The picture of today is of Irwin's favorite soft toy, a dog called Honkey.
Irwin got Honkey - the dog with the black nose in the center of the picture - in 1954. My SIL took Honkey as a memento back to Vermont and united Honkey with some of her childhood toys. They look happy to be retired together in a basket, don't you think?
My day today was very draining. It started out with phone calls to the phone company and such. After a few calls I gave up. How many times can you repeat that your husband died last week and they have to change whatever service he had with them to you? Really bleh...
Then I went to the office for a few hours and met with the attorney who will handle Irwin's estate for me. He said that everything looks pretty easy since Irwin had a will and I have full power-of-attorney. But I don't trust attorneys, remember - I work for one. ;-) Anyways, hopefully there will be no hick-ups along the way.
And then I went to dinner with Famous Steve. I wanted to swing by the restaurant where Brett works to say hello and show him the progress on his sweater and maybe have a chat and a drink. I called Steve on the spur of the moment and asked if he wanted to join me. He works around the corner of the restaurant. Steve was already on his way home but turned around to keep me company. Such a sweet guy!!! That was my highlight for today! And of course seeing Brett - not to forget! Who invited me and the pups to hang out by his pool. I don't think he knows in how much trouble he could get with the dogs at the pool. ;-)
I also picked up the announcement and thank-you cards. They turned out really beautiful. I'll post a scan some other time. I am too tired tonight.
This morning before I had to leave for work and to do the errands, I set up the new doggy day camp. I am baby gating the dogs in the kitchen which is pretty big and sunny and has windows for them to "watch TV". I think this set-up will work for the time being. They were very excited when I got home and I had two dancing dogs. ;-) After they had their dinner, we went for a walk. I so enjoy their company. And they enjoy that they can sleep with me on the bed in my crafts room. I can't sleep in the bedroom at the moment. I don't know if I ever will... But that is not for now to decide.
AND AGAIN - I so love all your comments on the blog. They really carry me through this rough time. Thanks for being here for me!
Comments (16)
Claudia - try not to make too many decisions too quickly. Do what feels right, stash things away for now & let them rest. Sounds like you and the pooches are hanging in there & thank goodness you have each other. No need to think about the bedroom now - it will be there and can be dealt with when the time is right for you. You'll know it when it comes.
Thinking about you and the babies -
Carrie in TN
Posted by Carrie L. | June 30, 2008 10:56 PM
Posted on June 30, 2008 22:56
Sleeping with 2 happy puppies ( I call ALL dogs puppies) would make anyone feel good, IMO. And I'm sure that H & N are being wonderful right now. I'm so glad you have such good furry buddies..
Posted by Phyllis Caccioppo | July 1, 2008 3:38 AM
Posted on July 1, 2008 03:38
We haven't had a dog in a couple of years, since Cody passed on. We have a couple of cats, and they can be sweet... when they want to! ... but there's nothing like a dog. They know just when to curl up with you and push up tight against you and just let you know that they love you no matter what. I'm so glad that you have them there right now.
Posted by Angie | July 1, 2008 6:03 AM
Posted on July 1, 2008 06:03
Each day that you post makes me feel like you are a more amazing woman than I can ever hope to be. I'm proud to know you.
And the pups, they're absolutely wonderful! I, too, am glad that you have them.
Posted by Katey | July 1, 2008 7:40 AM
Posted on July 1, 2008 07:40
I sleep with my doxie spooned up beside me, it is comforting. I am so glad that you have such a supportive group around you!
Posted by Brighton | July 1, 2008 7:49 AM
Posted on July 1, 2008 07:49
Claudia,
You truly are a "Brave Girl".
I just found your blog today after posting a question on your Ravelry site. I am so sorry to hear what you have been going through. I know life can throw some tough times your way, but keep knitting and spinning to help you through the troubling times.
A new friend in GA
Posted by Gina | July 1, 2008 11:34 AM
Posted on July 1, 2008 11:34
Claudia,
I've been reading your site for several months now and this past week... I haven't said anything earlier because I just didn't know what to say. And I guess I still don't, but if words can help...
So I will say that I'm so sorry for your loss. And so pleased that you have had the support of such good friends and your in-laws and the pupppies. And I wish you all the best of strength and support, comfort and commmunity, when ever you need it.
Posted by Kathleen C. | July 1, 2008 1:15 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 13:15
You are an inspiration. And I'm so glad you have the pups, they are such sweeties.
*Hugs*
Posted by Sandy | July 1, 2008 5:29 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 17:29
Claudia,
I'm so sorry about your husband. Your family, friends and pups must be such a comfort to you. Take care of yourself.
Posted by Heather | July 1, 2008 8:20 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 20:20
Claudia, my allerherzlichstes Beileid.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Susanne
Posted by Susanne | July 1, 2008 8:42 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 20:42
Claudia, remember to let your mind rest. Give yourself time before big decisions. Take care of yourself and take it slowly. We are all out here keeping you company in spirit. Kelly
Posted by KellyD | July 1, 2008 9:18 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 21:18
Those "change the service" phone calls are the worst! Take a few at a time, and hopefully it will all go smoothly for you. I'm glad you got to be with such guys who are always such fun. And remember, if you need anything, just call me. My packing, storing, and throwing away skills are finely honed!
Posted by Jane | July 1, 2008 11:22 PM
Posted on July 1, 2008 23:22
I'm so glad that you are posting and letting us know how you are doing. Just take one day at a time and don't rush. Your friends in this "neck of the woods" all send their love.
Posted by Shari | July 2, 2008 7:29 AM
Posted on July 2, 2008 07:29
My deepest condolences. Mein tiefstes Beileid. I met you at SAFF, in the blue barn, you were knitting of course. I was the one from Germany...
Posted by Patricia | July 2, 2008 7:35 AM
Posted on July 2, 2008 07:35
I've read your blog and admired your knitting for some time now. I was shocked with your news & had to say I am so sorry for your loss. Words probably don't help much at this point, but please feel our hugs supporting you. Keep the pups safe, enjoy them & support each other. Christy
Posted by Christy | July 2, 2008 8:36 AM
Posted on July 2, 2008 08:36
Thank you for sharing the details of what you've been going through. It's brave of you to share so openly and we who are reading your blog can't help but admire and love you more. It's a pleasure and honor to know you...wish I had known Irwin. I really appreciate what you write about him.
I imagine his good friends would love a favorite of his books as a reminder of their deep friendship...whenever you can get to that. Love you Claudia! Gail
Posted by Gail T. | July 2, 2008 10:04 AM
Posted on July 2, 2008 10:04