4/21/09 Puppies....

Elizabeth had the puppies down at the kennel and they are absolutely adorable. I'm just mad that I didn't take a picture. They're about three weeks old and precious. I got to hold one. Normally that would make me want to take it home but since they're $2500 each I think I'll pass. But if I were rich one of those puppies would be mine. Gussie smelled 'em and didn't seem upset about the fact that he couldn't get in the little pen with them. But his girlfriend, Hula, the baby mama, was happy to see Gus and vice versa. They kissed through the fence. Very cute indeed.

Tonight's article: Simon Cowell holds your emotions in your hands

4/20 Cleaners and poop

The cleaners came today but they put the litter box so the opening opened outward instead of against the wall. In other words, Gussie got to eat cat poop to his heart's content. I'm just conjecturing here, but I did see some cat poop on the floor. Ah well...

Tonight's article is: Older adults: To improve memory eat carbs and play games.


Muddy Gus before his bath yesterday.

4/19 bad headache weather

Didn't do much of anything today--the weather has given me another gross headache.

Well, I did some laundry so I'd have something to wear to work tomorrow. And I gave Gus two (count 'em two) baths because of the mud swimming he did. There's a lovely pool where the sump pump water exits the house and it's just Gussie sized. I'm scared to let him outside again without me.

Tonight's article-- Is your workplace depressing you?

4/18 Up and down all day

UP: This morning early Gussie and I went to my office and I caught up on a lot of work. Then we went to the Barkus Parade and Mardi Paws at Washington Park. I bet there were 200 dogs there. Gus loved it. So many butts to smell.

DOWN: Right after the weiner dog races it started pouring and we had two blocks to walk to get to the car.

UP: Came home and took a nap.

DOWN: Wrote an article about an 11 year old boy who committed suicide last week after being bullied. A picture of the young man accompanies the article and makes me sad.

UP: Jane called and asked if I wanted to go to the Chinese buffet with them. Hence I'm ending on an up note. (Burp!)


Article: Did bullies cause boy's suicide? Are they liable for his death?

4/17 Week not over

I'd say I'm glad it's Friday but I need to go to work tomorrow. It's been a helluva week, that's for sure. But I picked up Gussie from Alpha Dog. He's sleeping by my feet and the cats are ignoring me. All's right with my little world.

Tonight's article is Feel-good Friday: Plastic surgery as worn by Rupert Everett

4/16 Unbelievably tired

I've been awake since yesterday morning. Yesterday we had so many screenings and they continued all night long. As the supervisor on call I didn't have to leave my home but still had to consult with people at emergency rooms, police stations, and homes. My last call was at 3:45 this morning and by then I couldn't sleep.

So I worked all day and took a 20 minute "power nap" on the floor of my office during lunch time. Had to work until 6:30 tonight, then rushed home to get my article written, grab a sandwich and hit the sack. I'm so happy Gussie is at Alpah Dog.

Tonight's article is Murder-suicide in Long Beach: What went wrong? Thanks for reading.

4/15 REFUND

Yep, I'd made an error when I thought I had to pay federal taxes and I get a refund from the feds, Illinois, and Mississippi. I might be able to survive for a while longer. YAY.

Jill if you want to fly in for the wedding, I can swing it. Rob and Beata, I'm paying for your gas. Consider it an early/late Christmas present. I miss you all so much.

Tonight's article is: Tax day: Do you have any more hair to pull out?

Cindy, I assume you took Gussie for a walk. Thanks a million. My day was unbelievable. My staff are now on their 9th crisis call of the day. And I'm the supervisor on call. It's been incredibly busy. Tonight's class was nice though. I have some really neat people in it.

4/14 Tired, crabby and hungry

That's exactly how I feel. I worked from 7:30 until 6, so I'm tired.

Quickly wrote an article tonight: I don't know how to tell you but your kid is average

4/13 Just the article, very busy

Students who excel at Facebook may fail in school

Oh, this national examiner used a picture of Gussie in her article. It's really cute.

4/13 The White House has a dog

My new article tonight--The White House has a dog.

It was a good Easter. Gussie and I walked for a mile. I spoke to kids on both coasts, so I loved that. Went to Mass with family and then ate lunch at the Patio with Jane, Pete, and Sarah and Jan, Tim, and Uncle Bill.

Just finished filing my taxes and my state one was rejected. Have to figure that one out.

4/12 Q-town

Happy Easter, everyone.

This WGEM video is on Travis Hoffman and Q-town. If you've not gone to Qtown.info, please check it out. There's great information about our hometown. I go to the site nearly every day (plus of course am a Qtown (and Travis's) friend on Twitter and Facebook. Enjoy this news report and then check out Qtown.info.

(Deleted the video 4/16 because it wouldn't turn off.) :) Still please check out Qtown.info.

4/11 Didn't get taxes done

...because I spent 2 hours on the phone with Apple tech support and FINALLY I can now download all my iTunes to my iPhone. I've gone almost a year without being able to do that. And thanks to dear, sweet, PATIENT Andrew (oh and brilliant too), I now will be able to listen to my music while I walk my dog. Hooray and hallelujah!

Gussie and I walked more than a mile this morning and that was great. Later, Cindy and Cody came over for a little bit for Cody to move a file cabinet (small one on wheels...I mean he's strong and all...but...) Thanks, Cody. I really do appreciate your help. I couldn't get that thing moved.

Tonight's article is Lack of sleep can double the risk of suicide. Kind of ironic, since I'm on call this week. :)

Hope everyone has a superb Easter. Love to all.

4/9 Still tired? You betcha

I just got home a little while ago after teaching a class to parents for my job. Gus is at Alpha and I really miss the little critter. Will see him tomorrow after I do two things--work on my taxes and go to physical therapy. Am off tomorrow. Yeah!

Tonight's articles is--Summer jobs: Good for teens' wallets and may help prevent suicide

4/8 Home from QU

It was a good class tonight, but it sure makes me tired.

Went to Doc today so I got to see Jan which is always nice. New meds for back pain, which I couldn't pick up tonight so I'll get tomorrow. Sure hope they work.

Tonight's article is sure to spark some controversy--New anti-smoking ad: Effective advertising or bordering on child abuse?

Cindy, thanks so much for taking care of Gus tonight. I really appreciate it. Love to all.

4/7 What a day

Again, so busy that I can't believe how late in the day it is. I sure missed Gus. Tomorrow night I teach at QU (thanks, Cindy) and the next night I work late because of teaching a class to parents with children with behavior problems. I'm surprised none of my relatives are in the class.

Tonight's article is--This isn't sexist: Men really are the weaker sex

4/6 Sometimes work isn't fun

Today was so busy I can't even begin to describe it--except to say I should have stayed most of the evening. I just threw unfinished work into the desk drawer, locked it, and jumped out of there at 5:30. Tomorrow when Gus is at Alpha Dog I'll probably not pick him up until 6:30 because there's so much to do.


Tonight's article: Gay or lesbian? Come to therapy to change sexual orientation

4/5 Happy birthday, Jill Ann!

Today Jill would have been 49. Unbelievable. I wrote an article today about sisters. Can't believe I even said that boys have cooties. How unprofessional is that!

If you are happy and optimistic there's a good chance you have a sister

4/4 Nice surprise

Jane and I went out to dinner by ourselves tonight. It was really nice. Went to Gem City. Then went to Kohl's and did some damage. Thanks for asking, Jane. I had a really nice time.

Gus and I walked a mile today. Yay. But first we stopped in Joe and Cindy's yard. We saw Kirby in the backyard so I let Gus and Kirby run and play awhile. Don't know where Cindy and Joe were, but it didn't matter. I sat in the sun on their swing and enjoyed watching the dogs.

Jill, Todd, and the kids are officially on their cruise. I spoke to them today as they were driving down to Long Beach. The kids are really excited. Kayla said the best part will be the "formal dinners." She can't wait to dress up. Plus she said they can have dessert with every meal. :)

Tonight's article is Studies say 'no' to vaccines as autism cause

4/3 Glad it's Friday?

Boy I sure am. Even though I have to catch up on work in the office tomorrow, I'll be able to take Gus with me so I'll feel better about being there.


Tonight's article is Feel-good Friday: Study finds you look like your dog

4/2 Worked late

Worked late tonight so Gussie is staying at Alpha Dog. Miss him. Sigh.

Today is World Autism Day. My article is Scientists baffled: Link between autism and vinyl flooring

Now to go watch the last ER (sigh). It's on my DVR so I can watch it without commercials.

4/1 Not an April Fool's joke

I still don't feel well so I canceled my class at QU tonight.


Children who have autism have teacher who celebrates their gains

Please click. My numbers have been down lately. Thanks. Love you.

3/31 Let the kids see you fight

Stayed home from work today. Bad headache and so tired. Slept all day until a few hours ago. Woke up, let Gussie outside and he went right to the mud hole from where the sump pump empties. Yuck. And my bathtub looks horrible after bathing him. Don't feel like cleaning now. So I'll clean it in the morning while I shower.


Article tonight is Let the kids see you fight

3/30 Not a good day

I'm sitting here with a headache and a backache, so will go to bed ASAP.

In the meantime, my article is Screen all teens for depression. Thanks for your support.

3/29 Slept a lot

Took a few naps today, and then did some work for QU class. Other than that I just did laundry and wrote my article.

Speaking of which--Dog adopted our social behavior: Now 4 things we can learn from them

3-28-09 Such an early start

Had to get up at 5:30 this morning, and I couldn't get my pets to wake up. Had to get the Gus outside for a little bit and he wasn't really interested. I finally succeeded.

Six of us set up a double booth at the Monster Garage Sale and sold items for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. To say we were successful would be an understatement. Everything went really well and we made a good haul.

We closed there at one, then everyone came to my house to change clothes for our niece Suzie's wedding shower. It was a really quick turnaround but we got there with about 10 minutes to spare. I was proud of us. And the shower went really well, and was fun. Excellent games, Cindy, as usual.

Tonight's articles is Snap judgments make perfect sense

3/27 Too tired

So tired that I fell asleep in the recliner and didn't even wake up for two phone calls. Plus my sister Jan came into the house, spoke to me, sat in the living room with me and watched TV, all the while I'm snoring. Now that's tired. I didn't know she was there until she told me when I saw her later. Can't believe it.

Tonight's article--Feel-good Friday: He helps people change their violent ways

Oh, and I went out to dinner with a bunch of family tonight. That was great.

3/26 Yawn

Two thirteen hour days in a row. I am beyond tired. Then I had to come home and write an article. Ah, such is life. Gussie is spending the night at Alpha Dog because I didn't want to leave him here two evenings in a row. He's sleeping with Louie, a male Havanese, who is the proud father of five puppies born yesterday. Elizabeth is keeping him out of the house for a while, until the pups are a little bigger. Louie and Gussie are great friends and play together all the time. I'm glad Gus has another pup to sleep with. (No, Jeff, he's not gay.)

Tonight's article is 11 male secrets and why they need to keep them.

3/25 A very long day

Went to work at 7 this morning and got home after 8 tonight. A long day; the last few hours of which was spent teaching at QU, and that was fun. My regular work was difficult today, full of one crisis after another. Of course, that's what the job entails, but it sure takes it out of you.

Thanks, Cindy, for taking care of Gussie. I think he looks so cute since he got groomed today. All clean and cute. Of course I like him with long hair too. Guess I just like him. (But clean is best.) :)

Tonight's article has an illustration by a friend of mine, so I'm happy about that. Suicide and mugging: Is it all in the family?

3/24 One year ago

I've been at my job for one full year today. In some ways it seems like I've been there forever. In other ways it seems like I just walked through the door. Certainly has been an eventful year, that's for sure.



Tonight's article is: Mentally ill in nursing homes: What's wrong with this picture?

3/23 11 months old

Yep, Gussie and Bozie are both 11 months old today, and Allie is 9 months old. They are sure growing. Gussie is now 18 pounds. If he gets too much bigger I won't be able to lift him anymore, and that would make me sad. He should be about done growing.

Gus and I walked for about 2/3 of a mile tonight and I'm not feeling too bad, so that made me happy.

I'm done with my article, did the walk, and now need to make dinner. I'm planning on potatoes and sauerkraut. Doesn't your mouth water when you think about sauerkraut? Mine sure does.

Tonight's article is Comedian Steve Harvey: Advice on love

3/22 Lazy day

This was an extremely lazy day. All I did was laundry and work on the QU class--oh and watch TV with my pets. That's it. I hate being this lazy, but wasted a whole day off.

Cindy told me about a bridge in Biloxi that collapsed and I was really worried. Luckily it wasn't a big bridge, but it was a really long one. It goes over the Back Bay and Big Lake. Thank heavens no one was hurt even though a car did fall in the water, but no one was in it. A barge hit the bridge and that's why it collapsed.

Tonight's article is Long live love! Hope you like it.

3/21 An odd day

A year ago today I moved from Biloxi to Quincy. Wow, time has flown by.

I'd planned to work on my class for QU and to write my article. But Jane and I went shopping at CJ Banks--40% off of everything in the store. Couldn't resist that. And the great thing is that Cindy took Gussie for a walk while I was shopping. I'm so grateful. Afterward we went to lunch with the rest of her family. Then went to TJ Maxx.

While there I got a crisis call (am on call this week). Had to go to Pittsfield to help out a colleague. So poor Jane and Sarah had to take me home to get my car. Jane suggested I take Gussie with me. I wouldn't have thought of that--but it was a great idea, Jane. We got to spend time together--one hour drive there and one hour drive back. The hour I was in the sheriff's office he slept, so it worked out well. Thanks for the idea, Jane.

Tonight's article is a real downer, but a sign of the times. Suicide forest.

3/20 Spring has sprung

Spring sprung and then ran away. My garden doesn't know it though--it thinks it's still spring. I definitely have crocus and gladiolus showing some gorgeous color. And other perennials are green and growing. Thanks, Kris and Jan, for leaving such lovely legacies for me.


My article tonight: Feel-good Friday: Bus driver is hero

3/19 Still yawning

I'm still yawning most of the day from my new meds, but I've heard it can take three to four weeks before your body gets used to them, so I'm waiting (im)patiently. :) Jordan worked on my yard today and it looks lots better already. He's going to finish tomorrow. Thanks, Jordan.

Tonight's article is Have a drink with friends: It's good for you.

3/18 Family therapy

Taught my first family therapy class tonight at QU. There are only five people registered so it was impossible for me them until 9. Only four showed up. It will be a fun class to teach, I'm sure. I feel lucky to have three jobs I really enjoy.

Tonight's article is Sometimes swearing just feels good! Remember I get paid by the click, so keep clicking. Thanks bunches.

And a big thanks to Cindy for taking care of Gussie tonight.

3/17 Crocus? Crocuses? Croci?

I have seven of them in my backyard. (At least I think that's what they are.) They are purple and gorgeous, and certainly uplift my spirits. Wish I knew more about gardening. Hell, wish I could lean over to take care of a garden. :) But it's spring, and I'm smiling. At least it's temporarily spring, and it'll do for now. Yay.

Tonight's article is Traffic jams can cause heart attacks. Thanks so much for reading it.

3/16 Very busy day

Work just didn't seem to end today, but at least the day went by fast because I was so busy. I didn't come home at lunch to let Gussie out, so he was in the house for over 11 hours and he didn't have an accident. I was so proud. (Then why does he go outside sometimes, come back and pee?) Anyway, he was a rock star today. I took him for a quick walk then had to write my article. As soon as I have dinner I'll get to work on my QU class. It starts this Wednesday.

Tonight's article: Couple violence not limited to adults

3/15 Today

Gus and I went to Starbuck's this morning and I worked there until 12:30 pm. It was a beautiful day to be outside and Gus behaved really well. Only greeted people when they wanted to be greeted. It was a good day.

This evening I'm going to the funeral home with my sisters for the wake of an old neighbor. Sad.



Tonight's article is Mass murderers: Similarities and differences

3/14 Gus had a play date

Jan and Tim took me and Tim's Uncle Bill to Mike's in Liberty for dinner. It was so good! And the company was good too. :) Jan and Tim brought Alfie and Rocky with them. After dinner Tim went to Uncle Bill's to watch basketball and Jan and the dogs came here.

So Gussie had a play date with Alfie and Rocky. It was fun to watch them. Jan and I played with the Wii and found that neither of us has good balance. :(

Tonight's article is Tents for the homeless: Pride in ownership

3/13 A nice surprise

I got home from work and took Gus for a short walk, then Jane called and asked if I'd like to join them for dinner with Jan and Tim. Of course, I said. They wanted to go to Kutters, but there was a 45 minute wait, so we went to the Elks. Deb Stotts joined us when she was finished in the ER--yeah, her girls were in a car accident, but luckily they are okay. They have whiplash and will be really stiff tomorrow. Poor things. Poor Debbie. But everyone was really lucky.



Tonight's article is Kids, stop fidgeting: Sit on your stability ball

3/11 We walked

Gus and I walked tonight. It felt good to get out there with him even though it was only 2/3 of a mile. I'm so happy we were able to go. This is my last Wednesday at home for a while; I start teaching again next week.

Tonight's article is More abuse, more depression, more poor health

3/10 New meds

I have been yawning for several days. Am on new meds that make me sleepy. But my back feels pretty good, so I'm putting up with the yawning. Hooray for feeling better. :)

Tonight's article is Depression can break a woman's heart. Thanks so much for clicking. Love to all.

3/9 Yucky barometer

I'm getting really bad headaches with the quickly falling barometer. Supposed to have really bad storms today--I could have told them that. :) Tonight on NBC Nightly News they said that some people have heads that respond badly to barometric pressure, or something similar to that.


Anyway, tonight's article is Bad marriages make women sick

3/9 Fun at Kris's shower

Kris's wedding shower was so much fun. The food was tasty, the games were clever, and it was so nice getting together with everyone. I love showers...corny, but true.

Today's article is Six ways to cope with change at work

3/7 Got up early

As usual the animals got up me up early. Guess they knew it was the weekend though, and they let me sleep until 6:30. Yay.

I'm tired, so I wrote an article about sleep. :) No wonder we're tired: We don't get enough sleep

Today is Kris's shower and I'm really looking forward to it. Should be fun.

3/6 I still love Cindy

After I got home from work I put Gus's collar on to take him for a walk. Then I noticed Jane's and Sarah's cars at Joe and Cindy's. So Gus and I stopped by. Gus visited with Kirby, while I talked to the humans.

Cindy was wrapping some presents for Jane, so I ran home and got my present and wrapping paper and she did mine too. Not only that, she ended up taking Gussie for a walk with Kirby. So I was doubly rescued. Thanks a million, Cin.


Tonight's article: Rihanna/Chris Brown: More information revealed

3/6 Early morning writing

My channel manager wanted me to write a quick followup to the Chris Brown article.

Your friend is in an abusive relationship: Now what?

3/5 Long day

I had a Red Cross Disaster Services meeting tonight. Had to leave it at 6:25 to pick up the Guster by 6:30. Am eating a veggie burger and popcorn, while writing and fending off three animals. Quite a sight.

Tonight's article: Chris Brown charged with assault: Arraignment delayed

3/4 What a nice surprise

Well, the surprise was a little anxiety-provoking at first, but then it became wonderful. I got home early, about 5:15 PM and Gussie was gone. I had a brief moment of semi-panic, but it went away quickly. I figured Cindy had taken him for a walk. I must confess that it made me very happy.

I'd promised myself I'd take Gus for a walk tonight no matter how I felt. And it was good that Cindy did it, so I didn't have to feel guilty if I didn't go. I've been feeling pretty good until the afternoon and then it's "not fun." But still much better than it was.

So I just finished writing my article (Can zapping rid you of compulsions?) and now I'm going to make dinner and watch America's Next Top Model.

And no, I don't think Jason from the Bachelor is a jerk. I think he was really scared he was making a mistake and he knew he didn't want to get divorced again. So I'd call him human. Not too classy at one point, but human. I still like him.

3/3 It's new

Examiner.com has had an overhaul. I don't quite know how I feel about it. Check it out for yourself.

Wash your mouth out with soap: It's no cussing week

3/2 Breastfeeding while driving

Yep, that's what tonight's article is about.

Multitasking: Driving, phoning, breastfeeding

3/1 Update on lots of stuff

First, a cat peed on the clean towels I was folding on my bed. When I was there! And they had a brand spanking clean litter box. Am not 100% sure but I think it was Bozie. At least Allie looked innocent. Maybe that's her ploy.

Second, Gussie pooped on the floor. At least he waited until I wasn't there.

So now I'm washing my sheets and blankets as well as the towels again. What a day.

At least I had fun this morning. I went to church with Jan and Jane and we did some shopping for the shower(s). In between we also had lunch at Nothing Special. It was nice to spend time with them.

And Jill is now an official referee for youth soccer in Southern California. I'm so proud of you, sweetie.

Tonight I published an update-- Update: Reporter lives on food stamps

3/1/09 Happy birthday, Beata!

I hope the weather stays nice for your trip to Wilmington. And I hope Rob stays nice too. :)

Can't wait to see you for the wedding. It will be wonderful to have you two and Chilli here. :) Gus will be so happy too.


____________________________________________

This morning's article is TV host with disability causes complaints in the UK

2/28 A wonderful day with my family

I spent the day with Jane and Sarah and it was really fun, although tiring. We spent so much time together that we had both lunch and dinner. Pete joined us for dinner. Then we went to Joe and Cindy's to say hi to Eric and Julie. And Gussie dragged his butt on the floor and made poop streaks. All because I gave him some Greenies and they made "stuff" stick to his fur. God bless him.

And God bless Joe and Cindy. They didn't even blink. While I cleaned Gussie's bottom they cleaned the rug. Kirby just watched.

I left early to write my article, so they're probably all still talking about me. :)

Tonight's article is about Qtown.info--City Secrets: Qtown embraces the soul of Quincy.

2/27 Home with the animals

The day started well, then I had bunches of pain so I came home around 2. I feel so much better after lying down for a while. I tell myself to be patient. It took about a week the last time for me to be totally pain free. It will be a week on Monday.

Friday's article on Examiner.com-- Aging: It takes a lot of courage to ask for help

Oh, and this is for my juggling brothers. This guy is amazing.

2/26 Another day, another $

Gosh, I worked so hard today. Training new staff, coming out from under mounds of paperwork, seeing clients. I'm so glad to be home with my animal family.

Tonight's article is sad: 6 reasons fathers kill their families

2/25 Busy, busy, and more busy

Cindy was awesome today. She took Gussie for a walk with Kirby because I'm still not quite recovered from the back procedure. In fact, my butt cheeks are still a little numb. TMI? :)

Tonight's article is Working long hours? You could be at risk of dementia

Oh and I earned $100 for referring two people who ended up as examiners. So if anyone wants to write for examiner, let me know and I'll split the finder's fee with you.

2/24 A funny day

I went to work today even though the pain doc told me to stay home. He was right.

I came home at 3 and relaxed for a while before making dinner and writing my article. Hope this finds everyone doing well. I'm feeling much better and am thrilled beyond words.

Tonight's article is Best friends: Do you have one? And it quotes one of my anonymous brothers.

2/22 Yuck yuck yuck

The party last night was awesome. It was great to see everyone and the euchre tournament was a lot of fun. Unfortunately I couldn't enjoy it too much. This pain is worse than ever. Sure hope the pain doctor can do something with it tomorrow. I keep saying I refuse to have surgery, but I can't refuse when it's like this. I want my life back.


Tonight's article is Another fear: Bungee cord break

2/21 Lots of fun today

Can't wait because today will be FUN. We're having a wedding shower for my niece, Jessi, and then a huge family euchre tournament. I'm stoked.

Today's article is Bartering: You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours and it was inspired while I was drinking a hot chocolate at Starbucks today. That's where I ended up writing it.

2/20 Tired and crabby

I'm very happy it's Friday and am looking forward to a fun time with family tomorrow. As for tonight, it's time for a rest after a really stressful week.

Tonight's article is Long-term relationships are great for your health. Hope you enjoy it.

2/19 Crisis crisis crisis

That's crises when it's plural. Omigod, I'm so glad I am off call tomorrow morning. This round has been exhausting.

I didn't shoot Gus. He's my sweetie. And his breath is better. Maybe the rabbits ate mint or something.



Tonight's article is Bikini-clad women: Guys, it's not your fault that you look

2/18 On call

The awful thing about being on call is losing sleep. That's it.



My article is Body noises and other embarrassments

2/17 Second article today

Tonight's article is: Are you cool or crazy under stress?

Gus's breath smells like shit--literally. He loves rabbit poop. Don't know how to stop him. Maybe if I shoot him every time he puts his head down on the ground it might discourage him.

2/17 Posted during lunch

Had a rough weekend but am just "sucking it up." Gussie is at Alpha Dog today and is an excited little puppy.

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Does mom of octuplets idolize Jolie?

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Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Scared of spiders? There's going to be a pill for that

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Scared of spiders? There's going to be a pill for that

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2/15 A great quote

I follow the Dalai Lama on Twitter.com and the quote today was awesome: "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." His Holiness, the Dalai Lama

Gussie and I went to my office for a while, then to the grocery store. And that's it for today. Excitement, huh?



Chicago Mental Health Examiner: The letdown after Valentine's Day

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2/14 Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day

I had a lot of fun last night at my Mardi Gras party. The house was filled with people, and Gussie had a field day. He sure loves visitors.

This morning went to a cousin's wedding, but unfortunately am having a "bad back" day and can't go to the reception tonight. Wish I could make it, I just love being with my extended family. Luckily I saw most of them at the church today.




Chicago Mental Health Examiner: What do men and women really want?

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Chicago Mental Health Examiner: A plane crashes: We grieve

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: A plane crashes: We grieve

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Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Brett Favre: Retiring for good

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Brett Favre: Retiring for good

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Examiner.com to Recruit 12,000 Writers, Called Examiners, in 2009 Across 60 Local Markets

Examiner.com to Recruit 12,000 Writers, Called Examiners, in 2009 Across 60 Local Markets

2/10 Joe, the superhero

I am so grateful for Joe. I locked my keys in the garage. Didn't noticed I dropped them on the seat. Gussie wouldn't get out of the car so I had to lift him out and I guess that's when it happened.

There's only the one garage key, so Joe pried the door open for me, then came back and fixed the lock. I really appreciate you, Joe.


Tonight's article is about Valentine's Day.
For singles: Valentine's Day can be whatever you want

2/9 Day went fast

Wow, today started and then it ended. That's how fast it went. I don't think I lifted my head once except to walk back and forth to the mailbox. Oh, I did leave once. I ran home to let Gussie out, but I couldn't stay at all because the work was calling my name. :)


Tonight's article is Want to get out of a bad mood?

2/8 Horribly competitive

I am. Always have been. And since I'm 61 I probably always will be. But I'm also a good loser. I have to be since I lose more often than win, unless it's word games--then I have a fighting chance.

Anyway I thought of this because every chance I get I check my examiner.com numbers and where I am in comparison to other writers. I get to see the top 5 in the Chicago area, and those are in all topics, not just health. And I also get to see the top 5 in Health nationally.

This afternoon I'm number 2 nationally in Health and number 1 in Chicago. So yeah, I'm bragging. Had to write about it right away because it will soon change. :)

This morning's article was Food stamps: A solution or a stopgap measure? Am writing another one tonight on Confidentiality.

(Thanks, Joe, for helping me out this afternoon. Thanks, Pete, for offering to do so as well.)

2/7 A busy day

Today I have lots to do. If only I could wake up. I slept 8 hours for a change, but feel like I could use 8 more.


This morning's article is Christian Bale apologizes for tantrum

2/6 Tired, tired, tired

I fell asleep after work and just couldn't move. So tired and I don't know why.




Tonight's article is Want less risk of dementia? Lower your stress

2/5 What makes a hero?

Chesley Sullenberger: What makes a hero?

2/4 More car woes

My car's gears were slipping and I was really scared. But it turned out to be only the transmission hose...and will be a lot less expensive than my fears.



Tonight's article is Study: Mental health alone doesn't trigger violence

2/3 Bad day at work

Bad day at work today. Still sick too.

Article is about a very happy occasion in our family.

2/2 Yuck

Still sick with the plague and bad back so going to bed early.

Tonight's article is Autism: CNN reports on a family in chaos. Thanks for clicking, and sometimes reading. Love to all.

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Mental illness on TV: Part 2

Chicago Mental Health Examiner: Mental illness on TV: Part 2

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1/31 Sick?

I'm still sick but Gussie isn't. But he peed on the newly shampooed carpet. That's my boy.


New article this morning. You don't have to be kid to have a play date.

1/29/09 Achooo!

I'm thinking my sinus infection has returned. Boo hiss.

Another boo hiss. The carpet cleaners were here today. The carpet was beautiful. Then Gussie threw up.

And the sad thing is he's been throwing up since this morning. I'll have to take him to the vets if this doesn't stop by tomorrow morning. Poor Gussie.


Tonight's article is about Bumper sticker 6.

1/27 A rough day

Today was really rough. So many crises. And I'm on call this week and have already had three calls tonight.

BUT there was something good. I finally have my car back. Plus they took off $100 and threw in a free oil change since it took so long. Yay for that.

And the guy handed me a piece of tire maybe four inches by two inches. It went through my grill and struck my radiator, causing the hole in it. The mechanic supervisor suggested I talk to my insurance agent about it, and he'd be happy to verify it.

I do have the piece of tire as evidence, or maybe just a souvenir.

Tonight's article is Mental illness on TV: Part 1

Thanks for clicking.

1/27 So very tired

I can't believe how tired I am, but I did manage to get two articles written, despite working all day at my regular job.

Tonight's article: Embarrassed at work? 4 things to help

1/26 Quick lunch

The cleaners are there today so I didn't have to go home and let out Gus. That gave me time to write over my lunch hour. Speaking of Gus, since he doesn't have his long coat anymore he can now JUMP onto the bed. It's high too, because I have a new mattress. I'm just amazed at how agile he is now. He and Bozie are both 9 months old. Allie is 6 months now. All of them are cuties.

I'm giving a Mardi Gras party the Friday before Ash Wednesday. That weekend is so crowded, with a niece's wedding shower and a family euchre party on Saturday. But I have to do Mardi Gras before Ash Wednesday and spent a ton of money on decorations from the Gulf Coast. Hope people can make it.

Today's first article is Gone Hiking. Hope you like it.

1/25 I actually had fun

Jan and I went to Mass together, then out to lunch at Tony's Too. A little bit of shopping and then home. While I was recuperating from last night's festivities, Gussie looked out the front window and got really animated. I knew Kirby must be outside. So we got winterized and went over to visit for a minute while Cindy was shoveling their walk.

I love that we have snow. Unfortunately I don't own a snow shovel. Have to put that on my shopping list. Gussie sure loves the snow. He's fun to watch. He and Kirby had fun.

Oh, the big news--I was sitting in my recliner waiting for Jan to pick me up. I'd already given the critters their treats and had the baby gate up. Something scared the hell out of me--Gussie jumped in my lap. Don't know if he jumped or climbed over the gate, but it's served it's purpose. No more baby gate. Yikes.

My second article of the day is about the phenomenon known as Twitter.

1/25 Early morning

Woke up early because my cats thought it was Monday I'm sure. Gus slept soundly, but the cats didn't want me to be late for work. Bah humbug!


Early morning article: Is Miss America still relevant?

1/24 Family fun

Had a great time at Kelly and Todd's tonight for Souper Bowl. We ate soup and we bowled on Wii. What a great idea. It was a double elimination and I finally lost out, but still enjoyed watching everyone else. Because of Gus I had to leave before the final game. I do know Brandon was going to go against whoever won the last game. So I'll be anxious to hear. Sure had a good time. Thanks again.


Published a second article yesterday about the Brazilian model who had both hands and both feet amputated. Then wrote two articles today: The first is Alleged daycare killer: Mentally ill? and the second is Bumper stickers 4 and 5 the next in the series. Thanks for clicking and reading.

1/23 Car is in the shop

Had to take Gus out to Alpha Dog and that's way out in the country. So I made it to the service department just as the needle started edging up to Hot! It was really good timing.

Got up really early today and wrote an extra article. This one is about Quincy.

1/22 Car trouble

My car is overheating and I have to take it in tomorrow. Since I can't get home to let Gussie out I'm just going to drop him off at daycare again. He'll be thrilled. Elizabeth has two Havanese (?). The female is in heat and apparently likes Gussie better than Louie. Louie is destined to be the father of her puppies. They're going to have to do artificial insemination because her heart belongs to my Gussie. Isn't that funny?


Article tonight: Were they really the 'good old days'?

1/21 So tired

I'm so tired tonight and Gussie is on crack. He's running around barking and growling. And all I want to do is finish my computer work and go to bed.


Tonight's article-- Shyness can be paralyzing: Here are three things that can help

1/20 What a day

I couldn't keep my eyes off the inauguration. What a treat. Luckily I chaired a meeting and had the TV on while we met. Sound was down, but we turned it up as soon as we were done. Amazing day.

My article today is really about hope. Hope you read it. :) The world salutes President Obama too.

1/19 Gussie is naked

Gussie started out really fuzzy this morning and now looks naked. Poor little critter. I'll post the pictures when I get a chance.

I had a great time with Wii Fit tonight. For aerobics I had to do the hula hope and Jane and Joe threw hula hoops at me and I had to try to add them. Oh my gosh I kept laughing at them throwing.

Then I had to run in place. Yeah, me run. Computer told me not to pass the Mii in front of me. The good thing that Jill kept running alongside me. Todd passed me and so did Hunter and Jordan. Oh, and when I did step aerobics--you should see Jordan dance. Cracked me up.

This is really what makes the Wii Fit so much fun for me.

New article: Bumper sticker 3: My child is student of the month at ______ School.

1/18 A good Sunday

Went to Kohl's to return a gift (thanks for warning, Jan) and I saw Cindy there. Deja vu. Seemed like just yesterday we were there together. :) Then I went to Panera for a very late lunch and wrote two articles while there. After I came home I took Gus for a short walk--2/3 of a mile. It was so neat. Everyone we saw stopped and petted him. You know he LOVED that.

The last two days I've posted two articles each day. Today's are Bumper sticker 2: Grace happens and What to say to keep the peace. Thanks for reading them.

1/17 Wii Fit

I love the Wii Fit. It's really fun and really smart. Okay, it doesn't have to be smart to know how much overweight I am, but it knew that I trip a lot, just because of the way I balance the board and how I distribute my weight on my feet.

Am going to work hard to make sure I continue to use it. Just wish I had good curtains in the living room so I could take off some of these heavy winter clothes in order to weigh. :)

Shopping yesterday was both fun and exhausting. Jane, Jane, Kris, Brian, Cindy and I went to Kohls. Cindy had already bought all her wedding and shower gifts, but the rest of us hadn't. So it took a long time to find what we needed off of the registry. BUT WE DID IT!

A special thanks to Jane and Cindy for helping to carry in all my loot. Plus I really enjoyed lunch at Nothing Spcecial. (Thanks also Cindy and Cody, for moving that piece of furniture for me.)

Yesterday I posted two articles, got 201 hits, and made $2.01. Guess I won't get rich doing this. I hope to get some comments from you on Bumper sticker 1: If you can read this, thank a teacher.

1/16 Poor Gus, Poor Me

Gus had diarrhea this morning. All over my bedroom carpet. There's a trail leading to the bathroom. He tried to reach a towel that the cats pulled down. He made the towel and finished his job there. But oh the trail.

So I was a bit late for work today. Had to clean the carpet, clean Gus, and clean myself. Poor Gussie. Poor Jer.

Today's article is Winter got you down? Maybe you have Seasonal Affective Disorder. Thanks for reading it!

1/15 Gus is fuzzy, wuzzy?

Omigod, he is so fuzzy. So much hair. I'm just grateful he doesn't shed. But Monday it's all coming off no matter how cold it is. I just don't do a good job of grooming him. I'll make sure to have before and after pictures.


Latest article: Open mouth, insert foot. It's a specialty of mine.

1/14 New article

It's You're older now than when you started reading this

1/13 Good and bad

Good: Gussie's long winter fur is beautiful. Bad: He got poop stuck in it.

Good: I made homemade vegetable soup and it's delicious. Bad: I spilled boiling hot soup on my chest.






New article: Losing at love.