Friday, March 14, 2008

Forsythia...

The forsythia from the kitchen window last year. Rob looked out this morning and said "Honey, that thing looks pretty good. I replied "Are you nutty?" It looks like crap and it's coming out. I try not to look because it's simply too painful. Even last year wasn't that great, but the year before, brilliant. I learned a valuable lesson. When something's okay, leave it alone. Which brings me to my hair. For a very short time I was self absorbed. Sorry about that, but your comments mattered and I thank each an every one of you. Just like the forsythia, I'm going to leave well enough alone and move to the next phase of my life. Okay, what do you think about a 50 year old grey haired woman in a mini-skirt and flip flops!? Just kidding (well, not about the flip flops).

XO

P.S. Sorry Little Suzanne. Yes honey, this is what happens in Big Suzanne's real life! ;)

P.P.S. I have to get to the ferals, but was just on Bindi's blog and asked Rob "Honey, how do you spell rarity?" He replied "R-O-B-E-R-T." That is my life in a nutshell. Way, way too funny.

92 comments:

Leah said...

Hey Suzanne--

I'm sorry about your forsythia. They have a special place in my heart, because in our neck of the woods they're the true harbinger of spring. Walking my daughter to school yesterday, she noticed that the forsythia by the church had a faint cast of yellow...and we were both overjoyed!

But your gardens and flowers, I must say again, are so incredible. I'm a nature child at heart, but I'm in awe of your green talents. I've got none myself, just the ability to enjoy...

Leah

Unknown said...

From the concrete lover to my green thumb friend! I too, have to agree you have yourself a secret garden of sorts. And yes I agree with the rarity...R-O-B-E-R-T! Because like him you are a rarity for us! We love you! Talk to you soon. And hope your sweatpants are dry now..lol!
Hugs,
Robyn

Cece said...

Yeah, my garden is brown and dead. You see, I forget to water things. Rob is so funny. And I hope you were sucessful in bringing the ferrals home. Have a wonderful weekend, dear. And I'm sure you are hot enough to carry off a mini skirt. Just ask Rob, he'll tell ya.

Suzanne said...

Hey Leah,

When we bought this home the forsythia was stunning. Today it is not. I'm going to pretend I don't notice and then remove it. It was absolutely my fault. I'm so glad you and your daughter are about to enjoy the beauty of Spring. I wished it your way because you live near my family!

Honey, if I move home, you, wee one and hubby will always be welcome at the "Country Home!" Wow, almost sound like a magazine! Seriously. Just drive up the thruway and park. Simple as that. Next thing you know, you can face another week in the city!!! However, I'm a vegetarian. Will you survive?

Love you sweetie. I'm so grateful we met.

XO

Suzanne said...

Robyn...

The forces were not with me today. First the sweat pants, then Natomis and that stupid b****. Ugh. What to do. Inhale. Exhale. I'm okay, you're okay. Isn't that the title of a book or something? Some days just kick your ass. But that's a good thing. Lessons. I learned a few today and apparently needed to. I also learned a lot about myself. What I won't tolerate. I'm grateful to be here and I absolutely refuse to accept anyone who wants to take my life away. I refuse. I think life matters. Go to Brian's Cafe to understand fully.

I love you honey. You make every day matter.

XO

Leah said...

Suzanne, I was a strict vegetarian (not vegan, but as close as you can be without) for many years. Then it slipped, and slipped some more...oy. Anyway, my husband is of middle eastern descent, and they eat a ton of salads and legumes (like lentils) in place of meat. So I do a lot of vegetarian middle eastern cooking at home. Anyway, the short of it is, I'd definitely survive a vegetarian household! You may just inspire me to discipline myself toward vegetarianism again...Is Rob a vegetarian too? Just curious.

I read about your ordeal, and I am so so sorry. But I'm also incredibly psyched that you actually followed through and got the cops to come and deal! I mean, I think your action represents justice for all the many many times people pull dangerous lethal s**t like that with their cars, and there's nothing one can do about it! So, you are my hero today!!!

xo Leah

Cece said...

AWWW LEah, that was a very sweet comment. I am glad Suzanne did what she did too. She is such a wonderful lady. We are all lucky to have her beauty in our lives.

floots said...

hey - it's alive and looks good to me
(that's what i say to myself to) :)
it's drinking light and sharing colour - what more can we ask
roberty made me smile
mini skirts made me remember
i think i'll go and lie down
hell - that's no good
i got up because i couldn't sleep
but a walk round your garden has helped me relax
cheers

Skeeter said...

Hi Suzanne!

I agree with Rob on the forsythia. It does look like it's coming around, doesn't it? Not that I'm an expert, but I thought that they could handle agressive pruning if they had time and the right conditions to recover. As for the rest, bonus points are awarded to a woman who wears a miniskirt. Flip flops are especially popular in Oklahoma, so they'd have to be special to be different (like high heeled flip flops maybe). Best wishes with everything, especially your poor forsythia.

Deepak Gopi said...

Hi
Your blog and pics are excellent.

Unknown said...

WHEW! Suze...I am exhausted poor thing. And I am really surprised they (police) actually helped. Who would think that they would actually listen. Geesh! It has gotten better. GOOD for you! And with sticking with her. That happens to me alot around downtown and that area. No regard for themselves and most importantly ME!
I am sorry you were a wreck, but I think you handled it like a champ. And I hope to god she got hers when they came in and talked to her.

What the heck..was she late for her bloody hair apppointment. I would have been in a whole heap of trouble. I would have confronted her...yep! They always get so heated and start spiting words at me and someone (never fails) calls the police and they arrive within minutes. And when they do...I simply say..."sick to death of people trying to run me off the road" and then the other woman/man start ranting and spiting somemore. And by that time they see me back up (just a ploy) and calming tell them to do something here before someone gets hurt.

Never fails...the other party always in the back seat of the squad car...cussing and spiting like an alley cat. Where I get in trouble is from Jim. Because he says I just need to walk away or drive straight home instead of engage these type of people. I can tell you this, the 3 people who I have had some confertation with ALL have had outstanding warrents...GREAT *as Jim rolls his eyes...and sighs heavily*!

I truly feel your pain Suze...ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! If I was in the passenger seat I swear that woman would have had a size 9 1/2 right up her you know what!

I am so sorry you were so upset..PLEASE know that I/we are sending warm thoughts to you.

*sliding steamy hot latte up the counter towards Suze*

Love you and you too matter and thanks for sticking to your guns!
Lots of squeezes!
Robyn

Suzanne said...

Leah,

Hi honey. Thanks for your support and kindness. I love that I'm your "hero" today. You made me feel terrific when I was feeling very out-of-sorts. It's interesting how quickly life can change because of an idiot. I think that's what upset me so much. Just the complete lack of respect and regard for my life. Twice! I asked Kylie last week if I'm the only one who deals with wacky stuff, after walking into the tree? She was kind enough to say "NOPE!" That made me feel much better! I suspect you deal with it too! Honestly, there are days when I say "Why the hell am I here?" And then there are days like today when I say "Thank God I'm still here."

Being a vegetarian. For me it's really easy. I love veggies and always have. If I had to stop eating tomatoes, I think I'd die! Seriously. Meat has never really appealed to me. And I'm a "real" vegetarian, I don't eat fish or poultry either. I'd love to be a vegan, but I have this thing about cheese. I love NY cheddar, Vermont cheddar, Wisconsin cheddar (but it has to be white, not yellow!), herb goat cheese, Irish cheddar and feta (but only feta from sheep's milk). I know. wacky. I told Kylie I'd love to be a vegan, but own a wonderful farm where the animals are treated like gold, just so I could justify eating cheese and produce the highest quality. She told me to snap out of it and find a good organic farm where animals are treated well and they don't mind giving milk for cheese. I agree, but I'd still love a beautiful spread in Upstate NY or in Litchfield County, CT with lots of animals. A sanctuary. (You know...a beautiful place where idiots don't drive a Saturn and run people off the road with it!).

And no, Rob isn't technically a vegetarian, but he eats so healthy he might be considered one! We're always eaten really, really healthy and red meat has never been part of any meal, but he does like chicken, fish and turkey. I understand, but pretend I don't see! Because we're so close to Mexico, Central America, South America, etc., we have amazing Latin/Spanish food in CA. It's light and flavorful. It's not a huge heavy burrito with lots of rice, beans and meat, it's actually simple and beautiful, with amazing sauces. You can eat a soft taco with just beans, veggies and a stunning sauce and be happy for hours!!! You know what I mean?

I do love lentals, but don't really make Middle Eastern dishes. Frankly, because I don't know how. I make pea soup and a lental soup with the orange ones, but just because it's easy and yummy. I do want to try to find the recipe for a curry pea soup I had and was blown away. My friend Clark took me to his uncle's house in the hills of Berkeley one afternoon after we stumbled out of classes and I ate the most amazing curry pea soup on the planet. I still think it's the best soup I ever had. Perhaps Bindi knows the recipe. If you ever get stumped for a Middle Eastern meal, write to Bindi. She's a walking cook book!

Oh sweetie, I've gotta go. It's time to get up and feed everyone here. I woke up early because Sweet Pea hogged the bed and basically kicked me out. I couldn't get back to sleep. Yikes. I'm tired.

Hope you have a beautiful day. Thanks for writing. It mattered a great deal.

XO

Suzanne said...

Cecile,

Hi baby. Thanks for your kind words. You and Leah are terrific. However, when Rob learned what I did he wasn't impressed. He told me I have to learn to relax before I get killed by some idiot! I guess he has a point, but at the time, I was so angry I wasn't thinking clearly, and he wasn't in the car, so I went with my gut. The woman was older, perhaps in her 70's and I don't think she had a clue what she'd done. It was almost as if she was living in an alternate universe and had no idea other people were on the road. My main objective was simple, to protect other drivers and alert the police. It was such an odd day. I'm glad it's over.

I hope you have a wonderful day. How are your legs? I hope better.

Love you and thanks for everything. You make life so much more beautiful.

XO

Suzanne said...

Floots,

That's a photo from last year!!! This year is sort of pathetic. I'm not taking a photo.

I'm glad walking around my garden relaxed you. You are always welcome here. You can lay down on a lawn chair if you like and catch up on your sleep, or just knock and I'll let you in. Lots of cozy places to sleep here, just not the "kitty chair!" That thing's too wacky.

Love you.

Suzanne said...

Skeeter,

Well, well, well. Looks who's here. Like I just told Floots, the photo is from last year. It looks awful this year, so I'm pretending it's last year. Yes, I do try to live in a state of denial as often as possible. I do believe that's the 51st State.

Honey, high heeled flip flops would defeat the whole purpose of flip flops. Comfort. When are men going to grow up? Don't make me cover over there.

And no, I wouldn't be caught dead in a mini-skirt, but the thought was too much fun to pass up. Life goes on and memories remain.

Have a great day. We'll chat soon.

XO

Suzanne said...

Deepak,

I hope I'll calling you by the proper name. WELCOME!!! I visited your blog and love it. I have a headache this morning, so will visit when I'm feeling better and am able to read a lot more.

Thank you for your kind words and your visit. Have a beautiful day.

XO

Suzanne said...

Dearest Robyn,

Thank you for your support, always. Life is just too odd sometimes. I'm glad it's a new day, but I have such a headache. I think because yesterday was stressful.

I hope you had a wonderful evening crafting. You and Leah have inspired me to make a doll. I want to do something really fun because the past few weeks have been very painful and stressful and I need a vacation.

A new friend arrived, Deepak. When I went to his blog it was so perfect. He informed us to do things differently, to exercise the mind, take a different road. I'm going to take a different road to the park today and slow down. Being so upset yesterday wasn't good for my soul. I can feel myself aching today because I used up so much energy worrying about dying yesterday. I didn't. I'm alive and fine. Now I just have to get rid of this headache and approach life a bit differently. I intend to do just that.

I love you honey. Thanks for your constant support and love. You are such a dear, dear friend.

XO

Tena Russ said...

Hi Suzanne,

If you check the comments section on my blog, I think you'll find that you left a message intended for someone else.

Tena

bindhiya said...

Dear Suze,
Good Morning!
Past two days were just crazy with doctor appointment and looking for a new place.. seems like am away from my life!
I am sorry about your forsythia. I have a arabian jasmine and a basil here..i put them inside through te winter...but my Serene pick the leaves and pull them out of pot...so now it is dying...am so sad for them...those are only plants i have...three years they were with me through winter and summer..
From the comments of Robyn, i can see yesterday was a bad day for you..but I can see you did right. It will take so much confidence, strength and energy to do right things at right time.
Wish you a beautiful day!
I'll talk to you soon.
Love you sweetie!
as always you are in my heart!
♥ & ((hugs))
bindi

Jo said...

I'm rather fond of forsythia, because it means spring. The forsythia is beginning to bloom here.

I have to say, you have the most beautiful blog in the blogosphere. I feel as if I'm strolling through a rose garden when I visit here.

Cece said...

I met with Bindi today for just a bit and she is doing fine. She might be able to get back online tomorrow. We are going to try and get together again next weekend. Talk to you soon.

kylie said...

well suze,
i have no idea what forsythia is but i'm sorry yours is sick. it's always such a wrench to remove a plant, isn't it?
did you acquaint yourself with Jet at my place? he's adorable.
I read your story about the traffic incident and your mention of CHP reminded me of that 70s tv show "chips". i was just a little girl then but i thought the blonde guy was pretty cute, these days my taste probably runs more to the latino: Eric Estrada wasn't it?
what a blast from the past!!
luv
k

Tena Russ said...

Dear Suzanne,

I just read your comment on my blog. Thank you. It's really beautiful. I'm not an especially effusive person, but I love it and think you should post what you wrote almost verbatim on your blog. Growing into one's elder self has rewards that are so often underestimated and underappreciated.

Love,
Tena

Suzanne=p said...

how was your weekend? it was my great grandma's birthday this weekend. she is 92 years old and still doing quite wonderfully. talk to you soon.
bye,
suzanne:]

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
In my last comment I forgot to call you Auntie Suzanne! I thought I would leave another just so I could. Talk to you soon. Good night.
Bye,
Suzanne:]

Suzanne said...

Hi Baby!

Thank you. That is such an honor. I mean that with all my heart. I have 8 nieces and 8 nephews and when they pick up the phone, or write or email and call me Aunt Suzie, it kills me! I'm not kidding. It's such an honor to be an aunt. Helen calls me Auntie Suzanne, as do my nephews in L.A., but everyone else calls me Aunt Suzie. You can chose what ever you like. Either brings tears to my eyes. Thank you honey.

I can't believe you found me. As I told Bindi, I was so scared at first because we were all older and I wasn't sure if this was the place for you. But it is. We all adore you and you have a wonderful support system here. Where one of us might fail, the other will succeed, and so I'm confident we will guide you in the direction you need to go. Maithri said something so touching. He called you Dr. Suzanne, not Little Suzanne, etc. I love all the names we've given you. I think they're all so respectful and loving. But, he's right you know. You're so grown up and beautiful and should be treated with the utmost respect. I will call you Dr. Suzanne every other day! And "Wee One" one days I don't!!! I think that's only fair!

Honey, shouldn't you be in bed?! I think so, however, I'll say one more thing before I close. I'm so happy you've met so many of my dear friends. And I'm very happy you and Helen connected. Thank you too for writing to Tena. She's a wonderful writer, but she's taking a break from blogging right now to write her book. I know she'll respond to your comment though. She's a really wonderful woman. As you've seen. I have a few other writer friends you'd love to meet!

Sleep tight. Have a good week at school. We'll chat soon.

Love you dear.
Auntie Suzanne

bindhiya said...

Dear Suze,
Just stopping by to say "Have a Beautiful Day"!!!
Hope you doing fine..
♥ & ((hugs))
bindi

INNER VOICES said...

wots up suzze? hahaha, how was yer weekend. and i agree with everyone else here. your pics are always great! is this one recent?anyway, just came over snoop around and see what i can see... have a great week!

Suzanne=p said...

hi suzanne,
how was your day? i had school. pretty normal. and yes, last night i probably should have been in bed but i was on the computer doing homework so i was multitasking.
bye,
suzanne:]

Cece said...

My eyes are being held up with toothpicks in order to stay open. Why the hell am I on here? I seriously need help. Ah I hear pitter patter little feet and now a request for,"I want to watch T.V." I said , "NO, you are going to get dried off, get your teeth brushed and get ready for bed, it is bed time." Major fit throwing, feet stomping, tears rolling, whinnie voice says, "you say we read, take bath, then watch T.V." I never said such a thing, it is bed time. Oh my wonderful life. I wouldn't trade it for the world. Only four more days till VACATION!!!!!

Suzanne said...

Cecile,

Oh baby, I would call you in a second and almost did, but Rob said "Don't you dare." So I don't. (Well, I'm thinking about it.)

I wanted to comfort you, but he assured me my call would probably kill you. He's the practical one. I'm the emotional one. He's right. Okay, so I'm going to pull my car directly in front of your house and call 911 for help with the kids. What are there license plate numbers?

Alright, I'll be serious. Honey, are you okay? I know you aren't well and you're trying to work, take care of kids, the house, the dog, etc., but I you could use a bit of help. Is there anything any of us who love you can do? I worry you know. I'm not Jewish, but I'm a Jewish mother. I know, it's insane, but true. I think Leah is my sister, so technically, that makes Brian my brother. Good Lord! Just the thought makes me want to run like hell from Judaism. Oh, that's right. I wouldn't have to run too far. Why? Because I'M NOT JEWISH!!!

Honey, you hang in there okay. And the fact you would grace my blog at such a low point in your life, makes me realize I'm really, really important. Okay, I'll knock it off. But I know you love me and I love you.

Hugs and lots of good luck. Get well soon.

I LOVE YOU!!!
XO

Suzanne said...

P.S. Don't lie to kids. Kids remember everything. Trust me. If you said "you read, take baths, then watch t.v.," then that's what you said and that's the rule. You can't go back and fabricate the truth just for your convenience. Just so you know. They know you lied! And so do I. And frankly, so does the rest of blogger land! Does that help?

XO

Suzanne said...

Doc,

"On the computer doing homework..." doesn't mean your multitasking, it means your cheating!!! Homework first! That's the rule. Well...we all love that you cheat a little because we get to talk to you, but a bit less of that young lady and a lot more homework! You're going to become a doctor you know, so there's no fooling around. That almost makes me laugh because I bet "Mr. Big Doctor" is laughing. You know he has lots of intersts and I'm sure they all surfaced during his teen years. How he fit them all in, I have no idea.

Sweetie, I'm going to tuck something in right here because it's been on my mind and I want you to feel safe. If anything, AND I MEAN ANYTHING, happens that you don't feel comfortable with while blogging, I not only expect you, but demand, that you come to one of us you trust. Some times people aren't always what they seem and I've been so fortunate to surround myself with the very best people, but if at anytime you feel uncomfortable, you must speak up. Okay? Too often young women don't and that's not okay. You have a wonderful support system here and if one of us betrays you or if someone else does, you must always, always speak up. We will always help you.

Another thing. If you want any of us to meet your parents, I know we are all willing. Personally, I would rather your parents know you're on my blog. So just give me a sign and of course I'll speak with them via blog, email or phone. I'm very serious dear. Honestly, I don't think any child should just be left alone on the computer. There is so much "stupid stuff" on the computer and too many people willing to hurt young kids. Not to alarm you, but just to alert you. I want you to be careful. I will meet your parents in an instant. No, not in real life (too far to travel), but any other way you wish. I'm serious. And I know the other friends on my blog you talk to would say the same.

I love you sweetie. I know you've found a haven here and I like that very much. You belong here. I have no idea how you found me, I just know that having you here is an absolute gift. I'm confident you will know all of us until the day we die. That is a wonderful feeling.

I love you Doc,
Auntie Suzanne XO :)

bindhiya said...

Dear Suze,
are you still there? I am off to bed but thought about saying good night to you...
Today was my brother's birthday...i talk to everyone...a happy happy day :) I cannot sleep.. :)
Love you sweetie!
♥ & ((hugs))
bindi

Maithri said...

Theres so much love here...but you know that...;)

Love Roberts comments about rarity... lol

As for the forsythia... what a cool name...and it looks like its growing beautifully to me...

Its got that 'wild streak' about it... which i love in plants ;)

I've always loved flip flops, sandals... anything slip on... and comfortable...

Hope you have an awesome easter time sweet friend... I'm workin nights from thursday through sunday.... ;)

Big love to you and rob and the forsythia,

M

Leah said...

Hello from Houston! Thanks so much for your words. You really cheered me up, and you made me laugh. That's the best.

xo,

Leah

Suzanne=p said...

hi suzanne,
i will see if my parrents want to take you up on that offer. i hope you had a good day.
bye,
suzanne:]

Suzanne said...

Hi Little Suzanne,

If they want to take me up on the offer, I'm am so willing. Show them my blog and the links you access, and if that isn't enough, we'll exchange emails or phone numbers. It's that easy.

And thanks for asking, I had an okay day. A little rough around the edges, but beautiful Bindi wrote and so did our darling Maithra. How about you? I hope yours was wonderful. It was a beautiful day here. I hate to tell you that because you're probably still dealing with cold weather. It was in the 70's. Absolute perfection! Everything is blooming, green and lovely. You'd love it. I'll post some photos in the next day or so.

Love you dear and as I always say, I'm so glad you receive support from so many dear friends.

XO Auntie Suzanne ;)

Paris Rags Romance said...

Loverly! Hey what do I know about hair color, I'v changed mine three times since january lol No worries you seem to have alot of typing to do ! I'm not going anywhere:) Talk soon, though I do need you to send your address, I have a box for you since last year with your first name on it! I finally got it together and then I lost you! Oh my, I'll wipe the dust off the boxand pop it in the mail after I hear from ya, Hugs, Kim

Skeeter said...

Hi Suzanne,

Our one surviving pear tree bloomed this weekend, so when I came back from Pittsbug it was at its most beautiful when I saw it. The winter ice storm split the other two trees into pieces, and they were lost. This one had so many broken branches that I debated cutting down, but I'm glad I decided to leave it standing - as badly shaped as it is now. The squirrel from next door came over and climbed through its limbs. Maybe your forsythia can be beautiful again also.

Unknown said...

Suze!
Hello sweety! I have missed you something awful. Well, went to the Doctor's on monday and she took me off for another week. And has increased my lasix again. AAggghhhh! I just want this to be over. The swelling has gone down quite a bit but there is still some pitting when pressd down on the shin. Not good! So, back I will go Monday (after Easter) and then we shall see.
Mostly, at home with feet up and watching French films (indie)LOVE THEM! And working on some crafts (mostly cutting out things).
Found out some great news, Jim is coming home on Friday...LOVELY suprise since I thought I wouldn't see him until following thursday.
Watched my youngest nephew, sweetest wee one to watch. I helped my mom in the morning with him, and then set up the car seat in my car and off we set back to my sister's house. And what did he do...FELL ASLEEP. So, I dare not try lifting him out. I pulled my car into the garage, hit the the garage door down and turned off the car and opened all the windows and propped the garage door open. As I wanted to hear him and see him. I was a nervous wreck checking on him about every 20 minutes to make sure he was ok (breathing, and head was ok, not too bent to the side, etc). My sister does this all the time when all 3 of them fall asleep, she just pulls right in and shuts everything down and opens windows and props the door open.
Well he slept from 1130 till 215. He had a wonderful nap, woke up all bright eyed and bushy tailed and very happy! He was so sweet, hae has learned to wave. So, he woke up and started to coo and wave. TOO CUTE!
Then back home I went and propped feet up for 4-5 hours. Gee...nothing too interesting happening! Well, talk to you soon! I am off to Leah's to do some cheering up! Love ya dear one! Lots of hugs coming your way!
Hugs,
Robyn

Gig said...

Suze,
Just stopped by to say Hi, and I miss you. I know you are out in the garden working hard. I am looking forward to seeing more pics of your beautiful yard and flowers. Try and get a break in between all of your activities.

I had a 100 percent turnout for the Childrens Easter Party! Had an awesome Crew and Easter Bunny!

Gig

Cece said...

I survived the kids and the weather last night. Terrible flooding has plauged our state. We got like inches of rain yesterday and this morning. On top of already saturated grounds. I wish I could bottle it up and send it to Mark and Jo and help ease the drought in Austraila. The wind was terrible last evening when I drove home. But we made it, sunny skies are in the forcast for this evening and tomorrow. Hope you are having a great day.

The Old Painted Cottage said...

My Dear Suzanne, Just popping by to say hello and see how that bump on your head is? Hope you're feeling better.

By the way, I saw the photo of you, with the grey hair, and you are absolutely gorgeous! Don't color it, don't cut it, don't do anything but smile. You are beautiful.

oxox
Jennifer

krystyna said...

Hi Suzanne!
Your forsythia is beautiful. I like this deep yellow blooms in early Spring.
I'm sure that your next phase of life will be happy and wonderful.
Mini-skirt? - of course. Life begins from 70, we are still sexy teenagers.
Have a wonderful day!

Biiig hugs!

MARIA said...

Happy Easter to you and your family!

CIELO said...

Oh my gosh.... you funny you!... I vote for the mini...!! You look great... be you, be happy!

About the forsythia I have to say those are weir plants... mine looked terrible last year, and this year I haven't seen a single sign of live in it yet! We'll have to wait to see what it looks this year...

Well, better get going... you have a wonderful rest of the week

And a Happy Easter to you and yours

Cielo

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
My parrents are fine with your blog and have no problems, but it could still be fun to talk on the phone! If you want to give me your number, cool and I can call you because we have free long distance. If not that is cool ,too. Let me know and I will give you my e-mail.
Bye,
Suzanne:]

Shutterspy said...

Eh? I'm confused - Friday March 14th?

It's 20th March. What the heck's going on?

I am completely confused...

Do you backdate your posts and I just haven't noticed? :-S

Shutterspy said...

Has your blog been published on the Blogs of Note list?

Anyway, in case it hasn't, I've just submitted a recommendation.

I didn't realise you could do that before :)

Kookaburra said...

Hi Suzanne,

I know you're busy in the garden and feeding your kitties in the park and looking after Rob (not necessarily in that order lol). So I guess you don't have time to write another post - but picture this .. me standing with arms akimbo (i like that word) and tapping my foot waiting for another post from you :)
Take care and Happy Easter to you and Rob and the kitties.
Mark.

bindhiya said...

Sweetie,
Happy Easter to you and family!

♥ & ((hugs))
bindi

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
I hope you have a good Easter and a good weekend!
Bye,
Suzanne:]
P.S. Helen and I have been im-ing for a couple of days and has been really fun.:]

Cece said...

That was a good one from Mark. Hey did you get my email. This is the last you will here from me for awhile, I am going on a hiatus. It is called Vacation!!!!!

bindhiya said...

Dear Suze,

am here again to wish you Happy Easter!!!

Happy easter to you and family...
I have something for you at my place :)
♥ & ((hugs))
bindi

Gig said...

Am tapping my foot with Mark,:)

Hope you and Rob, plus all of your beautiful animals have a
Happy Easter!!

Take care of yourself

Love you,
Debbie

Maithri said...

Suze,

About to head off to work... nights.. 9.30pm to 8am shifts this week... but wanted to wish you and the fam a happy easter...

This cracked me up the other day...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RgL2MKfWTo

Lotsa love to you beautiful,

M

Suzanne said...

Tena,

You're right. I did, so deleted. I'll write again. Thanks for pointing that out.

XO

Suzanne said...

Bindi,

Thank you as always for your support and kindness. However, I'm sorry to hear about your plant. I know how much you loved it.

Good luck with finding a new home. I don't know all the details, but imagine it is a very stressful time for you.

Sending lots of love your way!
Suze XO

Suzanne said...

Josie,

Thank you. I'm so happy you enjoy visiting my garden. The first rose bloomed 2 days ago, but it's way up at the top of a climber and I'd have to use "the big ladder" to take a photo. I'm too lazy to carry it all the way to the back fence! I love Spring and hope you're having a wonderful one.

Thanks for always stopping by. I love your blog too.

XO Suze

Suzanne said...

Kylie,

Yup, CHP is CHIPS. I used to watch that old 70's show too and loved the blonde guy. Thought he'd visit my little New York town, notice me and we'd get married. I knew he lived in CA, but I had high hopes! My bags were packed and I was ready for adventure! Thank God that dream didn't become reality.

You might also like to know that when you're pulled over by a CHIPS officer, they look exactly as you remember.

I can't believe you don't know what forsythia is. You don't have it in Aussie Land? I didn't know that. And yes, I agree, it's hard to remove a plant. Trust me, that's no joke. I even buy plants I think look a little down on there luck just to give them a good home! I know, pathetic.

Love you dear. We'll chat soon.

XO Suze

Suzanne said...

Tena,

Thank you. I mean that with all my heart. I'm glad you pointed out the obvious and gave me an opportunity to reflect and rewrite. As I said, you're a generous and amazing editor. I will certainly think about posting my comment to you, along with one to another friend who suggested I do the same. What a wonderful idea.

It's always nice to have you here. We'll chat more when you've completed your book. I adore you and I'm so grateful you grace this blog.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Bindi,

Thanks sweetie!

XO

Suzanne said...

I.V.

You're a trouble maker. I know that! Thanks for the comment about my photos. You're very kind, and I appreciate your appreciation of fine talent!!!

Oh, I'm just giving you a hard time. And no sweetie, it isn't a recent photo. It's from last year. All of my wonderful readers who asked if it was recent didn't read my post! Right there at the top I state it's the forsythia last year! Come on, get with the program you guys!

Love you,
Suzze

P.S. I've always been called Sue, Aunt Suzie, Auntie Suzanne, Suzy, Suzie or Suzanne. Now I'm also called Suze on this blog and with your misspelling, "Suzze." When will this end???!!!

Suzanne said...

Maithri,

Hello my dear. I always exhale when I see your name. Isn't that interesting? It's the same when I see Bindi's name.

Rob is a funny, funny guy. He's read a lot of your posts and thinks you're pretty terrific. You guys would like one another. He almost became a doctor, but changed to law instead. A few years ago he gave a great deal of thought to going back to school to get a PhD in Psychology, because he wanted to practice. Sadly he realized he had too many responsibilities to go back to school.

Forsythia is a shrub and it is kinda "wild." It needs a lot of room to grow beautifully ~ probably 10'x10'. It's always such a wonderful reminder of Spring. The photo I posted is from last year, so much more attractive than this year!

Flip flops. Love um, but my Podiatrist does not. I remember walking into the office the first time and all heads turned as I entered. No to look at me, but to look at my flip flops! I learned not to wear flip flops to the Podiatrist's office.

I love when you visit. Hope work is going well. I'll see you soon.

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Leah,

Only the best for you! Good luck with Texas. If you get too scared you can run or drive to Cecile's. I'd probably drive. Fewer blisters.

Love you,
Suze

Suzanne said...

Kim,

I swear to GOD I'm going to email. You have no idea how I've been trying. I recently started a list in an attempt to get EVERYTHING done that needs to be done. That list is overwhelming and I'm only half way through writing it!!! It's Saturday, I promise to get my address to you in the next few days.

I still have your item as well. I'll blow the dust off that sucker and pop it in the mail soon. Cross your fingers. And honey, thanks for stopping by. I always love to hear from you.

And about hair color. You're too funny. All that dye seeps into your brain you know! No wonder you're so wacky.

Love you,
Suzanne XO

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
Hope you are having a great day and have fun plans with family for tomorrow. How are you cats? I was wondering, how many cats do you actually have?! I'll talk to you later!
Bye,
Suzanne:]

Suzanne said...

Suzanne,

Hi sweetie. You made me laugh with your question about the kitties. I don't know how many I have any more. I've lost count! Last I knew we had six, but I think that number's been blown clear out of the water!

I just returned from feeding the feral kitties at the park and I'm sitting at the computer in an effort to calm everyone down. Basically because I can't get anything done with everyone up. I was going to go outside and work in the garden, but can't do that either because when I arrived home our neighbor's puppy greeted me with such enthusiasm that I found myself rolling around on a wet lawn with him (everyone on our side of the street waters today). He licked the crap out of me and made me laugh way too hard. His name's Bobby, and he's the greatest dog. When we were through I was wet, dirty and a big old mess, but boy did we have fun. Our fences are all down because of the huge storm that took our tree a number of months ago. His fence is being replaced today, so he's out working with his Dad and the contractor having the time of his life visiting with all the neighbors. It's hilarious. I'll try to take a photo of him today to share with everyone. I took him home, but he walked back to my house for a treat. He likes kitty food. If I try to garden today I'll be loved to death by a 30 lb. puppy and get absolutely nothing done. So here I sit waiting for everyone to go back to sleep so I can work inside. Wish me luck with that one!

I hope you have a wonderful day and that you and your family have a beautiful Easter Sunday too. Thank you for wishing me the same.

XO Auntie Suzanne
P.S. Have you made it through the storm okay?

Suzanne said...

Skeeter,

Welcome home! When I first started reading your blog I read the "tree" post. I felt sad that you lost the trees, not knowing we were about to lose ours. It's amazing how much beauty they provide and how much life they support. I'm glad you love them as I do and feel the loss when they say goodbye. The support you offered when we lost ours was more than kind and I want to thank you again. I'm glad your remaining sweetie put on a wonderful performance for you. Pear trees are stunning. We have lots of them lining the streets, boulevards and avenues here in Sacramento (Sacramento is designated "Tree City), and they're just about past the bloom and beginning to leaf out. When a breeze comes by and the blooms fall apart, they flutter to the ground like snow. It's absolutely beautiful.

T-Bone doesn't like to be in the back yard alone, but he asked to go out and lay in the sun the other day. I watched as he jumped in the air to catch mock plum tree blooms when the breeze blew. It was wonderful to watch him enjoy the moment.

I hope you're fine and that the recent bad weather hasn't hurt you too much. We're supposed to reach 75 degrees today, so it should be a beauty.

Until next time, have a wonderful day and take good care of the lake, ducks and pear tree for me! You live in such a beautiful location. Oh, by the way, are you thinking about planting more trees to replace the ones you lost?

Much love,
Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Robyn,

Hello sweetie! Alway happy when you arrive.

I'm sorry to hear you're still having problems with your legs. I'm going to cross my fingers that you get good news Monday. Just out of curiosity, would icing them help? Doesn't that make a bit of sense? Let me know if you're doing that. You didn't mention pain. Are you still in any? Hope not.

The day with your nephew was so lovely. Thanks for sharing that with me. He's a cutie-pie and a long napper!

So have you made it through all the French films and moved to Italian films? What's your favorite foreign film?

Well darlin' I'm trying to respond to all the comments just like I used to, so I'm going to say toot-a-loo for now, but I'll stop by your blog later to see what you're up to.

My love to you and Jim (so glad he got to come home!),
Suze XO ;)

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
I can't imagine that many cats! About the storm, if you are talking about the one that just hit the midwest on Thursday and Friday, we were untouched. We were expected to get 4-8 inches and ended up with none! How lucky.
Bye,
Suzanne:]

Suzanne said...

Hi Sweetie,

Well you wouldn't have to imagine me with that many kitties if people were responsible pet owners and had their kitties and dogs spay or neutered, or if people actually stepped up to the plate and adopted abandoned and abused animals. Too few do and so the responsbility is placed on a few to make up for the many. Just like Maithri advocates for children, I advocate for animals. He and I agree that if EVERYONE took responsibility for 1 or 2 animals, or 1 or 2 children, the world would be a very, very different place. But that isn't the reality, so we plug along doing what we do and hoping for the best. It is often a very difficult and heartbreaking journey, as I'm sure you might imagine. I would never sway you from getting involved with human or animal rights. You seem to already be leap years ahead of your peers in that regard, so stick with it, learn more, educate others, make a difference. Every thing you do matters. Just as in physics: for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. That is an absolute truth. Any minor effort you make has an effect on someone or something. Trust me, it does and you do. I hope you keep making a difference.

I love you dear and thank you for writing. I'm glad you enjoy visiting us.

Much love,
Auntie Suzanne XO

Suzanne said...

Gig, Honey I enjoy all your successes, but when are you just going to admit you're my perfect partner. Not assistant, partner. Oh my God, we'd move mountains together! I'm so glad your charity event was a success. Of course it was! Okay, so when are you and hubby moving to CA? You'd even get time off for that NASCAR stuff, if you give me time off for other stuff! Deal? Deal. Oh, and Bindi is our CEO, so we have to give her time off to go to India. Deal? Deal. And she has to give us time off to do what makes us happy. Life is often so simple.

If only women ruled the world, life would be brilliant!!! *Honey, you need time off for a hair cut, okay, I need some time for a manicure, oh and the kids need a bit of guidance, anyone up to that? The garden, it needs planting, and the shrubs need pruning, whoops, the soccer game, almost missed that, but not quite because my friend's baseball mom reminded me to buy the pizza for the girls after practice...* Yup, something like that. We wouldn't miss a beat, would we? Nope.

Love you,
Suze XO ;)

Suzanne=p said...

Auntie Suzanne,
We just finished dying eggs! I am up so late. I just thought I would let you know that both of my dogs came from shelters or rescue programs. We love our dogs and to have a dog that was not wanted or was lost is very nice. They are always so loving. Good night!
Bye,
Suzanne:]

Deepak Gopi said...

hey Suzzane
happy easter 2 u and family.
thank u 4 visiting my blog.

Suzanne said...

Little Suzanne,

Now I'm up too. I just woke up and can tell I'm not going to be able to go back to sleep, so here I sit expanding my mind!

My kittie Ohno is with me, but he's being a rascal, so I have to keep getting up, pulling him out of the bookcases, taking away things he's stolen, etc. He's relentless.

I am so grateful you have two dogs and both are rescues. That is wonderful. Rescue animals are so appreciative. All of our animals are rescues too. It's wonderful to have them. Yes, a lot of work, but wonderful. Fortunately our dog, T-Bone loves kitties and they love him (except Newman!), so things work out quite well here.

I used to love dying eggs. I haven't done it in years, but you've inspired me to make a few, so I'm going to the market tomorrow morning for dye. I love all the variations of blue because I love Robin's eggs, so thank you. I'll take a photo and post it if I have the success I anticipate!

Sleep tight and we'll chat tomorrow. Happy Easter to you and your family (dogs included!).

Much love,
Auntie Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Dear Deepak,

You're very welcome. I enjoyed your blog so much and will visit often. I thought your list of things to do and not to do was very helpful, so I started a list! Well of course I'm laughing. I loved especially your suggestion not to use a list! However, I had to start one because I'm so far behind on "Things To Do" that I can't keep track of them!!!

I'm going to link to you if that's okay. Stop by often ~ it's nice to have you here.

Happy Easter to you and your family.

XO

Suzanne said...

Cecile,

Well, I know this response is very late. Why? Because I know you're still alive and that the flood waters didn't consume you. You're on vacation. That's a good thing.

What have I told you about driving home in stupid weather? That's right, "Don't drive home in stupid weather." You kill me with that sort of crap. I'm not going to worry about you any more. I've decided to turn the other cheek. Oh good lord, I'm now looking at I.V. I can't win.

I love you!
XO

Suzanne said...

Jennifer,

Hi baby. I'm smiling! Thanks for stopping by. I think of you so often and wish you just lived down the street. Oh well...not gonna happen. I bought the new issue of Romantic Country Homes today and love looking at our darling editor! She's such a little pixie! I laughed when I imagined your home set up exactly the way the stylist left it...down to kitty-poo on the sofa! Too precious.

Honey, thanks for the comment about my hair. I've decided to leave it and grow into old age gracefully (something unheard of in LA!!!). I'm going to have it styled however. I need to lighten the load and have it frame my face a bit better. I'm not going to go shorter, but want the new style to be so attractive people won't notice my wrinkles or my sagging boobs, or the fact I don't shave my legs all the time!

I love you sweetie. I'll visit soon. Until then, big hugs and kisses to all. Happy Easter!

XO Moi

Suzanne said...

Krystyna,

You made me laugh so hard! "Life begins at 70." I like that. If it's just beginning at almost 50, I can't even imagine 70! Good Lord! Can my heart take it? Honey, isn't it funny how you gain true confidence as you age and so many of the things you thought important begin to fall by the wayside? Life is so interesting in that respect. I never imagined this is where I'd be at this point in my life, but here I am. All my choices led me here. So apparently, 'here' is where I'm supposed to be...grey hair and all!

Happy Easter to you and your family.

Love you dear,
Suze XO ;)

Suzanne said...

Maria!

Hi honey!!! I always love to see your beautiful face grace my blog. Happy Easter to you and your family as well. I'll visit in the next day or two and leave a message you have difficulty understanding! Hopefully your daughter can understand my English and help translate. Until then, take good care of yourself and we'll chat soon.

Much love,
Suzanne XO

Suzanne said...

Cielo,

Honey, honey, honey. Yes, I'm still alive and kickin'. I'll be over soon. Please forgive me, but life has been so crazy here and we lost the internet for three days.

You're a wise woman, so I always wait for your voice on my blog. Okay, I'm going with the mini and I'm staying grey!!! Seriously, I'll stay grey, but I'm not going with the mini. I wouldn't want to scare the town folk.

I know when I come to your blog I'll have like a hundred posts to read. I'm laughing really hard. And I always ask myself: Do I have enough Kleenex? Is my tea hot? Am I ready to honker down? Have I brushed my teeth? Is my hair good enough? Are the kitties and dog fed? Has the gardening been done? You get the drill! I'll be there awhile!

I love you so much sweetie. Have a beautiful Easter.

XO
Moi

Suzanne said...

Sweet Suzanne,

Hi honey. I'm so glad your parents approve of my blog. I'll try to keep it clean! Rather than exchange phone numbers and emails, let's just chat right here. That way your parent can read everything we say to one another if they need to and if I were a parent, that is exactly what I would want. This is a safe haven and I like that. I'm sure you agree.

I love you sweetie. Thanks for gracing my blog. It's so nice to have you here.

With so much love,
Auntie Suzanne

Suzanne said...

Shutterspy,

NO, I don't backdate!!! You made me laugh so hard. You are too funny.

In addition, NO, I've never been a Blog of Note. Thank God! Now I'm really worried! What's funny is, I didn't start this blog until right around Christmas and it just took off like wildfire, and now I can barely keep up. If, because of you, I become a Blog of Note, I'm am going to hop a flight to England, find you and wring your pretty little neck!!! Oh, but give me the photographs first! Blogs of Note could be my swan song honey!

Love you so much and Happy Easter.

XO Moi

Suzanne said...

Mark,

I'll give you 'akimbo!' What's with that hat? Don't change the photo because every time I see it I start laughing. Just know I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing with you. There is a difference.

I'm going to post soon, but I'm trying to answer every comment as a challenge to myself! If anyone writes after I'm done, I'll kill um! I'm exhausted and I'm sure no one will read anything I've written, but for some reason, it matters.

Jo mentioned it's so hot there. Honey, hang on. Like Cecile told me, she wishes she could send you some of her flood water! Isn't life strange. Are the roses hanging on? I hope so.

Please give my love to Jo, Helen and the kitties.
Love you dear,
XO Suze

Suzanne said...

Debbie,

I'm tapping my foot too. Why? I don't know!

Happy Easter to all of you as well. Love you sweetie and hey, shouldn't you be working?

XO Me

Suzanne said...

Maithi,

Hi beautiful yourself! Honey, the link didn't work. I'll try again.

Well, I imagine you're pretty tired. If my calculation are correct you're sleeping and Easter is over. Right? Our Easter Sunday morning is just about to begin, but the kitties are still sleeping, so I'm sitting here typing. Baby Suzanne was coloring eggs last night with her parents and inspired me to do the same. So this morning I'm going to run to the market for some dye and eggs. I'm going to do all shades of blue, as in Robyn's eggs! I'll feel young again! Right? Technically that's a medical condition? If not, please rush over and save my life. No really. Please.

I love you so much my dear and hope you survived the long weekend nights with your sanity intact. Until next time, hugs and squeezes...

Moi XO ;)

Shutterspy said...

Our forsythia is in bloom too! :-D

Don't worry about your hair. I'm glad you've decided to keep it as it is and that you're happy with it! :-D

YAY!!! Someone with natural hair!

You know, I don't know if I said this before, but dying one's hair seems to have become the norm for women, even young women who have years to go before they get their first grey hair. I never understand why they feel the need to change it (and so often as well!).

Oh, and I think you'll like my latest post - and it's got LOADS of description this time! :-D

Shutterspy said...

Oh noooo!!!!

I'm sooooo sorry!!!!!

I had no idea you wouldn't want to be on the 'blogs of note' list :,-(

I should have asked you first. I feel bad now :(

I (stupidly) just assumed that everyone wanted to have their blog listed there :-S

I wish there was a feature to un-recommend a blog! :-S

Sorry... :(

Shutterspy said...

Sorry for yet another comment!

I think I know why you got so many people visiting in December - you posted a lot on 1pic's blog and his blog was featured on 14/12 (is that 12/14 in America?).

So...that might be why :)

Suzanne said...

Shutterspy,

Hi sweetie. Thanks for the encouragement about my hair and everything. I will keep it the same, but perhaps style it a bit differently just to lighten the load! It is amazing how young women think they have to do so much. I never did. I played a lot of tennis and the sun bleached my hair to perfection! But even if it hadn't, I can't imagine obsessing about my hair too much. My tan, well that mattered!!!

Don't worry about recommending me for 'Blog of Note.' I panicked. Really, I did. But that's okay. Once I calmed down I realized how wonderful it would be. Do you think I could handle it? I can barely handle what I have now, but the fact you would recommend me is such an honor and whether or not they select me, doesn't even matter. The fact you did, matters. Thank you sweetie. It's nice to know I have merit!!!

You know what sweetie, when 1Pic exited, he left an enormous void. Because he and I got along quite well, everyone came to me for comfort or came to me to vent. Trust me, there where a few who hated and blamed me for his exit. Life is life. Those of us who came together because of 1Pic absolutely adore one another. We are so grateful he left us with such a beautiful community. I was unable to access my Blogger account until mid December for various technical reasons, so just in time for 1Pic's exit, I found my voice and blogger finally found me! It was like a little miracle. I'm forever grateful. Honestly, I am. Almost everyone who came to my blog came to me because of 1Pic and it's never stopped. But like Bindi always reminds us, we would have found one another no matter what. She doesn't have a high degree of respect for 1Pic because of what he did, so I understand her comment.

I love you dear and thank you for thinking of me. If I'm not picked, that's okay. If I'm picked, I'll need an assistant!!! Are you game?

I'll stop by your blog soon. Until then, tons and tons of love,

Me!