USAF shows are SO lound, but at reassuring

It's been many years since 911, but finally I don't connect USAF shows with 911 anymore, like I did for the first few years -- the same sounds as after 911 happened.

Even still, they're loud, but they're reassuring. Thanks military personnel, for keeping us safe!

"Wild" dogs in populated areas

Heard another noise outside my window (it's night), grabbed flashlight and almost ran smack into a somewhat large dog running at me (guessing around 40-45#). Since I haven't been able to run in over 10 years, I panic easier than when I could run, so I can't say for sure I was in actual danger - I didn't hear any growling, so it's possible the dog might have thought I was friendly, until I let out a piercing scream and limp-ran into the house).

DH woke up and grabbed the pellet gun, while I grabbed a knife, but we couldn't find it thank goodness. I brought the inside/outside cat in for the night. Bunnies are fine.

I live in a suburb, so I'm not used to having to grab a weapon each time I hear critters outside - mostly they're possums, racoons, occasionally a rat, stray cats, so I haven't felt the need to weapon up in a few years (we had a small pack form a few years back, that got a few of our rabbits, even though they're in big cages, some hanging from chains a few feet above the ground!)

I'm working on an Amazon order, so I'm going to see about a mace/pepper spray since I can't find mine, duh!