Seriously. I sat here for minutes attempting to come up with a super wordarific title for this entry and I came up empty. I suppose after the past few days (dare I even say month), I'm allowed to be brain dead on occasion. And today, my friends, is such a day!
Okay enough with the dramatics. Hrm, what the heck was I going to talk about? I'm sure there was some updates, since it's been a while but I recall there being a specific reason why today was the perfect day to blog. i guess I should say tonight or even tomorrow since it's a few minutes shy of midnight. (We won't mention I've been up since 5 am and my schedule the past couple days has been very similar.) Now I remember! See, give me a few minutes to mentally ramble and it all comes back. I know you all appreciate being a part of my thought process. Just think, I could have halted writing until I remembered what it was and you would have saved a minute or two of your life. But what fun would that be? Don't worry, you can thank me later. I'm guessing right now you're thinking "get on with it" before I forget again...
Some of you may recall one of my blog entries from just a little over a year ago: It's a sign! Well, guess who bought a new pair of fortune cookie variety jeans?!?! I did! I think this little, sewn in your fly nugget of wisdom speaks volumes... on many levels.
Today's Lesson: "Find Adventure. Find Yourself."
Yeah... I'm guessing I'm not the only one marveling about the whole "Finding Yourself" in your pants thing. As always, feel free to discuss or leave your own little nuggets. It's been a while since we've had sharing time. It's like show & tell and I brought in my wacky ass jeans today. Yay! Anyhoooo, moving along...
Time for Franzy Updates and Reflections! 2008 has been quite the year. However, I really feel that so much of it has gone down in the past few months. Not that I'm really into sports but this totally would call for the curve ball analogy. The only difference is, in my life, I seem to be the pitcher and the batter. A lot of the craziness going on is of my own doing. Fortunately, it's not bad craziness. Here are some of the recaps I can think of right now.
Kitties - Stuart and Rufus are buds. You can check out some of their goofy pics on my Facebook "Furkids" photo album. Stuart is still a food freak. He's always hungry. It will be interesting to see how he holds over the week I'm in STL for Christmas. Right now, I'm planning to get a timed portion control feeder so I don't have to take him to a Kennel or have someone constantly watch them. I'm sure Rufus will figure out he needs to shove his face in the food bowl before Stuart eats it all.
School - School is going well. We got our midterm grades a week or so ago. I'm doing rather well in all my classes which is cool. On occasion it can be a lot. Projects, speeches, midterms, tests and show prep all on top of the hours spent in class and don't forget the full-time job after class. It was a tad overwhelming at first. I think it took probably 3-4 weeks before I mentally and physically got into a rhythm. I pretty much gave up my social life. I mentioned that in my last post, so I'll spare you the details.
The Unexpected - As always, when you decide to let things go and aren't paying attention, life throws stuff in your lap. Well not always literally... I went on a date last Saturday. I know, I know. I gave up dating to manage my time between school & work better. To focus on my "investment in myself" blahbity blah blah. I guess life had another plan. This time it was totally different. He's a friend of friends. He's nice, cute, intelligent and we have a similar sarcastic snarky sense of humor. We met and chatted at a few social gatherings and well at the last one he asked if I'd like to have dinner with him sometime. Okay... I haven't been asked out like that in AGES. That whole Ex, Married, then internet dating thing just doesn't allow for the old fashioned "Hey would you like to do something with me" request. Anyhow, to make a long story short, I said yes. I had a great time and laughed so hard; I had to say yes to another date. So perhaps there will be more to tell you soon.
Music - A couple weeks ago, Stacia and I went to the Buckcherry & Avenged Sevenfold Concert. I was hoarse for a day or two after. As you can guess I loved it. Saving Abel opened - they were okay. Buckcherry gave an awesome show. Josh Todd is still one of the ugliest mother... I've ever seen but he's got that catchy voice and insane lyrics. I mean, who else writes a song about being too drunk to... haha you know it. Lastly, the headliner, A7X. Simply amazing live... I don't know if amazing covers it - borderline epic? Okay, I may be a tad biased but even with the screwy crappy sound of the venue, I couldn't stop moving, singing and screaming. I've been a tad obsessed ever since. This may not surprise those of you who know how I feel and connect with music. I became even more amazed when I watched the video on the making of their last album. Oh to be that young, successful, talented and overall good looking. Anyway, I digress... Next Up! Trans-Siberian for the 3rd year in a row. I'm still excited. (Have I mentioned I'm a dork yet?)
Last but not least...
Holiday Hell - I'm going to try to make this abbreviated as possible. My Grandmother isn't able to get around as well as she used to. She officially decided she can't travel anymore. This completely screws up holidays because the folks don't want her to be alone on them. So not so abnormally, they're coming up tomorrow for Turkey Day, but this will be the first year we don't have a home cooked full Thanksgiving spread. We're going out... To a casino buffet. Skippy. I'll admit the special menu is intriguing. I'll report back on everything I tried. More importantly Christmas. The folks don't want her to be alone on Christmas. So here's the skinny for my folks in STL. I'm flying in the night of the 18th (I have a one-way ticket but it's not what you're hoping for.) I'm driving back up with the folks on the 25th. We're doing Christmas with my brother's family the weekend before since he's working on Christmas Eve. So this is officially the first year where I have no normal holidays. FUN. Oh yeah, we won't mention that turning 30 thing that happens in there too. Anyhow, you STL folks be on the look out for updates or shoot me a message if you want to do something. I'm thinking there may be some bowling event or something. I'm not entirely sure.
I need to get to bed! I should stop doing multiple things while I blog... It takes me much longer to write.
Turkey Day Cheers to you and your family,
Franz
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
A chicken with its head cut off...
What can I say... I seriously think I must be crazy.
As many of you know, I decided a few months ago that I was going to go back to school to study Radio Broadcasting. Radio was my original "that's what I want to be when I grow up" plan before it was derailed by people who supposedly knew better. Classes began Oct. 6 and needless to say it's been a bit of an adjustment. When I originally met with the admissions guy, he started explaining to me how the class schedule worked. I don't think I was fully grasping it. I decided to take 12 hours thinking I'd only have classes 3 days a week. Well, apparently one of the classes actually meets twice a week. So Mon-Thurs, I'm in class from 8-12 then I get to do my full time job after that. Needless to say my days are a little long. It's kind of a trial thing. At times, I believe I'm more productive at work then I have been in a while. I manage to avoid the typical morning "lets grab a coffee and catch up" thing that happens as people trickle in to the office. I still get my catching up in, it's just not as prolonged as it used to be. Also, I think the class load will lighten up when my transfer credit classes kick in for the others in my program.
Well enough about my crazy schedule and on the to good stuff... Apparently, I'm good at it! I know it's really early in the program, but I received a fantastic compliment from one of my instructors. In my first Radio Studio Operations class, we had 5 mins to pre-read a script then we had to record it. The following class, the instructor reviewed the recordings with us individually. During the recording, he took notes on things we needed to work on. This includes things like reading accuracy, voice & articulation. I noticed he had a notepad with all of our names written in a column with shorthand & notes next to it. I only had one thing written next to my name. I have a slight prominent S which apparently he didn't even think was a problem. He didn't give me any exercises to work on it and told me he thinks it was due to nervousness or bad mic placement. He said I have a great sounding voice and has no doubt that I will do well in the industry. Yay!
Anyhow. Other than the actual class stuff, the classmate aspect has been interesting. A chunk of the class is those fresh out of high school crowd but also a good chunk of us are at least a few years out of high school. There's even a little more than a handful of people older than me or right about the same age. It's an interesting and fun dynamic. It seems the younger group seem shocked that I'm 29. One of the girls said she would have never guessed over 25. I was even told by one classmate that I was "aging really well." Wow... Am I really at that age where I can be told that? It made me laugh so hard. Oh well, Good Times.
Let's see. What else is happening? Well not much really. I was dating for a bit, but ultimately had to decide that I don't have time for anything much right now. Plus, I'm enjoying the radio thing so much right now and it just feels right. I owe it to myself to figure out where it will lead me. It can be a compliment to what I do now or a secondary thing, or I could go all out and perhaps some of you will hear me on the airwaves one day. So, I pulled my self off Match and spending my free time doing homework & vegging out on WoW. (I know... NERD!) Other than that, my favorite holiday is this week! Yay!!! I can't wait to see the kids all dressed up and of course - Ghost Hunters has it's annual live episode. (I know... HUGE NERD!) I'm also anxiously awaiting Nov. 8 when I'm going to see Avenged Sevenfold!!! They're coming with Buckcherry so Stacia will deal with A7X for me and I'll only semi-suffer through Buckcherry for her. Speaking of music, as a bunch of you are aware, I actually attended the New Kids On The Block concert last Tuesday. I planned on going for what I was calling the "Trainwreck Factor." I couldn't imagine how they could do all the music of the past. I was amazed! It was actually a fantabulous show. They were on stage for about 2.5 hours and it was pretty much non-stop. It probably helped that I had great seats (Floor Row 11). When they came out I just looked at them and suddenly I felt like I was 10 again. I am thoroughly impressed with their show and hope those of you going to see them soon enjoy it!
Kitty Update: The furkids are getting along swimmingly. Sheer proof that Rufus just needed another buddy to keep him occupied. Stuart is being a little pain the ass, however I think most of it is still a bit of kitten insanity. I hold on to a shread of hope that he'll outgrow it.
That's enough for now. I've been my typical verbose self. Hope all is well on your side of things!
Cheers,
Franz
As many of you know, I decided a few months ago that I was going to go back to school to study Radio Broadcasting. Radio was my original "that's what I want to be when I grow up" plan before it was derailed by people who supposedly knew better. Classes began Oct. 6 and needless to say it's been a bit of an adjustment. When I originally met with the admissions guy, he started explaining to me how the class schedule worked. I don't think I was fully grasping it. I decided to take 12 hours thinking I'd only have classes 3 days a week. Well, apparently one of the classes actually meets twice a week. So Mon-Thurs, I'm in class from 8-12 then I get to do my full time job after that. Needless to say my days are a little long. It's kind of a trial thing. At times, I believe I'm more productive at work then I have been in a while. I manage to avoid the typical morning "lets grab a coffee and catch up" thing that happens as people trickle in to the office. I still get my catching up in, it's just not as prolonged as it used to be. Also, I think the class load will lighten up when my transfer credit classes kick in for the others in my program.
Well enough about my crazy schedule and on the to good stuff... Apparently, I'm good at it! I know it's really early in the program, but I received a fantastic compliment from one of my instructors. In my first Radio Studio Operations class, we had 5 mins to pre-read a script then we had to record it. The following class, the instructor reviewed the recordings with us individually. During the recording, he took notes on things we needed to work on. This includes things like reading accuracy, voice & articulation. I noticed he had a notepad with all of our names written in a column with shorthand & notes next to it. I only had one thing written next to my name. I have a slight prominent S which apparently he didn't even think was a problem. He didn't give me any exercises to work on it and told me he thinks it was due to nervousness or bad mic placement. He said I have a great sounding voice and has no doubt that I will do well in the industry. Yay!
Anyhow. Other than the actual class stuff, the classmate aspect has been interesting. A chunk of the class is those fresh out of high school crowd but also a good chunk of us are at least a few years out of high school. There's even a little more than a handful of people older than me or right about the same age. It's an interesting and fun dynamic. It seems the younger group seem shocked that I'm 29. One of the girls said she would have never guessed over 25. I was even told by one classmate that I was "aging really well." Wow... Am I really at that age where I can be told that? It made me laugh so hard. Oh well, Good Times.
Let's see. What else is happening? Well not much really. I was dating for a bit, but ultimately had to decide that I don't have time for anything much right now. Plus, I'm enjoying the radio thing so much right now and it just feels right. I owe it to myself to figure out where it will lead me. It can be a compliment to what I do now or a secondary thing, or I could go all out and perhaps some of you will hear me on the airwaves one day. So, I pulled my self off Match and spending my free time doing homework & vegging out on WoW. (I know... NERD!) Other than that, my favorite holiday is this week! Yay!!! I can't wait to see the kids all dressed up and of course - Ghost Hunters has it's annual live episode. (I know... HUGE NERD!) I'm also anxiously awaiting Nov. 8 when I'm going to see Avenged Sevenfold!!! They're coming with Buckcherry so Stacia will deal with A7X for me and I'll only semi-suffer through Buckcherry for her. Speaking of music, as a bunch of you are aware, I actually attended the New Kids On The Block concert last Tuesday. I planned on going for what I was calling the "Trainwreck Factor." I couldn't imagine how they could do all the music of the past. I was amazed! It was actually a fantabulous show. They were on stage for about 2.5 hours and it was pretty much non-stop. It probably helped that I had great seats (Floor Row 11). When they came out I just looked at them and suddenly I felt like I was 10 again. I am thoroughly impressed with their show and hope those of you going to see them soon enjoy it!
Kitty Update: The furkids are getting along swimmingly. Sheer proof that Rufus just needed another buddy to keep him occupied. Stuart is being a little pain the ass, however I think most of it is still a bit of kitten insanity. I hold on to a shread of hope that he'll outgrow it.
That's enough for now. I've been my typical verbose self. Hope all is well on your side of things!
Cheers,
Franz
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The insanity, the roller coaster, the sniffles - Life.
Well, it's my favorite time of year again. Yay for Fall! The trees are vibrant yellows and oranges. I even see some of the red remaining. The air is crisp and allergy-ridden. I even noticed that someone had their fireplace going this evening... *sigh* Perfection.
Fall is a very reflective time for me. I can't believe it's been 2 years since my marriage ended. I've gone through and grown so much since then. It seems I'm still finding out more about myself each day. I know that sounds so cheesy & cliche, but it is so true. I know I've touched on this before, but while tending to my "Flair" obsession on Facebook, I was reminded of it once again... "As we grow up, we don't lose friends; we just learn who our real ones are." It seems I'm still learning and it just leaves me with more questions... I know I'm not perfect and God knows I don't claim to be. I'm not a supermodel, but I also wasn't hit with the ugly stick. I'm not demanding; I'm realistic. I'm cute, loyal, sweet, normally abnormal and fun. But frankly, I mostly feel overlooked - especially when I don't want to be. Anyhow, enough of the self pity party. Some of the good things I discovered over the past couple years. I am stronger than I ever imagined and I'm actually pretty good alone. It doesn't mean I like it, but I can and it can be fun.
So this fall I decided it was time for a change. As of yesterday, I am officially a student again. I apparently decided that I didn't have enough going on and that it was time to go back to school for what I always wanted to do. Radio Broadcasting. Part of me wonders what the hell I was smoking when I made this decision, but over all I'm actually getting more and more excited. Going back to school is a bit nerve-wracking, but so far it feels very right. I'm not sure if I want to be an on-air personality or on the production side; however the program covers it all - so I'll have a solid base. I'm taking 12 credit hours this quarter, so that means a shift in my work hours... Now I don't stop working until sometime between 8 & 9. So far, it doesn't seem to bad. I like being busy and I feel more purposeful at work. I get to avoid the morning procrastination period as everyone attempts to be convinced to begin their day.
More new stuff... I adopted a new furkid mid-September. His name is Stuart, every now and then I call him Stewie for short. He's about a year old and a total nuzzler. Rufus took to him fairly quickly. I was rather impressed. It just reaffirmed what I thought about him needing another buddy. He never did good alone, that's why we got Otto in the first place. It's a tad creepy since Stuart looks a little bit like Otto did. However, he needed a home after a string of bad luck with his previous family and you could not help but love him. He's a tad of a pain in the ass but hopefully he'll out grow that.
I guess that's about it for now... I'm exhausted and have 2 more long days this week.
Cheers!
Franz
Fall is a very reflective time for me. I can't believe it's been 2 years since my marriage ended. I've gone through and grown so much since then. It seems I'm still finding out more about myself each day. I know that sounds so cheesy & cliche, but it is so true. I know I've touched on this before, but while tending to my "Flair" obsession on Facebook, I was reminded of it once again... "As we grow up, we don't lose friends; we just learn who our real ones are." It seems I'm still learning and it just leaves me with more questions... I know I'm not perfect and God knows I don't claim to be. I'm not a supermodel, but I also wasn't hit with the ugly stick. I'm not demanding; I'm realistic. I'm cute, loyal, sweet, normally abnormal and fun. But frankly, I mostly feel overlooked - especially when I don't want to be. Anyhow, enough of the self pity party. Some of the good things I discovered over the past couple years. I am stronger than I ever imagined and I'm actually pretty good alone. It doesn't mean I like it, but I can and it can be fun.
So this fall I decided it was time for a change. As of yesterday, I am officially a student again. I apparently decided that I didn't have enough going on and that it was time to go back to school for what I always wanted to do. Radio Broadcasting. Part of me wonders what the hell I was smoking when I made this decision, but over all I'm actually getting more and more excited. Going back to school is a bit nerve-wracking, but so far it feels very right. I'm not sure if I want to be an on-air personality or on the production side; however the program covers it all - so I'll have a solid base. I'm taking 12 credit hours this quarter, so that means a shift in my work hours... Now I don't stop working until sometime between 8 & 9. So far, it doesn't seem to bad. I like being busy and I feel more purposeful at work. I get to avoid the morning procrastination period as everyone attempts to be convinced to begin their day.
More new stuff... I adopted a new furkid mid-September. His name is Stuart, every now and then I call him Stewie for short. He's about a year old and a total nuzzler. Rufus took to him fairly quickly. I was rather impressed. It just reaffirmed what I thought about him needing another buddy. He never did good alone, that's why we got Otto in the first place. It's a tad creepy since Stuart looks a little bit like Otto did. However, he needed a home after a string of bad luck with his previous family and you could not help but love him. He's a tad of a pain in the ass but hopefully he'll out grow that.
I guess that's about it for now... I'm exhausted and have 2 more long days this week.
Cheers!
Franz
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Another Summer gone...
My old MySpace blog has been fully migrated. Feel free to peruse the archives and comment if you wish. I have to say, there were some fun topics & conversation starters back then.
It's September... I can't say I'm totally disappointed that Summer is wrapping up. After all, most of you know how much of a fan I am of heat and sun. I have to admit that this summer has been fairly nice in that regard. The past month or so has gone fairly well. Work seems to be possibly getting better. I decided to go back to school and start next month. I threw myself back on Match.com. I met a couple of guys who seem nice, BUT bestest of all... I met one and we have a TON in common - it's almost scary. I'm excited and anxious to see how it progresses.
I have a feeling that September is going to fly... I'm finally going down to Cannon Falls on Saturday to bury Otto. I think I'll be okay and it will be nice to know he's at "home". Other than that, I'm headed to NYC for the weekend on the 12th and already have plans with friends the following weekend. It's crazy! I think Rufus is annoyed with me being out so much. He's been extremely vocal. I'm thinking it may calm down once school starts.
Anyhow, I better go call G and set up when I'm picking her up for her eye appt tomorrow. I know these updates weren't all that thrilling. Hopefully, I'll have something better or a new convo starter for you soon.
Cheers!
Franz
It's September... I can't say I'm totally disappointed that Summer is wrapping up. After all, most of you know how much of a fan I am of heat and sun. I have to admit that this summer has been fairly nice in that regard. The past month or so has gone fairly well. Work seems to be possibly getting better. I decided to go back to school and start next month. I threw myself back on Match.com. I met a couple of guys who seem nice, BUT bestest of all... I met one and we have a TON in common - it's almost scary. I'm excited and anxious to see how it progresses.
I have a feeling that September is going to fly... I'm finally going down to Cannon Falls on Saturday to bury Otto. I think I'll be okay and it will be nice to know he's at "home". Other than that, I'm headed to NYC for the weekend on the 12th and already have plans with friends the following weekend. It's crazy! I think Rufus is annoyed with me being out so much. He's been extremely vocal. I'm thinking it may calm down once school starts.
Anyhow, I better go call G and set up when I'm picking her up for her eye appt tomorrow. I know these updates weren't all that thrilling. Hopefully, I'll have something better or a new convo starter for you soon.
Cheers!
Franz
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Blog Movement!
I originally started blogging on MySpace and figured it's time to move it out to the real blogging world.
I'll be moving my past posts over here. I was going to say slowly, but those of you who know me know that once I get the idea to do something I tend to do it right away. So I'll work on that and then perhaps post an updated entry tomorrow evening. I probably won't move all the comments over. Many of them are just supportive comments in regards to the recent struggles with Otto's illness & passing. I will move the great comments that friends have added to support my wackiness over the past while.
Cheers!
Franz
I'll be moving my past posts over here. I was going to say slowly, but those of you who know me know that once I get the idea to do something I tend to do it right away. So I'll work on that and then perhaps post an updated entry tomorrow evening. I probably won't move all the comments over. Many of them are just supportive comments in regards to the recent struggles with Otto's illness & passing. I will move the great comments that friends have added to support my wackiness over the past while.
Cheers!
Franz
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Trippin’ - Physically & Mentally
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
**Note: This blog is not for the feint of heart. It gets a little descriptive**
Well, what can I say? It's been a long couple of days.
I took a trip back to St. Louis about a week and a half ago to attend a friend's surprise 30th birthday party. It was a good time. I got to see some old friends who I haven't seen in ages, spend some quality time with others and also got to see my brother's fam. I did work some while I was there, but over all I had a good little break. I opted to take Otto with me since I was still pilling him once a day. I didn't want to burden someone else with that and if something were to happen to him I didn't want it to happen when I was away.
He started acting rather lethargic again a day before we left. I was hoping it was just one of those spells that he seemed to snap out of after a couple days. The first few days in STL he seemed pretty out of it. However, he seemed to come back slightly early to mid week. By Friday evening I was getting concerned. He appeared to take a drastic downhill turn. He pretty much stopped eating - even the treats he used to gobble up when he wouldn't eat much of anything else. First thing Saturday morning I took him over to Banfield @ PetSmart. They'd never seen an FIP positive cat before. I kind of felt like an oddity. I didn't particularly like the Vet either. She seemed genuinely nice, but she wouldn't shut up when I was trying to ask questions. I really just wanted to make sure Otto would make the trip home. I wanted to get him to my Vet, after all I trust them and well they know his whole history. She told me multiple times that it didn't look good but that he should be okay for 2 days. (I already had an appt set up for Monday morning.)
He did make the trip home, I can't exactly say it was uneventful. He had a little epsisode in Waterloo, IA when I attempted to get him to drink some CatSure. I thought he was going to have a heart attack. His chest was rising and falling so quickly and he was panting rapidly. I quickly restored him to the back of the car where he seemed to like hiding in the litter box (thankfully clean since he wasn't eating or drinking.) I checked on him again when I stopped for gas a while later and he seemed to have calmed down. We got home around 4 pm and I immediately took him downstairs and made sure he was okay and situated. I hung near him for a bit that evening. I just anticipated Monday wasn't going to be good.
I took him to the vet for an 8:30 appt. He had a mini panting episode when we got in the car but he calmed a little after. He just laid there in his bag staring at me. I pet him the whole way to ease him. Unfortunately the Vet's office confirmed my fears. His paleness was starting to turn a bit yellow indicating liver failure. His one kidney was as large as a goose egg and bumpy. The other one was bumpy too. At this point there was nothing further we could really do to improve his quality of life. It wasn't a hard decision to put him to sleep. I knew it was time and really what he needed. The hard part was deciding to stay in the room or not. I opted to stay. I knew he wasn't going to fight it. He couldn't, he had no energy left. I would be easier and perhaps a bit of closure to see him go to sleep then just walk out of a room and then go back in to see him there. I saw him go "to sleep" which is somewhat contrary to the phrase since dogs and cats don't close their eyes. I got to stay there for a few mins and say good bye. That was the hard part. He was such a little fighter and he was there for me when the ex left, etc. He was my baby. He was only 2 years old but as the vet and the wonderful ladies/techs there remind me it's not the quantity of life - it's the quality. They said that I gave him a good life and that I did more than any other owner would probably have done for a pet.
I had a choice of a group or private cremation. I don't want to be one of those crazy people who get their pet's ashes and hold on to them but I also couldn't bear the thought of my baby being in a landfill. I don't want to keep the ashes and I don't want to bury him here or by the old house. I'm hoping the lady at the vet office knows which farm he came from down there and that he can be returned to where he came from. I think that will make me feel the best and that he's back where he belongs.
Anyhow, enough from me. Thanks so much to all of you who have offered your kind words of sympathy and support. I really do appreciate it - more than you realize.
Franz
**Note: This blog is not for the feint of heart. It gets a little descriptive**
Well, what can I say? It's been a long couple of days.
I took a trip back to St. Louis about a week and a half ago to attend a friend's surprise 30th birthday party. It was a good time. I got to see some old friends who I haven't seen in ages, spend some quality time with others and also got to see my brother's fam. I did work some while I was there, but over all I had a good little break. I opted to take Otto with me since I was still pilling him once a day. I didn't want to burden someone else with that and if something were to happen to him I didn't want it to happen when I was away.
He started acting rather lethargic again a day before we left. I was hoping it was just one of those spells that he seemed to snap out of after a couple days. The first few days in STL he seemed pretty out of it. However, he seemed to come back slightly early to mid week. By Friday evening I was getting concerned. He appeared to take a drastic downhill turn. He pretty much stopped eating - even the treats he used to gobble up when he wouldn't eat much of anything else. First thing Saturday morning I took him over to Banfield @ PetSmart. They'd never seen an FIP positive cat before. I kind of felt like an oddity. I didn't particularly like the Vet either. She seemed genuinely nice, but she wouldn't shut up when I was trying to ask questions. I really just wanted to make sure Otto would make the trip home. I wanted to get him to my Vet, after all I trust them and well they know his whole history. She told me multiple times that it didn't look good but that he should be okay for 2 days. (I already had an appt set up for Monday morning.)
He did make the trip home, I can't exactly say it was uneventful. He had a little epsisode in Waterloo, IA when I attempted to get him to drink some CatSure. I thought he was going to have a heart attack. His chest was rising and falling so quickly and he was panting rapidly. I quickly restored him to the back of the car where he seemed to like hiding in the litter box (thankfully clean since he wasn't eating or drinking.) I checked on him again when I stopped for gas a while later and he seemed to have calmed down. We got home around 4 pm and I immediately took him downstairs and made sure he was okay and situated. I hung near him for a bit that evening. I just anticipated Monday wasn't going to be good.
I took him to the vet for an 8:30 appt. He had a mini panting episode when we got in the car but he calmed a little after. He just laid there in his bag staring at me. I pet him the whole way to ease him. Unfortunately the Vet's office confirmed my fears. His paleness was starting to turn a bit yellow indicating liver failure. His one kidney was as large as a goose egg and bumpy. The other one was bumpy too. At this point there was nothing further we could really do to improve his quality of life. It wasn't a hard decision to put him to sleep. I knew it was time and really what he needed. The hard part was deciding to stay in the room or not. I opted to stay. I knew he wasn't going to fight it. He couldn't, he had no energy left. I would be easier and perhaps a bit of closure to see him go to sleep then just walk out of a room and then go back in to see him there. I saw him go "to sleep" which is somewhat contrary to the phrase since dogs and cats don't close their eyes. I got to stay there for a few mins and say good bye. That was the hard part. He was such a little fighter and he was there for me when the ex left, etc. He was my baby. He was only 2 years old but as the vet and the wonderful ladies/techs there remind me it's not the quantity of life - it's the quality. They said that I gave him a good life and that I did more than any other owner would probably have done for a pet.
I had a choice of a group or private cremation. I don't want to be one of those crazy people who get their pet's ashes and hold on to them but I also couldn't bear the thought of my baby being in a landfill. I don't want to keep the ashes and I don't want to bury him here or by the old house. I'm hoping the lady at the vet office knows which farm he came from down there and that he can be returned to where he came from. I think that will make me feel the best and that he's back where he belongs.
Anyhow, enough from me. Thanks so much to all of you who have offered your kind words of sympathy and support. I really do appreciate it - more than you realize.
Franz
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Rev’s Reflection
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Well, Laura's wedding has come and gone. I think it went well. I heard many people say it was a lovely ceremony and apparently I made the bride tear up... so I guess I did a good job. Heck, seeing her attempt to hold tears back made me start tearing too! Thanks to those of you who supported me through out this craziness. Apparently I've been so supportive, helpful and on top of things, the bride says I should seriously consider furthering my wedding career & helping others. I don't exactly see that happening but it makes me laugh.
Anyhow, I figured now that it's not so top secret anymore I'd share my "sermon." I did take some inspiration from some research but overall it's pretty much all mine. Funny thing is... Today when talking to a co-worker/friend she used my own message on me! Crazy... I knew I was smart, I guess I should start listening to myself. Here it is:
Rev. Franzy
Well, Laura's wedding has come and gone. I think it went well. I heard many people say it was a lovely ceremony and apparently I made the bride tear up... so I guess I did a good job. Heck, seeing her attempt to hold tears back made me start tearing too! Thanks to those of you who supported me through out this craziness. Apparently I've been so supportive, helpful and on top of things, the bride says I should seriously consider furthering my wedding career & helping others. I don't exactly see that happening but it makes me laugh.
Anyhow, I figured now that it's not so top secret anymore I'd share my "sermon." I did take some inspiration from some research but overall it's pretty much all mine. Funny thing is... Today when talking to a co-worker/friend she used my own message on me! Crazy... I knew I was smart, I guess I should start listening to myself. Here it is:
At the beginning of our gathering, I mentioned there is one profound word that brings us here today. Love.
What is love?
It is something that, most likely, we will never fully comprehend. We have all heard various stories and definitions of love. They have been passed down through time by mouth, pen, song and picture. However, none of these methods can truly capture what we, who are blessed to be here, will witness today.
Laura and Anthony. As you begin your life together, I would like to take a few moments to talk about a side of love that may not always be obvious throughout your future journey.
Let's adventure back to 1905 with a scene from "Fiddler on the Roof." The play focuses around a Russian Jew named Tevya during a time when change was all around. Change not only touched the political world but it also touched the traditions of the Jewish people. Marriages were no longer being arranged by a matchmaker and the parents. Children were now marrying for love, including Tevya's own daughters. In the midst of all this turmoil and intrigue, Tevya goes to his wife and the following conversation ensues.
"Golda, it's a new world now, a new world."
"Golda, do you love me?"
"Do I what?"
"Do you love me?"
"Do I love you? With our daughters getting married and this trouble in the town, you're upset; you're worn out, go inside, go lie down, maybe its indigestion."
"Oh, No Golda, "I'm asking you a question. Do you love me?"
"You're a fool."
"I know, but do you love me?"
"Do I love you? Well. . For twenty-five years I washed your clothes, cooked your meals, cleaned your house, given you children, milked your cow. After twenty-five years why talk about love right now?"
"Golda, the first time I met you it was on our wedding day. I was scared."
"I was shy."
"I was nervous."
"So was I."
"But my father and mother said we'd learn to love each other and now I'm asking, Golda, Do you love me?"
"I'm your wife."
"I know, but do you love me?"
"Do I love him? For twenty five years I lived with him, fought with him, starved with him, twenty-five years my bed is his, if that's not love, what is?"
"Then you love me."
"I suppose I do."
"And I suppose I love you too. It doesn't change a thing, but even so, after twenty-five years it's nice to know."
So often, the focus of love is placed on words. However, as shown through Tevya and Golda's relationship and in relationships you've seen throughout your life, the truth is love is really shown by what we do and how we act. When we sat down together to start talking about this ceremony, I asked you both about how you knew you loved the other and what it meant to you. Both of you said something that involved action. You used the word selflessness and talked about putting the other person before yourself. You fell in love with each other based on something or a bunch of somethings that the other one did. You didn't fall in love because of a series of words. Now, I don't mean to insinuate that words don't matter. They matter a lot. It's really more of a package deal. Words combined with supporting action are just as important in Love and Marriage as they are in business and politics. Just remember, as I'm sure we've all heard a parent tell us at one point, "Actions speak louder than words."
Right now, this all may sound obvious and you're probably beginning to wonder when I'll get to the profound little nugget of wisdom. Don't worry its coming.
The fact is the love that you feel at this moment will evolve. Today, you are embarking on a glorious adventure and you will encounter much more amazing things along the way. However, it won't always be an easy journey. As with any relationship, you will face pressures from friends, family, work and society. You will find it is possible that routine can unknowingly lead you to taking each other for granted. It is often in the harder times when the words aren't supported by the action. Love, real love, love that will keep you together, will take a lot of effort from both of you. Never let yourselves fall to the temptation to think otherwise. Marriage may offer the greatest challenges to overcome, but in return, it gives you love, strength and support from one another. Your love will deepen with each day, but genuine liking for each other, the willingness to accept each other's strong and weak points with understanding and respect, is what will provide your marriage with a strong and lasting foundation.
Laura and Anthony, my wish, prayer and advice for you is…
Trust in yourself as an individual, in yourselves as a couple and, of course, in each other. Keep open the lines of communication because, it is through open, honest and nonjudgmental discussion that you will get through the difficult times. Do not be afraid or too proud to ask one another for help. Celebrate the smallest of occasions and victories. Plan for the future, but allow yourselves to live and enjoy today. Lastly, even though actions may speak louder than words, never stop saying I love you.
Well, that's it. Not overly profound, but from my experience something often forgotten. Now to veg for the rest of the evening. Tomorrow's going to be a busy day at work.
Rev. Franzy
Thursday, June 26, 2008
the whirlwind called life
Originally Posted on MySpace Blog
Seriously, I'm starting to hate writing on this laptop. I'm now on blog writing attempt number 3!
It's been a while since I've written anything but it's been a little crazy. A chunk of this may just sound like me bitching but I need to get it out. Its just been swirling around in my head for so long and well I haven't really had anyone to talk to about it. I guess you can just say I'm feeling a bit alone and confused.
I finally sold the house. It was weird emptying it out and seeing it like that. It was a little hard too. I went from having a house to only sort of having a home. I moved out and into a friend/co-worker's place on the 8th and the closing was on the 13th. The closing went amazingly well. Any issue was quickly diverted - mainly by my being overly prepared. I haven't really celebrated. Such a huge thing and well I haven't done shit to enjoy it. It wasn't really for lack of trying. I talked about wanting to go out and celebrate and people either didn't call, called later than previously discussed or well went out with other people and attempted to catch up later. Well, when later came around I just didn't feel like going out. (It was after 9 and a very long day.) I have to admit two of my friends were out of town, so they have the get out of jail free card, but seriously! We all talked about what a momentous occasion it was for me and we discussed how whacked out it may make me... But no - I sat alone.
As a mentioned, I moved in with a friend from work. So far it's been interesting. I didn't know what to expect since besides the ex, I haven't had a roommate since college. Fortunately, he has a house and it's not like dorm room living. hehe. It was nice that he didn't have a ton of furniture so there's actually room for most if not all of my stuff. Not long after I moved in, I met his girl friend for the first time. They've been together for a little bit (a few months?) but I haven't had the chance to meet her before now. She seems nice. I just feel like I'm invading whenever they're around. Oddly enough, even though he said he's rarely home, they seem to be here a lot. Which in a way adds to the whole previous statement of "only sort of having a home." I won't go into it. Let's just say at times it seems a tad "high school" but he seems to be happy with it so whatever I guess...
I don't really know what's up lately. I seem to have a general indifference/unhappiness with most things. It could be due to so much going on in such a short amount of time. Work has been meh. It seems to have lost what luster it ever had. I don't know. I enjoy the people I work with but that's really it right now. Not much seems to be keeping me there - perhaps the discount and the whole I really don't want to look for another job thing. Which of course ties into the I'm struggling with the whole "stay here vs. move back home" thing. The main thing keeping me here is the job. The fact my friends can't really make an effort to be with me during pivotal life moments doesn't bode well for the stay in the Twin Cities vote. Reminds me of figuring out who really seemed to care during the divorce stuff. Then on the other hand, I have people back home who are newer friends due to marriages, etc. who keep asking when I'm moving back. A couple of my "old" friends are bugging me about it too. (No "you know who you are", I'm not calling you old.) Obviously, you can see which city is winning that battle.
Anyhow, moving on. The cats seem to be adjusting well to the new digs. Rufus is overly curious and a pain as normal. Otto was fairly active the first few days but seemed to take a drastic turn not long after. I eventually took him in. The exam looked well but due to the lack of interest in food/water the vet wanted to do some blood work again to help insure he wasn't having renal failure. The first "quick" test came back high. So he took more blood and ran the complete count again. Fortunately, that came back with not much change from the previous tests months back. And what changes there were seemed to go down - not much something like 10.6 to 10.4 but small decimal points on a few factors. So, he's still anemic but it seems he's steady for now. He still likes to pester me multiple times in the morning to give him food, treats, water or more treats. So that is something that I guess you can consider is going somewhat well.
I finally wrote that wedding I'm presiding over next week. I think it sounds pretty good. I had one run through with Molly, who is also the bride's personal attendant. It seemed my potential/normal dates fell through so I opted to invite my mother to the wedding. A little odd yes, however she's excited to see me perform the ceremony and hear my "sermon". It's my big ministerial debut! Will it also be my finale?! Hehe, I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Anyhow, I guess that's all for now. I've bitched enough. I'm sure there's more but I doubt many if any of you got this far. It's about time I hauled my ass to bed.
I remain the confused, forgotten, lonely, awkward, whiny, answer-seeking, fatally ill feline parent that many call...
Franzy
Seriously, I'm starting to hate writing on this laptop. I'm now on blog writing attempt number 3!
It's been a while since I've written anything but it's been a little crazy. A chunk of this may just sound like me bitching but I need to get it out. Its just been swirling around in my head for so long and well I haven't really had anyone to talk to about it. I guess you can just say I'm feeling a bit alone and confused.
I finally sold the house. It was weird emptying it out and seeing it like that. It was a little hard too. I went from having a house to only sort of having a home. I moved out and into a friend/co-worker's place on the 8th and the closing was on the 13th. The closing went amazingly well. Any issue was quickly diverted - mainly by my being overly prepared. I haven't really celebrated. Such a huge thing and well I haven't done shit to enjoy it. It wasn't really for lack of trying. I talked about wanting to go out and celebrate and people either didn't call, called later than previously discussed or well went out with other people and attempted to catch up later. Well, when later came around I just didn't feel like going out. (It was after 9 and a very long day.) I have to admit two of my friends were out of town, so they have the get out of jail free card, but seriously! We all talked about what a momentous occasion it was for me and we discussed how whacked out it may make me... But no - I sat alone.
As a mentioned, I moved in with a friend from work. So far it's been interesting. I didn't know what to expect since besides the ex, I haven't had a roommate since college. Fortunately, he has a house and it's not like dorm room living. hehe. It was nice that he didn't have a ton of furniture so there's actually room for most if not all of my stuff. Not long after I moved in, I met his girl friend for the first time. They've been together for a little bit (a few months?) but I haven't had the chance to meet her before now. She seems nice. I just feel like I'm invading whenever they're around. Oddly enough, even though he said he's rarely home, they seem to be here a lot. Which in a way adds to the whole previous statement of "only sort of having a home." I won't go into it. Let's just say at times it seems a tad "high school" but he seems to be happy with it so whatever I guess...
I don't really know what's up lately. I seem to have a general indifference/unhappiness with most things. It could be due to so much going on in such a short amount of time. Work has been meh. It seems to have lost what luster it ever had. I don't know. I enjoy the people I work with but that's really it right now. Not much seems to be keeping me there - perhaps the discount and the whole I really don't want to look for another job thing. Which of course ties into the I'm struggling with the whole "stay here vs. move back home" thing. The main thing keeping me here is the job. The fact my friends can't really make an effort to be with me during pivotal life moments doesn't bode well for the stay in the Twin Cities vote. Reminds me of figuring out who really seemed to care during the divorce stuff. Then on the other hand, I have people back home who are newer friends due to marriages, etc. who keep asking when I'm moving back. A couple of my "old" friends are bugging me about it too. (No "you know who you are", I'm not calling you old.) Obviously, you can see which city is winning that battle.
Anyhow, moving on. The cats seem to be adjusting well to the new digs. Rufus is overly curious and a pain as normal. Otto was fairly active the first few days but seemed to take a drastic turn not long after. I eventually took him in. The exam looked well but due to the lack of interest in food/water the vet wanted to do some blood work again to help insure he wasn't having renal failure. The first "quick" test came back high. So he took more blood and ran the complete count again. Fortunately, that came back with not much change from the previous tests months back. And what changes there were seemed to go down - not much something like 10.6 to 10.4 but small decimal points on a few factors. So, he's still anemic but it seems he's steady for now. He still likes to pester me multiple times in the morning to give him food, treats, water or more treats. So that is something that I guess you can consider is going somewhat well.
I finally wrote that wedding I'm presiding over next week. I think it sounds pretty good. I had one run through with Molly, who is also the bride's personal attendant. It seemed my potential/normal dates fell through so I opted to invite my mother to the wedding. A little odd yes, however she's excited to see me perform the ceremony and hear my "sermon". It's my big ministerial debut! Will it also be my finale?! Hehe, I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Anyhow, I guess that's all for now. I've bitched enough. I'm sure there's more but I doubt many if any of you got this far. It's about time I hauled my ass to bed.
I remain the confused, forgotten, lonely, awkward, whiny, answer-seeking, fatally ill feline parent that many call...
Franzy
Friday, June 6, 2008
Just under 33 hours and counting!
Originally Posted on MySpace Blog
Normally, I wouldn't be excited about having to be awake and functional by 8:30 Sunday morning. However, this Sunday the movers are coming!
Another step in the journey to... oh hell, who really knows! I'm guessing this would be wrapping up the second phase.
Phase one - legally regaining my original identity. (Check!)
Phase two - selling the house and a change of scenery. (Check! well close enough!)
Phase three - financial damage assessment and resolution planning. (Partial check - my fabulous financial planner helped figure out how I won't be as bad off as originally anticipated!)
Phase four - ? - determining where I belong and orchestrating a plan to get there.
I know I've referenced phase four in my blog a few times, mentioned it on occasion in a conversation and even have talked to some of you about it in great length. I find it hard to believe how close it could be getting! To add more fuel to the fire, I heard a rumor that old friend of mine may be returning home. As much as that kind of sucks for him, it would kind of be like icing on the cake!
But alas back to reality. As exciting as this move is, it's also very tiring and stressful. Until tonight, I've done it all myself. That may seem like not such big thing but trust me, it's bigger than you'd imagine. I'm surprised how much there is to do & deal with. I've moved a couple times since I came to the Twin Cities 6 years ago. But this time it seems very different and more complicated. That may sound like a stupid comment since it revolves around a house sale and the divorce stuff, but I'm even just talking about the packing, etc.
Anyhow, Otto seems to be hanging on through all the upheaval. We upped the meds about 2 weeks ago back to a pill a day after some of his original wacky behaviors came back. At first his pep came back but it seemed to disappear quickly. Now there isn't much. We think it could be partially related to the stress of the move. Hopefully, he'll be able to adjust to Jacek's place. He was there probably two months ago during one of the previous offers' inspection. I wanted to take them both over at least twice this week before the first official over night, however some nasty rain storms postponed yesterdays trip. We'll just spend a little longer time over there tomorrow afternoon.
That's enough for now. Perhaps I'll write up something for you Sunday evening - the first night at the new digs...
Cheers,
Franz
Normally, I wouldn't be excited about having to be awake and functional by 8:30 Sunday morning. However, this Sunday the movers are coming!
Another step in the journey to... oh hell, who really knows! I'm guessing this would be wrapping up the second phase.
Phase one - legally regaining my original identity. (Check!)
Phase two - selling the house and a change of scenery. (Check! well close enough!)
Phase three - financial damage assessment and resolution planning. (Partial check - my fabulous financial planner helped figure out how I won't be as bad off as originally anticipated!)
Phase four - ? - determining where I belong and orchestrating a plan to get there.
I know I've referenced phase four in my blog a few times, mentioned it on occasion in a conversation and even have talked to some of you about it in great length. I find it hard to believe how close it could be getting! To add more fuel to the fire, I heard a rumor that old friend of mine may be returning home. As much as that kind of sucks for him, it would kind of be like icing on the cake!
But alas back to reality. As exciting as this move is, it's also very tiring and stressful. Until tonight, I've done it all myself. That may seem like not such big thing but trust me, it's bigger than you'd imagine. I'm surprised how much there is to do & deal with. I've moved a couple times since I came to the Twin Cities 6 years ago. But this time it seems very different and more complicated. That may sound like a stupid comment since it revolves around a house sale and the divorce stuff, but I'm even just talking about the packing, etc.
Anyhow, Otto seems to be hanging on through all the upheaval. We upped the meds about 2 weeks ago back to a pill a day after some of his original wacky behaviors came back. At first his pep came back but it seemed to disappear quickly. Now there isn't much. We think it could be partially related to the stress of the move. Hopefully, he'll be able to adjust to Jacek's place. He was there probably two months ago during one of the previous offers' inspection. I wanted to take them both over at least twice this week before the first official over night, however some nasty rain storms postponed yesterdays trip. We'll just spend a little longer time over there tomorrow afternoon.
That's enough for now. Perhaps I'll write up something for you Sunday evening - the first night at the new digs...
Cheers,
Franz
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Two days in a row!?!
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Lucky You!
I saw this on the news last night and as I'm explaining it to a coworker, I had to go out and see if they actually had it online. I know they don't always post their soft news videos - thankfully, this story was. You really don't need to know the whole deal. Let's just say they were honoring some students at the capitol and as always, there's a crowd and people taking pictures. I'm thinking two things... This lady didn't get many good pictures of the ceremony and I know why she hasn't quite moved into the digital age. Thank you to the editor who didn't cut this and made my day better.
Enjoy,
Franz
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Blah...
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
I've been a bit of a zombie lately... As much as losing 5 lbs in a couple days would make most folks happy, I don't recommend the nasty bout of food poisoning route. I've gotten food poisoning before, but never like this. I've never been so wiped! I loveliness started around 12:40 a.m. Sunday and continued until about 9:30 a.m. After that, I was graced with temps hovering just below 102 eventually spiking near 103. Monday didn't prove much better. The temp floated between normal and just over 100, but I was exhausted and just ached. We wont mention my food/beverage consumption from Sunday until Tuesday evening consisted of water, powerade, 2 bagels, 2.5 dinner rolls and a bite of cake for my grandmother's bday. Last night I finally said screw it... My body never has been one to follow convention. I had a bowl of cereal and I've felt a million times better even since. I'm not back to normal yet, but at least I can sit up for more than an hour or two. I could still use a nap.
Enough of that... I keep hearing this auto glass commercial that makes me laugh. They say they can fix a chip as long as it's smaller than a dollar bill. Am I the only one who thinks if there is a "chip" the size of a dollar bill, it's probably not a chip? I had to go out to their website and of course they say chip or crack less than 6 inches. That makes way more sense than a chip smaller than a dollar bill, however I have to admit, I love picturing a chip as big as a dollar bill in my head.
Other updates: The new roof was installed yesterday. It looks great. As much as I wish I could appreciate it, I hope it sells the house quick and I can get out of here. I actually started writing Laura's wedding ceremony. I'm sure it will just flow once I sit down for more than a brief period of time. Otto is down to one pill every other day. I noticed his roid rage is a little more under control. hehe, okay just kidding. He seems to be doing well. I'm sure it may take a bit for his system to adjust to the change. I'll continue to pamper him and keep my fingers crossed.
Cheers,
Franz
I've been a bit of a zombie lately... As much as losing 5 lbs in a couple days would make most folks happy, I don't recommend the nasty bout of food poisoning route. I've gotten food poisoning before, but never like this. I've never been so wiped! I loveliness started around 12:40 a.m. Sunday and continued until about 9:30 a.m. After that, I was graced with temps hovering just below 102 eventually spiking near 103. Monday didn't prove much better. The temp floated between normal and just over 100, but I was exhausted and just ached. We wont mention my food/beverage consumption from Sunday until Tuesday evening consisted of water, powerade, 2 bagels, 2.5 dinner rolls and a bite of cake for my grandmother's bday. Last night I finally said screw it... My body never has been one to follow convention. I had a bowl of cereal and I've felt a million times better even since. I'm not back to normal yet, but at least I can sit up for more than an hour or two. I could still use a nap.
Enough of that... I keep hearing this auto glass commercial that makes me laugh. They say they can fix a chip as long as it's smaller than a dollar bill. Am I the only one who thinks if there is a "chip" the size of a dollar bill, it's probably not a chip? I had to go out to their website and of course they say chip or crack less than 6 inches. That makes way more sense than a chip smaller than a dollar bill, however I have to admit, I love picturing a chip as big as a dollar bill in my head.
Other updates: The new roof was installed yesterday. It looks great. As much as I wish I could appreciate it, I hope it sells the house quick and I can get out of here. I actually started writing Laura's wedding ceremony. I'm sure it will just flow once I sit down for more than a brief period of time. Otto is down to one pill every other day. I noticed his roid rage is a little more under control. hehe, okay just kidding. He seems to be doing well. I'm sure it may take a bit for his system to adjust to the change. I'll continue to pamper him and keep my fingers crossed.
Cheers,
Franz
Monday, April 28, 2008
wackiness
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
So... I got carded for a rated R movie. Can you say the grandma behind the counter must have been blind? I laughed so hard though. I said to her, "Seriously?" and she persisted! Stacia and I were laughing as I dug for my wallet. I commented on how I was turning 30 this year and she eventually waved me off just as I got my license to show her. Too funny - It still makes me laugh.
I've been annoyed by crappy ass park jobs lately. Why can't people take a few moments to analyze their car in relation to it's surroundings? I finally got fed up today. At work, some idiot parked next to me so crooked that the front part of his car and tire were over the line, pointing at my car. It was so bad I could barely had enough room to squeeze into my car. Not that I advocate damage to personal property or have done this previously, but upon realizing that my door would come into contact with his at apart where it wouldn't mark up my own, I felt the urge to just bang my door against his. I did... I felt better. It probably didn't leave much of a mark if any. I couldn't get enough swing on the door due to the lack of room. As for my coworkers here, unless you bought a different car since I last checked, you're all safe.
Nothing much else new here. I picked out shingles for the new roof this evening. Later this week, I have to pick up some more meds for Otto. I'm going to take him with me for a weigh in. He seems to be a tad on the pale side again but I guess they can evaluate that if needed. I'm tired... I ran around all weekend and didn't get any down time. I really need to start writing my friend Laura's wedding ceremony one of these days. I wanted to work on it over the past couple weekends but they've been continually occupied.
Enough of my whining!
Franz
So... I got carded for a rated R movie. Can you say the grandma behind the counter must have been blind? I laughed so hard though. I said to her, "Seriously?" and she persisted! Stacia and I were laughing as I dug for my wallet. I commented on how I was turning 30 this year and she eventually waved me off just as I got my license to show her. Too funny - It still makes me laugh.
I've been annoyed by crappy ass park jobs lately. Why can't people take a few moments to analyze their car in relation to it's surroundings? I finally got fed up today. At work, some idiot parked next to me so crooked that the front part of his car and tire were over the line, pointing at my car. It was so bad I could barely had enough room to squeeze into my car. Not that I advocate damage to personal property or have done this previously, but upon realizing that my door would come into contact with his at apart where it wouldn't mark up my own, I felt the urge to just bang my door against his. I did... I felt better. It probably didn't leave much of a mark if any. I couldn't get enough swing on the door due to the lack of room. As for my coworkers here, unless you bought a different car since I last checked, you're all safe.
Nothing much else new here. I picked out shingles for the new roof this evening. Later this week, I have to pick up some more meds for Otto. I'm going to take him with me for a weigh in. He seems to be a tad on the pale side again but I guess they can evaluate that if needed. I'm tired... I ran around all weekend and didn't get any down time. I really need to start writing my friend Laura's wedding ceremony one of these days. I wanted to work on it over the past couple weekends but they've been continually occupied.
Enough of my whining!
Franz
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Spring has Sprung - along with the allergies...
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
So I'm sneezing my head off... The low-grade fever I had yesterday informs me that my allergies have morphed into something a little more. Well that and the feeling that my sinuses wanted to explode. Is it wrong when you think you'd feel better if you were to repeatedly bang your head against the wall? It seems the pressure is lightening up and I thank the pharmaceutical gods for that.
Anyhooo, it's been a while since I checked in so I figured it was about time. As some of you may know, I'm recently off a mini-vacation. A friend came to visit for a little bit and we just hung out, relaxed and had a mean Scrabble competition. I managed to come from behind then lose it in the final game... Damn Bingos! It was a good and well needed break. It's actually the first time I've had in ages where I wasn't trying to cram stuff in or stressed about obligatory family time, etc. I actually felt rested when it was over - a little sad *ahem* but rested. Then the cold kicked in...
So what else is new? Work has been fairly busy per usual. I miss the days when we had downtime. It's been probably two years since we've had a not so busy period. I guess busy keeps me from thinking about what I really want to be when I grow up. Speaking of, please feel free to toss out suggestions.
Kitty Update: Otto seemed to be improving. He's being weened off the steroids, but we'll have to see how that goes. He's still skinny. He put on a little bit of weight and isn't so skeletal anymore. He has more energy and is playful; however some days still seem better than others. Today, he seemed a little lethargic. I took him back to the vet a week and a half ago for some follow-up blood work. I thought everything was going to turn out well since all the improvement I've seen. The vet ran some tests on his blood and urine and while somethings that used to be out of whack were now in alignment his proteins are now very high. He told me what he thought it may be but had to send the samples out for some further testing again. I finally found out on Friday that they are fairly certain Otto has F.I.P. (Feline Infectious Peritonitis). I'm conflicted how to feel about it. The vet says that every time they think they understand F.I.P. it turns out they don't. It's one of those diseases that seem to act differently in every cat. The one thing that they do know is, it is an incurable and fatal disease. It's confusing because the vet seems positive about Otto's improvement and fortunately the "treatment" is the steroid that he is already on. Anyhow, I've been so positive then these results came in... It makes his more lethargic days harder.
That's about all I have for now. I'll leave you with a picture that I promised one of you... Here's Ru and Otto sleeping in one of their snuggly poses. This one slightly more inappropriate than usual.
Cheers,
Franz
So I'm sneezing my head off... The low-grade fever I had yesterday informs me that my allergies have morphed into something a little more. Well that and the feeling that my sinuses wanted to explode. Is it wrong when you think you'd feel better if you were to repeatedly bang your head against the wall? It seems the pressure is lightening up and I thank the pharmaceutical gods for that.
Anyhooo, it's been a while since I checked in so I figured it was about time. As some of you may know, I'm recently off a mini-vacation. A friend came to visit for a little bit and we just hung out, relaxed and had a mean Scrabble competition. I managed to come from behind then lose it in the final game... Damn Bingos! It was a good and well needed break. It's actually the first time I've had in ages where I wasn't trying to cram stuff in or stressed about obligatory family time, etc. I actually felt rested when it was over - a little sad *ahem* but rested. Then the cold kicked in...
So what else is new? Work has been fairly busy per usual. I miss the days when we had downtime. It's been probably two years since we've had a not so busy period. I guess busy keeps me from thinking about what I really want to be when I grow up. Speaking of, please feel free to toss out suggestions.
Kitty Update: Otto seemed to be improving. He's being weened off the steroids, but we'll have to see how that goes. He's still skinny. He put on a little bit of weight and isn't so skeletal anymore. He has more energy and is playful; however some days still seem better than others. Today, he seemed a little lethargic. I took him back to the vet a week and a half ago for some follow-up blood work. I thought everything was going to turn out well since all the improvement I've seen. The vet ran some tests on his blood and urine and while somethings that used to be out of whack were now in alignment his proteins are now very high. He told me what he thought it may be but had to send the samples out for some further testing again. I finally found out on Friday that they are fairly certain Otto has F.I.P. (Feline Infectious Peritonitis). I'm conflicted how to feel about it. The vet says that every time they think they understand F.I.P. it turns out they don't. It's one of those diseases that seem to act differently in every cat. The one thing that they do know is, it is an incurable and fatal disease. It's confusing because the vet seems positive about Otto's improvement and fortunately the "treatment" is the steroid that he is already on. Anyhow, I've been so positive then these results came in... It makes his more lethargic days harder.
That's about all I have for now. I'll leave you with a picture that I promised one of you... Here's Ru and Otto sleeping in one of their snuggly poses. This one slightly more inappropriate than usual.
Cheers,
Franz
Monday, March 3, 2008
If I don’t feel quite like myself...
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Then I wonder who the hell do I feel like? haha...
Anyhow. Welcome to another fantabulous edition of Franzy's Adventures. Okay, maybe not so fantabulous but there was a request for updates so I figured I'd provide them with a little bit of typical randomness.
Let's start off with the house. We had an offer. It wasn't great but after some work and countering it became doable. Things seemed to be going well and even the inspection went well. The one problem with the house is the roof. The front half is in great shape but the back needs a little help. We were willing to fix the back but that wasn't good enough. With the offer on the table, a whole roof is out of the question. They walked. Of course now, we have an insurance claim open for it but with it being "winter" they won't send an adjuster out. So for about a week or so I started to get excited about being out of here. We got another offer over the weekend, it was pretty much like the other one except they never came up high enough to make it work. Frustrating thing is they knew we were looking into taking care of the roof. They wanted a whole roof but we can't guarantee that insurance will replace the entire thing. It's all very frustrating. I'm sick of not being able to be at home because of showings and it's just adding more stress on Otto.
Ahhh Otto, but before we get into that... while driving past the VFW in Cannon Falls, MN last week I noticed a large banner/sign they had hanging out front. "Meat Raffle Friday" I can't say that I've ever heard of a meat raffle. I wracked my brain trying to think of and picture just what would happen at a meat raffle. Of course, my mind went all over the place. I suppose I'm used to seeing Fish Fry Friday this time of year.
I was inCannon Falls
Work, busy busy busy. We used to have down time at certain times throughout the year. I don't think we've really had any in a few years. It's becoming rather draining. Thankfully the project that has had me working days, nights and weekends for the last little while is done. Okay, well it's not done. We opened our first store inPuerto Rico on Friday and unfortunately I'm still trying to make sure they have the information they need. It would be a lot easier if I spoke Spanish.
A thought from my morning commute one day last week: A-hole drivers with bumper stickers. While merging from one highway onto another, I was doing the alternating car at the meter light thing. It was my turn to merge in and the idiot next to me was riding the guy in front of him and refusing to let me in. I eventually fall in behind him and notice he has a political bumper sticker on his car. So, this got me thinking... I wonder if politicians, bands or any other bumper stickered individual, group or cause would be bothered/annoyed by a-hole drivers promoting them. I'm guessing not, but we all know when we see an idiotic driver with a sticker aligned with something we don't like/agree with we laugh and comment about how they're perpetuating a stereotype of some sort. Not that anyone should base any sort of decision on a traffic experience but I'm sure there is someone out there who is teetering on some decision and they get screwed by an a-hole driver and they feel now the decision is made for them.
It seems my love for live music has attributed to my recent funk. I went to the Foo Fighters show last Wed. The first opening band sucked. Thank God I only heard a song and a half. Serj was pretty good and of course Foo was phenomenal. They played all their old awesome songs and the new stuff they've been playing on the radio. Dave gives a great and entertaining experience. However, I can't quite place my finger on why I'm left feeling down. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, but now even when I hear stuff on the radio I feel blah. I know I've previously talked about how one of the reasons I love music is that it can make you feel better or bring back a feeling, etc. This time perhaps it backfired on me. It's not that there is one particular song or anything that is linked to something or an event I don't wish to recall. I think overall it's just that there has always been at least one Foo Fighters song on my playlist, the radio or whatever since the mid 90s - kind of woven into my life. They may not be the profound memorable moments but I don't know; it's just all part of the soundtrack. Soundtracks are representative of direction, purpose.... and without being too deep or whatever, right now when it comes to life, I'm a little lost. I know it's temporary but this "temporary" thing has been going on for a while and guess I've hit the little blah patch again - which ties into this entry's subject.
Anyhow, now that we've come full circle… Enough from me! I swear there was much more random stuff going on in my head. I've had a bunch of funny things to share with you all over the past week or so but with everything going on, I've been too tired to blog, etc. Now that things have slightly calmed down, perhaps I can actively share the stuff when it comes to mind. If you've made it this far, I commend you and thank you for listening to my ramblings.
Cheers,
Franz
Then I wonder who the hell do I feel like? haha...
Anyhow. Welcome to another fantabulous edition of Franzy's Adventures. Okay, maybe not so fantabulous but there was a request for updates so I figured I'd provide them with a little bit of typical randomness.
Let's start off with the house. We had an offer. It wasn't great but after some work and countering it became doable. Things seemed to be going well and even the inspection went well. The one problem with the house is the roof. The front half is in great shape but the back needs a little help. We were willing to fix the back but that wasn't good enough. With the offer on the table, a whole roof is out of the question. They walked. Of course now, we have an insurance claim open for it but with it being "winter" they won't send an adjuster out. So for about a week or so I started to get excited about being out of here. We got another offer over the weekend, it was pretty much like the other one except they never came up high enough to make it work. Frustrating thing is they knew we were looking into taking care of the roof. They wanted a whole roof but we can't guarantee that insurance will replace the entire thing. It's all very frustrating. I'm sick of not being able to be at home because of showings and it's just adding more stress on Otto.
Ahhh Otto, but before we get into that... while driving past the VFW in Cannon Falls, MN last week I noticed a large banner/sign they had hanging out front. "Meat Raffle Friday" I can't say that I've ever heard of a meat raffle. I wracked my brain trying to think of and picture just what would happen at a meat raffle. Of course, my mind went all over the place. I suppose I'm used to seeing Fish Fry Friday this time of year.
I was in
Work, busy busy busy. We used to have down time at certain times throughout the year. I don't think we've really had any in a few years. It's becoming rather draining. Thankfully the project that has had me working days, nights and weekends for the last little while is done. Okay, well it's not done. We opened our first store in
A thought from my morning commute one day last week: A-hole drivers with bumper stickers. While merging from one highway onto another, I was doing the alternating car at the meter light thing. It was my turn to merge in and the idiot next to me was riding the guy in front of him and refusing to let me in. I eventually fall in behind him and notice he has a political bumper sticker on his car. So, this got me thinking... I wonder if politicians, bands or any other bumper stickered individual, group or cause would be bothered/annoyed by a-hole drivers promoting them. I'm guessing not, but we all know when we see an idiotic driver with a sticker aligned with something we don't like/agree with we laugh and comment about how they're perpetuating a stereotype of some sort. Not that anyone should base any sort of decision on a traffic experience but I'm sure there is someone out there who is teetering on some decision and they get screwed by an a-hole driver and they feel now the decision is made for them.
It seems my love for live music has attributed to my recent funk. I went to the Foo Fighters show last Wed. The first opening band sucked. Thank God I only heard a song and a half. Serj was pretty good and of course Foo was phenomenal. They played all their old awesome songs and the new stuff they've been playing on the radio. Dave gives a great and entertaining experience. However, I can't quite place my finger on why I'm left feeling down. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, but now even when I hear stuff on the radio I feel blah. I know I've previously talked about how one of the reasons I love music is that it can make you feel better or bring back a feeling, etc. This time perhaps it backfired on me. It's not that there is one particular song or anything that is linked to something or an event I don't wish to recall. I think overall it's just that there has always been at least one Foo Fighters song on my playlist, the radio or whatever since the mid 90s - kind of woven into my life. They may not be the profound memorable moments but I don't know; it's just all part of the soundtrack. Soundtracks are representative of direction, purpose.... and without being too deep or whatever, right now when it comes to life, I'm a little lost. I know it's temporary but this "temporary" thing has been going on for a while and guess I've hit the little blah patch again - which ties into this entry's subject.
Anyhow, now that we've come full circle… Enough from me! I swear there was much more random stuff going on in my head. I've had a bunch of funny things to share with you all over the past week or so but with everything going on, I've been too tired to blog, etc. Now that things have slightly calmed down, perhaps I can actively share the stuff when it comes to mind. If you've made it this far, I commend you and thank you for listening to my ramblings.
Cheers,
Franz
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Mini-Updates
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
I'm tired and have much work to do - so you get a mini update...
I'm tired and have much work to do - so you get a mini update...
Fortunately, Otto's tests came back and it's not his kidneys. Yay for treatable problems! Seriously, more than one possible life threatening diagnosis in 40 days is a little much. I should see improvements rather quickly with his new medication. Once again, thanks for the well wishes. 
Devil smiley for Otto!
An offer was placed on the house. It really wasn't great at first but after some countering it finally may be plausible. As many of you know, we only bought the house less than 2 years ago. So that combined with today's housing market, I'm in search of a loan to cover my half of the deficit. Cross your fingers...
Alright, back to work for me. I'm working from home and avoiding traffic impacted by recent snowfall. I think people would be more effective at work if they could show up in their cozy jammie type clothing. I'm talking about pants and shirts... not slinky barely there things. I'm sure some people consider them cozy but I'm sure working in them wouldn't be that comfortable.
Enough from me!
Franz
Monday, February 11, 2008
Pee Dammit... Just Pee!
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Poor Otto. It's rather heart wrenching to hear the mews from his quarantine.
I took him back to the vet today. Besides eating more, I haven't really seen much of an improvement. I thought he was gaining a little bit of weight when he started looking a tad less skeletal. However when I saw the balloon belly hanging on the sagging back bone, I knew it was all liquid. Apparently he is still running a slight fever and is holding a lot of liquid. Something about proteins not being processed correctly or escaping. I think from the blood work they've ruled out the liver, but now need a urine sample to help determine if it's a GI problem or kidney one.
So they pumped him with liquids and now the bugger is forced to stay in the bathroom until he squirts out a sample I can take back to the Vet. They gave me some litter that is glass beads or something that won't absorb. He's in there with a box and plenty of water. Only if he understood human-speak. He'd then realize if he peed he'd be out of there in an instant and I wouldn't feel like such a horrible kitty mommy (especially when I complain about my poor bank account). Now that you know way more than you ever wanted to know about feline health problems...
It's Monday. Where the hell do the weekends go? Oh yeah, I think I slept through a large part of the last one - well at least the hours normal people are awake. If I wasn't sleeping; I was avoiding the cold. I had a house showing tonight and another one is scheduled for Wed. Keep your fingers crossed.
Cheers,
Franz
Poor Otto. It's rather heart wrenching to hear the mews from his quarantine.
I took him back to the vet today. Besides eating more, I haven't really seen much of an improvement. I thought he was gaining a little bit of weight when he started looking a tad less skeletal. However when I saw the balloon belly hanging on the sagging back bone, I knew it was all liquid. Apparently he is still running a slight fever and is holding a lot of liquid. Something about proteins not being processed correctly or escaping. I think from the blood work they've ruled out the liver, but now need a urine sample to help determine if it's a GI problem or kidney one.
So they pumped him with liquids and now the bugger is forced to stay in the bathroom until he squirts out a sample I can take back to the Vet. They gave me some litter that is glass beads or something that won't absorb. He's in there with a box and plenty of water. Only if he understood human-speak. He'd then realize if he peed he'd be out of there in an instant and I wouldn't feel like such a horrible kitty mommy (especially when I complain about my poor bank account). Now that you know way more than you ever wanted to know about feline health problems...
It's Monday. Where the hell do the weekends go? Oh yeah, I think I slept through a large part of the last one - well at least the hours normal people are awake. If I wasn't sleeping; I was avoiding the cold. I had a house showing tonight and another one is scheduled for Wed. Keep your fingers crossed.
Cheers,
Franz
Thursday, February 7, 2008
DDSS
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
I love how Paul whines for updates & blogs when I just talked to him on Sunday...
So what's new? Not much really. The house went back on the market as of Monday. I can't say I'm overly happy about that. It will be nice to get out of here, but having to drop the price even more is rather painful. Other than that, life has been a bit repetitive lately. I spend a large part of the work day staring at and formatting documents in a language I know only about a handful of words. I swear it's making my brain melt. I feel a tad vegetative on occasion.
Fortunately, I managed to avoid dealing with the Spanish stuff today. However, I must share with you today's best @work moment. Actually it will probably be the best @work moment for a while. I was in a friend's cube trying to help him figure out his silly Flash plug-in problems. He's always has music playing and it's usually some sort of eclectic mix. He used to listen to some Internet radio station. I'm not sure if it was that or an iPod this time around. I didn't pay attention to where the sound was coming from. Anyhow, as I'm standing in his cube "I Touch Myself" comes on. It was hilarious! We joked about its inappropriateness. He even offered to turn it off. I said whatever. Considering it was this particular individual, it was not at all awkward and just more humorous than anything. I will refrain from saying anything further due to all the possible big brotherish types that may be lurking about.
If any of you are British humor fans and have not seen it already, I recommend the show Coupling. It's hilarious. It is just like Friends with accents and they primarily talk about is sex and relationships. I've only watched the first two seasons thus far. I hear after the third season it starts sucking.
The furballs and I are just hanging out and avoiding the cold. Otto's slowly getting there it seems. One of these days I just want him to start chasing the damn laser pointer again. Then I'll know he's all better. Anyhow, that's all for now I guess.
Cheers,
Franz
I love how Paul whines for updates & blogs when I just talked to him on Sunday...
So what's new? Not much really. The house went back on the market as of Monday. I can't say I'm overly happy about that. It will be nice to get out of here, but having to drop the price even more is rather painful. Other than that, life has been a bit repetitive lately. I spend a large part of the work day staring at and formatting documents in a language I know only about a handful of words. I swear it's making my brain melt. I feel a tad vegetative on occasion.
Fortunately, I managed to avoid dealing with the Spanish stuff today. However, I must share with you today's best @work moment. Actually it will probably be the best @work moment for a while. I was in a friend's cube trying to help him figure out his silly Flash plug-in problems. He's always has music playing and it's usually some sort of eclectic mix. He used to listen to some Internet radio station. I'm not sure if it was that or an iPod this time around. I didn't pay attention to where the sound was coming from. Anyhow, as I'm standing in his cube "I Touch Myself" comes on. It was hilarious! We joked about its inappropriateness. He even offered to turn it off. I said whatever. Considering it was this particular individual, it was not at all awkward and just more humorous than anything. I will refrain from saying anything further due to all the possible big brotherish types that may be lurking about.
If any of you are British humor fans and have not seen it already, I recommend the show Coupling. It's hilarious. It is just like Friends with accents and they primarily talk about is sex and relationships. I've only watched the first two seasons thus far. I hear after the third season it starts sucking.
The furballs and I are just hanging out and avoiding the cold. Otto's slowly getting there it seems. One of these days I just want him to start chasing the damn laser pointer again. Then I'll know he's all better. Anyhow, that's all for now I guess.
Cheers,
Franz
Monday, January 21, 2008
Slip ’n Slide
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Another Monday on its way out... Yay! It's seriously the one day of the week I can do with out. However, I guess if Monday didn't exist there'd be another day that would assume the responsibilities of being that "first" day. Moving on...
I think I'll take this opportunity to point out the obvious.... It's friggin' cold. At least it's hitting above 0 during the day again. It snowed some today. Fortunately, not the mess they got south of us but I think there's about an inch at my house. It was this light fine snow that literally fell all day. The roads SUCKED! I guess they thought there was no need to take care of the roads since it took me roughly an hour and a half to get home. It was like the plows and salt trucks were just getting out. Anyhow, I thought there was a point when it was too cold to snow, today should have been one of those days. I seem to be having traction issues in the snow lately. Especially right turns! I swear; you better get out of my way if I'm turning right. Even if I'm crawling I slide. Left turns, not so much. I guess I may have to look at getting some new tires. Not that I have any money... Dang Vet bills blowing anything I may have had, including the money I got for Christmas to buy a snowboard. Not to mention, I needed gas so I figured I'd fill up tonight right by my house instead of this morning when it will be more frigid. I normally don't complain about gas prices, BUT when I left this morning it was $2.73 tonight when I stopped, $2.89. 16 cents!!!
So, there's nothing much on TV early Saturday mornings and I'm always awake. As I was channel surfing, I stumbled upon vh-1's Top 20 countdown. This week one of the "countdown contenders" was Snoop Dogg's Sensual Seduction. Oh my god.... I don't even know what to say. The small part I saw of it there just left me speechless. Snoop just sang Sensual Seduction over and over. It was more of a turn off than seduction. However, after watching the full video I have to say it rocks. I have to say, Snoop is probably one of the last people I want to seduce me but the video awesome. The 70's throwback is just superb! You can check it out here.
Otto's doing okay. I think he's getting better. In some aspects, in some aspects he's showing signs of improvement but then I'll notice something that concerns me. Tonight when I came home I got a little excited. He wasn't sitting with his left hind leg popped out any more. This morning I was inspecting the masses and only really found one, a big one, under that leg. He seems to be moving a little better but the leg is now popping out again. I wish he'd eat more - I may have to start calling him Skeletor. I'm hot packing the abscess more and I'm hoping that's helping it drain. Rufus (a.k.a. McFatty) and I had nice game of fetch. He really needs the workout. Now they're both curled up in their beds all innocent like.
As for me, I'm avoiding the doctor. I still quite haven't shaken the cough I've had since Christmas. Thankfully, it's not nearly as bad what it was a few weeks back. It's still stuck in my chest tho. The last time I was this tired, stressed and coughing I had pneumonia. I don't have the time to have pneumonia, so cross your fingers this cough disappears soon.
Wishing you all a wonderful week.
Cheers,
Franz
Another Monday on its way out... Yay! It's seriously the one day of the week I can do with out. However, I guess if Monday didn't exist there'd be another day that would assume the responsibilities of being that "first" day. Moving on...
I think I'll take this opportunity to point out the obvious.... It's friggin' cold. At least it's hitting above 0 during the day again. It snowed some today. Fortunately, not the mess they got south of us but I think there's about an inch at my house. It was this light fine snow that literally fell all day. The roads SUCKED! I guess they thought there was no need to take care of the roads since it took me roughly an hour and a half to get home. It was like the plows and salt trucks were just getting out. Anyhow, I thought there was a point when it was too cold to snow, today should have been one of those days. I seem to be having traction issues in the snow lately. Especially right turns! I swear; you better get out of my way if I'm turning right. Even if I'm crawling I slide. Left turns, not so much. I guess I may have to look at getting some new tires. Not that I have any money... Dang Vet bills blowing anything I may have had, including the money I got for Christmas to buy a snowboard. Not to mention, I needed gas so I figured I'd fill up tonight right by my house instead of this morning when it will be more frigid. I normally don't complain about gas prices, BUT when I left this morning it was $2.73 tonight when I stopped, $2.89. 16 cents!!!
So, there's nothing much on TV early Saturday mornings and I'm always awake. As I was channel surfing, I stumbled upon vh-1's Top 20 countdown. This week one of the "countdown contenders" was Snoop Dogg's Sensual Seduction. Oh my god.... I don't even know what to say. The small part I saw of it there just left me speechless. Snoop just sang Sensual Seduction over and over. It was more of a turn off than seduction. However, after watching the full video I have to say it rocks. I have to say, Snoop is probably one of the last people I want to seduce me but the video awesome. The 70's throwback is just superb! You can check it out here.
Otto's doing okay. I think he's getting better. In some aspects, in some aspects he's showing signs of improvement but then I'll notice something that concerns me. Tonight when I came home I got a little excited. He wasn't sitting with his left hind leg popped out any more. This morning I was inspecting the masses and only really found one, a big one, under that leg. He seems to be moving a little better but the leg is now popping out again. I wish he'd eat more - I may have to start calling him Skeletor. I'm hot packing the abscess more and I'm hoping that's helping it drain. Rufus (a.k.a. McFatty) and I had nice game of fetch. He really needs the workout. Now they're both curled up in their beds all innocent like.
As for me, I'm avoiding the doctor. I still quite haven't shaken the cough I've had since Christmas. Thankfully, it's not nearly as bad what it was a few weeks back. It's still stuck in my chest tho. The last time I was this tired, stressed and coughing I had pneumonia. I don't have the time to have pneumonia, so cross your fingers this cough disappears soon.
Wishing you all a wonderful week.
Cheers,
Franz
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Blahbity Blah Blog
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Yay for the weekend! Okay, so I know Friday is still in the way but I'd take a Friday over any other weekday.
Work is blah per usual. It's a little better now that I can concentrate on something other than Otto and the post-holiday haze is fading. Jacket finally hauled his ass back in from his homeland. Not that you'll actually read this but welcome back kiddo. It was almost a whole month! How did you ever survive with out me?!
Kitty Update - I took Otto back to the vet today. He's been a tad more chipper and more affectionate lately. He completed his 2 weeks of antibiotics and I wanted to ensure that he's still on the route to recovery. I believe one of the masses/inflamed lymph nodes in his abdomen has disappeared or returned to normal. There are at least 2 more - one I think shrunk some and the other one still seems a good size. Another abscess made its way to the surface which the Vet thinks it means his immune system was down more than originally anticipated. BUT he's still on the mend and doing better. He's on a new 10 day antibiotic and hopefully that will help.
I've got nothing real exciting in store for the weekend. Since high temps aren't supposed to break 0, I don't think I'll be leaving the house. I have to do some house work and laundry. I believe there's a realtor coming either next week or not long after. I have to admit it's been nice not having to live in pristine conditions for a while - especially during the Otto situation. Hopefully by the time the house goes back on the market, he's all better and Ru stops acting like a jealous bitch.
Anyhow, I hope you all have more exciting weekend plans than I do.
Cheers,
Franz
Yay for the weekend! Okay, so I know Friday is still in the way but I'd take a Friday over any other weekday.
Work is blah per usual. It's a little better now that I can concentrate on something other than Otto and the post-holiday haze is fading. Jacket finally hauled his ass back in from his homeland. Not that you'll actually read this but welcome back kiddo. It was almost a whole month! How did you ever survive with out me?!
Kitty Update - I took Otto back to the vet today. He's been a tad more chipper and more affectionate lately. He completed his 2 weeks of antibiotics and I wanted to ensure that he's still on the route to recovery. I believe one of the masses/inflamed lymph nodes in his abdomen has disappeared or returned to normal. There are at least 2 more - one I think shrunk some and the other one still seems a good size. Another abscess made its way to the surface which the Vet thinks it means his immune system was down more than originally anticipated. BUT he's still on the mend and doing better. He's on a new 10 day antibiotic and hopefully that will help.
I've got nothing real exciting in store for the weekend. Since high temps aren't supposed to break 0, I don't think I'll be leaving the house. I have to do some house work and laundry. I believe there's a realtor coming either next week or not long after. I have to admit it's been nice not having to live in pristine conditions for a while - especially during the Otto situation. Hopefully by the time the house goes back on the market, he's all better and Ru stops acting like a jealous bitch.
Anyhow, I hope you all have more exciting weekend plans than I do.
Cheers,
Franz
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
I was right (as usual)
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Just like I said, as soon as I post something about Otto's condition then the call would come. The Vet called this afternoon and Otto is going to be okay. Yay!
Apparently the "masses" are swollen lymph nodes from the infection/wound involving his tail. Apparently that wound I discovered is the abscess coming to head. Now, I just need to keep pumping him with anti-biotics and hot packing his ass. Okay more like the side of his tail but saying I have to hot pack his ass makes me laugh. He's still rather frail and the swollen nodes are still there and impede his jumping, walking, etc. So, I'll continue to baby him a bit longer but the sorrow and weight is gone.
I love my Vet office. It's actually the place I got both Rufus and Otto as well. They're reasonably priced and they're just over all the nicest people ever. That's why I drive 20 minutes further out of the cities instead of the one two blocks away. BUT... Boo on the Vet for throwing out the C word!
Thank you to those who offered your words of support. It truly means a lot.
Just like I said, as soon as I post something about Otto's condition then the call would come. The Vet called this afternoon and Otto is going to be okay. Yay!
Apparently the "masses" are swollen lymph nodes from the infection/wound involving his tail. Apparently that wound I discovered is the abscess coming to head. Now, I just need to keep pumping him with anti-biotics and hot packing his ass. Okay more like the side of his tail but saying I have to hot pack his ass makes me laugh. He's still rather frail and the swollen nodes are still there and impede his jumping, walking, etc. So, I'll continue to baby him a bit longer but the sorrow and weight is gone.
I love my Vet office. It's actually the place I got both Rufus and Otto as well. They're reasonably priced and they're just over all the nicest people ever. That's why I drive 20 minutes further out of the cities instead of the one two blocks away. BUT... Boo on the Vet for throwing out the C word!
Thank you to those who offered your words of support. It truly means a lot.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Baby Otto
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Sometimes I feel silly being this upset about the situation with Otto, but I just can't help it - he's my baby.
I didn't want to post too much info until I heard more information; however I'm thinking it's kind of like watching the phone and waiting for it to ring - it's not going to ring until I leave it at home or in another room. So, here's what I know so far.
I took Otto to the Vet last Thursday. He had a fever, the base of his tail was super sensitive and swollen and they discovered some masses in his lower abdomen. They kept him there all afternoon to do some blood work, take x-rays and do a needle-aspiration of one of the masses. When I went back to pick him up the Vet went through the wacky blood work results (they had to run it twice) and then showed me the slide with the aspiration sample on it. He said what he saw scared him but he doesn't know what it is. He sent it off to be tested and I've been waiting for those results. He doesn't want to speculate but the masses and their location resemble mammary cancer - which he's never seen in a male cat. It took me a few days, but I eventually looked up feline mammary cancer. It is rare in male cats but possible. Unfortunately, it's usually very malignant cats (apparently not so much in dogs).
I was sent home with some anti-biotic for the possible infection and told that the sample wouldn't be looked at until Monday and hopefully I should know soon after. In the meantime, I've been of course babying him. Trying anything to see if he'll eat more and that he's comfortable. At first, I thought the anti-biotic may be having an effect as he seemed a smidge less lethargic. Then yesterday he just seemed so blah. He didn't move all day when I was at work. (I put him on my bed in a cozy little nest I made for him with my super soft robe and he was still there when I came home. He can't jump up that high since he's become ill.) That was the longest I've been away since I came back.
I worked from home this afternoon and I will again tomorrow. He seems a tad more "up-beat" when I'm around. I'm hoping my presence and some attention soothes him or something. Tonight I noticed that there is some wound at the base of his tail. I don't recall that being there before and the Vet didn't say anything about it. Every time I attempt to start thinking somewhat positively about it all, something happens to take me back to day one. It's hard to look at him sometimes. He looks so frail and honestly I still tear up or cry. I hope he's not in pain or anything. He's only 20 months old, too young to be so sick.
Thanks for the thoughts and well wishes thus far. I know he appreciates it all. I'll post an update once I hear something. I'm not sure how much longer I can take it.
Sometimes I feel silly being this upset about the situation with Otto, but I just can't help it - he's my baby.
I didn't want to post too much info until I heard more information; however I'm thinking it's kind of like watching the phone and waiting for it to ring - it's not going to ring until I leave it at home or in another room. So, here's what I know so far.
I took Otto to the Vet last Thursday. He had a fever, the base of his tail was super sensitive and swollen and they discovered some masses in his lower abdomen. They kept him there all afternoon to do some blood work, take x-rays and do a needle-aspiration of one of the masses. When I went back to pick him up the Vet went through the wacky blood work results (they had to run it twice) and then showed me the slide with the aspiration sample on it. He said what he saw scared him but he doesn't know what it is. He sent it off to be tested and I've been waiting for those results. He doesn't want to speculate but the masses and their location resemble mammary cancer - which he's never seen in a male cat. It took me a few days, but I eventually looked up feline mammary cancer. It is rare in male cats but possible. Unfortunately, it's usually very malignant cats (apparently not so much in dogs).
I was sent home with some anti-biotic for the possible infection and told that the sample wouldn't be looked at until Monday and hopefully I should know soon after. In the meantime, I've been of course babying him. Trying anything to see if he'll eat more and that he's comfortable. At first, I thought the anti-biotic may be having an effect as he seemed a smidge less lethargic. Then yesterday he just seemed so blah. He didn't move all day when I was at work. (I put him on my bed in a cozy little nest I made for him with my super soft robe and he was still there when I came home. He can't jump up that high since he's become ill.) That was the longest I've been away since I came back.
I worked from home this afternoon and I will again tomorrow. He seems a tad more "up-beat" when I'm around. I'm hoping my presence and some attention soothes him or something. Tonight I noticed that there is some wound at the base of his tail. I don't recall that being there before and the Vet didn't say anything about it. Every time I attempt to start thinking somewhat positively about it all, something happens to take me back to day one. It's hard to look at him sometimes. He looks so frail and honestly I still tear up or cry. I hope he's not in pain or anything. He's only 20 months old, too young to be so sick.
Thanks for the thoughts and well wishes thus far. I know he appreciates it all. I'll post an update once I hear something. I'm not sure how much longer I can take it.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
"Home" Again
Originally posted on MySpace Blog
Well another holiday season has come and gone. I'm finding its end to be rather bittersweet.
With each trip I took to STL this past year, I found myself wondering more and more why I'm in the Twin Cities. I have some good friends here and my job is okay, but I'm not sure that's enough anymore. I guess it doesn't help that the past little while the job isn't quite what it used to be. I actually used to look forward to going into the office. Now I'd rather work from home as much as possible. As for the friends, I have about 3 or 4 good ones. They're all coworkers and we really don't do that much outside the office. I hang out with two of them outside of work more than the others and I enjoy those times but I dunno... When I go home and spend time with the old friends it just feels normal - like I never left. It's been 5.5 years and so much has changed over that time but it's still normal. I feel like I fit.
Oh yeah and then there's the family part. It sucks seeing the nephews and niece only a few times a year.
Anyhow, enough of that. Overall the trip was good. The flight down there sucked ass. I was supposed to leave Thursday night but that flight got cancelled due to fog. That direct flight turned into a Friday morning connection through Dallas... Skippy. I had the displeasure of sitting next to a bigger non-space conscious person. Here's the quick version: Ear wax, constant eating, taking over 1/3rd of my seat, ass grab and cleaning teeth. Yeah.... now I'd like to forget about that.
The first 4 days were just busy. Between birthday, Christmas, family (screaming insane kids) and friends, it was jam packed. Then the cold came. My mom was and still is pretty sick. My grandmother got sick too. Thankfully, I kept popping the cold-eze, drinking juice and water and I turned it into the 1 symptom a day cold. Now it's moved into the chest and I'm dealing with the cough. Too bad that never lasts one day. I took it easy a few days and did nothing, but others I did my best to stay out of the house and away from the sicker people. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see everyone but I swear the next time I'm in town we will get together. It's probably best anyhow. The days I stayed in helped and I wouldn't want to infect anyone. Those of you I did get to see, I had a great time and am glad that I got to spend time with you. :)
So now I'm home. The trip home was rather uneventful. It's nice to see the furkids again. Rufus is wacky as always but Otto does seem rather off. He's looking thin but when I weighed him he's at 9 lbs. Ahole was less than helpful but said he looked thin. Thankfully, when Stacia looked in on the kids she paid more attention to them but she confirmed that he was off. He is rather lethargic and just not right. He's missing the counters and stuff when he jumps. It's sad. I have an appointment for him tomorrow afternoon.
Well I should wrap this up. I gotta work in the morning (from home of course). I hope you all had a fabulous holiday season. Happy New Year to all.
Cheers,
Franz
Well another holiday season has come and gone. I'm finding its end to be rather bittersweet.
With each trip I took to STL this past year, I found myself wondering more and more why I'm in the Twin Cities. I have some good friends here and my job is okay, but I'm not sure that's enough anymore. I guess it doesn't help that the past little while the job isn't quite what it used to be. I actually used to look forward to going into the office. Now I'd rather work from home as much as possible. As for the friends, I have about 3 or 4 good ones. They're all coworkers and we really don't do that much outside the office. I hang out with two of them outside of work more than the others and I enjoy those times but I dunno... When I go home and spend time with the old friends it just feels normal - like I never left. It's been 5.5 years and so much has changed over that time but it's still normal. I feel like I fit.
Oh yeah and then there's the family part. It sucks seeing the nephews and niece only a few times a year.
Anyhow, enough of that. Overall the trip was good. The flight down there sucked ass. I was supposed to leave Thursday night but that flight got cancelled due to fog. That direct flight turned into a Friday morning connection through Dallas... Skippy. I had the displeasure of sitting next to a bigger non-space conscious person. Here's the quick version: Ear wax, constant eating, taking over 1/3rd of my seat, ass grab and cleaning teeth. Yeah.... now I'd like to forget about that.
The first 4 days were just busy. Between birthday, Christmas, family (screaming insane kids) and friends, it was jam packed. Then the cold came. My mom was and still is pretty sick. My grandmother got sick too. Thankfully, I kept popping the cold-eze, drinking juice and water and I turned it into the 1 symptom a day cold. Now it's moved into the chest and I'm dealing with the cough. Too bad that never lasts one day. I took it easy a few days and did nothing, but others I did my best to stay out of the house and away from the sicker people. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see everyone but I swear the next time I'm in town we will get together. It's probably best anyhow. The days I stayed in helped and I wouldn't want to infect anyone. Those of you I did get to see, I had a great time and am glad that I got to spend time with you. :)
So now I'm home. The trip home was rather uneventful. It's nice to see the furkids again. Rufus is wacky as always but Otto does seem rather off. He's looking thin but when I weighed him he's at 9 lbs. Ahole was less than helpful but said he looked thin. Thankfully, when Stacia looked in on the kids she paid more attention to them but she confirmed that he was off. He is rather lethargic and just not right. He's missing the counters and stuff when he jumps. It's sad. I have an appointment for him tomorrow afternoon.
Well I should wrap this up. I gotta work in the morning (from home of course). I hope you all had a fabulous holiday season. Happy New Year to all.
Cheers,
Franz
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