I love an unexpected snowfall. I watched the weather this morning and was told to expect a few flurries, but it’s been snowing for hours. All the school buses were out, I guess the snow caught the school district by surprise too. Let’s hope everybody gets where they’re going, safe and sound.
It’s so peaceful here when it snows. Why does the snow have such a silencing effect? The steady sound of those horses munching their hay, the crunching of the snow under their hooves all seem amplified by the stillness in the air. Horses get very thoughtful when they’re chewing their hay on a quiet morning. They pull a mouthful from the pile on the ground and then raise their heads and slowly work their jaws, their lids lowered dreamily, as in some sort of spiritual contemplation. I’ve found a great hay source who brings us the second cutting of last summer’s hay. It’s almost as green as fresh-cut grass. I suppose the horses are dreaming of the summer while they eat it, of the fields covered with green grass and clover again. Or they’re offering up some kind of silent equine prayer. Seriously, if you could stand next to these horses on a morning like this, you’d believe they have some sort of divine communication going on.
We took an early hike when the snow was just starting. Our new favorite place to hike requires a short car ride.
Holly is definitely one of those mutts who looks like a breed. Our former terrier mutts, Rocky and Pongo, though unrelated, looked like brothers and like an actual terrier breed. Sort of like long-legged Scotties. I got so tired of people asking me what kind of dogs they were, that I assigned them the breed name of Galway Terriers. Wait, I’ve blogged about this before.
So I want to assign a breed name to Holly. She has the temperament and stature of a Jack Russell, so I thought perhaps a Jane Russell Terrier would be a clever name. But too gimmicky. Nobody would be believe it. The fun is when people tell you how much they’ve always loved the breed.
How about East Woodland Terrier? Rough-Coated Mouse Terrier?
Daphne likes to jump up on the old stone walls that wind their way through the wooded areas up here. This was all open farmland 100 years ago, but now the fields have been overgrown with forests and the walls are wonderfully nostalgic artifacts of a different time.
Stumpy Wannabe Terrier?
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Hello ladies, and Alan,
got the C word in them and everything..Hey I was a sailor, that’s how I landed Bev..And I was thinner then…a lot thinner 
As for Matt, I really enjoyed sitting next to you. Cool guy for sure. If Anne’s Dennis hears what a good Goalie you were in College you’ll probably end up in a special guest appearance skating on the Leary Rink in no time. I really enjoyed your stories. I just hope I never have to see rhinestones at the beach or at a pool any time in the future 
I’d just wanted to say thank you to Anne and this group for a really wonderful time on Saturday. I was lucky enough to accompany my beautiful wife Bev to meet you all and attend the readings at the Lift Truck Project. Just a couple of comments if I may: for the lady of the evening, Anne, I was impressed with the guts it must have taken to walk up to that crew by yourself and be so easy, comfortable and gracious as you were. It’s one thing to get up in front of a bunch of nameless faces like at the LTP, but to come before your fans whom you have never met before… I would think that is the scarier of the two. You can always blend into obscurity among the other readers at the LTP but these people know something of you and have expectations. I think you confirmed what everyone already felt about you. A very intelligent, beautiful, and gracious lady and it was my pleasure to meet you.
Barbara, I taught in the Navy for ten years, and I loved it, but to teach the kids that you do, I can’t help but wonder if I would have the guts, patience or compassion that you show. To hear you speak of them is truly inspirational. I know a lot of these kids, with the odds that are stacked against them, have slim to no chance of success, but having a beautiful math teacher like yourself, who actually gives a …’hoot’, is surely a big plus for them. Kudos for you.
Aislinn, I know some good old sailor songs that I thought could make you blush but after hearing the Brasso and Bullocks song…hmmm. Eh, I think I still know a couple that might do it
Tracy, I admired how you went up to the authors and just told them how you felt about their readings when you saw them. I’m sure they really enjoyed that too. I know it means a lot to them to receive positive feedback. I like your laughter too.
Kim, quiet as a church mouse at the Tazza except for when Alan kept taking pictures of you. I almost spat my coffee out when you asked him? “Why do you keep taking pictures of me?” I still giggle thinking about it. Also you were so much fun at the restaurant. Love the earrings and the statement they make! We won’t even get into the red and white, hey I’m totally with you on that. It makes perfect sense to me.
Arliss, I’m sorry I didn’t get to speak to you or your husband. You two were at the far end of the ever-expanding block of tables that we sat at and it’s too bad you had to get back for the babysitter. The dinner was fantastic and you were missed. You two seemed really nice.
Colleen, there’s a lot going on behind those smiling eyes. I wish I could have spoken with you more. Also, your husband and I have got to get together and jam. A bluegrass jam is not complete till the guy with the double bass shows up. Somebody has to hold down that bottom. We shall have to get together soon. Blue Back square is right smack dab in-between us, plus tons of other good stuff in Hartford that we can to take advantage of. And, you may think Waterbury‘s not much but it’s Brass City and the home of Babe Ciarlo. (You’d have to be a History/WWII Geek to understand). I like it.
KC and Matt, what a couple of sweethearts. KC I love the pic of you giving Alan a kiss. His face says it all. You are a beautiful woman and I really hope the horse boarding takes off and then you can move onto the next stage of life. I think you’ll do quite well at that. I was so sad to hear about Midnight. Horse women are special; just ask our lil’ Autumn
Allan, the man behind the curtain, who made it all happen. It was a pleasure meeting you. You set everything up and made it all happen. I guess that’s par for the course for a city planner. Everything went off without a hitch. All I can say is well done. As for your place amongst the ladies of Anne’s Blog..I guess there always has to be one rooster in the hen house..wink wink nudge nudge
Lisa and Tom, I saved you two for last because you were the first we were lucky enough to meet . You are such kind and nice couple. I really wish we could have spent more time together. Lisa you have such beautiful smile and infectious laugh. You really made Bev happy meeting you. I’m so glad you decided to come up. Tom is cool. I met a bunch of surfers out in Southern Cal when I was stationed in San Diego a looooong time ago, and Tom is definitely a surfer dude. Great big barrel chest and big arms, must be from constantly paddling out beyond the waves. Too cool. We really hope to see you guys up here again.
As for the lift truck Project itself. I thought it was really interesting. I’m a little old and curmudgeonly to appreciate the performance art of the band. I would rather have had a nice Bluegrass or Caelli band, or if you must be artsy/Jazzy then a nice Gypsy swing ensemble, but those guys…not my cuppa tea. The readings, some were really great, interesting, entertaining and thought provoking. Some however were, at least to my limited intellect, not. Just a matter of taste I guess. Anne’s was definitely one of the good ones. I like a story, I like to get pulled into something and get something out of it. There were a few writers I really enjoyed.
Well I have rambled on enough, this is Bev’s stomping grounds and I respect that. She doesn’t go posting on my picking buddy websites and that’s probably a good thing. I just wanted to say thank you to all for being so great and to let you all know what a wonderful time we had.
Cheers, ayup duck.
Mr. Bev Thatcher
Apologies for the typos in my post. I have tendonitis/RSI in my right hand and wrist and am wearing a brace. Also still getting used to the keyboard on the laptop, which is so different from what I use at work.
Linda S.
Well, it soounds like you all had a great evening!
Arliss – thanks so much for the recap. What fun to meet and get to know one another. And especially to meet and talk to Ann in person. I was surprised to hear that our Ann is soft spoken(don’t know why??).
You sound like a great group. Maybe some day we’ll all get to meet. Can’s wait to see the photos.
Lupe – thanks for filling us in on your goings on. You have really been around (as far as where you’ve lived, that is). Looking forwarde to seeing some photos from you. Enjoy your new ventures.
KC- I love interesting jewelry. Where can we see/purhase your jewelry?
Linda S.
You guys are so very kind and really nice yourselves. Everyone yesterday made it so easy to feel so comfortable. And Ann, I told my daughter about your suggestion of Julia Roberts for me in the movie–I said that if she really doesn’t want the part, we have someone else in mind. Amazingly enough ( yeah, right ), I got that same old eye roll and “yeah, ok Mom” She’ll be sorry and I’ll keep you guys posted !!!!
I agree with what Colleen said. Barbara, you’re a gem. What lucky students you have. It was a privilege to meet you, and the “beautiful math teacher” story is a classic! Can’t wait for the movie.
I just want to chime in here, too, to piggy back on all the great things that have been said about yesterday’s meet and laugh. Ann was warm, funny, and animated. Alan was calm and everything you’d hope he’d be. Bev and Lisa have infectious laughs. Arliss and Scott are the kind of couple you want to be around because you want what they have to rub off on you. Tracy and Kim do a great Laurel and Hardy with their drag queen stories. Aislinn has a wicked sense of humor. And Barbara is so down to earth, you feel like sitting on the ground next to her to listen to her talk.
One more observation. At everyone of my family’s weddings, my brother Paul does this great dance to Michael Jackson’s “Free Willy” song (not the correct title, but hopefully you know the song I’m referring to). He stands in the middle of the dance floor and people circle around him while he dances and lip syn’s to the song. We’ve all grown to love it and anticipate it and relish in it as he moves across the floor. I’m hoping Barbara’s “The Beautiful Math Teacher” story will be our group’s song and dance. I hope, also, more people get a chance to see her perform this story. It was one of my highlights.
Thanks all for the recaps,sounds like a wonderful time. Looking forward to the pics now.
Thanks so much! And I meant to add that most of the group continued on to what, by early reports, was a very enjoyable dinner afterward. Looking forward to hearing more about that! (We had to get home to the babysitter by 9 p.m., so sadly weren’t able to join them)
Great summary of the evening, Airliss. Who took pictures and when can we see them?!
Just have to say I had the most wonderful time last night, It was such a pleasure to meet each and every one of you. I think everyone said it all perfectly below, Ann was just gracious and wonderful…. what a great bunch of people that I felt very fortunate to meet. Ann, Alan ,Arliss,Aislinn, Colleen, Kim, Tracy, Barbara, Lisa, KC, and the wonderful Hubby’s that came along too….. I laughed and laughed all night at everyone’s stories, and it felt like we had known each other forever, Thank you all for another wonderful adventure to add to my growing list….. It was perfect in every way..I will miss each and everyone of you!!
Thanks, Arliss. Your recap of the evening made me feel like I was in the room with you all. You’re quite the writer yourself, I must say.
Thanks for the recap. So glad you all had a good time. But expected that! Can’t wait to see the pictures and, and, the artwork and Ann’s written piece in the blog. hint hint.
Oh Arliss,
You captured it perfectly !! And I agree, there is still a glow from meeting everyone. And I didn’t get to the dinner, and I missed all that fun. But….I had a lovely time, with terrific conversation with such enjoyable people. Most of us met for the first time last night, but we all fit together as if we’ve known each other forever ( and from the blog, we have !!).
I’m ready to set the next date…..
Arliss, that was a perfect recap of last night’s events for those who were not able to join us. Thank you.
What a wonderful time was had last night! Still feeling the pleasant glow of having met so many nice people. : ) Thank you so much, Ann, for inviting us to be part of the event and for being so kind in meeting with us beforehand. You are indeed beautiful inside and out, as Aislinn said. You were so warm, funny, witty, thoughtful, inclusive, interesting, articulate … just darn delightful to spend time with!
Just to recap for those who weren’t able to come, we all got together first at a small coffee place near the event. When my husband and I arrived at 4 p.m., a happy contingent had already gathered and pushed together several of the small tables. Already there were Alan, Aislinn, Colleen, Barbara, Kim, and Tracy. You all were so great, and the group so friendly and welcoming, any jitters were immediately erased.
All of us were having such a fun time talking and laughing that it got to the point where perhaps the staff — and the few other patrons — wondered who this boisterous group of out-of-towners was. (The few other patrons did, admittedly, seem to trickle out rather hastily, after looking at us askance for a while.) After what Tracy called a few “false Ann sightings” (LOL, Tracy!), Ann arrived, and beautiful ladies Beverly and Lisa arrived with their husbands Mark and Tom soon after. Ann was just as warm and wonderful as she could be — she signed books for a few of us, told some terrific stories, and chatted leisurely with everyone. What a gal!
At 5:30 we all headed over to the event location, a gallery about 10 minutes away. The space was sort of industrial-chic; it’s a former truck garage. Quite a crowd inside, and quite a din — lots of conversation, and a trio in the corner playing electronic music with a heavy bass line. A fascinating, wild array of art on the walls, ranging from an Auguste Rodin drawing, to a traditional painting of a Western scene, to cartoons by Saul Steinberg, to a beautiful portrait, to a motorcycle helmet painted in hippie-esque style by Big Daddy Roth. Hanging behind each of the art pieces were “wallpapers” upon which were artfully printed texts inspired by the work.
A highlight at the gallery was the arrival of KC and her husband Matt. What a gorgeous couple! KC, I wish we’d been able to talk more … I hope we can meet again soon.
Soon the crowd was quieted down (only somewhat, and only intermittently, as it turned out) as one after the other the writers each read their work aloud from the corner where the musicians had played. Pieces varied but were generally several minutes in length and included fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Ann’s reading was about in the middle of the lineup. I honestly feel that her piece was the best of the bunch — it’s a vivid, evocative vignette that manages to infuse the character with great humor and likability amidst a scenario that is rather dark (both figuratively and literally!). Other pieces that I found particularly interesting were a nonfiction work by Ben Cheever (son of famous writer John Cheever) titled “And What Does Any of This Have to Do With Manhattan?” Really fascinating and engaging. Also “Reverse Metamorphosis,” a wonderful piece of short fiction by Martha Handler, a very entertaining account of one woman’s efforts in getting the perfect birthday gift for her man that ends with an unexpected, heartbreaking turn.
Sorry for going on so long, but I just hoped to provide a sense of the evening. So much fun, and such a great group of people. Thanks again, all, for being so welcoming.
Kim, LOL!!!! It’s gonna be Pillow Street and Blanket Avenue for me this afternoon.
Catching up on the blog
Glad you all had a great time…i’m so sorry I couldn’t attend.
Colleen, hope you are doing better,
Linda, Been the biopsy route 3 times myself, thankfully nothing…I will keep you in my thoughts.
Puppy pics to follow..blackberry needs to recharge.(so do I) Lol
By the way guys – the last thing I remember getting back to the hotel was that Tracy went into the bathroom and the next thing I remember was getting up a 5:30a. There was absolutely NO party going on in our room as Tracy stated. It was Pillow Street and Blanket Avenue for me.
Jules -
I don’t know if I posted this already but Axel is SO beautiful. Very handsome boy and I SO love the other photo with all the little pirates together – so cute. Wanna trade?
The evening was truly a BLAST!!!!!!!! KC – love you – I will be purchasing some of your jewelry for sure. I want what was around your neck last night. Another bottle of vino anyone? The hubby’s were a hoot. Bev – your the bomb – (I like my women brave, beautiful and nuts – you only live once). Aislinn – your gorgeous – I had a wonderful time with you. It was so great to meet the rest of the crew.
Alan – I have a major crush on you. Totally. Thank you for putting this all together. I know you were concerned with Tazza but hey, we were laughing so much it didn’t even matter. ROLLCALL!!!!!!!!
Ann – you are so so lovely and terribly funny. I so connected your piece to the art – (and remember – I did not particularly care for that piece of artwork) but – you tied it all in so skillfully. A part of me wanted to get to know her better. I loved the entire event. It was wonderful to meet you.
Tracy – thank you for doing the night driving. Woke up at 5:30 Sunday am, got my stuff together had breakfast, left Danbury at 7:20 and I was home by 9am. Did not want to wake you.
I hope to see all of you again. You guys are all fabulous!
Hi everyone. I had a wonderful time last night. It was so great to meet some of these posters. Ann is absolutely beautiful, both inside and out. Soft spoken – a gentle soul – not to mention those beautifully-arched eyebrows! Her reading was riveting – totally unexpected – and thought provoking. It so related to the art.
The ladies are all an absolute hoot. It was wonderful to meet their “patient” husbands too. I wish we lived closer to one another. Alan did a wonderful job organizing every little detail of the evening. I didn’t have my camera with me, so I’m anxious to see the photos. We all love our animals – and we all appear to love to have a good time. KC wore some fab jewellery – all for sale. I wonder if any of it went back home with her.
KC, thanks for the update! I’ve been waiting on pins and needles
Glad it was a great night for all!
Can I just say….a fabulous night tonight. Ann was radiant and her piece was interesting and thought-provoking. A job well done, and photos/video/commentary soon to come, I’m sure! I’m so glad M’s and my first “date night” since we moved here was so much fun. I totally have a crush on Bev and Kim – the end. xo
PS – I have the BEST photo of Alan…from my lips to well….Alan. How’s that for a cliffhanger?
Ann – we love you! You were fantastic! Thank you for welcoming all of us to attend such a fun evening!
Barbara, I did not know that about you..
Amazing… to survive it and feel positive about being able to. I do not know if it is the ‘press’ about that disease (all it is, is one cell going berserk and multiplying out of control, and then invading other tissues and repeating ‘its performance’) There is a clock-like ‘device’ in the life of a cell, and it ‘knows’ how to develop and when to stop developing. Well, kind of like that. But a cancer cell does not ‘know’ that. Different body cells have different ‘jobs’ to do and when they are done, they die on their own.
Skin cells, for instance, depending on where they are at, they do their mission, and they die by breaking down into parts, that the body uses for other ‘jobs’ or disposes of it. I have known about the father of someone special to me, who suffered from melanoma. Apparently it spread and it was the cause of the death of this person.) Others atrophy via mutations. (We have to die of something.. I suppose).
Back to the story about this individual whose father died of melanoma spreading and spreading made such an impresion on him that when he (voluntarily and spontaneously) decided to share that with me, (while at the subway in Oakland of all places… and coming out of a deposition… of all the other ‘places’, as it affects your mood).. he was still overwhelmed. He felt it to be so unfair, that he stopped practicing law and went into a hide-away period, to recover from the loss.
I have only seen some of it during the clinical training I have done at different hospitals, state hospitals, nursing homes and the like. The only thing I am glad about is that they have the meds to at least assist in their suffering. I mean, what is the fecking point?. And imagine that in the past where they had no cure, no help, no nothing.Well, they had ‘herbs’ and they used what they knew to ameliorate the hurt.
Proud of you, lady!, proud of you and remember:
fight on
I am going to get in that subway… and whether it looks ridiculous or not to the folks viewing the goings on in the cameras at Union Station Los Angeles (I am sure they have those).. I am going to take photos of those doctors I was talking about and learn about them. They look so nice…. kind of like the pilots of the Blue Angels I met once somewhere in the Midwest. Humans, yes, but ‘polished’, educated, trained, shinny eyes, calm smiles. Just nice to see!!.
Oh Lupe……..even the evil cancer should be looked at as a difficulty…certainly a BIG one, but it is possible to get through it. Lots of love, support, positive thoughts ( I firmly believe in thinking hopefully). And I’m not a fool who believes this sounds easy and”Pollyanna”……I’m a survivor !!
Looking forward to Tracy’s reporting on the event tomorrow… and I am sure they will have lots to tell.
Linda S. (for)
My plan in LA has many folds..
Complete my degree…. teach?.. work in a hospital? Neither?
Get rid of the blubber ( yes, like that substance matter on a whale) on my middle… as I am 5-1 and it is crowding my internal organs, besides hurting my ego.
Note: life’s difficulties… unless it is evil cancer, are only challenges… ( a mortgage broker I worked with taught me that).
Just have got to grab that sucker by the horns, if its got any. If not, grab it by the balls… as it has got to have some.
Ann’s pets are darling… and God Bless Her, as she is in charge of the cleanup too!, that come along with all the loving… and now with sweet Holly….
Mary Lynn.
I am a sucker for those…
Thank you for the compliment
I live in Los Angeles now… minus the trips to the Bay Area to retrieve my old POS car and bring my treasures… from storage… back to my new place.
I have lived in: Madrid (Espana), London (England), White Plains (New York), Cedar Rapids (Iowa), Videlia (Georgia), Athens (Alabama), Brattleboro (Vermont),
Newport (Michigan), San Jose (California), Los Altos (California), Campbell (California), Cupertino (California),San Francisco (California), Redwood City,(Califonia)
Got married in Kaukauna (Wisconsin!).
Motive, intention, general plan..
To learn, with the intention to understand and have fun by the understanding (makes me happier than heck).
To see if I can be more creative from the inside out.
Get in shape again… be able to run run run and breathe and run (kind of like the old messengers in the Middle Ages). I smoke..
Annie:
About the pictures….
Got a ‘new pack’ as the stoopid digital camera sez to do… and what does it keep on saying? ” GET NEW PACK”.
It is an old camera (2006). May just go to the book store on campus, get me a new one and forgetaboutit.
My cell phone…
Can take photos, but I do not know how to get them out!. Have all kinds of those cables that Ann losses often… but still
do not know how to do it. I feel dumb and for good reasons.
But I intend to get photos and post them on Facebook, so we can laugh along….
(there is some stuff…. I am telling you…. like these kids with the long and wide jeans….and the waist?, well, they put the waist about 5 inches below the
trocanter bone (hip)… with TWO pairs of underwears showing up, one on top of THE other. Of course, the belt constricts the walking… and so they walk with
their legs spread apart…waddling (like I did while pregnant, and I gained lots of weight).. and you are walking up the stairs in the Metro right behind them!!.
I KNOW the kids are protesting, but…. I mean, all they are doing is stopping themselves from a normal stride.
Then again, what do I KNOW?.
Mary Lynn – Thanks for your lovely post. Last year was a very sad year me, as well. Like Catherine and Sandra, i continue to wrestle. It’s good to share, to feel support and to be part of this great group.
Lupe – Very funny post! Where do you live? I’m in Sausalito. I also don’t know what your plan is in LA.
Linda S.
Finally have had time to read the blogs…and, Ann, loved the last two with the animal pictures. I never tire of looking at those precious animals. My prayers and thoughts are with those who are going through some rough times right now. I love the fact that they share it with us even though we haven’t met in person. Ann, this is a great group of women you’ve attracted and I feel cheated when I can’t keep current.
“We must always have old memories and young hopes.”
Mary Lynn, thank you for sharing that with us. That really struck a chord with me, too, and it is something I shall remind myself of whenever I struggle. Last year was kind of a sad year for me, and coming to Ann’s blog has been a bright spot. Thank you to all who contribute. I gain something every day.
Lupe, you are a wonder!
Mary Lynn, I welled up reading this from your post: “Honestly, for the last year or two, I thought my hopes were dead . . . and the dreams that kept me going had died very, very hard. I continue to wrestle with my situation every day, but I have begun to realize that hopes and dreams are very, very resilent things, and they can not be controlled or quashed so easily. . . perhaps they do spring eternal after all.”
I continue to wrestle too.
Lupe, I second that emotion! (from Annie) What a grand adventure you are on. Do fill us in on the itinerary, I must have come a little late to this party . . .
First, where in the Bay Area do you live? I grew up there (Catholic). Second, how are you getting back and forth from L.A., and what is your motive, intention, and general plan?
It sounds a bit of the wild and wonderful Auntie Mame . . . to live, live, LIVE!
I want to share the fortune in my fortune cookie yesterday -
“WE MUST ALWAYS HAVE OLD MEMORIES AND YOUNG HOPES”
I really want to thank Ann and everyone who participates in the blog for reminding me of my old memories (and allowing me to take up comment space talking about them) and inspiring my young hopes.
Honestly, for the last year or two, I thought my hopes were dead . . . and the dreams that kept me going had died very, very hard. I continue to wrestle with my situation every day, but I have begun to realize that hopes and dreams are very, very resilent things, and they can not be controlled or quashed so easily. . . perhaps they do spring eternal after all.
I also heard “The Impossible Dream” on the radio yesterday -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfHnzYEHAow
Nothing like a few tears with your morning coffee.
You had me laughing with that post, Lupe. I can just see you in that hostel….yikes you’re brave, budget or no. I couldn’t imagine doing that.
Would love to see some of your pics from your LA adventures.
Take care and do be careful!!
: )
Well… travelling is not for the meek… or I had forgotten. Back in the Bay Area to fetch my car and drive it down.. only we have fog…. so forgetaboutit, I am staying tonight in a nice room (for a change0, to mean, without ‘witnesses’, as staying in hostels is interesting and of interest. Nice kids… from Australia, Germany, Venezuela… all curious as to why their grandma is in their room!!! but I am on a budget….
They are all TALL, and lovely. Well, not all of them, the lovely part, that is, as waking up in the middle of the night with a front view of this young male derriere, hairy and all, is not what I considered lovely. Then again, I am on a budget. The females all asking questions about the second hand stores in San Francisco, and I sent two there, the Out of the Closet places, where they can shop to their heart’s content. And they follow me like pups… so I am still motherly (instead of bitchy?). They undress in front of this Catholic, Apostolic, Roman tight ass Lupe, as if it were nothing. I continue to wear tents, or rather, long tshits, and leggings and DO NOT undress in front of the young and initiated.. as I know better. A nice experience.
And Venice Beach as lovely as ever!! only I forgot to check that it would take me, in public transportation 3.5 HOURS… each way. Hell, I did not know. I know now. It is Hermosa Beach this week then!.
(Where was my head NOT to look at HOW LONG IT TAKES to get from point A to point B).Is this Alzheimers already?.
And Mary Lynn… my class about the Spaguetti Westerns is much more than that. Should not get help writing anything, or it would be YOUR grade. I will share more. I AM taking the recorder back from the car and into the classroom, so that I can record this lovely professor verbal skills. He is amazing!! and I am getting batteries for the camera so I can get a glimpse to remember of the cop(s). And I need to remove the photos from my cell phone, so I can do the same although more discreetly (the picture taking). It is all just too precious.
I have to go do my laundry now!.
Ann, I agree with you, Axel IS fascinating! His training and sheer brain power amaze me still. And yes, they mostly do keep K9’s intact, pretty much for the reasons you and Kim said. The only ones I think they don’t worry too much about are the cadaver dogs, sadly, there is no rush in that situation. The concentration factor isn’t altered if they are. The next time I don’t have so much to say I will tell one of his stories. But right now I have too many responses I want to make!
Kim and KC, so sorry if I mixed up who it was that called me Jules, I was so excited and happy at seeing it. My apologies.
“Horoscopically” was a great way to put it. Both of you and Ann, being Aries and Leo (and Leo), are probably feeling that Mars influence. It’s a much more emotional and spirtual slant than Mercury. “Surges” of all types fall under this category for sure.
I love the stories about Tyler, and Trey, you go buddy! One of the things that was recommended to me, for Axel and I to look in to now that he’s home with me (too much as far as he’s concerned) was therapy or reading programs. (Thank you Arliss for that info too.) We have a wonderful friend in dispatch that is going to investigate where he will be the most useful (and where we can go in the P.M. hours, he’s smart but can’t quite drive himself yet, so any place we take him still has to fit my nearly nocturnal schedule).
Have fun this weekend everyone.
Best to you Linda H. for next week. Holding positive good thoughts for your biopsy. xo
Have fun tomorrow night those of you who are going.
Looking forward to the stories and the pictures.
Linda H, positive thoughts headed your way.
Tammy, I think the canine paternity lawyer will be knocking on your door soon.
Looking forward to meeting those of you that I haven’t met yet tomorrow night. It will be great to see you again Kim and Barbara. Kim and I are sharing a hotel room in Danbury – watch out fellow hotel guests, there’s going to be a wild party when we get back!
Yes, we’ll be posting pics, etc. We would never forget all of you.
Can’t wait to meet you Ann.
Well, back to getting ready. I’m leaving in the morning. See some of you tomorrow!
Hey Guadalupe — I would love to hear a Spaghetti Western and/or Film Noir lecture — those are two of my favorites.
If I ever finish my first screenplay, up next is a western (rather traditional as opposed to revisionist, but I know I’ll be writing lots of scenes influenced but Sergio Leone — “The Good, Bad, and the Ugly” is one of the movies seared in my brain like a brand, and every time it is on TV I have to watch it. I’ve always called the theme song “Don’t Walk to Waco” — you know — do, do, do, do, DO – don’t walk to Waco! — well, that’s what it sounds like they are saying anyways.)
So after the Western, comes my Film Noir screenplay. It will be very heavily influenced by “Sunset Boulevard”. I don’t have the story quite set yet, but do I have an awesome title. Another influence for my story line is “The Last Tycoon” — that being based on an unfinished novel is a weird piece of film . . . but it does has that sort of lonely Hollywood feel to it, that makes for good cinema.
If you need any help writing about Spaghetti Westerns and/ or Film Noir let me know. I don’t really take a textbook approach to movies and I’ve never taken a film appreciation class, but I am a huge fan, and can usually grasp the concepts professors are trying to teach. If Elia Kazan ever comes up as a subject, I could definitely help you there.
I have to vote for “Jane Russell Terrier” — Jane is still alive and kickin’ by the way.
Linda, lots of lovely thoughts and a little crazy dance under the Wolf Moon.
Tammy: I’m literally chuckling – how cute.
Tammy – That is definitely Goober’s little Goober – no question. And very cute, I might add. Goober looks gorgeous. I love Goldens!
Hope you all have a great time on Saturday. Looking forward to the photos.
Linda S.
Hang in there Linda!
How heartwarming to receive all your good wishes regarding my forthcoming breast biopsy. I promise to let you know the results. My youngest sister had a lymph node biopsy today for suspected lymphoma, and a dear brother-in-law is dying from liver cancer. Like the Queen said once, this is my annus horribilus (or however you spell it).
Everybody who is going to the art reading event; have fun and don’t forget about us outlanders.
Linda H.; good thoughts your way.
Tammy; too funny.
Ann; good luck and have fun. Please reprint (with art) on this blog so we can see it.
Have a good weekend all.
Please don’t forget to post pics of the fabulous weekend you guys are going to have. I feel like mom is making me stay home and all my friends get to go…. sorely missing you.
Colleen sorry to hear about your fall. We had an unexpected four inches of snow yesterday. Driving conditions were okay, but this morning!!! It was pure ice. Two people I work with had car accidents, nothing serious, but they said the same thing, once they got out of their cars they were slipping and sliding and holding on to dear life. Feel better.
Ann – love the stone walls. We have a partial one in our woods and I always think about the person who worked on it. I image some old gentleman working on it carefully and taking pride in the placement of each stone. My family and I go hiking to Gillette’s Castle quite a bit and there are stone walls everywhere. They are beautiful to see at any season.
It is bitterly cold here today. Going to make a fire, hot cocoa and cookies later. Will hate myself when it becomes bitterly hot in the summer!
Amanda, I read People every week…my mother and I buy each other a subscription each year for each other’s birthday. I saw that “Devotion” got a rave too. I was too chicken to come out of the “People” closet, so thanks for making it okay – ha.
Thanks, Louise. I’m sure you’ll hear all about it.
Ann, I’m sure you already know this but People magazine (I hate to admit I read it sometimes) reviewed DEVOTION in the current issue and gave it a glowing review with 4 stars. I wanted to read it anyway but this just moves it up to the top of my list. Congrats to your friend, Dani Shapiro.
I just want to find where that silly dog lives and adopt him. He is so cute
Tammy, I hope Goober has a good lawyer. I feel a paternity suit coming on.
Thanks catherine!
I dont know how they managed to make contact but I think so too lol
Want to say to Ann and the lucky bloggers who are going to the event tomorrow – have fun – can’t wait to see the pics and would love to read Ann’s composition about the painting.
Wow! Looks like Goober is definitely the puppy-daddy. Let the child support begin…
Hey all you dog lovers
Maybe you can help me out
My golden goober had a visitor in his back yard last year
Some weird looking beagle daushound kind of mutt dug her way under his fence and was always after him
Then she came by and had a puppy with her I swear it is Goobers.
Hubby disagrees.
Pics are here
http://mandatorybloghere9.blogspot.com/2009/03/snip-snip-goober.html
Do you think it is his?
I swear that is his face on a little dog.
Linda S., I’m looking forward to seeing the pic of your Charley! I hope the issue is resolved soon. You’re right, it could be a marking thing, as with the other male having that problem. I had a male that I tried and tried to cure of doing that, it was exasperating. Finally I had him neutered, and it stopped immediately. That doesn’t always help, but I believe it does the trick a good percentage of the time.
Ann, I love the idea of calling Holly either a “Rough-haired Litchfield Terrier” or a “Jane Russell Terrier.” Hilarious! Those are both great. (Or a “Soft-Coated Woodland Terrier” … or a “Litchfield Wheaten Terrier” … )
We used to do that too! (Even with dogs that have an “official” breed name!) When our English Cockers are all shaggy because they haven’t been groomed lately, sometimes someone will walk up with a puzzled look on their face and say, “What kind of dog is THAT” To which one of my EC friends once replied with a straight face, “Oh, this is a [imaginary breed name] Bavarian Otterhound.” “Ah,” says the person, and after a moment, “I once knew someone who had one.” A few years ago I did some work for an encyclopedia of dog breeds, and I came across some hilarious real breed names I’d never heard of. I have a list of my favorites somewhere, but I know that it includes the lovely Black-Mouthed Cur (really!) and the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog.
I think the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog might be my all-time favorite.
Arliss: wonderful about Magic! Thats great! Good Dog Foundation is terrific.
Amanda: It sounds like they would be wonderful – just basic commands are required and they give you a lot of rope. There are many therapy organizations out there. You just have to tap into which one you like best and what works for you. Good luck!!
All the posts today are so good! I have nothing to add, but I wanted to let Linda H. know that I am also sending out positive vibes as you go through this biopsy procedure. We are all here for you!
Sorry, that happened to me again — the closing parenthesis got trapped in the link for the READ program site, and it won’t open. Here it is again:
http://www.therapyanimals.org/R.E.A.D.html
Ann, what a lovely post! I enjoyed it very much. How beautiful about the horses meditatively grazing.
Colleen, so sorry about your accident yesterday! Very glad that you’re OK and hopefully pampering yourself.
Linda H., thoughts are with you for an A-OK biopsy next week.
Kim, how neat that you’re doing therapy work with your Tyler! That’s so great! I just finished having Magic certified (through the Good Dog Foundation), and we’re starting the very same thing next month — visiting the local school system to do reading therapy with kids. I’m very excited about it. Anyone who would like more info on that sort of thing can check out the site for the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) program (http://www.therapyanimals.org/R.E.A.D.html), which has some great information and guidelines. It’s proven to really benefit a lot of kids.
KC, I also noticed the beautiful winter moon last night! It’s nice to know that you were out there under the sky last night admiring the same old moon.
Linda – Will keep you in my thoughts.
Kim, THANK YOU so much for the great information. Our Golden was given to us as well by a young woman who got her as a pup but really didn’t have the time or space to care for her when she was no longer a puppy. With some discipline and daily exercise she really has turned into a wonderful dog. And our new rescue dog is very calm and loving but is in need of some basic sit/stay, walking on a leash training. Hopefully they would both be good candidates. I used to work in a nursing home and the residents loved the days when the employees would bring their well behaved dogs and cats in for them to pet and fuss over. So calming for them. Thanks again and I think your idea of your Trey helping amputees is perfect.
I meant Linda Hatch……
Linda,
I’m sending nothing but good thoughts your way for your biopsy. Please keep us posted. Everyone here is so wonderful, kind and supportive. As most of you already know, I have had biopsies with both good news and bad news. If there is anything I can offer you from my experience, information, help, suggestions to keep your mind from going crazy (yeah right!!), please don’t hesitate to contact me. Ann, feel free to share my email. It’s like one large support group when you need it. Barbara
Guadalupe, your story brought a smile to my face this morning too, and it was 15 degrees, so that was not an easy task. Very well written, and great observations.
Linda Hatch – I’ll be thinking of you. Keep the faith.
Amanda: I initially had Tyler obedience trained when I first rescued him (I was included in that training). He was out of control and his previous owner allowed it which was why she gave him up. Shepherds, Dobermans, Rotties are very strong willed and they will take over if you don’t have a firm but loving hand. Because he loved people and other dogs, I thought of pet therapy. Cutting to the chase, Tyler is under the umbrella of TDI (Therapy Dogs International). This organization is huge – you can google and you will get all the info you need. He went through 12 classes of obedience training under a previous therapy organization that basically taught him how to navigate around durable medical equipment, i.e., wheelchairs, walkers, how to approach a patient with/without paralysis and how to get into very tight spaces without freaking out. TDI works a little differently. If your dog has basic obedience down – you can go for an evaluation – if your dog passes – your in. Thats it. If not, you can go for some general obedience classes and then try again with TDI at another time. There are TDI evaluators in every state and when you go on the site, there is an area that will tell you where the evaluators are and the next evaluation, date and time. TDI dogs are covered by TDI insurance for their visits only which you record. Depending upon how many visits you generate with the dog, you can be work your way up to a title for the dog. You choose where you want to go (so you have to sell yourself a little to facilities but they are usually fine with it because other TDI dogs visit also). Other therapy organizations may tell you that the dog must take classes no matter what before being evaluated (classes are no charge) but the great thing about TDI is that if the dog is first evaluated and passes even without classes- your in. You wouldn’t have to go through all that. Google Therapy Dogs International. I think you will get all the info you need. If the dog passes, the dog gets his/her own I.D. card, bandana and a packet filled with lots of info. The pet just has to be up to date with shots, titers are accepted. Hope this helps. There are quite a few therapy organizations but I do believe TDI is the largest, most recognized and they are very flexible. Who ever evaluates your dog is always, always there to help you answer whatever questions you may have. We love it. I will, very shortly get our black 3 legged shepherd “Trey” in the program also. I think patients will very much relate to him. Having 3 legs, patients that have had limbs amputated can see that nothing stops him and he can do anything a 4 legged dog can do which can be a confidence booster for the patients themselves. I apologize for the length of this. If you have more questions, just let me know. aslan2@optonline.net
Kim, your shepherds are absolutely beautiful, especially Tyler. I enjoyed hearing about his work and was wondering what is involved in getting a dog certified as a therapy dog. I retired early and do volunteer work for my city but it’s only seasonal and am looking for something more. Therapy work sounds very rewarding.
Jules (!), I think that was Kim that called you that. Although I do call my other friend Julie Jules, but I can’t take credit for being the first blogger to do so!
Ann, I’m a Leo too – weird things going on over here. A major change in terms of income and I’m really having to pave my own way. Which is the way I like it, but it’s coming sooner than I expected. I wondered if it had anything to do with my horoscope (I’m August 11th, by the way).
Kim and Jules, I am loving the K9/ Therapy dog stories and would love to hear more. Those dogs are incredible!
Happy Friday all!
Linda-good luck with the biopsy. Sending you good wishes.
Candy-feel free to email me when you read Ulysses (cm.connolly@comcast.net). I took notes (and felt like Lupe the whole time). I’d be more than happy to share them with you.
Kim-great story abt. Tyler.
Linda H. – good luck with the biopsy. Our thoughts are with you.
Amanda: Well blow me down – I did, indeed, see the elephant. I wonder what her/his name is.
Jules: I agree with Ann – would like to hear more about Axel. Ann – as far as I know (and I could be wrong) most K9’s are intact because the testosterone has something to do with their drive and determination. Neutered are used also but I do not think as much. Jules – if I’m wrong, educate me – I’m curious. Also – I’m an Aries – so this a good time for us horiscopically? (sounds like a procedure).
Bitter cold today. I think NY is going to miss the snow that is headed Southeast. “I think”.
As some of you know because mama is always blabbing about him, my White Shepherd Tyler is a certified therapy dog. We usually go into various facilities and hospitals nearly every weekend. Last week we got accepted into a beautiful library which I was lucky enough to have in my school district growing up. So…….last night was Tyler’s first night of 20 minute intervals with a different child reading to him. Sort of a tool not so much used academically but to help with the child’s confidence about reading because there is no judging just assistance from me if needed. We all had such a ball. Photos were taken and the children loved him. He was in his glory because it is such a different atmosphere than a hospital which is very low energy for him. But this was a happy one and he bounded in like an exercise ball happily greeting all the children until his sessions started. We will be doing this throughout the school years with summer off. I can’t emphasize the joy animal assisted therapy offers all the way around.
OK, Colleen now you have scared me, my Ulysses is in and I will be beginning the book next week, hope you and Uncle Sul will be out there for me. How weird is that! I know this will be a reach for me.
Gail–I listened to Rebecca as well, there are no words, what an audio performance, I felt like I was right in the scene with the characters. Loved it.
Linda-best wishes, are are among friends, we are all here for you.
Linda, Wishing you the best of luck for next week X
Colleen so glad to hear you are ok!!
Julie, I’m Leo and feel like I’m having some kind of positive/creative surge right now. Is that because of the Mars situation?
Lupe, you are like a breath of fresh air and always put a smile on my face!
Julie, I’m fascinated by Axel, and will post his photo soon. There’s not much space in the facebook comment area, but you should tell people here about his great service record and how he saved your husband’s life. Do they never alter K9 workers? Do they feel it takes away some of the drive/aggression necessary for the job?
Ann, we don’t need published poets, we have you! The photos were wonderful, but the words, so lyrical.
Linda, my thoughts are with you.
KC, I adore that you called me Jules, I have an aunt that has always referred to me that way, and it’s so touching. You are one of those addictive types too?! Ain’t we special?! I am sending Ann pictures of Axel, the retired K9. As well as one shot with the grand-dogs, Axel, and the backup psycho dog (a rescue who came home with major baggage). (You don’t need FB to see this one, I have it on my blog under “How many is too many?”) Yes they all get along very well. Scooter, the psycho, is also nine, and he just basically tolerates all the rest. They are ALL boys. All are fixed, except….. can you guess? Yes, Axel is intact. But only because of his former career, he will soon be joining the ranks of the snipped. (I suppose I kind of answered my own question there from yesterday didn’t I?)
Colleen, glad you came away mostly unharmed. I would recommend a large dose of medicinal chocolate. What’s up with the cosmos right now seems to only be effecting (affecting?) folks who have a “hot” planet that rules their sun sign (think horoscope), like Leo, Aries, Scorpio because Mars is still in retrograde until March. Also the full moon is tomorrow night (11:thirtysomething my time), and that always makes a difference. She can be troublesome, but as KC said, also lovely.
Ann – what a beautiful post today……love the writing and the photos. I so agree about the serenity of listening to horses munching their hay. The stone wall is lovely and makes me think of Robert Frost.
Colleen – I’m glad you’re ok. Agree with everyone else about the hot shower/aspirin and/or wine.
Linda H. – we’ll all send positive energy your way. Keep us posted.
The forecast is for lots of snow this weekend. Good time to curl up with Rebecca, dogs &
my husband. Not necessarily in that order.
I got an email from “one of my favorite things” (you know, like Oprah?) and I thought I would share it.
It’s that time of year. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, the Pointer pups are in love. To show their affection, they have a great gift for you.
Get 10% off all purchases when you shop online at http://www.pointerbrand.com now through February 14, 2010. After making your selections, enter LOVE (all capital letters) in the Coupon Code box and click “Update My Order” during checkout. For the best fitting, most comfortable denim clothing, you can always count on Pointer Brand!
Yep, I just love Pointer Brand Overalls, from Bristol, Tennessee, proudly MADE IN THE USA since 1913!!!
No, I’m not getting paid for this testimonial, but I do encourage everyone to check out the overalls (I swear by ‘em), and go to the “Pointer people” section to meet the “Pointer Sisters” — nuns from the Bethany convent of Orleans, MA. . . I also enjoyed Clyde from Shelbyville, TN. He definitely wears the overalls and doesn’t let the overalls wear him! http://www.pointerbrand.com/PointerBrandPeople.asp?PointerBrandPeopleID=435
I’m going to have to have my picture made (that’s how we say it in the South) so I can score a free t-shirt and cap!
I don’t need a new pair . . . yet (although the hickory stripe caught my eye), they last for YEARS, and never go out of style . . . so the least I can do is to pass the word on to you farm fashionistas, and sartorially slanted suburbanites. Just the thing to pair with your fleece lined wellies.
Linda-Take care and hang in there. Like everyone else, I am thinking of you and send you my best wishes.
Colleen-Sorry about the accident, but glad you are okay.
Have a good weekend, everyone!
I’m sooo excited! Thanks to Aislinn’s instructions, I just posted a photo of my Charley on Ann’s Facebook. I tried to post some comments about the other photos, which I hope worked. I feel so empowered!
Linda H. – Good luck with the biopsy.
Linda S.
Linda, good luck to you and think good thoughts.
Colleen, you may be more sore tomorrow so take that pain reliever and rest!
Linda H, best of luck with the biopsy.
Kim, LOL Twister!
Colleen, my mom always said whiskey is great after a fall from a horse, just limbers up those sore muscles. I’m sure some wine will do the job too!
Just have to comment…I just got back in from doing night check on the horses in this (freezing, windy, snow-blowing) weather. And the moon is SO full and bright, it’s like daylight in our field. It was just beautiful. So get out there and take a peek at the moon if you’re still awake, it’s incredible! I stood out there nearly being blown over, couldn’t feel my face, and I didn’t care. Awesome.
Colleen, glad you are okay. Sounds like a pretty scary thing, and it’s amazing you’ve never had even a little fender bender before. Must be cuz you’re just 21, and haven’t driven much. Lucky for you you’re old enough to have that glass of wine (or two).
Linda, I will keep good thoughts for you this week. I hate the waiting.
First to wish good things to the girl who is having the biopsy. Most often than not, it is an exercise on precaution. As the advertisement on Union Station in LA says:”fight on”. They have the neatest doctors advertised on the walls of the subway and I am going to read up on them!. Wonderful stuff that they have done. Last I read with prostate cancer. Not that it concerns girls, but.
Then I saw this gorgeous cop, the ones that have a trained dog (they smell things). And he was wonderful!!! and he was in shape and I almost bumped into him because of the focusing thing going on. He noticed me, because he is trained to notice and went about his business of finding drug dealings?. wish the heck I would have taken my camera and gone upstairs and taken a photo!!!. But need to check on the legalities of that stuff too.
Then, one of my professors teaches a class on Film Noir with an emphasis on Spaguetti Westerns (Denis would be great on it!!! and Ann too, with the fancy attire and the hair do’s and the hat and ribbons….). I would not mind doing something like that myself, but I am not that thin yet. Back to the story…. this professor speaks in such a soothing manner, that you want to take it all in. And I have lots of stuff to look up before next week. I would love to record his lecture, and again I do not know about the legalities… and shit, can I do anything???
Then we are to write stuff about the movies and the textbooks… and he is going to be a tough one to please… because he is soooooooo articulate and soooo knowledgeable and so…. whatever that word is.
And to say that public transit is the best I have ever seen or experienced.They are CLEAN< they are ONTIME, and they are economical!. Then again I am a senior and I am getting all the breaks I can figure out!. But clean everything!! and a person with a uniform, the orange vest, a BROOM and a BUCKET in every station.
Lots of good looking people. Then again I do not look at the ugly ones.
Happy to be here.
And to thank Ann for the post of the photos of the doggies!!. Daphne seems too thin!. And little Holly…. I bet you, Ann, that if that goat EVER shows up near the horses, the goat would have to deal with HOLLY.
Want to bet?
She is a doll! (the pup)
Linda, good luck with the biopsy.
Kim, there WAS an elephant in the pet photos!!
As it usually is, your blog today was so soothing to me, and I need to be soothed. I have to have a breast biopsy which will be done one week from today. Your blog adds such moments of comfort and joy to my life, and I thank you so much, Ann.
I LOVE ALL THE PET PHOTO POSTS!!!! They are all so beautiful and funny too! And oh those horses……..gotta get an elephant in there. LOL! Me and my elephants. There’s gotta be somebody…….
Lots to say – please bear with me.
1) Ann, thanks for this lovely post. The photos are gorgeous, and I love your description of the horses. I think they are very spiritual animals in many ways. Especially Mark.
Making up breed names is hilarious. For Holly, how about: Rough-coated Litchfield Terrier.
2) Colleen – glad you’re OK. I recommend a glass or 2 of wine.
3) Big THANKS to all of you who responded with suggestions for Charley’s peeing problem. I’m so glad you all agree not to scold. I will definitely check w/ the vet, but am also thinking it might be a marking issue. There is a cat that is lurking around outside the apt, which is making him crazy.
4) Aislinn – thanks for the instructions on how to post the photos on Facebook. I also can’t access from the office. I’m going to try to access it over the weekend and hope to be able to see everyone’s photos and post one of my Charley Boy.
Linda S.
I love snow. I’m sure it’s the child in me!
Is that Holly trying to leap the Great Wall of China? Seeing her in the last picture really shows us how tall the wall is. And we have to wonder whose hands lifted those rocks and what their stories were.
I’ve been listening to Rebecca on CD. (Recorded Books) Such atmosphere. I’ve read and reread the novel, but hearing it in the voice of a master reader gives it new life. Even though I know what is going to happen I am enthralled. Great performance.
Adriana, I see from your link that you’re working on your family tree. I really want to do this as well, but I have no idea where to start? How did you begin?
Lovely Ann. Love the photos too. I’m lucky if we can drive up to the snow for a weekend. Jane Russell Terrier sounds good. People will probably nod and walk away before they ‘get it’.
See! Here’s another weird thing! I had a comment for Uncle Sull in that last post and poof. It’s gone. Where did it go?
If this post goes through, I want Uncle Sull to know that I finished reading Ulysses (maybe this is the reason my universe has turned upside down). I can see why people spend their lives researching and reading this book. It’s a smart, sarcastic, brilliantly ironic story. I’m not sure I’ll ever read it again, but I am glad you inspired me to read it with new eyes.
Thanks, everyone, for your well wishes. I know this may seem strange, especially if you consider all of the near-death experiences I’ve had, but this was my first car accident. And it was very surreal; everything slowed down and was inexplicable calm and serene as I crashed into the windshield.
KC, you’re right. There were a lot of accidents today. The affable police man who was on our scene made sure everyone was okay before he bolted to the next one on his call list.
Kim I think I’ll pass on the Twister. But Lisa I don’t think I’m going to wait until Saturday to medicate myself with booze. Like my mother taught me, why wait?
But I do have a question for Julie: Is the universe in some kind of retro-grade anything? Or is it the full moon wreaking havoc with earthly activities? I’m just wondering because I’m having the weirdest day.
colleen – sorry about the accident and fall! did you do what i do… look around to see who witnessed the fall before assessing the injuries? i’m sure the booze on saturday will help ease the pain!
Love the pics – so peaceful. I also love all the animals on Facebook. They are all so adorable. Ernie’s going to have to learn some new tricks before I snap another photo. Did I mention that he plays a mean Moonlight Sonata in C Sharp Minor?
Kim, you are so funny!
Yes Chris – just read my posts.
Colleen: ICEY HOT Its great! Feel better and don’t play Twister.
Jane Russell Terrier! … hilarious!
One cute puppy, that Holly!
Could I have more typos in that last post — ugh!
Please forgive me.
Holly is reminding me so much of my dog when she was a puppy. Lucy is half Jack Russell and half who-know-what. I always used to say she was half Satan but know that she’s nearing 15, the demons seem to have been exorcised.
Great photos. I too, love the snow. If everyone is safely where they should be, there’s nothing better than just staring out a window watching the snow fall. It just makes everything so beautiful.
And then I have to shovel…
I agree, beautiful post today. Pictures and writing. We had a surprise snow here in PA too, none of the road departments in the municipalities expected, or even the state agency. What a freaking mess this morning! Took me an hour and 3 different routes to go my usual 20 minute trip. The 3 routes were because of 3 accidents, including a trash truck in a ditch. Boy did I breathe a sigh of relief when I got there. And by afternoon, all the snow was gone. Completely!
Colleen, I’m so glad you’re alright. That’s very scary. And the falling part stinks too.
I love Jane Russell terrier, and Hoomey terrier. lolol Lichtfield terrier is also great.
I think Holly is a “Hoomey” Terrier. I picture you saying, “Holly, what did you do to Coco?” And Holly’s response with feigned innocence would be, “who, me?”
Colleen so sorry about the accident, glad you are OK. I just love the pictures of the stones fences, I think they are so beautiful. Holly would have to be a Lady Jane terrier for sure. It is so appopriate she is in the drivers seat of the car, gal with attitude for sure. I love it when it first snows and all looks so white and clean, does last long in the city.
Oh Colleen, sorry about your car accident. And falling down is scary! You’ll be sore, so take a hot bath and some aspirin.
I love it, I love it!!
The bit about Mark and the hay bit… so they smell things too that brings good memories or warm ones, rather.
And little Holly!! she is soo darn cute!. She goes in the car, she goes walking around and smelling rocks, and she tries to be like Daphne, STANDING up and everything (since Ann does this), but Daphne does not, and she gets confused anyway and stands up to see if she can see over the fence.
That is soooo beautiful!!!.
Have class to go to.. you need SHADES in Southern California as the sun is WHITE. No kidding.
Ann – Love the picture of the horses and your beautiful description of them and the snow. Today I attended the funeral of a co-worker’s father. It was such a life-affirming mass which truly celebrated his life with beautiful hymns sung by angelic voices that it actually made me feel peaceful rather than sad. When I left the church feeling a quiet peace, I walked out to see big, beautiful snowflakes floating throught the air. Gotta love New England!
Colleen – So glad you’re ok.
Beautiful Blog today!……. Lots of snow still falling here….. I made home ok roads very slippy……Mark works 1/1/2 hours in RI he is going to have a long car ride home in the dark…….looks very pretty outside though…
Colleen, oh my gosh! I’m so sorry that happened. Lots of rest for you. I’ve heard about so many accidents today, amazing what a little snow can do. And from what I can see, we’re getting more in about an hour. Yikes!
Colleen, so sorry to read of your accident. Hope you are ok, and the other person too. Take care.
Oh Colleen, wow, that sounds horrible. Hot bath with those aspirin.
Nice, beautiful post. As calm and as serene as the snow falling.
I wish I would’ve read and taken your advice to be safe and sound before I ventured out. I got into a car accident, trying to navigate the rolling hills of our town. Luckily, no one was seriously injured and only minor damage to our cars. The worse part was stepping out of my car to check on the other driver. I slipped and fell on my a!!, just like they do in the cartoons. Nothing graceful or pretty about lying flat on your back with your legs in the air.
Going to take two aspirin and look at your pictures of Holly to ease the pain.
How about “I am going to take over your house one day Terrier”.
Beautiful photos. I miss see Mark.
Lovely post, lovely day, wonderful snow! The northwest corner of connecticut looks like it has been covered in confectioners sugar and the views are just as sweet.
Jane Russell terrier would indicate to me that she would have an unbelievably robust chests! (remember the cross your heart bra commercials?? or am I dating myself??) And wouldn’t she star with Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blonds, but hey that may work. She is a natural doggie blond isn’t she??!!
I like Wannabe Terrier, so cute, and she does seem to strive to be like the others!
East Woodland Terrier. I forgot you blogged about doing that with your other dogs and that just cracks me up! Holly is just really TOO cute!!! Great photos! It’s 70 degrees here today!!! It’s nice to see snow and weather! Thanks!
Ann, hooray, a horsey update! Mark and Gabriel (right?) look very content.
Our field at our farm actually still has edible grass, it was so lush in the fall since it wasn’t trod upon by horses for a long time before we moved in, so ours still graze underneath the snow. I do supplement with free-choice hay, too, but they prefer the snowy grass. I wonder who you get your hay from, our latest batch isn’t stellar.
How about a Litchfield Terrier for Holly? It almost sounds too highbrow with her Jane Russell nature. I’m sure you could use any of your choices and people would nod their head and say, “Oh sure!” just like the Galway breed!
How lovely to get to see your property today. This is one of my favorite blog entries, your writing is beautiful, and very evocative.
I think Holly looks like a Wheaten Russell Terrier. Stumpy Wannabe Terrier works too, but WRT sounds a bit more elegant. She has beautiful terrier ears, by the way!
Beautiful post today Ann. Very lyrical and lovely. Gorgeous pictures too. I love how snow muffles all the sounds around. It makes me feel like I’m in a snow globe. And the pooches are just loving life out there! Great pictures. I think Jane Russell Terrier is hilarious! That gets my vote.