My Yorkie may be an old lady at fourteen, but she still loves an outing. This morning, since I had to pick up a perscription and couldn’t bring myself to leave her behind, I extended our usual car ride to include a brief stop at the pharmacy. Since Bernice (aka the Bear, Bairnie and about seventy-two other affectionate nicknames) has a slight problem with incontinence these days, I brought a towel along, placed it on my lap for protection, and we headed out. The Yorkster rode in style, watching the big world flash by, and I didn’t have to worry about picking my meds up with dog-pee on my jeans. 
On the way back, we picked up yesterday’s mail and, since the crazy fun never stops around here, we also took a walk a few hours later, exploring the yard, the tack room in the barn, and encircling the pasture. The fresh air and exercise was good for both of us, and the Bear was a happy camper.
Last week’s contest winners, who should have been announced on Friday, are Diane McCarthy and Jennier L. Your prizes will be on their way on Monday morning–when the NEW contest will begin.
I’ve spent the weekend–so far–painting, listening to audiobooks–just finished Robin Roberts’ inspiring EVERYBODY HAS SOMETHING. What a champion that woman is–facing a life-threatening illness not just once, but twice, and carrying bravely on despite exhaustion, fear and pain–with grace and humor, no less. I’ve always admired her, but reading her book clenched it. I nearly wept over the part where she had to send her 15 year old dog to stay with friends for three months, since she couldn’t risk any kind of infection after her bone marrow transplant–I’m happy to say, she and her little buddy are back together again.
My tulips are blazing with color–I plan to pick a nice bouquet in the morning. Tulips invariably make me think of my good friends, Jean and Kurt–they have the most gorgeous flowers!
Which reminds me–if there’s one take-away from Ms. Roberts’ book, besides her enormous courage, it’s how important dear friends and family really are.
Make a memory with a loved one, next chance you get. Today, if possible.
In the end, the love we’ve given and received will truly be our greatest treasure.
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Sounds like you and your sweet pup had a great day. All the flowers blooming has put me in the planting mood. Went plant shopping today and found a couple unusual specimens for my garden and home. One is a black Calla Lily. Have not seen that color before and it’s beautiful. Have a great weekend.
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Congratulatios to Diane McCarthy and Jennier L. Enjoy!!!
Once again, Linda, I was concerned that you were sick since we didn’t hear from you. And, you mention getting a prescription filled, so…are you sick again? I pray not.
Have a good and Godly Sunday.
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Bernie seems to be a character. Robin Roberts is truly an inspiration! She has a strong faith. Loved ones are truly a blessing! Have a good one.
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Great advise!! Thank you
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Hi Linda, Just wanted to say hi and let you know I am a big fan of yours. I was just reading your note and seen that you have a yorkie. I also have a yorkie poo she is the sweetest dog. I got her in Nov. and she turned 2 the 26th of Jan. Her name is Faith, 3lbs. 4ozs. I just love her so much and really alot of company. Well have a nice weekend. A fan Barbara
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I was wondering if I should worry since we had not “heard” from you. I am glad you are having grand adventures.
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Congratulations ladies ! Linda it sounds like you and Bernice had a good day. It is nice seeing the flowers blooming.
Have a great week !!!!
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Congrats ladies on your win!! Linda you are such a inspiring person. I agree with you on Robin Roberts she is a champion.
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I just ordered the book from the library, as a breast cancer survivor my life has changed so much. I know I will cry about the part where she has to part with her dog for awhile
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I am glad you have a Yorkie companion and the outing sounds very relaxing! I have Ms. Roberts book on my TBR pile. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
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Congratulations ladies!
Linda, there are disposable diaper changing pads (for babies) with a plastic lining that you could use in the car and anywhere else incontinence might be a problem. Walmart, Target and many other places carry them. There are also indoor training pads for dogs, available at most large chain pet stores. Much nicer for Berniece than having to wear a dog diaper, yet it will protect your clothes and upholstery too!
Your closing line “In the end, the love we’ve given and received will truly be our greatest treasure.” really resonated with me and I’m going to add it to my collection of quotes – thank you.
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There are also “Depends” for doggies as well. I think Target, PetSmart and PetCo have them.
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Congrats to the winner! I have a puppy that always love to go riding with you ever is leaving the house, he cries like a baby if you don’t take..have a nice sunday!
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Nice blog Linda, I totally understand the dealing with an incontinent older 4 legged friend, our beloved doberman Hilda wore diapers the last couple of years of her life, but it was worth it to have the extra time with her.
I love spring, when we anxiously await flowers I have some amazing daffodils this year, like cream with pink centers, and another that is a double , looks like a little rose in the center.
Stay well, horrible flu going around I have been sick for a week.
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congratulations to the two new winners . we don’t have a pet of our own any more but our neighbor has a small dog that is part Pug .she is the sweetest little thing & she has partially adopted us . she understands what is said to her,when I say I have something for you she will stand right by the kitchen door until I bring it out no matter how long it takes .That is just one thing . there are so many cute things .but I’ rambling and no one likes a rambler. Linda hope you have a great & productive week Keep smiling
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Congratulations to this weeks winners.
Sounds like you and Bernice had a good day. I do so love all the flowers that are blooming right now. I just picked my first rose this morning, its beautiful. You’re right about the love we give and receive. Blessings.
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Congrats to the winners! So glad your Yorkie still likes to get out, sounds like she is still doing pretty well at her age.
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It was a good day for filling hanging flower baskets here…under the protection of the patio cover, of course. Rain and shine here in NW Wash. Typical early May.
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Amen on making those memories. And thank you for your inspirations.
Good night and sweet dreams.
Evelyn
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Congratulation too the two winners. I know you will enjoy what ever gifts that you will receive. I bet Bernice was really glad to take a trip. It would be good to be able to get out side i haven’t been out for over a month. Hope everyone had a great weekend. Blessings to all of you.
As always your friend,
Norma
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Norma, I went back last night and checked a LOT of the comments from Linda’s Blog and failed to find the name of your nursing home. Do you mind repeating it?
I am still praying for you and that you can soon be up, get to go outside and enjoy the weather, and that you become pain free.
Have a good and Godly week, Norma and may God Bless you.
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Norma, I went back last night and checked a LOT of the comments from Linda’s Blog and failed to find the name of your nursing home. Do you mind repeating it?
I am still praying for you and that you can soon be up, get to go outside and enjoy the weather, and that you become pain free.
Have a good and Godly week, Norma and may God Bless you.
I’m having trouble sending this, so I hope it doesn’t show up twice.
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It did!
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Gloria i really appreciate all your prayers. I am at the Continental Manor Nursing Rehabilitation Center, Room 212, 820 East Center Street, Blanchester, Ohio 45107. Thank you again Gloria for all the prayers i sure need all i can get.Blessings to you.
Norma
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Hi Linda
I love tulips but they are almost impossible to grow in Florida
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Ah… the wonders and colors of spring.
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It sounds like you and Bernie had a wonderful day! Have a wonderful week.
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Love tulips, so elegant and delicate.
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Oh I’m so glad you enjoyed Robin Roberts book. I definitely am going to read it.
Tulips are one of my favorite flowers. I really love them. They are such cheerful looking flowers. 
Thanks for sharing your days with us.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com
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Linda, as I mentioned a week or so ago, I am re-reading your 1990 book, Lily and the Major, the first of the Orphan Train Trilogy. Its really nice because it has been so long since I read it, that I don’t remember a thing about it except how they all 3 come together at the end. It was the first book I ever read by you and I was hooked and have read every one since. However, my favorite is still A Man From Stone Creek. I love that S.O.B. like there is no tomorrow. Now if I could find one of my own…well life would be good.
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I always love spring. We all love the adventure of going out and about again in the warm sunlight.
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I was so thrilled to win – what a wonderful surprise at the end of a very long and challenging week – thank you!!! I just got my package today. I can’t wait to read Big Sky Secrets – and the necklace is gorgeous. I already feel energized!
I admire Robin Roberts too, and her book is definitely on my TBR list. Did you see the video of her reuniting with her dog? I wept when I saw it. You might be able to find it on YouTube…
Thank you again, Linda, and everyone who was kind enough to congratulate me. Parable is a great place to spend time.
Norma, I’m sending prayers and good thoughts your way.