Christine's Chronicles - One squirrel's return from head trauma

[Legomom]

These first few posts on Christine’s thread will explain the journey she has made from November of 2008 to today, January 23, 2009. I hope that you will take the time to read her story from the beginning. Christine’s story is one of tragedy, perseverance, hope & love.

Christine & her brother, Chatter, came to another TSBer as days old pinkies in early August of 2008. He cared for them & raised them to be happy, healthy juvenile Eastern Grey Squirrels.

I became internet friends with her human when looking for help with my Southern Flying Squirrel. We would instant message regularly discussing our furry babies and their development. We shared pictures and anecdotes of our ‘children’. We developed a friendship that we maintain today.

http://inlinethumb10.webshots.com/43529/2910328820104715633S600x600Q85.jpg http://inlinethumb60.webshots.com/40443/2076937470104715633S600x600Q85.jpg

Pictures of little Christine

In October, Christine’s lower teeth (by some fluke) got caught on her lower lip. In his urgency to relieve her from her distress, her human held Christine a little too tightly. As a result, she lost the use/control of her front paws. Her human could not afford to seek out medical treatment to determine what exactly the damage was, but did allow me to put him in touch with another board member who was willing to take Christine to a vet for evaluation and return her to him after the visit.

The vet did not opt to take x-rays, so we don’t know exactly what damage was done, but concluded that Christine was well-cared for and healthy overall. She did note a slight head tilt and determined that Christine would possibly get some, but not all, use of her front paws with time. She would never be releasable.

Christine returned home and did start on the road to recovery. She was eating rodent blocks by pushing them to the corner of her cage and chowing down. She was playing with her brother and even doing some climbing. Her human was praying for a full recovery, but knew that this was not likely to happen. He was prepared to love & care for her for the rest of her life.

[Legomom]

Unfortunately, a few weeks later, Christine sustained another, more serious injury. Her human returned home and found her lying in the bottom of her cage, ‘frozen’ in fear like squirrels do. When he examined her, he noted a ‘goose-egg’ on the top of her head. Our best guess is that she took a very bad fall in her cage, landing on her head. She was right back to no use of her front paws & was now having difficulty eating anything hard. He had some steroids on hand and administered them immediately & for several days after the injury.

During this time, he had been messaging me about the accident and her progress. His fear for her future and his frustration at not being in a position to get her medical attention were apparent. After much discussion & soul searching, her human came to the conclusion that Christine needed a new home and willingly gave her to me. She would become my little girl squirrel…..forever.

My husband, son & I drove just over an hour to welcome Christine into our family. She is an absolute sweetheart. I made her a nice, quiet box to rest in upon our return home. At that time, she was eating 15 ccs of Esbilac, 4 times a day using a syringe. She could not hold her head up, could not use her front paws and could barely scoot around the box. I would have to bathe her several times a day as it was difficult for her to lift her bottom to pee and move away from the area.

http://inlinethumb31.webshots.com/40478/2058018740104715633S600x600Q85.jpg

She became a member of our family on Sunday, November 16, 2008. Tuesday morning she saw our vet. Dr. David Burba is a very sweet man. ‘If it has fur, he’ll treat it’, his vet tech told my husband. And he does…..in the mornings he has office hours. In the afternoons, he makes farm calls. He even sees an Eastern Grey Squirrel every few weeks to trim its teeth. To top things off, he lives across the street & his mother, who works with him, lives next door to his office.

Dr. Burba thoroughly examined Christine. He felt, pinched & manipulated every inch of her body. He said that she had feeling in most of her toes, that she was very healthy, had good pain response & joint movement but did, however, have a slight dent in her skull, no break. He told me that he felt she had probably fallen squarely on her head - Not only causing the swelling which was putting pressure on her brain and affecting her motor control and balance, but possibly caused a jarring of the spine in her neck. He described her lack of control over her arms as not paralysis, because she could move them, but paresis. He gave her an injection of a long-acting steroid to reduce the swelling on her head, an injection of lasix to help her body get rid of the fluid that was built up on her head and gave me some liquid metacam for her pain. On the advice of another TSB member, I also purchased Vetri-DMG (http://www.squirrelsandmore.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&product_id=1820). I truly believe that it has been a HUGE addition to her recovery.

We would see the vet once a week for the first 3 weeks of her life her with our family. At our next visit, there was reduced swelling on her head and better balance. She received another steroid injection that day. He also suggested we try a little physical therapy to help Christine’s flexibility and muscle strength. So, my mom & I jumped right in. After each of her feedings, we would manipulate either her front or rear paws. Little by little, Christine started to pull her paws back from us. She began to scoot herself around her box. We were seeing improvements, little though they were, every day.

Getting some sun!
http://inlinethumb31.webshots.com/15966/2239748600104715633S600x600Q85.jpg

Snuggling with Grandma after lunch & exercises. :)
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[Legomom]

Those first few weeks took a lot of time and patience……for Christine who accepted everyone in my family as if she had known them her whole life; for my mother, a disabled LPN, who taught me about caring for and loving animals and helped me to care for Christine; for my husband, who tolerates (but, doesn’t always understand) and supports my need to help anyone (and animal) that needs love & attention; for my son, who saw Christine’s condition, knew that she would take up a good part of my time and loved her completely from the beginning; and, for me, the ‘natural care-giver’ who ached every time I saw Christine struggle to move a few inches in her box without rolling onto her side because she couldn’t use her paws and would lose her balance regularly.

Resting in the sunshine.....ahhhh. :Love_Icon
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After about a month in my care, Christine was able to move around her box more and more. When I would take her out to sit in the sun in the afternoons, she would sit with me and nibble on different fruits and veggies that I held for her since she could not do it on her own. Her jaw strength was increasing almost daily. This gave me a flash of inspiration & invention. I went out and bought a long, threaded metal rod & some nuts for each end. I sat in my kitchen and cut up chunks of veggies that night. I took my drill and drilled holes into nuts, veggies & rodent blocks. I drilled a hole in each end of Christine’s box and, ‘ta da’, Christine’s Kabob was born! She now had her own smorgasbord. She could nibble at a variety of foods at her whim instead of waiting for me or my mother to feed her the formula. We saw a major boost in her morale almost immediately. She seemed friskier with her new-found independence. It was awesome to behold!

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The following weeks saw improvements regularly. She was able to direct her paws a little better and hop around her box. She wasn’t losing her balance near as often as she had been. She was a squirrel doing what squirrels do….crawling around, nibbling at fingers, grooming her momma, etc. She was adjusting and learning and mastering the skills and abilities she had available to her.

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[Legomom]

Two weeks ago, Christine graduated from a Sterlite storage drawer to a 36” Rabbit cage. We have furnished it with her kabob, a ramp for climbing with a ‘hidey-hole’ underneath (built by my dear hubby, Jay), a water bottle, an OTT-Lite bulb, a very small bowl of ‘Nut n Berry’ seed mix & a new tree branch every few days for her to nibble on. Of course her frog, given to her by ‘Grandma’, my mom, is in there, too. I’ve offered her other little snuggy toys, but she kicks them out of her hole….she loves her froggy! :Love_Icon

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Also within the last two weeks, she has had even more control over her paws….I came in to give her the next feeding and find that she has a critter scone between her paws on the floor of her cage!! She was holding it still to eat it!! I can’t tell you how exciting it was. She is awesome!! :wott

http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/39124/2966072110104715633S500x500Q85.jpg


Within the last week, Christine has switched from the syringe to a bowl. She wants nothing to do with having that syringe shoved in her mouth!! She has become Little Miss Independent! She hops around her cage like a rabbit, climbs her ramp and has even climbed the front of the cage, but only a time or two…..so far. :D

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/44725/2117373750104715633S425x425Q85.jpg

I don’t think Christine will ever be able to sit up and hold her food like our outside squirrels, but I’m not giving up on a miracle either. My 12 y/o son has had cancer twice, so I know miracles happen!! I am sharing my heart, my home & my life with two of them. :Love_Icon

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[Legomom]

I’ve shared some pictures with you, (And, I will be adding many more – trust me!) but to really see what a difference these last two months have made, I am including two videos. The first was taken within a week of Christine becoming a member of our family.

It is a heart-wrenching video, even if it is only a minute long. If you are a very tender-hearted person, you will probably want to skip it. It has brought me & others to tears.


http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/th_PB210342.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/?action=view&current=PB210342.flv)


This 2nd one was taken just two weeks ago. She has made an amazing recovery to date. She is using her paws more and more. She has even been trying to sit up, but still has a few issues with balance. She sits for about a second or two, and then rolls to her side. But, with the great strides that she has made so far, I wouldn’t be surprised if she masters it one of these days! :)

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/th_P1110109.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/?action=view&current=P1110109.flv)

:thankyou Thank you for becoming a part of our lives! Stay tuned! :wave123

[Bravo]

What a story... I've got a lump in my throat.

It never ceases to amaze me to see the fierce will to survive that nature gives all wild animals. And how given the slightest chance, the severest injury is overcome, even forgotten. :grouphug

Thank you for this good news.

[gs1]

wow, what a story. Christine is now starting to use her hands too.

Love the kebab idea.

looking at her inside the cage, she's got no chance of getting her head stuck inside one of those grids? (my friends' rabbit did that once, dislocated his back) sorry to rain on the parade but had to say that in case.

am so amazed that she's climbing again please not so high that she falls again.

she's gone through so much i'd just like to wrap her in cotton wool and watch her 24/7.

i just can't believe all that she's gone through and she's so, so sweet.

You're unbelievable too - i can't imagine anyone giving her more care than you have. I can imagine that your whole life has wrapped itself around christine. And your son, so sweet, gentle and considerate - just a beautiful photograph.

I'm so saddened to hear that your son (and your family togeather )have gone through cancer twice already (and beat it!!! ) but that's such an awful road to travel down.

all the best... can't wait to hear more about christine - i had followed her story before but this is much nicer.

:thankyou

[island rehabber]

legomom0701, there are no words to express my amazement and admiration of you for the work you've done with precious Christine. :bowdown I think your radiating love and incredibly positive, optimistic energy is what brought her around. You're a true healer....and look at that adorable son of yours......God sends you his toughest cases, because you're that good. :grouphug :bowdown :grouphug

[gs1]

legomom0701, there are no words to express my amazement and admiration of you for the work you've done with precious Christine. :bowdown I think your radiating love and incredibly positive, optimistic energy is what brought her around. You're a true healer....and look at that adorable son of yours......God sends you his toughest cases, because you're that good. :grouphug :bowdown :grouphug


amen. And coming from a rehabber and someone who actually knows what it's like to have a house squirrel (GB) ... that's saying something.

[Cleo_13]

What a wonderful story, with such a happy ending. Christine has been through so much, and sure is lucky to have found you. :bowdown :bowdown Thank you for working so hard to help her.

[Tomo]

You are the miracle worker!! :Love_Icon

[atlantasquirrelgirl]

What a difference you have made in this squirrel's life.

[Giftee's Mom]

Legomom, that's one of the most moving and beautiful stories I've ever read. That's a fulltime job, what you are doing for that little squirrel. You, like me and others on this Board, truly are a caregiver, nurturer, life-lover and rescuer of the downtrodden. What commitment and devotion you and your entire family have to these babies. And they will always be our babies, won't they? Living pampered lives to the best of our abilities, that's the goal.

I say again, Legomom, you rock.

[FallensMommie]

LM....you are a very loving squammy :Love_Icon Christine is so precious and she is blessed to have a mommy like you. Your son and hubby are also wonderful with her, she has found a beautiful home within your family! She has truly come a long way :grouphug

[Mountain Mama]

:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown

What love and patience you have. May God bless you richly for your dedication to sweet Christine.

[Legomom]

:wave123 Hi, everybody! I hope you all had a great Valentine's Day. We are all doing pretty well down here. Christine's eye is still squinty, but the doc said that animal eyes are some of the slowest to heal. It is healing, so keep those prayers coming!

Otherwise, my girl is doing great!! I can't even put it to words how well she's doing, so I'll let some videos & pictures do the talking for me!

*The first two are videos. Click on the image to see the video.*

She had a little excursion outside on Valentine's Day. :Love_Icon
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090214/133754.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#date/2009-02-14/13:37:54)

Ever seen a squirrel eat a blueberry in a minute....WITHOUT USING THEIR PAWS?? :D
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090213/201812.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#date/2009-02-13/20:18:12)

Or a grown man with a squirrel on a leash? :)
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090214/140033.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#albums/Christine/2009-02-14/14:00:33)

And, the most beautiful girl in clover!! :grouphug
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090214/133808.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#albums/Christine/2009-02-14/13:38:08)

She's also been cracking almonds over the last few days!! :multi
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090215/220515.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#albums/Christine/2009-02-15/22:05:15)

And, she likes my squirrel blocks!!!! :wahoo (Thanks, 4skwerls, for all of your help!!)
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090212/210216.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#albums/Christine/2009-02-12/21:02:16)

[Bravo]

Amazing... she's making so much progress, so quickly. :thumbsup

[MrBooMY]

*Wipes tear from eyes* It's just amazing how far she has come. I miss her, but I'm glad she's doing so well in your care. Keep up the good work.

[Legomom]

Christine yelled at me today!! :multi :multi :multi

Sounds so crazy to be so excited over getting yelled at by a 3/4 lb. bundle of fuzz, but you've got to remember.....other than a few squeaks when I hold her to put her eye ointment in, this is THE MOST QUIET SQ IN THE WORLD!

So, why did she yell at me? Because, I had given her a pecan half and opened the door to her cage a little bit later while she was eating it.....I was a threat to her food!! :multi :multi It was so cute & totally 'normal' squirrel behavior that I had to take a short video! (No fingers were injured in the making of this clip!)

* Click the picture to see the video *
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090219/114902.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#date/2009-02-19/11:49:02)

[Legomom]

We're on page two now & I want to make sure everybody hears that 'sweet music'!! :)

Christine yelled at me today!! :multi :multi :multi

Sounds so crazy to be so excited over getting yelled at by a 3/4 lb. bundle of fuzz, but you've got to remember.....other than a few squeaks when I hold her to put her eye ointment in, this is THE MOST QUIET SQ IN THE WORLD!

So, why did she yell at me? Because, I had given her a pecan half and opened the door to her cage a little bit later while she was eating it.....I was a threat to her food!! :multi :multi It was so cute & totally 'normal' squirrel behavior that I had to take a short video! (No fingers were injured in the making of this clip!)

* Click the picture to see the video *
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090219/114902.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#date/2009-02-19/11:49:02)[/QUOTE]

[Anne]

Oh my! That's her pecan, Momma-back off:D What a adorable girl, I can hardly wait to meet her in person. Bless her little eye, I hope it is all better soon. Christine has been through so much in her short life.
Sending you and yours prayers,:grouphug :grouphug

[island rehabber]

She must be feeling so much better -- she's getting downright squirrelly. Love you, Christine! :grouphug

[JLM27]

Sweet baby! Sticking up for herself! That's progress! :grouphug for Christine.

[Jackie in Tampa]

Love you Christine...hopefully see and kiss you today...tell Dr.L hello from your Auntie J!
See you later Shannon...be careful!:grouphug

[wheezer]

I just went through this whole thread. I know I have seen bits and pieces of Christines progress but to read the whole story is an amazing adventure.:wott
I laughed and cried and felt the love for this little one:Love_Icon
Blessings to you and your whole family:bowdown :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug and to that wonderful vet as well:bowdown :thumbsup

[Jackie in Tampa]

small update...Heard from Legosmom, Christine is in opthamology, seeing Dr.Miller an eye specialist!....:dono
sending good vibes to Christine :grouphug

[island rehabber]

small update...Heard from Legosmom, Christine is in opthamology, seeing Dr.Miller an eye specialist!....:dono
sending good vibes to Christine :grouphug

OMG -- my NRBF's eye doctor is also Dr Miller. Hope that's a good omen! :D
Prayers & good energies to our girl Christine.

[Jackie in Tampa]

:thumbsup you've got to be kidding...how cool is that!:D
Sending both 'boo boo eyes' good vibes!:grouphug
Dr.Miller and Dr.Miller!OMG -- my NRBF's eye doctor is also Dr Miller. Hope that's a good omen! :D
Prayers & good energies to our girl Christine.

[Legomom]

Christine & I started with wake up at 8 am & hit the road to Tampa at about 10 am. We arrived in Tampa at 12:30 pm....grabbed some lunch & off to the vet. Spent 3 hours there, then 2 hours yakking with Jackie. Headed home at 8 pm & got here at 10:30 pm. Settled my girl in, scarffed down some pizza & her I am. Thanks for being so patient, everyone.

Christine has a corneal ulcer & entropion (rolling in of the lower eye lid). It is possible that the entropion is secondary to the ulcer that was a result of the scratch 3 weeks ago OR the initial cause of the ulcer, possibly due to congential entropion or nerve issues from her head trauma several months ago. Basically, her lower eye lid was rolled toward her eye & the fur was scratching her eye constantly.

We were greeted by the vet tech, Amy, who explained how things work & got a history from me. Next was Dr. Yeager....wonderful ladies, both of them. Dr. Y looked Christine over carefully, watched her walk & declared her generally healthy & in great shape given her history. She then explained that Christine would get a consult with Dr. Miller. I was not in the room for that exam, but Dr. Yeager was.

The opthamologist sedated her with a valium-type injection to be able to look closely in the eye. Once he determined the problem, she was given a little happy gas to knock her out. While she was sedated, the doctor rolled her eyelid outward and put two stitches in place to keep it out of the eye. It doesn't look real pretty, because the eye is still cloudy, but she's finally opening her eye.

We go back for a follow up visit next Friday. The opth. will determine if we can take the stitches out (this is the plan) or if they need to stay in a little while longer to allow the eye to completely heal. Almost forgot, back to Vetropolycin ointment 3x/day for another week....yippee. :(

I'll post a bit more tomorrow & a few pics. Pray that Christine continues to be my good little girl & leaves her stitches alone....I don't know how to make an E-collar for a squirrel! LOL!

Thanks, everyone.....you're the best. :grouphug

[Bravo]

Amazing... and so moving. :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

She is such a sweet little girl....:poke Fred thought she was his, and you know what he says about me!:rotfl
I am so glad that they were able to see the real problem, let's hope that the stitches work as they're meant to.
I know she hates the gooey stuff, fingers crossed, not much longer!
Sleep tight Christine:grouphug
Kisses to all of you!

[island rehabber]

They sound like wonderful vets & techs over there :bowdown. Prayers and healing energies coming to sweet Christine for her eye to be all better. NRBF Paul sends extra special 'been there' good vibes to her, too! (I still have to put 3 kinds of drops and one kind of goopy stuff in his eye about 8 times a day. I don't think he's any more cooperative than Christine is......:osnap :tilt )

[Legomom]

IR, when you & NRBF make it down here, I promise that we will get a pic of our two NRs together! :)

Christine has her eye open this morning. She's feeling good & getting around very well. :multi

Got errands to run, but I'll be back later with more about yesterday & pictures!

Thanks, guys! :grouphug

[Tomo]

What great news! What a worthwhile trip. She must be feeling less pain and the eye is starting to heal with her new medicine. The doctor sounds wonderful!! Christine is a very brave little girl! :grouphug :Love_Icon

[JLM27]

Having fur in your eye all the time! Ouch! That sounds painful. Like have a lash in your eye. Brave Christine! That little girl has had to deal with so much. What a good Mommie you are to take such good care of her! Hugs for both of you.:grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

:wahoo :wahoo :wahoo
Her eye is open..great news.
Had to come ck before passing out!
Just wanna hug all of you...uuuummmm!:grouphug

[gs1]

wow ... so glad ... what a trooper!!!:Love_Icon

[4skwerlz]

Wonderful news! What a relief to finally know what it is....and to have such good vets to treat it. :thumbsup

(IR, don't tell me Paul is grrring at you when you put the ointment in his eye.....:nono Maybe you should give him the "aht aht aht" and a tiny swat.:D )

[Legomom]

Blueberries are a nice reward for putting up with eye ointment! Christine loves them! :jump

[island rehabber]

(IR, don't tell me Paul is grrring at you when you put the ointment in his eye.....:nono Maybe you should give him the "aht aht aht" and a tiny swat. )

Oh yes he is! And squinting and blinking at the wrong times....and telling me I didn't "get it in" when of course I did. I'm gonna try the 'aht aht' next time :D.

[Legomom]

:rotfl :rotfl :rotfl Let me know how that works out for you, IR!!! :rotfl :rotfl

Here's the full scoop on our vet visit Friday with pictures:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15519

I hope everyone has a nice, relaxing Sunday ahead of them. :grouphug

[Legomom]

Well, Miss Christine has been doing very well lately...except, the last of the two stitches in her eye came out the other day!! :osnap
But, I didn't stress & have been watching it very closely for any changes. I did notice today that it was a little watery, but our check up in Tampa is on Friday,
so I'll just wait to see what they have to say then.
She'll see Dr. Lightfoot, vet, and Dr. Miller, eye doc, Friday at 2:30 pm ET.

She & I got a little sun time the other day & she was loving it!! Here's a video that I took. It's a little wobbly, silly girl kept moving around on me!
But, it's so awesome to see how far she has come over the last 3 months. :Love_Icon

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090303/150602.jpg (http://www.dropshots.com/legomom0701#date/2009-03-03/15:06:02) Click the pic to see the video!

Thanks for continuing to check in on my little girl. Keep those prayers coming! :grouphug

:Love_Icon I love the way she curly-cues her tail!! :Love_Icon

[Legomom]

Well, now that my sweetie got the all clear on her eye, :wott I want to tell you about our visit with Jackie last night. :grouphug
We were both wiped out, but had a great time just relaxing, chatting and visiting with the various squirrels around us
....and an occasional Snickerdoodle (her bunny) sighting. :D

Well, first here are a few pics of Christine...as soon as we arrived at FVS (45 mins early), I let Christine crawl just a bit in the truck to stretch her legs out.
I offered her water, but she wasn't interested, so I offered her a strawberry. (One of her favorite treats!) She practically inhaled it! :rotfl

Mmmmm, yummy!
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/P3060005.jpg

Christine took a little snooze while we waited for Dr. Yeager to see us.

I'm so pretty in pink! :Love_Icon
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/P3060007.jpg

After the 'All is clear' from Dr. Yeager & Dr. Miller (eye doc), it was off to visit Aunt Jackie & friends! :multi :multi

After a little running around in Aunt Jackie's house, she let Christine hang out in Cousin Spice's inside cage.

I was having a blast playing in all of the fleece & newspaper shreds....moving so fast, playing 'Hide & Seek'. Momma couldn't get a picture of me! :tilt
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060027.jpg

I also got to visit some of Jackie's sweeties....

Sarah...eating a pecan half with one paw & she didn't growl at me! :Love_Icon
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060015.jpg

Palmer & George were having blueberries...George was being a shy boy (hiding in his nest box)...so cute, these two. Here's Palmer!
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060020.jpg

No visit is complete with saying 'Hi' to the Rockmonster! He only growled at me this time...no tattoos! :wott (Of course, my fingers were not near him to get to! :rotfl )
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060022.jpg

A little while later, Jackie brought Rocky out for some lovins & scratchins! :Love_Icon That didn't last too long...he was in the mood to visit Sarah, not Momma. :shakehead
So, off he went to climb on top of her cage. After hanging over the top edge to see Sarah from a few different positions, he realized that I was still there.
He decided that he'd tell me what he thought of me!
Grrrr! Grrrr! Grrrr! :rotfl He's 3 feet ABOVE me & still giving me crap! :sanp3 (That's ok, Rocky! I love you, too! :Love_Icon )
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060023-1.jpg

Pretty little Sarah, stretched out on her branch trying to relax & ignore the Monster on top of her cage! :rotfl
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/JIT/P3060025.jpg

Christine had so much fun running around at Aunt Jackie's! This will definitely not be the last time we're in Tampa!!
Keep Spice's cage handy, Jackie, and :thankyou again, for letting us hang out!

Momma had fun trying to keep up with me!!
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/th_P3060010.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/?action=view&current=P3060010.flv)


My little girl is doing great!! Using BOTH of her paws to get around and hopping like a bunny when she really wants to move! :jump
:thankyou TSB for all of your love & support! :Love_Icon

Until next time....
http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/11/11_7_102.gif

[island rehabber]

aaak, what a wonderful thread.....:Love_Icon:Love_Icon:Love_Icon :grouphug:grouphug

[Legomom]

Guess what we were doing on Sunday?

http://inlinethumb16.webshots.com/41423/2186641270104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Yep!!! Construction of Christine's Condo has begun!! :wott
http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/42090/2262106270104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Things were going along pretty good until....
http://inlinethumb27.webshots.com/30298/2569989290104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

The inspector showed up & we didn't have a permit!! :osnap
You know what you have to do then???
http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/41564/2043366780104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

A little 'gift' to inspector Sophie... ;)
http://inlinethumb57.webshots.com/44408/2419654510104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

...and we were all set to finish phase one of construction!! :thumbsup
http://inlinethumb37.webshots.com/45028/2242258090104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

[Jackie in Tampa]

Jay, hurry...it's looking great and I can't wait for you to finish!:hyper
We loved the visit! I am so glad you didn't show TSB my hairdo!;) cause it was scarey! :eek:
see ya soon! cage is great! :bowdown

[Pointy Tale]

Such good news on Christine. The new Condo looks great.

[gs1]

love to watch her run around.

will be an amazing condo.:thumbsup

bribes to sophie.:D

(sarah has a very pretty cage!!)

:thumbsup

[Charles Chuckles]

Wow you had to get a permit for that, what the:thinking did a neighbor say something, could you tell them you are making a book case for a friend....I hate bloody inspectors...Well how did it turn out:dono
Just what we need more government:overkill

[digiandchipper]

:baghead I am the lowest of pond scum for not posting here sooner! Forgive me, sweet Christine. When I saw the video of the darling girl RUNNING around, I just cried (happy, happy, happy tears!)....What a wonderful, joyful sight!!!!

[Ardilla]

I wish I could go visit all you Florida people!

It looks like Christine is doing incredibly well. I'm so happy for her!

Nice cage...how's the progress on it?

[Mookie's Mom]

What an amazing story of hope and love and perseverence. You are truly a miracle worker :bowdown :bowdown Christine has come a long way, how heart warming. This cage looks awesome! I am full of admiration for you Legomom0701

[Legomom]

:nono CC - Don't you go picking on my Sophie squirrel!! She has to make a living, just like the rest of us! :rotfl
:Love_Icon Digi - I love you & know that life has been crazy for you lately!! :thankyou for stopping by to see 'our' little girl!
:) Ardilla, if you lived closer we could start our own flyer colony!! ;) And, we'd never get anything done! :rofl4
:thankyou MM for your kind words. Christine is amazing! :Love_Icon

Well, construction has been on-going over the weekend. Lots of little bits of wood & fine details to be had from friends!
(Thanks, Philo!) And, another visit from Sophie, our building inspector.
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090313/111333.jpg

She seems pretty satisfied with the stability of the structure.
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090313/114934.jpg

Of course, it didn't hurt anything that I brought her some lunch!! :jump
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090313/115119.jpg

I also decided on staining with color. I found a water-based, tintable stain! :wahoo
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090313/155328.jpg

It has been stained & clear-coated (also water-based). I am leaving it on the porch to dry & air our for several days before the next step.
Wire & doors!! Gotta buy more fleece!! :sanp3 I'm so excited!! :hyper Now, if I can just find the right-sized table for it, I'll be in business!! Stay tuned!! :D

[Ardilla]

Nice color! What's the product info?

[Legomom]

This is what I used for stain: (If you go to the color guide, I used Baltic Green.)
http://www.minwax.com/products/wood_stains/water_based_wood_stain.html#Colors

and finish:
http://www.minwax.com/products/water_based_clear_protective_finishes/polycrylic_protective_finish.html

[Ardilla]

Ah!!! I've been looking at those stains for years--I want to do my front door blue. I like Island Water, Deep Ocean, and Agean.

*removed pic*

Sorry for the threadjack. :)

So was the stain easy to apply?

See? Back on topic. ;)

[Legomom]

I almost got Island Blue for her cage! We are scary!! :rotfl :rotfl

Very easy to apply. Just be sure to test on a sample first.
They recommend leaving it on no longer than 3 minutes. Of course,
I've only stained one or two other things before & don't like to read
directions, so I did my test piece, without wiping off the stain & let
it sit overnight. Looked just like I'd painted it! Removing the stain
is important to the look! ;)

JMO...I think Agean would look awesome on your front door! :thumbsup

[Ardilla]

I just can't decide on a color. I'd kind of like the Deep Ocean because I like cobalt and I have those large cobalt & white pots in the entry. I want it to POP. (I don't mean the POP ceremony flyers do). ;)

[Ardilla]

And that is too funny that you didn't wipe it off! LOL

[Legomom]

I just can't decide on a color. I'd kind of like the Deep Ocean because I like cobalt and I have those large cobalt & white pots in the entry. I want it to POP. (I don't mean the POP ceremony flyers do). ;)

:rotfl :rotfl :rotfl There's going to be plenty of POPping going on at your place soon enough!! :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl

Seriously, if you want attention on the door, go with Deep Ocean. That will POP! :D

[Charles Chuckles]

Have a great St. Paddy's Day:D :Sham

[chickoo]

hi legomom, hi christine,

i havent posted here before, but i have been keenly following christine's progress.......my husband is a neurologist (the human variety), and "he" nearly cried when he saw christine's initial videos.......im so delighted to see her moving around so nicely on all fours......thanks for the video!!!......and hugs to little christine.......she's a real fighter.

[Loopy Squirrel]

Shanon,

I had a great time yesterday meeting you & Christine. She so reminds of Loopy. She is a fighter. You have done a wonderful job with her.

[Sarabi]

Me too Shannon, I am so very glad she is with you:Love_Icon She is really one special little girl, even more in person. Thanks so much for bringing and sharing her.

[Jackie in Tampa]

IR here. I had the privelege of meeting Christine and her wonderful mom Shanon yesterday and it was one of the highlights of the special weekend at Jackie's in Tampa. Christine looks amazing.....as she explored Jackie's dining room she looked SO normal and SO happy and so not like the squirrel in that first heartbreaking video that it just made my throat swell up and tears pour down. She is truly the most beautiful success story and I'm honored to know her and her blessed mom Shanon. :grouphug :grouphug

[wheezer]

It was so special to see Little Christine at th SB Party thread:Love_Icon

As I said there, I must have missed the part where she was coming too, I think I would have figured out a way to fly from here (Oregon) just to get a chance to see that beautiful squirrel (inside and out, and her MOM of course!):tilt

[MrBooMY]

It still amazes me how far Christine has come since I sent her home with you. I just didn't have the means to get her to a vet. It makes tears well up when I watch the videos and see how well she moves. I just hope that she has a long and healthy life with you and continues to thrive.

[Nancy in New York]

IR here. I had the privelege of meeting Christine and her wonderful mom Shanon yesterday and it was one of the highlights of the special weekend at Jackie's in Tampa. Christine looks amazing.....as she explored Jackie's dining room she looked SO normal and SO happy and so not like the squirrel in that first heartbreaking video that it just made my throat swell up and tears pour down. She is truly the most beautiful success story and I'm honored to know her and her blessed mom Shanon. :grouphug :grouphug

Awe, that's great that you got to meet her,sounds like a special little girl...

[FallensMommie]

Hi Shanon....I'm am so glad you and Christine had a lovely time this weekend. Rachel and I were talking today about sweet Christine and how beautiful and pretty she was...such a doll! :Love_Icon

Wish I could have joined everybody and seen you and Christine and a few others I had met before! Just living the good time through pictures :(

[Jackie in Tampa]

Your Auntie J misses you!:grouphug

[Legomom]

It was definitely a labor of love for all involved and not just a wee bit of frustration over trying to find something just the right height/size for it to sit upon, but, finally Christine's Condo is done!!!! :jump

http://inlinethumb40.webshots.com/43239/2045656810104715633S500x500Q85.jpghttp://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/8702/2951467760104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Top floor
http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/43572/2861410250104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Middle floor
http://inlinethumb08.webshots.com/43143/2696909820104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Ground floor
http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/41812/2074231330104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

It was a lot of work, sweat & fun! Stick around & see what Christine thinks of it! More pics shortly.....

[Legomom]

http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/38932/2272323940104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Upon moving in, Christine explored the main floor....
http://inlinethumb59.webshots.com/45114/2596321650104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

...and paused for an afternoon snack.
http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/27252/2042857330104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

It took several attempts, but she was negotiating the ramps in no time!!
http://inlinethumb32.webshots.com/44895/2039333020104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Soon, she found the second floor already had an inhabitant! :sanp3
http://inlinethumb16.webshots.com/21007/2674452080104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

But, ain't no silly gator gonna stop my girl from eating her nut!
http://inlinethumb22.webshots.com/10261/2112092730104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

And, if that gator eats her nut??? Well, she's just gonna go get it back! :crazy
http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/42653/2583247660104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

And, eat it! :D
http://inlinethumb25.webshots.com/26456/2550502910104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

I'm still waiting to see where she makes her nest for the night, but I think I've definitely got one happy girl squirrel today! :Love_Icon

[Tomo]

That truly is one awesome condo! You can see Christine just loves it. I love the photo of her on the ramp and the one of her in the alligator's mouth! Just priceless. Big Hugs and Big Kisses to Sweet Little Christine!! :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Minnie's Mom]

Shanon, Christine's new Condo is :thumbsup fantastic and I know she is going to love it. :Love_Icon I know the labor of Love that was put into it and she will know it to.:D

:thumbsup Great Job and it will be nice to see where she makes her nest. Minnie is loving her new home and it finding new places to hide things every day.:wott

:grouphug Give Christine Big Hugs from Auntie Lola and Minnie. :grouphug

PS: The Alligator is to cute and it was my class mascot in High School.

[Loopy Squirrel]

It's wonderful to see her getting around so well. I am glad she is so happy in her new condo. Oliver has a two story cage and he is so funny sometimes when he gets downstairs and can't figure out how he got there. It takes a few attempts for him to remember how to get back upstairs.

[4skwerlz]

Beautiful condo! You can just tell Christine loves it already. Kisses for that sweet girl.:Love_Icon

[Ardilla]

That is SO COOL! :thumbsup Love the way it came out, and the gatoor is hilarious. :D Looks like she's enjoying it.

[Lady Squirrelly]

Great condo. I see hubby got to build something again. :D

Christine is amazing.

It was good to see you again.


A big hello to you all.

[Legomom]

:thankyou for all of the compliments on Christine's Condo. We put a lot of thought into what would work for our sweet girl & it thrills me to no end just to see her moving around so well. :Love_Icon

I think Christine just wore herself out with all of her exploring yesterday afternoon. I checked on her at about 9 pm & she was sitting on the main floor, tailed curled around her body & eyes half closed. So, I opened the cage & gave her a little lovin, then put her up on the top floor inside of her ramp/nest & didn't see her for the rest of the night! She's been exploring a little more this morning. :D

She really enjoyed the gator. She was climbing on top of it quite bit. I told hubby that we had a gator wrastlin' match in our living room!! :crazy Here's a link to the gator: http://www.ferret.com/item/marshall-hide-n-sleep-alligator/. Marshall also makes a Frog Leisure Lodge (http://www.ferret.com/item/marshall-fleece-leisure-lodge-for-ferrets/)& a Fish Hide-n-Sleep (http://www.ferret.com/item/marshall-plush-hide-n-sleep-for-ferrets/). I'm thinking about getting her the frog, too.

I'd like to get her some other toys that would engage her, but I'm just not sure what. Anyone have suggestions? What are your sqs favorite cage toys?

[Charles Chuckles]

WOW that is so great what a beautiful job:thumbsup also my favorite color:D Look how good she is doing and she looks so happy, wonderful job guys:jump Have a great day:D

[Loopy Squirrel]

Sophie loves bells. She has a really big hanging bell just outside her cube and she rings it all the time. Oliver loves anything that he can hang from. He loves the big wooden bird toys. I have to hang it extra low so he can reach it. He also loves his log that he climbs through and on top of.

[Legomom]

I've noticed that Christine likes bells a lot, too. There's a small one that hangs inside of the gator & she's been ringing it like crazy today!! :thumbsup
I also hang her toys pretty low, so she doesn't have to do too much to get to them.

What's Oliver's log look like? Is it something you bought or found in the woods? Christine loves to climb on top of the gator also.

[Loopy Squirrel]

Someone actually donated it along w/ a baby squirrel. I have seen them at pet supermarket, etc.. It's in the hampster section. If you have a Petsmart they may have it as well. I have found that even though they are more expensive sometimes they have more stuff to choose from. It is just a hollow log w/ three openings (sides & top) and he loves it.

[Buddy'sMom]

I guess I'm late to Christine's Housewarming Party .... it came out GREAT! :bowdown :bowdown to the designers and builders and furnishers :bowdown :bowdown I like that color blue, too. :thumbsup

It certainly looks like Christine is enjoying herself in it, and took to her new space pretty quickly (that's our mellow little girl :) ). Looked to me like the gator would become the new nest ...... decisions, decisions, decisions ......

[And I am MOST thrilled that Christine is now capable of being in a three-story habitat --- WOW! THREE STORIES!! :alright.gif :alright.gif Christine!! :alright.gif :alright.gif ]

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[gs1]

:Love_Icon hello christine!!!:Love_Icon

[island rehabber]

:wave123Christine baby girl! Hope you're enjoying your beautiful new condo today :grouphug

[Mookie's Mom]

I am so amazed at how far your little Christine has come since that heartbreaking video! I love her condo and I'm sure she loves it too and loves her wonderful mom!!:bowdown

[NewMommy]

What a great condo. I love the gator pic with her in it. She's a lucky squirrel to have you!!

[Squirrellie]

She looks so beautiful and happy:thumbsup ! And her condo is amazing, I love the pic of her sitting inside that gator :D :D

[Legomom]

Hi, everyone! Christine is loving her new space! She's already tatooed the wood on each level! I think it's safe to say that water-based stains & clear coatings are squirrel safe! :thumbsup

She has been sleeping in her ramp nest most nights, but last night was absolutely hilarious! She had been climbing all over her gator & finally just tuckered herself out. :shakehead
I found her asleep with her body half under the gator!! I opened the door to cover her & she opted to sleep inside the gator. Such a cute, sweet girl I have!! :Love_Icon
Can't wait to get her the Frog & the Fish. I've decided she needs both...just waiting for the tax return!! :multi :multi

[Ardilla]

Precious!!!!:Love_Icon

[Buddy'sMom]

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon What a sweetheart! Christine is really looking terrific these days! :thumbsup

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

She is so sweet and deserves her new condo...I know she loves it!
Shanon, you have done great job providing her with all the luxuries that a special sq needs!:thumbsup Jay too!:D Ya'll are the perfect sq parents!
BTW, she looks very content and so much better than the first time I ever saw her. It really is amazing.
I do love her in the gator! Sqs are so darn cute!
:wave123 hello C and Teddy!

[digiandchipper]

Yep, she definitely deserves the fish and whatever else they have!:D

[Legomom]

Hi, everyone! I was playing with my humans yesterday & they were a lot of fun!!! Mom took pictures & video to share with all of you!!!
Wait until you see me move!!! I feel good!! See you soon!!! http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/squirrel0b.gif


Ha! You can't catch me!

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/44688/2263286910104715633S500x500Q85.jpg


Ok, you can catch me for a minute, but just so I can clean my face!

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/43509/2023953040104715633S500x500Q85.jpg


Do you think you could slip a few pecans in my cage when mom's not looking?

http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/43868/2749601170104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Ahhh! Don't stop with the rubbing!!
http://inlinethumb55.webshots.com/23286/2775668790104715633S500x500Q85.jpg

Fast as fast can be! You'll never catch me!
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/th_P4140028.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/?action=view&current=P4140028.flv)

[NewMommy]

It does my heart good to see Christine looking so well and running around. Good job with her!!!

[Ardilla]

WOW! The progress she's made is amazing, and a real testament to your dedication.

[Mookie's Mom]

Wow! Her story is such a heartwarming success!! I love seeing her get around so well!! She is a very lucky little girl to have you! :thumbsup

[gs1]

:thumbsup every time i see her using those sweet little arms i'm amazed.

it's so wonderful to see her running around and enjoying herself, i've seen her in other videos but part of my mind is still saying that's impossible.:D

I love the cuddle photos ....:grouphug "don't stop with the rubbing" so cute...:thumbsup

[Mountain Mama]

What a beautiful baby. God bless you for working so hard to help her recover. You have a special place in Heaven...

[rippie-n-lilgirlsmom]

I love this little girl!:D And what a good Mom she has.

[Tomo]

What joy to see Christine moving around so quickly. Wonderful photographs! Both children are very photogenic! :grouphug

[AEMJ]

That is one beautiful and determined little girl. With a Great mommy!!

[Bravo]

So good to read that she's on her way up and enjoying life. :thumbsup

[FLUFFYTAILNUT]

Shanon,:wave123

What a little CUTIE pie...Chrstine...Awwww...
I feel so,fortunate to have held her...and met her in person!


http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/th_P4140028.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/little%20girl/?action=view&current=P4140028.flv)

Just love the Pedicure action...sniff...sniff....:D
Cant wait to see her again...some day..:poke :D

She is so...happy...look at her...skippen and hopping...HAPPY girl!
Thank YOU...for sharing!
Rachel n Bean:grouphug :wave123

[Buddy'sMom]

:crazy Christine is so FAST !!! :crazy It's wonderful that her world is so big now -- our little sweetheart can explore EVERYwhere! :jump :jump :jump

[JLM27]

Aww. Sweet little girl. So glad to see she is so happy and doing so well. You guys are great!

[4skwerlz]

Look at Christine go! :thumbsup You can just tell how happy she is to be running around like a squirrelie should. I love the way your son handles her--so gentle. Bless your hearts.:Love_Icon

[Loopy Squirrel]

It is so wonderful to see her running and smelling everything like a squirrel.

[Anne]

:grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :grouphug Christine, Colin, and Shannon:thumbsup :thumbsup :crazy

[digiandchipper]

:wave123 Hey Shanon! I do believe it's time for some new pics:poke :D
Thanks for the video, Fluffy:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup

[Legomom]

:poke I've been out of town....you'll see some soon, lady!!!

Oh, and not to be petty, but the video was mine, digi! Fluffy just re-posted it on the new page....go back & see the pics before the video. Just a few days old. (Thanks for re-posting, Fluffy!! ;) )

[Legomom]

Well, Miss Christine just keeps getting spoiled! But, she so deserves it. She's been through so much & she's just such a little miracle! I never get tired of watching her move! :Love_Icon

She got the first rose that bloomed on our rose bush the other day & thoroughly enjoyed it!
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090419/174103.jpg

Over the last few days, she has gotten all kinds of spoiled by her squammy!!

She got a log that she loves to chew on!! (I think it's the same as Oliver's, is it, Loopy??) :thinking
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090423/192313.jpg

She got the Frog Leisure Lodge...which she slept in last night! :shakehead
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090424/143722.jpg

She also got the Fish Hide N Sleep for whenever her Gator needs a bath, a hammock for hanging around & a strawberry with a bell inside on a stretchy string! :D
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090424/162902.jpg

AND.....I got more video of my 'bunny squirrel'! I never get tired of watching her move!! :Love_Icon
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P4230088.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P4230088.flv)

[FLUFFYTAILNUT]

Hello..hello..
Aww..look at her...good night..Shanon...
She is just so sweet...I love how she stops to sniff everything..and nibbled..
She is just so,gentle...
Can I have her...:poke You know Im kidding..
That would be like YOU..asking me..for my Bean...:sanp3
HOW about...babysit for day...:D

THANKS for sharing new pictures...:grouphug
Ps. voted for you ::wink::
Have a nice night...
RACHEL & BEAN:grouphug :wave123

[Anne]

OMG, Look at Christine's condo! Now that's one jazzy home. Love all her toys. It is so heart warming to see her run and explore. Precious girl has come a long, long way. :bowdown :bowdown to you, Shannon for being the perfect match for Christine.
:grouphug :grouphug To Colin, love you too, big guy!

[gs1]

:D :D :D Any more toys and there'd be no room for christine.:D

so happy to see her move too!!!! wonderful. Sweet little girl!!!:D

[FallensMommie]

Hi Shanon and Christine :wave123

Christine looks great....look at her new digs :thumbsup and she is getting around much better...she's getting fast :D Watch out momma here she comes :jump

It's funny how you never see a squirrel in the wild eat roses but man give it to a indoor squirrel and they think they hit the jackpot. Fallen LOVES roses over any other flowers :D

I hope everything is well on your side of the state...heard it is suppose to get really windy for some of us. Temps are suppose to be mild to at 80...it's been much warmer here the last few days...so 80 is going to feel lovely :D

[island rehabber]

Shanon I can't believe how good she looks -- look at her go! Like a Mazda commercial.....zoom-zoom :D.




It's funny how you never see a squirrel in the wild eat roses but man give it to a indoor squirrel and they think they hit the jackpot. Fallen LOVES roses over any other flowers :D


You know what, FM? I wonder if you've hit on something here concerning nutrients that pet squirrels or NR's are lacking, in the diets we give them. You're so right, they don't eat roses or carnations in the wild but they go nuts for them at home! I think I will ask 4skwerlz about this one.....it may be the squirrels telling us there is a very important nutrient in some flowers that they are not getting any other way in the diets we provide.....:thinking

[digiandchipper]

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon:Love_Icon
What a love! And she deserves all that spoiling, dear Squammy!!! Ya'll make a great team!:grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

:thumbsup
Love you Christine, Teddy, Collin, Shannon and Jay!:grouphug

[NewMommy]

Aw, cute "bunny squirrel" hopping. It is great to see her getting around so well!!!

[Legomom]

:osnap In my haste to put up my post (and waiting forever for the videos to load), I just realized that I posted the wrong video of my girl!! :soapbox

The other one is good, but this one shows her bunny hopping even better!! Enjoy! :wave123

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P4230096.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P4230096.flv)

[digiandchipper]

Oh, I love it!!! I have got to get my butt over to see that sweetie!
And the beautiful, curly, happy tail!:grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Bugsie]

:wave123 Lego

Christine is looking great:Love_Icon You have done an awesome
job with her...You can just tell she knows how much she is loved:Love_Icon


Give her big kisses for us:Love_Icon

[gs1]

It's amazing how she just goes on with her life and enjoying herself regardless. It's humbling. She's an absolute sweetheart. :thankyou

[Buddy'sMom]

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon Sweet, SWEET Christine :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

She's moving around so well, and so perky, happy exploring all around. :wott :wott I love it! :multi :multi

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[JLM27]

Such a great success story! Nice outcome, the kind we all pray for. I think love had a great deal to do with this. I remember when she was not able to run around, how you just held her for long periods of time so she felt safe and loved. That was so beautiful to see.

[wheezer]

Wow, so great to see little Christine hopping around so well:thumbsup

See what love and good care can do:tilt :grouphug

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom0701—I just went through this thread this evening. What a remarkable success story! :) You are an amazing person to give so much of yourself and your family to Christine. Christine, by the way, is amazing, truly a miracle.

In watching the videos in the beginning it was so sad, but now, to see her moving around so well, I can’t believe how you caring for her the way you did, she just runs around…the way her tail curly-cues and that Condo looks great. I personally love when Christine is in the gator’s mouth. You’re an excellent squammy…

[digiandchipper]

How is our darling girl (and all her toys!) today? Love her contest entry:Love_Icon

Off topic: When is school out?

[Sarabi]

ME Too I' m sorry I missed it:) Looks fantastic, and I'm gonna order a gator for simba, that is so cute!! a stuffie he doesn't have to gut and can play inside:rotfl
I guess I'm late to Christine's Housewarming Party .... it came out GREAT! :bowdown :bowdown to the designers and builders and furnishers :bowdown :bowdown I like that color blue, too. :thumbsup

It certainly looks like Christine is enjoying herself in it, and took to her new space pretty quickly (that's our mellow little girl :) ). Looked to me like the gator would become the new nest ...... decisions, decisions, decisions ......

[And I am MOST thrilled that Christine is now capable of being in a three-story habitat --- WOW! THREE STORIES!! :alright.gif :alright.gif Christine!! :alright.gif :alright.gif ]

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Sarabi]

OMG Just watched the video, she is doing great!!! I am so impressed:grouphug

[Anne]

Look at that Christine go:thumbsup :jump :jump Sharon your love and care has made all the difference. She has come such a long way.
:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[rippie-n-lilgirlsmom]

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Legomom]

Thank you, everyone, for your kind words. I just love this little girl so much! :Love_Icon And, I am so proud of her! She does so well moving around and using her paws a little bit. Although, little booger that she is...I went out of town a few weekends ago and my mom took care of her for me. Do you know what she did? Mom came over to feed her & she was sitting up in her cage! Not against a corner & she didn't roll right over like a little weeble either! And, I wasn't home to see it! :hissyfit Keep in mind, she hasn't sat up for more than a few seconds before she rolls to one side or the other and falls over. I'm so proud of her!!! I still haven't seen it yet, but I will. :grouphug

Today was cage cleaning day. I put Christine in her porch cage for a little sun on the screen porch & replaced all of her fleece flooring, rearranged the top floor items & put in her fishy sleep n play because the gator needed a bath. And, dh & I went out to get branches for her & for Teddy. There are some happy squirrels in the house today! :D

Tomorrow, my mom, a family friend, Christine, Nuudge, Wally, Marty (http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17052)& I are driving out to visit Aunt Jackie in Tampa! Nuudge is our single that is about 11-12 weeks old. My mom is VERY attached to Nuudge & nervous about releasing him nearby, so Jackie is accepting a new boarder. He's gonna hang out with the four beautiful girls that Jackie has right now.
I can't wait for them to meet! :jump

:thankyou for stopping by! Here's some pics of our girl for you! (Our, meaning TSB because I don't think she & I would have come as far as we have without the love & support of you, my dear friends!) :grouphug

[gs1]

:D christine!!! maybe tomorrow she'll show you her sitting up trick at auntie jackies' ....:D :wahoo

[Mookie's Mom]

I watch that video with a huge smile on my face! It is so heartwarming to see her get around so well. I am so impressed with all that you do for her and how far she has come! I sure can feel the love you have for her! You guys are an inspiration :grouphug Have fun a Jackie's. :D

[Pointy Tale]

Can't say enough how wonderful Christine looks. I'm sorry you didn't get to see her sit up on her own like that...but you will...she's just waiting for the right moment to surprise you.

[Loopy Squirrel]

She always look so content. I love seeing her so interested in the tree branch. She looks great. You are doing a wonderful job.

[Tomo]

Look at that sweet little Angel! Big Hugs and Big Kisses from me to Sweet Christine! :grouphug :Love_Icon

[digiandchipper]

:alright.gif You GO, Christine, beautiful girl!!!!
:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

Hello sweetie C, I had to come back and reread your marvelous come back! Truly amazingly joyfyully wonderful, almost as good as your brothers, story!:thumbsup
We now have Lucky and we came to be inspired and gather info for him.
Thanks Lego family for sharing! Oh lala!
:wave123 see you THIS WEEK baby girl! and gang!:wave123

[Legomom]

:wave123 Aunt Jackie, Uncle Fred & all of my furr cousins! :hyper Here's a pic to make you all smile.
It didn't last long, but I did hold it for almost a minute! :wahoo
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090521/092359.jpg

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom0701—This is great! Congratulations Christine!!! What a good Girl!!!! Yeah!!!! Congratulations to you Legomom0701 for all of your encouragement to her.!!! Yeah!!! This can really make ones day so very happy!!!!

[island rehabber]

Oh Christine I looooooove you!! Look at that girl sitting up.....it's enough to make all the bad stuff just go away forever.....:grouphug :Love_Icon:grouphug

[Buddy'sMom]

:thumbsup Unbelievable!! Christine continues to astound! :alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif

You were right, Legomom .... :hugh

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Loopy Squirrel]

All right Christine! Now that is huge!!! Balance is getting better everday.

[gs1]

wow, she looks so happy with herself too!!!:D :Love_Icon

[Tomo]

WOW!! Look at that little girl sit up! Every day and in every way Christine is getting better and better! :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Legomom]

Well, my little angel was not happy with mommy today. She's been doing a bit of itching lately & I found some dirt on her skin near her tail, so I thought I'd give her a bath. :osnap
For a such a quiet squirrel, she sure was able to tell me what she thought about that! :frustratedx

Ewww, ewww, ewww! I'm all wet, dammit! :soapbox
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090527/112605.jpg

And, my paws!! Ugh!
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090527/113447.jpg

Back up or I'll sic my attack gator on you, Mom!!
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090527/113023.jpg

I'm all shiny now! Is this my good side?
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090527/144625.jpg

I guess I can forgive you since you gave me this big 'nut' to chew on!
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090527/162759.jpg

[Charles Chuckles]

Oh just look at that sweet baby she is such a wonderful girl:grouphug

[Sarabi]

:grouphug Popping in for HUGS!!!

[Loopy Squirrel]

Those are very cute pics. I think if I gave any of my guys a bath I'd lose my hand.

[JLM27]

Sweetie Christine!:jump I am so glad to hear that she is doing better and better. Give her a hug and a kiss from Auntie Jill. Best wishes to Christine and Christine's human family.

[Legomom]

:thankyou to everyone who continues to stop by & visit my little girl.
We've had a lot of afternoon storms this week & I was working a few days, in the beginning of the week...so, Christine hasn't had much 'sun time' lately.

Yesterday, however, after two particularly nasty afternoon storms, the sun came out with a nice breeze up our street....so, it was out to the porch to catch some fresh air & rays! :wott
(Unfortunately, my camera battery died just before I let her out of the cage to run loose on the porch! :hissyfit She was having a blast! I'll try again today.)

http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/174754.jpg http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/175353.jpg

She was liken' the lichen on the branch that I found in the yard after one of the storms! "Yummy!"
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/182833.jpg http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/182858.jpg

Ah, my gorgeous girl with such a fluffy tail!! :Love_Icon :Love_Icon
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/183048.jpg http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090605/183314.jpg

And, some video....before my battery died!
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P6050017.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P6050017.flv)

[FLUFFYTAILNUT]

Oh y goodness...Shanon,
She is just too darn cute..
I might ...just have to steal her from you...:poke
Medicate you...and hypnotize you....and MAKE you leave her..:D
She is a squishably sweet..little girl!:grouphug

She's come a long way BABY..:D
Thanks for sharing her with us...oxoxo
Rachel n Bean:wave123

[Legomom]

Oh y goodness...Shanon,
She is just too darn cute..
I might ...just have to steal her from you...:poke
Medicate you...and hypnotize you....and MAKE you leave her..:D
She is a squishably sweet..little girl!:grouphug

She's come a long way BABY..:D
Thanks for sharing her with us...oxoxo
Rachel n Bean:wave123

You can try!! :get_em
Of course, I might let you snuggle her for awhile if I get to ride a horse!
(I haven't had the chance in years! :) )

[Legomom]

We recently spent two days at the beach & it was wonderful!! I just had to share it with all of you. :grouphug

My son, Christine & I headed out Sunday afternoon. She is such a good car rider. Just hung out in her cage & gnawed at some wood.

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090607/125522.jpg

We stopped for a visit with FallensMommie along the way. Fallen felt a little shy & decided to head to the safety of his room, but I did get a few pics of him. :D

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090607/153720.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090607/153735.jpg

Christine, on the other hand, was cruising around the house like she owned it! She was getting into Fallen's toys & just wore herself out! :) (She doesn't normally like to be on her back much!)

http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090609/202345.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090607/160245.jpg

Too soon our visit was over, but condo & beach view....here we come! :jump

[island rehabber]

What great pix! Christine looks beautiful and soooo healthy....Fallen is his handsome self, as always! Thanks for letting us share your trip :)

[Legomom]

The trip's not over yet! Here comes the beach!!!! I love the Atlantic Ocean & the Gulf of Mexico.....well, I love any place that has water & animals in their natural setting! :Love_Icon

Christine got settled in right away & took a nap with an ocean view! :D She also enjoyed a hibiscus bloom a little while later.

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090607/172728.jpghttp://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090611/215056.jpg

I took more than one walk on the beach during our stay. I really enjoy watching the 'locals' & looking at the shells. (Of course, I collected a few for my babies! ;) )
I always wonder where a piece of shell originated from or a hole in the sand & what type of critter may have called it home.

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090611/214506.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090611/214614.jpg

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090611/214839.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090608/112125.jpg

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090608/112037.jpghttp://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090611/220450.jpg

I think I was meant to be near the water....I love the sound of the ocean. I actually got to watch a storm light up the sky on Monday night, further up the beach. Talk about a light show!! Wow!!

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090608/111327.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090608/195243.jpg

Unfortunately, our time at the beach was all too short. My son & his buddy had a blast & they both wore their mothers out! :crazy

Christine was just as good on the ride home as the ride out, but she was really happy to be back in her 'Home Sweet Home'!! :wave123

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090609/121737.jpghttp://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090609/172008.jpg

[Pointy Tale]

Absolutely fantastic photos. Each one is better than the next. Christine looks as adorable as ever, and those landscapes of the ocean and the sky are just my favorite. All breathtaking. Thank you for sharing.:)

[Bravo]

Great trip! The ocean is a great place to be... Christine looks cool with all the sights, but lichen and hisbiksus... now you're talking. :D Thanks for sharing the photos.

[Buddy'sMom]

:flash3 "Christine Goes On Vacation" :thumbsup

She continues to delight and amaze. :Love_Icon :Love_Icon Such a little sweetheart.

I know what you mean about the water -- transports me as well. Mmmmmmm!

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

:D nice view Christine...
:money you're spoiling her Shanon!
it will soon be the day spa at the resort:wallet in Waikiki, I know this kinda girl...I have four headed in that direction!
:rotfl
:wave123 Hello Christine!

[JLM27]

What a precious baby your Christine is! I love the way she carries her tail, and such a good girl, traveling with you with no problems.

[Legomom]

I got some video of my girl to share with you.....Don't blink, she's quick!! Zoom zoom!

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P6190294.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P6190294.flv)

And some pictures, too! :D
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090619/023440.jpg http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090619/023850.jpg

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090619/024441.jpg http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090622/085507.jpg

Sweet dreams, everyone!!

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—your video of Christine brought such joy to my life this morning, tears of joy! She looks fantastic, is moving brilliantly—truly a joyful!!
Absolutely great pictures of her too. What a nice way to start the morning:)

[Lady Squirrelly]

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!

When you think back on the heartbreaking pictures of Christine when you first got her and then compare it to this video, it is amazing.

I could not watch all of the first video you posted of her. It was just too heart wrenching.

I watched this new one TWICE.

Such a wonderful thing to see.

:grouphug

[FallensMommie]

Hi Shanon and Lucky Fuzz Butts in her life :jump

Look at Christine goooooo...you can see her zooming legs getting it :alright.gif
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090619/023850.jpg


I love watching her, such progress, I'm still in awe from your visit with me :D

[Legomom]

We'll have to come visit again...maybe Fallen will be a little more social now that he's getting used to another 4 legged female in his house! :)

[island rehabber]

Christine........:grouphug:Love_Icon:grouphug:Love_Icon:grouphug
legomom.........:bowdown:bowdown:bowdown:bowdown

[FallensMommie]

We'll have to come visit again...maybe Fallen will be a little more social now that he's getting used to another 4 legged female in his house! :)


Don't count on it :rotfl :rotfl


...but you are more than welcome anytime...still need to get you over here for a shuttle launch...we can go to the beach and watch :alright.gif

[Jackie in Tampa]

:thumbsup :thumbsup she has come along way...since the first time I met her.
This new video is wonderful, sliding around on the pergo, loving it!:D

[Legomom]

I just love to watch this squirrel move! I'm so proud of her & you can just see how happy she is by the way she hops! :jump

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P7060192.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P7060192.flv)

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/100052.jpg

Mom needs a manicure...squirrel-style! :jump

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/100841.jpg

Have you ever seen a squirrel so relaxed? (I had just stopped rubbing her belly & she didn't move for almost 2 minutes!)

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/101634.jpg

Don't you just love the colors in her tail? I think she's gorgeous! :Love_Icon

http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/105313.jpg

"Mmmmm! I like this apricot so much that I'm gonna flick my tail at mom to warn her off & then climb into the bowl! MINE! MINE! MINE!"

http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/105352.jpg

[tatcat]

:wave123 hey shanon, the pic of christine in your lap is priceless!!! :jump

[island rehabber]

Ah what great pix!!!!!! I can't get over this beautiful girl! You know what Shanon? Russelle Inori lies back like that when you rub her tummy too. They are SUCH princesses and they know we'd do anything for them. :D

[Legomom]

Ah what great pix!!!!!! I can't get over this beautiful girl! You know what Shanon? Russelle Inori lies back like that when you rub her tummy too. They are SUCH princesses and they know we'd do anything for them. :D

We are here to their bidding, IR! :shakehead If RI keeps going the way she's going, you're gonna have a hard time giving her to Tomo....then again, does Tomo have any idea what she's in for? Spa treatments, belly massages, breakfast in bed? :tilt

[Bugsie]

Shanon:D

I adore that pic of her relaxing on her back..:poke
She is so sweet and has total trust with you..
Gosh I just want to squeeze her:Love_Icon

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—is it just me, or did Christine improve from the last videos. She looks and gets along so well, so happy to be running. I can’t believe it. You may have told everyone already, but is she on that Vetri—DMG for immune system? Is that what is making her so much better or are there many complex factors involved, like the breakfast in bed:)? Love the picture of her resting on her back, that is just about the cutest picture ever—maybe that should go into the photo contest here. I just still can’t believe how well she is getting around—it’s so exciting, so very happy for you. Love that, she flicked her tail at you, what a good girl. Thank you so much for sharing. This is truly a happy thread—really joyous.
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090706/101634.jpg

[Fireweed]

I just went through this whole thread now, Legomom...Amazing!! What a wonderful, wonderful thing you've done. From the first video to this last one she has come so far with your help, commitment, and patience....but most importantly, she's come so far because of your love.

What a great story and an awesome thread. Thank you for sharing her journey! :grouphug

[Feeze]

Legomom, I can't believe I never saw this thread. I'd heard you talking about Christine, and I've seen pictures, but I really had no idea.:Love_Icon

You certainly have a precious squabbit there.:tilt I just spent, oh man I don't know how long, just reading this entire thread, from the first heart breaking video to the last two. Oh my word! This is not a thread you can just start at the end of.:Love_Icon

I just spent most of my day reading Christine's and RI's stories. Now I want more of both!:jump You and IR are amazing.:bowdown

[Legomom]

Wow, Fireweed & Feeze...you did a lot of reading!! I thank you for taking the time to read about my amazing squabbit! (I like that one, Feeze! :thumbsup )

:poke Feeze, I can't believe you didn't see my abbreviated version of her story on my facebook page! With pics! :)

PT - Yes, Christine has been taking Vetri-DMG since about a week after she came to us & I do believe that it has had a lot to do with her recovery. Not only is it good immune support, but one study or article (I forget now) that I found showed the possibility that it can help with re-establishing neuro-transmissions in the brain.

Here's a video that I haven't shared yet. This was after our weekend at the beach. I think she was happy to be home & in her own cage. :wahoo

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/th_P6090137.jpg (http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/?action=view&current=P6090137.flv)

Christine says "Sweet dreams to all of our squirrely friends!" :grouphug

http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090703/133053.jpg

I'll see about getting some more pics soon!! :wave123

[4skwerlz]

"Squabbit"! That's so funny. :rotfl
But I think of her as more of a "squangel"...:D

Thanks for the wonderful pics and video. Between Christine and RI, it's almost too much joy. God bless both of these sweet squirrel girls, and their squammies.

[Sarabi]

Popping in to say hi , up late waiting to feed the baby b4 i go to bed for a couple of hours.

[Feeze]

[FONT="Georgia"]:poke Feeze, I can't believe you didn't see my abbreviated version of her story on my facebook page! With pics! :)


I w - erm... I might have...:thinking Then again... I may have just been pic peekin'.:sanp3 :hidechair I am glad to finally know her story though.:bowdown

She sure did seem happy to be home in that last video. All three ramps!:jump :wahoo

[Legomom]

Hey, everyone! No pics tonight, sorry. (Edit: One picture....read on & you'll understand.)
It's been quite the weekend. Busy, busy! :jump

Rounded the weekend out with an excursion, Christine & I, to visit Aunt Jackie in Tampa. And, a very good thing we did. You see, I've known for about a week that Christine needed her teeth trimmed. She just doesn't have the jaw strength to gnaw on nuts & wood, but does a little bit. Unfortunately, not enough to keep up with the growth of her teeth. Well, Friday she was acting a little off. She hardly ate anything all day...not even her blocks, which she ALWAYS eats. :thinking I figured maybe she was feeling a little off or, as a few people suggested to me, that she might be heading into her first heat. (She'll be a year old in a few weeks.) Saturday, she hardly ate anything either. BUT, I did get her to try taking some esbilac. Let me tell you, she was chowing it down! I couldn't fill the syringe fast enough. So, at least I knew she was getting some nutrition & figured that maybe the teeth are bothering her & had already had the plan in place to visit Jackie today.

Got to Jackie's around noon & fed my girl some more esbilac. Well, I was cleaning her up & she was relaxed enough to let me open her mouth a bit. When I did, I could see that something didn't look right in the roof of her mouth. I called over to Jackie to take a look. She took one look & said "She needs Baytril NOW!" Her lower tooth had pierced the roof of her mouth & it was infected. Thank God that Jackie had Baytril on hand & some metacam. Got a dose of both into her & let her rest for a little bit. A few hours later, Jackie showed me once again how to trim Christine's teeth. It seems that I will be doing this for the rest of her life or until I can find something that she can chew & wants to chew that will keep her teeth trimmed. But, I will do this if it is what needs to be done. After all, I have a great teacher! :bowdown :bowdown :bowdown

We gave Christine a real good looking over & came to a few conclusions: She has a very narrow palate, probably due to having such a narrow, pointed face. She has limited vision in her left eye, but I kind of knew that already. Her jaw is slightly misaligned. The vision & jaw probably both go back to her head injury. And, she does not like having her teeth trimmed! :nono Poor Jackie has the scratches to prove it. :thankyou

On a very good note, by the time I got home tonight & settled her in before going out to a late dinner with my 'boys', I gave her a sq block to see if she'd try it. Jackie, she ate almost half of the block! :wahoo (Of course, when we got back from dinner, I gave her the baytril (yuck!), her DMG & 15ccs of esbilac. She is all tucked in & snuggled down for the night.

Jackie, thank you so much for helping me & my girl. I'd be lost without you! :grouphug

And, thanks to all of you who check up on my baby girl. We love all of you very much! Sweet dreams everyone! :wave123


This is what her teeth looked like on Friday. The one on the right is the cause of the wound in her mouth.

[Fireweed]

Wow. I'm glad Christine is ok! And good girl, eating your block! :) Sweet dreams, Christine!!

[Jackie in Tampa]

:poke you two girls had a big weekend!
I am happy you're home safe and sound.
You and Collin have a safe trip, sending good vibes and sweet thoughts!
See ya soon!:grouphug
PS, they were mice! I drove to lakeland on a sunday night and they were baby mice:osnap :rotfl

[gs1]

omg .. poor christine!!! that tooth looks sharp too... ouch.

thank goodness for Jackie!!!

[FLUFFYTAILNUT]

Hi....My sweet...ladies..
Chrsitine...is one special..little lady..!
If you wouldnt mind..I would love to share a few pictures..in here of Christine...and a few other's.
I wont till you say it's alright...:poke
Im glad she is all snuggled in and that you are home..safe and sound..
And glad you had a wonderful..excitng week end....:D
Rachel & Bean:grouphug

[island rehabber]

I am SO happy that Christine is feeling better, and that you and Jackie solved the puzzle of why she was so 'off'. What happened with Christine's upper palate is exactly what happened to Ti Kuan Yin years ago, my maloccluded girl who lives happily at Tomo's now. By the time I got her to the vet a little infection had started. A few days of ABX and she was fine, but it definitely makes them reclusive and unwilling to eat. :(
Kiss that precious girl many times for me, ok? You and Jackie are the angels in this story for taking such good care of her. :grouphug:grouphug

[squirrel princess]

I just fell in love with Christine what a sweetie:Love_Icon and you aren't too bad yourself:rotfl Where is everyone this morning:poke I took the day off to recoup:osnap

[Buddy'sMom]

:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

So glad Christine's mouth was feeling better after her visit to Auntie-Dentist Jackie :thumbsup I hope the antibiotic and shorter toofies makes it all better in no time! :grouphug :grouphug

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Feeze]

Whew! Good timing.:thumbsup I'm glad you could call and see Jackie in such short notice. Poor Christine must have felt so bad.

Good luck with the future trimmings.:sanp3

[FLUFFYTAILNUT]

I just fell in love with Christine what a sweetie:Love_Icon and you aren't too bad yourself:rotfl Where is everyone this morning:poke I took the day off to recoup:osnap:rotfl :rotfl
I wish..I could..have!:D

[JLM27]

Poor baby! That must have HURT! I know an infected gum can be very painful, much less a hole in the roof of her mouth. Good thing that you caught it when you did. This little one has been through so much, it just makes me cry to see her have to go through more. Give her a kissie for me on the top of her dear little noggin.

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—you are an extraordinary person to do all that you do for Christine and don’t even think twice about doing it. My hats off to you for such a wonderful thing you are doing for her—Christine is a beauty.

[JLM27]

Christine is such a little lovebug. When you hold her, it is like holding pure love in your hand. Thank you so much Legomom for letting me hold her for a little while. I hope to see more play videos as soon as she feels better.

[Legomom]

Christine seems to be feeling better. She's nibbling on her HHB & some of the softer veggies. I'm still giving her esbilac twice a day & she's inhaling it likes it's mana from heaven! But, she's really putting up a fight when it's time to take her antibiotic. She's squawking at me & moving her mouth every which way she can. (That's how I know she's really feeling better!)

My mother was over this morning & handled her feeding & dosing of medicine. Grandma don't take no flak! She'll be in good hands while I'm gone! :)

On another note, we could use some prayers this week. Most of you know that my son is a cancer survivor. Wednesday afternoon, he & I fly to Memphis TN to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. On Thursday & Friday, he will have numerous doctor's appointments. All I have ever wanted is for him to be healthy. I pray he gets a clean bill of health. Keep us in your prayers, please.

I hope all of you have a great week & I hope to be able to get to a computer Friday night to update you all. I love all of you!

Jackie~ I got a really good look at the roof of her mouth this morning. The wound is just about healed up! It's hard to tell that there was ever a problem! :wahoo :thankyou

[Jackie in Tampa]

TY Shanon!
God loves Collin and knows what yuo and he can handle:grouphug
Be safe and see you soon!:D

[island rehabber]

Prayers and goodness and blessings to you and Christine, and especially Collin. Keep us posted, ok? You'll be on our minds! :grouphug:Love_Icon:Love_Icon:grouphug

[Sarabi]

Have been off the board the past 2 days. I am so glad she is okay:) Glad I was able to help:grouphug :grouphug And I just wanted you to know I'm here if you should EVER need help.:Love_Icon mjs :Love_Icon mjs :Love_Icon I pray you have a safe trip and Good News for Collin:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[Fireweed]

Prayers for you and Collin for a safe trip and a clean bill of health. :grouphug

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—I missed a post and went back to #182 (http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showpost.php?p=418873&postcount=182). That is great about the vetri-dmg, I’ve heard so many good things about it (from TSB) and you can actually see the improvement in Christine. You’re amazing to do all you are for her.

She looked great in the video—gets along so well, I remember in the beginning she didn’t get around so well—that is remarkable, and says a lot about the care she is getting from you. You’re a wonderful person!

Legomom—I had no idea your son was a cancer survivor, I am so sorry to read this. I am wishing you both a safe trip to Memphis on Wednesday. You have my prayers for your Son to have a clean bill of health, of course and my prayers for you too.

O Lord, your compassions never fail and your mercies are new every morning: We give you thanks for giving our Legomom’s Son both relief from pain and hope of health renewed. Continue in him, we pray, the good work you have begun; that he, daily increasing in bodily strength, and rejoicing in your goodness, may so order his life and conduct that he may always think and do those things that please you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

[Feeze]

Your son will most deffinitely be in my prayers. Safe journey.:grouphug

[Buddy'sMom]

:grouphug Collin :grouphug Legomom :grouphug Christine :grouphug

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Kathy56]

Prayers coming your way.:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[Legomom]

Just a quick note to say.....Collin remains cancer free & in good health!!! :wahoo
I thank God & I thank all of you for your prayers, good vibes & continuous support! :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou
We'll be back home Saturday night! :jump

[Fireweed]

Great news!!!!

I'm so happy for Collin!!:wahoo :jump

Hugs to you, Legomom! :grouphug

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—wonderful news to read! Have a safe journey home. All the best to you.

[Feeze]

I saw the news on FB and had to come in here!!:wahoo :wott :fireworks:jump :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Pam]

Just a quick note to say.....Collin remains cancer free & in good health!!! :wahoo
I thank God & I thank all of you for your prayers, good vibes & continuous support! :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou
We'll be back home Saturday night! :jump

Praise the Lord! I'm so happy to hear your good news. :jump

Hugs to you and Collin. He's a brave young man! :grouphug

[whopoopwrasse]

YAY! :jump :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

I'm really happy for your whole family, it must be a real weight off your shoulders knowing that he is fine:thumbsup

I also didn't know your son was a cancer survivor, I know what you've gone through as my mom is also a cancer survivor, she had throat cancer 2 yrs ago and went through the 6 weeks of radiation, about 1/2 way through she could no longer eat had to be fed through a tube in her nose. She had a very long recovery and now she's fine..... but hasn't learned her lesson:thinking .... she is still smoking :shakehead

[Buddy'sMom]

Just a quick note to say.....Collin remains cancer free & in good health!!! :wahoo
:wahoo INDEED!!! :wahoo :wahoo :wahoo :wahoo

That's such wonderful, wonderful news to get from the doctors!! :alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif
:multi :multi :multi :multi :multi :multi :multi :multi

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

where are you!tinfoil need updates on everything and everyone!

[Legomom]

:wave123 I'm still here! Everyone is doing great! Collin is over his tummy bug, but now I've got it. Feeling kind of puny & weak. :(

Christine's mouth is healed & she is feeling feisty! (And, she's addicted to esbilac! Silly girl, won't give me a break until she's had her morning fix!)

I love you all & I'm here if you need me!! Just worn out. Hope to be back to normal soon! :grouphug

Maybe pics in another day or two! :wave123

[JLM27]

So glad to hear you and yours are doing so well (although a tummy upset is nothing to laugh about). So, Christine is addicted to Esbilac like some of us are addicted to ice cream? She's made a healthier choice, bless her furry little self! I am happy that Christine's mouth infection is over with. Poor girl, she must have been in pain during the party while we were whooping it up. But, I've been there myself. Dental or mouth pain just makes you unable to concentrate on doing anything else. That must be why she was so quiet and still. I bet she is glad that there is no more Baytril.

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom: sorry to hear that you're not feeling well, drink fluids and get plenty of rest and feel better soon.

So glad Christine is her fiesty self!

[JLM27]

How's Christine doing these days? Is she happy and playing with you all? Such a little sweetheart! I think about her now and again, and hope she is still doing well. How about a recent pic since she recovered from the tooth problem?

[Legomom]

:wave123 Hi, everyone! It's been busy busy busy around here....baby squirrels & back to school! Miss Christine is doing very well overall. I took her to my vet on Thursday for a teeth trimming. She tolerated it well, but I think he might have gone a touch short. (No, he didn't use gas.) She stayed up in her nest all day on Thursday & didn't eat anything. Friday, she was out & about a bit more. I did give her one dose of metacam in case her teeth were hurting & she did nibble at her blocks a little bit. I ended up feeding her some esbilac last night because she didn't eat much yesterday either. She's eating a bit better today, but not like usual. I guess I'll just wait & see what happens. My vet does have experience trimming squirrel teeth, but I'm thinking this was like we feel after the dentist drills in our teeth...we often ache for days.

Here's some pictures from this week...

"Time for my afternoon siesta...go away!"
http://media7.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090826/145630.jpg

"I'm not talking to you, Mom!" (Taken after we returned from the vet.)
http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090827/143834.jpg

"Milk...it does a body good! Now, gimme more!"
http://media6.dropshots.com/photos/551541/20090828/174420.jpg

[island rehabber]

Thanggod for Esbilac! She looks wonderful...sorry she's got sore toofies. Believe me I've known the feeling :shakehead. Huggs & ear scritchies & head kisses for my Christine :grouphug

[Fireweed]

Awwww...the pic in the fish is so sweeet! It looks so comfy in there.
I hope she feels better soon. xoxoxs to Christine! :grouphug

[gs1]

:Love_Icon :grouphug

[JLM27]

That sweet little pip! She has you trained. "If Mommy takes me to the vet, I get to play sick and drink milky. Yum!" Give her a pet and a kiss fromm Aunt Jill, please.

[merman]

Hi Shannon,

How is little Christine nowadays ?
It's been so a while her thread's not been updated.. :)

Hope all is good with her! :grouphug
:Love_Icon

:wave123

[Pointy Tale]

Great pictures, she is adorable.

[atlantasquirrelgirl]

I think if a tooth is trimmed too much, it gets into the sensitive spots. I hope that didn't happen. I cringe to think about it.

[4skwerlz]

Poor little sweetie. :grouphug Sorry to hear about the traumatic tooth trimming. I hope darling Christine is feeling better soon.:grouphug

[Legomom]

Look at my sweet girl!! She has been sitting up a bit lately! :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/P9080745.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/P9080749.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/P9080748.jpg

"I'm such a mommy's girl!" :Love_Icon
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/P9080757.jpg

[luvs squirrels]

That's wonderful. She's such a big girl and does love her Mommy!!!

:Love_Icon

[island rehabber]

:grouphug:grouphug:grouphug:grouphug

Another milestone for our Christine! She never ceases to amaze and inspire me. :)

[Jackie in Tampa]

:D she looks great Shanon!

[JLM27]

Hugs and kisses to sweet Christine! She is such a dear!:Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—Oh my goodness, just popped in—Christine looks great! I’m in awe to see how far she has come.

[gs1]

:D :Love_Icon adorable!!! i'd want to carry her around everywhere too!!! I couldn't put her down. sending lots of kisses!!!!:Love_Icon :thumbsup

[amylou]

:thumbsup Wow! I read through Christine's thread and it's amazing how far she has come and it's because of your determination and love for her. You are a wonderful person and awesome squammy! I hope she continues to improve. She is just gorgeous and stole my heart just from her photos and videos on here. :Love_Icon to her and you and your family!

[Legomom]

Just in case y'all were missing my girl..... http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/PA040857-1.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/PA040853.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/PA040837.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q53/legomom0701/Christine/PA040835.jpg

[Pam]

Legomom, Christine looks great! She's a pretty girl. :Love_Icon

You have a handsome son, too. :Love_Icon

That's a sweet picture of them together.

[JLM27]

CHristine!:jump :jump :jump I just love to see her and love to see her so happy with you and your family. Please give her a little hug and kiss from Squauntie Jill.:Love_Icon She looks pretty active, and that is nice to see.

[Fireweed]

LOL! That first pic is priceless. And there's nothing like a picture of a child and a squirrel together...:Love_Icon

Christine is looking good!

[Tomo]

Sweet Little Christine looks so precious and happy! I don't get on the board that often recently, but it's a reward to see her looking so very FINE!! Big Hugs and Big Kisses to Sweet Little Christine from her Auntie Tomo! :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Pointy Tale]

Legomom—I was missing Christine and it is always so joyous to see her. Love the photo with her on the comforter along side of the red rose—she is so beautiful. Oh wow—just look at her getting belly rubs from your son, that is precious.

[island rehabber]

I'm melting.....what incredible pix.....Christine and Collin, Christine literally airborne when nobody knew if she'd ever even walk......words fail me, Shanon. :bowdown

[amylou]

Aww, look at her! She looks so good and happy boucing everywhere and loving everybody! :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[4skwerlz]

I can't believe the difference in Christine! :thumbsup Fat and happy. And running too! You're a miracle worker, Shanon.:bowdown

[JLM27]

Yes, she looks heavier than when I saw her in July. Has she gained weight? She was having her tooth problem then.

[Legomom]

I haven't weighed her in awhile, but when she was having her tooth problems in July she became seriously addicted to Esbilac & packed on a few extra layers! :osnap
Easy to do, just like her mama! :shakehead

[JLM27]

She has, as my mother used to say, something to fall back on.

[Legomom]

I like your mom's thinking, JLM!

My favorite: "She's not fat, she's fluffy!" (a la Garfield :) )

[luvs squirrels]

The pictures of Christine are great. What a long way she's come.

:Love_Icon