Suzy's Sanctury

Mud mud horrible mud!

2012-01-30T14:52:00.000Z

Where we live the earth is clay, which means in the summer it's like rock hard and splits open and in the winter it just turns to mud and when I say mud I mean mud, my whole house feels like it's coated in blasted mud. One is very fed up with wiping wet dirty muddy pasws!

Anyway Cane has had a good weekend and I sense a thawing in Mojo's behaviour with him, only one blot on the copy book which was partly my own fault. I had been reading and went off to make a cuppa taking my kindle with me but leavings reading glasses behind, went back not 5 minutes later and specs have gone to doggy heaven, probably met up with the pair Alfie chewed when he first arrived! He's met lots of new dogs and shows no fear or aggression, has started to greet humans and hounds with licks across your face and seems much more settled. Spoke to Lisa about him crying when Eric goes out and both she and Eric agree he's not crying for Eric but his source of walks has gone out. So the plan is when going for walks leave by back door when leaving for other reasons ie work leave by a different door. We shall see I suspect he smarter than that.

Lucky's poly arthritis has flared up and she's been very stiff and sore all weekend, we've increased her steroids and keeping everything crossed she will be well enough for chemo on Friday.

I seem to spend all ay chasing my tail or checking up on Cane and have not been very productive but today for the first time since he arrived I managed to have my after lunch rest as he was sparked out LOL.

Seriously how can that be comfortable but he was like that for over an hour LOL.

Round up!

2012-01-28T08:50:00.000Z

So Cane has been here 1 week today!

He's learning the ropes and doing quite well, still need eyes in the back of your head but there is a problem developing. When Eric leaves the house Cane cries, started off just a few wimpers but has escalated each day and this morning was a full blown hissy fit! I suspect he sees Eric as head of the pack and as such is his security. He hasn't cried when I've popped outside to do hens etc but I am goinng out this morning and wonder if it will provoke a reaction. Other than that the pack seem to be getting used to him and make allowances for him being so young. He sure has livened things up around here.

Lucky is now off all her medcation and is coping really well, she seems just like the Lucky of old, of course we are still worried sick as we know Sandy only lived for 7 weeks after her amputation from th bone cancer but hope Lucky will do a Jim and have a couple of years.

So despite the wee man being full of beans I did manage to do the class kit from Bramford crop designed by janina, I have made some changes and under the photo there is a lot of journaling. Despite it being a less than flattering photo of me I wanted to use it and record how grateful I was to be celebrating Christmas with my family and not in hospital like the previous year. 2011 was a very difficult year for us both with lots of health problems and losing Ruby and Jim, hence the need to record it all. When I first started scrapbooking I was very into telling the story about the photo, then got caught up in making pretty pages with the latst papers and lost sight of the importance of the journaling, so this year I intend to re focus on it. The funny thing is when I look back at old layouts, I'm not seeing if the page is pretty and laid out well, it's the journaling I'm interested in. So back to basics!

The paper used for the layout is Kaisercraft, Faith and Festive range.

Looking forward to a mooch round town this morning and leaving Eric on poopie watch LOL.

Cane's first scrap day

2012-01-27T18:13:00.000Z

Most Friday's Dawn comes here and we have a scrapping day.

So today was Cane's first foray into scrapping, he was into everything let me tell you LOL but actually I did manage to do a layout. Tried to take a photo but light had gone so will do that tomorrow. Can't say it was as chilled out day as usual as he was full of beans all day but still enjoyed it.

So after investigating papers and glue he had a little rest, my dining room is very small but all 5 managed to squeeze in LOL, this photo has 3 of them in it.

Then he had a go at being a bookend with Mojo

and his new coat arrived today!

I'm taking a few hours break from poopie watch tomorrow and shall have a wander around town with Dawn. Will be nice to relax as Cane is into everything, loves slippers and teddies, as soon as I hear him running I just know he has something he shouldn't LOL.

All in all I think he is progressing well EXCEPT the crying when Eric goes out just for a few minutes turned into 20 minutes today! so obviously he does have issues, which is why he was returned to Gap after just 1 week. Not that I want him to cry if I go out but come on I look after him all day and he doesn't even notice if I leave!

You've heard of Godilocks and the 3 beds

2012-01-26T16:27:00.000Z

Well here's Cane and the two beds LOL.

First up Gangley's, nope that really is too small.

So then much to Mojo's horror he tried Mojo's, nope that's just to big!

Night time he sleeps on the sofa with Lucky but looks like he will have to have his own bed soon.

Mojo is still quite put out that he's still here and Alfie would prefer it if we put him in the toy box and just brought him out when it's time to play chase in the garden! Gangley and Lucky take turns Mothering him.

House training going really well and no major problems other than needing eyes in the back of my head.

Got Dawn coming to scrap tomorrow as usual, can't see me getting a whole lot done. Maybe Dawn will take pity on me and do the poopie watching LOL.

Never a dull or quiet moment in this house at the moment, that said I've got loads done because when the little chap is recharging I rush round doing stuff.

Getting harder by the day to maintain any kind of detachment from him!

Lucky's results

2012-01-25T14:23:00.000Z

Vets have rung and Lucky's blood tests are back AND it's good news, everything is as it should be, vet very happy so Lucky will have her 2nd chemo session on the 3 Feb! Today she jumped both in the car, had her walk and jumped back in again and had walked further. Paws crossed it all continues to keep improving.

Cane was very good last night and told go to bed and he did LOL. Still getting a bit upset when Eric leaves the house but quickly gets over it.

Today's photo Cane recharging LOL.

Mojo is really out of sorts today, not sure if he's poorly or put out with Cane, so he decides to hide!

Where's Mojo

here he is hiding under a cushion, silly sausage.

Someone is coming out of his shell

2012-01-24T17:40:00.000Z

So today sees a much cheekier Cane, very vocal in his demands for other dogs to play with but when I left Alfie and Cane in the garden for a run this morning Alfie was being a bit full on and the little man ended up hiding under a table, so didn''t get the tired out poopie I was hoping for. His whippet side is also emerging and has to be physical pushed out the door for a wee because it's raining and whippets don't do rain!

Also today we have had a few glimpses of the SA we were told about when Eric took Harvey to school this morning (well what else are grandparents for) and each time Eric has gone out Cane has cried, I can go outside and see to hens etc with no cries LOL.

After my hospital appt yesterday I popped into vets and bought him a collar, ID tag and bell. The bell was supposed to be so we could hear him indoors and more so when he goes into the garden when it's dark. Well 30 minutes later said bell was removed after driving us nuts LOL, so I put some ribbon through it and shall just slip it on for going out in the garden at night.

Just one photo today, can you see his new collar, the colour blue really suits him, he has such a beautiful shiny black coat and no I haven't polished him. I don't do polishing of any kind LOL.

Cane was really good last night and only tried sneaking out of bed once, a finger point from Eric and he went back to bed and stayed there.

Anyway despite being a bit more work today I have still managed to do some cooking and baking and some journalling for a layout, so he can't have been sooo bad.

Lucky has just had her blood tests done and so paws crossed they will come back ok and the 2nd chemo session can be booked.

A good day

2012-01-23T18:34:00.000Z

Incoming is making good progress and has had a good day! no accidents indoors, mainly due to me setting the timer on the oven to remind me to put him out LOL. Had a real good roar around the garden with Alfie Bear which left him needing to recharge for quite a while.

Eric was feeling a bit tired so after tea tonight said I might just have 40 winks and look what happened.

Lucky on the bed,what's that all about she hasn't been on the bed in 3 years! and she jumped up without help Quickly .followed by Alfie and Cane but there's more

in the bed with Daddy are Mojo and Gangley, (slightly cut Gangley's head off there oops).

So ok if you're not doggy people you'll probably find it odd we let them on and in the bed but they are our family and are allowed. Not at night I hastenen to add, night times they all have a bed in our room of course LOL.

Lucky has also had a really good day and is off to the vets tomorrow for her blood test and if that comes back ok should have her 2nd chemo session next week.

One is ever so slightly tired from being on poopie watch all day and may be turfing them all out so I can retire.

Incoming has arrived

2012-01-22T14:26:00.002Z

Had a lovely day at crop which really cheered me up and by the time I got home Incoming had landed!

Cane left the kennels in Stoke abaout 10am and went to Donnington where he was handed over to Jackie who then brought him down to Cambridge services and met up with Eric to bring him home.

So what can I say, he wee's, poo's and chews! typical poopie LOL. He was re homed but after a week returned because of his severe separation anxiety problems, so isn't really house trained yet. Lisa from Greyhound Gap has asked us not to fuss him but to let him find comfort from the pack and not humans. Completely understand the theory behind it especially as he does have problems but oh boy not easy to do.

He slept all night and enjoyed his walk this morning and brekkie and is already watching and following the other dogs to see what he should be doing. It is exhausting watching him all the time, we have tried to move things we don't want chewed LOL.

He seems a sweet intelligent little chap and I hope we are able to help him with the SA. I had forgotten Alfie Bear has issues with black dogs and he is now a very sulky suluki! I expect by tomorrow he will be over it and wanting Cane to play. We've been told he is probably about 12 months old.

We're now about to let Cane have a run in the garden off lead, then he's having a bath, he's not dirty just has that kennel smell.

Part 2

Cane had a good time running and playing in the garden, Alfie joined in playing ball, so maybe he's feeling a bit happier as well.

Next up the bath or rather shower! Surprised us by being very relaxed about it and now smells clean.

Then he had a play with Gangley, expected her to grump at him but seemed to really enjoy playing with him and then Mothering him afterwards.Then he decided to try Lucky LOL.

and yes you've guessed right he is currently sleeping, so that's why I'm quickly doing this.

I'd say his first 24 hours have gone far better than expected.

Lucky has also had a good day, slept last night without pain relief and walked further this morning with no rests.

Eric has managed to clean out the hens and tidy the garden and I have managed a quick trip to Tesco's and a bit of washing so not as bad as we had feared, we thought we would probably have to spend the day watching him constantly. That's not to say he doesn't do poopie things but so far no major problems or damage!

OK a few photo's LOL

Cane- probably a greyhound x whippet and 24 inches to the shoulder so quite small.

getting ready for a walk

brekkie

graden time

bath time

making friends

Fed up!

2012-01-20T11:37:00.000Z

Just back from seeing the surgeon and not good news at all! Whilst he is really pleased with 3 of the knuckles and the bend they have the 4^th (index finger with ruptured tendons) he isn’t happy with at all and says it has to come out, have bone shaved off and a new knuckle implant!!!! Surgery booked for 22^nd March, which means the operations to repair ruptured tendons, won’t take place until after June.

I really thought I would get a date today to repair tendons and finally get rid of the 2 sticky out fingers that don’t bend. So I guess me and the sticky out fingers had better get used to at least another 6 months of not having much use in the hand.

Poor Surgeon was really upset for me and said he would do it on day surgery and be first on the list, mainly because he wants a sterile theatre because of the risk of infection with implants and it does give me the best chance of getting home that day as well.

There's either a major hissy fit coming or tears LOL....good job I have crop and Incoming to look forward to tomorrow.

Journal your Christma

2012-01-19T15:41:00.000Z

Quick update on Lucky, she's doing really well and each day grows stronger!

Hand clinic were pleased with my progress but like me a bit worried at the pain I'm once again getting in the wrist! maybe just the tendons stretching but as it's the area that's been opened up so many times I do feel a tad worried, good job I'm seeing the surgeon tomorrow.

All set up and reading for incoming as Cane has become known LOL. Should be here when I get back from crop on Saturday.

So somewhat late but I have finished my Journal your Christmas! it's all printed out and I just need to make the covers and put it together. Huge thank you to Jane who won a free pass to the class and kindly gave it to me.

The class actually takes it through to the 6th but I'm happy to finnish at the 1st. If you spot any mistakes please DO NOT TELL ME LOL.

Lucky update and incoming

2012-01-17T09:53:00.000Z

Lucky has been just fine since her chemo last week. Her appetite didn't go and she suffered no side effects, we did however get the expected dip at 72 hours where she seemed very tired but the next day she was back to normal. Lucky is at long last back with us, it's taken longer than expected but she is now the Lucky of old thank goodness and has adapted to life on 3 legs well. Blood tests next week to monitor her white blood cell count and if they're okay she'll have another chemo session 3 weeks after the first.

We have been asked by Greyhound Gap to foster on a young back lurcher (mostly greyhound x whippet) who went to a new home but was returned after a week. Apparently he was super with the young children and resident dog but very unhappy when left, so the family tried him in a crate and at this point he went berserk and managed to cause alot of damage sooo reluctantly they had to return him. Cane was in a pack of 4 all in good condition when they were found abandoned Christmas Eve! So a transport run is currently being put together for the weekend and looks like Saturday we shall have the little chap here. It's thought all he needs is time to settle in a large gentle pack (odd I don't feel I have a large pack these days but I guess by most people's standards I do LOL_) where he won't need to be left alone and can take his time to settle. Now please note I said Cane is a foster dog !!!!!I know what you're all thinking LOL.

Paws crossed hey !!!

I have 3 hospital appts in 6 days, starting today with hand clinic, I think they will be pleased with the progress. Friday I shall see the surgeon and I'm hoping he'll decide the hand and wrist is settled enough to arrange the final operation to repair the ruptured tendons. Then Monday I have my routine check up with the RA Consultant. Such a wonderful social life I lead LOL.

Lucky ducks would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to send her good thoughts xxx

Sue xxx

Lucky starts her chemo!

2012-01-13T17:47:00.000Z

Lucky went into the vets at mid day yesterday for her first of four planned chemo sessions. Unfortunately one of the vets cats got run over and needed emergency surgery so poor Ducks had a long wait! Finally got her home at 7.15pm. Had a good night and has been fine all day with no side effects so far! She's definitely getting stronger each day and is much more like herself. The last part of her biopsy came back yesterday and confirmed the bone tumour is the most aggressive one there is, which we had figured out but apparently it also is one of the best for responding to chemo so paws crossed!

Thought it about time I got the album I made of Ben for Vikki for Christmas blogged, I try and do her a little album each year. Because I did it digi I was able to do a smaller version for Ben's other Grandma as well.

Still plodding away at my Journal your Christmas album, now up to Christmas Day LOL.

Bramford crop

2012-01-08T09:30:00.000Z

Had a lovely day at Bramford crop (thank you Janina), lots of people had been sorting out their stash to sell on, so picked up some pretty lace, can't resist lace LOL.

Back in December at Otley crop Vanessa gave us a kit but with no layout to follow as December's kit is always a challenge to do your own thing! been a while since I paper scrapped my own thing but eventually came up with this. photo's of Ben helping his Grandma Lesley with the Christmas baking.

Lucky insisted on a 3rd walk yesterday so just before bedtime Eric took her out and she slept much better and looks bright and happy today!

I'm still plodding away at my digi JYC album, expect everyone has finished by now LOL. Hey ho I'll get there eventually lol.

A lovely normal Friday

2012-01-06T14:41:00.000Z

At long last a normal Friday with Dawn and I getting together to scrap and chat. Boy did it feel good after all the stress and worriesover these last few weeks, just to take a few hours playing.

Finished this gorgeous page, a kit from Bramford crop by Janina using papers from the Prima Printery collection. Loads of cutting out so it's taken me quite a few sessions to do it as hand still isn't good at manual dexterity LOL. The photo is of my Dad, aged about 19 years when he and Mum first met.

and even better still have Bramford crop tomorrow so another day to play!

Lucky had her staples out yesterday and her chemo will start as soon as it arrives next week. lots of information to absorb as we have to be very carefully for a few days after each session with her urine and not eating or drinking from the other dogs bowls and her white blood cell count will need to be carefully monitored. Feel quite anxious about it as we've not travelled this route before.

Now all the Christmas presents have been opened I'll try and put some of the stuff I made on blog next week.

Still plugging away at my JYC album, will finish it for sure just not on time LOL.

Lucky

2012-01-04T10:14:00.000Z

Vet's have just rung with Lucky's biopsy results, worst possible news! very aggressive osteosarcoma, we were expecting it but having it confirmed still suckers you! But our vet has come around to our thinking after Eric has been bombarding him with information and has decided to buy the special fume cabinet etc needed to give her chemo, she'll have 4 cycles 3 weeks apart starting in about 10 days. Apparently dogs don't suffer the same side effects and it can double the length of time they live. Cost is high so it's a good job she has a premium insurance but Lucky being over 9 means we'll have to pay 20% excess but having come this far we may as well go the extra mile and at least we won't have to travel to a specialist for it. To have her leg amputated and follow up treatment is already at just under £3,000, even my maths can figure out 20% of that is a lot LOL.

Anyway she's certainly turned the corner, is eating better and going out for two little walks a day and can now get herself on the sofa and sleep without Eric at night. Off to vets tomorrow and hopefully get staples out which are really annoying her now!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-12-31T16:04:00.000Z

TO ALL OF MY LOVELY BLOGGING FRIENDS, THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO STOP BY AND FOR ALL THE SUPPORT OVER WHAT HAS BEEN SUCH A DIFFICULT YEAR!

I hope you and your families have a Happy and healthy 2012 !

Sue x

PS A photo of Lucky curled up in Mojo's bed, completely out of focus but it shows just how far she's come in a week.I might add Mojo is half the size of Lucky LOL AND she's had 2 short walks today!!

A much better day for Lucky!

2011-12-30T15:54:00.000Z

Last night Lucky slept on her own without Dad for the first time in two weeks! and when Dawn came round this morning she rushed out to greet her with tail wagging as should would normally AND this afternoon she has been for her first short lead walkjust over the road to the playing field and back and boy does she look happier.

WTG Ducks !!!!!

Lucky has been to see Mr vet!

2011-12-29T20:34:00.002Z

Lucky has been to the vets this evening for a check up and he's very pleased with her progress . Back 5th January to hopefully remove stitches and staples and discuss chemo.

Lucky is now gaining in confidence and can go outside to see to business unaided and vet thinks it's okay to take her out for little walks as soon as we feel she is ready.

Yesterday we had to pop out and when we return she charged through the kitchen to greet us just like the Lucky of old!

So paws crossed Ducks continues to make good progress and keep her poor old Mum and very tired Dad happy.

Eric's Christmas present

2011-12-28T18:13:00.000Z

Thought I'd share this with you. My friend Lorraine's daughter Emma is an incredibly talented artist and kindly agreed to undertake this rather big challenge.

I wanted a painting for Eric of ALL our dogs past and present, in total 14! I sent Emma a disk with lots of photo's of all the dogs and then asked that she decide how best to do it and this is what came back.

A close up of the big fella Jim Buba who we miss so very much!

Eric was totally overwhelmed and very emotional!To say he loved it is something of an understatement! of course the photo doesn't do it justice, Emma has totally captured each dog to perfection, I know she was a bit worried that with so many hounds she couldn't add as much detail as she would normal BUT I have to tell you in real life this is absolutely fantastic.

Emma is quite happy to take commissions and if anyone is interested then please contact me and I can put you in touch with this lovely young lady whois so very talented!

A few more pictures of paintings Emma has done, now wouldn't they just make the best birthday or Christmas present or why not just treat yourself LOL. I'm definitely going to ask Emma to do something of Vikki's wedding in May.

and a few humans

We had to pop out this afternoonand when we came back Lucky rushed out to greet us and looked so much more like herself! was a teary eye moment for sure LOL.

Lucky and Christmas

2011-12-28T11:25:00.000Z

Well having Lucky home on Christmas Eve was the best present we could have wished for!

She's not been making progress as quick as we had hoped but today is more mobile and now able to wander around and go outside unaided, so a big improvement. but the stump bothers here, maybe the stitches and staples are pulling. Quite funny seeing the filthy looks she gives it!

We had a good Christmas and are now enjoying a few quieter days. off to the vets tomorrow to get Lucky checked.

Hope you all had a good Christmas as well.

A photo of Gangley unwrapping some Christmas goodies, she was very determined to get into the parcel.

Lucky update

2011-12-24T14:12:00.002Z

When we collected Lucky she wasn't very with it and it was a struggle to get her to the car. But once home she perked up and the other 3 gave her such a lovely gentle welcome home, it was really quite touching.

Lucky devoured some fish, then scrambled eggs followed by a long snooze. She just shocked us by appearing in the kitchen (first time we had taken our eyes off her) and managed to go outside to attend to some business with a little help

Now back snoozing and looking much more like our Lucky ducks

Thank you all for your kind words and good thoughts for the Ducksxxx

Better get Christmas started after all LOL

Lucky

2011-12-24T10:06:00.001Z

We've spoken with Tom her vet and Lucky isn't eating this morning and has a slight temperature , still can't stand unaided but this may be due to the epidural BUT he feels as we've have nursed 3 post amputee's she will probably be happier at home. so going to collect at 11am.

I don't think he is completely comfortable with this but he knows Lucky well enough to believe she will be happier with us and he is there all day if we need him.

He also said she will require alot of nursing and help for the next few days, feel very worried at her coming home so soon and the burden of responsibility feels heavy but we do both agree knowing Lucky she will be better at home. Fortunately because of all the drugs I take we have good understanding of what we can and can't do, so paws crossed. Feel quite sick with worry but relieved she's coming home.

Lucky update

2011-12-23T19:33:00.000Z

We have just spoken to vet, in 18 days since first x ray showed very early stages they found it had at least trembled in size and bone was already crumbling. So a much more difficult operation than expected as the vet had to keep going high and higher up the thigh. She’s had an epidural so is still comfortable and has eaten. Vet is pleased with how it’s gone and hopes she may be able to come home later tomorrow..

Thank you all so much for keeping Lucky in your thoughts.

Sue & Eric

Photo taken last night, I know what I was thinking I wonder what ducks was thinking!

Lucky!

2011-12-22T11:00:00.000Z

Sad news, tomorrow Lucky will be going to the vets, if chest x rays are still clear they will amputate her leg. She is in terrible pain just 17 days after we were told that x rays indicated very early stages of oteosarcoma. We’re hoping she will be well enough to come home on Saturday and have asked vets to refer us to a specialist so we can follow up with chemo.Not much else to say really, life sucks pure and simple!

Lucky and life!

2011-12-18T14:29:00.001Z

We're off to the vets again tomorrow, Lucky is very lame already on the leg with bone cancer and her overall health seems to have really nose dived. Considering it's supposed to be in the very early stages we are at a loss as to what is going on! for the first time in the 6 and half years she has lived with us she wasn't able to go for a walk yesterday. I know she's missing Jim terribly but even so we both feel something else is going on. We so relied on Jim to help us out with poorly dogs, apart from the fact he sniffed out the cancer on each hound before symptoms began to show he also would sniff out other problems and duly inform us. I felt so sad last night watching Eric walk two dogs (too cold for Gangley), just a month or two ago he was walking 6 dogs.

First time today we've had 4 eggs, so all hens except old Henrietta are now laying. I was convinced Bobbi the white one would lay white eggs but they're all brown so bang goes that theory!

Christmas tree is up, house decorated and even the outside lights are up. Usually we're running late in that department but after missing out last year what with being in hospital I decided to take no chances and get them up early LOL. last present has just been wrapped and all cards delivered. I even made my first ever Christmas cake this year before the operation, along with all the usual Christmas food which is in the freezer ready!so why i wonder do I still feel panicked about Christmas. I haven't started my JYC album yet but have made notes each day for the prompts.

Got Ben's birthday party on Wednesday 6 already, now where did that time go?

Now, I am the lucky recipients of a new award passed on to us by Beyrl and her Mum

Liebster means “dearest” in German, and the award is intended to help up-and-coming blogs get the attention they deserve. As with any award, there is a bit of ceremony involved. In order to accept the award, we must do the following:
1. Copy and paste the award on our blog.
2. Link back to the blogger who gave us the award
3. Pick our five favorite blogs with less than 200 followers, and leave a comment on their blog to let them know they have received the award.
4. Hope that the five blogs chosen will keep spreading the love and pass it on to five more blogs
And without further ado here are the five blogs I’ve chosen to pass this award on to:-

1. My cousin Sandra who combines her paper crafting with her other hobby sewing and making the most gorgeous projects. She has recently opened in Folksy selling beautiful lace.

2. My friend Jane, we met in cyber space as you do through scrapbooking and have been friends for several years now. We share many interests ans this year knowing how much I love watching her JYC unfold each each gave me a free pass she had won.

3. My friend Carol who I met through going to local crops. Carol is fantastic at altered art and often runs classes. Carol also works for DT's, her work is stunning and inspirational.

4. Sue is a relatively new friend, we came to meet in cyber space when introduced via the coast to coast walk my son did for Greyhound Gap. Sue has the most beautiful BLUE greyhound and we share a love of crafting as well as greyhound.

5. Is my friend Janina, Janina runs the Bramford crop and puts together wonderful kits for us each month, a very talented scrapper who in my opinion is under recognised! and needs to blog more!

I have done quite a lot of crafting recently but can't share wink wink....

We're going to the church tonight for Carols by candle light, it's always a lovely service and kind of reminds you what Christmas is really about!

Sue x

Thank you

2011-12-11T18:15:00.000Z

So many lovely comments about Jim's story, thank you to everyone who took the time to read it and leave a comment. I have tried to visit you all but if I didn't I'm sorry BRAIN is still AWOL!

Friday evening we had the family come over to share my birthday cake, think it did us both good to have some company especially the boys. Eric managed to get the tree up so they could hang some bead men I had bought for them, sadly the tree is still awaiting the rest of the decorations, maybe tonight!

Still researching options for Lucky, not easy when your brain is in shutdown mode! considering how early we have apparently caught the bone cancer we are shocked at how lame she is already. Her vet is off this week, so we have a little breathing space to come up with a course of action.

Eric got this lovely photo of Lucky with our daughter Vikki and grandson Ben on Friday evening. Mum is in the background with Mojo and Alfie is on the right, Gangley was sitting on my lap and I was trying hard to stay out of the photo's, when you know you look rough it's not good to have a reminder of it LOl.

Went to crop Saturday (thank you for a lovely day Janina) it was good to go out for a few hours.

Made this LO about the hens digitally here

then printed it off separately and turned it into a hybrid here.

Hand has started to play up !!! few things I'm not happy with and are worrying me so good job we're going to hospital Tuesday.

Jim's story

2011-12-07T16:33:00.000Z

So here I am again, saying thank you to so many lovely people, some of whom I don't know for all the kind messages about Lucky and Jim. It truly is a comfort knowing people care

Jim leaves behind so many wonderful memories and a huge hole in our life and hearts. This is Jim's story.

Jim
2/3/2000 to 6/12/2011
Two weeks after adopting Sandy from Kama’s cave we were back walking the hounds and noticed Jim had a new kennel mate. A young greyhound puppy that was driving him mad, jumping up and climbing all over him but dear Jim just took it all and not once even growled but he looked so sad, we already knew what a lovely boy he was and decided there and then to take him home it was November 2004. Sandy was not amused! And 100 yards down the road we had to stop the car and muzzle her, she so didn’t want Jim to join her and Dill.

Jim had been raced for 2 years amassing 89 races in that time and then handed into Kama’s cave, unlike most ex racers Jim had not been mistreated and had no hang ups or problems he was from the very start just the most beautiful gentle dog. House training was interesting, in those early weeks his water pistol as it became known would go off whenever he got excited and he liked to help us in the daily chores! Everything we attempted took 10 times longer with his help, mainly because we would be laughing so hard at his antics. Sandy did soften to him, especially after Dill passed away 6 months later and they formed a very strong bond.

When Mac arrived as an emergency foster from Greyhound Gap he had so many problems and Jim’s quiet steady ways really helped Mac. I remember speaking to Lisa about Mac’s separation anxiety and she said put him in a room for a few minutes at a time on his own, well I did and he would howl and howl and then appear, I was stumped as to how day after day he got out, finally I twigged it, Jim was pushing the door open and letting Mac out and so The Blue’s brothers came to be.

Not much ruffled Jim’s feathers with the one exception, 9.20am every Sunday the church bells would ring and up he’d jump roaring outside to give them what for, he barked so much his front paws would leave the ground so funny to watch. Then Mac taught him to howl his head off when the telephone rang and wasn’t answered quickly, so by the time you got to the telephone you couldn’t talk because of laughing so much.

Jim loved to have his Dad sit on the floor and lay in between his legs and watch the motorbike racing. Jim only once put two paws on the sofa and after that decided never again, way to scary up that high, so the floor it was. At night time he slept in his bed at the base of our bed and when he was settled he sort of made this happy flubbery noise, which signalled all, was well.

Jim as were all our hounds together with Eric well known around the village and he helped many children over come their fear of dogs and quite a few owners who used to turn away when seeing Eric with all the hounds. Jim who believed everyone was either his friend or wanted to be, would bound over and the owners soon started to realise this large pack were not to be feared and started to let their dogs join ours in runs on the meadow. Jim had no prey drive and once even picked a bunny out of the hedge to give to his Dad, completely unharmed.

In the summer of 2009 Sandy, Jim and later Ranger were all diagnosed with bone cancer. We had decided to treat their pain until it couldn’t be controlled but Sandy’s zest for life was so strong at the 11th hour she had her leg amputated and then 2 weeks later Jim also arrived at that point where the decision had to be made. Having given Sandy the chance we couldn’t deny Jim even though we were all concerned how he would cope because of his size and not being as mentally tough as Sandy. Whilst Sandy did really well initially Jim didn’t, he became very depressed and we were at a loss as to what to do. Eric came up with the idea of a beef bone. Our butcher kept us supplied with bones and Jim’s daily teat was a bone and from that day on he picked up physically and mentally.

Sadly Sandy only lived another few weeks and on her final day she sat quietly with Jim giving him a wash and brush up and looked at him as if to say, “Jim I have to go now so you must now step up and be the main man” never have we witnessed anything so touching but heartbreaking.

Jim did indeed step up and with his quiet gentle ways led his pack, eventually he was able to start walking with again and this only stopped in the last few months, then he would go for a ride in the car, followed by a little walk about.

Jim will always remain in our hearts, a truly gentle giant with not a bad bone in him, he had 2 extra years after the amputation that we cherished, life will never be the same without the big fella but last week we discovered the cancer had returned in his shoulder and yesterday it became obvious that it was time to let him go. Sitting in his Dad’s legs surrounded by his pack munching on his favourite sweets he left us to meet up with all our other hounds.

We will always love you Jim and be so grateful for all the happy years we shared together, run free Buba xxx

Jim

2011-12-07T08:49:00.000Z

Yesterday Jim deteriorated very suddenly and we made the decision that it was time to let the big fella go. So last night his favourite vet came and laying n between his Daddy's legs eating his favourite sweeties and surrounded by his pack Jim left us.

There are no words to describe the utter desolation we feel.

Lucky

2011-12-05T16:43:00.000Z

On Friday Lucky our 9 year old greyhound went lame on back leg, wasn't too worried as she gets poly arthritis now and then so gave steroids as advised by vets, got worse Sat and Sun and today can't weight bear.

Took to vets at 12 noon and he said classic site for osteosarcoma (knew that as that was where Sandy's was inner thigh high up), Eric discovered a swelling there last night!

Vets kept her in for x rays and have just rung to say she has Osteosarcoma (bone cancer).

Can't quite get my head around the fact that another of our precious hounds has got the cruel evil disease, Eric just gone to collect her and then we shall have to decide what to do. My heart feels as though it's been broken and stomped on.

Jim is holding his own and is bright and cheeky AND sleeping through the night, after weeks of not being able to.

Jim update

2011-12-03T18:21:00.000Z

Just a quickie to reassure everyone Jim is okay and even slept all night last night for the first time in weeks. We're spoiling him and cherishing every extra day!

Haven't had time to start my JYC Album yet but I've loaded a digi kit and bought a notepad, so I know what I want to do for each prompt so far, just need to find some time LOL.

Had a lovely evening with crafting friends last night, we went out for a Christmas meal, I was unsure whether to go as it's hard not to feel sad about Jim. Eric said I should go and celebrate the extra two years we've had, so I did and got through the evening without crying and actually really enjoyed myself. Thank you Carol for organising it!

Journal your Christmas

2011-12-01T15:28:00.000Z

I have always admired the Shimelle classes my friend Jane does but never seem to find the time to do any. Jane won 3 passes for this years Journal your Christmas and was kind enough to give me one!

Well having been on the forum I see veryone seems well prepared! so I guess I'll be playing catch up a bit and being totally clueless might slow me down but I shall do it as a digi album and can surely find a few minutes each day to play along.

Jim was very poorly yesterday and we had decided to make the call to the vet today but he had a good night and is much improved today, thinking about it I guess being pulled around at the vets and having to jump in and out of the car added to it all. So as long as he stays comfortable and has good quality of life .......... we shall take it day by day and at the first sign of trouble will let our beautiful big giant hug monster leave with the dignity he deserves. Each day is now a bonus and a blessing.

Happy gotta day Gangley

2011-11-30T16:19:00.000Z

Today is Gangley's 3rd gotcha day, every year around this time something awful has happened and her special day has gone by, so even though my heart is in pieces today with the devastating news about Jim I am determined to make an effort to celebrate Gangley's special Day.

Gangley is a strange little lady, bossy in the extreme, won't allow the boys to play unless she says it's time a very frustrated Mother, gives the impression she doesn't given a dam but actually she is a very special little dog who is very intuitive to what's going on and breaks her heart when I keep disappearing into hospital for all the bloody hand ops. As soon as I get home she washes me from head to toe and stays glued to my side. Sometimes I think we don't have a clue what makes her ticks, life with Gangley is never dull or quiet!

So my special little one Happy gotcha day, love you loads sweetheart and I know you love me too

and in true mothering mode Gangley trying to help Jim feel better..................

Jim

2011-11-29T19:29:00.001Z

Had to take Jim back to vets today as has had increasing pain and found it harder to get about this week.

Vet is certain that Jim has a very aggressive ostersarcoma in shoulder, having lost a back leg to ostersarcoma all we can do is control his pain. Vet thinks maybe a week or two at most, no point putting him through an x ray.

Even though we had our suspicions having them confirmed has completely knocked us and we are numb.

Jim has been the backbone of our pack for over 7 years and the thought of life without our gentle giant is unbearable.

Remembering Sandy

2011-11-28T10:08:00.000Z

Two years ago today our darling Sandy lost her fight against the bone cancer! We were all devastated as she fought so hard to beat it and had such a zest for life. Sandy was a very withdrawn little girl when we first adopted her but she fell head of heels in love with Dill our greyhound, sadly Dill also passed away from bone cancer some 6 months later and Sandy's world fell to pieces. Dill had been her support and comfort and she closed right down again. It took a long time but eventually Sandy decided it was okay to enjoy life and boy did she, the cheekiest funniest little lady. Her special person was our son Marc whom she adored and it is in memory of Sandy that Marc decided to do the coast to coast walk to raise money for Greyhound Gap, so they could help others dogs like Sandy.

Here is the post I did recording her story 2 years ago.

Gone but never forgotten Miss Sandy woo! xxx

Funny old week

2011-11-26T09:34:00.000Z

Well it's been a bit of a rubbish week!

Jim has seen the vet and had a new pill added to the mix but ideally the vets need an xray to see what's going on. We had decided it was too risky at his age but vet says he could just get Eric to lay him down and keep him calm and take a quick one, wouldn't be as good as normal but all the pulling around he would suffer wouldn't do him any good, so we are now seriously thinking about it. He has really struggled to get about but remains happy and full of cheekiness.

New hens have settled well, slight problem Thursday evening, one had disappeared, spent an hour searching but couldn't find her, up at dawn and Eric found she had got over the 7 foot fence into hedge behind and had roosted there all night, needles to say she will be having some feathers clipped today! Getting plenty of eggs

Hand clinic very pleased with progress!

Went to Dr's as felt unwell, infection so ab's which means no humeria this week and to add insult to injury I had a high blood sugar reading so had to go back the next day for a fasting glucose test, thankfully it came back normal. Always a concern because my Mum and her Mum have/had diabetes.

Yesterday was a good day, scrapping with Dawn then in the evening off ut with Vikki and Ben to see Christmas lights switched on, met up with Marc, Rach and Harvey and had a great time. Flippin battery on my camera died so luckily Vik took some photo's on her phone. We met Prancer a 3 year old reinderr, he was gorgeous and so friendly, apparently they live upto 10-15 years, spend 4 weeks a year working and the rest of the year running free on a farm. Their coats protect them from the cold but also the heat. He was so chilled out and just after this photo laid down and went to sleep LOL.

Ben, Harvey and me, boys were not cooperating with photo's as they were so excited.

Finally finished the digi DLO, has taken me ages to get it as I wanted, have decoupaged some of it but the photo I took was awful. Photo's are from my Cousin Sandra's youngest son's wedding in July. We all had such a great day and I wanted to use lots of photo's, we had a similar class kit from papermaze last which I sorted of adapted for this.

New additions

2011-11-21T11:16:00.000Z

Yesterday we had 2 new arrivals!!!!

No not dogs before you all start yelling at me LOL.

Rescue battery hens. Our son was going to collect 4 for himself and talked us into having another 2 and then he got talked into taking 5 for himself LOL. As always they are very scrawny but with some TLC should perk up quickly.

Haven't chosen names yet so hen 1

hen 2

and a few of our others with one of the new ones so you can see the difference and see what they should look like.

had to share this photo with you, Eric had cooked some meat for the dogs and had their full attention, Jim was sitting in the hall waiting for room service!

Off to the vets later to see if any other medication might help Jim as he is struggling again.

Had a lovely time at Papermaze crop on Saturday, it was so good to see Vanessa and Lesley and be able to give them a hug after the awful time they've had with the fire. Managed to finish this LO at last! designed by Janina for Bramford crop using papers from Bo Bunny. There is some hidden journelling behind the photo that tells how stupid me hadn't tried my dress on and my the time I did it was too late to have it taken in, so on this photo my cousin Sandra (it was her son's wedding to Jenni) grabbed the back of my dress and pulled it in so it at least looked like it fitted one one photo!

Decided to decoupage some of the bits of this digi LO so it's now a hybrid, which I think is where my heart probably lies these days.

2 years ago today

2011-11-19T07:51:00.000Z

Two years ago today Ranger our beautiful brindle boy passed away. He had been diagnosed with osteosarcoma and had his leg amputated, sadly Ranger never really recovered from the operation and passed away a few days later at the vets.

To say we miss that great big lovable rogue is an understatement. He was with us for just 364 days. This is Rangers story here

Gone but never forgotten, hope you're having a ball at rainbow bridge big fella with all our other bridge babies.

Hospital

2011-11-18T12:50:00.000Z

Just back from seeing my Surgeon, he is really pleased with new knuckles and the progress I've made!!!! still concerned that he couldn't put a pin back in to help the wrist fusion so has said as soon as hand clinic are happy I go back to using wrist splint and just wear this huge one protecting knuckles at bedtime and when out and about. Back to see him in 2 months and hopefully discuss next op to repair tendon ruptures. Looks like hand clinic will be a weekly appt for sometime but at least that means I'm being monitored carefully.

Had a play yesterday and did this digi LO, although I may turn it into hybrid. Photo's of Mojo, kit "apple of my eye" from after five designs.

Jim is off to set the vet Monday as he is struggling again and really only using his 3rd leg as a balancing post! Hoping maybe a change of meds might help!

Papermaze crop tomorrow yay !!!

Hand clinic

2011-11-15T13:30:00.000Z

I'm just back from hand clinic, they made a few adjustments to splint, took out some stitches that hadn't dissolved and were becoming sore oh and more exercises LOl, seeing surgeon Friday and back to hand clinic again next Tues. Oh what fun!

Feeling a bit better now I'm back on meds!

Hoping to get another 2 rescue ex battery hens this weekend from little hen rescue. Not sure what condition they will be in, may need jumpers if they don't have many feathers. Our other 2 young hens are just starting to lay tiny eggs, not daily but they've started.

Had a little play yesterday and made this digi LO, photo's are of Vikki being a bridesmaid three times. May turn it into a hybrid, not decided yet. Got a bit carried away with pink LOL.

Looking forward to Papermaze crop on Saturday.

Hounds are all ok. Paws crossed

D Day

2011-11-13T16:30:00.000Z

Finally after 4 long weeks I was able to start RA drugs this Friday! boy have I been counting down the days.

Went to hand clinic Tuesday, 30 minute slot turned into two hours! adjustments to splints, new exercise splint blah blah blah!!! My morphine has all gone and it's been a difficult week coping with the pain. Still I've kept up with the exercises which are grueling. I have a few worries with certain bits but will discuss with surgeon on Friday. Another hand cinic appt Tuesday, so looking forward to that NOT LOL.... I was telling my SIL about it and she said she calls the physio therapists physio terrorists, made me laugh!

Anyway I've been working on a DLO (digi) that I just can't get right, so took a break from it and made this instead. kit is from pickleberry pop and is called sick days. Photo was just after cast came off and it had been cleaned up. Eric said it would be a good idea to have it as when I hit a low spot with recovery not going as quick as I want I could look back on this photo and take heart LOL, that man knows too well.

Jim has had a much better week so we've put off going back to the vets for now.

Photo of hand

2011-11-06T10:46:00.000Z

Had a really lovely day at Bramford crop yesterday, was just so good to get out! Bit tired and sore last night but oh so worth it LOL. Shall have a quiet day today.

After the plaster cast came off and hand had been cleaned up Eric took a photo before the splint went on, I was quite shocked to see a hand that looked fairly normal with straight fingers, so scroll down if you want a look xx

New splint

2011-11-04T15:20:00.000Z

Back from hospital, cast off and new splint on. Have to bend fingers 5 times a day 10 each time i.e. 50 per finger eek!.Two middle fingers I can bend but two fingers with ruptured tendons I have to do with other hand, little finger is very sore think it was squashed in the cast!
Hand looked pretty good, back Tuesday to hand clinic just so they can check it over.

Going to attempt to go to crop tomorrow, more to socialise really, even Eric thinks it’s a good idea for me to go out for a bit. Luckily I have a kit so will just take that and see what I can do, have more usability with splint than cast if you know what I mean LOL.
.
Lucky suddenley became very stiff a few days ago and we rushed her down to the vets, seems the poly arthritis has returned! she is much better now she's on the steroids but would be nice to know what triggered it off again, Jim is very very sore and we're both starting to feel quite anxious.

Finally we got our first egg yesterday from the new hens, about time! LOL....

Made my lovely surgeon a fuuny card digi of course and got him and is super secretary some sweeties, they are both such lovely kind people.

I'm home

2011-11-01T15:49:00.000Z

Well I am very happy to be home!

Had a nice room all to myself and this time I was treated with nothing but kindness, now whether my complaint after the dreadful care I received at Christmas had anything to do with it I don't know.

The operation took just over 3 hours and instead of a GA I had a regional limb block in my neck which gives total pain free results and lasted well into the following day, I also had light sedation as 3 hours awake in theatre wouldn't be much fun LOL. I was able to speak to my super surgeon in recovery and didn't spend hours being ill. So now I have new knuckles, still in a plaster cast but that comes off Friday and then a special splint will be made. Surgeon couldn't replace pins which were helping to keep the wrist fussed but he thinks it should be okay as long as I remember to be careful and wear a splint if doing things that would put a strain on it.

I came home Saturday afternoon but received a telephone call from surgeon Monday morning to say he had not only asked that I be kept in until Sunday but that he had come to visit me just after I left OOPS! I honestly didn't discharge myself nurses were happy to let me go so I did. Guess he'll be wagging his finger at me Friday.

I have morphine for when the pain gets too much but am trying just to have it at bedtime. Eric seems to be on a mission to fatten me up and in my weakened state I don't seem to have much in the way of willpower LOL.

I have had so many lovely cards, flowers and choccies and so many emails, thank you all.

We've had discussions with vet re Jim and have tweaked his pills and he's back to being more comfortable and his happy self. We all agreed at his age it's not worth the risk of a GA to do x rays and just pray his pain is due to having to haul himself up using front legs and nothing more sinister.

Had hoped to play digi today but yet another day seems to have slipped by in a haze of food, sleeping and more food LOL.

Thank you everyone for being such great friends to me xxx

One week on

2011-10-25T07:22:00.000Z

So already a week has gone by since our darling Ruby past away. So many kind messages, cards and flowers have been received and a special poem in memory of Ruby from Harvey our Grandson.

Slowly life begins to settle down and the pack are beginning to go back to normal.

I started this layout at papermaze crop but couldn't concentrate as I was worrying about Ruby and obviously brewing the bronchitis. Decide to finish it yesterday and pack away my crafting things. Layout was designed by Lesley using Echo Park pp's Victorian garden.

Been meaning to scrap this photo of Ben for months, another super class kit from Papermaze using papers from Jillibean soup. Ben played the part of the Inn Keeper in his first school Nativity play and after much coaching at home was word perfect for the performance!

Such sad news about the fire at papermaze, my heart goes out to Vanessa and her family and I hope they can get started again soon. All those lovely layouts that decorated the walls all gone, totally devastating! thank goodness no one was hurt!

Well so much for thinking I was well ahead of the game and organised, my list of things I need to do before losing the use of my hand again seems endless.

Dr says my chest is much better, so paws crossed for Friday. I shall be really fed up if it's cancelled and can only hope for the best.

Two years ago today

2011-10-20T10:06:00.000Z

Thank you all so much for your kind comments about Ruby, it means a great deal to us knowing people understand and care! A friend sent me this picture which I love of hounds having fun at the Rainbow bridge. Thank you Sue and Song xx

Two years ago today Jim had his leg amputated because he had osteosarcoma. It had been diagnosed in June but we felt because of his size and age amputation wasn’t an option and went for palliative care! however as we also had Sandy diagnosed with the same dreaded condition and because she so desperately wanted to fight and live we went for amputation for her and then decided we had to give Jim the same chance. Our vet was very reluctant because of his size to do the operation but eventually agreed.

Sadly Sandy only lived another 8 weeks but Jim dumbfounded the vets upon reaching 3 months, then 6 months and here we are 2 years later.

Jim is massive even by greyhound standards and the biggest softie you could wish for. He has been the backbone of our pack for many years and welcomes each new hound with his gentle ways.

Jim is coming up to 12 soon and is beginning to slow down, but is still a loving cheeky hug monster who we adore.

And today for the first time in many weeks he asked to go out with the gang for a proper walk, not a ride in the car followed by a little wander but a proper walk! just the cheer us up factor we needed today. Jim is still bothered by his neck/shoulder problem but seems happier and more comfortable today. Long may you reign as head of our pack big fella.

So the old boy still enjoys a run

and is as handsome as ever.

Here is the original post of Jim's operation.

Sleep tight wooby two shoes.

2011-10-18T11:16:00.000Z

At 3.40am our beautiful Ruby left us to go to the bridge. No words can express our sadness but we will cherish the last 8 months spent with the most gentle darling Ruby.

This is Ruby's story

On February 10^th 2011 I received a call from Liz at Greyhound Gap, asking if we could take an emergency foster girl in and so two days later Ruby arrived.

We were surprised to be told Ruby was just 7 ½ years old as her overall health portrayed a much older dog. Her initial puffing and panting we put down to the stress of being taken away from her family. Then we discovered the terrible condition of her nails, a condition called Onychodystrophy. It was agreed with Greyhound Gap that Ruby would stay on with us whilst we tried to sort out her nails and overall lack of condition, but just as her nails improved she quite suddenly began to lose weight and condition. Our worst fears were confirmed on July 21^st when the results of her x-rays were shown to us. Poor Ruby’s lungs were full of tumours, which explained the puffing, and panting and constant chest infections.

From that day on we knew each extra day spent with Ruby would be a precious bonus, Eric did lots of research and started her on herbal and homeopathic supplements to try and boost her immune system and spent hours researching on the internet trying to find ways of improving Ruby’s health.

Ruby was just the sweetest little lady, always gentle and kind never barked or misbehaved and totally adored the grandchildren. Her previous family had children and she obviously missed them because whenever Ben or Harvey came to visit she would be so excited and happy and just loved to sit with them.

Although Ruby was obviously a poorly girl it never stopped her enjoying life and right up to the end she was still keen to go for walks and stop and smell the air or even chasing a squirrel. Towards the end Eric would take Ruby in the car so her energy wasn’t spent getting to the meadow or the green then she and Jim would hop out and have their walk. Jim was her special friend and they would spend hours laying together.

We discovered Ruby loved fish and chips, so each Friday thereafter we would have fish and chips and so would Ruby or “wooby two shoes” as she became known as. On the last Friday before Ruby passed away she actually tried to pinch my fish off the plate, we laughed so much to see Ruby actually being a tiny bit naughty.

Ruby was her Daddy’s girl a bond that was very strong between the two of them and it was always Eric she turned to when she was poorly. Eric would let her just lay in the back of the car when she couldn’t get comfortable indoors, I worried she’d get loose but Eric knew she wouldn’t move. Ruby completely trusted Eric and in her last hours it was with him that she sought comfort.

Ruby was the most beautiful tiger brindle girl we have ever met, as beautiful on the inside as the out and “our wooby two shoes” will be so sadly missed.

Sleep tight little Angel, you will never be forgotten and we feel so privileged to have spent the last 8 months with you.

18^th October 2011

Hospital

2011-10-14T13:54:00.001Z

Well I am finally home!

Had x rays, surgeon still isn't convinced wrist has fussed he suspects it's the pins holding it. Plan is to take both pins out to be able to do knuckle replacement, then put one pin back in (there isn't room for two and that's why they are pushing out).

Will have to stay in overnight and should all being well come home lunchtime then next day. I'm the only operation he's doing that afternoon as it will probably take 3 plus hours. He's keen to do it under limb regional block but I want a GA, so I'll probably have both as the regional block gives 12 hours of pain relief. 3 plus hours awake in theatre wouldn't be nice.

Will have a plaster on for a few weeks then a special made splint that holds fingers in sort of suspended, recovery approx 12 weeks. Also had swabs and ecg but gave up on the blood tests as they were queuing out the door so shall have to ask Dr to do it Monday!

Made another digi LO using a kit called Be Happy from gotta pixel, based it on a Papermaze class kit which I did here. Not easy making a windmill digitally LOL. Not sure whether to print it as it is or to turn it into a hybrid.

Ruby bright and perky during the day but unsettled at night! still won't lay down indoors unassistanted but will in the car, figure that one out pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeee.

Papermaze crop tomorrow my last for a while!

PS I've just spotted the spelling mistake whew the beauty of digi! and drum roll Ruby jumped onto the sofa and laid down all by herself, xxxxxx

Introducing

2011-10-12T12:44:00.001Z

Bobbi and Gerti. Our very old ex battery hen has surprised us by still being here and so we decided to get her some company but before we got the chance (wanted to get more ex battery hens) we were given these two as a present LOL

This Bobbi she is quite timid and shy.

Gertie who is loud and full of herself.

and old Henerietta who is enjoying being Mummy Hen to the new arrivals. LOL

Decided to do a very quick layout of Ruby as I fear her time with us grows short!

Used a kit la di da Biggle from scrap girls.

Ruby's breathing is still fairly good but her paws remain swollen and she still won't lay down in the house unless Eric lays her down, however she will lay herself down in the back of the car. We have no idea why but she happily spends hours laying out in the car.

Looking forward to Papermaze crop on Saturday, will be my last time scrapping at crops for a while. Off to see surgeon on Friday and then an appt for pre admission checks. All getting a bit to real and close for comfort now.

2011-10-09T15:10:00.000Z

Ruby seems a bit better each day and so far Jim is okay on the reduced dosage of anti inflams!

Eric and friends decied to go out for a bike ride today and whilst he was out I did a quick digi layout of the bike he is riding at the moment! his favourite the Kawaskai GPZ900R is off road awaiting some TLC LOL.

We have two new additions to our family, 2 new hens, 1 white and 1 brown, must remember to take some photo's. We weren't sure whether Henrietta would appreciate some company or not! but after initially plumping herself up to look very big she decided to take the new young hens under wing so to speak LOL.... phew! we weren't sure if Hen pecked was an old wife's tale or true LOL.

Poorly Ruby

2011-10-06T14:30:00.001Z

Last Wednesday Ruby began to go downhill and to cut a long story short we decided it was time to let her go! had to wait several hours for vet to come out and when he did she rushed out to meet him wagging her tail. Poor chap was like sorry which dog is ill !!!! examination showed no fluid in lungs or infection, heart sound so off he went leaving 2 embarrassed owners in his wake. However she continued to go down over the weekend and so Monday we took her to the vets, they kindly examined her outside as she is so terrified of going in and discovered she had a temp of 107 and rising, heart still sound and no infection in lungs. She obviously has an infection of unknown origins and we explained her paws kept swelling up because she simply won't lay down and stands for 12 plus hours despite obviously having very sore paws. She's now on ab's and painkillers and has improved but still isn't keen to lay down! all very odd and stressful and ironically her breathing is the best it's been in weeks! Yesterday she did go for a ride and even got out of the car for a short walk so progress!

Jim is much better but still not taking the full weight through the front leg so another week of anti inflams and review next week.

Me I'm just plain old worn out LOL
.

I had wanted to scrap a layout about Eric being rushed into hospital earlier in the year but didn't know how to go about it, then Janina from Bramford crop made a remark which sparked off this idea (thanks Janina) after I had told her the consultant upon discharging him had said you have the profile of an athlete and so finally came up with this digi LO. I wanted to record how terribly ill Eric was but in a more light hearted way, although it's not perfect I am fairly happy with it.

2011-10-03T13:41:00.000Z

Beautifully designed kit by Vanessa of Papermaze using papers from Authentique Blissful, bit of a challenge for the rubbish hands so made a few changes. Photo's of Vikki, Mathew and Ben at my Cousins son's wedding.

Another kit from papermaze this time by Lou Collins, didn't have the right punch so had to improvise and shan't be doing that much punching again as actually bruised by hands, photo of Mathew and Ben on holiday last month.

Had a nice day at Bramford crop but spent most of the time worrying about Ruby who isn't to good. Jim is more comfortable pain wise but suffering from the high temperatures we are having. It's supposed to be cooler tomorrow, paws crossed!

Jim goes to see Mr Vet

2011-09-28T09:30:00.000Z

Yesterday we took Jim to the vets, after a long examination the vet has concluded that the back leg is buckling not due to lack of strength as we thought but pain in his lower back. In addition he has discovered as we thought that he is unhappy to put any weight through one of the front legs due to pain in the shoulder. This could be caused by him having to use his front legs to pull himself up more and more or it could be the cancer has returned!

We started him on anti inflammatories yesterday and he already looks much more comfortable and relaxed. Soooo paws crossed.

Next month will be his two year anniversary of having his leg amputated due to the bone cancer. To survive this long is very rare! Jim is such a dear gentle boy who is adored by everyone.

Today Ruby looks tired, she was keen to go out for her walk but wasn't interested in her brekkie. Although when her Dad cooked her eggy bread she did eat that!

Proud Mum

2011-09-26T13:21:00.000Z

Today my son Marc and his colleague Steve received an award from Suffolk Police, after the Father of the young girl they rescued (full story here) took the time and trouble to write in.. He didn't know their names and all he had to go on was they were Police Officers in Suffolk just goes to show some people do care.

So today I am a very proud Mum, both boys are highly embarrassed and would you believe it no photo's were taken! I shall have to take a photo of the award myself to scrap, don't suppose there's any chance of getting him to put his full dress uniform on as well LOL.

Poor old Jim is off to see Mr Vet tomorrow, two wheels on his wagon isn't good, wish we knew what the heck was going on with his 3rd leg.

Thank goodness for Friday's!

2011-09-23T14:11:00.000Z

Well all in all it's been a very stressful week! My daughter Vikki had an operation on Monday, so of course I was in full Mummy worry mode but it all went well and she's slowly feeling a bit better each day, Marc's knee goes from bad to worse and it seems he may now need an operation and on top of that Jim is in big trouble, remaining back leg is getting weaker and now he's having a problem with front leg/shoulder and is struggling to get around which is so stressful. Ruby remains stable thank goodness.

So with all that going on I've been a bit stressed out and flat all week and really needed my Friday play day with Dawn!

Finished this one off, photo taken at Mum's 70th birthday BBQ, always seems wrong a family photo minus my brother Bob who now lives in USA.

and .....started and finished this one of our friends Shellie and Kit who came to visit in June.

Rubbish photo's as per usual but really struggling to hold the camera with poorly hands.

Going for a wander around town tomorrow with Dawn and may have to have some retail therapy LOL.

Scrapping

2011-09-18T13:19:00.000Z

Had a lovely much needed scrap day with Dawn Friday, followed by Papermaze crop Saturday, doesn't get much better than that does it LOL.

Made a DLO of grandsons enjoying the summer holiday, all papers were left over scraps so no idea what makes they were LOL.

Left

Right

Together

Ruby remains fairly stable but poor old Jim seems to have hurt his shoulder so he's trying to avoid putting any weight through it with the result he balancing on front and back lack on one side, not good for a tripod!

Feeling a tad worried as DD is going into hospital tomorrow for an operation and of course being a Mum we worry don't we. Shall have to keep busy all day!

Another canvass

2011-09-14T13:16:00.000Z

For my friend Joan I decided to make her a canvass with a photo of her beautiful Granddaughter Maddie.

Papers I bought 2nd hand at Bramford crop and are DCWV Linen Closet, the poem I found on the Internet and just played around with it a bit and Eric helped me de clutter the photo so I could add the poem to it! Title was done on the cricut and then had glossy accents added to it.

I like it but don't love it, something is wrong and can't figure out what LOL. I think on reflection it's a bit to busy, hey ho all stuck down now.

Finally the date for op

2011-09-13T11:32:00.000Z

Hospital rung and finally gave me the date for next op on hand 28th October, they were concerned that it's a way off and apologised but I was really pleased LOL. Means the wrist has another 6/7 weeks to carry on getting stronger, just have to nurse that pin that keeps on trying to get out. Have to go and have all pre admission checks redone and see surgeon again as he hasn't seen hand since July but at least plans can now be made!

Ruby and Jim are both okay (touches wood and throwing salt)......

Busy Bee

2011-09-05T11:40:00.000Z

Still no date for op! may have to bite the bullet and ring hospital this week and one pin is getting close to breaking through the skin but I'm pleased I've held out this long as the wrist has become much stronger the last few weeks.

Made two more Christmas presents, first is a 20 x 16 inch clip frame for son all about the walk with the Suffolk Police press officers write up in the middle. Rubbish photo because it has a protective film over it.

Second is a canvass for my dear friend Shellie, photo from their last visit in June, and woohoo they're coming again this weekend.

Then two layouts from Bramford crop, first is of Mum aged sixteen, love this photo and the kit was perfect for it.

Then a rare photo of me and Eric at Mum's 70th birthday BBQ, such a simple layout but I love it.

Alfie Bear has conjunctivitis in his blind eye and has been really out of sorts for the bear, Jim has good and bad days with his one remaining back leg, seems to be the knee not locking out. So of course his Daddy takes him for a ride around the village when he's not up to walking, my hounds are not SPOILT ARE THEY lol
Ruby had a miserable day Friday with the heat and humidity but now it's cooler she back to being full of beans, other than her rapid breathing and being a tad skinny she looks so well, it's hard to think just how ill she is.

So on to the next Christmas project LOL....

Oh dear naughty blogger

2011-08-28T14:04:00.000Z

Good excuse as usual though been a poorly poppet! anyway after two weeks I'm finally feeling better.

Ruby had a very bad few days and we thought it was time to let her go but then remembered a friend and told us to try steroids so we did AND boy have they made a difference, she can breath much easier and is full of beans. Of course the vets can't say how long it will last and we have now exhausted all options so when she begins to go down again sadly we will have no choice but to let her pass. Each day is becoming a wonderful bonus and we catch glimpses of the dog she should be if not suffering from so many tumours in her chest. Far from being a sad time we are all making the most of each day she has.

Jim also had a few off days where he could barely walk but has slowly recovered and the two spend lots of time together. It's a great comfort to us knowing Ruby has a special friend in Jim.

So having finished all the birthday cards and Christmas cards, I've pressed on and made all the wedding invites etc for DD wedding in May, so when I finally get a date for the op next month i won't be worrying about not having done stuff.

Busy

2011-08-14T14:30:00.000Z

Been a busy old week making up birthday cards for the rest of the year and also making Christmas cards, yup I did say Christmas cards! No choice really as next op in September will put a stop to all things creative for quite a while, so being the organised little thing that I am I've designed, written and adressed all of the cards. All the cards are very simple digi ones and not what I would have preferred to do but hey better than nothing LOl.

Alfie Bear's blind has been a worry all week with white gunky stuff coming out, we have to be extra careful with the eye as the socket is so sunken, suspect a grass seed got in but seems better now!

Ruby has had a good week, we seem to have stopped the weight loss for now and she's a happy girl, even chased a cat this week.

No scrapping on Friday as Dawn is away, so I've made a start on a few Christmas presents and now have to start designing and making Vikki's wedding invites.

Looking forward to Otley crop next week, as I don't have a date for the op in September yet every crop is becoming precious as I doubt I'll be able to go to any after it for a while.

Bramford crop

2011-08-07T10:09:00.000Z

had a super day at crop yesterday! and came away with twp prizes in the draws Janina did. Thank you Janina. Not so many people as usual, guess people are off on their holidays, anyway it meant there was lots of room to spread out LOL.

3 Layouts completed, although they are all hybrid, first was totally digi and just mounted onto cardtock. It is square in real life LOL.

This one was mostly digi but with photo and a few other bits cut out and added.

and this one I designed on PC but then printed each piece out separately and cut out and carried on as you would a paper LOl. Rubbish photo's as per usual

Friday is scrap day!

2011-08-05T17:17:00.000Z

I love Friday's and it's worth having to rush around all week doing boring chores to free up one day to scrap, chat and chill!

I have a long list of layouts I want/need to do before next op so have opted to them hybrid which is a mixture of digi and normal scrapping and so much quicker for me.

These two record the day when we finally managed to get the photo we need to launch the publicity for the coast to coast walk and the t-shirts that we had specially designed.

Papers and embellishments are from a free kit called Bike Boy.

Ruby had her two check up Tuesday and vet was pleased with her, so carry on as we are. She had a bad night with the heat and humidity Wednesday but other than that has been quite perky and looks adorable in her new collar.

Bramford crop tomorrow yay!

Mum's 70th Birthday BBQ

2011-08-01T13:22:00.000Z

Today Mum is 70 and to celebrate there was a family BBQ yesterday. We all had a great time and it was super catching up with extended family that we don't see so often. I expect there will be lots of photo's to scrap! This one is of me the birthday girl and my cousin Sandra, nice hat Sandra LOL...

Mum asked for donations for the walk rather than presents and that has brought the final total for coast to coast walk in aid of greyhound gaps kennel fund to £2,545!!!!!!!!! next year's adventure is already being planned.

I made Mum a little digi album, which she loved!

Ruby is still and off to vets tomorrow for 2 week check up.

Weekly round up and stuff!

2011-07-30T13:58:00.000Z

Where does the time go, can't believe over a week has past since I blogged!

Ruby is doing okay, she has a new pill from the vets which helps with her breathing and we've started her on the essiac tea together with some homoeopathic things that will hopefully boost her immune system and give her some extra time. It's quite hard keeping any weight on her now but she is keen to eat and walk and seems as happy as ever. This morning she and Jim chased a bunny (no they didn't catch it) and she was so excited when she came home and recovered quicker than poor old Jim who barely made it through the door before collapsing LOL. A couple of photo's of them lined up for sweeties. Think Gangley must be in amongst the legs because I remember her being there but blowed if I can spot her LOL. On the 2nd photo you can see Jim and Alfie are both missing a back leg, for different reasons.

Had a lovely birthday tea round son's Thursday eve and for his birthday present I made him a digi mini album all about the coast to coast walk.

Yesterday Dawn and I scrapped as usual and I did this hybrid page using a free kit called biker boy.

Dawn and I popped into town this morning for a mooch around and she spotted a dress in M & Co sale for £15 and persuaded me to try it on, fitted so well and looked so nice that I bought it, lord knows where I think I'll wear it LOL. anyway it made my day finding something that looked good and was cheap LOL.

Tomorrow we're off to Mum's 70th birthday BBQ (birthday is actually Monday), looking forward to that, love meeting up with all the extended family which doesn't happen often these days as there are so many of us LOL....

Phew that was a long one, better not leave it so long me thinks LOL.

Sad news

2011-07-21T18:17:00.000Z

Yesterday Ruby our foster girl who has been poorly since arriving here in February had some x-rays which showed she has multiple tumours in her chest! The outlook is poor and we are all quite devastated! Hoping and praying Ruby will stay well enough to enjoy the summer here with us her family.

Everyone who has met Ruby falls in love with her, she is just the sweetest little lady, so gentle and quiet but boy does she come alive when Ben or Harvey visit, Miss Ruby two shoes adores the grandsons and it is wonderful to see them with her.

All tears have been shed away from Ruby as we don't want her stressed, after all she doesn't know she's sick and we don't intend telling her!

Other hounds are well and happy and I have been told wrist is healing well enough to go ahead with next op in September, oh deep joy!

Ruby and Ben

Ruby and Harvey

Canvass

2011-07-13T08:45:00.000Z

Using the papers left over from the layout I did on Saturday I've made this canvass for my friend Bim. Her beautiful greyhound passed away recently and is buried in our garden because she totally adored Eric and this was her favourite place to be. Hope she likes it. I used the flowers I made and then didn't put on the layout as they would have been to bulky.

Ruby was back at the vets last night and has gone from 26.4k last week to 27.1 this week yay! the vet said she was vastly improved but still a long way to go. He's hoping that's it's a deep routed bronchial infection and not something more sinister! today she is the brightest I have seen her in weeks! Paws crossed pleaseeeeeeeeeeeee

Bramford crop

2011-07-11T10:01:00.000Z

Had a super day Saturday at Bramford crop and did this kit from last month's Papermaze kit designed by Janina who also runs Bramford crop. Thought I was going to struggle with all the pleating but once Dawn suggested I do it from the back it got easier LOL. There is supposed to be 2 beautiful flowers on it but I've decided they would be to bulky to go in an album so have kept them back to use on a canvass I'm doing with the leftover papers. Photo is of Mum, Dad, my brother and his wife and daughter when Mum and Dad visited them last month in Colorado.

Pleased to say Jim is back to his normal cheeky self!

Ruby finishes abs's today and goes back to vets tomorrow, I'm thinking she may (paws crossed) be a little better, we're now feeding her extra meals to try and put some weight back on her and despite still coughing I haven't heard the wheeze for 2 days.

Busy week ahead, several projects I need to knuckle down and do and hospital Friday. The plan is to x ray wrist and see if it's fused enough to plan the next op! not sure if I'm ready to start going through that again just yet!

Scrap day!

2011-07-08T15:16:00.000Z

Thank goodness it's Friday and scrap day! really needed to sit down and chill out.

First one I started last week and never got round to finishing it was based on a previous kit designed by Vanessa from Papermaze. I always do a yearly album and felt my 2011 album needed the first page to be of Christmas! those of you who know me will remember I spent Christmas in hospital and we finally celebrated Christmas on the 3rd January 2011 LOL.

Second one is hybrid, I enlarged the photo of Ben and then faded the transparency added my journalling and printed it off, then added the two colour photo's and a circle of brads, it was going to be stitching but chickened out as wrist has been a tad sore this week.

Bramford crop tomorrow woohoo and I have a kit so don't need to prep anything.

Jim is back to himself after his funny turn at the weekend but Ruby doesn't seem too good at all, even by her standards she is very quiet but is eating and going for walks as usual. We're doing our best to try and fatten her up but it's not working and she looks like a bag of bones! She'll be going back to vets next weeks when her anti biotics are finished!

Pleased to report apart from a stinking cold cold Marc is fully recovered from his adventures!

The boys made the newspaper!

2011-07-07T12:45:00.000Z

Following on from this article in the local paper in April. (page 6). Marc was contacted yesterday from the Police press department who were keen for their achievements to be highlighted in the local paper again, so hot off the press is this follow up article here,( back page).

With gift aid added to just giving and a few more pennies the total is edging up to £2,500! boys are pretty much recovered just a few blisters left LOL.

Non walk stuff

2011-07-06T08:30:00.000Z

On the day the walk started our dear friends Shellie and Kit arrived for 5 days, they are such lovely people but live in Hereford so we only get to see them maybe once or twice a year! We all get on so well and they totally adore and spoil the hounds and us! I knew they would come armed with gifts so made them this little wall hanging, sadly it's a terrible photo.

The Monday temperatures soared to over 30 degrees and everyone retired for a siesta, Eric found me crashed out with Ruby one side and Gangley the other. Just what you need two fur coats LOl unusual though because it's normally Aflie and Mojo who join me for a nap LOL.

Photo of Shellie Kit and hounds (have edited out faces)

Alfie looking very regal

Mojo trying for cute

Their visits always pass so quickly and on Wednesday it was time to say goodbye.

Jim has had a funny incident, started Saturday evening, he was huffing and puffing and salivating so much his muzzle was soaked. We ended up taking him to the vets Sunday as he had gotten worse over night, vets weren't sure what wa going on but gave him a steroid injection and anti inflammatory injection and he seems a bit better.

In my opinion Ruby has been unwell for a few weeks, dropping weight and condition but each visit to vets found nothing wrong, yesterday she went for yearly jabs and the vet finally heard this wheeze/crackle I kept on hearing, he wasn't happy with it and took some bloods and gave ab's, so now we have to wait for results and see if they indicate what could be wrong. Ruby has dropped another 2.4kg in 3 weeks, feeling sick with worry for her! Ruby has ried very hard to be friends with Lucky but the ducks is a loner so now she's decided to attach herself to Jim and seems happier to have a special friend.

Going to crop Saturday and have loads of projects on the go, so might even have something to show soon LOL.

The end!

2011-07-04T08:54:00.000Z

The boys finished the walk at 19.11 last night in glorious sunshine

and in true Wainwright tradition walked out to the sea to dip there toes and take a few minutes to reflect on the last 9 days. Marc said it was a mixture of exhaustion, surrealism and total euphoria!

and then it was time to meet up with the family

have a pint and fish and chips and then start the long ride home!

This morning the just giving and gift aid come to just under £2,400 which will go the he kennel fund for Greyhound Gap.

Marc. Steve, Greyhound Gap and myself would like to thank everyone who has supported the walk and given so generously! we're hoping there will be a few more pennies at the end of the month to add to the total.

So for now walk co-ordinator (that's me LOl) is signing off and putting her crafting hat back on LOL.....

THE FINAL DAY

2011-07-03T18:12:00.000Z

3rd July - Day 9 Blakey Ridge to Robin Hoods Bay

THE FINAL DAY

The boys started out before 7am and as they left before brekkie the landlord left them out packed lunches. So off they set in high spirits. They had decided to split the day into three 9 and a half mile stretches .

9 and a half done and first pit stop!

Pushing on and another 9 and a half done!

The North Sea views are fabulous and just a few miles left to finish the walk.

Spirits are high as the news reaches the boys that the 2k target has been reached.

Marc's wife will be waiting for them at the finishing point armed with camera, so come back tomorrow for the

final chapter!

Day 8

2011-07-02T18:48:00.001Z

2nd July - Day 8 Ingleby Cross to Blakey Ridge

Both boys stayed off their feet quite literally for 12 hours after completing yesterdays 33 miles and by morning had recovered, so after a hearty breakfast set off in high spirits for the penultimate day!

They managed to average 2 and a half mph over the Cleveland Hills

and 5 miles in came across a drink station that was for a long distance 33-mile race. They tried to make out they were part of it but the t-shirts or the backpacks gave it away, they still got drinks and encouragement and were very grateful!

First view of the North Sea

So tomorrow is the final day !!!!! and it's going to be a long long day but hopefully the thought of it being the last part will make a bit easier, that and the ride home that will be waiting at the end for them!

Day 7

2011-07-01T18:06:00.002Z

1st July - Day 7 Grinton to Ingleby Cross

Not a good day for Marc and Steve. The walk was a long (33 miles) boring one through field after field with lots of pain due to Marc’s blisters and Steve’s sore ankle. Each step felt like their feet were on fire and they said it’s not fun anymore!

Seasoned walkers have told them that 9 days is impossible and even 10 would be hard going but the plan is still to try and finish on day 9, as they need to be on duty Monday!

21 and a half miles tomorrow climbing the Cleveland Hills and Sunday the final day looks set to be at least 16 hours of walking/crawling the final 28.

Time to grit teeth and get heads down and push through!

All messages of support are being gratefully received. I have to admit to feeling quite low on their behalf, it's a rotten feeling being so far away and not being able to help! I quite literally had to talk to Marc tonight as he and Steve struggled through the last mile and waffled on about anything just to keep them moving. Hope tomorrow is a better day for them.

On a lighter note Just giving page has reached 84%.

Day 6

2011-06-30T19:07:00.000Z

30th June - Day 6 Kirkby Stephen to Grinton

An early start for the boys today setting out at 6.50am temperature a chilly 4 degrees.

The road was steep to the top of Hartley Quarries with good views of Kirkby Stephen. And then on to Nine Standards as this was the first objective of the day at 2,170 ft this was the last time they will be over 2,000ft on the walk. The Cairns are massive!

The boys were lucky to see the views as shortly after low level clouds descended and they only just found the path down in time.

They then travelled through the peat bogs, the bogs entailed them wading shin deep for 2 miles descending…. Energy sapping!

They then headed past some of the waterfalls Keld is famous for, Keld village is officially the half way stage of the walk! From there they then enjoyed walking alongside the River Swale and into Reeth Village and then onto the hostel at Grinton.

Feet starting to feel the effects now

115 miles now completed

Tomorrow will be 33 miles but is the flattest part of the walk.

Day 5

2011-06-30T08:48:00.001Z

29th June - Day 5 Sharp to Kirkby Stephen

Short update today no mobile signal, had to make do with a very short email LOL......

I'm told the hat is the wrong way not for posing but to prevent sunburn LOL.

Photo take on Marc as they departed Smardale.

92 miles completed

Thursday is a 7am start and 25 miles
Now we will find out how their feet can cope with the longer miles each day

Days 3 and 4

2011-06-29T11:39:00.000Z

27th June - Day 3 Grasmere to Patterdale

Should have been the shortest day but actually turned out to be a long difficult day after they came across a group of girls doing their Duke of Edinburgh award. One of their party had collapsed and neither they nor the boys had any signal on the mobiles. As police officers they have basic first aid skills and were able to put the young girl into recovery and decided it was a severe case of heat stroke and de-hydration along with massive panic attacks. After calming her down and re hydrating her they then had to set about bringing her off the mountain. Eventually once the signal on their mobiles came back they rang her support vehicle and found a place that the van could reach but it was some 3 miles away and took another 3 and a half hours to get her there. Once they had safely handed her over she was rushed to hospital! Once they had actually finished the walk they headed to the nearest pub and were met by a round of applause from people also walking the route who had seen what they had done. So far from the shortest day it ended up with two exhausted hero’s, well that’s what a group of Americans said LOL.

Photo taken at Grisedale Tairn

28th June - Day 4 Patterdale to Sharp

The official route was 16 miles today but they added in the extra 3 taking the walk from its 197 miles to the 200 they wanted. Not counting the 1 and a half-mile they took a detour on due to bad navigating Lol.

Today they climbed to he highest point of the walk Kidsty Pike at 2,650feet!

Resting stop for the night was rather aptly The Greyhound Inn, where hopefully there was a bath for them to soak their tired feet in. 5 days to go and both boys are shattered! from now on in they will be stepping up the daily miles to an average of 22 per day but the terrain does now start to flatten out which should make it a bit easier.

68 Miles done!

Day 1 and 2 of the walk

2011-06-27T09:16:00.000Z

25th June - Day 1 St Bees to Ennerdale

A nice easy start to the walk with a short romp of 14.75 miles! A good chance to get used to walking with the backpacks and trying out the navigating skills LOL.Weather forecast is cloudy/drizzle and 15 degrees

A time tested tradition marks the start of the walk with a paddle in the sea at St Bees before setting off.

and a photo pointing to the start of the coast to coast walk...

26th June - Ennerdale to Grasmere 24 miles!

From Ennerdale the walk starts to get serious with very difficult terrain and steep declines! Greenup Edge took them up as high as 2,000 where the visibility rapidly deteriorated and the path down couldn’t be found! Eventually they got back on course with another steep climb up to 1,600 ft at High Crag followed by another steep decline down to Grasmere their stopping point for the night!

38 miles completed!

and not without pain!

Marc's boots despite being broken in are giving him severe discomfort over his ankle he broke a few years ago, luckily they've found a shop and bought him a pair that will sit lower and hopefully make the walk more comfortable as the reality of doing it in 9 days and not the normal 12-14 days is just starting to sink in LOL.

and they're off

2011-06-24T11:58:00.000Z

So Marc and Steve are now on the way to Carisle ready to start the walk tomorrow. A big thank you to Virgin for the complimentary tickets! weather forecast is rain, rain and more rain for the first 3 days! 200 miles in 9 days is going to be hard going.

Papermaze crop

2011-06-20T10:36:00.000Z

had a lovely day at Papermaze crop and actually started and finished a layout LOl. First time in many months i scrapped something completely original, I think when you don't scrap so much the creativity seems to dry up and I've had so many kits to use I just haven't bothered doing my own thing.

Bought these papers last year to use for Marc and Rachael's wedding and decided they would do for this Lo, photo's are of Vikki and Mathew at Eric's birthday bash, I asked them to smile for a nice photo and they just wouldn't play ball, anyway he who laughs last etc etc so i used them anyway!

Mum and Dad are back from America and Marc and family from France, although Marc sets off again Friday to start the coast to coast walk Saturday and we have some very dear friends arriving Saturday for 5 days so it's all still hectic here LOl.

Oh and the other piece of news is Eric has finally been discharged from hospital. On Monday he went for test, then back Friday to see consultant and results. Apparently he has the profile of an athlete, lord knows how he got his helmet on to ride home! I feel a funny Lo coming on. They still couldn't explain why it happened, just one of those things I guess.

On Wednesday our friend Bim had to let her greyhound go to the bridge. Now Jess adored Eric and stayed with us many times over the last 8 years, so it was decided that Jess should have her finally resting place in our garden, she was after all an honoury member of the Taylor pack and would have run through fire to get to her beloved Eric. Jess was just short of her 13th birthday and had a wonderful life with Bim and far from it being a sad burial it turned out to be a celebration of her life and quite an emtional evening but in a nice way. Sleeptight dear Jess.

Hounds are all well (touching wood).........

Sue x

Super weekend

2011-06-14T13:23:00.000Z

Dawn and I had a lovely weekend away, weather was iffy but didn't really bother us as we were scrapping LOL. Managed 6 layouts and Dawn a whooping 8.

First up a gorgeous kit from Vanessa at papermaze using papers from My little shoe box.

This from Bramford crop designed by Janina using papers from Kaisercraft

This is made up from leftover scraps, saw something similar whilst blog hopping and just sort threw it together, A few well placed embellishments hides all the joins in the papers LOl

this is my favourite another one from Vanessa using papers Pink Paisley

Love the simplicity of this one from Janina Basic grey papers

and this last one also from Janina at Bramford crop, some of which I did digi at home because no way I can sew at the moment LOl.

Hounds all well and happy to see their Mum back home!

Busy weekend

2011-06-06T15:14:00.000Z

Well that shocked my surgeon when he suggested we wait and give the wrist some more healing time LOL don't think he could quite believe I agreed to it so readily LOL. So back in 6 weeks for x-ray and all being well book next op which will be to take out 1 pin and replace knuckles! of course the op I really want is to repair ruptured tendons but that has to be done last, ho hum guess I had better get used to poking myself and dogs in the eye with my sticky out finger.

Been a busy old weekend, well actually it started Friday what with having to be at hospital for 8.30am, then Marc and Rachael's big move and a few problems from Mother (How can me muuver create havoc when she's on holiday in America) !

Eric had a few hours off from doing lots of bits for Marc and went for a nice bike ride Sunday, whilst I got on and finally finished pots and baskets.

Looking forward to Friday when Dawn and I go off for our yearly weekend away to Norfolk. Lots of scrapping and chilling out time and maybe the odd malteser LOL.

Lucky is still looking really well, paws crossed.

Round Up

2011-06-02T10:05:00.000Z

Good grief where do the days go!

Mojo has had his stitches out, bit tricky as he shook so bad LOL.

Lucky also visited the vets and he was totally astounded at how well she is since starting the steroids. So the plan is to continue on same dose for two weeks then reduce for two weeks then back to the vets. Lucky is back to being her normal happy bouncy self, still has the horrible fur loss but we think there may be a tiny bit of regrowth coming.Just wish we knew what's behind all the problems!

Ruby has snapped another nail, blow me if not 5 minutes before Eric said her nails are starting to improve just one dodgy one left. Well the one dodgy one snapped, loads of blood and her foot is really sore.

Having spent all of Saturday and Sunday working on the dog mobile, the old Volvo is back in service phew! we are totally lost without it lord knows how long Eric can keep resurrecting it LOl.

I'm off to the hospital tomorrow and am hoping the surgeon will agree to giving me another month to carry on healing before we start the next lot of operations. The darn pin has moved again and now the knuckle and finger are dislocated but other than that it's starting to feel a bit better.

No scrapping last Friday or tomorrow BUT loads the following weekend as Dawn and I are off on our yearly chill out weekend. A caravan in Caistor where we scrap, chat, eat loads of maltesers and drink earl grey. BLISS!

Not much to share but don't think this has been blogged, Vikki's birthday card. Another hybrid project.

Going to be a busy few days a Marc is moving tomorrow!

Mojo and Lucky

2011-05-26T09:22:00.000Z

Mojo somehow managed to rip his side on Tuesday, possibly on the radiator in the porch as all six were pushing and shoving to get out the door when Daddy got home! Result trip to vets, GA to stitch him up and he was supposed to stay in overnight but by 9pm they had had enough of his howling and he came home! and then howled all night and kept us all awake. He's much better today thank goodness, I've never known a dog to be as accident prone as Mojo.

Having stopped Lucky's cushing medication, we then started her on low dose steroids to try and reduce the inflammation in her joints, two days later she looks much better but latest tests have still thrown up no clues as to what is causing her problems. Her tail is again open and sore!

Just had a long call with the insurance girls at the vets, talk about complicated, with 3 of them having claims at the moment, daren't even think about how much excess I have to pay but thank god they are insured.

Some photo's of Ducks, tail, face and paws.

Otley crop

2011-05-23T10:32:00.000Z

Had a super day at Otley crop and managed another hybrid layout plus a card LOl.

Photo's are of Eric, my Dad and the boys playing footie at Eric's birthday do.

I used a digi kit from Scrap Orchard called just for kicks ans this is how it started off, had a brainwave and decided to do the usual 12 x 12 but instead of wasting the rest of the paper (A3+) put my embellishments underneath it.

And then another brainwave phew two in 1 day! sprayed the embellishments with this stuff to make them look less home made LOl

Photo's printed separately as usual onto gloss photo paper

and finished up with this.

Friday scrapping

2011-05-20T15:49:00.004Z

Another week rolls by, where does the time go. had a lovely chilled outday scrapping with Dawn.

Another hybrid layout of the boys having fun with a treasure hunt on Eric's birthday. Digi kit from Scrap the day - Happiness.Have since taking photo added a few butterflies so it balances out with the golf page from last week.

When I do a hybrid page I design the basic page then print off the photo's and elements I then want to layer up much as you would in a normal LO. So much easier than hunting around for papers etc and so much easier when you are slightly hindered with a poorly hand LOl...

Off to Otley crop tomorrow.

Lucky is now 6 days without cushing meds and is much happier, eating better but her stiffness and swollen paws remain as bad! at least we feel like Lucky is back with us and I'm keeping a diary of how she is day by day, hoping it will throw up some clues as to what the heck is going on with her.

Tonight is the big quiz night to kick start the fund raising for the charity coast to coast walk, so fingers crossed we get off to a good start.

Normal Friday service resumed!

2011-05-13T17:48:00.000Z

For the first time in ages Dawn and I managed to have what was our usual scrapping day. What with me in hospital and then Eric and then bank holidays it just hasn't happened in ages.

My layout is a hybrid one using a digi kit called "happiness" from Scrap the day, I saw a LO on UKS and loved it so although that was totally digi I sort of scraplifted it but made it different IYKWIM LOL..

Photo's are Ben and Harvey taken a Eric's birthday bash.

So Lucky's results finally came back after we chased them, they had been sent to the wrong surgery, still same company, I am really angry, sick dog waiting on results poor show! Tests, were normal, so both us and the vets are at a complete loss as to what is going on! One possible side effect from the cushings drugs is swollen joints which she has but on the other hand as Cushings has never been confirmed (tests are always inconclusive) it could be her steroid levels has been reduced so low that an underlying problem of arthritis has surfaced. So round and round we go, still no nearer to finding out what is wrong with poor old ducks! We have decided to stop the cushing drugs for a week and keep a daily diary to see what happens, she has no appetite, is stiff and sore and continuing fur loss. HEARTBREAKING.

The launch of a new blog - Marc & Steve's coast to coast walk

2011-05-10T17:40:00.001Z

Plus a re design of this one LOL!

Ok as many of you know my son and his colleague are doing the coast to coast walk to raise funds for Greyhound Gap, Eric and I have been involved with gap for over 7 years now and fostered several hounds for them (and kept most of them hehehe) currently 4 out of the 6 hounds here are gap dogs. Whilst discussing it all with Lisa the founder of gap she asked if I would do a blog so gappers could follow the walk and fundraising etc. Marc does have a FB page but of course I don't have access to that so agreed it was a good idea and have duly created said blog LOL.

So here it is, if you would like to become a follow that would be great and if you fancied putting it on your blog and passing it about that would be fantastic. To those of you who have already given me donations thank you so much!

So Mr T went to Norwich hospital today and had ecg and xrays etc, and was given the all clear re heart virus, has to go back again next month for respiratory check up, he's much better and gets stronger each week.

Still waiting for Lucky's results!!!!!!!

NSD Crop

2011-05-08T16:47:00.000Z

Had a lovely day at Bramford crop yesterday, thank you Janina!

There was a really relaxed atmosphere but being the lightweight I am we left mid afternoon, I wonder how many lasted to 8pm. Managed to finish off two layouts,I've worked on them several times but both were a bit fiddly with iffy hands so pleased to finally finish them off.

Both are class kits from Papermaze crop and designed by Vanessa. The first one had a background done by spraying glimmer mist through a mask, no way was I attempting that LOL but did managed a very similar effect digitally.

Lucky has had more test and were hopig for the results tomorrow, she's been very quiet all weekend and shocked us both today when she refused her brekkie, unheard of for the ducks....

Wrist update

2011-05-04T12:39:00.000Z

Hospital yesterday!

Well the good news is I came home minus the plaster cast!

The not so good news is I have a splint to wear 24/7 but I can take it off to wash it and cream it yay!

The next bit is complicated, there are two pins that go through the bone to fuse it (not fully fused yet), the constant pain I have is because there basically isn't enough room and one is being pushed up and out so the smaller pin (when I say smaller it's still about 6 inches long) needs to be removed but we have to wait at least two months (unless it comes out through skin by knuckle, then it would have to be done immediately) so the wrist can carry on fussing a bit more.
The knuckles also need replacing and the two fingers with ruptured tendons need repairing but that means going back in the area that's had 3 recent ops and risks damaging the nerve further, so surgeon thinks he could cut a tendon from other fingers and attach to ruptured fingers (you have two tendons apparently), complicated isn't it.

Anyway this would mean being in plaster for the next year! Which apart from not being fun wouldn't do the hand any good so surgeon is going to do some research and see if it's possible to combine all the ops!

So today I had the best ever naked hand shower LOL....and if you see me at crop don't ask to see the hand cos I'm not showing anyone it is totally gross and makes me feel sick looking at it!

Last night we noticed Lucky's paws had swollen up and she could barely walk! just as she seemed to be responding to the cushings drugs, so off to vets this morning and the vet is mystified as to whats is happening, so she's going in tomorrow for more tests, poor little love never makes a fuss, it is absolutley heartbreaking, seeing her like this and not being able to get to the bottom of it.

I love this photo of Lucky taken last summer before all her problems started, she really is the sweetest, most gentle little girl.....

Mr T's birthday bash

2011-05-01T14:19:00.000Z

Well the weather held and Eric had a super birthday with all the family coming round. And yes he loved his album and also got some kit he was very pleased with (tools LOL)....

Eric getting some help to unwrap prezzie's

Ben and Harvey amused themselves for ages playing golf

and then we had a treasure hunt

followed by a game of fottie with Eric and great Grandad

Marc and Rach

Vikki and Mathew

Me and Eric

Me Mum and Vikki

Hounds getting in on the act LOL

A good time had by all! and lots of scrapping potential LOL.....

And then in the evening I collapsed and watched the high lights of the wedding.....

two posts in two days!

2011-04-28T13:12:00.000Z

Made this for Mr T's birthday tomorrow, has taken ages despite being digi LOL and as for the covers well lets just say that was Easter LOL...

Lucky is off to vets tonight, paws crossed her review of cushings medicines is positive!

Got the family coming for a birthday tea tomorrow so had better get cracking with the preparations...

Oh dear!

2011-04-27T17:41:00.000Z

What a bad blogger I am, sometimes life just gets in the way LOL....

I've been busy doing loads of stuff for the charity coast to coast walk, sponsorship forms are doing very well as is the response to 150 plus letters I sent out to local companies. Lots of lovely prizes have been donated for the raffle which will be held on the quiz night. I have been asked to do a blog so people can keep up to date as it unfolds, the boys had a nice piece in the local paper last week with a follow up interview planned! so watch this space (well it's on my to do list).

Lucky has started medication for Cushings, all very scary and needs very careful monitoring but after several weeks of being very flat she has perked up a bit this week.

Mr T continues to improve but still tires quickly and has more hospital appts than me, now that's saying something LOl. I'm still in plaster and off to the hospital next Tuesday so fingers crossed.

I wanted to make the lovely lady who brought her greyhounds over for the photo shoot a little thank you present, so going back to Carol's class I made this frame. A lot more basic than I would have liked but one handed and all that LOL...

Sue x

Just giving

2011-04-11T13:30:00.000Z

Marc and Steve who are doing the coast to coast walk in June would like to announce their just giving page has now gone live and is ready for donations LOL. I have placed a widget on my blog if anyone fancies sending a few pennies. Lots and lots od fund raising activities will take place over the next two months, so paws crossed they can raise lots of money.

Muggins here now has over 100 letters to send out on their behalf LOl...

Many thanks Sue x

Photo shoot

2011-04-07T14:15:00.000Z

What do you call a group of 11 hounds............. HEAVEN and CHAOS LOL

So finally last night we got the photo's taken for Marc and Steve to launch the publicity for their Coast to Coast walk in June. They're hoping to raise £2,000 for greyhoundgap, more details to follow when FB page and Just giving pages go live.

So a few photo's of the shoot.

First up son Marc and colleague Steve wearing their specially designed t shirts.

and 11 hounds, not one single grump or growl from any of them. 7 of these gorgeous hounds owe their lives to greyhoundgap!

At last

2011-04-06T10:21:00.000Z

Eric finally came home last Tuesday and just in time as I was totally exhausted from the worry, lousy cold, chest infection etc etc etc LOL and far from me looking after him I all but collapsed and poor Eric ended up looking after me, totally embarrassing and not the home coming I had planned LOl.

The hounds were ecstatic to have Dad home and have quickly settled back into their routine, Eric is taking it easy and is still getting very tired, so I think it will take him longer to come back up to full strength than either of us realised BUT we are just grateful he's home.

Nothing on the crafting front LOL but the cold finally seems to be releasing me from it's grip and today I actually feel a bit better.

Got a nice new clean plaster cast yesterday and the follow up appt for the ulcer was okay, nothing sinister from biopsy's, still not allowed to take the anti inflammatories nor will I ever be allowed by the looks of it but at least it's all calmed down and for that I am very grateful.....

Might have some photo's to share tomorrow as we have 5 greyhounds coming tonight so we can take the photo's to start the publicity and fundraising of Marc's coast to coast walk in June to raise some money for Greyhoundgap.....more of that later as they say.....

Many many thanks for all the messages and support we've received, to say this year has been challenging is an understatement but hopefully it's onwards and upwards from here on in....

Little Ben had Kenny Bear popped over Sunday

(Kenny is the class bear who gets to go home with whoever has been the best behaved child)

So many lovely photo's to scrap!!!

Did I say normal service

2011-03-27T15:12:00.000Z

What a stupid thing to say talk about tempting fate!

When I got home from crop last Saturday I found Mr T really poorly in bed with chest pains, things got worse and worse until finally I had to call an ambulance and after ecg tests etc they thought he was having a heart attack and rushed him off to the Norfolk and Norwich hospital our hospital no longer deals with hearts.

Anyway to cut a long week short it wasn't a heart attack but the heart itself is inflamed and he also has pneumonia! the first few days were very scary as he was so poorly and I was told if he wasn't so fit then he would have been in serious danger!

Thankfully eric has turned the corner and although still on intravenous antibiotics etc is much better and the Dr's will review the situation tomorrow. Sadly the ward sis now in quarantine due to S & D bug so no visitors.

I went to hospital Friday fully convinced my plaster cast would come off but no after xrays etc it was decided to leave on for another 5 weeks. I was not and am not HP!

It's been a long difficult scary week not made an easier by having the filthiest cold possible but I have been very lucky with all the help I've had. So many people have driven me to the hospital which including visiting is at least a 4 hour round trip and the dogs have been walked etc etc etc.

Would really really lie Mr T to come home and life to return to some kind of normailty. PLEASE ............

Normal service

2011-03-18T16:40:00.000Z

At last a normal Friday spent scrapping with Dawn!

A beautiful layout designed by Janina for Bramford crop using cosmo cricket cogs papers. Photo is of Harvey on his 5th birthday last month.

Papermaze crop tomorrow, hair coloured, airing cupboard done. Life is ok today LOL...

arrgh! 3 hospital appointments later

2011-03-16T11:29:00.000Z

Sometimes life is just so arrgh!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everything I touch goes wrong at the moment! the house is a mess as we had a new boiler fitted and had to take everything out of the airing cupboard, who would have thought so much could have been shoved in there. So Mr T has a filthy cold and due to lack of pills I look and feel like an old girl (please don't say it I know) so not only is it all waiting to go back, I have a huge grey streak awaiting a colour job and neither of us have the energy for any of it. And as for my PC and printers well lets just say I could scream, talk about being difficult, I'll ask Mr T to sort it all when he feels better but until then arrrgh!!!

Anyway 3 hospital appointments since last post, hand is ok and is now on it's 3rd plaster cast and ulcer is starting heal, that's the good news, the bad bit is it's unlikely I will ever be able to go back on my RA pills and that just sucks! and even when cast comes off hand will still be useless due to ruptured tendons, I can't decide if it's hurry up and do the next op to fix them or oh god give me a break from hospital. LOL.

Have managed to make this little mini album, it's a digi kit called hoo loves you, just needs putting together.

Really looking forward to going out Saturday to crop and have even got stuff sorted.

Ruby continues to be happy and settled but has broken another nail, so I'll leave you with a few hound photo's from this week.

Ruby looking pretty and cute

3 in a bed

spot Mojo

and Mojo breaking his heart because his Dad went out to take Jim for a ride to the meadow and he got left behind LOl he went on the 2nd run so don't be worrying he missed out LOL.

and Gangley and Jim just because!

Scrapping

2011-03-06T10:28:00.000Z

Spent Friday scrapping with Dawn and did this very simple Lo designed by Wendy McKee with a few changes LOL, I added the border digitally and the photo is of Ben an Harvey. I had forgotten it was still in my bag as it was part of a kit from Henley last year.

Then yesterday had a lovely day at Bramford crop and did this layout which is a hybrid. The papers are printed direct onto bazzill, then I've added the photo IRL and the embellishments were printed out but then cut (by Mr T) and added to it, the digital kit is called Little boy from Echo park papers and cost me a whole dollar to download....

One of the scars on my knuckle has been really red and angry for several days and last night it erupted oh yuck !!!! hoping it's just the stitches and not an infection, so I'm covering it in germolene and praying I don't end up having to go the the blasted hospital tomorrow!

Ruby or Ruby two shoes as she gets called is very happy and settled. Plans for re homing her have been put on the back burner until we get to the bottom of her problems with breaking nails. can't say I'm disappointed because she is such the perfect house guest LOL...