...and so starts another year.

Well, here we go again, another day and another New Year - let's hope it is kinder than the one we have just left behind, so, to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training, here's to 2017.

Do you remember last September I told you about the problem we had with Bob's car and then being ripped off by the garage shop who was supposed to repair it at Voloskie Automotive in Oakdale, Pennsylvania, and of course, financially, they used my credit card for purchases that I knew nothing about.  I gave them the card initially to tow it in to their shop at a cost of $800.00, anyhow, as we discovered $2,500.00 later, we were in a bind yet needed the vehicle back.  Filed a complaint with the credit card company, American Airlines Card and there is an ongoing dispute, however, get this little gem of information, because I gave them my card to pay for the $800.00 cost to tow the vehicle to their shop, according to the card company, I gave them permission to use my card for whatever... .  even though I knew nothing about the other charges that have no receipts, really.

Well, the car engine broke again and it is now back in another shop to have a new transmission installed, we can get a reconditioned one -- the new place that is a nationwide company, has given Bob a written report stating that the work Voloskie's Automotive did was done incorrectly and they also created other damages to parts, so, we are back to being a one car household, for the time being, and this time it is going to be back in the boxing arena to get this taken care of and let's hope for the last time until Bob trades it in for another vehicle.  

I'm working away at my website and really enjoying adding to the many products - it is really good  describing the garments and jewellery, makes the wee grey cells work. Here is a photo of my business card

It shows a display of the Aran Sweaters, Tammy, scarf and gloves.  If you go in to the website you can see all the other products that live up to the name, Luxurious... .  so as the card indicates,  Come browse and experience... . The Wrap of Luxury (r) at www.thewrapofluxury.com 

We had some very severely cold weather these last couple of weeks, and now this past Thursday it was 64 degrees Farenheit and this weekend the cold icy weather is back in again.  It's no wonder everyone is sick - I have been laid-up with a bad chest infection, actually I don't think there is such a thing as a good chest infection.  The meds seem to be working - still not out of the woods, but I am a lot better than through this past week.   Now, for good measure, Bob has decided to get sick - ladies out there, have any of you lived in the same abode as a man with the 'flu???  Makes a root canal feel like a walk in the park.  I keep on telling myself "...this too will pass... ."

Okay my dear Bloganistas, time to scat and add some more information to my Website Blog - hey, did I tell you that I have created a page on Facebook at Facebook.com/thewrapofluxury - give it a whirl and see what you think.  I am trying to get it out and in to as many social media "thingies" as I can 'cause I can't afford the mega bucks to advertise with Google, Yahoo and the other Big Boys.  Time to say good night, toodle pips, cheerio, au revoir ta ra and all that jazz.  Susie says good night and pleasant dreams also... .  Until next time, take care and in times when you think you'd like to run and hide,  maybe you could close your eyes and remember everything good.  Love to all, Elizabeth xox

Let is snow, Let it snow, somewhere else (perhaps in Florida... .)

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training,  this will be my second time today for getting this Blog posted -- I screwed up the first one, there was an enormous picture of me and my cousin Harry's right eye, smack dab in the middle of everything - I press buttons when I'm not supposed to,  so, let's see how I fair this time... .                      
For those of us who live north of the Mason-Dixon Line we are all too familiar with the snow, looks beautiful when you are nice and snug in the house looking out at it, but when you have to get out there and shovel the driveway, it is a pain not only in the back but, well, you know.
Yesterday morning around 6:30a.m. I let my wee dog Susie out and couldn't help but laugh -- she was nowhere to be seen, she's white and so was the snow.  Today I have her red Christmas neckerchief (aka bandana - surprised spell check knew this word and didn't red line it.)  
I took Susie to the Doggy Beauty Parlour last week, she gets her hair done (trim) every 8 weeks, and she came out looking really lovely - I tell Shelley to make sure she comes out still looking scruffy - here's a picture of her sitting in the front seat of my car.  The bow didn't last long, it was off by the time we got home 4 miles away. 

Susie all ready for Santa

This isn't going to be a long blog, got the feeling I've been there done that just a short time ago, however, I do want to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah and of course, come the 31st of the month, we Scots will be celebrating Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) don't ask me where the word came from, wait, maybe Google can tell me, hold on.  All it said, amongst other things was that it probably came from the Scandinavians (anyone watch the show "Vikings")  those guys --  anyhow, that's how we Scots sing out the Old Year and Ring in the New Year with a glass of whisky, and a dark haired man must cross your  thresh hold, so Bob has to wear a black Babushka (his hair's silver, notice I didn't say grey).  It's a nice tradition and we celebrate it every year.
Anyhow dear family and friends, as I said, time to close out for the auld (old) year and I'll be talking with you all again next year. 
and, for good measure, I saw Rudolph out in the front garden the other night by the bird feeder and managed to snap a picture of him.  Hope you like it.  So, let me wish you, one and all -- "here's tae us, wha's like us, damned few and they're aw dee'd." the translation is "here's to us, who's like us, damned few and they are all dead... ."

     

It's that time of the year again... .

Hi to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training.  

With the weather in our neck of the woods cooling off, we are getting some, what I call, lovely mornings like this picture -- I don't know what it is, but I just love misty mornings, must remind me of Scotland.

Since I last spoke with you all last month, I've been busy -- on the 23rd November I had a Cataract removed from my right eye -- such a Drama Queen, I was fit to be tied with worry and no matter how many people told me there was nothing to worry about, I felt, Hey, it's not your Baby Blues that are being gotten at;  anyhoo, glad to say I came through it with flying colours and the nurses at the Heritage Valley Surgery Centre in Moon Township, couldn't have been nicer.  Terrific ladies.  That being said, I was back in again yesterday, 7th December, to have the same done to my left eye, am I the seasoned pro or what!!!  Went for my follow-up visit this morning with the surgeon and he was delighted with his handiwork.
So I am supposed to behave myself for a couple of days and then it's back to life as usual, really.

Got my Christmas tree up 10 days ago, we opted for a small tree this year, only 6' however, I really like it and it took less time to decorate it, sounds like Scrooge, but I wasn't in the mood for the big tree.  Don't know what I am complaining about, it's an artificial one and to tell the truth, it is the middle and top sections of our big tree, so, pleased with it I am. 

Hard to believe we are on the count-down to the end of this year 2016 -- hasn't been the best of times, nor has it been the worst of times, however, I feel good about 2017.  So, to cheer us all up, here's a picture of Susie after she got her spent her day at the Doggie Spa and has her Christmas bow and scarf - in case you are wondering, the bow didn't make it home.   Can't say she looks thrilled - my sister told me to be careful in case Susie decides to do me
 in as pay back.  

So, for the moment, let me say cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir, ta ra and all that jazz.  Until next time.  All the best, Elizabeth, "Liz"  Beth etc., etc., oh, before I forget, have a look at my website at
                        www.thewrapofluxury.com 
           who knows, you might see something you just can't live without.

I'm back... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training... .  

The  clocks have been turned back so before we have our first snow fall, I just want to share this terrific picture of Pittsburgh taken from Mount Washington showing the Mon Incline Trolley and the three rivers, the Monongahela and the Allegheny flowing in to the Ohio (I believe it is  called The Confluence at the Point.  Nice looking city, isn't it.

I believe I told you that we rescued a little dog, she's a Parson Russell Terrier Mix (don't know what the mix is)  she is a great wee dog and keeps Bob and me on our toes - I had her to the Vet today for a check-up and Dr. Ted said she is nice and healthy so this is good, although we already felt this to be the case.   As you can see from this picture, she loves to go for rides in the car.
We have named her "Susie" - this is her sitting up on the sofa while I work on the computer.  When she feels I have been ignoring her, i.e., working on the computer, she will let me know it and starts to bark and jump up on my lap.    As you can see, she has settled in and  is quite content, I've even knitted her her own blankie, the colour Purple suits her.
                                                        
Didn't get too much done in the garden this Summer - as you know, I had my right knee replaced and this really curtailed my movement especially when trying to bend.  Had 4 months of physical therapy and am still doing my exercises need to, to keep the knee supple.  Seems strange to think there is an artificial joint in there, of course, this keeps my two artificial hips company - just call me the Bionic Woman, Lindsay Wagner in the flesh... .  I feel the knee hasn't been as good as the hips, still feels like I have sprained it - although I know I haven't - go back to see the surgeon in February so we'll see what he has to say.  On the other hand, both hips are great.

Well, I now need to get some work done on my Blog for my website, the Blog is http://thewrapofluxury.blogspot.com -  I also have a page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thewrapofluxury (looks like you'll have to type these links in as they didn't pop) so I'm going to say goodnight and get a move on for the website.  Why not have a look at it also, www.thewrapofluxury.com       In the meantime, let me say toodle pip, cheerio, au revoir, ta ra and all that jazz.  Until next time, take care and travel safely.  Elizabeth

Going, Going, Gone and Done it... .

This is going to be a short Blog to let you all know that I have been secretly building my Website and also Blogging about it at http://thewrapofluxury.blogspot.com

So, let me start out as usual --- Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training,you'll be wondering about the title of this Blog, come to think on it, it can conjure up a myriad of situations, but this is a good one - around 1:45p.m. today, Eastern USA Standard Time I clicked on the button and have now gone live and viral, do they have similar meaning??? let me check -- I hope it's a healthy virus.

I've been working on this online shop these past 9 months and after getting over new hips and a new knee, I am very happy to say, WHEEE, gone and done it - I'm now out there for everyone and their auntie and uncle to see.   There is a pun here in the word "see" since I am having Cataracts removed from both eyes in November. 

My products, sweaters, woollens/woolens -  jewellery/jewelry (depending on what side of The Pond you come from is how you spell it) are all made in the UK and Ireland and are of top-of-the-line quality.

I know you will find that special something, either for yourself or those special people in your life.  You'll even find Guinness T-Shirts and other ones sporting Scottish, Irish, English and Welsh designs.

I have a page telling you all about me and how I got started in "the business"  - e.g., back in 1987 I started a High Street Shop that was named A British Accent (r) and also a Contact Us page where you can type in your email address and become part of my family of patrons -- let me assure you that my Online Shop is a Secure Site so you have no concern about your information being kept confidential.  This way I can keep you updated on the monthly specials with really nice discounted sale prices - and for your convenience you can pay with all major credit cards, Pay Pal and Apple Pay.
Okay, it"s time for me to say cheerio, ta ra, toodle pips, au revoir and all that jazz... .  
I am happy to extend an invitation for you to  
                          Come browse and experience The Wrap of Luxury (r) 
                                                                  - at -
                          www.thewrapofluxury.com

Fun and Games... .

Hi to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training -- last Thursday I went to Sewickley for my allergy shots - on the way back I stopped off in Moon Township to say hello to the wonderful physical therapist(s), Carolyn, and her assistants - they were so caring when I was attending their facility after my Hip replacements and more recently my right Knee.

After that I headed towards Carnegie to drop off two computer towers to have the hard drives removed - pulled off the Parkway West and since Noblestown Road is being repaired I had to take Baldwin Road, a really nice country road, anyhoo, as I am coming up to the Stop sign at Fort Pitt Road my car engine went "thump" and stopped.  Fortunately I was able to coast over to the side of the road (more or less) - well, after a case of mild hysteria and yelling at the car, I called my insurance company and they arranged for a tow truck to come -- after sitting around, an hour went bye and this is what arrived  - was I happy to see it and the young fella named J.R.  towed me and the car back home and dropped me off in my driveway - there it sits until the garage can take it in this upcoming Tuesday.   So, that was my fun day in Thursday, oh, the computer towers are still in the back seat and they will be taken care of another day.

We are having lots of fun with our new wee dog "Susie"  she is the epitome of what Terriers are -- she has discovered Toads in the back garden and it is so entertaining just watching her jump about 2 feet up in the air when a Toad pops out of the tall grass - the other night I couldn't find her in the house so I went out in to the back garden and there "Susie" was hiding in the tall leaves of my Iris plants waiting for the pounce - I'm wondering what she would do if she actually caught one.

Well, time to scat and see what mischief I can get up to in adding stuff to my Family Tree in Ancestry.com, so, until next time "Susie" and I bid you all adieu, cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir and all that jazz.  By for now Elizabeth, "Liz" etc., etc.

I'm ba-ack... .

Hello to all you Fabulous Bloganistas, I am back with a new wee pal,  This is "Susie" she's an 8 year old Parson Russell Terrier Mix -- we adopted her, or she actually adopted Bob and me, on the 20th of July this year -- since wee Corey leaving to go be with his brother Buddy and all his other pals, the house has been oh so empty;  it is hard getting another pooch, makes you feel as if you are being unfaithful to the one(s) you just lost, but the one good thing is that although the other pooches are no longer with us, in person, the memories they left us with will never fade or go away.

Susie is quite the little madame, she gives Bob a hard time, always growling and barking when he sneaks up on us when we are sitting in our Gal Cave doing what Gals do (...nothing... .) so when Himself sneaks in to the hallway at the end of the house where our Gal Cave is, she's right there barking telling him he needs to announce himself, better still, telling him to bring treats.  I've asked him if he is worried in case she and I are having a wild party, ha, that happens when he is out of town.  Come to think on it, he even snuck (?)  around before she joined us at home -- such are the joys, I'll keep my opinion to myself.

I have been recuperating after the replacement of my right knee, hmmm!!! I had this op on Monday the 8th of February this year -- the physical therapy has been intense, however, I had an excellent therapist, Carolyn at Heritage Valley Rehab Centre and her assistant Monica, two great gals, not to forget Mindy who was the admin assistant - I had in-house therapy 2 times a week for 4 weeks, then I started outside therapy the beginning of March and just finished the end of July.  Don't know if I was supposed to be going for such a long time but the insurance company kept on paying and I kept on going... .  Although my stamina is not yet up to snuff, I am getting around really well and I keep in my mind that it will only get better as time goes by.

We've been having an extremely hot, humid Summer and a lot of rain to boot, however, come the middle of January I'll be wishing for some of the heat - I can hear the Thunder rumbling outside (beats rumbling around inside... .) so maybe there's more rain on the way.

Here's another picture of Susie having a doggy-nap (something like a cat nap) the day after she came home with us - she might be 8 years of age but I don't think anyone has told her, she is like a dog out the traps the way she dashes through the house, but that's okay, we love her and we are enjoying every minute of it.  Okay, time for me to scat and get something done, don't know what but that's okay, so until next time, Susie and I wish you all a safe and happy life - cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir, ta ra and all that jazz love to all,  Elizabeth, "Liz" etc., etc., xox

Corey's Farewell

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training -- I meant to write this a few weeks ago but one thing and another had me postpone it, so here goes... .

Since last July 2015, the muscles in my legs have slowly been deteriorating,  I can still hear Mum saying I was staggering around like a Drunken Sailor.  My eye sight wasn't the best either - can't say the same for my appetite it was in top form.

Anyhow, as the months went bye it was obvious I wasn't going to get better - Mum spoke with the vet and he said my body was getting weaker, but I could hold on for a wee bit longer.  We saw Christmas in which, as usual was fun with lots of treats and pressies along with Robert's new dog Rika, and then Hogmanay and New Year's Day - so I made it in to my 16th year in people years and 112 in doggy years.

Then, Mum and Dad had to make the decision on what to do - so, on Saturday the 6th of February 2016, we made the journey to the Vet's office up in Wexford where we had to say our farewells..  Mum cuddled me and it felt so good (took the cuddles with me).  I fought the good fight but I was tired and wanted to be with my brother Buddy - at 11:20a.m. I made the journey towards the Rainbow Bridge where my Brother, and all my other family doggies were waiting for me and cheering me on with each step I took.

I want to share a few thoughts as I headed to "just this side of heaven to a place called Somewhere Over The Rainbow Bridge... .   Let me tell you about this place,  there are meadows and hills for me, Corey,  and all my family members who have gone before me - they are now all running around and playing. Healthy and free of the pains of growing old.  There is plenty of food (perhaps even the chicken, lambs liver, rice, etc., that Mum always cooked for me) fresh water and warm sunshine where I, and all my pals are feeling comfortable and happy and once again young.
All of my family pals, me included, who have been ill and old are restored to young, healthy puppies as we remember when we first became family members and Mum and Dad our caretakers.  We are strong and full of life, except for one thing, Mum is not there to take care of us as she has always done.  Mum and Dad know I had to go but that doesn't ease the ache this has left in their hearts.   I, Corey, am now running and playing with Buddy, Kya, Nessie, McTavish, Ginger, Kaiser, Tammy, Heather, Terry, Hotep, and the other doggies who have blessed Mum and Dad's lives.   My sight is no longer dimmed, my limbs now once again strong and I am  running, faster and faster towards my doggy family.  Hey, I can hear them calling my name and cheering me on, "...c'mon Corey, we've been waiting for you - I have been spotted - and when I, and my other pals finally meet, we will cling and cuddle in a joyous reunion never again to be parted. 
In parting, I leave these words in Mum's memories -- "... our wee kisses and happy sounds will soothe your aching heart,  and your hands, once again will caress our wee bodies and beloved heads.  You and Dad will gaze once again in to our trusting eyes and see our love and you both know that you gave all of us the best lives and love anyone could have given us.
It's me again, wee Corey, I am reaching the Rainbow Bridge - hey, I can hear them all calling for me to get a move on and, believe it or not, my wee legs are so strong and getting stronger.
One day Mum and Dad, along with all of us together, will cross The Rainbow Bridge together never again to be parted and absent from all of our hearts. 
It's now time for me to say my final farewells, cheerios, toodle pips, and all that jazz - I'll remember you all, always - here's a picture of me and my brother Buddy - he's the sleepy one to the front.  
Love Wee Corey  xox

Hi to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training, this is going to be a

short Blog  and I have inserted a picture of one of my favourite TV characters, ALF (Alien Life Form)  Alf loves to eat cats (sorry to all you ladies who love cats, as do I)  but this wee guy really puts a smile on my face.
Those of you who have seen the show know what I mean.  I even have a stuffed toy, courtesy of my family, hey, what can I say.

As you all know I had both my hips replaced last year --  now,  I said, this is going to be a short Blog -- next Monday 8th February I will be going in to hospital again to have my right knee replaced -- what a way to start out the new year.  One good thing to look forward to is that there will be no more pain and I'll be able to walk again, well, as well as I ever did in the past.

So ladies and gents -- toodle pips, cheerio, 'bye, au revoir, ta ra and all that jazz and, as usual my wee dog Corey sends you all his best woof woofs.    All the best and keep me in your thoughts.  "E"  "Liz", Elizabeth, Beth  and all the other names we can't mention here.

Here's to the memories... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training... .
This year, 2015, has been one with many ups and downs, good and not so good (but still manageable)  In January, our son Robert lost his dear pet, KYA, it was time for her to go over the Rainbow Bridge and be with our other family pets, pain free - running around and playing again, like the puppy she was when Robert rescued her at the age of 4 months in September 2000.  I can remember the time Bob and I puppy-sat her when Robert was out of town -- I came home one day from shopping and she was sitting up on the bed looking ever so lovely until I looked around the room -- the drapes on the two windows were pulled down and on the floor -- I thought that was bad until I walked down in to the Family Room, only to discover you could drive a MAC Truck through the side of one of my armchairs - she had the cheek to look innocent.  Nonetheless, she was our "girl" and we loved her until the 13th of January 2015 (and still do... .)

You all probably remember my stint in the hospital in March and June when I had my hips replaced - if it is ever suggested that you need to  have this done, just ask "...how soon... ."  I have the name of a great orthopaedic surgeon, just call and I'll be glad to give it to you.

When it came to my plants and veggies, due to my recovery from these two operations I was not able to work in my garden and as the months went on, it showed -  however, there will be other days when I can get everything back to where I like it, especially the veggies and my Aunt Emily's plants that she gave to me, i.e., Iris corms, and Scottish Marigold seeds - my poor Scottish Blue Bell bulbs were all eaten by Chippy the Chipmunk, oh well, I didn't have the heart to "do him in".


Halloween came and went with fewer little Goblins this year -- we live on a private road that is not too accessible on foot and is makes you realize,  how quickly the years go - now I have to remember that all the wee Tricksters we used to get are now driving and are too chic to be out guizin' (Scottish for trick or treating.)

Then came Thanksgiving, that great day of celebration when we all eat way too much turkey and all the goodies that go with it, hey, that's what it's all about.

Now as we see the comings and goings of 2015 almost behind us, in a couple of days,  we will be giving thanks for making it through another year, thinking on those people around the World whose lives were taken from them, all too soon.  Some of us will be spending time with family and friends, opening presents and enjoying tasty meals and laughing and reminiscing the year behind us.  So, as we are all enjoying, please take a moment, no matter how and in our own ways,  to celebrate the real story of Christmas.

Before I go, I want to introduce everyone to my son Robert's new pup (to the right) he rescued her 2 weeks ago, her name is RIKA (Reeka) and she is about 12-18 months old  - is she a beauty or what.  So, on that note, I wish each and every one a Merry Christmas, a Guid Hogmanay and a Safe and Happy New Year -- cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir and all that jazz from me, Bob and our wee Corey - he'll be 15 on Christmas Day.  Thank you for letting me share my year with you.    All the best to one and all.   
P.S.  Single, left click, on the pictures to enlarge them.  

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training.  Well, the snow hasn't arrived yet, here in Pittsburgh (thanks goodness) -  that being said,  even tho' it is a lot of cooking and running around, at least for the women in this country (hint, hint... .)  the men just sit back, watch football on TV and enjoy the spoils of our labour;  however, the two men in my life, my husband Bob and son Robert, always clear the table, clean the dishes and load the washer, so in that area I have a lot to be thankful for and I always remember to tell them.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful Holiday  that we, here in the States, really enjoy - never forgetting that it is a tribute to the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock in 1620. Our way of celebrating, over the centuries, has changed, but we all need to remember the sacrifices they made and their endurance; as a result, here we are today, 395 years later, still giving Thanks and enjoying the tradition established all those years ago.
Thanksgiving traditionally kicks off the Christmas shopping season -- I was out this morning and stopped in at Kohls and did most of my shopping, however, you can be sure I'll be dashing around at the last minute for those little things I forgot.
Tomorrow will see me getting side dishes prepared and into the 'fridge ready for the oven on Thursday -- that being said, please send good thoughts my way - the main electric breaker needs to be replaced and it kicks off the electricity when I least expect it, so let's hope I get all the food cooked and ready for the table.  Oh, did I mention I have an all electric house, so your good thoughts will be more than welcome... .
Wee Corey is hanging in there -- the muscles in his legs have deteriorated and he is having a tough time walking but it has done nothing to diminish his appetite, he scoffs down 3, sometimes 4 meals each day, and inbetween has his Pupperoni treats and then mooches when Bob and I are eating our evening meal.   He'll be 16 on Christmas Day x 7 in people years, so that makes him 112.
Well, to all my Family and Friends, Bob, Corey and I wish you all a HAPPY THANKSGIVING, be safe and especially BE HAPPY and THANKFUL for what we have - from my table to yours.

As time goes by... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training.  Here's a picture of my front door that I want to share with you  in the waning days of Summer, however, Autumn arrived Wednesday, 23rd September at 4:21a.m. here on the East coast of the USA and 9:21a.m. in the UK, so enjoy 'cause the next pic you will see of my front door will have snow around it.   (My computer is jumping all over the place and my patience is really wigging out, so bear with me... .)
Here in Pittsburgh, we are having such a lovely spell of weather - 80far. (about 23c.) not a cloud in the beautiful blue sky and the winds are rustling the leaves on the trees which, after our first frost, will be a kaleidescope of  Fall colours.  What a difference a couple of days make.  Although it's still warm, we are being deluged with torrential rains - Bob's going on like a Banshee saying it's going to make the grass grow and he'll have to cut it again before the season is over.   I'm looking forward to Autumn, one of my favourite seasons.                                                
 Bob was saying he would have to buy me a cutlery block in which to put my new kitchen knives - since he was in a buying  mood I told him that I've always wanted one of those magnetic knife holders that you stick your knives on -- I now have one and oh my goodness, it makes my kitchen look ever so professional - Jamie Oliver would be ever so proud of me... . 
This Thursday I have an appointment with a doctor who specializes in the nerves that we have in our bodies -- I guess this to find out, coupled with the MRI I had done last Monday, if the problem is with my Sciatic nerve being imflamed/pinched and causing the crippling pain - so we'll see and I'll let you know.  
Okay, time to scat and leave you with this lovely Autumn picture, so I'll say cheerio, toodle pips, ta ra, au revoir and all that jazz, Cory sends you his love, as do I.  Until then, Love to all and be safe.  "E"
As I said, it's jumping all over the spectrum... . 

Happy Birthday to Moi - 26th August !!!

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training -- I'm inviting you all to help me celebrate my birthday today -- I am relaxing and enjoying doing "nothing"  
Received some lovely cards from family and friends and terrific gifts -- my sister and brother-in-law sent me Jamie Oliver's 15 Minute Meals cookbook - before he starts with the recipes and how-to's he listed a number of kitchen utensils, blenders etc., and then he goes on with a list of thingies, spices and "stuff" I will need to have in my cupboard or pantry, whichever.  This will give me a good excuse to throw out and buy fresh stuff. For some time now I've been complaining about my kitchen work knives, so guess what else I received, yep, a truck load of goodies from Bob to help me put Jamie's cookbook to good use, but I couldn't throw out my old, I mean really old kitchen knives, so I stuffed them in an already stuffed to the gills drawer.  This caused me to clean my kitchen counter, in back of the utensil holders, hm, amazing what you find... .  Bob also got me a couple of nifty Shot Glasses (I collect these along with Pepper and Salt Shakers) up in Ohio and a miniature snow scene.   This Sunday, Robert is taking me out for Brunch to Bonnie and Clyde's - he knows  I like this restaurant up in Wexford.

Okay Bloganistas, time to get back to relaxing -- Corey sends you his bow-wow hugs and I say cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir, taa raa, bye y'all and all that jazz.  Until next time, love to all from "E" and Corey. 
 

No words to describe it...

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training -- well, as you can see from the look on Puff's puss
she is not too happy with what's going on.  As I had mentioned before, there was a lot more deterioration to my right hip than the left one and I thought the pain would never get better - careful what you think... .  however, it is getting there -- the pain I feel now is not related to the hip replacement.

To cut through the chase -- lots of non-operation-related pains started popping up, cramps and the works -- turns out my Sciatic Nerve has been aggravated and is giving me conniptions - up 3 times last night with pains, I keep the teapot filled --  anyhoo, the steroids really didn't work to alleviate this "condition" so I need special exercises to stretch out the muscle in "me right Butt" where the Sciatic Nerve comes through (P/T explained this to me today) -
My in-house physical therapy finished yesterday and my surgeon has sent me to Heritage Valley Signature Rehab - I met with the P/T this morning and she said that due to the limitations of my hip manipulation she will just do some moist heat therapy and massage plus the hip exercises - really like this woman and I know that with her expertise and my determination, I'll be dancing the Highland Fling in no time, well, maybe a wee while yet.  Bob is going to Giant Eagle Pharmacy this evening to get me a moist heating pad -- the pharmacist has put one aside for him - he told me it is a moist/dry king size deluxe one -- woo hoo, what more could a girl ask for!!! 

We are having a miserable heatwave at the moment, however, the powers in the know say it will be less humid this weekend, we'll see.   Wee Corey, he 16 now,  is doing the best he can, he has an appetite like a garbage disposal and this only comes in to play after he mooches from Bob and me.  He sleeps a lot so we keep an extra close eye on him.  Will be taking him next month for his 6-monthly check-up.  He's a great wee man.   So on this note I'll say cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir, bye y'all and so on.  Until next time - all of you be careful, safe and healthy.

Love to all, "E" and Corey my Wee Pudge Muffin. 
P.S.  Will let you know how the King Size Deluxe pad works out.

In my dreams... .

Hi to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training.

Don't I wish this was me out jogging with Corey, but that is coming. Well, I've survived the second hip replacement and now each day is a blessing and one step closer to being completely pain free - the muscles and incision are still giving me a run for my money but that's okay, I know the light at the end of the tunnel isn't a train.

My garden is so overgrown - between the weeds and the perennials it looks like a mini jungle.  The birds are having a field day at the feeder but I have to keep an eye out for the huge Hawk, he's been screeching all morning, and sits up in the trees checking out the squirrels and chipmunks.  Sad to say the chipmunk wouldn't be a loss, even though he is a bonnie wee thing, but he's at the top of my hit list at the moment since he, and his gang, have eaten all my bulbs and seedlings.  I found something online called "Critter Ridder" it's an animal/rodent repellant so I'll need to get some and use it. 

Well, not much to say at the moment so I'll close here and wish you all a great day.  As usual, Corey is lounging on the sofa snoring away like a Banshee in heat, at almost 16 years old what else is there for him to do.
For the time being I'll just say cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir and all that jazz. Luv ya all, "E"

 

Here we go again... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training... Well, as the caption says,  here we ago again - that's right, I'm heading back in to hospital this upcoming Monday, 29th, to have my right hip replaced - so once all the slicing and dicing is completed, I will be on the road to recovery and when all the healing is done, you can call me the Energizer Bunny or maybe the Bionic Woman  (bet not too many of you reading this even know who the Bionic Woman was -- Lindsay Wagner, she was the female counterpart to the Bionic Man -- Lee Majors,  oh well.)

My left hip is well on the road to being totally healed - when I saw the x-rays at Dr. Smith's office I was fascinated when I saw the Unit in my hip -- next time I have x-rays taken I am going to have a picture of it for myself -- macabre, maybe but as I said, fascinating.

I've been busy cooking and stock-piling the freezer with casseroles so we'll have food to eat while I am getting back on my feet.  Bob can't/doesn't cook and he told me he has no intentions of learning.  He says peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are fine by him, yuk, can you imagine - I don't even like peanuts - maybe I need to make Hazelnut or Brazil Nut butter, now that's some good eating.

Haven't been able to plant my veggie garden this year so I have no pics to show my harvest - I'll need to make up for it next Spring - that means Bob will need to dig up the garden for me.  Always amaze myself at the little chores I manage to dig up (excuse the pun) for him to do.

Corey is, as always, sleeping -- he's an old boy 15 and a half and he's really slowing down and doesn't see very well, but there is nothing wrong with his sense of smell - he can always tell when Bob and I are having a meal and once hme's mooched from us, he then goes and eats his meal, has a drink and then heads back to bed until it's time for his nightly saunter in the garden.

Okay, until next time, I'll say cheerio, toodle pips, au revoir, awe ra best and all that jazz.  Love to all, Elizabeth, "Liz" Beth and a few other names not fit for printing.    

Hippity Hop, Here she comes again... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas -- well, I survived the operation - it went very well - I was really pampered in the hospital, Sewickley Valley Hospital - the nurses, aides, physical therapists etc., were all excellent and so very caring, oh, and did I mention the doctors too - the nurses were calling me Mrs. Doubtfire, guess that was because of my Scottish accent.

That morning on Monday 16 March when I was first taken in to the operating room there were two anaesthesiologists, Matt and Jim who really made me feel at ease - the last I remember was Jim telling me to lay my head on his shoulder, and, of course, I started to sing the following words to the old song -- "...hold me in your arms bay-bee... ."  and the next thing I knew I was wakening up in the recovery room with Bob and Robert sitting with me.
The convalescence/recovery is being more of a pain in my LondonDerriere
than the operation itself.  So much you have to be aware of - all the do's and don'ts, but in the long run it is paying off.  
 I am now back to driving again, wheeeeeee!!! in the beginning all Bob heard out of me was "...I can't wait to get back to driving again - I'm so fed up being stuck in the house, etc., etc.,... ."  well, now that I can, I've only been behind the wheel once when I went to Dr. Smith's office to pick up a prescription.  Isn't it funny, when you can't you want to, and when you can, you don't.  Oh well,
I was upgraded from my Walker Frame about 6 weeks ago and was walking with my fancy dancey cane, one of those HurryCanes that fold-up. - bright red with lots of glittery stickers all over it, my addition to an otherwise plain  metal stick.
10 days ago I was told I could put the cane aside -- I do this in the house, but outside I like to keep it handy 'cause my right leg/hip is really very painful - that being said, I am scheduled to have my right hip replaced on Monday 29 June - just call me the Bionic Woman.
Poor Bob, he can't cook to save his life, although he does make a mean pot of tea and bowl of porridge, oh don't forget the toast and frozen chicken Pot Pies.   I think the worst part of this whole thing for him was having to put the white elastic stockings on me every morning.  So he has this to look forward to, again, in a few weeks, but not to worry, that only lasts for about 3 or 4 weeks.
Okay, time to get some lunch -- as usual Corey is snoring away at my side, so I'll say cheerio, toodle pips, ta ra, au revoir and all that jazz.  Take care and stay safe until I add to the Saga of my Hips... . Love to all, "E"

Hippity Hoppin' along... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training.   
Well, the time has come, yours truly will be heading in to Sewickley Valley Hospital, on Monday the 16th to get her old hip replaced with a new State-of-the-art one.   Was supposed to have gone on the 2nd but Mother Nature had other ideas, so I have to wait until the lungs are clear and healthier.
I'll be getting my own Zimmer/Walker Frame and a few other goodies to take home with me, oh glee and joy!!!
I have been told I'll be more or less house bound for about 6 weeks, stir crazy I'll be, but I'll take a few poor unsuspecting souls with me.  All joking aside, Bob has been absolutely fabulous in helping although I do admit it gets a wee bit annoying after you've heard "... you're not supposed to do that, let me do it for you... ." (beggars can't be choosers) can only imagine what he'll be like when I am really needing help.  Not going in to a rehab centre - the physical therapist will come to the house a couple of times and once I am on the road again, Bleep, Bleep Road Runner, I can get myself to PT - I'll probably go all ga ga the first time I am out.  Notice I didn't say "allowed" just that I'll be going out.
I thought I had better get this done now since, knowing me, I'll forget - I just wanted you all to see my great cartoon of the Auld Gal and her frame above -- however, let's hope the nurses are, well, somewhat more, well, you know what I mean... .  This nurse in the cartoon reminds me of Hattie Jacques from the "Carry On Gang"  an old comedy show from Britain -- I especially remember the skit where Hattie Jacques took Wilfred Hyde White's temperature with a Daffodil... . use your imagination.  I received a call from the hospital and I sign in at 7:45a.m. Monday 16th and the operation is scheduled for 9:45a.m. - 2 hours in recovery then I'm off to the races.  So far, the nurses I have met/spoken with are so very caring and extremely nice.
As usual, Corey is snoring away lying up on the couch and I'm off now to get a cuppa, so until next time, cheerio, toodle pips, ta ra, au revoir and all that jazz.  Love to all "E"

Baby it's cold outside... .

Hello to all you fabulous Bloganistas and those of you in training... .

If you have been watching the weather on TV you will see the beauty of Mother Nature in full swing.  We here in Southwestern Pennsylvania have not been as hard hit as the Northeast and we need to be thankful for small mercies.  That being said, we have not been spared the bitterly cold temps.  This morning the actual temperature was -10 degrees zero Fahrenheit and with the windchill factored in it was -28, cold enough to freeze the heir looms off a brass monkey. Our furnace hasn't stopped running in 5 days, so who would like to have my electric bill sent to them... .  Yours truly is hibernating with the teapot and the telly - Corey is snuggled up on the sofa snoring his wee head off.

Not much going on at the moment since I can't get out in to the garden so will wait until Spring arrives.  In the meantime, here are a few more pics and don't gloat too much if you are in a warm sunny climate.  Time to say cheerio, toodle pips, ta ra, au revoir and all that jazz. Until next time - Love to all "E"

Saying Cheerio to a Member of our Family... . ... .

Good morning to all you fabulous Bloganistas.
This is a difficult story to share with you and has taken me a few weeks to be able to tell you all about it.
On Tuesday, 13 January 2015, my son's Pal KYA of 15 years was tired of the struggle and decided it was time for her to cross over the Rainbow Bridge and be with her furry family cousins and run around in the sunshine in the beautiful green pastures and once again be free from pain, just waiting for the day when she can be with Robert and all of her family again.
Nothing much more I can say, so while Corey snores happily on the sofa, I will sign out and hope you are all keeping well.  "E"