Whisper1(Linda) Thread #8 of 2013

Happy Fall! It is the time of year that I love. Living in NE Pennsylvania is a wonderful experience in the fall! The mountains are stunningly beautiful. While mornings are crisp, the leaves are only making baby steps in turning color. The next few weeks will be lovely!

BOOK #76 READ IN 2013


Holy Ghosts: Or, How a (Not So) Good Catholic Boy Became a Believer in Things That Go Bump in the Night by Gary Jansen

While I finished the book, I cannot recommend it. It was ok, not great, not good.

The author purchased his parents house. Living with his wife and son, he experiences noises, strange sensations and images. The book started out ok, but then spiraled into babble.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #77 READ IN 2013



Buddy by M. H. Herlong
I loved this book! Written from the voice of Lil't, whose home is New Orleans, LA, the author develops the character from a young child - a wise young man. The depiction of a strong church family, a strong grandfather, father, mother and siblings is sheer poignant joy!

Poor in money, rich in love, Lil't's family struggles financially. Lil't longs for a dog. While driving to church, his father hits a stray dog that ran in front of the car. Buddy wants desperately to obtain assistance for the dog and pleads with the congregation to help. Like Buddy's family, the congregation consists of strong, caring people who are financially challenged.

Yet, when there is a need, the congregational members rise to the occasion. Learning from the vet that the dog's leg cannot be saved, Lil't convinces his father that he will take care of his "Buddy." Mowing lawns in the hot New Orleans sun, Lil't manages to earn money to buy food for Buddy.

The love between an animal and a young boy is portrayed with wonderful clarity. The writing style of the author is spot on and never over the top!

When Buddy's family must leave New Orleans when hurricane Katrina approaches, they have no choice but to leave Buddy behind. Placing him in the bathroom with ample food and water, Lil't prays he will be safe until the family can return.

Alas, when they return, Buddy is gone. When Buddy is located, difficult choices arise.

Five Stars for this book that melts the heart and reminds the reader of the power of love.

Nice to have you back - despite the pain and the difficulties you are going through.

Seems like an interesting dog story by Herlong (I put it on the wishlist). But the anchor goes to another book, it seems, written by Ellen Miles

I hope you're enjoying some lovely fall weather!

Lovely leaves atop your thread!

Congratulations on your lovely new thread. The book about the boy and his dog almost made me cry without reading it. Shucks. Seems like it is an excellent story.

Linda, I truly hope the surgeon has some good options for you. My RA pain has ramped up the last few days and it is just my wrists and hands, and it is no where an 8 or 9; it is probably a 5 or so, and yet I hate hate hate it.

This is all to say I know how awful chronic pain can be. I'm pretty sure I'm headed to a solution, and I certainly hope you are, also!

Meanwhile, I'm reading Night Soldiers which does remind me how hard it was to have WWII developing in Europe. So, Life is Good, and I'm Carrying On! Crossing my fingers for you!

Lovely new thread, Linda! The photo is marvelous!


glitter-graphics.com

Hi Paul. Thanks for stopping by. I tried a number of times to have the correct default for the book Buddy. I'll try again tonight, using a different browser.

Thanks again for the lovely photos you post on your thread. It is balm for a weary soul to see the wonderful images!

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Luxx...Harmonic convergence is in the air. I was thinking of you today and the monsters...wondering if you are going to sew their Halloween outfits.
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Hi Lori...Is fall pretty where you live?

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Karen, I'm going to buy a copy of Night Soldiers for my partner Will for Christmas. He enjoys reading books re. WWII.
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Terri. I was thinking of you today. Simply because I wasn't crazy about the book Holy Ghosts...doesn't mean you might not like it.
I know you and I like this genre. Would you like me to send it to you?

Hi Linda, I'm having a hard time keeping up these days. Lovely new thread.

How I miss those wonderful fall colours, Linda.
Congratulations on another lovely book-filled thread dear lady.

Happy new thread Linda! I love the autumn colours too - the leaves here are starting to turn and I'm looking forward to some autumn walks :-)

ooh! pretty new thread topper! I felt the same about Holy Ghosts... kinda meh. I agree with your assessment. I gave it to a friend of Dan's ... he liked it.

I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the neighborhood "grandchildren".. as well as your own :)
I'm sorry to hear that the pain continues :(

Love your autumn leaves! My one and only Pennsylvania autumn was over thirty years ago when we enjoyed a weekend in one of those lovely rustic cabins at Black Moshannon. It was a magical experience. The beautiful woods and fall foliage, crisp mornings, woodsmoke on the air - I feel endorphins kicking in just thinking about it! I hope you're feeling better these days, Linda.

Dear Linda, Happy New Thread! How I hope that by the time it's full you'll have found some real relief for yourself!
That autumn scene is GORGEOUS!!!! Our neighbors have sugar maples in their front yard, so I await the fall eagerly. This year though, it looks as though they will drop most of their leaves before the colors change. I don't know what that's about. I haven't checked the Japanese maple down the street.

wondering if you are going to sew their Halloween outfits.

How sweet of you to think of us! I am half-sewing their costumes - they're going to be ghostbusters, and I am putting their costumes together instead of buying a poor commercial costume. Blech.

Linda, I'm sure your partner will love Night Soldiers and be forewarned it is the beginning of a series.....

I am trying to get it finished so I can begin Songs of Willow Frost, a book set in Seattle. I'm excited to read it.

Just waving "hi" so your thread comes up on the view I use most in "Talk". Buddy sounds like a good read. (I think you need to close your brackets on the title, as that whole post shows as a link.)

Greetings from the Swiss Alps (Lake Oberalp)

I also was about ready to cry just reading your review of Buddy. I hope your area has glorious color this fall, Linda.

Good Morning to you Linda. I took think Fall is beautiful, but I dread what comes after fall. :( Buddy' story makes me very very sad. I also had a very sad experience this morning. The sheltie I had posted on my facebook page passed away due to being struck by a car. I cried all the way to work this morning. The sheltie's family is aware and are very saddened. I wish she wouldn't have run off the other day when I saw her and tried to stop and pick her up for them. :(

Linda> I enjoy going into the Smokies during the peak leaf season. If Congress doesn't get its act together, I won't be able to do that since the National Park is closed. I can still drive over the mountain into North Carolina on Highway 441, but there are definitely some places I normally enjoying viewing leaves that are currently inaccessible.

Linda - just stopping by to thank you for the lovely gift of the Narnia Book.

Reading it feels like talking about a book you love with a with a wise and knowledgable friend who loves the book as much as you do.

Thank you, my wise and knowledgable friend :-)

Such a beautiful fall forest scene! OOO AAAH

Hi Linda! Happy new-ish thread! I also LOVE your thread topper!

We're still having summer like temps and all green trees in Georgia, so seeing the beautiful fall colors here makes me smile!

Happy new thread and love the fall picture up top!! Sorry the pain continues. : ( Sending good mojo your way.

Beautiful new thread, Linda! Your opening pic says cozy afternoons and apple cider. My fave time of year.

Sending healing mojo to your house.... lots of positive energy.

hugs

Beautiful new thread by a beautiful lady.
Fingers crossed for tomorrow.

Gentle hugs

Linda, just caught up on your thread. So very sorry that you are still in pain after all the effort done to relieve it. I hope a solution presents itself very soon.

I have the same question about the books that everyone else has - WHERE DO YOU PUT THEM? Never mind how much they cost. It's the real estate that boggles my mind. And of course you're so busy that you can't simply sit down and read all of them either! Ah, but the prospects for retirement are exciting.

The blaze of trees at the top of this thread is breathtaking.

Numbered boxes stored in a closet can hold a LOT of books.

Good Morning

Please send up positive energy and prayers if you are so inclined.

I had to take our Sheltie Lilly to the emergency vet. hospital last night. She has a broken hip--most likely this is a genetic defect.

Will and I are leaving now to take her back to the vet. hospital to have surgery.

We love dear Lilly. I mentioned earlier that she is a healing dog to those in need. Now, it is Lilly who needs the healing.

Thanks for thinking positively regarding the outcome. Naturally, I'm concerned.

Oh, Linda...I'm rooting for an easy fix and a full recovery for your beautiful lady. Strength to you, as well....this is tough, I know.

oh no - she's so young to have this happen. Hope it's an easy fix.

{{{Lilly}}}

Linda, I'm so sorry to hear about Lily. I hope the surgery goes well and the healing period is short.

Sorry to hear about Lilly's hip, poor darling! Sending everything positive in your directions.

Loki and I send all our love and healing prayers for Lilly!
Poor, sweet girl. I hope she heals fast - and maybe she will, being so young.

Did anything traumatic happen? Like, did she jump wrong, fall, run into something, work too hard??? Or did it just break out of nowhere??? Loki runs and spins and jumps so hard I keep thinking he is gonna throw something out of whack. He just puts all his energy into everything he does.
I can't imagine how hard it's going to be to keep Lilly quiet while she heals :(

Hugs for Lilly, you and Will!

Prayers for Lily. Our little Havanese, Fiona was paralyzed from a herniated disk last August. She had emergency surgery and now runs like the wind! They can do so much now for our puppies...we'll keep you all in our prayers and thoughts.

Thanks to all for your lovely comments. While the surgery took longer than expected, Lilly came through with flying colors.

She has to stay overnight and if all goes well, we can pick her up tomorrow morning.

The house is so quiet without her. I never realized how much she follows me around, until tonight when my shadow isn't here.

Again, I deeply appreciate the emotional support.

Three vets confirm that this is most likely a genetic condition. She didn't jump, fall, or run, she simply started to limp.

I marvel at what they can do! They removed the bone socket and said that scar tissue will form and will perform the same function.

Amen!

So glad the surgery went well, and devoutly hope that your "shadow" is soon in her accustomed spot! {{{{Linda}}}}

Thanks Dear Roni!!

And, thanks to all!!!!

Wow... genetic condition? Who knew? I certainly didn't ..dysplasia, but broken? There are many more things in this world to worry about that I never even imagined. At least her youth and general good health will help with the healing...

Oh, thank goodness! The girl is now healing and surgery was successful.
Loki wants Lilly to know he will happily run and jump for her (so she can rest) til she recovers completely :-)
You must recover too... hugs all around.

What a scary thing to go through. So glad your furry companion came through so well. Soon she'll be your shadow again!

*huge sigh of relief* I'd be racked up with anxiety if Stella was undergoing surgery!

My brother had Shelties and he said they are prone to hip problems. Hope Lilly comes through with flying colors!

I have had Holy Ghosts on my shelf forever but it just never has come up in the book lottery yet. Maybe someday...

Meanwhile, Hope you're doing well! Take care of yourself & your puppy!

Me and mine canines send all the positive energy needed for your Pup to heal, recover, and be back to her own old self (even though she is young). Good to hear the Vets think she'll be fully recovered.

Linda, just stopping by to see how Lilly is doing. I hope she's home and doing well.

Lilly was lethargic and prone to hiding under the table yesterday. We need to get her moving for a ten minute walk three times a day. This morning she did very well. While she was reluctant to put weight on the leg, at times she felt safe doing so.

I've sent an email to the breeder. I'm not sure what to expect. The contract we signed stated that if there were two doctors who agreed it was a genetic condition, we could give the dog back to the breeder and receive another one from a different litter.

Give up Lilly? No way!

Thanks to every one of you for your outreach.

I'm groggy and lethargic, too, and I didn't just have surgery! I'm so glad she's doing as well as she can expect to be.

*huggles* for worried Puppymama.

Glad to hear she is doing well Linda.. Hugs to you all and glad the outcome was descent.

Glad to hear Lilly is doing better Linda.

I am happy to hear of the good news from Lilly.

I had a pure bred cat who died of megaesophagus (a genetic condition: enlarged esophagus). Her breeder offered me another cat at a reduced amount! Ha! Like I wanted another cat from bad breeding practices.

I know nothing of your breeder but I sympathize with dealing with genetic defect in a pet. Too many breeders do not take good care to breed out the defects. I hope this is the last of Lilly's problems.

good news :)

Keep up the good work Lilly!

I also count myself among the groggy and lethargic. It probably has nothing to do with dancing and drinking until 1 am, then getting up at 4 to go to work...

So glad to hear that Lily is on the mend.

Me too!

Linda, I am so sorry to hear that Lily had a broken hip. It's hard to keep a young dog's spirit down...here's to quick healing and many more years of leaping around the yard with your grandchildren and the children in your neighborhood.

How's the sweet girl doing today? It's so hard to watch them being puzzled by their bodies' failure to do what they expect.

Lilly is doing much better. We take her for ten minute walks three times a day and every fourth step she puts some pressure on her leg.

We know when she is in pain because she hides under the dining room table.

Very little reading done this month, or last. There's just so much going on right now.

Sadly, Friday's appointment with the surgeon who performed the two fusion surgeries, confirmed what I suspected. Alas, I'll be having yet another fusion surgery in the not-too-distant future..

I'm trying to focus on the positive, ie that he told me there is a 50/50 chance this surgery will do the trick and will help with the pain. 50/50 is better than zero, so I'll go with it.

I had a mini meltdown when I left his office. Three prior surgeries (including two fusion surgeries, three sections of disks, and a heart ablation) all in three years, and now another surgery gives time to ponder just how much the body and spirit can sustain.

Courage, courage, dig deep and reach wide for as much as you can get!

*supportive hugs and smooches*

Richard, you are indeed a wonderful role model for me! No stranger to pain, you bravely forge ahead.

Linda, glad to hear that Lilly is improving but so, so sorry to hear that you will need more surgery.

Thanks so much for your outreach Rhian. I've been hesitant to share this information. I really do hope this will be the final surgery and it will work! Thanks again!

Linda, praying for a quick recovery for Lilly and hopefully this is the last surgery for you. ((Hugs))

Thanks Monica

I hope all is well with you and that your path is filled with light.

I am holding both you and sweet Lilly in the pure light of health and joy.

Linda, I hope you and Lilly are soon pain free. I'm sorry you have to have another surgery but I'm also hopeful that it will help with the pain. I wish I was there to give you a (very gentle) hug.

So sorry to hear about both Lily and your health problems, but glad to hear that Lily is on the mend. Adding my gentle hugs to Pat's.

Now that Lily is mending, let's take that as a good sign that health in your household is on the way to a more peaceful, stressfree and pain free level for one and all. Please know that we are sending beseechments heavenward.. You have been such a sweetheart to all of us, it's now time for a wonderful payback to make you feel so much better.

Hi Linda- I am glad Lilly is coming right along! As you know, we, LTers love our pets.

I can fully understand the meltdown after leaving the doctor's office - I've had a couple of those myself in the past. Keeping you, as always, in my fond and loving, concerned and hopeful thoughts, Linda.

That you can endure all of this speaks volumes about you. So much in such a short time. I will continue to send positive and healing energy to both you and to Lilly.. and hope this upcoming surgery does the trick :(

hugs

Warm hugs, dear friend.

Ay yi yi, that's tough going, Linda. We're thinking of you and sending positive thoughts. Hard to deal with persistent pain, and I can't imagine that many surgeries in such a short amount of time.

I am sorry to hear you are facing another surgery but hopeful that this time you will get the pain relief you need and deserve. Great news about Lilly, so happy for you all that there is a positive outcome with your pup!

I would meltdown too if told there was only a 50/50 chance of the surgery working. How frustrating and saddening that must be. *gentle hugs* I'll be thinking about putting light around you during this time and in the future. Keep that chin up.

I hope you will be freed from your pain soon Linda :(

And just to add in a different note: hope you have the chance to take some good drugs. I confess I sometimes like medical procedures which give me good drugs for the recovery. I'm not supposed to like that, am I. But I do. So there. The good thing is I only take what I need and I only take what is prescribed for a specific reason. I have good doctors and I trust them.

Hello To All. I'll answer in depth tomorrow. For now, here is a photo taken this evening.

Grand daughter Kayla is helping Lilly heal...no doubt about it

Aww, that's such a sweet photo. Thinking of you, too, Linda.

That photo belongs under "peace" in the visual dictionary. Hugs to you all.

It could also be found under "friendship" in the visual dictionary! Darling. I hope you can enlarge it, frame it, and hang it in a place of honor. I'm a big fan of hanging good photographs on the walls.

Still holding you all in a Light of Healing and Joy!

Sweet picture . . .

Linda, I'm so sorry that you're still in so much pain, and that Lilly had to have surgery. But glad that you have a new plan of attack (though not an ideal situation, to be sure), and that Lilly is doing so well!

(((((HUGS))))) to you both!

Linda -
You have been through so, so much. I'm sorry to hear there is to be more surgery, but hopeful it will work for you. I truly wish for an end to your suffering... especially hoping this next surgery is the charm. You need a break from this suffering and soon.

Sending you and Lilly prayers and comforting energy till you are both completely healed.

{{{{{Linda & Lilly}}}}}

Sweet picture of sleeping friends :)

Thank you, Buddy! I received the book yesterday! It looks like I can read it front to back this weekend!

Oh, I'm 80 posts behind . . .

Linda, so sorry that you're in so much pain and need another fusion surgery.

Also sorry about Lily's hip, but glad that she is healing.

I just saw your offer to me about the book Holy Ghosts in post 9. Thank you for the kind offer, but we have that book at the library so I can read it from there if I decide I want to.

Got the book, thanks so much!

Hope you are better and your spirits are up!

Gentle hugs to you, Linda. I can only imagine how frustrating more surgery is, but I do hope and pray that it will be successful for you. Also glad to hear Lilly's on the mend.

I came to check for updates after you wafted through my thread...are there firm plans for surgery? Dates, times, etc?

I need to know when to crank up the healing meditations to "full tilt boogie."

Also checking in to see how you are feeling. I hope the pain gives you respites, and isn't totally unrelenting. How's our Lilly-girl's rehab going? Little Molly sends mrrrpppy love.

Hello to all

My energy is low and thus I haven't been on LT as often as I would like. I had an hour-long MRI last Friday evening. I met with my primary care doctor yesterday who was able to access the data re. the MRI and noted that some images were clear, others were not because the cage containing the fusion is metallic like and prevents a clear image. I know I've been in a lot of pain and it is good to know why...The images that were clear indicated continuing bulging at the areas that were fused.
The image of C7-T-1 looks "unstable", meaning not healthy and is severely degenerative.

I see the surgeon tomorrow to review his impressions of the MRI. The primary doc. believes he may want a CAT scan and this may provide clearer images.

If surgery is to occur, I'll ask for it to happen mid November. The semester will be winding down and I'll be able to rest and recover throughout the holidays and into January without phone calls from co-workers.

Lilly is limping along. The sutures are removed tomorrow. The vet is recommending physical therapy for Lilly!!!! I called and learned the consult is $115 and three sessions per week are recommended at $75 each!!!! Dear God...help me in my inability to wrap my mind around PT for a dog. Currently we walk Lilly three times a day 10-15 minutes each time. She is placing more weight on the leg, but still hesitant to walk fully.

I've read very little in October. This is a sure sign that the pain has taken over my ability to function the way in which I would like.

I appreciate the outreach! Thanks for caring.

Darling heart, I am so very sad about the pain take-over (take-owver? heh). I'm whammying up a giant dose of pain-away for postsurgical application, and in the meantime, I say drink heavily.

*smooch*

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #103 The Story of Little Red Riding Hood by Christopher Bing



Increasingly I find solace in the beauty of illustrated children's books. Originally not a genre I explored, I was inspired by Amber's (Scaifea) posts of books read to her charming son Charlie.

This is an age-old tale of Little Red Riding Hood who was seduced by the big bad wolf when enroute to grandma's house.



Strongly instructed by her mother not to stray from the known path, she allows the wolf to encourage her to walk in a new direction, away from the path frequently taken, thus providing the wicked wolf ample time to run ahead and gobble up grandma.





While I may be reading too much into this Grimm's Brother Fairy Tale, it struck me that

Red Riding Hood was a vulnerable lady who was seduced, a loved one was gobbled up, she was danger and saved by a man with a large gun.....

Similar to Tennyson's victorian poem The Lady of Shalott, when the lady leaves the safety of the tower, and breaks the binding ties of traditional authority by not obeying the norm, certain harm follows.

Dear Linda. I'm amazed that you read anything at all in October! I'll be checking back to hear the result of the latest dr. visit tomorrow. Prayers that you and Lilly are going to heal well together and have a new lease/leash on life when you come out of all this!

Linda, I've been thinking of you. Thanks for the update although I wish the situation was easier for you. Hugs!

Thanks for sharing that photo.. it's so sweet! :)

Linda, oh boy! Your plate is full. I know what you mean about pain taking over your ability to read. Pain makes it very hard for me to concentrate on much of anything. I am feeling less pain, and am also using new glasses, so I can read a bit more than I was. However, I am still not quite up to a Do Nothing But Read day which is what I'd like to be doing. I hope your doctors and you can find a really excellent way to relieve the pain and regain your good health and activity level.

My friend Robin has a Lab with a torn ACL and she's taking the dog to a surgeon in Sun Valley, Idaho for reconstructive work. This dog is a hunting dog, and her husband is a bird hunter, and they all want him (the dog) to recover completely, so she is also looking at weeks of PT for the dog. And she has to drive about an hour one way to the good PT place, as well as pay the cost. Holy moley! I am shocked breathless to think about the cost of all of that.

I hope Lilly will begin to do her own physical therapy by putting a little more weight on it. She might enjoy sleeping on a low heat pad. I think you can find some at pet stores. I had a great one I used with two dogs who aged with me, and I know they loved it as they suffered more pain from arthritis.

Know we are all sending best wishes, mojo, and good vibrations (gently) to you!

Hello to all

Lilly had staples removed today and is doing better every day. Karen, alas, while Lilly is very special to us, the bill for her surgery and care thus far totals over $2,800.

Her PT will be Will and I gently walking her longer and longer distances each day and encouraging her to use her left leg. We tried walking her up a hill tonight and it forced her to used all legs.
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I had a long appointment/consult with the surgeon today. Multiple neck fusions from C7-T2 will tentatively occur Nov. 11. After this surgery I'll be fused from C3-T2. I'll hear confirmation about the date on Monday.

Because it is a time consuming surgery, I'll be his only surgery that day and he needs to be sure his calendar is cleared.

I ask your prayers and positive energy. I've been down this road twice before and both times landed back in the hospital after release. The pain is intensive for the first few weeks. I was taken aback when the surgeon said this recovery will be rougher.

I'll be in the hospital for five days or more. I'll be at a different hospital this time and there are specialists working as a team.

Unlike the first surgeries when he went in from the front of the neck, this surgery requires that he operate from the back of the neck, moving muscle from bone.

I have a very positive relationship with the surgeon. I know he never rushes into surgeries. The good news is that after examining the MRI, whereas last week he said the surgery has a 50/50 chance of relieving the intense pain, today he noted better odds of 60/70% relief.

The good news..I'll be away from the university for three months. And, the holiday will provide time to rest and recover. It will be low key.

Please pray for Will. He has been a trooper throughout all these surgeries. Including the heart ablation, this will be four surgeries in three years that he has been a strong, steady source of assistance.

Thanks to everyone for your support. I deeply appreciate this wonderful group of dear, special people!

Linda, I'm so sorry to hear that there is yet more surgery to come, but hopefully you will finally be rid of the pain. And I certainly know the relief of being out of the madhouse for awhile. Hope you and Lilly are both back to best health soon.

Linda catching up here is sometimes delightful and sometimes saddening but this time closer to being distressing.
Lilly's travails are an upsetting hors d'oeuvres to your own. So glad to see that she came through the surgery and that her recuperation is continuing. I hope she is not in much pain now. Having faced excruciating vet's bills last year with the flying cat Bambi, I can appreciate the blow it causes, unfortunately if it was double or triple the price it wouldn't make any difference would it. The money is secondary when our pet is suffering.

I think followers of your thread, myself included dear lady, can only be full of admiration for Will. He continues to be your loving support and helpmeet and bravo to him as always.

Most distressing of all is your continued battle against pain. The 50% assessment has at least been raised and your specialist does seem a sanguine and realistic fellow. A good omen of course is the date of surgery coinciding exactly with the anniversary of the end of the Great War in 1918. I trust your own war with pain will get its armistice this year.

Have a lovely weekend despite everything. xx

Linda, I can't help but send you good vibes on 11/11 - as I will turn 69 on that day. It is a special holiday for all who remember the end of The Great War; and I join Paul in hoping it is indeed an armistice with Pain. You and Will both will need your patience and optimism and if I could bundle some up and send it to you, you know I would, with ribbons and bells. Be strong, dear heart.

Paul got it right by saying how distressing this is. I know you are a very strong minded person and hopefully this, along with the support of your wonderful Will and all the good thoughts that are being sent your way will help you through this difficult time. (((Linda))) - gentle hugs for a very special person.

Wonderful news about the odds shortening in your favor re: pain relief. The rest is unpleasant, but the idea that you stand a good chance of experiencing substantive pain relief must make the prospect of the travails to come that much easier to bear, I hope.

Much much loving energy directed at you and at Will.

Ear-schmuzzles for Lilly, as I seem to recall you didn't enjoy having your ears schmuzzled.

Linda, I'm sorry to hear that you'll have to go through another major surgery, but I hope that you'll find long term relief after it and the recovery phase have ended. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and to Will.

>107 kidzdoc:: I couldn't have said it better myself. We're all out here rallying for you, Linda!

Other people have said it better than I. But I add to the happiness that the news that this surgery has a likelihood of a better outcome than previously thought, the concern about how troubling and scary this must be to you and Will, gladness that Lily continues to recover and hopeful that this will all be behind you and you will be a healthier, pain free, contented Linda in a few months.

Glad to hear that Lilly is in the PT stage now, Linda, and kudos to Will for all the support he's given you. I'm sure it's nearly as hard for him to see you in pain as it is for you to experience it. Fingers crossed that the surgery helps as the odds say it will. I'll be sending you positive energy on 11/11.

You know that my heart is with you and that I know what a great guy Will is - a perfect match for you.

Gentle hugs for you and a huge squishy hug for Will!

Big thanks to everyone. My energy is low, but my spirits are positive.

I admit that when the surgeon began to explain exactly what he will need to do, I felt a bit queasy. I'll need to make an appointment to have my blood taken and kept for the surgery. I may need a transfusion. He also mentioned that during the surgery, he will need to "cull a piece of my hip bone to use for the fusion."

Please pray that this works. I have no other option. The surgeon said the post surgery pain and recovery will be difficult, but the chance of this working will far out weigh the risks.
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While I haven't read much in October, I have continued to purchase books from the library sale table...Today's purchases total $1.30!

Books acquired in 2013

BOOK #449


BOOK#450


BOOK #451


BOOK #452


BOOK #453


BOOK #454

I love Fforde's The Eyre Affair.. I hope you will enjoy it as well :)

*swinging by to say Hi!*

Keeping you ever in my thoughts, Linda. Such a positive and brave soul you've got there. I'm pretty certain that you're an amazing lady.

It's hard to add anything to what Paul and others have already said. This kind of pain is so pointless, and I wouldn't wish it for anyone, but it seems especially wrong for such a warm kind person as you to have to continue to suffer. I really like Paul's armistice analogy. May it be prophetic.

Good call on doing Lily's PT on your own.. and you know you can count on healing and loving energy from me, and all of your friends here at LT.

Once again, I will be hoping that this takes care of the problem once and for all

xo

>101 Whisper1::
Dear friend;
My heart hurts for you & your little family. I hate that you are having to go through another surgery though the outcome of this one does indeed sound more positive. And oh my, you are going to have time out of the rat-race. I pray that when some of the pain has let up you will feel up to reading some of those wonderful books you have been adding to your library.
Please know that I will be thinking of and praying for you.
Much love,
just me

Linda, I've been away from LT for awhile. I'm so sorry to read about your pain and upcoming surgery. I'll be keeping you in my prayers, especially on the 11th. So glad that will has been such great support and that Lilly is on the mend. I was afraid when you first mentioned her that it was going to be catastrophic...I lost two goats and a ram this week, so last night was a major meltdown for me. It really is a relief for me to know that your Lilly will be o.k. Your pictures of Lehigh are beautiful. I hope you get a chance each day to take in it's beauty and hopefully relieve your pain for just a little while!

ILLUSTRATED CHILDREN'S BOOK #104


Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost illustrated by Susan Jeffers

The illustrations of Susan Jeffers are breathtaking and provide a wonderful affirmation of the beauty of the lovely poem by Robert Frost.

How beautiful! Wonderful images indeed, Linda.

What Richard said, Linda. That's a poem well-suited to illustration, too.

Linda, I can't really add much to the messages everyone else has left, except to say I will be praying for you, Will and Lily as your surgery date approaches. I can't imagine how exhausting and heart-breaking it must be to keep going through so much pain and so many surgeries.

Linda, an all encompassing hug to you, gently of course, Will and Lilly. You are one strong lady and meltdowns are to be expected. You need that complete release in order to move ahead. Please know my thoughts and prayers will be focused on you and your family.

Linda, I add my prayers and comforting thoughts to all the others. I am so sad that you have to go through yet another major surgery. I hope the third one will be the "charm" that ends your pain once and for all. You should take a copy of that heartwarming picture of Kayla and Lilly with you when you go to the hospital. What sweethearts they are. I'm sure Lilly will pass along her healing powers to you as you both recover.

Such beautiful images! I love how beautiful your threads always become as you read...

I hope you are home by choice to relax, and not because you are unwell today?

hugs

Linda dear, I am so sorry that you are living with so much pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you for a safe and successful surgery -- and praying for Will, too.

Every time I click your thread, I wonder what I will find. I always hope for the results of a wonderful spate of reading, yet I click with the fear that pain will have a grip on you. I am sorry to hear that the pain level is not improving. If all your friends here on LT could embrace a share of your pain away from you, you would be virtually pain-free, so very many are your well-wishers. But since all we can do is offer our prayers and thoughts, I join with everyone else in hoping that this surgery will be just the thing that turns the tide for you.

glitter-graphics.com
that you aren't feeling tip top.

Thinking of you, dear friend, as I go about my morning. Feel better. ♥

Linda, adding my well wishes to the chorus here. I am so sorry you are having so much pain but hope the surgery gives you some respite. Sending positive energy your way and will be thinking of you on the 11th.

You've got it! Linda, you have my most fervent prayers for a successful surgery, amazing recovery, a minimum of pain, courage and patience through the whole process, peace in your heart, comfort and patience for Will, and a special healing bond for you and Lilly.

This sounds like it's going to be tough. But I predict - not as tough as YOU! It's just wonderful to have Will by your side. I know, it's hard on him too. Stay positive and trust that LTers are with you from all over the world :-) We want you feeling so much better and a picture of you smiling when this is over.

gentle hugs {{{Linda}}}

>120 Whisper1: they really are gorgeous illustrations. I am sure I was an artist in a former life, I am certainly not one in this one.

(((hugs)))

Hey there Linda :) Weekend is here.....I hope you enjoy it! How are you and Lilly feeling?

Linda, sorry to hear that you'll need another surgery but I pray it'll be successful and relieve your pain. Hang in there, please.

Linda, I had lost track of your thread somehow, but I'm glad I found it again in time to wish you all the best with your upcoming surgery, and continued recuperation for beautiful Lilly. Chronic pain is a terribly debilitating thing, and I can only echo all of your LT friends in hoping that it will not be your companion for much longer. I will be sending healing wishes your way, for you and Lilly both, and to Will as well.

For good health, may your sickness make way
May your dark, painful night become a bright, happy day
With this message I just want to say
May God quickly make you better and keep illness at bay

I'm hoping that this procedure will be the final step to your finally reach the pain-free point for which we've been searching.

Oh Linda!! I'm so very sorry it has been so long since my last visit and I'm even more sorry about all that you are facing right now.

I'm glad your surgeon is honest with you, but can't imagine how hard this is on you and Will both. Know that you're in my heart and prayers.

((hugs)) -- Be well, my friend!

Dear Linda, I'm so far behind and am just now catching up. I'm so sorry that you have to have another surgery and to hear of Lily and her broken hip. It just seems like too much for one person to have on their plate.

I hope Lily will soon be feeling 100%. Copper and Skye send puppy good wishes.

I will be keeping you and Will in my thoughts and prayers.

Hang in there, Linda.

Greta Garbo just today asked me how is Lilly? I am not sure if it is because she cares or just wonders about her competition for affections of all her fans. (-:

>120 Whisper1: What a beautiful book that one looks to be---a perfect gift for a child, one that might lead to a lifelong love of poetry and fine illustration. I'm going to look for it for a certain wee lassie who's probably a few years away yet from appreciating it. (She hasn't spoken her first word yet, but hey...it's never too early, right?) I hope you've had an easy week since you last posted. You're often in my thoughts.

November approaches... I'm sure that you will be glad to get it behind you so you are in recovery mode... I hope the pain isn't too unbearable :(

Thinking of you often.. sending hugs...

I'm wishing you strength and peace for your upcoming surgery.

Scritches for Lilly as she recovers.

and many thanks for sharing the wonderful illustrations for the Robert Frost poem. I think I'll give a copy of that one to myself.

Linda, I am wishing you strength and praying for a wonderful outcome on your upcoming surgery. Sending healing energy your way. I have been away from LT being busy in general. I am getting ready to have a minor surgical procedure myself on November 5th. My recovery time is a few days unless they find more wrong. But I will be okay. I hope all goes well for you. I will be thinking of you. XOXO.. and Big hugs and smooches for precious little Lilly from Angel and I too..

Hello to all.

Work is consuming my time as I prepare to be out of the office for three months.

As November 11th approaches, I am obsessing about the surgery. Then, when I have very painful days like today, I am reminded how necessary it is.

I miss my LT friends and I so appreciate your posts even though I haven't visited your thread in awhile. I deeply appreciate your outreach.

Alas, Lilly chased a neighborhood cat and may had done some damage to her hip post surgery. Will took her to our wonderful vet. He gave her strong pain meds and a chinese herb to promote healing.

Has anyone hear of san Qi Mo Yao ru Xiang?

Happy Halloween to all!!!!!

Alison's Zinnia by Anita Lobel

A very quick read of delightful images of lovely flowers illustrated by the very talented Anita Lobel

Linda, I don't know if you'd find it helpful or not but I found listening to Belleruth Naparstek's relaxation CD on Surgery to be extremely helpful. Here's a link to a site with a number of her CDs available to listen to online: here. If you scroll down to the bottom, you'll see the one for Surgery.

They recommend listening twice a day for up to 2 weeks before the surgery date. I probably did it once a day for about 8 to 10 days before and found it incredibly relaxing. I was all prepared with a prescription for xanax for the days before the surgery but was surprised that I didn't need it--listening to the CD really calmed me down and I slept well in the days leading up to my surgery.

I'm sorry to hear Lily may have re-injured her hip. It's so hard to keep a dog from running when they shouldn't.

Thank you for your earlier recommendation for the Susan Jeffers' book on Robert Frost's poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening. I got it out of the library and loved it.

Sorry about Lily. I'm glad you have a good vet.

I'm keeping you in my prayers as you await your surgery, Linda.

Thinking about you! My best wishes to you!

One week to go...what a wonderful chance to make life pain-free.

Much whammying for good results!!

Sending you ongoing good wishes and healing light for your upcoming surgery.

Stopping in to send you good wishes, healing thoughts and let you know I'll be praying for you and your full and speedy recovery! Much love to you Linda! (((hugs)))

Sending up prayers and healing thoughts as you get ready for the surgery that will finally end your pain Linda.

Sending my best wishes as well for your surgery.

Hi Linda, I'm thinking of you this morning and wishing and praying that this procedure will offer long term relief. (((HUGS)))

Thinking of you, Linda. I so hope the next round of surgery is your last, and your pain is much relieved.

Just stopping by to see how you're doing Linda. Hope your last days at work before the surgery aren't too stressful and are actually helpful in keeping you distracted. Sending you lots of love.

Dear Linda, still praying and looking forward to real recovery for you!

Hello To All

After a day of extreme pain, it is so wonderful to read the lovely messages.

I so hope to be back to LT soon. I miss all of you.

I haven't read much lately. I start books, then put them down.

I miss reading.