Thursday – A Little Personal – Twiggy and Tempeste Outside

“You know Twiggy. It’s just too hot to play tuggie.”

“It is just too hot to play anything.”

“I think you are right. Maybe we just take it easy.”

“My kind of activity. Here’s my take-it-easy face.”

“I can almost look you in the eye if I get low enough.”

“Yeah, don’t knock yourself out. Not much to see here.”

“I was trying to see if you are back to normal.”

“As you can see. I still have a little paralysis. It’s getting better though.”

“I’m looking forward to the day when the panther can jump the puma.”

“I would enjoy that too. We’ll just have to wait.”

“As long as you are okay, I can wait for as long as it takes.”

“I’m getting better each day, so I can tell you. I’m okay.”

“You don’t mind if I keep checking up on you, do you?”

“No. Makes me feel special.”

“Well, you are special.”

“Where are you going?

“I need to find a cool spot. This concrete does it.”

“You can go in the house, you know.”

“Yeah, but I like the fresh air.”

“You demonstrate that you are a bulldog every day.”

“That’s good, cause I am.”

116 comments

  1. srbottch's avatar

    Hot! Hot! Hot! Just about everywhere, it seems. Even around the Great Lakes. Humidity is another nagging pain. But, I’d rather this than mid January, at least up here. I’d like to join Tempeste on the concrete. Is Twiggy okay? You mentioned paralysis…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes, she has the dog equivalent of human Bell’s palsy. She is getting better, but still has a droopy muzzle.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. srbottch's avatar

        She’s in good care.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          I believe that too, Steve.

          Liked by 1 person

  2. Darlene's avatar

    I’m so glad that Twiggy is getting better and taking it easy. Tempeste is being a good sister too. Love and snuggles to both of them.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Darlene. They love those.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. House of Heart's avatar

    So sweet, I haven’t been keeping up with the pup news. Get well Twiggy. 🦴🍗🐾🐾🐾🐾

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Miss Holly. I am getting better each day.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. House of Heart's avatar

        Sending gentle pets ! 🫶

        Liked by 1 person

  4. Hazel's avatar

    That lying down style 🤭

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Frog dog. 🤣

      Liked by 1 person

  5. GP's avatar

    So happy Twiggy keeps getting better – she is special!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks, GP. We are too, and I agree.

      Liked by 1 person

  6. shoreacres's avatar

    I love Tempeste adopting the ‘squirrel pose’ under that chair. She looks just like the squirrels draped over my porch railing or a limb, trying to grab a little coolth.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      She does the cool splat a lot. Thanks, Linda.

      Liked by 1 person

  7. coldhandboyack's avatar

    They do love their comfort.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes, they do. Thanks, Craig,

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Gwen M. Plano's avatar
    Gwen M. Plano · · Reply

    A relaxing summer day…feeling good. 🌞

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      They are very relaxed. Thanks, Gwen

      Liked by 1 person

  9. lois's avatar

    Twiggy is on the mend? That is good to hear. Tempeste is turning into a real nurse-type, isn’t she? Ice water, ice cream, anything with ice in the name to help with this ungodly heat. Stay cool, girls.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Miss Lois. We are working at staying cool. 😎

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Writer Lori's avatar

    Just relocated from Florida to San Antonio, John, and boy, you’re right, it’s hot. Our two pooches love sprawling on the lanai in the shade, watching the world go by from a (relatively) cooler spot. Sorry to hear about Twiggy’s illness. All best wishes for a speedy recovery….

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Welcome to Texas, Lori. You are here just in time for the Hell’s Back Porch season. Stay cool. Thank you for your good wishes.

      Like

  11. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

    Good to hear Twiggy is improving. Hope the heat eases up for you.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We have had it okay so far. Looking at 100s next week.

      Like

  12. T. W. Dittmer's avatar

    It’s good to see the girls adjusting to the heat of summer, and nice that Twiggy is doing better.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Tim. These guys do better in the cool weather, but this is not the time for that.

      Liked by 1 person

  13. robertawrites235681907's avatar

    I am so happy that Twiggy is getting better.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      She is improving by the day. Still a little droopy in the face but the rest of her is doing fine. Thanks, Robbie.

      Like

  14. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

    I couldn’t start my work today without checking in on Twiggy and Tempeste. I’m glad Twiggy is doing. better.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      She is at the doctor’s now for a follow-up. She is back to doing some of her old things like licking paws and playing with toys.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

        I’m glad to hear it!

        Liked by 1 person

  15. Debbie's avatar

    So happy to hear Twiggy’s feeling better (I know y’all are, too!) The Monk used to do Tempeste’s sploot when he was a wee Sheltie. Not so much anymore. He’s still outstanding, though, at finding a cool place to rest. Thank heaven for air conditioning, huh?!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I don’t know what we would do without the A/C. It would be tough. Thanks, Debbie.

      Liked by 1 person

  16. joylennick's avatar

    Hi John, Tales of your dear little dogs certainly ‘get’ to me. . .Do hope Twiggy recovers completely soonest. Best wishes Joy

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you so much, Joy. We see improvement every day, which is a good thing. 😊

      Like

  17. Unknown's avatar
    Anonymous · · Reply

    We have unbearable heat here, too. Tempest is so sweet to be checking on Twiggy and I am SO happy her paralysis is improving. It will take some time. Looking forward to more panther and puma wrestling!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks, Noelle.

      Like

  18. Susannah Bianchi's avatar

    Am touched by Tempeste’s concern for her sister who’s being so stoic. Loved that Tempeste said, she wishes the panther can jump the puma to cheer her up and how special she is. Excuse while I have a quick weep.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I could join you in that cry but need to keep on.

      Liked by 1 person

  19. NEERAJ SINGH's avatar

    Eye Catching shot👌

    Liked by 1 person

  20. Esther Chilton's avatar

    Glad Twiggy is better than she was. Bless her and love that Tempeste is there for her.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I agree. Esther.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. thomasstigwikman's avatar

    I am so happy to see Twiggy’s take-it-easy face

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I like it too. Thomas. Thanks.

      Liked by 1 person

  22. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

    Lounge mode is a good thing … especially when recovering!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I agree, Frank.

      Like

  23. Annette Rochelle Aben's avatar

    Miss Twiggy, you have so MUCH love being sent your way, AND you have the fabulous Nurse, Tempeste… of course, things are and shall continue to improve! Oh yes, there are your folks, and the doctors, and the medication too… xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Miss Annette. I appreciate all the nice wishes, and yes the doctors, too.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. The Coastal Crone's avatar

    So sweet, John! Tempeste makes a good nurse. I know you and the Producer appreciate the help.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes, we do. Thank you, Jo.

      Like

  25. Teri Polen's avatar

    So happy to hear Twiggy is improving every day, John. And I agree with her – it’s too hot to do just about anything.

    Liked by 1 person

  26. kethuprofumo's avatar

    Black & white heat strikes the Resort. Some iced mojitos, please! 🍹🍹🍹Thank you, dear John!🍤🍤🍤🍻

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Iced mojitos coming up.

      Liked by 1 person

  27. circadianreflections's avatar

    I’m a bit behind but, it’s good to hear Twiggy is getting better!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes. Thank you, Deborah.

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Sorryless's avatar

    Twiggy is getting better and that makes my day. Check that, it makes my week. She’s so lovely, sitting outside with her little sister like that. And Tempeste is such the doting little sister.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Our doctor is a little concerned. We are having an MRI on Monday to see if there is a neurological problem. We are hoping not, of course.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Sorryless's avatar

        My thoughts and prayers are with you guys.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Thank you, Marco. We appreciate that for sure.

          Liked by 1 person

  29. JFRSr's avatar

    Poor little Twigster, l didn’t even know that she was in a state of recovery. She deserves extra ice cream and round-the-clock ear rub therapy. Did you step on her whittle paw…you masher🐳

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      She has the dog equivalent of Bell’s palsy. We are not sure if it is temporary or not. She has an MRI on Monday to rule out neurological problems. We are hoping for the best.

      Like

      1. Unknown's avatar
        Anonymous · · Reply

        John, on a serious note, our thoughts and prayers for a good report on Monday is our hope. We love dogs and have always had them in our family. Dogs are a special gift from God and they own our hearts. 🐳

        Like

  30. Author Jan Sikes's avatar

    Aww, there is nothing like sister love. And it is definitely hot. But it’s summer in Texas so we expect it. Hope Twiggy is better soon!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes, all you have to say is summer in Texas and it explains the whole thing. Thanks for the good wishes, Jan.

      Like

  31. Michele Lee's avatar

    Sweet dialogue and wonderful news about Twiggy.

    “don’t knock yourself out. Not much to see here.” 😄

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Michele. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  32. petespringer's avatar

    It’s nice to see that these two look after each other. That is what good friends do.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      That is for sure. There hasn’t been a lot of sisterly roughhousing since Twiggy’s issues came around, but hopefully they will get back to that.

      Liked by 1 person

  33. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

    Yes indeed, Twiggy is especially special and so is Tempeste. Thanks for this update, John. Big hugs.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Teagan. Twiggy has an MRI next Monday. The doctor is not satisfied with her development and wants to determine if there is a neurological issue at play. We shall see.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

        I know that’s beyond stressful, John. Hopefully you can manage to relax some between now and the appointment. ❤

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          We are doing the old one day at a time thing right now. Thanks, Teagan.

          Liked by 1 person

  34. Dale's avatar

    I just read your comment to Marc and am sending special extra good vibes that there is nothing and it just needs time to heal. I am awfully glad Twiggy is getting better and Tempeste is so sweet with her concern.. Sending extra love, too.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you so much, Dale 🤗

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Dale's avatar

        Always a pleasure, mon ami!

        Liked by 1 person

  35. Jacqui Murray's avatar

    Really enjoy these posts, John. Glad Twiggy is getting better. My large Lab has any number of physical and other issues. It’s OK.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      It is tougher on us than them it seems but I hate to see her not at her best.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. Staci Troilo's avatar

    Tempeste is such a sweet sister, and I’m glad to hear Twiggy is improving. The tortoise will tell you—slow and steady wins the race.

    Belly rubs to both of them. Stay cool (if you can).

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Staying cool is a big effort around here for sure. Thank you for your kind wishes, Staci. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  37. Dan Antion's avatar

    Too hot for Tempeste? Must been bad. I’m glad the girls can get cool.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes. It is only in the high nineties, but the humidity is a killer.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Dan Antion's avatar

        That’s the worst. Stay cool.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Will try. Thanks, Dan

          Liked by 1 person

  38. Jennie's avatar

    You should have given a ‘choked up’ warning, John. My goodness, these two sisters are the best of the best. Thank you!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      So true, Jennie. Maybe I’ll get a tissue emoji and put it upfront. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Jennie's avatar

        I like that idea!

        Liked by 1 person

  39. Tails Around the Ranch's avatar

    So glad to hear Twiggy is doing better. Wilson and I continue to send ‘pawsitive’ healing energy her way.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Monika. We do have another hurdle. The doctor wants to rule out any neurological problems, so she is having an MRI on Monday. We are praying that it is negative and her facial paralysis is something that will fade over time. Pawsitive healing energy is very welcome.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Tails Around the Ranch's avatar

        Sending extra doses your way.

        Liked by 1 person

  40. Resa's avatar

    Twiggy, I am so happy to hear yu are getting better.

    Tempeste, take good care and keep being the wonderful moral support you are.

    How are dad and mom holding up through all this?

    OX OX

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Mom and Dad are doing their usual good care. We have to go for an MRI tomorrow, as the doctor wants to rule out any potential issues. The results will take a while.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Resa's avatar

        Okay, take care!
        I’ll await the results.

        Liked by 1 person

  41. Jane Dalton's avatar

    The heat has been high and humid lately, and we so feel for all the dogs and animals. We’re glad to hear Twiggy is getting better, John and Tempeste is being a good sister. They both have such loving care from you and Mrs H. Our love to you all. Xxx ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jane. Love back to you and Tim. Twiggy is having an MRI today to rule out any serious problems. Not sure when we will have the results.

      Liked by 1 person

  42. Jane Dalton's avatar

    Holding you all in our hearts, John. Xx ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jane.

      Liked by 1 person

  43. dgkaye's avatar

    I’m glad to see Twiggy on the mend. Those two need aircon. 😄

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      They have a whole house of aircon. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

      1. dgkaye's avatar

        🤣😂

        Liked by 1 person

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