It's been awhile...

Here's an update on my last few weeks:
I absolutely love my Element. It's great. I have joined this online club completely dedicated to the Element. Dorky huh? Yeah, well I never denied my dorkiness. I am one through and through. It's been fun to post about mine and read about other people's all over the country. They even have a national meet....St. Louis this summer! I am considering it!
Let's see...Work is going well. I have been very busy with the various things I do. This is fine, I'd rather be busy. I am looking forward to summer though where I'll work part-time hours.
2 weekends ago I headed to Milan to meet up with my cousin. She is going through some rough stuff and I was so happy that I was able to be there to hug and support her. I have faith in her strength to deal with all the shit she is going through. My aunt and uncle live along a river and surrounded by fields...which sets a great scene for a good dog chase. Yes, Cooper TOOK OFF and ran for about 1 mile down the country roads. My pudgy body chased him until I lost sight of him. I thought he was gone forever, I thought for a brief moment what life would be like without a pooch. Luckily, he came shooting out of a grove of trees and my uncle scooped in for the collar-grab. I wasn't too happy...but really happy he came back.
Then last week I went to Vegas Baby! I traveled with my great friend from college and my wonderful mother. We were treated well and packed full 2 1/2 days with casinos, margaritas, attractions, some beer, a lot of sun and great food. I love the crazy feel of Vegas and am glad I got to experience it with such a close friend and my mom. Then it's back to the reality of work. Blech.
I am ready for a four day weekend to fully recover from the trip though!
We'll have to wait and see what the next few weeks have for me! The past few have been a whirlwind!
Sorry to leave you all hanging for such a long time, I'll try harder to post more. I'll get some Cooper pictures up soon too!

StELla!!

Well, I did it. She's mine. I would like to say it was an impulse buy, but honestly I have been researching this vehicle for quite some time. The Element has been mine since Thursday and I am very happy with it so far. Yesterday at the dog park my friend and his dog climbed in and we explored all of the features in the car. He's jealous, he told me so! I am excited about the car. I have accessories on order, which will alter the look just a little bit. I am going to have a roof rack, door visors and splash guards installed in a week or so. StELla is great! You oughta meet her!

MallWalk '06

For the last few years my family and Sam's friends have formed a team and participated in the Children's Care Hospital and School (CCHS) MallWalk. The point is to raise money for the hospital and school, however we just mooch enough money to get a shirt. It's fun to be part of this event that celebrates special children. The energy that fills the mall is really contagious. Sam utilizes some of the services at CCHS, he goes swimming most every week. He loves the water. The event is also a time that brings the Bennetts and the Horstmeyers together to support Sam and his friends.

He's growing up

I haven't posted about Cooper in a little while. He's doing so well, I really think he's growing up. These are a couple of the reasons why I think this:
1. He sleeps more. We'll have only been awake for about 2 hours and he'll want to nap.
2. Today, he had a pen in his mouth and I said, "Cooper, No. Drop it." He did. He dropped it!
3. He doesn't run around like a freak-show with no destination anymore. He seems to have reason for his movements.
4. He hasn't launched himself at my face with his 'devil dog face' in about a month.
5. Free roam of the house isn't a problem, he doesn't come out of the bedroom with undies in his mouth or kleenex from the bathroom garbage.
6. When he's outside, I only have to call his name about 8 times until he comes running in. I used to have to drag him in.

Anyway, each day he's becoming more of a dog and less of a puppy. I told my mom last night that I love him more now than I did when he was 3 mos. old.

I am anxious for spring though, we want to go to the park!

Every step you take, every move you make....

Each day my nephew makes strides.
This time I mean it literally. I haven't yet seen him take steps using his walker, but I trust my sources. Erin says he moves all over the place! We need to find a warm place that's bigger than the kitchen so he can rip-roar around.
Sam continues to to surprise us. He makes us proud. Aren't these pictures cool? Isn't it amazing to think that he may be able to use a walker and scoot himself around?
I'm telling you people, this kid is something great!

Need not, want not? Is that the saying?

Here it is. The Honda Element.
There are things in life that we want and we don't "need." This is one of those things for me. I just want one. I think they are cool. Everything about it screams unique and just cool. You can add so many accessories to it and just make it your own. I have a perfectly functioning car. It's paid off. Going back to having a car payment is stupid, I know this. But...
I like it. I want it. I am exploring it everytime I get online. I have even gone to the dealership and looked at one up close. My cousin drives one, she really likes it too. In fact, it seems like a small cult. In reading about it online I have found many websites where the contributors are bragging and boasting about being Element owners/drivers. I think I want to be one of those boasters. So, if you would like to donate money to my Element fund please send me an email and I will make sure you have my address. Thanks.

A Valentine's Dinner

I spent the early-evening preparing a meal for my Dad. He called last night to ask if I wanted to join him for dinner because my Mom was playing cards. Real romantic Mom. But anyway, I gladly accepted the offer to spend time with my Dad. He's great, all that know him think so. Going out for dinner is always enjoyable, but I called back and asked him if I could make dinner instead. He accepted.
I thumbed through cookbooks, knowing only what I wanted for dessert. I decided on herb chicken and red potatoes and onion. I also made a salad with sliced almonds and mandarin oranges. Dessert was croissants filled with strawberry preserves, strawberries and whipped topping. It was fun to prepare a meal, probably because I rarely do it. As you all know I had a Pampered Chef party a few weeks back and I was excited to use all of my new gadgets. I think I used about everything I received. I chopped garlic and onion with the handy food chopper, I shredded mozzerella cheese with the grater, sliced potatoes and onions with the ultimate slice and grate...it was fun. I could have been in an infomercial for Pampered Chef.
The meal turned out. It was one of my bests. The company was wonderful too. Thanks Dad. Happy Valentine's Day. There really is no other way I would have wanted to spend my evening.

I have a popular neighbor

Yesterday I forgot to check my mail, I just didn't really have time. I got home from work and hurried to get to Adam's Olympic party and walked past the mail cardboard box. So, this morning I checked it and there was a stack of pretty envelopes. I thought, holy crap, what's with all the mail? Then I looked closer and the purple envelope was addressed to my next door neighbor Karen. I picked up the yellow one, same name on the front, the red one and pastel green one too. Damn, she's popular. It must be her birthday or something. A part of me wants to open them and enjoy them for myself. I know that they are hers though and I'll have to deliver them to her. Lucky lady. Mail is fun, isn't it? Don't we all go to the mailbox with the expectation of receiving something new or unexpected? Anyway feel free to send me mail, make sure it's in pretty envelopes though.

I am glad to be home

I have had a very emotional day. It's been the type of day that has gone by so quickly but dragged at the same time. I received a phone call from my boss last night (Sunday) around 9:30pm and she shared with me that a car accident had occurred over the weekend and a 16year-old student had been killed. The other members of the vehicle were all hospitalized with critical injuries. She then asked if I would head down to the small town, south of Sioux Falls and do some crisis or grief intervention for the students on Monday morning.
The drive down this morning was weird. Here I am, a stranger to these kids. A stranger to the boy that died. These kids don't know me....I didn't know this kid. What I learned today though, from these kids is that this young man had a rough life. It was filled with rejection, abandonment, drugs, alcohol, crime and laughter. I ended that sentence with laughter because that is how they described him. He was a smart-ass, a class clown, a guy that made others feel good about themselves, smart...but didn't brag about it, and he was also a friend to those that needed one. The accident involved alcohol, he knew how to party. His friends shared with me his love of having fun...unfortunately at his life's expense.
A pastor was there this morning as well, and in typical pastor form he was able to sum it all up. He said something to the effect of, "What I have learned today and will share with others is that he was a friend."
It touched me and still is, obviously, having an affect on me. It made me think about, well, everything....from my family, to friends, coworkers and myself. I think of the times that this could have happened to many people I love. It's just a moment in time that's gone wrong. It could happen to anyone, that's what is scary. Impaired driving has no prejudice.
I have experienced loss before. People that I love have passed away, but there is definitely something overwhelming about a large room filled with high schoolers missing a friend. I wasn't sure what to say or how to be amongst these strangers. One girl did tell say to me, "you seem nice, funny too. You would have liked him." For a moment I was accepted into this group of grieving students.
I learned from these kids today, not sure if I was of any comfort or solace to any of them, but I know that through them I learned about a tough young man that knew nothing better than to make these choices.
Through the loss of this teddybear of a friend, I hope others will remember to make better choices. Thank you students for teaching me and reminding me to love and laugh each day.
And to my friends and family that come across this, know that you are valued and loved by me and many others. I love you all and God Bless.

uh, well...yup

This, simply put, is a blog about nothing. Nothing happened this week worth spending time on. Really. Nothing. My week was hectic and busy and I was ready for the weekend. I had nothing planned, just wanted to sleep in and get some "stuff" done. Here is what I accomplished this weekend (and it's only 3pm on Sunday):
played the price is right DVD game with Adam
4 loads of laundry
slept in on Sat. and Sun. mornings
purchased a silver chain to replace the one Sam broke
emptied, loaded and emptied the dishwasher
listened to satellite radio for about 2 hours while drinking coffee and lounging on the couch (perfect morning!)
figured out my DVD recorder, it's been driving me nuts since X-mas!
thumbed through Etc. Magazine
let the dog in and out about 45 times
went to the mall and purchased nothing (that's an accomplishment!)
cleaned the cat boxes
recorded some stuff onto DVD's
played mario golf on the Gamecube
messed around on the internet
made new playlists on iTunes
read Oprah Magazine

well that's about it.

the superbowl is on in a couple of hours and I am sure I'll be productive during that!

Direct Sales Galore!

I have had quite the weekend of firsts and it is just the wee hours of Sunday morning. Friday night I hosted my first ever Pampered Chef party. Now, I have attended quite a few of these, but had never been a hostess for one. My mother, bless her, came over on Thursday night and helped me clean. She thinks I live in utter filth. She'll never say that to me directly, but I have known her for 27 years and can read her pretty well. Anyway, it was clean and spiffy for the Pampered Chef party. I bribed people to attend by offering margaritas. It was a good time, I think. I had about 15 people in and out, which I feel is a good showing. Now, I get free stuff. Gotta love that.
Then this morning (Sat. AM) I attended a Tupperware Party. I wasn't even sure that these still existed, but they do. So, I ended up spending money this morning on what the 'consultant' told me were "practical." Sure, lady. Practical, that's me. I also booked a party for May. More free stuff I guess.
So, that brings me to Saturday evening when I was invited to an 80's party at the house where I grew up. That's just weird. Anyway, so I showed up and it was not only an 80's party, but a sex-toy party. I was bombarded this weekend with direct sales consultants!
There are many other 'parties' out there to attend, Tastefully Simple, Homemaker's Idea, Stamp Parties, Purse Parties, Jewelry Parties, Mary Kay etc, etc.
I guess there is always next weekend.

I don't want to be a teacher...

Part of my job at the high school is drug and alcohol prevention. By this, I guess, it means going into the classrooms of 9th and 10th graders and following a specific curriculum. I think this curriculum was written 5-7 years ago. Now, I understand that most of the infomation is still relevant, however, a little out of date for current teenagers.
So, today I had to do a 9th grade classroom. For the record, this is not my favorite thing to do. First of all, these kids could not care any less about me. They don't know who I am and they just think I am the lady that gives them candy. Yes, this is true, but I am also trying to teach the students about preventive measures.
There was one student with constant commentary, another that kept rolling her eyes, yet another that pretended to be serious etc, etc. I don't like saying "be quiet" or "listen up" every 2 minutes. I suck at teaching I guess. It doesn't help that the curriculum is flat and somewhat stale, but the kids just don't buy into it. I get so frustrated. Anyway, I guess it's a good thing I only have about 10 more to do in the coming weeks.

Ahh...the dog park

My last post encouraged the weather to turn around and surprisingly this weekend it did. It wasn't 60 degrees, but both days were in the 40's. Yesterday, Cooper's friend Iris, her owner and I went to the beloved dog park. Oh, it was nice, it's been months since our feet have walked the mushy, slushy, soiled grasses of the shoddy snow-fenced sorry excuse for a dog park. We love it though, we do, it's all we have.
In our dreams (Cooper and mine) the dog park would be surrounded by a 5 foot chain-link fence with benches, some play equipment, a few trees would be nice and oh, a drinking fountain for the canines. You see, the dog park is well frequented, there are always at least 4 other dogs everytime I have been there and right now it is a snowy, muddy mess with the fence half torn down and between yesterday and today I saw about 35 other dogs. I understand that the weather throughout the winter doesn't help the fence, but still I want to bitch about it.
But, I won't bitch about the fact that I got to go both yesterday and today. Today's experience wasn't my favorite and it was for sure Iris' least favorite visit. The dog park has it's own sub-culture, one where we all know each other's dogs names, but none of the owners know each other. I suppose you would have to actually know Iris to enjoy this story, but some background on her is that she is a smaller lab size and a very gentle and nice dog. She isn't aggressive by any means and she usually runs and plays very well with all of the other dogs.
Today was different.
There was a large white American Bulldog by the name of Roxy prowling around the park. She cornered Iris and was "playing." Well, the "playing" started to look a little rough when Iris started to whine and yelp. Other dogs were drawing near the incident as were some of the owners. Iris' owner ran over and pulled Roxy off of Iris...as any concerned owner would. Well, Roxy's owner had an issue with this and yelled at Iris' to "never touch that dog again (referring to Roxy), they were "playing." I have been at the park long enough to know what play is however, and this was rough.
So, Iris was traumatized and kind of hung around us for a little while. She then ventured out again and was attacked by Roxy again. There was a slight confrontation between owners and Iris was leashed and ready to be taken home. The stupid Roxy owner then leashed her and moved her to another area. Other dogs were taken home because Roxy is too aggressive and scares the other animals.
This isn't right, just so you know. The park is for off-leash animals, but not those that are not in control.
That's my rant. Can't wait for spring weekends at the park.

Spring, where are you?

So today I experienced a little bit of spring fever. I went with a friend from work to get some ice cream...she's pregnant and I like ice cream, no other explanation needed, right? Well, we had our ice cream and the wind was blowing and it was cold. I just wanted it to be nice and breezy, like 55 degrees. That's all I am asking. I, by no means, am ready for 80 degrees, just 55.
Then I get home and my dog is oh, so happy to greet me. Then...he goes NUTS. Absolutely crazy, running all over the place. Then he goes outside, then inside, no wait, he wanted to be outside, then back inside...all evening. I am tired today and just want to veg. You see, he was up eating pizza at 3:30am. I am not sure how he got it out of the garbage, probably a little help from a cat. So, I was up until about 4:15am trying to clean up some of the pizza that he hadn't yet.
He's a puppy, blah, blah, blah. I know, but just settle down damnit. He's ready for the dog park again, or just to be able to run in the grass and not on snow. I was too lazy tonight for a walk, plus it wasn't 55 degrees.
So, Cooper and I are ready for spring. Bring it on.

An example of the fun that was being had!

Happy New Year

Another year, huh? Well, like I stated in my Christmas letter, I am happy to say that this last year has been rather fruitful. I am quite happy that I am fully employed (with benefits, mind you.) I also added to my family and got a dog that is slowly, but surely tugging on my heart. I would even proudly say that I love him. And in the same breath I can say that he'll be the death of me. The dog won't learn. He's smart, of course because he is a Bennett, but at the same time he won't listen to me. Everyone says, he's still a puppy, blah blah. But, I want him to be good. Quit jumping, quit barking, come when he's called and damnit, come to me when I want to put him in his kennel.
'06 is starting okay. I had a nice get-together to celebrate the coming of the new year. I called it a get-together until I was sure that people would have fun. Now I'll call it a party because I do believe it was a success. I think many had fun, I did. I had four of my best friends in attendance, what can be better than that really? Yes, tequila shots you say? Well, they were here too. JellO shots too. It was fun...the champagne was flowing, noise-makers blowing and even punching balls. Remember those? Yep, they're great.
I am looking forward to a new year. I hope that it holds surprises for me and that I make new friends and continue to cherish the old ones.
Well, with that I am wishing all those that may read this a happy year. I hope it is filled with joy and a sense of peace. Health and laughter to all.

Cooper...what now?

28. Ruler
29. Cardboard from TP roll
30. Beer bottle cap
31. Book of matches
32. Comb
33. Coyote Ugly DVD (destroyed)
34. Remote Control to the DVD player

After the holiday

Well, another Christmas has past. Yet again, "Santa" spoiled all of us. "Santa" never ceases to amaze me in how well he knows me and what I want/"need." I got some great gifts, but I really enjoy getting to spend time with my family and just hanging out. Our Christmas is usually relaxing and pretty low-key. A lot of it depends on my nephew and like a great gift, he was very good and even opened a present or two. He was happy and even pulled himself to a standing position next to an ottoman on Christmas day. It was pretty cool to see and it just goes to show that little steps and strides are wonderful and welcomed!!
The new year is days away and I am excited to have some friends, old and new, at my place this year. It sounds to be the safest option and it will guarantee that conversation can take place.
I look forward to a nice celebration with friends.
I am hoping that you all have a safe and fun beginning to 2006!

New additions to Cooper's List (see previous post)

21. Tube of Toothpaste
22. Slipper
23. Tennis shoe
24. Scarf
25. Rug
26. Measuring cup
27. Styrofoam (from my new George Foreman Grill, thanks dad!)

What's in your mouth now?

I thought it might be funny to keep track of some of the things that my dog has had in his mouth. He has destroyed things and also just nibbled on others. So, off the top of my head, these are some things that he has had in his mouth this week (not including the acceptable food, treats, rawhide of course).
1. Hairbrush
2. Garbage bill (destroyed)
3. Wedding invitation RSVP card
4. A cup
5. Eyeglasses
6. TV remote
7. Socks
8. Bra
9. Flip Flop (where he got this I have no idea, it's winter afterall)
10. Book (address, novel, phonebook cover)
11. Rubber scraper
12. Tealight candle
13. Colored Pencils
14. Many pens
15. Kleenex
16. DVD case (from Hollywood Video, destroyed!)
17. Pop bottle
18. Scissor
19. CD case
20. Magazine

This list did not take long to compile and I am sure there are many more things that I can't remember right now. I'll keep you posted on any new and weird things that he grabs, pulls of the table or counter, or finds in the closet.
My mom bought him a Christmas present--that should be interesting.