Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Our Siberian Shepherd, My Mother, and Little Crow.....


Don't quite know where to begin this, so I'm going to just jump right in here I guess.  Many of you have asked for updates on various things, and I have not managed to reply to many.  (I apologize, but please know that I truly appreciate your concern.)  Yes, I'm still teaching, although I am currently in-between terms.  (Business Law II, which I was scheduled to be teaching this term, did not have enough students enrolled, and so was canceled.  The next class they asked me to teach, I passed on, as it was really out of my area of expertise.  So, the next class I'm scheduled for (Criminal Justice) won't be until June....then, Legal Issues for Health Care Administrators in October.....)
Anyways, I thought I'd cover things in one big "update."  Not my usual type of post, and yet, things are what they are, and I'm not going to pretend otherwise.  Add a little family tension, and a broken toilet, and you've got one more than usually-cranky, cranky, crow.

On to the updates:

OUR SIBERIAN SHEPHERD.....


A/K/A, The Snow Dog.....
Ok....so he's not a "Siberian Shepherd...." He's just a Siberian Husky who pretends to be a shepherd. (It's his story and he's sticking to it.  All he needs is some sheep....Hey - did someone say "SHEEP?"!!! ;o))  If you recall, he was diagnosed with blastomycosis about 6 months ago.  Six months and $1,160 in meds and tests later, he is not improving.  In fact, in the past two weeks, he has taken a turn for the worse.
I love that dog.

MY MOTHER........


Not sure who knows what here, as I can't remember what I shared and didn't.....But, long story short, she is elderly and has a history of heart problems, and syncope (fainting/loss of consciousness caused by a temporary lack of oxygen to the brain).  In the beginning of March, she was hospitalized several days for a bronchial/upper respiratory infection.  She returned home, and, within 24 hours, lost consciousness, fell, cut her head open, and was hospitalized again.  She was released a few days later to a nursing home to recuperate and for therapy, where she remained since. Last Saturday, she was again hospitalized for fluid around the lungs, and a viral infection.  She was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and sent back to the nursing home a week ago Monday.  She is not doing well - physically or emotionally.  Neither am I.
 I love that woman.

LITTLE CROW........

As most of you know, my son had surgery on November 30th for his wayward kneecap.  It was not successful.  He had another surgery on February 15th.  It, too, was unsuccessful.  We met with the surgeon on March 12.  The surgeon just scratched his head and recommended we see a different surgeon for a second opinion, which we did a few days later.  That surgeon, too, scratched his head and said he didn't know what to tell us.  Basically, given the number of years that Little Crow has had this issue (it happened in 8th grade and was treated by a physician hesitant to recommend surgery), and how he compensated for it, the inner quad muscle has completely atrophied. In addition, the outer quad muscle has become something of a "mega-muscle" and therefore pulls his patella/kneecap out at whim. He didn't have any answers for us either. He told Little Crow to resume physical therapy 2x/wk (he had been going 3x/wk since the first surgery and so insurance coverage has been exceeded and we're on our own), and he'd consult with the original surgeon and two others and get back to us - which hasn't happened yet.  So, thousands of dollars later (puts The Snow Dog all to shame), all we are left with is frustration - and additional pain caused by the multiple surgeries.  Looking for a miracle here.
I love that kid.

So there you have it.....I apologize....no prims, no crafts, no gardening - no funnies.  No kidding.
Prayers welcome....

72 comments:

Anonymous said...

and so is life,,,,,, the one thing one I have learned in my short blogging experience is that all bloggers have one thing in common, we stand by each other through good and bad, we are here for you, life isn't always happy foo foo laud dee da.Life is real and some times it sucks!
Sounds to me like you are having a big dose of Real and it sure sounds like prayers are needed, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, two legged and four.Best wishes from Canada

outjunking said...

I knew you had been busy you have been to quite. We have miss you and know that you have far more important things than us bloggers to tend to. So here's letting you know you are on my ever growing prayer list.
Take care old crow.
Lisa

Lee Hill Primitives said...

Robin, I'm sorry for what you are going, I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. You know the girls in blogland, where one needs prayer, we become a huge chain in the same thought. Blessings to you and yours, Eve

Sheila said...

Robin,
As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers. "Life" happens when we aren't looking. Dealing with a bit myself these days.
Take care.
hugz and blessings,
Sheila

Jan - Life on Buttermilk Hill said...

Robin, you have big troubles of your own yet you take time to extend yourself to others! I'm so sorry for your troubles. I
pray things improve greatly for your beautiful dog, your precious mother, and for your little crow very soon. Hang in there--big hugs, Jan

The Rusty Thimble said...

Oh Robin I pray for your dog, your mother and your son. By the way sending out big hugs to you.

Hope they all improve.
HUGS
Brenda

Lil Raggedy Angie said...

O Sweetie ...why must it always pour when it rains???? :0( and last I checked crows didnt like wet well ..tail feathers:0) Im praying for ya and you know where I am if you need me to lean on gripe at or cry on ...I might even let you wipe your snotty beak on my sleeve! hugs luv ya lil raggedy

Unknown said...

Robin,
I'm so sorry for all the things you are dealing with.
Prayers coming your way.
Hugs,
Tam

Lois--Huckleberry Lady said...

There is power in prayer and I'm sure everyone reading this will be praying for you and your family (and Snow Dog). You take as much time as you need to take care of family.

HUGS
Lois

Ellie's Country Accents said...

Hugs and thoughts are with you and your family. Prayers are being said.
Think positive.
Ellie

marly said...

I still cry for my dog, my mom, and I will pray for yours.

Beckyjean said...

Sending prayers & hugs.

Becky

Marla said...

I agree with Marly; I still grieve for my little dog and my Mom so as I sit here with tears in my eyes, I just wanted you to know that you are on my prayers this evening. Life is sure tough sometimes. Blessings to you and your family-Marla

woolyredrug said...

Robin, Thoughts and prayers to you and your whole family. I still miss my furry babes and my Mother is not doing well right now either.
Hugs to you, Laurie

Unknown said...

You left me hangin about the broken toilet. I hoped that gave you a smile during this stressful time. Take a deep breath knowing life can change so quickly it can be hard to navigate. I pray for miracles for your family and that wonderful dog too. My heart goes out to you with hugs, lots of 'em.

Pamela@ The Sampler Makers Farmhouse said...

oh my , thousands of dollars later,:o gosh, I will pray that the right doctor is put in your son's path~

~Sara said...

So sorry to hear about all of this. Sending hugs. Sometimes just venting and knowing people care and are praying helps. Take one day at a time and try to get in some time for yourself to enjoy life. Praying for the strength you need each day! Blessings ~Sara

My Primitive Creations by Tonya said...

Oh My Dear Friend... I sure hope that talkin about all of this has at least given you a moment of peace..When it rains it pours and wears us down to the bone..I know to well! I can say one thing about blogging..it is the one place we can come to vent and let it all go..I'm glad you shared..
I am really sorry to hear about your Sons second knee Surgery. As his mom I know your heart is breaking to see him suffer and then top it with all the medical bills and it bares down on you..with no relief in sight.. I will continue to pray for your son and for you..
I am equally sorry to hear aout your mothers health deteriating..
I know that has to be hard on both of you. My prayers are sent up for her recovery.
And certianly not last your precious Dog..My Puddles is 15 now, near Blind and near deaf and I know our time together as best friends is growing to an end & the lord will call him home.. I know how you feel..
With everything else weighing heavy on your heart...it seems that toilet is at least something you can fix...
If I could take some of your burden I would but since i can't I will pray for better days ahead for you and your family.
If ya need someone to talk to feel free to call I'm a good listener..

Take care of you my friend
Hugs
Tonya

Anonymous said...

Robin, so sorry for all the worries you are going through. We are here to lend an ear. I sure hope things get better for all of you. Makes us really think about how precious life really is.
Take care
Tamera
Country at heart

Trace4J said...

Morning Friend
I am lifting all of your worries and family in my prayers. Trusting and believing Nothing is too difficult for Thee. It is always good to get the things out and share with the BIG GUY and your friends.
Sending you a giant hug.
Trace

www.grannytracescrapsandsquares.com

Rugs and Pugs said...

Robin ~
So sorry to hear about all you are going through. It is so hard to see the ones you love suffer, two or four legged! No one ever said life was easy :( Thankfully your class was canceled ~ at least that's one less stress in your life.
Big hugs and prayers coming your way.
Lauren

Sassafras and Winterberry said...

What a lot of big things you have on your plate right now. I'm so sorry to hear that your dear loved ones are suffering. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Hugs and Blessings,
Courtney

Angela said...

Oh my Dear Robin, so sorry you are down in the valley right now. All I can do is send you a cyber hug and let you know you and your family will be in my prayers. Know that God is with you and one day soon you will rise to the mountain top. I know some of what you are going through and my heart is with you. Take care of yourself during this trying time.
Angela

Angela said...

Oh my Dear Robin, so sorry you are down in the valley right now. All I can do is send you a cyber hug and let you know you and your family will be in my prayers. Know that God is with you and one day soon you will rise to the mountain top. I know some of what you are going through and my heart is with you. Take care of yourself during this trying time.
Angela

CRAFTY STITCHERS said...

I am sorry to hear that things aren't going well, I will keep you in my prayers, take care. Cyndy

Prims By The Water said...

Oh my sweet cranky ole crow. You know I will send as many prayers that are needed to the land of Nod...starting right now. Hope for the best for your mom, little crow and your beautiful Siberian shepherd. Take care of you and I hope you have a good Easter. Janice

Primitive Stars said...

Hello,my heart breaks for you,going through all that what life throws at us at once seems so unfair,prayers are said for you and yours. Blessings Francine.

Mugwump Woolies said...

Sending hugs and good thoughts your way. Glad you have some time off from teaching so you have more time to address the pressing needs of you family.
I'll be keeping you and yours in my thoughts and prayers.
Big hugs,
Robyn
P.S. When life gets wild here...I get the hook and needles out and let the stress out through my busy hands.
Take good care.

Shirlee said...

Robin ... You know I'm praying daily for you, your mom, & Little Crow. I didn't know about The Snow Dog & will add him as well. He is beautiful, your son is quite handsome, & I love the old photo of your mother & whoever else is there in the photo. Isn't it wonderful how we can have these moments of time captured to look back on? Sending lots of hugs to you my friend!

Deppen homestead 1862 said...

Robin ~ My heart goes out to the family & you~ may the Lord give you all the strength for physical & emotional healing~ I will keep you all close in thought & prayer~ hugs to the beautiful pooch,your Mother, your Son & of course a big Hug to you~
Teresa

Unknown said...

Sounds to me like you've earned your crankiness so 'crank' on. Prayers are coming. "When it rains, it pours". I hate salt!
}}Hugs{{
Vicky

Carol Stuck said...

I don't even pretend to know what to say to you. No words come to me that could possibly ease your stress but I will certainly say a prayer for you and your family.

God promises that he will never give us more than we can handle, but sometimes I wonder.

Hang in there, my sweet friend. Brighter days are coming. God bless you and your family and all you have been through.

hugs!
Carol

Karens Quilts, Crows and Cardinals said...

Robin - love, hugs and positive energy coming your way.

Blessings,
Karen

Me and My Stitches said...

And prayers you shall receive. So sorry about all of these things. Could the Little Crow go to Mayo in Rochester? I have heard nothing but good things about them. Hugs to the pooch and your mom (and of course to you).

Sandi @ The Primitive Skate said...

My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family and all your dealing with!

Jean Barker said...

Life sure has a way of knocking us down, doesn't it Robin. Sorry to read that there are so many things happening in your life that are not good right now. Please know that your blog friends care and the power of prayer can and will help. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Jean

HomeSpunPrims said...

Robin,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your loved ones my friend. That is a heavy load to carry but please know you are not alone. Your blogging friends care and so does the Lord. May He bless all of you in your time of need. Big hugs, Lori

Linda ★ Parker's General said...

I share your concerns and your pain.
Sadly, we all share the parents getting older thing. I know it is tough to watch as things around us seem to be collapsing, but we do have our blessings. At least you are able to be home for a while to spend time with your Mom and that sweet boy. I know from my own experience that Snow Dog is happy to have you there. I, too, will continue praying for your Mom and the boy who holds your heart.
God bless your faithful companion that has provided you with friendship, protection and undying love all these years. It is hard to watch them suffer but even harder to let them go.....
Sending love your way, Robin......

Penny said...

Oh my.... so much on your plate right now....
I will pray for all.... so hard to say goodbye to our furry friends, and to watch our loved ones hurting....
Take good care of yourself through this all.
God's Blessings...
Penny

Cathy G. said...

Robin,
My goodness..... where to start.... you have to be wondering that every morning when you get up! After reading all these heartfelt comments I feel better for you! Having lots of caring folk out here in blog land has a powerful effect. I'd like to add my prayers as well and assure you there will come a time when life will ease up a bit and treat you well. Your family and Snow Dog are precious....... May the higher powers in the universe send the help you need and the strength to carry on my friend...
Prayers and hugs,
Cathy G

bettyj said...

Ah,poor baby, you need a good cup of coffee and a short pity party. Life. It is hard, not what we want always, but what we get. Dr. Seuss said,"Don't cry because its over, smile because it happened." I wish I had some words of comfort, or wisdom. All I can offer is my prayers.

Angie Berry ~ Berry Homespun Primitives said...

Goodness girl, so much going on in your life right now. The valleys are where we sometimes have to go to be reminded of who is in control of it all. It happens to us all. Praying for you and your family. Better days are ahead my sweet friend~

Carmen and the Primcats said...

no prims, no crafts, no gardening - no funnies.... Just prayers Robin.

Prayers for you, for your dog, for your mom and for your son.

Carmen and the Primcats

jennifer768 said...

Robin my friend I knew that you were under a bit of strain with your mom but did not realize just how much of a burden you are carrying.My thoughts and prayers are going out for you all!Big hugs,Jen

BumbleBeeLane said...

Sweet friend,sounds like a twisted chapter from my book of life.Way I see it is the stronger get the harder knocks.We'll get through it and carry on but it's no fun when we are smack dab in the middle..I've been praying for your momma and son for awhile didn't know the snow dog was having issues.I'm here if you need anything(yes even a escape from Nod LoL) Keeping you in prayer.Big Hugs!~Amy

Sew Many Raggedies said...

Robin,
I really feel for what you're going through. We all go through it. Sometime we're in the valley and sometimes we're on the mountain. Just know that this too shall pass! Hang in there. God does not give us more than we can handle. Trust Him and know he's in control.
Blessings,
~Rene~

Nicole {Appalachian Charm} said...

I have been neglecting my blog too but life comes before blogging in my opinion. I have been missing your sweet comments & wanted to check up on you & your blog. Sending prayers your way, just trust in the Lord. xo

Firecracker Kid said...

Lord have mercy. That's three and that's enough. My thoughts and prayers are with you sweetie. Stay strong.
Hugs~Carol

Constance said...

Dear Robin,
I am so sorry to hear about the things that you are going through. I've been on that same road in the past and I will surely keep you and your loved ones in my prayers.

Blessings,

Sallie

Kim said...

Robin, I'm so sorry you have all this on your plate right now. Sometimes it seems like everything bad happens at once. Big hugs for you. You and your family are in my prayers :)

prims by olde lady morgan said...

Yikes, ms. cranky... I would be cranky... life toss us curve balls... but so many at one time.....Sending many hugs and well wishes... OLM

Raymond Homestead said...

Robin, hugs and prayers to you and your family. You've certainly had your fair share lately. Mindy

The Moonlit Stitch said...

Wow Robin. I will say prayers for all of you. You have a lot on your shoulders and heart right now. Hang in there buddy. ~*~Lisa

oldgreymare said...

You got em <3

Prayers at 11:00 pm :D

xx
z

Robin at The Primitive Hutch said...

Oh Girlfriend,
My heart is breaking for you. I started crying as soon as I started to read about your precious Snow Baby (sorry hard to type when blinded by tears) and then your beloved Mom ~ so hard to see someone you love so much suffer ~ so sorry. Now your son ~ no answers ~ that would drive anybody crazy and then to have a broken toilet on top of all that ~ that would make me really cranky too.
Prays, Thoughts and Big Hugs going your way. Hopes ~ for Snow Baby that he improves ~ for Mom that she doesn't have to suffer and ~ for Little Crow that he/you get some answers.
Try to enjoy your break from school.
Take Care my Friend.
Blessings
Robin

Tonya said...

Sounds like you've had a heap of troubles lately. I'll send some prayers up for you and yours. Watching your mom and your son going through so much...sounds like a plate full. I can't imagine. And your dog, too. :(
I've been reading back through some of your blog and enjoyed your pretty things and reading the one about you. Funny about how you ended up going to law school b/c of what your husband said to you. :) I just told my husband the other day that I wanted to go to law school...was tired of feeling the pennies pinched and like being a mom wasn't helping put money where it needed to go. But we talked it out, and I'll wait til their older...for now. I've always wanted to go into law. Now sure how I'd do though.
Anyhow, praying the light shines through on your week.
>HUGS<

Kendra said...

Robin,

Thanks for the update. I am sorry to hear that things are not improving. I will definately praying for The Lord to lay his healing hand on your pup, son, and mother. I will also pray for you and your hubby to have peace in your hearts with the situations in your lives.

Trusting in Him,
Kendra

frontporchprims said...

Life is what it is and most of it is not funny, or full of crafts, or beautiful gardens, or displays. Nothing is easy about our parents aging. I'ts a hard thing to deal with and take in. I hope that things fair well with your mother. I am sorry to hear about her. As a mother myself, there is nothing worse than seeing your own child in pain. It can rack your emotions. Ugh.
When I was in college I had to take a criminals class for my degree, it was on the social end and not the legal end but it was very interesting and one of my favorites. Good luck with the class. -Steph-

Ann said...

Robyn, My prayers heading your way for all those you love and for you. ~Ann

renee said...

I am sorry for your family, all that you are dealing with. Sometimes, life just throws stuff at you, I can just say, hang on!
I am sorry that those you love are in such pain. Miracles can and do happen, just keep praying and believe.
I haven't been a good blogger either, but my computer is being serviced at the moment, so I am unable to post any pictures.
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, so many in need.
Have a blessed Easter!
Renee

Woman Seeking Center said...

Stay strong dear tattered, weary crow...

There is little in life more diffcult than being unable to alter or ease the course for those you love.... Saddening, frustrating and exhausting.

Still, don't ever underestimate the comfort and strength they gain from the love you have for each of them.

My heart is with you my friend....

Unknown said...

Your post moved me to tears. I am so sad to hear all the turmoil in your life. I am well acquainted with stress like yours and it is so very wearing on the spirit.
I pray for your strength, your personal health and well being, and for an end to the many struggles besetting you on every turn. May God, in this holiest of all weeks, bring hope, comfort, strength and renewal. May you lean on Him for strength, wisdom, grace and leadership.
God bless you, your family and your puppy!
In Him,
d

Rhissanna said...

Dear Robin, I don't know what to say. This is a lot of stuff for you to carry and I'll wager you're trying to carry it all and not drop anything. Is there anything practical we can do to help? Don't worry about the prims and the funnies. We love you and we'll be here to listen when you need us. I hope things get better. I hope things get resolved. You must be a very tired Crow and I hope that miracle finds you.

Kimberly said...

So sad to read about the road your traveling on right now. I will pray for you & your family the strength to get through this, with all the love your heart can hold, warm hugs your arms can embrace & faith that the road will take you to a better journey. Sending you a warm hug & a warm bowl of my homemade soup if I could! Hug the ones you love. Wishing you a blessed Easter! All My Best ~Kimberly

My Colonial Home said...

Oh Dear Robin...absolutely no need for apologies! You have been going through some rough patches with 3 loved members of your family...who wouldn't be a bit out of sorts (or I mean CRANKY!)
I am so sorry about your mother...we are going through many of those same things with my 86 year old aunt right now (she's the last living relative on that side except for us 4 grandchildren)...so I know how you are feeling.

Goodness such pain for your son...so young to have to endure this...and we know all too well about dr.s kind of messing up and not knowing what to do next...our son has neck surgery 2 times in 2 months and is left with no use of his right arm and the muscles are atrophied as well...it is so hard to see our children in such distress and know that our hands are tied for pain relief and that all we can do is love them and help them medically...PRAYING SO HARD FOR ALL OF YOU.

And what can I say about Snow Dog...my heart goes out to you - we love our animals as we love our children.

Big hugs and HAPPY EASTER dear friend

Karen

Marijke van Ooijen said...

My dear friend Robin,

My Englisch is not so good....and I am so sorry I don't understand everything so good....

But I wishing you al my love...and I will bring you a little bit sunshine in your heart my dear Robin.

And I am will thank you...you are such a lovely woman,
and thanks you are Robin...

Love and sunshine,
Marijke

RURAL said...

It's not raining, it's pouring in your world...so many hardships. I am very sorry that this is happening to you, and your family.

I can only say that we are sending virtual hugs to you, our Bloggy friend and wishing for the best outcome.

Hugs, and prayers for you and your family.

Jen @ Muddy Boot Dreams

village folk art said...

Hi Robin, Your Snow Dog looks like our Kodiak (Alaskan Malamute). Kody is 9 years old and is our 4th 'mal'. They are truly a part of our families and the unconditional love we share for each other is special.
Miracles do happen, and I pray that you are blessed with several.
Happy Easter and Peace be with you...

Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives said...

Hi Robin,

Prayers for you to hold up for all you are going through ! And to your Mom and Son.

May you find a surgeon somewhere in the U S A that can fix your son's knee.

My Dad's health failed right after I had my hernia surgery and I was unable to do anything and then he died three weeks after my surgery.

It seems things come all at once.

Love and prayers,
Linda

Julie - My Primitive Heart said...

Dear Robin,
I have been so behind in my blog reading and just now read this post!
May you find rest and peace in the midst of this storm and may you be encouraged by this large outporing of love and prayers being sent on your behalf!
Sending lots of love, prayers and BIG HUGS~~
Julie

A Primitive Homestead said...

Never mind the prims crafts or gardening. No need to apologize dear friend. We care about you & your hurting heart. Prayer liffted for healing. So much for young little crow to have gone through already. Your snow dog is just so beautiful. I can see why you love him so much. So hard to see our loved ones in such a frail way. Praying also for your mother to gain strength & keep her sprit up. You need Gods touch during this valley of stress & worry. As His words says cast all your cares to Him. When two or more agree in prayer. Us blog friends agree & stand with you. Blessings!
Lara

Roberta said...

Oh my, Robin, I'm so sorry. I'm catching up on my blog reading and appreciate your update. Sending prayers and hugs your way. You've probably considered this or already done it, but I've heard of several people who went to the Mayo Clinic for second opinions on medical issues, although none that I know of for orthopedic matters. Hope you find some answers for your son and wishing the best for your mom and sweet dog. Hugs and prayers~Roberta