Saturday, August 24, 2013

What happened after the vacation…

Still more vacation pictures to come but thought I’d give you all a break…I haven’t put 2 posts in a week on in ages if at all.

I thought I’d show you what kept me busy or should I say NOT BUSY for this past week.
I knew going in to the vacation that when we got back home I was going to have just a week to get the vacation things put away, house cleaned and e-mails all answered because I was having surgery on the 20th.

But as the course always is for me – I GOT A MIGRAINE – whenever something like this is to be done or if I have a little procedure on my back, whatever…even company coming for a few days…I GET A MIGRAINE.  Now I don’t stress or even talk about what is to be happening but somewhere deep in this brain of mine I must stress without knowing it.
So shortly after getting home from vacation (a mere 3 days) I started getting a headache and the way it started in my eyes I knew what was ahead.
Sure enough by Thursday night I had a huge headache…I babied it for a couple days but by Sunday it was a full blown Migraine…I threw up all night Sunday night and into the morning.  After a couple calls to the dr. I got Imitrex but it wouldn’t stay down so he prescribed a pill for nausea – finally got that under control and took the Imitrex. Went into surgery on Tuesday with a horrible hurting head but the pain of it had gone at least.

(I did get feeling a tad better to go to my great-nieces wedding on Saturday night though) but we left early.

So on with the surgery – I was given a spinal to put me under instead of the tube down the throat.  Anesthesiologist was skeptical of my headache and nausea – thought this was the best way.
I felt pretty good when I came back to my room but then those meds are rather strong.  By evening I was hurting. 

Doug snapped the leg shot just after coming down – I really didn’t care – that’s how good those meds are! lol
 
DSC01653

 me in hospital

Then today the bandages got to come off
operation 2

I hurt in all the areas mainly because they had to cut through muscle.
What I have are Osteocondroma’s – or Calcium Deposits (bone tumors). Fortunately after having x-rays and bone scans he determined they were not cancerous (whew!!).

They have been hurting for the last year and a half at least and not only did the areas where the bones were but the entire leg ached and throbbed…so that along with my back issues put all the dr.s in a worry as to what to do first.  Eliminating one problem then another till I’m left with just one area of pain.  So that leaves me with the SI joint that I had RF (Nerve Ablation) done on last month so when that fully kicks in I should be good to go for awhile anyway.

Dr. said the largest one was on the femur at the knee.  The one below it on my leg was smaller but it hurt just like the other one.
The one on my hip was at the hip joint and he wasn’t sure if he could get it because of all that was in the way trying to get it but he did.  I have another one in the groin but that probably will not be removed…too much chance of something not good happening.

I was in overnight – came home on Wednesday afternoon feeling pretty good.
I’m on 2 fast acting Percocet every 2 hours if needed and a muscle relaxer for bedtime.
If it starts to stop the deep aching I can go back to the Vicodin to control what pain is left there and from the SI joint.  One day…ONE DAY…I hope to be off all of that stuff and feeling 100%.
I do not let it get me down though…I will push through and do what I like doing….just grit my teeth a bit more some days.

So what’s fun now that I laid that on ya…things we bought on the vacation I guess which wasn’t much at all now that I think of it.

Got this sweet combination ‘hooked/applique’ pillow at In Grandma’s Attic
hooked pillow

At my friend Cindy’s shop in Lititz, PA – Days Gone By Creations I got a fantastic table throw.
Family Heirloom Weaver product…Tan and Red and I think she said it was called Log Cabin???
log cabin table throw

From the craft show I can’t remember the name of the booth  another throw in reds
Red tan table square

A string of Okra from Teresa’s Primitive Treasures booth at the craft show
Okra from Teresa

One booth at the show was selling hand loomed throw rugs and we bought this 5 ft. one for the screen room.
If she’s there next year I will buy other ones now that I know how nice it is.
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At Cocalico Creek I bought a Black/Mustard table square
Black Mustard Table square

I have a thing for nice mugs…I like my milk from a mug for some reason and when we were in Gettysburg and Emily was shopping around for a souvenir I spotted this one and I thought it was done tastefully for a gimmick/souvenir item.
It’s a really dark Blue and the inside is a beautiful Aqua.
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DSC01441

Then we stopped in at Primitives By Kathy’s so I could get some note pads – I like sending one alone with each of my orders and I spotted this oval tray set done in a really rich Gold.  Price said $12.00 – thought it was for the smaller tray…nope, it was for the set.
When I checked out I see I paid $5 for the 2 pieces…wishing I was selling more things like this now because I would have bought several.  They are 16 inch and 14 inch. 
set of platters 

I totally forgot we purchased a Grapevine Trellis from Teresa’s Primitive Treasures booth
 
grapevine trellis

I’ve wanted to grow my own Bittersweet for so long now and our garden center finally started carrying it and the great thing is that now there’s a species that has both male and female in one plant.  I purchased one but we will let it grow for a few years to vine out before cutting it.  So until then I’ll still keep looking for some that people sell.
Bittersweet vine 2

And here’s what we did with it – it’s in the garden at the side of the yard.
We tied it up on the trellis to help guide it so I’m hoping this works.
Not where I intended for it to be but it works best there…and yes, the garden is in bad shape.
bittersweet and trellis

bittersweet and trellis 1

I guess this small post turned into one as big as the vacation ones…but is that any surprise???

See ya,

Karen

64 comments:

  1. Hi Karen, I don't get the chance to blog visit as often as I would like, but just saw your post and want to wish you a very speedy recovery. You sure have had your share of "doctorin" ! You and your decorating have always been an inspiration. Love all of your finds from the shops and show, especially the ones from Teresa's. Looking forward to seeing how that bittersweet does!

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  2. Oh Karen that looks so sore. I am keeping you in my prayers for a very fast recovery. Oh how fun to be able to grow your own bittersweet! It is getting harder and harder to find around here. Love your purchases. Thanks for sharing and take care!
    Be blessed,
    Cindi

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  3. Bless your heart.
    You have been through so much.
    Praying for you to get well soon!!
    I like all the textiles you bought. Very pretty.
    Take care.
    Louise

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  4. My goodness, you are having quite a journey. I do hope you feel better and are able to finally heal!!!
    blessings, Dianntha

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  5. I have enjoyed reading about your vacation and your pretties you picked up. Ouch! Your leg... I pray you heal quickly.

    I use to take Imitrex for migraines. My doctor moved me over to the self injector. I never could give myself the shots, I always had someone else give them to me. The horrible burning and heart racing is the reason I stopped taking them.

    I've been drinking 2-3 cups of Feverfew tea every week for a several months and my migraines have pretty much gone. If one begins, I drink an extra cup as soon as it starts and within about 30 minutes it's gone. Oh yes, you have to hide the fowl tasting stuff in something; I usually hide it in sweet tea and drink it as fast as I can through a straw.

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  6. Karen, sorry that you had to have yet another serious surgery. I hope you completely recover soon. Sending good thoughts to you. Great shopping too.

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  7. Oh dear I hope your pain issues resolve soon. You've been through enough! I love everything you bought. I also want you as a shopping guide!

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  8. Praying that you have a very quick recovery Karen!

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  9. Dear Karen,

    OUCH!!!!
    That looks very painful. May you heal quickly. Hopefully no more problems. You poor dear.

    Praying,
    d

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  10. Karen,
    Did you hear me scream ouch for you? ICKS!!!! speedy recovery my friend!!!
    BUT!! Lovin all you new FHW!!!! Rest and get better soon! OLM

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  11. Wow Karen, you have been through it. Hoping by now, you are feeling better, much better. Loved the things you bought, the trellis esp. And the throws, and the plates, oh you get the idea, all of it! Take care, hope things go well for you.

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  12. Oh, my Karen, but you are a trooper! I am praying for you!

    You visited all of my favorite places! Did I miss the craft show in Lititz again? I remember when we first met I did then too! I love Grandma's Attic. My favorite spot there is the barn out back... :) I actually visited your friend's shop in Lititz at Christmas. I told her I knew you. She just gushed about how sweet and talented you are. Of course, I heartily agreed!!!

    Love and hugs to you, my dear stitched-up friend!

    Heather

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  13. Oh my goodness, Karen, best wishes for a quick healing of that leg! It sure looks mighty sore.... I've been taking Imitrex for many years for migraines.... sorry you had such a bad one this time. You certainly have had your share of painful ailments recently.... Prayers for relief from all your pain!
    You got some great things on your travels.... love all the table throws and the throw rug. The trays are really great, too... love the color of them. Good luck with the bittersweet... I look forward to watching the progress!
    Penny

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  14. Karen, prayers for a quick recovery. You will be all ready to go for the holidays. Keep the post coming,dear friend.

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  15. OH MY!! Hope you feel better and heal up fast!!

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  16. You poor dear ~ wishing you plenty of quiet, rest, comfort and healing in the coming days. So very sorry you're having a rough time of it, sounds like you'll be going to rehab too, which is exhausting all by itself. When you're up and around will you plz let me know where to get in line for the Shopping Guide tickets?! xo

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  17. Hi Karen, sending you a hug and well wishes for a speedy recovery.
    You are one tough cookie!

    Blessings, Audrey

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  18. Hope you heal fast.

    Love all your goodies. Looks like a wonderful vacation.

    Kathy

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  19. Hi Karen, wow! Your "war wounds" are impressive! I hope that you recover very quickly. Love all of your finds from your recent travels and I have so enjoyed reading about your trip.

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  20. Hi Karen. Hopefully you will be on the mend soon. You sure are one gutsy lady and I wish you well. the gold dishes are such a rich, pretty colour. Take care of you now. Hugs Sue

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  21. Your in my thoughts and prayers to heal up nice and quick. Take care of yourself and take it easy healing takes time don't rush yourself. You found some really wonderful treasures!! Love them all!!

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  22. oh my girl........I really feel for you .....when I seen those legs....after 7 knee surgeries myself I know how you are feeling.....here are some big big hugs.....see you soon.....I love all your goodies....and hope you heal real fast....take it easy for awhile

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  23. Wow Karen, you have sure had more than your share of hospital visits.
    Sounds like you are in good spirits,keep your chin up! You are in my thoughts and prayers. PS Your new goodies are awesome!
    Kathi

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  24. So happy the procedure is over, and your migraine is gone ~ sending up thoughts of healing for you!!
    loved the photos of your goodies, but the ones of you in the hops. are what touched me ~ what a beautiful person you are (inside & out) and so down to earth!
    love reading your blog my friend ~ and thanks so much for visiting mine ~
    Lori

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  25. My goodness, girl!! I'm glad you got your leg problem fixed and now I'm wishing you a speedy recovery!!

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  26. I hope you are feeling better! So much has happened for you lately! Please take it wasy so you can enjoy the beautiful season coming! Hugs to you! Maggie

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  27. Hi Karen,

    First off,I am praying for you to heal quickly...sounds like a terrible thing to go through! And, I know all about migraines...no fun. I thought when I had my brain aneursym clipped mine would go away, but they haven't :(

    Secondly...thank you so much for posting all your vacation photos. I loved every single one of them!

    Hope you feel better soon and God Bless!

    Connie

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  28. I am so glad the growths weren't cancerous but what an ordeal! You are so strong and I really admire the way you handled this painful detour and don't let it slow you down! Take good care and heal quickly! ~Roberta

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  29. Oh my word lovely lady! I bet you are glad to have that surgery behind you! I admire your strength and ability to remain so positive through all you've been through! I am sending up prayers for healing and strength! Your photographer and wonderful husband is doing a good job in taking care of you!! Give him a hug from the old white haired lady up North!!
    LOVE all those awesome purchases and your last post of your trip to New York too!!
    Blessings and hugs Karen... will talk to you soon!!
    Cathy G

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  30. Oh, Karen, bless your heart, you have had so much going on health wise. I saw the picture of your leg on FB and I hurried over to your blog to see what happened. Through it all you keep that same great attitude, keeping going and do what you can, no matter what. You are such an inspiration. I answered you question on FB about that cute wagon. Yes it is sold, that was a photo from last Fall. If I can I will post more. I know she has a teeny one that can sit on a table, so cute. You take care and don't feel like you need to respond, you get so many comments. Thinking of you, will chat again soon.
    Linda

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  31. Hey Karen.....sure hope this surgery helps the pain in your legs. Sorry we didn't meet up at the Lititz Craft Show, we had a picnic that day also and with the weather not being so nice early, I didn't get an early start. Your goodies are beautiful! I am looking for a new loom rug as yours for my kitchen. I will need to get the contact information when your feeling better and up and about. Take care and much love and hugs!! K

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  32. Oh my Karen. Bless your heart. I hope and pray that you are feeling better very soon. 'Love the blue flower pillow :)

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  33. Hi Karen, I hurt just reading your post. You sure have dealed with alot. Sure hope you are feeling better soon! Love all your purchases. Hope you will have good luck with your bittersweet, I would like to try and grow it someday.

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  34. Oh my goodness Friend
    I am praying for healing for you.
    From the top of your pretty head to the bottom of your feet.
    What wonderful treasures you found.
    Woolie Blessings & Hugs

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  35. Karen, I hope you'll recover really quick! I think of you as a strong woman, because you never let these things bring you down.

    Goedele

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  36. Bless your heart Karen! I see your smile through the pain! Praying for a speedy recovery along w/all the others that have commented.
    Boy, I sure wish my thighs looked as good as yours!! tee hee! cute leg shot! :))
    Looks like you got all kinds of nice goodies!!
    Wish we lived closer, I'd come over w/some cookies or something.

    Big hugs,
    Tanya

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  37. Hello Karen
    So Sorry to hear about all that you are going through.
    I will be keeping you in my thoughts and Prayers and hoping you have a speedy recovery. Take Care!

    Sandi

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  38. Hi Karen,
    I'm so sorry you've had to go through this. But I truly hope it helps. I have been on a long blog break but have been back for about 3 weeks now and need to catch up on my favorites. God bless you and Im praying for a speedy recovery.
    xoxo

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  39. Oh my goodness Karen, you have been through a lot lately. I now what Migraines are like as I suffer from them too, not nice at all. What lovely treasures you bought. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Take care and get well soon. Hugs, Karen.

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  40. Karen, so sorry that you have had to have another surgery. Praying that it will take away your leg pain. Love all of your beautiful treasures from your vacation. Take care and prayers for a quick recovery. Hugs, Lecia

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  41. OMG Karen...you are a trooper. I did not know you were having that done.
    Are you going to be able to travel in 2 weeks to Dawns? Understandable if you don't.
    ((((Hugs)))
    Earlene

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  42. Oh friend, what a nightmare you have been through. Sure hope you feel good enough to make the trip in a couple of weeks! Can't wait to see you again! Feel better soon!!!

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  43. Hope you are feeling better real soon, looks like you have been through quite a bit. Stay faithful through trial . . God always rewards. Blessings and prayer sent your way :O)

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  44. Oh my sweetie, I hope you are doing better and will be able to make it to Holly in a few weeks as I am looking forward to meeting you in person. Sending a little prayer that all is well. Love your goodies you purchased. They all look nice in your home, Janice

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  45. omw, I sure hope you get to feeling better soon, got to.......you will surely be in my thoughts!!!

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  46. Hi Karen,

    Bless your heart! I saw this on FB
    but couldn't leave a comment because we aren't friends. I sent you a friend request. I hope you heal quickly and feel better soon. The photos look so painful. Take care and know we are all thinking about you. Blessings to you...

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  47. My goodness woman!!!! You take care of yourself!!!!! you are always on the GO it seems! ;) hope you have a speedy recovery!

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  48. Karen, hope you mend quickly. Love the trellis and bittersweet. Warm Blessings! Amy

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  49. Bless your heart sweetie...
    Praying for you to get well soon!!
    I like all the textiles you bought. Very sweet....
    Take care dear..
    Love you
    Big hugs cucki x

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  50. Oh my, Karen you poor thing. I hope that after you recover from this that all gets back to normal and you are 100%!

    Kendra

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  51. Oh Karen...I hope you are healing fast! My goodness what an ordeal! Glad you picked a great fellow...I'm sure he's taking great care of you.
    Enjoyed all the pics from your vacation...those grands are so adorable!
    Feel better...fast!
    Robyn

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  52. Wow! Those look serious. I do hope this surgery brings the relief you need. I am sure there will be some healing time with those...Take it easy!!!! So glad you enjoyed that great vacation before the surgery. Praying for quick healing and pain relief. Blessings to you Karen....Feel better soon!

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  53. Oh my gosh, I don't know what to say, except that you have been through enough. Surely you are going to start feeling better soon. I surely hope so. You do have a wonderful spirit Karen. You don't sound down at all and I admire you for that.
    Take care!
    Sandra
    Homespun Elegance
    www.plainfancymerchant.blogspot.com

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  54. Oh, Karen...I'm so sorry for all you are going through. I've been so tied up with Shaker I haven't kept up lately. I sure do hope this surgery makes a big, positive difference in your pain relief. Love all your goodies....jan

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  55. Oh My Goodness, you have been through sooo much lately with all
    your troubled areas. I hope you are feeling less tender and are able to cut down on the pain meds and all. You have truly gone through a lot, and I hope this will get all those painful spots in check. Love your pictures and I hope all continues to improve.

    Renee
    The Primitive Window

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  56. Wow Karen...hope you are feeling better soon. Plenty of prayers coming your way. Love all the goodies you picked up. I've wanted to grow bittersweet for so long...you're inspired me to go out and buy some.

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  57. Love the trellis and the okra garland. I have some dried okra, I need to string. I have been in limbo with my house on the market, but it is about to come off and I can get going again. Hopefully you will recover quickly, so you can be out and a bout. You have things to do and places to go. I am ready to decorate for fall.

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  58. Oh my word, Karen! I hpe you heal quickly and well and that the pain will be gone. Sending prayers for a speedy recovery.
    All your finds are fantastic - each one a beauty!

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  59. Oh boy Karen...that does not look like it was a fun thing to go thru! I hope you are feeling good. Looking forward to seeing you at the Holly show. Hugs, Lori

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  60. Oh, Karen, my heart goes out to you! I pray for your speedy recovery and NO more migraines! By the way, I think I would kill for that darling blue pillow--it's gorgeous. :-)

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  61. Holy Moly Girlfriend....when you go kaput, you go all the way, eh?? ;o) Just teasing you know...but ouwie!!! does that ever look painful! Glad it's over with and praying for a swift recovery - I can only imagine the pain they must have caused....I have had deep bone pain on occasion and it makes me ever so much crankier. Hopefully, it will take away much of that pain at least. Love all your new treasures. I'm always smitten with the linens, but just don't have much room to display or use them. And woo hoo on the bittersweet!!! It doesn't grow wild here like it does in some places, and I've thought of getting some to plant, but didn't know if it would tolerate our winters...and if it did, whether it would become invasive. And, I had no clue where to find it! Keep me posted from time to time as to how it's doing. You got me all kinds of curious.... Hope you can enjoy some of this holiday weekend.... Smiles & Hugs ~ Robin

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  62. I hope you have a speedy recovery. I'm behind on my blog reading. Love all the goodies you posted.

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  63. Good morning Karen, I wish you a speedy recovery...keeping you in my prayers. Love the bittersweet!
    Enjoy your day,
    Leanne

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  64. Ouch, ouch, ouch! Karen, that looks so very painful but I know that you are glad to get through it. And tell me... how do you look SO GOOD after surgery?! Thank the Lord they were not cancerous. I will be praying for a quick recovery for you and to be done with all those meds.

    You sure brought some beauties back home with you! Love the pretty reds, I'm a lover of red also.

    Oh wow! Thanks for telling me about the bittersweet. My sister grew some but said it was very hard because you had to have the male and female. That excites me that now I can buy it with both in one plant, yay! I'm on the lookout now.

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So glad you came to visit - feel free to leave a comment.
I will try and answer as many as I can - maybe not immediately but I will get to you!

Karen