Hubs & Lubs

I think UPS is stealing my husband.

They get to see him 12-14 hours a day

I get to see him for maybe an hour before it's time to meet Mr. Sandman

Isn't it ironic?

That around the holiday season we never see each other.

I look forward to seeing him on Christmas

Which is the last day we have together this year.

Gross.

UPS you suck.

I despise you.

But, I will defeat you.

Soon we will be back together. Like normal.

Like it should be.

When One Door Closes...

After much prayers, tears, worries, and faith I have a new job. Not just any new job, but the job (if you know what I mean).

Let me start by saying my goal in life is to one day own a rescue group to help homeless animals everywhere. I have always wanted to stand up and give a voice to such beautiful and soulful creatures who are in need and deserve help. So, although I have graduated with a Vet Tech degree, I knew my eyes were set on much bigger things then just working in a hospital. Don't get me wrong, working as a vet tech is really rewarding and we need a lot of great ones out there.

While doing my search I came across a doggy day care opening and applied. Really at that point in my mind I was searching for anything that will bring in money that is associated with animals, and if I wanted a vet tech job, I could keep searching. I went for my first interview last week, and when I walked in I just felt like I was home. The place is big and well kept. They even take care and board cats (whoda thunk?) So I took the second interview, and in the mean time had two other interviews lined up for vet tech jobs.

Yesterday was my second interview with the dog day care place, and although I had reservations they all melted away. They had so much to offer. They have a full spa, grooming, pet boutique, day care, boarding, and coming soon is a DVM practice, and also dog training to offer.

I got the call late last night negotiations all the details - but I took it! I am so excited to be a part of a great team, and work with my favorite - dogs! Also, walking into a company as a manager level is pretty damn awesome if you ask me. I am so lucky - and I know their are bigger things in store for me there. I also know I made the right choice for me and my family.

Here are some awesome pictures of the place

Here is the big dog play place. lots of room to run, and there is an outdoor area as well.

Here is the cat room of course. The cats who are more anti social stay in kitty condos. Others who want to play jump up and down and all around these awesome towers. It is kitty heaven! 

Last is the little dog room. Tons and tons of space, along with outdoor area as well. These guys are pampered to say the least! I enjoy cuddling my new friend coco who is a tiny dachshund. 

I feel like the luckiest kid on the block. When I was offered the job, the owner went out of her way to let me know all the staff I met in the second interview really liked me, and asked her to hire me. First impressions really do count right? It is a very humbling experience.

So I officially start this up coming Monday. I also get to bring Reggie and Frankie to work with me every day, and they seem pretty excited about that too.

I am so thankful, thankful, thankful!

Job Problems

Remember how I haven't had any job bites in a month? Well hold your tiny ponies, because this girl has gotten three interviews set up in the last week!

Whoa?!?

Everything coming in at once is nice to know that I am wanted out there. My first interview was at a dog daycare and I seriously rocked it! I have a second interview on Monday with them, and a Vet Tech interview on Tuesday. I also did an online interview today - who knew people did that? I am so out of the loop.

Anyway now I have the awesome problem of picking where I want to go with my life. As of right now, I am actually leaning into the daycare. They have a lot of potential to grow, and I like that idea. A ton. I am very lucky, and thankful.

Wish me luck!

Life Update & Thought Dump

I wish I could talk about Halloween, but I can't. I was a little bit impaired by jager, vodka, and crown. I suggest you never ever drink them together, don't even look at them the same time. If you do, then four days later just the thought of pumpkins makes your stomach turn.

So, it is November, and probably time for a life update. Or a thought dump.

I am out of a job, and have been for almost a month. I've been working since I was sixteen, and this is the first time I've ever been without a job since then. I feel upset and discouraged most days, but I figure if I keep up looking, something will come. Also, it is forcing me to rely on Brandon a lot more. I hate not being in control, so maybe this is someones way of telling me to chill out for a bit.

We currently have no heat at our place either. Although I like to sleep in almost sub zero temps, this house is starting to feel like the north pole. Luckily it is getting fixed this weekend, but in the mean time if you have any requests for Santa, you better tell me now.

This week I created an e-mail for my business one day I am going to run. It will be called Wilde Dogs. Cute right? I figured I better get an e-mail for it. Next step is to figure out what the hell I am going to do next. But I am going to make it happen, and I am going to make a career out of saving dogs lives. I know, I am a little crazy.

I miss my mom. The holidays are sneaking up on me, and I just want to go to her warm house and eat all the comfort foods she made. That would be the best part of not having a job, living off her warm house and warm food.

Speaking of food, all I want to eat is jerky. All day every day. I'm almost ready to go shoot a deer just so I can have more jerky. Someone make it stop.

<3

Dear Mom,

I am your first child to be a college graduate. It actually happened, I'm not sure how, but I know it happened. I owe so much of it to you. It seems like not too long ago I was graduating high school

Yeah, this is an awkward photo of me, but it is the only one I have handy. I remember then how proud of me you were. When college came around, you helped guide me into what I wanted to build a career in. We went to Broadview University and took a tour. You and I joked around a lot about how I was going to wear scrubs all day, and work with animals (finally). You were there when I signed the papers to get in, you where there when I got my first A. Although with the turn of events sadly you were not there to see me carry on.

I remember the day I visited you in the hospital, and you were bragging about how I was going to be a "doggie nurse" soon. I felt embarrassed especially since you were telling all the hot men nurses about it. I know you got a kick out of that. I am glad we had that moment because I think about it often. How I could feel your pride for me shining through the entire room. So when it was my turn to stand up to get my degree, I imagined you beaming with pride and telling everyone how I am now a doggie nurse. I hope you were able to see the end, and that I did accomplish something major. I was able to get through the hard times because of you, because there was no way in hell I was going to let you down. The entire family was there, and it was love all around.

Thank you for being my inspiration in life. I want to do the best in life, and have you shine through me and my life. Love you, love you, love you. I miss you too.

With love,

Rachel

It's A Bum's Life

I can officially say I have GRADUATED! I am overjoyed and tear up just thinking about all those hard times with the blood sweat and tears. And now after so many hours and years of working day in and day out. All those days and nights spent up all night studying or staying in school until midnight working on projects. All of that is behind me now. So I have been spending the last week doing practically nothing. Can ya blame a sister? I'm just trying to re-charge my battery and soak in life, before I start up a huge new chapter in my life.

In the mean time I've been reading, hanging out with my family, waiting patiently (and sometimes not so much) for my husband to get home, and of course spending a lot of time with my baby boys. Last weekend was such a blast! Our family dressed up and headed over to the muttster mash with our other friends. We looked hot!

I had a great time watching Reggie and Frankie run around like maniacs. They had such a fabulous time and I always have a good time doing anything dog related. I was the devil, with Frankie being my hell hound. Reggie was a cop and tagged along his prisoner Brandon. Even with my great costume matching, we didn't win best costume. However, in the best trick competition Reggie won for playing dead! I never thought that trick would come in handy some day. He won a free grooming session there. Since he is terrified of being groomed I am going to put Frankie in his place. After they stole every snack and treat they could, we left and the boys slept great that night. I always like to go to dog events and enjoy time with my family.

That picture of us together makes my heart sing happy songs. I like it when I get to do something to help out other animals, while enjoying my own. Life doesn't get better then that.

Am I A Hater?

I try really, really hard to give people a clean slate when I meet them. No matter what so-and-so has told me, or the stories I've heard, I try not to judge. Seriously, I really do.

But, can I be honest for a minute? I really try to like people - but there are some people, I just don't like. If my instincts tell me something isn't right, well it is pretty much over for me and that person. Is that wrong of me? Am I a hater?

Because of this relationships have dimmed, to almost the point of distinction. How do I get out of my head and see what everyone else seems to see with that person? How can I get myself not to drift away so much? I don't know, but I have noticed it is happening, and maybe I need to change. Or maybe I need to just listen to my gut and get over it.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

I got a little lost trying to find their home today. I thought I was going to be late, but while panicking I found the right street. I almost passed the house while looking for it. Thank goodness Dr. Schilling's white blazer was parked in the street.

I quickly pulled over and saw her outside with an older couple. The salt and pepper schnauzer stood on the green grass, and watched me ever so carefully as I pulled out an orange blanket from the back of my car. If you've ever met a schnauzer you'd know they can get sassy when they want. This girl was no different, she barked several times wagging her tail as I walked up to the drive way. I patted her on the head, and we instantly bond, as most schnauzers and I do.

Greeting the couple, Dr. Schilling and I walk into their kitchen. It is one of those older houses, that has been kept up really well. The house is filled with love I can tell. Pictures are everywhere of dogs, children, grandchildren, and sayings that say "Our Heart is with Our Home". I kneel down in the kitchen and place the orange blanket on the floor. I can't look anywhere else besides the orange blanket.

Watching the lady pet the little schnauzer on the head, I hurt. Because, I know it is her last time. I place the schnauzer in my lap and pet her while the rest talk. I notice how frail and skinny she is. I note to myself how brave the owners are. Will I be this brave one day?

Everything is prepped and ready to go. To be honest, I am not sure what to expect. One second I'm holding the schnauzer, and the other second I am holding my first lifeless body. The couple cry, as the Dr. reassures them this was the right thing to do. I keep holding her, honored I was apart of the last moments of her life.

As I walk out of the house, orange blanket in tow, the woman touches my arm. Tears filled in her eyes, she thanks me for my help. She knows the feelings are mutual as I wipe a tear from my eye. Dr. Schilling gives me a hug before I go - and I know I am so blessed.

I got a little distracted on my way home today. I thought I was going to be late, but I made it just in the nick of time. I ask for Reggie and Frankie. I am picking them up from doggie day care. I look through the window and watch all of the dogs there run and play. I smile, and think of all healthy happy pups with great parents. When I see Reg and Frankie run to me and lick my face, I know I am so blessed.

I feel whole again.

Somewhere between here and there

Ok - my last post was a mad one. But, it made me feel better, so sue me. I find myself strong in a lot of ways, but also am very weak when it comes to others. I usually take things too personally when really bad things are said about me. So I left that place with a very bruised ego and very little confidence in myself. I hate showing weakness, but that has to happen to make me stronger. God has a way of pushing me until I break, then I become more humble, things get better, and then I am suddenly being pushed again.

A vicious, vicious cycle I tell you.

I can say now life is on the mend. I found a better vet hospital who took me in with arms open wide. It has only been a week of me being there, but I think this is where I should have been from the start. I hope they feel the same way about me. I am still walking on thin ice, thinking it might crack at any moment. I think that will have to happen until I feel more comfortable and know they are not going to dump me for no real reason. They have to learn to trust me, and I have to learn to trust them as well.

Also, I survived August. It is always a freak show parade of birthdays. Between Brandons, Rons, Angels, Spencers, Trents and my birthday keeps me on my toes all month. Just when I feel like I can relax, Halloween is right around the corner.

I am ready for a new start, a new season, and my favorite holiday. I'm also way beyond ready to graduate and start being a grown up for real. I mean, after all - I am 24 now!

Open Letter

Dear really crappy vet hospital,

I am in an awe for words on what assholes you all are. Finding out earlier tonight while half way through my internship that you are terminating me is total crap. I worked hard, and always did my best. I cleaned every day, asked questions, and was polite to everyone. For you to terminate me because I didn't "fit in with the other girls at the practice" is total shit. Those people yelled at me for no reason, nor did they ever give me good or bad advice with anything. No one ever had the balls to tell me I was doing anything wrong the entire four weeks I was there. You took the cheep way out and instead of helping me, terminated me without really explaining why. Apparently there was a target on my back from week one, and no one told me then either. Apparently I am learning the hard way how to graduate.

You think you might have won, but one day you will be sorry you don't have me working for you. Mark my words, I am better then you gave me credit for.

Sincerely,

Rachel

P.S. Learn how to take better care of your patients. As in, not playing favorites - and being there for every animal that comes into your office.

Dear Mom,

Lately, I find myself staring into Reggie's eyes and asking him what the meaning to life is. I'm searching for a soulful response, but am always given the look back saying, I really don't know either.

Gosh I miss you. I know if I asked you what the meaning of life is, you'd have something inspiring to say. I'd be in aw of your wisdom, and ponder often about what you said. If only I could just have words of encouragement from you. I don't handle change well. We both know that without a doubt. As a 13 year old girl I couldn't sleep over at a friends house, because I couldn't stand sleeping somewhere else besides my bed. I'd call you right when it was time to go to bed crying. I wanted to go home.

That feeling has never left me. Working at xango was like being in a very nice room with a king size bed, and the air at a crisp 68 degrees. Leaving seemed easy enough, although now at my externship I'm in a very unfamiliar place. I find myself wanting to cry in the bathroom, because I feel so out of place. I am starting from the ground up. It is silly to feel this way though. Just like my friends house, the new hospital I am at treats me well. The people are nice, and so far I haven't been yelled at by a doctor. So far I am doing well. Trying my hardest, but yet still feeling like I am falling short somehow. I come home thinking about how I could have done things better. I can't enjoy my time with Brandon, because I am too busy thinking about what I will have to do tomorrow. I want to shed everything off me when I leave that place for the day. I want to come home and feel recharged for the next day. I want to call you and cry over the phone over how much I hate change. I want to hear you sympathize with me and my situation, then tell me I can get through this. That most likely everyone has felt the way I do now.

For now I'll write you this letter and hope somewhere you are reading it. I'll trust in myself that I am doing the right thing, and wherever this path leads me will be the correct one. That is what you'd want me to do. Although, all of this would be a lot easier if Reggie could just tell me the meaning of life.

I love you with everything that I am.

-Rachel

Boys Night Out

My boys all got a make over.

It all started when I had the urge to give Frankie some red nails.

Arn't they pretty?

Reggie looks sassy in orange.

Brandon chose the dainty sky blue. (Ignore the crappy paint job)

I'm lucky to have such secure men in my life. Who let me frantically paint their nails when I have the urge.

Here's The Scoop

Me and Xango are dunzo.

Today was my last day after six years of working at that place. I have my externship coming up, and couldn't work out a schedule that would fit work and school into my life. So, work eliminated my position, sort of making a choice for me in the right direction. This entire thing is positive. I am so grateful to not be working there, and to moving on to things I love much more - like Vet Medicine for instance!

So, this coming Monday I start my externship at Sugarhouse Vet Hospital. I can't wait to do something I love, and learn new things. I can't wait to be in surgeries and take blood. It is funny how life works out. Answers to my prayers were given today. I am thankful, thankful, thankful!

A fresh new start is exactly what I need in life. As my sweet Grandma put it "Life is about growth and moving forward. If there is no change in your life, then you need to reevaluate." She is so smart.

P.S. I have cute dogs.

Are You Out There? It's Me Rachel

Do I still have blogging buddies? I'm missing you all. Is it because I'm boring? Give me a good topic to blog about, and let me know you are still there, friend.

Anyone? Anyone?

I'm A Blogger (Sorta)

I seriously just don't know what to say. Somehow it is already July 15th, and my brother is turning the big 16 this weekend. Where does all the time go?

I have been spending my time with friends, family, reading, going to the dog park, and kissing my dogs until they can't stand it anymore. The weather has been so great, I stay up until one in the morning, watching the sun go down every night. Of course I also spend time with my adorable husband. Can't forget that.

Although life is good, I often find myself day dreaming about how I never have to work and I live my life as I please. As in "Oh, it is Tuesday! I feel like flying to Vegas for the night to watch the night life." And I would do it, because I could!

I would buy this big house, and spend lots of money in the decor. Making it feel like home. I'd visit my mom more often, and bring her flowers every Thursday. The dogs would go everywhere with me, and people will start to say around the city "There's Rachel again with those two crazy pups!" I'd sit in the sun and let it melt away the bad. I'd swim in pools drinking any cold beverage I could find. In my spare time I'd volunteer at different shelters, doing what I could for homeless animals.

Yeah, life is perfect in my day dreams. If I close my eyes tight enough, I can hear the ocean tide and seagulls chirping.

Friday Photo

I'm having a good picture day, which is a must share.

I'll post about the 4th of July... sometime.

Say What?

Once my Mom and I were talking about wedding rings. Being the great girlfriend I was at the time, I put Brandon on the spot and said...

"How much would you ever spend on a engagement ring?"

To which he replied

"I don't know. Maybe around $10,000?"

I think my Mom and I both choked on our drinks and then laughed hysterically. My mom ended up saying, "Either he has no idea what he is talking about, or has some type of brain tumor. Either way, take him up on that!"

And I totally did.

So Close/So Far Away

I would have graduated today. I would have been in a blue gown with my classmates, shaking some random persons hand and getting my degree. But, instead I'm sitting in my bed watching some dumb show.

I took a semester off last year to get married. Honestly I did it for all the right reasons, but I can't help but feel a knife in my stomach a little bit when I see my friends graduate before me.

I just am trying to have a pep talk with myself that sooner then I know it, I'll be graduating too. Sometimes it just seems so far away. Almost unachievable. I never thought I would be a college graduate. I have taken the long road that's for sure. Started out in a community college taking classes just to avoid paying rent at home. Had a few good classes, and a lot of crazy teachers. Then I took a intro to Vet Tech class, and knew I wanted to go farther. With the help of my parents I started at Broadview University at the end of 08.

If I look back on the road of my college life I am surprised how far I've gone. The worst is behind me, and my future is so close I could tongue it.

I only have one quarter left to go. A Vet Tech National Exam review class, and of course my externship. At the end of September I should be in that blue gown, shaking someones hand, and getting my degree.

It seems so close, but why does it feel so far away?

Proud Mommy

Over the weekend Brandon and I went to Dog Days. It's a festival where you can bring you dogs, adopt dogs, and do almost anything dog related! I helped Utah Friends of Basset Hounds with their booth this year, and might have even got a hound adopted.

When I had some down time, Brandon and I took Reggie and Frankie over to try out the lure race. It is where a a fox tail is on some kind of zip line, and the dogs chase after it going through hoops and jumps. Frankie ran half way through, then ran back to the start. He didn't really get how to do it.

Reggie was a complete natural though. He flew through the course with ease. Here is a video of his second run. He got a little distracted when he saw Brandon, but other then that he did GREAT! I am such a proud Mom. Just look at him go!

Mom's Bling

Last night I received my Mom's wedding ring. The diamond was given to my mom by my dad. When they divorced, she got a new band and put the same diamond in.

Growing up I always admired it, and wanted it for my own one day. It is the only thing I have that my two parents shared, and last night my step dad Ron gave it to me.

Of course this is a bitter sweet thing. I'm glad to be wearing it though. Gives me a piece of her around me at all times.

She had great taste in rings too. I must have got that from her.

Dogs In Uniform

Today at work we had a bunch of police dogs come to work. I think I watched them for over an hour. I was ecstatic. I'm sure you can't believe that, right? Most police dogs are shipped from Europe where they train the dogs, and then ship them to the states. The dogs today listen to commands in Dutch. Pretty fascinating. Look what these bad boys can do!

A Thought Dump

I currently have the shingles. WORST THING EVER! This is my second time, and I am miserable. Just sayin'. And no, it isn't a crazy infections disease. So you don't have to cringe when I say it.

I have great in-law family. While sick they all called and texted to make sure I was ok. Also, despite my horrible ways, they still love and accept me. I get along with everyone, especially Amelia. I love to spend time with everyone.

I am missing Brittni. It is hard to have your best girlfriend not close. In fact, our entire relationship has been long distance. I can't wait until one day we live next door (even if she doesn't want to). And I can come over to her house to eat and talk all the time. How lovely.

I have the best husband. I hate it when people say that, but since I don't say it all the time I have to say it now. I  couldn't ask for a more tender soul. You have no idea what he goes through for me.

I also am missing my family down in Orem. My sister and brothers are getting so old, and I feel like I am missing everything. I wish we lived closer and saw them more.

I am on a Pepsi kick lately. Seriously can't get enough of it.

Did I mention I have shingles? And that the rash/sore is on my face? I've walked around all weekend with a swollen left eye/face and have had everyone stare. Embarrassing!

I wish I lived in a house. With a nice back yard, and that I never had to work. I would only work when I felt like it. And spend the rest of my time playing with my dogs.

I have a dirty secret that I DVR all the horrible reality TV shows. I can't stop either. I am really excited Keeping Up with the Kardashions is back on. Yeah, I told you it was a bad addiction.

I hate it when people start out stories saying "I was so wasted..." That is tacky.

I love my dad. He is so sweet. Tonight while hanging out he said, "I really love your husband". Melts my heart.

You know what else melts my heart? My two baby boys. I love coming home and getting kisses from them.

That is all.

I Love Me

For the sake of writing something positive on this less-than-exciting Tuesday, here are ten things I love about myself.

1. I say it like it is - I'm known for being blunt, and when I was younger my loud mouth would get me into trouble all the time. I think over the years I've learned how to manage it, and put it to good use. Although, sometimes I can get a little harsh. But, I love that about me too.
2. I love dogs. People just don't get it either. I can't help it, it's just in my DNA to love them.
3. I sing in the car from the moment I close the door to leave, till the moment I open the door and turn off the car.
4. If I could sit and people watch all day, I would.
5. I have great taste in men. Point in case, my sexy ass husband.
6. I can clean really well IF I want to. Thats a big if.
7. I can make people laugh. When I get in a big group of people, or especially when I'm at a party this strange light turns on inside of me, and I become this party animal/stand up comedian. No liquid courage needed.
8. There is no rhyme or reason to my choices in music, movies, or books. I just like what speaks to me.
9. If any Lady Gaga track comes on I must dance and sing to it. No matter the circumstances around me.
10. I can almost name and recognize all dog breeds. Just don't ask me to spell any of them.

Happy Tuesday!

Something Isn't Right

Do you ever get that feeling that something isn't right? You go around and around in your mind trying to figure out why you feel this way, but nothing justifies it?

No matter how hard I try lately I am feeling this way. It is this gut feeling I can't get to pass. My gut has never steered me in the wrong direction in my life, so I take it seriously when I am being told something.

Is it with my friends? Work? School? Marriage? Family?

Something isn't right, but what is it?

The Sick Remedy

Being sick is the worst. I don't know about you, but I sit around all day praying to find the strength to get out of bed, and do something productive. I especially hate missing work and school while sick. I'd rather be faking it and doing something more fun with my free time.

There are some upsides to being sick though. I like to call it Rachel's sick remedy. It involves a classic romantic comedy. Today's choice is It's Complicated.


Along with a lot of coke and sprite to drink, lots of medication, and two adorable dogs to snuggle with while waiting for the husband to come home.

What are your sick remedies? I might keep your ideas!

Journal Love

Last night was the first night Brandon was home after starting his new driver position at UPS. Have I mentioned that? I have a husband who comes home at night and fixes me dinner so I don't starve. Since the beginning of Rachel + Brandon time we have never hung out on the weeknights because he is always working. Now that has all changed, and I like it.

While he was sleeping his life away I decided to write in my journal. I've kept one since I was 12 I think. To me it's very important to document your life, and be honest about it. Especially since after my mom died the journal she had was supa lame (sorry mom). She would have like one entry per year. Not kidding.

This is going off on some sort of strange tangent, but I had a really quirky title and idea of what to write on my blog last night. Of course that thought didn't come to me until 11:30 at night, and I can't seem to recall all that wittiness I came up with then. Why am I always coming up with creative and genius ideas in the middle of the night?

Anywho I was writing in my journal as to keep myself entertained and not wake up the husband. Then it hit me - I have WAY too many journals right now. I have my own personal journal, a marriage/love journal, and a dog journal. Yeah, I said it - a dog journal!

So I spent over an hour and a half writing in each one. Its all a haze really, I don't have the slightest idea of what I wrote in any of them. I guess I am obsessed with writing things down, it might come in handy one day.

Am I the only one out here in blog world that journals a lot, but still considers herself hip and cool and never uses the sentence "I'm going home to journal" even though she sort of wants to?

Anyone? Anyone?

Strut Your Mutt 2011

Strut Your Mutt was above and beyond what I was expecting last weekend. Brandon and I woke up early to get to the park so we could check in. I think Reggie and Frankie were more excited then I was!


We quickly met up with our team Utah Friends of Basset Hounds who were at the front of the start line. It was easy to find them considering all the basset hounds howling.


The walk was great. Everyone walked around the park in unison. I had a lot of time to think about how Brandon and I accomplished a lot by raising $390 and being around people who felt as passionately as I did. It was a rare moment in time where I felt like I was doing exactly what I should be doing - especially for a very special cause that doesn't get enough recognition. Once the walk was over, because we raised a certain amount of money we were able to go to the VIP area, which was fabulous!


We had breakfast


The boys got pedicures


We even had a pet physic that did a reading on Reggie and Frankie. It was very interesting. I was told Reggie is thankful that I put ice in his water (which I've done for years - and everyone made fun of me for it). She also said Frankie was glad to be in a forever home. Along with a lot of other silly things. I have to say I was impressed, it was a good time.

Most importantly we relaxed and enjoyed the beautiful day.





I can't thank everyone enough for the donations, love, and support we had. Thank you for helping me do something very important. Rest assured I'll be doing the same thing all over next year.

Everyone was just a little tired after all was said and done.

Addicted

I may or may not love the experience of having/getting a tattoo. And when I say may or may not... I mean I do love it. A lot.


Dumb questions people ask me:

• Did it hurt? Yes - its a needle going into my skin over and over again, it hurts.
• Why behind the back of the ear? Um, because I wanted to. Also, it is easy to hide if needed.
• Is that a bone? Yes
• Is it because you like dogs? Yes, you could say that.

I hate trying to explain why I got the tattoo or what it means to me. Because most people won't get it, and already judge because it is a tattoo.

But I love it, and it is apart of me now. Which is pretty awesome.

Dear Mom,

Well obviously I miss you. The farther time passes after I saw you last, the more lost for words I am on what to write you. This is silly to me, because if we were talking on the phone right now I'd probably have a million things to tell you about.

I sort of feel awkward writing you letters. I'm not exactly sure why either.

The other night while I was laying in bed trying to fall asleep, Frankie was in the crook of my arm drooling and snoring. It was such a beautiful moment. I felt like I was looking for him my entire life, just like I do with Reggie. So I laid there staring at the ceiling wondering how I got to this point. Then I thought of you. And I was sad. Sad of course that you are not around, and sad that I couldn't introduce Frankie to you.

Then I thought to myself. Well he was born a year ago, which was after you died - so I am sure you have met him. Maybe a year and a half ago you were laying down with him in the crook of your arm listening to him snore and drool.

I smiled a big huge gigantic smile. In the dark. By myself. (well, with the dogs obviously)

That was a silly image in my head, so I had to smile about it. I was telling Ron on Mother's Day this year that I don't really cry about you too much anymore. I think it is because I am busy with so many other things, that I don't give myself the luxury to sit around eating bon-bons and licking my wounds over you passing. I do still think about you. Every day. I hope you think about me.

I'll come up with something better to write next time, promise.

Love,

Rachel

Working Hard for the Money

Lets get one thing straight I absolutely hate asking for money - hate it! Ever since I was 17 I always paid my bills and never, not even once, asked my parents for money. It was the way I was raised I guess. You just worked hard, got the money, and spent it wisely.

Now I find myself asking for money, and Lordy it is awkward. I decided this year one of my goals was to be more active in what I am passionate about, which is working with animals of course! So when I got the opportunity to walk in efforts to stop homeless pets in Utah, I was all about it. Strut Your Mutt is a fundraising walk with dogs done once a year to raise money to help No More Homeless Pets in Utah.
Ever since I started it up every person I walk into I'm like "Have you heard I'm fundraising for Strut Your Mutt?" "My goal is to raise $300, you should sponsor me!"

And people - I feel like a damn fool. However, I've decided to embrace it. I never ask for money so when I do, it is for something damn good. So good that I am willing to whore myself and my dignity (just a little bit).

So - Blogging buddies SPONSOR ME FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THE HOMELESS PETS OUT THERE!

Go HERE and click sponsor me to donate money. Anything helps.

Also, don't hate me for being one of "those" people. After May 21st I'll be back to my non-begging self.

Current Happenings

I am currently at work and had the urge to listen to Nsync's No Strings Attached album.


Its amazing how the memories just flood back to me and all of the sudden I am 14 again walking down the stairs to my room to listen to the album. Searching everywhere I seriously can't find the CD, and when I walk out of my room to ask someone if they have seen it, I see my mom speed walking/dancing her butt off on the treadmill with giant headphones on.

"Rachel! This new Nsync album is the bomb - a little dirty, but great to listen to while working out!"

And that people is why my mom is amazing.

Also later on that year my dad stood in line with me early on a Saturday morning to get tickets to their concert. He even made deals with other people in line to make sure we got tickets. Scratch my back and I'll scratch yours kind of deal. Then my dear father proceed to take me to the concert, buy me a t shirt, a seat cushion, and a program. He also tolerated me when I stood on my seat and cried the entire time for the love of my life JT!

And that people is why my dad is amazing.

On another random subject, I bought this today.


It is a stuffed shark that turns into a pillow. Enough said.

Also I love Brittni, especially when she comes up and we spend Easter weekend together.


Enough said.


P.S. Reg and Frankie are best brothers now. Exhibit A:

Life is pretty fantastic.

Answer Me This...

What the hell am I going to do without Oprah?!?!


I am seriously concerned about this. Only 24 shows left, and I am sure I am going to bawl my eyes out at the end. How am I going to know what is hip, trendy, and interesting now?

How will I fill this void?

Frankie

I have a new love in my life, and a new family member. It is my honor to introduce you to my Frankie.


He is a one year and four month old basset hound mix. Brandon and I have been in search for a new dog for several weeks now, but just couldn't seem to find the right one. We got in contact with Utah Friends of Basset Hounds who lead us to Frankie. He was at a foster home with several other basset hounds. Right when we walked in the door he was greeting us with love and affection. There is just this moment when you find the chemistry, and you know it is right.

Reggie and him got along well. Although, when I did bring him home last night Reggie was territorial over his things, but as an only child for six years I can understand that.

Frankie is so lovable and such a well behaved dog. I'm not used to how polite and patient he is with me. How did our family become so lucky? I'll have more posts in the future. But for now, here are some cute pictures of this great guy!

♥

My dear friend says yesterday, "Rachel, what has happened to your blog?"

"Um, it died?" I reply.

It has been dead for a month for two reasons

A) I'm lazy
B) My life is so boring

But, I figure I better start now rather then later. But to be honest, I don't really want to talk about all the things that has happened in the last month (or at least make a post about each one). So, here is a very brief re-cap for you.

On March 19th I went to The Monster Ball by Lady GaGa. There are no words that can describe how beautiful, and inspirational it was. Basically it changed my life, and I will never be the same. It was like being born again (no joke).




The semester ended for me. I officially passed my surgery and anesthesiology class. So, if you need your dog or cat spayed/neutered I can assist with that. Also, this means I only have two quarters left with school and I am done done done!

I went to the Color Festival. I had fun, but the weather made me feel bitter about going. I'm not sure I'll be going again next year. It is getting too big, and too crazy now.





My dad had his 48th birthday, and I love him to pieces.


And of course if you forgot, I have the most beautiful dog in the world. Who got his picture taken a week ago.




I think that about does it. Everything else in my life is pretty dull right now thanks to all of the school and work I've been doing. But, I should be posting more frequently about stuff.

Happy Friday!