chit.chat.room

2012-01-24T18:38:00.000-08:00

beautiful day today....no skiing, had to teach this morning and this afternoon. took the dogs for a long walk in-between... the lake is slushy and hard to walk on, so we kept to the wooded trail along the lake.

big week at the Capitol....walker is giving his state of the state address tomorrow night...the senate is voting on a mining bill on thursday...fracking in Wisconsin, not good!

i am watching the state of the union as i write this....i continue to be appalled by the repubs, in the state of Wisconsin and in DC.....they hate Obama that much.....really?

one of my cute patients from the weekend.....fairly quiet weekend ER-wise!

so nice to be listening to an articulate president! after 8 long years of an inarticulate one!

2012-01-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

what a crazy week....at least we finally have some snow...and are expecting a storm tomorrow...off to work the next two days.....will update you with my cute patients and their stories...

a wonderful weekend to you all....

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

The people of Wisconsin have spoken! Yesterday we turned in over 1 million signatures to recall our governor. There was jubilation in the streets!

it took about 1 hour to unload over 3000lbs of petitions!

congratulations Wisconsin! walker and kleefish can turn the lights off when they leave!

we are only half way there, there will be a primary and election July 11. It is true, we do not have a candidate to run against walker. Russ Feingold said he would not run. Wisconsin is the epicenter of the movement, we need a progressive nominee, Russ would be the obvious candidate, and would win in a landslide. Walker can raise unlimited money for his recall, from all his corporate buddies. He was in NYC yesterday at a $2500 plate lunch raising money, yet he claims that his recall is fueled by big union bosses across the country. It just isn't true. He can raise as much money as he wants, the voice of the people is worth more than his millions!

Forward Wisconsin!

2012-01-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

tuesday is skiing day! we have absolutely no snow! fortunately for the ski hill they can make snow at night!

it was a spring day in January! 50 degrees! (my dad and i and two other patrollers, Robb and Sue)

just enough man made snow to ski on...

benny enjoying the spring like weather

the lake is still open in the middle, so we continue to walk on land!

2012-01-05T17:42:00.000-08:00

Catching up!

2011-12-30T14:15:00.001-08:00

Here I am again feeling like I have been neglecting my dear blog friends....:)
I miss you! You, who take a moment to catch up on my life in Madison...

I'll keep it simple....I had a great week with the Kansas City clan!
(Anna Kate, senior in college)

(Grace, college freshman)

(Dudley and me...and my b-day cake...)

Good to be home! But we have no snow! I really want snow!!

Been to the Capitol three days this week. Still collecting signatures....especially since Benny ate ~40 signatures!! Yes, that's right.....Benny got his paper fix by stealing the petitions off the table! I really have no idea whose signatures I had....so I can't recover them. The protests are alive and well here in Madison. Walker just keeps giving us reasons to collect even more sigs!

We celebrated Spikes 105 birthday....yes indeed, 105 and doing great!

Benny and Tahoe....wishing the lake was frozen and we had snow on the ground!

Sending positives thoughts to K and KB! I can't get you out of my mind.....know that I am supporting you from far away.....

XO

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What's been going on....

2011-12-08T13:18:00.001-08:00

I am having a bit of blogger withdrawal! I miss you all, but continue to keep updated as much as I can with all of you!

The recall of Walker is in full swing....the first two weeks there were 300,000 signatures collected. ( we need 540,000 ). Volunteers by the thousands, all over the state, continue to set up in creative areas to make it easy for people to sign. Our "target" is spewing lies about his recall....saying that we are paid volunteers from out of state. He is out of touch with reality.

Our local government continues the assault on the constitution and the people's right of free speech, by putting new "rules" into effect that require groups of four or more people who plan on coming to the Capitol, to submit a request for a permit 72 hours before said visit. AND, that the Capitol can charge you $50 per police officer, if they think police presence is needed. In addition, if you are assaulted or injured while visiting, you can not hold the state responsible.....

People from both sides have been coming and going PEACEFULLY, for 10 months
co-existing.......why now, is the question? My theory: Capitol police chief Tubbs, has maintained an atmosphere of calm, has actually said no to the regime when they wanted to bring in the national guard and riot police. I believe they are tired of the dissent and want it to end. If Chief Tubbs doesn't play by their new rules, they can fire him and bring in their own, who will use force to enforce the new "rules". This will not go over well, it is illegal and unconstitutional.......

I haven't been to jail for justice, yet........

A beautiful old guide dog named Bosco.....he's a regular at the solidarity sing alongs!

We were outside singing today. A high school group was singing Christmas songs in the rotunda....they were good, but very quiet compared to us regular singers! :)

One of my favorite shops on State Street....

As you can see, we have no snow yet!! All the dogs are great. I'm looking forward to the lake freezing so we can walk on the ice!

2 lectures and the final exam and i'm done for the semester! Time is going so fast!

Spike will be 105 December 31st. He's doing great. He doesn't want a party....we'll have a small gathering anyway....there are only 4 of us..:)

Happy holidays!

XO

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Braveheart

2011-11-25T15:37:00.001-08:00

Remarkable, isn't it?

Given a chance at life.....amazing what love, care, and a lot of luck has done for this handsome dog! Now a confident, happy dog! No longer living in fear....

XO

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Recall Walker

2011-11-16T04:56:00.001-08:00

November 15 has arrived....we have 60 days to collect over 540,000 signatures to recall Scott Walker!

Went downtown for the solidarity sing along, held outside in the beautiful weather!

The excitement is palpable...we have been waiting 9 months for this day!

So far our Governor has stripped rights of 175,000 workers, slashed 1.6 billion from public schools, while handing out 35 million for private school vouchers, devastated cuts to our health care programs by cutting 500 million for medical assistance for seniors, people with disabilities, and those less fortunate, raised taxes on seniors and working families by 70 million, while giving 2 BILLION in tax cuts to corporations and the rich, massive cuts to the University of Wisconsin and our technical college systems, passed the most restrictive voter ID law in the nation that will disenfranchise tens of thousands of voters, including students, minorities, and the elderly......I could go on......

Keep your eye on Wisconsin.....we shall overcome....

Peace and solidarity.....

XO

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Monday....another beautiful fall day!

2011-11-08T15:14:00.001-08:00

Took the dogs to the dog park....Tahoe attacked a white Shepherd...(no harm done, she just doesn't care for other dogs....bitch!)

Me and Richard.....such a funny little guy!

Then Lou and I hiked up to Gibraltar Rock.....the scene of her hubby's tragic death 13 years ago.....

Enjoying the beauty....

Strange photo...

And an even stranger photo! :)

Where we were....still some beautiful color!

Today is cold and rainy....perfect day to get some work done, go to the Capitol, do a little protesting.....7 days till we start collecting signatures to Recall Walker!!

Hoping for good news from Ohio and their fight against union busting....

Herman just sank his boat.....bye, bye....

XO

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The best and the worst of my weekend

2011-11-06T17:24:00.001-08:00

One of my cute patients.....he is 14 years old, and was a very sweet patient. He went home Saturday after a lengthly stay in CCU for liver issues.

This handsome guy had a mass removed from his mediastinum...this was less than 12 hours post op and he was still highly medicated. A very painful surgery....hope he does well...

A cute and lucky little kitten that was found on the side of the road. The kind soul who saved this kitten from certain death has quite an investment already....his jaw was fractured...the red tube is an esophagostomy tube for feeding...although the kitten is eating well on his own......he should do well and live a long life.

The sad, sad part of my job....this beautiful 9 week old puppy was bit on the back and shook by a big dog. His back was broken, he was paralyzed and was humanely euthanized.....so very sad....

Today, Sunday, was a day to be outside...after being inside a critical care unit for two days in a row, I long for physical activity outside! Yup, back to the lake...

The day was cool and overcast, but I love all kinds of weather...

Me climbing "cracking up". All the routes are named, and there are hundreds to chose from...from beginner to pro. I felt good climbing....did this route twice.

Cold and cloudy? I don't mind.....

Lou's middle son Jason guided us and set the rope. He's been climbing these parts for 20 yrs.

A wonderful way to end the weekend! Thanks Jason for your expertise!!

XO

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.....a beautiful day

2011-11-01T14:04:00.001-07:00

This was yesterday when it was cold and damp....Tahoe is watching a squirrel....not sure if Benny knows what he's suppose to see!

.....and Richard, propped precariously in the chair....

Marge just finished working 2 weeks straight, 13 hr days......he took today to enjoy the beauty that today brought....
We, along with Lou, hiked to the top of the bluff....what a sight....

We hauled the climbing gear and practiced rigging top rope....we did not climb, as we had no one to check our set up. Better safe, than sorry.....and just being outside in the wind, on the top of the bluff, is good enough for me! :)

Won't get many more days like this.....

A climbing dog....I put the coat over him...:)

I need days like these to keep me centered....

XO

.......today, Nov. 1, it is legal to carry and conceal a weapon in the state of Wisconsin.....and, you can carry into the senate gallery, BUT, you cannot take a picture, video, or carry a small sign in the gallery.....oh yes, strange, but true.....the recall of Walker begins soon.....and we are organized.....:)

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cute babes

2011-10-27T17:05:00.001-07:00

Look who moved in at the Rapp's! Aren't they the cutest little goats?

They were very suspicious of me.....I think eventually they will warm up to human contact

Busy week! Seems like they just fly by......off to the Vet school tomorrow for my two 12 hour days.....ugh......seems like work gets in the way of life...:)

Very saddened by the turn of events in Oakland.....praying that the young man has a full recovery. (I've learned, from the Capitol police chief, that Walker was very serious about bringing in the national guard and riot police to disperse the crowds during the height of the protests at the Capitol in February). Chief Tubbs refused....and smartly so.....violence is not the answer!

Peace.....XO

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Hiking at the lake

2011-10-25T05:41:00.001-07:00

Lou and I are making the most of the beautiful fall weather....

Yesterday we trekked up the backside of the bluff, an hour hike through the woods....ending at this magnificent sight. (normally we would climb up the steep rock trail, but Lou tweaked her ankle last week)

We practiced setting our top rope....

And enjoyed the beautiful view of the lake!

Today is cool and rainy.....good thing, because I have a convocation day today!

My life sure has been busy since I've been involved in the politics of my state.....we start collecting signatures for the recall of our current governor on Nov. 15......we have 60 days to collect over 500,000 signatures. I went to one of many organizational meetings and there were over 200 people in attendance....everyone is ready and excited....we will prevail......unfortunately there has been irreversible damage done to the state that will take time to fix.....the day Walker is recalled will be one of the best days for our state in over a year! (at least with people who feel like I do). :)

XO

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2011-10-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

2011-10-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Lou's son and fam were in from minnesota for the weekend...

Lilly Lou befriended a feral cat....he was a youngster, and very receptive to Lilly....

he loved the attention and was very gentle, even as Lilly carried him from place to place...

such innocence and trust....so cute!

Jason filled our brains with top roping techniques and new places to climb at the Lake.

unfortunately they had to head back home, so no climbing today! but the information was priceless!
fall is here, potentially many climbing days ahead....
XO

2011-10-11T03:54:00.000-07:00

Alisha (Lou's daughter), Lou and I headed to the lake again today! this was the first time i "set the rope".....all went well after a few glitches and we climbed....little did we know we set our rope on a 5.11! a 5.7 is more our speed....but, we had a great time, and i feel very accomplished that we actually did it all on our own! :)because our rope was set on a very difficult climb, a couple let me use their rope....i was able to scamper to the top!

the girls feeling good after our feat!

our destination.....

another wonderful day on the bluff! weather is changing this week, and i really must get some work done....hopefully will get some more climbs in next week!

XO

2011-10-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

an absolutely gorgeous day of climbing!

Lou belaying and me climbinglooking for a spot to set the rope...almost every climbing route was occupied..everyone was thinking this might be the last warm weekend to climb!

a lot of climbing companions!

and as always, the gorgeous views!

Lou and i are heading back out this morning! we learned how to set the rope yesterday, now off to practice our skills!

a beautiful day to everyone!
XO

2011-10-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

the weather this week has been outstanding, sunny and 70's. Lou and i took advantage and headed up to the lake on Tuesday.

nature...always fascinating and beautiful

i hauled all the climbing gear, we practiced setting top rope...

but mostly enjoyed the view....

the trees are beginning to change...another couple weeks for the full effect!

the hike up is quite strenuous, but great exercise!

a perfect day atop the bluff

Lou's daughters cat Macaroni....

i did get a chance to hang a little...

2011-10-02T14:11:00.000-07:00

The wisconsin/nebraska game was last night...i took this picture on my way home from work...there were three planes in total, circling the stadium for a hour before the game!i was delighted when i learned the Harvest Fest was continuing all weekend! a few views of State Street, on our way to the festival.

(me and Benny at home...)

at the fest.....an aroma permeated the air....

the other 2 hippies, Bren and Lou!

an absolutely gorgeous fall day in MadTown!
a great way to end the weekend!

XO

Friday

2011-09-30T18:10:00.001-07:00

The Rottie mix, from last weekend with multiple facial fractures, went home yesterday! Some facial paralysis and a crooked jaw, but doing great!

This 1kg pup was adopted by a Vet student, from a local rescue. She's a Yorkie mix....so darn little!..and cute!

My patients were a 10 month old Bernese Mtn. Dog that had bilateral elbow surgery, a boxer with an insulinoma, a husky with congestive cardio myopathy in heart failure, a little poodle with inflammatory brain disease and uncontrolled diabetes.....only a couple non-emergent emergencies.....
Good day.....able to give lots of TLC!

Unfortunately I had to miss the great Midwest marijuana festival downtown.....always an interesting event!

XO

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2011-09-26T17:17:00.000-07:00

some of my patients from the weekend.......

ever since i adopted Richard i'm really attracted to Pekinese...this very sweet guy had a corneal ulcer i'm sorry if this disturbs some of you...but, this is the reality of working in CCU/ER....this handsome guy was hit in the head by a truck about 2 hours before this picture....both his mandible and maxilla were fractured, and sinus fractures...no head injuries, no internal injuries....they took him to CT and were in surgery to repair him for about 9 hrs! (i'll let you know how he did next weekend)

this very handsome, very large shepherd, had an anal gland removed

we also saw a very sad case....a min pin was found out in the yard, obviously attacked by something, part of the fence was broke down, he was in his fenced back yard (with a doggy door to go in and out) owners were gone for a few hours...he had 4 large lacerations on his neck and skull and his inguinal area was peppered with puncture wounds....he was in bad shape and the owners elected euthanasia.....very, very sad...back story: the owners had lost their son 7 yrs ago and got this dog in his honor....they had a very difficult time letting go.....but, they made the right decision. it was horrible to see the pain and guilt these owners where feeling.....(don't know what attacked the dog...maybe a coyote, or another dog....)

this is Richard begging for something....his front legs look like flippers!

another super sweet patient, broke his humerus when he jumped off the bed....he did really well. it is somewhat unusual for a dog to break it's leg jumping off a bed...usually indicates osteosarcoma, but the surgeons said the bone looked normal....

i've been busy teaching and protesting (peaceful of course :)
i have several friends that are heading out to NYC tomorrow.....i'm appalled at some of the police and their brutality against peaceful protestors......the wall street occupation protest has been going on for over a week and the mainstream media is barely even talking about it......

anyway....peace and solidarity!
XO

2011-09-18T15:51:00.001-07:00

Remember Braveheart?! This was Braveheart in April....

And Braveheart today at the Dog Jog, sponsored by the Vet school for local humane societies.....

A big wet thank you kiss!

Hard to imagine he's the same dog! He doesn't get recognized anymore!
Hope he lives a long and healthy life!

XO

2011-09-08T17:40:00.000-07:00

the weather is beautiful and i've been itching to go climbing...today was the day!

the view from the top....so beautiful, not a soul around, cool north breeze....ahh....exactly what i needed..Lou's first time on a rock!

Willy, an expert climber...

me feeling quite feeble....

top rope set up....

a perfect day on the bluff....if only Cory and Anna were there too! :)

XO

Solidarity Sing Along....day 155

2011-09-07T13:56:00.001-07:00

Since February Chris has led the sing along, every M-F, 12p-1p, in the Capitol rotunda. Today was held outside due to a blood drive happening inside. I have come to know many people by first name, but in the name of solidarity.

I try to sing along at least twice a week. It is great fun, some common tunes with the words changed to reflect our feelings toward the governor, and the Koch brothers.......instruments are not allowed in the Capitol, so outside there is usually someone with an instrument.

Ashe, a great guy who is downtown everyday

Some women from Holland joining in song!

My stuff...

Chris stomping out the beat....

Then I went to a Supreme court hearing....only to see our infamous judge (the strangler)...and give him the "eye". He's 2nd from the left. I don't think he noticed me, but I felt better! :)

Beautiful weather in Wisconsin....hoping to go climbing tomorrow!

XO

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Quiet day at work....

2011-09-02T17:50:00.001-07:00

It's always nice to have fewer patients so that we can give each one the TLC they deserve!
This darling little dog weighs 2.5kgs! And she's six years old.....super sweet, looks like a gremlin...:)
she had a piece of hot dog stuck in her esophagus....they went in with a scope and pushed it into her stomach...she did great and went home today! Cute little old couple loves her.....

At the Vet school we see every type of beautiful animal....this gal/guy was in special species....she/he "Shirley" had a penis amputation....the owners thought he was a girl.....I guess he is now....:)

He was outside getting exercise!

Hoping you all have a peaceful holiday weekend!

XO

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Working weekend

2011-08-28T13:54:00.001-07:00

Worked Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this week....fortunately it wasn't crazy busy!

Cute patient Bones.....

Another super cute, sweet poodle, with a 4th year Vet student....

A "stoned" Airedale post total ear ablation surgery....

Another sweet little dog, attacked by a greyhound, almost two weeks ago....I didn't share the worst of her injuries...( I know some of you have a weakness to injured animals...:)....her pelvis was dislocated and a large gapping wound in her inguinal area....Her shoulder area is healing up nicely.

Eva, a sweet boxer....had a rare smooth muscle tumor (benign) that had invaded her right bronchi and lung, they removed her right lung.....she's doing great!

A sweet 11 week old Boxer with pneumonia....she's in an oxygen cage, being nebulized....she was feeling a lot better after a night on IV antibiotics and fluids, and really wanted put of there!

Madison college starts next week....I'll be teaching Veterinary Medical terminology to first year Veterinary Tech students. Happy to get back teaching!

It is a beautiful afternoon in Madison....hope all are safe on the east coast, and hope your weekend was peaceful....

XO

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A beautiful night for a rally!

2011-08-25T17:15:00.001-07:00

Huge rally downtown this evening........we will not stop until Walker is ejected out of office! Feingold announced last week that he would not seek election for governor. I don't blame him, although a bit of a disappointment.
Remember the judge who strangled another judge....months ago? Today they reported they would not pursue criminal charges.....
So the fight continues......the students are coming back this week, should add great momentum to our rallies!
Back to work tomorrow.....I'm now working 12 hour days (not by choice).

We joked the construction on the Capitol in the above photo is Walker's new bomb shelter.....he's going to need one!

Peace to you all this weekend......I'm still here and I still read all your wonderful blogs!

XO

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Gay Pride Parade

2011-08-21T14:10:00.001-07:00

My two 12 hour days at the Vet School were busy as usual.....this is one of my cutest patients...Bo, six month old cutie pie, and very sweet!

Today was the gay pride parade downtown....

Our gay fire chief....

A few non believers were being heckled.......

Our gay U.S. State rep, Tammy Baldwin.....

And lots of dogs!

One week until I start teaching! Where did the time go?! My favorite time of year is coming....fall and winter!
Hope you all had a colorful weekend!

XO

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What I know for sure.....

2011-08-16T15:24:00.001-07:00

I know that I need to pace myself regarding politics: I'm very disappointed that Obama is touring the Midwest and he's not coming to Madison.....really?!

I know that I need to workout 4 days a week, if I don't feel good physically, I don't feel good mentally: but I don't "love" working out!

I know I have to commit to climbing more: really the only time I can get out of my head and totally focus on my body and movement.

I know that I am getting burned out working hands on with animals: I see way too many animals suffer and too much death.

I know I have a huge commitment with Spike: I need to get over myself and not take things personally.

I know that I crave being alone, but I also love people.

I know, I know, I know.......if nothing changes, nothing will ever change....

This picture is so serene.....

The bulldog puppy from a couple weeks ago did well and went home! As well as the golden with pacemaker! :)

XO

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2011-08-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

it's been an exhausting couple of days. we did not gain the democratic seats for the majority in the senate....we ousted only 2 repubs, we needed 3 to take back the senate....trying not to get discouraged....we need to get ready for Walkers recall in less than 150 days!

meanwhile, Hallis is still on his hunger strike...he's ailing from bronchitis, but otherwise doing well....down 97lbs....still no media has picked up his story....two young ladies chanting, "recall Walker"!

The Ed Show was live from Madison the last two nights....beautiful evenings and large crowds...

our magnificent house....

a random family fighting for democracy...

second solidarity sing along of the day....8pm, before The Ed Show began...

the crowd was hopefully optimistic.....we did succeed, we must keep the momentum going to boot Walker in January!

it appears that the supreme court judge (prosser) who was accused of choking another supreme court judge (bradley) case has been swept under the rug........really?!

thanks for your support during these bizarre political times in Madison!

XO

The weekend

2011-08-07T13:39:00.001-07:00

Dudley came through MadCity on her way to the northwoods of wisconsin, to pick up her son from camp. We had a lovely dinner downtown....she stayed Friday night too....which was a bonus! We had another lovely dinner with great conversation.....never enough time spent with Dudley!

Work was busy, mostly sad cases...what else would one expect in critical care and emergency!
This 11 week old bulldog baby is one of those....she has a teeny tiny trachea, and aspiration pneumonia.....not a good start to life.....

Giving another patient some TLC....this pretty girl was in 3rd degree AV block and had a pacemaker placed.....1 day post op and she's having kidney issues.....normally pacemaker patients go home about 12 hours post surgery.....hope she does well....

My nephew and his wife are visiting from New Zealand, we'll be spending a bit of time downtown this week. The recall elections for 6 republican senators are Tuesday. The Ed Schultz Show will be live from Madison Monday and Tuesday nights. Look for me! Maybe I'll get another interview?! :)

XO

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2011-08-03T04:46:00.000-07:00

i completed my three days of Chicks Rock climbing clinic! i'm bruised, my muscles ache...but, i have never felt better! three days of intense climbing!

above, Kim Reynolds the founder of Chicks with Picks/Chicks Rock. she is from colorado, a wonderful women who gives back to women!

above, 2 of our girly guides, cleaning rope...

we were in groups of 4 according to skill level, below is my girly guide Kaija! the guides are world class climbers and totally awesome!

it was as much about climbing as it was about positive self talk, determination and pushing yourself past your comfort zone!
one of my favorite phrases: climb till fallure.....if you fall doing a crux (difficult portion of the climb) you must do it at least 4 more times...forgetting about exhaustion and pushing through! the great thing about not giving up during a difficult section was that you usually got past it! instead of frustration, think of it as an opportunity to learn!

Kitty Calhoon....what an incredible guide and women, and a world renown climber!

the beauty of climbing is that it pushes you to recognize who you are as a person, how you deal with difficult situations, how you can do anything that you set your mind to!
what a wonderful experience to be with such strong, beautiful women from all walks of life, coming together to challenge themselves and win!

Chicks Rock!

XO

Devils Lake, and a day off protesting....well kinda! :)

2011-07-27T04:56:00.001-07:00

Went climbing with the Swedes yesterday....oh, how I wish they lived here!

I couldn't help myself.....my beautiful state always on my mind....

Top of my world....

The beautiful Swede Anna!

Me, a bit rusty! Haven't climbed since the whole Walker debacle started (feb.)

Anna is like spider women! Amazing climber and beautiful to watch!

Tired after a long, glorious day on the rock!

I'm participating in a women's rock climbing clinic this weekend, called Chicks Rock! (at Devils Lake) Women from all over the country are participating.....looking forward to some girl time and challenging myself!

XO

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Another photo booth shot

2011-07-24T15:45:00.001-07:00

This is too fun!

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2011-07-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

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Thursday in Madison

2011-07-21T13:42:00.001-07:00

This is day 33 for Hallis and his hunger strike. Last weekend Arlo Guthrie was in town for a solidarity concert. He visited with Hallis the next day and signed the solidarity sheet. (this piece of fabric sits on the ground in front of Hallis for people to express themselves)

You can see where Hallis is set up, on the Capitol square....he has to move across the street to sleep on the sidewalk....sleeping on the Capitol lawn is prohibited. I won't even go into the politics of this week, way too much to type! :). Plus I use FB for that!

The weather has been unbearable! The dogs are stuck in the house in the air-conditioning! And I really don't like sitting in an air conditioned house, so I'm going stir crazy! I also can't tolerate the humidity, so I'm limited with exercise too....
Today the humidity level is much lower, but it is still about 88 degrees.....

Big Red is such a good boy, and so handsome....although he managed to eat one of my swimsuit tops...all that was left was the underwire (thank god)....he passed the rest....honestly, he has a gut of steel!

Had lunch with the Swedes today....next week we will head to Devils Lake for some climbing! Yeh!

Anna, Freya, me and Lou....(Anna is married to Lou's oldest son, she's the Swede:)

Working the next two days..... you all have a peaceful weekend!

XO

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The Swedes are here!

2011-07-17T15:58:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love this chair?! My friends husband made it for her...

Denali....Lou's grand baby, visiting from Sweden.

Freya, big sis of Denali. They came last year for almost three months....only 3 weeks this visit. But so happy they are here!

The dogs are loving the new bench....I think Benny misses the couch, his couch!

It is hotter than hot for the next several days....heat index of 105 degrees.....the only good thing about it is the grass doesn't grow, so no mowing!

More politics this week....have not heard a thing about Prossergate....no media at all....apparently there is an investigation.....no news is not necessarily good news...

XO

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Prosser rally

2011-07-12T14:09:00.001-07:00

Justice Prosser is accused of putting a fellow Justice (female) in a chokehold. In March he called Justice Abrahamson a "bitch" and threatened to "destroy" her!
Think we have some anger management issues here?!
The rally was calling for his resignation....at the very least to take a leave until the investigation is complete....

2011-07-11T18:01:00.001-07:00

Braveheart! sorry the pic is so small, i copied it from FB. doesn't he look awesome!

XO

(check out his before on sidebar!)

2011-07-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

took a break from the politics and downtown...the coming few weeks will be intense as the Senate recalls begin. the repubs are running "fake" democrats, and the negative campaigning begins! with the new voter id suppression law and the confusion of who's really running on the democratic ticket....i can see how the majority of people can be easily confused! i will be able to carry and conceal in 4 months...thinking of getting a nice little pink beauty to carry in my pocket, like my cell phone.....maybe i need a new "fanny pack"....the legislature is still in "extraordinary session".....so who knows what other laws will be bulldozed through behind the backs of the dems....and then there is the Prossergate choking incident, which has been very quiet in the media...a protest is scheduled for tuesday...i will be sure to attend!
once again i have to remind myself to have balance, and stay centered within my life and soul....(gets tough when so much is happening..)

Marge arrived home with a pool for the dogs, mainly Tahoe....Richard stayed clear, and Benny thought it was a big dog bowl!i've never known a dog who is obsessed with water like Tahoe!

nothing like a wet dog in an air conditioned house...blah! (this was before her pool arrived)

we painted the entire inside of the house a few weeks ago, got rid of the dog bed...i mean couch, got some new oversized chairs with ottomans...(the dogs are not allowed on them...so far so good....) we have to have a place that is off limits to the dogs!..(i'm so guilty of letting them get away with whatever they want, but, i think i'm getting better!?)...the above ottoman is now the new dog bed...sits in front of the big window and the dogs are loving it.

hope your weekend was filled with fun and peace...

XO

2011-07-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

this is the Art Fair weekend...haven't seen this many people on the Capitol since the big protests....

Lou and Willy. (he's a cheese maker participating in the farmers market)

stopped and checked in on Hallis, he's on day 24. He's a bit weak today, a lot of activity around him. he gets checked out by a medic twice a day. I check in with him and on occasion hold down the fort while he visits a restroom. the cooler has worked out beautiful...full of ice and water.
Hallis is a good guy and i do worry about him....

after i snapped this photo i noticed the artist had signs posted: no photos please....oops

What I've been up to....

2011-07-05T17:11:00.001-07:00

Sunday was a relaxing day at home, until the dogs sounded the alarm. I can tell by their bark that there was a dog w/out an owner. Sure enough there was Guinness. She's a neighbors dog, a few houses down. She's a Hound, nice dog, with proper tags. I retrieved her and took her to their house. No answer and mail was overflowing the box...a UPS memo stuck on their door. Hummm, been gone a day. The door was unlocked, so I put Guinness in the house.
You guessed it....15 minutes later the dogs sounded the alarm again! Shit! She wouldn't come to me this time. Had to get in the car with a leash and pursue her. A young lady snagged her for me. This time I was to determine to figure out her M.O. I walked into her house with her still on the leash. No sign of the owners, two guys, in their 30's. The house was trashed! Your typical bachelor house. The porch door leading out to the pool was wide open, basically chewed, and 3 double pane windows were broke, glass all over the floor, big shards! That was it! She can't stay here! I took her to the humane society so she would be safe! She wasn't cut anywhere...not sure how she broke the windows, but she obviously did! The window frames were also chewed, all over the floor.
These dumb shits left her alone in the house. During the biggest firework fiasco in the Midwest.....( why I leave town with my dogs )......this event is a block away and intense! She obviously freaked out......poor thing. I found out later from my other neighbors that live next door to these guys, had let the dog in the house several times that day...finally went in to secure the house, the dog had gone through the screen so he shut all the windows...!
The boys got home Monday afternoon...I didn't advise them of the events. I hope they realize that you can't have a dog and leave for the weekend. And give her a chance of a good life. (this is not the first time this dog has ended up in jail!)
Stupid people....

Tahoe and her favorite thing!

Went downtown to check on Hallis and Wills, the guys on the hunger strike. Hallis was arrested again, and spent the holiday weekend in jail. I don't know the details of his arrest, but will find out when I see him.
Asked if anything was needed. Their styrofoam cooler had busted, so I ran home and delivered a cooler that we weren't using....they were very appreciative!

Marge and I spent the afternoon making him a new sign! And then went and tried it out at the Governors mansion! It was cathartic....he can't be recalled soon enough for me and many! The next few weeks start the recalls of the repub senators......Scottie can't be recalled till 2012......counting down his days!

.....fun times in MadCity! XO

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Peace...

2011-07-03T10:21:00.001-07:00

Saturday night was the major firework event about a block from our house. In years past we've always hosted huge parties.
The last few years we've left town....I took the dogs up to Lou's in Lodi. The dogs freak out with the noise and I don't like it either.....we had an extremely relaxing day. The dogs love it at Lou's....so many new and different areas to explore! We stayed over night too...

Hope your holiday weekend has been filled with peace....
XO

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Sundara Spa

2011-06-29T16:55:00.001-07:00

A beautiful day to energize the soul!

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....my work days....

2011-06-26T15:03:00.001-07:00

Worked a half day on Friday, as I picked up a couple overnight shift last week..
Met up with Kristin and Grace downtown....they are headed back to KC from the Northwoods....

Grace is off to college this fall!

We ate at a great Sushi joint, sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful evening..

Hallis is a homeless veteran....he's just begun his hunger strike...I've come to know him from the protest scene....he's a great guy, very articulate and passionate about his cause....I introduced the girls to him. I support him 100%...I'm just happy he's not a skinny guy..;). I want to start a FB page for him...to get the word out and keep people updated about his hunger strike....(does anyone know how to add another FB page?)

Saturday at work ranked as one of the top ten shittiest days of work! I won't go into all of the gory details......but, we had an ER cat that went through a partial wash cycle! Poor thing! He was soaking wet, very distraught, and freezing cold. I placed an IV catheter, gave him warm fluids and placed him in a big warm air blanket. Took him about 4 hours to warm up. Sweet thing, fortunately he was ok and went home later that same day.......can you imagine?!

Not sure if climbing is on.....may rain tomorrow.
Sundara on Wednesday!

XO

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2011-06-24T03:11:00.000-07:00

thought you would love to see this! Braveheart yesterday! looks like a different dog doesn't he? even shocking for me to see how good he looks!

Checking in!

2011-06-23T13:47:00.001-07:00

Downtown....a lovely young lady was sitting on the sidewalk expressing herself...so true!

Lou's gardens....

The weather has been kinda crummy...humid, hot...then cold and rainy....but enjoying it none the less!

Have been so busy....next week I'm climbing at Devils Lake, and Sundara Wednesday! A lot to look forward to.
Still hanging out at the Capitol a couple days a week....they finally removed the metal detectors and screening on Monday! ALL the doors will be open next Monday....it's about damn time!
Check out the video I posted on FB to see the solidarity sing along!
Have a great weekend everyone!

XO

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partial family gathering

2011-06-18T16:23:00.001-07:00

The Webster's came through Madison from Kansas City on their way to the Northwoods. We all converged Friday night!

Grace and Benny

My Brother Karll, his daughter Katelyn, her bf Joel, and mom Teri.

Katelyn, Joel, Grace, Kristopher (my brother's son), Anna Kate, and Tommy. (Grace, Anna Kate, and Tommy are Kristin and Tim's)

My mom and dad, me, Tim and Kristin....the gang!

The men...so funny how the young had on green....

We had a fun evening eating, chatting, and catching up!

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Took a break from downtown today

2011-06-16T16:17:00.001-07:00

The following are pictures from the rally Tuesday night.....

Now that I figured out my computer glitch I can chat....:)
Yes, this is Marge....doesn't he look studley?!

Chief Tubbs, heck of a nice guy and has really done a fabulous job communicating to "both sides" during this stressful time. Can't say enough about the police officers, they have been very mellow, patient, overworked, and kept a sense of humor! We've also had state troopers, DNR, police from other cities....which weren't necessary....they just cruise around the Capitol checking out the scene...

Some good news.....the doors to Our house will be open, without metal detection, starting on Monday......the timing is right (or so they think).....since the budget repair bill will likely be passed tomorrow in the senate......the fastest passing of a budget in history! They know they will all be gone soon I guess....so get it done

The fight has only just begun.....

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Madison Rally's

2011-06-16T04:08:00.001-07:00

I've been having computer issues.....arg! So, i'm not going to spend time typing...in case this doesn't work.....
Crazy times this week in Madison!

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Today in Walkerville

2011-06-12T19:40:00.001-07:00

A wonderful march by hundreds of uniformed police and firefighters from across the state.

A new "law" by Fitzwalkerstan: there shall be no signs touching city property.....whatever...

Russ Feingold gave a wonderful address to the crowd! Very inspiring and uplifting!

Of course our dream is that we recall Walker in six months and Russ runs for Governor......stay tuned!

Very creative folks in Madison!

Get it?!

(stop Walker!)

This week will be big in Wisconsin....the assembly organization committee has placed the state budget into an "extraordinary session" . It basically means that the re will be no discussion, the daily calendar does not have to be distributed, they can also close the sessions "for the good of the public"......basically do whatever they want. There is a lot of covert security "trying to crack the code of the protestors". Security will be very tight. Arrests will likely be made, and exaggerated in the media, to direct the focus off the budget.
Ok, we know majority rules, but these people are really playing dirty! I'm sure they know they don't have much time left and are pushing anything and everything while they can....all so Walker will look good to big corporations, and "make a name for himself". Truly sickening.......stay tuned....I will be spending a fare amount of time there this week......

XO

Balance....

2011-06-09T15:11:00.001-07:00

I have a strong desire to be at the Capitol, hear firsthand what is going on, and educate those that don't have the time or want, to be there.
I am fascinated by it all....the legislative meetings, the way that senators and legislators act in session.
The ever present protesters....old and young, well groomed and not so much, men and women, families.....all concerned about our state moving backward, not forward.
The variety of signs....people are very creative and clever.
Getting know a lot of police, and "regulars" at the Capitol.
Running into the 14 senators and thanking them for what they did for the people.

I am also aware that I must have balance in my life.....today I did not go to the Capitol.....I did the every day things...worked on my lecture for next fall, caught up on the laundry, spent time with the dogs, worked out, and took a long hot soak....envisioned myself in this chair, at this beach......now I can breathe....

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I loved reading all your wonderful comments, you guys are the greatest..:)

I did DVR my interview and watched it this morning.....I didn't do half bad...:)
I just wish they would have told me it was a head to thigh shot....I would have sucked it in a bit! :)

XO

Great day in Walkerville/Fitzwalkerstan....formerly Madison, WI

2011-06-08T18:35:00.001-07:00

I arrived at the Capitol about noon, just in time for the "students are as good as dead" rally.

A very eloquent speech was given...the students arose to become zombies...

I attended the sing along in the rotunda...this is the booklet handed out so people can join in! ( the sing along started over 100 days ago )

Much to my surprise as I left the Capitol Scottie was outside at a Special Olympic event.....

As he was being ushered back to the safety of his castle, I walked ahead of him and took this picture....I said to him...I'm surprised to see you showing your face in Madison! The guy to his left did a block maneuver, as I was about a foot from him and said...come on, it was a Special Olympic event....I replied, as least he likes someone!

I was talking to some guys earlier with big camera equipment, asking them who they were with. They said CNN. They asked what I do, where I live, how often I come to the Capitol. They said you are exactly the person we are looking for! Would you tape an interview at 4p. Of course I said yes. I was called by reporter from New York and interviewed. I arrived back downtown at 3:45, they got me all hooked up with a microphone and sound, told me where to stand and that was about all....it lasted about 15 min. Elliot Spitzer interviewed me...he was hard to understand and asked very lengthly questions...eeks, I have no recollection of anything that was asked, or my responses.....I couldn't watch it....but Marge said I did great.....

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad. An interesting day for sure....

XO

Today's rally in Walkerville (Madison, WI)

2011-06-06T17:31:00.001-07:00

.....in pictures...

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Scenes from Walkerville (Madison, WI)

2011-06-04T19:42:00.001-07:00

The tents are going up all around the Capitol.....Walkerville, kicked off tonight. There are strict regulations...and the tents can only be up at night. The budget is back on the table, so the people are ramping it up....
Each day will be a different protest......the message is we are watching you and will not roll over......
Some people call us slobs and whiners.....we are democracy!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad......no I am not camping.....but, will be doing some demonstrating this week, well, I suppose all summer.....interesting times indeed!!
xo

2011-06-03T16:46:00.001-07:00

Work today was quiet till the afternoon, when we get our post op patients from soft tissue....
A cute six month old pup, in for a cardiac consult. He has severe sub aortic stenosis, will likely die young. ( one of my goldens with the same condition died in his sleep at 6 yrs.....he was given about 2 yrs ). Such a lovely pup! I'm sure whatever time he has will be filled with love!

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Spike

2011-06-01T18:00:00.001-07:00

Monday Spike wasn't himself, he had developed cellulitis on his right thigh, hip, and back. He had a fever of 101.0. He was very disoriented and very sleepy. Remember, Spike is 104, and has been recumbent for over 2 yrs. The Hospice nurses checked on him.
His caregiver and I had "the talk". Certainly an extensive infection could take him. I alerted his son....
24 hrs later he woke up, said he was hungry, read his mail and the paper!
His temp is back to normal and the cellulitis is resolving!
When I visited tonight he was eating a good dinner and joking with me!
Amazing.......

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Memorial Day

2011-05-30T16:13:00.001-07:00

Sizzling hot day, but beautiful! Went downtown and participated in the sing-a-long, held every day at the Capitol from 12-1. No big crowds, just a few hard cores like me!
I've missed you all. Been busy finishing up my classes and final grades. Last week I had a week long teacher certification class...." The Philosophy of Teaching"...it was great and met a lot of cool associates and got some good ideas!
Another busy week ahead (what weeks aren't!). Will be attending a joint finance committee meeting tomorrow.....gotta keep close eye on what is going on!

Bless all of our military, past and present......and those affected by the tornadoes...

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The hand....

2011-05-22T15:14:00.001-07:00

Oh baby is it sore! Ibuprofen is my friend! Still taking two antibiotics, but felt nauseous for a while this afternoon. ( I hate taking meds ) Not much help with the yard work today....hoping it feels better tomorrow! I have no problem with my iPad though...:)
I'll be in a teacher recertification class all week, so no time spent in the Capitol....and there's a lot going on....will also miss my bootcamp this week. Blah, good thing though, I'm sure my hand would be a limiting factor in working out!

I have only been bit a handful of times in 15 years.....it is never the animals fault....and I always feel badly afterward....neither patient or Tech likes this to happen....after my visit to the ER I wanted to tell her I was sorry, sorry that she was afraid, sorry that I got bit, sorry that she was feeling a bit off after eating her owner's "stash"........I was teased that she just had the munchies..:).
Humor always helps!

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Part of the job.....

2011-05-21T11:56:00.001-07:00

Within about an hour of being at work I was bit by a dog. The dog was scared, it was no fault of hers. And i was just retrieving her from her cage. The Doctor at the ER asked me if it was provoked? I said, you'll have to ask the dog! He wanted to stitch it up, I opted for the steri strip closures instead.....I hate needles, and I didn't want to have to bite him! :)

I also had to get a tetanus shot, did I mention I hate needles? The nurse was very gentle, so she was spared!

Tahoe in her usual mode: please play ball momma!

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Politics....

2011-05-19T13:39:00.001-07:00

I attended the Senate meeting this morning...the voting of the voter "suppression" bill. Very interesting, the Senate debated this bill until the wee hours of the morning on Tuesday. This morning the democrats were given only one hour to speak....and it was obvious the repubs didn't care to even give them the respect by sitting quietly and listening (like we in the gallery must do).....they were up and about, talking....unfortunately, I had to leave before the vote was taken. It was obvious what the outcome was going to be, non the less, most of the democrats weren't even on the floor when the gavel went down! Shit continues to hit the fan!

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Finally.....

2011-05-17T16:27:00.001-07:00

I finally figured out my blogging glitch! Some more pics from Sanibel!

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Test

2011-05-17T10:43:00.001-07:00

I've been having computer problems.....this is a test

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2011-05-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

today was a day with no Vet students, the current class is graduating this weekend, they have all taken their boards and are now doctors of veterinary medicine...congratulations to the class of 2011! the new vet students start monday....this will be my 13th class....

this is a 2nd year vet student/ccu worker giving some TLC to a patient...my favorite patient! sweet puppy with a torn urethra...she has a urinary catheter in place for 3 days, hopeful that will allow the urethra to heal...if not, surgery is in her future...

i still have Sanibel on my mind....some of my favorite wildlife pictures...

yes, we count as wildlife too!

we went from air conditioning yesterday, to almost could turn the heat on, tonight...that's wisconsin weather for ya!

big rally at the Capitol tomorrow....i have to work, but plan on attending an assembly meeting this week.....so much is going on and their trying to push through bills before the recall elections in june......

hope you all have a peaceful weekend!

XO

2011-05-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

we are back in Madison...came home to warm weather...86 degrees! i think we brought back some warm weather, for today anyway...

our last sunset on Sanibel...until next year

much more later....(why can't i get rid of this underline?)

good to be home (now it's gone)....many more pictures to share....

XO

2011-04-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

a couple of my patients today.....

Richi and his favorite ball!

the long awaited trip to Sanibel has finally arrived....i'll update you from the beach!

XO

Braveheart came in this week (i wasn't there)...he's doing great and gained 9lbs...everyone said he looked really good and happy...:)

2011-04-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

fun day at Sundara, even though it was overcast and cool!we all enjoyed spa treatments, and had a lot of good laughs!

next week at this time we will be in Sanibel.....looking forward to sun, sand and water!

XO

2011-04-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Braveheart came in today for a checkup. He was met by the couple that rescued him (one starfish rescue) and greeted by many doctors and students...he loves to greet everyone, but doesn't care to be caressed by people...he's probably a bit sensitive yet to touch...his foster family is doing a great job with him and you can see the bond they have built...they will likely adopt him too.

greeting his doctor, Dr. Foy..

Dr. Foy has become a bit of a celeb! :) clients call and ask, "can we see the doctor that took care of Braveheart?"

getting a thorough check over...

it was great to see him! he continues to get packages from all over the world, bones, toys, and cards. donations have exceeded $18,000...his bill is easily $10,000...the extra money will be put into a fund that helps those that can't afford a fixable injury, to avoid an unnecessary euthansia....

the header picture is one of my Madison College student's little sister...she was doing a report for school....she asked me questions about my career, took pictures of CCU...cute young lady...8yrs old...i asked her if she was going to be an animal doctor or nurse when she grows up....she said a nurse, just like you....so cute...

XO

2011-04-17T05:15:00.000-07:00

yesterday at the Capitol the TeaParty held a rally....Sarah Palin was paid big bucks to come....there was a lot of security, and a special roped off section surrounding the podium.i took my lunch hour and went to the Capitol...

in my estimation, there were ~ 300 Teabags and ~7000 counter....

there was a huge sound system and a big screen....

when SP came to the stage, her words were unheard by the crowd....the chanting of "go home" easily drowned out her words....

it was an interesting experience for sure. i found the TB's were very rude and pushy...like they didn't want us there?! i think this is called democracy and freedom of speech?.....if they didn't want to deal with it, they could have easily had a rally at the gov's mansion and called it a day...

i was in my scrubs, and a jacket...no sign, no pins and i was somehow singled out...i was pushed and called a hippie liberal....hum...i took it as a compliment...

it was a cold day in Madison, with snow......perfect day for a rally!

XO

2011-04-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Braveheart update....

this was the scene when i arrived at work this morning at 6:30a...he awoke from a deep sleep...looking so comfortable in his bed...after a good breakfast, a trip outside, and a normal bowel movement! (big news for him!)

a spring in his step....he is no longer on IV fluids or nutrition, he is eating and drinking well...gained 6lbs this week! we removed his jugular catheter this afternoon...

a beautiful blanket sent by a Braveheart supporter....

checking out all the gifts he's received from all over the country...

he really wanted those gourmet cookies!

Braveheart has "turned the corner"...he is on his way to a life that was meant for such an innocent soul...

some of the lovely cards he's received....

he will be staying with us in CCU until Monday when he will be going into a foster home...the women lives a couple blocks from the Vet School and works out of her house....the perfect set up for him....

my gut feeling about him is that he has been a stray his whole life, he's sweet, but very shy and insecure, a little jumpy around people, but very willing to acknowledge everyone with a sniff...sometimes a kiss...he's got a long way to go...but look forward to watching his transition from an insecure dog to a balanced one.....he deserves it....

XO

2011-04-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

update on Braveheart!

i had to swing by work this morning, of course i had to check on Braveheart....

he is off all IV fluids and nutrition....he's eating and drinking well on his own. He has gained 6 lbs since last saturday and looks really good....he could go home, but everyone is a bit leery of switching up his routine since he just started doing so well...he will likely stay in CCU, where he is familiar for a few more days....:) i will have more pictures tomorrow and if i have time will try to get a video of him!
it is amazing what just a few days of eating can do, he's like a different dog!

XO

2011-04-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

after my workout i walked down by the lake (Monona, i live on Mendota..the other side of the isthmus)

the Loons are migrating to the Northwoods...

wish i had a super zoom to get better shots...

beautiful birds....

have not spoken with anyone at the Vet school today, but understand Braveheart is continuing in a positive direction....i hope to be able to take care of him this weekend...if he's still in CCU...

a beautiful day here in Madison!

XO

2011-04-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

the temperature reached 80 degrees today!
Tahoe's first swim of the season! she couldn't wait to get in the water!

even Benny went in! Richard is not a water dog, unless i put him in!

went up and hung out with Lou this afternoon...the gardens are so bare now, the buds are just starting to come out...soon, it will be a beautiful, lush space!

and a very cute momma tending to her nest....amazing how camouflaged she was in the leaves!

just got off the phone with one of the Technicians that works on Sunday at the VMTH. Braveheart is doing the same as yesterday, no significant changes either way....so still hopeful...keep your positive thoughts coming!

XO

2011-04-09T16:20:00.000-07:00

Braveheart was a bit off Friday night and most of today...he was not interested in eating, and just wanted to keep his nose buried in his blanket.

about 3p he started to engage a bit more, interested in food and water..
this is his wonderful Doctor Foy...one of the best in the hospital, a very attentive and compassionate doctor...

snuggling with Mandy, our triage Technician...she works 5 days a week, so BH is very familiar with her and responds sweetly to her voice...

so this afternoon i left work feeling more hopeful again...he ate some chicken and drank some water for me....keep fighting BH, we are all pulling for you!

Thanks Ina for sharing his story!

XO

2011-04-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Braveheart today...

it is my pleasure and privilege to be part of his team of nurses and doctors who are vested in his recovery.. the power of social networking has turned this sad story into one of hope! Braveheart has received gifts, cards, money, offers of support from all over the country! we opened a package for him today and this alligator, another toy and treats...just for him...he can't enjoy the treats yet, since he is on a restricted diet....he is eating small amounts of food, chicken, baby food...and getting most of his nutritional needs intravenously...

he walks outside to urinate...(the white IV line is his nutrition, must not be disconnected)

licking baby food from the jar...

perking his ears when he hears the squeak!

snuggled in with his new toys....

he looks brighter to me today, his chemistry values are normal....he's lucky he is young, an older dog certainly would have succumbed by now...

he is getting a lot of mail, donations of $ and toys....people want to come and sit with him (but like any hospital privacy laws exist)....

my gut feeling is that he is going to pull through this tremendous insult he has endured, but it is going to be a long journey....

right now $ is the greatest need, his bill is nearing $7000....

the next step will to be in an appropriate environment to gain strength and confidence.....someone who will understand his medical and emotional needs...

he's not out of the woods yet, but he is a fighter and with all of our support he's got a good chance at a peaceful, happy life...one that he certainly deserves!

XO

2011-04-06T05:02:00.000-07:00

a beautiful day in Madison yesterday! all the lakes are free of ice....a sure sign of spring!http://www.alldogssite.com/onestarfishbraveheart03114.html
click on the link for information on Braveheart and donation information...scroll to bottom of page.

have a great day everyone!

XO

2011-04-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

i don't have an update as of today of "Braveheart"...

these pictures are from my shift on Saturday...since he is unable to keep food down we placed a nasogastric tube on friday...a few hours later he vomited and we had to pull the tube...

saturday i placed a triple lumen jugular catheter...(we hesitated to do this due to his skin condition, we didn't want to introduce anything into his bloodstream) it was really the only option, if we are going to go all out to save his life....

i'm hoping that $ isn't a limiting factor in his care....we've gone this far (him too) that it would be a shame for that to be an issue...(i really have no idea how much money or resources this rescue has)

i think if the media caught wind of his story, that people would give, and his care would be covered.....hopefully, it will all work out...

i'll send his doctor an e-mail to get the update, which i'll post tomorrow.

2011-04-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

*warning* graphic pictures....

~1yr old dog found in dumpster in Kentucky....taken to the Humane Society and was to be put down due to insufficient funds to care for such a sick animal...a rescue group stepped in, put him on Petfinder and a rescue in the Madison area picked him up on Saturday......

after a visit with their Veterinarian, he was transferred to the Vet School....certainly the worse case of neglect i have ever seen! "Braveheart", we call him Benny, is full of intestinal parasites, has ringworm and demodectic mange...he is unable to keep food or water down....

he's a fighter, and you can see in this picture a beautiful dog.....

i hope he can pull through and i look forward to seeing him blossom!
i'll keep you posted on his journey....
prayers will be helpful...

XO

2011-03-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

I started a six week boot camp in a very cool space called "The Studio".
Downtown (only 5 miles from home)..works out great because i can go check out the happenings at the Capitol after my workout! :)
today i attended the court hearing regarding the contempt of court for the illegal passing of the collective bargaining bill......that was disregarded by the Governor...good times!

here is the studio...we workout about a half hour inside then go outdoors along the lake, in front of the Monona Terrace...such a beautiful downtown we have!

the spaces main use is for Yoga, which i will be continuing once boot camp is done!

XO

2011-03-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

this is my 970th post!

been a busy last week and weekend....had to work all week at Madison College, and Spike's granddaughter Karen came in from Dallas for a visit...we are the same age and became fast friends about 15 yrs ago...

Marge took the girls out for dinner on Saturday....

i'm looking forward to this week and getting back to my routine!

meanwhile, it has been really cold here....and the protests continue downtown...spent some time in the Capitol after my boot camp this morning...went and thanked my assembly representative.....
people meet daily to sing in the Capitol rotunda, people circle the Capitol with their signs...mellow during the week.....still very large rally's on weekends!
a very interesting time here in the State of Wisconsin...i know most of you are far removed, so sorry if i bore you with politics! this is a fight between the people and a Governor who thinks he is king, he has no regard for the people and the people will not back down until he is out of office...(jan 2012) not soon enough....

Tahoe is back to normal after her "wet tail"...
it is dangerous to go out on the lake...the ice would have been gone by now if the weather had stayed mild....

XO

2011-03-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

the Capitol on my way home from work tonight...

finally some good news: Dane County Judge Maryann Sumi said she will issue a temporary restraining order to stop Gov. Walkers's budget repair bill from becoming law...
a small victory, but a victory non the less!

this government has got to start playing by the rules, he started it by trying to "railroad" the bill through before anyone had a chance to see what it was all about...and i can tell you first hand, it isn't pretty! he wants to set us back 50 years...decades of work with environmental issues, social services, schools, jobs...kaput! this just doesn't make any sense to me at all....there are so many things in this budget repair bill that will devastate not only Wisconsin, as other Gov. have the same warped ideas, but states all across the country....the people are waking up to their self serving, don't give a crap about people attitude...and they are taking action....on a much more peaceful note, the Supermoon is up and beautiful, tomorrow will be a beautiful day.......

XO

2011-03-17T15:42:00.000-07:00

Marge ended up getting "dry socket" after his oral surgery....good grief, he's been off all week...:)
we headed downtown to get some lunch and check out the scene at the Capitol....

a lot of people still gathering...

odd as these two may seem, i love to see how people express themselves...

Tahoe is doing better, probably won't let her run for at least a full week...by then the ice will be unsafe anyway...so we'll have to walk on lead...

so much going on in the world...and i wonder what the real story is...we just see the periphery of the actual suffering...
like a t-shirt said, "the hippies were right...peace"

XO

2011-03-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

http://vimeo.com/21141080

this is a wonderful short video of the people of Wisconsin....the truth is not covered well in the media, there are so many shady political maneuvers being made......cover-ups, partial truths..mainly lies...Walker is not for the people, much less the state of Wisconsin...like my sign says, "Walker, everyone is entitled to be stupid, but you abuse the privilege"

2011-03-16T05:08:00.000-07:00

Benny and Tahoe at the "beauty parlor"Benny on the Capitol square....

the Capitol building is open, but security remains in place...have to go through a metal detector to enter....
some scenes on State Street...

the crowds are gone, but people continue to circle the Capitol holding signs, cars honking, people singing in the Capitol rotunda.....

yesterday may have been the last day on the lake...i think Tahoe finally over did it....she has "wet" tail, "dead" tail......a condition from over exercising...she is unable to wag or lift her tail...poor thing, no running for her for a couple days!

and as you can see in the header, the cranes are back! a sure sign of spring!

XO

2011-03-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

a beautiful day in Madison! of course it was perfect for the dogs!

the ice is about 14 inches thick...so no worries "yet" of falling through...:)i think this is the first, and only picture i have of Benny in "full flight"!

tomorrow these two scruffy dogs are getting groomed...at Tabby-n-Jacks on the Capitol square...(see where this is heading...) i'll take a few laps in show of solidarity....and maybe pick an appropriate bumper sticker...

hey! no peeing in the lake!!

spring is in the air....and just in the knick of time!

XO

2011-03-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

went to the gym this morning, took the dogs on the lake for a long run, and headed downtown....

the scene is dramatically different from yesterday...by about 130, 000 people!a parade around the square...former Mayor Paul Soglin...(actually running again! yeh)

the people are still out with their signs....making their voice heard

the steps yesterday that were impossible to even get near, are now easy to navigate...

families from all over the state, who came in solidarity, are finishing up their weekend in Madison......back home and unsure of what the future will bring, especially for their children...

a great day to be downtown, feeling the energy.....

Peace.....xo

2011-03-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

went down to the Capitol about 9:00 this morning with Lou, it was super windy and COLD...we only lasted about an hour....

about 1:30 the sun broke through the clouds and i headed back downtown...(marge was resting comfortably with the dogs!)

i have never seen this many people at the State Capitol....

the 14 Democrat Senators that "fled" the state, to give the people of wisconsin a chance to read the ridiculous budget bill! made their return home! i listened to each of them speak, the crowd chanted "thank you, thank you" over and over again after each one spoke...

love this!

i parked myself in the sun, out of the wind and soon had some new friends...:)

i feel proud to live in Wisconsin and especially grateful to live in the beautiful city of Madison! the people of Wisconsin are like none other...thank you Scotty for bringing us together....in a BIG way!

(go to my other blog for my favorite dogs at the rally pics!)

2011-03-11T15:38:00.000-08:00

marge had oral surgery today, took today and tomorrow off to play nurse.....i put him to bed and headed down to the Capitol...

scenes from friday....

see a lot of the same people day after day....the energy is palpable....
i hear over and over how people feel the same way i do...unable to stay away from this beautiful Capitol building, that signifies horror because of who is in it, but also peace and solidarity because it is the peoples house....
looking forward to tomorrow......

2011-03-10T14:01:00.000-08:00

Losing Democracy in Wisconsin....
(if you're not interested in this issue, exit now)

6p last night the 18 rep. state senators, took the collective bargaining bill, OUT of the "budget" bill...therefore rendering it not in the stalled bill, without needing a quorum, and voted it through....when it was all about the "budget"... getting rid of collective bargaining would reduce the budget....well, i think it the real reason is obvious...it never had anything to do with the budget and everything to do with advancing a national corporate agenda.....Walker is an liar and cannot be trusted! i think he's proved that....

i arrived at the Capitol this morning at 8:00am...during regular business hours.... the doors were not open....

people continued to gather....Jesse Jackson addressed the crowd....

two large public high schools attended the rally, the kids thought it was important to show their support!

at 11:00am the doors were open....i was the 3rd one in, everyone has to go through security....people were waiting up to two hours to get in....

dressed in riot gear to protect the republicans.....

Jesse Jackson addressing the people in the Capitol...

met up with two of my co-workers from the Vet School....Lucy and Sheila

feeling less anxiety and sadness, i left the Capitol at 1p....the sun was shining and the scene outside was just as wonderful....

not much policing going on...this is a peaceful protest...still no arrests have been made...(even though last night it was reported that some windows had been broken out and people were climbing in....partly true....the window was opened...)

saturday will likely be a huge day for demonstrations.....i'll update you then....

somebody said: people in Libya are dying for their democracy....they TOOK our democracy in less than 10 min.
it is a very sad day in Wisconsin.....but it is not over!

2011-03-06T13:53:00.000-08:00

a beautiful sunny, but cold day.....the lake is slick ice....no water today!

i was worried in this picture...Tahoe was running toward me full speed and i didn't want her to slip on the ice, and rupture a ligament...:) (i worry too...)

spent a couple hours downtown checking out the scene...about 5000+ people....men, women, children, dogs....old and young.

i sure am getting an education in politics!....and i don't like it at all!

hope your weekends were peaceful...

XO

2011-03-04T04:31:00.000-08:00

this is the scene from the State Capitol yesterday....the doors remained locked....with about 50 protesters still inside the building, and about 100 police officers....

the blow up palm trees are in response to a FOX news report showing "riots" in downtown Madison...only there were palm trees lining the streets! we are in the frozen tundra here FOX news!

those who were allowed to enter the Capitol were subjected to full body screening

the now "famous" Ian's Pizza that has been inundated with orders from all over the world to feed protesters....

scenes from the New Orleans style funeral march up State Street to the Capitol....this march had easily 5000-7000 people...

the police have been wonderful...but have to do their job, to protect the "palace" as ordered by the "king".....

shortly after this pic, there was an announcement that a court order was ruled to open the Capitol building during normal business hours! after several hours of negotiating...ensuring the people that the Capitol would open to the public at 8:00am the protesters left the building....some have been inside for 3 weeks! there is now an arrest warrant for the 14 dems who have left the state....Walker is getting desperate....but the 14 won't step foot into the state until Walker agrees to table the collective bargaining portion of the bill, so they have time to negotiate....and Walker refuses to negotiate....

and i can tell you the people of the state are not going to back down either!

this blog might be a political blog for a while....sorry....i have to direct my feelings for this somewhere....frankly i can't concentrate on much more, it is hard to have a normal routine these days....i can't internalize my disdain for this situation....not good for the soul....
so thank you for hanging in there with me! :)
(i also have friends and family across the globe that i like to keep abreast of the situation from home)

2011-03-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

turn up the volume.....3/3/11 march to the Capitol

2011-03-01T14:41:00.000-08:00

Walker announced his budget yesterday....the Fab 14 are still out of state, and the public was not allowed into the State Capitol yesterday....even so, the 15,000 + crowd was peaceful....still after 3 weeks of "riots" there have been no arrests!

the most devastating news comes to the children of Wisconsin...cutting funding for education....equaling $550 per child...how will this help the future?

the signage continues to impress....

this is Marge in front of the gov. mansion....on our way home, had to stop and make a brief statement!

look what i did today! Yes, indeed, i took a snowboard lesson! After skiing for 45yrs i decided to take on a new challenge! so much different than skiing, but i really enjoyed it and my instructor Randy was an awesome teacher...

we were suppose to climb tuesday night, but decided instead to go downtown to join the protest.....i'm glad we did...

2011-02-28T16:36:00.000-08:00

went to the Capitol today...(i live about 4 miles away)

on the way there i drove by the Governors mansion....a whole lot of security!they locked the doors and would not allow anyone into the building, eventually they did, at 1p instead of 8a as stated yesterday...there are still protesters inside the building...the orders from "above" state that you can no longer bring anything inside the Capitol....no food for the people that are doing the dirty work for us, they will only allow a certain number of people in, and you must go through security...."he" is threatening the Fab 14 that if they don't come back to the state tomorrow, that the lay offs will begin...go for it! "he"is announcing the budget tomorrow and doesn't want anyone in the building to make noise....

this is unconstitutional, this is a public house....but "he" doesn't care...

the people of the state will not give up! it is not about the money or the unions...it's about a narcissistic a-hole who is in his own dream world....he doesn't care about any of the people of Wisconsin...

the political ads are rampant....as if we were in the middle of an election....crazy shit.....

i am proud of the protesters, i am proud of the Fab 14, i am proud of the enormous amount of support...(we need more, too bad Obama has his hands full....) and i am proud to live in this beautiful city of Madison!