Saturday, January 5, 2008

The loss of a dear friend...

You know me by now. I love nature. I love trees. I bought this house because of the trees, both in the back yard and the view to the neighbor's trees across the street. I don't think I ever really saw the house, I just saw the trees. We had a terrible storm in Northern CA yesterday. Most of you, I'm sure are aware. The winds were between 60-70 miles/hour and yesterday morning our dear 50 ft. tree said good bye. She had been leaning toward the house and we were about to consult an expert in an effort to prop her back up and spare her the chain saw. The winds were luckily from the south/west and she kindly spared our house. My God, I'm crying. She would have crushed this house and yet, she didn't. She laid down gently on the lawn and only took out some sod and a few lawn chairs. I'm crying because I will miss her.








We had no electricity until after 10 pm last night. Two telephone poles went down up the street and it took nearly 12 hours of constant work to get them up and running. We have brilliant utility services in CA and are rarely with out electric service, so no matter how inconvenient, I'm grateful.
~
The storm was so bad I was unable to get to my feral kitties for the first time in over 7 months. I tried again late in the afternoon, but with downed trees, road closures, lack of freeway entrance, I went in circles for over an hour trying to figure out what to do. Only to come back home and put my head in my hands and just sob.
We also discovered our 8ft. fence had collapsed into our neighbor's yard. Happily, Betty-Ann is now the proud owner of a lot of lumber! And our insurance companies will have to duke it out. (We're great friends, so will work together of course...we just like to see insurance companies make an effort!) Apparently a downed tree worth $10,000 isn't valuable to the insurance company, unless it goes through your house. Don't even get me started.
~
New day...January 5th...yup, still here and still there! We all keep looking as if it's going to just go away or go back to the way it was. Nope and nope.
Thank you for your kind words of support. For your concern. For everything.
~
With so much love,
Suzanne
P.S. Update! Yes, for those of you who know you read it, you did. I edited the hell out of the last paragraph. Yup, it's gone. Why? Because I didn't want it polluting the memory of my tree. Thanks for all your terrific comments. You guys are the best.

75 comments:

Gig said...

Suzanne,
I am so sorry about the stormy weather, and the loss of your tree and fence. I am new at this blogging and have been visiting for several weeks. I love your love for animals, especially kitties, I have a very special cat, her name is Maggie. I also love all your pics. I hope everything goes ok with all the storm damage and ins companies. I am so glad you mentioned 1pic because that is how I found you. I really enjoyed his pics and his writings,so I was upset when I could not access his blog, but I feel much better after reading your blog today. Life will go on and as I learn my way around this "blog-world", I am sure I will find many more wonderful, interesting people! Of which will include you.
Thanks for listening about 1pic.
I will be thinking about you and your loved ones, take care and be safe.
Gig

Random Musings said...

Hi Suzanne,

I'm sorry about your tree. It is like the loss of a family member.

I, like gig, found your blog via 1pic's blog. Wonder what got into him? Oh well, I'm glad I found yours. I think your pictures are just beautiful. They are all so elegant. I love all your beautiful animals, too.

I just wanted to let you know you've got a new reader.

Take care, and God bless,
sparrowbird
http://randommusingsofawanderingheart.blogspot.com/

Suzanne said...

Gig~

Thank you sweetie. It's amazing how quickly we are forgotten. Painful, but true. But here we are on my blog...I hope you return and comment often because your words matter. Thank you. It's been a difficult few days here in Northern CA, but I'm hoping for the best as this storm travels to my friends in Southern CA!

1pic, I will never understand. He will have to live with his choice all the days of his life. And that he should. He has lost so much and will only understand years from now if he opens his heart. Life will go on sweetie. Trust me. It always does. Thank you so much for writing and thank you so much for your honesty.

Please write again.

Much love,
Suzanne

bindhiya said...

Dear Suzanne,
i was been checking on your blog so many times to see how you doing...as i told you i have a bookmark to your page.
am so sorry about the storm and loss of your tree.
hope you will be able to see your feral kitties soon.
take care dear
love
bindhiya

Gig said...

Suzanne,
Thanks for your kind words, they made my day better. Even with all that you are going thru you always take the time to make someone feel better. That is a true friend. I checked in at CSI Seattle, a very interesting guy, and I loved your comments on 1pic. I also will not be sorry that I found his blog because it lead me to yours and CSI,and the list is too long to name. The positive thing I am going to take from it is that I am now responding to you and several sites. But, alas I have neglected mine the last few days. I will work on that tomorrow. I need to post a pic of my kitty, and my grandchildren. I do believe life goes on.

I will be in touch, my new friend

Debbie

Cece said...

Wow! It amazes me how many people found each other through 1pic. Just think of him as a gentle breeze blowing through your life to bring you a breath of fresh air and renewed friendships with so many others from around the globe. As for everything else, the weight of the world can be heavy,but Mother Nature never gives us more than we can handle. Keep you chin up and plant a new tree in the memory of your old one.

Salem Stitcher said...

Suzanne,
I also found you through 1pic's blog. I'm saddened that he felt he had to go private. I will miss his photos but it is time to move on. As we say in the South when we can't find anything nicer to say... "well, bless his heart".
I am so sorry about your tree. From the photos, she was a beauty.

kylie said...

hey suze,
i have often mourned the loss of a tree, but usually because some numbskull thought the leaves were too much trouble or some other stupidity then chopped it down. your tree went the way it was meant to..thats good.
what on earth happened to one pic?
i wasn't one of his friends but enjoyed reading the blog and seeing his pics, never expecting anything. it was a bit mean of him. ah, well cest la vie

Kookaburra said...

Hello Suzanne,
G'day from Australia.

First let me say how sorry I am to see that you have lost such a beuatiful tree. BTW What was she? Mother Nature/God was very considerate in having the tree fall away from your home. Are you OK? Are your kitties alright?? I am amazed that you still have found the time to keep in touch with your friends during this stressful time. You must be so busy what with tidying up your garden, insurance and all. I also read your previous post of Thursday January 4, and your reply to CSI. I do hope that we can still be friends.

God bless you and your family.

Mark.

savannah_rae said...

Hello Suzanne. I'm so glad to read your post and to know that you are okay. I've been worried about you.

It's so heartbreaking, what the loss of trees can do. When we had our ice storm last year, my school alone lost 84. I'm so thankful that your kitties and you are Rob were kept safe.

Please keep in touch. And I hope you are able to make it to your kitties soon. I'm sure they miss you!!

XOXO, Savannah

CSI Seattle said...

Thank goodness you are back. I got worried about you.

I forgot all about the storm in CA. We caught an edge of it as well, but not nearly as much as you. I know that the tree was a loss, but I am really happy that you did not have any damage to your home and that you are safe.

1pic has sure sent a ripple through our small community. I was not aware that he had made some nasty comments as you mentioned over at my place. It was obvious that he was under some pressure (that he created for himself) to keep up with his postings, but to shut down the site was a bit extreme.

Oh well, it looks like our crew is holding together just fine and we will go on having fun.

Despite the tree damage, the pictures of the kitties looking out the window are great. I suspect that you live in a really pretty area.

Chat soon,

Brian

Unknown said...

Dearest Suzanne,

I know I have just started to post on your lovely site. And as you said earlier we are practically neigbors! Thank you for posts and I too, found you through 1pic. It is sad that he decided to go private but it is what is, right?

I went through that same storm but didn't lose something as beautiful as that tree! Aren't trees like old souls...to wonder what they have seen?! Maybe once things calm down a bit go take a piece of that old soul and place in a bookshelf or somewhere you can look upon it and remember the hot days that it once brought your shade. And when it was drizzling it umbrellaed (is that a word...lol)you! Again I am sorry!

I just have a fence that is winky-wonky. That will need to be fixed soon. So, that my hugh Alaskan Malamute doesn't decide to check out if the grass is greener on the other side...lol!

I have visited some really great blogs through you and 1pic. I don't regret catching a glimpse of his world as I meet all of you! So, dear Suzanne my new blog-almost-neighbor-friend! I for one plan on sticking around!

**To 1pic...hmmm...it was like a good book, hard to put down, but like all good things, it came to an end. I hope life is fair to you as you are to it! Farwell!!**

To all my new blogging friends! Boy, I can't wait to see what journeys your wonderful blogs take me on next! Sending many smile and lots of hugs!

Suzanne said...

Random Musings,

Thank you. Elegant. I like that. I needed that. With my back yard a mess, no tree or fence, the inside looking like a wreck as well...I like elegant. I could simply slide right into that!!! In my dreams, I will.

Losing a tree IS like the loss of a family memember. Thank you for appreciating that. I still look out the window and weep. When she's all gone I can't imagine the depth of pain. At least still having her in the yard is a comfort, but when she's all gone...then what? I have tears in my eyes. Obviously I don't like change.

Please stop by often. Your words matter. And thank you.

With regard to 1pic...I don't know. He took a different path, but we still have one another. I'm grateful.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Bindhyia,

I'm writing this through tears. You have all been so kind to me and I want you to know it matters. Thank you.

I am so sorry I haven't responded to your comments in the past few day, but trust me, it isn't a reflection of you, but me. I have a bit too much on my plate and with the storm and the tree and everything else, I'm a bit overwhelmed. I will link to you in the next few days and I'm so glad that my instructions helped you. You are such a beautiful person and I look forward to a long and meaningful friendship. I know you're in NY, so when I come home to see my family I will make an effort to visit you! It doesn't sound as if you're too far from my home town.

Love you ~ and thanks for always checking in and leaving such beautiful comments.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Cecile,

You're right. He was a breath of fresh air. And look what he blew in...all of you. I like that very much.

Mother Nature broke my heart, but I'll recover. I wish she'd been more kind, but I guess I needed a lesson. It's sad that a tree had to die for me to learn it.

Please come back often ~ your words are so gentle and kind.

With love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Salem Stitcher,

Wow. I love to laugh and you made me laugh so hard! Thank you so much!!!! I will never forget that quote. NEVER!

He did have to go and so it goes. We'll all miss him, but I keep reminding myself, look what he left in his wake. I have all of you.

With love,
Suzanne

Shutterspy said...

I suppose you could take comfort from the fact that nature took the tree away, and not a person.

Most of the trees along the sides of our road were cut down by the council about a year ago because they were deemed to be 'too dangerous' (eh, what?).

But even so, the loss of a tree can be surprisingly sad.

Satanic Angel said...

Hope you get back with your feral kitties soon dear. Well, about the tree, they keep choppin 'em off back here in my country. For buildings and all, so I have kinda grown insensitive towards this. It's sad what life does to you, you are robbed of your innocence and sensitivity. Anyway, i hope your migraines under check.

About 1pic, i dunno why he's not invited you, but i guess we should all understand his need of privacy.

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

Happy 2008! It's nice to have you back.

You're right, Mother Nature had her own plan for our dear friend. Perhaps she was just getting old and tired and needed to rest. But what do you think Mother Nature was trying to tell us about the fence!? That still looked pretty good and now it's dead too!

Apparently very few of us where 1pic's friend! I have no clue what happened. However, I will say I find his departure, without even the slightest explanation, disappointing. He had so many loyal fans and he just abandoned them. In doing so, he also insulted them. I can understand his need for privacy, but he could have achieved that objective in a more respectful way. He could have departed and left his fan feeling wonderful with minimal effort, instead he left everyone wondering what the hell happened? Very selfish and very unfair. Life goes on.

Hope you're glad to be back from your holiday and looking forward to the year. Talk to you soon.

Luv ya, Suze
P.S. I liked the "Suze!" My family calls me Suzy/Suzie/Sue. When I left home to go to college I announced to my family I wanted to be addressed as Suzanne! To this day I still don't think any one in my family calls me Suzanne!

kylie said...

i think it's an aussie thing to play around with names....and i'm up there with the best. it's an affectionate thing.
i guess the fence was just a casualty of life. stuff happens.
i'm not sure about onepic needing privacy...he never needed it before, did he?
i think it was all a power trip
cheers

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

My original post to you said "I guess he needed privacy from his public blog!" However, I erased it because it seemed too sarcastic. Now it doesn't because you cut through all the BS just like my sister Laura.

The fireworks today happened over on CSI's blog. It looks like a war zone. I'm hoping he deletes everything as quickly as possible and cleans that crime scene up!

After today, I don't have a lot of kind words for 1pic. I wish I could delete him from my brain and my blog, unfortunately that isn't possible, so I'll give him a good swift kick and send him into Betty-Ann's yard, just like the wind did with my fence.

I think he toyed with all of us, and that is unforgivable. And then he blamed us, and that is worse. I loved his blog, his words, his photos and yet he insulted me this morning. Where do I go from there? I go to bed, wake up and it's a new day. A power trip? Perhaps you're right. It was certainly something none of us can explain.

I'm glad you call me Suze. It's perfect. Don't stop. So happy you're back.

Much love,
Suzanne

Yes, the fence was just life.

kylie said...

the csi site is hilarious :) :)
i was gonna tell you onepic would be watching other blogs for your comments about him ....it feeds the beast
don't let him catch you talking about him again.
i'll also say i reckon that when his no. of hits drops dramatically he'll be back ....but delete this....or he'll stay private just out of spite
this is better than a soap opera
:) :)

Suzanne said...

54' Bomber (it's more fun to say than Mark!),

WE ARE ALWAYS FRIENDS MY DEAR. ALWAYS. Are you kidding?! What has transpired over the past few days with 1pic is just that, a transpiration. Yes, I know that is not a word, but I'm going to submit it to Webster's for consideration! Hopefully we can all exhale in the next day or so and move on. What a horrible way to end such a brilliant run. It's a wonderful lesson for all of us: if you're going to stop blogging or go private, let the people who love you know. It's that simple. And certainly not much effort.

I see you deleted your comments on CSI's site too. I went back an hour or so ago just to examine the wreckage. Yuck. What a mess! Your comment was fine, you didn't have to delete it, but I understand why you did. I instructed poor Brian to just get rid of everything! Honey, as I said on your blog, I wasn't directing my disappointed towards you, just everything in general. I don't want you to ever go away. I enjoy you so much and would be sad if you left.

Thank you for your concern and yes, the tree is a huge loss. HUGE!!! We're still digesting it. We're all fine and the kitties and dog are fine as well. (Thanks for your concern.) The tree was kind enough to spare us. Why? Who knows. I'm not religious, but I feel blessed. I suspect because I know what could have happened.

Keep blogging my dear. I look forward to your comments.

Much love,
Suzanne

Lizette said...

So sorry about the loss of your tree. So sad. Glad you're okay.
Lizette

EMG said...

Hi Suzanne,
Just wanted to drop by and wish you a belated happy new year! I've been bad about getting back to emails and comments lately because I forgot we were going back to work on the 2nd! Anyway, wishing you the best in '08! I'm sorry to hear about your tree and the weather conditions up in CA. I love old trees...and I always talk about how one day I'll buy a house with big old trees all around to look a out the window every morning and smile as the sun shines through the branches. I hope things are getting better, and please stay safe! As far as 1pic goes...I don't know what the hell happened...I wonder if anyone does. In the end though, I think we made great friends with other bloggers we found through his blogs and I am very thankful for that! Have a great Sunday and a wonderful week!!!
Love,
Me

bindhiya said...

Dear Suzanne,
I have been checking all night and today early in the morning before going to church..so i read and see your beutiful tree......so sorry for your loss...i can imagine..we had a beautiful big tree in front of our house...that is our sign of the house..without the tree we can imagine...
about 1 pic....i met you through 1 pic and am so glad i did...when i saw and read your blog i made a bookmark..the only page i made a bookmark...
from your writings and comments i know how sweet, kind hearted you are....
Thank you so much for your comments.
take care dear
love
bindhiya

Suzanne said...

Kylie...

I too thought of it as a soap opera. And yes, CSI's comment page is a force to be reckoned with! It's so funny it makes me laugh. Where do ya go? Whatdaya do? I don't know. If we didn't all know the truth, you'd think this was insane. And it is! But it isn't because it's real! It happened to all of us. He had the audacity to blame people like me. I'll take blame if it's deserved, but absolutely will not if it isn't. I didn't do anything to deserve his wrath. Never. Trust me...I'd know. If I had, I'd admit it. This is a lesson. I've learned it and am ready to move on.

An yes, I found it strange he was trolling through all the sites looking for "something." Why? I don't know. I understand that less than I understand everything else. You're a wise woman. And I'm honored to be associated with you!!!

Keep questioning.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

My hubby, who is a lawyer and a very brilliant mind, said, after I explained the events of the day, "You have know idea who this guy is, his motivation or his intent...Suzanne, you're smarter than that." Hummmmmmmmmm...apparently not! Cuz here I am with all of you! That is just too funny. Okay...I will not let him read this!!! Okay, I'm beyond this. I'm movin' on for my own self preservation! I'm still laughing.

Lots of love,
Suze

Suzanne said...

CSI...

Finally, your turn. Oh honey, please forgive me for the trash on your site today. I'd like to think of it as "The Day I Left Behind." Unfortunately, I don't think that catagory exists. If it does and you find it, just shove all this crap in! No really, hurry.

Hummmmmmmmmmmm. Here we are. Thank you for you patience. We'll all muddle through this.

I love you my dear...
Suzanne xo

Suzanne said...

emg

We made the best of friends. Bar none. 1pic mattered in that he facilitated all the relationships that matter. I would not trade a single moment. I have all of you and for that I am grateful. 1pic went bye~bye and so it goes. But look what he left?! I like that. I don't know what the hell happened either, but here we all are, and that is beautiful.

I hope you have a big old house with a big old tree one day. It's an amazing thing to sit at the table, drink a cup of tea and look out on something so beautiful. Keep writing because I enjoy you so much.

Much love,
Suzanne :)

Suzanne said...

Robyn,

You are such a dear sweet soul. And yes, here we are right next to one another. Can you believe we lost that tree? And our fence!!! I know you weathered the same storm but seemed to have lost little and here I am the recipent of far more and I offered you a haven if you'd lost anything. How funny! I'm in CARM (I know you will get that).

I loved your message to 1pic. It inspired a post today, but then I deleted it after a nasty post from him. He isn't the kindest man and that is his flaw. We all move on.

I'm so grateful for you. You make me laugh and think. I like that. Don't go away. Keep close so I can enjoy you.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Shutterspy,

Hi sweetie, how nice to hear from you. Yes, the loss of a tree is horrible. We're still adjusting. However, as the days go by and I reflect, the mere fact she didn't hurt us and simply laid down gently means even more. I don't know why things happen the way they do and when she's gone we will miss her with all our heart, but my friend from Australia said Mother Nature had a plan, and I agree now. She did.

Love you sweetie. Your photos, as always, are gorgeous!

Love ya,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Lizette,

Thank you so much for your concern. Ahhhhhhhh, the tree is a great loss, but we'll come out of this better human beings. I'm convinced! We just have to get from here to there. And yes, that is a journey.

So nice to hear from you. Please don't hesitate to stop by again.

Much love,
Suzanne :)

Suzanne said...

Bindhiya,

Hi sweetie. You are always the kindest most gentle soul and I thank you for each and every visit to my site. I always look for your comments and my heart swells when I see one. Take good care of yourself and know that I am always thinking of you.

Hugs and kisses,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Savannah,

Hi baby. We're all okay and yes I did get to my feral kitties. Thank you for thinking of us and them. You are a dear, sweet soul and I can't imagine life without you.

I hope you're feeling much better. We'll talk soon. Until then, just know that I'm sending huge hugs! And yes, the loss of our tree is mind bending.

With much love,
Suzanne

kylie said...

ah, now this blog thing is taking over my life....
my final comment for today....
he was trawling thru other sites to make sure that he had made an impact. its ALL about him.
delete this or feed the beast :)

oh, BTW, i know you got burned so forgive me for laughing at your stoush but it was just so funny for a bystander

Satanic Angel said...

Looks like this is the quiet after the storm@Blogger.

Gig said...

Suzanne,
I see it has been an interesting day around this big blog world.I am so glad that I marked you as my 1st favorite and then the list just grew and grew. I know that it will continue to as the days go by. I do feel if someone decides to quit or go "private" it is their choice, but just do it and leave it at that. Don't go harrassing good people! Enuf said.
I am so glad you got to the kitties, you are so important to them. I hope and pray the weather gets better for you and everyone else out there. Always remember that you have touched so many lives thru this space and I believe everyone else feels the same.
Good thoughts to you, God Bless
Gig

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

I just read my last comment to you in an effort to refresh my memory. It's refreshed...I still haven't stopped laughing. My hubby's a comedian!

You call it trawling and I called it trolling...we're both correct (I just can't figure out if mine's actually a word)! And NO, I will not delete your comments. I need them to keep me laughing through all this crap. Are you my alter ego?

I see CSI has cleaned up his comment page. THANK GOD!!! Can you imagine coming home to that? But he left my last comment as a tease. I thought that should have been deleted as well, but with his funny bone, I knew the kitty liter and Rob thing would get him! Before Rob started working from his home office he used to say "I took a high pressure job just to get away from the stress at home!" Yes, I'm still laughing.

And thank you sweetie for taking pleasure in my pain. There's a word for that you know. It isn't "stoush." What's that mean by the way? I looked it up in my Oxford American Dictionary, but assume it's an Aussie word because it didn't show up!

Please become addicted and stop in often. You remind me of my sisters...very smart and very funny. You're good medicine. For some reason my family won't comment on this d*** thing! (BUT I KNOW YOU'RE READING IT!!!)

Much love,
Suzanne :)

Suzanne said...

Hi Elusive,

You think?!

XO Suzanne

Kookaburra said...

Hey Suzanne,

41 comments! Wow :)

xo Mark

Kookaburra said...

Hello again, Suzanne,
I just want to say I have read all the kind comments to you. You have wonderful friends. Bless them all.
BTW we have a big old Cootamundra wattle in our front lawn; beautiful golden flowers in the Australian winter (fantastic to see against a dark, cloudy,sky.)
Now . . lemme see, this has gotta make it at least 42 comments.
Keep smiling :0 ;)

Ludmila M. said...

Dear friend,
I got worried about you, i saw tv news and when i've heard about the storm,got scared, because of you.,..Thank god you're ok..By the way, thank you for all the compliments that you've made to me..kind of yours..I'm a bit disapointed with 1 pic too,he just dispeared from our blogs..On saturday,i've talked to a friend who lives in Miami, far away from you,isn't it?By the way, 41 comments!Wow!I'm impressed!someday i'll get this too,haha..Hope you're doing well now..
I'm going to be away from the blog for about a week,you now,i'm traveling to Recife( "that city i've told ya!)today,i think i'll get back next sunday,ok?!
All the best,always and take care!
XOXO Ludmila.

Suzanne said...

Hey Mark!

41 comments...yes, half of them are from me!!! See, not that impressive after all. My big mouth has influenced the success of my own blog.

I did a Google search of the Cootamundra. Beautiful and yes, I can just imagine it against a dark sky. Take a photo now that you know how to post them. It's something to look forward to. I also learned from Google, the Cootamundra was formerly used for "stock feed." I can hear the pitter~patter of little hooves as we speak! Good luck with that.

It's always fun to hear from you. Keep stopping by. And keep typing! Your blog is great.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Ludmilla,

Hi sweetie. Thanks for your kind words. It's always wonderful to hear from you. Thanks too for worrying about us. We survived.

Everyone's disappointed with 1pic. Who knew? On one hand he's a really sensitive soul, on the other a cad. Oh well...we all got a good swift kick in the a**. Apparently we needed it!

Have a safe trip. I'll miss hearing from you. I look forward to your return and you haven't even left yet!

Thanks for always making me smile and honey, it's so good to see you smile again. Everything will work out. You'll see.

Lots of love,
Suzanne

bindhiya said...

LA GRINGA ~
First of all sorry Suzanne,
This is for la gringa or what ever he or her name,
why you are here?
YOU HAVE NOTHING BETTER TO DO?
am not going so far..
Sorry Suzanne...

Anonymous said...

Suzanne -

I'm so sorry it's taken me so long to leave a message. I'm sorry for the loss of your tree, and indeed, like a 'stable friend' - it is very sad.
I feel I'm out of the loop not having access at home. I have no idea what's gone on with 1pic - it's all very strange.

I hope to be on here again shortly - just remember I am thinking of you and what's going on in your life.
Take care my friend,
Pete xx

Suzanne said...

Dear Bindhiya,

Thank you for protecting me honey! Every little bit helps. I'm so grateful for the circle we dwell in. It's a good place to call home. La Ginga will realize the answer isn't here. It's in his own heart. Just as we've all discovered. Have a beautiful day sweetie.

XO Suzanne

Anonymous said...

suzanneee........
you called tat laaaa grrIInnngaa HONEY.... argghhhh he doeesnt even deserve it...!!! he called u judgemental... he doesnt even know how judgemental his entier piece of comment wass!!!
hmmmm why bother abt such people.....
when u loose someone close to u its obvious for anyone to get hurt n say things out of frustration...
i really dono wat u said abt him(1pic) or what other people said or.... haven read any of them...
1pic wanted privacy he got it... as friends we respect it...n cant do much abt it rather than feelin sad...
if we did anything wrong... or if 1pic felt tat we interfered too much with his life then... we are sorry...( i hope he takes a peek at this)
iam sorry abt the tree... but iam so happy it dint do u harm... it truely is a blessing...
be safe honey...
kissess

Suzanne said...

Peter!

Congratulation!!! You're still here! Oh, I'm just kidding. But honestly, it's so good to hear your voice after so long. I'm looking forward to your return.

1pic took a nose dive and none of us can figure it out. But unfortunately (and yes, as an English teacher I'm sure you're cringing at the fact I started a sentence with but!), I was just told by I guy I don't know, I caused it. What?! Wow, when did I get that sort of power!? Fortunately all our dear friends back here are supportive and kind and we're trying to figure it out and laugh while doing so. Sorry you're missing all the drama and fun. See you soon!

Love, Suzanne

Satanic Angel said...

1 pic 1pic 1pic!don;t turn you blog into a documentary on 1pic baby. Am sure we have much better things to talk about. As far as I know you, you are a beautiful soul and stay that way. don't tarnish it by all of this shitty gossip!
As for 1pic I still strongly believe he doesn't owe any of us an explanation, so just let's chuck the entire thing. I don't know what exchanges you had wit him, i dont want to. All i know is it's your personal matter and let it remain that way, let's not gossip over it.

Suzanne said...

Hidden Tears,

Hi sweetie. I'm almost off to feed my feral kitties, so this will be brief. Thank you for your kind words, love and support. You always say just the right thing. I am so grateful for all of you. You make my life so much more beautiful. After hearing from la gringa this morning, I can't imagine having that much negativity in my life. It would crush my soul. Honestly, it would. I'm happy I have the life I do, even with my dear tree dying in the back yard and all the other tiny, fixable problems I'm dealing with. He added a perspective today I hadn't anticipated. While preparing the food for my feral kitties, I stopped feeling angry and instead felt sorry for him because I realized I'm one of the luckiest people on this planet and I don't thing he is. I have genuine happiness in my life and that is such a gift.

Have a beautiful day my dear. And thanks again.

Much love,
Suzanne

Gig said...

Suzanne,
I believe there is way too much negativity in this world today.

Therefore, when we come across someone like you that has that sweetness that we all crave, we soak it up. Beautiful souls are to hard to find these days.

One of my Resolutions this year is to find and focus on the positive in all the people and things around me. It may not be easy, but I will try. That is all any of can do.

It is also why your beautiful roses and kitties are my first stop on my journey around this vast blogging world.

Always remember that those that really care are still here and will contiue to be!

Just a few Ramblings from Gig

Suzanne said...

Hi Elusive

YOU ARE CORRECT MY DEAR!!! I just returned from feeding my feral kitties and as usual, being with them is a joy. They always put life in perspective. So much so I hit the trash can because life is too short to worry about stupid stuff.

As always, nice to hear from you.

XO Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Gig,

You my dear are an absolute joy. Thank you for your kind words. And yes, I agree, those who matter are still here and will remain so.

I'm generally a very fair person, but the negative energy coming from the bottom of this page was far more than I could deal with. I gave it a good try and it did not suit me. It was just a blip on the radar and now everything will return to normal. I do love that trash can and I'm not afraid to use it!

I'm so grateful you all come to my blog. You inspire me to continue this adventure. I don't even think I look at any of you as virtual friends. It's almost as if you live next door and could easily pop over for tea or to help fix the fence!! And that's a wonderful feeling. We're a beautiful group of friends and I'm a very lucky woman.

Your resolution is a good one. Stick to it. By the end of 2008 you might possibly be the happiest person on the planet!

Thanks again for your kindness.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Cinnamon ~

I have to clean the fish tanks (yes, my life is very glamorous here!), so this will be a quick one. I've been feeling your presence for a few days, so I know you're reading this. We all miss you and wish you hadn't gone away. Hope you're okay and that the lavender survives this year. I'll write again soon because I realize you're still here.

XO Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Cinnamon,

P.S. No need to reply!!!

kylie said...

stoush means fight. i thought it was a regular english word but my dictionary says it's aust. slang.
i think that families don't comment on blogs cos they're in touch with you so many other ways...mine comment in person

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

God how I wish you had been here earlier. You would have given him a run for his money and scared the crap out of him! Hell, you scare the crap out of me! I was sorry to delete everything before you arrived. But had to. Just couldn't take the negativity. Oh how I wish he had gotten a breath of your fresh air. You remind me so much of my sister Laura. You're sisters who take no BS and I like that. All the rest of us quiver and quake and women like you two never hesitate. Problem. Solved. Done. Quick, simple, clean. I like that. Don't ever go away.

Much love, Suzanne

kylie said...

hey suze,
i do quiver and quake so dont be too awed and definitely not scared !!
i'm not goin anywhere
and say as much as you want....i dont explode so often these days :)
jeez, how did you know that about me?

bindhiya said...

Dear Suzanne,
hope you had a good day.
don't be scared of a faceless moron's comment. trying to get some attention. don't publish any of his comments. delete right away. he is just jealous.
take care
love
bindhiya

ps. i hope savannah will check with local acorn....it is really nice place to start.

Shara said...

Suzanne,
I'm an art teacher who stumbled onto your blog thru 1pic. I love your art, so romantic and the pictures have that feeling of intimacy you get when you love what you photograph. Sorry about the tree, growing up in the country I can identify with losing something constant in your life like landscape. Plant another to honor it's passing...rebirth. About 1pic...remember the best and hold on to your own openess!

Suzanne said...

Hi Bindhiya!

Thanks for stopping by again. I can always count on you. I had a great day and thanks for asking.

I wasn't scared. I don't know why I said what I said, but I think what I meant to say is women like my sister and Kylie see a problem, make a decision quickly and bam, it's over. I left that crap on here for hours! Why?! What purpose did it serve? I always try to be so fair and I have to really re-evaluate that part of my personality. I hesitated and I wonder why. I should have hit the delete button instantly and I didn't. I subjected all of you to stupidity and worry. I've had time to think and realize, as you suggested, when something like that comes in, hit the delete button!!! And like my sister or Kylie would say..."Over. Done."

I've also realized how lucky we all are. We have our problems, but that's okay. It doesn't mean we stop trying to find the beauty in life. I couldn't imagine being surrounded by that much negativity. I'd curl up and die. Seriously. What would be the point?

I hope you had a good day sweetie. I actually hope you're in bed by now! I just got up from a nap because the days have been exhausting here, so have to clean one more fish tank. Hurry, hurry, hurry. I'm going to look at that aspect of my life as well over the next few weeks and try to figure out how to slow down a bit.

Thank you so much for your kindness and friendship. It matters a great deal.

Much love,
Suzanne
p.s. Hopefully Savannah will look into her local Acorn. I could see her doing brilliantly in a non-profit.

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

To my once explosive friend! Like I just told Bindhiya, I misspoke. I simply meant to say I want to be more definative in my decisions. I'm going to work towards that goal. I wasted a whole morning of my life on stupid and I don't know why?! Frankly, I think I was trying to be too nice, rather than protect me and my friends. I learned a valuable lesson, and that's the part I like. Continuing education is always important!

Thanks for your friendship. You're valued on this blog. And I know you aren't going to go away, but just as a reminder...PLEASE DON'T EVER GO AWAY!!!

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

The Queen,

I like that. I feel like I'm in London and about to sit down at a big old table with lots of beautiful china and fancy silver. The Queen is sitting across from me and I have to ask her to please remove her hat because it's a bit distracting! Hey! But instead, I'm in Texas. Who else but a Texan would address themselves as "The Queen!" That is just too funny.

Thank God Royalty is here! You add a bit of elegance to my blog and make this morning look like a bad dream! Thank you.

No really, thank you for your kindness and encouragement. You're such a breath of fresh air. I like that. AND, I like that you're an art teacher. You make a difference in the lives of kids. Have you ever considered using a blog as a teaching tool? Hummmmmmm. Interesting concept isn't it?

You know what sweetie, I do love what I photograph. Someone asked me recently how I capture the images I do. I had to give that some thought because I really don't try too hard! I realized I just love what I photograph and I guess it translates. I don't think my photos are all that compelling nor technically perfect (obviously!), but I photography what I love and somehow the camera appreciates that and responds in kind. I'm lucky in that regard.

About our tree. She's still here. Rob said this morning "I can't imagine what it will feel like when she's actually gone." He's right. Even on her side, she's a comfort. I can't imagine the void she will leave. It is a sad thing to lose such a beautiful spirit. The insurance adjuster will be here Wednesday and then things will begin to change. We said today, "Perhaps we'll just leave her there!" I don't think the lawn would appreciate that, but because her tap root is still attached, she'd certainly leaf out in the Spring! How do you say good bye to such a dear friend? I don't know. We're struggling with that one.

It's been wonderful talking to you and please stop by any time. I visited your blog and love how you write. I'll read all of it as soon as I can find a bit more time.

With love,
Suzanne

Unknown said...

Suzanne!
I posted on your newest post...but now it is gone! Did you do that or am I totally losing it...:) Anywoo! I will post here then sweety...hope things are brighter in your neck of the woods! Email me when you get a chance! hugs doll!

Kookaburra said...

G'day suzanne,
I thought you might like this:

COOTAMUNDRA WATTLE
Words and Music by John Williamson
© 1986 EMUSIC PTY LTD
The Cootamundra Wattle is a particular species of yellow flowering native bush.
Don't go lookin' through that old camphor box woman,
You know those old things only make you cry.
When you dream upon that little bunny rug
It makes you think that life has passed you by
There are days when you wish the world would stop woman,
But then you know some wounds would never heal
But when I browse the early pages of the children
It's then I know exactly how you feel.
Hey it's July and the winter sun is shining
And the Cootamundra wattle is my friend
For all at once my childhood never left me
'Cause wattle blossoms bring it back again

It's Sunday and you should stop the worry woman,
Come out here and sit down in the sun
Can't you hear the magpies in the distance?
Don't you feel the new day has begun?
Can't you hear the bees making honey woman,
In the spotted gums where the bellbirds ring?
You might grow old and bitter cause you missed it,
You know some people never hear such things

Hey it's July and the winter sun is shining
And the Cootamundra wattle is my friend
For all at once my childhood never left me
'Cause wattle blossoms bring it back again

Don't buy the daily papers any more woman,
Read all about what's going on in hell.
They don't care to tell the world of kindness,
Good news never made a paper sell.
There's all the colours of the rainbow in the garden woman,
And symphonies of music in the sky.
Heaven's all around us if you're looking,
But how can you see it if you cry.

Hey it's July and the winter sun is shining
And the Cootamundra wattle is my friend
For all at once my childhood never left me
'Cause wattle blossoms bring it back again.

Cal said...

Sad to hear about your tree :(

Suzanne said...

Hi Mark,

Thank you. I like it very, very much.

I hope you're having a good day. I had planned to start pruning roses today, but unfortunately it's raining again. We had sunshine yesterday, but Mother Nature is moody today I guess.

Talk to you soon and thanks again.
XO Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Robyn,

Post? What post? Apparently you are losing it. You should see a doctor about that sort of thing. It sounds severe.

I could leave you with that and you might start questioning your sanity. I can't be responsible for your breakdown. Of course I deleted it! Are you nutty woman?! I hated to say goodbye to such nice comments (thanks by the way), but another friend convinced me to reconsider. It took a second to reconsider and a minute to find the delete button and poof, gone. I like that delete button an awful lot! It's become my new favorite editing tool. You'll probably have moments like you did often because I intend to keep using it. To avoid missing something you'll have to stay on my blog 24 hours a day! Good luck.

You're a gem! Thanks for stopping by.

XO Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Hey Cal,

Every time I write your name I want to say GO BEARS!!! Sorry about that. Forgive me. Hopefully you recall our initial conversation about UC Berkeley a.k.a. CAL and appreciate the humor.

Yes, our tree. Sad is an understatement. It's still on our lawn, so a constant reminder that life has changed. Rob said to me the other day "It seems surreal, doesn't it?" Yup. We actually laughed and considered leaving it there, but agreed the lawn would revolt and mowing would be difficult! I wish we lived out in the country, had a huge piece of property and could leave it to decay at it's leisure rather than endure being chopped up and hauled away. It's become a terrific hangout for tons of birds and our kitty Hopper. Who frankly can't quite believe his luck. He used to run as fast as he could to get up the trunk then sit on a limb. Now he barely has to make and effort. He's going to miss that sweetie. As are we all. :(

Nice to hear from you and thanks for your kind comment. Talk to you soon.

XO Suzanne

Unknown said...

Hey there Suzanne!
Just wanted to peek in and see if you were ok. Lovely to see you post to me on your blog...lol! Thanks I thought I was losing. I too, adore the 'delete' button! Also wanted to say found a new blog that my husband has been talking about all day. CSI! He loves it and can't wait to see what is posted today! I didn't think my husband would ever inbrace the whole blogging thing. Since he is a Correctional Officer he is always so distrusting of people he can't see face to face.

Hmmm...well that is a chuckle you and I will have to muffle. So I saved CSI in my favorites so my hubby can now jump and take a peek! I too, love the humor on it! Great chuckle!
Well sweety, try to stay warm and we are off to see a flick! Something about treasure and nic cage in it! Who knows...it will be nice to hang out with hubby! I only get to see him 2 days out of the week. He works at a prison up in Monterey county. And come summer and tons of overtime, it will be like 4-6 weeks before I see him! *sigh*

Talk to you later! Hugs!

Suzanne said...

Robyn,

Hi sweetie! Brian over at CSI is a hoot. He should write full time and make life for us an absolute joy! That man can make me laugh SO HARD at the drop of a hat. I'm trying to type this with Rusty wrapped around me, and trust me...it's very difficult. I think I've typed these last two sentences 3 times. I said "Honey, can you give Mommy a break?" He got up and rubbed his entire body across my face. Apparently not. Now I'm just trying to remove all the hair and type with him on my arm. Okay. Life isn't perfect. Why should it be. Actually that just read, qui aould ut ve, It isn't as easy as it seems some times. He just got up. He's leaving my office. No really! He's gone! Bye Bye honey. See ya later pumpkin!!! Mommy loves ya!!!

CSI. I love that your hubby has embraced him. He makes mine laugh too. The man is a comedian!!! As you probably know my hubby is in criminal appellate law and they all seem to have similar personalities...they're extremely smart and extremely funny! I told Rob tonight that they should start there own firm. He said "What kind?" I said "I don't know?!" But, boy what a lot of fun. I'd even work there! Just for the laughs. They'd have to pay me of course.

Hope you're having a fun night out with honey. The movie sounds like it might be good. Keep warm...hummmmmm. Are you still without power? Ours kicked in after only 12 hours, but my friend in Davis went without it for almost 3 days! Yikes. I was freezing and not in a very good mood, so 12 hours seemed long enough. It sounds as if SMUD may not have been as kind to you and yours. I hope that is not the case, but if it is, I recommend going to lots and lots of movies to stay warm. It's less than a SMUD bill.

Love talking to you as always. Please stay in touch.

XO Suzanne :)

krystyna said...

Hi Suze!
I came here for a moment but I stay more than hour.
I really don't know what to say. I'm sorry to hear about your tree and all troubles. I love Nature too, specialy I love old trees.
I'm with you, Suze.

Maybe this story will be helpful:

Two women who had been friends for years but had lost touch ran into each other while out shopping one day. In an effort to catch the other up on her life, one of the women said, "We were blessed with the fire in the attic last year. The fire didn't destroy that much, but the water and smoke damage was extensive."

"Why that's terrible!" the other woman replied.

"Oh, no! It was a real blessing," the first woman countered. "You see, the house had been in my husband's family for years and was badly in need of renovation. The fire forced us into doing what we'd been putting off, and once all the repair work was done and we were able to move back in, it was just like moving into a brand new home."

"Oh, I see. I guess that was a blessing after all," the other woman agreed.

"A big one. Then another blessing came when my husband, Jack, tripped over some wire left by one of the contractors and broke his leg in three places."

"Oh, come on now. How could that be a blessing?" the astonished friend asked.

"Because while we were at the hospital getting his leg set, a tornado came and blew the house away."

"Oh, no!" the friend declared, and then a moment later added, "Okay, I understand you were spared, but losing your home like that, why that's nothing short of tragic! I frankly don't see where you find the blessing."

"But that was the biggest blessing of all, you see, because after we cleared away the debris left by the storm, we found a small underground cellar where my husband's grandfather had secretly kept an antique coin collection worth a sizeable fortune. We always knew there was a collection and that it was valuable, but until that tornado revealed it to us, no one ever knew where it was. Now we're rich!"


May you be blessed!

Suzanne said...

Hi Krystyna,

That's a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing it with me. I'm feeling rather blue and it made me laugh out loud! I'll look for my pot of gold, okay!?

Thanks for stopping by and staying awhile. That is such a compliment.

XO Suzanne