Yellow House Update

Just a short post to let interested parties know what's going on with us. Vann's pain had got unmanageable over the past couple of days, and he hasn't been able to eat. We called Dr. L who immediately put him in the hospital and started treatment. The pain is now under control, Vann is resting, and Dr. L has some more things planned for tomorrow, but Vann wasn't clear on what they were. That's all I know for now. Will write more tomorrow.

Below for your viewing pleasure is another Vann photo. He took this one and the one I posted a couple of days ago at his friend's ranch up in the mountains near Douglas, Wyoming last October. Vann goes there every fall to hunt and play cowboy.

Vann spent his career as a professional magazine photographer. And he's a good one, he is.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 08/14/2009, Kristine said ...

I am so so sorry to hear that Vann is in the hospital! Thank goodness the pain is under control now. I worry about ya'll so much. We're all praying for you here, night and day.

Vann's photos are just amazing, what a fascinating career he must have had. I bet he has tons of great stories.

Please take care of yourself. If you ever need to talk just call. Much love and prayers to you both.

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On 08/14/2009, Carol said ...

Sending tons of good thoughts and prayers for Vann and for you. Take good care!

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On 08/14/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

Thinking of you both and I hope all goes well for Vann.
What a beautiful photo he has tsken
Alison

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On 08/14/2009, Debbie said ...

So sorry to hear about Vann. You're both in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

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On 08/14/2009, Connie W said ...

I hope that things are better now for Vann. Take care and God bless and keep you both.

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On 08/14/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

I will keep Vann and you in my heart...
Hugs,
Penny

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On 08/14/2009, Jenny said ...

You and Vann are in my prayers and I know you are in the hands of The Great Physician too. The picture is beautiful!!! Vann is a great photographer!

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On 08/14/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

What an amazing photograph! Vann managed to capture the immensity of those clouds. Well done!

So sorry to hear that Vann has been so uncomfortable and has had to be hospitalized to get the pain under control. May the doctors find the key to keeping him pain-free, getting better, and at home.

Be good to you and let me know if there's anything I can do from here in Virginia.

Huge hugs ...

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On 08/14/2009, Sandy said ...

So sorry to hear Vann is in the hospital, pain can be very difficult ...my thoughts and prayers are with you...sending hugs..

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On 08/14/2009, Gretchen said ...

Beautiful photograph! I am so glad that Vann's pain is under control and they are taking care of him at the hospital. Thinking of you both and sending healing thoughts.

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On 08/14/2009, mom2fur said ...

That photo is amazing! Vann sure is talented. I'm so sorry he isn't feeling well, and hope he's doing much better!

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On 08/14/2009, Amy Rochelle said ...

All prayers to you and Vann. Thanks for sharing Vann's photos. Please thank him for sharing his eye to the world with the rest of us for all these years

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On 08/14/2009, Donna said ...

You and Vann are both in my prayers. I am glad his pain in under control. Beautiful photo.
Donna

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On 08/14/2009, Beverly said ...

I e-mailed you some information.

I'm praying.

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On 08/14/2009, Pam said ...

I am keeping you and Vann always in my prayers.

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On 08/14/2009, anna said ...

Gorgeous photo- it is really a fantastic picture...
He is one talented man.
Thanks for sharing.
Warmest regards,
Anna

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On 08/14/2009, CarlaH said ...

Hello, I haven't written before but have been following your blog for a while now. You and Vann are amazing, being able to keep up your spirits and share your experiences with your readers. My thoughts and best wishes for better health are with the both of you.

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On 08/14/2009, Ruth Landon said ...

Thank you for sharing that beautiful photograph. You are both very talented.
I hope that Vann continues to feel more comfortable and is able to come home soon. Good thoughts and prayers are sent for both of you.
I made your peachy peach cobbler yesterdy, it was delicious and so easy to make.
Ruth

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On 08/14/2009, Mary on Lake Pulaski said ...

Thank Vann for the beautiful photograph and I'm sending prayers.

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On 08/14/2009, Trudy Neill of Windemere Farm said ...

Hi Susan and Vann....as you know, prayers continue here from Windemere Farm...I wish I lived closer to be of some help to both of you. Will be awaiting updates as you post them...try and rest when you can. Hugs to both of you.
Trudy

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On 08/14/2009, Julia Wood said ...

Still praying!

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On 08/14/2009, Bonnie said ...

Hi Susan and Vann,
My prayers are with you both and your family and that Vann heals fast. The pictures are beautiful and could be in a magazine now. I'll be watching for updates Susan and again my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Blessings,
Bonnie

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On 08/15/2009, Annie said ...

Oh, what a breath taking photo!...And such heart breaking news that Vann is not dong well. My prayers out to you and your family.

Annie

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On 08/15/2009, Brook Sellers said ...

The picture is heavenly, we can all draw strength from this peacful picture. God gave vann a special gift, to capture God's beautiful creation, what a privilege. God will help vann and his entire family and friends at this present time, you are all wrapped in prayers, no greater strength .
I will say a rosary today, warmest Brook
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Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Age-wise, I should be beyond hot flashes. But, sadly, they've never completely gone away; and since I've been taking Cymbalta for the fibromyalgia symptoms, the hot flashes have increased in quantity and severity.

This afternoon a major high-voltage lollopaloosa of a hot flash hit. At the height of it I told Vann I felt like the Wicked Witch of the West in her melting scene. I was sweating like a longshoreman, my hair had turned to frizz, my clothes were soaked, I was putting off enough heat to power a small country, and I felt so tired I thought my muscles were shutting down. You probably think I'm just exaggerating in order to be funny--but I'm not, and it wasn't funny.

I likely contributed to my power surge by cooking throughout the first stage of it. I made pasta primavera, trying to copy the dish our neighbor Paul brought over earlier this week. Mine was a fair imitation, but Paul's was better. I also made egg salad and a blueberry cobbler. By the time that cobbler was bubbling, so was I.

I'd say right now I'm about medium-well, and I'm still too warm, but nothing like I felt earlier.

Thank You, All
Even though I don't always get around to answering all of your comments anymore, please know that I read each one of them. Tonight I read many of the recent ones to Vann. If you ever get the idea that your brief blog comments, good wishes, and prayers aren't treasured, forget it. Even though I'm a word person (some might say a wordy person), it's hard for me to find the words I want to tell you just what those notes mean to me and to Vann. I wish i could give every one of you a great big old hug. And in my heart, that's just what I'm doing. God bless each one of you.

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On 08/13/2009, Julia Wood said ...

I'm giving you and Vann a huge hug back! I'm praying for both of you! And I wish I had a bite of that blueberry cobbler.

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On 08/13/2009, Karla said ...

BIg hugs to you and to Vann! Keeping you in my prayers.
Karla

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On 08/13/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

I hear you on the unwelcome thermal power surges! Bother to the max. These days when I'm dripping sweat (far past "dewy"!), I head for the shower followed by fresh clothes. Since we've had this Southern veggie garden and such high humidity, I've showered often!

Your Peachy Peach cobbler recipe is delicious and has a star on the recipe card!! I made it a few days ago and we enjoyed it so very much. In fact, it's already gone. Yum!!

Prayers continue...

Hugs!

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On 08/13/2009, Joyce said ...

I once asked my doctor when my hot flashes would finally end and he said... You'll probably have them forever. The good news is that even though I still have them, they are not as intense and don't last as long as they used to .... and sometimes I still have hot flashes at night, but no more night sweats (YEAH!!!!!!!).

Praying for you and Vann,
Joyce

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On 08/13/2009, Cathi said ...

Been there, done that! My favourite trick when they're as intense as that is to literally stick my head in the freezer. Or go shopping at the grocery store and very carefully study labels on the frozen foods.
I read your blog all the time and think of you and your husband frequently.

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On 08/13/2009, Wendy P said ...

I HOPE YOU READ THIS COMMENT!!!

I recently concluded that the constant migraines I get are from tomatoes and other members of the Nightshade family. I got the worst one ever after I recently made pasta with eggplant and tomatoes.

I did research online and found that these plants are also bad for fibromyalgia sufferers.

http://www.revolutionhealth.com/drugs-treatments/rating/diet-avoiding-nightshade-vegetables

So, I don't know if you already avoid tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, etc but it might really help!

I have been taking Magnesium and B6 every morning for the hot flashes I started to get and it really helps also.

:) Wendy

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On 08/13/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, you poor thing. I've never experienced hot flashes like I hear so many have, but the ones I do have are the pits.

I think of you and Vann every day. I wish there was something I could do to make it all go away. I work for a major health system, and I know so many people that live and breathe to fight and beat cancer. I can honestly say that I hate cancer. I was always taught not to hate, but in my heart I think this one is justified.

Please know that I am always holding you both very close in my heart and my prayers. I'm so glad you have each other and so many people that love you both.

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On 08/13/2009, anna said ...

My father in law used to say that getting older was not for wusses - I think he sure had that right- Hot flashes can be so trying.
I really enjoy reading your blog and hearing about the day to day life in the Yellow House.
I am sending you back a big cyber hug - I know you and Vann have been facing many challenges- I hope that it will get better for you both. Sending you warm thoughts.
Warmest regards,
Anna

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On 08/13/2009, Mary on Lake Pulaski said ...

Prayers for both of you...

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On 08/13/2009, Laurie said ...

Yum - cobbler! I'm way overdue for some! I feel your pain with the hot flashes -- I had all my female parts taken out at 37 and have been flashing ever since. It was okay until 2.5 years ago when I had to start taking Tamoxifen for breast cancer -- an anti-estrogen pill -- and I have another 2.5 years to go on it! I'm hoping all will subside after that...sigh. You're not alone!

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On 08/13/2009, Eric said ...

My heart goes out to you, Vann, Amy and the rest of your family. I continue to pray for all of you. God bless you. Sincerely, Eric
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Low Country Boil in Castle Oaks

Some of our neighbors held a Low Country Boil for us this evening. It was rainy and humid, and dear Bob stood out in the rain over the cooker of shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, and okra. The rest of us sat in the garage and watched him until the food was ready.

Andy came up and joined us, and Phillip and Carrie were there--in fact, they are still there. Vann got to feeling poorly and had to come on home, and Andy and I came back shortly afterwards to check on him. He's feeling much better now that he's in the air conditioning. In fact, he's taking a nap.

Vann Update: We had a long visit with Dr. L yesterday. He gave us the results of Vann's latest CT scan, which weren't so good. The chemo has stopped working and the cancer cells have spread throughout Vann's abdomen. Dr. L started him on a new chemo regimen--one he gets at the office and the other in a pump that he comes home with and wears for 24 hours. He has been in tremendous discomfort for the past couple of weeks. We're praying the the new chemo will alleviate some of his symptoms. Please remember us in your prayers.

Phillip and Carrie have to return to Wyoming tomorrow; school is starting. It's hard for us to see them go, and it's hard for them to leave. Amy is coming soon; we're not sure just when, but she's coming for an extended visit.

Notepad Tutorial: Here's the link for the steno pad cover tutorial. I actually didn't use the tutorial to make Kia's. I just looked at the one Melinda made, took measurements, and made it. But I think Melinda used the tutorial. Also remember that I used prequilted fabric.

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On 08/11/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

I am so sorry to hear about Vann....I will keep you both in my thoughts. I pray that the new chemo will work miracles.
Hugs,
Penny

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On 08/11/2009, Joanne said ...

You and Vann are always on my mind. I'm praying that the new meds bring relief.

I just ate 4 little cinnamon biscuits, so I shouldn't be hungry, but your picture of Bob's "stew" looks good enough to eat, and makes me hungrier.

Love - JR

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On 08/11/2009, Marie said ...

You and Vann continue to be I my prayers ~ I'm escpecially praying that the new chemo treatment will be successful.

Thanks for the notebook tutorial ! it's so cute.

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On 08/11/2009, Dandelion Quilts said ...

You and Vann are in my prayers. I hope that the doctors are able to alleviate his discomfort, too.

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On 08/11/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

Positive thoughts are coming Vann's way.
Take care
Alison

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On 08/12/2009, Carol said ...

Susan I'm sending good, positive thoughts to you and Vann and to the doctors. You take good care. Dinner looks YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for the tutorial...I'm going to get busy.

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On 08/12/2009, Melinda said ...

I am praying for Vann to do well with the new treatment and that he will be feeling better soon.

The tutorial is from my sister Robin. Her business is Two Wacky Women. I received a steno book cover as a gift and we re-engineered it and she wrote it up as a tutorial. I have made over 50 of these over the past couple of years.

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On 08/12/2009, Lisa D. said ...

Oh Susan, I am sorry to hear about Vann. You both are in my prayers.

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On 08/12/2009, Molly said ...

What a feast!! Yum! And what lovely neighbors you guys have, how thoughtful of them. Prayers continue for Vann, specifically for the new treatment to kick in and kick some butt! Hope he feels better soon too.

Molly

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On 08/12/2009, Niki said ...

I just started reading your blog two weeks ago and to be totally honest it was mostly because of Vann's cancer. My husband is dealing with cancer treatments too.

Your wit, wisdom and knowledge and creativity with quilting has saved me. I too keep on quilting. You are in my prayers.

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On 08/12/2009, Laurie said ...

That food looks awesome! Praying for Vann.

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On 08/12/2009, Ruth Landon said ...

Keeping Vann and you in my prayers.
Ruth

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On 08/12/2009, Jo said ...

What terrific neighbors you have. I haven't posted to your blog before, but am keeping you and Vann in my prayers, especially for the new treatment to work.

Jo

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On 08/13/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Oh, that food looks so very good and good for you. Sorry the humidity and heat bothered Vann so he couldn't stay but I probably would have joined him in the coolness of air-conditioning. I don't tolerate heat well anymore.

Rob brings rain almost every time he barbecues a pork shoulder and the thinks it's the smoke rising as a burnt offering.

Bless your hearts! This new report isn't at all what we wanted to hear. I wish the doctors wisdom in finding a more effective treatment. Hope and pray Vann feels lots better soon.

Hugs!

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On 08/13/2009, monica said ...

I'll add my prayers too. Be strong.

And best wishes.
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A Padded Pad for Kai

Last week, I made this quilted steno pad cover for Kai, who hosted the fabulous and fun Favorite Summer Read Swap. I used prequilted fabric to make it, although you could quilt your own, and it was very easy to make. Another blogging friend, Melinda, sent me one of these a while back, and I take it everywhere with me. (The one Melinda made for me is shown underneath Kai's blue one.) I have a tutorial if anyone is interested.

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On 08/10/2009, Molly said ...

Are you kidding? That is adorable!! Send that tutorial to me please!

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On 08/10/2009, Amy Rochelle said ...

Yes, a tutorial would be wonderful! Love the fabrics, btw!

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On 08/10/2009, Lynda Green said ...

would love the tutorial...great gift idea

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On 08/10/2009, Kelee Katillac said ...

Love these!!! Charming and functional!

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On 08/10/2009, Kai said ...

Yes!!!! And Kai LOVES it! THANK YOU SO EXTRA MUCH! I am using one side of the tablet to keep track of my crafting ideas and the other side to jot down ideas for stories, characterizations, mini-scenes, etc. I ALSO would love the tutorial! Pretty please? And how is Vann doing after the doc saw him today? LOVE YOU!

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On 08/10/2009, Maribeth said ...

Love them........tutorial would be great

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On 08/10/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Great idea for gifts and for myself, too. I always have pad and pen. Tutorial, please and thank you!

Yes, those are Captain Kangaroo's magic words as we kids of the 1950s know by heart!

Hugs!

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On 08/11/2009, Carol said ...

Oh it's wonderful...yes please...a tutorial would be great!

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On 08/11/2009, Melinda said ...

What fun to see that you are using the one I made for you. I am so glad you like it. I love mine.

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On 08/11/2009, Valerie said ...

Absolutely lovely !
How I miss sewing this summer
-- my sewing machine broke down just before leaving to the US and I still don't know if it's worth trying (& paying) for another repair, or better to consider buying a new one... -- a tutorial would be nice :)

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On 08/18/2009, Marla said ...

I would love to have the tutorial. Thanks - Marla
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Soul Stillness

"Be still, and know that I am God." --Psalm 46:10

This is the scripture I think of when things get hectic or scary or chaotic in my life. That verse says so much more to me than its eight short words at first imply.

To me, it says, "Turn loose, child. I've got this. Don't try to do my job for me. Remember why I created you and take care of that while I handle the other stuff." 

Or as Charlie Daniels sings, "Sit down in that chair right there and let me show you how it's done."

If you have a problem today--big 'un, little 'un, one that seems impossibly complicated--listen to God as he speaks to you in this Psalm. I mean, really listen; don't just read.

Ah, the peace.

Be sure to check out this site for more inspirational posts.

Above photo by Vann Cleveland.

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On 08/09/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

Such beautiful words and you have written this post beautifully!
Thanks for sharing this
Patti

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On 08/09/2009, Charlotte said ...

So true. We have so much more peace when we turn loose and let God handle things. He's so much more experienced and better at it.
Your link on Spiritual Sundays took me to your book list. I just fixed it to bring it here.
Thank you for sharing with us.
Blessings,
Charlotte

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On 08/09/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, this is a favorite of mine, too. And, I like the saying, "Let go, and let God".

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On 08/09/2009, rcubes said ...

Thank you for this great reminder that no matter what goes on around us outside, we can always claim that "peace" that only comes from Jesus. Beautiful pic. God bless.

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On 08/10/2009, Sally said ...

It's a good reminder to stop and reflect on His goodness.

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On 08/10/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Amen, sistah! Thanks for the reminder.

Vann's photo is lovely!

Hugs!

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On 08/11/2009, Nicole said ...

I'd love to know more about that fabulous photograph that Vann took. Where is that place? The sky is just majestic, and has all the feeling of God's power.

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On 08/11/2009, Valerie said ...

Thank you
as for me I always find a lot of comfort in the serenity prayer
I'll go check the site
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Oh, To Be So Loved

Or "How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count the Cows."

Godwin Kipkemoi Chepkirgor, a Kenyan man of modest means, has asked Bill and Hillary Clinton for their 29-year-old daughter Chelsea's hand in marriage. And he sweetened the deal with a marriage purse of 40 goats and 20 cows. Chepkurgor has made his offer twice, once in a letter after all three Clintons visited Kenya in 2000 and again recently to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The generous would-be bridegroom has never met the object of his affections, however.

"I've waited for a long time. I'm still waiting to meet her and express my love for her," Chepkurgor told CNN.

I think this is just so romantic. Nobody ever offered my parents livestock to marry me.

Disclaimer: I am not making fun of Miss Clinton or of her would-be suitor here. I just thought this was funny. I think Chelsea is a beautiful young woman and I hope she meets just the right man for her some day--and that Mr. Chepkurgor finds himself a soul mate as well.

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On 08/08/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

I'm more for being swept off of my feet but someone I know, like, and trust as a good friend more than having a stranger offer my parents livestock, but that's just me! Good luck to Chelsea!

Hugs!

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On 08/08/2009, valerie said ...

Wow. That is really romantic.

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On 08/08/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

How generous and romatic indeed. I wonder if she'll say Yes? Would it be wrong to ask for a lifetime of fabric at my dispense lol!

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On 08/09/2009, Laurie said ...

It *is* funny. And, who knows? Chelsea may even be getting some pressure from her parents to make a real statement by marrying the dude!

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On 08/09/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

How interesting and weird at the same time!
Hope she doesn't jump in with both feet!

She is such a pretty young women I can't blame the gentleman for trying and in such tradition!

Hugs
Patti

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On 08/09/2009, Charlotte said ...

When we were in Egypt a man offered 12 camels for me. They like to tease the tourists. LOL
Charlotte

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On 08/11/2009, Kristine said ...

I could probably be had for a sack of Whoppers with cheese.
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My First Button Fairy

You might have known already about Button Fairies, but I didn't. I discovered them HERE! I fell in love with these little winged creations and decided to make some. Here's my first. I hope to make more, but whoever knows if I will. I have already accumulated some more faces to use. I found it a little tricky threading the wire into the buttons, but with practice maybe that part will be easier.

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On 08/05/2009, Marie said ...

I love these ~ I've never seen them before! Thanks for sharing the link. There are so many beautiful ones there!

I love the fall colors you used and the sweet little face. Your button fairy is lovely ~ I think I need to add this to my list of things to try.

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On 08/05/2009, Amy said ...

That little "candy" button (second from the last) is on my "fancy" pincushion. (Now I need to photograph it & blog it...)

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On 08/05/2009, Lavender Dreams said ...

How precious! I want to make some now! Thanks for the links...so many pretty ones! I love small projects that are fun!

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On 08/05/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

*squeeee* Beautiful Faerie button. YOu did great for your first one! Aren't they fun?! :O)

I provided the code (just for you) to the Raggedy Annie Blog Party! Let me know if it works. (Just remove the brackets and make sure there are no spaces) Let me know k!

Hugs!

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On 08/05/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Cute! Well done!!!!!!!! What color(s) will the next one(s) be?

Hope Vann is feeling better and better!

Hugs!

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On 08/06/2009, Nicole said ...

I have never seen anything like that! How utterly adorable!

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On 08/06/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

In cleaning up my sewing room I came across this quote that I copied:

"Nothing can be truer than fairy wisdom.
It is as true as sunbeams!" - Douglas Jerrold

Hugs!

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On 08/07/2009, Bonnie said ...

Hi Susan, I think we've all been a little busy this summer and I've been really bad about writing back after recieving a comment.
I really like your sewing room picture, that's how mine looks all the time. Then I have to spend half of my time looking for something. Can you tell I'm catching up on your blog.
Love the button fairies.
Keep Stitchen'
Bonnie
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