Jersey Jenny's Rescue Journal

How Beautiful

2012-01-26T11:56:00.000-05:00

(link)

Website Want

2012-01-25T12:30:00.000-05:00

I want

this kind of cuteness forever ... maybe with a dog or two thrown in at our feet :)

Tea Tuesday

2012-01-17T11:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to me. I'm considering this to be 100% truth today :)

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around. So, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

"Coping With Frontotemporal Dementia"

2012-01-13T09:16:00.000-05:00

Link of the day: A really interesting blog reporting a family's experience with FTD - Coping With Frontotemporal Dementia

Wednesday Want

2012-01-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

I want

this room. I like the books and window. I think this would make an excellent writing room.

Website Want

2012-01-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

I want

this kind of cuteness and romance.

Tea Tuesday

2012-01-03T23:36:00.000-05:00

In the end...

2011-12-31T23:32:00.000-05:00

In the end, we decide if we're remembered for what happened to us or for what we did with it.
-Randy K. Milholland

Here's to a new year!

tell me

2011-12-30T20:29:00.000-05:00

Do NOT Disturb

2011-12-28T11:25:00.000-05:00

I concur.

That is all.

Wednesday Want

2011-12-28T10:32:00.000-05:00

This dress. Ahh! Want it!!!

How perfect would this be for New Years Eve?

Then again, maybe not... Last year's adorable Website Want turned out disastrously disappointing!

What was on the site and what came in the mail were two completely different things - one sexy & cute, the other was trashy & uncomfortable. It wasn't glittery, it wasn't even sequiny ... it was made up of big plastic pieces which maybe shined a little at certain angles. Ugh.

I didn't even wear it like I was planning to for New Year's Eve because it was so awful. I ended up wearing a shirt I had forever ... We went to a house party last year with mostly strangers to me (boyfriend's friends), so it's not like they had seen the shirt before anyway.

Hope you all are enjoying the holiday!

house sitting

2011-12-23T12:52:00.000-05:00

I am currently house sitting for my friend, Karen, while she is away at Best Friends for the holiday. I really don't house sit much anymore - I have Matt, our pets, 2 jobs, the farm (my parents'), etc ... but I really like Karen's crew!Right now, the crew is a little smaller than usual - just Lyle, the ancient Basset, Montana, the big German Shepherd boy and Mack, the sweetest, most lovable pit you can imagine. The last time I house sat for Karen, she said of Mack something along the lines of: It's a shame so many people think bad things about pit bulls. Mack is such a love! And a fighter? Usually if anyone gets upset with one another here, Mack's the first to run out of the room and away" :)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-12-21T09:02:00.002-05:00

I want this dress!!

Too cute! FYI it's apparently by Nina Ricci.

Caturday post

2011-12-18T18:48:00.000-05:00

Roo was the original Christmas tree cat ... the first cat we had that tried to conquer the Christmas tree.

Miss you, Roo baby. RIP

Tea Tuesday

2011-12-13T09:38:00.001-05:00

Mmm, Happy Holidays!!

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself. So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party pt 3

2011-12-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

I had an announcement to make today, but that's been put on hold for now. Oh well. Hopefully soon I can make that caregiving announcement and bring a little more help in. Continuing on with caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party all the same...

Going through the motions of a loved one being sick enough to need a caregiver is not easy on anyone, let alone the caregiver. The stress can so easily be overlooked, can overshadow good things going on or morph into some big, ugly, green giant. These aren't easy on anyone involved in general.

I had so much more I wanted to say, but I just can't tonight. I'm not even home caregiving and yet I'm completely burnt out. Ugh. I'm sorry everyone. Maybe I'll add more later.

Happy blogging.

caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party pt 2

2011-12-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

Continuing on with caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party and posting, I'll add some information on my dad that is pretty new to me still...

He gained 5 lbs thanks to my sister's new habit of feeding him almost every hour. Unlike other FTD patients who gain weight, my dad has been losing it - drastically! This happened a couple years ago too, it was actually one of the reasons we really pressed to get a diagnosis. He's down to 175 lb now (he was 170) and bloodwork, body scans, a scope, etc. have not given us any answers. Feeding him every hour (and pretty good size meals too - like Shell will make him a loaded sandwich and soup) is the only thing helping, but it's expensive! I can only imagine the food bill ... who'd think you could LITERALLY be eaten out of house and home?!

Also, the study that my dad has been a part of for the last 3 1/2 years is no longer going to see him anymore. Through this program, my dad had pretty frequent visits to a neuro/FTD specialist at the University of Penn every 3 - 6 months. They did testing during Also, once a month a med student was out asking my dad questions for the study. I remember some of the testing they did with him while I was there was something like a photo with some birds in a tree and on the ground and they'd ask my dad how many birds were in the tree to see if he answered that correctly or just answered how many birds he could see in general. They'd also ask him say the word to identify things in a photo. They were also always available for questions, suggestions on increasing/decreasing meds or helping us identify FTD symptoms.

I guess my dad has now progressed to the point that he is no longer assisting in the study. He doesn't really answer questions much anymore and when he does, you're not even sure if it's the right answer to the question you asked. At his appointment the other day, my mom said when my dad was asked what day it was, he answered something like April 1998 (not sure on the exact month, but yea - 1998!). The doctor also said that it is very obvious and very quick that my dad becomes anxious over answering questions now. What a shame...

I'm not sure what this means for my dad's future care. I was under the impression that the med students coming out once a month, the meds, the appointments at the U of P, the MRIs and such were all extended to us and my dad for free because of this study. If that's the case, I'm not sure what my dad's current insurance covers and that's concerning...

caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party pt 1

2011-12-07T19:11:00.001-05:00

As I've explained in a previous post, I am not home caring for my dad all the time anymore. I live mostly with my boyfriend ... though I will not admit that since I only really have 2 drawers and I hate the place, the people, the (lack of) property, etc. He does too though so I can't really say anything to him about it.

All the same, I did not want to miss out on caregiving.com's Holiday Blog Party! I had such a wonderful time participating last year and became involved with so many wonderful people, like Denise and GJ.

I did stop home today - mostly to take care of the cats. I did see my dad, but he was pretty much focused on either food (Michelle was in the kitchen) or sitting in his room. Sometimes when no one is there, I'll make my dad stand around in the room with me while I take care of the cats and I'll talk to him. That didn't happen today though.

Brief post, but the day is almost done, so goodnight, goodnight! :)

YummMonday: Mushroom Stew w/ Rosemary Mashed Potatoes

2011-12-05T10:12:00.000-05:00

I had to add this delicious sounding recipe:
Autumn Mushroom Stew with Rosemary Mashed Potatoes

Doesn't it just sound delicious?! I haven't had the chance to make it yet to give you a review, but I can confidently say that very soon I'll be buying the ingredients to test out this yummy sounding dish

...

2011-12-01T14:30:00.001-05:00

Silence in all sections. There's been few posts here and just about no blog posts on Connie's Corner (the farm blog).
I haven't been there much, the farm that is.

I saw this quote today though and hope that some day soon the ladies of my family all feel like this "I must be a real farmer now since I found myself capable of such a practical decision to make myself an independent woman. This is my farm, and I am home…..and I am happy."

YummMonday: Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

2011-11-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

For Thanksgiving, I experimented with a new recipe I came across: Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

Ok, granted, everything's not from scratch, but it was still an excellent recipe that I could also make without soy since one of our little guests has an allergy to that.

This came out really well and I got a lot of compliments on it, so I'd definitely suggest trying it.

Notes if you're making this:
- I did NOT thaw the frozen spinach
- I mixed A LOT - there's no real instruction to do this, but I did. I mixed the spice pack up in the casserole dish with the rice & mushrooms, I mixed the water/spinach combination in the pan while it was cooking and I mixed them all together in the dish before I put it in the oven & then again when I checked on it halfway through
- I added the cream cheese then the water mixture to the casserole dish with the plan of softening the cream cheese so it'd be easier to mix everything together before putting it in the oven- I did not add the "prepared mustard" noted in the steps to make this dish. It was not listed in the ingredients section, so I didn't have it when I went to make it, so I didn't add it.

I'm not sure how it would come out since I've yet to have the chance of using this recipe again, but I think next time I'm going to use more mushrooms and more spinach since those are some of my favorite things.

be happy

2011-11-24T16:07:00.000-05:00

YummMonday: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread

2011-11-21T10:12:00.000-05:00

At the special request of my cousin, Gretch, I'm going to repeat a recipe this Thanksgiving that I made for the first time last year - Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread

It was delicious last year, although not as good as Gretch's pumpkin hummus, but still. I'm sure it'll be great again. Just need to locate some crackers/bread without soy in them for the little man that's visiting. Cannot wait to see my CT babies (and c & d too)!! :)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-11-16T09:21:00.000-05:00

Look how fancy and nice:

Bet this would be fun ... and so I want it :)

This is actually on my wishlist: http://amzn.com/w/3RGWAPQSZBS6M

Today at Work

2011-11-09T20:52:00.000-05:00

Today while at work, I asked an older man something along the lines of if he was finding everything he needed alright. He was looking at cat collars (he had looked at a shiny silver/black collar and he was handling a blue plaid one) and the man said no, that "I don't even need this stuff" - a bunch of cat treats and cat food. It was in a joking manner, not a mean one.

As he walked away, he turned to me and added, "My wife said to me: "Everyone else's cats have fancy collars, so here I am" and he jokingly threw his hands up.

I couldn't help but smile.

I hope in 40 years, the guy I marry is so sweet to me (and the cats) that he'll go out to look at sparkly cat collars upon my (silly) request. :)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-10-12T18:01:00.000-04:00

Oh, I want, I want, I want... a barn like this in the backyard (lake included, of course)

And prepare yourself for a double want...
With this, I also want:

this would be a room in the barn as well - like a cool guest room/space. Wouldn't that be awesome?!

caring

2011-10-04T21:44:00.000-04:00

Tonight I jumped in on the caregiving.com conversation going on (http://www.caregiving.com/2011/10/what-advice-would-you-give-to-a-burnt-out-family-caregiver/). Like the last time I jumped in, it was actually quite random and last minute that I saw on Twitter that it was going on.

I cannot begin to say how truly nice those ladies are. It's just so comforting to listen to them, let alone take part - no tshirt or tote bag necessary, ladies ... although I do love your pens ;o)

I take comfort in the topics they discuss and lessons they seem to be learning every day (wish my mom could/would find the time to explore the site). I read the blogs on the site when I can too - although I haven't found a lot of time recently. I cannot deny that it's probably not just work that has been taking up my time ... I believe my depression is still involved. I believe I am not caring for a lot of my personal contacts and valued relations for reasons which I really don't want to dig up much more than to say to let them slip away now makes me less associated and less likely to get hurt. Rational? Right? No and no. However, I think that is going on at some level.

Anyway, so I chimed in tonight via the chatroom going on during the discussion. The comment about the difficulty in trying to find someone to relate with/confide in among those my age really hit home. The closest I have come are discussions with those caring for their young children ... even that is difficult though. They have the important task of shaping new lives, figuring out how to properly teach them about life and lessons in it. Caregiving for my dad is not going to get better, I have nothing to "teach" as he is not learning. He is regressing.

To be entirely honest though, my caregiving role has greatly changed in my family. I have had a boyfriend of more than a year now and two jobs with schedules that are constantly changing (and often odd hours). I can no longer be relied on to be a caregiver.

I wish I could get home more. I wish I had more good moments with him ... but I need to remember to take care of myself too and with two jobs, I usually feel pretty wiped out pretty quickly. What time I do have off, I spend mostly resting.

I can't deny I like this change/lack of responsibility too though. Among other things, not being at home much has made my dad glad to see me.

However, being able to step away has unleashed different feelings for me as well - tougher ones. Mostly I am referring to the fact that I cry every time I'm alone with my dad. This used to just happen when we were in a car alone together and I assumed the physical nearness, but overwhelming aloneness I felt was the cause. Perhaps that's what it is now too ... just all the time.

In a way, his lack of being emotionally present allows me to just cry and not care that it's in front of him since he doesn't care. I cry and I apologize for crying and I tell him I'm crying because I miss him.

Less time there also means I am a bit better with my patience and my creativity with our time together. I'll ask him to watch a movie because who cares if he grinds his teeth or gets up to walk away a lot - it's only for an hour or so and not something I've been putting up with for days.

I also always try to tell him I love him before I leave and get a hug. These are things I rarely did towards the end of my time where I was primarily with him. What was the point? He never said it back. The least effort from him is an "Ok" and wave when I say I love him and I'm leaving. On rare occasions though, he's really hugged me back and one time a couple weeks ago he said he loved me back. Of course, he'll probably never say it again since I promptly started bawling my eyes out lol but still... Again, I used my words and didn't care what I said since there'd be no judgement - "I'm sorry I'm crying," I said. "You just haven't said that in a very long time." I hugged him again.

On that note, I'm ending this post.

Website Want Wednesday

2011-09-28T07:11:00.001-04:00

I want this shirt!

I love it so much, it's actually on my wishlist: http://amzn.com/w/3RGWAPQSZBS6M

Caregiving Talk

2011-09-21T14:24:00.000-04:00

So last night, I thought I would end up in a meeting, but I was home and caught the Caregiving.Com "talk show." I was so excited to actually be able to listen in. Denise was asking "What do you know about dementia that the World doesn't?" I was just listening, but after hearing G-J talk, I was inspired to call as well. Why not, right?

I tried to keep it light, I tried to be optimistic. I focused on the wonderful party we had recently and not all the other stuff that's had me down. These ladies are so sweet, they seem so together and so, I don't know, determined to make it all work. That's really inspiring. I was so excited to make an attempt at being a part of that...

Listen to internet radio with Denise Brown on Blog Talk Radio

Happy 30th Anniversary

2011-09-21T10:11:00.000-04:00

Today marks my parents' 30th wedding anniversary.

30 years ago, my parents got married on their farm in South Jersey (not far from where we are now, actually) with lots of friends and family around. They had the ceremony and celebration there. They were happy, you can see it.

This exciting anniversary is not something my mom was really looking forward to quite the same as "normal" couples would. My dad's condition makes him essentially emotionally absent all together. These days he spends a lot of time in his room, maybe some time outside wandering and he doesn't talk much unless you prompt him with questions. It's just so sad, especially since he was such a caring guy...

Anyway, a few months ago while trying to figure out what we could do for our mom, my sister suggested we throw a party for my mom to help her celebrate ... a surprise party!

We put together invitations quickly - I had some good photos scanned and we put words together for the invitations. We put together lists of people to invite to the party and another list: a list of people we'd ask to send cards. The card list was mostly for people that were a distance away or we weren't sure if they could make it to the party. Then, our aunt, my mom's sister, was nice enough to print all the invites out for us.

Aside from some glitches, which I'm just going to not acknowledge here, I've got to say the whole day was a huge success thanks to some very helpful family members, a lot of family friends and a little bit of fate too, I think :) I think my mom was definitely surprised, the food people brought (the party was a potluck) was all so delicious and everyone seemed a have such a good time.

The people that came were just so nice and so helpful. Everyone was excited and sitting around. There were some really good stories going around too, of my parents, the day they were married (there were several people there that had been at their wedding, including my mom's maid of honor and our friends from Florida) and some great stories about my dad.

Speaking of him, I say fate (or luck) because my dad was just remarkably like his old self. It was incredible! We had lined the driveway to surprise my parents when they got home (figuring the cars in the driveway would be a give away if not lol) and my dad got out, smiling and started shaking hands and hugging people. It was nuts!!

And it didn't stop there! Dad barely bothered with food, which we had arranged so that there would be a distance away so we'd be able to catch him trying to sneak any food. He was even good about all the coolers filled with soda and water all over the yard. You'd never know we need to keep the fridge, cabinets and anything remotely edible (including dog treats) locked away. Dad didn't even hide in his room, instead he spent several hours playing bocce ball and then several hours sitting around with friends while they talked.

It was such a nice day and now, it's the 19th, their actual anniversary (we celebrated early since it was a surprise party)...

Happy Anniversary, mom & dad.
Thank you for being such a great example together for so many years.

2011-09-15T18:22:00.001-04:00

It was a dark and stormy night... And we were headed out to take Muppy to her first puppy training class. Oh my!

sweaters

2011-09-13T11:29:00.002-04:00

I like sweaters and this is a cute photo.
So, I'm randomly adding it to the blog :)

A Decade

2011-09-11T14:34:00.000-04:00

MSNBC is currently airing all their footage from the morning of 9/11/01. It is still unbelievable that it happened at all, let alone that it has already been a whole decade.

Like many, I can tell you where I was - I was a senior in highschool in homeroom and my douchebag home room teacher (he really was. Serious neapolitan complex) wouldn't let us turn on the news to see what was going on. So, I quickly rushed off to my next class - something in the chorus room. Maybe theater appreciation? I don't know. I was in that room quite a lot. We watched it the whole time there. We watched the second plane hit and went through the motions of "This isn't some awful accident. This is being done on purpose." Serita was in that class/room with me and she was so upset over family she had never the trade centers. I think I was mostly in shock. I still am just re-watching the video from 10 years ago today and still am. As news continued that day in 2001, we all became concerned for more bad things ... was Philly going to be hit? What about nuclear plants? There's one right in Salem! And I guess I didn't really know I was holding my breath either until it all rushed out of me when the towers actually began to collapse. Ugh!

In the days to come, more sad news... when I was a super young swimmer, we had a great program on our team where some of the older swimmers helped the younger ones. My "helper" had been Nicole and she was just about the sweetest girl you can imagine! She's super nice, friendly, had a great smile and just a wonderful personality. Her brother was a lot like her. I had only met him a handful of times (he wasn't a swimmer), but there was something special about him, like Nicole. You just couldn't meet them and not be totally overwhelmed with their goodness.

Unfortunately, as it turned out, Nick had been in the second tower that day and that just made it so much more real - the loss of such an amazingly wonderful person (all those people) that I had met and all the things they must have gone through that terrifying morning. To this day, an annual event is held in his memory. There's information on the Nicky Brandemarti Golf Tournament here.

On a last note, I'll add this - I was at one of Bruce Springsteen's opening shows in Jersey (right outside of NYC) in 2002 after releasing his most recent CD. The parking lot had been filled with flags on cars and posters referencing 9/11. This song and the audience that day ... To this day, it is absolutely one of the most spiritual events I have ever experienced. Here's Bruce Springsteen singing "The Rising":

There's a deep sadness and loss that even a decade hasn't completely healed and will not be forgotten. So sad...

Wednesday Want

2011-09-07T10:07:00.000-04:00

For serious!

2011-09-03T15:36:00.000-04:00

I hope any kids I have are at least half this cool: After the 'Cane

:)

2011-09-02T19:48:00.001-04:00

Got word that tests seem to show that my dad's ridiculous weight loss is NOT cancer. I'm not quite sure how I feel about that...

Website Want Wednesday

2011-08-31T07:25:00.001-04:00

Fun kitchen?
I think so! I like the space, the colors, the wood, etc. I really like this. I'd want it in my home.

irene

2011-08-27T19:46:00.002-04:00

Flashlights set out around the house, cat room cleaned, dishes washed, laundry done, batteries, candles, extra towels out (for when the dogs go out & need to be dried off), oil lamp filled, boards over the questionable windows, lots of water (in coolers, pans, bottles, buckets, bath tub, etc), food cooked, trail mix stored up, towels down under the leaks in the kitchen ceiling ... I think we're as ready as we can be.

Everyone, please stay safe today, tonight & tomorrow!

Website Want Wednesday

2011-08-24T11:29:00.000-04:00

I hear this book is great:

And so, it's something else on my wishlist: href="http://amzn.com/w/3RGWAPQSZBS6M">http://amzn.com/w/3RGWAPQSZBS6M

Tea Tuesday

2011-08-23T09:25:00.003-04:00

Ahh, in honor of our NC trip a few months ago, I'm posting peace tea.

I found this while we were road trippin down to our friends' farm.

Coincidentally, my mom and sister are down there at our friend's farm right now. They're due back late tomorrow night.

Website Want Wednesday

2011-08-17T18:21:00.000-04:00

Look how neat!

This would be awesome in a sun room or little green house.

Tea Tuesday

2011-08-16T11:50:00.001-04:00

Website Want Wednesday

2011-08-10T10:21:00.000-04:00

want this kinda joy...

Tea Tuesday

2011-08-09T09:44:00.002-04:00

Cold tea on a hot day! It doesn't get much better, right? I guess I'm going to have to insist that the boyfriend make more of his yummy iced green tea today... :)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-08-03T17:54:00.001-04:00

It's no secret that boyfriend likes cabins and this would be a fun cabin for us to have when we're rich ;)

And for our cabin in the woods ... I'd like this room:

Doesn't that bed look comfy?! And all that space and light. I like it! Hell, I'd be happy if it was just this room and a kitchen lol

Tea Tuesday

2011-08-02T11:25:00.001-04:00

Someone needs a better strainer :)

How's your Tea Tuesday going?

Rough Week

2011-07-31T12:33:00.004-04:00

We lost Champ and Kyleigh this week. Champ, one of our garage cats, we found under a tree by the lake. Kyleigh we made the hardest decision for us (but best for her) - to put her to sleep before she suffered any more.

I have no words for the heart ache myself and my mom & sister are feeling. One is too much, two is awful...

I'll post more later, but for now I'd like to post this for them:

Beyond The Rainbow

As much as I loved the life we had and all the times we played,
I was so very tired and knew my time on earth would fade.
I saw a wondrous image then of a place that's trouble-free
Where all of us can meet again to spend eternity.

I saw the most beautiful Rainbow, and on the other side
Were meadows rich and beautiful -- lush and green and wide!
And running through the meadows as far as the eye could see
Were animals of every sort as healthy as could be!
My own tired, failing body was fresh and healed and new
And I wanted to go run with them, but I had something left to do.

I needed to reach out to you, to tell you I'm alright
That this place is truly wonderful, then a bright Glow pierced the night.
Twas the Glow of many Candles shining bright and strong and bold
And I knew then that it held your love in its brilliant shades of gold.

For although we may not be together in the way we used to be,
We are still connected by a cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me, we're never far apart
If you look beyond the Rainbow and listen with your heart.

RIP Champ
RIP Kyleigh
You are sorely missed!

2011-07-29T12:42:00.001-04:00

R.I.P. Champ

2011-07-28T20:35:00.007-04:00

I'm back dating this to when he passed...

It is hard to believe it has only been three years since Champ joined our crew at the farm.

Champ came into Tabby's Place while I was still working there from a local business, Champion Tires. The business was already caring for several ferals and when two more were abandoned there, it was just too many, so they brought the two, one boy and one girl, over to Tabby's Place for us to intake. The boy, however, tested positive for FIV and the room their for FIV babies was already full (one cat too full, actually). Norman, my FIV+ feral, had recently lost his best friend, Buddy, and I thought maybe the FIV status and no room at Tabby's Place was a sign I should take this semi-feral boy to be Norman's new friend. With the permission of my mom, that's exactly what I did and I named the rough looking white cat with gray spots "Champion".

Ever since that day in June of '08, Champ really has been Norm's best bud. It was often pretty common that if you saw one, the other wasn't far away - in the leaves by the drive way, under a bush in the garden, in the garage or wandering the property - they really did become good friends.

This winter, I thought we were going to lose Champ. He was really snotty and although he was never a stunning cat, he seemed extra rough looking - not cleaning himself, gross nose, etc. However, I got him on some antibiotics and he really turned around. Since then, I'd be steadily pulling his mattes out. He'd talk sometimes in protest, but that was rare. He really was such a good boy...

Recently, Champ had been spending time in the leaves keeping cool with Norm, wandering the property, eating a lot and following Weenie around (she didn't appreciate his "puppy" love and would often smack him). I will say that having Weenie out during the day gave me some really good nights recently. I'd go out to find her and in order: Diamond, Champ and then Norman would show up. I'd give them all an extra handful of food and some pets if they wanted them. I loved this nights (aside from the moments of worrying where Weenie was until she'd show up to go in).

Champ got slow his last week or so. I thought his mouth was bothering him and I was really unsure of what to do. I couldn't decide if I should put him through the stress of taking him to the vet or just letting him be. He was so happy with Norm. I didn't want to upset him, stress him and maybe make things worse.

I found Champ's body under the pines on the hill down to the lake. Although I hate the thought of him passing without me assisting him by mercifully putting him to sleep, I like to think Norm was with Champ to the very end and he didn't pass alone.

Here's a collection of photos of Champ...

R.I.P. Champion

Website Want Wednesday

2011-07-27T17:54:00.002-04:00

Her hair!

It can be straight, curly, wavy like this ... I like the look of this hair. Kinda wild and very pretty, in my opinion.

Website Want Wednesday

2011-07-20T17:22:00.001-04:00

This looks fun!

I want to do this at some point.

Don't wanna jinx it...

2011-07-20T08:49:00.002-04:00

I don't want to jinx it ... but this might by our (mine & Matt's) new foster (forever?) baby!!

This little girl is a 3 month old Goldendoodle that I came across on Facebook that needs rescuing. She is with a breeder right now who has bad intentions for her simply because of the fact she's not perfect. :(

Unfortunately (or fortunately for us!), this pup has a condition which will probably cause complete blindness at a very young age. It is in fact the same condition Kreacher the 4 earred kitten has. A real diagnosis is almost impossible until she's at least 6 months old though, so we'll be fostering her for a rescue until then to see if there's anything the rescue can do to correct her eyes.

Will keep you posted!

Tea Tuesday

2011-07-19T18:25:00.001-04:00

Can we get (take) a break from this heat? Whoo!

Dogs On Thursday

2011-07-14T18:31:00.000-04:00

Website Want Wednesday

2011-07-13T18:21:00.000-04:00

Cute little girls' room? I think so!

I also think this would be a fun shared room...

Tea Tuesday

2011-07-12T10:38:00.001-04:00

Howdy, cowgirls and cowboys. Here's hoping this Tea Tuesday is good to you

2011-06-23T14:43:00.001-04:00

Having a beautiful time in NC with my girls on the Browns organic farm :) Bees, gardens, ducks, good food and barn painting. This is the best!

Tea Tuesday

2011-06-21T10:24:00.005-04:00

Mobile Upload

2011-06-16T07:55:00.002-04:00

From Matt yesterday "I think somethings living in the hole in the steps. This is what she does when she's outside"

Website Want Wednesday

2011-06-15T12:33:00.001-04:00

Uh, a nook surrounded by books? Yes, please!!

Tea Tuesday

2011-06-14T10:44:00.003-04:00

What a nice place this must be to have a cup of tea!

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Website Want Wednesday

2011-06-08T18:03:00.000-04:00

I want this to be my future backyard. Come on, the trees, the hammock, the coloring, the birdhouse...

Oh yea! I want!

Tea Tuesday

2011-06-07T09:38:00.003-04:00

A little cats on Tea Tuesday? Oh yea! June is Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat-Month and Tea Tuesday or not, I'll play this wonderful motto for the month up. Adopt a cat, people! They're great tea buddies :)

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

2011-06-01T12:24:00.000-04:00

"In the end, we decide if we're remembered for what happened to us or for what we did with it." -Randy K. Milholland

Tunes On Tuesday

2011-05-31T11:42:00.005-04:00

Rascal Flatts, I Won't Let Go

It's like a storm
That cuts a path
It breaks your will
It feels like that
You think you're lost
But you're not lost on your own,
You're not alone

I will stand by you,
I will help you through
When you've done all you can do
and you can't cope
I will dry your eyes,
I will fight your fight
I will hold you tight
and I won't let go

Oh I'm gonna hold you
and I won't let go
Won't let you go
No I won't

Just an all around good some

piggie

2011-05-29T10:28:00.000-04:00

Happy, happy birthday, Gretch!!

And for your birthday: lots of adorable piggies :)

Tunes On Tuesday

2011-05-24T09:47:00.002-04:00

I love this whole song, but I resisted the urge to post all the lyrics.

Sometimes I close my eyes and think that these would be the kind of words my dad would use if he could even grasp the idea he had to say goodbye to us...

Never Alone
"My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone"

Tea Tuesday

2011-05-24T09:36:00.003-04:00

I need this mug. Caregiving to any extent and my dad like this could totally get me in the runnings to be a supermodel. :)

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Tunes On Tuesday

2011-05-17T09:31:00.001-04:00

I posted before about a Rhianna song that wasn't meant for my family's situation, but speaks to me so loudly! I found a video!

Love The Way You Lie, Pt 2
On the first page of our story
the future seemed so bright
then this thing turned out so evil
I don't know why I'm still surprised
even angels have their wicked schemes
and you take that to new extremes
but you'll always be my hero
even though you've lost your mind
(seriously, that bolded part gave me chills the first time I heard it)

He's So Young...

2011-05-12T08:26:00.003-04:00

It's not uncommon for people to be shocked about my dad's condition due to his age. "Dementia? He's so young..."

Although my dad was 54 when he was diagnosed, he was having predominant behavioral changes before then. That is why we were seeking answers from doctors to begin with. Frontotemporal Dementia is one of the forms of dementia that does affect a younger generation. Typically, from what I've read, onset is between the ages of 40 - 70 years old.

So, aside from all the other difficultes with this disease, the behavioral changes and loss of emotion for example, age is another giant issue to deal with. Like my dad, a lot of people who get this are still of working age with bills to pay and families they are caring for. There's a loss of income, working spouses/(often times) children still in school have to become caregivers and all future plans (because at age 40 - 70, you still expect you have a future with a loved one) are out the window.

And that's once you get a diagnosis! Because of his age, no one really thought about dementia outside of us speculating at first. We only knew about Alzheimer's before this and although my dad had his memories, we went even that route trying to find answers, or at least to rule it out. A specialist's office shrugged everything off that was going on with my dad as depression - exercise, take some anti-depressants and all should be well soon. Then when that wasn't working, maybe it was his blood pressure medication. In the end, an MRI was the only thing that really got us a solid answer once a specialist saw it. From there, some more testing was done to see how advanced he was with it.

In hindsight, I'm not sure what's worst ... not knowing and being so confused before or getting an answer and having it been this.

Link of the day: The Enigma of Early-Onset Dementia

Tunes on Tuesday

2011-05-10T09:58:00.002-04:00

Kelly Clarkson had a CD out around the same time my dad was diagnosed (and I was stuck between moving away or staying home) and this song just hit home. Still does...

Kelly Clarkson's Save You
I wish I could save you...

I wish I could say to you
It's gonna be alright...

Didn't mean
Didn't mean to leave you stranded
Went away 'cause I didn't want to face the truth...

There were ties I'd wonder
Could I have eased your pain
Why did I turn away...

We can pretend nothing's changed
Pretend it's all the same
And there will be no pain tonight
It's gonna be alright
Save you
I wish I could save you
I'm not going no where

Acoustics are a little shotty at points, but this is a great live version...

First Signs

2011-05-05T09:16:00.003-04:00

Frontotemporal Dementia is actually a general term for a grouping of conditions. We believe my dad's to have begun with the one affecting his social skills and ability to be empathic of others. We noticed things like:

- my dad's lack of care for his family ~ the man that used to hug us goodbye, help us pack up our car if we were off somewhere (like me back to school), etc. would barely acknowledge us walking out the door. He'd just keep watching TV.

- he was very impulsive ~ speeding when we were in no hurry, taking things he wanted without asking (or, in stores, without paying for them) and we found out later, he'd been leaving work for some time to just go stand around in a store nearby.

- my dad asking questions to strangers that you just normally wouldn't ~ Are you pregnant? Is your daughter adopted? How much is your mortgage? What's that tattoo of?

- he was also obsessed with telling a handful of stories, mainly about his parents dying and some fight he got in once. These stories were very out of character (he rarely talked about his parents' car accident ever) and often they were quite randomly brought up ... and he was determined to tell them to whoever was around, day after day if he repeatedly saw someone.

In hindsight, there were probably a lot more signs for several years.

Initially, my dad was diagnosed with depression. This diagnosis came from even a doctor specializing in Alzheimer's in Philadelphia.

We were told daily exercise, maybe antidepressants and time were all that was needed to get him back to himself. I think we all hoped that was the case, but knew better at the same time. We continued to look for answers...

Link of the day: This is one of my favorite links to use when informing someone about my dad's condition. It's quite detailed and yet fairly simple to understand, unlike a lot of sites and sources which describe FTD - Frontotemporal Dementia

Tunes on Tuesday

2011-05-03T09:33:00.001-04:00

Not a day goes by I don't wish I had you.
So in a way, I'm glad you're still here.
It's a bitter sweet victory.
Lovin' the ghost in front of me.

Dementia Links

2011-05-01T10:46:00.001-04:00

My dad played football and so this article caught my interest: Duerson Suicide Has Ex-Athletes Questioning Their Own Exposure To Brain Damage - http://www.bvwellness.com/2011/02/24/after-duerson-suicide-other-athletes-ask-were-football-related

Some comments:
- While a lifelong football fan, I am beginning to question whether to support the sport. As with hockey, the players have grown too big and athletic and the damage caused by their collisions has to be appreciated. I absolutely believe concussions will occur more frequently and also believe they have long term impact. Cases such as Duerson's lead me to believe that I can no longer support these sports with a clear conscious.

- Is this game worth it?

My comment: My dad has frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an early on-set degeneration of the front of the brain. It is still fairly "new", but specialists are starting to think there's a link with brain trauma and this condition... and they are seeing symptoms in A LOT of athletes, especially football players.

There are no words to express how sad it is to lose my dad this way.

There were some more articles that followed.

If you followed this story, there was a big announcement that the results were in on Duerson's autopsy and the cause of death. However, when you went to the article, all that was there was a description of the body when found and nothing on the actual autopsy or if anything was seen during it.

Apparently, Duerson's brain will be studied seperately and those results have not come up yet.

FTD Friday

2011-04-29T09:27:00.002-04:00

Friends & those that find there way here,

I know I haven't been very active on here recently, but don't think it's not because I don't mean to be.

The month of May brings a lot of things: flowers, usually more rain here in Jersey, celebrating my Aunt Jean ... and my dad's birthday. In honor of my dad, I'm going to share some links, information and insight I've come across - some informative articles and research, tips shared and a lot of emotion starting with this...

if the video above doesn't work or start for you, click on the "YouTube" icon in the bottom right corner to watch the video there.

Link of the day: "Dementia: A Tragic Fate for My Father" - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/scott-mendelson-md/dementia-the-fate-my-fath_b_380066.html

This article reminds me too much of how I feel...

"He was the kind of guy that perfect strangers would strike up conversations with in a ticket line or at a bus stop. He was honest and dependable. When he said he would do something, you knew that he would do it... "

The description of the dementia reminds me of my dad as well ... the trouble (lack of) words he uses now, the loss of social etiquette, the poor judgement now and this... "My father was a decent, hardworking family man, and he did not deserve the fate of dementia that he suffered. But, in all honesty, not the worst of us does."

Tea Tuesday

2011-04-19T09:18:00.003-04:00

I'm headed to FL tomorrow to see people I love and who I'm lucky enough to say love me :)

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Tea Tuesday

2011-04-12T10:06:00.008-04:00

April showers where you are? I'm hoping for the rain and the flowers they bring.

Very cute cups in this photo, I think.

Hope this post finds you well.

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Savings Alerts & a donation to Petfinder.Com Foundation!

2011-04-01T08:32:00.001-04:00

ePetSaver.com: Save money and save pets! We donate 5 percent of every purchase to pet charities.

I signed up for these deal alerts for pet products, which are 50% to 75% off, and EPetSaver made a donation to Petfinder.com Foundation. Check it out!

Website Want Wednesday

2011-03-23T09:25:00.001-04:00

My, this would be a nice home to have...

all those windows to take in the gorgeous view of that water, the water right there (I'd totally be jumping in there in warm weather!) and those pretty trees.

Dogs On Thursday: Loyalty

2011-03-17T12:43:00.001-04:00

Dogs are loyal, dogs are kind...

even to one another

I heard of this video on Facebook and I shared it on there for my friends to view. I wanted to share it here for Dogs on Thursday too though. With all the devastation going on, loyalty and the will to survive are thriving, which is embodied and shown in there dogs, I believe. The one Spaniel mix (?) sits loyally by his friend, what looks to be a Springer Spaniel. I know I'm using "loyal" a lot, but, really, what other word is there for that?? I'm sorry, but for people to continually deny animals have emotions is ridiculous with examples of love and devotion like this.

Sadly, many of the animals have been misplaced, lost or abandoned during the craziness as unfortunately happens in situations like this.

Here's more than just some moving photos, here's the video its self!

Please go here for a translation of the people filming ("He has a collar. He must be someone's pet. He has a silver collar. He is shaking. He seems very afraid.") and for an update on the dogs (it's a good one!)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-03-16T09:16:00.000-04:00

I want

this girl's gorgeous red, wavy hair. Maybe her pouty lips too and cute little round face ... I bet she could rock a cute pixie cut really well too.

Ok, this might be all silly. I mean, she's a painting, but still lol

Tea Tuesday

2011-03-15T11:36:00.003-04:00

It's still chilly out, so my, my, my do these socks look delightful! I'd like tea, toast and these socks. Instead, I was up at 5 AM to get ready for work at 6. Ick!

Someone tell me they slept in for me.

And, we're always up for helping animals here, so here's a shout out that Petfinder is trying to take over the internet today and spread the word that AWESOME pets looking for homes can be found on their website. More info here.

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Dogs On Thursday

2011-03-10T09:28:00.001-05:00

I love dogs and Livingston Taylor, so this is a lovely combination for me.

Happy Dogs On Thursday :)

Tea Tuesday

2011-03-01T10:22:00.006-05:00

Oh my, my, my ... I would love to be having my tea here :)

Unplanned when I first picked this photo out for today, but I'm going to FL. I just booked my flight for April yesterday actually and I can't wait. I miss my friends there.

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Dogs On Thursday

2011-02-24T09:23:00.001-05:00

I <3 Goldens ... and fishes.

I really like this above pic and it reminds me of this one

Yup, that'd be my Golden girl, Sadie. There must be some secret Golden/Koi bond... and here I thought they were bird dogs!

:)

Website Want Wednesday

2011-02-23T11:33:00.000-05:00

I'm going to need one of these in my backyard!!

That is all.

:)

Tea Tuesday

2011-02-22T09:38:00.004-05:00

The month of February is coming to a close. It was about 2 years ago that my dad was officially diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia ... and we were told he had 6 months to 2 years to live. Obviously, he's still with us. Although a time stamp was breathtaking (and not in a good way), that time coming and passing is definitely odd to experience as well. I'm trying NOT to think about these things today though. I'm going to try to focus more on my tea...

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Website Want Wednesday - a list!

2011-02-16T09:51:00.007-05:00

i will marry a man who...

- has a contagious laugh
- is ok driving me everywhere (I hate driving)
- plays piano
- can win over a room ~ what can I say? I love a charmer lol
- takes candid pictures of me/us/our pets/adventures
- is more organized than me (that won't take much)
- bakes pancakes and can make them in funny shapes
- is ok with the idea of desert for breakfast once in a blue moon
- understands my need to help others (especially animals) and comforts (not scolds) me when I take on too much
- finds my quirks adorable and tells me that
- will watch sappy movies like The Notebook with me
- kisses divinely
- speaks Spanish
- understands I will always need at least one pet (probably a Golden Retriever because there's nothing quite like them or their mixes) forever
- wears clothes well
- is proud (not jealous) of any attention I get
- watches a lot of movies
- shares some time with me and two cups of tea
- this kind of adorable-ness would be lovely
- is ok with my ~~slight~~ definite book obsession
- wants a loft room in our home
- understands I've got a lot of levels
- has a British accent
- kisses me in the rain
- lovingly provides me with these things (ok, not necessarily, but it wouldn't hurt either)
- and, finally, this kinda love forever...

Hope you're having a good week!

Tea Tuesday

2011-02-15T08:30:00.001-05:00

Books really are magical ... the tales they tell, the beautiful places they take us to, the characters they make us love (or hate), the lovely words you find weaved together...

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

2011-02-14T09:57:00.005-05:00

historically this day is like any other, maybe highlighted with some black clothes, a collection of amazing ladies around me and, for the extra embellishment, the title "Fuck Valentine's Day" may be proclaimed as the title/excuse to go out.

This year is going to be a bit different and I'm hoping for some of this stuff...

Along with some other stuff. And drinks with the girls may still be a requirement ;)

Dogs On Thursday

2011-02-10T09:07:00.002-05:00

"Michael Vick was a dogfighter. He paid for it, he bet on it, he participated in the training, fighting, and killing of dogs with his own two hands." -The Lost Dogs

I've listened to people say "everyone deserves another chance" and "he's done a lot of good since then" and "he's doing so well in football and trying so hard to get his reputation back" and "it was what he grew up with" and "he talks about being humane and making good choices now". I've listened and hoped that he's changed.

But maybe his second chance should have been at McDonalds or Dunkin Donuts. No offense to the people who work there, I'm just saying that his second chance, if any, should not have been being paid millions and in the position of a "roll model". And really how much good has he done that he couldn't have done before? Would he still be fighting dogs if he didn't get caught? Oh yea, he already answered that for us - he said he would! The rescues who took on his severely broken dogs still haven't seen a good chunk of the money promised them either. "Doing good" might be NOT taking money for speeches and giving it to the dogs! The football thing just makes my stomach roll too - of course he's good, you assholes - he has to be! I mean, if he were one of his dogs, he probably would have been killed by now. What he grew up with? What's in his blood? Oh, that's awful! He was a professional athlete - he was exposed to many different -better and more humane- hobbies that he could have taken up! What I wouldn't give to take up vacationing or buying awesome real estate all over (of course, my money would probably go to helping animals and land preservation, but whatever...). Oh, and his lectures and speaking which he should be "commended for" ... um why doesn't he answer questions? Why are his "talks" on humanity scripted for him?

"As that dog lay on the ground fighting for air, Quanis Phillips grabbed its front legs and Michael Vick grabbed its hind legs. They swung the dog over their head like a jump rope then slammed it to the ground. The first impact didn’t kill it. So Phillips and Vick slammed it again. The two men kept at it, alternating back and forth, pounding the creature against the ground, until at last, the little red dog was dead." --The Lost Dogs

I digress! I came across a video the other day while reading an article about Vick. He was apparently given a key to the city of Dallas and the mayor was requesting it back, saying the honor and ceremony were not okayed or to be honored since he did not approve it (he kindly said Michael Vick did not fit the criteria - like a very positive, international diplomat). The video was at the very bottom from someone who had been at the Dallas gathering. Honestly, I thought the video was more important and news worthy than the article about Vick possibly being insulted. However, I guess the editor of the Philly-area news wouldn't ok with the idea of focusing on this and not the fact Vick might have his poor feelings hurt (kudos to whoever put this video in though).

Here's the point of my post and all I think I really need to shut all those "second chance" people up. This is Michael Vick below just months ago and it chilled my bones...

Website Want Wednesday

2011-02-09T09:51:00.001-05:00

I'd like this outfit, a body that makes this outfit look bangin ... and somewhere warm to rock it :) Hmm, think I can make that happen this week? ha!

Tea Tuesday

2011-02-08T10:44:00.001-05:00

My Little Pony!! I used to love these when I was little ... all the pretty colors and the hair to brush! Yay! This makes the tea picture for this week that much better and cheerful!

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

2011-02-04T10:14:00.001-05:00

happy birthday to my boyfriend :)

xoxo

Website Want Wednesday

2011-02-02T09:52:00.003-05:00

sisters, sisters!

this Website Want Wednesday has me wishing for nothing but lots and lots of fun for my sister on her birthday. She's 22 today!! 22! I can't believe it! Whoa. Old lady, right? The fun of 21 is officially over and you're old, kid. Ok, just kidding. I mean, whoa, yea, that'd mean I'm super old and that's definitely not true! No, no, no.

Love you, little one. Have a great day! Here's hoping you end up somewhere like here...

yes, that's a slide from the 2nd floor!! Yea, I'd definitely want to be there

ok, you're somewhere quite cold, but know I was hoping you'd be here just the same ... maybe with me and some fruity and cold drinks in our hands ;)
lol

Tea Tuesday

2011-02-01T09:44:00.003-05:00

It's a chilly time of year and I'm definitely one to get cold. In fact, one of the boyfriend's chief complaints is my cold feet and hands when I climb into bed. Oh well, he's nice and warm to snuggle up with ... kind of like a good cup of tea.

My listening ear is always here, friends. Feel free to comment, vent or drop me a line in some other way.

Tea Tuesday is reminder to you too, my friends and wanderers that found your way here. Remember that all the good you do won't get done if you're not around or if you aren't properly taking care of yourself.
So, please, take a minute to relax with me at some point today.

Website Want Wednesday

2011-01-26T11:40:00.001-05:00

This bath tub, please!

Want, want, want in my future home. I'd love curling up in something like this today, for sure.

Ok, granted, most of my "wants" are just cute pictures I come across and not an actual "wish list" of products to buy, but still... it's nice to dream of having all these things :)

Tea Tuesday

2011-01-25T10:38:00.002-05:00

Look how comfy those boots are ... and that tea (I'm assuming it's tea) is probably twice as nice in front of that fire with books to read!

This week finds me unexpectedly in CT, New Haven to be exact. I decided to visit my cousin and her family. They recently welcomed a new family member, Annah. I'm so excited to meet her! Although I planned on visiting them, I didn't expect to be up here so soon. I originally planned to come on Wednesday, but the forecast had me changing my plans and taking the train up a day early. :)

Dogs On Thursday

2011-01-23T10:47:00.000-05:00

My birthday is Monday!! Whoa...

Caturday: Ozzy and other declawed cats...

2011-01-21T09:17:00.000-05:00

I had a post all ready to go this weekend about kitty cat number two that stayed with my family, Roo. However, I happen to be house sitting this weekend and was inspired to write about a different cat, one that's been curling up to sleep with me and hold a very valuable lesson.

This is Ozzy and he is adorable! He likes to snuggle, he likes to talk, he has a cute face with big green eyes, he's very social, he was saved from a shelter by his mom, he'll greet you at the door, he's insisting I ignore his mom's orders to not give him wet food and he doesn't always use his litter box.

Yes, at least once or twice a day, Ozzy will go over to the bottom of the steps and go to the bathroom. His mom has even put a litter box there, which Ozzy is usually 6 - 12 inches away from when he continues to go to the bathroom on the floor. There's "cat attract" in the litter, it's a big, kept-clean box with soft litter and yet Ozzy won't use it. You see, Ozzy is declawed and one of the side effects of getting your cat declawed, as some people may or may not know (or acknowledge), is that sometimes they develop litter box issues for whatever reasons - it's painful? it feels funny?

This Ozzy-inspired post is to help educate people that don't know about this issue.

One of the main theories with this side effect of declawing is that your cat's claw is not just a toenail. It is actually closely attached to the bone. So closely adhered that to remove the claw, the last bone of your the cat's foot has to be removed. Look at your own hand. This is not a manicure you're getting done, the surgery on a human would be like removing to the first knuckle on each finger. Keep in mind also that cats need to use this area to walk, balance and dig to go to the bathroom immediately after surgery. This is painful right after surgery and can also affect the nerves, meaning it could be permanently painful or, perhaps, feel weird and tingly like when you hit your "funny bone".

Also keep in mind that when you declaw a new kitten, they're still growing and developing so behavioral issues might not show up immediately. Like a younger person or child, a kitten might spring back from surgery ... but develop problems as they age and their body matures. My grandparents and aunts thought it best I not know they plained on declawing their beautiful kitten. If they had, perhaps I could have warned them of an issue that developed about a year later ... she started peeing not in her litter box!

Going outside the litter box has often been deemed a "behavior problem" and has been noted as one of the behavior problems that can develop. "These behaviors include biting and urinating or defecating in unwanted areas outside of the litter box". Be it painful, an increase in fear (biting is a cat's last and only method to defends its self when you take away its claws) or the cat is in pain and so its hiding, behavioral problems are a side effect of declawing.

Although these problems do not always develop after being declawed, do you really want to risk your super sweet cat turning into a biter or adding the 2x's (or more) daily routine of having to clean up after your cat when it refuses to use the litter box? And I don't care if you've never had a problem with any of these types of issues. The facts are the fact and why make an animal go through that? Oh, and in England declawing is termed "inhumane" and "unnecessary mutilation." And let's keep in mind, this is from the people who are the inventors of things like "Halifax Gibbet" (AKA the guillotine).

There are other options. Much like you'd train your new dog not to chew on the furniture, train your cat to use a scratching post. If they have a favorite spot to nap at or are particularly attracted to one corner of the sofa, try to put a scratching post near by that area. This is not always an easy task, but with time, patience and practice (just like training a new puppy), you can train your kitten/cat.

You can also use deterrents, like spraying your cat's bottom with a water bottle whenever you catch them scratching the furniture or giving a quick clap to startle them into stopping. Then, pick them up and take them to the closet scratching post. You can also use double-sided tape or tin foil on certain surfaces to try to help keep your cat away too.

If you adopt a cat who is already declawed and having litter box troubles, clean up the spots you find immediately! Just because you can't smell it, doesn't mean your cat won't and this will attract them back to the spot to go to the bathroom again. I hear this "recipe" works great (also this website is awesome - lucky australian cats!). You can also try...

- keeping the cat confined in a small bathroom or even large dog crate for a little while to try to "re-train" them to use the litter box (sometimes in a big, new house it's easier to pee on the soft, comfy floor next to them then try to find the litter box down two stair cases in the scary basement)
- increasing the number of litter boxes around the home (perhaps your one smells like your current cat and your new cat is nervous about using it)
- putting a litter box where the cat is going to the bathroom and slowly over a week or two, move it gradually back to its original location
- seeing a veterinarian about getting behavioral medications
- try different litter types, especially with declawed cats. Sometimes softer, finer litter will feel less odd/painful when they have to dig. Also, you can try using shredded newspaper. It doesn't do much to cover up smell, but it does work with some declawed cats with sensitive feet because they just need to gently push some paper aside instead of having to dig to go to the bathroom
- doing what Ozzy's mom does - put a huge chunk of plastic down where the cat goes to the bathroom and simply keeping on top of cleaning up any messes

I hope this week's post helps some cats and their owners out!