Bailey and Friends

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy- Happy Friday!!!
Still no call re: power washing......so we're still not in line to get painted anytime soon. He said maybe 3 weeks and that was 2 weeks ago.:( If SOMEONE had not taken so long to decide on the SAME color, we'd be all done by now.:mad:
I'm having lunch with a friend today. I think we're going to get sandwiches and go down to the boardwalk to enjoy them. It's only 79 now and sunny. I'll get more Vitamin D! :D:D:)
I hope to get started on stained glass over the weekend.....or maybe stepping stones. SOMEthing! My "artistic" side is way over neglected. I have a friend who owns a restaurant and he has a window where he lets me hang my stained glass.....for sale. I haven't given him anything new in at least two years. And, had they not broken one large one, I might have made some money by now. I think they dropped it.:(:(
Well-must go get a shower. Have a wonderful weekend and maybe you can enjoy that pool. 40 feet sounds pretty long. Is that extra long?
Love,
Sus

[addy]

Hey Susan,

It is Saturday!!!!!! Time to get to your studio and start working on that stained glass. What a wonderful craft you have. I have always admired it. I bet it is relaxing for you too.

Tell me again about the carpet cleaning. I hold the trigger and go up and down once, then go up and down twice to suck out the water and then move to my right?

Or do I only hold the trigger as I go up and release it as I come back down?

I have never done it:p:p:p:confused::confused::confused:

Wish I could just put hardwood in the bedrooms:(:(:(

Have a great day!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love,
ME

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-we wish we had put hardwood floors in the bedroom too.:(
Your second thought is the correct one. Every time the machine is pulled back toward you, it sucks up moisture. So each time forward....trigger. Each time backward....no trigger. Then move to the right. Overlap just a bit the second row with the first. Most carpet cleaners tell you to pre-treat especially bad stains. I have found that if you use a good "detergent" that all you might need is a second time over a persistent spot. If you want to pretreat, I think a good cleaner is the Resolve carpet cleaner. You spray it on, wait three minutes then blot up the moisture. You can also spray that specific spot without moving the machine. I think you'll be surprised at how easy the process is. The worst part is cleaning the machine up after you're done. It's just a hassle. Let me know how it goes.
Love,
Susan

[addy]

Got it, thanks, I am attempting that tomorrow. We used to have Stanley Steamer come but I wanted to be able to touch up in between. Sort of wishing I would have just called Stanley Steamer:o:o

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How were the fireworks? We went into Milwaukee and saw the huge display. We left early cause the pups are not used to us being gone that late. It was a good show


Love,
Addy

[addy]

Yooooooooo Huuuuuuuuu


Anyone seen Mom or did she take off again without us on another road trip?


Last I heard she was going cruisin':p:p:p:p

Probably spotted Wally in the water


We are now orphans:eek::eek::eek::eek:

[marie adams]

I know Mom was around at some point because she commented on Ella's picture.

So glad everyone had a great time on the 4th. We didn't even make it out on the 2nd story deck to watch the fireworks--we were all tired.

Mom will be back, but will Carrol?????

[Bailey's Mom]

Mom always comes back. :)
Carrol has not posted anything anywhere since 6/1. :( Last I heard she was going to use that CPAP machine. Maybe it blew her out of bed....and she did not have one of those medic alert thingies.....and she's still on the floor................:eek:
The cruise was interesting. It poured here right before we were supposed to go. Their mantra was.....if Bethany Beach has the fireworks, we will go. Well we had to take off by 8 or so to get there.....and I have known Bethany to cancel fireworks at the very last minute. So, we finally took off. There were maybe 30 people on-board including a pregnant woman who got very sick, over and over and over again.
Well.......we had kind of a bumpy ride down, but the only person who got sick was the preggie. We got down to Bethany Beach and we could see all the hundreds (thousands?) of people staked out on the beach. We got there just as it was time for them to start....and then the captain came on and announced that Bethany had canceled the fireworks. After about 5 minutes of just bouncing around in the water, some one came down and told us, if it was okay, we would go see Ocean City fireworks-as they were still on. The crowd cheered (by this time I wanted to go back....I didn't feel real hot:o.) and off we headed to OC. It turned out to be pretty cool because we got to see all the various towns fireworks. We must have seen 5 different displays plus the private folks who were setting some off (illegally.)
It was really cool. We arrived at OC just as they started theirs.....they have two......one in north OC and one at the south end. WE could watch both of them. The ride back seemed much calmer:)...but maybe that was because they finally let us go on the top deck and let us sit in our chairs.
Bob hated the whole thing. They only let certain ticket holders go up on top and I got to go but he did not. By the time I motioned to him to come up, he wouldn't. So-he was pissed and I ignored it. We got home went to bed and in the AM he got up and left for VA for 2 days. Ryan's birthday was yesterday....and he couldn't come down at this time. He'll be down in another ten days.
I've still been kind of blah, and that's why I haven't posted.
I've got to get this work area cleared off and get to my stained glass work. My soul needs nurturing.
Puppy class tomorrow. We haven't spent a lot of time on this. I don't know why I can't get with it. I worked on walking with the loose leash and it worked kind of half okay. Half the time it was loose and half the time she was really tugging wanting to move forward. We reached a quiet part to the neighborhood behind us and I was able to let her off and let her run. She was SO happy!
It's dinner time. Thanks for checking in ladies. It's always nice to hear from you.
Hey Addy-how did the carpet cleaning go?????
Love,
Susan

[addy]

The cruise sounds like it ended up being really cool. Sorry Bob did not enjoy it. My hubby isn't as nuts about fireworks as I am.;);)

Carpet cleaning- what can I say? It started out a comedy of error. I did not tighten the solution cap as tight as it needed to be (I have arthritis) so solution went all over the kitchen floor and it took me 4 mopings to get rid of the soap (zoe licks the floor) Then I thought I had pre spot cleaner and I could not find it so I have to redo the high traffic areas as they still look dingy. Maybe the carpet is just too worn. it is 8 years old. The non high traffic areas look good and the pet eraser attachment worked well on spots. Cleaning the machine was a drag. It had fuzz all over and I hope the line is not clogged now. I should of called Stanley Steamer:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

It is already Thursday. :( My staycation is almost over. :eek::eek: It has been so nice not to have to worry about, sales, money, production:p:p:p

Nurturing your soul is very important. The hardest part is motivation to start. Once you force yourself into your studio, you will be so happy you did:D:D:D Make an appointment with yourself to start. NO EXCUSES;);););););)

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
I just looked up life of carpets and it seems to fall somewhere between 10 and 20 years. 8 doesn't sound old to me, but there are only two of us. The more traffic, obviously, the more wear on the carpet. Are you going to reclean areas before you return the machine? I told you the cleaning up was a hassle. :mad: It IS all that dang fuzz.:mad::mad:
I only have one second here.....I'm trying to do one week of puppy training in an hour. :eek:
I ordered for Bailey, off the web, a rolled rawhide toy. I knew it was 8 -9 "long. I "assumed" it was maybe the diameter of a cigar or something like that. Well this dinosaur :eek: chew toy that arrived is probably 3" across at the ends. It's bigger than a large hot dog bun and twice as long! Bailey can hardly even pick it up! :rolleyes: I think we'll give it to her friend Zoe....the springer spaniel.
I have zero, zip, nada energy today. :( Maybe this is still Ehrlichiosis. How do you tell the difference between Ehrlichiosis and procrastination?
Doggie training is outside.....and it's in the 90s today. Ugh!:(:(
Enjoy your two more free days. Treat yourself to something. After all, you did clean the carpet!!
Love,
Susan:)

[addy]

Tomorrow is re clean the carpet day:eek::eek::eek: I am a glutton for punishment:p:p:p:p:p:p

If it is procrastination, once you force yourself to get started, you get energetic about it. If you are sick, you collapse;););););) So maybe wait for Bob to get back so he can catch you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was feeling so tired and run down. I am glad I had this week off. I also started my asthma drug for the summer and am feeling better. I gave myself permission to throw my to do list in the garbage.:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

Have fun at dog training. I bet Miss Bailey is the star pupil. I wish I could watch her. Have Bob take a video.It would be so cute.


Mosquitoes have arrived in Milwaukee. I have 2 bites already:rolleyes:
Oh well, they will be gone in a few months.

I wish you could come over and sit in the pool with me. It would make you feel better.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Awwww Addy-I wish I could come over and sit with you. We'd laugh and have fun.....maybe we could teach Bailey to swim. :D:cool:
Bob is back-it was just an overnight trip. So I guess I'll give the island another stab and see if I collapse. If I don't I guess you've given me an answer.:(
I slept until 11 today. Maybe I'm not over the Ehrlichiosis. Bailey slept in with me. She really seems to be getting the idea about doggie training now. I think so long as I keep it up, we'll be home free (maybe). My one worry is the needing to go out deal. We had our first poop ever in the house this week. Either of us might be upstairs or downstairs and even if we're both upstairs, Bailey will go downstairs and come back. I have the jingle bells by the door here (upstairs) and I have them by the back door. The other day I walked into the living room and she was just sitting by the back door. I asked if she needed to go out and indeed she did. She doesn't really know about scratching on doors. Palmer went in and out the front door and would scratch that door if he needed to go out. I could hear his scratch all the way up here. I don't want to feel I need to take Bailey out every couple of hours for the rest of her (or my!) life. Sometimes she'll jingle the bells....but it isn't really loud enough to grab your attention.:(:confused:
I was going to try to get some yard chores done today but I'm told it's much too hot and too humid. We're supposed to get a break in the weather in the middle of next week. Maybe I'll hold on for that. We have had 3" of rain in the last week. That is GREAT!! My poor plants need me to feed them. Some years I just never seem to get a handle on what I want/need to do. Still the plants survive. Every time I plant something I talk to it and tell it....you will grow despite what I do....I say that gently. It sure seems to work that way. Even if it's a rush planting job, plants seem to do well for me. There are just a couple of things I've learned to give up on.
Well-time to get going on my day. Here's hoping this is the final effort to get that island cleared off and ready for glass work.
Good luck with the carpet cleaning. I know you'll be pleased with the results. We finally bought our own cleaner (a Hoover) because one cleaning costs more than the machine. I'm glad we did. It has worked out very well. I still don't like the cleanup though. I need to try to clean a couple of recliners with it. It'll be interesting to see how that goes......whenever I get to it.
Take care. Enjoy your last 3.5 days of freedom! :) Take a dip in the pool for me. I'm very envious.
Love,
Susan

[marie adams]

Susan I am glad you are continuing to get more sleep. Get Better!!!

I think we will start training next Saturday in a group class. Sometimes I think Ella has got the COME down and then...not. I gave her a bath by myself this morning she did pretty good, but I had her on a leash and in her pink pool. The blowing off was another story--she attached the hair blower, barking and biting. Finally I got to blow her from way up high then got closer--even let me blow on her belly--then back to barking and biting.:eek:

I am taking her to the vet because of her rash and now goop in her eyes. I don't remember having this with Maddie....oh well different dog.

I like the idea of making an appt with yourself--I should try this also. My neighbor does stain glass also, but it has been many years because she went to work.

Have a great wonderful weekend!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Marie-
Hi Addy-
We took Bailey to get a new harness today, as she has outgrown the first one. Before we got home, she barfed. On the way to puppy class last week, she barfed 3 times. I sure hope she outgrows this because I used to love getting Palmer and running to the bank or to get something cool to drink. He loved it too. Oddly enough, Bailey has yet to associate the car with the barfing.
Marie I am having huge problems with "come". Bailey thinks that's a game....and she's too quick to catch. I remember reading that 5 months is the age most pups are when they are turned into shelters. Does this mean something will get better soon? She has started stretching out on my lap as opposed to parking herself on my chest. Sometimes she sits on the back of where I'm sitting....the recliner or the sofa.
She has not gone peacefully into her condo at night. She goes in okay but then this pitiful cry starts....and accelerates to barking. I told her quietly "no" last night. After another five minutes I said "BAILEY.....NO!!!!" And she never made another peep.
She's hard to train if you can't catch her. Bob has been doing most of the walks.....and Bob needs training(!) :rolleyes: I guess I will have to take over the walks. She walks pretty well with me. The trainer said to work on commands while you walk. Oh life used to be so simple.:(
I'm feeling regretful today. It happened once before. I'm sure it will pass.
We are taking a one week car trip up to Canada and back in a month. I can't get Bob to nail down the specifics. I don't want to go. Bailey will need to be boarded. I haven't checked to see if they have availability. Our neighbors who are up in Canada for the summer have been after us to come up for two years.They're older than dirt, he's hard of hearing and he wants to take us all around Sous Ste Marie to show us trains and such. OH YUK!
I'm really bummed out today. This has got to stop.
-Susan

[marie adams]

Oh Susan,

I am so sorry you are bummed out today!!! :o

I so know the feeling. Life was so easy with a trained dog. Ella is so loving and sweet, but then when she is biting I just want to scream. The "condo" is a great source of the pitiful cry to the barking like you said. We have tried the yelling and no success like you. I slept downstairs just because I didn't want to go up carrying her just to come back down if she decided to become alert and the biting game start. I don't do well with little sleep or wanting to go to sleep. We have gotten some rawhide bones--I was afraid to get them, but they are the white ones--the hubby did the research so I put it in his hands if it was safe for her to chew on. He said there were divided reviews, but she seems to like to chew on them and not so much us all the time. I do well just picking her up under her front legs with her back to my chest and letting her hang telling her no biting or jumping. She does settle down, but it doesn't always work. She is very strong welled--this can be good and bad. We are hanging in there because we know what the end product will be--a great dog. :)

Did you every get that stuff to help with the barfing?? I forget now what I told you--something about a video????? I know ginger helps with sea sickness--do you think it might work with dogs??? :o

I usually don't want to go places because I know I need to be home to take care of Ella. We don't go out to dinner that much anyway, but it just seems like a lot of stress knowing she will bark a lot while we are gone. How did we get to be so controlled by a dog????:eek:

I think it is because we are older this time around and do not have the patience. I wonder what I would be like with a grandchild--good thing my daughter is telling me there won't be any--:mad: She is still young so I am hoping she will change her mind because I really do want to be Grandma. ;)

I also think we don't get enough sleep, get to finish projects, and walking the strange way we do because of the puppies darting here and there just wears on you. Do you think I have solved our problems???? :p

You know sometimes when you don't want to go somewhere you end up having a great time; so hang in there. Is there a good home like place Bailey could stay? Our neighbors use to take care of Maddie, but now they have 2 dogs and just not sure that is where I want Ella to stay--not that we are planning on going somewhere.

Have a Great Sunday!!! Smile you are on candid camera!! :D:D

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Marie and thanks for your response.:)
If Ella has started losing teeth, that may be the cause of some of the biting. The kennel sent Bailey home with two pigs feet. They really stink, but Bailey really likes them. We tossed out the stinkiest one and the remaining one doesn't seem to smell so badly anymore. You might try that. I know that once I thought maybe some of the biting issue was from teething, it got a little easier to deal with. All I can tell you is that we have said "no biting" every time her mouth goes around one of us....hand, finger, arm. Now it seems like just a "no" is working.
I do think we are starting to turn a corner.:) She definitely understands "no." We had the same problem going to bed last night with her crying and starting to yip. I gave it 5 minutes and then I sternly said "Bailey.....No!" I did not hear one more peep out of her. I want to try to keep her in her condo at night as long as I can. I want her to know that is her little room.
Yes-I got Dramamine for children. I asked the vet about what that video suggested and he suggested the Dramamine instead. The problem last Thursday was me. I told Bob not to give her the pill and let's see how she does. At the exact same spot on the trip to class, she did it again. I may have said that Saturday we took her to get a new, larger harness and she threw up on that trip....which is maybe a 2 mile trip at most. I am hoping she will outgrow this but for now, we will pill her any time we need to take her anywhere.
I wouldn't ask someone to take care of Bailey for that long. When we had Peaches we had a really good friend and she had a dog. We used to use one another for looking after our doggies. I don't have that good of a friend here. It looks like we may be talking 9 days of kennel. I do know one person who would do this....but she charges what the kennel charges. At the kennel, I've known those people for ten years and I know how they love animals. I'm really comfortable with them taking care of my pet.....I just don't like leaving my pet. Plus-and I need to look into this, on the 26th Bailey is scheduled for spaying. I don't know what the recovery period is on this. I hate to go away so soon after an operation like that. I remember when I got "spayed".......it was no picnic!!!:eek: Perhaps I'll change the date to after we return.
I just do NOT want to go on this trip.....period. I am NOT interested in visiting these people in Canada and this will cost a pretty penny to do this. :eek: I'd rather take that money and take a cruise!!!:D
One day at a time. This is one of those. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and hopefully everything will improve.

Thanks again for writing.
Love,
Susan

[addy]

Happy Monday Susan,

i don't blame you for being bummed, I would be too thinking about putting my pups in a kennel for a week of two. We are trying to find a house sitter to come in to take care of them once we are at the point of Zoe possibly being well enough to go away for 3 days. It is hard to leave them.

When they are being stubborn, sometimes calling come and then running away from them and making smoochy sound, patting you leg will get them started. Another trick that always worked for my two in the beginning when they were being stubborn is to call come and if they don't come, I would crouch down and with my back to them and pretend I was scratching at the floor saying "what's that? hmmmm, what's that? " They always came and then I would praise them. She'll get the hang of it. When I did clicker training, come was easy:D:D:D


Hauled out the carpet cleaner, we had bought a Bissel Pro heat pet 2. Pretreated the high traffic area and soaped it twice and it got much cleaner. I think I was afraid to get the carpet too wet so did not soap it up enough. I now have the hang of it;);)

Off to the mess at work:eek::eek::eek::eek: I miss my puppies already.

Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Good Monday to You!!

Ella hasn't started losing teeth yet that I can tell. She seems more in a biting phase when she gets really over stimulated, but then we have to get a lot of her energy out so she will calm down--sometimes it is a no win situation-haha!!!:o

You cannot use your illness to get out of the trip????? :p Just kidding.

I would put off Bailey's spade appt till after you get back--will it really make a difference??? No.... I am not sure what direction we will go with Ella--we might breed her... We always thought about it with Maddie, but never got around to having it done because she would go 14 months between heats and then she got older and didn't think she would want a male around (she would chase them off); didn't know if a breeder would want her kept there during the process--had heard they could be kind a mean with the whole getting together--who knows--I cannot see any of the breeders I was in contact with being mean, so I think I must have read something who was against breeding.

The place you have used for broading sounds like a great place so I would feel comfortable leaving Bailey--heck I would leave Ella but I think it is too far to go for us...:D

Can you picture Addy scratching at the floor in a crouched down position??? :eek: My mind has just wondered off ....:D

I hope Monday is a better day for you!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Happy Tuesday GANG! :D:D:D
Bailey is getting her second grooming today. I'm eager to see how she looks later.:confused::):D
I have cleared and cleaned off one very long counter that I use with my stained glass cutting. It's all ready to go.
The island isn't too bad, it's just a matter of finding places for the stuff on there to go. I'm trying to keep the desk work current. So it really does look like I may be able to cut glass very soon.
I found out the kennel has space available for the days we will go. Dagnabit!!!:(:(:(
I checked at the vets and they tell me Bailey should be restricted for 3 days and a bit restricted for two weeks. After that everything should be fine. So that would bring us up to trip time and that would put Bailey in the kennel where she will be less rambunctious than if she were at home. I think it may be the best way to do it.
Let's fry an egg on the sidewalk and then Abby can bend over that and scratch that to get her doggies to come!
Enjoy the day!
Susan

[addy]

:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

Dear cynical ones;

It really works, oh doubting Thomases:p:p:p:p Just try it once if they are being stubborn and won't come. They get so curious as to what you might have, they come running at full speed.:D:D:D:D

You guys!!!!!!! yes, I resort to blackmail sometimes, I have no shame.;);););)

Sus, the trip may turn out better than you think though a cruise is probably a surer bet. Canada is beautiful. Maybe getting away will spur your creativity. I would love to go away even if it was across town over night, just for a change of scenery.

Hope the grooming goes well. I bet Bailey comes home looking beautiful.

Love ya,
Addy

P.S. LOL- just went into the kitchen and crouched down, scrathing the floor, saying what's that and both pups came running
LOL

[Bailey's Mom]

Addy-
LOL..........don't mess with success!:)
The grooming is done. Her hair is short!:eek: She looks like one of those furry black/brown caterpillars. I'll get a picture. We agreed to cut it shorter due to the heat....but I was really surprised when I got home a saw her. Her ears are so short now.:(
It will all grow back. She really had gotten rough looking. SOMEthing had to be done.
Happy Tuesday.
Congratulations on the carpet cleaning. It is surprising how simple it is once you get the hang of it. I would much rather spend that money on something else. Like a massage!:D
Hugs, hugs, hugs,
Sus

[Bailey's Mom]

Attention!! Attention!! 3 new pictures.

[addy]

New pictures are GREAT:):):):):)

Are you enjoying your Thursday?D:D:D:D:D

I hope you are in the studio making beautiful stained glass:) What a wonderful way to create and nurture the soul. My easel has been packed away in the basement for too long. I never have the time to paint anymore.:rolleyes:

Back to the old grind:mad::mad::mad: I sure am glad tomorrow is Friday, it was hard leaving the pups to come back to work.:eek::eek:


How is the house painting coming? Did the painters ever show up?


Oops, phone ringing, back to work.

Hugs,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
Not one word from the painter. I'm not pushing it because my idea was to do it in cooler weather anyway.....which we missed when we still did not have a final decision regarding color. So-maybe instead of the week following Memorial Day we can see that it gets done the first week or two in September.
Got a hair cut today.....or as Bob's area says......"Got my hairs cut today." It's always nice to get it shaped up.
Went to the foot doc. I am still having some problem with the left big toe, but he gave me some instructions and said I am to call him right away if it comes back. We have set up the right foot op for October 5th. I'm not entirely sure I want to do that then. We'll see. It's a toss up between having to go through all that again vs. getting the last anticipated surgery over with. He says this will be easier because the big toe is not involved. We'll see. He also told me before the first one that it was a 6 week recovery and it turned out to be 12. :(:mad::(:mad:
Well-we're off to doggie class. We still aren't doing our job regarding homework. Maybe my knuckles will get smacked with a ruler!:rolleyes:
Love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Happy Friday !!!!!!!!!!


:D:D:D
:):):)
:cool::cool::cool:

[addy]

We just paid $128 for Cortrosyn .25mg per vial

$73 for ACTH Stim test
$50 for IMS recheck
$43 for renal panel
$29.00 for blood collection

Grand total $323 OUCH


Thanks for checking on me Sus. How is Bailey? I hope you have a great weekend!!!!!!!

Love ya,
ME

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
I'm looking back at Palmer's records and this is what I find....
ACTH $125.37; exam $62; Cortrosyn injection-follow up (this was every time we had the ACTH)$114.50; IDEXXNSAID panel $64.38. That comes to $366. I don't guess that makes you feel any better (or less poor).
If we ever got out of there for less than $250, it was a "cheap" visit. They'd charge us $40 for taking blood pressure. They charged us for the staffer taking poop samples in. I guess the $ you spent makes me feel less bad about what I had to spend....they are not that much different.
By the way-Palmer's "date" is August 5th. I think it's going to be pretty heavy.:(
Well-the island is cleared and cleaned and ready for stained glass. I'll keep you posted if there's progress. I tend to try to hurry projects which takes all the fun out of it. I am hoping to be more relaxed about it. Did I ever tell you that I made a stained glass fireplace screen for Ryan? It is made of this really cool glass. The problem, I realized too late, is that there is no light behind a fireplace screen. The glass is not tempered so you can't leave it in place if you have a fire. We wound up buying some of those electric candles that are on timers. That works pretty well. The "next time" I would use opaque glass. That think really burned me out. It was one huge project.
Well-I'm told there are chips and salsa downstairs. I hope you're getting to enjoy your pool.
Take care.
love,
sus

[addy]

Chips and Salsa sound good to me:D:D:D:D

Our grocery store just started making their own sweet potato "chips" with sea salt. YUMMY:D:D:D They make them right there in the store.

Free shaping. My version of it I learned when I took Zoe for clicker training which she did so well at and still does. Example, I take an empty box and sit in on the floor and wait. If Zoe looks at the box, i click and treat. If she goes toward the box, I click and treat. If she jumps in the box I give her a "jack pot" and praise the heck out of her. A jack pot is like 10 rapid fire tiny treats given to her which impress the heck out of them. Next time I bring out the box and put in on the floor, I don't say anything and Zoe runs and jumps in the box. Jackpot again. She has now learned a new trick she figured out on her own.

Another version we do is sit on the floor with the clicker and treats and wait for her to give me a behavior I like and then click and treat it. Same principle as the box. She learned on her own to drop to a down and count with her paw three times. She gave me that on her own, trying to figure out what she had to do to get me to click and treat.:D:D

Once you start it they give you all kinds of great behavior they think up on their own and you can fine tune it into a cool trick.

I LOVE IT. Zoe is much better at it than Koko but she had more clicker training. He had traditional training to start.

Have a great weekend!!!!!

Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Hi All,

Now I know what Free Shaping is. We have a clicker from a class my husband took with Maddie. That sounds like fun.

I love sweet potatoes beer batter french fries and chips also. What is a chip without salt especially like sea salt because I feel like it is better for you---haha!!!

Susan I hope the trip goes better than you plan. At least you won't be staying too long with those people. Haha!!! You will survive and it won't be forever. Just when you think you cannot stand anymore you are home!!!:p

Have a wonderful week!!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

New pictures, laddies...........

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Marie!
How is it going with Miss Ella? I'm about ready to sell Bailey.....or pay to have her taken away.;) I have always been able to go out in the back yard, or at night in the front yard, without any kind of leash. She has always "hung around." No more. She is off never to return until trapped. She is so dang strong willed. :mad: She won't come when called. :mad:You can't catch her to discipline her. :mad: She still hasn't figured out to scratch or ring the bells to go outside. :mad:And now she has started crying and we can't figure out why. :confused:Our only guess is teething....and yet she takes kibble, which has been out for awhile and is hard as rocks, and eats it. I just don't get it. This is not the rose-y picture I had painted for myself. A guy in the neighborhood-the one with the springer spaniel, asked how old Bailey was now and then laughed and told me I had at least 6 more months of this stuff to go through.:(:(

She gets spayed one week from tomorrow. Gees-I thought it was two weeks away. I feel so bad. First they chop off her tail and now I'm getting her reproductive parts removed.

More when I'm in a better place.

Susan

[addy]

I think the new mom needs a vacation from the little one. This trip to Canada will do you both a world of good:D:D:D:D:D

A bit of separation, fun for you, she'll be missing you, it is a good thing;)

OR


You and Marie can buy those plane tickets to Sas and Yunah for the juniville delinquints!!!!!!

It will get better, Sus, it really will, all of this will be a distant memory.
Did I ever tell you the New Years Eve story? I'll tell it tomorrow and you will be loving your pup.;););)

Love ya,
Addy

[SasAndYunah]

Some thoughts on some issues....if I may :)

"I have always been able to go out in the back yard, or at night in the front yard, without any kind of leash. She has always "hung around." No more. She is off never to return until trapped. Prevention is the key here :) Take her with you outside on a long leash and let her do her thing. Don't try and call her etc but just keep her on the long leash. Don't even pay attention to her...she's on a long leash, she can't go anywhere ;) The more she will succeed with this behaviour, the stronger it will become and the harder to "correct". She is so dang strong willed. She won't come when called. You can't catch her to discipline her. She still hasn't figured out to scratch or ring the bells to go outside. My personal opinion on this...don't invest any energy in trying to teach Bailey to ring the bell. If she doesn't even master the basics, you can't expect her to ring a bell to let you know she needs to go out :) She is old enough to be capable to do her business during several walks a day. There really is no need for the "ringing the bell trick" at this moment. Dogs need walks and she can do her peeing and pooing during those walks. Walks will also help with the bonding process :) "

In general, you cannot expect Bailey to understand or know certain things/commands/behanviour, if she doesn't master them. And mastering them, is something that needs to be trained and taught with patience and consistency :) If I were you (from what I read) , I would start from scratch. Very simple, very easy. And don't get mad or frustrated over things she doesn't master yet... Try to decide what is important for her and start there. And what's important for Bailey to know may differ from what you might feel is important she knows. If you take for example the "here" and the "ringing the bell"..."here" might be a life saver one day so thats a pretty important command for Baliey to master. Ringing the bell...is a totally unneccesary command (from Baileys point of view) so just forget it, for now anyway. Once she is mature and masters all the important commands, you can add the "ringing the bell" just for fun. But it's a command that right now had really no importance what so ever. So try and think of the things you really need her to know (for her own benefit and safety) and start over with those commands. Do some bonding with her. Bonding is not having her lay on your lap and cuddle..eventhough that's very nice ;) Bonding is about being active with her, going for walks, train, play and have fun. Don't mind her "mistakes" but just have fun and focus on that :)

Saskia and Yunah :)

[Bailey's Mom]

Thanks very much, Sas. I was about to say we have bonded "too" much-and then you explained what you meant about bonding. I have not, not sure why, gotten mad with her. I did swat her behind last night and that got her attention and got her to settle down. I don't want to do that very often.
Bob has been really frustrated with her on walks, so I guess that's another reason for me to take that over. What do you consider to be a "long" leash? How do you feel about flexi leashes? We've had much better luck with the flexi leash.
And then I guess you would say,that for now, we do not need to concentrate on the loose leash bit.....or having her stay by my side-which wasn't happening anyway.
Thanks for your input. I was hoping your were still there keeping an eye on things here!:D
-Susan

[SasAndYunah]

Susan,

regarding the long leash, that would be a rope about (training rope) at least 32/33 foot long. (here' (http://www.bestdogtrainingleash.com/)s an example of what I mean) You can attach one end to her collar/harness and you could attach the other end to a pin in the ground or something else steady and strong enough to hold her. It will give her plenty of room to wander about your yard without you having to try and catch her :) Of course you have to stay with her so she won't get tangled up in it. But other then that, let her roam, don't pay any attention to her and once she is used to it (but let her wander about for at least a few days) , you could start by calling her over...and reward her with a treat and praise and the usual fun things if she comes ;) Call her just once, with a happy voice, lower yourself to her level and clap your hands when calling her to you. If she comes, reward and then let her play and wander again. Next day, you do this again, and if she responds to you calling, let her go wander off again on her long leash, wait a few minutes and call her over again :) (and later on, when Bailey does a reliable recall in your yard, you can take her on walks with that training leash and work on her recall outside in a forrest or so...it's a handy training tool)

And a very quick and easy way to teach her how to walk on a leash....Put the leash on her, grab a huge hand full of treats and start walking. Every time she looks up at you, give her a treat. Don't praise verbally, just give her the treat, nothing else. No talk, no stopping and petting but continue walking. With this method, you may have to decrease her food quite a bit since you don't want her to become overweigth. But if you use this method, I guarantee you she wiil walk beside you, paying the utmost attention to you, in no-time :) Of course, once she does, you make her walk and watch you for longer periods of time before you hand her the treat :) But just walk, make turns, walk faster, walk slower...don't use your voice at all, it's her task to focus on you, to watch you and to follow you around. You should not have to watch her to avoid stepping on her :p

Please, do not use a flexilead, they are sooo not right for leash training nor for casual walking. A dog that knows how to walk on the leash, doesn't need that extra space a flexilead gives them, they walk beside you and a normal size leash (5 - 6 foot) gives them still enough space to pee or poo in the bushes if they like :)

This should get you started..if not, let me know :)

Sas and Yunah :)

[Bailey's Mom]

Thanks again, Sas. I have, but have not used, a cable and stake. It's called a tie-out here.
I'll try that plus the walking /treats idea. I'll keep you posted on how it's going. I'm also having problem with Bailey's eating, so the treats should not be a threat for obesity. The vet told us she should always have a waist....and she does. We haven't figured out the food thing. Now I leave out some kibble and she seems to munch on it as she chooses. I also put down her regular food, but it's not uncommon for her not to touch it. She'll sniff it and then walk away. She used to really like it.....and several others that we have (moist food.):confused:
Thanks!:)
Susan

[SasAndYunah]

And oh, I forgot.

"I did swat her behind last night and that got her attention and got her to settle down. I don't want to do that very often."

She may have given you the impression that swatting her back helped...but it never does. The behaviour you saw (the result of swatting her back) was more likely due to her feeling "bullied" and as a result she "crawled into her shell" so to speak instead of her understanding what that swat meant and what she was supposed to do because of that swat. Swatting a dog (or child for that matter) never teaches them anything...it's simply us letting out our own frustration (and in my eyes always unacceptable). If you want her to settle down, you need her to teach what it is you want from her...that takes patience, repetitions, a sunny mood and voice, rewards and praise, never swatting :)

You can swat a dog..or tell it "no" or pull on the leash for example...but the dog has no clue (from the swatting or the word "no" or from you pulling its leash) what it is supposed to do instead. So our goal is to teach them what we like to see in our dogs. And we do that by making it fun and letting the dog know how happy we are with what we see...not by telling them (either verbally by saying "no" or by actions like swatting) a certain behaviour is unacceptable. (Let's say you have a 3 year old child and all it does is scream... You can tell that child "no screaming", you can swat its back....what does it teach the child? It doesn't teach the child what IS expected of him...and therefore, all things "negative" either verbally or by actions, is counterproductive. What you probably would do instead is tell the child, listen, I don't really appreciate you screaming but I understand you have the need to get rid of some energy....so why don't you go run a few laps in the yard or we could go play ball together. You don't discipline, you help guide the child into showing the behaviour you want :) )

Hope I explained this in a way you understand what I am trying to say here...

Sas and Yunah :)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Susan,

I noticed you asking about home cooking on another thread and wanted to jump in. ;) Puppies are growing and changing so rapidly, it is best to keep them on a high quality commercial feed for the first year of their life. Nutritionists and consultants work their tails off keeping on top of home cooked meals for puppies for this reason, making it quite expensive to do as well as taxing for all involved. It is never a good idea to start cooking or feeding raw ad hoc but it is particularly vital to have either a nutritionist or consultant involved with a puppy diet. Unless there is a health reason, commercial feeds are best for puppies. ;)

Unless there is a problem, when Bailey gets hungry she will eat her food as long as she is not given treats between meals. "Between meals" is an important distinction - puppies need to be fed several times a day for a while gradually cutting the number of meals down to 2X/day, morning and evening. Free feeding can lead to obesity as an adult. Changing feed often can lead to pickyness so find one that she likes that provides the best nutrients and stick with it. Not only are you training her behavior, you are training her body and health for the future as well. ;)

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bailey's Mom]

Sas-I had not clicked on your link before. I like what it says about that leash so I have ordered one.
-S

[Bailey's Mom]

Thank you Sas...and Leslie-
Regarding the feeding....she just now ate (11PM) and did not eat anything all day long. We have left the food down so she could eat when she wanted to. We don't give her more than a certain amount each day. I know we're supposed to pick it up, but since she's so tiny to start with, I worry when she is not eating.

Sas-I understand perfectly what you are saying and I appreciate your comments. There have only been two swats-and there will be no more. I don't believe in spanking kids and we raised our son without spanking and he turned out really well, even if I do say so myself.:D

Tomorrow is a new day and a new chance. Thank you for all of the support.:)

Susan

[SasAndYunah]

Hi Susan, did you start the "walking on leash" training yet? With all the constant treats involved? I have never seen a dog not learn very quickly what's expected of him, using this method ;) Try to do this exercise 3 till 4 times a day for short periods... Stop the exercise when she's doing REALLY well, unleash her, and only after you unleashed her use your voice, be happy and play some :) This will also teach her that after a walk on the leash, something nice will happen, often making dogs more eager to please you during the walk since they will anticipate something fun :D

Just remember, do not use your voice in any way...during the walking-on-leash training. I'm pretty sure that after she received 3 or 4 treats (for looking up at you) she will understand what's expected. Please let me know how she is doing :)

Saskia and Yunah :)

p.s. At this stage, it really doesn't matter where she walks, left, right, criss-cross....all you want right now is for her to look up at you, to pay attention to you :) And remember to make turns, walk faster, slower...as diverse as you can make it. And if she stops, sniffs...you continue walking, you do not adjust to what she wants....she has to adjust to what you want :D

[addy]

Hi Sus,
I actually have been working that very way with Koko this summer to try to get him to focus on me rather than everything else and then eating everything he can find in the street. It really does work, but you do have to go slowly at first and usually lots of tiny size treats, something really yummy Bailey does not get any other time works well. Koko is really improving.

Do you have anything fun planned for the weekend? Theheat wave finally broke today. i am hoping I can take the pups for a ride tonight.

Love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Sas-
Bob tried the walking with the treats and it was unsuccessful. :( Last night we had puppy class/graduation and Bailey did very well.....she always seems to in the classes.:confused: Today it got to 103 I know-maybe more,:eek::eek: so we are hiding and exercising indoors. I don't think the weather is expected to break until Sunday at the earliest. I will keep you posted and I will try it myself.....not Bob.
Thanks for following up.:)
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
We are going to neighbors tonight to play dominoes. Do you know how to play? It becomes quite addictive.
I don't know of anything planned for the weekend especially with this heat.:eek: The house a/c is struggling to get to 79. :(We will be in the poor house soon! The electric bill for July will be one whopper.:eek::eek:

Last time it was this hot we went down, got into the ocean and stayed there for several hours....just bobbing up and down. It was the only thing to do. :) Maybe we'll try that this weekend....although we usually try not to move a car on the weekends. The tourists are massive on the weekends.
Nice hearing from you.:)
Love,
Sus

[addy]

Sorry, Sus, looks like our heat wave headed over to your house and it is a bad one.

Today it finally is high 70's and less humidty. Stay in the house, hopefully this weather will now head your way and the heat wave willl go in the Atlantic;):p

Love ya,
Addy

[SasAndYunah]

Hi Susan,

I'm a bit confused :confused: If Bailey is doing very well during puppy class, then how come she isn't doing well at home? Who is taking the classes with her, you or Bob? And what method are you using for walking on a leash, during puppy class? If she knows how to walk on a leash, during puppy class, she should be able to do the same outside the class :) Are you practising outside puppy class with Bailey? And (assuming) you are the one taking the puppy classes with Bailey, do you share/show Bob how he is supposed to do things?

It almost seems to me there must be something very "inconsistent" going on. When you say Bailey is doing very well during puppy class, I assume she knows how to walk on a leash there. That would mean she should be able to do the same at other times as well. Could it be that Bob walks her "one" way and you another (as taught at puppy class?) That inconsistancy could cause huge confusion with Bailey resulting in her not walking properly on a leash since she doesn't know what is expected. With you she has to behave/walk a certain way and with Bob another? Did you ever ask the trainer why Bailey would do well during class and not at home? And if so, what did the trainer say?

It's exactly this reason why it is important that the one person doing the classes and the training, shares everything with the other members of the household, so everyone does things the same way. And preferably, there's only one person doing all the classes and training and walks, etc...untill the dog is pretty stable and knows what is expected. Then, the other members of the family have to be "trained" on how to go on walks, etc.

Anyway, just wondering :)

Saskia and Yunah :)

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Sas-
I cannot help you with your confusion....it's the same as mine. We have both been going to classes and sharing class time. We both walk her at home, but Bob does it more often.
The trainer is going to come to our house after we return from our trip to Canada. She will walk where we walk and hopefully see what we can do differently.
The long leash arrived today and I took Bailey out back and threw the frisbee for her. She seemed to really like having that kind of space to run around in. Once the weather breaks we can spend more time out there.
The harness we have has the little metal loop near the base of the neck. Do you know of other harnesses that might pull more from the middle of her back? I looked around here and they are all the same as the one we have.
-Susan

[addy]

Hi Susan,

I bought Zoe and Koko's harnesses from Up Country on line. They are the only ones that fit Zoe, she is always in between sizes. The harnesses have a leash ring strap that can be adjusted. It ends up being about 5" from the neck but I could probably adjust that strap shorter if I chose. I have had to really fiddle adjusting the harnesses to fit the way I want.

HAPPY MONDAY!!!!!!!!

Love ya,
Addy

P.S. Koko has been doing well with his walking and today a dog went by barking at him and the rest of the walk was a challenge. He wanted to eat every stick in the street and it took a long time to get him to refocus. I had to go back to treating almost every six feet:rolleyes: for 2 blocks:rolleyes::rolleyes:

YIKES:p:p:p:p:p:p

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy :)

I took Bailey for an extended walk today and it went pretty well. She however has no idea about treats and looking up. If I can get her walking well without the treats, that's okay.

Bailey loves picking up sticks, leaves and especially pine cones. That is until the heat starts to get to her. Once the heat gets to her, she just lies down....right in mid-step. :confused: Once we get back inside, she is pestering me to throw balls or tug on rope.

I got the 50 foot leash that Sas spoke of and it's wonderful. It has one huge clasp on it, but that doesn't seem to bother Bailey. We have started throwing the frisbee and she just loves how it lets her run and run around the yard and I just love how I don't have to chase her on other properties.

I told Bob this afternoon that I think she has settled down a good bit in the past week.....unless that's just from the heat.

Thursday she goes for her surgery. Hysterectomy, hernia repair, microchip and checking out a little bump we found that's about the size of a pea. That will be one long day for me. She also has two incisors on one side of the jaw and I'm going to ask if they think they should pop the baby one while she's there. They are both fully in and squished up against one another. And whichever one is the baby one isn't budging one bit.

We have to get going with the tooth brushing. Are you doing that? Fat chance that will go easy.:rolleyes:

Happy Monday to you. Please send cool weather this way. At least this weather has brought us some thunderstorms. :cool: We needed the rain. I need to get out and feed my plants but it's just way too humid. I think the "feels like" temperature is hanging around 120.:eek:

Love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

I am sorry to report that Bailey is spending the night in the ER. There is a possibility that she injested a medication pill. For her it would be lethal. The vet had us give her peroxide to make her throw up. He then said to take her to the all night ER....that she might have convulsions, lose her sight or a host of other things.
The ER closes @8AM so we will pick her up and hopefully bring her home, or take her to our vet, if she is showing symptoms.
-S

[SasAndYunah]

Oh no Susan, how awful! Please let us now how Bailey is doing. Will be thinking of you and Bailey,

Saskia and Yunah.

[Spiceysmum]

Susan,

Hope Bailey makes a speedy recovery and is soon home again.

Linda

[addy]

Hi Susan,

I hope Little Miss Bailey is better this morning. I was dealing with a flat tire on my car last night and first saw your post this morning.

Let us know how our sweet little girl is doing.

Love and hugs and prayers,
Addy

[SasAndYunah]

Any news on Bailey....?

Sas and Yunah.

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Sas-
Bailey did consume one of my pills. After making her throw up at home, we took her the 45 minute ride to the ER. She got carsick and threw up right before we got there.....poor baby. They checked her out initially and told us what they would do to treat her. When I called later to check on her, the doctor told me her BP had spiked to 220 over ? He gave her medication which brought that down. At 6 AM we went back to pick her up and take her to our vet. The ER vet closes @8AM....they are just an after hours hospital. She again got car sick....they would not let us give her the Dramamine at the hospital. The vet kept her 5 hours for observation....she needed to have normal BP for 12 hours. The vet gave her a shot to help with the motion sickness an hour before we went to get her. We got her safely home. She spent the balance of yesterday sleeping-she was really wiped out. Today she is back to her usual self.
The scary thing for me is that it was Bob who knew to call and find out what to do. I did not think she had digested the pill.....and that she had lost it, even though we could not find it....it's this teeny tiny little pill. Bob only knew because he talked to neighbors recently about their going through this. I just never thought through any of my medication causing her a problem...but because of her 9 lbs. it's really serious. Any time she were to ingest anything-even my vitamins-we'd need to check it out. It was a very frightening experience.

Tomorrow she goes for her spaying, hernia repair, microchip, and for pulling 3 teeth. Her incisors (the big ones) 3 of the 4 have both baby teeth and now adult teeth. Rough week for her.....and me!

The walking is going better. The heat has dropped a couple of degrees and the humidity is much less, so it's tolerable to go outside for short periods of time.

When I know how tomorrow goes, I'll let everyone know.

Thanks for asking.:)
-Susan

[addy]

BIG SIGH OF RELIEF AND MANY, MANY HUGS



Love you,
Addy

[SasAndYunah]

Susan,

glad the "pill adventure" ended well! :) And now, we'll be wishing you and Bailey all the best for today. We'll be thinking of you...

Saskia and Yunah :)

[Bailey's Mom]

My little girl is in there and feeling woozy. I tried to get them to give me some of that, but no go. Spay, 3 teeth pulled, hernia repair, microchip............she's going to look like a game of connect the dots!~:rolleyes::(:eek:
Fortunately the staff there absolutely loves Bailey. Tuesday-when we had to leave her there for observation-someone who did not know she was there exclaimed "Bailey's here??? Oh I've got to go see Bailey!" They greet her like I would and they've been known to put her inside the opening in their smocks to keep her warm and to cuddle her.

They've said they'll call when things start and then when they finish.

I miss my little pup. Long day today.:(:(:(

-Susan

[marie adams]

Oh Susan,

I know the feeling.....:o Yesterday morning I was going with adoption again, but then they are so cute. Ella has the high pitched bark with the nipping and jumping that drives me nuts and the hubby. This morning I now have two wonderful teeth scratches on my left arm and wrist and then the cute card is pulled again. I just do not seem to have the patience. I know what you mean about, but they use to....seems like Ella now has selective stay power when before I could tell her to stay and she did it and a few other things. Last weeks training class she wasn't the star--oh no...

We are at the 4 mos old stage so she is trying as hard as she can to be in charge--I hate this phase. She is putting her front paws up on the dinner table and going for anything she can get a hold of. Yesterday she spend the most time in her Condo that she has on a continuous basis because of our working schedules. She wasn't very happy about that, but like my husband said it doesn't hurt her; so don't feel so bad. I just wish she could spend some of that time in the backyard, but the STUPID neighbors!!!!:mad:

I think I read somewhere that even though they are teething a dog will still eat hard kibble--it is a dog thing. It looks like Ella is starting to lose some of her front teeth, but still has the sharp big teeth.

We will get through this even though we think back on what we had, well they are not Palmer or Maddie and once we get through this we will look back thinking why were we thinking of giving them away??? LOL I think it is because we are older, have less patience, and we just want to get stuff done and not have little feet or teeth in the way. We want calmness back even though we like the puppy cuteness we want the trust factor back with them. This is my opinion.

As they say dogs live in the moment so Bailey won't be mad about you removing a little part of her. She doesn't have a clue now she doesn't have a tail. I really don't think the process even hurts them. I think they use a piece of string tied off to make the tail fall off. I saw this on a few breeder's sights for Aussies.

Keep positive thoughts--yeah looks who is giving you advice. A friend just told me about Wellbutrim and I think I might think about trying it to see if it will help with the blues and stress of life and job.

Have a great day!!! You might be on your trip or soon!!! :):)

[addy]

Everything you guys are going through is so normal and pretty soon it will all be a distant memory and you will look at the two juvenile delinquents turned great pups and say "thank goodness I stuck it out 'cause you were so worth it"

Next week Koko will have been with us 3 years. i can't believe that it has been that long. And I was going to give him back that dreadful New Year's Eve so long ago.:eek::eek:

I kept every pillow he chewed the corners off. They are my "badges of courage". I look at them now and smile.:eek::D:D:D

I think we may need another group hug. Who needs hugs????

I DO:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Count me in on the hug!!!!!:D:D
Well-Day #2 and I have a totally different puppy from yesterday. The surgery etc all went very well. :) When we picked her up she was pretty "wiped out." We got home and I had her on my lap or beside me on the bed for the rest of the night. This morning she was something else. All puppy like and rarin' to go. How come it took me 6 weeks to recover and it takes her 18 hours???!!!:confused::confused::confused:
We have medication to give her for pain, but I honestly don't see her suffering at all. We are giving her the medication anyway because it really slows her down...for 4 or 5 hours. Then the puppy returns.
Marie-I would not go back to 4 months for anything. It's kind of the equivalent to the terrible twos and then the feisty fours. I certainly know how you feel....and how I still feel sometimes. I was thinking about this yesterday-Palmer could be pretty independent or stubborn.....but I could get him to cuddle at least for a little while. Bailey is more stubborn. We've had three dogs now and each one has been more independent and/or stubborn than the prior one.
Tonight I watched the movie Marley and Me. I had read the book and so enjoyed that. It was not good timing. It's a week now to the anniversary of Palmer's death. In Marley and Me the guy had to put his dog down...due to age and frailty. It took me right back to the vision of my last moments with Palmer. It's still very fresh.
Best wishes for a wonderful weekend for everyone. We don't have any relief from the high 90's in sight for at least a week. This looks like it's going to be the hottest summer on record. :eek: We've already broken many daily records.
We leave in two weeks on our trip. Oh goody.:rolleyes::rolleyes:
Hugs
-Susan

[addy]

Bailey's just trying to keep you young:p:p:p:p:p

I am so glad she is fine, has been a tough week for both of you.:(:(

Do you ever see that commerical on TV for men asking if they have "LOW T"? Well, how come they don't have a commerical like that for women asking do you have "LOW "E"?

Life was sure easier 10 years ago!!!!!!!:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

i still think you trip will be fun!!!!

Love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Happy Saturday to all you workers!:D
Bailey got her medication about 1-1/2 hours ago and she and I are up in the studio.....she is crashed on one of those snuggle bed/balls. I won't hear a peep out of her for a few hours.:)
I am getting ready to finish up a stained glass piece and then make a number of stepping stones. There is a path between our house and one of our neighbors and it can be muddy (sea level you know.) I have placed two stepping stones there and have never finished the job. Now is time to do it. I have to be inside anyway, due to the heat, and once I get rolling, I should be able to punch several out.

Bailey remains fine. The only time we perceive she is in pain is when she needs to crouch to poop. I'm still amazed at how well she has done.:D
love,
Susan

[addy]

Oh, I am glad Bailey is doing fine, Susan. What a time she has had.
Always hard to see down and out.

What fun to make stepping stones with Little Miss cudlling with you.
A picture perfect day!!!!

Enjoy your Sunday!!!

Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Happy Monday to All!!!

So glad Miss Bailey is hanging there with little pain!!! I think sometimes I revert back to how trained Maddie was and forget it was a process, but it all came together. It is just that you think it should go faster because you know more this time around. Susan you are right though, they are all different dogs so what worked for one doesn't always work for the other.

Addy, we WILL think back to "WHAT WERE WE THINKING" and say it was worth it. Right now I don't even want to think about another one in the near future (maybe 3 years or so; so I won't have an empty nest when one decides it is time to leave). Who knows what we will do--concentrate on the one we have now...:eek::D:p

Enjoy the rest of the week--heat and all. It is SUMMER--my favorite time!!!

[addy]

Woof woof and Happy Wednesday Susan and Bailey:):):):)

Stopping by to say hi and ask how those stepping stones are coming along?

How is Miss Bailey, back to full speed after her surgery?

Enjoy your day!!!!!

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy!
Miss Bailey is definitely back up to speed. We just came inside from me chasing a Frisbee. (?)
Stepping stones-I think this has a lot to do with why I keep putting this off......I ruined two letter paper sizes of glass trying to get the cuts I need. :mad: I'm making a frog....caricature, I guess. And despite all I have purchased over time, I still don't have all the tools yet. I tried cutting circles and they don't look too bad, but I wanted them to be perfect round circles.
Yesterday I went over to my local store and she showed me what I was doing wrong with this particular glass and how to get the cuts I need. She also showed me a circle cutter which is really cool......but how many circles will I be making? I realized, thankfully, before I left to ask her to cut me two circles. The sizes don't have to be exact, since it's a stepping stone. So-I have more, different glass to cut, some more of the hard stuff to cut and two nice big black circles (for the eyes.) I plan to make at least 5 more stepping stones so I'll post pictures when they're done.
The glass cutting is frustrating, but the only way you get better at it is to do more of it. I had some good luck on my first few projects and I guess I expected it to always go that smoothly. By the time I run out of all the glass I have, if I'm not much better I'll give it up. I have a ton of glass. My first project (well second one) is of a duck and I have him perched on a piece of driftwood. I've had many, many compliments on that one. I'll take a picture of that.
I made this really cool picture, with a jewel in the center, and it was wonderful. I hung it up in the studio. Days later I heard this loud thud upstairs. I had no idea what it could have been, went to look, and couldn't find anything. Several days later I realized the piece had fallen on the floor. A number of pieces in it were broken. I got so mad about it I just threw the whole thing out. :mad::mad: I should have put it away and much later just repaired it. :(
That's a pretty long answer to "how is it going?":)
I hope it's going well for you. I think of you often.
Love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Happy Thursday you sleepy heads! You are past hump day. Only two to go.
We are in for a whole week of weather only in the 80s. Time to get the red sweaters out!!

Love,
Susan

[addy]

Happy Friday!!!!!

We are to get cooler weather next week also. Maybe I will be able to pull some weeds:D:D:D:D

Did you pack for your trip yet? I still think you will end up having a good time. Just think of all the beautiful scenery you will see. And you and Bob can sing "On the Road Again":D:D:D:D:D Or play 'I see something yellow":p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

You might just end up in "them thar hills" and decide to stay there!!!

I wonder if Carrol is okay and her pups? I think about her and wish I knew if she was okay. I don't think her machine worked or she would have come back to say hi.

We don't see the new vet for a few weeks yet so I will give a report as soon as I can.

Mom may have a minor fracture on her ninth rib:eek::eek::eek::eek: They are not sure.

Always something at my house.

Hugs,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
I'm gardening today. 78 and not too bad humidity. I can't tell you when I last "gardened." I've only fed and sprayed for at least 2 years. :(
I think I will enjoy the trip as well and no I have not packed yet. I am a day-before packer. We are going to tour the Ford Estate in Detroit, Niagara Falls on the Canadian side and the big crystal manufacturer....the name escapes me right now. I hope to be able to blow and fire my own vase. Corning glass........that's the place. It's only 2 days with the neighbors. I just don't like getting boxed into this. When people come over in the winter with a blank calendar and ask when you can come......you get the idea.
And I don't like leaving Bailey, but I am very comfortable with where she will be.
Ouch for your Mom. I bet that hurts.:eek:
I wish I knew how Carrol was as well. Someday she'll pop up....in her red sweater. :)
Hugs to you!
Sus

[Bailey's Mom]

Hay Sas?
I need some help. Bailey is pulling so hard on the leash that she is walking on her hind legs.:mad: When we go to put her harness on her to go for a walk, she bounces around making it impossible to catch her. :mad: When company comes, she's all over them. :mad::mad: As I said before, I tried the treats when walking, but she just won't focus.:( Sometimes I can get her to sit....not always.:confused: If I walk with her and call her name, with authority and pull back on the leash, she will kind of come back---that or I just catch up to her. After that she's off and pulling just as hard. :mad: It's like every two steps I'm calling her name and pulling back. :mad:We're running out of patience here. :(:(
Thanks.
Susan

[marie adams]

Susan,

We just finished our 4 week pup class. Some of the tricks for walking (which I agree my patience doesn't last long) were to put peanut butter on a wooden stick so you don't have to bend down so far to get it in front of their face--I am lucky Ella is almost tall enough I don't have to bend much. Other's in class have treats that are Natural Balance logs of different flavors of meat. I just got the lamb flavor yesterday (a small log to try out); Ella is working with me with these. In class today she was the award winner for walking next to me and making the turns.

The instructor had us practice left turns with the dog at our left side so they had to turn with us. Right hand today just that they can change direction on this one--that is why you practice on the left first and walk against a fence on the left also helps because there isn't anything to get distracted with.

She showed us a way to walk with the leash wrapped around their middle--she called it the luggage walk system because the leash is still hooked to the collar, but you now have a large handle to use so it distracts them with the leash around their belly and they don't pull as much on the neck (I hope I explained this one so it makes sense).

It is frustrasting because we know what it was like to have a trained dog. We forget it was a process before so it will be a process again. I keep telling myself this as I start to yell at Ella or the s... word comes out of my mouth.

Yesterday and today a challenge in the car--she has thrown up both days--not sure what that is all about....I talked about yesterday's adventure on Ella's thread...

I am a day before packer usually because I don't have time to get it done before. There are rare occassions when I start ahead of time.
Have a wonderful time and sounds like it will be exciting to see all the sites.

Happy Rest of the Weekend!!

[SasAndYunah]

Susan,

I think I said this before...it sounds like you need to start all over with Bailey :) The fact that she won't even sit to put her harness on, that she is all over visitors,etc are all signs she wasnt taught some boundaries. And if you don't start to teach them, nothing you wil do will change anything in her behaviour. I'm not sure if you saw the video's of "little Viktor", the Welsh Springer pup? At 7 weeks old, the first things I taught him were to sit before he got his meals, to sit and wait when I went through a door, etc...all things/actions that will tell a dog you are the boss. It teaches them boundaries...and without those, it's virtual imposible to teach dog anything.

So, my first advice would be...stop chasing her, trying to catch her. That's about the worst thing you can do. If she won't sit still so you can put her harness on, then simply walk away and put away the harness...no sitting still, no walk. Try again in 10 minutes...she won't sit? You walk away nd put away the harness. If you start chasing her, you give her all the power....succesfully so even :) So, no more chasing miss Bailey, okay?! From now on,make her sit before you give her her meals. She won't sit? Walk away and put her bowl away as well. Try again in 5 minutes orso. She wants to sit in your lap? Make her sit. She won't? Too bad, no laptime for Bailey. From no on, d not let her go thrugh doorsfirst, she needs to sit and wait till you (and every other human) went through the door. She won't? Everytime she tries to get through the door before you, pick her up, sit her down again. If needed, leave a leash on her so you can grab her more easily. If you do this, consistently, every time with everything, she will understand these new rules within 2 or 3 days...if she is smart it will take less then 24 hours :D Once these new rules are clear, you have established some sort of leadership and she will begin to understand boundaries. And then, and only then, can you start teaching her things like walking on a leash etc. It's not Bailey, it's not the method you use for training walking on a leash, it's the lack of leadership why you are not succesfull in training her. So using a different method to train how to walk on a leash, won't be the solution. Start from zero, set boundaries, teach her the new rules and once she understands those, everything else will come automatically :)

Google for NILIF, Nothing in Life is Free. Read id and start acting and behaving accordingly...that's how you teach Bailey how to walk on a leash :) Not with leash training but with respect, boundaries and clear and consistent rules...

This may not be the reply you hoped for, but in my opinion, the only honest and the best answer I can give you.

Good luck and remember, look for the fun, not for the frustrating bits ;)

Saskia and Yunah :)

[addy]

I wonder if my husband read that Nothing in Life for Free because he has been making me wait at the door while he goes out first, I am always having to say "please" before everything and I am doing at lot of sitting:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

I kid you all:D:D:D:D:D

Actually, we did the NILFF with Zoe when she first came home.

Hey Sus,

are you packed yet???????????

On the road again, can't wait to get on the road again:p:p:p:p:p

Why is it so hard to leave our pups? I know you will miss Bailey.
Just think of the great reunion when you get back;)

Love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Addy-
Nope-not packed....but car is gassed up, tires will get pumped up tomorrow.....bills are all in order......I'm getting there!:)

Don't tell her I said so, but it will be nice not to have to deal with poop, tinkles or bites for one week. :D

Back to stepping stones..........these are really going to be cool! :cool::cool:

Love,
Sus

[marie adams]

Susan,

Happy Trip!!!
I know what you mean about not having to.....for a whole week!!:D:D

Do we get any new sweaters on this trip?????:p :) What color this time???

[addy]

Hey, Marie, don't go and think you are gonna hog the window seat again. Oh wait, Mom got a new van, we all have a window now:D:D

DIBS ON THE LEFT SIDE!!!

hey, are we taking the DVR?

Can we make some popcorn to take along, huh, can we?

[Bailey's Mom]

OMG they're back.........the Bobsie twins....:eek:
It's not a van-it's an SUV.....but there are 8 windows in all.....although you wouldn't be able to see much out of the teeny rear side ones.:p:p
The temperatures look like they'll be in the low 70s for most of our trip.....so sweaters are in order and maybe jackets-at night. Don't forget your flannel pjs......the ones with the feet!!! ;) Fall sweaters perhaps. How about orange? Maybe brown? Neither of those colors look good on me....I'm a "winter."
I will bring along BIG tubs of Fisher's popcorn.....one with cheese, one with caramel and peanuts and one plain caramel. If we run out, they do mail order!:D:cool:
This trip won't be 2600 miles....only about 2000. Now go get your naps. The "bus" leaves early Saturday morning.

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi-Miss Bailey had her stitches removed today and all looks very good. I gave her a bath and she looks SO fluffy....and is SO soft. She looks like a pre-winter caterpillar...those black and brown ones.
Sas-thank you for your reply....I'm working on it.:D
-Love,
Susan

[addy]

Are we there yet? How many more miles? What do you mean we have only been in the car 10 minutes? I forgot to use the bathroom before we left. Hey Bob, can we stop at that MCDonalds?

Oh Boy, CANADA, CANADA. Can we get some Canada Dry Ginger Ale in Canada?

OH NO I FORGOT MY SWEATER.

MOMMMMMMMMMMMM:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p Marie is looking at me just like Carrol used to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Have a great trip dear Sus,

Love,Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

You're certifiably CRAZY!! :D

COULD NOT SLEEP...not even one little wink.:(

Looks like the weather will be about the same as it has been here. Bummer. Hot. :(:(

I'll try to keep you posted as we go.:)

Love,
Susan

[addy]

Day One Without Susan,


The day dawned cool and foggy with thunderstorms predicted.
No Art Fair, No Pool, No Outside Anything.:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

Guess I will just be doing chores, mopping floors, doing wash, all that really fun stuff on a Saturday morning.:eek::eek::eek:

In the meantime, Susan is off to Canada and although the weather is supposed to be quite warm, she has new scenery and fun stops to make along the way.:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D


Gee, I wonder where they will stop to eat lunch?

Do you think she will send pictures?

Are we having fun yet???

Okay, off to scrub the toilets.:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Oh no..............You're NEVER without me!! :D:D
Lunch-well we didn't really have one. Getting "over to the western shore" was VERY difficult. What bozo planned this trip to leave on a Saturday when everyone in the eastern half of the nation is either going to check in at the beach, or going back home??? :eek::eek:
We had our choice of any day of the week to leave......next time we will plan better. :mad:
We are in Pittsburgh and have just returned from dinner. It was a very nice, recommended Italian restaurant. We both opted for main salads. Mine was Cobb with chicken. I just didn't think I could handle anything heavier-since I need to go to bed NOW!!!
We were on the road from 9:45 until after 7. Long, long day....plus my legs were bothering me.:(
No pictures yet......tomorrow probably.
No need for sweaters here...no matter what color!
Love,
Sus

[addy]

Cobb salad? Yummy, yum, yum!!!!!!!!!!! We have relatives in Pittsburg but I have never been there. That is a long time in the car!!!


HEY MOM, MARIE ATE ALL THE POPCORN AND WE HAVE WATCHED THE SAME MOVIE 3 TIMES NOW. HOW MANY MORE MILES?????

100 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL, 100 BOTTLES OF BEER, IF ONE OF THE BOTTLES WOULD HAPPEN TO FALL-------------

WAIT I SPY SOMETHING GREEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Love,
Addy

:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[marie adams]

Oh Darn, if the weather is warm we won't get new sweaters!!! I would really like a pink or green sweater, since I already have a red one I don't need another, but then......Ella has probably put a hole in that one when I wasn't looking.:eek:

I hope you have wonderful trip. I love SUV's my kinda car. Maddie had her own 1994 Suburban, the back seat was hers. Ella doesn't really care what the car is--none of them are her favorite--have to work on that....:p

Addy, I get all of the carmel with peanut popcorn and maybe some of the just carmel---you can have the cheese one..:D

I am sitting in the third seat so I can stretch out.;)
And don't touch my body or look at me funny---MOM!!!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Wellllllllllllllllllll.....this SUV has no third seat.....so you're in the cargo area. And there is no DVD player.....so I think you've been smokin' somethin'. :rolleyes:
Day #2-we just checked in @ Dearborn, Michigan. No lunch today either :(...but I did get a cinnamon sugar bagel. And breakfast was AWFUL. We're going to Noodles & Co soon and I LOVE that place. But I can only go so long without a steak....... tomorrow I think.
It rained all day. We got here and had just an hour to go through the Detroit Institute of Art. I wish we'd had more time. :(
Tomorrow we "do" "The Henry Ford." Unfortunately the auto museum is closed for renovations but there's supposed to be much more to see. It is supposed to take all day to see everything. After we finish there we head out for S.S.Marie. We'll probably get there late-like after dinner. (unless they arrest us at the border.;)) Remember......gotta get that steak!! :D
I called to check on Bailey and she's eating and doing well.....which is more than she does for us!! ;) She is slowly working on her pig's ear and loves her daily Greenie.
We may need to get those sweaters. How about navy??? Can we agree on SOMEthing??:rolleyes:
Off to9 dinner now...........behave!!!:)
Love,
Mom;)

[Bailey's Mom]

Oh nooooooooooooooooo......
I'm sick. Just a cold so far. Beddy bye very soon.
-love
susan

[addy]

SICK? You are not allowed to get sick on vacation. Take some echinacea:):):):):):):):):)


Glad to hear Bailey is fine. It is always great to have a kennel you can trust.

How was the Art Institute? I bet you will enjoy the Henry Ford Museum. If they haul you off to jail when you try to cross the border, will you get the right to one email so we can rescue you?:p:p:p:p:p

Enjoy your day in Dearborn!!!!

Hugs and love,
Addy

[marie adams]

What do you mean rescue--we are with her, REMEMBER Addy--hello!!!!! :rolleyes:

Addy is right you cannot be sick on vacation--zinc and echinacea along with the Big C--EmergenC works nicely also--I like the raspberry flavor.

You sure have packed a lot into this vacation--you will need a vacation from your vacation. :D

Keep having a great time and hopefully you will have gotten that steak by the time you read this....

I could live with navy--it goes nicely with pink!!:p

[addy]

Hey Mom, did you forget us again at the truck stop?


Dang, Marie, I think Mom left us at the border and we don't have any papers.

Hi Sus,

Hope you are feeling better today. I also hope a nice juicy steak was waiting for my favorite carnivore:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

Cha, cha, cha,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi!
You gals warm my heart and my heart needed warming!!:)

I'm in Sault Sainte Marie....(How do they get "Soo" out of Sault??)
Indeed I got my steak...and it was wonderful along with the salad with blue cheese dressing and the garlic mashed potatoes.:D
It is called "The Henry Ford"-there is no "museum" attached. I could have spent a second day there...at least 1/2 day more. Gorgeous place. Everyone is in period costumes (1700's). I'll tell you more when I am not stuck with a laptop keyboard and pushy around mouse.:mad:
Unfortunately Bob insisted on driving all the way here after walking around The Henry Ford for 6 hours...and 4 miles according to my pedometer. THEN the road to get out of Michigan and into Canada was closed. :eek: It added a full hour to our trip-trying to figure out a detour. We got here around 1AM.:eek::mad::(:confused:
Today we hauled as* around for 5 hours in the car just so we could see the wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald museum. Before the day was over I told Bob this was my last road trip in excess of 1,000 miles...that this was NOT fun.
(Who said I was going to have a great time???)
Tomorrow we spend another day here (Oh gawd!) and then it will be Thursday and we will be on to "my part" of the trip.
So we came into Canada yesterday, we went back to Michigan to see this boat, and back into Canada today. They have not figured out yet that I am a terrorist!!
I'm having to use my friend's laptop because he does not know the password to get me into his WiFi connection.
PLEASE get me back to pooper Bailey!!!
Love,
Susan

[addy]

You are having fun, you just don't know it yet:p:p:p:p:D:D:D:D:D

I LOVE MY PIX OF BAILEY, THANK YOU, THANK, YOU, THANK YOU

Hope your cold is better and your legs and foot are holding up with so many hours in the car.


Little Miss Bailey is counting the days until mom gets home.
Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Who would ever think you would enjoy Bailey's poop so much you would trade in a vacation...!!!:eek:

I hope all the walking is helping your foot and leg to keeping circulation up and running to heal them. :D

Enjoy as much as you can, of course with all the driving and museum time, you haven't had time to sweater shop--darn it! :p

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi ladies-
I entered my response post twice last night and I see neither "took."
We are now in Niagara Falls......well.....not really in the falls....but I can see them out the window!!:D:D
It's been another long day of travel....hopefully the last marathon driving on this trip. We'll have all tomorrow to poke around here then drive to Corning, NY for our final stop.:)
I called and checked on Bailey today and she is doing well and still working on her pigs ear.
No sweaters yet. I asked about maple syrup, but that post got lost.
Sault Ste Marie was okay. It's not a place with much to see. The first day was one helluva lot of riding in the car....and since that followed the very long day of travel the day before, I was NOT happy:mad:.
Anyway-I survived so far. Today I told Bob no more skipping lunches.
I'll try not to fall in the falls. :eek: We're on the home leg now girls!:D
Love,
Susan

[addy]

Hey Sus,

Not even funny cause I heard the other day a lady was lost at the falls and FREAKED for five minutes:D:D:eek::eek::eek:

Gotta run to work, sorry short post.

Love ya and have a great lunch!!!!!!!

Hugs,
Addy

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Susan,

I got to go to Niagara in '03 and had the best time! It is so beautiful there, especially on the Canadian side. Everyone else seems to prefer the Horseshoe Falls, but I stared in wonder at the American falls - they are so rugged and powerful. The flowers and gardens were breathtaking - all cared for by 40 horticulture students from around the world who came there to study. On the Am. side, there was a huge indoor winter garden that was so beautiful but it is gone now, I understand. :( We only had 4 days there and I wish we could have had 4 months at least! That is one place I dearly want to return to one of these days.

Enjoy your trip!

Hugs,
Leslie

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Leslie-
I know exactly how you feel. I was here about 7 years ago and found it to be so beautiful. :):) I've not been on the USA side, but I've been told it's not that great.:(
And hi-Addy, as well. We love the room so much we are spending a second night here.:) They have fireworks every Friday evening.:):D We should have a spectacular view from this room. :cool:
Bob and I just returned from the pathway by the falls. We are both drenched.:eek:
We spent today walking around Niagara-on-the-Lake. It's a cute little town with some interesting shops.
I was just looking out the window and this is so amazing. :cool::D:)
We're on the 14th floor of the Marriott and have a completely unobstructed view.
We're going to Tony Roma's for steak tonight then back to the room fore the fireworks and a then quick bedtime. :D
We need to leave early AM to get to Corning. Early so we miss the bridge backups into the US and so we get done with what we want to see and do at Corning and still get home Saturday night.:eek:

Hey Marie & Addy. .....I got you sweatshirts today. ;) One is brown and one is navy. You'll have to figure out who gets which color.:confused::confused: If you meet me at the truck stop, I'll give them to you then.:D

So far I have not fallen into the falls.:D
Love,
Sus, Susan, Mom, Bailey's Mom :D:D;);):):):cool::cool:

[addy]

HEADS I GET THE BROWN ONE:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p:p

OMG Fireworks at the falls sounds so very lovely, it must be a beautiful sight:):):):):):) I was there just one time, long,long ago.

Steak at Tony Romas? Hope you brought a doggy bag, YUMMY, YUMMY GOOD:D:D:D:D:D

Hope they don't keep you at the border:D:D:D:D

Love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hello and welcome home!!!!!:)
WHEW!!!:D
Now I can start planning the NEXT vacation....one much more to my liking.:D:D

I enjoyed The Henry Ford and the Green Village. 2,200 miles.....that is NOT to my liking. :mad: The falls were just so gorgeous, especially from the wonderful room we had. I enjoyed very much going through the Corning Museum yesterday. I even got to blow a glass "sculpture." They have to finish it off, so I have to wait for it to arrive in the mail. That was cool. Had we had more time at a more casual pace, I would have tried all the hands on stuff. There is a lot of history there....pieces from 1 A.D. ...and forward. I didn't see anything earlier than that. I was disappointed in that I hoped to see more current stuff....although there sure was planty of that.
So .... yesterday we drove from Niagara Falls to Corning to home. We got in about 10:30 and that was with a 3-4 hour stop at the museum.

There really isn't much in Sault Ste Marie to see. I enjoyed the visit with our friends, but in November they will be right across the street and I would have preferred to wait for that. But now we have fulfilled our social obligation and that was good.

Little Miss Bailey did very well. We picked her up @9AM and she has not stopped running, chasing, etc. since then.....no exaggeration. I threw balls, etc for her for at least an hour. We went to visit neighbors and she was non-stop there for a couple of hours. Now we're back home and she has chased everything under the sun and is now playing with a Coke cap. She looks so cute with that red circle in her mouth. Don't worry-she won't swallow it.:eek:
We have had a bit of a regression on the biting, but I expect that to change back soon. It's amazing how puppies can ignore you when you have laryngitis! :confused:
I have let her run free out front two or three times and man she loves it! Huge circles. Front yard to back yard. She so loves to run.:):)
OK....Coke cap thrown away---she started chewing on it...I sure didn't want that to need to be removed from her stomach.:eek:
Just wanted to touch base and let you know all of us arrived home safely and all of us seem to have survived our experiences.:)
Happy Sunday y'all!!!:D
Love,
Susan

[addy]

:Wow, HOME!!!!!! I bet Miss Bailey is so happy to have Mom back.

Susan, how cool you actually got to do a blown glass sculpture. What a great experience. I love watching them on TV. I love the Chihuly glass sculptures. We had a show at our art museum and his work just was unbelievable.

I decided to teach Zoe some more hand signals. She is so dang smart, she catches on right away. Five minutes of chicken and practicing walking down the street and we now have a "come here" hand signal, no words involved:D:D:D

And we are still taking walks in the morning and I still talk away to her.

Enjoy being home and I hope you do not need a vacation from your vacation. I hate it when that happens:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Welcome Back MOM!!!!:D

I guess Addy beat me to the Brown one so I will take the navy one!!! Thank you for thinking of us!!!:p

You will get Bailey back on tract. Be the boss like Sas said with the boundaries and you first thru the doors, etc. I make Ella sit at the doors and gate and look at me before I release her to start thru the door and gate. Sometimes I make her sit once we are out the door so I can close and lock it. I also put Maddie's pincher choke collar on and what a difference it makes on the walks. If these are done right they do not hurt them. The choker can only go so far because there is a ring in the middle that is a stop mechanism. This one was made in Germany if that makes a difference--supposedly when we bought it from the trainer with Maddie there is a difference in quality and the way they work.

How does she do once she has done all the running around??? Does she settle down and will work with you? Ella seems like a little child the more you let her run and try to tire her out she is all wrond up--starts the barking/biting and then off to sleep. We are exhausted from trying to disapline her.:eek:

We will get them to the wonder dog stage eventually, but we just forget that it was a process the last time--we just want it sooner this time.

I hope you got rest so you will not have a relapse from you disease. Take care of yourself!!!!:)

Happy Week!!! :D

[addy]

I just said I wanted brown so you would want it:p:p:p

I really want BLUE:p:p:p:p


Isn't that what sisters do????:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[Bailey's Mom]

Oh girls......behave now! ;) I got two blues and two browns so you each can have one of each!!:D
I went to the ER clinic today. My doc is off all week. Their message doesn't say so....but I tricked them by calling the nurse's line and she is in. The clinic doc said.....save your voice, drink lots of liquids and if it isn't better in 3-4 days, see your regular doc. DID YOU LISTEN TO ME???? I have had this for ten days now and my doc is OFF all week. I find this clinic to be useless. Now I am getting a sore throat. I am wondering if the Erlichiosis is still hanging on in there. I never have gotten over being tired.:(
Marie-Bailey's running is like she is feeling free and enjoying the cooler air. It does not slow her down at all. She usually continues it when we come inside. She just looks so happy while she is doing it.:)
Monday is over gals. It gets closer to Saturday every day now.;)
Love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Good Morning Cush friends!!
The soonest I can get a dr appt is 9/2. If I die before that, would one of you take Bailey?:rolleyes:;)
-Susan

[addy]

Wow, maybe you should just go to a walk in clinic or is it better to see your own doctor because of the erhliciosis?

My doctor used to do that to me too so then I would end up seeing an alternate at the same clinic. Sometimes it was a good thing other times not:(

I hope you feel better soon. Maybe just stay in bed and drink hot tea with honey in it.

Get well soon sweet Susan.

love,
Addy

[marie adams]

YAY!!! We get two sweatshirts!!!!:p

I love it when they run around and look so happy!!! That big grin on their face with the tongue hanging out!!!:p

I think Addy is right get lots of rest, drink hot tea, Vit C, Zicam is suppose to help too--maybe???

Going to the doctor is not something I do--I usually end up at a clinic like when I got bit by the dog. Scheduling appts is so hard for me with my schedule, but I should be making a few different kind of doctor appts. I should just take time off to do this--haha!!!

I hope it isn't the erhliciosis flaring up again!!!:eek: You need a break from illness and surgeries.

BIG ((((HUG)))) to make you feel better!!! Mine is better than Addy's--:D HeHe!!

[addy]

Mine is better than Addy's-- HeHe!!

you guys crack me up, I just love it how you both can put a smile on my face so darn easily!!!


:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D :D:D:D:D:D:D

oh and here is so more

:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

Happy Tuesday NIGHT!!!!!!!

nighty night from Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi girls-
Marie-yes Zicam does work. once at the beginning of the trip and then didn't have any trouble, except no voice, until I got home. I think maybe my voice is coming back. My little fever from last night is gone and the bad sore throat I had last night is gone.
I got outside and did some pruning today and basked in the sunlight. Vitamin D from the sun should help too.
Unfortunately I lost 3 rose bushes.....and I think it was I who killed them. I think the insect sprayer I used had had some weed killer in it. They are dead as door nails. That only leaves me with one. I have tried hard to have them here....I had 31 in Arlington....but the soil is a problem. First, it isn't soil. Then it tends to be wet. Roses don't like wet feet. But I built up this little berm (hill) and they were doing really well this year. Since it was my "fault" I will order 3 replacements. After this, I'm not getting any new plants. I am retiring from gardening, except for maintenance.
Hey Marie-we have Addy with the giggles! By the way....those turtles are HUGE. Do you take them for walks?
Time to get to bed. Happy Tuesday night....and Wednesday morning. This is hump day....it's all downhill after this (for you working folk.)
Love,
Susan

[marie adams]

Yay!!! We put lots of smiles on Addy!!!! :):)

The tortoises are not so big compared with Miss Ella--They are a little bigger than a dinner plate--we have had them since they were 3 years old and then they were the size of a bread plate (easier to explain size this way). They are now 26 years old same as the daughter. They have personalities also--sooo silly sometimes and they like to be petted.

I am glad you are feeling better and could do a little gardening. Too bad about the roses. We only have a couple right now--iceberg ones--they seem to do very well here--even with the ocean breezes.

Yes is it Wednesday - Hump Day - and I haven't produced much so far for this week--in the slow motion of life and just disappointed in people sometimes. I had purchased paper coffee cups yesterday--had wanted 16 oz ones, checked the box I was taking them out of to make sure they were right, but didn't check the label. I got home and they were 12 oz ones:mad::mad: I had to take them back and when I went to the same cashier and explained--her responds was "oh that isn't good" Of course they were different prices so I had to stand in line to do the exchange (everything by the book :mad:). Never once did she apologize for my inconvenience of time and gas. I was so mad when I left I called up and spoke to a manager explaining I had to vent because where is the common courteous and empathy in life--I think it really doesn't exist especially in younger people (I hate saying that because my daughter falls into this catagory); my daughter knows better and expects "I am sorry" also and gets mad.

Okay I vented and should be working--YUCK!!!

Happy Wednesday!!! Soak up those rays of sunshine:D:D:):)

[Bailey's Mom]

:mad:WHAT Happy Wednesday?????
My dog just threw up on the carpet. Yesterday she pooped twice in the house.
A hurricane is heading our way with a dead on hit and they are predicting 10" of rain Saturday....wind up to 120 mph. There are tons and tons of pine trees around here.
BIG ONES.
Bob assumes "we" are going to leave and go to Ryan's. Unless forced to I do not want to leave.
Whine, whine, whine. Grumpy ol' me.
AND I STILL have laryngitis. 12 days and counting.

CAN I GET A HUG?????????????????????

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi gang-
We are going to need to evacuate. :( They're calling for 12 " of rain and winds sustained of 115mph. We will take both cars and Bailey and head for Ryan's.....with no idea of when we can return.:eek:
We've already brought everything inside and have made sure all the plants are watered....so that when the salt water arrives, they won't be eager to drink that up. At the moment we plan to leave about 4AM on Saturday. Traffic is a really big issue. There is only one way over to the "western shore." Today I saw cars backed up onto the road waiting to get gas just a few blocks from us. So-hopefully those panickers will be long gone by the time we head out.:confused:
And wouldn't you know this year we decided not to renew the flood insurance???:eek::eek: Barring something falling on the house, I don't think the inside will be harmed. We may-probably will get water into the garage. It got to within one foot of the garage for the really bad nor'easter two years ago. We've raised up everything on the garage floor and we will try to put down plastic to keep water out.
This is just incredible.
-love,
susan

[addy]

OMG Susan,

I can't believe what this dang hurricane is turning into.

EVACUATE???? OMG!!!!

Did you take your computer:D:D:D

I hope everything will be okay dear Susan,
please check in and let us know everything is okay. Maybe it will turn and go out to sea.

Love,

HUGS, HUGS and MORE HUGS

[marie adams]

Lots of BIG HUGS!!!!

WOW!!!! I hadn't been paying attention to where the hurricane was headed. I sure hope it changes direction and doesn't hit your town.

Be careful getting out of town. Those crazy people will be out there who don't have a clue what really needs to be done...:eek:

You just can't get back to training to do the start over....:( You will get it down and so will Bailey.

Enjoy your time at Ryan's!!!:)

[addy]

Wow, Mom, when did we get this nice new pool in the non basement?

Hey Marie, dive in, water's fine.Ummm, Mom........ YOOOHOOOOOOOO MOM.....


OMG, Marie, mom evacuated without us. She forget us in the non basement:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:


MAN THE LIFE BOATS

Hey Sus, I hope you made it to Ryans and are not stuck on a road somewhere. Sending love and hugs.

Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

OMG
.....I DID forget you while evacuating. Well the town is closed, the stores and restaurants are closed so I'll just have to tell you how to get by.
There is no pool in the basement, but there should be the beginnings of one tomorrow.Practice your swimming strokes. Use the new sweaters I gave you to keep yourself warm when you get out of the pool. You can wear one around the back and your shoulders and you can wear the second one around the front, also with your shoulders.Now the house alarm is set, so don't try to get into the house. You'll be fine in the non basement.
Eat some greens from around the yard and some pine cones. Bailey loves all of those so they MUST taste good.DO NOT eat anything that looks like a Tootsie Roll.
The house water is turned off so as soon as it starts raining use some grocery store plastic bags to catch the water. If you're still hungry, there is an opossum that comes by and there us a cat that I've seen several times. I guess you'll have to try to
buy sine lighters ti cook them.

We had a very safe and pleasant ride to Ryan's. :D Bailey traveled very well in the car in her condo. She is taking a while to settle down, but she'll have figured it all out by tomorrow.

Gotta go to bed. Vacating your house requres a lot of things to be done., We'll have a much better idea by Sunday about how long before we can go back.

HUGS to you both.:)

Love,
Sus an

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Susan,

Hoping all is well with you and yours. Last I heard, it was losing power so maybe there won't be much damage at your home. Keep in touch and let us know how things are with you and your family.

Hugs,
Leslie

[marie adams]

Hi Susan,

When I checked the internet nothing was said so far so that could be good. Hopefully it will have lost power or change directions and your house and town will be safe.

It is a good thing I know how to swim--requirement in Southern California--haha!!! ;) I don't think I want to eat anything that looks like a tootsie roll---:eek:, but I might try the pinecones--Addy, we could roast them with the lighters, maybe a little salt and who knows...too bad Carrol is missing this adventure--she is always off who knows where!!!

Take care and I am glad Bailey is traveling better, can't say that for Miss Ella...she didn't drool, but almost home and blatttt:eek::D

Enjoy your time with Ryan!!!

[addy]

Well, I tried some of those dang pine cones and I really don't see why Bailey likes them cause all they did was get stuck in my teeth!!!!!

I think I might of stumbled on some garlic mustard down the road and that had at least a bit of a bite to it.:p:p:p:p:p:p

As for the opussum, he's looking at ME for dinner:eek::eek::eek::eek:


Hopefully you can come home soon and everything is okay.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Leslie, Marie and Addy-
The news we get is that there is very little affect @BB.:confused::confused: I don't understand how that can be.........I've watched TV almost nonstop for 36 hours and at the very least we should be flooded.:confused:
The power is out....the electric company turned it off at the beginning-after we evacuated....for safety. They are working on our area now so I bet it will be on before too long. It'll be "fun" to see what has happened inside the refrigerator and the freezer.:eek:
I am told the water flooding is less than it was a week ago with a summer storm.....if that is the case, we should be really fine.:D
Bob is grumpy, so I don't know what his plans are. I plan to go back right after lunch. I can take Bailey or he can take Bailey. By the way, Marie, we had given her 1/2 of a child's Dramamine before we left to come here. Will do the same today. You can't tell that it affects her other than she doesn't throw up............which is a HUGE blessing.:)
I am SOOOO relieved. From the news reports here it looked sooooo bad. I was really having a large case of nerves. I'll report after I get back.
Thanks for your messages and concerns. It was nice to be able to talk with people who aren't caught up in this.
Love,
Hugs,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Oh.....Addy-----you might want to be careful with that garlic mustard. Sounds like some of Palmer's poop when he was ill. (Yes, I meant to say Palmer.)
YUCK

[addy]

Welcome Home Susan!!!!!!


Hope everything is okay

HUGS AND KISSES AND SMILES FOR YOU AND BAILEY

Love,
Addy

[marie adams]

Hi There Adventurer,

I hope this post fines you home and there is no damage!!!

I hope Bailey had a good time at Ryan's. I will look into the children's dramine. Ella will probably get a whole one at 30+ lbs. maybe more...:D

I keep looking on MSN for reports about Delaware, but I just don't spend enough time looking--they talked about VT so no news is good news.

Now you can get back to Bailey's training. If she is socialized with other dogs pretty good, how would a private instructor work???? There are days I want to head in that direction:eek::eek: I wouldn't send her away--even though that has crossed my mind--haha!!! It is always good to work with your little buddy because you have to live with them 24/7.

Ella acted very strange yesterday--she got scared from a hinged handle squeaking on a large tool box. She even went into her condo on her own and layed down; of course you couldn't close the door, but still very strange for her--something beat her in the "game" and she got depressed I guess...

So glad you are okay and doesn't sound like to much happened to your home.

(((Big Hugs)))

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi!
Well we got home and the only real dammage was two large limbs out of our tree in the front yard. It already lost another large limb earlier this summer. It doesn't have too many left to lose :(:( .
Guess what??!! The painters will be here @8AM tomorrow!!:D
They power washed today and will begin the painting tomorrow. Somehow I got the idea this would be two days......I guess it depends on how many are here to do the painting. At least it got me to trim all the bushes around the house....so they could get in there and paint. I have just about 6 more around back, which do not need to be done for the painters.....and I'll be done for the year.
Lots of lots of people in the Washington area are without power and may not get it back until the end of the week. It seems the winds on Sunday did most of the damage.....not the water and rain. You can't even really tell there was a storm here except the main road is loaded with pine cones.
Oh-Miss Bailey finally "discovered" the turtle next door today. They have a huge turtle.....probably 3ft. long, 3 ft high and at least 2 feet wide...made out of metal, in front of their house. While I was trimming she kept barking and barking. I could not see anyone or anything around, so I asked her what the deal was. Then I figured out it was the turtle. I went over and rapped on it with my hand and then she seemed to be okay with it. What a silly thing she can be!:rolleyes::cool::D
Gotta get to bed.....8AM comes way too early for me!!
Love,
Susan

[marie adams]

So happy you didn't have any damage except for the tree limbs.

How funny Bailey was barking at the turtle. That is something Ella would do also. She even knows when something is out of place--not there the day before--they are silly little beings!!!:D

Good news about the painters--wasn't your house already power washed from the storm--haha!!:D

[addy]

Have fun watching the painters, what a crazy world, one day a hurricane, the next day painters:D:D:D:D

I am glad your home and property are unscathed by the storm. Some of the flooding film they showing on TV in New Jersey and Vermont is just awful.

Enjoy your week.

Love,
Addy

[addy]

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS PERSON?



Information wanted on the wearabouts of Susan. May be accompanied by small dog. Last seen wearing a red sweater. Last sighting was in her driveway watching house painters..


If you know of her wearbouts please contact Addy or Marie as they are getting sick of eating pine cones and are quite hungry.

[marie adams]

What? We have lost MOM????? :eek:

I thought for sure she had found us and promised a Steak Dinner for all!!!!:D

She is taking a vacation from her vacation I bet and we weren't invited AGAIN!!!!:rolleyes:

I hope all is well and it is just dealing with the house painters has you very busy!!! Maybe you lost your voice so you cannot type the words also?????:p

[Bailey's Mom]

Where have you been?? I've been looking for you EVERYwhere!!
Alas and alack.....it is the painters,......and the doctors......and Bailey........and life!....and no voice..........STILL!:confused:
Yesterday I had an appt with ENT dude. I headed out and the main road was CLOSED.:eek: I realized, as I detoured that I would wind up being 15 -20 minutes late. I called the dr. office figuring it was 1/2 hr. before I was to be there and they'd cut me some slack, since I was so good at reporting my dilemma before that last minute. WRONG! They would allow me to be 15 minutes late and no more. :mad::mad: This place was an hour from home and I'd be danged before I drove all the way up there to be told...."I'm sorry....it's been 16 minutes since you were supposed to be here. You will have to rebook."
I'm into week #4 with whatever this is. I had Bob call and try to sweet talk them, but they wouldn't budge. I returned home. I've become really concerned about this because I've never lost my voice before, I have no other indications of being ill and I was starting to convince myself that I had nodes on my vocal chords and of course they would undoubtedly be malignant.:eek::eek:
Bob and I went out for a bite to eat and he suggested that I consider going to the hospital.....not the clinic....maybe we could get some answers there. That sounded like a really good idea to me. The painter was coming for a short while this AM and we planned to head out right after he left.
This hospital is great.:) I waited maybe 10 minutes. :D They took me right back after taking a high blood pressure reading. (WHAT NOW???) A really nice PA came in. She listened to Bob tell my tale of woe.....I have no voice, you know, and she asked a few questions. In a nutshell-she knows this doc I'm trying to see. She says he is great. He treated her. He was unable to take care of her issue so he sent her to a DR in NY. The NEXT day! She says it probably is not a virus. It probably is not bacteria. She says there is probably something going on with my vocal chords. It could be a node. If so-it may be benign. Anyway she spent about 15 or 20 minutes with us and was very helpful. So-my rescheduled appt. is on Thursday. She thinks I will be glad I am going to see this DR. I feel much better about it now and won't be so worked up waiting for Thursday.
The painters are almost done. Maybe two more days. The weather has been gorgeous and perfect for painting. They are doing a wonderful job and are very nice to work with.
Bailey goes in for a trim on Thursday. She needs one badly.She's about back to where she was before we went away...behavior wise. She seems to be settling down just a tad more. HOORAY!!!:D:D
I've not felt real great (cheerful):( and I think I've done quite a bit of complaining,:( so I just stayed away for a few days.
We are now watching ANOTHER hurricane. Katia. She's supposed to head up the east coast. It's too early to tell but they say we'll get rain no matter what.
HAPPY SATURDAY!!!
Love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Addy and Marie-I'll make you steak, garlic mashed potatoes and a salad with blue cheese. COME AND GET IT!!!!! No more pine cones!!!!
-The lady in the red sweater.

[marie adams]

What time is dinner??? I can't wait....can we bring the Surfer Dudes???:D The hurricane washed them in and again they are soooooo CUTE!!;)

Happy rest of the weekend!!! The weather is beautiful here also!!!!

I need your painters--do they travel?

[addy]

Ah, Sus, I am so sorry to hear you still have no voice. I was hoping it was just a bout of laryngitis. Is it possible it relates back to your Ehrlichiosis ?

It is perfectly understandable that you feel out of sorts and you can complain all you want because we are always here to support you.:):)

I am so glad the house painters are doing a good job!!! I was worried maybe they were being pains in the butts and locked you in the non basement!!!!!:eek::eek::eek::eek:


Maybe you need to take a ME day. I took one yesterday and went to a new salon for a cut and style. They gave me hot towels and tea and a wonderful hair wash with neck message, hot conditionig treament with hot towels on my head and I asked for a completely different hair style- wavy not straight. OMG, I felt like a new person, walking out of there yesterday. I spent the rest of the day with a smile plastered to my face.;);)

FEEL BETTER SOON-HUGS, HUGS HUGS, LOVE, LOVE LOVE


LOVE YA,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-
Thanks for the comforting words. I can tell you that this is not related to the Ehrlichiosis....I asked my doc when I saw her at the beginning of the week. "Something is going on with the vocal chords" is what the PA said. I'm kind of getting used to it now....but it is annoying when people keep saying to me .........."What?" :( Of course it's annoying to them when I don't speak up!:o
Your "me" day sounds WONDERFUL!!! I've had the same hair style for 40 years now, mostly. I have tried perms, different cuts, and nothing is as successful as what I have....which is straight and fairly short. I do think I may book a massage. I just need to get all my other appointments rearranged before I can plan on anything. The dumb ENT gals messed up my pre-op appt with the foot doc, my haircut, and another thing I had scheduled.....plus Bailey get's groomed that same day. Bob was going to go with me but I don't think he can with all that is supposed to happen.
Back to the hair-mine is salt and pepper. Sometimes I use this mousse that colors it until you shampoo next. I've seen a number of women with VERY short hair......like 3/4" all over.....and I've wondered about doing something like that. I think I'd need to be mostly gray to get that to look okay....and I don't think I have the guts to do it. A punk rocker type haircut could be fun for awhile...but only in the summer.
Also-as if enough weren't concerning me-the last couple of times my blood pressure has been up. The last 3 times, actually. I think I may to really need to say goodbye to the Cokes and the caffeine. Once I do that, I need to drop some weight. A heart attack scares the SH@#*!@# out of me.:eek::eek:
Hey Marie-bring the surfer dudes....especially if they are cute. I want the one without the really hairy chest. I'll go get more steaks and potatoes now.;)
And Addy-no, the painters don't know about the nonbasement. I was saving that secret in case they did a not so hot job. So-at the moment, only you and Marie are down there. COME ON OUT!!! It's a gorgeous day!:D:)
Love,
Susan

[addy]

Hi Susan,

I saw some really cute short cuts at the salon. Give it a try even though summer is over. It'll grow back.;);)

Yup, I know that too much caffeine and needing to drop a few feeling:D:D Add some sudafed for my allergies and I don't even want to know blood pressure rates:eek::eek::eek: But the caffeine helps some of my headaches.

Hope you find out about your voice this week and you get to see the ENT. Maybe you should ask them if it is nodules, why did it start right after you feeling like you were getting a cold or that you were coming down with something? It seemed to come on so suddenly. Unless the nodules make you feel like you had a scrathy, sore throat?

I think you should go for a massage. It will relax you and take away some of the tension.

Have a wonderful day. I hope your steeping stones are coming along.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-

I think the order in which this happened was.....we got up to go on our trip. Then or later that day I had this hoarseness. I just assumed that meant cold. There have been no other symptoms other than a slight fever on two, maybe three days. The throat does not hurt nor does it feel anything other than normal. It's only when I go to speak that I am reminded....oh yeah......I don't have my voice now. Why it came on so suddenly and so constantly is baffling. I guess (hope) we'll know more on Thursday.:cool:

I am due to get my hair cut this week-but due to all the scheduling being changed, I've asked her just to wait until I can give her something definite. I'd have to be feeling pretty perky and sassy to get the short cut. I need to go see the woman I know who has the nice looking one....maybe that will inspire me more.

I don't really think of it as set in stone, but my right foot surgery is planned for 10/15.:eek: The pre-op appt. for that is one of the things I need to change. Depending on what happens with the voice, I may put that off until after the first of the year. I may do that anyway.

How is it going with the Blue Bunny? :rolleyes: My aunt used to fix me chocolate chip ice cream (my fav) with marshmallow goop and chocolate sauce on top. Oh how I loved that. :) I've tried it myself and it just isn't as good. I guess she had a special touch that she added in. I miss her. :(

I just came back from a nice long walk with Miss Bailey. It is a fairly nice day, but we are supposed to have rain all week. Now that it is getting cooler, I have a hunch she will be running in figure eights more. I am really glad that the heat does not bother her like it did my first two dogs.

Bailey seems to bark at any tall object. We were visiting friends Saturday and a guy moved some golf clubs. You'd have thought a burglar had entered! And-when we are in bed and ready to go to sleep, Bob leans over to kiss me. Bailey does NOT like that. She tries to jump between us and mumbles a bit. What a silly little pooch.

I hope Koko is still doing well.:)

Love,
Susan

[addy]

Hey Susan,

Koko is fine, thank you for asking. He likes the cooler weather also. Monday night he was running around the house like he was possessed.:D:D:D:D Koko still gets the puppy crazies and he is now 4.:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

The remnants of tropical storm Lee must be hitting the East Coast now so you will most likely have a bit of rain. It did not come our way but the cooler weather sure did. Our weather changed abruptly but it feels good in a way though my allergies are not good right now.

Little Miss Bailey will be full of energy once the rain stops or does she like the rain? My two are not crazy about it unless it is more of a drizzle.

Good luck with the doctor appointment tomorrow. Maybe they will tell you you need an extended vacation, a cruise may be good.;) As long as you are not in the vicinity of hurricanes:D:D:D:D

Hugs,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Addy-

H. Lee was supposed to bring rain all week, but we've had one fifteen minute downpour. They are calling for rain for the rest of the week....but turning a bit nicer for the weekend. It's okay-we don't need the water.

Bailey has not had much chance to explore rain. She seems like she thinks it's fun. When she gets inside, she tears throughout the house. She is tolerating baths better, but it takes two of us. The walks are going better. I may keep her.;)
We had one week when we could leave the house open. We had to close up at the beginning of this week. We're back in the mid 80s and VERY humid. At least we'll get a break on the electric bill-being gone for 9 days and opening up for one week.:)

Today is 37 years. I have a clause in my wedding contract that gives me the ability to review it each year and decide if I want to extend it for another year. (JUST KIDDING!) I'm still deciding for this year.:rolleyes:

How long can you leave the pool open? I wish we had a pool. We have a hot tub.....that's kind of a pool. I keep it cooler in the summer.

Well-no painters so far this week. I think I'll go down into the non-basement and see if they're playing checkers down there. They only have two or maybe 2+ days and they'll be finished. At least they got the front done first......if they don't finish no one will ever know! Except we have 3 doors, none visible from another, and at the moment they are 3 different colors....a blue, a rust and a blue/lavender. Maybe I'll leave them that way!!:eek::D;)

It's hump day and you're on the downside of hump day! The weekend cannot be far off!!:):)

Love,
Susan

[addy]

Isn't that just like painters? Here today, gone tomorrow, finish the job? You mean you wanted it done this year????:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:


I did not know you needed surgery on your other foot. Maybe it is good to postpone that until you feel stronger. 'Cluck, Cluck" says mother hen addy:D:D:D:D:D:D Aww, there is my overprotective streak kicking in again. Bear with me, it will go away:o:o:o:o

We usually close the pool the third Saturday in September. The nights start getting too cold, it is hard to keep the water temperature up even with the solar cover and the heater has to run a good 16 hours or more for us to enjoy an afternoon in the pool. Doesn't make sense for us to keep it open, we will get few warm days now. But I do like looking at it. I always miss seeing the water once it is closed and covered. I'm a water baby.;);)

Hot tubs are nice. When our second grandchild was born we were at the hospital all night with no sleep. I flipped the heater on before we left thinking maybe we would want to relax in the pool for a bit later in the day. Well, we stopped home that evening at supper time with the older granddaughter. I asked her to go out and check the pool temperature. She came back and said it is 92. I rolled my eyes and said, stop fooling around, what is the temperature? She said again 92.

I raced outside and sure enough, the pool was 92. We had the biggest hot tub in town and boy we all jumped in and did not want to get out.

Have a good Thursday and let me know what the doc says.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Yeah-painters......this was scheduled to take place in April. They're not here today again. :( They call for rain...but yesterday was sunny, blue skies, nice temps. It'll get done.
Yes-other foot. I have one question about the left foot for the doc.....so long as the answer is simple, I'll go ahead now. My orthopedic surgeon discharged me earlier this week. That's a very weird feeling.....I've been at it so long, it seems like being discharged was never going to happen. If I could get the foot doc to discharge me this year, I could go on my merry way thinking all my issues (for now) were put behind me in 2011. 2012 would be a fresh, clean slate.:D:):D
Besides.....we are planning on a vacation in spring and another in the fall. The sooner I get to work on this, the sooner it won't affect my fun time.:D

Just dropped Bailey off for her grooming. While we were having a scrumptious dinner of steak, garlic mashed pots, spinach and an "on the house" dessert-with a candle in it...........Bailey was munching on the stuffing of the pad in her condo.:eek: And man she did a job! She had the whole pad pulled up so far that she could no longer see out the front. Bob thought that was very funny until he saw the mess. So no more pads for her until she is much more mature. She'll have to make do with towels for a base. :mad:
Well-I guess I'd better scurry. I do NOT want to be one minute late for this ENT dude. I'll report back later today on what the two docs and I have decided/learned.
HAPPY THURSDAY.....ONE MORE TO GO AFTER TODAY!!!!!
How's your week off going Marie?
Hugs 'n such,
Susan

[marie adams]

Hello,

The week is going by toooooo fast and I have this feeling of I don't want to work anymore!!!:eek:

I hope you get good news at the doctor's today!!! But then again...Addy, we could be really really bad in the non-basement or even the rest of the house and Mom can't yell at us---hehe!!!!:D

The weather is hot and humid here. These are the few days of the year when having AC would be nice at night, but right now Miss Ella is at my feet sleeping under the table while I type away. We have a little fan going so far it is nice. It was a little humid on the trail this morning. She had a good time when I let her off leash and came back most of the time.

I am glad Bailey is a keeper this week!!!:p

Get Better and those painters will eventually be back if they want to get paid....:rolleyes:

Happy Anniversary!!! Don't we all have anniversaries this month???? Addy, I think yours is the same as mine on the 21st....I have 31 years--I like your clause in your wedding contract Susan--hahaha!!!!:p:);):D

[addy]

OMG Marie, don't tell hubby but yes we all do have an anniversary and ours are the same day. I totally forgot. My bad:o:o:o:o:o Hubby probably won't want to renew our contract; I am as batty as ever and I think I usually put him last on the list.:eek::eek::eek:

Sus, I hope the ENT brings GOOD NEWS. Here is to a wishing and a hoping and a praying. I think I might of rewrote a Dion Warwick song there:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes: LOL I am dating myself, aren't I?

Love,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Yes, Abby-you are dating yourself. I must have gone to a gazillion D. Warwick concerts.:cool: Then I realized that all of her chatter, ALL OF IT, was exactly the same at every show, every place. :( Then she got into that psychic thing and got too batty for me....but I do have a bunch of her music.

Marie-love and laughed at your comment of not being able to yell at youse guys.:D:D

Well-here's the news. ENT dude, who is not a warm person, says I have no nodes that he can see. That's good. He tells me I have strained my voice and am now speaking in an unnatural way. I may have yelled, says he. Well....I don't yell....ever, unless it's the name "Bailey." I asked him how could I have changed my manner of speaking after a whole lifetime. He wants/suggests I go see a speech therapist. Well I think that is ridiculous. So-disappointing appt :mad: and I even had to drive through a very flooded intersection at his office to get there.:mad::o:o

I was nine minutes late. I realized on the way there that I had been looking on my Google Map at the miles and thinking in my head that was the time to get there. :confused: Turns out it's a good hour not 39 minutes. :eek: I think I flew under the radar.....if you heard the sound barrier break around 10:45, that was me! :o:p:D

Bailey got groomed today. I'll try to get a new picture to post. She weighs in at a whopping 9.4 lbs now.:D

Foot surgeon....it's a go ahead for Oct 5th. I had it in my mind that it was the 15th......but that's a Saturday so I was obviously wrong about that. Told me about the staying in bed and not getting up except for the bathroom. I'd forgotten about that. Raise the leg so it's above the heart and ice it any time I am not sleeping. Sleep with it raised too. I'm a side sleeper.....I don't sleep very well on my back with my leg stuck up in the air. :eek: I think I'll be sleeping in the recliner some.
AND ladies-I'll be back on DRUGS!!!! I LOVE that feeling you get immediately before the lights go out.

Well....still no more rain and still no painters. I'm not worried, I'm just surprised.

Does anybody know how old dogs are when they reach maturity for weight and height? (We all know that Bailey won't reach regular maturity EVER at the rate she's going!):rolleyes:;):D
Take care guys. Over and out.
-Susan

[addy]

Well, I remember only to well the last time you were a druggie.:p:p:p:p

Hey Marie, we can have the surfer dudes over whenever we want, Mom will be crashed out in the recliner:p:p:p

Sorry to here the ENT dude was not a keeper. Maybe you have a virus in your larynx, if there is such a thing, a virus, I mean. THANK GOODNESS he did not see nodules.

I thought I heard a sonic boom or somethin around that time. I thought the Blue Angels were back in town:D:D:D:D Should of known it was MOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh Sus, I think we need to wrap you in bubble wrap for a few months, or some kind of protective coating. You could be Bubble Mom.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

My only response tonight is that you crack me up!!!!
:D:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :)

[Bailey's Mom]

Happy Friday EVENING!!! I have uploaded a picture of Bailey taken today. I had a really cute picture taken....and then I learned that the "E" in my little screen meant there was no digital card in the camera.:eek::mad::)
Have a great weekend.

Love,
Sus an

[addy]

It is a lazy, hazy, warm day in Milwaukee. Thought I would stop by and say hi. Hope you are feeling good. I love the new pixes of Bailey. I think she grew.

We went to a starving artist fair this morning and I thought of you and how much you would have enjoyed looking at all the neat stuff. I wanted some mosquitos an artist made of metal and glass for the yard but of course they were all SOLD:(:o Maybe next time:):)

Enjoy your Sunday evening!!!!!

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

I thought you'd gotten off at the last stop and didn't get back on before the bus left! :eek: No word from anyone since Friday. I am having withdrawal symptoms.....not hearing from my pals!! :confused:
I am working on the stepping stones. I have a little froggie cut out and am finishing up the last piece for a turtle. While I do that, I'm trying to pay attention to the Redskins' game. So far, two band aids on my hand. I have not learned how to work with glass and not cut myself!! :(:eek::o It's 1/2 time and the game is tied. I think I'll go sit and watch the game. :)

We had a craft fair/art show here yesterday. They have one the Saturday after Labor Day. It started over 20 years ago and has turned into something which out of town artists come to participate in. I love going. It was a very hot sun, but it was a nice couple or hours.
Big HUG
Love,
Sus

[marie adams]

I didn't bail on you this weekend; it just that I have no patience left for things. I don't know where the time went, but it went...the whole week went. I got frustrated with my sewing machine not working right--everything frustrates me easily--had to mend a duvet cover Miss Ella thought needed a hole in it. It is a good thing she is sooo cute!!!:D

I am glad you do not have any nodules, but it would be nice to get the body back to normal for a change. I think Bubble Mom would be a nice touch, but what would we tell the Surfer Dudes, Addy, we might be a little embarassed. :eek:

I am sitting in the dark again with no power--I am not liking the candle light. We had to go an get some dry ice and regular ice to keep everything cold in the frig and freezer areas. It is not expected to come back until tmo at 6:37 pm that means 24 hours without power. We are so depended on electricity for so many things, like our cell phones, computers, etc....

Happy arts and crafts!!! Miss Bailey is so cute--she barely weighs what Ella weighed when she came home. ;)

[addy]

Happy Tuesday!!!!!!!

It is a beautiful morning, 68 degrees, a mild breeze, gorgeous sunrise.
I hope you get to enjoy such a wonderful day as well in your neck of the woods.:D:D:D:D

How is your voice coming along? I hope you are getting a bit better with that.:):):)

I am sitting here typing and Koko has his head resting on Zoe's butt and they are both laying next to my feet, waiting for me to head to the kitchen. LOL, these pups!!!!!

How is Miss Bailey? I was thinking back to your road trip, when you went to pick her up. It does not seem that long a go and then I looked at the calendar. Isn't it hard to believe how fast time is going? I saw Christmas decorations advertised in the paper:eek::eek::eek::eek:

Have a wonderful day, dear Susan.

Love,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Oh, thank you Addy.
Could you please put a rush on that order for bubble wrap? In the wee, wee hours of the AM, I got sick. I threw up repeatedly for over 2 hours. I finally told Bob that I thought he needed to call for an ambulance. They came promptly and once I could stand some on my own, off on a gurney I went. We toddled on up the ocean highway. At one point it got really bumpy-which my stomach did not need. I asked what route the guy was taking. I thought maybe he'd taken the back way. He said he thought we were crossing the Indian River bridge. They are constructing this new, gorgeous bridge over the Indian River Inlet. Traffic is detoured (lanes change) to allow them to do their work. Then I started feeling tingling and chest/stomach pains. I don't remember doing this, but Bob said we pulled off to the side of the road, stopping. They explained to me that a medic was being brought on board. (So HOW is YOUR Tuesday going??)
They gave me nausea medication and shortly thereafter I threw up again. We got to the hospital and later I threw up again. They did an EKG and xrays and everything looked ok. After 6 hours or so, I was discharged with an Rx for nausea and an antibiotic. (They found I had an UTI.)
So-I've been home now for about 6 hours. I've had a total of 4 pieces of dry toast and one large soup cup of bouillon. So far, so good....except that now I am exhibiting signs of a significant head cold.....and a fever.
I used to proudly say how I never got sick-hardly ever. Now it seems I never get well, ever.
The voice is better,but not all cleared up. I have an appt with another ENT dude sometime in the future.
Bailey is settling down somewhat. She still wants to bite and I am kind of stumped as to what to do about that. I tell her firmly "no" and that just seems to egg her on. I have grabbed her by the color but once I let go, she's back at it. If I ever get well, we are going to do some intensive training indoors until we get these commands down.
Oh lovely, now Mr. Diarrhea has decided to join the crowd.:mad: Don't you just hate it when you think you have a little gas to pass and it turns out that is not what it is?

Well enough gross talk for today. It was nice to see your cheery note when I finally felt well enough to come up here.
I hope your Tuesday went well and that your Wednesday (HUMP DAY!!!) goes even better.
Tell Koko and Zoe 'hi," or arff! I just love those tender moments. You should keep a camera handy so you can catch that in a picture. Get 'em while you can, I say.
Love,
What's left of Sus

[addy]

Dear Whats Left of Sus,

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't even think of anything else to say about your Tuesday morning except OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, girl, I am ordering BUBBLE WRAP EXTRA HEAVY DUTY. :eek::eek:

The only other choice is to head on down to Cajun country, I think, and find a voodoo doll to stick pins in. We will put a name on the voodoo doll of "Susan's Illnesess" and proceed to stick pins in it everyday.:cool:

OR we will hang a garlic necklace on you. That is supposed to head off vampires but you never know, it might just scare away illnesses too cause garlic is supposed to be good for you;);););)

We simply have to change your karma one way or another!!!!!

Dang, Sus, get well soon. Love ya,

Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Welllllllll........considering the state of my stomach, the garlic is out. Considering my state of health, my driving to Cajun country is out....but I like the idea, if you can go.:D

I now have some kind of head cold plus a fever. Maybe I could win some kind of contest? You know-like when they do person who traveled the furthest....I could do one for person with the most failing body parts!:confused:
Love
Sus

[addy]

HUGS, HUGS AND MORE HUGS

My wish for you today is big bowls of hot chicken soup, cuddles with Bailey and laying out in the sun on a cushy, comfortable recliner, restful, healing naps and tons of pampering.

Feel better soon dear friend.


LOVE,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Addy-well, there is starting to be some brightness in the far, far, horizon.
Fever is down, if not gone. No more diarrhea. I was up in the really early AM for a couple of hours, but then I went back to bed and slept until 12:30!! I parked my butt in the recliner and caught up on some reading. Just finished watching the Nats win another game and in short order I'm gonna shower and go nighty-nite. :)

MAN DOES MY CHEST, RIB CAGE HURT!!!!! All that heaving took a huge toll. I'm having pain just getting up out of a chair.:eek:
There is supposed to be cooler weather after tonight and I think I will stretch out in the sun, as you suggested. Vitamin D always helps!:)
That was one scary experience.
Well-hope your Wednesday went well. Now you just have two little days to make it through.....and then lots of Zoe, Koko time!:D
Love,
Sus

[addy]

Hey Sus,
Glad you are feeling better. A step in the right direction without the help of a voodoo doll;););)

Crazy night last night, grandkid let go of Koko's leash, he took off down the street, I had to run after him with Zoe running with me:eek::eek:He ran up to a man with 2 dogs and got into a fight with one of the big dogs. Luckily man grabbed leash and scolded his dog and pulled Koko out of reach and held until I got there:eek::eek: I was terrified of what may happen to Zoe but she seems okay today. Then my brother called to tell me our mom fell and is in the hopsital; she broke her pelvis in 2 places:eek:

Can I climb on that recliner in the sun with you?????

love,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Addy you are most welcome to climb onto the recliner in the sun with me. AND-I now have some bubble wrap and will send some your way. It sounds like you need it.:D
I also have two recliners, so you can have your very own, if you wish.....unless the surfer dudes are taking up the space.:confused:
I hope things have settled down somewhat. I guess your Mom is in the hospital. Another thing to do, right? :( Is your extended family around there to help with the load?
I figure my body is like a temple....and all that I have been going through with the knees and the feet, etc goes toward restoration of the temple! ;) I need to stop putting Cokes in my temple....it seems to need all the help it can get.:D
I am better today. Ate my first real food today. So far so good.....but it is kind of looking like I may need to visit a gastroenterologist. I have had immediate feed back from food twice now.....as in regurgitation.
It has gone here from 80s to low 60s-I assume you sent that this way. I'm not quite ready for winter, so could you send slightly warmer air? We had a tornado near here tonight.
Bailey will soon lose her place of residence if she does not get squared away on the biting. She is currently standing on my last nerve.:p
Let me know how things are going.
Hugs and Love,
Sus

[addy]

Well, I don't even want to tell you what I have done to my temple the last few days and the worst part is hubby encourages it:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

I have to go into work today, it appears no one but me can book shipments for Disney. I personally think that is an excuse:rolleyes:;) but I guess it is nice to be needed.:(:(:(

Will be at the hospital tonight. So may not be able to say god night.

I did send the cold weather your way but I sent sunshine as well to help.Make sure you enjoy it.

I started taking Culturelle probiotic everyday. I had it left over from Zoe. I think it helps me. In fact, I forgot to take it so better go swallow one now before work!!!!!

Love,
addy

[marie adams]

Wow!!!! I am gone a few days and what are you two up toooooo....I am glad my adventures are not like yours. I hope both of you feel better about things and are healing!!!:eek:

I want out also; so do you happen to have a 3rd recliner???? Kick the Surf Dudes out!!! :D There have been quite a few times I wanted to kill Ella--I know what you mean about the biting!!!!:eek::eek: A couple of my dog buddies said this morning I should give her some slack because she is still a puppy. The only thing with that is she knows her commands and chooses not to obey them. Sas said I need to stimulate her mind by naming her toys and making her fetch them when I ask for them by name. This morning she ran with 2 dog buddies, but do you think that slowed her down--NO!!! Hang in there with Bailey--I know it is hard when you don't feel good and your patience level is in the dumps--I am there believe me!!! :confused:

Please get yourself better so you can wrap that bubble wrap around you!!!:p

Temple, what temple, it has gone to waste this past year and half.....:(

[Bailey's Mom]

Actually Marie....you're in luck. I DO have 3 recliners.
My temple is a bit (A BIT!!!???) saggy itself, but the structure can be repaired....so far.
My health is better, but I think there is still something going on. I've decided to take one problem at a time. The foot surgery is next, so I'm going to get ready for that. I'll keep the ENT appt and see what happens. If I am still having gastric issues post surgery, I'll go see my GI guy. My stomach just hasn't completely settled down.
65 degrees here now. We had an abrupt end to summer, bypassed fall and are now entering winter!! Sounds like a good time to take care of some surgery.
HUGS-
Susan

[addy]

happy monday

have a wonderful day Sus, hope you feel better.

Don't get out the winter coat just yet!!!!!!! I dressed for summer thinking it would be hot in my office, boy, was I wrong!!!!!!!!!

Love ya bunches,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Photos of stepping stones posted.

[addy]

SHE'S BACK:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D


Sus, I love the stepping stones, they really are beautiful, each one prettier than the next. My favorite is the turtle, I think.

The light in my heart is bright again and I am ready to dance:D:D:D


Care to cha, cha, cha?????????????:):):):):):):););););););)

Love ya dearest friend!!!!

Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

OMG....she's BACK!!!! :D:D:):):)
I couldn't have stood it much longer.
What's the outcome of the hot dog caper? Maybe I'll find the answer to that over on your thread. :confused:
I just took Bailey for one of our longest walks to date. It is SO MUGGY :eek: outside. I am thinking about getting into the cool tub.

Thanks for the comments on the stones. I like the "idea" of the frog best, but the glass colors didn't come out as I had planned. When you make these things, you put down the glass then add the concrete. That means you need to put down the pattern as if you were looking from the back. Most glass has two different sides....and I think one of the feet got cut on the wrong side. I still need to make 2 or 3 more. I have to let them cure for 1-2 weeks. So-right before my surgery I will place them. I'm eager to see how they'll look. I already have a sail boat and a ?? (something else) in place. I may do some with just pieces of different glass to separate the designs from one another. I won't even have to cut that glass!!

I hope Mom is settling in some. I hope you've gotten some sleep.

Keep up whatever you're doing. It looks good on you!:)
Love,
Sus

[marie adams]

Where has this year gone????!!!!! :confused:

I cannot believe it is time for another surgery and it seems like you just got back from the last one!!!:eek:

The stepping stones look great and I like the idea of just pieces of glass in some to separate the designed ones. :D

Have a great weekend and take some more long walks with
Bailey--bonding time--hehe!!!:p

[addy]

Night, night, Sus,

I hope you had a good Friday, your voice is back and you and Bailey had a nice day.

Counting down the days untill your foot surgery. Hope everything goes well. I can picture you now, in the recliner trying to post to our threads and yours while flying high on your meds. You were a hoot last time.:D:D:D:D:D:D

Aw, Sus, where does the time go? glad it passes us by while we are hanging out with good friends.

Love,
addy

[Cyn719]

Sus beautiful stepping stones!!!!!!!:) And Bailey is soooooo cute!!! :DLove the pics!!! glad you are feeling alittle better - sorry you have surgery again:( Addy is taking the Culturelle I take the Align - wow we are a sad group!!! hahahahaha:D Thinking of you and prayes always!!

[marie adams]

Good Morning and it is Afternoon for you!!!
Checking in for the weekend and Miss Ella is sleeping at my feet--such peaceful moments I cherish!!!!:D:D I think she thinks everything is a game and doesn't know her own strength when she goes in for the bite or jump into you--you are lucky Bailey doesn't weigh so much. We have the walking down pretty good now--she doesn't pull to go after other dogs like she did. She goes when I want her to--maybe I am the boss...sure!!!:rolleyes:

Keep up the good work of getting better. I guess we will see how silly your stories get once you are on your meds from the surgery--Addy will have good responses I am sure. Where the heck is Carrol she could play with the best of you!!!!???? :confused::eek:

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh..........I miss Carrol as well. She is quite a character!:)
Bailey is still waiting at the bus for Miss Ella.....so they can go off to "boot camp" together.;)
Bailey is walking better on her leash as well. I KNOW I am still NOT the boss!!:(
I hate to bring about bad luck, but the biting thing seems to be easing up just a bit. Every time she does it I completely remove access to my hands....and firmly say "no." When she approaches and does not bite, she gets excited praise. I found that if she could have access to any part of my hands, to her, it was still a game.....HER game. She doesn't need to have a finger....the back of my hand will do. We are getting there slowly.

I will say..........feel badly about this....how I really miss Palmer...especially with the surgery coming up. Palmer would come and cuddle if I asked. Bailey won't. Palmer knew when something was wrong. Bailey doesn't. On the other hand, Palmer never put his neck on my neck or the top of my head. Bailey does.:) I've just really been noticing Palmer's absence recently. I did ask Bailey if Palmer knew she was "biting" me. She didn't answer.:(

Sometime you'll need to break your soup recipe down better. I am a totally can't wing it cook. I need quantities, dimensions, exact ingredients. I just never got to be a wing it cook. Probably my accounting background......or my weirdness.

Have a GREAT weekend all. It is one lousy day here.

HUGS-
Susan

[marie adams]

Where is this Boot Camp? Do we get a reprieve for how long? I am hoping a week....:D:D haha!!! I would miss the silly pup, but not the mischief she makes--sometimes it is cute, but a lot of times I lose it!!!:eek:

I know I had a few moments today of missing Maddie like the walks--it was just so relaxing with her doing her thing and me mine--like drinking coffee. Then we were discussing fixing the ceiling from the rains last Dec/Jan (yep haven't gotten around to it because 1. the skylight hasn't been fixed yet)--it just reminds me of when I found out she had cancer and saw her just go downhill through the holidays. Of course she is my screen saver on the desktop computer--I am a crazy to keep her there, but....:o

Ella is a cuddler where Maddie was not so much. Ella loves to lay next to you in bed when it is time to get up. She also likes to lay at your feet under the table and she will also lay touching you while you work in the kitchen--she likes to touch you for some reason when she sleeps. I am not complaining...:p And she gives kisses and Maddie was very stingy with hers.

Today I said I was going to breakdown the mini condo and put it up in the attic-my daughter said why don't you get rid of it (she is good at getting rid of stuff)-I said remember the breeder said this wasn't our last dog-my husband said yes when Ella is six we are getting another one so she can train it and put it in their place; we should have done that with Maddie because she would have done a great job...:D:D

Okay moving on....the soup recipe isn't that hard because you can really just use a beef broth recipe out of a cook book and then use veggies along with the meat from the bones you want for the end result--season to your liking. I like recipes too, but I have learned somethings I just wing it by taste from making it so often. You will do just fine and you are not weird most of the time....:D

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!!! :):)

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Marie!

I have Palmer rotating on my desktop screen saver and my desktop. I am crazy, too!

When it is very wet around here, we often get ants coming inside trying to escape the wet. I haven't seen any for almost one year. Today I have them strolling around my desk top. They are the teeny, tiny little ones....and they really bug (ha,ha) me-but I'd rather them than the red ones or the large ones. They won't survive long. I haven't yet figured out where they're coming in. It's usually the sliding door, but I don't see any there. I sprayed anyway.

Lazy day today. Just vegged out. I always feel regretful when I do that. It feels like I'm wasting time.

Have a good Monday!

Hugs,
Susan

[addy]

Happy Monday Guys,

Dog hugs are the best hugs and cuddles. Zoe will cuddle in bed but Koko cuddles on my lap. So if you need two kind of cuddlles, you need to get another dog:D:D:D:D:p:p:p:p

We had ants last spring, drove me nuts, I finally had to get the little ant houses but the Ace hardware guy had me get the ones with double poison. It took a week but they have not been back. That and spraying their trail with vinegar.

My motto is 'It's me or the ants" and "Take no prisoners":p:p:p

Well gals, it is Monday and I am off to work, singing my favorite song, I'm at work and I don't care!!!

Cha, cha, cha all day!!!!!!!!!

Love ya,
Addy

[marie adams]

ANTS!!!! I hate the little boogers!!!:eek::eek:

I see no purpose for them at all. We get the little dark ones--I just say the ants are visiting again. I use alcohol to kill them; haven't tried vinegar (smells :eek:), but I know it would work. We did get a spray for outside that seems to work well and keeps them away for a while. Also, another type was was a kinda gel that I put on a piece of foil and then they come and eat it take it back to their nest--really funny looking because they circle the spot of gel.

I know the feeling if I don't get stuff done I feel like I am wasting time, but this year I just don't want to do anything most of the time.

Addy, I really like the work song--so fitting...cha cha cha!!!!

[Cyn719]

Marie dont feel guilty when you have a lazy day!!! Thats your body saying SLOW DOWN!! Never regret!!! ENJOY!!! Those damm ants are annoying for sure but whats worse the ants or the centerpides!!! I had a HUGE one run across the floor the other night - i almost died!! And OMG can they move fast with those 1000 legs!!! I screamed so loud I scared Penny and my husband almost had a heart attack!! Haha I hate bugs of any kind!! - hope you enjoyed your day:D:)

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Marie-if you use vinegar, your house will always smell like a salad! :D
We have a contract with a company-they come quarterly and any time you want in between. It's really a good deal. Only every so often, one scurries along the desktop. I think some got in, somehow and I am gradually killing the buggers one by one.

Go REDSKINS!!!!

I think I may work on those two stepping stones during the game. I'd like to have the walkway finished before surgery time.

Me too................CHA, CHA, CHA !!
-SUSAN

[marie adams]

I am thinking I do not really want a salad smelling home--hehe!!!:p

The ants are not always around inside, but outside they love the citrus trees a lot!!! They come out when I water, just haven't gotten out the spray because of Miss Ella. They do tend to come in when they crawl up the clothing--sneaky little devils....:eek:

Cindy--lol about your screaming and the centipedes!!!!

Good for you getting the stepping stones done before the surgery--good goal!!!

Good Night!!!!:)

[addy]

LOL, guys, I can't keep up!!!!!!

Sus, is your surgery next week? Trying to keep track.:D:D

Gee, maybe my house does smell like a salad, I use vinegar to clean everything cause Zoe licks everything:p:p:p All I need to do is sprinkle some parmesan cheese and croutons around:D:D:D:D No wonder I am always hungry, pass the tomatoes, please:D:D:D:D

We are stuck in a rain pattern for days, hope this weather does not head East, Marie does not have to worry, it can't go West!!!!

Busy day today, trying to sing the work song but not helping much this am:(:(:(

Can only manage a cha and a half:):)

love you all,
addy

[marie adams]

I usually can only do a cha and a half if any...:(

No rain coming this way for sure...we usually pass it on to you guys!!!:D

Enjoy the day everyone!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Garlic croutons, I hope.
The surgery is NEXT Wednesday, the 5th. BUT..............I am still not sure. :confused: I have put Dr. Scholl gel soles in my loafers. It seems to be helping the already operated one. The to-be-done one has not hurt for over a month. It's just ugly.:( I have decided to take the next 2+ days and try to walk outside more and see what happens. If the already done one seems okay, I think I'll wait, unless the to be done one yells out. I've already had the pre-op labs and I hate to cancel so late, but he does have a 3 month backup for surgery, so I am sure it can be filled. n Geeeez I hate indecision.

Went to ENT dude this AM. I really like him.:) We think quite possibly I irritated the vocal chords from telling Bailey "NO!" At least I'm on his patient list now and if it happens again it shouldn't take a month to get in there.

Bob and I are going to see the movie "The Help." I hope I don't fall asleep during it! One movie the three of us went to see......that guy (cartoonish character) who went up in a balloon....it was out about 2 years ago and I can't think of the name.....later that week when Bob and I were discussing it, it became apparent that I had seen very little of the movie. We had to go back again so I could really see it.

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm----popcorn!:D

-s

[marie adams]

I believe the name of the movie was "Up". I do not go to the movies but once in a great while--cannot tell you when that was...I think not one this year. Hardly ever rent them--we now have on command or something like that and I think it is cheaper than going to go get a DVD with what gas costs. I live a boring life....:rolleyes:

Why not postpone it until after the first of the year anyways--get through the holidays, then go for it, unless you do a lot in the beginning of the year. :D

I know the tensed up feeling when you yell so that really could be why you when silent....:o

Take care!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

I'm kind of trying to have all the doctor mess finished in 2011. I am supposed to be recovered by Thanksgiving.
Yes....it was "Up." Thank you for keeping me from keeping awake tonight trying to think of it!:D
I will probably go ahead. I just want this stuff OVER with!:(:(
The movie is GREAT....and it kept our attention the entire way through-2.5 hours. We're very glad we went. We sometimes talk of going, but then it seems to get forgotten.
Going to VA tomorrow....just an overnight trip. I will be getting a massage @1PM tomorrow. Go ahead..be jealous/envious!!
-s

[addy]

We want to see that movie too. I think it was adapted from a book. Hubby says we always go see "Chick Flicks" but that is because if we see a violent, fast action movie I have to wear a turtleneck to pull up over my eyes:rolleyes::eek::p

Glad you saw a new ENT dude. Is your voice better now? I'm with Marie, do the foot next year:):) You have had so much this year, let your body rest a bit. Though I am looking forward to reading your posts from the recliner in a fully drugged position:D:D

The sun is finally out today, I think I can do a few more chas!!!!!!

Love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

You all are definitely having fun at my drugged state. :mad: Maybe I'll stay away?
I realized tonight that the problem I am having with the first foot is with the big toe. The other 3 toes he worked on are great. The big toe on the right foot won't be involved in this surgery. So-I seem to have made the leap in my mind and will go forward now.
Did not get my massage....that's not fair. She said she could. I'll just have to get one in B Bch when I get back.
I gotta get to bed. I got a few hours sleep, but not nearly enough.
You're over hump day! IT's all downhill from here!!! Wasn't that fast?:D
-Susan

[addy]

We just like to tease you;);) 'cause we luv u:):):)

Happy Thursday!!!!!

Love,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

It IS based on a book-and today I bought that book. Bob wants to read it and I might as well. Of course, I have a gazillion books that I've purchased and not read. I can't seem to stay focused and the next thing I know I'm having to go back a reread because my mind was elsewhere. But does it stop me from buying books? Nooooo. :confused:
It's not really a chick flick, IMO.

I was in a Hallmark store today and they have this little booklet-looks like it could be a notepad-and it's full of the little abbreviations and tells you what they stand for. I told the woman there that it must be for people 40 and over because all the kids already know the words/abbreviations. She replied she was near forty and she didn't know any of them either. HA! If you don't know the abbreviations, my guess is you won't use the book that tells you what they are......but then I don't text/IM so maybe it's just me. :rolleyes:

Bailey was soooooooooo excited to see me come home. That little piece of a tail was going back and forth so fast, I thought it might lift her off the ground, like a propeller!! :D

Thank you for the cooler weather and especially for the big drop in humidity, Addy.:D:):D Tomorrow is supposed to be gorgeous. I picked up two bags (different sizes of stones) of little stones to put under the stepping stones....maybe tomorrow I'll go out there and tackle that.

It's late....catch ya tomorrow. It's FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love,
Sus

[Bailey's Mom]

#*$&%@&^)@
I got to wondering......I don't know why....maybe because the stepping stones turned out to be so very white......and I wondered if the pre-measured bags I had made contained only the cement....and did not include sand (play sand.)[I prefer the white stones to the gray ones....and I don't want to mess around with coloring the concrete...so far.] Well-I think that's what has happened. It's either that or the result that one of the stones mixture was much wetter than it should have been.....or possibly since that one was so wet, maybe I needed to wait some more days. ANYWAY-the butterfly stone has a large crack across it-despite being reinforced with chicken wire. .... But-they are all down. :D I will need two more, plus a replacement for the butterfly.:( I won't replace the others unless they crack. Maybe I'll get lucky. I think I need to go get the sand, so I'm stuck for the moment....which is okay-they'd need to sit to dry anyhow. I'll get sand tomorrow.

It was horribly hot in the sun. I am sure something on me will be burned.

That's been my day.
Addy-my thoughts are with you. I am so sorry.

See ya all around!
love,
sus/an

[addy]

night, night Sus, I have a feeling the stepping stones will be just fine.


------made by Sus with love:)

love,
addy

[marie adams]

Addy is right the stepping stones will be just fine because they are made with love because of you!!!:)

Of course you didn't have anything else to do, but redo the butterfly--hehe!!!:D I hope you didn't get sunburned....

Have a wonderful Sunday!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Well-the neighbor I made the stones for has still not discovered them. I wonder how long it will take!

I have been preparing things that I can do while I must keep my foot above my heart. My laptop is ready to go. Ryan has it so I can log onto my pc from the laptop....just as if I were sitting here.

Redskins won......woohoo!!!:D

Ryan really likes the stepping stones. He also likes the little glass object I made while at Corning Museum of Glass.

I hope everyone has safely survived the weekend.
-Susan

[addy]

Happy Monday Susan!!!!!!!

Is it the Redskins and the Packers that are 4 and0? Go teams!!!!!

Love,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

The Packers and the Lions are 4-0. The Redskins and 9 other teams are 3-1. We are tied for 1st place (with the NY Giants) in our division. Dallas is a poor 2-2 and Philly stinks (Yea!) at 1-3. Redskins are off-have a bye week-this coming week.
I used to have Redskins tickets and then when we moved, and when the Redskins seemed to be ably only to lose, I gave them up after 10 years. This is only 4 games. We have a long way to go yet. It's just kind of exciting to think (as we always do at the beginning of a season) that we will return to the glory we had in the Joe Gibbs coached days. THAT was COOL!

Did you know it is hard to find White Portland Cement? I finally found some and Bob is running the errand for me.

Bailey got sick today. We think she threw up because of one of those clear plastic chew bones. I don't know that they are meant to break up. If we can find it, it will go out!

I hope things are a little better for you today, Abby.:)

Less than 48 hours. NOT looking forward to this.:(:(

Love,
Sus

[addy]

I know you are not looking forward to it. I am holding your hand, feel my hand?

It will all be a distant memory very soon. The time will go fast, wait and see.

Love,
addy

[Cyn719]

Sus - know its not something you wanna do - but we will be here to talk with you - thinking of you

[Bailey's Mom]

Picked up my drugs today!! Now I'm all set!! Bring on the Propofol!
Thanks guys. I appreciate the support.
Love-
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Good morning Addy!! -is that your hand that I'm feeling? :cool: I feel warmth and strength.:)
Have a GREAT Tuesday!
Love,
Sus

[Bailey's Mom]

Hey Marie! :) How is Miss Ella? Bailey has started chewing the stuffing out of her toys. :mad: Still working on the nipping. :( How about you?
Love
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Please think of me @7:45AM tomorrow.
:(

[Cyn719]

Love prayers and thoughts are with you tomorrow!!! xo

[marie adams]

You will go through this one with flying colors!!!

Remember you said you wanted to get it over with in 2011. You know what to expect and you have Bailey to help you through.:D:D And of course you have us to harrass you!! HeHe!!:p:p

You will be riding the whale for a while - who knows you might find Carrol out there too!!!

We are all holding your hand---as Addy said "can't you feel it?"

Sweet dreams!!!:)

[Bailey's Mom]

Thanks Marie! It's 1AM. I can't eat. I can't drink. That doesn't leave me with a whole lot of options. I'm not worried about sleep because that's all I'll be doing for awhile.

I just finished the two random pattern stepping stones. I'm going to be sure these dry at least two weeks before I even think of putting them outside. I was pleased with how they looked before I put in the cement mixture....but I did see it was moving one or two a bit. I had tried to make a 1/2" or so border.....I've seen that done and I think it looks more "professional." So we will all have to wait. Once I pop them out, I'll send you pictures.
Bills are all paid. I'm just doing a little bit of straightening up. There's no way I'd fall to sleep right now, anyway.
"You will go through this one with flying colors!!!".....which colors? Blue, green and yellow?
Y'all take care. I hear the sump pumps running in the non-basement. I hope it's keeping you dry. Try not to make a whole lot of noise down there, will you? But DO stop by from time to time and let me know what's going on and how you are.......all of you.
Goodnight Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are. [Are any of you old enough to know that reference? Or am I really dating myself?
I'm hanging on to your hands. Feel it?
Love,
S

[Bailey's Mom]

And don't forget to wear those red sweaters!! It's cold out there, now. :):D

[addy]

Well, I see we found our red sweaters but how come mine has moth holes in it?????:eek::eek:

Marie- did you decorate for Mom yet? I thought we were putting balloons up in the living room??? Dang, she disappered again. Must be in the non basement trying to figure out what a sump pump is.:rolleyes::rolleyes:

Great the surfers dudes are at the back door looking for free party food again. I saw them on the way to the store and mentioned we were having a welcome back from surgery party for mom and the freeloaders are already here!!!!!


Oops, here she is already-

WELCOME HOME MOM

Love you Susan and I hope everything went well.

Addy

[marie adams]

Let's see, one of the flying colors will have to be red to match our sweaters. I hope you got a lot of red balloons Addy--that was your job, did you forget???? Maybe I am in the non-basement with the sump pump (and yes I know what one is Addy :p), but maybe I am hanging out with one of the surfer dudes--the really cute cool one you kinda liked....:cool:

I cannot wait to see the new and improved stepping stones!!!!:D

I kinda remember the Mrs. Calabash--I was thinking Cavendish, but then I am not good at remembering jokes or telling them.:rolleyes:

Welcome Home!!!!:):p:D:) How are you feeling? (we are figuring you will be reading this when you get back home) Bailey will give you some cuddling time I am sure.

(((BIG HUGS!!!!))) I am watching out for the foot....

[Bailey's Mom]

Good Friday evening!
Surgery went well. Recovery is going well. Very little swelling. Manageable pain. Bailey is bored.
I'm catching up on my lost rest.
Glad this is behind me.
Have a great weekend!
-S

[Cyn719]

So glad surgery went well!! Glad you are home and getting the R & R you need!! Take care -- keep us updated on the recovery!!:)

[addy]

(((((((((((((((((())))))))))))))))))))

lots of hugs:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:):):):):):):):D:D:D:D:D


So glad you are home and everything went well:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN

Just give Bailey some extra cuddles and a bone;);););)

Love,
Addy

[addy]

Hi Susan,

Glad to hear things seem to be going well with the foot surgery recovery. Hopefully the weather will continue to cooperate. Warm sunshine and fresh air is a pretty good tonic.

We closed the pool a while back but still have to sort out the cleaning equipment, cover the pump and heater, etc. Koko went out in back and just starred, like what is the giant green thing?(pool cover) He got used to seeing the water.

A hot tub sounds really good right now:D:D:D:D I think I would even settle for a spa tub. The weather here has been wonderful but a cold front is coming through the end of the week so my bubble will burst soon.

I hope you have a wonderful day relaxing and recovering and if those little white pills help you out, that's a GOOD thing:D:D:D

love,
addy

[marie adams]

YAY!! All is well!!!! :):p:D:):p:D

So glad your surgery went well and the pain is manageable.:):):D:D

Bailey being bored not such a good thing---Ella would be into so much more than she already is when she is bored.:eek:

I just have a little time--write later....

[addy]

Dancing with dogs, cha, cha , cha Susan:D:D:D:D

Hope you continue to rest and feel well.

It will all be a distant memory soon, sweetie.

Love ya,
Adds

[marie adams]

How are you doing?? I hope really good--not to much pain meds...:o

Soon you will be dancing with Bailey in the Addy Cha Cha Cha Chain. :D

[Bailey's Mom]

HEY gals! I am alive and improving/recovering well. I ran into the can't sleep due to the meds problem and that went on so long that I couldn't put two sentences together. Well....now I can put together three!:D

Love,
Sus

(This has been a markedly improved recovery from the first foot recovery.):D:D

[addy]

Hi Susan,
I am so glad to hear this foot surgery went so much better this go around:D:D:D

That also means you will be so much better before the snow flies;);)
Time is going so fast, isn't it?

Sorry this is so short, our power went out in the middle of the night and it just came back on so I am behind.

Love,
addy

[marie adams]

You were right to go ahead with the surgery!!! I am so glad it is going so much better than the last one.

Have a Happy Monday!!!

((((HUG))))

[addy]

Dang Marie, don't go telling Mom she was right, we will never live it down. Pretty soon she'll be saying we don't look good in red, we need green sweaters because she knows colors so well:D Or she'll be telling us not to hang out with the surfer dudes because they are a bad influence:rolleyes:

Gosh, who knows what she might come up with and then , well , the non basement would never be the same:cool::cool::cool::cool:

And we would actually have to be well behaved, polite and good:eek:


Hey Sus,

One time my sister in law had to take prednisone and she stayed up all night cleaning closets:D:D:D:D

I am glad you got some sleep.

love ya,
Addy

[Bailey's Mom]

I think I have found inner peace. I read an article that said the way to achieve inner peace is to finish things I had started. Today I finished two bags of potato chips, a chocolate pie, a bottle of wine and a small box of candy. I feel better already. Pass this along to those who need inner peace.

[Bailey's Mom]

Okay-real question here for Bailey.

Bailey has never eaten much. I know how much food pets/pups are supposed to eat, but I cannot force it down her throat. We have tried just about every canned dog and puppy food out there and forget kibble. I'm thinking I'm going to have to prepare something she will eat....and I need it to be nutritious and not to be horribly involved....(maybe something I could prepare in a larger quantity and freeze for individual servings?)
Suggestions are requested.

Thanks!

Susan

PS- she has grown to 10 lbs and seems to be getting enough so that she's not losing weight.

[addy]

I think I have found inner peace. I read an article that said the way to achieve inner peace is to finish things I had started. Today I finished two bags of potato chips, a chocolate pie, a bottle of wine and a small box of candy. I feel better already. Pass this along to those who need inner peace.


Thank you so much for sharing your secret for finding inner peace as I have struggled so much with that:D:D:D:D:D:D:D


LOL Susan, I can't stop laughing:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

Have a great day. I am fine.

love,
addy

[marie adams]

Addy, sometimes you have to charm MOM into thinking she was right so we can have our way!!!;):D

I can see us now you in a green sweater and me in the red one--we look like Christmas--all we need are decorative headbands with antlers on.

I like the inner peace recipe--at what point did you drink the wine? I might have to increase a few ingredients....:D

Have a wonderful day!!!:)

[Bailey's Mom]

Oooooooooooooooo....antlers.....let me go into the nonbasement and see if I have some!
Have the wine with the chips, the pie AND the candy!!:D:D:D

[Bailey's Mom]

Lookey here......I'm here first, so happy Wednesday, aka hump day!!! :D:D:D

I had a good night's sleep and figured I'd get up and maybe I'd get something done. I can always take a nap, if I so choose. That's one of the benefits you receive with retirement. :):)

Well, the suggestions for home made doggy food don't seem to be tumbling in. Looking for a little guidance here.:confused:

Went to play some bingo last night to support a neighbor's charity. Bob won a blanket. I won a long evening, mostly filled with fun.

Looks like we are in for a day filled with lots of rain.

Best wishes for a wonderful Wednesday!!
love,
susan

[addy]

OMG 6:00 am?:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D Now wait a minute, I know you like to sleep in.

Bingo sounds fun especially when you win something. It is just nice to get out. I'm glad your foot is doing so much better this time around.

I don't have dog food recipes but there are some books you can read on the subject. What about just adding some human food to her existing diet? Lori gave some tips to someone recently about carbs to add, I don't remember which thread.

It is raining here as well and the storms are to be worse later this afternoon with high winds:eek::eek:

Wish I could stay home.

Love,
addy

[marie adams]

Happy Wednesday to you all also!!!

Yes Susan, you bet us, but I do have a little problem of being 3 hours away from you. Of course I could have gotten on at midnight your time because it would be 9 pm my time--haha!!!!

Dog food--I do not spend the time making it. I use Northwest Naturals frozen raw. It has all sorts of stuff in it--cantalope, blueberries, vegetables, and of course meat (I buy the chicken), nothing is cooked, but ground up, mixed together. I know you can buy it online, but I have a pet supply store by me and he carries all sorts of food--so much it is confusing.: I only let it get slightly soft and then mix it with a no grain dry and yogurt (I think it has yogurt in it also). Since Ella seems to have a yeast problem I try to eliminate as much grains as possible. I even read not to use oatmeal shampoo on them.

I am so happy your foot felt good enough to go out and have fun!!!:):p:D

It should be around 73 here today--overcast right now at my house and has been foggy a lot during the last two days, but not the evening--weird weather. It is typical October weather with hot spells.

Enjoy the rest of the day!!!:)

[addy]

Wake up, wake up you sleepy head,
Its time, its time, get outta bed:D:D:D:D


Happy Thursday Sus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

love,
addy

[marie adams]

Well if that doesn't wake you up!!!! Kinda hits you in the face so big!!

Thanks for the support you have given!!! :):p You are the greatest!!!

Almost Friday!!!! I hope your foot is still feeling pretty good because Addy wants to Cha Cha Cha this weekend--wouldn't that look good with the antlers!!!:p:D

[Bailey's Mom]

Cha, Cha, Cha, Cha...............
-s

[addy]

oh, oh, she is fading out------ something wrong Sus?

addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Nah.......nothing big. I was just funnin'.:p
Pain was pretty bad yesterday. Odd that would happen so far down the road. When I re wrapped it last night, I found that it was coming from one toe in particular. If it's not better by Monday, I'll make an appt w.the doc.
Sleeping pretty good now. Still needing a lot of sleep.Hey! I just counted and in 4 weeks these pins can come out. That's NUTTIN'!!:D:D:D:D
It's 48 out there this AM. It's supposed to warm up to mid 60s. Blue, blue skies.
Addy-how are things with your Mom? With Zoe? Are you feeling any less stressed?
Here it comes, Addy.........................
((((((((((((((HUGS, HUGS))))))))))))))))

Love,
Sus

[addy]

I feel the love,you give the best hugs:D:D:D:D:D

I think it is good that you get a lot of rest, your body needs it to heal. I'm sorry though you had a bad night of pain. Hope it goes away.After all, you need to lead the Cha Cha line.

The other day I stopped at a store. Second Harvest was donating 10 meals to the local food bank if you did the Chicken dance with them and had your picture taken. I forgot to ask what they were doing with my picture:rolleyes::rolleyes:

I am getting more sleep this week so feel better, not so run down. Zoe has been great so that helps too. Mom had some good days. Trying to take it one day at a time.

Love ya,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

Addy-
AHA!!! I beat you at waking me up!!! If all of this ever gets over, the wake-up time will become more normal.....like 9AM.
I'm glad to hear you're getting a mini-break. You need that.

It's not "night" pain.....it's since the beginning of the week pain. I tried to get in to see the doc today, and he's away for 3 days. I'll take a good look tonight when I redress it. If it looks bad, I'll try to get in to see the backup associate. It just really hurts and it's all coming from one toe.....not the gang of three. AND it's the one in the middle. Talk about being out of step with the troops!!!!
Enough drugs do work.....but then we're crossing into loopy territory.:rolleyes:

It's after 5 on Friday. Any one who is still at work....I am giving you marching orders to leave! It is now the WEEKEND!!!:D:D
-Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Huhllllllllluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu???
Where are youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu?
I got a good three hours. But don't you worry,..............I'll be catching up later.
Have a great day, SLEEPY heads!

-Snoozin'

[addy]

I was up at 3 am as well, what is up with that? We were both up in the middle of the night:eek::eek: I should of come on line to chat with you.;););)
I hope the doctor can tell you about your toe and make it better. Turkey Day is fast approaching and we need to get you well:):):)

We should both take a nap this afternoon. Zoe will cuddle, will Bailey?

love ya girl,
addy

[marie adams]

Ella decided it was still the work week and was awake at 5am so guess who else was awake???? She likes to come and lay on the pillow almost on your head. :eek:

I have been nervous about buying toys made in China; so I found this link that shows what I have been nervous about. Who knows if this is why our dogs get Cushings or cancer--I always wondered with Maddie.

http://www.dogtopics.com/133/dog-toys-from-china-why-we-should-be-worried/

Since Ella is now chewing through most of the stuff animals and even plastic toys it really makes me wonder....

Have a Happy Saturday!!! And get some rest! I really like white meat from the turkey and everything else. Do we set up the feast table in the nonbasement?

[Bailey's Mom]

Marie-thanks! Life used to be so simple (relatively.):eek: In case anyone missed it there are links from that link to two other links on how to make your own rope tie.

Well-I have some good news. It seems that the foot pain was just a 2-1/2 day side trip in foot recovery. The foot is looking good and the foot is feeling okay. There is much less swelling with this one.

I laid out the stepping stones....there are six there now (I took back the butterfly.) I need one more to go in the center. All of the ones I've made are 6 sided. I was thinking the middle one could be slightly larger in diameter and round. Whatdya think? I need to get some top soil to put around them. Once the last one is there I will clean them all up and take some pictures. It really does look kinda neat.:):)

Bailey pooped inside sometime today. That's the first accident in a number of weeks. :eek::eek: Bummer. In general she really is doing much better.

Addy-Bailey will cuddle in the morning after returning from outside and while I remain in bed. She stays with me the entire time. The last few nights she has curled up along my thighs. But it's always on her terms. She still won't come when called.:mad:

That's it from me. Y'all take care and I hope you are enjoying your weekends.

Love,
Susan, Sus

[marie adams]

Yay Susan!! Foot pain better and normal!!!!
I cannot wait until the pictures of the stepping stones....

When will you start making the green sweaters--you did say you were making them--right????:D:p It is probably getting a little cold in the nonbasement.

Ella is somewhat of a cuddler--slept at my head for a while early this morning - 4am until 5am--get up time. If you let her stay on the couch you can cuddle as much as you want. :p

I agree with Addy - you give the best hugs!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Marie-
You gave me a chuckle, a laugh and a big smile!
Foot hurts today. My current theory is that it wants me to stay off it and if I can't stay off it to raise it as soon as I can. It looked even better today....it just hurts....even with the meds.

Bailey gets groomed tomorrow.:D She needs it! Her coat has no shine to it at all. Is that normal? I did get her to eat dog food this morning by spoon feeding it to her right from the container.:eek: I know, I know. I shouldn't start that.....but I just feel so helpless when she doesn't eat or doesn't eat much.

Green sweaters? Made by me? Sure-right after I finish the afghan I started over 20 years ago! Whenever I've tried knitting, I always seem to drop stitches somewhere along the way. I was great at pot holders. Anyone for a potholder, quilt, sweater? (No WAY!) :)

Gorgeous day here today and an even better one tomorrow. I feel some sitting in the sun coming on.:D

Did everyone make it through Monday? You're 20% through the week!!:)

love,
Susan

[Bailey's Mom]

Well, I lasted in bed until 5:30 AM
Lately I wake up and my pj neck is soaked. Maybe I go out with the surfer dudes early in the AM and get some surfin' done!:D

I am having lunch with two friends today, but I hope to get out while the sun will warm my soul and get some siting done and/or get some gardening maintenance done.:):)

Hot tub got shut down for the winter. Now I can worry until March wondering if it will turn on. You can bet I will be in it post haste!:)

Foot didn't look very good last night. A friend and I went to visit our friend who learned recently that she has had a recurrence of cancer and it's now at stage 4. She seems to be in great spirits. I think I spent too much time walking and that it really benefits from keeping it raised.

Okay-I feel like I need one of those hugs now. Anybody out there have one to give? It must be AAA quality.

Happy Tuesday.

Love,
Bailey's Mom

[addy]

((((((((((((((((((((((((((MORE HUGS))))))))))))))))))))))

love,
addy

[marie adams]

:(A day late, but better late than never.....

(((((((((((((BIG HUGSSSSSS))))))))))

Well, I do not seem as stressed so handling Ella is better--she still has to get ito everything and put it in her mouth. This morning she attacked the package of T paper and ate a little plastic--tried giving her the hydrogren peroxide to make her throw up:eek:--that was useless this time around---she fought me--and nothing much came up. I guess I will be checking poop...:eek:

I didn't realize Bailey didn't want to eat. Maddie was that way when she was a puppy--hand feed her. The good thing about hand feeding is that makes you the boss/leader. Ella has her food down in record time--not even 30 seconds, maybe 50 secs. She just wants to eat all the time.

I would love to know how to knit, but I just wouldn't finish it. I love quilts, but same thing it never gets done. I still haven't finished the cross stitch picture for when my daughter was born--she is 26 now.:eek::rolleyes: I love to sew and use to do it all the time, now not so much. I need a new sewing machine since parts are not easy to come by for a Viking machine (probably cost more to fix than a new one or I would rather put money into a new one).

Please take care of your foot so you can go dancing--Cha Cha Cha with Addy--she is the best at it. I think she practices with the Surfer Dudes in the nonbasement when you aren't home.

I guess you will have to search the internet for just the right green sweaters....

So sorry to hear about your friend's cancer.

Happy Wednesday!!!!

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi gals-

Took Bailey to the vet today. Groomer said she thought she was getting an ear infection. Vet agrees. It's a yeast/xxxx(something else) one. We have drops to give her. I mentioned the un-shiny coat and she gave us Welactin soft-gels.....fish oil stuff. She said it would be good for bones in addition to her coat and a couple of other things. (I really should take notes.)

The groomer really trimmed her coat and I didn't want that. Oh well.

I'm feeling bummed out today. Catch ya tomorrow.

Love,
s

[addy]

fourty-four ants on the wall, fourty-four ants on the waaaallllllllll

if one of those annnnnnts happen to falllll, fourty-three ants ON THE WALLLLLLLLL

i'm sittin in a hole, countin stinken ants, forgot my red sweater in the non basement.

I'd yell for help but I think Marie Irene went with the surfer dudes in a pretty new green sweater.

HELPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP

love,
addy

[Bailey's Mom]

OHMYGOSH!!!! Why is Addy in the nonbasement counting stinkin ants?
And with no red sweater!! Not only that....it's been raining so those noisy sump pumps are probably crankin away. She'll NEVER get any rest.
The surfer dudes left for the summer.......to Australia. They'll be back in spring, or so they say. Sooooooooooo Marie Irene must be lost again. Maybe she's with Carrol??? We are supposed to have coastal flooding tomorrow morning, so they need their hip boots!....and of course their red sweaters!!
Addy come out of that non basement right this minute! You have to get out so you can escape those Halloween goblins. You know how you hate those spiders!!

Love,
Sus

[marie adams]

ANTS!!! I have the little boogers!!!:eek: Addy why the heck are you counting ants when you could be counting bottles and feeling so much better about it????:D

It's Friday!!!!!:p;):D:)

How did I get a green sweater??? I didn't think I was missing, but I will check to make sure--Nope not missing!!:p I still miss Carrol.:(

I hope you are done with being bummed out. Bailey is all pretty from the groomers. Ella ran with a dog yesterday in the wetlands--she was a mess--she cleaned up pretty good with a hosing off. She had the greatest time and I even caught her to put back on the leash--still don't trust her.

Make sure you don't get flooded out and enjoy your weekend!!! Turn off the sump pumps and hear the music....:D

[addy]

Hope you are having a rip snorting, hot time Saturday night. Tango dancing with one foot could prove to be interesting, don't you think?

Or a bit of disco dancing, you can start a new trend!!!!;);)

Happy weekend dear Sus,
love,
addy

P.S. Marie Irene is in the non basement eating Little Debbies. Something about downing Debbies, I think it was. I am heading there to see if she will share some.:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi Marie & Addy and whomever else may be lurking about.
I never did watch much of the snow storm reports and, thankfully the high tides did not cause flooding at our house.:)
Last week the vet told us we should be feeding Bailey 1/8th cup of kibble with a very little bit of wet food mixed in. She said to feed her twice a day. Put it down; after an hour pick it up. That is what has happened since last Tuesday. Vet said she'll be eating in three days. Well-this is day 6 and only this evening did she eat her food.
I have some major issues with how Bob deals with Bailey. I don't know where this will take us.
It was a bummed out weekend. :(:(

Happy Monday all!!!
-Susan

[addy]

Bummed out weekends are not a good thing. Is your foot still painful, sweetie? You sounded so sad on my thread. Maybe you need a Spa Day, that might help.

Yesterday I stayed home all afternoon waiting for trick or treaters and only 2 came:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes: But I did learn about pancreatitis and low fat diets and now I am freaking out because I calculated the fat in Zoe's raw diet and it is 39.5%calculated as dry matter. The bag says minimum 15%.:eek::eek::eek::eek:

Hubby and I disagreed on Zoe many times. I learned to not criticize him and to try to patiently explain my point of view. It never worked for long so I just let him do his thing. Zoe survived just fine, Koko too;)

love ya girlfriend,
addy

[marie adams]

So sorry for the bummed out weekend!!! :(

Hubby and I disagree all the time with Ella--he always says she didn't get enough exercise so that is why she is acting like she does...:mad:--I should be running her (I hate to run!!!); if I don't get her food fast enough--my fault again why she is wild. There is never going to be peacefulness all the time--so don't sweat it so much--it is the tension of not having complete control yet--be patient--isn't that what you tell me!!!:D

What if you mix a little peanut butter in with the dry or hand feed it to her this way--just a thought that popped in my head. Remember I had issues with Maddie as a puppy and she did just fine so there is hope. Of course, Bailey doesn't weigh as much, so I know your concerns.

So glad you came through the storms without a scratch. I know you won't like me to say it will be 77 here today, but fogged in this morning Ella and I were both wet heads after our walk. :eek:

Here is to a HAPPY MONDAY for you!!!!:):D:p

[Bailey's Mom]

Hi gals-

Addy-foot hurts way more than before. It's one toe in particular. I called first thing this morning and the first they will see me is @11 on Thursday. I then called back and said if he cannot see me before Thursday, I need an Rx for pain meds. She said-I'll have to check with the doctor....I'll call you back. When she called back, two hours later, she said "He is concerned that you are taking too much pain medicine." Let's see-it calls for 1-2 tablets every 4 hours as needed. I've been taking only one and the closest they've been is 4 hours. Yesterday I had two all day. So she said he'll call in an Rx for 20. I felt like a ten year old. Twenty will get me to Thursday-actually I've only taken one so far today. And I am VERY glad that I hung onto some that was left over from the knee surgeries!! Had it not been for those, I would not have made it this far.

Spa day? I had a massage on Friday. Sure did feel wonderful.

I went to the Gyn doc today for my annual checkup-told her I had been getting hot at around 11PM and 3AM. It was only last year that we decided to stop HRT. Then she proceeded to tell me how woman don't pay as much attention as they should to signs of heart disease. She said the symptoms are very similar for both. She wondered about checking out my thyroid, heart, etc. I told her in the past year I had been checked for just about everything. So I said-"So now you're telling me that when I wake up hot I should start thinking and wondering if I might be working up to a heart attack?" She said-It's something to think about. And there it was left. And NOW I have to make an appt for a bone scan because it has been two years.

I have a hand carved wooden cane. They carved my initials into the side of it and the year "1988." That is significant in that it means I have been dealing with my various body parts for 23+ years now. Surgery, arthroscopic surgery, revision surgeries.

Marie - And hubby's behavior.....-when I see him shove Bailey in the house and yank Bailey while she's on her leash, I don't like it. I have mentioned it. He's been talking about sending her back to Ala. (well-just once). I told him he seems to take delight at announcing that he's picking up the food, so that's it for today. He denies that. I did feed Bailey straight from the little food container one day and she ate almost all of it. The vet rolled her eyes at that one. She says Bailey is training us. Come on .... 1/8th cup of kibble, twice a day?? That's it, that's all? So now she'll eat every six days, according to this past test???

I'm just bummed out, pooped out, pained out, doctored out.

And now I've lost a check. I think I'll try starting this week/month/year over.

We picked up a coat for Bailey today-burgundy with silver reflective stripes on it......and a pocket!! I told her to put a quarter in it so she'd always have money to make a phone call in an emergency.:D It has gotten quite cold here...and nothing we have fit her....not hers from last year nor Palmer's left overs. They are too big and may never fit Bailey.

My apologies for the length......
Love,
Sus, Susan:(

[addy]

Oh Sus,

I am so sorry it hurts so bad. Sending big hugs and love over the miles. The doctors are weird with pain meds. They think we will abuse them unless you have a doctor knowledgeable in managing pain, which most of them don't have a clue.:rolleyes::rolleyes:

Hubby used to yank on Zoe too, I used to just lose it without thinking, all I saw was someone possibly hurting my baby's leg or foot being yanked like that and I would react out of instinct protectively. I kept showing him how to gently move her but he would just forget and yank (his instinct) without thinking he could hurt her. It did get better but we had some real rows about it for awhile until I learned to stop my self from freaking out.:rolleyes:

You have to take a picture of Bailey in her new coat. I would love to see it.

Hope things get better when you see the doctor.

All my love,
addy

[marie adams]

Oh Susan,

I think we are so many years older/wiser than when we did the puppy thing before so our patience levels are not what they use to be. My husband is calm with Ella, but he has his moments when he loses it. I try to remind him that Ella lives in the moment and doesn't remember what she did. I lose it quite often and wonder if she will turn out a calm wonderful dog...:eek:

Are you a pill hoarder--hehe!! Good thing you have extra because you never know when you need them. I have kept pills just in case. I hate to take medicine so I have to be pretty darn sick to take it or even go to the doctor.

Now you have me wondering about being hot at night--I just had everything checked and they didn't find anything abnormal...

I hope the doctor figures out why that toe is causing you pain.

Ella is much smaller than Maddie so I know what you mean about things not fitting. I never had any coats or sweaters for Maddie. We tried booties once--that was a joke because she flung them off. Still have them in their package. I know there is no way Ella will wear them--she would chew them up in no time.

We will get through this puppy experience--think when they are 1 yr old, when they are 1 year old. Hopefully we will survive.

Take care Miss Susan!!! ((((Big Hugs))))

[Bailey's Mom]

Hello friends!
And thank you.
And I love you.
And it's sunny today. Windy and cold, but sunny. Actually not that cold (59) but the wind is awful.

Bob found another sweater...which I guess was Palmer's...........anyway-it fits Bailey.....but she does not like it! She goes after the arm holes and the floppy part at her butt. I am hoping if we take her for walks with her new digs on that she will get used to them. Anyway-at least we have something to keep her warm (besides me!:D)

Just had a nice lunch with one of my better friends here. Best one here, actually. She's funny. She gets my humor and she's understanding. (like youse guys.) :) I knew her back in Virginia.

Foot is tolerable today. One pill so far today. Addy-I know what you mean about most docs don't understand. I had a discussion with my knee doc before he did the first surgery (his on me....not my first knee surgery.) He totally understood about treating pain and about allowing me the time to taper off, since I was on it for a number of months. I did not have this discussion with this doc. We will be discussing this on Thursday (!)

Thanks guys for relating about your spouses. It helps. Bob takes "training" well, so I just need to mention it in casual conversation.

Bob just left to run some errands. He usually kisses me goodbye-likewise me-when we leave one another. Bailey is getting kind of aggressive and protective of me. Once he was out the door, I thanked her but told her it really wasn't necessary. She growls and lunges at him. We're working on correcting that.....needless to say.:o

Well-just wanted to pop in and let you know I was back from the non basement where it's dark, damp and cold.....and makes me really unhappy. Things look the same today, but better. Different day, same problems, different attitude.

HAPPY TUESDAY!!!
Yours truly......me

[marie adams]

Has today started out better? I hope so....:o

With your new and revised body parts you should be good for another 20 years plus. You will be running marathons (I hate running myself).

My daughter downloaded Pandora on my iphone so I have been listening to Today's Hits - it makes me walk faster and Ella is mostly good about walking next to me without attacking.

We will get through all the trials and tribulations with Bailey and Ella--we have to be the boss and not them. I read somewhere that hand feeding isn't a bad thing because you control the food. I know Sas said you even have to control the toys--you get them out to play and take them away. If this is the only way to get Bailey to eat for now then I would do it. Maybe hand feed a little to get her started then put in her bowls--if she won't eat it then pick it up--she will eventually get hungry. I use to tell Maddie if she didn't eat the rest of her food the birds would get it. It was so funny to see her look at me like WHAT :eek: then she would eat it or I would take it in (she ate outside for a time). You will work it out just fine with Bailey.:p

Here's to you feeling better soon!!!!:)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Susan,

So sorry the foot is causing you extra pain this time. :( Something I wanted to share with you that my docs tell me about managing pain with pills. Take enough at the start to stop it; then taper down to a level you can tolerate. NEVER let the pain build back to the first level. With chronic pain conditions I have learned they are right. When times get bad, I take my pain pills immediately, enough to make me sick at times but it stops the pain. Then I start cutting back to a level where I can tolerate the pain and stay there til that level subsides. Then I start cutting back again...until the episode is past and I can do without them. I am never pain-free, don't expect to be, so I just work toward tolerable. ;)

I hope your doc can listen and understand then offer some solution that will help you heal.

Hugs,
Leslie

[Cyn719]

Hi Susan - wanted to say hi and hope you start to feel better each day - Bailey be good for mom she is not feeling well!!!!!:D xo