"I know you have had some difficulties this year, and maybe some self doubt, and all that comes with living. It's almost Thanksgiving, and it's the time of year I try really hard to tell people thanks for helping/loving/inspiring me, and I want you to know how much you mean to me through your blog. I love your photographs and gentle words, and well, just, thank you. I look at the faces of the people who are holding and wearing the products of their class with you. There is pride, happiness, shyness, glee in some instances. I think you must be pretty powerful to help people find those things in themselves. I admire that, and want to be able to bring that to others too. I agree with Janet Roell's post above, "Thanks for being so generous with what you know and who you are." It says it all."
"Stories are light. Light is precious in a world so dark...Tell a story... make some light." from the book, The Tale of Despereaux. We have had rain here in Wisconsin, more than we are used to. There is something magical about how after such gray, I love gray, when the light lays long on the table and shows us what was always there we smile so wide. I, being a light lover and seeker, stand for this post and bow my little head. Thanks dear one. Blessings.
"dearest nina-I was at squam both this year and last and although our paths never quite crossed, one of my favorite memories was from this past Sunday morning; breakfast was over, we were all saying our goodbyes and you were getting into a car, preparing to leave. Someone called out "Good-bye Nina!" and you popped back out of the car and blew kisses in our direction, calling back to us "I love you all!" My heart broke so deeply for you when I read of what was waiting for you when you returned home... I have read your blog for a long time, always encouraged by your abilities to "overcome". Many times I have remembered your words and actions and have said to myself "Nina can do it... so can I". And now, in this time of hurt, you have once again given of yourself. "Forget the shattered shards and forge ahead". Nina, you are a gift to us all. love and hugs, gretchen"
"Ever since I was a child I would feel something was wrong, but unable to verbalize it, it just gets quashed and forgotten. Reading your words is so exciting and illuminating for me. It is exhilarating to read a description of yours and think, "a-ha, that's just what I've been feeling!" Or possibly it's not what I was feeling, but your way of describing something is freeing to the soul. The proverbial light bulb goes off because of YOU.
Since I've gotten into my 40's I now realize I need to explore these feelings that filter up every now and then, and reading your blog does help bring some of these things into clearer view for me. Seeing how you bring into focus both joy and sadness, helps me learn to do the same thing with my feelings. It's a little less like grabbing at straw after reading your blog. Thank you, Nina. :) You are a great teacher of many things, and for me it's illuminating emotions, putting them into words so they can be looked at, and studied a bit, and understood a little more."
When in doubt, make a fool of yourself. There is a microscopically thin line between being brilliantly creative and acting like the most gigantic idiot on earth. So what the hell, leap. ~ Cynthia Heimel
All growth is a leap in the dark, a spontaneous unpremeditated act without benefit of experience.
~ Henry Miller
Sometimes you just have to take the leap and build your wings on the way down. ~ Kobi Yamada
Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith. ~ Margaret Shepard
Living is a form of not being sure, not knowing what next or how. The moment you know how, you begin to die a little. The artist never entirely knows. We guess. We may be wrong but we take leap after leap in the dark. ~ Agnes De Mille
And, of course, there's...
Leap, and the net will appear
Oh! Miss Nina! I was temporarily struck dumb at the ethereal beauty of this post. I am so nearly close to tears. You have the power to enrapture us with your words, letting them entwine our beings. Today I told my network group that Words Have Power {I, too, am fond of weaving words and quotes into my work}. And the snippets from Shakespeare tear through my heart like the stars shooting through the midnight sky. But the words that mean the most to me of yours seem so vastly out of reach with my own experience and that is why my eyes brim over at the thought...you most certainly do have the best job in the world, my dear....and although I don't, I can't {oh how I long for it!}...I can but dream {and plot and plan}. You so eloquently bring that dream {for us all} to life. And if one can make it happen perhaps that is the hope perching on my shoulder, goading me on. I am ever so glad that you do what you do and especially that you dare to bare your soul and your art for all of us to witness. Truly uplifting and inspiring.
"I was directed to your blog as I too just lost my beloved dog companion. I echo your words and feelings of loss and in the amazing consolation of strangers in the blog world. We do what we have to do in this life, right or wrong. I was with my dog when he died and watched his life leave his eyes. He was at that moment alone by my side in a natural moment of his life. We are left never really alone although very conscious of the empty spaces that can never be filled with anything but sweet memory."
"Nina,
Someone may have already sent this to you. Last year around this time our Sasha almost 15 left us - the evening skies of the day she left we saw a shooting star - we all knew it was Sasha letting us know all was well & it was her time to be free! Tears come even now as I write this. Someone sent me this poem which helped through the morning so I pass it on to you. Asilomar - a magical place to spend time and heal your soul.
blessings of love,
Robin
Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown... "
I have started this note so many times and then for whatever reason, never hit
the "send" but this morning after running your blog - I just sit here feeling
"ah" and just so loving the visit that I just had to let you know what your blog
( you) mean to me.
I start my morning out with coffee mug in hand and head to my little room that I
like to call "my studio" and there I write morning pages, and then do some work
in my art journal - then I'm awake enough to visit with you.
Finding your blog and meeting you has meant so much to me. I always leave filled
to the brim with happiness, inspired and a deep appreciation. I wish I could
find the words, like you do, to express what I feel. I feel in my heart I have
met a kindred spirit and friend.
I just had to let you know what visiting with you means to me, and this morning
I would be happy just walking in your yard...
Enjoy your day, give Aspen a pat for me, and now I will have a much better day,
knowing that I have spoken to you. Thank you for being there.....
"I check in on your lovely blog as often as I can, but did not expect the heartfelt connection I found today. My oldest daughter has not left yet, but as she prepares to go off to college next year, I feel the panic, sadness, gut wrenching turmoil in the pit of my stomach and painful heartache of the thought of her leaving. I am at the same time so proud of her - her accomplishments and the person she is becoming. I am excited and feel anxious with anticipation of who she will become once out there flying with her own wings and navigating her own course. I sobbed and sobbed as I read your words, tears just flowed down my cheeks (at work!) Thank you for sharing so purely. I felt your words penetrate my heart. I am encouraged that you and others have gone through it, are surviving, still have so much beauty and love within, and are sharing that love and beauty with others. Thank you so much."
"I completely agree with you about the allure of words on jewelry. I don't know of anyone who creates more beautiful objects that epitomize this concept. I come back to your blog day after day knowing I will see something amazingly beautiful. Thank you so much for bringing so much beauty into our world."
"I'm wearing these [cloud song] earrings today. I usually don't dress that creatively for work, more prosaically, with simple non-danglies. So I just discovered I can see them in my peripheral vision as I walk. I like that. I should wear more danglies. Life lately has been too much practicality: forms to fill out, official documents to decipher, task lists to update, errands to run, get a Plan B, Plan C, even a Plan D. ... These are challenging times indeed. I'm hoping to carve out a few hours this weekend at my studio table, playing with my collections. I haven't even had many moments lately to peruse your lovely Web site and drink in its charm. But when I do dip in, I always emerge refreshed. So this is just to say thanks ever so much for being there. You have no idea of how many lives you brighten!"
"Dear Nina- Upon seeing your work in Somerset (blog issue), and reading your words (I envy your poetic verbage & expression), I soon went to your blog and became a fan. When time allows (or is stolen by me), I often return there because I passionately admire your artistic style and feel as though I have taken a delightful journey into an enchanting, charming, ethereal world familiar from my childhood after reading your entries which are so beautifully enhanced with your photography. You should know that you are a giver. We come away with gifts from time spent with you. After reading your glowing affirmations about your sister Ellen's eggs, the third time I visited her Etsy shop I decided I must have one of the robin's eggs, I just MUST, so I ordered one - and a good thing too, for it was the last one. They put me in touch with the past when I was a little girl, entering into deep places that the soft, sky-blue beauty of a found robin's egg could draw me to. Nature displays the holy beauty of God if we will just take the time to perceive it and touch it. I, too, am a woman in her 50s who also has two grown sons -- and I also love and live in the "woods" (well, if you can call 2-3 acres of wooded land in the country "The Woods"). I loved reading about your father, your mother, your visit back home with them, and your love for your sister Ellen. I hope that you will share about your sons in future postings. And pleeeeeease don't think we will ever tire of seeing and hearing about the dog! LOVE that dog! After omitting paragraphs for the sake of saving space in this entry, I will close with trying to convince you that your heart, your art, your photography, your words, your openness and all that you share with the world is a worthy gift to us. You are a beautiful person, and I thank you."
"i am not an artist such as you, but i have been a student in one of your classes. you have the abillity to inspire and motivate because you let it be fun; because you make it look easy; because there really is no right or wrong, good or bad; because you allow us to feel and respond based on our own individual experiences... what you're really teaching is how to step outside the box and be comfortable there; how to use the skills you've taught us and apply them to what we want to do. i see it as much the same as when teachers teach writing skills...we teach the skill; the process...but each individual chooses his or her own words. i guess what i'm trying to say is that one of the first lessons i learned from you was that art is based on your own individuality...we begin with a blank canvas, so to speak, and with each experience and personal preference, the art is born. it may change, but the root of it remains the same. it's ok for you to be a part of that, but the bulk of what each person's art is depends on what's inside of them. it's ok for us to use the skills and the process, i think, but we have to put our own words to it...use our own canvas...have our own style of expression. i suppose it is sad when one who calls themself an artist has to rely on the ideas and style of others rather than what's inside of them. that tells me there is fear inside and they haven't yet learned what you teach...that it's ok to step outside the box and let your own art speak for what's inside you. you do that masterfully...you show us, through what you do, an outside expression of what is inside of you...and no one else has what is inside of you."
"I have spent the past two evenings reading your blog. Just felt like I wanted to talk to you for a moment. I so enjoyed my time in your world which you share so sweetly. Although I am not nearly as positive, open, kind and loving as you are, I do feel a definite comradeship in your love of solitude, nature and reflection. Although I get somewhat nauseated by some of the overly sweet, la-la, life is great type blogs, your positivity and sweetness are very endearing - and your frankness about the sad things is touching. I got as far as your October time with your folks and your comment about wondering why you share these things about your daddy...and I just wanted to send you a hug. Virtual hug from a stranger who wants to thank you for that sharing and try to take away some of that pain. And another big virtual hug for your precious puppy.
Also love your art. Have seen your things in some of my magazines and books which is where I found your site a long time ago but never went in to read. I piddle around with altered books, jewelry and other such things - that artistic outlet is the best part of my life. And the only time I am ever REALLY happy and at peace with my life is when I am outside, in nature, talking to trees and birds. My best conversations and relationships are with trees...and dead poets, too."
"quietly she tinkers.
indeed.
but the song of her tinkering ways
is clear and pure
and resonates...loudly,
deeply
and surely it hovers by hope
perching there
in the soul.
beautiful.
your work is, too..."
"oh i do love white camellias
such pure white against those magnificent
shiny leaves
love is pure like that
the love of years
in your fathers hands
such tender photos
you are so lucky to have the presence of
mind to capture these moments as they unfold
and then you share
thank you so much
for the time you take with us out here
i know there is an interconnectedness
between us all
you continually prove it"
"I am proud of you for protecting your integrity. You will find better
venues. People will come to you. You have to always
take care of yourself--your psyche is important. Not to be violated.
I know that you did the right thing. It had to be difficult, but it
was an important forward moving change that will serve you well."
"may all truth and love reside within you and become an invisible blanket of protection when any negativity tries to enter your church of kindness"
"I think you have almost reached the Third Noble Truth of Buddhism; cultivating a mind so spacious that you are going beyond what things seem to be into what you truly see. When you care about things, you see with a responsive and involved eye. Do you know how little you have struggled this week? I can see this in the eye of your camera.
Why is it that people are bored when rain becomes a mirror to see into and words in books shimmer?"
"Nina, I always read your blog as it seems a good way to hear your voice and learn from you. I wanted to tell you that your photos are as stunningly beautiful as your jewelry and your words. You have the true eye of an artist."
"For me visiting your blog is like going to a friend's house for a cup of tea and conversation- I've seen her driveway, house, foyer, kitchen, face so often but in all of that is love, friendship, and inspiration. Its about you! It is a virtual cup of tea with a friend."
"Congratulations on this momentous occasion in your country's history. This change that has occurred in the minds of your people is noted around the world. The greatest men in your history had the qualities that this man has ~ his mysticism, charisma, stillness, and idealisim is what I personally see. He makes me believe in his sincerity. With a positive outlook, unified effort, and shared vision you can do anything as a people. It is these American qualities that allow each of you to do good, to do the right thing, ~ and what makes you a great nation ~ not a win-at-all-costs mentality, not power held over weaker nations, not greed or arrogance, but strength in unity and a common dream."
"You really made me reflect on my life. I don't want to disappear either, and I often wonder why I was put on this earth. Am I just here to take up space for awhile?? There has to be more that this! Of course with my Baptist upbringing....I don't worry about when my life is over, but what about this one chance that I have.......I don't think that I will age gracefully, I am sure that I will fight it to the end. I have too many things that I want to do.... I still have a long list of places that I want to travel to. How I wish I hadn't wasted so many precious moments. Do you think that we ever have enough time during our life......I wanted to see our children grow, get married, and have a family....but now I want to see my grandchildren grow up and I wonder what they will do with their lives....will I ever have enough time ????Thank you for making me rethink what I will do with the rest of my life.....
Nina, I also want to thank you so much for your sharing your teaching talent with me, please don't ever quit teaching. I loved your class, and could hardly wait to get home so that I can start something else. I know that I wasn't very productive in your class, not your fault.....I just get so overstimulated, I need to ponder what to do next. When my husband was driving us home ( it's about 16 hours) I was rethinking my necklace and I found a wonderful piece of sliced jade. I am going to rework this piece, it needs to reflect what I learned from you.....after all this is what I will leave behind so that my children and grandchildren can remember me, I don't want to disappear!!!"
"Most people have a hard time seeing the blessings in what is right next to them, the grass is always greener syndrome. My father grew roses when I was growing up, so we always had bouquets of them in our house. To me they always seemed like a mundane thing--can you imagine, a rose, an everyday flower! Now that I am grown, moved away, now that my dad has died and the rose bushes are all gone do I understand the wonder of them. It is rare the person who appreciates the here, the now. That is why I love your blog so much. You are a constant reminder to me to appreciate what is all around me right now."
I have spent a very long time being professional and efficient, so my writing tends to say that which needs to be said in a very sparse way. I really enjoy that your writing reflects your heart and soul.
I hope it doesn't sound sycophantic to say that whilst some people don't really measure up when you meet them, that's not the case with you. I first did a class with you in Freemantle and then started reading your blog. The blog measures up to you!
I think leaving ourselves open to new ideas, nature and people also leaves us vulnerable and open to self doubt at times. The good thing is that it doesn't take much to give us a shot in the arm, so we can bounce back.
"i'm turning forty in six months, which is kind of a shock to me. i am looking at your poetic, beautiful jewelry and reading your inspiring, thoughtful posts and screwing up my courage to step into my power to do all that i want to do.
this email is to tell you hello, and to let you know that you are 100% right to tell your blog audience what is right and what is wrong regardless of their reaction. there will always be small, mean people who will attack you no matter what. it is hard to callous yourself to them, but please try. know that there are people who appreciate you and your art. you are a very special person and you deserve all the joy and respect in the world."
"I love your blog, your jewelry, and how you write about your reality. Not just fluff. You let us "see" you, and that makes us feel like we live next door. Thank you.. xo"
"you and the way you view the world is what i have felt we have lost...the ritual, the story telling around the fire/at the dinner table/on the front porch, being in the wild, honoring the past (and present)...i think if we all took it to a deeper level than the surface we stay on so often, we would see what attracts us all to you and each other is not your art (although that is precious)...it is our Souls wanting to talk...thanks for listening to me!!"
human beings are members of a whole
in creation of one Essence and Soul -
If one member is afflicted with pain,
Other members uneasy will remain -
If you have no sympathy for human pain
The name of human you cannot retain --Saadi
-it would be more helpful if we sat with our reactions when others are speaking their truth in their personal journals and simply listen with compassion...i have learned a lesson from all of this...thank you Nina for being honest with your pain...it serves those of us who want to be better humans...xo
i just wanted to tell you how much you inspire me to be a better person. every day when i read your blog, i think, oh, i am going to be more like that: more observant, more loving, more 'living with my eyes wide open', more crafted in my writing. and while i still feel like i am mostly not achieving that, i know that if i keep reading and being inspired, it will slowly seep into me. so thank you.
from accomplished artist Judy Wise (thank you judy xo): "IMO you and Teesha pioneered
the "look" of the mixed media/journal/collage thing that is strongly
influencing advertising, graphic arts, and fine arts in this country,
providing jobs for many teachers of art and enriching the lives of
housewives and square pegs. I thought of this when Rauchenberg passed;
he was a "real person" just as yourself who had a huge influence on the
culture.
I know you have had your heart broken at times by the copiers but there
is another side to it. Original good ideas will always find their way
into the culture through co-option and adaptation (and stealing). Think
about it."
from Belgium: "While I'm mailing you now, I want to say that I admire your work a lot. I discovered you in "true colors" and through some articles in the magazines of Stampington.
I love the "Nina-knot" and your work is really recognizable and an own style. But I guess I'm not the only one who told you this...."
"Coming here is like going back home and visiting with loved ones-those who take us as we are-vulnerabilites, faults and all. Words leave you effortlessly and enter us for what they are-honest, unpretentious, alive, and vulnerable. The end result is for us like savoring our mother's favorite dish after being sick-we feel comforted, understood, cared for."
"your jewelry is turning into a divine light...."
"It is wonderful to share the ineffable qualities that arise from the experiences of one who has walked from the outer periphery of this beautiful life straight to the center, the pulsing heart of existence."
BEAUTIFUL...just beautiful. This art leaves me breathless. When I first read of an "alchemist", as a child, I was aching to meet one and converse and watch the magic happen. And now I have, Nina. Your work is extraordinary."
Hi there Walter ! You're in a very good house and there's even an angel dog to watch over you! And welcome back Nina ! I wish you both many many good years together!
Posted by: Steph | June 20, 2009 at 01:20 PM
oh sweetie,
even though i had to kind of make up what you were saying on that right hand margin (!) i hear you, see you, see walter the baby dynamo--hang in there; the power will return!!
xxxooo
Posted by: sheila | June 20, 2009 at 01:20 PM
Welcome Walter ~!~ to Nina's warm, waiting, world, where wonder will all-ways wind and weave within your days of wild, wacky, wiggling ~ all the while, wonderful whispers of "I love you", you will hear. And, Walter Bagley, there's nothing worth more than Love. Dear Nina, in honor of your Dad, on Father's Day, and, mine, who I wish was still here to waltz with, I'll be singing the line from one his favorite songs, as I think of you and Walter B, "By the light...of the sillverrry mooon..." ~ Kiss that boy on the nose for me! ~Laurie~
Posted by: Laurie Van Dyck | June 20, 2009 at 01:52 PM
Walter you are so cute!!! Nina-change is always hard and traumatic! How about a baby sling (a large scarf or piece of triangular fabric to carry Walter around when you don't want him underfoot. Now if he will just fall asleep there and stay put is another question. Hang in there. We love you and are here for you!
Linda
Posted by: Linda Greiss | June 20, 2009 at 01:54 PM
Oh, Oh, Oh....I just want to reach through my monitor and squeeze and hug your sweet new companion! Welcome Walter Bagley....you are darling! I can only imagine the changes for you with this new little one under foot and always having to keep an eye on him. I know under your loving care and guidance, the two of you will bond and he will get housebroken and he will sleep through the night cuddled up next to his new mamma and you will have countless, amazing adventures together. If I come across a magic wand to make all of that happen for you over-night, I will be sure to send it to you by Express Mail. Take care Nina!!
Hugs
Diana
Posted by: Diana Frey | June 20, 2009 at 02:32 PM
Oh for heaven's sakes, what a cute, cute baby you have there! We found the adjustment from a 15 year-old dog to a baby very trying, too (especially when I broke my leg and Hazel would run by me and grab whatever beads I was working with and scatter them around the room... I actually did cry sometimes.) Have you gotten a crate yet? Sometimes they have to stay in there for your own sanity. Walter is still very young to be away from his doggie mama.
Posted by: Ann | June 20, 2009 at 02:39 PM
He's so cute!!!!
Posted by: BluePlum | June 20, 2009 at 02:47 PM
Adorable Walter, you are a lucky pup to be chosen by Nina. You have some big paws to fill, but I know Aspen is watching over the both of you with adoring eyes.
Posted by: Jeannie | June 20, 2009 at 02:53 PM
Puppyhood will be gone in the blink of an eye. He's absolutely adorable.
Posted by: Sapphire Dakini | June 20, 2009 at 02:54 PM
Hi Nina,Well I've been anciously waiting for your first puppy blog.Remember me,I was your Asilamar student with the meltdowns,Farmlady's sister.Anyway,Walter is absolutly adorable!Can you remember when your boys first came home,the sleep deprevation,the ragged nerves.Desperatly needing help and yet wanting to be alone.You told me Walter would be about 6 weeks when you brought him home.Thats pretty young.He's really missing his family and it;s going to take a while until you totally fill that void.I can make a couple of suggestions that you take or leave.With our last puppy we used a bed or crate inside an exercize pen that makes an enclosure about 5 or6 ft. in diam. fill the crate with stiff that smells like you and some chew toys you can stuff with goodies.There are two potty training options.One get up during the night and take him out(not usually my option)or you put news paper in a corner of the pen.The pen will be home until you know he's got the potty thing down.Aspens probably looking down on you with a smile on his face thinking,You're not to old mom,you can do this,he's not me ,he's someone new and it will be wonderful.Good Luck,Love Lisa
Posted by: Lisa W. | June 20, 2009 at 02:56 PM
Irresistible :~) Give little Walter a smooch from me!
{fomerly elainepdx}
Posted by: Pink Trees and Sunshine | June 20, 2009 at 02:57 PM
Well....Walter is just damn cute. Remembering back when I first had babies..I used to think I had to be a super mom and do it all with baby on the back. Now my advice is just to hole up in the house and only pay attention to the little one in front of me. If Walter needs all you attention...than Walter should get all your attention. No need to do anything else. He'll grow...he'll lay quietly at your feet soon enough. But now...it's all Walter all the time. Enjoy it!!!
and XXXXX's are just fine even if it's just in thought :)
anji
Posted by: Anji gallanos | June 20, 2009 at 03:02 PM
I'm just melting at the sight of too-cute-&-adorable Walter!!!!! What a precious little 'un!! Its like having a wee baby all over again. The house/grass etc will still be there, Nina, right now all that matters is you & Walter... all there is, is you & Walter getting to know each other & just filling up with love for one another. And I bet Aspen is having a little chuckle curled up next to Walter, next to your lovely blue toes :D xxx
Posted by: Joy | June 20, 2009 at 03:12 PM
Walter Trouble Bagley is ADORABLE! He will settle-in and the two of you will be best buddies. I'm sure he's missing his mommy and siblings - it must be difficult for him too, but this too shall pass. Hang in there! {love your toe polish :o)}
Posted by: Susan | June 20, 2009 at 03:21 PM
Maybe if you didn't wear that neon blue toenail polish, your toes wouldn't be sooo appetizing to Walter... tee hee - just teasing.
Walter looks like an old soul in a squirmy, squishy puppy body. Love love him. Been a while since you remember what a little puppy is like, eh?
Hang in there - I have a feeling you and Walter will form a bond like no other.
LindaSonia
Posted by: LindaSonia | June 20, 2009 at 03:25 PM
AAAHHHH! Walter has arrived! Puppies are a lot of work but that's why they are so cute, you don't mind it so much for the reward of a true and loyal friend.
xxox
Lorri
Posted by: Lorri | June 20, 2009 at 03:26 PM
welcome home. both of you!
Posted by: carol | June 20, 2009 at 03:27 PM
Oh Walter is so darn cute-and that little round belly! I want to cuddle him. I can't stop smiling and laughing remembering if I were crazy bringing home a new pup! They are like newborn babies demanding all of our time and attention, but so worthwhile.
You'll look back a year from now (yes, a whole year of shenanigans)and laugh.
Just make sure your purse is hidden, my Brittany Spaniel, Big Guy, loves to steal money and keys!
Posted by: Sharon | June 20, 2009 at 03:40 PM
Ohh a puppy how adorable.......but I truly empathize with how much care they need. I have raised 7 pups in the last 22 years. I am amazed at how different each one was......some more needy than a child. I hope Walter is bringing you lots of joy. I love the picture several posts back of you and Anne Quinlan ( I am sure I messed up the spelling).
Posted by: susan greene | June 20, 2009 at 03:43 PM
Welcome Walter, you couldn't have a better home!
Posted by: Steph (KhyaD) | June 20, 2009 at 03:46 PM
Welcome dear Walter...you are one lucky little guy....take good care of your mistress. Give her little kisses and sweet sighs to know that she is loved. And remember that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger! Enjoy the day! Erin
Posted by: Erin Prais-Hintz | June 20, 2009 at 03:49 PM
Ooooooooooooooh, I'm making squealing noises, I am so happy for you!
And so happy that it's not ME!
I've been having serious, scary thoughts about getting a puppy to keep my Sammie company, but after reading this I will not- WILL NOT, no way, Absolutely not get a puppy!
Now I can just go to your blog, look at Walter, melt a little & then tuck myself in for an uninterrupted 8 hours of sleep!
Sammie is the perfect dog. And I tend to forget that, & think that all dogs are like that & then I start thinking I might need another one. NO!
Anyway, I am really so happy to meet Walter, he is a doll.
BTW, I got you a bottle of wine & some chocolate when Aspen died, got it all packed up to mail & then read that you would be gone for a month. So I unpacked it & drank the wine for you, in honor of Aspen of course....telling myself the whole time that it's the thought that counts!
The wine is gone, but I do still have some of the chocolate left- obviously, it wasn't very good!
Posted by: Leighanna Light | June 20, 2009 at 04:06 PM
be patient the crying will stop...lucky walter to have found a wonderful home with you on firefly road...and if you still need that grass cut next weekend, you know where to reach me...lol...xo
Posted by: julie | June 20, 2009 at 04:21 PM
Oh, puppy love! Adoring wet kisses (both ways), that warm puppy-ish breath. But they are a pain until they master the skills we think they should acquire to be good companions.
Posted by: Meri Arnett-Kremian | June 20, 2009 at 04:27 PM
How much I could not stop smiling I cannot tell you. ??!! Does that make any sense at all?! :) Welcome, welcome, little Walter - you look perfectly content already, and no doubt in your heart you have said "Mine" and are making it so. Nina - it is too late. You are taken. :)
Posted by: debi | June 20, 2009 at 04:44 PM
Nina an extra 2 weeks with his mama would have made all the difference. I've heard so often that this insecurity happens when the pups go too early...but you are his mama now and in just a few weeks he will be settled and you will look into that dearest little puppy face and say..ohh, that's what I was thinking. Have you tried a carton, a hot water bottle and a ticking clock under his blanket?
Posted by: Robyn | June 20, 2009 at 05:00 PM
I was laughing reading your post. Especially your questions to ponder. Most of them I ask myself daily also. All I can say is good luck.
But that first picture of Walter, the little meatball belly of a puppy.... oooohhhh all the pee, poop, destroyed shoes, late night/early morning walks vanish away. love is so amazing.
Posted by: Mary | June 20, 2009 at 05:03 PM
Hmmm I can't read the words outside the right hand margin either, not sure what's happened there. Little Walter is SOoo cute! such a sweet wee face and such a happy full tummy. I'll have to make sure the kids can't see these pic's as I'm starting to get hassled for another dog. I have to admit it would be hard to say no to a face like that. Have fun with your new friend, they only stay litle for such a short time.
Posted by: Corrine | June 20, 2009 at 05:04 PM
Enjoy the time with Walter as a little one, they grow so fast. I'm sure Aspen is as pleased as punch about the cute little fellow who is following in his footsteps. Your questions will answer themselves as time goes on. Oh the joy and the pain.
Posted by: lilylovekin | June 20, 2009 at 05:12 PM
Welcome Walter!
Posted by: Christie | June 20, 2009 at 05:23 PM
Yay Walter! Welcome to the world.
Posted by: Judy Merrill-Smith | June 20, 2009 at 05:26 PM
I adopted a dog once, whose name was Trouble. After months of yowling whenever he was home alone, leaping on tables knocking off crystal and whatever, chewing antique doors and then throwing up wood chips and paint all over the house, he eventually calmed down. More or less. Only took a few months. And he wasn't even a puppy!!
Have fun, it will all work out eventually!
Posted by: anna maria | June 20, 2009 at 05:27 PM
all the why this and why thats disappear like magic when you hold that sweet pup to your face and kiss that puppy breath and smell those frito toes and kiss that fat little belly.....right now as i look at all the clouds on the carpet as a new stuffed toy has been lovingly been de-stuffed by several of the dogs at good manor.....
i would welcome the pitter patter of 4more feet to good manor anytime..give walter some sugga from good manor and whip up a cass-er-ole...xoxox
Posted by: kim | June 20, 2009 at 05:32 PM
Oh my goodness Walter is the cutes thing ever. Yes you are crazy, who knows what you were thinking? But how lucky is Walter? Walter will be silently lying by that front door before you know it! Keep your spirits up. I hope your lap top shows up early!
I send you Joy
Posted by: Joy T. | June 20, 2009 at 05:54 PM
SQUEALLLLL!!! Puppies are so much work, but the time passes so very fast. He will have bladder control in no time!! Be sure to buy him bully sticks to chew. They are the best. They just melt away with out mess, and they keep puppies occupied for hours. Never leave them alone with one, and I always take it away when it gets small enough for them to swallow.
And yes, yes, yes to a crate!! It will become his little den, a safe place for him to go when he is tired and wants time to himself, and it is the perfect safe spot for him to be while you are away from the home. I am going to mail you an excellent housebreaking/crate guide. It is short and very easy to read and it works like a charm!!
He is just so cute, it makes me want another dog. He will be playing fetch and learning manners in no time!! Spaniels are so very smart!!! Welcome Mr. Walter!!!
Posted by: Emily | June 20, 2009 at 06:43 PM
Welcome home Nina,
Not only are you tired but you have been away for a long time..., and you brought a PUPPY home with you. That's like coming home to a level 5 hurricane.
You need a plan and my sister, the best resource on dogs( she has 3 of her own), has given you some of the best. She guided us when we got Carl a few months ago.
The best ones are the crate and the X(for exercise)Pen. Ask your vet for info on both and these, plus a few hundred dog toys, will make life with Walter more tolerable. Babies, human or canine, need to adjust to their new life. So do their "Moms". It will be OK. It will all be worth it.
Posted by: Farmlady | June 20, 2009 at 07:05 PM
Welcome, Walter! He is soooo adorable, Nina! Don't worry, the crying will end soon. Crates are a great thing. My 3 year old Westie loves his crate. I haven't locked him in there in months, but he still curls up in there to sleep during the day when we're not home. It's his safe place, and he loves it. He also flops down in it when he's angry at me. Or when I'm angry at him.....
xox
Posted by: martha brown | June 20, 2009 at 07:05 PM
even with the pee and poop and a little crying and sleepless nights...that walter has already lodged himself into your heart...I just know he has, as that's what little furry loves do to us :)
Posted by: beth | June 20, 2009 at 07:08 PM
Words to the right of our post are missing for me too. But hey, never mind!
I remember when Bryn came to live with us, how 'frantic' he made me, waking me and breaking my heart with his plaintive howls for his Mum, brothers and sisters. Peeing and pooping all over the place too. But, we worked it out and he has enhanced our lives so much. Your Walter just wants to be with you, needs to be with you. Aspen is there keeping a kindly eye on you both......
The best bit of advice I was given about Puppyhood' was that a tired puppy is a happy puppy! It also meant we got some respite too! XO to you both.
Posted by: hhb | June 20, 2009 at 07:09 PM
How Adorable!!!!! I can smell the puppy breath now. Puppies are so cute and cuddly. It's kind of like having a baby. You forget quickly how much care they take. I love the name Walter. In the blink of an eye he will grow into those feet! Sure glad to have you back. I've missed you.
Posted by: Niki Weippert | June 20, 2009 at 07:15 PM
Welcome home, Nina and Walter T.
Posted by: Anna R | June 20, 2009 at 07:34 PM
oh heck with the words fer now i LOVE that picture of W.T. what a cutie, omg and don't ya love puppy kisses.
and yes ,we have just finished a month and half of puppydom,
junie new moon, sleep you say, um well only with one eye shut,
and then the mishap of her falling off the couch and screaming and running down the hallway with the back paw held up, and and me shaking and in tears, cuz i am not even over the loss of our sweet baby dog, so yes i cry missing my old pup, and i laugh and love this new pup, who i asked guidance from sweet baby dog to help me find and choose and i know she did.
oh and i am waiting for my name to be added to the new wing the vet will be bulding !!!
ok, pee pads, ya can make em or buy em. then get that stuff that
smells like pee to help them mark their place. i swear by pee pads. you can use newspapers and papertowels or real towels, and i get dental chewies from our vet and that has helped with the chewing urge. i stick one in her mouth after i take out the item she is not suppose to chew.
and she likes to carry rocks in her mouth,(i kept the first one) or a stick and yes , she ate her poo for a while and and and I LOVE THIS PUP, and i just know i would love your pup too.
HAPPY PUPPYHOOD!!!! xxxx0x0x0x0x00000x0xx0x0x0x0x000x
Posted by: Nancy Krampf | June 20, 2009 at 07:56 PM
Cheers to Walter T. Bagley,
to puppy breath
to beautiful you
with eyes like sky
may your days be sane and sunly
and your nights most mad and moonly
xoxo
Posted by: wendy | June 20, 2009 at 08:06 PM
Now that you have cast your tinted glasses on the trash heap I have more news to raise your eyebrows. I did have one of the afore mentioned house crates, but Emma looked so forlorn peering out behind the bars, i didn't use it, and now at four years old, she is still a wild child. Somehow Walter looks like he's going to be more reliable. The sort of fellow that will enjoy hearing ancient folk music and poetry.
Enjoy the fireflies you two.
xx
julie
Posted by: Julie Whitmore | June 20, 2009 at 08:21 PM
I've never had the joy of a new puppy, a new kitten yes many times. I think we forget how dependant on us they are to start off with.
I'm sure with all the sage advice you have received you will be establishing a routine sometime soon. Having to wait until JULY for your new computer must be so frustrating, like you I'd want it now. Enjoy Walter's babyhood, it doesn't last for long.
Meanwhile we are all here to listen to your wonderful tales, and your time is filled with a little creature who will love you so deeply.
Sweet Sue xoxoxo
Posted by: Sue | June 20, 2009 at 09:39 PM
Nina, I have a question too...
why didn't you bring me one of those cute balls of fluff? lol, adorable!!!
if you want me to hold him while you work ..i will, i will
glad to hear you & pup arrived back home safely, back to the boonies!
give walter a smooch from me :)
xo
lori
girl from the other side of the mountain
Posted by: Lori | June 20, 2009 at 09:53 PM
Hi Nina,
I am tickled pink about your new puppy. Walter is adorable! I can see your days will be full of adventures, mischief and laughter ( and hopefully not too many tears)in the months to come. In time you will teach Walter some rules and it will get easier as you both learn to live together. I wish you good nerves and keep telling us of your adventures, I love reading about them and seeing that adorable puppy face:-)
Hugs from Australia.
Monika
Posted by: Monika Schmid | June 20, 2009 at 10:02 PM
Nina he is precious! You guys will have a routine worked out in no time and things will be better. I remember when my mom brought Daphne home she was in tears after a couple of days and was ready to take her back. That changed very quickly. I'm glad you and Walter made it home safe and sound. I'll be watching for more pictures as he grows.
Kelley
Posted by: Kelley | June 20, 2009 at 10:07 PM
Just like having babies again -- so much trouble, but oh, so worth it! You might need to borrow a playpen or a baby gate if you want to get much done, though!
Walter needs a t-shirt "My name is Trouble. Don't make me prove it!"
Posted by: Cindy Ericsson | June 20, 2009 at 10:46 PM
Forgot to say that I love the cute blue toenails, and that my best friend has used Simple Green for years to clean up after the pups.
Posted by: Cindy Ericsson | June 20, 2009 at 10:49 PM