It is often so much easier to complain than to be thankful. For some, it can become a habit; a habit of negativity that is more addicting than nicotine or alcohol. I’ve found it is impossible to be deeply depressed when you are grateful for something…anything. It doesn’t have to be a big item. Most of the power of gratitude actually lies in the small, everyday experiences. These are the tiny items we tend to look past, every day; a flower that just burst into bloom as a riot of orange with a yellow heart, a tiny bird hopping through the sprinkler or a dog chasing a ball or its own tale. There’s so much joy in the carefree romp and lope of a dog when they run with pleasure, or a kitten ripping around a circle of yarn on the floor.
You know that feeling of dread when we have lab work drawn or an X-ray performed? When the results come back negative, we’re pleased, but that true feeling of gratitude doesn’t last for long, does it. Often, we think we have nothing to be grateful for, but that is never true.
You can be grateful it’s raining outside because the ground needs rain or you can be grateful for the sunny day without a cloud in the sky. The weather and gratitude is a rather relative thing, depending on each of us and where our feet are planted and our own health. Gratitude for the “big money” items like God, love and peace, well, they’re sort of obscure unless we get down to the specifics. Gratitude is very personal and appeals to the heart of our being and is therefore different from person to person.
It helps me to know God is love. Your face often brightly glows when you love someone else, love yourself or just love your surroundings. The emotion of love is a feel good ticket item. If you or I love just one person in our lives, we should be grateful and show appreciation not only to that person or persons but to our creator. It’s the most joyous of all the emotions. Certainly, there is also heartache in loving someone, but is it really love? We’ll ponder that one. Sometimes love can be disguised as something else. It can be lust, vanity or just plain chemistry. Sympathy or need can masquerade as love as can a hundred other human needs. It can appear as love for a blooming Gerber daisy, a deer walking across the street in grand style while all the traffic stops out of respect for him or love for a golden/orange sunset. There is much to love and be grateful for in this wonderful world. The conductor/musician Arthur Rubinstein said, “I have found that if you love life, life will love you back.”
Let me add my own version of that by saying, if you love life, then life will have your back.
I find I am often so grateful for the innocents in my life because their very presence in my life brings laughter, light-heartedness and joy. Our children, our grandchildren and our pets all come to mind as the innocents in life. Certain friends can offer an unqualified love and therefore gratitude. Sometimes just the thought and projected periods of the early years or the anticipation of a treasured memory can bring gratitude. My daughter and son-in-law and their children are waiting to bring a new chocolate lab female puppy into their home in two weeks. They already love her. She is already real to them. She is also a relative of their dear Herb, their chocolate lab they lost last year. We were chuckling this morning to know the pup is already three times larger than our little Yorkie, George. The dogs will be great friends once he decides the only threat she poses to him is stepping on his tiny feet. There is joy in all those thoughts and I am grateful for that. Joy and gratitude are most definitely in the eyes of the beholder.
I am not grateful for cancer, chronic pain and disabling conditions but I am grateful for all the wonderful friends I have made both in my nursing and writing careers. I can hate the diseases but love the experiences because they have taken me to loving and kind physicians and fellow nurses, radiation technicians and lab personnel. It’s wonderful how we can pick love out of the trash heap of life and somehow that makes the bad times more palatable.
Sometimes we can love memories almost as much as we loved the event when it was occurring. There’s a cute story by James W. Moore from his book, Some folks feel the rain; others just get wet. He tells the story of a man who got lost in the country and got his car deeply stuck in the mud. He walked to a nearby farm to get some help. The farmer said, “Warwick can get you out of that ditch.”
He pointed to an old mule as being Warwick. The man who was stuck in the ditch had doubts looking at old Warwick. The man whose car was stuck in the mud figured he didn’t have anything to lose and watched as the farmer hooked old Warwick up to a rope and then to his car. The farmer snapped the reins and shouted, “Pull, Fred! Pull, Jack! Pull, Ted! Pull, Warwick!”
The old mule pulled the car from the muddy ditch with very little effort. This, of course, amazed the car owner. He had to ask, “Why did you call out all those other names before you called Warwick?”
The old farmer smiled and said, “Old Warwick is just about blind. As long as he believes he’s part of a team he doesn’t mind pulling.”
Now, that mule had a memory that saw him through and it was the sweet memory of being part of a team. Those memories were as real to him as his long lost mule buddies.
Each of us, in spite of what we are experiencing is not alone. You and I by the very nature of this blog are part of a team. There is much strength in team work. Our team can number into the thousands…millions. We have our families, our health care providers, dear friends and all of us who also suffer to muster a very strong team. Team work is a wonderful thing. Be grateful. A friend calling to check on us, a giggling grandchild, and a hug from a spouse and so the list of gratitude grows. In turn, calling a friend in need, giving a hug or giggling with a grandchild can also be a greater cause for gratitude.
It took us four years to sell our home in California, 16 years ago. Our daughter was already up here, building her life and career alone. I was trapped in one of the hottest places in CA with a terrible reaction to the sun and the sundial seemed to be moving at a snail’s pace. We kept having Open Houses and because of my health issues, they were difficult. I baked cookies so the house would smell enticing. I wiped slobber off of walls from our 150 pound Saint Bernard shaking her sweet head, I weeded the garden by lamplight in the evenings to avoid the sun and still no buyer came along. The market was glutted with new homes and we were one of many in a downward spiraling real estate property mess. I was so very grateful when a buyer came along, I promised my maker I would say a prayer of gratitude each time I drove across the Columbia River to buy groceries, each time I enjoyed a beautiful sunset and each time it rained. I haven’t forgotten that promise these many years later and I still utter a prayer of gratitude for all of the beauty that surrounds me each day.
Make a goal of uttering the magical words, “Thank you,” each day.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Hi I mite be able to get on blog .short post as it’s by satellite and who knows….
Well sue…my mum would have loved this one….your words so true
It’s those small things that give so much pleasure.
It’s daft but when I’ve been in hosp it’s the smell of toast at home I love…but when you’ve been home for a bit you ignore it.its still there but it’s those things you need to keep in mind.i love the rain on the glass.and the rustling trees in the wind..and yes my GS giggling at something daft I’ve done
Fingers crossed this goes, had a good first day here.and DD and GS came for the evening.they had a long drive back
Hope everyone ok…..and sue your river sounds romantic ..I’d love it
Chris
Hi Chris, satellite worked great. I’m so happy for where you are right now. You’ve certainly picked up the spirit of this message blog today. Have a good time enjoying your coast home. Love you, Sue and yes, it is true about good things coming in small packages and in the ordinary things of life. Tiny bright spots.
Well that’s great
Nite all ,first nite for us here
Wow! So needed right now. I need to be grateful for all and everything. Seems when you feel so bad ‘you get selfish huh ? Nature Always makes me smile.. The beauty of our world around us. I look at these mtns surrounding me and wonder at their beauty. Theybwew traveled by the Cherokee,Blackfoot,, Arapaho, and probably even the Souix (since I have a great grandmother of such) their blue beauty is awesome and the mists over them make me know why the Scots and Irish settled here. I am happy to be here now and glad for all god has given me.
Tonie, I often think the same thing about this area after having been to Finland. So many Scandinavians settled here, especially the Finns. My SIL is half Dutch. We have a Scan. festival every summer, etc.
I think getting more self-centered when you life is rough is life’s way of mending…you have to take care of yourself first or you aren’t able to contribute to anyone else, you know? Martyrs always end badly, you know? Someitmes you just have to say, “Hey, me first.” I appreciate you…Love, Sue
You ALWAYS lift me up!
Terry, I’m glad. So good to see you on here dear FB friend.Fondly, Sue
Thank You. Two simple words that mean so much. That is why I always say a prayer thanking God every night. Only He knows how often I pray for help for my family and friends. So it is only reasonable to thank Him. I always keep in mind to be “thankful for unanswered prayers”. What we pray for is not always what is necessary for us. Keeping this in mind helps me to be grateful for everything from waking up in the morning to not winning the lottery (not sure how I would handle having a lot of money).
Welcome, Terry!
Sue, you know I couldn’t agree more. And while there are certainly challenges right now, there are still oh so many reasons and things to say thank you for. Tonight I say thank you for you. 🙂 Hugs, my friend!
Lyn dear, You made me cry. It’s a long day and drive home, gut trouble, sore rear and a blistered, burned chest. Looking forward to tomorrow. Thanks for your faithful friendship. Love to that sweet Sadie pup. Hope the 3 four legged felines are accepting her. Love you, Sue
DEAR SUE, WOW, THAT IS JUST THE THING I NEEDED TO READ TONIGHT. VERY UPLIFTING. SOMETIMES I FORGET ALL THE THINGS I HAVE IN MY LIFE TO STILL BE GRATEFUL AND THANKFUL FOR AND HAVE TO FIGHT OFF THE DEPRESSION THAT SETS IN.. WHEN GOING THROUGH ROUGH TIMES, WE HAVE TO LOOK FOR THE LITTLE THINGS IN OUR LIVES THAT BRING US JOY EVERYDAY. FOR ME, SOMETIMES IT IS MY LITTLE DOG WHO MAKES ME LAUGH EVERYDAY OR IT IS SOME REALLY GOOD FRIENDS THAT CHECK UP ON ME JUST AT THE RIGHT TIME,. I HAVE HAD TO LEARN THIS OVER AND OVER ESPECIALLY THIS PAST YEAR. MY DAD WOULD HAVE LOVED THIS BLOG. HE PERSONIFIED GRATEFULNESS AND LOOKING FOR THE JOY IN ALL THINGS, EVEN WHEN HE WAS FEELING SO POORLY. SO, THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER TOUCHING BLOG. I AM THANKIFUL TO HAVE FOUND YOU. I HOPE YOU ARE HOLDING UP OKAY. YOU ARE ALMOST THROUGH THESE TREATMENTS NOW. I AM SURE YOU ARE READY FOR THE BACK AND FORTH TO BE OVER. REST ALL YOU CAN THIS WEEKEND IN THE COMFORTS OF YOUR HOME. “THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME.”. THINKING AND PRAYING FOR YOU….JO XOXO
Jo dear girl, I know it’s been a totally hideous year for you and have thought of you so often.As you know, we use a lot of dog therapy around here, too. You’re so right about getting home. It’s dusty and a bit doggy smelling from Jake but it looks like heaven to me. You were so blessed to have had a wonderful father. My own was marvelous, as well. Savor your memories and remember as much as you can. Then your loved ones will never truly leave you. I’m grateful this year is behind you. Love, Sue
THANKS, SUE. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER “WARWICK”!! LOVED THAT♡ WISHING YOU ALL A GOOD SUNDAY ♡♡♡
I absolutely loved this post. A lesson we all need reminding of. Thank you for your inspiring words. So much to be thankful for!
A reminder to all … send me recipes (even you Terry) EVERYONE who is reading this blog, you are PART of it as well as those of us who talk all the time. PLEASE send me a few recipes for a book we are putting together. Send them to :toniedalton@gmail.com I am still waiting on you, you KNOW who you are !!
Tonie
Hi Tonie…lol…do you mean Me??? I will send a few to you this weekend. Cannoli is one of them. It will be a wonderful cookbook when done. Thank you.
have a good weekend to all reading. Hope this gets on…lost a ccouple already.
Love ya, JO
JO I BELIEVE IT’S A BUNCH OF US. I’VE SENT SOME IF I REMEMBER CORRECTLY BUT I HAVE TO SEND MORE .
YOU HAVE A GOOD DAY WITH LOTS OF JOY JO.
LOVE YOU BIG. XXX
Dear Sue, Looking out my window this morning, there are 2 squirrels just sitting on my front walk. I have seen 3 small rabbits running across the lawn. A little overcast this morning, but that will keep it cooler. I love this place. It’s not as neat as when my husband was alive, but it is still my own private park. When I was a child and teenager in southern California I used to dream of having a ranch in Texas and here I am, not exactly a ranch just 5 acres and no horses now. It’s strange how things happen in life. I am thankful that I got this chance. It is coming to an end now, but it has been wonderful. Just rambling on this morning, very little pain and the tremors are mild, so life is good. I think of you often during the day and am glad that you are getting toward the end of your ordeal. Prayers that soon you will be back to staying at home with Jim and the dogs. This was a great bog, thank you. Love Janet
Sorry, blog. If I don’t continually proof read bad things happen.
Janet, as long as you have those memories and got to do so much of what you both desired, that’s a good thing. Your place sounds lovely but also a great deal of work. If only weeds would stop growing and paint would stay put, huh? I think you are being very brave as you face this next phase of your life. Life can be an adventure if we’d embrace it but it seems there’s always those doubts and fears. You’re strong. I’m glad to hear the tremors are better today. Much love, Sue
Janet:
Memories and achievements can never be taken away. You are so blessed to have a child to go and be with, and he better take good care of you or I can drive to Texas still 🙂 I KNOW Houston and actually ahve a friend there (I can always send him over) Oh sweetie, I know it is so hard to do. And I know how much I love my little piece of heaven just getting fixed up. So great to see all the animals, and the wonders of nature. God bless you, soak it up, and then go on to new adventrues !!
PPrayers always
Tonie
Janet, so happy you are enjoying a good day and able to take in and appreciate all the wonderful blessings that have and are passing your way. When the going gets rough, reflect upon them and that sweet, restful feeling you are enjoying today. Blessed be.
JANET, I’M ALSO SO HAPPY YOU ARE ENJOYING A GOOD DAY. SO NICE TO BE ABLE TO SEE THE BEAUTY ALL AROUND YOU. KEEP THEM ALL IN YOUR HEART MY FRIEND AND YOU CAN TAKE THEM OUT ON A DAY THAT IS NOT SO GOOD ONE. LET’S ALL REMEMBER “WARWICK”.
GOD BLESS YOU.
XXX
SUCH A TOUCHING BLOG FOR ME, THAT CAME AT THE RIGHT MOMENT IN MY LIFE. SO VERY TRUE, WE DO HAVE TO REMEMBER THE SMALL THINGS CAUSE IN THE END THAT IS WHAT COUNTS. THANK YOU SUE ONCE AGAIN. I HAVE BEEN VERY THANKFUL SINCE I HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO DO VERY MUCH, BUT EVERY MORNING I BRING MOLLY OUTSIDE AND CHECK MY FLOWER GARDEN AND NOW MY FLOWERS ARE STARTING TO COME UP. DEAR ME, I EVEN COUNT THEM…..
LAST EVENING WHILE WALKING MOLLY A DEER RAN ACROSS OUR PATH, I WAS SO HAPPY BUT REALLY HAD TO USE MY STERN VOICE TO HAVE MOLLY STAY. THEN AS WE GOT CLOSER TO HOME SHE STARTED BARKING, AND LO AND BEHOLD THERE WAS A PORCUPINE. NOT A GOOD THING??? BUT ONCE AGAIN MOLLY LISTENED. I WAS SO GRATEFUL FOR ALL WE HAD SEEN AND SO VERY GRATEFUL MY DOG IS LISTENING TO MY STERN VOICE.
LYRICA IS NOT WORKING AS I WAS EXPECTING. IT MAKES ME DIZZY AND I HAVE A SORE TUMMY. SEE THE INTERNIST ON JULY 5TH WHICH I’M REALLY THANKFUL FOR. MAYBE IT JUST TAKES MORE TIME TO TAKE EFFECT. I’M REALLY NOT SURE, BUT DO KNOW I’M STILL IN THE SAME AMOUNT OF PAIN. ALSO GOING ON MONDAY TO HAVE A BRACE MADE FOR MY RIGHT HAND.
MY SISTER WAS CLEARED. NO RADIATION OR CHEMO. THANK YOU GOD. SHE GOES BACK EVERY 6 MONTHS.
MY SWEET SUE, HOPE YOU HAVE TIME TO ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND AT HOME EVEN THOUGH YOU HAVE SO MUCH TO DO. THINK OF YOU EVERYDAY AND KEEP YOU IN MY HEART WITH LOTS OF PRAYERS AND ANGELS GOING YOUR WAY. YOU NOW HAVE LESS TREATMENTS TO GO THAN MORE. HOPE YOU HAVE A GOOD WEEK IN PORTLAND. YOU MY SWEET LADY ARE A TROOPER.
THANK YOU AGAIN FOR A WONDERFUL BLOG YOU ARE A REAL TREASURE TO ALL OF US.
LOVE YOU BIG.
GOD BLESS YOU SUE.
XXX
Suzanne, I think I’ll be thankful for your stern voice. Must save a great deal of trouble…at least it did in one long walk. It sounds like you’re in a beautiful spot. Sorry the new med is not working out that great. It seems we’ve heard that often about that particular drug.
I don’t know about being a trooper unless you mean I just troop along from one foot step to the next. Sometimes there is only one door open and it’s fairly obvious that’s the one we have to choose. You’re sounding a bit better…thinking of you. Love, Sue
THAT STERN VOICE ALWAYS WORKED AT SCHOOL. VERY CALM BUT WITH ATTITUDE THAT MEANT TO LISTEN , SO HAPPY IT WORKED FOR MOLLY ALSO. NOW IF IT COULD ONLY WORK ON MY HUSBAND.
LOVE YOU ALL. GOD BLESS.
XXX
DEAR SUZANNE…I AM SORRY THE LYRICA IS NOT WORKING OUT FOR YOU LIKE YOU HOPED. THIS DRUG HAS A LOT OF SIDE EFFECT FOR MOST PEOPLE. I WAS DIZZY ON THEM TOO AND PUT ON 10 POUNDS. I WOULD NOT HAVE CARED ABOUT THE WEIGHT IF IT WAS REALLY HELPING WITH THE PAIN. THERE ARE SO MANY OTHER MEDS YOU CAN TRY.
YOUR WALKS WITH MOLLY SOUND SO ADVENTUROUS:) AND A LITTLE SCARY!!! I ONE HAD AN ENCOUNTER WITH A COYOTE WHILE WALKING AVA!!!! I SCOOPED UP AVA AND RAN (MORE LIKE LIMPING ALONG) I WAS SHOT FOR A WEEK AFTER THAT!! I DON’T LEAVE HOME FOR A WALK NOW WITHOUT PEPPER SPRAY.
HOPE YOU ARE HAVING A GOOD WEEKEND, SUZANNE.
LOVE YA….JO XX
Suzanne:
WOW a Porcuipine ?? I have only seen one once in the wild and that was in Germany ! Very impressive and not something I would like to stumble across with a pup !! HAng in there gal !
Love ya
TOnie
THANKS JO, IT’S NICE TO KNOW THAT DIFFERENT PEOPLE HAD TROUBLE WITH THIS DRUG. I’M ALSO GETTING VERY SWOLLEN, NOT SURE IF IT’S THE PILLS OR THE WEATHER???
WOW A COYOTE, WE HAVE THEM HERE ALSO. NOT SOMETHING WE WANT TO HAVE AN ENCOUNTER WITH. I HEAR THEM ALL YAPPING AT NIGHT.
LOVE YOU BIG. HOPE YOU ARE HAVING A DAY WITH LITTLE PAIN COOKIE AND LOTS OF JOY.
XXX
OOPS, SORRY THAT SHOULD HAVE READ JULY 15TH NOT 5TH. LOVE YA ALL. XXX
SUZANNE….I TOO AM SO VERY SORRY THE TREATMENT YOU ARE ON IS NOT COMING UP TO YOUR EXPECTATIONS, WE WERE ALL HOPING FOR GOOD RESULTS….WHAT HAPPENS NOW, ANOTHER VISIT TO THE DOCS TO GET IT CHANGED….HOPE SO……THINK OF YOU SUCH A LOT, AND PRAYING IT WILL ALL GET SORTED OUT FOR YOU PET….LOVE YOU….JENNIE POO XX
TONIE SWEETPEA, HOPING YOU ARE FEELING A LITTLE BETTER AND NOT AS TIRED AS YOU HAVE IN THE PAST FEW WEEKS. THINKING OF YOU MY DEAR FRIEND. GOD B LESS.
LOVE YOU BIG. XXX
Suzanne, your walks I’m sure are usually peaceful! I’m sorry you are not feeling better but often it is trial and error until you find the right drug.
Tonie, I’m surprised there aren’t porcupines in your mountains as many a Canadian dog has had porcupine quills removed … not a nice thing at all!!!
YOU ARE RIGHT POMMUM, MY WALKS ARE USUALLY PEACEFUL BUT THAT DAY WAS A LITTLE UNUSUAL. THINK THAT PORCUPINE LIVES NEAR BY. I’VE SEEN IT AGAIN AND ALSO HEARD IT. A LITTLE SCARY, CAUSE OF MOLLY. REMOVING PORCUPINE QUILLS IS NOT SOMETHING I WOULD NEED RIGHT NOW OR EVER. WILL HAVE TO KEEP A CLOSE EYE AND EAR. \
AS FOR MY PILLS, I’M ON A SMALL DOSE OF LYRICA, 25MG IN THE MORNING AND 75 IN THE EVENING BEFORE BED. I WILL BE LETTING HIM KNOW HOW DIZZY I FEEL AND PAIN IN THE TUMMY. NOT SURE WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT.
HOW ARE YOU COPING BRENDA? COTTAGE LIFE BEING GOOD TO YOU? I DO HOPE SO. THE WEATHER HAS BEEN VERY HOT AROUND HERE AND THE HUMIDITY IS OFF THE CHARTS.
LOVE YA BIG! GOD BLESS.
XXX
Welcome Terry- Cantrell is the last name of my neurologist so should be easy to remember you!
Tonie sorry you’re battling fleas. The boys must be crazy from them. Tea tree oil (melaleuca) is also supposed to be good for repelling them.
Lyn, are the kitties still pouting about The newcomer. I can just see their scowly little faces! Hope the extra activity of keeping up with a puppy isn’t flaring your RA too much. My legs are on fire today after taking eleven flights of stairs down on Thurs when 3out of 4 elevators were down in the office bldg. where I had to turn in my TB Testing paperwork and mileage reports in. Seemed like a better idea than waiting at the time anyway…you know, squeeze in a workout between errands?
Suzanne, sorry the Lyrica isn’t helping as you had hoped. Sometimes it’s like “pharmaceutical Russian roulette” finding the right meds to manage our pain. Hang in there!
Sue, I loved this blog, esp the part about the mule, (maybe cause I’m so stubborn!) and the strength that comes from believing you’re part of a team. I’d have never survived the last three years without your encouragement and this awesome TEAM you’ve brought together. That’s my grateful thought for today, on this quiet cloudy Saturday, where I’ve drunk deeply from the blessings of stillness, solitude, and renewal of mind. I understand more and more why God created the Sabbath, not as a rule or ritual, but because we need rest and refreshment. Each person’s “rest” is different, not limited to sleep or physical inactivity, but maybe just doing something you love, or simply not having an agenda for the day, reading a book, walking in the woods or a garden, those things that feed the soul as well as rest the body. I pray that you’re getting exactly the kind of rest you need today, body soul and spirit. ❤ Remember how much you’re loved, my friend!
Annie, Nice dissertation on the importance of relaxation. Sometimes we don’t have a choice. I’m feeling that way right now and those are the times even rest needs a bit of help. Resting when you feel like crap is sort of a must do. I think you’re right about the importance of doing and feeling the joy of something you enjoy. Isn’t it wonderful each of us have our own thing to love. Today my rest is necessarily mixed with short spurts of work. Sleeping poorly due to the pain and the esophagus problems. So pleased when this is all past. Love, Sue
Good morning my peeps !
AHHH I a awoke this am at 5:30 to bare light and the sound of rain falling on the windowpanes (Tina Turner singing in my head ) How we needed it ! Everything is dry and brown and having to water the garden and flowers daily. Suzanne, I have a deer that is feasting on my garden. I am about to have venison out of season 🙂 I put plastic crates and bird netting over the plants so she can’t get to them.
More coffee needed here. I have a long day ahead of me. Teaching Sunday School this am and having service tonight. But got a real blessing thsi am studing the lesson. It is about Mercy. Let me share this passage with you ” ..there cannot be mercy without suffering, and there cannot be forgiveness without pain.” think on it !
On Tuesday night, on America’s Got Talent, one of my friends from performing in Tombstone will be on there. Loop Rawlins. Catch it if you can, it is on NBC. He is a rope and gun artist. Used to perform in Vegas with the Cirque de soliel. Sweet guy I hope he goes on .
I didn’t get good news from teh MRi of my rt shoulder. Seems it is in actual worse shape then the left one. So it looks like another surgery is in the cards. So prayers again dear friends. I have to get my appt with the Dr who will read the MRI to me and tell me I need the surgery and refer me to the other guy who does the orthoscopic. Then, on to the knee 🙂 Soon I will become BIONIC and will kick everyones butt haha !!
Please take care all and have a wonderful day !
Love you much
Tonie
Tonie dear, you know how I feel about your MRI report but also we both know you can do this. It will be good to have it fixed. It’s that darn in between state with the pain you dread. One good thing is that you now know what to expect, right? Please wait until you know the left one is ready to take up the work. I already think you’re bionic..you do look a little like the bionic woman, Lindsay Wagner you know. Hope you got enough rain to help things along, especially the garden but not enough so you have to mow the lawn. Be good to yourself. Love, Sue
Sue:
I can moan a bit to you guys, but I know it will be better to git er dun and be over with it. It will be a while since I have to get the Orthopod to see me, say “Yep needs surgery” and since HE doesn’t do the orthoscopic, I have to get an apt with the surgeon who DOES, so….you see where this is going. It will be plenty of time to finish healing. In fact it is doing very well. I didn’t have that much pain really, it was just the aggravation of wearing that sling ! We got a dousing of rain, not enough for the yard, no, but the garden looks refreshed 🙂
Love ya
Tonie
OH TONIE, SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE SHOULDER, BUT AS SUE SAYS YOU KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT THIS TIME.
HOPE IT ALL HAPPENS FAST, THOSE WAITING PERIODS ARE HARD AREN’T THEY.
I WILL BE WATCHING AMERICA’S GOT TALENT TO SEE YOUR FRIEND LOOP RAWLINS.
TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF SWEET PEA. LOVE YOU BIG AND THINK OF YOU LOTS.
GOD BLESS.
XXX
Sue, didn’t really mean for it to be a dissertation, but glad you found it nice anyway. Had to rest Saturday so I didn’t crash and burn today- knew it would be busy with church, dinner with friends, mailing the kids’ 4th of July T-shirts (a much enjoyed tradition from Aunt Annie), laundry and preparations for my work week. I know you’re not likely resting too well b/c of the painful burns and throat stuff; I wish it were better for you 😦
I hope you’re seeing the light at the end of this long dark tunnel – I can’t imagine how hard it is to keep a positive attitude and yet you do! I think it is Psalm 3 that says “He gives His beloved sweet rest” That is my prayer for you, tonight and all this week. ❤
Tonie, sorry for the crummy news on the MRI. Hey- when you’re all BIONIC, we want to see an action clip with that funny slow- motion robotic noise…
Your SS lesson on mercy and suffering sounds really good, I would love to hear you teach it!
As for the deer munching your garden, reminds me of my brother. He used to line the deer in his backyard up in his pretend rifle scope and then rate the venison by size- snack size, lunch box or sandwich size, family dinner, or banquet size. Sounds like yours will be served with “garden salad.” Lol.
Annie:
I have heard that if you “pee” on a cloth and tie it around your garden ( I would say several of them) that it will keep them away. One of our neighbors does that. HMMMMM……
I WILL BE WATCHING TONIGHT TONIE. LOVE YA BIG. XXX
OH TONIE, I SAW LOOP R. ON AMERICA’S GOT TALENT. HE WAS AMAZING, HAPPY HE WENT THROUGH TO THE NEXT ROUND.
HAVE A GOOD DAY SWEETPEA!
XXX
TONIE I SAW YOUR FRIEND LOOP R. ON AMERICA’S GOT TALENT. HE WAS AMAZING. SO HAPPY FOR HIM THAT HE GOT THROUGH TO THE NEXT ROUND. WOOHOO.
ENJOY THE DAY WITH LITTLE PAIN . GOD BLESS YOU SWEETPEA.
XXX
OKAY THIS IS A LITTLE CRAZY, WHEN I WENT TO POST IT WAS NOT THERE AND NOW BOTH ARE THERE.
OH WELL TONIE, YOU CERTAINLY KNOW I WATCHED LAST NIGHT. LOL
LOVE YOU BIG! XXX
A BIG PS I just posted songs from my son’s band on FB from their first CD. They were written by him. He is the lead guitarist and sometime vocal (which is not his strong point) At any way, take a listen and like their page please. ALL OF A KIND !
HI….DON’T KNOW IF I AM ON AGAIN, SO KEEPING IT SHORT….IF I AM, I WILL WRITE MORE TOMORROW TO FOLKS.
THE BLOG IS LOVELY SUE…..I LOVED THE RUBENSTEIN QUOTATION, AND THE STORY OF WARWICK THE MULE WAS HEART RENDING AND SO VERY SWEET.
MY D AND I ENJOYED SOME SILLY MOMENTS THIS MORNING, JUST PLAYING I-SPY AND GIGGLING LIKE CHILDREN, HAVEN’T DONE THAT IN A LONG TIME….PRECIOUS MOMENTS…….ALSO WHEN WE WERE OUT YESTERDAY BREATHING IN THE CLEAR AIR HERE, I REALIZED HOW LUCKY I WAS TO BE SURROUNDED BY ALL THE GREEN HERE, I ONCE MENTIONED MY THREE YEARS IN SPAIN, WHEN ALL I SAW WAS DRY BROWN EARTH….WELL THATS IT, GONNA CLICK NOW AND HOPE FOR THE BEST……MY LOVE AND THOUGHT TO YOU ALL, I HAVE NEVER STOPPED THINKING ABOUT YOU ALL……LOVE JENNIE XXX
Jennie, it’s so easy to slip into a place where we take the beauty around us for granted, isn’t it. I know you’re fortunate in that respect to be surrounded by so much of it as are we.
My youngest GD loves to play I Spy. She tries to trick me with tiny stuff but I’m ready for her. Glad you’re back on dear friend. Love you much, Sue
WHOOP WHOOP!! LETS HOPE I CAN GET ON TOMORROW……………….XXXXXXXXXXXX
Dear Jennie, So glad your back. Missed you. Hope you feeling better. love, Janet
HI JANET…….THANKS LOVE, NICE TO BE MISSED, RIGHT BACK AT YOU SWEETHEART…..JENNIE X
Jennie, sounds like some really sweet times giggling with DD and enjoying your garden. My “garden” only seems to grow metal art sculptures well; otherwise I’m a brown thumb in hot dry Texas drought, but I get to live vicariously through your lovely pictures on Facebook. ❤ To you Frenchie!
HI ANNIE…..DON’T KNOW WHY I HAVE SLIPPED BACK TO FRENCH 123 INSTEAD OF JUST JENNIE….OURS IS NOT TO REASON WHY HUH? GLAD YOU HAVE ENJOYED THE “PIC”S I CAN’T TELL YOU WHAT LIVING AMONGST “GREEN” MEANS TO ME….I JUST CAN’T FORGET THOSE HORRIBLE 3 YEARS IN SPAIN, NEVER WANT TO LIVE IN A HOT COUNTRY AGAIN…….I HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE CHURCH DINNER WITH YOUR FRIENDS….LOVE YA…JENNIE X
JUST WANTED TO SLIP IN HERE AND SAY NICE TO HAVE YOU BACK ON JENNIE POO. LOVE YA GIRL. XXX
WHOOP WHOOP, I CERTAINLY HOPE SO JENNIE POO. XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Hi, folks, good to get caught up on here today. Before I forget, Annie, the kitties are fine with us, just not sure about the pup so still residing primarily in our bedroom and upstairs. They have each ventured down and in the same room as Sadie at some point – Lily and Rufus more than Aria – but Sadie still wants to run up to and chase them. We have to get to her quickly to hold her if we see one nearby, but the cats are slowly claiming more of “their” house. We’ll get there.
Busy day today! I had to help set up coffee and food today at church, read scripture and I’ve the prayer of dedication and clean up after church. Time for a quick lunch, walk the pup, trip to pet store, then back home to change and head off to a concert. Home now, fed dinner and relaxing a bit before changing and exercising Sadie pup again this evening. Whew. Yesterday was busy, too. I joined singing buddies at a nearby winery that has a Renaissance Faire. This weekend they were having a Celtic faire and we thought it would be fun to go. We were there from around noon until 5 or so. We enjoyed walking around, sitting and listening to music and tasting yummy food, then dinner at another’s home. I finally got home about 9 and still had to make some yummies for church. A quick trip to the store for a few ingredients and some store made cookies. I made a batch of cookies and a yummy apple cinnamon cake/bread. It was late when I crawled in bed and was pleased to have Lily join me. But poor kitty. My neck and shoulders were so uncomfortable I couldn’t be still. Finally got up to take some Advil in the hope it could help at least quiet the muscles a bit so I could sleep. Finally made it there. Hopefully tonight will be better. I’m still not sure what caused the bedtime problem. Probably too much sun and fun. Ha! But seriously, I’m thinking the sun and long day and ending it baking was the culprit.
Pup Sadie is doing well. Although she was AWFULLY whiny at bedtime last night. I hope she is better tonight – I’m giving her 2 walks in an effort to tire her out. 😉 Otherwise, she is doing well, and SO adorable.
Have a wonderful Sunday evening, everyone!
Lyn your weekend sounds so delightful, esp. the Celtic fair. I missed our “Scarborough Renaissance Faire” this year- it’s in a little town about 45 min-an hour south of Dallas and runs from late April thru Memorial Day. Between Easter choir stuff, Mom being in hospital 6 wks and my nephew’s graduation I just never quite made it down. Love hearing about your new little pup and your deck nights too. You have such a great family- two-legged, 4-legged, and church wise too.
Has dinner with my church peeps tonite. It was great fun. ❤Hugs
GOSH LYN….JUST READING YOUR POST MADE ME FEEL DIZZY….SO MUCH GOING ON, I CAN’T BELIEVE I USED TO DO ALL THAT…….GLAD TO HEAR SADIE IS DOING WELL, SHE SOUNDS A REAL BUNDLE AND DELIGHTFUL, DON’T WEAR YOURSELF OUT THOUGH SWEETS……..HOW IS SB DOING?……LOVE YOU…JENNIE X
Yes, Jennie, a full weekend to be sure. I usually rest more – have to or I pay the price. Luckily, my body does better in summertime so I can get away with more than I usually can. I will have a “down” day today, though. Lots of laundry, so that will be my chore for the day. I should take pup out for a walk this evening and out back at times today for some exercise. She is often less whiny at bedtime then. 😉
Lyn , I think sometimes we just “overdo” so much that it takes us more time to unwind. I have been so tired of times but yet when I lay down to sleep, I can’t get there. Hopefully you got better rest last night. Have fun with Sadie 🙂
Love
Tonie
SO TRUE TONIE, I TOO ALWAYS SEEM TO OVERDO AND THEN PAY THE PRICE. SEEMS LIKE I NEVER KNOW WHEN TO STOP UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE. EVENTUALLY I WILL LEARN.
LYN, YOU SURE DO LIVE AN INTERESTING LIFE. SO MUCH FUN TO READ ABOUT IT ALL. HUGS TO SADIE. PUPPIES DO TAKE UP A WHOLE LOT OF TIME, BUT SO WORTH IT.
LOVE TO ALL ON THE BLOG.
XXX
Dear friends, talked to my sister this evening, and am asking quick prayers for my mother. She went into hospital Friday afternoon with labored breathing, 400+ blood sugar, sky-high white blood cell count, and “sepsis.” Chest X-ray was fine, so not pneumonia. She is receiving IV antibiotics but they cannot pinpoint the source of infection; waiting on blood, urine, and spinal fluid cultures (to rule out meningitis). Walking a fine line toward renal failure according to the doc. Praying it’s not that critical. She’s 83, and as much as I hate the thought of losing her, I hate even more seeing her suffer. I will be up there this coming weekend for the holiday. Hoping she will be home by then- she was in hospital at Easter and it will break her heart to miss the family gathering on Independence Day- 💔 it was one of her & Dad’s favorites.
Thanks, and love to all, Princess Crabby Pants
PRAYERS FOR YOUR MOM ANNIE…KEEP US POSTED………………………..JEN X
Prayers Annie ! Please do keep us posted !
Dear Annie, Prayers for your Mom and for you. Janet
OH ANNIE PRAYERS AND ANGELS FOR YOUR MOM AND ALSO FOR ALL IN THE FAMILY.
STAY STRONG PRINCESS. LOVE YA
GOD BLESS. XXX
Prayers, of course, Annie.
Annie
My dad had sepsis and pneumonia along with a broken rib
He was in the recovery ward and I was told he wouldn’t make it.hey ho he’s here to go and menace on his scooter
Iwas told to give permission to let him go kidneys were failing but I know he would want to fight .but he pulled round and he was 89 then.also he has parkinsons ,so you hang in there
My thoughts are with you..it’s such a traumatising time
Hope this gets on ok
Love to all
Chris…..hey good to get on blog again Jen
HI CHRIS….YES ITS NICE TO BE BACK, HOPE YOU HAD A GOOD TIME IN NORFOLK….TALK TO YOU LATER….LOVE YOU….JEN X
Mornin all !
It is a beautiful day here in the Piedmont (what they call the area of Va I live in) ! I used to have a college professor who came in the room with ” It is a beautiful day to be alive in the Commonwealth. Memories !
I am trying to coax myself up to go to the gym. Today is one of my two days. Mon and Fri. Get there (takes 1/2 hour to drive) , work out, swim, soak in the hot tub, and then come home to work :(. I so need to straighten up my house, it is a WRECK !. I do so hate housework. I try to do a little each day but sometimes the clutter creeps up on me. I would MUCH rather work outside. However, it is supposed to be very hot this week again, so there will be no afternoon outdoor working for this gal, can’t take the heat much anymore. I pray you each have a wonderful day. Don’t for get RECIPES if you haven’t already sent them: toniedalton@gmail.com
Love you all
Tonie
Oh Annie, so sorry to hear about your mom. Saying prayers for her recovery and fir strength for you. Prayers that she will be able to attend the 4th of July party .
Hugs ♡
Jo
Dear friends, Sorry I’m on so late tonight. First of all, Annie, I am so sorry to hear what your dear Mom is going through. I know how frantic you must feel at this point. Hopefully, all the cultures will be normal and she will recover. I know it’s slower at her age but with all of you with her and on her side, it will help. Prayers for her. I know she’s been depressed since your Dad’s passing and one can hardly blame her. Life can be so hard on so many but we aren’t alone, and that’s when our faith foot hits the pedal and is tested. The plan for her life will be fulfilled and we will pray she will not suffer and if it’s to be, she’ll go back home and live much longer. Strength sweet girl, courage.
W
To continue, it was another long trip made more pleasant today due to a new car we had ordered and picked up Saturday. Think it will work out better for me at this time in my life. It’s my first new car in over 20 years and is so pretty and comfortable. We should be good at this moving crap by now but forgot several things but will manage because we get to go home on Thurs. due to the holiday this week…for you outside the USA it’s our Fourth of July. Five more treatments to go. I had to be seen today due to the fact my skin is coming off…no, that sounds kind of ghoulish…it’s a 2nd degree burn and is blistering. They put a special dressing over it…sticky and supposedly helpful. Can’t tell that it is. Using two kinds of cream at night and aloe vera gel all the time. It hurts to lift my arms up over my head during the radiation especially due to burns and my bad neck. Gees. So much. Esophagus is okay if I stick with soft food and drink liquids.
George came me a terrible scare and workout this AM. Jim was at the bank and I was pulling out my suitcase and George got out onto the street running right under my feet. I know he didn’t want to be left behind…fat chance…and was looking for the old car and it wasn’t there. He’s so quick. A large power truck came along and I screamed like a mad banshee and the guy stopped and it scared George enough he finally came to me. Whoosh. Small wonder we overlooked a few things we meant to bring with.
Jennie, good to see you back on here where you belong sweet lady. Glad you got to see your friends. I enjoyed the pics on FB. Such a pretty spot where you were.
Chris, sounds like a good weekend for you all. Such strength in that salt spray, huh?
Lyn, I’m pleased you’re enjoying Sadie so much, that little sweetheart. Sounds like a long painful road for the kitties but they’ll come around in time, right? You do sound like you’ve been awfully busy but hope it was worth the cost…probably was, knowing you.
Tonie, I understand how that heat can get to you. SO different than the AZ heat your body got used to. Just think how that sun is helping all of your garden to grow. Hope you get those fleas killed off very soon. Poor itchy pups. Can’t even imagine how they feel. We used to be in that spot all the time in CA. Our St. Bernard once had a bare tail..she was allergic to even one flea bite. Drops on the neck, spraying yard, and fogging the house all did it. There’s a time you have to do what you have to do…chemicals or not.
Jo, Janet, Brenda and our other many friends, you have my thoughts and love. Sue
SUE…….OH THANK GOODNESS ONLY 5 MORE TREATMENTS TO GO……HOW IT MUST PAIN YOU LIFTING YOUR ARMS UP WHEN IT HURTS SO BAD……NOT LONG NOW MY FRIEND, GLAD TO HEAR THE CAR YOU HAVE BOUGHT IS MORE COMFORTABLE FOR YOU, MAKES THINGS MORE BEARABLE. OH THAT NAUGHTY GEORGE, BUT I CAN UNDERSTAND HIS CONFUSION WITH THE NEW CAR AND ALL. I AM SO GLAD YOU WILL BE HOME FOR THE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS, WILL YOU BE GETTING TOGETHER WITH ALL THE FAMILY? JUST YOU TAKE IT EASY LOVE, AND LET YOUR LOVELY FAMILY PAMPER YOU……….I LOVE YOU…………JENNIE XX
I had typed a BIG reply here and it just poofed !! Right in front of my eyes ! Didn’t even get to post it ! SO here we go again !
Such a start for you and a scare for the both of you !!! Than God he and you were not harmed and hopefully he learned a good lesson ! Last new car I had was in 1988. Good feeling though huh ?? You deserve it and all it’s comforts. I am smiling seeing you in my minds eye !
My garden is being destroyed by a wench of a deer ! I put enough LIME on all the plants last night that if she eats some we can track her from her POOTS ! IT will leave a powder trail !. SHe doesn’t like pumpkin for they are all beautiful. SHe has gone after my tomatoes which I was so looking forward to. But have them covered now in netting and the cucumbers with milk crates. I will have venison soon if she keeps this up !!
Fleas are getting under control. More dipping and spraying. Brutie actually lays down now for me to spray him. He knows relief is there.
I am going to the Wellness Center Picnic with Ms Alice and Fran today. Nice workday huh ??
Well gotta to get going. I hope some of you got to see my friend last night on TV. He was awesome and advanced to the next round. Great to see him get there !!
Love you !
Prayers for you healing and comfort soon to come. God be with you my dear dear friend.
Tonie
Well, apparently my mom is like a kitty with 9 lives. Bloodwork was Ok yesterday afternoon so she is home now. Still very weak. Still no clue what the infection source was, or which antibiotic made it better. (She got 2different kinds IV). … Maybe she’s secretly competing with your Dad, Chris, and hoping for a scooter to take out joyriding! LoL. She’ll never keep up in the menace dept though.
I do wish they’d quit throwing around the term “renal failure” so loosely! This nurse/daughter knows too much.
That said, praise God she is home and should be able to come to the family gathering Fri. Thanks so much for all of your prayers. They bring me more strength and comfort than you will ever know. You guys rock! ❤
Sue, what a scare for you and little George! Thank goodness he was not hurt, and that you didn’t hurt yourself getting to him. Let me guess, a poop scoop for him and a clean pair of drawers for you? (Oh you know I just HAD to go there. Would you expect any less from little ol’ me?)
Well, done w/Lunch, gotta go check on my little peeps. Duty calls.
Love to all, Princess Very-Happy-Not-So-Crabby Pants
good news about your Mom. Still sending prayers your way. Keep up the good fight Princess. Janet
Great news about your mom, Annie! Will continue to keep her in my prayers. I, too, kept hearing “renal failure” about my dad since 2006!!! He was on a specialized kidney diet for years. Keep Hanging in there….Jo♡
WELL THANK THE LORD PRINCESS. I WILL CONTINUE WITH MY PRAYERS AND SENDING ANGELS HER WAY. YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH SO MUCH LATELY. SENDING ANGELS TO YOU TOO.
YOUR TAKE CARE PRINCESS AND DON’T FORGET YOU IN ALL OF THIS SWEETHEART.
XXX
HI ANNIE….SO THANKFUL YOUR MOM IS OK, WHAT A SCAREY TIME FOR YOU, AND FOR HER. PRAYERS FOR HER THAT SHE WILL BE WELL ENOUGH TO BE WITH YOU ALL ON FRIDAY……THINKING OF YOU DEAR ANNIE……..LOVE JENNIE X
TESTING ……..JENNIE X
JENNIE- you passed. A+. 😘
HEY JENNIE POO, YOU ARE HERE SWEET PEA. LOVE YOU AND ALL THE PICS YOU PUT ON FB TODAY.
XXX
GLAD YOU LIED THEM SUZANNE…..I REMEMBERED HOW MUCH YOU LIKE FLOWERS ……JENNIE POO X
Annie:
SO happy about your Mom. God is good !!
Love ya
Tonie
Good news, Annie!
Sue, a new car? Your SUV not working out anymore? I am so relieved to hear you and George are ok!
Jennie, good to see you are able to get back on here. Whew.
More later, folks. Time to feed the kitties and rest my hands a bit. They’ve been worse than usual lately. I’m sure the extra activities with Sadie and the weather have not helped. Take care, all!
Lyn, Since you asked…my SUV was 9 years old and a lot of power and weight for this little old lady. When my son came out from TX he rented a Ford Taurus and it was very comfortable for my sitter. Jim and I started looking at cars and since I haven’t had a brand new car in over 20 years, we settled affectionately on the Ford Taurus and ordered a Ruby Red one fully equipped, moon roof, etc. Our Chevy dealer found one for us…not our Ford dealer whom I didn’t like from past experiences. We have it now and it is nice, very comfortable and smooth ride.
Sorry to hear your hands are acting up. It might be the weather. It was very hot here today in the high 90’s and we now have a front moving in and the temp falling and I share your discomfort with my hands tonight. Burn is still bad and the esophagus is aggravating right now. I got sick again this AM from that. I take assurance this all will eventually be worth it. Love to Sadie and the kitties who will learn to tolerate and maybe love her. Fondly, Sue
That makes perfect sense, Sue. Glad you like your new car! That SUV did sound big for you. 🙂 Sadie and Rufus had a good positive experience this morning with Lily looking on. Progress!
LYN ….THANKS LOVE, YOU SOUND TO BE SO BUSY, I HOPE YOUR HANDS SOON GET BETTER, ITS HARD WHEN YOU HAVE ALL THOSE LITTLE ONES TO LOOK AFTER…….LOVE JENNIE X
HI SUE, HOPE YOU ARE FELLING A LITTLE BETTER TODAY. MY YOU ARE GOING THROUGH SO MUCH I CAN’T EVEN WRAP MY HEAD AROUND IT ALL. PRAYERS FOR YOU MY DEAR FRIEND. HAPPY YOU WILL BE HOME FOR THE 4TH OF JULY AND HOPE IT IS A “GOOD” DAY FOR YOU. YOU ARE ALMOST THERE MY FRIEND. LOVE YOU BIG.
GOD BLESS YOU SUE. XXX
Ok…shorty incase this don’t go
Sue
So glad you and pup ok,what a time,but fun to look back on in the future!
Not long to go now
Tonie
A wench of deer!
Never heard that is that what they are? Hope they keep away from all your lovely veg now
Have a good time at the picnic
Suzanne
No point continuing with the side effects like that and not working.im sure there’d are so many others to choose from
Annie
Hope your mum gets going good now.good to be away from hosp for her
Lyn
I’m sure you need some downtime after all that last week
Well I’m at our donga,or the hut as we call it.for a few days.DD coming up sometime,I think she thinks she is part owner and arranging her time here with mates !! Oooooo and the oven all nice an clean too!!!
Well DD putting a table up on decking and we will christen it with a bottler of summat
Hope this gets p Chris
Chris:
🙂 No, I was calling the deer a WENCH because she was eating up my garden. You have made me laugh now !! Hope you are enjoying being at your Donga !! Take care sweet and enjoy
Love
Tonie
Nahhhh
Not DD putting up table DH is
And I got on blog ok!!
HAVE FUN CHRIS AND DH CHRISTENING THE TABLE. SOUNDS GREAT TO ME.
LOVE YOU BIG. AND HAPPY YOU ARE BACK AND HAD A BLAST.
XXX
Dear Friends, Note: there will not be any new blog this week. Natalie and I are taking this week off. I’ll try to chat later this evening if I feel better. Love you all, Sue
Prayers and lots of positive energy going out to you. You rest and take care of you first. We can wait for a blog, we just want you well. Love, Janet
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH JANET. TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOU FIRST. WE CERTAINLY CAN WAIT FOR A BLOG.
LOVE YOU SUE.
PRAYERS AND ANGELS BEING SENT YOUR WAY. AND OF COURSE A GENTLE HUG TO FELL BETTER.
XXX
HELLO…….JUST HAD A LOT OF WORK DONE ON MY LAPTOP, SO I THINK I AM BACK TO JENNIE AND THE FRENCH123 HAS BEEN DITCHED. SUE SO DELIGHTED YOU WILL BE HOME TOMORROW, AND THAT YOU HOPEFULLY WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY EVERYTHING……BEEN A HOT DAY HERE, BUT ITS BEEN NICE TO HAVE SOME COMPANY, AND SOMEONE TO SORT OUT THE MESS MY LAPTOP WAS IN. ANYWAY PLEASE LET ME TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO WISH EVERYONE A VERY HAPPY 4TH OF JULY, I WILL BE THINKING OF YOU ALL, AND IMAGINING YOU ALL WITH YOUR FAMILIES……ENJOY….LOVE YOU ALL…JENNIE X
Sue, my heavens you deserve a week off from blog writing. We’ll happily welcome a word here and there as you are able, or simply entertaining ourselves until you are back at it. You know this. 😉
I’m hoping tonight will go alright (meaning we get sleep). I may not be able to get Sadie out for exercise today. She’s done pretty well with the kitties today, though. She had such a good day yesterday that we decided to try to go baby gate-less. We discovered she is a bit jealous of Lily when she gets attention, but no serious issues. I got her to back down and stop her light growling or whining. By back down I mean lay her head back down or look away. She never left her spot on the love seat. 😉 I think I’ll head upstairs soon and change out of my dress. Time to check radar. If the rain isn’t going to clear I may hit the treadmill. I’ve put on a few unwanted pounds. Time to work on getting them off before they add up!
Anyone stateside have plans for the 4th? I’m hoping for a quiet day, then down to deck night at my Mom’s. This will be the first 4th we’ve spent with my side of the family in years. We usually celebrate with DH’s side. It’ll be fun. This week’s Deck Night menu is grilled cheese on the grill. We all bring a variety of breads, cheeses, and other ingredients. You’d be amazed what all we put in our grilled cheese sandwiches! Then we put them in an aluminum foil “pouch” that we make and put them on the grill, checking and turning them along the way. So fun and tasty. I’m going to throw together a variation of a carrot salad I recently had at a friend’s house. She used her garden carrots, cut and blanched them about 2 mins, then into cold water. Once cooled, she cut some spring onion and added it and some dill, then added a dressing she made of vinegar – that’s all I caught in the discussion, but I’m assuming oil with the vinegar. I have a marinated veggie recipe that uses oil, vinegar, a touch of sugar and pepper. I think I’ll just play with ingredients tomorrow to see what I like. I also have cucumber and grape tomatoes I can add. I think that would be tasty. I’ll take that along to Deck Night and probably make an apple cinnamon cake/bread that I copied from a Facebook posting. I made it last week and it’s good. I should send that recipe to Tonie for the cookbook. While at the store the bakery had some wonderful looking July 4th desserts made up. I grabbed some cupcakes they decorated in red and blue that look fun and tasty. I think that should be plenty to add to our feast. Just about all the family will be there, so Sadie may experience her first stay home alone with the cats. It would be very overwhelming for her with us, I think. Well, I’ve gone on when I meant to go up and change clothes. Best, all!
Lyn:
Your 4th sounds really fun. I truly miss all the family gatherings as I don’t have that here. My son doesn’t come up and I have no room for all of them as it is. So I will be here with the dogs tomorrow. Nothing special. (except the meaning of the day!). We had some awesome thunder storms and good rain this evening. I have let the chickens out and am laying down til time to pen them up at dark. SO nice walking up to shut them in, the lightening bugs all over, the peep frogs calling and wipperwills ! Sounds like Sadie is fitting in nicely. I just dried Chockie off and he was loving all the attention. I wish he would behave and I would let him come in some. But he seems content to sit on my landing and glare at the dogs 🙂 Chickie Sue chased him off the porch the other night and was eating his food ! That Chickie Sue is something ! Takes after her namesake ! Enjoy your day tomorrow.
Love
Tonie
Haha, Chickie Sue… She IS something! It is a shame Chockie engages in the staredown. Maybe someday she’ll mellow out. Sadie was left alone for the first time – in her crate, of course. We left the radio on for her on a classical station. She must like music – she parked herself under my chair for a flute lesson yesterday and stayed in the studio with us when DH and I were singing through some Beethoven today. I also put 3 toys and a few treats in her Kong in her crate with her. She was happy to see us and we had a great time playing in the backyard upon our return. When we came back in, she checked her crate for any more treats. Silly girl. And brought out a toy to play with. She’s not chomping on the toy. She’s destroyed 2 toys already since we got her. 😉 It was a nice day, although I overdid this afternoon, I think. I baked a cake and made a side to take along. They were tasty, but all that standing, etc… And we walked Sadie earlier to tire her out a bit before we had to leave her. Thankfully, I could sit most of the time at Deck Night. Gorgeous day and evening! I hope you were able to enjoy yours with the boys. 🙂
Happy 4Th of July to all my Peeps !! Enjoy your day and remember what it is all about.
love
Tonie
SAME TO YOU AND EVERYONE TONIE……LOVE JENNIE POO XXXXX
Lyn:
So glad you enjoyed your day. I always left music on for the boys also. Classical as well. Calming and it makes them feel they are not alone. We used to do the same for horses in the barn. Animals do like music. I went up on the hill and had a burger with my brother and his family. Nice to see all my nieces and nephews again. Kids I had never met 🙂 Still trying to shake this flare up ! Down to the last prednisone and if I don’t feel better, I need to go and get an injection. Going next Sat to set up at a flea market and try to sell some things. So today I have to go thru it all and mark prices. Saves time and energy when selling. SO… one more cup of JOE and I should be ready to do something 🙂 Have a great day all
Love
Tonie
Happy 4th of July, American peeps! Those across the pond and north, I hope your day was also exceptional!
SUe:
Praying for you. I know you are not feeling well. Your absence is a sure sign. Take care love and get stronger. And heal quickly. WE love and miss you.
God bless
Tonie
Dear Friends, Tonie is correct. I just haven’t felt well enough to be on here lately. Only two more treatments to go and I am thrilled at the thought. The burn from the radiation is quite severe but thank God they gave me some gel like pads to put over it that have medication embedded in them which make it feel a bit better. I still have to watch how I move, can’t lie on that side, etc. That left arms is not even much use right now. Thankfully, the esophageal burn doesn’t seem worse and I do have a numbing solution to swallow when it’s fierce. Eating is a bit of a challenge, I admit. The last two treatments will be a bit milder, according to the doctor who saw me on Friday. The radiation oncologist is excellent and likeable. That helps.
It was wonderful to come home on Thursday and know we won’t have to haul all of our “stuff” with us for the one night stay next week. Trying to do laundry, get things back where they belong, etc. Doing it all very slowly, I confess. Seem to need a great deal of rest right now. I think of each of you daily just don’t have the energy right now to comment. Please don’t forget me…I’ll be back with a flurry, you know that! Love, Sue
Highly unlikely any of us could forget you, Sue. You just keep doing what you’re doing. Your job is to get well. George and Jake will help along with all your humans close by. I just thought of something, did DD and SIL get their pup yet? I confess I forget that timetable. What fun it will be to watch puppy antics. 😉 DH and SB are off this afternoon play8ing golf. They haven’t played together in some time. It almost didn’t happen. I confess I pushed at the last minute. Mama’s prerogative. Sadie and I are inside at the moment while Rufus and Lily enjoy some time outside. Sadie can go back out later. I don’t think all 3 should be out there at once quite yet.
A note for all, those following the chronicles of Sadie will be happy to know I swabbed her cheeks today and posted her DNA test in today’s mail. In a few weeks would should learn what kind of mixed breed she is. I’m hoping it will help in her care and training in addition to satisfying our curiosity. 😉
Lyn dear, the kids will be picking up their new choc. lab pup next weekend. It’s an all day trip but they don’t care because they’re all so excited. Love all the Sadie stories. I’m excited for you to get some parameters on breed for her; good idea. Much love, Sue
Oh, so excited for them! No, the trip is a fair exchange for what joy they will be bringing home. 🙂
I thought it a good idea to have a better idea on Sadie’s breed, too.
Dear Sue, how can we forget you??? NEVER!! We all understand that your health comes first and that is all that matters. Sure.., I miss your writings because you are so inspirational and full of hope and always spot on. . What you are going through right now is teaching us all how the indomiinable human spirit and faith which you possess can carry us through the darkest times. I am thrilled you have just two more treatments to go….soon it will be a distant memory. Your new car sounds pretty, especially the color you chose. My neighbor just bought a Tauraus and they love it and are very happy with it.. my next car will be that same color. I hope you are enjoying it on your rides back and forth.
will be thinking of you this coming week as you finish up your treatments. I hope the burning subisdes for you soon. .Give yourself time and the patience you give to everyone else. Take care, Love, Jo xoxo
RIGHT ON JO, HOW CAN WE FORGET YOU SUE. NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS. YOU COME FIRST AND WE ALL UNDERSTAND THAT. TWO MORE TREATMENTS SUE, YOU CAN DO THIS. WE ARE ALL CHEERING FOR YOU. CAN’T YOU HEAR US IN THE BACKGROUND. LOVE YOU BIG BRAVE LADY.
GOD BLESS YOU AND GIVE YOU THE COURAGE TO GET THROUGH THE LAST TWO.
XXX
Lyn:
I must say I was surprised when you adopted a dog. I had it in my mind you were strictly a cat person. 🙂 But I can tell now that you are not, just loving this pup. From her looks I believe Sadie has a lot of Lab or Golden in her. I will be curious to know what comes out. It always fascinated me that more than one dog can sire a pup in a litter. Guess it is natures way of keeping bloodlines going huh ? Enjoy your Sadie ,
Love
Tonie
Tonie, as my family will tell you I love cats, dogs, pretty much any cute, hairy animal. 🙂 I really should live on a farmette and foster sweet animals in need of care. 😉 There’s a reason they don’t like me going to shelters – and now online!
Lyn, As I recall you had a dear dog when I first met you on this blog. Sadie is giving you such pleasure, I know. Try “NO” for the licking. She’ll try to please you, I’m sure when she senses your displeasure. Love, Sue
Sue:
In this case, I don’t like being right. But good to see you pop on here. Relax and recuperate. We will be here NOT forgetting you 🙂
Love you
Tonie
Tonie, Glad to know I’m unforgettable. Things are plugging along each day and it’s been good to have three days without a treatment. It’s an odd feeling to get in the shower and have your skin fall off…hurts, too. I can hardly wait…two more treatments then it’s over until the next phase which should be oral meds. I’ll see the oncologist on Tuesday. Then we get a break for awhile. Hope you’re able to get those fleas DEAD. Thinking of you and pups. Love, Sue
Hang in there, Sue – you’ve got this! And we’ve got you. ❤ We're all here for you!
Well Sue, just look at it this way, you slough off that skin and get new, unblemished pink skin ! I am so glad you are almost finished. I picked up bombs for the house today, but the organ guy came to pick the one up from church and I have been there since 5 pm (it is now 9), But I will leave em off in the am when I leave and let the boys stay outside while I am gone. Then dip em before they get to go inside 🙂 Drove Jeepie today with the top off, SO good to get back in her, she is my baby ! Please take care of you !
Love
Tonie
Hi all
I’ve heard from jennie and she sends her love but she ain’t well at all and in some pain all this w.end.she hopes to get to drs tomorrow and get on the blog again when she is not so bad as she is now.
She don’t sound too good
Wellwe are at coast again.DD and Partner came up and he took his DD and a friend on the beach for a while 17 and 14 and went back to get them they’d walked
to the next beach and no mobile signal .so they were both angry and worried .but found them…kids!
We are back home tomorrow
After all the fun and games
.sue you be good ok!!!
Shorty am tired
Love Chris
Chris, thanks for keeping us up to date about Jennie. I’ll be in touch with her. WOW are you getting the use out of the coastal hut. That’s so wonderful. As far as the kids, what can I say, they use bad judgment all over the world—apparently. Do keep enjoying it, love, Sue
Jennie, We’re all thinking of you and praying you will be well very soon. I wrote you on FB..Much love, Sue
Hang in there, Jennie!
JENNIE POO, HOPE YOU ARE FEELING A LITTLE BETTER TODAY. LOVE YA GIRL. SENDING PRAYERS YOUR WAY, AND ANGELS OF COURSE. XXX
Sue, so glad this ordeal is almost over for you! You have been in my thoughts and prayers daily. I can’t imagine what those burns must be like and do hope you have good pain control. I love the picture of George on Facebook … he is sooo cute… and don’t worry we could NEVER forget you!
Many of you may have seen on Facebook that we are very concerned about our dear Teddi Bear. He has an esophageal collapse which we are told is life threatening. We now have him on a narcotic cough suppressant and a bronchial dilator as we wait for the surgeon to return from holidays in August … and then we must consider the pros and cons of surgery. His prolapse is not in the neck but lower in the chest so any surgery will be complex and risky. We are to keep him quiet but he is sleeping a lot and not himself, so we will try cutting back tomorrow on his meds and hope we can keep him from chasing the chippies!
My feet continue to be very painful making any amount of walking impossible. My entire foot will go into spasm at times and I know all my toes have tendonitis. My back has also been the worst it has ever been and it is also preventing me from doing very little or it too goes into spasm. If this continues I have decided to ask for a consultation with a back specialist … something I said I would never do! I know nothing at this time can be done for the compression fractures, but there are other problems also and I think it may be time to find out exactly where all this pain is coming from. Between my back and my feet there are days I can barely walk which is scary! I have started using trekking poles – a pole in each hand like a ski pole- which I think will prevent falls. I have never chanced going in the water all this time we have been at the cottage, but this evening I walked out, with hubby holding me, to just below my knees and it felt very refreshing, but I am very frightened of falling. DH has ordered a folding ramp that he thinks the pups could use to get on and off the bed and he said tonight if we got two they could be used for a wheel chair … I so don’t want to go there!!! I have had two infusions of the new drug and although it may have helped a bit with fatigue, I see no response in my feet, but they have warned me it may take four infusions … so I wait! I have been reading and getting caught up and will try to come back and post to everyone but for tonight …..
love and prayers to everyone. PM Brenda
Dearest Brenda:
Prayers for you always. SO sorry for all the pain and for all the frustration you must be feeling. This slope we are balancing on each day is so scary ain’t it ? I feel your fear of falling. I am scared of it myself. I try to be careful in what I do each day, but sometimes it only takes one wrong step. Where I live is all uphill and downhill, so very easy to start “rolling”. Do give Teddi a hug from us all. I know this is heartbreaking for you both. They are indeed our little loved ones. Know that you are loved, and in prayers (as well as Teddi) and take care of you. The walk in the water sounds so refreshing. I could smell the water 🙂
Love you
Tonie
PM Brenda, prayers continue. For what it’s worth, I think you are proceeding wisely with regard to yourself and dear Teddi. None of it is easy. I do hope you wade in the water with your DH from time to time. 🙂 And good luck keeping Teddy from chasing chippes! Although, I’m sure he’s not really feeling the greatest right now anyway. I don’t relish the decision you will soon have to face. Blessings.
Well hi all
Been so busy coming up to the hut ,time just goes
We got the BBQ from home and got it up here last nite,stayed the nite now just waiting for washing to go thru and dry and will be off back home again. We had showers so mite as well do wash here than take it all back…that way we can stay longer!
Brenda. You have a lot going on
Do you find when you go to your cottage that time just goes?
Sue. This is the last week there ,so good then to be at home
Going to read a book now
And just wait…..
Chris
Hi everybody, had a crazy few days with the holiday weekend and such. I had Thurs off as well to get things ready to go, couple dr appts etc. was driving between appts and my car overheated on the freeway. By the time I could exit it was quite a sight with steam rolling out from under the hood. Long story short, a hose had come disconnected, spewed out all my coolant and burnt up the motor. Couple thousand bucks later I have a new motor, thermostat, & misc other parts but should get another 100,000 miles out of it.
My friend Lanae graciously loaned me her minivan so I could go to Oklahoma for the holiiday weekend. BBQ and fireworks at my brothers place (he’s a closet pyro and does a fabulous display), and a water balloon relay race/ free-for-all with the kids. Mom looked pretty Good Friday evening but was pale and weak Saturday and sick again by Sunday with nasty cough, etc. I guess she’s just going to be fragile from here on out…
My new baby niece Cadence is just adorable of course, and I got to hang out with Alisha and baby Lincoln (9mos) on Sat. Travis will be 5 and Bella turns 1 later in July so we had mini-birthday time with Aunt Annie. The other kids are all getting so big. Love love love!
My church had a big party at the water park Sun evening – I went for a couple hours and then had to get home and crash early so I could go to work Mon. I was smart enough to do laundry and have scrubs ready for the week before I left in my trip. Good move. I’m tired but happy. PT yesterday made me sore all over again but I seem to be bouncing back ok this morning.
PS- SUE, don’t you worry, you’re UNFORGETTABLE! Praying you are resting and feel a little better each day as you recover from your treatments.
Love to all, ❤ Princess Crabby Pants
Dear Friends, Once again I apologize for my recent silence. My last radiation treatment was two days ago, Tuesday July 8th. The severe second degree burns just above the mastectomy wound and now under my arm continue to hurt and are toting dressings to keep them from rubbing against my clothing…now if I was a nudist? Won’t go there. I miss each of you and am reading your entries. I simply have been sleeping and dealing with the pain. My home needs so much and I can only do a little. Did drive my new car for the first time yesterday to go to the market. We had NOTHING to eat in the fridge. Speaking of which, it needed a speck of cleaning since most of the food was over the hill that was in there. Jakie our dear old dog has made a few potty mistakes in the house and there is much to do. I have done a very small portion of it. One step at a time with lots of rest periods. The doctors have told me the burns are severe because of my photosensitivity and the many years I have been on methotrexate. Prayers please my dears. Love each of you so much, Sue
As the old phrase goes, Sue, Keep on keepin’ on! I know there are some awful moments right now. Just do what you can and the rest will wait for another day. I’m so sorry for your pain and fatigue. But I’m sure Jake is so happy to see you and have you home again – no less so than you, yourself I’m sure. Sorry my thoughts are flitting around a bit. I have so many thoughts where you’re concerned. 🙂 Thoughts, and prayers. 😉 This little ditty just popped in my head for you. To be sung to the tune of “Pick a Little, Talk a Little” from The Music Man – ‘Do a little, rest a little, do a little, rest a little; Heal, heal, heal; Do a lot, rest a little more’. 😀
Thanks Lyn, wasn’t that the song the old ladies sang with their feathered hat nodding to the tune in that musical? I just watch Seven Brides today. Those rest times are great just wish I could shake this burn pain. I loved your pics with dear Sadie on FB yesterday. She is so adorable and such a long tongue! Her snowy white, downy fur reminds me so of our Annie. Hope you’re okay dear friend. Love, Sue
That’s the tune, Sue! I thought you might remember it. 🙂
Sadie is a trip! She’s currently chewing on one of her first toys – a pink stingray $1.99 squeaker toy. She’s neutralized the squeaker but it is still in one piece! Now that’s a bargain toy! It’s a shame she doesn’t have any more toys… 😉
Dear Sue, Prayers, positive thoughts going out to you. Take it one thing at a time and don’t sweat what you can’t do. Your strength will return and the pain will lessen. We are all here pulling for you. Love, gentle hugs. Janet
Janet, thanks so much for your encouragement and affection. How are your plans coming along? How was the fourth with the family there? Looks like you survived but I know it’s painful to have your life, possessions and memories so disrupted, even by family members. Thinking of you often. Love, Sue
Dear Sue, Kind of you to ask. My family was here for the 4th and a lot of decisions were made. I have a lot of boxes to fill. I am only good for a short period when I stop and rest, then start up again. There is a lot of sorting to do as I go along. My younger son came out yesterday and he is going thru my husbands stuff. I don’t know if I had mentioned it, but my husband was into many things. He built this house from the ground up, and he had many hobbies. The motto that hangs in my garage is ‘He who dies with the most toys wins”. I think he won. sometimes I look at all this stuff and i just want to walk out the door and just not look back. I am very tired today, did too much yesterday. It’s hard to stop when there is someone else there working so hard. this rant is all your fault, you did ask.
I hope you are feeling better. You are always in my heart and prayers. Just know how much you are loved. Please take care. Love, janet
Sue may have asked, but we’re all interested, Janet. 🙂 Just remember that ant…
Just what makes that little old ant
Think he’ll move that rubber tree plant
Anyone knows an ant, can’t
Move a rubber tree plant
But he’s got high hopes, he’s got high hopes
He’s got high apple pie, in the sky hopes
So any time your gettin’ low
‘Stead of lettin’ go
Just remember that ant
Oops there goes another rubber tree plant
😉
Thanks Lyn, very good advice. I remember the song well. Janet
OH SUE DEAR HEART, YOU NEED TO TAKE IT ONE MOMENT AT A TIME RIGHT NOW. JAKE IS THRILLED TO HAVE YOU BACK JUST AS YOU ARE HAPPY TO BE BACK HOME. WHAT A WONDERFUL LIFE, HOME, HOME, SWEET HOME. EVERYTHING WILL GET DONE IN TIME. THIS I HAVE LEARNED FROM YOU, AND ACTUALLY IT IS HAPPENING AROUND HERE. NOT AT THE SPEED I WOULD LIKE BUT IT IS GETTING DONE MY FRIEND. SLOWLY BUT SURELY. DO TAKE YOUR TIME TO HEAL SUE THE REST WILL FOLLOW.
LOVE YOU BIG. GOD BLESS YOU MY DEAR SUE.
SENDING PRAYERS AND ANGELS YOUR WAY TO EASY THE WAY FOR YOU SWEETHEART.
XXX
Suzanne, are those some of my own words coming back to me? Hhmmm? Today is worse than yesterday and I’m looking forward to what the doctor tells me and that is that a week from now I will begin to feel better. This whole burn business is very much like shingles in the miserable department for anyone who has had that particular displeasure.
I’m pleased you feel like you’re accomplishing something sweet lady..you’re right, of course. Love, Sue