One Day of Silence

Purple Haze

The Artword this week is Botanicals, so I'm entering one of my Wisteria shots.

In mid- to late March, the Wisteria blooms in the area of Alabama where I live. The trees and bushes in the woods and along the roadways hang heavy with the soft lavender clusters. It's one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen. But you have to look fast. The blossoms last for only a week or two.

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On 04/29/2007, Nellie said ...

Most lovely! Do they have an aroma?

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On 04/29/2007, Terri said ...

Wow, those blooms are gorgeous. And congrats on the new baby...what a precious little one.

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On 04/29/2007, anita said ...

How beautiful! A long time ago I lived in Charleston, and the spring wisteria show was one of my favorite things.

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On 04/29/2007, Rian said ...

Mmmmm. I can still remember the heady scent of wisteria in San Diego (30 years ago).

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Welcome to the World, Lily Grace

We have a baby. Miss Lillian Grace Ferguson joined her family at 6:35 p.m. last night. She weighs 8 pounds and 1 oz, is 19 1/2 inches long and very beautiful as you can see.
Congratulations Heather, Jason, Gammie Lori (one of my bestest friends in all the world), and the rest of the family.

Proud papa Jason's hand cups little Lily's beautiful head

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On 04/27/2007, Nellie said ...

Beautiful newborn baby girl! Beautiful name!

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On 04/27/2007, Daisy Cottage said ...

Oh, SOOOOOOO precious!
xo,
Kim

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On 04/28/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

OH, what a lovely baby!

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On 04/28/2007, Nicole Reed said ...

Congratulations Susan, to you and your family! You are living my dream. Oh, to be a grandmother....Such a precious little baby!

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On 04/28/2007, Rian said ...

Congratulations! How wonderful!

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On 04/28/2007, Keron Lee said ...

what a beautiful little blessing. Congratulations to all & Welcome to the world little Lily
warm regards
Keron (in Australia)

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On 04/29/2007, Acey said ...

what a beautiful image! Thanks, also, for your recent comment on my blog :)

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On 04/30/2007, Lori said ...

Congratulations! How exciting!

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On 04/30/2007, Sarah said ...

Oh how precious! congratulations!

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On 04/30/2007, Susan Tuttle said ...

What a gorgeous baby! Congratulations!!

Warmly,
Susan

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On 04/30/2007, Susan D said ...

Congratulations on the new arrival.
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Back in the Saddle

The Sophinator continues to improve slowly. Here are someclues to her better health that we have witnessed this week:
**Three 4-wheeler rides in one day
**Treed a squirrel and barked at it up the tree
**Barks at visitor and sounds
**Visibly glad to see friends
**Watches dog-tv (stares out living room window)

She still has the bloated tummy, and her strength is not 100%. But we're coming along, thanks to all the prayers and good thoughts sent our way.

Yesterday I cleaned the back porch, which I had not done in ages. It was a wreck. But now it's neat and inviting. Maybe we'll have supper there tonight. Well, maybe not tonight. It's raining like crazy this morning. If that continues, the back porch won't be conducive to supping this evening.

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On 04/26/2007, Nicole said ...

So glad your pup is on the mend. Hope she is back to her old self in no time!

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On 04/26/2007, Rian said ...

So glad to see that Sophie the LBD (lil black dog) is on the mend!

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On 04/27/2007, Diane said ...

I'm off to a conference this weekend. You've had a very eventful week. Sorry to hear about the death in your family but glad to hear there's a new baby arriving soon and that Sophie is acting like her self again. Long Live Queen Sophie.
:D

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On 04/28/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Good for Sophie! Good for You too!
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Shabby Fabrics

Oh boy, Oh boy, Oh boy! I found a new fabric site. This one has oodles and oodles of romantic fabrics.

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On 04/26/2007, Nicole said ...

Oh boy, that is a great site! I feel like I am about to get into BIG trouble with my checkbook and credit card!
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I Am Woman; Hear Me Sqeak

The Artword for this week is "Woman." I'm late with my entry, but here it is.

For this collage, I used paper, pieced fabric triangles, buttons, paint, rubber stamp, a Starbucks coffee coozie, a garment tag, and gold braiding. I used both glue and machine stitching to attach everything.

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On 04/26/2007, Marsha said ...

Your blog has been delightful to visit. I hope to return soon..........now I think I must pay some attention to my blog. It is so neglected.

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On 04/30/2007, Sarah said ...

Susan, your collage is fantastic! I really love the design, and how you incorporated so many different types of materials. Wonderful piece!
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Take Time to Smell the Roses and Ride the 4-Wheeler

We went back to Dr. Woods today for a second ultrasound. Sophie was so good; she didn't act up, cry, or try to get away for the almost hour that it took to do the scan. We were in the room with her, and Vann petted her and talked to her all through the procedure. And although she was a very good girl, she was soooo ready to go home once they let her up. On the way out, she shoplifted a pig ear from a display rack. I guess she figured after going through all that, she deserved something.

Dr. Wood thinks she might have a small blockage in one of the veins in her abdomen. Other than that, everything looked fine. Dr. Rachel is going to let us know about putting her on another medication for the blockage.

Dr. Rachel called today and told Vann that her red blood cell count is up to 29! And there's good evidence, in the form of baby red cells, that Sophie's bone marrow is generating red blood cells.

Since she was so good today, Vann treated her to two 4-wheeler rides already. And who knows? There might even be a third one before the day is done. She seems to be feeling better today and breathing better too.

I want to continue to thank everyone who sends good wishes and prayers our way for our sweet Sophie. They're working.

Lori got a call this morning that her daughter-in-law is going in to have labor induced on Thursday. So Lori will be on her way to Houston in the morning. We're going to have a baby! Miss Lillian Grace. Daisy will be an aunt.

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On 04/24/2007, Rian said ...

LOL! Sophie boosted a pig ear! You go, girl!

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On 04/25/2007, kjquilts said ...

I'm so glad Sophie is doing better! I love the baby's name. That was my grandmother's name.I've always thought it was so pretty.
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The Grass Is Greener Now

OK, Blackberry Creek is spring green again. Had a cache problem, but it's fixed now. I think.

I'm So Blue

For some reason, the Blackberry Creek blog theme has gone blue. I don't know why, and I can't seem to make it go back to green--but I'm working on it. Is everyone seeing it in blue--or is it just me? Because the "edit design" page tells me it's still green. But it's not--it's blue.

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On 04/24/2007, Sandra said ...

It's green over this side of the Atlantic. Why does computer stuff do things like this?
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Sunday Morning Comin' Down

Yesterday afternoon, my sister Pat called and suggested we go thrift-store shopping. So we did. We were both disappointed to see that the pickings were slim at our favorite thrift store. We had never seen the shelves so bare. I did find the cute little bunny napkin rings (photo above), four knives and two spoons in my Oneida "Summer Mist" stainless pattern, and an Anne George book that I haven't read. I spent $6.71. And I think Pat spent a similar amount. We paid in cash, no less. We never get out of there without spending $50 or so and having to whip out a credit card or check book at checkout. But it was nice to get out of the house and spend a couple of hours with my sis.

Dr. Rachel never called us yesterday about Sophie's test. I called the clinic once and was told that the doctor hadn't had a chance to read the results yet, but would call us before she left. Vann says, "No news is good news," so not to worry.

Big milestone: Sophie chased a cat yesterday afternoon. Munchie (cat next door) was sitting in our backyard, just at the edge of the little wooded area that separates our house from the one behind us. We were in the backyard (me, Vann, and Sophie), watering the plants that I bought last week. Sophie saw Munchie and started to bark. Well, her barker is way out of tune these days. She sounded pitiful. I don't know if it's because she hasn't barked very much in the last two weeks or what.

Anyway, I let her out of the fence to go say "Hey" to Munchie. Of course, Munchie bowed up, as cats are like to do when faced with a barking dog. I know what Soph was saying: "Run, Munchie, so I can chase you." But Munch wouldn't run. So Vann aimed the spray from the watering hose her way, and off Munchie went with Sophie in hot pursuit, right to Munchie's cat door in her garage door.

Now you must understand that this is harmless cat chasing. Sophie would never hurt one of the cats next door. There are four of them, and Soph considers them her own. She just loves to chase them and, likewise, to have them chase her. We felt like this was a terribly good sign. She was running and barking--just like the old Soph.

Gotta go get ready for church. I'm going to try to do something creative this afternoon. Maybe sew a little, or work on the North Woods altered book that's late.

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On 04/24/2007, laura kong said ...

Those rabbits are a wonderful find! Makes me want to get out my set of napkin rings and make some napkins for them.

Thanks for your good wishes on my book!
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Who Knew???

"I'm trying to live a quiet, peaceful life and stay out of trouble, and all it is, is one thing after another."

The above quote could, quite literally, be my motto. But it isn't my quote. Instead, it was uttered by a spunky old broad up in Kentucky recently after she apprehended a thief in her barn. Leaning on her walker and brandishing a .38-caliber snubnosed handgun, 82-year-old Venus Ramey held the miscreant at bay until the cops arrived, having been called by a passing motorist.

What is even more interesting about this gun-totin' granny, is that she might be my kin (and I would be proud to claim her). You see, I'm a Ramey too--and there aren't many of us. My sisters and I just dance a jig every time a Ramey is named prominently in any area of life. And it seems Miss Venus has other claims to fame. She was Miss American 1944, the year I was born! Nobody ever told me this. WHY?

After winning the pageant with her singing, dancing and comedic talents, Ramey sold war bonds and her picture was displayed on a B-17 that flew missions over Germany in World War II. She was the first red-haired Miss America and the first one to be photographed in color. I'm so proud, my buttons would be popping if I was wearing any buttons right now. Her daddy and granddaddy were prominent in the Kentucky state legislature of the 1930s, and she had an ancestor who fought in the Revolutionary War (it's not clear what side he fought on).

You go, Cousin Venus! And if you're ever in these parts, stop in for a glass of iced tea and a chat.

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On 04/24/2007, Betty Jo said ...

What a wonderful story! Isn't history fascinating, especially if the people involved are possibly related to us. I truly hope you are actually related to this incredible lady. Do you have red hair? xoxo
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Sophie Update

Here's Vann, giving Sophie her meds. He has had to be very inventive. Sophie is one smart doggie, and she can often find the pill, swallow the goodie, and spit the pill out.

We returned to the vet clinic this morning for a blood test and more meds and because Sophie's tummy continued to bloat. It turned out that we were there most of the day. The blood test showed Soph's red cell count was holding close to what it was on Wednesday. But her blood proteins were down. So Dr. Rachel hooked her back up to an IV and gave her a med to boost the protein levels and Lasix to help with the boating. We had to leave her and come back and get her at 5:00 this afternoon. Dr. R also drew fluid off her tummy and sent it to a lab in Birmingham. In the morning, she'll call us to give us the results of that test and to let us know whether or not Dr. Wood wants to do another ultrasound.
All-in-all, Dr. R. seems really upbeat about Sophie's prognosis. She assured us several times that she didn't feel Sophie was in any imminent danger; she just wanted to make sure she kept on top of everything.
So we still need your good thoughts and prayers. We're not quite out of the woods yet.
Sophie does seem to be feeling a bit better every day. And this afternoon when we got her home, Vann took her for a ride on the 4-Wheeler. She REALLY liked that.

My Stash Runneth Over

So here are the fabrics I ordered to make the king-size quilt for our bed. Aren't they pretty?

I guess all quilters do this, but it's getting out of hand around here. I mean, buying more and more and more and more fabric when I have so many projects in progress and so many others that I've bought fabric for and haven't even started yet. Sometimes I just wish I would give everything away and start over with one stack of fabric, one pattern. Finish that, then buy another. But I won't. Heavens to Betsy! When we have fat-quarter swaps at guild, I can't even decide which one in my stash I can do without. I usually just end up buying one for the swap rather than part with one of my treasured pieces of fabric. Isn't that awful!

And it's not just fabric either. If I outlive Methusela, I would not have time to make all the quilts in all the books, leaflets, tearsheets, magazines, etc., that I have filed away to "make someday." But on a recent visit to our local quilt shop, I saw the one above. Could NOT resist buying it, especially since I had a $25 gift certificate that was burning a hole in my wallet.

You know that old saying: "The one who dies with the most fabric wins"? Well I think it's more like: "The one who dies with the most fabric has a bunch of confused kids." I know mine are going to call the Hannah Home truck (sort of like Goodwill). They've had instructions to call my guild president and announce a giveaway, but I know they'll forget. Guess I should start giving it all away now, and relieve my kids of a headache. But I just can't. It would be like giving away Sophie. It's just so hard to part with people, dogs, or fabric that you love.

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On 04/19/2007, Nellie said ...

I'm in the same boat and try very hard to stay out of fabric stores. To top it off, the quilts I'm making right now are made of only scraps. Hardly a dent can be made in either my stash or bags of scraps no matter how prodigeously I crank them out.

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On 04/19/2007, Rian said ...

oooh yeah, baby, but to have an enviable package like that with all the coordinates--that's what *I'm* talkin about!

(I have stopped stash building. I buy fabric when I need it.)

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On 04/20/2007, Patti said ...

You sound like a completely normal quilter to me. It's a disease, yes, but we have a wonderful time while it runs it's course. I could no more give up most of my fabric than I could give up my husband!

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On 04/20/2007, Lori said ...

I know somebody who is probably going to need lots of practice fabric..........got any green? ;-) Signed, The Green Quilter

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On 04/22/2007, Nicole Reed said ...

I ordered the Chelsea's Boutique fat quarter bundle too! I just love those yummy teal and rose colors.
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Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow

Coming home from the post office just now, I saw one of those church signs whose purpose is to make you think--or either to make you gag, depending on what it says. This one was quite deep, with what at first appeared to be a profound message: "God gives us today to prepare for tomorrow." But once I rolled it around in my brain for a few minutes, I found that I completely disagree. If God gives us today to prepare for tomorrow, why does he give us tomorrow? To prepare for the next day? Don't we just miss everthing that way? Why prepare for tomorrow if we're just going to miss it preparing for the next day? I don't know; maybe I'm just making it more complicated that it should be. But I think God gave us today to live and be good to each other, the same reason he gives us tomorrow. So that's my philosophy for today.

Sophie continues to improve, as do I. Poor Sophie. The steroids are causing my girl to get a fat tummy. And with her tummy and sides shaved so that she could have the ultrasound, the bulging midsection is even more noticeable than if she had hair on it. Bless her heart. She can't even jump up on the sofa anymore. She's so clumsy, not used to being a fatty. Tomorrow, her steroid dose will be cut in half, and today is her last day on antibiotics. So maybe some of that tummy will start to go away. We hope.

My online photography class begins tomorrow. I'm really excited to see what the first assignment will be. I have become quite hooked on photography these days, especially since Vann got me my Nikon D40 in February. Digital makes everything so much simplier. Vann seems to be tickled with the progress I'm making (and he's a "real"--that is, professional--photographer), so his comments mean a lot.

I took the above photo of the beautiful purple iris in my neighbor Jennifer's yard.

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On 04/19/2007, Diane said ...

Where, who, what on the photography class, please.
Be careful when you make those pickles, it makes a lot and you'll have to share them or you'll be in misery. Be sure you put a bowl under them when you flip them upside down.
Sounds like spring bit you in the pocketbook and you broke out in a rash of flowers. Good for you. Good for Sophie on the blood count. Good girl! (that's for both of you)

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New Get-Well Card

This is the card Sophie received from Daisy. Inside it says, "Heal! (Real Soon)" This doggie looks like he could be Daisy's cousin, don't you think? (Real Daisy below.)

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On 04/18/2007, Rian said ...

Too cute. If I saw that in the store I'd have to buy every one they had because it looks just like Riley.
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Planting Time

Yesterday, I went to Lowes and Wal-Mart looking for flora to dress up the back yard. I bought six pots of hostas and some impatiens for the back yard. I got a big red geramium and some white petunias to decorate the old chair planter on the front porch and a pink geranium for the cat planter and the front steps.

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On 04/18/2007, Fruit Jar Nicky said ...

So glad to hear Sophie is doing better and returning to regular doggy self. Hope you are feeling better too!
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22! What a Great Number

Vann took Monkey Dog to the vet this morning for her blood test (while I wait here for the cleaning ladies). Her red cell count is up from 19 on Monday to 22 today!!!! Go, Monkey Dog! Make those red cells.

She went for a ride with Vann on the 4-wheeler yesterday. After they returned, Gene and Maria's granddaughter Nikki, who is visiting from Mobile, asked for a ride. Vann agreed, but Sophie didn't. She was visibly upset when they drove out of the driveway. It's so good to see that critter show interest in the things she loves to do.

Sophie Report, etc.

We went to the animal clinic today for another blood test. This time the red blood cell was the same as Saturday, but Dr. Rachel said that didn't worry her; so I'm not going to let it worry me either. Actually, Sophie is a lot more lively than she has been since getting sick. She has barked everytime somebody came to the door today. And when the people came to trim the hedges, she barked and got up and went outside to see what they're doing. So I can tell she's improving.

I think I'm improving too, but I still don't feel real good. Coughing and burning eyes and throat. Probably allergies.

Vann has gone to deliver Phillip to the airport for his trip back to Oklahoma. We didn't get to see much of him while he was here. He had to spread himself among us, Carrie's folks, and his own mom. But I think he's coming back at the end of May. Sophie was really glad to see him.

I missed quilters guild today because of the trip to the vet. Tomorrow begins the two-day Harriet Hargrave workshop, which I had signed up to take. But feeling the way I do, and with Sophie sick too, I had to back out. This is the second time that I've narrowly missed taking a workshop from her. Maybe someday I'll make it.

Haven't done any sewing, but I've done a lot of thinking about sewing--and reading. I'm reading Four Spirits by Sena Jeter Naslund. It's set in Birmingham during the 60s. The story centers around the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church and the murder of the four little girls there. I've always wanted to write that book. I'm glad somebody finally did. It's a very sad story, and a very well written book.

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On 04/17/2007, Nellie said ...

Glad to read that Sophie is doing good. Now, to get you feeling good again. I hope it's soon.
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Dinner

This week's Artword is "Dinner." In this hand quilted wall quilt, entitled "Junk Food," that's just what the little kitty is dreaming of: juicy birds, crunchy mice, and succulent fish. Talk about Meow Mix!

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On 04/15/2007, debbi said ...

Great Quilt! Is that a dream catcher on the top left of the quilt?
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Hindsight Is Caused by a Lack of Foresight

I begin this gloomy Sunday morning (while everyone else, including the recuperating dog) is still asleep, pondering ancient history. It seems that the events of the past can be made much more interesting than our high-school and college history books made out. For instance, consider this:

"Medeval society was arranged like a tree, with your nobles in the upper twigs and your pesants grubbing around the roots. This was known as the manurial system, where land was passed through fathers to sons by primogenuflecture. Power belonged to a patriarchy empowering all genders except the female. Nuns, for example, were generally women. In the early part of the Middle Ages female nuns were free to commit random acts of contrition and redemption. Later they were forcibly enclustered in harems. Russia was run over by Batu Cohen and crushed under the Mongol yolk. Certain tribes of India practiced voodoo innuendo. The Crusades, meanwhile, enlarged opportunities for travel."

A history teacher has compiled student bloopers into a couple of most interesting and entertaining accounts of the history of civilization. I found the link on my niece's blog. If you'd like a chuckle, click here.

Gloomy Weather; Bright, Shining News

The weather today is gloomy, cloudy, and drizzly. We have storms moving in from the west, and could have severe weather this afternoon.

Phillip got held up in Dallas last night for hours because of the weather and didn't get in until about 4:00 this morning. He went with us to Dr. Rachel's to take Sophie for her blood test. Great news! The red cell count is still climbing, and Dr. Rachel says Sophie is doing well. We don't have to take her back for another test until Monday. Dr. Rachel said it would be ok for Vann and Phillip to go to hunting camp; but they aren't going because of the expected storms. So I've sent them to the grocery store to get some supplies.

The news regarding my condition is not as bright. I don't seem to be able to shake my congestion and coughing. I really feel lousy physically--but great mentally because of Sophie's progress.

We met Dr. Rachel's boyfriend this morning, Officer Jim. As we were leaving, he got out of his police car in the parking lot and called out, "How is Miss Sophie this morning?" I thought, Wow! Does everybody in the state know about this dog? But then he introduced himself, and we knew where the news came from.

I'm going to try to get some actual sewing done today. Or at least, think about sewing.

We feel like we missed Easter around here. Lori did bring us a pot of Easter lilies after church last Sunday. She had placed them in the sanctuary in our honor. This is a tradition at our church on Easter (lilies) and on Christmas (poinsettias). We felt so special to be remembered this way. Thanks, Lori. Here's a photo of the lilies I took today.

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On 04/14/2007, debbi said ...

Great news about Sophie! Wish you felt better too.

Not only does the whole state know about Sophie but the whole world knows.......Blogging gets around!!!HA HA HA

Hugs to you all.

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On 04/15/2007, Rian said ...

Could you possibly have pneumonia? It really wipes you out.

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On 04/15/2007, Donna said ...

Yes, the WORLD knows about Soph!!! And a good thing, too- we need more people like
Sophie!!

I'll bet after what she's been thru, Officer Jim will NOT give her a ticket for
much of anything in Alabama!!

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On 04/20/2007, Lori said ...

You're very welcome for the Lily, which has become my favorite flower, I wonder why? It's an honor to call you and Vann AND that Black Monkey So-So Church dog my friends! I love you all and appreciate all the joy you bring in to my life. Daisy says ditto!! Much love, Lori
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Lucky Dog, Lucky Day!

The news was the best today. Dr. Rachel called us at mid-morning and said Sophie's red cell count was inching up at last. Today was the first time that the tests have shown an increase instead of a decrease in red blood cells. That's very good news. So the doctor let Soph come home this morning. We'll go back in the morning for another blood test, and if the red cells are still increasing, we can take a day off on Sunday.


From left: Rebecca, Dr. Rachel, Sophie, Vann

What a joy it is to live in a small town! This morning, after dropping Soph off at the animal hospital, we went into the local McDonald's for some breakfast. Our favorite server, Vaughn, greeted us and wanted to know immediately how our dog was doing. We hadn't seen her since Sophie got sick. But even stranger, before we left, a man we had never met before, walked up to us and asked about Sophie and told us he was praying for her. Sometimes we complain that "news spreads fast in a small town." But many times, that's a good thiing.

Phillip is coming!Sophie is bound to feel even better in a little while. One of her favorite people, our son Phillip, is on his way from Stillwater, Oklahoma even as I type. He was originally supposed to come this weekend to turkey hunt with his dad. But after Sophie got sick, Vann had to call the hunting trip off and cancel Phillips visit. Phillip decided to come anyway, to see us and to see Sophie. They will probably just stay here, though, and not go to hunting camp. Depends on what Dr. Rachel's blood test shows in the morning.

(I'm practicing my HTML, in case you can't tell.)

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On 04/13/2007, debbi said ...

I am SO GLAD Sophie is doing much better. You all have my prayers and thoughts.

You are doing great with the HTML!

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On 04/14/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Stopped by to check on Sophie! Good to hear good news!

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On 04/14/2007, Donna said ...

Tell Soph that even "Okies" are monitoring
her progress- see, Phillip is coming!!

(PS: Is the Weile "derson" coming?? If so, Soph MIGHT be glad to see him, too,
after all she's been thru!!)

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On 04/14/2007, Lori said ...

That's great news!

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On 04/15/2007, Daisy Cottage said ...

WONDERFUL! I'm so happy to hear the good news about Sophie! Now we just need for you to feel better too!!
xo,
Kim
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A Lucky 13th to All (Sophie Report)

Another quiet night at home last night. Sophie ate some, drank some, pooped and piddled some, took her meds, and slept a whole lot. Lori came by to see us and to bring me the Beth Moore dvd so I can keep up with the lessons in our Bible study. Bless you, Lori.

Sophie went back to Dr. Rachel's this morning, and boy!! was she not happy about it. Vann put her in her crate; and when he started to go, she started barking her mad-as-heck bark. We could still hear her barking when we went out the front door.

Late yesterday afternoon, Dr. Rachel suffered a bite on her hand from one of her patients. It was a pretty bad chomp. We hope she's feeling much better this morning and not in a lot of pain. We've been saying prayers for her. She has been a Godsend for us; and we pray nothing but good things for her.

We're pretty nervous about the coming weekend. Even though Sophie doesn't agree, it has been quite a security blanket for us to have Dr. Rachel close by to take over with Sophie during the day, making sure she is ok. We'll be on our own for the weekend--but then, there's always the emergency clinic if we need it. But y'all pray that all goes well this weekend. Last weekend was such a nightmare; I don't know if our girl could take another one like that.

My respiratory infection stuff doesn't seem to be a whole lot better. I've finished my z-pack, but I'm still congested and coughing a lot. Guess I'll go back to my doc on Monday if I'm not improved by then.

A very lucky Friday 13th to everyone. Don't step on any cracks or pass under any ladders. And if a black cat crosses your path, take a detour.

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On 04/13/2007, Rian said ...

It sounds like Sophie is going to be fine now. Whew! Glad that's over. Hope you feel better soon.

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On 04/13/2007, Nellie said ...

Sending good thoughts and wellness wishes for both you and Sophie.
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Sophie Update: Thursday

This is Sophie as she looks this morning, with a pink tongue. I didn't take any pics when she was at her sickest, when her tongue was yellow and she could barely open her eyes. But if you had seen her then and now, you'd think she was well. She isn't. She has a long way to go. But she is definitely going in the right direction.

She spent the night at home last night for the first time since Saturday night, when she almost died. She slept all night, tooks her meds without any problem, but wouldn't eat very much. On our way home yesterday everning, we drove by a few friends' houses in the neighborhood. They must have been watching for us, because Gene, Maria, Bob, and Mary Beth all rushed out to the car to see Sophie. She was so happy to see them, and actually ran for a few feet to meet Maria and Gene. It was a joyous reunion, with a few tears shed, of course.

Later in the evening, Lori dropped by to see our girl. Sophie was really glad to see her too; I think I saw Soph give Lori a tongue kiss on the chin. We are so blessed to have friends that love our dog and pray for her, who share our joys and sorrows over her. I don't think we could make it through all this without them.

But this morning, it was back to Dr. Rachel's place so that Soph can be monitored and treated all day. Then, we think, she'll get to come back home for the night. She really, really, REALLY, didn't want to stay. When Vann turned onto the street where the clinic is, she started getting antsy. And when it was time to take her back to the treatment room, she really balked. That's a great sign, her wanting to go home. But it tears at your heartstrings nonetheless. It was so hard to leave her with her virtually begging us to take her home.

This is Cher Bear, one of the clinic cats at Dr. Rachel's. She loves to hide behind the dog food displays so she can check out everyone who comes through the door.

Although Sophie's numbers aren't where we want them to be, and another transfusion remains a possibility, we saw hope in Dr. Rachel's face yesterday evening for the first time. She told us that every day that Sophie does as well as she's doing right now it a mark in her favor.

Thanks so much to all of you who are sending us and Sophie good thoughts and prayers for healing. Please keep helping our Rainbow Warrior fight the fight.

Cher plays receptionist when she isn't guarding the door.

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On 04/12/2007, Diane said ...

I was glad to read some better news about the pooch. As you say, she looks good in her perky pose. Sounds like you have a vet you can work with. Give Sophie lots of hugs for me.

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On 04/12/2007, Diane said ...

I was glad to read some better news about the pooch. As you say, she looks good in her perky pose. Sounds like you have a vet you can work with. Give Sophie lots of hugs for me.

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On 04/12/2007, Terri said ...

Well Sophie's pink tongue sounds like great news! Glad to hear she's improving.

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On 04/12/2007, Lori said ...

She certainly looks like she is feeling better! I am very glad to hear it.

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On 04/13/2007, Rian said ...

Yay Sophie! Welcome back to the living!

Great photo of Sophie and Vann at the vet's door.
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Sophie Update

Sophie had her ultrasound yesterday afternoon. It showed that she has a really severe case of pancreatitis. Dr. Wood, who did the ultrasound, says there's no way to tell if the pancreatitis is a result of the hemolytic anemia or caused the hemolytic anemia. But since it doesn't make any difference in treatment, that's ok not to know.

We took our girl back the the emergency clinic to spend the night so that she could continue to receive her meds and be under observation. We picked her up this morning at 6:30 and could tell right away that there had been a change. She was so much more alert and active--just more like our Sophie. A lot of her jaundice has gone away too. Vann says we can't get our hopes up. My feeling is that I've been running on hope all week, and I don't intend to give it up now.

We took her back to her vet, Dr. Rachel, where she will spend the day, still receiving medicines. She did NOT want us to leave her. Pitched a fit trying to come with us. This is the first time she'd acted like she cared where she was. I take that as a very good sign.

There's still the possibility that she'll need yet another blood transfusion, although the rate at which she is losing red blood cells has slowed a great deal.

Thank you all so much who have left comments, sent e-mails, said prayers, cared. We are happily indebted to you all. Check back from time to time for updates.

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On 04/11/2007, Donna said ...

That is a good sign- that she cares enough
now NOT to want to go back to the vet's & be left there!

Tell Soph I said "See, a lot of peopleangels and animalangels ARE looking
out for our favorite "derson"(dog person!)

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On 04/11/2007, Daisy Cottage said ...

Keeping Sophie and you in my prayers...
xo,
Kim

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On 04/11/2007, Rian said ...

Acute pancreatitis was what Riley had at Christmas. I guess it's pretty serious. He got better real fast with antibiotics. Let's hope Sophie gets better soon!

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On 04/11/2007, Lori said ...

I am really glad to hear that she is showing some positive signs!

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On 09/04/2009, Frances said ...

Hi everyone. Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it.
I am from Algeria and too poorly know English, tell me right I wrote the following sentence: "Roxanne orgill in her war shout, murder, differ!"

Thanks :). Frances.
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Snatched from the Jaws of Death

Our Sophie is a very, very sick girl. She continued to go downhill and we took her back to Dr. W. on Saturday morning. He did a blood count and told us that she had virutally no red blood cells. "This dog needs a transfusion," he told us. But instead of giving her one, he sent us home and told us to meet him back there on Sunday night.

By Sunday morning, Sophie was very near death. She was so weak, she couldn't move anything more than her eyelids. She was vomiting, her breathing was very labored. We found the number for an emergency clinic in the phone book and took her there. They gave her an immediate transfusion and started her on meds. When we visited her at 10:00 on Sunday night, she had rallied and could now stand up and was alert, but still very sick.

Vann talked to the doctors at the clinic about how Dr. W. had sent us home after saying that Sophie had "no blood" and asked them for a recommendation for a vet. Vann had a list of vets we had discussed. There was one doctor on the list that the emergency doctor was very high on, Dr. Rachel. She had formerlly worked at the emergency clinic. It turns out that her clinic is very close to our home. So when we picked Sophie up on Monday morning, we took her there. We like Dr. R. a lot. She's very professional, and very warm and kind. She's so sweet to Sophie. She recommended that Sophie spend her nights at the emergency clinic and her days at Dr. R's clinich for the next few days and that she have an ultrasound today. And that's what we're doing.

She has a condition known as immune hemolytic anemia. Cause unknown, but it's a very serious disease. Some dogs make it; some don't. Sophie is fighting, and she's a very tough little cookie. She has hoards of friends who are praying for her, and we have lots of faith that she'll make it. We ask that you, please, keep our sweet girl in your prayers. We love her so.

I am pretty sick too with an upper respiratory infection. There is not likely to be a lot of blogging or art going on around Blackberry Creek for a while. Sophie is our priority. We thank those of you who have expressed concern and those of you who have thought about us and prayed for us. We covet those prayers. Thank you all so much.

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On 04/10/2007, Donna said ...

Ex-cuuuse me!!! What was "Dr. W" "thinking"? "She has no blood" and sent
her home???? "Dr." W, this is NOT just another patient, this is SOPH CLEVELAND!!

I wouldn't be going back to that guy after
this!!

I KNEW something was wrong!!

When I think about my Dad tonite before I go to sleep, I'll ask him to watch over Soph til she gets better. He was the worlds biggest cat (shhh!) lover.

Hope you are better, too!! Thanks for the
posting- I know it really took effort since
you don't feel well, but you know how it us- Soph has her fans, too!!

Love to Soph & Suze-
Donna

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On 04/10/2007, Rian said ...

Count me among those who are sending up prayers for Sophie. It's terrible when our pets are sick, they can't tell us where it hurts and we can't tell them why we leave them alone in a strange place when they are sick.

Hope you're feeling better, you need to get to a doctor yourself.

Oh, I hope Sophie gets better soon. Love.

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On 04/10/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Oh My! not Sophie! I am sending all the prayers I can and my dogs will bark a few too. You and Vann hang in there and get some rest for your tired selves too. xoxoxo

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On 04/10/2007, Lori said ...

I am so sorry to hear this! We are dealing with a sick pup at the moment, too, though nothing so serious. It is so hard to see them like that. Best vibes for all of you.

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On 04/12/2007, Dr. Rachel said ...

WOW!!! What a blessing you guys and sweet Sophie are!! I so appreciate the compliments. It is a pleasure to take care of Sophie and to meet wonderful people like all three of you. Your photo of Cher and wonderful gift to American Cancer Society (one of my passions) made a bad day end with a smile. AND THEN, I look at all the beautiful photos and great info found here. I am an Elvis fan also. I do not quilt but would love to learn! I love to rescue discarded quilts from yard sales and thrift stores. I think that they have a story to tell and I can't stand to see someone's time and love just tossed away. Seems that we have the same taste in books also. The Lord works in mysterious ways! I am glad that He had our paths to cross although I would prefer that Sophie did not have to get so sick for that to happen. It is a joy to know you guys. I look forward to caring for Sophie for a long time to come. FYI- I think I will survive my injury although I did get a little weak afterwards! Not as tough as I thought I was.
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Sickly Pup, Paper Inchies, and the Easter Cold Snap

Monkey Dog has not been feeling her oats for the past couple of days. She's just sort of sluggish and lackluster. Doesn't want to do any of her usual fun stuff, doesn't jump up at the usual triggers (like the front door opening or VC saying "You want to go for a ride?" This morning we panicked and took her to see Dr. W. He couldn't find anything wrong with her. Said she looked fine to him and that it definitely wasn't dog food poisoning, or any other kind of poisoning. He conjectured that maybe she has strained or pulled a muscle jumping up and down on the furniture. He gave her a cortisone shot (I tried to get him to give me one too, but he wouldn't) and some pills to take for the next week. Said bring her back if she doesn't get to feeling better.

It never fails to turn cold at Easter time. I don't know what it is. It can be 85 degrees for two or three weeks running; then come Holy Week, wintertime returns. Doesn't matter if Easter is early or later; it always happens. Last night the low was just above freezing. It's going to be in the 20s for the next few nights. Outside, it's sunny and bright, but the wind is blowing and it's cold. But I'm not complaining. I much prefer this weather to the heat and humidity of summer.

I finished my inchies for theCPS swap. Here they are.

I started with an 8 1/2" x 11" piece of cardstock. I glued on the top layer of a floral paper napkin. Added a layer of gel medium. Then added some paint and glitter accents and another layer of gel medium. Cut them into 1" squares and embellished the squares. I had a bunch of the unembellished squares left over. But I'll use them somewhere someday.

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On 04/06/2007, Vivian said ...

Susan, these are beautiful!! I hope I get one in the swap. I'm working on mine today.
Vivian

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On 04/06/2007, Rian said ...

Both my doggies would get like that for a day or so. They lay around all day and won't eat, don't want to play. I call it puppy flu. I hope Sophie is feeling better already.

Love the inchies! How cute!

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On 04/09/2007, Daisy Cottage said ...

Poor Sophie! I hope she is feeling better.. it is so hard when our furbabies aren't feeling well... Love your inchies! Adorable!
xo,
Kim
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Yellow

The Artword for this week is Yellow. Here's my entry.
I shot this a few days ago at Lowe's gardening department. They had so many beautiful flowers--oodles of bright colors. It really made me itchy to plant something. But I'll wait till after Easter. We can never be sure of being safe from a freeze in this area until after Easter--and sometimes not even then.

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On 04/04/2007, Suzanne said ...

What a gorgeous picture!
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A Tale of Two Susans

THIS IS NOT ME!

THIS IS ME!









It came to my attention a couple of years ago that there are two of us. The way I found out? People in my quilters guild and in my Yahoo groups kept telling me they saw me on "Simply Quilts." Having never had the opportunity to appear on that fine show, I was puzzled for a bit. I, myself, was not a regular viewer and could not understand why anyone would think they saw me there. So I decided to start watching, even though at the time, that required me to get up earlier than I would have liked.

It wasn't long until I tuned in one morning to hear Alex announce that her guest for the day was none other than Susan Cleveland.

"Uh unh!" I countered. "Not me. I'm sitting right here--bleary eyed, having my first cup of coffee."

But Alex had my attention now. I was wide awake and anxious to see who this person was, pretending to be me. After the break, there she was, introduced, sure enough, as Susan Cleveland. But it wasn't me--I was sure of that. For one thing, she was younger (well, just a little). And her hair was darker (well, just a little). And she was skinnier (definitely). She wears smaller glasses (at that time, I was still wearing the big ones). By the end of the show, I was sure that the person teaching quilting on "Simply Quilts" was not me. Although I have taught quilting, written quilting books, hobnobbed with famous quilters, worked in booths at Quilt Festival, and all that stuff that famous quilters do, I knew for a fact that this lady wasn't me.

A bit of later research told me that this Susan Cleveland was one of the new kids on the block--that being those who weren't in the limelight at the time I was writing and editing quilting books. Since then, she has started going by Susan K. Cleveland, while I am Susan Ramey Çleveland, and this helped clear up some of the confusion. But still, every now and then, someone at guild or someone on one of my art/quilting groups will tell me they saw me on "Simply Quilts." I'm tempted to accepted the praise and attention (after all, Susan K. is very attractive and makes beautiful quilts). But I fess up and tell everyone, "It's not me, Babe."

So now you know the difference. There's her; and then there's me. I hope we get to meet some day.

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On 04/04/2007, mom2fur said ...

I think you look a bit alike, and they do say there's a twin for everyone in the world, LOL!
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Oh My Aching Credit Card!

I have spent way too much money in the past few days. First my Mac, then I had to have a new cell phone. It was one of those things where they phase out your network to force you to buy a new phone. Then I found out that my scanner wasn't compatible with my new Mac. So today Vann and I went to several stores shopping prices. We found that it was cheaper to buy a scanner/printer/copier all in one than to just buy a new scanner. So I bought a new Epson All-in-One. We have it all hooked up, but I haven't scanned anything yet.

Then this afternoon I had to go to the grocery store (well, actually Wal*Mart). Big mistake. I spent another hunk of change there, but at least it didn't go on my poor old credit card.

I'm going to stay in the house for the rest of the week. And if any other techno-thing breaks down, I'm just going to do without (unless it's my sewing machine).

I did my walking in our small downtown area today. Here are some photos that I shot.

Beautiful Foxglove!

Don't you just love Foxglove?

Gazebo where the old Bargain Town was when I was a kid.

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On 04/03/2007, Rian said ...

It's a drag to have to spend money on such things (not fabric!) but I had a good laugh at your title. I'm still paying off Riley's trip to the vet at Christmas.
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Monday, Monday

This is going to be a very busy week. If I'm going to have my Duro dress ready to wear for Easter, I better get started. Also have to finish my April Elvis 12x12, get started on my Quilt Studio Service quilt, and I'm late with my Northwinds altered book. I also need to go and get a new scanner. My OneTouch isn't compatible with my Mac. And I have to take my old computer to get the my files backed up on disk. There's all kind of services at church this week, and the laundry hamper runneth over. My quilting bee meets this morning, but I think I'm going to play hooky and try to get some things done heere.

Also, I'm having that thing with my back. It started hurting yesterday at church. Kept me awake most of the night. I haven't been walking as much the past week or so. I wonder if that's the problem.