That Doggie in the Window

February 22, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Twists and Turns and tagged adoption, animal rescue, breed profiling, cats, dogs, horses, pets, Pitbulls, racial profiling, rescues, shelters, unwanted animals | 2 Comments

How could I resist that face?

Remember that old song that asked, “How much is that doggie in the window?” It’s a question asked in pet stores every day. The true cost of that cute puppy isn’t the tag at the pet store register. The mother dog is the one paying the price. Most puppies in pet stores come from puppy mills. When you buy that cute little pup, your money is actually condemning that momma dog to a life in a cage having litter after litter to supply cute pups for you, the consumer, to buy. If that doesn’t touch your heart, do your own research about puppy mills. What you discover may shock you.

I’m writing this post to (hopefully) educate you about the realities of unwanted pets. There are millions of unwanted animals—dogs, cats and even horses. Many of them die because a good home is not found in time. Most county shelters can only house a certain number of pets before shelter workers have to decide who to kill to make room for the next animals who are picked up off the streets or turned in by unthinking owners.

When I lived in Charlotte, North Carolina, I was told by a worker that owner-surrendered animals were put to sleep before the owners had left the premises. I nearly cried. Even the no-kill shelters and rescue groups need help and connections to place animals in good homes.

Did you know that certain kinds of dogs are considered nearly unadoptable? Everyone wants that adorable pup, right? If dogs are large, black or senior, they are hard to place. Pitbulls are the hardest breed to place. According to Julia Musser of Animal Rescue of Kindness (A.R.K.), Pits face problems due to breed-specific legislation restricting Pitbull ownership. It’s basically breed profiling (akin to racial profiling). If you are an older, large-bodied, black Pit, your chances of surviving a shelter are slim to none. Heartbreaking and unfair.

I have adopted nearly all my pets from a shelter or rescue. Others were given to me. I look for the animal that connects with me. In each case, I have gone in with an open mind and heart and “my” pet has found me.

I will not pay hundreds of dollars for a pet when shelter pets are being murdered every day in countries around the world. This is a world-wide issue, not just a national one. Hopefully, you will adopt your next pet from a shelter or rescue. Some rescues ask for an adoption to help cover vet expenses. It’s a fair thing to ask. How else can they help the next hurt, unwanted animal if there’s no money to take it to a vet? Most rescues will ask for references from people who know you. They might even ask to speak with your vet if you have had pets in the past. It’s normal, so don’t get mad about it! A home visit may even be required to seal the deal! The rescue groups want to be sure you can provide the love and care the animal deserves. If the rescue or shelter doesn’t have your dream pet, ask if they can contact you when that special animal (for you) arrives. Rescues network and always want an animal to find a “furever” home. Keep in mind if you check out the dogs or cats at the local animal shelter, you might not see the animal’s true personality until later. The animals are frightened and confused, so be patient and loving. It will pay off! Go in with an open mind and consider adopting one that may be overlooked by the majority of people. I can guarantee that pet will repay your kindness with unconditional love.

If you must find a new home for your pet, PLEASE don’t advertise it on places like Craigslist. The wrong people might come get that animal to use as a bait dog for training aggressive dogs. It’s a death sentence in many cases. I have even read about wives dressing nicely to pick up an animal destined to be killed by her husband’s fighting dog. You think it doesn’t happen? You are wrong. It saddens me to say that.

As many of my friends comment, “There are no problem dogs, just problem owners.” If you need to rehome your pet, contact a rescue group for leads. Nothing makes me madder, however, than hearing someone say, “I have to GET RID OF my dog (cat, horse).” “Getting rid of” implies all kinds of things to me. None of them make me think favorably of you.

If you are ready to adopt, keep reading. Below are some links (from my area) to get you started if you feel ready to make a life-long commitment to a pet.
https://www.facebook.com/juliamariemusser?ref=ts&fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/NorthPlatteAnimalShelter?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/FurtheLoveofPAWSRescue?fref=ts

One of my rescue babies

Chance was adopted through A.R.K. Thank you, Julia Musser!

Poppy came from the North Platte Animal Shelter. Thank you!

Fired Up in the Land of the Free

February 22, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Teaching and tagged America, flag, freedom, Old Glory, Pledge of Allegiance, rural life, small towns, Spanish, Spanish class, students, veterans | 1 Comment

Yes, I am fired up today! I have some things to tell small-town America…things they might not want to read. Let me preface my remarks by stating very clearly: I love living in my small, rural town. It is a great place to raise my daughter, and we feel safe here. I appreciate all the kindness from the people in this Nebraska town. Thank you for accepting us.

This should come as no surprise to people who know me in this town, but I have to say it all anyway. I ask your indulgence. I am a Spanish teacher. I live and breathe the language. I was actually HIRED to speak Spanish and to teach it to your children and grandchildren. The reality is that when I see one of my students around town, I may actually speak to the student (gasp!) IN SPANISH. You should be proud when your student answers in Spanish–or even if the student gives an answer in English that shows he or she understood my comment! The absolute wrong thing to do is tell me to speak English because I’m in America. Why? Keep reading.

My job is to broaden my students’ horizons and to teach them the joy of speaking a second language. It allows the students to experience other cultures and think in different ways. I would also like to point out something you may not realize—the United States does not have an official language. The reality is that America is home to many cultures and languages. Your language is not the ONLY language. Your way, my friend, is not the ONLY way. Your beliefs are not the ONLY beliefs. My job is to help small-town students be ready to move from life in rural America (where people are mostly similar) to a global environment where speaking English and Spanish (or French, Chinese, etc.) could make the difference in dollars later.

If you are uncomfortable with my language skills, ask yourself why. What hidden issues do YOU have that make you feel that way? What prejudices do YOU have in your heart of hearts? Are you afraid you are the topic of discussion if you don’t understand the conversation? (I can assure you, that is usually not the case; it’s human nature to feel that way.)

A short while ago, some community members were upset that my students can recite the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish. Why? Shouldn’t the focus really be on the honor and commitment of people to the flag no matter what language is used? I received a kind, supportive email from a veteran in our community who believes the language isn’t as important as the respect given to the flag. He is one of our nation’s heroes because he served the United States with honor and pride. Other community members might view me as unpatriotic because we say the Pledge in Spanish, but it’s not the case. My students willingly make cards for deployed servicemen and women, so your argument is not a valid one. My classes even have two adopted Spanish-speaking soldiers. Everything we do is somehow related to my subject matter whether it’s saying the Pledge or making cards to send. The sentiment is more important than the language. Do us all a favor and focus on the big picture. Understand that I care about your children, and I want them to learn as much as possible. I want them prepared for a bright future. Only education across the curriculum can do that. Trust me to DO MY JOB. After all, it’s why I was hired.

I think sometimes people just need something to complain about or they aren’t happy. My advice to those folks: pick a topic and go to it! It won’t keep me from doing my job anyway.

Old Glory

Cleanliness…yes, please!

February 18, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Teaching and tagged hand sanitizer, hand washing, infection, Lysol, prevention, students | 2 Comments

Do you notice who does (or does not) wash hands in the bathroom? Somehow my girls in one of my classes ended up discussing hand washing while I was multitasking one day. The following dialogue (names changed to protect the guilty) is what I heard:

Susie: I don’t always wash my hands in the bath room.
Georgette: Me either. I don’t always “feel the vibe.”
Lorrie: I always do at home because I have this cool, foamy soap I love. But not here.

My multitasking screeched to a halt. This needed my full attention. RIGHT AWAY! The boys and I sat in shocked silence for a moment. Someone apparently noticed my curled top lip and read it correctly—I was a bit disgusted. I would have thought all my kids (especially the girls) would wash up. Wow. One girl explained that only her butt touches the “dirty” seat, and she touches nothing else because she’s careful.

I have been trained as a CNA, so I know the best way to prevent the spread of infection is HAND WASHING! You should wash your hands for as long as it takes you to sing the alphabet. Don’t touch the sink while you do it. Dry your hands well, and use a paper towel to open the door.

Evaluate this scene: You use the bath room and do not wash your hands. You then touch the door handle—where others who do not wash hands have also touched. You go to class and turn in a paper to your (beloved) teacher. Your dear teacher has been contaminated through not fault of her own! Oh, no!

This teacher now plans to spray any and all collected homework with Lysol and bathe in hand sanitizer. What about you?

Unexpected Blessings

February 17, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Twists and Turns and tagged blessings, new friend, shopping, teens, Wal-Mart, zebra | Leave a comment

Have you ever been blessed while waiting in a Wal-Mart checkout-out line? Usually I’m really cranky if I have to wait more than five minutes to make it to the cash register. Once, not long ago, I waited 20 whole minutes….and got a blessing out of it. I struck up a conversation with the lady in front of me. We were, after all, trying to pass the time pleasantly while waiting in line. Either that or misery loves company…..at any rate, Tammy shared that her teen was redecorating her room and was “done” with her zebra stuff. Let me leave Wal-Mart for a minute and step into my classroom.

As a teacher, I get a really good idea of what my students love or collect as I see them in class and hear their chatter. I knew one of my girls LOVES the zebra pattern on anything. Now back to the check-out line.

I asked Tammy, my new best friend, if she would be willing to sell me the zebra stuff. I was determined to get it for my student, you see. I learned that Tammy is a gracious, generous lady who wanted to “pay it forward.” As we talked more, we both agreed that every time we have needed something, someone has been sent to provide it for us. You might call this karma or the hand of God, but either way, I know miracles can and do happen. Tammy shares that belief. We swapped phone numbers and agreed to meet another day so I could pick up the zebra room décor—lamp, flowers, wall hangings, everything. The day came, and I was thrilled to see her again. She is truly a wonderful person. She even brought a couple of pairs of shoes that were not needed by her teen. Wouldn’t you know that my daughter could wear one pair and her friend could wear the other!

We don’t usually equate Wal-Mart with awesome new friends, but it can happen. Don’t you just love those wonderful, wacky Wal-Mart women?

New Computer

February 13, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Web 2.0 Technology and tagged affordable computer, laptop, webcam. notebooksforstudents.org | Leave a comment

Affordable Computers!

February 13, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Web 2.0 Technology and tagged computers, economical price, laptops, nonprofit, notebooks, technology | Leave a comment

After looking all over, I finally found a great place to get recertified laptops at an economical price. A couple of years ago, I stumbled upon notebooksforstudents.org and it has been a blessing. I bought myself a laptop for my college classes, but even elementary students and homeschooled children are eligible to buy a computer through this nonprofit organization. The computers are thoroughly tested to make sure they are in great shape, and a warranty is included. My first one was delivered with a USB (jump drive) and a case.

I liked my first Lenovo computer so well, I bought my second one about a week ago. It was delivered today! This time a webcam was also in the box, and the case is nicer than the last one. Customer service is really good. If you or your child needs a computer, check the website out first so you won’t pay more than you have to for a dependable laptop.

Home

War News

February 12, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Teaching and tagged detention, insults, Spanish class, students | Leave a comment

I have noticed a decrease in insults! It took a few detention sessions for three or four students, but I am slowly seeing a change. The kids called a foul on me a couple of times. This is why: One student called another a name. Before I could process the insult and react, the offended student shot an insult back, so they BOTH had detention. After-school detention gave us a few minutes to chat. I asked that the guys give me time to process before automatically shooting a remark back to the offending student. That way, at least one of them would be in the right. They agreed to try it my way, and it’s been a quiet week—yes, I know it’s only Tuesday! As you can tell, it’s the small things that make me the happiest.

UPDATE! The insults have slowed dramatically. I conclude that the students are getting the point. We have been able to play more games and have a little fun. Whew! I sure feel better.

And Laura, too!

February 11, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Twists and Turns | Leave a comment

Laura even tried on an outfit….

Monday’s Outfit

February 11, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Twists and Turns and tagged Maurice's, new clothes, outfit, plus sizes, shopping | Leave a comment

As you should know by now, our weekend shopping trip was pretty awesome. Bela got a lot of compliments at school on her new outfit.

Emily’s note in the shopping bag helped as well! That’s Emily’s trademark—a thoughtful note tucked between the purchases…..thank you, Emily, for helping Bela shop!

Shopping With Big Girls

February 11, 2014 by ramblingsofaperforatedmind in Twists and Turns and tagged big girls, curvy women, Maurice's, plus sizes, shopping, trendy clothes | 2 Comments

You slim girls are so lucky when it comes to shopping for clothes! Don’t think I’m “hating on you” because I’m not. I would simply like you to understand what plus-size women go through when we want new clothes. We bigger girls are frequently disappointed and frustrated. My daughter and I have left stores empty handed more times that I would like to remember.

My friend and I (you remember Laura, I’m sure) took Ysabela shopping Saturday. We had the whole day reserved for the trip because finding the right clothes in the right sizes can sometimes take an entire day! We checked out the belts at Orscheln while picking up a few other items. The bling belts went from small to extra large. I didn’t expect to find belts in our sizes there anyway. (Maybe you’re sensing that we have low expectations for clothes shopping.) Orscheln is a farm supply store that I love to visit—just typically not for clothes. We did get lucky and find a few plus-size shirts we liked. I considered that a victory.

We went to my favorite store in the mall—-Maurice’s. It is my favorite because I know going in that we have a better-than-average chance of finding our sizes in stock. Before I tell more, I must say that I have not been paid or otherwise compensated for this article. This article is based on my experience with the Maurice’s store at the Platte River Mall.

For those of you who do not know, Maurice’s is a store that caters to larger women and has sizes up to 4X. The sizes are labeled as 0-4. I think that’s a very smart move because many times big girls are shamed by the numbers. Asking for a size 3 is much less embarrassing than asking for a size 46 (or whatever), especially in a crowded store. The clothes are trendy and chic, but I can always find dressy outfits that are cool and tasteful for a “woman of my age.” The warehouse sends a very limited number of size 4 items, so if you need that size and find it, BUY IT RIGHT AWAY!

As soon as we entered the store, I saw our favorite “personal shopping assistant,” Emily, an assistant manager. She always greets us like old friends, and she is the reason Ysabela and I shop there now. (Emily has an eye for style and a knack for making people feel comfortable.) Laura and I explained our mission: to find nice clothes and document our adventure for my blog posts. Emily and the manager enthusiastically helped Ysabela (and me) pick trendy clothes from the racks. We noticed some patterns that wouldn’t be flattering for our size, but there were quite a few things that fit our “requirements.” Oh, I haven’t told you those yet, have I? We were looking for clothes that flatter our curvy figures and make us feel pretty. It’s not as easy as it sounds, believe me!

While Ysabela tried on clothes provided by Emily, I took a minute to catch my breath. Anytime Bela has a good shopping day, I rejoice. She hates to shop for clothes. I think it’s because she has been disappointed so many times in so many stores. I am thrilled to find a store that caters to plus-size ladies. A lot of retailers are missing out—we have money to spend on clothes and few places to buy them!

Ysabela cooperated for a few pictures before going “on strike.” I was taking my turn trying on clothes when I heard the alarm go off at the front of the store. Nobody was trying to steal anything. Laura was after a perfect shot of Ysabela in front of Maurice’s.

I prefer being behind the camera lens rather than in front of it, but Laura managed to get me anyway. Emily even found Bela a pair of boots on clearance for $10! All in all, it was a SUCCESS!