I know how busy you both are right now. :) Here they are anyway. Tommy Sanford Alexandra

Have a good night!

Humane Society

Hi! Today was a beautiful day! It was sunny and hot, my kind of weather!! :) I went to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton for a 30 minute basic training session, the first of three. The next session is dog training and the last is cat training.

When we went in to the cat room 20+ cats swarmed around my wheelchair. Some were skittish and used great caution, but others went under my wheelchair and one in particular was at my feet pedals being nosy. :) Her name is Molly and she is 4 years old and a beautiful calicoat! I have had my eye on her for weeks. I visit the website often and admire her and a number of other long hair cats. :) Meet Molly by clicking on the Molly link. Molly

We then went in to the dog kennel area. There were two big dogs who saw my wheelchair and ran out their doggy door to get outside. LOL. At one point I went outside and one of the same dogs was outside, saw me, darted inside, peaked outside the doggy door and that was the last of him :) LOL

I think I will really enjoy volunteering and being around animals. I know it's not all warm and fuzzy, though. Today a lady tried to drop off a box of preemie kittens, but was told there was no room. She then attempted to leave without the box of kittens, but was warned her license plate number would be reported. :(

Take a look at some animals in the shelter. Humane Society of Greater Dayton

Weekend

Hello! :) Hope you had a great weekend! My weekend was nice and quiet. Saturday my nursing assistant and I spent some time on the back deck with the furbabies. My nursing assistant threw the Frisbee to Lady for awhile and threw the ball to Buddy. Lady is a bit on the portly side so I have been making sure the nursing assistants take her outside twice a day to chase the Frisbee. She does pretty good for a couple tosses, but then she begins to slow down. She brings the Frisbee back half way and lays down, then eventually she lets you know she is finished when she walks the opposite direction. :) A few years ago Steve was throwing the Frisbee to her over and over and over again until she was tired. Well, the last time he tossed it she chased it but then she stopped and needed to do a #2. He told her to bring the Frisbee to him and she just laid down and looked at him. He walked over to get the Frisbee and saw that she #2ed in the Frisbee!!! :) I thought that was a clever way to be finished.

After Frisbee and ball throwing they both got their fur brushed. Neither one like when the brush comes out for some reason. They walk away and it takes a lot of coaxing (and a treat) to bribe them back. They lost a boat load of hair, so they should feel better. :) 

After coming inside I stood in my standing frame for about an hour and half. That feels wonderful as it stretches my back, hips, ankles and feet. :)

Hello! Happy Friday! :) It is suppose to be a nice weekend here in Ohio. I don't have any plans to go anywhere, but that's ok. I will stick around here and go outside for a while with my nursing assistant and furbabies. :)

I am still not getting up for long periods of time because of my "area" not being completely healed. Today it appeared to be gone, but it still hurt. This makes me think it's not healed completely and still might be bruised. So, I will take it a little easy this weekend. :)

On Sunday I had plans to visit a a lady who lives in a nursing facility. She is coming home soon. Unfortunately my van went in the shop today and won't be fixed until Monday or Tuesday. I hope to go meet her next week or the week after if she is available. :) I always like to hear stories about residents leaving nursing homes. It's so easy to get put in one, but getting out is a different story.