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Good to see you too sweet sistah. The graphic (plus song) triggered such sweet thoughts of Codee, Giz and Rusty! (and all their fun times on the Finest). It’s still just Susie but she’s great as is Mr. D. Will try to stop by more often!!!

I’m hardly ever on FR anymore but must have clicked on here for a reason. Wonderful graphic and one of my favorite songs. (((hugs)))) all around!!!!

Greetings to my finest friends from Key West. Am reflecting back on many years ago when I would sneak out to an internet cafe to "freep". Now everything is wireless. AMAZING! Have already done my b-day parasail, added snorkling this year and bi-plane ride. (things added to my "bucket list") Anyway, kind of bittersweet memories as mom and dad joined us here atleast 3 times plus many early Thanksgiving/birthday memories.

ANYWAY, hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving!!!

Hi billie, Amy, lori, Meg, Geebee Russ, Aquamarine et al

Am responding to your last post billie. Gosh...forgot how to navagate the homepage. Was excited that I was posting close to you being here...but of course...it's now an hour later as I'm writing a novel!.

Anyway, thinking of you and Dancing with the Star fans as we have our first elimination round. Our little town of 15,000 is GOING NUTS over Louie Vito as he was raised here, his parents are local business people and are very involved in the community.

Louie is a definate gen x'er snowboarder, definately "out there" but with a HUGE heart. When approached he was skeptical as this is out of his comfort zone and something he never had any interest in but now that he is there it is his ultimate challenge. PLUS, we're just loving all the "behind the scene" stories from mom and dad.

Anyway, all the store fronts have Louie displays in their windows, most everyone wearing Louie pins or T-shirts (proceeds to support a local theater project) The theater is actually having a 3 day event with restaurants and clubs donating food and drinks...admission $5.00 for 3 days to watch on a large screen. Around 250 showed up the first night. This is truly small town america and has been so much FUN!

On day one, I thought Louie actually did better than expected...as bruno put he was like a little grinning hobbit LOL! I don't think anyone expects a win...from the beginning we just kept hoping he would make the first cut. Now...we kind of think he might survive tonight and are hoping for another week or two. Chelsea did incredible things with Ty (the rodeo guy last year), Louie says she is a taskmaster AND awesome, so...we'll see!!!

ANYWAY, it's energized a community that has FINALLY been hit with all the economic hardships many other places have been facing for awhile.

Miss you all...keep hoping to post more often but a busy busy time. Susie (pound puppy #4 whose been with us since last fall) has taken over where Giz left off and has become "#1 dog in the household. She doesn't seem to mind being an only child so we'll probably keep it that way for awhile.

We took her up for her maiden flight to Michigan a few weeks ago and she did great! When I would look back at her I occasionally got those big brown eyes "what the heck are you doing to me mom" look...but she stayed put until we landed and then she couldn't wait to get out of the plane. Tomorrow we go for 5 days. The colors are just starting to change in Michigan so not only should the flight be lovely but also hanging out up there. I can't believe it's the 1st day of fall. Where does the time go????

Also, want to thank all the FR friends who attending the 9/12 rally. We hoped to attend but it didn't work out. Watched with pride all day though...and thought back the whole time of participating in the March for Justice. WOW...how things have changed. But I think this site was just the beginning of the grass roots "SWELL" that is beginning to look, listen and take back our country. Many of the "uninformed" thought we were alarmest nuts...now they are jumping on board!!!! I finally can say I am optimistic for our future as long as we keep the momentum going. I even think my democrat folks, where they still here, would be standing by us.

Again, hugs all around. I'm going on and on...but have a few months to make up for :o) (((hugs))) dutchess

Mr. D. and I watched it on TV with pride yesterday. Awesome pictures and kudos for all the true patriots who showed up! Bookmarking to show the skeptics that "CHANGE is in the air!"

Hope we can get together again sometime Ohio! And sorry about Ohio State last night :o(

LOL...just saw your Dancing post. Just posted about our local celeb. Louie Vito. We ARE SO EXCITED!!!!

Greetings Finest Friends. Life is going on post Giz. Having lots of fond memories of the little guy. Susie is doing great...seems to relish the role of "the only child". I think she sensed how sick Giz was.

ANYWAY, for all of you Dancing with the Stars fans...one of our own locals is a contestant. Louie Vito, 21 year old snowboarder. Was in the Olympics, now is professional. He was up for the last round also. Can't dance but is very agile and self disciplined, plus a really really sweet kid. Snowboarders have a HUGE groupie following and think by including him they are trying to appeal to the gen x'ers.

I know his parents well and our little community is SO FIRED UP! Will post whatever inside scoop I learn that is allowed to be disclosed. An interesting group of celebs. this year. Can't wait to see Delay LOL

((((hugs)))) all around.

Conor. Thank you for posting the beautiful tribute to David Spicer. He is from our community, although I did not know him personally. I showed a friend of his this tribute and am wondering if I could have a link just to this post that I could email to him to share with the family. What little ability I have with html etc. has vanished.

Billie and Amy. Sending this to you too in case you can help. Thanks in advance. ((((hugs))))

Hi Dolly. Thanks so much. Gizmo really enjoyed meeting his "Aunt Dolly". Really sad here today, but have to believe that Giz is romping and frolicking at Rainbow Bridge.

Meg posted the thread to the Here's Rusty thread yesterday. Couldn't open the pictures yesterday but opened it today. WOW. The boat picture with mom and Giz was about 3 weeks before mom died, have since lost Fred,Rusty, Dad... Am so glad I have this. It's sad but somehow comforting. (((hugs)))

Thanks for your thoughts. We’re totally reliving lots of memories tonight.

Oh Meg..thanks so much for the link. I'm kind of glad at the moment that the server is down. Not sure I could handle the pictures...especially since we just lost Rusty a year ago. He and Giz were such pals. But, I had so much fun doing the thread, and what a treat these two guys were. Okay, now I want to see the pictures :o) !!!!

FR has always been a great source of comfort when we lose someone, either a parent, pet, friend. Am really glad I checked in today. ((((hugs))))

Thanks both of you. Giz (plus Rusty, FredtheCat AND Codee) had so much fun doing the Finest pet threads and getting to know some of our Finest pets (as well as share our grief when we lost one.) Mr. D. is really struggling with this one...I guess I’m kind of numb.

Thanks jaycee. Our pets are pretty special aren’t they? Appreciate the lovely “card”.

Just a short sad note to tell you that our little Gizmo passed away in his sleep this afternoon. He actually was doing well, was pretty spunky last night, ate well, his walking had improved. He crawled out of our bed in the middle of the night (not like him) and I found him sleeping in our dining room (with floor to ceiling windows overlooking his yard). He seemed peaceful and not in distress but had no desire to eat or go outside. I tried to coax him to eat around noon and he wanted no part of it and 1/2 hour later he was gone. We’re obviously very sad, but also grateful for the wonderful 14 years of love and joy he gave us. He’s now at Rainbow Bridge with a lot of loved freeperpets. ((((sad hugs))))

We adopted a 7 year old Ridgeback through a FreeRepublic appeal several years ago. He was in California and we were in Ohio. The Calif. freeper made the flight arrangements (we paid) All I remember it was a cargo plane with a layover in Wisconsin or someplace. We were told ahead of time, if there was a delay there might be an extra charge to put him up in a "Doggie Hotel" so he had air conditioning and wasn't stuck in some holding cell or warehouse. I don't think it cost more than $400 AND what was really cool...all of the employees at the Dayton Airport applauded when our beloved 60 lb. "drugged" Rusty came lumbering out of his cage to meet us. Sadly he died a year ago of lymphoma BUT we had 5 wonderful years with him.

Anyway, I think there is good safe stuff out there. Just need to do the homework. Goodluck!!!

Will you be able to make the Tea Party and the Freeper Banquet in DC? It would be great to see you again.

I would absolutely LOVE to but that's the beginning of my big campaign season so not sure I will be able to fit it in. BUT, the way things are going under Bambi....I may just have too!!!!

Thanks for keeping this great site going and (((hugs))) to you and Miss Prissy!!!

Just read and freepmailed back! Now I know why I’ve been staying away...this place it downright addictive! Need to get back to work! (((HUGS)))

Hi Billie. Glad I caught you here. Giz is amazing...and I was wrong, he's only 14, not 17 so who knows.... He DEFINATELY does rule the house though. He's like a stubborn little old man :o) Haven't posted a picture in forever. Maybe I'll get updated ones to post this weekend.

Hope all is well with you. ((((hugs)))))

Happy July everyone. Where does the time go????

All's well here. Giz has shown remarkable improvement. Still walks with a "gimp" but the back legs have improved to the point that he follows us everywhere. Can no longer "sit up" to beg for treats so instead he "howls" and stares at us until we give in.

SusieQ is well...Susie. 2 speeds, hyper or crashed.

We've been busy with jobs and yard work (and trying to ignore the political climate...very scarry)

((((hugs)))) all around

We counted 39 “uhs” during the Specter question. Thank God we’re not doing the “uh” drinking game tonight!

Could you update me when and where? We’re about 45 minutes and would love to attend.

Hey Lori, sisahs and all my finest friends. Sorry I missed you. Giz is 17 and old but “slinking around”. Jerry and I first treated him “handicapped”.... then watched a bunch of the Whisperer. Once we said.... “Okay kid...you’re on your own... he just excelled.”

I have moments that I want to “take care of him”....BUT he’s better off without me. (((hugs))) Ilene

((((aqua)))) Good to see you Sistah! Susie is an absoluate love but BUT a challange from GOD. I think that has happened with all our dogs.

So good to see you. Freep mail me an update and I'll do the same. I think of you and your family alot. ((((aqua))))

Thank you all for keeping me pinged. Happy Spring to all of you. Just wanted to give an upadate. The Giz is still alive and well. He's gained some function in his back legs...still is deaf but loves to eat and is our baby.

I don't know if you remember when we adopted Susie, our latest mix, that we nicknamed her "mini-me" because she is a 25 lb. clone of the 60 lb Rusty who we lost last spring

What was funny is for awhile last month some talk show pundits referred to Obama and his pundits as mini and maxi me. BUT by the time I tried to tell Mr. D. I had a hit in the name it was all dropped all over the MSM. So...she's just Susie.

Am frustrated by the times and politics but am hanging in there. Love and hugs to you all!!!!! dutchess

Hi Meg. Good to see you too. With a foot of snow yesterday, “Beach Dreaming” sounds awefully good. Another lovely picture and presentation. (((meg)))

Oh! I just love Caesear, the Dog Whisperer. Isn’t he wonderful??

We are totally hooked. We discovered him about when this happened with Giz...it was like a blessing from God because we just felt sorry for...and coddled the Giz.... Then saw an episode about how that is so self-destructive for a dog. Once we let Giz go on his own...he's done really really well. We still think he's struggling when he limps and our first instict is to "take care of him". BUT he does so much better when we leave him alone.

That's not to say we don't hang on him and love him...but everyday living...we are trying to keep it as normal as possible. And he's really doing well. Good luck!

Hi Geebee. Good to see you too. Ended up with a foot of snow today. Fun to have a guilt free day off! Hope all is well with you and yours. What do you think of your new senator appointee?

Anytime, we get in the car, she starts singing. She tells me that she is going to be a rock star. :)

Oops, I forgot to ping Lori earlier. (Hey Lori) Anyway, it seems like only yesterday we were coming back from the Columbus Zoo with Missy seranading us. She definately has talent.

I would encourage you to take her to musicals and have her get involved in those as school (I'm somewhat bias having majored in theater in college). Anyway we have been season subscribers to the Broadway Series in Columbus for over 15 years. When there is an age appropriate musical we've LOVED to take our friends daughters or my young niece who is now a junior in HS and HOOKED on musicals.

Have to run, hubby just finished "showblowing" a foot of snow!

Oh my, she is growing up! And she is absolutely beautiful! Yup, I would definately watch her around the boys! :o) Does she still sing?

Hey Amy. See the above post about Giz that I wrote to Yorkie and billie. He looks more and more like a little old man and has developed a little ornary man “tude”. It’s really quite funny and we’re just appreciating every minute we have with him. It’s really good to see you to! How’s PrissyMissy doing?

Yorkie. Saw billie's ping about your precious Lindy. As billie said our shitzu, Gizmo, lost the use of his back legs about 3 months ago, out of the blue (he's around 15) Like Lindy there is no pain. The vet thought it might be something neurological. At his age we didn't want to put him through extensive tests or surgery. We did get a cart for him (caution, VERY EXPENSIVE) and he did okay with it BUT you can't leave them in it for long periods of time or unattended. We also found out that it really set him back as he has learned to walk a little dragging his back legs without the cart, and after being in the cart it would mess up his balance. He seems very comfortable and has a great appetite so we feel blessed about that. I would just try to let Lindy be as independent as possible and don't make him (her?) feel "handicapped" (Got that from an episode of the Dog Whisperer LOL)

Good luck!

Hi sistahs. Am snowed in and “playing” at home today. We got about 10 inches. Shoveled a little path for Giz. The snow in many places comes up to Susie’s neck and she absolutely loves playing in it. She definately is a mini Rusty. Anyway saw your pings and wanted to pop in and say ‘Hi”.

Hi Sistahs and Finest Friends. Our family is doing well but I have been deliberately staying away trying to get my life and house in order. But couldn’t help but stop in to FR on the evening of our dear president and first lady graciously leaving. God bless them...and I am so happy for the peaceful life they can expect.

I pray that our new president stays strong and does well...not with his agenda (which I hope he is a hopeless failure) but that he protects our country.

This has been an 8 year roller coaster ride for many of the early “Finest” members and I have spend much of the evening reflecting. Just wanted to send my love. God bless all of you.

Dutchess

P.S. Giz is still an ornary paralized little 16 year old pup, a spoiled rotton little guy who lives to eat and get attention ... Susie is the perfect “mini-me” of Rusty. Loves and doggie bones from them too! :0)

(((((hugs all around))))))

LOL...I forgot what a comfort your parodies are during this nailbiting time. BTW, still have the lyrics from your first “Masterbating Bill” :o) Thanks for the laugh and all you continue to do on FR!

She is absolutely beautiful!!!!! I'm happy for you.

Thanks Temple. Susie kind of reminds me of peewee... a new "lover" for the household. (((hugs))

Lonestar...just read about you losing all your pictures of weinie. I have lots stored here from when I did your thread plus I’m sure billie can send you the link to the weinie thread (AND I think she created some of weinie’s special graphics. I’ll try to email pics. tomorrow. (((hugs))))

Hey...thanks for the kudos. She is a spitfire....but a real sweetheart. The Giz is really going "downhill", can barely walk etc. but Susie is in her face and "fired her up". Giz kind of did that for our shelty, Codee, years ago. Guess it becomes full circle.

Meg...cool about your little kitties.

Hi everyone. Sorry I've been AWOL...lots of stuff going on here but wanted to introduce you to the latest addition to our household. Meet Susie...a 1 year old "pound puppy" we adopted from the shelter. I almost wanted to rename her "mini-me" as she looks just like a 20 lb. version of 60 lb. Rusty plus has almost the same disposition. Giz took to her right away. It's only been a week and a challange with a one year old...but...I honestly think Rusty sent her to us.



((((hugs all around)))

Hi Finest Friends So sorry I've been AWOL... busy summer readjusting to life without dad and Rusty the dog.

"Ike" hit Ohio this weekend.... 70 mile per hour winds...we were without power and no water for 2 days...many more people still are out until maybe Saturday. Loved and have new found appreciation for my shower this morning LOL! This makes me appreciate how much our friends in the south go through sometimes every year.

Lori and Nan...Loved your pictures and story of the summer visit....Nan...you and Mr. WVNan are so cute!!!!

((((hugs all around)))) Lori....loved the sweet pictures of your mom and your new adopted pup.

Amy, Lori AND BILLIE...thanks for keeping the FR friends together and adding new ones. I promise to come back more often SOON. Just a lot of stuff on "the plate". (((hugs))))

Greetings from Michigan. Flew up yesterday (yes...I FINALLY agreed to take the plane) 1 1/2 hours instead of 5 1/2 hour drive in nasty traffic. I played co-pilot following the maps and charts. Also, this was Gizzy's virgin flight and he was a trooper! I was really nervous how he would react but he curled up in the back seat was asleep by take off and didn't wake up until we landed. Now I need to get him a little goggle snoopy hat and scarf! :o)

Hope you all have a wonderful labor day weekend!

Fabulous news dolly. We’re thrilled for you! You’ve been through so much this summer...give those pups tons of cyber treats from the giz!!!!

Hi Amy. Thanks for the sweet doggie pic. Really missed you not being here with Lori. Had fun talking about our Columbus visit.

I LOVE that MissyPrissy is taking golf lessons. I see her as very self motivated and also competitive. A good combination. (although...I could also see her singing on american idol :o) )))

Thanks for reviving Amy's Place. It's a great oasis!!!

Awe..so sorry about the car problems. Sometimes when I think of you and cars I think of the Ziggy character!! LOL!

Just glad your home and pups are okay. Giz is totally exhausted (as am I :o) )) Please post links to the pics!!! and glad you liked our county. It is special. Jerry sends his love. ((((hugs))))))

Hey sistah. Just checked back in and saw you “saw me”. Your ears must have been ringing yesterday...we spent lots of time talking about the Finest...how you “trained” those of us who remain graphically/html challenged etc. Lots of fond memories. The only thing that would have made it a perfect evening is if you were there. ((((hugs))))

Pictures - you know we want pictures! But absent those, your ‘reports’ will tide us over. :)

Well...no pictures allowed until Lori gives her stamp of approval LOL!!!!

Anyway....I don't know about everyone else, BUT I HAD A FABULOUS TIME! As did Mr. D. Lively conversation, great food, Mr. D. and Mr. MB definately hit it off...Dolly was dolly...looked fabulous and the same energy level we've come to expect. We convinced her to spend the night with the dogs...Giz loved it. Only problem was staying up too late and having to get up too early. YAWN!!!!

As I was getting ready for work Dolly was out in our yard snapping photos (of my badly needed weeded flower beds), visited a little township cemetery down the street from us, watered my badly needed watering flower pots (thanks Dolly....but you forgot the ones in front LOL)Anyway, it was great fun.

And dolly, please post that you made it home okay!

Looking forward to our next get together as well as pictures!

Hi Amy and Nan. I’m here with Dolly... Lori and Jeff should be there in another hour. We had a great time with them. Always too short. It was great! Have a great time with our lori!

-What a lovely dog. Pure breed boxer???? Very sweet!

Lonestar. It makes me feel so good to know you are taking care of Codee and Rusty. But...the squirrels have taken over the bird feeders. Rusty always took care of that!!! Time for a new big earth brother? Love - Giz

Oh..don't apologize and you don't need to "match" the donation. I just wanted pictures.

Rusty didn't display signs until a few days before he was diagnosed. Prior to then he was spunky, great appetite...et al. That's what made it so hard. BUT...we were told he was about 5 when we rescued him. (4 years ago) The folks at OSU said he was probably 14 now which means he was 9 when we got him. Makes more sense. Enjoy your other babies. They are all gifts!

What a cute dog!

Gizmo has been (well all our pups have been) our "gifts from god". He literally showed up at our back door patio. Woke me up one morning throwing his little filthy body at our screened patio door. I opened it and he started running around the house in circles. We put ads in the newspaper, contacted the Humane Society and after a few weeks were thrilled when nobody claimed him. Hate that he's now 14 but that's 14 wonderful years we've had with him.