This seems like such an unlikely time for me to attempt to be inspiring, which is what I suppose is what I do with this blog; or at least try to do. I have an extremely painful back from taking our dear little puppy to the vet’s yesterday. I couldn’t find his leash so he had to be taken in his small portable kennel. It’s amazing how much a four pound dog can weigh when in a kennel, jiggling around each moment of the walk to the car. I had to traipse through mud to get to the car. It sounds like such a small act but when you’re dealing with a fracture of the spine, it becomes large and heavy. Fear of falling is an ever present companion of mine and has been for many years now. Driving, sitting at the vets and socializing, all the while attempting to look normal, whatever that is; demands payment. Today, I am paying.
There is currently a cement mixer, an emorous road truck with treads like a tank and many construction men with orange helmets working outside my window. There is a strange rumbling in here as the floor and bed shake. Since I always write you while lying down, it adds a whole new dimension, sort of like those beds at motels where you insert a quarter for the shake of your life. I never understood that, nor will I ever.
We are having two dry days, beginning today, therefore I have kind painters sanding and painting our front door and porch, as well as the back porch. Our older dog, Jakie, is keeping watch for me, vocalizing when provoked, always on duty. How often I take his faithfulness for granted.
I often find the big things, occasions, decisions in life too overwhelming, don’t you? By having to slow down, accept caution and change in my life, it has taught me many things. May I chat about a few of those?
1. It truly is the little things that count. When we take the time to open our eyes and consider what truly matters, they are often small. This is true for the good and the bad. A wrinkle in a sheet beneath your sitter can feel like a plank. Bending the wrong way can cause a week or two of trouble. The wrong food can keep you awake all night. For me that can be a speck of pepper or a tiny fruit seed. The wrong pair of shoes can throw your alignment off and cause your stance to change. We are designed to stand upright and not bend. When one part of us becomes defective, we can begin to look like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It’s a strange perpendicular view of life. Sounds like fun but it causes us to fall and only leads to more “cracks” and problems with bones, organs, etc.
Forgive me if this sounds a bit vulgar but truth is truth. We have a new toilet at our house. It was recommended to us to get a taller toilet. I found the other day when trying out our new throne that one of my feet hit the floor, the other did not. Yes, I still have two feet, among my other accomplishments thus far. I was experiencing unusual back pain from the fracture but as life tends to do, my other problems remained. Life can be so unfair, can it not, but I gave in to that argument long ago. One of my longest tortures has been a misalignment of the sacroiliac joints; those joints one sits upon. One of the many amazing and helpful facts I have learned from an excellent physical therapist is that when one’s SI joints are misaligned, one leg can be shorter than the other. That evening I asked Jim who is well versed in this weirdness that is my life, to look at my legs. To do this I lie down on the bed, not looking down so I won’t cheat, and try to lie as straight and aligned as possible. If my ankles meet, that’s a good thing. This week, they did not. He said, “No, your left leg is about an inch shorter than your right.” I am used to this sort of thing and both Jim and I know what to do.
There is a fulcrum like pulling that is required and he know how to do it, as we learned from the physical therapist. It involves stabilizing the knee and pulling on the femur, the long bone of the leg which meets the hip. This strange somewhat medieval “rack” manipulation has to be performed on both legs, much like one would open a stuck bureau drawer. When one has bad ankles and bad knees, it can often be a bit of a trick to find something to grab onto, much to my chagrin. I hate to compare myself to a greased pig in a pig catching contest at the county fair, but it does come to mind.
My point is that an inch of misalignment, or something being out of place by even less than an inch can cause misery. Think of all the little irritants in life such as a pebble in your shoe, a paper cut, a blister, a rash from many causes, are all small but irritating and sometimes, even dangerous. Many years ago, one of the sons of one of our Presidents died from a blister on his foot.
I think it’s very important to remember that small things can also be wonderful. One kernel of corn can grow into a stalk, one flower seed can grow into a thing of beauty and nurture the soul, the hug of a small child can bring indescribable joy to the heart, and a kiss planted at the right moment, by the right person can warm one’s heart. A quarter given to a needy person can have the value of a silver dollar. A new shoelace can keep one from tripping. The correctly diagnosed medication, although small, can help us make it through the day.
WHAT THE HEART HOLDS
In the breast of a bulb
Is the promise of spring.
In the little blue egg
Is a bird that will sing.
In the soul of a seed
Is the hope of the sod.
In the soul of a child
Is the kingdom of God.
Written by William L. Stidger
Would you do a favor for me today? Would you look around you, taking in all you see, hear and feel and find just twenty small things or experiences that give you joy or fill you with awe? Write them down to read again the next time you feel overwhelmed by it all.
2. I’ve discovered there is no such thing as an action that is too small. Often when I am discouraged I make it a point to get out among others. So often, just helping someone at the market reach a can above his head, moving a cart out of the way or merely letting someone pass before you in line, can reward the heart. I often become too self-centered in this life of pain and think I am the only one who feels, who suffers or who has problems. I am not. Simply contact the Wounded Warrior Project if you believe you are alone in your plight.
It is a two way street, this act of being a human being. A smile given to a sad person can brighten their day and make them feel less disconnected. Perhaps, if each of us could retrieve some of the manners of past times and say goodbye to rudeness, it would make each of us feel better. It only takes a moment to thank a checker at the market for bagging your groceries carefully. I often wonder what is going on in the mind of the guy that has to pass you on a curve in such a great hurry to get somewhere because you usually see him again at the next stop light. I wonder what ugliness lives in the heart of the poor soul who complains about everything while standing in line at the market. I ask myself what is accomplished by so many acts of violence in our society and marvel at what is missing from so many human hearts.
It is true, many of us have much to complain about, but does it ever truly help? I find I often turn the channel when the news is on because those same reporters keep beating those same causes when really, all of it is anger and talk. Acts of love, kindness, courtesy and faith in our fellows can bring joy to the heart. I need joy, don’t you?
If my life is to be one of pain, then I choose joy over hurt, kindness over the rudeness I may feel, and forgiveness in place of the anger that is always trying to rush in. Small decisions can have large results.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Sue it’s gone 1am here..but I’ve jst read this as I was so looking forward to it . Well no wonder its perfect and Such an inspiration …
All those thoughts all fixed together so well…I shall have to read it again when tomorrow comes…well the morning..
And you are so right it is the small things, they are the miracles.chris
Chris dear, I sometimes wonder when you sleep. I know you can’t do much of it, that’s for certain. Let tonight be one of those nights you get some. Be sure to let me know what the doc had to say about your DH’s irregular pulse, okay? It is a concern. Seems like he’s had such a time with meds, etc. all this year. My man is flat out exhausted after a trip to Portland to see the knee doc. He’s doing well with the new knee but had to go down to the jail to check meds therefore got up at 3AM therefore after that long trip, was exhausted. I had dinner waiting…beef stroganoff tonight. Had some mushrooms I had to use or lose. Actually we are both exhausted. My day here was wild. Painting mostly all completed…YAHOO/ Do you say YAHOO in England? Now if they would just stop digging up the street every other day. I suspect they are finding pipes in unexpected places. I know they found some old trolley tracts at another intersection. Rest well dear lady…Sue
Sue, wonderfully put and so appropriate for my less than awesome day today. The short of it, 2 cars needing repair (1 repaired – a new battery, who knows what the other will require, it’s still there awaiting its check engine light diagnosis and repair), 1 garage door that won’t close. Calling the door guys tomorrow and anticipating it will likely need a new motor. Oh joy. Needless to say, a busy and rather overwhelming day. But also a day of beautiful weather, some time spent enjoying that weather with a good book and 2 of our cats, a quiet dinner by myself – also outside, and a nice practice session immersed in the music of Mozart and Handel. Moments of joy amid the chaos.
Lyn, the classical selections and the cats both sound delightful. So often when I’m writing I have to click off the news and put in a CD or turn to one of our music stations on our HDTV. It allows so much renewal compared to all the chatter and noise of radio or TV programs. I am so sorry to hear you’re facing car trouble. Glad one was an easy fix but those unknown mechanical troubles can be a worry. Let’s hope it’s not what you fear. It’s amazing how heavy those garage doors can be when you don’t have that motor to assist…hate that. Thank the Lord you had some lovely weather and a good book, also.Are you still mostly using your Kindle. I wish I had bought one with a light in it. Now looking at new Ipads. Beth is coming over tomorrow to help me choose. She loves hers. Hope your day doesn’t keep you from resting well tonight.. Do be good to yourself. Hope kids are doing well..back in the swing of things. Love you, Sue
Sue:
Like Chris, I have to reread this one and savor it again. Like a good wine. Wonderful and thought provoking., But I sense a little sadness underneath it from your pain. I pray you are feeling better.
Lyn…AHHH Mozart ! Love love love throw in some BACH and I am there !
Well, I have had a DAY> Up and gone at 7:30 back home at 7:30 PM ! In between, well busy. Liked my Orthopedic very well, he was a hurry through one, but learned a lot. Had xrays done and scheduling an MRI. then back to see him. I may be wrong but I could sense SURGERY in his tone. He was shocked I had gone on without for over 30 yrs of bad discs. OH I forgot to say when I stepped up to check in at 9:00 am the computers crashed so I finally got in to see him at 10:30. Lunch a little shopping then back for the next. My Rheumy. I found a PRINCESS ! I love her. We talked and analyzed for an hour and a half, After crying two ro three times we figured I am depressed again, got an increase in Tramadol and some sleep meds to start. xrays of hands and a flu shot and labs. SHe is a breath of fresh air after the old stogy I been seeing. No more Neurotin (yeah) And yes Sue she says DO take Tylenol along with my other meds for extra help. My FMS is flaring up and we are addressing that first. Better sleep and less pain. Oh and she looked at my xrays of the back and says it looks like I have me some degenerative arthritis in my spine. What my sister has. SO….not sure how I am feeling about it all except very TIRED right now. I told her about you all and our lovely blog. I told her God and ya’all are my support system. She quite agreed !
Love to you all,
Tonie
Tonie, I’m so happy for you that you found a PRINCESS. It makes all the difference in the world doesn’t it.
I also take Tylenol with all the meds I take and got the okay from my doc. Like you said for extra help.
I think God had a hand in this, a miracle really. One friend talking to their friend (about me) lead to the name of a Rheumy and she told them I could use her name as a reference. This person lives in Quebec City but all this happened in Montreal (about 3 hours from Quebec) over dinner. I’m faxing the info to my GP and hopefully she will set up something. I go back to see her Oct 9, but if nothing is done I will call the Rheumy my self and give this lady’s name as a reference myself. I also think I might try and get her phone # and chat with her for a while (if she wants to) to get some info.
Thought I would share some good news!
You have a good sleep now Tonie, you have a whole lot to think about.
Sleep tight!
God Bless you for being part of my support team. Love to all
Suzanne
XXX
Suzanne !! How wonderful. God is SOO good ain’t He ? As the song goes “He’s An Onetime God” He may not be there when you want Him, but He will be there right on time ! So true and so wonderful. I will keep praying that you get in to see him.
God bless ya
TOnie
Suzanne, Interesting that so many of us use acetaminophen, or Tylenol. I have taken it in combination for many years but always keeping in mind that it can be a dangerous drug. I have seen several instances when liver damage has occurred and sometimes, it’s irreversible. The current limit is 2.6 g.for long term therapy and 4 g. daily for short term use. It’s a lot easier on the gut than many of the NSAID drugs but must be taken within the rules. I knew a young man who took it like candy and went through a terrible bout of jaundice and came near dying. That was a few years ago and just last month he dropped dead from an aneurysm at the age of 39. So tragic and don’t know if the two were related. Many years ago I took care of a young mother who had a broken heart and swallowed a bottle of Tylenol and died.
There are stories like this for all drugs and we’re fortunate in that this is one of the pain meds that has parameters which are known and can be followed. I’m all for any pain med that is not addictive. Also, many of us cannot take codeine which seems to be the biggie in popularity.
Your plans for getting help are moving along and that is good. Always remember to take a list so you don’t get flustered and forget something during your visit. I doubt if you can get a doctor to take the time to talk to you by phone until you are actually their patient. You’re right my dear…guidance is there for anyone who seeks it. Sue
Thank you Tonie. Yes God is soo good and He does things in His time not ours. We all have to remember that. Sometimes I forget. God bless you too Tonie. Sending prayers your way.
love, Suzanne XXX
Thank you Sue for caring so much for all of us. I do take Tylenol but only when I really need to. Meds are dangerous and I’m taking addictive drugs also for the pain, and even at that on days I do a little too much they don’t work. I will be very careful cause all those pills scare me but I need them so I do have to take them.
Sue I’m on my second book, cause I always write down how I’m feeling every day and then the questions for the doc. When I do get to see the Rheumy I’m bringing everything with me so I will be able to answer all the questions I imagine she will ask me. I’m hoping everything goes well and we are a good match.
God bless you my dear friend.
love
Suzanne XXX
Tonie, I am so pleased and relieved your doctor’s appts. went so well. That’s wonderful. I’m especially pleased you like your rheumy so much. She sounds much like mine. I think with two good doctors…finally…doing what needed to be done for diagnostics you should be able to get your disability finally straightened out. I’m tired also and this will be brief but I feel such joy for you right now and gratefulness that all of our wishes for you were fulfilled. You’ll be bushed in the AM but think you will feel better now that you have hope. Love you and later…Sue
Tonie, so glad you found a couple of keepers! Rest now and see what shakes out. I like Bach, too, not surprisingly. 😉
Sue-so many “Hitting the Nail on the Head Points” as you put it all on the table–giving a real in depth view of Living with Chronic Pain. Let’s see–my up/down highlights of a week with Pain—going through some Physical Therapy Sessions–hoping for ANY possible help from the area I sit on–the Ischial—which burns non-stop and after almost 18 years–decided to suddenly take my old Butt on an extra heavy charged Burn Session. Keeping my attitude “Positive” as the Burn stays on a steady roll. Back Pain, fear of falling (Degenerative Discs having their way with me) and Herniated Disc in Neck—hoping to keep the Pain to a tolerable level. Made decision to NOT have surgery on the Neck–all the ups and downs of living with Chronic Pain. Yet as you say–and it is TRUE—there is LIFE–with Pain or without Pain—there is Joy, beauty, so much to grab hold of and treasure! My husband—ahh—now there is my Joy! 38 years and we are still moving along!!!
Thank you Sue—it was a fantastic posting and you gave a real face to PAIN…… God bless.
Martha Herden
Martha dear, I have never been accused of being dishonest or holding back. The truth brings help..falsehoods or pretty speeches don’t. I know you fight a daily battle also and know you are doing all you can. You are obviously lucky in love and have much support. It’s good to hear your support for PT. So many folks haven’t figured that out as yet but should. If you had any doubts at all about surgery, I’m glad you are hesitating. The truth and the way will reveal itself in time..Our answers often come in as YES, NO or Wait. Rest well dear lady…Sue
Martha:
So sorry to hear you are having such a time of it. You made me smile with your mention of your hubby. It is so wonderful to see people who love one another like that. My prayers for you and your tushie dear lady. And your back and all the rest.
God bless
TOnie
MARTHA,
MY SYMPATHIES TO YOU AND ALL YOUR PAIN, I A GLAD YOU HAVE A HAPPY MARRIAGE AS I DO MYSELF,SO WE ARE BLESSED WITH THAT, AND IT HELPS MAKE IT ALL THE MORE BEARABLE.
TAKE CARE…JENNIE……I USED TO BE FRENCH123, DON’T KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THAT. X
Oh Jennie, I clicked on you face (pic) and it brought me to your FB page. I sent you a friend request. My name on FB is Suzanne Larsen ( well that’s my name, so it makes sense doesn’t it LOL). What a beautiful home you have and the flowers are magnificent. Loved the lavender and the flower boxes. Amazing. You just look wonderful, even though I know the pain you are in. Well FRENCH123, Jennie suits you better looking at the pics, but I can refer to you as FRENCH123 if you would perfer.
Take good care my friend,
love to you and blessings.
Suzanne XXX
My dear Sue, you are going through so much all at the same time, I really can’t even imagine trying to do half of what you do. I like Tonie sense sadness due to your pain. But you nailed it again this week. I have changed since Chronic Pain became my companion, so now I do look at the world differently. I realize this isn’t a dress rehearsal so I enjoy the “little things” in my life and I’m surprised to see how many there are. I try and do different things even though it means pain, pain, pain. I also realize that maybe next week, month or year I may not be able to do activities I’m doing today, so I try and seize the moment. Just bringing in the tomatoes from the garden set me back a whole day, but what fun it was to be outside in the sunshine, listening to the birds and hearing the bumble bees on my sunflowers. I choose Kindness, Forgiveness & Joy. Thank you Sue for helping us take a step back to think about all you have written in this post.
Love you and God Bless you Sue. Sending prayers and angels your way my friend.
Suzanne XXX
Morning all:
Yes Sue I am totally worn out this am, but have to go and earn my keep. In the am some more sweet kids are coming and will help at the church, I have to be over there with them, so this evening is nothing but a vegetative state ! It is so good to see everyone on the blog. I have to print and mail some of them to Millie. I got a call from her last night and I hadn’t realized it had been so long since I called her, the days just fly by. She thought something was wrong, so I have to start making myself a note to call her.
Chris, prayers for your dh to get this under control. Like Sue I am concerned over this heart rate thing. Hearts are nothing to play around with. The only good part of me is my heart and bp 🙂 With my families history of heart disease I am very blessed in that,
Jennie, are you still getting berries from the garden >?? I need to pick some more apples and get them done. I have about 8 Qts of applesauce and still going, don’;t want to waste those beautiful apples. May make me some applebutter. I can rest and peel the apples, so it is ok. Just pick a bucket and work thru them.
Love to you all, must get ready to leave. I got smart and fed the chickens last night so no tromping thru the wet grass thisam 🙂
Tonie
HELLO TONIE,
I WENT ON THE WEBSITE YOU SENT, VERY INTERESTING, I CLICKED ON TO “VIRGINIA LIVING” SUCH A LOT TO SEE, ANS I FOUND MYSELF REGISTERING.
OUR FRUIT IS ABOUT DONE NOW, EXCEPT FOR THE RAZZERS, NOT EVEN BEEN ALLOWED ONE OF THE BLIGHTERS, I DID EAT A STRAWBERRY LOLLY THE OTHER DAY, FLAVOURED THAT IS…BOUT THE NEAREST I AM GONNA GET TO ONE.
THE TOMATOES HAVE BEE EXCEPTIONAL THIS YEAR, MASSES OF SOUP STOWED AWAY IN THE FREEZER FOR WINTER.
ANY NEWS ON THE FINANCIAL FRONT MY FRIEND? SURE WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE IT SORTED BY CHRISTMAS…ANY CHANCE? OR IS IT STILL PENDING?
I HOPE THE KIDS ARE A LOT OF HELP AT THE CHURCH, WHAT IS IT THEY ARE NEDED FOR, IS THERE A FESTIVAL GOING ON OR SIMILAR. DON’T WEAR YOURSELF OUT TONIE, I KNOW WHATYOU ARE LIKE, I HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND ANYWAY, ARE THE CHUCKS BEHAVING, WHAT ABOUT THE ONE THAT LIKES TO GO WALKABOUT??? TAKE CARE MY FRIEND….LVE JENNIE X
Hey Jennie Poo !!
Doing okay, I have to have a hearing this time in front of a judge. I think with my new Dr’s it will go thru this time. No festival, the kids are from Va Tech and they come up to help people in the community. They were painting the decks on the church . Nice kids ! I didn’t even paint and I still have white paint on me 🙂 Chucks are doing okay, laying lots of eggs. I got another doz sold in the am. 🙂 $4.00 this week whee hee !! Better than nothing though huh ? I am very tired and am looking forward to resting tonight. Watching movies. Take care sissy !!
Love ya
I keep trying to post, this is six attempts……..just want to say, reading everything but not too well right now, so will catch uo soon, just trying to rest………..love you all, Jennie xx
Jennie:
Had a feeling you were not doing well. Just my “spider sense” I guess. Prayers dear friend, get better. Love ya
Jennie, I was beginning to worry about you. I don’t know what the problem is with your getting on here. Please let me know if it continues. Sometimes I’ve noticed a brief delay after you hit post comment but it always comes through eventually. I loved all the new photos you posted yesterday of you and DH and the sights. So pretty. Always fun each time we can put a name with a face. Do hope you’re hanging in there and not in too much discomfort. How are the kids in England doing with their move? Thinking of you and missing you, Sue
Hi all
Tonie glad you got on fine.it sounds a vry long day you had ..much rest needed i think
Suzanne
That’s just what I’ve been trying to do seize the moment..you can forget to do it ..Again shame about the email probs
Sue
Yep we say Yahoo..along with many others!
Well dH
He went to dr last week and he said the beats were xtra beats they don’t do anything about.rang pacing dept they said it wasn’t the pacemaker that wud do that.
So we are stuck With trusting them…sees general medical dept at hosp next thusday.so will tell all there
And have another drs appt on the Friday
He has AF and has for many years ,and had the pacemaker for it,it didnt control it so he had his heart beat destroyed and relies only on this pacemaker .all worrying
So…I went and bought a new bra today…hate buying them .last one was 8yrs ago!! Its comfortable and thats what i want ..Never get one thats different always the same and it never really fits ..Hate it hate it….if I was smaller ok but I’m not so I daren’t say what cup size …but there isn’t many of them! Bras that is…!.Got a small back apparently and it makes it difficult, but anyway I’ve got one see how it goes,,,,,I may even buy another !! The smaller size she suggested was best for support is to blimmin tight ,can’t do that …so ill just have to drooop! Hey ho all good innit.
Hi Jen hope your ok
Well all have a good w.end Chris
Chris:
Glad you got a new “slingshot” !! LOL ! I have a drawer full of them, but I need to go thru and get rid of the old ones that don’t support me as well. I have them big ole D cup girls and the damage gravity has done….well they are best hidden away !!
Your porr dh, no wonder you are worried. I have never heard of someone having that done. Relying totally on the pacemaker for the beat I mean. I have an irregular beat when I get upset or really overtired, it is very scary and I cannot imagine the worry you have over him now. Many prayers for a solution dear, keep us informed.
Back to the bra, have you ever tried a sports bra ? They ARE tight, but great support and the racer back is good on the shoulders.
Take care
Love
TOnie
Oh yes the racer back are good on the shoulders indeed. I’ve never tried a sports bra, well that’s not true, did years ago but not recently. I like a bra with good support cause it feels so good on my back. Just thought I jump into this conversation.
You all take care now.
love to you all
God bless
Suzanne XXX
Chris, I wanted to wait in my reply until I could get Jim’s opinion, being a cardiac nurse. He agreed with me about not quite understanding about stopping your man’s heart; but as long as they check his pacemaker, he sounds safe. When they did whatever it is to his heart, perhaps an ablation, did they take care of the aberrant beat that was popping up>? If it was a cardiac ablation, they use radio waves, find the odd spot where the beat is generated and zap it with the radio wave. We’re supposed to generate our heart beats from two specific spots and sometimes the heart interferes. Hope all is well with him now or at least much better.
Pouring rain and fierce storm going on here. Don’t know what the duration of it will be. Must get outside and be certain everything is nailed down out there. Gate blew open last night, now have it latched properly thanks to Jim. Poor guy, he’s been stuck at the jail all day. He called a little while ago and said he was still stuck and they “had arrested half the town last night.” He has a gift for exaggeration. I redecorated my bathroom today to make up for the weird toilet…Found some adorable old-fashioned pictures, reminded me of the Bessie Guzman work and hung three of them behind the toilet. They are all of old-fashioned children in white frames. George is barking at the walls. This is his first big storm, poor little guy. He’d better adjust living here. Do take care. How is your dear Dad doing? Did his nose heal? Love you, Sue
WELL, DEAR FRIENDS..HERE IT IS FRIDAY NIGHT AND IT HAS BEEN AN INTERESTING DAY FOR ME AND OUR HOUSE. YESTERDAY THEY COMPLETED THE PAINTING OF OUR HOUSE..BASICALLY AND JUST HAVE TO PUT UP NEW PORCHLIGHTS AND REPLACE DOWN SPOUTS, ETC. UNFORTUNATELY, THE RAIN ARRIVED ABOUT 16 HOURS EARLIER THAN EXPECTED AND THE ENAMEL PAINT WE USED FOR THE PORCH FLOORS DID NOT HAVE TIME TO DRY AND CURE, SOOOOOO, YOU GUESSED IT, THEY ARE BUBBLING AND WILL HAVE TO BE SCRAPED AND REDONE. i HAD AN OMINOUS FEELING WHEN I HEARD THE RAIN DURING THE NIGHT. THOSE POOR GUYS WORKED VERY LONG HOURS YESTERDAY AND LOST THE GAMBLE WITH THE WEATHER MAN. APPARENTLY….HE LIED. THEY HAD TO PROP OPEN OUR LOVELY STORM DOOR TO LET PAINT DRY ON THE DOOR AND IT GOT CAUGHT IN THE WIND AND IS NOW BROKEN AND IN NEED OF NEW WORKING PNEUMATIC TUBE GADGETS. i’LL ORDER THOSE THIS WEEKEND. WELL, I GUESS THE OLD EXPRESSION…IT AIN’T OVER TIL IT’S OVER CERTAINLY APPLIES.
THE POOR PAINTER IS SO SICK OF US AND THIS LOVELY OLD HOUSE…I KNOW HE MUST BE. THIS IS A BAD PLACE TO LIVE IF YOU’RE A PAINTER, THAT’S FOR CERTAIN. I PRAY FOR A BIT OF SUN OVER THE NEXT MONTH BEFORE THE COMPLETE ONSET OF WINTER.THE COLORS ARE LOVELY AND I AM DOING A GOOD JOB OF IMAGINING I LIKE THEM. EXHAUSTED AND IT’S TIME FOR SLEEP. MORE TOMORROW. LOVE TO ALL…SUE
Bl..dy h.ll sue
Nothing in words can cover it!
No one would believe this could all happen
I do admire your fortitude in dealing with it….it’s a lesson for us all. . it is comming to the end and that’s something!
All my best wishes Sue for no more rain and sunshine all the way
SUE,
YOU POOR THING, WAS GOING TO SAY “IT NEVER RAINS TILL IT POURS” LOOKS LIKE IT IS NEVER GOING TO BE FINISHED, BUT IT WILL BE, ANY BUGGER WHO HAS THE NERVE TO SAY “YOU’LL LOOK BACK AND LAUGH AT THIS ONE DAY” SHOULD BE HUNG DRAWN AND QUARTERED.
KEEP GOING SWEET LADY, ITS SO HARD WHEN YOU ARE NOT WELL.
THANKS FOR ASKING AFTER THE KIDS, THEY ARE DOING OK, GOT MOST OF THE WOODEN FLOORS DOWNSTAIRS DONE, FIRE PUT IN, WINDOWS GOING IN NEXT WEEK. TIM’S DAD JUST SPENT A WHOLE WEEK HELPING OUT, THEN ON THE WAY BACK TO HIS OWN PLACE, HE WAS CAUGHT UP IN AN ACCIDENT INVOLVING HUNDREDS OF GALLONS OF OIL SPILT, SAT THERE FOR OVER 8 HOURS….YUK!!
WE WENT ONCE MORE TO THE COASTON WEDNESDAY, TO DINARD AND THE WHOLE PLAE WAS A MASS ON ENGLISH FLAGS, WE WONDERED WHAT WAS GOING ON, LATER WE LEARNED IT WAS THE ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL, AND DINARD WAS WHERE ALFRED HITCHCOCK FILMED “PHYSCO” AND “THE BIRDS” AND HAD AN AFFAIR WITH TIPPI HEDREN. DOWN BY THE BEACH THERE WAS A STATUE OF HIM WITH A BIRD ON HIS ARM AND HE WAS HOLDING HIS BOWLER HAT.
WHEN WE LEFT FOR HOME, MY DEAR DH DECIDED HE COULD GET HOME WITHOUT MY NAVIGATION SKILLS, AND WHAT TOOK 2HRS TO GET THERE, TOOK 6HRS TO GET HOME, WHICH IS WHY I HAVE BEEN SO UNWEL FOR TWO DAYS, YOU GET THE PICTURE SUE, COCCYX ON FIRE NECK FIRE, AND NOW SO MUCH PAIN IN MY WRISTS AND HANDS, OH MY, FEEL REALLY UNDER FIRE. STILL NEVER MIND, GOT TO GET OVER THINGS BEST WE CAN HUH? I WILL PRAY FOR GOOD WEATHER FOR YOU, SO THAT THE PAINT CAN DRY, AND THE DOOR CAN BE FIXED, AND THROUGH ALL OF THAT YOU MANAGE TO SALVAGE SOME WEEKEND TO CHILL. MY LOVE TO YOU AND EVERYONE…JENNIE XX
Jennie, Oh dear. A two hour journey turned into six hours? Will you ever sit again? You deserve whatever you need to do right now to feel better. Now is when it would be wonderful to have one of those great walk-in Jacuzzi tubs with soft jets and plenty of lavender scented hot water. At least, that is my fantasy. If our house wasn’t so small we would already have one installed. I hope the next few days bring you healing and recovery.
Your trip to Dinard sounds very interesting. Kind of creepy to think of Alfred with Tippi,on an intimate basis don’t you think? Maybe that’s why she now owns and runs a wild life animal refuge? They have now been running on cable TV the film HITCHCOCK. Anthony Hopkins and Ann Mirren are great in it but the film is too weird for my taste. I love the way Hopkins has of disappearing into his characters…like he did in NIXON and I’ve heard SILENCE OF THE LAMBS..never saw it and don’t plan to.
That’s terrible about Tim’s Dad getting stuck in such an oily mess. Jim would simply die at the thought of getting so much oil anywhere near his car. Sounds like the kids are making great progress on their new house. SIL is sanding my GS’s room today and they are anxious to finish it, also.
Sweet friend, the best we can hope for for the porches is warm dry days to get the old bubbled paint off and enough warmth and dryness to dry the next coat…coming up. Today the wind is swirling and fierce, rain getting in your face from every direction. Time to drag out the heavy hats and gloves…dug out my raincoat. Jen, be good to yourself dear girl. Sue
OMG, Sue things will come to an end. The rain will stop eventually and hopefully have time for the paint to dry.
Jennie, you take good care of yourself, 6 hours, wow, that must have been very hard on you. I’m feeling our pain also.
Take good care all of you. Love and Blessings being sent from Valcartier.
love you all
Suzanne XXX
Hello Everyone! I have missed you all! Hugs all around…(gentle soft cuddly ones) Sue, good grief dear, at least the paint can be re-done and door fixed. I can imagine how difficult it is to be a contractor with all the rain you get. We had rain all last week which meant rescheduling to this week. Its all about adapting to change, isnt it? Whether its life, work, health,,,, So, you have free vibration therapy going on from the street work?! Lovely, that can be annoying. You mentioned concrete trucks, maybe its the vibratory tool they use to settle the concrete when its poured. Hopefully it wont last long. Just keep an eye on any china or breakables you may have–Oh goodness, here I am giving advice to falling items to a lady that lived in California… 😉
I loved the homework that came in your writing today. I have my notebook on the patio table ready to jot down my list when I take the pups outback later on. Speaking of, Jessica pup decided to dig a hole under the fence so she can see the pup next door- I think she is smitten with a little boston terrier! I had to fill the hole in, it was deep enough to fit her head under. She had dirt everywhere! I brushed her for 20 minutes before letting her back in the house. If I had felt better she’d have gotten an bath, but that I couldnt do. I looked over the fence and it seems little boy pup had been digging his side as well! Puppy love… a basset hound of 77 lbs and a terrier of 12 lbs 🙂
I am feeling like a flare of RA and everything else is upon me. I have been carefully chosing what to do energy wise, and watching what I eat. I have been craving pumpkin things.. must be that time of year. I would love to be baking, but can barely manage dinners and dishes. Maybe in a week or two.
Tonie, I am very pleased and happy that your Doctors are attentive and eager to help you. It makes all the difference in the world.
Oh thats the doorbell, I have to cut this short. I am heading out to do some craft shopping with a friend. My cousin had their first baby- a girl- and I want to get a little something to cross-stitch, or maybe crochet a simple blanket if I can find some super cuddly soft pink baby yarn, or maybe light lilac shade… (sounds ambitious, I hope I can do it!)
Take care everyone, love, Theresa ps-I think we should share our list of 20…. 😉
Theresa ! Bout time. Hope you had a good day. Sure you can crochet a baby blanket ! Now cross-stitch, well, I can’t bring myself to do that. All the counting 🙂 Your doggies are such a pair !! 🙂 But I know you love em a lot ! Just like mine. I pray you don’t have a flare. Those feelings are awful, like waiting for a storm to hit. You take care and don’t be a stranger okay !!
Love ya
TOnie
Theresa,How wonderful to hear from you. Please don’t think my delay in getting back to you indicates anything but the total confusion in my own life. All of us have always loved your tales of your Bassets those sweethearts but it does seem that Jessica pup has been exploring a bit this year. Well, I know love comes in all sizes and shapes but it is adorable. I’m certain it’s less adorable for you as you are filling a hole..for that, I am sorry. I hope your neck injury and all of your arthritis problems are improving. What a time you’ve had dear girl.
I was reminded that your husband’s asphalt business makes you so knowledgeable about what we’ve been going through all summer. I wish it was straight paving..it’s all these jokers that dig up the street every day finding new problems with gas lines, waterlines, today…sewer pipes..Bob the Builder would be having a ball but we are just turning up the TV, comforting the dogs and waiting for it to end.
Unlike Tonie, I love to cross stitch but always screw up crocheting. If I do anything in that line now it’s quilting or needlepoint.
Once again, so good to hear from you and sorry I’ve been so goofy. Love you much..Sue
Everyone, our dear friend Brenda from Canada, Teddie the Pom’s Mom, also known as Nana Brenda, posted a lovely, long post on the “BUM” blog, toward the end, around the 16 or 17th of Sept. I just found it today. Be sure to check it out under Pommum. Sue
Sue they couldn’t do the ablation as you say ,what they did was to ablate
the heartbeat from the bottom of the heart reaching the top of the heart. So he relies solely on the pacemaker.
Thankyou for asking Jim. He is so busy too
My dad well today. last nite he didnt switch the phone off it was engaged all day. I got hs neighbour eventually…dad does ths all the time…to go tell him. Well it took 30mins to explain to him how to switch it off..he has had the phone for 6yrs and no problem,but it took phoning back and fore so he could do it today. He then blamed me for phoning him for the phone going wrong! All he has to do is press a button !
He says the phone is bugg.red..it ain’t he just has to switch the thing off!
The other day he had the painters in and had to use another toilet to poo….but didnt get there in time.had to come back and this same neighbour help….I didn’t find out until the painter told me when dad rang to complain to them about their work! They had to throw the dust sheets away dads trousers and then recover the trousers as he had left his wallet in them! And then he paid them £20 less than agreed..the painter never said anything with how he thought dad was feeling..all the new carpet in the sheltered home had to be washed where it happened . It is all so upsetting. And sometimes I get angry as well i dont know why i do…then worried.i can hardly understand him ..his voice is so faint and so slurred.he doesn’t talk much as he can’t.its kinda yes and no and guess what he says.
The future feels bleak,and I am watching out for signs of what I don’t know. Then the next day he’s not too bad
Well you are fixing the bathroom ….it is making it yours again. The pics sound pretty
Lets hope for better weather it sounds really bad over there
Well gonna make a cup of tea..it’s 1.30am approx here or i might dust downstairs save tomorrow.i never know what tomorrow brings so I try and steal a head on it!
Chris
Chris, Your problems and ours, at least the ones from the outside, are so very different. Your heart is so involved in worry for your Dad. I know it’s so hard to see a parent like that.The end of life is so often ugly, embarrassing and hurtful. I can imagine he is so frightened deep within…not that he would display it on the outside. Just keep reminding himself this is not really him any longer and hang onto any and all good memories from your past with him. My Mom had such a hard time when my Dad began to have serious problems and I just kept telling her, “This isn’t really him anymore.” I know that doesn’t take away your hurt but you are definitely now the adult. I wish he wasn’t so ornery but that is definitely how he’s expressing the changes physically and psychologically.Prayers and hugs for you dear girl..be strong. Sue
Chris:
It is a sad thing to watch our parents age. Mine never made it past 62, (my mom) but to see her go thru all she did. And there is nothing you can do, it is overwhelming at times. Just do what you can when you can and love him thru it all. I pray you find the niche in there where you can be with your dad. Prayers so much for you and yours. A sad time of life. There will come a time when you will only remember the former years of happiness. That is the thing about memories. We pick the ones we want to cherish.
Love you
Tonie
Hi, everyone – particularly Theresa and Brenda whom we’ve not heard from in a while! Will keep this short as it is getting late and I’m still recovering from my “exercise” Friday (I trimmed the bushes needing fall trimming as they will be collecting trimming waste in our neighborhood starting this week.) The boy is home this weekend to work, so we won’t see much of him, but it’s still nice having him around even briefly. We were at a surprise pig roast for my brother in law’s 60th birthday today. Beautiful weather and good food, good company. Now ready for a little reading before bed. Sue, your saga just continues on and on… like The Song that Never Ends (remember Shari Lewis and Lambchop?) Jennie, Chris, your sagas are also continuing, but with very different twists and turns. Oh, my. Well, dears, I’m fading fast and have hit my typing limit with my sore digits. Ta for now.
Afternoon all ! I left church after Sunday School, so tired from all week and not much rest. Judy is having a bout with her Diver. stuff so she wasn’t there either. Beautiful sunny fall day here in SW Virginia, cool and clear. Judy came to bring me some goodies from her class reunion last night and left the small gate open, so when she left the boys went running thru barking like crazy. Then came rushing back, they found the skunk ! Ceasar got it right in the face, he was slobbering and shivering. I put him in the tub and used cider vinegar on him and shampoo. He smells better, but all the rugs and their bedding he rubbed on had to be taken outside to be washed later.
So good hearing all the peeps on here again. Hope you all have a wonderful day and a great upcoming week.
Love ya’
Tonie
Tonie
Lovely words ,Thank you…. on my other post
My mum fell down stairs and died the next day in hosp, they advised us to switch off the machine .we waited with her all day
This was 6 yrs ago and it weighs heavy with us and now my dad .
Yep bad times sometimes you wonder where to put your mind!
Hope you got rid of the smell…what a job!
It was a sunny day here too. Made some parsnip and chick pea soup and also a Chinese stirfry so have enough for some meals this week.busy with hosp appts and stuff
DH not too good be glad when this week is over and all appts done
Hope the weather keeps fine with you too perhaps we can wish it to Sue…
Chris
Chris, it is tragic how your Mom passed away. How awful for all of you. I hope you are not having to deal with too terribly much with your Dad. It is a heartsore time for you and I’m so empathetic about that. We went through a great deal with my Dad for four years and it was hard to be a part of. I’ll send you an email one day with more details. Sounds like you do have a bully week to deal with so please be good to yourself as we all care about you. The sun is now shining in the window on my computer so that must be a good sign.
I’ve been on the phone ordering new parts for our storm door, waiting to hear from the computer server to order a new router, have to go online now that we’re back on and print out permits for our new sidewalk and shoring up our retaining wall. Hope to get that done before the worst part of winter sets in. I’m still moving slowly and cautiously. Have all of the problems you had with your head injury passed on. Hey girl, we need a break..right? Love you, Sue
HI TONIE…….GOT ME PUZZLED, WHAT THE HECK IS A SESSION WITH A DIVER??? FORGIVE ME IF I SOUND LIKE A NUMPTY, BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE KIND OF DIVER I KNOW OF AND IT INVOLVES WATER!!!!!!
OH NO!!! NOT THE SKUNK AGAIN, OH MY WHAT A WHIFF, DON’T ENVY YOU THAT ONE, ALL THAT WORK, I REMEMBER SACHA ROLLING IN A DEAD FISH FULL OF MAGGOTS, TOOK TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE SMELL FINALLY WENT.
HOW ARE YOU NOW SWEETHEART, IS THE CHANGING WEATHER AFFECTING YOUR HEALTH, I KNOW IT IS FOR ME, THE WRISTS AND THUMBS AS MUCH AS ANYTHING, CAN HARDLY PICK THINGS UP RIGHT NOW, STILL GOT TO KEEP GOING, GOT TO HOUSE/CHUCKS/CATS SIT AGAIN ON THE 12TH, FOR TEN DAYS, SO FREE EGGS AGAIN, WOOP WOOP!!!! LOVE YA MATE XX
Hey Jen Poo !! DIVER was just short for my not being able to spell diveriticulosis !! She has that same stuff a lot of you have and when she eats out sometimes it flares awfully. I am doing okay and yes the changing weather is affecting me the same as you, my wrists hurt a lot. Skunk smell is outside now, so got it all cleaned up, hopefully it will keep Ceasar from chasing skunks ! Take care you !! Good on you with the eggs. ALL 5 of my hens layed today so it is a first !!
Love ya !!
Oh Tonie, Poor Caesar, How miserable for him and for Brutie. So, no tomato juice now?..Then you have all the extra cleaning and laundry. Nature, oh nature. I hope his eyes are okay and he’s recovering. I was also confused by Judy’s diver remark..did you mean liver? What’s going on? Hope she is not seriously ill and has to deal with any issues right now.
I feel so hopeful about your situation right now and feel certain the new docs will help you straighten it out with the disability people.
Lots of racket here as pipes are dropped outside, no water all day and hopefully some joy as I get to have the grands over after school. Back is still back and has affected the SI joints. Must do as many of the stretches as I can today, pain or no pain or get an order for physical therapy. It has been quite a storm. Mostly rain last night with little thunder and some wind. Think the worst of it is over. Thinking of you and yours even when I couldn’t get online. Love, Sue
SUe:
Bless your heart !! With all your stuff going on and you still think of us, that is why I said you got the old Booger Man mad cause you are so sweet ! 🙂 Pray your back feels better soon, I know your exercises always help you, I was telling Sis Faye about the the other day as she has bad back as well. Hang in there, we are all pulling for you !!
Love
Tonie
My friends, Please forgive my absence for the last couple of days…I’ll explain. As those of you on FB may have noticed from the pics my daughter Beth posted, we had a fierce storm roll in Friday night. It seems we have a series of heavy rains and fierce winds coming in from Alaska. Thankfully they are not as cold as they will be from that region later in the fall and winter. It hit us very fiercely on Sat morning after a night of winds and our muddy streets were a small child’s dream…At least the workmen had the weekend off and we had a few of the and streets that are paved washed clean after having piles of dirt and gravel on them for weeks. Sat. we had three inches in a few hours then suddenly our power went out as well as our phones. Our whole house generator came on, worked very efficiently although as always it sounds like a motorcycle is parked in the garden next to the house. As the after began to darken we realized all the neighbors had lights and our generator kept running. It should have turned off automatically, but it did not. We waited and also wondered why the phones weren’t working because we were generating power. It’s difficult to get the power co. out on a Saturday especially when they tell you there are not outages in your area. Finally one of their reps. showed up along with our SIL and they were all in the dark except for flashlights because our new porch lights haven’t been installed yet. Rain and darkness…Well, it seems our house and one of the other neighbors were the only two out in the area. We’re on some set up with them and the pole had a problem. Our generator was quite right and we were wrong. I gave up and went to bed because everything hurt…but was concerned why we didn’t have phone service after they turned the power on and the generator off. The next morning I traced each phone line in the house and found that our new pup, George, our little Yorkie had chewed a hole in the main phone line into the house which is behind our bed. The internet remained off so I couldn’t talk to any of you. I felt quite out there all alone without all of you. I missed you all.
Yesterday, on Sun. early morning and all day we were accosted by fierce and extremely loud, house shaking thunder and lightning. The pain I’m having gets worse with any activity and I felt terrible. It was my SIL’s birthday and I didn’t make it out to dinner with the rest of the family…no sitting in a restaurant chair for me right now. As you all probably remember the floors on the porches had not tried when the rains arrived too early and will have to be redone but the rest of the house looks good. No street but we do have curbs now, however our storm door was broken by the winds and I hae to order the parts to fix it and will call them tomorrow. Today along with the server company I discovered after much detective work that my router is shot and I need a new one. I am now writing to all of uou in the dial up mode with the modem on my nightstand and cords everywhere.
After the last few weeks well, most of the summer and it’s many problems of health and home, I told Jim, “Too bad I’m not a Catholic or I would call in a priest for a exorcism.” We Protestants just don’t normally do that. He said, “Good idea, while you’re at it you might as well call a Rabbi, too.” Guess a witch doctor should be next on the list. Tomorrow we will not have water all day due to new water lines being installed.
I have thought about each of you so much, with prayers and concerns and hope to chat with each of you here.Thanks for your patience in reading this epic.I just didn’t want all of you to think I’d dropped dead and nobody told you. Love you so much…Sue
Sue dear Sue:
My dear friend what can I say except I am so sorry for all that you have been going through. It is a nightmare to your senses and that doesn’t take into account all your body’s needs as well. Poor little George, is he in the doghouse now >?? I remember the chewing days. Not fun, I lost some nice shoes I had just bought. That was BEFORE I reminded myself to put them out of reach 🙂
It seems you are stranded without the internet don’t it ? I mean you feel so isolated. I am glad you at least have the dialup, for however slow it is. I saw that nasty weather coming in your way and been praying for ya’all. Hope it is passed over now and you can rest easier.
Nix on the witchdoctor and just take a broom and sweep em out !! 🙂 Open the doors and tell em to flee ! 🙂 So many times it feels that way. Well, my mothers used to say you know when you have made the devil mad by doing good, cause he attacks you all around. Just know we are here for you my dear. Rest up and take care.
I am sitting with Ms ALice today. My brother Rocky is here for the week and he came to visit last night. It was good to see him. Nothing else new here.
Love to all
Tonie
Unbelievable Sue. I didn’t realize you were gone as I lost the internet for a few days after our last storm. At least I know I am going to lose both the internet and the tv. I have satellite dishes for both and they hate rain. I hope and pray that this will end soon for you. Love and positive thoughts going out to you and your family. Janet
HI JANET,
I THINK WE ALL FEEL THE SAME, THIS IS JUST RUNNING AND RUNNING ISN’T IT, IT MAKES YOU FEEL SO HELPLESS WHEN YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING. SO GLAD YOU HAVE YOUR INTERNET BACK NOW, AND THE STORM DIDN’T CAUSE TOO MUCH HASSLE FOR YOU….LOVE JENNIE X
Dear kind Janet…I find my life a bit unbelievable lately and just want to roll with it as best I can. Talked to my son yesterday and heard you had some showers in north TX I’m sure all of this mess will be “healed” one day. I actually feel sorry for these street guys working in the storms. Thankfully they were off during the worst of it over the weekend. How are you feeling? Thanks for all the positive thoughts. We need all of them we can get but it’s really not as bad as it sounds here. We just have to step over each problem and move on. You’re a true friend. Sue
OMG…..WHAT THE HELL ELSE CAN GO WRONG, FELT HEARTBROKEN FOR YOU SUE, BUT HAD TO RAISE A SMILE AT WEE GEORGE’S ESCAPADES. IF IT WEREN’T FOR THE FACT THAT I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LOVE THAT HOUSE, I WOULD SAY GET THE HELL OUT OF IT, COZ THIS LAST YEAR THINGS HAVE HAPPENED IN THAT HOUSE THAT YOU COULDN’T MAKE UP.
PUT IT ALL IN YOUR BOOK, IF ITS ALREADY FINISHED, WRITE THE SEQUEL.I GUESS YOU COULD FILL IT BY NOW. I AM WORRIED AS WE ALL ARE THE TOLL THIS MUST HAVE TAKEN ON YOUR HEALTH, AND I ALSO KNOW THAT IF WE COULD WE WOULD ALL BE THER PITCHING IN TO HELP PUT IT RIGHT.
UNFORTUNATELY WE CAN’T DO THAT, SO ALL WE CAN OFFER IS OUT THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO GET YOU THROUGH WHAT HAS BEEN A TRULY DREADFUL TIME….KEEP SMILING MY DARLING YOU ARE SO LOVED…..JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Jennie, knowing you are there and knowing you care is everything. One by one we are getting it done. Today new water line so brushed my teeth with water we put on the stove last night. No flushing today. Now I need a new router for my computer because I’m in bed where I do all my writing with my modem and about four lines and cords. I’m careful not to get tangled but it’s a challenge to keep toothy George away from them. He’s a stubborn little guy and indeed..hysterically funny. He torments old Jake by running around him. He wants a playmate that has has four feet, I do believe. Right now George is sleeping in and is so cute. I got him up in the night to pee on his pee pad, he pooed and then barked at me..we were both in the bathroom. I told him I wasn’t finished yet just because he wanted to go back to his kennel…then he went into the bedroom where his kennel is beside my side of the bed and jumped in, I closed the top and we both went back to sleep…him before me.
I am embarrassed and disappointed that this lovely blog has taken such a negative turn due to all we’ve been through and want it to end. Enough of this Crap!!! Right? Later my dear…Much love, Sue
Sue, I have no words. I’m so sorry for all you’ve been through. It just keeps coming and coming.
I TOTALLY AGREE LYN X
Lyn, I also agree. This is beginning to be farcical, isn’t it? Enough already. Hope you, the kids and DH..by the by, I loved the pic of the two of you on FB yesterday. (You’re such a handsome couple) are all well. Hope the kitties are all prepared for winter. I do wonder where our summer has gone, don’t you? It was an odd year weatherwise for all of us. As for us, all will be well soon. We just need some sunny days, much patience and lots of hope. Thanks for being there..you are a dear. Sue
Well hi all
I wonder if by diver tonie means diverticulitis
Sue
Surely surely it wil come to and end and all the festive seasons to come will drown out all the bad things for you. No pun intended!!
What a storm you had by the sound of it.
Lets hope for a calm time now so it can all be finished
Chris
Oh Chris, surely this will all end and will work out. At least I’m not one of those poor guys out working in the rain. We had winds up to 65 MPH, 3 inches of rain in a few hours, much thunder and lightning and now it seems to be letting up. I wish I could figure out how to send FB pics to you via email. Hope your week will resolve a few things. How’s DH doing with his rhythm. Love…Sue
Sue:
If you RIGHT CLICK the mouse you can “Save ” the picture to your computer, then you can email it so Chris.
Hope this helps
🙂
Mornin’ Ya’all !!
Hope all is well. Beautiful am here in SW VA !!! 🙂 I have to finish mowing the yard today, do some trimming up. Maybe I will let the chicks out for the day, they have been begging and there has to be bugs by now, keep em from digging in my flower beds. If I can keep that Chickie Sue from running off…….SHort but sweet, my nephew is here, more later.
Love
TOnie
Tonie, Well, if your nephew is there that usually means something is being accomplished that needs doing. Now you be nice to my namesake Chickie Sue. She is just adventurous and creative. I don’t want to hear that she has been hit by a car and ends up in a pot. That would break my heart…to say nothing of hers.
Hope your sis, Judy is feeling better tummy wise. Things are calm around here today as the rain continues and the construction guys in the street continue to play in the mud.Poor guys. It’s not too warm out there today, either. Our water was off for a few hours yesterday but now we have nice new pipes in the street…apparently.
I am doing all of my SI stretches to keep them where they belong. It has helped. My leaning tower of spine had thrown them off and it’s one of the biggest pains in the ass there is. Just passing along the truth.
Tired of being in the dark in the gloomy weather..literally, so have an electrician coming out to install the new porch lights all around. I asked if they can install in the rain and apparently they can. Painting can’t be finished until we get some dry days. Love the new outdoor fixtures we chose. They will look so good out there. The front porch light is like an old lantern made of hammered copper and the two back door lights, in a black iron. Little by little we’re getting there with a few problems thrown in. Today the heater is acting up and the heater guy will be out. I’ve stopped expecting perfect and will settle for safe, pleasant and occasionally, funny. Grands were here yesterday after school and they are always fun. They are enjoying little George out Yorkie pup so much. Before they left he had had enough and we lost him and found him lying beside his kennel, fast asleep. ‘Nuff said. Sue
Hi all
Sue I would love to see the photos
We had lots of rain today..but none like you had!
Went for appt at hosp,today for lumps under my tongue .they are swollen saliva glands..nowt can be done
He is going to review me 6 mths time to keep me on the books
Jen
Sent you email hope you had a good day out
Tonie
You still busy there then I see
Sue
I think the blog shows its alive with all you are going thru?the ups and downs of us all will be displayed as time passes
Chris
Chris, rain is good. I am sorry to hear about your salivary glands being blocked. Sounds like good old Sjogren’s hit again. Do try very warm salt water rinses to sooth and maybe open them. Here’s hoping it won’t be long. Thanks for what you said about the blog…it’s just that I try to be so positive a person then all this stuff keeps happening to us this summer on top of all the health issues that are always there. Life is still basically wonderful. Sometimes we just really have to look harder than other times. Do take care..Love, Sue
HELLO,
BEEN THINKING OF EVERYONE ALL DAY, AND YES I KNOW I WENT TO THE COAST, BUT YOU WERE STILL ALL ON MY MIND, THINGS DON’T STOP HAPPENING TO YOUR FRIENDS JUST COS YOU ARE NOT ONLINE.
ANYWAY, I ACTUALLY GOT MY DH TO COME BACK HOME FROM A DAY OUT IN THE SAME TIME IT TOOK TO GET THERE….THE FIRST TIME IN 7 BLOODY YEARS…..CAN BE DONE HUH?? FOR AUTUMN IT WAS SO LOVELY AND WARM AND DID MY OLD BONES GOOD. HAD FISH AND CHIPS AGAIN, IT WAS WORTH GOING FOR THAT, AND I WAS GOOD NO ICECREAM. I WISH YOU COULD HAVE ALL BEEN THERE TOO, JUST TO BE ABLE TO KISS YOUR TROUBLES AWAY FOR A FEW HOURS, BUT I DID TAKE YOU WITH ME IN MY WAY………I LOVE YOU ALL…..JENNIE XXX
Jennie, Oh dear…something is amiss. You went to the coast and came back in the same time? Miracles still occur. Poor DH, we do pick on him sometimes. I’m afraid it’s the old “no man will look at a map when he can find it, or try to find it, himself.” Sounds like you had a renewing, wonderful day. There is something so life-giving about the motion of the sea and the cold salt air. Tell me about your fish and chips. Ours is often beer batter but always fresh at our favorite places. I don’t like to get take-out because the chips get soggy before we get home with it. Hot and crispy is for me, with vinegar or lemon of course. I’m a big tartar sauce person so I always get Jim’s as well. Just having you describe it I feel like I was there. Thanks for the trip…didn’t hurt my sitter at all. Love you, too. Sue
Hi Sue,
Yes I will tell you about the fish and chips, the batter is light as a feather and crispy, the chips, I have had to get used to over here, “Pomme Frites” quite thin but they were beautifully cooked and yes with tartare sauce, all served with a mixed salad with a grain mustard and mayo dressing. For starters, we had smoked raw herring also with a salad garnish..fabulous, but oh the dessert Sue…mmmmmm…it was like cheesecake in consistancy but with prunes soaked with alcohol till they were fat and juicy, better stop now before I get carried away.
Yes DH did well this time, he is a delight to be with except when he doesn’t listen, he sees the funny side to everything which is good for me when the pain is bad, as is the case for most of us I think don’t you?
I hope things have improved by this time, that the bits you needed for the door have come and been put on….and it works, I pray the painting is done or at least almost and you can begin to breathe clean air again, and I loved the update on little George and of course lets not forget Jake.
Keep smiling my friend, you are always in my mind……..with all love, Jennie x
THERESA SUGGESTED WE MIGHT LIKE TO SHARE OUR LISTS OF TWENTY THINGS WHICH I SUGGESTED YOU WRITE DOWN…THINGS OR OBJECTS OR EXPERIENCES WHICH GIVE YOU PLEASURE OR FILL YOU WITH AWE SO YOU COULD READ THEM WHEN YOU NEED A LIFT…I THINK IT’S A SPECIAL IDEA. IF ANY OF YOU WANT TO DO THAT…I THINK I WILL AFTER TOMORROW’S BLOG IS WRITTEN AND I’LL SHARE MY LIST WITH YOU AND I SUSPECT THERESA WILL ALSO…HERE ON THIS ONE OR EVEN ON THE NEW BLOG. LOVE TO ALL OF YOU AS WE SEARCH AND SEEK. SUE
Ok I am up for that…..here goes
THE LORD,
MY HUSBAND….WHO IS MY ANCHOR
MY CHILDREN, WHO SHAPE YOUR LIFE
MY MAMA
MY SISTER
MY FRIENDS IN USA, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, SPAIN, HOLLAND AND UK
MY DOG
HORSES
MY WEDDING DAY
THE OCEAN WASHING OVER PEBBLES THEN BACK AGAIN
MY COUNTRY
RIPPLING RIVERS AND STREAMS
THE BIRDS SINGING
LAUGHTER
RAINBOWS
SUNSHINE ON MY FACE
TREES SWAYING IN THE BREEZE
ANGELS
THE RED CROSS AND SALVATION ARMY
MY HOME AND SANCTUARY.
LOADS MORE BUT THATS ENOUGH……………JENNIE XXXXXXXX
For Jennie and all who want to share their list of things which give you joy and make you go “awe.” Here’s my list.
SUE’S LIST:
THE DEEP ASSURANCE THAT IS ALWAYS WITH ME KNOWING i AM LOVED BY A POWERFUL GOD.
DEEP CONVICTION AND CALM WHEN ALL SEEMS TO BE GOING WRONG; KNOWING IT IS HAPPENING FOR A REASON.
DISCOVERING WHAT THAT REASON IS…HOWEVER LONG IT TAKES.
WHEN MY DH, JIM, UNLOADS THE DISHWASHER BEFORE HE GOES TO WORK AT 6 AM WITHOUT BEING ASKED
WHEN HE TAKES THE TINY PULL CAP OUT OF A NEW CARTON OF THE MILK I DRINK, KNOWING IT’S HARD FOR ME TO DO.
WHEN HE LAUGHS UNCONTROLLABLY OVER SOME OLD JOKE HE’S TELLING..
YORKIE PUP GEORGE WHEN HE GOES ON HIS PEE PAD.
SEARCHING FOR TOOTSIE ROLLS IN THE TWO SPOTS HE HAS CHOSEN; GOTTA WORK ON THAT.
GEORGE IN HIS NEW BLUE TURTLENECK.
JAKE OUR MINI-SCHNAUZER CUDDLING BETWEEN JIM AND I WHEN HE’S LONELY OR COLD
GEORGE WHEN HE WALKS ON JIM WHEN JIM’S FALLEN ASLEEP AND JIM PETS HIM LOVINGLY.
PICKING UP A SMALL GRANDCHILD AFTER SCHOOL AND HEARING ALL ABOUT HIS/HER DAY.
GRANDSON SAYS, “SCHOOL? OH, I CAN’T REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENED. CAN WE HAVE POPCORN?”
GRANDDAUGHTER SAYS, “DO YOU LIKE MY NEW SHOES? OH MY FRIEND ALLYSON AND I….(ON AND ON)” SO CUTE.
WHEN EITHER ONE OF MY GROWN CHILDREN DO SOMETHING PARENTAL.
THE PRIDE I FEEL THAT THEY TURNED OUT SO WELL.
PICKING UP THE PHONE AND TALKING TO ANY LONG TIME FRIEND.
MEETING A NEW FRIEND AT RANDOM AND CLICKING.
APPRECIATING THE ARTIST IN OUR PAINTERS.
BEING COURTEOUS TO SOMEONE, LIKE AT THE POST OFFICE, AND HAVING IT APPRECIATED.
GOING THE EXTRA MILE…ANYTIME.
TELLING OFF AN ASSHOLE WHEN NEEDED.
Sorry, I forgot to stop at 20…Let’s hear your twenty, okay? Sue
Jennie, well, small wonder I love you so much..wonderful list..although they are not to be judged, I just mean how much I identified and saw you in all you shared. Sue
That was great to read Jennie.
love to you, Suzanne XXX
Jennie, I loved hearing you describe your dinner at the coast. Oh my, it made my mouth water also. Batter on anything has to be light or you might as well just slap a piece of bread around it, right? We love beer batter fried mushrooms and onion rings. It’s sort of like pie crust…should have that perfect consistency or don’t bother. I can tell by seeing the pictures of your husband he is jolly. We all need jolly. My DH is funny, but tired from working too much however he is always the doomsday kid compared to my giddy, everything will be alright attitude. I think it would be so boring to be married to someone who is too much like us, don’t you? Do take care, okay?
No, the door parts haven’t arrived but I called the electrician to put up all the new light fixtures outside and they look lovely. The heater guy was here and they put in a switch we needed for another reason, together. Now we can see outside when it is dark. Can’t finish the painting until it gets dry. Someday??? Mother nature has been weeping all over us and her breath…whoa. Love you, Sue
I love the sharing lists posted. Ladies, I have tears rolling down my face as they are so beautiful and loving- writings from your heart & souls. Thank you for sharing them-Ihave to get mine and post them after I get DH off to work. Love, Theresa
Ok here we go
Family…..autumn air…..books
The Internet!! Bird song..hobbies
Days out..the sea..the mountains
Friends…memories…nice surprises
The garden…picnics …meals out
Frosty mornings…GOOD nights sleep
Things turning out right…cooking
Summer evenings and DH
More than 20….and not in that order
Chris
OK a list. this is just off the top of my head and in no particular order. My property with its 3 ponds and trees, my gym where i have many friends, my animals, my family, my internet family, neighbors who care, talking to old friends on the phone, this house that my husband built that reminds me of him every day, pictures of family that are now passed, I love the rain and am always awed by the Texas Thunderstorms, the wildflowers that start blooming in early spring and keep on coming thru the fall, visits to Galveston which remind me of the Pacific Ocean. That’s about it for now. Janet
Janet, I loved your description of your life shown in your list. The TX wildflowers are amazing, aren’t they and I’m also a big picture person. My whole wall next to our indoor stairway is pics of family and it is a connection that brings warmth to the heart. Loved it..thanks so much for sharing it with all of us. Fondly, Sue