Attentively Attentive to all Things

So yeah, I've been gone awhile from this blog.  But, in my defense, I've accomplished quite a bit.  I know have the coveted bachelors degree, and am currently a graduate student in a nonprofit leadership development program.  But, that is not the reason for my resurgence to the blog world. It's politics, plain and simple. Before we begin, let's get some things out there.  Firstly, I am NOT a republican, and couldn't be paid enough to be one.  Secondly, I don't feel very liberal, but many would say that I am.  If so, that's fine with me.  Thirdly, my perspective is not the same as yours, so please remember that. I actually watched part of the RNC last week...why I'm not sure, but it was on, and I watched.  Although, I will admit Romney's speech put me to sleep.  That could explain some of dreams from that night...but I digress.... While I do not agree with bringing spouses into the mudslinging that the parties do, I have some opinions ...

After the mess this week was, I've come to some decisions about the future. We are not getting a new dog any time soon.  We still miss Blitzen terribly, and every morning I hear her nails clicking on the kitchen floor.  I'm not ready for a new dog, and neither is Dave. Over the last year, I've pinned by sense of accomplishment on graduating from college with honors.  I found out earlier this week that the GPA I had been going off of is not what is considered for honors.  My transfer grades take me below 3.5, and out of honors range.  After a nearly hysterical fit, where I cried in frustration for about an hour and was basically unwilling to discuss the situation with anyone, I came to a conclusion.  My graduating without honors is no reason to need a hefty dose of Xanax.  The accomplishment of graduating college isn't about honors, it's about getting through my degree and calling myself a college graduate.  I had this vision of getting all my ...

I find myself without adequate words to describe what has happened in the past week.  What started as a simple arthritic problem for Blitzen ended up taking her life.  A week ago, I never once thought she would be gone today.  I watched Piper get progressively worse for a few weeks, but I knew it was coming.  With Blitzen, though, this was a hip problem, and it would be easily treated.  I didn't expect her to deteriorate so quickly this weekend, and to not be able to walk or eat at all.  Last night was horrible.  She was restless, and whining.  After moving her into our bedroom, I hoped her pain meds would kick in, and she'd be able to sleep for a while.  After a trip outside (where she could not stand) and a few laps of water, I settled her down on the floor, kissed her head, and told her to get some sleep.  At some point around 3am, I noticed it was quiet, and hoped she was sleeping.  I think in my heart I knew she was gone, but...

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....I'm not sure if I'm a glutton for punishment or what, but I saw this post on The Pioneer Woman (amen) and figured I might as well give it a shot.  Goodness knows I could use some improvement! If you're like me, and love to take pictures but could use some pointers, or a challenge to motivate yourself, check out the MCP Project 12 Challenge!

Last year, on this very same day, I wrote a similar post. Clickie   These were my goals last year: 1. Keep up with homework, without sacrificing myself. 2. Don't let things stress me out so much (see #1) 3. Get out more...with husband, friends, me and baby...doesn't matter who. 4. Read more!  This may contradict #3, but the list of books read this year is pathetically small. 5. Strive to be positive, and avoid being negative, and avoid those around me who insist on negativity. 6. Take my lunch more. 7. Get to work earlier. 8. Post a blog at least three times a week when out of school, and once a week while in school. 9. Write more, and finish at least one started story this year. 10. Give more. Yeah....some of these didn't happen.  But, I can happily say some did, for the most part.   1. Well, I did and I didn't.  During the first semester, we lost Piper  and I got behind while taking care of her in her final days, and moreso after she p...