Mattie's Mondays

I have a new dog, and her name is Mattie Mae. Actually, I've known Mattie since about July of last year. Mattie was part of a puppy mill that was closed down by the Effingham County Animal Control. Mattie was in pretty good shape, compared to many of her companions. Mostly small dogs such as miniature poodles, shi tzus, pomeranians, and the like were taken from this ghastly place. Most of the dogs had open sores, were dirty, underfed, losing hair, and many other atrocities. Mattie was fairly young, though, so was rescued just in time. I volunteered at said shelter until some idiot volunteer pushed a law suit because she had entered the "bad dog area" of her own accord and gotten bit. The shelter closed down volunteer admissions and used local prisoners for help instead. Anyway...about Mattie.

Mattie Mae

Mattie and her pal Buddy

I went up to the shelter to see the new pups and deliver some food. When I arrived, Mattie was in the kennel outside, jumping and dancing around. She won my heart instantly. I already had two dogs, though, but knew my sister wanted a Yorkie, which Mattie was! I had to wait for the prosecution to go through and ended up adopting Mattie in August for my sister. It was also a love at first sight situation for both of them, and Mattie lived happily with her new family.

However, Mattie and my sister's husband did not get along very well - AT ALL. My mom also moved in with her and she brought her two dogs. My mom's Yorkipoo didn't like Mattie and attacked her, drawing blood. After a couple of incidents where Mattie was bit, my sister called to ask if I wanted her back. I had just found a new home for my chihuahua, so we had the room. I had to convince my hubby, too, but we ended up bringing Mattie home.

Mattie is now my constant lap companion. She follows me everywhere, especially when I am at the computer or sitting and sewing. She is my baby, and I am glad on one part that things worked out the way they did! She inspires me and fills me with love. On the days I am not liking myself or my work very much, Mattie gives me kisses and lets me know that there is always someone around that likes me and my work - no matter what. She reminds me that as long as we keep fighting and hoping, looking for a second chance, we will succeed.

So while it may not seem like the two would combine, I am beginning Mattie Mondays. On these days I will bring you tutorials and projects from myself and around the web. Mattie will host these tutorials, giving you her confidence in your abilities and hopefully inspiring you to try something new!