Some of the most important words I have ever read.
1. If your goal is to have a satisfying marriage with longevity, make sure you are accountable for the part you play in the relationship—good or bad. When you are in denial about your part in the relationship then you are no better than a child flinging sand at another child in a sandbox. When you take responsibility for your part in the marriage, only then will you be able to connect with your partner in a mature, intimate way. - Carin Goldstein, LMFT
2. Research consistently shows that touching more creates a stronger bond by releasing oxytocin. Hold hands, rub shoulders, hug, kiss, give high-fives or even fist-bumps or bottom pats. When you give a quick hug or kiss, try to lengthen it to at least 5 or 10 seconds for more effective results! – Lorrie Lowe
3. Learn how to agree to disagree. No two people agree on everything, and that's okay, but it's important to be okay with each other's differences. - Lee Bowers, LP, PhD
4. Sometimes it's not about the amount of money you spend on a gift, it's about the thought that goes into something. Take the time to write a thoughtful note every so often saying what you love and appreciate about him/her. Drop it in his/her briefcase or purse so he/she will find it unexpectedly and it will brighten up his/her day. - Suzanne K. Oshima, Dating Coach
5. For men, it's important to understand that women want to be listened to. Men don't need to solve or fix everything; listening itself is an exceptional gift. For women, it's important to understand that men need time for themselves. By giving him space to pull away and not taking it personally, you allow him to reconnect with his desire for you and his commitment to the relationship. - MarsVenus Coaching, Life Coach
6. The biggest waste of effort in a marriage is trying to change your spouse, since the problems you have with your spouse are generally problems you have in yourself. When you try to change your spouse you come across as a nag and wind up sending the message that 'who you are is not enough.' Nobody likes getting that message, and it leads to distance and polarization. Let your spouse be who he or she is and focus on changing yourself. - Dr. Rick Kirschner, Relationship Coach
7. See problems—boredom in the bedroom, lack of conversations, resentment—as symptoms and treat those symptoms just as you would treat a chronic illness that seemingly has no cure. Throw at it every possible remedy you've got, no matter how alternative or weird it seems. Chances are one or more of them will actually work and your marriage will get stronger and stronger. - Alisa Bowman, Relationship Coach
8. Next time you argue with your partner, drop the shaming, blaming, needing to be right, and really listen without interrupting. Then communicate how you feel, using "I" statements. It's not your partner's job to read your mind, guess what you're thinking, or put words into your mouth. These are huge obstacles to open, honest communication and will guarantee resentment, anger, and frustration in the relationship. - Sharon Rivkin, MA, MFT
9. In order to strengthen your marriage, learn to recognize that most arguments have shared responsibility, that both people have valid points and valid reasons for their feelings. - Kathy Morelli, LPC
10. Fair is not a four letter word. You may have forgotten about fairness, but now's the time to bring it back into your relationship. Are you both being fair when it comes to divvying up chores, communicating your needs, expressing dissatisfaction, dealing with finances, parenting, and supporting one another? If not, how can you improve and bring fairness back to the relationship? - Lisa Steadman, Dating and Relationship Coach
11. Nothing is more important in a marriage than the relationship between husband and wife. When other things become more important, such as careers, children, and personal pursuits, trouble sets in. Make the relationship your top priority. When you do, the marriage flourishes. - Cathy Meyer, CPC, MCC
12. Are you creating more pleasurable interactions in your marriage, or are you making it painful or unpleasant for your spouse? If your spouse treats you with kindness, gentleness, patience and self-control, it's easy for you to respond kindly If you are treated badly, with anger, impatience, etc., it's difficult to be nice in return. Focus on how you can be a blessing to your spouse and in turn you will be blessed, and so will your marriage. - Mack Harris, Marriage Educator
13. Never begin a sentence with the word 'you'. Instead start with the word "I" and then share your feelings instead of your thoughts. This is not as easy as it sounds because we all disguise a lot of thoughts as feelings, as in "I feel like you are avoiding me." Genuine feelings are sad, angry, happy, lonely, frustrated, etc... and sharing your core feelings creates better communication, and more connection and compassion. - Veronica Monet, ACS, CAM
14. Change your focus to one of learning to appreciate your partner. - Michelle Poll, CPC, MA
15. Let go of criticism and blame. Focus on what there is to appreciate about your mate, then honestly and spontaneously express your specific appreciation to them. It's also good to do this for yourself. - Judith Joyce, Life Coach
16. Never lose the fine art of dating. Setting aside a romantic evening on a regular basis can rekindle the magic of a long-term relationship. It doesn't have to be fancy, just special time for the two of you to remember how and why you first fell in love. - by John Sovec, LMFT
17. Have regular times, even if it's just for 15 minutes, to check in on your relationship and what you appreciate about each other. No talk about kids, schedules, etc. allowed. - Mary Kay Aide, MS
18. Love your marriage by first taking care of yourself. So many of my patients say the reason their marriage fell apart is that they became depressed and disinterested in their partner. If you keep working on you, your marriage will stay fresh and vital. Start today by adding a new wedding vow to your list: Promise to take care of yourself so you will continue to age with grace and confidence by your partner's side. - Mary Jo Rapini, LPC
19. Recognize that your husband or wife is mirroring back to you who you are; so take whatever you're upset with him/her about and use it to help yourself look squarely at what you need to do in order to grow and evolve—the relationship will thrive! - Ilene Dillon, LCSW, LMFT
20. Take time to have some fun together every day! With today's hectic schedules, it's easy to find your marriage at the bottom of the priority list. Take a walk and hold hands (nature calms), couple-cook (food fight!), exercise together (tennis or dancing maybe?) or just collect a "Daily Joke" to share. It doesn't have to be expensive, but if you make the commitment and effort to laugh together as often as possible, it can sweeten your connection and cement your relationship for life. - Melodie Tucker, CPC
21. It's your spouse's job to walk the dog in the morning, but today when you discover dog poop on the kitchen floor, clean-up makes you late for work. Before you get mad or assign blame, take a breath and ask your partner for his or her perspective. "I'm puzzled about what happened with Spot this morning," is a gentle way to start a conversation. - Jean Fitzpatrick. L.P
22. Make a list of three of the happiest moments in your marriage. Spend a few minutes each day briefly reliving those moments in your mind. The results will amaze you. - Lucia, Dating Coach
23. You can change your relationship for the better by increasing the use of the following statements: "I love you", "I'm here for you", "I understand", "I'm sorry", "Thank you", "I really appreciate all that you do", "It's so nice to see you", "That was quite an accomplishment!" - Gina Spielman
24. Appreciate your partner at least five times each day. Appreciate them from your heart about who they are at their essence. Leave gratitude in love notes, hide them so they will find them, or look deeply into their eyes and tell them. Be creative! - Linda Marie, RN, BSN
25. In order to keep the spark alive and avoid "roommate syndrome," couples have to understand the notion of spending "time" together versus creating "sacred" time together. Spending time at social events, time with family and doing "chores" together does not count as sacred time. Instead, carve out special time to not only be intimate, but also ensure that you continue to share new experiences together such as hiking, exploring someplace new, or arranging a stay-cation in your own city. - Marni Battista, CPC
26. Compliment your spouse everyday! A compliment is a sign of acknowledgment and appreciation. Make an effort to affirm your spouse's value in life, and in love. - Nicole Johnson, Dating and Relationship Coach
27. Create a clear vision of your shared future together. Sit down, listen to each other and write out how you want your future as a couple to look. It's much easier to create your best relationship together if both people's needs are voiced, heard and supported by their partner. - Eve Agee, PhD
28. Censor every impulse to blame or criticize your partner, do everything you can to support your partner's well-being, and respect your partner as you would your best friend. - John Gerson, Ph.D
29. You need to date your mate: date night is sacred and special and should be on the same day of the week every week. One week the wife should suggest the date idea and the husband should come up with the date night plan for the opposite week. This encourages both the husband and wife to be invested in date night. - Julie Spira, Dating and Relationship Coach
30. Learn and practice Tantra. - Judith Condon
31. Communication and time together are the keys to strengthening marriages. Impossible to imagine one without the other! - Lori Edelson, LMSW, LMFT
32. One of the most important factors in a good marriage is respect. Respect each other, avoid verbal abuse, and keep insults to yourself. Bad words are just like squeezing toothpaste out of its tube—once it is out you can never get it back in again. - Georgia Panayi, MBA
33. Set aside 10 minutes a day to talk to your partner. Ask what her favorite movie is and why, ask him to recall a happy memory from childhood, ask her what she'd like to be remembered for, ask him to name the three worst songs of all time. Do it at dinner, before bed, or anytime—as long as you do it for 10 minutes every day. This simple change infuses relationships with new life. - Dr. Terri Orbuch, Ph.D
34. You can have control or you can have connection with your partner, but you can't have both. Pursue connection! - Lee Horton, Ph.D
35. Every week if possible, go out on a date just like you did before you were married. Select an activity where the two of you can interact, talk, and just be together enjoying each other's company (not a movie!). End your date in the bedroom. Works like a charm! - Ann Robbins, CRC
36. Couples often lose each other because of their busy lives: work, children, computers, and separate male/female activities. A healthy marriage is one that has a mix of individual, family, and couple time. The amount of each may be different for each couple, but the mix is necessary to keep a functional marriage. - Michele Seligman LCSW, BCD
37. Our brains are the only organ in the human body which do not self regulate, but need to be in connection with another brain for healing. Sit face-to-face and gaze into your lover's eyes in order to allow the limbic system to relax. This will bring you closer and create the deepest sort of intimacy. - Mary Kay Cocharo, LMFT
38. When you first see each other at the end of your respective days, before you do anything else, hold each other without speaking for at least 60 seconds. By doing so you remind each other's old/reptilian brains that you are a source of pleasure and comfort. It's simple, it's easy to do, and it will make a world of difference. - Laura Marshall, LCSW
39. Preface important communication with a simple yet effective introduction, such as: "Honey, I'm confused about your response to my plans for a weekend hunting trip with the guys. When would be a good time to talk further?" My relationship coaching clients have found that prefacing their remarks encourages a better, more accommodating reaction from their partner. - Greg R. Thiel, MA
40. On those ever-important date nights, remember to be a wife first and a critic second. Every time you open your mouth to complain about something—whether it's the food, the service, the movie, the weather, whatever—some part of your partner feels he's failing because you aren't having a great time. Men are happiest when they can please their woman! Save the full critique for your girlfriends and in meantime, let him see the best in you. - Delaine Moore, Dating and Relationship Coach
41. Lean in. When it gets hard in a relationship, our tendency is to protect ourselves, to retreat, to "lean out." Leaning out when your partner reaches out creates distance and dissonance. If instead you "lean in" to the uncomfortable feelings, to the unknown and your own vulnerability, and meet your partner, you can actually strengthen your relationship through the struggles you face together. - Christine Arylo, Life Coach
42. Accept your partner exactly as they are today. Don't try to change him/her. - Ellen Hartson
43. When your partner tells you something (about you) that is bothering him—reflect back what he is saying. When we "mirror", this helps us not feel as defensive and allows us the opportunity to better understand what he is trying to communicate. - Anne Crowley, Ph.D
44. The best way to strengthen a marriage is to support and assist each other in being the best you can be. A strong marriage is one in which both people understand that the other person needs to have outside interests and activities which help them to feel happy and fulfilled. A strong marriage is one where both people understand that it is more important to be happy than it is to be right. - Dr. Joe Amoia
45. Have you lost that loving feeling? Step 1: Write down 10 qualities you loved about your partner when you first met and read it to each other. Step 2: Brainstorm a list of 10 fun things you did together when you first met; do one date per week and enjoy bringing back that loving feeling! - Tasha Dimling, Dating Coach, MBA
46. You're entitled to the occasional bad mood. You're not entitled to make your partner the whipping boy. - Sherry Amatenstein, LCSW
47. A strong marriage is a partnership in trust. Trust your partner in everything, including purchases and financial decisions, and to bring up things with you that need a joint decision. If you can't do that, the two of you have a problem. - Donald Pelles, Ph.D., CHt
48. Always remember that life is long. In the heat of the moment, what feels super important will likely fade in importance as time goes by. Before you react by yelling, tossing insults or unkind words, remember that "This, too, shall pass". In fact, recent studies have shown that even the most unhappiest of couples report being very happy five years later. So don't let one unfortunate incident, difficult argument or challenging moment destroy your lifetime of happiness. - Melanie Gorman, MA
49. A woman needs her partner to spend time giving her his full attention and looking directly into her eyes. When she receives this, she can easily get in touch with her feelings of love for her husband and becomes much more receptive to his needs. This is how intimacy can be fulfilling for both people...magical even! - Linda Wiggins, Executive Director for RelationSync
50. Use character-related words that honor your spouse for such qualities as patience, helpfulness, courage, or kindness. Create regular opportunities for fun, laughter, and positive experiences. Figure out what communicates love to each other and do that. Be observant and thoughtful with little things and even do chores that the other dislikes. Consciously doing what opens and softens your spouse's heart will benefit you both in the long-run and keep your marriage happier. - Susanne Alexander
February 11, 2011
January 12, 2011
Reflections
Let's take a look at 2010, shall we?
So I love surveys, and this one is perfect for looking back!
Enjoy.
1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?
Lost weight. I mean lose weight and keep it off. 20lbs baby! Please disregard that candy bar I just ate... it was a long week!
2. Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I didn't really make any last year. This year I have made it a focus and have been successful so far.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No, not super close to me, but practically everyone at work has either had a baby or is currently pregnant.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Thankfully no.
5. What vacations did you take?
We took a cruise in August with my parents and Zach's. It was an amazing good time.
6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?
No debt. Working on it now. Just a few things to pay back and we are good.
7. What date from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
12/25 - I got to spend Christmas at home with my parents for the first time in 7 years.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Losing weight.
9. What was your biggest failure?
My self esteem was at an all time low this year. It's one of my goals this year to work to get it back up.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I had some tumbles due to the lethal combination of 4 inch heels and vodka. Nothing that I could brush off and pretend nothing happened.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
Wood floors for the house. It was an amazing transformation.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
A co-workers. He became much more confident in his abilities and a lot less cranky! :)
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Brett Favre...
14. Where did most of your money go?
Who knows... not in in the right places.
15. What events did you get really, really, really excited about?
Becker Family Christmas
Family Cruise
16. What songs will always remind you of 2010?
Tonight's Going To Be A Good Night - BEP
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
- Happier or Sadder? Happier
- Thinner or Fatter? Much thinner. Thank you South Beach!
- Richer or Poorer? Neutral.
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Taken time off and not been so busy.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Being self critical and passive aggressive.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent it with the Becker/Webb family!! Always, Always a fun family time full of chaos, shenanigans, and food.
21. Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?
Mom and Michele. But I am not a big phone talker.
22. Did you fall in love in 2010?
Yes, with a size 6.
23. Where did you spend most of your time?
Work. Here in America we live to work and not the other way around... I really wish it was not that way. I can't wait for the time when I can spend the majority of time at home.
24. What did you watch on TV this year?
Glee, Project Runway, How I Met Your Mother, Biggest Loser, Housewives shows, Snapped, and reality junk. We also watched the Lost series, Dexter and True Blood.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No. I don't hate anyone.
26. What was the best book you read?
I read a lot of Jodi Picoult's books and enjoyed them all. Twilight Saga.
27. What was your greatest musical discovery or rediscovery?
None really.
28. What did you want and get?
An iphone, a new floor, a real Christmas tree.
29. What did you want and not get?
mum is the word on that one.
30. What were your favorite films of this year?
True Grit, The Fighter, Eclipse, Deathly Hallows Part 1.
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I went out with some close friends and had some drinks. I turned 29.
32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
More money.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?
It got much better when I didn't have to be ashamed of my body as much this year. I continued, however, with my staple - the cardigan.
34. What kept you sane?
My friends.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most/least?
Most - Sandra Bullock, the epitome of grace
Least - Brett Favre, slime
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
Do I have to pick one? Anything that had to do with Obama.
Also the legislation preventing freedom of speech against funeral protesters. Don't get me wrong, I think they should burn in hell, but it is a slippery slope when we start denying people of their first amendment right.
37. Whom did you miss?
My family, a lot this year.
38. Who was the best new person you met?
My Ecomm girls at work. They are a riot and I never leave the night without my cheeks sore from smiling.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010:
Communicate.
40. Quote a song for 2011:
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten
So I love surveys, and this one is perfect for looking back!
Enjoy.
1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?
Lost weight. I mean lose weight and keep it off. 20lbs baby! Please disregard that candy bar I just ate... it was a long week!
2. Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I didn't really make any last year. This year I have made it a focus and have been successful so far.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No, not super close to me, but practically everyone at work has either had a baby or is currently pregnant.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Thankfully no.
5. What vacations did you take?
We took a cruise in August with my parents and Zach's. It was an amazing good time.
6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?
No debt. Working on it now. Just a few things to pay back and we are good.
7. What date from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
12/25 - I got to spend Christmas at home with my parents for the first time in 7 years.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Losing weight.
9. What was your biggest failure?
My self esteem was at an all time low this year. It's one of my goals this year to work to get it back up.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I had some tumbles due to the lethal combination of 4 inch heels and vodka. Nothing that I could brush off and pretend nothing happened.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
Wood floors for the house. It was an amazing transformation.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
A co-workers. He became much more confident in his abilities and a lot less cranky! :)
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Brett Favre...
14. Where did most of your money go?
Who knows... not in in the right places.
15. What events did you get really, really, really excited about?
Becker Family Christmas
Family Cruise
16. What songs will always remind you of 2010?
Tonight's Going To Be A Good Night - BEP
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
- Happier or Sadder? Happier
- Thinner or Fatter? Much thinner. Thank you South Beach!
- Richer or Poorer? Neutral.
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Taken time off and not been so busy.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Being self critical and passive aggressive.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent it with the Becker/Webb family!! Always, Always a fun family time full of chaos, shenanigans, and food.
21. Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?
Mom and Michele. But I am not a big phone talker.
22. Did you fall in love in 2010?
Yes, with a size 6.
23. Where did you spend most of your time?
Work. Here in America we live to work and not the other way around... I really wish it was not that way. I can't wait for the time when I can spend the majority of time at home.
24. What did you watch on TV this year?
Glee, Project Runway, How I Met Your Mother, Biggest Loser, Housewives shows, Snapped, and reality junk. We also watched the Lost series, Dexter and True Blood.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No. I don't hate anyone.
26. What was the best book you read?
I read a lot of Jodi Picoult's books and enjoyed them all. Twilight Saga.
27. What was your greatest musical discovery or rediscovery?
None really.
28. What did you want and get?
An iphone, a new floor, a real Christmas tree.
29. What did you want and not get?
mum is the word on that one.
30. What were your favorite films of this year?
True Grit, The Fighter, Eclipse, Deathly Hallows Part 1.
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I went out with some close friends and had some drinks. I turned 29.
32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
More money.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?
It got much better when I didn't have to be ashamed of my body as much this year. I continued, however, with my staple - the cardigan.
34. What kept you sane?
My friends.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most/least?
Most - Sandra Bullock, the epitome of grace
Least - Brett Favre, slime
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
Do I have to pick one? Anything that had to do with Obama.
Also the legislation preventing freedom of speech against funeral protesters. Don't get me wrong, I think they should burn in hell, but it is a slippery slope when we start denying people of their first amendment right.
37. Whom did you miss?
My family, a lot this year.
38. Who was the best new person you met?
My Ecomm girls at work. They are a riot and I never leave the night without my cheeks sore from smiling.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010:
Communicate.
40. Quote a song for 2011:
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten
January 3, 2011
New Year New Entry
What better way to start off the new year than by restarting the blog. I know my 1 faithful follower will be so excited!
Hmmm, what should my topic be for today? Ah Yes, outlining my New Year's Resolutions for 2011. I know - pretty original right?
Resolutions are usually so generic and things that don't really make a difference in your overall life. For example, my gym will be dripping with people today after work. Thanks in advance for making me (whow doesn't need a resolution to work out) work through lunch and leave early (just to make sure I can get on a machine) for the next month. Because lets be honest, those resolutions last for a month and then you are back to the same hum drum way you have been living your life until the next January when you make them all over again.
This year I am making a conceited effort to change myself. I figure the more I put this in writing, the more of a chance I have of holding myself accountable to them.
1. Display Self Control
This could mean a lot of different things. For one, drinking - calm down girlfriend... you are almost 30. It is time to stop acting like you are 21. I don't want this to sound like I am in need of rehab. That is not even close to the case. I just have a tendency to not stop drinking even once I am tipsy and then I move into annoying Kristin and not the adorable charming and not to mention funny Kristin that I typically am. Once I get to that point, I am the only person that sees myself that way. This also means from just glutinous behavior like the fact that there are a million candy bars and chocolate treats around me and holding myself back from shoving them all in my face at once.
2. Improve My Self-Esteem
Over the last year I have lost 20 lbs... ok, I am finished patting myself on the back now. You would think that would go a long way for a person's self-esteem. I guess I am the exception. I really need to take steps to see myself in a better light and not to be so down on myself all the time about the way I look.
3. Eliminate My Passive Aggressiveness
This is a huge one for me. I have always known that I am, but it not until recently that I have seen how that can negatively affect those around me. It probably stems from #2, but it is not an excuse for it - anymore. I am going to make huge changes in the way that I express myself in this way. It is not healthy for me or for those around me for it to continue any longer.
So, if you have not already noticed, my resolutions spell out D.I.E. My husband laughed out loud when I emailed them to him. He thinks it is hilarious that my resolution for 2011 is to D.I.E.
Hmmm, what should my topic be for today? Ah Yes, outlining my New Year's Resolutions for 2011. I know - pretty original right?
Resolutions are usually so generic and things that don't really make a difference in your overall life. For example, my gym will be dripping with people today after work. Thanks in advance for making me (whow doesn't need a resolution to work out) work through lunch and leave early (just to make sure I can get on a machine) for the next month. Because lets be honest, those resolutions last for a month and then you are back to the same hum drum way you have been living your life until the next January when you make them all over again.
This year I am making a conceited effort to change myself. I figure the more I put this in writing, the more of a chance I have of holding myself accountable to them.
1. Display Self Control
This could mean a lot of different things. For one, drinking - calm down girlfriend... you are almost 30. It is time to stop acting like you are 21. I don't want this to sound like I am in need of rehab. That is not even close to the case. I just have a tendency to not stop drinking even once I am tipsy and then I move into annoying Kristin and not the adorable charming and not to mention funny Kristin that I typically am. Once I get to that point, I am the only person that sees myself that way. This also means from just glutinous behavior like the fact that there are a million candy bars and chocolate treats around me and holding myself back from shoving them all in my face at once.
2. Improve My Self-Esteem
Over the last year I have lost 20 lbs... ok, I am finished patting myself on the back now. You would think that would go a long way for a person's self-esteem. I guess I am the exception. I really need to take steps to see myself in a better light and not to be so down on myself all the time about the way I look.
3. Eliminate My Passive Aggressiveness
This is a huge one for me. I have always known that I am, but it not until recently that I have seen how that can negatively affect those around me. It probably stems from #2, but it is not an excuse for it - anymore. I am going to make huge changes in the way that I express myself in this way. It is not healthy for me or for those around me for it to continue any longer.
So, if you have not already noticed, my resolutions spell out D.I.E. My husband laughed out loud when I emailed them to him. He thinks it is hilarious that my resolution for 2011 is to D.I.E.
September 9, 2010
Sucker for Surveys
Thanks Heather... I too am a sucker for these. I don't really know why but I love them. And I don't care if you don't like them, I am gonna do it!
1. First thing you wash in the shower? My face.
2. What color is your favorite hoodie? I used to have one in every color when I taught dance. A perk of the job was dressing comfortable all the time. But now my favorite is my black Bengals Hoodie. Who Dey!
3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again? Yes. Forever and always.
4. Do you plan outfits? Yes, now that I have lost some weight, I have very few options in my closet. Buy more you say? I still have a bit to go, so I don't want to have to buy clothes twice. I guess I should say that my checking account doesn't want me to buy clothes twice.
5. How are you feeling RIGHT now? Ok, a little bit of a sinus headache and some serious drainage. Sorry cube-mates.
6. What’s the closest thing to you that's red? The top to my amazing sugar free french vanilla coffee creamer.
7. Tell me about the last dream you remember having. I had a dream that I was teaching dance again. It made me happy.
8. Did you meet anybody new today? Yes, my new best friend. Not really, but a woman I only know in passing called me skinny minny and asked me what I have been doing, because I look great! Woot Woot.
9. What are you craving right now? A chocolate chip cookie dough shake with chocolate milk from UDF. That is probably just the South Beach talking...
10. Do you floss daily? Sure don't.
11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage? Napa, the best chicken salad ever.
12. Are you emotional? Yes, I can be. But I try to contain the crazy
13. Have you ever counted to 1,000? I seriously doubt it...
14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it? I have sensitive teeth. Biting it is like biting down on a fork and feeling that zing through your entire body. On a side note, I do love to bite on foil. Love that zing.
15. Do you like your hair? For the most part. This rain, however, is making me want to retract that statement.
16. Do you like yourself? Yes
17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush? Yes, I think that would be thoroughly entertaining.
18. What are you listening to right now? The click click of my mouse as I delete what Heather had previously written. Oh, and myself sniffing.
19. Are your parents strict? They claim they weren't. I claim they were. I had a curfew when I was home in the summer from college. You be the judge.
20. Would you go sky diving? Not unless it was the only thing that I could do to save my family and/or dogs. Or if I was offered a significant sum of cash.
21. Do you like cottage cheese? Yes. I hate it when I think about what it is. And surprisingly the texture does not bother me.
22. Have you ever met a celebrity? I met Pete Delkus. He is a meteorologist in Dallas. He is pretty much a big deal. I have also taken dance workshops from the SYTYCD people back in the day.
23. Do you rent movies often? NETFLIX! Can't live without it now.
24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in? My engagement and wedding rings... oh and a sign that someone got me that says "I'm so glam, I sweat glitter". It is covered in rhinestones and a valid statement.
25. How many countries have you visited? 2. Mexico and Canada.
26. Have you made a prank phone call? Haven't we all
27. Ever been on a train? Yes
28. Brown or white eggs? There really is no difference, but I always get white.
29. Do you have a cell-phone? Yes, but it typically disguises itself as facebook or twitter.
30. Do you use chap stick? I try to, but I mostly use lipstick and gloss because my lips are so pale I look deceased without it.
31. Do you own a gun? Yes, well, by association. But I know how to use it and it is my best friend when my husband is out of town. Burglars beware.
32. Can you use chop sticks? No. In fact, I used to carry around those kiddie converter gadgets that they put on kids chopsticks to they can use them. I am not ashamed.
33. Who are you going to be with tonight? I do Heather... I will be with a bunch of sweaty asians at the gym and then at home with my hubby and pups.
34. Are you too forgiving? No, but I think most people deserve a second chance. It is that third chance that it is doozie.
35. Ever been in love? Nope, just wanted the ring.
36. What are your best friend(s) doing tomorrow? Softball game for work. Calm down, I am not playing. I know that you were like, wait... she doesn't do organized sports. I keep score for all the athletic ones at work and cheer them on. After that, we will be hanging out with our best friends Brian and Michele.
37. Ever have cream puffs? Don't think so.
38. Last time you cried? Last week. Got a bit emotional on the cruise for no reason other than the 5 long island iced teas I had consumed. Sorry Zach.
39. What was the last question you asked? To myself, "When was the last time I cried?"
40. Favorite time of the year? In Texas, there aren't really defined times of year other than Summer (for 8 months) and finter (a fall and winter love child consisting of Thanksgiving and Christmas). I love summer for the weekend boating adventures, but I really love fall. I miss it living in Texas.
41. Do you have any tattoos? Nope
42. Are you sarcastic? Nope. {insert sarcasm here}
43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect? Yes.
44. Ever walked into a wall? No, just a refrigerator. Long story.
45. Fave color? Orange.
46. Have you ever been slapped by someone? No, but I have been slapped by a burrito.
47. Is your hair curly? No...straight as a stick
48. What was the last CD you bought? Toadies - Feeler on itunes.
49. Do looks matter? Anyone that says they don't is lying
50. Could you ever forgive a cheater? Hmmm...that's a tough one. Probably not
51. Is your phone bill sky high? 2 iphones... you do the math.
52. Do you like your life right now? Yes.
53. Do you sleep with the TV on? I like to fall asleep with it on, Zach hates that.
54. Can you handle the truth? Better than I can handle a lie.
55. Do you have good vision? With contacts...
56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people? No.
57. How often do you talk on the phone? I must admit I hate talking on the phone. Don't know why, just do. I talk on my phone every few days.
58. The last person you held hands with? Zach.
59. What are you wearing? Lucky Jeans (with a baggy butt) a gray ruffled shirt (too big), a blue cardigan (sadly too big as well) and gray flats. Come to think of it, I look like a short homeless person. Now I want to change. Thanks for that.
61. Can you hula hoop? No, I lost this skill with old age
62. Do you have a job? Yes!
62. What was the most recent thing you bought? Groceries. My life is so exciting, right?
1. First thing you wash in the shower? My face.
2. What color is your favorite hoodie? I used to have one in every color when I taught dance. A perk of the job was dressing comfortable all the time. But now my favorite is my black Bengals Hoodie. Who Dey!
3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again? Yes. Forever and always.
4. Do you plan outfits? Yes, now that I have lost some weight, I have very few options in my closet. Buy more you say? I still have a bit to go, so I don't want to have to buy clothes twice. I guess I should say that my checking account doesn't want me to buy clothes twice.
5. How are you feeling RIGHT now? Ok, a little bit of a sinus headache and some serious drainage. Sorry cube-mates.
6. What’s the closest thing to you that's red? The top to my amazing sugar free french vanilla coffee creamer.
7. Tell me about the last dream you remember having. I had a dream that I was teaching dance again. It made me happy.
8. Did you meet anybody new today? Yes, my new best friend. Not really, but a woman I only know in passing called me skinny minny and asked me what I have been doing, because I look great! Woot Woot.
9. What are you craving right now? A chocolate chip cookie dough shake with chocolate milk from UDF. That is probably just the South Beach talking...
10. Do you floss daily? Sure don't.
11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage? Napa, the best chicken salad ever.
12. Are you emotional? Yes, I can be. But I try to contain the crazy
13. Have you ever counted to 1,000? I seriously doubt it...
14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it? I have sensitive teeth. Biting it is like biting down on a fork and feeling that zing through your entire body. On a side note, I do love to bite on foil. Love that zing.
15. Do you like your hair? For the most part. This rain, however, is making me want to retract that statement.
16. Do you like yourself? Yes
17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush? Yes, I think that would be thoroughly entertaining.
18. What are you listening to right now? The click click of my mouse as I delete what Heather had previously written. Oh, and myself sniffing.
19. Are your parents strict? They claim they weren't. I claim they were. I had a curfew when I was home in the summer from college. You be the judge.
20. Would you go sky diving? Not unless it was the only thing that I could do to save my family and/or dogs. Or if I was offered a significant sum of cash.
21. Do you like cottage cheese? Yes. I hate it when I think about what it is. And surprisingly the texture does not bother me.
22. Have you ever met a celebrity? I met Pete Delkus. He is a meteorologist in Dallas. He is pretty much a big deal. I have also taken dance workshops from the SYTYCD people back in the day.
23. Do you rent movies often? NETFLIX! Can't live without it now.
24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in? My engagement and wedding rings... oh and a sign that someone got me that says "I'm so glam, I sweat glitter". It is covered in rhinestones and a valid statement.
25. How many countries have you visited? 2. Mexico and Canada.
26. Have you made a prank phone call? Haven't we all
27. Ever been on a train? Yes
28. Brown or white eggs? There really is no difference, but I always get white.
29. Do you have a cell-phone? Yes, but it typically disguises itself as facebook or twitter.
30. Do you use chap stick? I try to, but I mostly use lipstick and gloss because my lips are so pale I look deceased without it.
31. Do you own a gun? Yes, well, by association. But I know how to use it and it is my best friend when my husband is out of town. Burglars beware.
32. Can you use chop sticks? No. In fact, I used to carry around those kiddie converter gadgets that they put on kids chopsticks to they can use them. I am not ashamed.
33. Who are you going to be with tonight? I do Heather... I will be with a bunch of sweaty asians at the gym and then at home with my hubby and pups.
34. Are you too forgiving? No, but I think most people deserve a second chance. It is that third chance that it is doozie.
35. Ever been in love? Nope, just wanted the ring.
36. What are your best friend(s) doing tomorrow? Softball game for work. Calm down, I am not playing. I know that you were like, wait... she doesn't do organized sports. I keep score for all the athletic ones at work and cheer them on. After that, we will be hanging out with our best friends Brian and Michele.
37. Ever have cream puffs? Don't think so.
38. Last time you cried? Last week. Got a bit emotional on the cruise for no reason other than the 5 long island iced teas I had consumed. Sorry Zach.
39. What was the last question you asked? To myself, "When was the last time I cried?"
40. Favorite time of the year? In Texas, there aren't really defined times of year other than Summer (for 8 months) and finter (a fall and winter love child consisting of Thanksgiving and Christmas). I love summer for the weekend boating adventures, but I really love fall. I miss it living in Texas.
41. Do you have any tattoos? Nope
42. Are you sarcastic? Nope. {insert sarcasm here}
43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect? Yes.
44. Ever walked into a wall? No, just a refrigerator. Long story.
45. Fave color? Orange.
46. Have you ever been slapped by someone? No, but I have been slapped by a burrito.
47. Is your hair curly? No...straight as a stick
48. What was the last CD you bought? Toadies - Feeler on itunes.
49. Do looks matter? Anyone that says they don't is lying
50. Could you ever forgive a cheater? Hmmm...that's a tough one. Probably not
51. Is your phone bill sky high? 2 iphones... you do the math.
52. Do you like your life right now? Yes.
53. Do you sleep with the TV on? I like to fall asleep with it on, Zach hates that.
54. Can you handle the truth? Better than I can handle a lie.
55. Do you have good vision? With contacts...
56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people? No.
57. How often do you talk on the phone? I must admit I hate talking on the phone. Don't know why, just do. I talk on my phone every few days.
58. The last person you held hands with? Zach.
59. What are you wearing? Lucky Jeans (with a baggy butt) a gray ruffled shirt (too big), a blue cardigan (sadly too big as well) and gray flats. Come to think of it, I look like a short homeless person. Now I want to change. Thanks for that.
61. Can you hula hoop? No, I lost this skill with old age
62. Do you have a job? Yes!
62. What was the most recent thing you bought? Groceries. My life is so exciting, right?
July 30, 2010
The Story of High School Sweethearts
Once upon a time there was a boy named Zach and a girl named Kristin. They grew up in different parts of the world. Zach was from Arkansas (stop laughing, it ruins the moment) and Kristin was from Ohio. When Zach's dad decided to move to Ohio, his family loaded up the station wagon and hit the road. Since Zach was in the middle of the school year, he was known at school as the new kid from California (he had long white hair). Lots of girls thought he was cute, but Kristin didn't really see it, not that she could really talk since she was sporting some shit-crazy mall bangs and dressed like her mom. They continues to live their separate lives in the same school for the remainder of the year. It was not until 9th grade that their lives crossed paths.
World Awareness class was where the sparks really flew. OK, maybe not, since we both thought the other person was weird. He thought I dressed like a teacher and she thought he was a really dirty skater dude. Late in 9th grade they realized they had mutual friends. Kristin's boyfriend at the time (David)was one of Zach's best friends. Now they found themselves to be in the same place at the same time on several occasions. The continued the rest of 9th grade as acquaintances.
In 10th grade Kristin got another boyfriend, Dave (she wss such a slut) this one also happened to be one of Zach's best friends. Apparently she had a thing for "Davids". Since they were still all in the same circle of friends, they were friendly. Dave eventually dumped Kristin at school and she was devastated. Kristin had convinced herself that she would marry every boy she went out with. Zach saw her in the hall between classes and knew she was upset. He hugged her and told her it would be alright. Bam. Kristin found her next boyfriend. Now, if only she could convince Zach...
As a newly single lady, Kristin continued to hang out with her ex-boyfriend David (the first one, you follow?) as now he was going out with her best friend, Ashley. Ashley and David did their best to hook Zach and Kristin up, since it just made sense. Duh! Eventually when a Sadie's Hawkins dance was going on at school and Kristin asked, Zach said yes. It was learned years later that the reason he went is because David begged him and Kristin offered to pay for the tickets. The picture below is of said dance. Doesn't Zach look thrilled to be going on this date?
About a month after that dance, Zach and Kristin were an item. They dated all through high school and into college. They had one brief separation when Zach was looking for greener pastures, but he eventually found his way back. On December 17, 2004 Zach proposed to Kristin in the most amazing way ever and 8 months later... they got married. Shortly after getting married, Zach got a job and they packed up and moved cross country to Dallas. They work for the same company and love life in Texas with their 2 dogs. And they lived happily ever after - hopefully with babies eventually.
The End.
World Awareness class was where the sparks really flew. OK, maybe not, since we both thought the other person was weird. He thought I dressed like a teacher and she thought he was a really dirty skater dude. Late in 9th grade they realized they had mutual friends. Kristin's boyfriend at the time (David)was one of Zach's best friends. Now they found themselves to be in the same place at the same time on several occasions. The continued the rest of 9th grade as acquaintances.
In 10th grade Kristin got another boyfriend, Dave (she wss such a slut) this one also happened to be one of Zach's best friends. Apparently she had a thing for "Davids". Since they were still all in the same circle of friends, they were friendly. Dave eventually dumped Kristin at school and she was devastated. Kristin had convinced herself that she would marry every boy she went out with. Zach saw her in the hall between classes and knew she was upset. He hugged her and told her it would be alright. Bam. Kristin found her next boyfriend. Now, if only she could convince Zach...
As a newly single lady, Kristin continued to hang out with her ex-boyfriend David (the first one, you follow?) as now he was going out with her best friend, Ashley. Ashley and David did their best to hook Zach and Kristin up, since it just made sense. Duh! Eventually when a Sadie's Hawkins dance was going on at school and Kristin asked, Zach said yes. It was learned years later that the reason he went is because David begged him and Kristin offered to pay for the tickets. The picture below is of said dance. Doesn't Zach look thrilled to be going on this date?
About a month after that dance, Zach and Kristin were an item. They dated all through high school and into college. They had one brief separation when Zach was looking for greener pastures, but he eventually found his way back. On December 17, 2004 Zach proposed to Kristin in the most amazing way ever and 8 months later... they got married. Shortly after getting married, Zach got a job and they packed up and moved cross country to Dallas. They work for the same company and love life in Texas with their 2 dogs. And they lived happily ever after - hopefully with babies eventually.
The End.
July 1, 2010
Peer Pressure
Ok, so I haven't blogged in a while. A long while. Let me just take a second to get you caught up. I know, you are on the edge of your seat.
Hmmmm, since April I have done the following:
- Started the South Beach Diet and have lost 12lbs so far.
- Started running again - my 3 mile run after work today will be the third 3 mile run this week
- Worked on a long, boring and tedious project for work that took 2 months of my life I will never get back
- Took my dog in for a follow-up to the gum incident he had (see previous post) and his liver enzymes were back to normal. That was the good news. The bad news was that he had a lump that the vet wanted to take out. It turned out to be pre-cancerous so I am glad that we had that taken out.
Whew. Now that is off my chest.
So, when I was prompted to post a new entry (Thanks Heather) I asked what I should blog about because this seems to be the biggest problem for me. She had the following suggestions: "Top 10 best moments of your life, best things to do during summer, your undying love for me...". She then proceeded to dedicate an entire blog entry to me. Check it out. I think in honor of this I should definitely write about...
The top 10 best moments of my life. Ha! I am sure to catch hell for this.
1. Getting Married - Hand down the best day of my life. I guess when you find the right guy (even if that is in high school) you don't let him go. He is swell.
2. Winning 1st place at Dance Nationals. It was the most amazing thing to be able to be a part of. I miss dance tremendously. Those who know me know that I am literally obsessed with So You Think You Can Dance. Don't judge.
3. Getting to be a bridesmaid for Katie (my sister-in-law) this past March. It was the first wedding I had been in where I wasn't the bride. I was so happy for her and Heather and I had a blast.
4. Getting my dogs. This could really count as 2 since there are 2 of them. But I will just count it as 1. Gosh I love them.
5. College. I may not have graduated, but I certainly left school with some amazing memories. The best was one night when our group of friends were all out on the balcony of someone's house. "Cecila" from Paul Simon came on the stereo and there was a moment where all of our feet were stomping to the beat, our hands were clapping and we were singing the song. It rivaled any moment on Almost Famous. Those were the days.
6. Moving to Texas. The second I stepped foot in Dallas, I knew this is where I wanted to be. I miss my parents tremendously but this is where I belong. A fresh start.
7. Moving out of the evil girl house. I don't play well with others. Scratch that, others don't play well with me. I was so happy to move out of the train-wreck my life was living with girls. This has led me to believe that all twins are evil.
8. Getting a real big person job. I never thought I would be the office type. I have become a lot more than I ever thought I could be.
9. Getting boobs. No, not the fake ones, but the real deal. Once I stopped dancing they appeared. Finally. Now they are out of control. Everyone knows it, I can't deny it and I don't have any complaints!
10. Being born. Thank God I don't actually remember this. I would never be able to look at my mom the same way. Here is the logic: if I hadn't been born, I wouldn't be here to talk about the best moments!
Hmmmm, since April I have done the following:
- Started the South Beach Diet and have lost 12lbs so far.
- Started running again - my 3 mile run after work today will be the third 3 mile run this week
- Worked on a long, boring and tedious project for work that took 2 months of my life I will never get back
- Took my dog in for a follow-up to the gum incident he had (see previous post) and his liver enzymes were back to normal. That was the good news. The bad news was that he had a lump that the vet wanted to take out. It turned out to be pre-cancerous so I am glad that we had that taken out.
Whew. Now that is off my chest.
So, when I was prompted to post a new entry (Thanks Heather) I asked what I should blog about because this seems to be the biggest problem for me. She had the following suggestions: "Top 10 best moments of your life, best things to do during summer, your undying love for me...". She then proceeded to dedicate an entire blog entry to me. Check it out. I think in honor of this I should definitely write about...
The top 10 best moments of my life. Ha! I am sure to catch hell for this.
1. Getting Married - Hand down the best day of my life. I guess when you find the right guy (even if that is in high school) you don't let him go. He is swell.
2. Winning 1st place at Dance Nationals. It was the most amazing thing to be able to be a part of. I miss dance tremendously. Those who know me know that I am literally obsessed with So You Think You Can Dance. Don't judge.
3. Getting to be a bridesmaid for Katie (my sister-in-law) this past March. It was the first wedding I had been in where I wasn't the bride. I was so happy for her and Heather and I had a blast.
4. Getting my dogs. This could really count as 2 since there are 2 of them. But I will just count it as 1. Gosh I love them.
5. College. I may not have graduated, but I certainly left school with some amazing memories. The best was one night when our group of friends were all out on the balcony of someone's house. "Cecila" from Paul Simon came on the stereo and there was a moment where all of our feet were stomping to the beat, our hands were clapping and we were singing the song. It rivaled any moment on Almost Famous. Those were the days.
6. Moving to Texas. The second I stepped foot in Dallas, I knew this is where I wanted to be. I miss my parents tremendously but this is where I belong. A fresh start.
7. Moving out of the evil girl house. I don't play well with others. Scratch that, others don't play well with me. I was so happy to move out of the train-wreck my life was living with girls. This has led me to believe that all twins are evil.
8. Getting a real big person job. I never thought I would be the office type. I have become a lot more than I ever thought I could be.
9. Getting boobs. No, not the fake ones, but the real deal. Once I stopped dancing they appeared. Finally. Now they are out of control. Everyone knows it, I can't deny it and I don't have any complaints!
10. Being born. Thank God I don't actually remember this. I would never be able to look at my mom the same way. Here is the logic: if I hadn't been born, I wouldn't be here to talk about the best moments!
April 20, 2010
Poison and Panties
I have learned 2 very important lessons this week, my dogs are my children and I can wear big girl panties when I need to.
Last night when I got home from work I saw that my dogs had gotten into a Target bag and eaten a pack of gum. I promptly cleaned up what was left of the gum and headed outside to mow the lawn. I didn't think much about the gum at first until I was back inside. I am a very paranoid person when it comes to my dogs eating things they shouldn't but I really didn't think it was that big of a deal. That is when I remembered reading something about gum being potentially toxic to dogs when I was looking up something else they had gotten into a few months back. I grabbed the chewed wrapper from the trash and that was when I knew we were in trouble. They chewed up Orbit sugar-free gum. Dammit, sugar-free gum is lethal.
Sugar-free gum contains a chemical called Xylitol. It is an artificial sweetener used in gum to add the sugar flavor without the real thing. I immediately got online trying not to panic and run to the emergency vet. I was going to do some quick research since the dogs were acting normal. My dogs are also pretty large and usually that is a good thing when talking about potential poisoning. However, the more I read, the more scared I got. Xylitol causes a drastic drop in blood sugar triggering a large amount of insulin to be pumped into the system eventually leading to severe liver damage. Shit! I called the Animal Poison Control and was informed that the call may be charged to my credit card to a tune of $65. So, after hanging up with them, I just called the Emergency Vet. I was not about to spend $65 for them to tell me to go to the Vet. Of course, the Vet said to bring him in. So that is what I did - no questions asked.
I loaded up the dogs in a complete panic and headed out. I called my mother-in-law who is local to tell her what was going on. I let her know that I was on my way to the Vet and I would let her know the outcome when I know anything. Good girl, you held it together on the phone... then she called back to make sure I was OK. I lost it. It is difficult to drive a million miles and hour when you are sobbing like a girl that just fell off her bike and saw blood. I got calmed down and walked into the Vet.
Since I was unsure of which dog ate the gum, they both had to be put through the wringer. Just to be seen by the Vet it was $90 per dog. Fantastic. Both dogs showed normal vitals but I was instructed to let them induce vomiting. Proceed. Then both dogs had their stomachs pumped with charcoal. When I spoke to the Vet, she said that none of them threw up the gum which meant that it was already in their GI tract. She said in a perfect world she would run blood work on both dogs, but that it would be $250 per dog. I asked her what an imperfect world looked like. She said that I could wait until the morning and take the dogs to my vet to have the blood drawn. I asked if there as a concern with waiting and she said not really since they were not showing signs of toxicity. I paid my $440 and took the dogs home.
This morning the dogs and I piled into the car to see my vet. She took both of their blood since I still did not know which dog was the culprit. After an agonizing 30 minutes waiting on the results, we knew which dog was guilty. Tucker, my 80lb Lab. He had elevated levels of liver enzymes, low levels of potassium and some blood and protein in his urine. She was not overly concerned with the levels other than that they were different from his last exam. She prescribed me some antibiotics in case he had a bladder infection as a result and also a medication meant to help repair damaged liver cells. She is very optimistic that when we check him again in 30 days that he will be back to normal. I paid my $360 and was on my way.
Did I mention that my husband is in Hong Kong and was not here at all to help with any of this or help me make decisions with the life and death of his dog? No, Oh I must have blocked that out.
So what did I learn? I learned that I will do pretty much whatever I need to do to make sure that my dogs are alive and well. I did not bat an eye to drop $800 on them because looking back on it, I would not have changed a thing. I did the right thing and I can sleep well at night knowing what I did everything I could to make sure that my dogs were OK.
What else did I learn? I learned that I can pull up those big girl panties and make hard decisions that affect the welfare of others on my own. Pat myself on the back? I don't mind if I do.
Last night when I got home from work I saw that my dogs had gotten into a Target bag and eaten a pack of gum. I promptly cleaned up what was left of the gum and headed outside to mow the lawn. I didn't think much about the gum at first until I was back inside. I am a very paranoid person when it comes to my dogs eating things they shouldn't but I really didn't think it was that big of a deal. That is when I remembered reading something about gum being potentially toxic to dogs when I was looking up something else they had gotten into a few months back. I grabbed the chewed wrapper from the trash and that was when I knew we were in trouble. They chewed up Orbit sugar-free gum. Dammit, sugar-free gum is lethal.
Sugar-free gum contains a chemical called Xylitol. It is an artificial sweetener used in gum to add the sugar flavor without the real thing. I immediately got online trying not to panic and run to the emergency vet. I was going to do some quick research since the dogs were acting normal. My dogs are also pretty large and usually that is a good thing when talking about potential poisoning. However, the more I read, the more scared I got. Xylitol causes a drastic drop in blood sugar triggering a large amount of insulin to be pumped into the system eventually leading to severe liver damage. Shit! I called the Animal Poison Control and was informed that the call may be charged to my credit card to a tune of $65. So, after hanging up with them, I just called the Emergency Vet. I was not about to spend $65 for them to tell me to go to the Vet. Of course, the Vet said to bring him in. So that is what I did - no questions asked.
I loaded up the dogs in a complete panic and headed out. I called my mother-in-law who is local to tell her what was going on. I let her know that I was on my way to the Vet and I would let her know the outcome when I know anything. Good girl, you held it together on the phone... then she called back to make sure I was OK. I lost it. It is difficult to drive a million miles and hour when you are sobbing like a girl that just fell off her bike and saw blood. I got calmed down and walked into the Vet.
Since I was unsure of which dog ate the gum, they both had to be put through the wringer. Just to be seen by the Vet it was $90 per dog. Fantastic. Both dogs showed normal vitals but I was instructed to let them induce vomiting. Proceed. Then both dogs had their stomachs pumped with charcoal. When I spoke to the Vet, she said that none of them threw up the gum which meant that it was already in their GI tract. She said in a perfect world she would run blood work on both dogs, but that it would be $250 per dog. I asked her what an imperfect world looked like. She said that I could wait until the morning and take the dogs to my vet to have the blood drawn. I asked if there as a concern with waiting and she said not really since they were not showing signs of toxicity. I paid my $440 and took the dogs home.
This morning the dogs and I piled into the car to see my vet. She took both of their blood since I still did not know which dog was the culprit. After an agonizing 30 minutes waiting on the results, we knew which dog was guilty. Tucker, my 80lb Lab. He had elevated levels of liver enzymes, low levels of potassium and some blood and protein in his urine. She was not overly concerned with the levels other than that they were different from his last exam. She prescribed me some antibiotics in case he had a bladder infection as a result and also a medication meant to help repair damaged liver cells. She is very optimistic that when we check him again in 30 days that he will be back to normal. I paid my $360 and was on my way.
Did I mention that my husband is in Hong Kong and was not here at all to help with any of this or help me make decisions with the life and death of his dog? No, Oh I must have blocked that out.
So what did I learn? I learned that I will do pretty much whatever I need to do to make sure that my dogs are alive and well. I did not bat an eye to drop $800 on them because looking back on it, I would not have changed a thing. I did the right thing and I can sleep well at night knowing what I did everything I could to make sure that my dogs were OK.
What else did I learn? I learned that I can pull up those big girl panties and make hard decisions that affect the welfare of others on my own. Pat myself on the back? I don't mind if I do.
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