Fluent in Mumble

This isn't the first time I have noticed or anything, but after getting some cavities filled today I thought I'd bring up one of the many talents dentists have.

First and foremost, only here in Abilene do I actually semi-enjoy going to the dentist. I absolutely love my dentist and dental staff. In the previous states, I have lived in...I avoided the dentist at all costs. Here everyone makes the experience a lot less painful; full of distractions! : )

Anyways, most of us when we get fillings for cavities, we're awake (even if we get laughing gas) which means we have some interaction with the dentist and assistant.

No matter how numb your mouth may be or how many tools and cotton balls are inside it, when the dentist asks a question, you try to answer. Sometimes, the response is not a yes or no and uh-huh's and uh-uh's won't cut it. But no matter, what they could understand everything I was saying. I am talking phrases and full sentences that were coming out of my mouth, that even I barely could understand what I was saying. It's an impressive quality these dentists and assistants have.

The reason for me writing this blog is, we all know that dentist's are smart and have academically had a lot of schooling, but I think understanding "mumble" is another admirable quality.

Rescues and Runways

So this past Saturday, I helped out with a local fashion show with a better purpose than just trying to sell clothes. Maurice's and Rescue the Animals teamed up to help find shelter dogs permanent homes.

We were outfitted in their latest fashion trends and then given a pooch to walk the runway. I was the last one to "model," and the cute little Schnauzer that was supposed to strut his stuff with me, was not in the mood. Of course, he had already walked the catwalk several times during the show (There was only a handful of dogs at the Mall of Abilene). So poor pup, had enough of the spotlight. I tried to pull him in my direction,

but plain and simple...he was not having it. So, I decided not to bug him and another volunteer for Rescue the Animals handed me another pooch. This type, I thought I'd play it safe and carry him in my arms instead of walk him on the leash.

He was comfortable as can be and I had fun walking with him down the runway. Obviously, I didn't quite have the model strut going on, but it was fun. My second dog was adopted moments after the show ended. The Great Dane in the show was also adopted, as well as another Great Dane that was still at the Rescue the Animals shelter.

Knowing about the adoptions made the whole day that much better. Fashion and cute puppies...not a bad way to spend a Saturday in Abilene!

Plastic Surgery Open House in Abilene

Have you ever been to an Open House for Plastic Surgery?

If it sounds like something that interests you, you might consider one going on this evening from 6 pm to 9 pm. It will be held inside the medical Mall Atrium which is located at 1665 Antilley Road.

The pamphlet I found inside an Abilene gym says to RSVP, but it doesn't have a date. For additional information you can call (325) 793-5128.

Image Sculptures, Plastic Surgery and Medical Day Spa is hosting the annual Open House.

Dr. Laura Bennett and Dr. Peter Grothaus will be there to meet with people and to ask questions.

There will be a raffle, give-aways, gift certificates, and to top it off food from Copper Creek Catering.

Make a Muscle Make a Difference

This was my first year directly being involved with the MDA. It has been an eye-opening experience. This year was my first year to participate in the annual Lockup and I really enjoyed my time as a "jailbird". I felt so good raising money for something so important.
After hosting the 2010 MDA telethon with Stephanie Harris and Randy Turner, it made me realize just how much I have taken for granted.
I met the most inspiring people that day at the MCM Elegante. They helped me realize how vital money is to providing medical care for those with MD and other related diseases, the importance of a fun-filled week at camp, and above all putting money towards research to ultimately finding a cure for those that have MD or other neuro-muscular diseases.
The Big Country and the Concho Valley together helped to raise over $165,000 dollars for the MDA. It made me proud to live here to see so many generous people that opened up their hearts and wallets to make a difference in so many peoples lives.
The MDA Telethon was an amazing thing to be a part of. This year's theme was "Make a Muscle/Make a Difference". Thank you Big Country and Concho Valley for making a difference.

Oops...I forgot to put on my microphone

Nearly every working day, I am in a rush. I am rushing to get all of my assigned stories done, while preparing for the 5 pm news as well. This week was no exception. I got back from a week of vacation and returned to all new cameras and editing equipment. I picked the wrong week to go away. But, of course I was rushing through my day and by the time I sat down to anchor First at Five...I forgot to do one of the most (probably the most) important thing...put on a microphone. Here's a short clip. You'll notice you can still understand what I am saying, but only because the microphone I should have been wearing was hanging over the back of my chair. Oops. Hey, I'm human...I make mistakes.

Ugh Mosquitoes!

Something we can all relate to...pesky mosquitoes and mosquito bites! I went to sleep away camp in the woods in New Hampshire for years growing up and have had my fair share of camping experiences, so I know all about mosquitoes. I'm really not a fan of the insects, and I think it's safe to assume that most people aren't.
The weather changes from rainy to hot and muggy have definitely contributed to an increase in mosquitoes around the Big Country. One of the worst scenarios is when they get inside your house. While, I have been busy killing mosquitoes inside, it's where one mosquito got me tonight that is a nuisance. Of all places, the bottom of my foot was where the mosquito decided to bite me. Scratching any mosquito bite is annoying, but the bottom of my foot "takes the cake" for most frustrating mosquito bite.
I am sure many of you have had your own run-in's with mosquitoes, so share the worst place you've gotten bit by one before.
Also, does anyone have any good techniques for stopping the itch after the bite? Mosquito repellent works well to prevent the insects, but who wants to spray that inside the house and keep it on at all times?
I used to press my fingernail over the mosquito bites and make an "X" shape, because I was told that takes the itch away. In my experiences, that is not the case. Has anyone else heard of that?

Father & Son Buy Dinner for Dyess Couple

I was eating dinner at the Beehive in Downtown Abilene Wednesday night and noticed something "suspicious-looking". A father and son were sitting nearby enjoying their dinner, when they started gossiping with the waitress. Being, the curious reported that I am...I was determined to find out what they were talking about. I later found out.
Sitting to my left, a Dyess airman and his significant other were dining. The waitress much later into the meal, told them that their meals and drinks were "taken care of". It immediately clicked...the Father sitting with his son bought them dinner. : ) What was even nicer was that, I heard the waitress say..."the person wants to remain anonymous but wants to thank you for serving this country and to let you know you're appreciated!" How classy! It immediately made me smile to see people doing such selfless and kind things for others. What I was also impressed by, was that the father did it with his sons knowledge, teaching him kindness. It was one of those moments that just make your day, and seeing the look of happiness and shock on the Dyess couples face was priceless.