Foster Dog: Keisha - First day

such a dainty little lady

"I call shot gun"

I just picked up Keisha from Wayside to be our new foster dog.  She is a 6 year old black lab pointer mix.  I can already tell she'll be a bit easier to handle than Noah was.  She is super smart and catches on to things quickly.  On the way home she did pretty well being in the car with just me since Matt is off on business. Though when we stopped at a light she decided she just had to be in the front seat and sat up there with me.

Once we got home I showed her around the back yard on her leash and then let her run off leash while I kept an eye on her.  We don't want another fence jumping problem or digging problem, so I want to make sure to nip that in the butt if it ever happens.

She catches on to things really quickly.  She responds better to using the sound Caeasr Millan uses more than Noah did.  I took her into the basement for a bit and when I would go up the stairs she would want to run up before me, but I made the "tsh" sound and said stay a few times and she eventually just say there and waited for me.

 Even though she is 6 years old she still has a lot of energy and wanted to play outside.  I also introduced her to the Gentle Leader since she did pull a bit on her regular collar.  She of course tried pulling it off, but once we started walking she tended to leave it alone.  We went to visit Mark and Linda and they thought she was pretty awesome.  She was such a good girl I would almost forgot she was there.

She reminds me a lot of my family dog Nikki, who recently passed away.  She does the same thing where she'll rest her head on your hand until you pet her and then nudge you if you stop.  Once we got home we went up into the rest of the house where I showed her around.  She tried to jump right onto the bed and couch but I corrected her and she hasn't tried it again since.  I did discover she has some separation anxiety though because when I closed the door to the study to give the rats their meds, she whined at the door.  She also follows me everywhere I go in the house.  Hopefully this will get better with time.

We practiced a bit with going into a kennel since I don't have a baby gate yet. She did really well and didn't seem to be afraid of it at all.  Hopefully she will go in easily in the morning and be ok when I come to check on her at lunch tomorrow.

So far is has been a good first day.  Let's hope the rest to come are as well. 

Let it Snow...a Bit Late for Christmas

Well we finally had a nice heavy snow here in KC...in friggin April. Too bad it never seems to snow like this for Christmas.  We got 11 inches starting at about 7am.  Matt decided to stay home and probably will tomorrow as well.  It's been some time since I've seen this much show, and apparently we're suppose to get another heap of it this weekend.  I saw our neighbors shoveling their sidewalk in the morning, but since Matt as working from home and I didn't feel like doing it on my own I decided to wait until closer to when Matt would stop work.  We went out around 4 pm and I'm glad we wait because a guy was using a show blower to clear our neighbor, Julie's  drive way.  He saw we were trying to shovel ours and offered to help with the blowers.  Turns out he lives in the neighborhood over, Linden Hills, and is also a principal at one of the elementary school near by and does this to earn some extra cash and help the neighbors.

He said we could juts pay him as we like and sadly we only had $10 in cash to give him this time, but next time I would say it would be worth at least $15.  If he always comes by we may not have much need for our own snow shovel after all.  Although is is unfortunate we don't get as much exercise from it.  But we shoveled our front path and that was enough exercise for me.

Our neighbor's son ended up helping us shovel quite a bit so I gave him a little money for his help as well. He also hung out with us a bit and we played in the snow.  We made snow angels and barried him in the snow.  I wish we had a sled.  I haven't been sledding in forever and would love to do it.  Plus apparently it's considered an activity got weight watchers so a good hour of sledding can get us some very fun activity points.  This snow should last a while so I'm sure we can run out to Walmart and buy a sled and take advantage if it.  After some snow fun, we all went inside and had, what else, hot cocoa.  Only thing that could have been better is if I could have made my homemade stuff from scratch, but I still need some baking chocolate for that.  Maybe next time.

Foster Dog: Noah

Noah was out first foster baby and boy was he a hand full. ( I'm writing this after he has already gone back to the shelter because of jumping the fence, if that gives you any indication. )

First lets talk about his good qualities.  He is very affection motivated and loves people. If he could cuddle with you all day he would.  He doesn't bark too much and is house broken.  We got him to the point where he would walk well on a lease with a gentle leader, and would only get distracted by the occasional squirrel.  Though he did require 2 vigorous walks a day to keep him out of trouble.

such a cuddle monster

There were many days when he was the best dog ever, and then many where he would drive us crazy.  He was an American bull dog Pyrenees mix, but he mostly looked like the bulldog, but was head strong like a Pyrenees.  He had quite a few quirks when we first got him but slowly we started to work on them and got to where he only had 1 bad habit left, and sadly it was the one that made him have to go back to wayside.  He started jumping the fence one day and just never wanted to stop.  At first we thought it was just the parts of the fence that were a bit low and easy to jump.  We covered those up with extra branches so he couldn't get through, and things went ok.  Then he got into squirrel chasing mode and realized he could jump ANY part of the fence and went into the yard of the neighbor behind us.  He then proceeded to jump 3 yards down and come back and into the vacant yard by use, where a gate was opened and thank God he was focused on the squirrel or else he would have run out and never come back. 

I finally got him back in the house where he earned and good time out.  Then we decided it was just not safe enough for him to have him with us if he was going to always jump the fence.  he needs a lot of room to run so keeping him on a leash when he goes out was both unfair to him, but tiresome for us.  The neighbor I spoke to was an older woman and she was pretty scared of him since he was big and energetic and I'm sure she had a misconception about bulldogs.  I wasn't worried at all he would bit her, but I was worried he might jump on her, and since she was older that would really hurt.  I was just so worried he would get out again and this time get in a fight with another dog, or hurt someone else while trying to play.  So in the end I had to call Tyler and tell him Noah would be coming back the next day. 

We took him on a last walk and took him to say goodbye to Mark and Linda since they really liked him.  He got to cuddle one last time on the couch and we let him sleep in the bed with us as well.  In some way I was happy to have the house back to just us and get to spend time with the rats more, but I’ll admit I almost teared up when it was time to give him up.  I think back to it now and I get even sadder that we couldn't do more to help him.  I had joined a Pittie Pack Meetup group and wanted to socialize him more, and try going on field trips.  We wanted to see how he might do with a baby gate while we’re gone and then maybe be free to roam the house. 

We went to Wayside for training on dog to dog meetings and we stopped by to see him.  He started whining like he always did when he would have to be crated when we left and it about broke my heart.  I could just hear him saying “why did you guys leave? Don’t you love me anymore?”  I would really like to still go volunteer just to walk Noah or other fosters that have to come back for whatever reason.  I’d like to take him on a field trip to do some dog socializing if we can. 

He is trying to hypnotize me into giving 

someone is tangled in the blankets

Honey Ham Slice

not my picture but this ham looks just as tasty as
the one I make.

If you haven't already noticed a theme in a lot of the things I like to cook, I tend to go for things that are quick and easy.  While I do enjoy a challenge of trying new and more complex dishes, my everyday favorites are usually ones I know by heart so they aren't too complex.  This is something my mom always made because from the time you start to the time it's served it usually only about 10 minutes.  She's always been a no muss no fuss kind of cook, but this is always delicious.  I usually don't measure out the ingredients, but for this I tried my best to guess how much I use.  I love serving this ham with good old Velveeta mac and cheese since the sauce it created from the ham juices and other stuff tastes great with the cheese. 

Honey Ham Slice

about 1 pound ham slice (the kind with the bone in the middle)
2 Tbl light brown sugar, divided
1 Tbl honey, divided
1 tsp ground mustard, divided

Heat a non stick skillet to just below medium high heat.  As the skillet heats sprinkle half of the brown sugar, honey, and ground mustard in the pan, then place the ham and most of it's juices  over the seasoning.  Let the ham simmer for about 5 minutes.  Meanwhile, poke some holes in the ham with a fork as it cooks to help it absorb the flavors.  Sprinkle the rest of the seasoning on top of the ham.  After first side cooks, flip over and cook another 5 minutes.  Remove to a serving plate to cut into portions (remember, never use a metal knife, or any metal utensil, on non stick pans) don't forget the juice in the pan and pour a little over each portion. 

Serve With: Velveeta Style Mac and Cheese (using the Kraft kind just isn't the same)

Becoming Foster Parents

So today Matt and I finally got to go to our orientation for volunteering at Wayside Waifs as foster parents.  We had thought about doing this for quite some time, both while we were still living in Bloomington and when we first moved to Kansas City in our apartment.  It seemed way to complicated to do it while renting but now that we have our own place we can finally get it started.


We thought it would be a good idea to be foster parent and use it kind of as a dry run to owning a dog.  Matt is mostly concerned about the time it takes to care for a dog since we both usually work full time.  I still don't have a full time job yet but I'm sure one will come up soon so we definitely need to see if our schedule will allow us to adopt a pet and give it a forever home.  I would hate to jump right into dog ownership and then find out it's not for us and feel terrible about having to return the dog.

front main entrance

I wanted to do fostering not only because it give animals a better chance at find a home, but because I want to become a "Foster Flunkie" as I have learned it's called.  These are people who end up adopting the dog they are fostering.  I think fostering is a great way to really get to know a dog and see in real life what they will be like in your home, without the commitment of adopting first.   I hate to say it, but the only thing I am worried about owning a dog is weather or not I will be able to not freak out about the small scratched the dogs claws will inevitable leave.  Considering how much I freaked about the scratches Erick left on the guest bedroom floor when he moved out it will be a hard task but hopefully I will overcome.  I have read up on making sure the nails are filed round (no just trimmed) every week to help with it. 



foyer and welcome desk

I also saw they cool things you can put on their nails, which are smooth plastic caps you glue on after trimming the nails.Online it says they should stay on for 4-6 weeks (so long as the dog doesn't figure out how to chew them off) and you can get them on Ebay for like $1.45 for a full set, and free shipping.  I would like to give these a try, but I'll have to ask Wayside if it's ok if I use them.  They seem to get good reviews.  The only downside is the dogs chewing them off sometimes, but that's not something the product can really help.  Here's to hoping they can save my floors.

We had our meeting at 6pm at the shelter.  I have never been and I have to say I was amazed at the facilities.  I thought Vanderburg Humane Society in Evansville was awesome, but this place is like a castle version of a shelter.  They have tons of indoor kennels with glass doors instead of chain link so people can't touch each dog and possibly spread illness.  Cats have nice big cages and special cat rooms and even a sun room.  One thing I loved the most is they have an insane amount of training available for people.  They really don't want their volunteers to feel lost so they have classes in everything from basic dog walk to bully breed classes and dogs who are shy and fearful.

I learned that they are also hiring for quite a few positions within, so I have applied for any I might qualify for.   I would love to work there.  They really seem to value good communication and honesty at least with their volunteers and hopefully the same goes for their employees.

Our next meeting is this Saturday for the foster animal class and hopefully not long after that we can get our first little cutie to take home.

The Venue

Pioneer Playhouse: Where Stars are Made

The date is officially set for September 28th, 2013.   I decided to have the wedding at Pioneer Playhouse back home in Danville, KY.  This place has some wonderful memories that go with it.  Even though it doesn't seem that fancy, it was a place I loved to spend my summer nights volunteering as an assistant in the dinning hall, passing out programs, helping in the gift shop whatever they needed.  I would rather have my wedding some place that feel a part of me and my past than some big fancy hotel or other venue where I've never been.  Plus we save a lot of money by having it since all they charge for a whole day rental is $500.  Most places want at least $1k if not more.  Plus we can come in advance to decorate with no extra charge, and that have both an outdoor area and indoor in case it rains.  Only thing more I could ask for is that they were a little less rustic looking, but from all the stuff I've seen on Pinterest rustic weddings are totally popular right now.  I just wish I could find some photos of the past wedding to show you how nice it can look.  Apparently not many people like to post them, but I know they have a lot of them.  I originally wanted to have it on Sept 22nd, but that weekend was already taken and the one before that.  I guess a lot of people are realizing it's a nice inexpensive place that hold lots of people.

Stage of Pioneer Playhouse.  I don't think we can have the wedding ceremony there, too bad:)

All of Pioneer Playhouse.  It has a little western town replica for people to explore as well as the dinning area and indoor area.  I thought abut having the ceremony under the big tree if possible. 

The Rings

There seems to be a lot of rings going involved with getting married the engagement ring, both wedding bands, plus I got Matt and special ring when we were in Ireland.  Most important first:

The Engagement Ring

My engagement ring is kind of a family heirloom.  It belonged to my dad mom, so my grandmother on his side.  She died before I was born so sadly I never got to meet her, but if I did my dad always said she would have spoiled me to death.  He said she always wanted a grand daughter, so when she died she left her engagement ring to go to the first girl born into the family.  I was the only girl in our family so I win : ) 

It's a vintage looking ring, with a thin 18k yellow gold band, with a larger stone in the middle and 12 smaller stones going around it.  I'd like to give it to the first girl born into our family as well, which is one reason why I'm wanting a girl for my first child.  I like the idea of giving a ring to the girl instead of the boy.  That way you don't have to worry about your son marrying someone and then getting divorced and never getting the family ring back.  Plus when it comes time to get engaged if the boy who wants to ask your daughter wants a free ring instead of shelling out big bucks for one, he has to come ask permission : ) Which is exactly what Matt did. 

When Matt first proposed I could only get the ring to stay on my index finger since it was too big. My grandmothers hand must have been much bigger than mine.

 
Matt's "Engagement" Ring

I knew I already wanted to by a special ring for Matt when we were in Ireland as his Christmas gift, but now since we got engaged there I kind of consider it to be his engagement ring.  He wears it on his ring finger like one, and people actually thought we eloped and already got married when they saw him wearing it.  It's a claddagh ring, almost like mine, expect his is a band with the design engraved into it.  It's not super fancy since we couldn't afford and really nice ring like I would have liked, but it's the thought that counts.  I got my claddagh ring when I was last in Ireland and it was only $10 and it still looks wonderful.  One day I would like to get us real gold ones, and I'd like for him to have one like looks like a bigger version of mine, which is traditional for men to wear. 

Brides Wedding Band

I feel like I'm pretty lucky because both of my rings come from someone in my family.  Not only do I get to save some money by not having to buy a new one, it feel much more special to have a thing be passed down in the family.  My wedding band come from my other grandmother, my mom's mom (I call her Neenaw).  She gave me her wedding band from when she was married to my Pop, who died quite a while back.  I did have it altered a bit though.  It was quite a wide band, measuring 8mm, which actually made it way too small on my finger and made it feel like the engagement ring would fall off.  I had it pretty much cut in half, I believe taken down to 4mm.  This actually made it fit my finger perfectly without more altering.  It still looks like a larger band, more like one a man might wear, but I like it that way.  It makes it look more unique even though it's just a simple gold band.  Plus it's a nice opposite look to the engagement ring, with its super thin band.  I'll add a picture soon to show you what I mean.   So in the end I get my whole ring set from both side of my family.  Now I just hope I can pass my rings down to someone so they can keep being enjoyed.

Grooms Wedding Band

We actually just got Matts ring like a month before the wedding :S  We wanted to go with a yellow gold band to match mine, but it is next to impossible to find one from a real jewlers for less than $600.  Even just a plain one.  We decided where it comes from really doesn't matter, it's what it represents.  So...we went with Walmart.  They actually had a pretty decent looking 14kt 6mm yellow gold band for only $269.  We have a winner :)