That's my new fish tank! It was a combined Christmas present from just about everybody. I've been wanting something bigger than my tiny 10 gallon tank for so long, so I decided to put pretty much all of my Christmas money towards this brand new 30 gallon. The two fish in the upper corners are the only ones living there, except for a catfish who works the night shift as clean-up crew. *giggle* The angel fish is a female. I lost the male some time ago to a quick and fatal episode of bloat. I did everything I could to save him - Epsom salts, warmer water, medication, the works. But, in the end, he passed on. I tried several other fish as companions for the female, but no matter what kind of fish I put in there, she would terrorize it. I tried just leaving her by herself but she would just sit on the bottom of the tank. It was pitiful. Finally, I brought home that little red fish, and for whatever reason she decided he was ok. They've been friends ever since. I'm afraid of upsetting their friendship, so they are going to be able to live out the rest of their happy little lives in that big tank all to themselves. :)

I got another Christmas gift today. One that's been a long time in coming... my custom-built snake cages! Yes, you heard me: snake cages. I'm so excited. My dad built them to my specifications and they have been "under construction" since ... oh, around September. They are not quite finished yet - I still need to add linoleum tiles to the inside and lower portion of the walls. But, they still look great!


The snake in the photo above is the size of a yearling. These cages will hold my two juvenile ball pythons from now until adulthood. I'm so happy with them. Thanks, dad! :D

I spent the majority of the day relaxing on the couch, watching Planet Earth and working on homework. I love the series Planet Earth. Well, technically I think it's a documentary but they always show it in pieces so I think of it as a mini-series. I'm lucky enough to have a high-definition TV, so it is truly a breath-taking thing to watch. So many amazing places and creatures, all working and living in harmony.

Tomorrow I go to a specialist for my stomach issues. I still have not been able to pass the toxins that are just sitting inside me. I'm becoming bloated more and more each day. I get nauseous if I do anything physical for too long. I tried to do some very simple yoga last night, but even that made my stomach hurt. I'm tired of feeling like this, and I've missed three days of work now. I need to get this fixed, though I'm not looking forward to the process.

Anyone who reads this, please wish me luck and send me good vibes. It's very much appreciated.