The Land of Misfit Dogs

We've accumulated quite of few puppy dogs in the past 3 or 4 years. I brought two from Texas, my other half had one, and we've added two in the past 4 years. Each dog has its own little, minor imperfection that we accept, acknowledge and deal with daily.
Mr. Haji (left) has a personality disorder: he thinks he's a bad ass big dog.
He lives outside with the big dogs because he lacks the formal training and/ or social graces to be underfoot inside. He can be the sweetest little thing, wagging his tail so hard you think he's going to take off at any minute. Then, the next minte there will be a gnashing of teeth and growling very reminiscent of a wild animal. I can't imagine what events shaped his personality to make him this defensive!

Life is Good!

Rushing, rushing, rushing. There never seems to be enough time.
Prioritizing as opposed to procrastinating is my rule of today. I'll be sure and let you know how that one works out.

I am so encouraged by my new ventures! They are providing a wonderful (or should I say "Marvelous?") avenue for my creative energy. And so much fun, too! Please check them out... I welcome your comments and/or suggestions.


http://www.cafepress.com/mizmellonline


I am still learning and so very thankful I still have the ability to do so.

The Last Rodeo

Yesterday my parents celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. I'm in awe. I'm on my third round -- something my husband I deemed "the last rodeo" (his third, as well) before we tied the knot.
So, do you think that's what makes it work?
My parents got married at a young age. That's just the way it was done then. Mama was 16 and Dad was 19. I think they have suffered through the ups and downs of matrimony. Can't remember any big trouble, though. I haven't made the mistake of asking my mother that one -- she might tell me something that would shatter the illusion I have of her and Dad.
Sometimes they bicker like siblings, other times like best friends -- trying to get the best of one another. What I like is that they are there for one another. Both are vocal in their opinions and the other (pretends to?) listen.
My parents have separate bedrooms. I'm not quite sure what brought that on, although Mama says Dad snores and flops around in sleep. I guess this is just another example of how they identified a problem and resolved it together.
Which brings me to my point today: Marriage is a commitment, a promise to one another to always "be there" physically and emotionally.
It seems too often nowadays, when things get a bit uncomfortable, folks just want to run away.
I'm taking the bull by the horns on a day to day basis and I guess my other half might be the rodeo clown, providing the much needed diversion from the serious business of life.

Perception is Reality

I am noticing more and more than spring is indeed coming after all. The flip flop from cold to warm has tested my patience. So much, that I had gotten to the point I just gave up... accepting the cold and dealing with it.
Last weekend, I had hope for better days. I planted 6 bleeding hearts at the top of the drive. The weather was warm with just a bit of coolness still in the wind. I kept the thought of those beautiful blooms greeting me every time I turned down the driveway and got through the digging and moving of rocks.
This morning the sun is shining -- teasing me into thinking the weather is warm. When I went out to fill the bird feeders, I realized I had been tricked again.