hi there, I'm birdie...

Better known as the grey tornado…  I prefer to spin in circles, whether it be my body or even my tail, well I'm really just winding up!  I also enjoy the occasional somersault.  It really is a well practiced technique.  It helps when I am trying to be elusive, you see.  I am a total people pleaser and overall curious girl.  I learn commands super fast, and wouldn't you know, I don't even mind going to the doggie doctor!  Especially if there is a cookie involved (and hey, I can't help it if the drool gets the best of me… those treats need to get in my belly faster, okay?).  I've come a long way in kennel training… as a matter of fact I'm pretty sure the kennel is actually called "cheerios."  What a funny name for a wire box full of blankets and beds and cuddly, snuggle babies!  Did I mention I LOVE FOOD!?  It's a really good thing they make these interesting looking puzzle bowls to help me slow down at meal times, that way I can actually taste what I'm eating.  Even my weim foster sister wanted one, because they are just so fun to eat out of, it's like a game!  Penny's also been busy showing me the ropes, and we are currently working on sharing toys and taking turns :)  Now sometimes my excitement gets the best of me… one day I accidentally knocked over Grandma.  Whoopsie.  It's a good thing she was wearing her parka and it has all that extra padding!  I mean, I was just so surprised and happy to see her standing there when I turned around- honest!  I promise I snuggled up to her later and told her I was sorry…  As a matter of fact, I'm really happiest once I calm down and can cuddle someone, using my body as a blanket.  I make an excellent space heater, and would prefer if some part of me could be in close proximity to you (and by that, I mean in your lap, that's not off limits, right?).  Otherwise, I can dig myself a tiny little spot and curl up under the blankets in my bed (but I may sneak in your bed after you fall asleep, because I know you get chilly at night sometimes).  Now- going for daily walks is super important so the boredom doesn't set back in.  On leash or off, I just love to explore, and it's even more exciting when I have a sibling to share the scents with!  And okay, I don't love the treadmill just yet, but it does help exercise my body and my mind on those super cold & icy days when it's too dangerous to wander the neighborhood or the dog park.  Also.  I'll admit, I didn't really enjoy swimming at first, but now you just try keeping me out of that water!!  Alright alright, I know, I may just be rambling at this point, but…

Hey Bird…  Yes, mama?  I'm really glad you're happy here, how would you like to be a part of our family?  Well I am, right?…  Welcome home, Birdie… welcome home.

(-Okay okay, so I may be a leeeeeeeetle behind the game on sharing this post, seeing as how we made Birdie's adoption official in December-  Wait. Is it June??…  But I still wanted to share her crazy fun, BIG personality with you all!-)

And oh how quickly the time goes by…  I still can't believe this grey girl has been a part of our family for over a year now!!  I have to admit that when we first brought her into our home as our second foster baby, I kinda wanted to bang my head against the wall.  Like a lot.  I've never met a living being that is so damn stubborn!!!  (Let's just agree she gives me a run for my money & I'm probably getting what I deserve.)  But man is she full of life and energy- and can she be oh so sweet when she's not greeting you with a face plant to your nose.  I worked so SO hard to mold her into what I thought she should be & how she should act…  But for the life of me, I just couldn't wrap my mind around how difficult my life had become when all I wanted was a playmate for Penny and to help re-home this new sweet (but crazy) girl into our lives.  And then just when I thought I'd reached my absolute boiling point, I happened along a television program one day and heard this:

My usual techniques with the dogs I looked after worked so perfectly, except with [Birdie.]

Because you make [Birdie] personal.

Well it IS personal.

Mmmmmm it is and it's not.  If you make it personal, then you make it about you.  That's when it's not good.  And that says that we need to work on something personal.

So [Birdie's] an example of me having the dog I need and not the dog I want… 

… God is good.

A few days passed and it was like a lightbulb had suddenly clicked on…  Then this happened.  If that wasn't enough of an ah hah moment for me, well here's another one.  I'm a sucker for whatever random chick flick happens to be on the screen at the moment, and it just so happens Hope Floats was the lucky winner this day.  Now let me start by saying that Birdie's previous owner made mention she was named after this movie…  So during this particular scene, the tears started flowing again- because of course I heard the words as if my Birdie was saying them directly to me:

...and l used to see myself in [your] eyes.

And it was like [you] saw me.

And l was audacious, Mama.  I was.

And then, l don't know, things just started to change.

The harder l tried to be what [you] wanted me to be...

...the less I saw myself in [your] eyes.

Just one day, I looked and I was gone.

It was heartbreaking.  That's when it really hit home.  Stop trying to change what's around you and instead focus on how you can make yourself a better person.  And it may take time, but the rest will fall into place, my friends.  And don't forget to listen, you just never know when a little birdie may be whispering in your ear… 

mornings with grace

dear grace,

It's hard to believe it's been an entire year since I've run my fingertips over the lines of your sweet face, pressed your spotted pink nose to mine, or witnessed your goofy little grin when we walked through the door.  I remember wishing often that our time together on this earth would never end…  During one such moment, your Auntie explained it to me- why this couldn't be.  She said she came across something a little boy once said:

“People are born so that they learn how to live a good life – like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?” The four year old continued, “Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.”

These words have stayed with me… from then, until now.  Thinking back, I remember how the skies seemed to transform on the eve of the last day we shared together.  From the bleak, cold greys of winter, to beautiful sun-filled days that yearned to warm my soul…  Of course, this year was no different.  -On this morning, the 13th of January, exactly one year later, I arose from my bed just as the sun's light began to peak over the horizon.  I tip-toed through our kitchen and cracked open the back door.  The dawn's crisp air greeted me as I took a step out onto the porch.  The clouds were like rolling waves, saying their hellos, the countless colors of your spirit washing over me…  And as I stood with my bare feet pressed to the cold concrete, my face continued to linger on the heavens.  I closed my eyes and inhaled the richness of the quiet surrounding me.  Then my lips parted with a wisp of fog that accompanies warm breath on a cold day, and what followed was the whisper of your eternal name… 

cabin life

One of my favorite highlights from 2015… our first family vacation with our sweet (and crazy) girls!  We were lucky enough to stay in a friend's cabin near Taos, New Mexico this past fall- just as the autumn colors were starting to emerge, and boy was it breathtaking!  The grey girls did lots of nose-to-the-ground exploring, and really enjoyed walking the golf course each day as the guys hit a few balls.  Let's just say we could get used to life in the mountains!

swimming lessons...

Everyone says Weimaraners are natural born swimmers… Yeah, False.  Grace was not so amazing at it, especially considering her first time in the water was jumping from our boat- all because she was just that excited to be with her dad…  And our little Penny baby seems to be following right along in her older sister's footsteps.  You see, the first time she finally ventured out into the water, she froze like a deer in headlights… sweet girl.  She was neck deep in water and wouldn't budge an inch!  Now Birdie (totally fearless & yes… maybe a bit of a natural born swimmer) went straight out to Penny, not once, but twice- trying to coax her back to shore…  And that pretty girl absolutely refused to move a muscle- until mama came out to her rescue.  So… insert swimming lessons here.  And success!!  Our friend's pool + a lifevest, and she started paddling!!  Here's Birdie on the left and Penny on the right (sans lifejacket).  Good girls.

We also took a day trip to Lake Murray.  A little more practice & a lot more fun for everyone!

Of course they found the absolute perfect stick… which meant it had to come home with us.

Moral of the story, just because a dog has webbed feet, doesn't mean they will be amazing swimmers.  Sometimes they need a little extra help from mom and dad.

dog days of summer

Summer's coming to an end, and before I can post any of my "favorite time of year," autumn loveliness… I need to get caught up on this summer's happenings.  (Because I like to remember my life in some sort of seasonal order, and… I'm just a weirdo like that.)  But I kinda have a perfect reason for being a bit behind on my postings.  You see, I have been busy-busy-busy!!  (Lots of fun moments, but also some I want to pull my hair out and cry moments…)  I'm sure a few of you are aware that we've added four more paws to our home recently…  We've been fostering another furbaby for the last few months, which has been quite an adjustment for this girl!  I mean, it goes without saying that two one & a half year olds sure do have a ton of energy, right?  Understatement.  So say hello to our newest addition, Birdie (aka bulldozer, wrecking ball, & Tasmanian devil).  And take a peek at what these pretty little grey girls have been up to this summer!

the girls on their first (REALLY LONG) walk together

playing patty cake and hanging out in the yard

working on our manners so we can be proper patio pups!

visits with crazy aunt Frieda & a few summer storms

dog parks & lake days!! Oklahoma is HOT & we are practicing our swimming… 

And in case you wondered… Penny's the one on the left, in every single one of the two of them… RANDOM, I know.

ghost runners 5k dog run - web design

Volunteering for Heartland Weimaraner Rescue this past year has made me a busy little bee!!  Not to mention it has been incredibly rewarding…  (Hello!  It's brought two special someones into my life… chicken little & big bird -insert big grin here.)  I mean, what a great group of people- that are all about saving grey & blue furbabies.  Donating my time has allowed me to put my love for graphics & design to good work… planning events, designing tees, constructing flyers, & even building a shiny, brand new website!  Now our biggest fundraiser of the year is coming up soon, so you better mark your calendars…  This event is unique, because it allows you to run with your dog.  That's right I said it!  Run with your dog.  You know, the one you already train with everyday, because not only are you working on your own fitness, but you are trying to exercise that baby properly!?  It's going to be a great time for the entire family, so I hope you'll join us this October 25th!  -And here's a peek at the website I designed for the race!  Below are a few screenshots, so be sure to visit the site for all the details and to sign up!!  See you there friends!

adopting chicken little

dear grace,

Did you know, you're going to be a big sister?  She was pretty shy and nervous when we welcomed her into our home… but I just know you've been showing her the ropes.  I'm sure you're aware that she is super respectful of your bed… try not to growl at her too much, okay?  She just really wants to be a good little sister.  She didn't stand a chance of having just one name, of course.  "Chicken Little" is the obvious fallback, but she's really coming out of her shell.  Beeper came next, (it's the sound we never stop hearing…) as she runs throughout the house sharing all your squeaky little toys.  (I mean… they. are. everywhere.)  And of course there's Motorbutt… for obvious reasons.  But mostly we call her Penny.  Penny Jane (and Penny Jones, because we can't have a Gracie Jones and not a Penny Jones… hahah).  Which leads to PJ for short.  Yes.  Lots of cute little nicknames, as you are more than familiar with…  And I'm sure you've witnessed her shiny penny syndrome, yes?  Oh hi, please rub my belly… squirrel!!!!!  But we also know you have been looking out for us, so when I found this poem, it really just confirmed that we'd been right in calling her Penny all along… 

"I found a penny today just laying on the ground.  But it's not just a penny, this little coin I've found.  'Found' pennies come from Heaven, that's what my Grandpa told me.  He said angels toss them down.  Oh, how I loved that story.  He said when an angel misses you, they toss a penny down.  Sometimes just to cheer you up, make a smile out of your frown.  So don't pass by that penny when you're feeling blue.  It may be a penny from Heaven that an angel tossed to you."  -C. Mashburn

Watching us cry must have broke your heart…  And then you saw this sweet Penny and somehow made sure she would find her way to us.  She looks a lot like you, which was really hard at first, but it only makes sense… you are sisters after all.  She never has all her feet on the ground at the same time… and I know that's just because sometimes she wants to visit with her big sister in the sky…  Not a day goes by that we don't think about you…  We just miss you to pieces, sweet girl.  We didn't think it would be possible to smile again, but it's evident you are still doing your best to make that happen.  Of course, we should have known.  -Well we finally made it official & our adoption is complete.  But can you do us a favor?  Keep an eye out for your little sister.  She's a good girl, but sometimes the naughty sneaks out…  Of course I'm guessing you have no idea what that's like, do you?  Wink wink.

-loving you always…

mommie, daddy, & penny

throw kindness around like confetti...

The last five months seem to have vanished into thin air all of a sudden.  Even after I thought the first two would never end… A time when the pieces of my broken world lay all around me, and there were days when I would just find myself wanting the earth to swallow me up whole.  I just couldn't imagine my life, without my Gracie girl in it.  I still have bad days, when -as a sweet friend would say- I just ugly cry.  But I'm finding there are still lots of big hearts, warm hugs, and kind words that somehow manage to encourage me along…  Thank you to so many for reaching out.  Kindness is truly contagious.  So the next person you see…  Look at them and smile.  Wave hello.  Their world may be falling apart & they may feel completely lost… and honestly who knows?  You may just be the unexpected little boost they need in their life.

week 15

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

99. apr 23. learn how to change a tire so you can do it yourself or someday help out a stranger in need » okay, so this is a bit of a cheat day, because I learned how to do this a really long time ago… but good skill to know, especially if you drive a car!
100. apr 24. stop and pet a dog and say hello to the owner » I keep running into a couple on our walks that also has a pretty new rescue pup.  The were struggling with her at first, she has a bit of a protection/aggression issue, but I love seeing how much they've worked with her and just how far she's come!
101. apr 25. offer your car truck to a friend without wheels that needs to move big furniture » My only wish is that I could have lent a hand as well, but I know just having the truck helped greatly.
102. apr 26. make signs for the trash, recycling, and compost so it's clear what goes where » Calling all label maker lovers everywhere!!
103. apr 27. donate a little bit of money to aid disaster-relief work somewhere in the world » You may remember me boasting about my cousin's upcoming climb on Mt. Everest.  Well the Nepal Earthquake pretty much gave our entire family a heart attack, because it occurred during her ascension!  She is safe, thank goodness.  So this good deed seemed to peek out of the book right when help was needed.  I hope you'll consider making a donation as well.
104. apr 28. don't eat meat today » pretty excited to have discovered the sofritas at Chipotle (and loving that their menu is now GMO free).  Well let's just say everyone that tried mine, had no idea it wasn't meat!!  Bet you can't tell what it really is!
105. apr 29.  learn how to say "thank-you" in other languages so you can thank people in their native tongues » I've always appreciated when someone can't speak our language, but I can see that they are trying…  It may not be easy, but it shows respect.  Of course I do my best to return the favor when I am speaking to someone knowing that English isn't their first language.  It is so funny to see how tickled they get just to hear me say a few of their words!  -Danke, Merci, Gracias, Kheili Mamnoon!!  Any idea which language the last one is??

I bought the little one her very own pool and honestly thought that since she was still a puppy, I may regret the decision…  But it wasn't the flying leap into the water I had expected, hah!!  We're still working on getting in the pool, so for now it's just bobbing for toys!

week 14

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

92. apr 16. say hello to a stranger » Honestly, this is so easy & you never know when such a little gesture, such as making eye contact, smiling, and saying hello could brighten someone's day.  Do it.
93. apr 17. when someone does or says something rude or offensive, assume he/she is having a bad day and respond with compassion » Today was a day when I was doing a favor for someone that I had actually never met.  There ended up being a little confusion, and I'm pretty sure a little frustration as well.  Normally, I would respond in kind as to the mood of the conversation.  However today, I kept on my happy face and apologized for any part I may have caused in said confusion.  I also focused on making small talk that was kind and personal in nature, and wished them a good weekend.  And rather than turning sour, we were laughing and telling jokes when it was all said and done!
94. apr 18. give credit wherever you can » My sister (well actually, sis-in-law… boy, do I really confuse people on this one) has played assistant for me on a few really large shoots…  I just can't even imagine trying to do one of these without her!  I swear she is the baby/child whisperer, and has a really good eye for helping me achieve the look I want!  Thank you Sarah, for being so wonderful and helpful!!
95. apr 19. don't be overly dramatic » Another one to file in the blank pages at the end of the book, entitled what else can you do?  "Chicken Little" has a neighborhood playmate she pretty much loves…  It's another Weim- we call her Crazy Aunt Frieda, hah!  They are the cutest together, but managed to get into a teensy scuffle today.  A Hurt Feelings Report was filed, and the next day they were back to chewing sticks together… and all is well again in the neighborhood.
96. apr 20. bring your coworker a coffee local veterinary office some cookies » And take your dog!  Hey, not every vet visit needs to be a stressful stick or a poke… so make this one a social visit :)
97. apr 21. treat yourself » Hello Starbucks.
98. apr 22.  give someone one piece of constructive criticism » and don't take offense when someone gives it to you…  It's one of the best ways to grow & learn how to step outside your comfort zone.

Really missing our patio time and the redbuds already!!  Storm season has arrived…

week 13

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

85. apr 9. If you're thinking about donating money, ask a friend to contribute and increase the impact » skip your latte today (or just buy Heartland Weimaraner Rescue one too!!)  All donations will help- by providing heartworm prevention or helping pay for treatment for a weim in our foster care.  April is Heartworm Prevention Month.  Help save a life.  Giving $10 will supply one dog with prevention for an entire month!  And if you'd like to donate more, that would be wonderful as well!  We've had 4 weims come in this first quarter alone testing heartworm positive.  Their treatment can cost upwards of $800-$1000 dollars each.  Any amount helps!!  Please help spread the word by sharing this post (links below).  We really appreciate you for your support in helping these loving dogs!  Please Donate!
86. apr 10. wave hello at a four-way stop, yielding to the other person » easy peasy.
87. apr 11. accept a new friend's invitation an old friend's constant begging to come visit her » Hehehee… okay, in all fairness, this is a pretty accurate description… So after her latest plea: "please come see me!!"  We have decided to plan a girls trip and make it happen!  Sandy beaches here we come!
88. apr 12. set high expectations » This one was actually for myself… today is the Redbud Classic, and I'm participating in the 5K once again.  I really wanted to beat my previous records and push myself to run a little faster this year.  My GPS showed just below a 9 minute pace, which I was pretty excited about!  Definitely better than past runs… And when my race results were emailed to me, I finish 8th out of 93 in my division (although it shows my official pace to be 9:06).  My finish time was 28:16, and I'm quite certain this is the fastest I've run it to date!
89. apr 13. do a little dance and be silly » Take me bowling… it will happen.
90. apr 14. watch the movie that your significant other wants to watch » And yes.  It was pretty terrible, haha.  Not to mention we forgot to return it, so now we are paying double for said movie!
91. apr 15.  return a long-overdue phone call » which of course leads to a fun game of phone tag!

my "giftcard" design for our local Rescue helping spread the word on heartworm prevention

planting trees & patio time...

 

"Chicken Little" loves to help…  She frequents the local Home Depot with us quite often, as did our Gracie girl.  Since springtime is starting to make an appearance, we've decided to plant a few trees!  Here's our very first redbud (the Oklahoma State tree).  I'm pretty excited about seeing it outside my window… they are just the prettiest part of our landscape here every year, ranging from blooms of pink to purple!  Thank goodness we staked them before our first tornado of the season rolled through… and they survived the first major storm without incident.  The patio is getting a little color too, and is becoming our favorite hangout place.  The pup is sure to stick her nose in everything, checking out every new flower and herb we plant.  And after a long day of playing, chasing, & running in the sun, she settles down on the concrete to cool off for a quick nap before it starts all over again.  Hope wherever you call home, you've been able to enjoy a bit of the outdoors finally with family & friends!

week 12

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

78. apr 2. say good morning to your coworkers everyone along your morning walk/route » Make eye contact and say hello!  Last lap?  Wish them a good day!
79. apr 3. ask a friend who seems down to go for a walk » or to come hang out and chat, or join you for a cup of coffee out.  Sometimes just telling them you are there for them may be exactly what they need to hear.
80. apr 4. find ways to help others avoid embarrassment » It's as simple as politely telling someone they have something in their teeth.
81. apr 5. sign up for a run or walk that supports a special cause » Every year I look forward to the Redbud Classic and it's almost that time again!  This year's beneficiary is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.
82. apr 6. encourage somebody » I'm currently helping a friend with her blog, and while proofreading, I discovered a sweet comment in her post-  You encourage me to do better every day.  So sweet.  Really needed to hear this today.  It made me smile.
83. apr 7. look into the eyes of the person you are talking with » I sometimes catch my eyes wandering, but I find there is so much more sincerity in good eye contact, so I am working on this.
84. apr 8.  make someone laugh » or better yet, make a lot of people laugh!!  This was easily accomplished by sharing a few pics of a funny moment in our household with a few friends.

"chicken little" showing off her cat-like skills… 

week 9

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

57. feb 26. tell your dentist you appreciate him » Yes… I'm pretty sure I am the only weirdo that loves going to the dentist, but I do love me some clean teeth!!
58. feb 27. foster a kitten or puppy » teeny, tiny, baby steps…  but it's pretty impossible to look at her & not love her sweet, mischievous little face.
59. feb 28. strike up a conversation with the person working the cash register » We learned today that our cashier is a retired Marine, served in Vietnam, and moved here from Boulder, Colorado.  All because I made the comment that most people look at us like we are crazy when we say we will bag our own groceries- to which he responded, it's pretty common in Colorado…
60. mar 1. wake up thirty minutes earlier and get some exercise » and on a Sunday too, yeah buddy!
61. mar 2. clean up someone else's mess » Persian food is an all day cooking event that tends to get every pot, dish, & spoon in the house dirty (or maybe that's just because my hubby is the one making it…).  And although I may complain a lot about the aftermath of the kitchen once he is finished- ummmmm yeah…. not today people!!
62. mar 3. get some fresh air » lots of weird weather in Oklahoma, gotta get out there & enjoy it while you can!
63. mar 4. start a list of books you'd like to read for fun » lots of Dean Koontz in there lately…  Also recently picked up a book called Mosquitoland, by David Arnold (I'm not gonna lie, I kinda bought it because I love the cover, obviously… ).  Any other suggestions for me??

o'city st. patrick's day parade

Oh boy… I hope you're wearing your green today!!  (I have my pinchers ready, so watch out!)  Of course one special day of wearing green, pretty much isn't any different from any other day of mine…  But I did get to spend my Saturday loving up on a few extra cute weimies…  (You guessed it.  Day made.)  My family joined the Heartland Weimaraner Rescue group, and we got all decked out (humans and pups alike) & we marched (got pulled, trotted…) along the streets of downtown Oklahoma City for this year's annual St. Patty's Day Parade.

We even took 2nd in best dressed, yeah buddy!  Okay now, this may be just one of the reasons why…    

And if that doesn't put a huge smile on your face, well here's a few other favorites from the day!

Okay, not a weimaraner… but my sexy hubby in his green afro, well I'm really digging the vibe here…  

Of course you know I couldn't forget "chicken little"… I put on my mom hat & made her cute little outfit :)

You better believe there's a whole lot more cuteness & tutus & bowties & sequins to be witnessed from this day's festivities… so grab yourself a green beer & be sure to check out the rest!  Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

chicken little

I've recently been offering help to a local Weimaraner Rescue.  When I filled out the volunteer form, I mentioned that we wouldn't be able to foster just yet, thinking it was a bit too soon, but I really wanted to help out in other ways… fundraising, transporting, etc.  They immediately responded, asking if I could design a tee for their upcoming St. Patty's Day Parade.  The next thing I know, emails are coming back to back to back- needing transports and fosters for several different dogs… (because now I'm on the volunteer list, you see).  The email requesting help with transporting a pup had already been filled by the time it reached my eyes, however there were still a few dogs needing foster homes…  I left one of the emails in my inbox, but didn't respond to it right away, thinking someone else will scoop her right up.  But as the day went on, for some reason, my thoughts often wandered back to her.  I eventually asked where she was located and if anyone had stepped up to help her yet, to which came the reply, she's in OKC and no.  

This, of course, stirred my becomingly familiar, all too often, anxiety to the surface again… causing my heart to hammer in my chest once more.  I realized sadness was slowly becoming my new way of life.  And knowing I've always had a passion for animals, could I make the decision to pick up the shattered pieces of my heart and offer my help?

We decided to reply yes.  To try.  Fostering would consist of four weeks.  Get to know her.  Welcome her into our home.  Yes, another weim.  My emotions were all over the place.  We hadn't even seen another weim in person…  Her picture was mostly of her face, so I knew she was the same color as Grace, but not too many other details.  On the drive over to meet her, the first song we heard after Gracie's passing began to hum over the radio.  (We hear it pretty much every single car ride we take, no matter the hour or day.)  Well that started the tears again…  After meeting her & bringing her home, well… there were just so many bittersweet moments.

The first few days proved a little bit scary and overwhelming for her, and we started to lovingly call her "chicken little."  She's just such a shy, sweet, timid little thing.  But of course she really thinks her name is "good girl."  With each day that passes, she comes out of her shell a little more.  I have no doubt Grace is whispering in her sweet gigantic ear… okay now, so listen up real good, here's how you get them wrapped around your big furry paw.

Our crazy Oklahoma- windy, freezing, sleeting, snowy, icy, winter- weather doesn't seem to bother her in the least bit.  She actually loves to take curious little bites out of the snow.  She literally prances around the yard, checking everything out…  And the next thing you know she is frozen to her spot- pointing, always pointing…  It's really funny to see- she doesn't seem to know whether to point with the front leg or the back one… but she always has to have one off the ground (with her face full of snow, of course).  Oh and you can bet she is pretty darn cute (I mean, let's be serious- it may be safe to say, she knows this).

We are discovering more and more about her sweet, playful personality each passing day she spends with us.  But more importantly, what I'm discovering about myself- is that a life without paw prints in it, is a life lived less full.

week 7

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

43. feb 12. eat your next meal in silence (away from a computer) » and any other electronic distractions…
44. feb 13. empty the dishwasher -before anyone in your house or office has a chance to ask you to do it » Well considering I normally do this, I'm not sure if it's really a good deed, but I'll take it!
45. feb 14. be the first to apologize » I may be quick to snap lately, but I am also trying to make sure and take responsibility for my actions and any wrongdoing on my behalf…
46. feb 15. shovel the snow off your neighbor's porch salt your neighbor's driveway » Oklahoma's version of snow, usually ends up as slick & hazardous ice…  So we prepared by buying salt, knowing the storm was coming.  My hubby went outside to investigate the weather situation as evening started to fall, and the next thing I know he comes inside and has already salted both ours & our neighbor's driveways…  Ummmm wait a minute.  This isn't Brad's good deeds, is it?  Haha.  But you know what?  I guess that works.  Get others involved with your good deeds, because that's good too.
47. feb 16. make an effort to mend a rift in a friendship » by actually sitting down and talking- not over the phone or through text messaging… but face to face.  It will be hard.  Be honest.
48. feb 17. volunteer » especially when it's for a great cause (and very near and dear to my heart).  There are so many wonderful people helping Weimaraners out there.  Heartland Weimaraner Rescue is one such group.  I've donated to another Weim Rescue in the past, but I've decided it's time to do more, especially here locally.  I have time and skills worth contributing.  And you know what's great?  Just as soon as I put myself out there, someone contacted me needing help.  Would you be interested in designing our St. Patty's Day Parade tee?  You betcha.  The marketing coordinator suggested that maybe since the parade falls on March 14th, we could base the design on the number of Pi.  I got to work, and this is what I came up with.  Weimaraners, easy as Pi… get it?

49. feb 18. be understanding and truthful » The quiet and heartbreak in my life still continue…  I struggle with this new normal daily.  I want to reach out.  I want to help other furbabies.  But I am having such a terrible time…  In addition to losing our light, we went from a family of three to an empty nest.  It's no joke people.  I never REALLY understood the enormity of the situation prior to experiencing it ourselves…  We've been in contact with a few Rescues, hoping to welcome a new addition to our family when the time is right… which we are all too aware hasn't quite worked out for us in the past.  So for now, all we can do is be understanding with each other, truthful as we go through this process, and hopeful for the strength and the courage we so desperately need.

week 4

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

22. jan 22. be quick to apologize » What to say other than I feel like every time we eat out lately, we seem to get service that could definitely be improved upon…  I know that all my nerves are completely frazzled right now, but tonight when my order was wrong, I felt like I'd had enough.  So I popped out of the booth & told the manager, not to remake my food, I didn't feel like waiting.  She said it was a super easy fix that would only take a few minutes, and she would bring it to me anyways.  She was really nice & I had to admit… we'd had a terrible week.  I accepted her sincerity and quickly said I was sorry.
23. jan 23. return all of the items you take into the dressing room to their original spots instead of leaving them in the dressing room » I used to do this all the time.  (I know. I worked retail.)  But lately I've noticed I seem to be in a rush or maybe I'm being just a bit more lazy in general… either way, this was a good reminder for today.
24. jan 24. visit an animal shelter sanctuary » Ugh this one made me cry.  I didn't want my Beans food to go to waste though, especially when I know there are so many babies out there that still need to eat.  But man oh man… giving away her food and a few of her treats was just so hard.
25. jan 25. play hooky » I'm feeling pretty slacktastic lately, and have honestly been wanting to actually play hooky from my good deeds project in general… so I'm going to act like this one counts as my good deed for today (it was in the book, after all).
26. jan 26. hand-deliver send a handwritten thank-you note » Saying thank-you with a card & a gift & flowers & food will never be enough.  Although our vet claims there is no need to keep thanking her… I disagree.  I'm sure she thinks she was just doing her job, but I KNOW it was so much more than that.  Well in advance, she helped me have a plan, prepare, and introduced me to wonderful people that would help us make sure Grace was well taken care of… (and it helped, because let's be honest, I was in complete denial that Grace would ever have to leave our world, even though we constantly joked about having her freeze-dried & stuffed, haha NO I'm not kidding).  She gave me her personal number.  She came to our house.  She hugged us & told us we were doing the right thing (even though we never actually spoke the question aloud).  She whispered sweet things to our girl.  She treated Grace & us… like family.  I couldn't have hoped for a better person to come into our lives.  The world needs more people like her.
27. jan 27. say I love you to someone you haven't said it to in a while » In all the times my hubby's job has taken him away from us… I always had Grace by my side.  And I always knew if something happened when it was just the two of us, it would have made a terrible situation that much worse.  Even though I had zero doubt I would make the right decision for my girl (whether her dad was away or not), we were incredibly lucky to have him home with us.  It has meant the world knowing I don't have to go through this alone.  My husband has been wonderful to me, even as he is grieving.  And I don't tell him often enough-- just how very grateful I am, to have him by my side now and always.
28. jan 28. brew the next pot of coffee » and share a cup & a moment with someone special.

from the archives… it was always a happy day welcoming daddy home

week 3

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

15. jan 15. take a walk, looking as far into the distance as possible » This was our first walk without our sweet Grace…  Really just concentrating on putting one foot in front of the other right now.  Remembering the way she would run ahead, but always look back, as if asking… mom, are you coming?  I miss her sweet goofy face so much.
16. jan 16. offer a kleenex to a person in need » We decided to try and visit the local theatre as a little distraction, try to clear our heads a bit of this horrible week.  I brought an entire box of kleenex with me, just knowing I would go through them… And instead ended up offering it to the woman next to me.  (Although this example was not written in my book's pages, I found it to be the perfect good deed for today.  I added to the blank pages at the end entitled- what else can you do?)
17. jan 17. talk about what you're grateful for » This was so hard, yet so important.  As we are trying to find ways to cope with our loss, we are really striving to focus on all the good & wonderful things we have shared with each other and with Grace throughout our lives.
18. jan 18. choose the longer walk home » On all our daily walks, I would always let Grace choose which path to take… somedays it would be the shorter route and on others she would surprise me by picking the longer route.  But those routes were still just a bit shorter than the one we used to take… She hadn't been able to take it in a while because the distance proved to be just a little too much for her tired legs.  So today my hubby & I chose this one once more… And we talked & we smiled while thinking of her.
19. jan 19. make up your own family holiday to celebrate » There are two girls in our neighborhood that met & visited with Grace over the summer last year. They would ring our doorbell just to pet her & love on her… And I just knew the day would come when they would come knocking again… And I dreaded it. Just the thought & telling their innocent smiling faces, made my stomach turn. I assumed we would have plenty of time, it's winter after all… But you see… It has been the most beautiful day. 72 degrees… sunshine, and only the slightest breeze on your face. And guess what, our doorbell just rang. "Is Gracie taking her nap?" "No honey, she is in Heaven now… But she loved you guys coming by to visit her." So hard. We had a moment & said okay, and she left. And only a few short minutes later my doorbell rang again. She was back with her siblings… And they asked us… "Since she's gone already, would it be okay if we have a birthday party for her every year to celebrate her life?" My heart is so full.
20. jan 20. take a long bath » I may be the only woman on earth that doesn't do this… pretty much ever.  I always choose the practicality of the shower instead.  Today however, this proved to be exactly what I needed.
21. jan 21.  offer your respects, always » I need to remember I'm not the only one hurting & that all the support we have received should be shared in the hopes of comforting other friends experiencing the same hurt and loss.

I never meant for my good deeds to feel sad, or be about myself… however these were all in the book.  I've always believed- we can't choose what will happen to us, or when it may happen, but we can choose how we react to it.  Right now my heart needs time… it continues to ache for my sweet Gracie girl, & I know it may need a lifetime to heal.  It's been comforting to know that as I am going through this project, I am realizing good deeds for yourself are just as important as those that you choose to do for others.  --  Recently, we have been blessed with beautiful days, completely uncharacteristic for January, including record high temperatures in the 70s & 80s.  This was our first sunrise without her (after weeks & weeks of grey).  Lately, I find myself strolling our usual routes & I can't help but look to the sky, seeking the sun's warmth… and it brings me such joy to picture my pretty girl's smiling face.  

week 2

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

8. jan 8. leave your mail carrier a thank-you note » something as simple as, we just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate you delivering our mail everyday… a very heartfelt thank you for all that you do & to the others that help share in the responsibilities as well! -Nelou + Brad
9. jan 9. floss » because it's important to do small good deeds for yourself too…
10. jan 10. figure out how to print double-sided » another good tip is to reuse your scrap paper, especially if you have one of those printers that likes to recalibrate the ink cartridges… no need to waste a perfectly clean sheet of paper!
11. jan 11. bring your own bags to the store » a few grocery stops today, since tomorrow we are starting a kind of cleanse called the WHOLE30, a diet of unprocessed foods… (no bread & cheese may make for a little whining, let's just be honest)
12. jan 12. say hello to strangers, especially to the elderly » and especially when they are toughing it out at the gym!!  You GO!
13. jan 13. listen to your heart » even if it means breaking it…
14. jan 14. take a deep breath. now take two more. repeat » remember, this is enough.

The past few days have been the hardest… Our Gracie girl has been with us nearly half our lives on this earth… She has filled every moment of our lives with goodness & joy, love & understanding.  Everything around us & every part of our being contains a piece of her…  

On Tuesday, January 13th, we opened our hearts up just a little bit more.  Daddy brought you breakfast in bed, and we sat in our little circle of three, our sweet family… enjoying the life we've made together, realizing it was long & completely full.  As the day went on, we snuggled, shared stories… enjoyed plenty of cookies & sweet potatoes & lots of turkey.  We spent a few moments outside, looking towards the sunshine, just letting it warm our faces as the cool breeze gave us a soft embrace.  We said I love you… over & over & over again.  We laughed & cried and hugged each other, and we watched you fall asleep.  And we stroked your fur and said everything's gonna be alright, that you were the best of us, and that now, sweet baby… you are free.  Daddy carried you, mommie right beside him… and we cried a little more.  And as we laid you to rest sweet girl, we saw the most beautiful sunset.  And we knew with all our hearts… you were now smiling down from above.

Gracie Zikas » July 12, 2000 to January 13, 2015