Tips in "Suffering" for Charity

Operation Kindness, a local no-kill shelter was holding a fundraiser this morning, so Todd and I took the big dogs to Dirty Dawgz for some washin' and some chippin'. Dog washing was 50% off and microchipping only $15. Both pups desperately needed baths, and I've been wanting to get Steve chipped, so off we went. It was yet another lesson in dog-parenting.


Tip #1: To avoid potential embarrassment, exercise the dogs BEFORE going in public.

Pippin was all excited, wanting everyone to pet her. Luckily, she is a sweetheart as long as she isn't jumping. Oddly, she jumps in front of you but not on you. Steve, who isn't such a sweetheart in such situations, was whining and way over-stimulated. We walked them a bit before it our names were called.

Tip #2: Bring extra help if you need it.

Time to microchip Steve. He had such a dramatic fit that the 'injector' didn't stay in and the chip didn't implant. Then, Todd had to take him over with three others helping. Pippin and I walked away while wailing sounds echoed throughout the shopping center. Steve's first sacrifice for charity was complete, albeit a little bloody.

Dog-washing began. More sacrifice for charity. Pippin had to be picked up by someone and placed into the tub. Ridiculous. She hates baths but liked the attention. Steve hates baths, and I guess dog washers hate bathing big, bloody dogs.

It all went well even though Steve FREAKED with the blow dryer & had to be hand dried. He's such a wuss.

Tip #3: Don't forget your camera!

Even when they're awful, they are cute and sweet, loving dogs.



As you can tell, it was quite eventful since we used about 1/4 of their staff for our two beasts. However, it was for a worthy cause and our dogs are really no worse for the wear!

Baby Kelsey

Sweet little Kelsey went to meet Jesus yesterday. Her parents updated their blog last night if you haven't already seen it. Your prayers for Kelsey over the past six months were felt and heard. Her parents, brother, and family were able to spend time with her and love her. Their pain, joy, and all of the emotions in between were so openly shared with us. Please continue to pray for their peace and comfort as they mourn the loss of their little girl.

Record Snow!

Snow is rare in Texas, but over eight inches in one day is a record! Today was a work day, but I have a feeling tomorrow things will change. Temps are dropping below freezing, which will make the slushy roads ice over & shut down the city. No complaints here! I took many photos today, but I'll only share a few of my faves.

Small tree in our backyard:

Steve likes to eat snow. Stay away from the yellow snow, Buddy!

Todd rolling a huge snowball in the backyard.

Cool shot of the 40 year old maple tree in our backyard.
Our sad, disabled snowman.
The big dogs wanted out in the front yard so bad! Instead, they had to watch us have fun without them.

The snow has been absolutely beautiful today. I'm hoping school is canceled tomorrow, so I can hang out and take more photos.

MINDY DAY!

Today is "Mindy Day!" Seventeen years ago today, I drove with a friend to the SPCA in downtown Dallas. I left with one of the last two kittens available for adoption. (For the record: my friend, who was simply along for the ride, left with a puppy for herself!)

Here are a few shots of my lady. Note: I was randomly playing with the various settings on my camera with no purpose or intention. In fact, I had not a clue what I was doing. :)

That Mindy attitude shining through . . .

At about this point, I'm pretty sure (okay, I know) she's thinking, "I see you. Now QUIT taking my picture!"

I've always been enamored with the Minster's foo-man-chu whiskers. They are SO long!

Mindy has been through so much with me, and she is an awesome cat. With a mighty spirit and love for her mom, my 17 year old cat is still kicking some ass and taking some names. I love you, Mindy Kitty Cat!