Okay… I know I’m supposed to be taking a break, but I just love this picture and felt compelled to share.
We had Wally’s friend, Magnum, for a sleepover on Labor Day weekend so, of course, we wanted to be good hosts and show Magnum a good time during his visit. He perks right up when you say “Wally”, just as Wally gets excited when you say “Magnum”. You can’t get anything past these guys! To each, the other’s name is synonymous with “fun”. Here, they’re wet from splashing through a creek in the shady woods on a hot day. You know the term “unleash your joy”? Have mercy!
I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you for all your comments and emails regarding my blogging break and my retirement from Flourishes. The girls really surprised me with their farewell post on the Newsletter. Just when I think I’m okay with my decision, they go and remind me why it was such a difficult decision in the first place. That said, I’m enjoying my break, catching up on a few things, doing some organizing, even stamping a little.
Back to my break, now. Gee, I didn’t stay away very long without checking in, did I? It's been a whole week. I guess I’m hooked! Love you all!



What wonderful friends these handsome boys are! Nothing like a good romp in the water with your favorite stick and with your best buddy!
Enjoy your time off!
Posted by: Tammy Hair | 09/07/2011 at 03:20 AM
Old habits are hard to break! I still visit each and every morning, even though I know you are doing other things! I love hearing about what you are doing and seeing photos of Wally! Enjoy your down time and there is nothing wrong with a little post here and there just to let us know you are doing ok! Hugs!
Posted by: Glenda | 09/07/2011 at 03:47 AM
So glad you're enjoying your break. And so VERY glad you know that we need a picture of our dear Wally ever once in a while. It was nice to see your post this morning! Put a big smile on my face!!!!
Posted by: Peggy K | 09/07/2011 at 03:58 AM
Good to hear from you and to
see Wally and his buddy!! I
miss your postings of your
art work, you are so very
talented! I am sorry you had
to quit but please keep us
posted on what your up to and
of course, Wally!
Posted by: Joanna McDonald | 09/07/2011 at 04:04 AM
Leslie ~
So glad you didn't stay away too long. Happy that you decided to share pics of Wally and Magnum. Such beautiful animals.
Of course your artwork would always be a welcomed sight, if your so inclined to "throw us a bone" every now and again. (just sayin') ;)
Enjoy your break,
Jean ~
Posted by: Jean S. | 09/07/2011 at 04:13 AM
Will I'm right there with the other gals..... !
I was so glad to see a post from you today! And then to see it was about Wally and his friend what a treat this is for me. Stay away as long as you must, but I'll be watching for the little picks of the new Laid Back YOU!!
Posted by: Dotty A | 09/07/2011 at 04:45 AM
How fun the boys have "sleepovers!" Wonderful picture. I'll keep checking for new posts every day:)
Posted by: Lynette | 09/07/2011 at 04:49 AM
Great BDFF (that's dog in the middle) picture! Isn't it funny how quickly they learn that their BDFF's name means total FUN? My dog is the same way when he goes to his Wednesday daycare/training. It's all about playing and he's a wiped out when we pick him up. LOL! Enjoy your break, we'll miss you!
Posted by: Laurie U | 09/07/2011 at 05:22 AM
thanks for sharing your pic-we all look forward to Wally's world (sorry I had to do it, lol).
Posted by: Linda | 09/07/2011 at 05:42 AM
Well, hello, Leslie! So good of you to pop in and show us a Wally pic. Those are always welcome! He's such a cutie. And so is Magnum! Hope you are well. :)
Posted by: Colleen Dietrich | 09/07/2011 at 06:14 AM
So glad that you are still sharing photos of Wally and friend. Cute guys. Enjoy your time off. That's exactly what I wish I was doing. Retirement sounds great!
Posted by: Margaret | 09/07/2011 at 06:38 AM
I'm glad you checked in . . . the photo is fabulous and I would want to share it too!
Just wanted to let you know how much I've missed seeing you, but do understand the need to take a break. At least you have the nerve to do it!
Posted by: Sherry Cheever | 09/07/2011 at 08:51 AM
Oh my goodness Leslie - I almost missed your retirement post because I had gotten so behind on my Google reader that I finally had to mark all as read - aackk! I know how hard that decision was for you, but I also understand how good a break can be. I've always wondered how you managed to blog so consistently - has always amazed me. You know I ADORE everything you create - always have. Whether you are sharing stamped creations or photos of your garden or your precious Wally, I'll be here to follow along my friend!!
Posted by: Jami Sibley | 09/07/2011 at 09:19 AM
If you have more pics of Wally feel free to post them. He sure is a handsome boy.
Ter ;)
Posted by: Terri | 09/07/2011 at 09:41 AM
I'm not sure who is luckier, you or the pups! Must be a treat to enjoy them and they couldn't ask for more in a great bow-wow life. Win-win all around.
Hope you are soaking up lots of rest and relaxation during your hiatus from the crafting world. You deserve it.
Posted by: Frances | 09/07/2011 at 09:51 AM
good to have you pop in and share a pick of the boys having a Great time, so neat that they have each other :) Enjoy!
Posted by: conniecrafter | 09/07/2011 at 12:13 PM
An adorable pair they are, Leslie!! Thanks for sharing the photo!!
Now I just need to catch up here. I've been following you on Google Reader...but just haven't gotten out and about very well. ;) You know how that is. ☺
Posted by: Rose Ann | 09/07/2011 at 12:33 PM
When I checked my email and saw Running With Scissors...I just smiled!!! So happy to see you back so soon...and with the prettiest photo ever! Love Magnum and Wally together...Just priceless! Enjoy your little world of rest Leslie...But DO keep coming by to say hi every now and then...Miss you and you haven't even gone completely?"
Posted by: velta | 09/07/2011 at 01:11 PM
What beautiful dogs. Thank you for visiting my blog I am so honored that you liked my work. I read all the tributes to you from the Flourishes team and I'm sorry I never got to see your work. I hope you don't give it up permanently.
Posted by: Theresa W. | 09/07/2011 at 03:14 PM
They look so carefree and happy, don't you just love it. Glad you are enjoying your break. I really lie that wording, means you are going to be back sooner than you think. I am keeping my fingers crossed! Glad to see you even after just a short few days. :0)
Posted by: Stacy aka Twinshappy | 09/07/2011 at 04:03 PM
So so so good to hear from you - always love pics of Wally. Enjoy your time away - but do come back often. Hugs
Posted by: Elaine Moore | 09/07/2011 at 10:08 PM
Such a fabulous photo of the boys. Looks like everyone had great fun - even the photographer! Love hearing about Wally.
Posted by: SueB | 09/07/2011 at 11:01 PM
What a great slumber party!!!
Posted by: Sue Kment | 09/07/2011 at 11:03 PM
I'm so pleased you were compelled to share Leslie. I just love photos of Wally and it's an added bonus to see Magnum too. They both look as though they really enjoyed Magnum's sleep over.
Posted by: Leigh | 09/08/2011 at 12:27 AM
I love hearing about what you are doing and seeing photos of Wally! Enjoy your down time and there is nothing wrong with a little post here and there just to let us know you are doing ok!
Posted by: Affordable Insurance | 09/08/2011 at 01:18 AM
Such handsome boys they are! I love hearing about and seeing photos of Wally and his friend. Wally reminds me of our toy poodle's best friend, Cooper, who is also a Golden. Cooper outweighs Bailey by about 65 pounds, but she is so gentle and protective of Bailey. It is wonderful. Goldens are amazing animals and companions. I wish you the best during your break but do hope you will be back to share your beautiful creations, as well as stories and pics of Wally at some point!! You are super talented!!
Posted by: Paula | 09/08/2011 at 11:04 AM
Oh, Leslie, I could juust hug you for sharing these wonderful photos of your handsome Wally and his cute friend, Magnum! My daughter and her dog, Murphy (the love of my life) were invited to a dog birthday party last weekend....how funny, huh? Take care!
Posted by: Kelley | 09/08/2011 at 05:29 PM
Oh, Leslie, I could just hug you for sharing these wonderful photos of your handsome Wally and his cute friend, Magnum! My daughter and her dog, Murphy (the love of my life) were invited to a dog birthday party last weekend....how funny, huh? Take care!
Posted by: Kelley | 09/08/2011 at 05:29 PM
What a joy it was to see your post and hear about Wally and his buddy, Magnum. Beautiful dogs and how wonderful that you so enjoy their company.
It's just a pleasure to have you pop in whenever and I look forward to hearing from you again.
Hugs to all.
Posted by: Ida | 09/08/2011 at 09:04 PM
Joy.. right out there for everyone to see! No pretense just pure honesty. Gotta love our sweet fur babies.
Posted by: Susan (rainy) | 09/09/2011 at 11:27 PM
So glad that you are doing fine and enjoying your break, Leslie!
Love the picture of the handsome boys! :) Thank you so much for sharing!
Posted by: Elena | 09/10/2011 at 02:19 PM
I thought I left a message here but don't see it so hopefully this is not a repeat. I love your pictures of Wally. I always enjoy your photography. I also love dogs so this warms my heart. I really miss you and hope you are enjoying this break.. Hugs.
Posted by: Dawn B. | 09/14/2011 at 10:18 AM
Thank you so much for your kind comment on my card, this morning, Leslie! I was so surprised :) I miss, really, really miss, seeing you in the Flourishes DT Release Week lineup!! I honestly was so sad when you announced your retirement but I completely understand - stamping isn't everything in life. I hope I "see you around" :)
Have a great day and take care :)
Posted by: Amanda H | 09/14/2011 at 12:53 PM
Awww, Wally & His Pal Magnum look like they are having such fun! Thanks so much for posting! So glad to hear from you on my blog today! Really made my Day! 8-) I do hope you are enjoying you time off. It's so easy to get overloaded and burn ourselves out. And, I still miss you bunches! lol.. But completely understand the need for some time to yourself. Please Don't be a stranger and I am so looking forward to hearing from you again in the near future! 8-)
Big Hug sto you.
Shannon 8-)
Posted by: Shannon White | 09/19/2011 at 11:18 PM
I love seeing them have such fun together. I hope you are still enjoying your time off. I just wanted to stop by and say I was thinking about you today. :)
Hugs,
Heather
Posted by: Heather Jensen | 09/20/2011 at 05:02 AM
What beautiful dogs. I love how they enjoy each other so much! What a delight!
Posted by: Fran | 09/20/2011 at 06:03 AM
That is such a great picture! It's okay to take a break from your break and remind us how much we love you! Miss you too!
Posted by: Danielle | 09/22/2011 at 08:25 PM
Missing you!
Posted by: Tammy Hair | 09/28/2011 at 04:16 AM
Good to feel in charge of your life, instead of the opposite, as much as possible anyway!! I so respect your choice to make a break and hope you'll continue to enjoy each savory life moment and do things on your terms as much as possible!
Thanks for all the wonderfully creative sharing!
Posted by: Stef Perry | 10/02/2011 at 01:04 AM
Oh, a sleepover...what fun! Great photo!!!
Posted by: Benzi | 10/03/2011 at 02:54 PM