Let me first of all thank all of you for your supportive, loving comments about Riley. The night went fairly well, except for a period where he wondered where his Dad and Scout were and started pacing. I had to get up with him twice and let him out in our sub-zero temperatures. Don and I are now thinking seriously of leaving both dogs downstairs for the night. They would be in the living room, which is the room they hang out in when we leave the house. Scout could have her bed there and hopefully, after a period of adjustment, they would be okay with it. Riley feels better when Scout is nearby. Carrying him on our narrow stairway is probably not an option, as Riley has real anxiety issues and we think this would just add to his stress. He’s also heavy – I have a tricky back, Don has a hernia…maybe not such a good idea. I’ll update you as we muddle through this.
I have been getting packages in the mail this week – lovely gifts from 2 generous blogging friends. I should just say friends. Because they are. My friend, Donna, wrote me a note the other day asking if I would like this:
Yes! Donna knows I love roses and pink and that I collect hat pin holders. This is a shaker with holes in the top and will be perfect for displaying hat pins. She also included a lovely bookmark. Thank you, Donna!
My friend Jayne of Tallulah Belle Originals is a talented miniaturist. She creates the most wonderful flowers and plants and also has begun sculpting. She recently moved into a new house and was re-organizing her studio. She asked me if I would like this:
Yes, again! Jayne made this and I love it – don’t you think it will be perfect for the shabby dollhouse? Jayne not only sent me this, but look what else she included:
Plates, glass dishes, teacup and saucer, baskets, garden pots, a wood holder for the fireplace, a kitty….
All sort of wonderful flowers for arranging…
Vases, a pitcher, a plant and a birdhouse…
And this wonderful bird who now has a new home. Thank you, Jayne.
These little surprises come at a time when I feel very worried about Riley, stressed about life in general and am longing for Spring. I cannot tell you how much they cheered me and how much I value your friendship, Donna and Jayne. I thank you all for your never-ending support and good wishes. I’m coming up on my 2nd anniversary of blogging in February. What a joy it has been!
stefanie says
oh, my, goodness, how sweet, I bet that made your day!!!
Country Wings in Phoenix says
Oh Claudia sweetie…
You received some beautiful things for your doll house. Sure does encourage you to keep working on the doll house. I love seeing your updates as you work along.
I am glad you have decided to move both critters downstairs. This way you will have no more falls. Maybe Spring and Summer will help his joints to not ache so much and he will be feeling better soon.
Have a beautiful weekend sweetie.
Country hugs and much love, Sherry
Kim says
oh what wonderful treasures! I bet you are so excited to keep working on your dollhouse now! Jayne is one of the sweetest people I know :)
I think the idea of keeping the dogs together is good- might be less confusing if they stay together in that room when you are not home.
Marsha (Sassy Mini Dolls) says
It’ll be an adjustment period for them but they’ll adapt :)
All your goodies will look great in your shabby chic cabinet from Dollhouse Land!!
((Hugs))
Rizzi says
HI CLAUDIA,
ANIMALS CAN REALLY WORRY YOU, THEY ARE FAMILY, AND THEY TOUCH OUR HEART. SMART MOVE ABOUT REILY AND SCOUT. THEY WILL BE TOGETHER, SO THAT’S A GOOD START, PLUS THEY ARE IN THEIR OWN HOME AND THEY KNOW YOU ARE STILL IN THE HOUSE. I LOVE THE MINATURE DOLL HOUSE THINGS, THEY ARE DARLING. HAVE A NICE WEEKEND. RIZZI
Tallulah Belle says
Every house needs a little housewarming gift…even a dolls house :-)
Glad you like it all.
Sounds like a good plan for the dogs….I hope they settle down OK and Riley perks up real soon xxx
Cass @ That Old House says
What lovely gifts, from lovely friends!
Bless you for your patience, care, and love for Riley. It can be a challenge, that’s for sure, dealing with a dog with “issues.” Our family has fostered and rehabilitated many dogs, and i just want to tell you that I think your instinct to put both dogs together downstairs is the correct one.
Riley is used to “company” and will be comforted by having his Scout nearby, especially since that’s their hangout when you are not at home.
Good luck! It might take a night or two for him to settle down entirely, but I predict it will work out. It’s also clear that his stair climbing days are over; that’s the curse of hip dysplasia, if that is indeed his problem.
Here’s hoping for a good night!
Cass
Bunny Rose Cottage says
Oh Claudia, I am so sorry about Riley!! I cannot stand it when animals are hurting or suffering, it just breaks my heart. Your babies are so cute too, I just want to squeeze them!
I love the gifts your received in the mail! Such wonderful, generous friends we have here in blogland. I get amazed more every day! I am so happy these things came to you just when you really needed them!
Much love,
Amy
Duchess of Tea says
Lady Claudia darling enjoy your new treasures and use all of them in good health. Darling, I am so sorry that you have had worries…hope they all resolve and I too like you can’t wait for spring. Garden, flowers and fresh spring air….can’t wait. Darling, have a lovely weekend and take it easy with life, things work themselves out.
Love & Hugs
Duchess
There I Am. says
So sorry to read about Riley. I know how important dogs are in a family.
Hoping he recovers soon.
xoxo
Lisa says
Blogging friends are the best!! I guess we say what we feel and they know when we need that little pick me up!! Love all your goodies. The pottery is sooo you! How cool!! I am glad your puppy is doing ok. I hope the leaving then together works. You all need some sleep and if it is their place they will be fine!
Hugs, Lisa
Sares says
What wonderful gifts! I love all the minis, they’re so darned cute! I do hope your Riley’s hip heals quickly. We have a Pomeranian that has always had hip dysplasia(spelling), it runs in her breed I guess. The vet said it could cause arthritis as she ages. She just hit 13 and it doesn’t seem to bother her too bad, she has her own stool at the foot of the bed to jump up. She doesn’t have lots of stairs to go up and down every day though like poor Riley. Hope you have a good weekend and that you and Don get some sleep!
debbie says
DEAR CLAUDIA,
HAPPY PINK SATURDAY AND I HAVE A BIG HUG FOR YOU.
ABOUT RILEY: WE HAVE A RESCUE SCHNAUZER AND HE HAS KIDNEY DAMAGE AND HIP PAIN….HIS VET GIVES HIM TRAMADOL AND PREDINSONE PLUS HE HAS TO TAKE AN ANTIBIOTIC EVERY DAY OF HIS LIFE. WHEN HE IS NOT IN PAIN HE JUST PLAYS AND PLAYS….WHEN IN PAIN, WE HAVE TO CARRY HIM OUTSIDE TO URINATE.
ALSO YOU CAN GET MEDICINE FOR YOUR PET AT WAL MART VERSES HOW EXPENSIVE IT IS AT THE DR….SAMMY’S PRESCRIPTION HAS HIS NAME AND THEN IT SAYS…NOT HUMAN….
THE NERVE OF THEM.
YOUR MINIATURES ARE BEAUTIFUL.
IT HELPS TO RECEIVE THINGS WHEN YOU ARE DOWN.
HUGS AND BLESSINGS
SIMPLY DEBBIE
prashant says
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Mereknits says
How lovely to get such fun, thoughtful gifts, from apparently very thoughtful friends.
koralee says
Love all your new treasures. Your doll house things are adorable. Happy playing. Have a great weekend.
Betty Jo says
I’m sure you’re going to find just right thing for both you and hubby and your precious doggies. What gorgeous gifts, and wonderful friends. Well deserved! ♥
The Garden Bell says
Sweet, sweet treats for you today. Great pictures to go with your story too….
Kate
Jenny S says
That shaker is on of the prettiest I have EVER seen!