Coming back from a crisis of any kind is difficult for us mere mortals. Those of us who live with chronic pain deserve a gold star most days for simply surviving. I have discovered coming back from cancer surgery when you already have a backpack full of physical problems is a rocky mountain to climb. I’d crawl if I could, but it hurts my knees.
Isn’t that the old adage, “Ya’ gotta crawl before you can walk?” I may not be able to crawl, literally or physically, but I’ve been scooting all over the place in my mind. Each day I wonder where my energy is hiding. It’s not like I was a dynamo before I had a mastectomy 7 weeks ago, but these weeks have made a snail’s crawl look snappy. I even feel like talking in slow motion…is that possible? Don’t you have to be a machine to do that? Remember that corny old joke, “If I moved any slower I’d be walking backwards.”
All of us who live with various diseases and problems have heard about RA fatigue, fibro fog, etc. In our daily lives we constantly see the results and wish we could get a new battery pak, pay for an overhaul or perhaps just trade our old bodies in for new ones. We chat about the B vitamins, which actually do help; we honestly admit we are better when we’re active than when we’re sedentary and we try to be consistent but it’s incredibly difficult. Don’t believe those people who say it isn’t. They’re fooling themselves and trying to lead you into their deceptive trap.
I had to sit myself down the other day, which actually meant I had to get up from a reclining position, and give myself a firm yet self-loving talking to.( I know, that’s not grammatically correct but we all say it, don’t we?) Sometimes life becomes so difficult in its varying ways it gets us pounded into the mat. Getting up is not as easy or simple as it sounds. Each of us who have scraped ourselves off the floor knows about that.
I’ve had three chronic conditions for a very long time and in that time; I’ve learned a few lessons which help enormously. May I share these answers I have found with each of you as I also remind myself what they are, anew, day after day?
KEEP FIGHTING. If you lie on that mat long enough, you’ll lose heart and spirit and those are the motivators in your life and can “out will” the body. Rise up, fight back and be sassy while you’re at it. Why not? It may empower you.
EAT. I know it’s weird but when I’m down emotionally or physically, I forget to eat or forget to eat correctly. That extra trip to the store is worth it to assure a balanced diet and that is enormously important. I carry a snack bar in my purse for any light headed moments. I try to stock up on fresh fruits, fresh vegies or frozen if I must and always high quality, organic if available. It also helps to cook larger meals so you only have to cook every few days. Some leftovers are actually better the next day, such as spaghetti and some casseroles. Bake something, like muffins, and freeze half of the batch. You get the idea. Plan and do half the work and have the energy for something else.
DON’T FILL YOUR MIND WITH NEGATIVE INPUT. Sometimes this may mean avoiding a friend or relative who is always a downer. Negative thinking individuals love to recruit others. I even had one of my negative friends ask me seriously why I wasn’t more worried about my current battle with cancer. DUH??? There is no virtue in worry. Let’s stop acting as if there is. Reach for those large plums of positivity through reading, friends, music, or films. If you’re a praying person, ask for the best for and in your life. Expect the best. I know, this isn’t easy if you’re in pain; therefore, take that pain pill or do whatever brings relief so you can resume your life. New doctor? New outfit? New shoes? Performing an act of kindness…do whatever it takes.
BE PRODUCTIVE. Each of us has to have a sense of accomplishment and having a goal in life will bring that about for you. I read the other day that one of the sources of longevity is to have a goal, to be productive and to fulfill a dream or destination. Some days I achieve this by writing a line or two. Other days it’s one of those days when I’m so frustrated with my mundane responsibilities I must clean, unclutter or wash something…anything. I often do this in 15 minute increments of time. Work a little, rest a lot. That’s my unofficial motto in life. If tattooing didn’t hurt so much I think I would consider that and I’ll let you guess where I would put it.
SHAKE OLD HABITS. It’s easy to worry. Anyone can worry. It’s a slippery, easy ride down the hill of life. It takes work, faith and love for life to overcome these fears and keep poking along in life, in an upward motion. We may not be able to run, but we can walk or even crawl; knees allowing. We may not achieve greatness but perhaps we can rewrite our definition of greatness to include the small, significant areas and events in life. Search for inspiration. Be inspiring for someone else. Remember everyone is at a different phase of life than you are now, but they may be where you have been. Share, hold up a friend, and reach out. Shaking old ways of thinking is difficult but far from impossible.
BELIEVE IN THE FUTURE. It will look better in the morning; it always does, that is after you’ve taken your morning pills with coffee or tea. Grab some of those old lines from the movies like looking to the rainbow, reaching for the stars, and remembering tomorrow is another day. Many adages are true. Don’t discard them.
Please, let me share one of my new short poems with all of you.
I NEVER ASK WHY
I long ago stopped asking why
It never leads me there.
I’ve wondered so long why we do,
Does it make life easier to bear?
What if we got answers?
I wonder what they would be.
“You transgressed and were wrong.”
Would that change what we see?
There’s some curiosity within us
That drives us on for a reason
Because we can’t accept life as it is.
Is acceptance treason?
We can’t move from this spot
Until we reach that point of grace;
No moving on from here, come on
We have life to face.
All the questions we might ask
They are all for naught
They use up valuable time
Leaving you overwrought.
The answers lie in the future
Not in the land of the past,
Spend all your time wondering
And you’ll end up nowhere fast.
Move on and up
Look tomorrow in the eye
Then perhaps you’ll notice
The forest in one tree and the azure in the sky.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
OH SUE, DEAR SUE I SO NEEDED TO READ THIS TODAY. LOVED THE POEM , WELL LOVED IT ALL. I’M STILL CRYING FROM READING IT. I DON’T KNOW WHERE I’M LANDED IN THE SCHEME OF THINGS BUT THE PAIN IS JUST OVERTAKING MY LIFE RIGHT NOW AND FINDING IT HARD TO MOVE ON. YOU REALLY TOUCHED MY HEART WITH THIS BLOG.THANK YOU FOR WRITING OUT THE LESSONS, I WILL USE THEM. FELL LIKE I’M LOOSING MY MIND BUT THIS WILL HELP ME GET IT BACK HOPEFULLY. I JUST DON’T KNOW HOW YOU DO IT BUT YOU DO AND YOU HELP ALL OF US TO COPE. THANK YOU MY SWEET ANGEL. HOPE DH GETS A CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH ONCE THE SURGEON DOES HER THING. I’LL BE PRAYING FOR BOTH OF YOU. GOD BLESS LOVE YOU XXX
Suzanne dear lady, I feel so humbled by your remarks. My dear, I’m just a patient who has been sick long enough to have learned some life lessons. That’s it. I know you will feel some satisfaction and peace when you see the internist and he and your rheumy put their heads together. You are so patient but don’t be afraid to yell if you need to. Maybe they need to be reminded you’re the one who is living with the pain. I’ve been in your position and know it’s all that thinking you’ve been doing. Just set a few things in your mind. Yes your pain is real. No you don’t have a name for it yet but if you keep searching you will. Keep it simple and let go of the guilt. Your husband is trying to understand, I can tell from what you say. Thanks for the prayers for both my DH and me. Love to you dear girl, Sue
Suzanne, just a word of advice from my many years of working in an ER. Doctors just don’t take you seriously when you put on a brave face and try to act as if it doesn’t hurt or doesn’t bother you that much. Tell them, let them know. They accept stoicism in men much more readily than in women. I don’t know why exactly, but I’ve seen it far too many times, and know it’s true. So just be totally honest, yell if you must, but be sure they take you seriously.
Wonderful reminders, Sue, and I love the poem! I may need to copy and save this one. 🙂 I recently took one of those many quizzes you see on Facebook. This one was “What is your happy word?” My word was HOPE
You refuse to give up on anyone, including yourself. You see the best in others. You think happiness should be shared. You spread your message of optimism as much as possible. You will keep believing when everyone else has stopped. You think good will always prevail in the end. You believe if we trusted each other more, the world would be a better place. All we need is a little hope.
We could all use a little more hope and hopeful outlook. 😀
Lyn, that is excellent and so true. Not sure if you were quoting FB or it was all you but it is a beautiful treatise on the positive attitude. Hope is sometimes all we have but it is enough. I think I wrote about hope a few blogs back and it’s such an important attribute in this world, always but most especially when the clouds roll over us and the world gets dark.
I must get myself dressed and out of here to get a new cell phone. For years I’ve had a little one that was cheap and just for calls to AAA or Jim or Beth about groceries, etc from the store. Want to get a newer one for the trip to Portland so I can call anyone I choose to. Lots of planning going into this being away from home four days a week from the second week on. We’ll be up there for Jim’s surgery and that’s a good thing. He won’t be able to drive that night and I can’t drive distances with my ankles and knees. I do fine around here but that’s a trek. It’s a lovely area called the Alphabet district filled with old houses that have been refurbished and are now businesses and private homes, very pleasant. Lots of restaurants if I feel like going out, otherwise we’ll eat in with our little kitchen at the hotel. Everyone we’ve met at each doctor’s office has been like family and we’re both so goofy people seem to like us. We’re fortunate in so many ways.
Lord help those mechanics when you finally get your car back. Terrible about all that hail in your area. Glad you didn’t have any damage but sounds like plenty did. Hang in there and let us know about the meds and your fatigue. Love, Sue
Just trying again.if I get on this time doesn’t mean I will again
Wrote you an email sue, wonderful blog hit the spit today for je
Chris
Oh wow
It works again!
Ok folks,off to sleep now .pain clinic tomorrow for me
Will write tomorrow Chris
Ill email jen and tell her
Yay, Chris!
Chris, did I miss something about the sleep clinic. Let us know and it’s good to have you back online. Love, Sue
Dear Sue, Your blog couldn’t have come at a better time as every muscle and nerve in my body seems to be competing for attention today. I love your poem and especially the life lessons you’ve shared with us. I’m going to print the list of lessons and tack them in a convenient place where I can review them often. Oh yes, I’m famous for tacking my favorite writings and quotes around the house. I hope your battery pak gradually gets recharged and I pray for the best for and in your life. Much love is being sent your way! XO
Karen, I hope you’re getting the best possible medical care you can get. Those days when it is all screaming…oh I hate that. I often have to readjust my attitude each day on waiting. It’s always a bit of a surprise when everything hurts…shouldn’t be but it is. In my dreams, I’m well. My battery pak is in for a challenge over the next few weeks but we’ll seek out the pleasure in it and having George with us will help. Jim, my daughter or son will be with me so I won’t be alone. That will mean the world to me. Got started on all the needed dental work yesterday and had some calluses cut off my feet. It’s a huge hospital where I’m going with lots of walking. Can’t believe how bad my teeth have become in only one year. I know it’s either the osteoporosis or the Sjogren’s syndrome. Either way, there will be a month of work and a lot of money spent in July, but that’s down the road. I try to take it one day at a time and that’s usually more than enough. Do take care dear lady, Love, Sue
JUST PRINTED IT OUT AND PUT ON MY KITCHEN WALL. GUESS I’M A BIT LIKE YOU KAREN, AS I’M KNOWN ALSO FOR TACKING FAVORITE WRITINGS AND QUOTES AROUND THE HOUSE AS REMINDERS FOR ME AND EVERYONE WHO ENTERS MY HOME.
HOPE YOU FEEL A LITTLE BETTER VERY SOON. I LIKE THE WAY YOU PUT THAT. “MY BODY COMPETING FOR ATTENTION” SOUNDS A WHOLE LOT MORE POSITIVE THAN WHAT I WAS THINKING. THANK YOU FOR THAT.
GOD BLESS YOU
XXX
Sue:
Wonderful and a keeper ! I must get these printed out soon and sent to Millie ! She needs to read them.
So glad that Jim has your wonderful lady DOc. And of course prayers that it is all gone. Prayers for strength for you daily. Actually I pray for us all for that. Seems like no matter what, pain, yukkiness or whatever, I need more strength. And if I need it more, there are some of you I know must be in dire straits for it. GOd bless you all, know I am thinking and praying for all of you.
Love
TOnie
Tonie, how right you are. Life is rough for each of us right now. So much to experience and get through. It will happen, day by day but looking at the whole heap, it’s a bit overwhelming. Guess that’s why I try not to look too far down that road. Give my love to Millie and Bill when you write. Hope the chicks and Ceasar are okay. Poor little pup. Is he healing up? Love to all of your animal kingdom and you. Sue
Hey Sue !
THe chickens are running me ragged ! Last night they broke out and I had to wait until the little ones went to roost and gather the up and put them in their NEW home 🙂 THe BIG hens broke out again today (I have fixed the hole) and go sturtting by me looking at me like ” MAKE us go back in” THey seriously had an attitude on them 🙂
Ceasar is doing fine. He didn’t like the shot I gave him, but he is resting here next to me. Carol and I are gonna have a yard sale tomorrow so I am trying to get to sleep early. I had a LONG day working here and there, so need to rest up. Early out and by noon gonna break it up. Need some moola and get rid of schtuff !
Hope you are resting up !
Love ya
Tonie
I will write later..but just quick to let you know jen can’t get on still
Don’t know if this will
Chris
Thank you for being brave enough to tell our story, to stand tall and smile when those who don’t understand give you the “Ho-Hum” look and say all the things we hear so often. I, too, have RA and have had cancer. I am a 17 year stomach cancer survivor. I see my sister stuggling with the same type issues that Mom and myself have gone through. I pray that God will continue to give us the courage to face the rough days with grace and the good days with thanksgiving, and to share his love with the people we meet every day.
Donna, congratulations on being a seventeen year cancer survivor. I’m glad you like the blogs because my feeling is someone has to touch on the real life side of all of this suffering and it feels so good when you do find someone who understands. Hope you find this and return. I’ve been a bit busy with all this traveling and radiation therapy so forgive the late reply. Hang in there and keep looking up. Sue
Hi all
Nope sue it was a pain clinic..altho I need a sleep one too!
The nerves from the sacrum are inflamed and they are making the lower bowel feel odd.like there’s something there,very uncomfortable. And throbbing
So I’ve got to take that amytriptiline to stop the nerves playing up,and try a tens machine,altho it will be difficult down there…
Acupuncture was offered but I’ll see how all this goes
Sue you have such a lot on your plate it goes on and on
Jen still can’t get on blog…it’s all so strange
Chris
Chris dear, sounds very painful. You might find more relief from the R. Don Tigny stretches. Check under lowback.com. I know they did more for me down there than TENS units or acupuncture but I must remember we’re all different. Do take care and keep your bowels happy so you don’t have to strain. Love you, Sue
To all, I got an email from Jennie about her recent trip to England. She said I may share with all of you. She had a bad bout of IBS while there but her son took her to get some fast acting immodium which helped. She enjoyed the visit a bit more but was also plagued by a bad headache. Her Mom who came in from Holland and is aged, gave her her engagement ring and gave Jennie’s son her husband’s ring. Sounds like such a dear lady and so strong spirited. The glitch was Jennie’s daughter who felt left out and was very upset. Immature behavior seems to stalk that girl. Jennie’s said, why would she expect my own mother to give her ring to her and not to me. You’re right Jen. Do take care and rest up. As far as getting on here, just be sure you’re using the original sign in info. I don’t know what else to suggest at this point but will try to come up with some solution. Much love to each of you…Jen especially right now. Sue
You’ve all been so quiet this weekend, I’m worried you might be having Jen’s problem. Hope all is well. Around here I’m reading up on radiation therapy and getting scared, Jim says he’s fine and I’m still cleaning. Rainy days and a bit gloomy. Love to each of you, Sue
Sue:
I have been much in prayer for your treatments and that you should have strength to get thru them. I told the Lord that I KNOW you have the faith, now just strengthen your body ! I know that He hears our prayers and I know that when we have the faith and believe He will get us through our trials. Love you much and just know that you are not far from my thoughts and always, always in my prayers.
Tonie
HI SUE……FIRST LET ME SAY A BIG THANK YOU FOR WRITING ON THE BLOG FOR ME, THAT SAVES ME HAVING TO SAY IT ALL AGAIN……IT MUST PLEASE YOU TO SEE THE LIMEY’S BACK, PLEASE THANK NATALIE FOR HER EFFORTS, SO GRATEFUL TO YOU AND TO HER.
WELL I MUST SAY THAT THE TRIP TO THE UK WAS A BIT UP AND A LOT DOWN, SAD TO SAY. THE BIG MEETING OF THE SIXTEEN MEMBERS OF BOTH FAMILIES WENT REALLY WELL, BUT OH MY DID I FEEL ILL, A MIGRAINE IS NOT CONDUSIVE TO HAVING A GOOD TIME IS IT? THEN TO BE FOLLOWED WITH A DOUBLE WHAMMIE OF DIVER AND IBS…..FELT CLOSE TO TEARS FOR MUCH OF THE TIME….ANYWAY, THE LAST DAY WAS GOOD, REALLY ENJOYED IT…..WHAT A PITY MY DEAR DAUGHTER FELT FIT TO PHONE AND HAVE HYSTERICS. ITS GOOD TO BE HOME AND TO CATCH UP, I THOUGHT OF YOU ALL DURING THAT TIME, YOU WITH ALL YOUR APPOINTMENTS FOR YOU AND FOR JIM…..YOU SEEM TO HAVE THE ARRANGEMENTS SORTED OUT WELL WITH YOUR FAMILY, WHAT A BLESSING THEY ARE………STILL WISH YOU WERE NOT HAVING TO GO THROUGH IT THOUGH………I WILL BE THINKING OF YOU AT THE END OF THE WEEK…..YOUR COURAGE WILL GET YOU THROUGH THIS……….I LOVE YOU….JEN X
Jennie dear, so good to have you back where you belong at home and on here. Your garden sounds wonderful and I’m sure it missed both of you when you were gone. Grapes sound wonderful. Any kiwis in France in that current garden? I love them BUT, there you go my fellow diver and IBS patient…more of those blasted seeds. I realize some gastro guys say seeds don’t matter that much but this gal still can’t eat any of those wonderful berries of springtime. Anyway…the good news is you’re also back home here with us.
I am sad you had to put up with such pain while on your trip. I am glad it’s over. Some folks never change, unfortunately and sometimes they’re people we love and that’s the worse part of it. Find as much joy as you can dear girl and leave your DD to the future and pray she matures or gets her head on straight. I know it hurts beyond measure.
Sorry Sacha has skin problems. That can be so nasty and irritating, Hope the steroids help a great deal.
Remember refrigerated aloe vera gel also helps with the itching and burning.
Jennie, I’m so sorry you were so unwell on your trip. I did see your pictures on FB and they were great! Such a handsome son and hubby. I’m sorry your daughter gave you such a hard time. Families so be so difficult to deal with at times. But then, I guess that’s now news to anyone! Love you and glad you’re safely home.
I’VE JUST BEEN QUITE CAUSE OF THE PAIN. I DID PLANT SOME BULBS ON SATURDAY BUT TODAY I COULDN’T EVEN MOVE. HOW SAD. I FINALLY (AROUND SUPPER TIME) DECIDED TO BRING MOLLY FOR A LITTLE WALK. STILL NOT GREAT BUT I KEEP TRYING. WILL BE CALLING THE RHEUMY TOMORROW TO SEE IF I GET AN APPT. TO SEE HER.
MY SON INVITED ME TO LUNCH ON FRIDAY COMING. TOLD HIM IF I WAS ABLE TO MOVE I WOULD GO AND I WOULD DO NOTHING ON THURSDAY TO HELP THE SITUATION. I WILL GO FOR LUNCH ON FRIDAY IF IT KILLS ME.
SUE I’M PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR DH. WED. IS COMING SOON. YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS EVERY DAY DEAR LADY.
GOD BLESS YOU BOTH, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU HAVE SHARED WITH ALL OF US. YOU ARE ONE SPECIAL ANGEL.
XXX
Suzanne, one good one and one bad one, days that is. I understand. It seems there’s a price to pay for everything we do, don’t you think? That a girl to keep pushing and hopefully, not just your poor body, but one of the doctor’s. Sometimes I think we’re too quiet, too polite when we need to let them know we need help.
Know you’ll make it to lunch. Sometimes we do have to plan ahead and you’re so right. I’m nervous about starting treatment and getting Jim through his surgery. I’m already full of so many problems it’s hard to imagine another one, two, three??? Guess it would do you and both good just to take life one day at a time, first because that’s all we have anyway and because it helps us value the present. No fear, just pain and we’re both strong, right? Much love honey, Sue
YES SUE ONE GOOD DAY AND THIS TIME QUITE A FEW BAD DAYS BUT THIS TOO SHALL PASS. IT’S SPRING TIME AND THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO. SO HAPPY DH AND DD PLANTED THE VEGGIE GARDEN. I’M THE ONE WHO DOES THE FLOWERS BUT THIS YEAR IS SO MUCH HARDER TO DO THAN LAST YEAR. SEEMS LIKE MY BODY IS GETTING WORSE AS TIME GOES BY. ALL MY DOCS WELL BOTH ARE NOW ON HOLIDAYS. DARN!!! WAS HOPING TO SEE MY RHEUMY BUT GUESS IT WILL GO UNTIL AFTER I SEE THE INTERNIST. PUTTING A WHOLE LOT OF HOPE IN HIM. FEEL LIKE HE IS MY LAST CHANCE TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON IN THIS BODY OF MINE. JUST WANT THE PAIN TO SETTLE DOWN A BIT.
SUE PRAYING FOR YOU THAT ALL WILL GO WELL TOMORROW AND FOR THE NEXT 6 WEEKS. I’M SURE YOU ARE READY TO GO DO THIS. LOVE TO YOU AND YOUR WHOLE FAMILY FOR BEING THERE FOR YOU. RIGHT ABOUT ONE DAY AT A TIME. THAT IS THE WAY TO GO. STAY IN THE PRESENT. ENJOY ALL AROUND YOU WHILE THERE AND HAVE FUN WITH GEORGIE PORGIE!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
XXX
Well I’m still here.dont know if I can get on ,my detail below has gone a funny colour back to blue again..looks like I have to put all my email in again,sometimes I can still get on like that,but that’s when it started going wrong before telling me I was posting too quick!
Sue
Be thinking of you Wednesday ..try putting all that stuff away about radiation and think just in the present .
And also thinking if jim too. Will you be able to post on the blog where you will be staying?
Lyn hope your doing ok
Short note as I don’t know if this can get on ,but I will be back later
Chris
AM I ON YET…………..?????? X
WOW…THERE I AM……WILL WRITE LATER…….LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU ALL………………JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
O well done Jennie,just got your email so I thought I’d check you here
I’ll be back later chris
HEY JENNIE AND CHRIS YOU’RE BOTH ON ONCE AGAIN. THAT’S GREAT. HOW ARE YOU BOTH DOING? CHRIS FEELING ANY BETTER SWEETIE? JENNIE LOVED THE PICS ON FB. HOPE ALL IS GOING WELL FOR YOU AT THE MOMENT.
LOVE TO BOTH OF YOU AND OF COURSE ALL ON THIS BLOG. GOD BLESS.
XXX
HI SWEETPEA……YES BACK AGAIN, SO MUCH TO CATCH UP ON…..POOR OLD POOCH CAME BACK FROM MY FRIENDS HOUSE WITH A SKIN INFECTION, SO HAD TO DASH UP TO THE VETS FOR AN INJECTION AND A COURSE OF STEROIDS. GLAD YOU LIKED THE PICS, I HAD A RIGHT OLD JOB GETTING THEM ON THERE, I DON’T KNOW WHAT WENT WRONG, BUT I HAD A BIT OF A MELT DOWN….COULDN’T REMEMBER A BLOODY THING, JUST STARED AT THE SCREEN AND THOUGH “I DON’T KNOW HOW TO DO THIS ANYMORE” WHERE THE HECK DID THAT COME FROM….STILL FATIGUED I THINK. WHAT IS THIS LUNCH YOU ARE GOING TO? AND WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH THE DOC? I SAID I WAS OUT OF TOUCH, SO BEAR WITH ME……..LOVE YOU, JENNIE POO XX
JENNIE POO MY SON INVITED MY OUT FOR LUNCH JUST THE TWO OF US ON FRIDAY. I’M WAS JUST HOPING I WOULD GET THERE AND THEN I TOLD MYSELF I WOULD GO OUT WITH HIM IF IT KILLED ME. LOL. MY INTERNIST APPT IS ON JUNE 12 AT 2:30. HOPING HE WILL BE ABLE TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH THIS BODY.
HOPE YOU ARE FEELING A BIT BETTER SWEETPEA. LOVE YOU.
XXX
Jennie and Chris: so good to see you both back on here !! Sometimes the internet just gives us a little glitch to upset us I think ! Man programmed it so what do we expect 🙂
Suzanne, you will make that lunch ! Determination is one of our biggest assets I think 🙂 Agree with Sue, we get to work or play one day and pay the next. I am getting ready to go and workout this morning, get in the pool and the therapy pool. Than come home and work outside. In the garden and mowing the lawn, so tomorrow I get to sit with Ms Alice and be hurting 🙂 Love you much and as with Sue , you are in my prayers as well. Hang in there , it is coming !
Love to all
Tonie
HYA MATE…….YUP BACK ONCE MORE, CHRIS BEAT ME TO IT, IT SEEMS TO HAVE TAKEN SO LONG, BUT IT HAPPENS NOW AND THEN HUH? HOW IS IT GOING WITH THE THERAPY POOL, OH I WOULD LOVE TO JOIN YOU…..THE POOLS OVER HERE, ALTHOUGH GOOD, ARE SUCH A LONG WAY AWAY, AND I JUST DON’T HAVE THE ENERGY LIKE I USE TO……NOT A “POOR ME” JUST A FACT OF LIFE.
HOW IS YOUR GARDEN COMING ALONG NOW? WE HAVE JUST PLANTED OUT SOME GRAPE VINES IN THE GREENHOUSE, WE USED TO GROW THEM AND KIWIS IN THE UK, THEY WERE GORGEOUS, NO-ONE BELIEVED IT WAS WARM ENOUGH TO GROW KIWI….SHOWED THEM HUH??
SO A MISS ALICE DAY TODAY/TOMORROW……YOU WILL NEED TO GET OVER THE LONG SITTING PERIOD, IS SHE NOT UP TO BEING PUSHED ROUND A PARK OR SOME SUCH, SO THAT YOU COULD STRETCH YOUR “BITS” OUT AND NOT BE SO STIFF THE NEXT DAY?…..HOW IS THE NEW ROOSTER DOING, AND WHAT DID YOU CALL HIM?…………..OK LOVE, I WILL CATCH UP GRADUALLY……LOVE YOU….JENNIE POO XX
Hey Jen !
Doing well ! The new roster hasn’t even begun to crow yet, he is that young. I did hear him trying to the other day. It made me laugh ! The garden is coming along nicely. Grapevines is something I want to plant later. Thompson Seedless ! My brother has them. KIWI”S ! I bet I could grow them here then 🙂 Give me ideas Mate ! Oh the rooster’s name is Rufus 2. I got some radishes out of the garden and the lettuce is getting on up there. Tomatoes are blooming and potatoes are up growing good. I have to work in it today, got some weeding to do.
The Wellness Center I go to is 14 miles away. Nothing around here is close by, cause we is out in the boonies !:) SO you get used to driving for anything you need to do. One bad thing about it .
Ms Alice is mobile but just. We go out after lunch and take a stroll thru the drive. They have a big circle drive in front of the house. This is a VERY big home. Was built by one of the furniture Barons in the region in the 50’s. Had a servants quarters, butler’s pantry. And the main bedroom upstairs has a dressing room and a room for th maid to prepare the clothing. Very POSH !
You take care, tell Barry I love the flowers on the front of the house. Very European. Reminds me of Germany !
Take care , and I hope you enjoyed your trip. You will have to email me all the details !!
Love
TOnie
Dear Tonie, you old chicken chaser. I know it’s not always humorous to you but from this distance, it is. Sounds like you have been working that healed shoulder and pushing it. I know, I know…life goes on and sometimes the price we pay is fatigue, or is that always? I like your determination to get in shape and admire you for it. I’ve got to scour my life for the energy to do the same after the next six weeks are over. I may not need to lose weight but I sure could use some stamina with all that is going on. Still value and appreciate all of your best wishes and prayers for both of us. Love, Sue
Sue:
Your strength will come ! I have no doubts of it. I got a letter from my Congressman to fill out to give him permission to look into my records to help me with my disability. So something is working somewhere !
My prayers and thoughts are with you all thru the day and night. Sometimes I wake up and pray for you, and I feel so right about it ! Please be as good to you as you can during this. No worries about blogs or FB or us, we will be fine. Just focus on you and if you don’t feel up to it , get DD to post on here for you !!
Love you much
TOnie
THANKS TONIE! YOUR ARE RIGHT I WILL MAKE THAT LUNCH. I HAVEN’T BEEN GOING OUT TO LUNCH FOR SO LONG CAUSE I HAVE TROUBLE SITTING, BUT ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. I WILL BRING MY BACK REST AND SPECIAL CUSHION FOR MY SITTER. THAT ALONE WILL HELP QUITE A BIT. SINCE IT IS MY SON AND MYSELF IT WILL NOT BE HOURS OF SITTING.
YOU HANG IN THERE TOO TONIE. PRAYING FOR YOU ALSO AS YOU SIT WITH MS ALICE.
LOVE YOU SWEETPEA. GOD BLESS
XXX
Hello, all! I don’t think I have any issues getting on… We shall see. 😉 Still dealing with a frustrating car issue – my car, of course. I’ve missed a few opportunities of cruising with top down that I’m not happy about. They’ve had my car far longer than necessary and since I now have the name of the owner of the dealership, he will be hearing about my experience. As I said to SB, it will be AFTER I have car complete and in hand. 😉 The med my Rheumy put me on to try to help with my osteoarthritis seems not really to be helping, so now comes the long process of weaning me off. I understand the side effects can get quite nasty. I’m hoping that will not be the case for me, but we shall see. I’ve stepped down in dosage and do have a bit of funniness in my head, so… We are having DH’s parents over for dinner tonight – just cooking out on the grill -so I should get showered so I can straighten up around here and see what else needs to be done. Thinking of, and praying for all…
LYN…..GOOD LUCK WITH COMING OFF THE MEDS, I AM SORRY THEY DIDN’T WORK FOR YOU, I HOPE YOUR DOC CAN GET IT RIGHT THE NEXT TIME….HOPE SB IS OK, HOW’S HE DOING? TAKE CARE…LOVE JENNIE X
Jennie, he’s ok. He sees the acupuncturist this week and will be taking a mini-vacation with his friends camping at a state park on the New Jersey shore. He needs to contact his pain doc to possibly have another ablation done. His first one is wearing off. 😦 He is enjoying his “new” Jeep. 🙂 Thanks for asking.
LYN , HOPE COMING OFF THE MEDS WILL BE EASY FOR YOU. I HAD TROUBLE GETTING OFF THE PREDNISONE BUT WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT AND YOU MIGHT BE THE ONE THAT WILL GO SMOOTHLY. IT WOULD BE GOOD NEWS FOR ALL OF US TO HEAR.
OH SO IRRITATING ABOUT YOUR CAR. I WOULD BE STEAMING ALSO. HOPE YOU WILL HAVE IT SOON.
HOW WAS SUPPER WITH DH’S PARENTS? NICE TO HEAR SB IS GOING ON A LITTLE VACATION.
PRAYING FOR YOU DEAR LYN THAT ALL WILL BE WELL FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY.
LOVE YA
XXX
Lyn, I know you and know you will do as told on the withdrawal of the meds. There are so many good drugs which could help so please don’t give up on trying. Slow and easy.
The owner of that dealership should know what kind of negligence is taking place in his own business or maybe the problems start at the top. Hard to know but I do hate to hear you’ve missed any spring days with that top down. Hope SB’s trip to the shore is amazing and thanks for keeping us all informed how he is, although I know it was Jennie who asked. Be good to yourself dear friend. Love, Sue
Lyn, not sure if you’re on prednisone or not, but that crap tears my body up, so nothing I go through coming off of it compares with what goes on while I’m taking it. I refuse the script unless the doc will also write me one for fluid pills and for potassium..if anything will reduce potassium, mine all leaves my body. The swelling is painful; I tell them it’s stupid for me to take it for the arthritis, for the swelling it causes makes my joints hurt even more. Hope you get your car back soon. Glad SB is doing well. I know, as parents, no matter how sick and pained we are, we worry more about them.
Lyn:
I had a bit of dizziness coming off them, but nothing else. Prayers dear one for you AND for that car ! You are right to wait, then let em have it girlie !!
Thanks, Tonie. And so far, that kind of swimming in the head feeling is all I am having and morning sluggishness – worse than the usual. Although I’ve read the next step down is worse for many people. Hopefully it will go smoothly.
Thank you Sue for this post! As with all things in my life, it came at the time I needed it most! I too have many (many) chronic health issues and recently added two more to the list over the winter. Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Diabetes… ugh… I’m going to print out your list and keep it handy for those days when it’s hard to get out of bed. You are an inspiration Sue! Thank you again!
Denise:
I had to come back and read some posts I missed. So good to see you on here (bad because of WHY you are on here) > Please come back and talk to us more. IT takes a couple of days for the first post to show up. I will let the others know you posted on here on the new blog. So please know we are not ignoring you ! God bless. Hope you have fewer of those bad days !
Tonie
Denise, thanks for your kind words. If I can help in any way it keeps me going so you see it’s really selfish of me. I am so sorry you’re facing so much right now..remember dear girl, one day at a time, one problem at a time and stay away from the negative folks; they’ll just drag you down. Please come again and hang in there with the rest of us. Sue
Denise, welcome to our group. Although I am sorry you need to be here. Please stick around, we’re a lovable bunch, if a tad crazy (I speak for myself only with the crazy remark)
HI DENISE, HAPPY TO HEAR FROM YOU. I’M SURE YOU’LL FIT RIGHT IN TO THIS FABULOUS GROUP OF PEOPLE. I’LL SAY LIKE LINDA WE’RE A LOVABLE BUNCH AND I FIT INTO THE A TAD CRAZY ALSO”. SORRY YOU ARE GOING THROUGH SO MUCH RIGHT NOW. SUE HAS HELPED ME SO MUCH I’M SURE YOU WILL FIND THE SAME. I SOMETIMES PRINT WHAT SHE WRITES AND TACK THEM UP ON MY WALL TO REMEMBER. YOU TAKE GOOD CARE DENSIE AND REMEMBER ONE DAY AT A TIME OR EVEN ONE MOMENT IF THAT IS ALL YOU CAN DO.
GOD BLESS!
XXX
Hi folks
Just a shortie
Last week I found a lump on my breast
The dr thinks it’s ok but have a mommo and ultra sounds and consultant booked for Thursday pm
Found it a bit scary to put into words but there I’ve done it
Anyway
Got an easy week,except comp desk top gone funny..or DH done summat wrong!
Anyway we got a wizard comming tomorrow !
So hope it’ll be fixed DH can’t get on with his photo stuff
Hope thus gets on ok
Be back
Chris
Chris dear, glad you shared this info. Of course, we each pray it is a cyst or one of the other benign things it could be. At least now that all of our friends know you will not feel alone with this fear. Peace and patience is the word.
Hope you get the computer going and glad it doesn’t affect you’re sending messages or is this on you phone. Take care dear girl…Love, Sue
Chris…….I will call you anytime you want, don’t forget that……………Jen xx
Lyn……Thanks for the update on SB, delighted that he is doing so well, and I hope he has a great vacation. Jennie xx
Sue……Thinking of you……………………I love you…………….Jen xx
Chris:
Dear, hang in there and try to think positive until you know something else. PRayers for you right now that all will be well.
Wizard ? ! THat is great ! 🙂
Love you
TOnie
CHRIS, OF COURSE IT’S SCARY. THINK POSITIVE THOUGHTS MY LOVE, IT WILL HELP UNTIL THURSDAY. SAYING PRAYERS FOR YOU.
IS YOUR COMPUTER FIXED YET?
LOVE YOU BIG! GOD BLESS.
XXX
Chris, Think positive, we are all pulling for you. Janet
SINCE POSTING THIS MORNING…..I HAVE BECOME ILL……….FEEL SICK, HORRIBLE HEADACHE, FEEL A BIT DISORIENTATED, DON’T KNOW WHATS HAPPENED BUT I WISH IT WOULD GO AWAY…CAN’T GET WARM, LOOK AWFUL, HELLS BELLS IT NEVER ENDS DOES IT………..SORRY TO WINGE, GOT NOBODY TO TELL…………..JENNIE X
Dear Jennie, Prayers and positive energy coming your way from across the pond. Love you dear. Janet
JANET……THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYER MY LOVE….WHATEVER YOU SAID, IT SEEMS TO HAVE DONE THE TRICK, NOT TIPTOP, BUT DEFINATELY ON THE MEND……HOW ARE DOING PETAL?? LOVE JENNIE XX
Jennie, Sounds like you need to get to bed and stay there. I do wonder if you picked up something on the flight. The air on those airplanes seems to do that. My kids all got sick after their Disneyland trip recently. It could also be an after reaction to all the chaos you went through while there. What is the usual cause of your headaches? Spinal? Please just concentrate on you and crawl under those covers. Let us know what we can say or do. Prayers and hugs, Sue
Airplanes are Petrie dishes. I’d follow Sue’s advice, Jennie. Sorry you’re feeling so.
SUE……I KNOW THIS IS A BIG DAY FOR YOU, AND MAYBE YOU WON’T GET TO READ THIS JUST YET, BUT THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR VALUED ADVICE…..I WAS GLAD TO GET TO BED WITH A HOT WATER BOTTLE, JUST COULDN’T GET WARM, DON’T REMEMBER FEELING SO COLD AT THIS TIME OF YEAR FOR A LONG TIME.
YES IT COULD WELL BE THAT I HAVEN’T GOT OVER THE TRIP YET, OR MAYBE I GOT A BUG OFF THE PLANE??
MY THOUGHTS FOR YOU AND JIM GO WITH YOU TODAY, AS WELL AS A WHOLE BUNCH OF PRAYERS….I LOVE YOU…….JENNIE XX
Jen:
You got us sweet pea !! Lord heal Jennie right now, and restore her strength , In Jesus name AMEN !
OH JENNIE POO, HOPE YOU FEEL BETTER SOON. GOD BLESS,
LOVE YOU. XXX
THANKS SUZANNE…….I WISH THE SAME FOR YOU. I HOPE YOU GOT TO YOUR LUNCH AND REMEMBERED YOUR SITTER, IT SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVE AS GOOD A RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR SON AS I DO WITH MINE……HAVE THE DOCTORS GOT YOUR MEDS SORTED OUT NOW, OR ARE YOU STILL STRUGGLING WITH IT????? LOVE YOU DARLING,…….JENNIE POO XX
Well the wizard came and it ain’t fixed,back tomorrow blimmin annoying I could have done with a spare day
Thankyou for all your thoughts
Jen hope to speak tomorrow afternoon eh?
Raining here all day and tomoro
Lyn I hope things stay not too bad coming off meds and your son gets this ablation again soon
Suzanne yea I’m ok ,just…you know……and you ring that hospital and go get em !
Janet Thankyou
Sue thinking of you and Jim tomoro
Tonie your garden sounds like it us coming on good,all that veg .great. my DD is growing a lot of pick and come again lettuce in an old bath in the garden along with carrots …and typical, something she can’t remember what it is!
Ok back tomoro after desktop fiddled with
Chris
Chris, thinking of you , also. We were bumped due to Memorial Day and aren’t going in to Portland until THursday and then the next Monday back again. Hope we like the hotel. Jim’s surgery next Tuesday. Remember the odds for yourself are on your side, I know, weird thing for me to say. Take care dear girl, Love, Sue
HI CHRIS….I KNOW WE SPOKE THIS MORNING, BUT YOU KNOW I WILL BE WITH YOU IN THOUGHT TOMORROW, AND I WILL BE WATCHING FOR YOUR EMAIL……..BE BRAVE, IT WILL SOON BE OVER….LOVE YOU…JEN X
Oh what a nuisence sue ,will Jim be staying with you till his op on Tuesday ,I expect he will
Yea I know,thinking same………
My dad had a large piece taken from his nose last week,,he has had so many done ,but this was larger than expected
DH bp up and his meds playing up again,his balance all over the place and a few other probs
The comp still going wrong..and no I use my iPad for the blog.its just photo shop on the desktop playing up .but that’s the prog he uses all the time . So many parts to it
Well try and get back to sleep..2.45 am here ..well nearly
Chris
Chris, no we’ll be coming home during the weekends. My treatments will be M-F, so we’ll come home each Fri. night and back again to Portland Mon. morning. Our mini-schnauzer will be alone if Jim is with me but our DD will come by to feed him, poor old thing.
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. Those darn skin cancers can be disfiguring even if they’re fairly harmless. One time, years ago I was with a doctor examining a man who had ignored a squamous cell on his face which should have been an easy fix but this fella had ignored it and it was covering half of his face. The doctor walked in and said, “My God man, what’s wrong with you, don’t you have a mirror?” Folks continue to amaze me. I hope your Dad isn’t too bothered by it and it heals well. As for DH, I am sorry he has to face so much right now. How’re you doing? Love to you..Sue
Sue, I had a patient in my very early days of nursing who was a doctor. He had let a skin cancer go to the point, anyone who changed his dressing on his head took something in the room to vomit in. His ear was in the dressing once, and huge hunks of his face came off at a time. Years later I met his daughter and she was wanting me to tell her all about it. I didn’t have the heart to, and I would say placating things like “he got excellent care, he was such a good patient.” In the general population, I could understand it getting that bad much easier than I could understand a doctor letting it happen.
Chris:
I am hoping DH has a backup of all his files and programs ? I know the Photoshop ain’t cheap !! Prayers for your dear old dad and for dh as well for the bp. Hang in there lady and know you are in my thoughts !
Love
TOnie
Sue
Me I’m ok..ish
Back is sore along with its nerve probs with the bowel
Yep my dad ,the dr. said will have a hole in his nose now. He,the dr ,said people will look,but it will fill in a bit.so it’s got dressings on at moment so I can’t see it .but he has one ear smaller from this same cancer and as a result sticks out, now this. Then there’s his dribbling and can hardly speak. He was such a proud man and dressed well. It’s his 90 th soon too ,I’m getting things organised as I can before Thursday .this is why I’m annoyed the comp is taking so long to be fixed…..life eh!
I think DH in his confused state with these new meds messed it up too! Sooo I’m angry and fedup with something and I’m having rotten dreams on these amytriptiline that stay with me.i know if I come off them it has to be slowly as then I still get nightmares always of snakes and it seems so real,I dread it
Ok don’t know where all that come from ,but I’ll leave it inChris
Chris:
It is so hard to see our Dad’s go down with age. 90 !! WOW ! Such a long life. I see this with Ms Alice and her daughters how they are having to watch her age, taking care of her as she did them as kids. Mine never made it past 58, but I did see him slowing down so much, he and mother had such a hard life and were old before their time.
Be strong, as I know you are, for him and know you are in our thoughts and prayers (as he is also)
So sorry about all the rotten side effects of your meds. I hate snakes ! Take care of you and rest when you can.
Love ya
Tonie
Chris love, hope you are feeling a little better. O h dreaming of snakes would not be good. hope they can find another med to give you. prayers for your dad, chris. I know how hard it is to see our parents get old and sick.
hope that computer is now fixed to make your life easier.
love you big XXX
HELLO….FEELING A BIT BETTER TODAY……DON’T WANT A REPEAT OF TOMORROW ANYTIME SOON. I HAD TO GO AND GET NEW PASSPORT PHOTOS DONE YESTERDAY, DON’T KNOW HOW I MANAGED IT, BUT WE CAN ALWAYS PULL SOMETHING OT OF THE BAG I GUESS. GOT HOME FILLED OUT THE NECESSARY FORMS, THEN JUST WHEN I THOUGHT I HAD DONE EVERYTHING AND WAS GETTING IT READY FOR TE POST, MY DH READ THE BOOKLET ATTATCHED, IT SAID IT MUST ALL BE FILLED IN WITH BLACK INK….DUH! I DID IT IN BLUE, SO HAD TO ORDER ANOTHER FORM ONLINE TO START OVER.
STAYED IN BED AS SUE INSTRUCTED FOR AWHILE THIS MORNING, THE HEADACHE HAS GONE THANK THE LORD, I CALLED MY SISTER IN THE UK, MY MOMS NEXT PORT OF CALL, AND WHEN THEY MET MOM ON THE STATION, SHE FELL OFF THE TRAIN. THERE WERE THREE PARAMEDICS IN ATTENDANCE, AND THEY INSISTED ON TAKING HER TO HOSPITAL DUE TO HER AGE OF 91YRS. SHE SAID THEY WERE SO KIND, A SPRAINED ANKLE ON ONE SIDE, AND A LOT OF SKIN MISSING OFF THE OTHER. I HAD A PREMONITION ABOUT HER, WHICH IS WHY I NEEDED TO GET MY PASSPORT RENEWAL DONE.
WELL THATS MY UPDATE, WILL REPLY TO EVERYONE KIND ENOUGH TO WISH ME WELL YESTERDAY…..LOVE JENNIE XXXXX
Good gracious jen
Your poor mum…is she still travelling about or home now?
What a time it all was …But needed for all of you
Hope things keep a churning ok now
Tonie
Thankyou for your kind thoughts.yea he backs up everything twice and a lot of stuff three times .hes phobic about it! It’s to do with the photoshop new download not happening and he can’t get creative cloud
I think it maybe to do with our broadband speed as the wizard(!) can’t do it either .so we wait and try again .when the speed is better……he says bad weather can do it !!
Be back Chris
CHRIS……NO SHE IS WITH MY SISTER IN YORKSHIRE, SHE IS NOT DUE HOME TILL THE 10TH/12TH OF JUNE I THINK…..SHE’S OK, DON’T WORRY…OH YEAH, MEANT TO SAY WHENI READ YOUR POST ABOUT YOUR DAD, MY MUM HAD A CANCER OF HER FACE A FEW YEARS AGO, IT WAS ON THE SIDE OF HER NOSE, SHE WAS WARNED IT WOULD LEAVE A HOLE FOR AWHILE, BUT IT HEALED OVER REALLY WELL, AND APART FROM A SLIGHT BUMP, YOU WOULD NEVER KNOW SHE HAD HAD ANYTHING WRONG….SO TAKE HEART LOVE………..LATERS….JEN X
TONIE…..HYA MATE! HOW OLD DOES A ROOSTER HAVE TO BE BEFORE THEY CAN CROW THEN? I AM NOT SURE OF THE NAME OF THE GRAPES BARRY HAS GROWING, BUT WE HAVE WHITE AND RED VARIETIES. YOU COULD TRY GROWING PEACHES AND AVOCADOS, IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY. WE HAVE JUST PLANTED UP A LOAD OF ASSORTED HERBS, WE USE A LOT OF THEM SO WE CAN CUT DOWN ON THE SALT. WE HAVE A BAY TREE TOO, GREAT FOR SOUPS, CASSEROLES ETC. 14 MILES TO YOUR WELLNESS CLINIC IS NOT BAD I GUESS, THE NEAREST HOSPITAL TO US IS 22K, BUT OUR FAMILY DOCTOR IS IN THE VILLAGE, AND WE HAVE A NURSES CLINIC AND A PHARMACY TOO, BUT I THINK IT IS THE FRENCH VERSION OF THE “BOONIES” WHERE WE LIVE. SNAKES, I DON’T LIKE THEN EITHER, THEY ARE IN MOST ATTICS/LOFTS OVER HERE…..WE NEVER GO TO LOOK IN OURS. MISS ALICE’S HOUSE SOUNDS WONDERFUL TONIE, WHO DOES HER CLEANING IN SUCH A BIG PLACE? ITS A FAMILY HOME DID I HEAR YOU ONCE SAY?? ITS GOOD THAT YOU CAN TAKE HER OUT INTO THE GARDEN….WHAT IS SHE LIKE, A GOOD SENSE OF HUMOR?? OK LOVELY, I HOPE YOU ARE CONTINUING TO HEAL WELL, AND THAT THE THERAPY IS HELPING……..KEEP SMILING,……LOVE YOU….JENNIE POO XX
Jennie:
The pool that I go work out in is 14 miles each way , it is called the “wellness Center”. My Dr is in Roanoke which is 65 miles one way 🙂 . Ms Alice has a bit of humor. THey are 2nd generation Irish. (she is 1st) and New Yorkers. A bit different in ways than us Southerners, but they have a good attitude and are nice people. Fran hires someone to clean the house.. It wasn’t their family home, it was the home of one of the furniture “barons” in that area. They died off and sold the home to them. Just had a shower, and am SOOO tired. Had to help my sister get a load of wood in her truck then unload it ! Church tonight, then BED !! Glad your mum is okay ! and you are feeling better.
I think the rooster has to be 6 or 7 months old before they can crow !
Love much
TOnie
Dear friends who write and those who don’t but read faithfully, I’m running out of time and energy today. I’m packing for six weeks of going and coming from Portland. I thought it would be easier to pack duplicates of sundries I use at home instead of unpacking every Friday night and repacking every Sun. evening. It’s quite a merry-go-round I’m stepping onto. Hope I can keep up. This way I’ll just have to repack fresh clothing. We’re leaving in the morning for my first radiation treatment. Please my dears, pray I have the strength and body for this adventure. It’s pretty important to complete all 28 treatments. Jim’s surgery is next Tuesday and we would appreciate your love and prayers for him, too. Now I have to give George a bath as he’ll be a fellow traveler and make very certain his Dramamine stays down in the morning.
Jennie, I’m so glad you’re feeling better after yesterday. I enjoyed the pics on FB. You have a good looking son there..Claire is a lucky girl. Your gardens always sound so wonderful. How frustrating to have to redo your passport renewal. We need to do that, also. Jen, I am so sorry to hear about your Mom falling. We’re each of us just a step away from that slippage. She is so spunky, let’s pray this heals quickly, poor sweet lady. Do take care and get rest up, okay? Love you…
Chris, I have to concur, Jim has had plastic repair for a couple of facial skin cancers, one on his lip was very tricky and took a plastic surgeon to repair it properly. Your poor Dad. I know how painful that is when personalities change. My dear Dad had cerebral arteritis and went through so much. There’s just something about our Dad’s even when we, ourselves, are old. Hasn’t your DH had the worst time with his B/P meds? Let’s hope he can keep his blood pressure down during all of this photo program crisis on the computer. I know his photography means the world to him. Gees, this getting old is a rough gig. Love to you.
Lyn, hope that crazy weather has calmed down..how scary in your whole area. Did you get hat wayward car back yet? Thinking of SB and pray all goes well. He’s too young to be tied down by health trouble. Hope DD’s problems are smoothing out for your sake as much as hers. Pray for me dear friend, please. Love…
Suzanne, you get into that doctor when they both get back from vacation even if you have to be rude, okay? Hang in there dear heart. Love ya…
Janet, pray life is calm and health problems in a range you can handle. Love…
Laura, where you been girl?
Annie, know your life is chaotic. Get some me time, okay? Love those babies at work.
Tonie, Hope the new Rufus develops, if you know what I mean. With all those females he might be in better shape staying young but alas…life. Bet the vocalizing was funny to hear. Go easy on that yardwork and think of when the kids come back for another round of helping you and Judy from the college. Love to Judy. Hope Millie and Bill, your dear elderly friends in AZ are hanging on and in. Think of you often and am relieved and encouraged to hear you heard from your congressman. It will happen. Thanks again for all of your concerns for us. Love you gal…
Pommum, we miss you but understand you’re at the cabin. Sounds wonderful dear lady.
Karen, hang in there dear lady, Love you
If I’m missing anyone, please forgive. I’m a bit of a mess right now and must get back to it. You all mean so much to me. I’ll be back online Friday night. New blog tomorrow. Sue
Sue, the blog is great. I’m another who needed to read this today. Some parts of that list are so difficult for me. I decide I’m going to cook, I’ll get things out and put them on the seat of my rollator, then when I try to peal or pare or chop, my hands won’t do it. It’s discouraging. Sending out every day is so very expensive, and living in the south, it’s impossible to get a vegetable that isn’t seasoned with a ton of grease. We called about Meals-on-wheels, but the waiting list is months long….another of the disadvantages of being a baby boomer.
You and Jim are in my prayers, and I feel confident his surgery and your radiation will go great. I’m so glad the kids are going with you. I know that will be a great comfort, not to mention the company. I know you know to follow their instructions about skin care very carefully. I have a friend who thought lotion just had to be good for that area, and she paid for those thoughts.
I love you.
Linda
oh, almost forgot, Natalie, beautiful job again. Welcome back from your vacation, hope you had a great time.
HI ALL……A QUICK HELLO, SIMPLY COZ I AM FINDING TYPING A BIT OF A BIND, MY HANDS HURT LIKE MERRY HELL, BUT WANTED TO SAY TO ALL WHO HAVE TO FACE PROCEDURES TODAY, THAT I AM THINKING OF YOU ALL, AND PRAYING FOR EVERYTHING TO COME GOOD…….MY LOVE TO EACH…GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU SAFE…..JENNIE XXXXX
Hy all just cum in from hosp
It was a cyst
Had mammo and ultra sound saw consultant .he said it was ok
Thanks to all for thinking of me
Ill post later Chris
GOOD NEWS CHRIS. SO NICE TO HEAR GOOD NEWS – YEAH BABY!!!
GOD BLESS YOU,
XXX
Yea Thankyou Suzanne
And may your appt be as hopefull
X
Thank goodness, Chris!
Great news!!!
Chris, I’m so happy for you! You had my prayers that it was nothing serious. I know you worried, it would be impossible not to. Loads of love
THANK GOD CHRIS….I WILL SLEEP BETTER TONIGHT…XXXXX
Me too jen…what a worry..the relief is overwhelming
But those other poor ladies being told was awful.they had to be booked in for biopsy.it was heart rendering .i didn’t know what to do or where to look ,as it was private to them
I kept thinking of our sue,wondering how she is today
Chris
Hi my Peeps … first must say Yay Chris, how wonderful it is to have some good news on the blog!
Sue, think of you and Jim often and you are in my prayers … sending love, hope,strength, courage, faith, healing energy and anything else can think of cross the many miles to you. I hope you can get online at your hotel and I know little George will do his special Yorkie best to make you feel better and possibly even smile.
I have continued to read and everyone has been in my thoughts and my prayers. My RA has continued to flare bringing with it that terrible fatigue.
Two weekends ago I managed to go to the auction of the farm where my mother’s family had lived for five generations … and there were five generations of their lives up for sale, nothing had ever been sold! I bought a wash stand that I’m sure m great, great, grandmother must have used at some time, a carved oak arm chair and also the family kitchen table where my mother had done her homework by oil lamp light. It was purchased for my son, but they decided it didn’t suit their home, so the plan is that it will grace the new porch we hope to add to the cottage, probably next year. It has been in the kitchen since the family moved in all those generations ago, and is oak with pineapple carved legs. Some furniture had been in storage, but it was all there and made of oak that had withstood the test of time. There are now things I wished I had bid on but I knew there was no place to put them. The bedrooms at the cottage are small with no room for a carved oak dresser. There was one very old and very tall book case with glass doors that I had never seen before, and I did have a spot in mind for it at the cottage, thinking it would look lovely with antique dishes (which I love) and some collectables, but it was bought by my cousin who was thrilled with his purchase, and went much higher than I wanted to pay for the cottage. I also bought two carved gold antique pictures frames and some dishes and a lamp that had always been in my grandmother’s living room window, but I’m sure it had stood there for my great grandmother also. Something else also happened that day … I had a chat with my brother about his concern for our grandson and as DH said, life is short and we aren’t getting any younger and time to let hard feelings go … those of you who have been on the blog for several years can understand how that felt for me. He brought me some family pictures that I had been requesting and our son said my brother was bidding on the kitchen table also, but stopped with my first bid. One cousin who is an engineer, at the end of the sale bought everything remaining in the work sheds, and I was told he filled his truck with antique work tables, and tools … not a thing was left. The farm is up for sale and a picture of the house is on my FB page (Brenda) not Teddi.
I think my new rheumatologist is going to be good fit for me and I have my first infusion of acremra next Wed. morning, but I have been cautioned it cold take several months to kick in. This drug can not be given at home and I will be having the infusion at a RA Research Centre.
This has been a long post and I hope not too boring, lol, nut time to stop for tonight. Please remember you are in my thoughts and my prayers. Most days I only manage Teddi’s posts to his sweetie Bell Pomeranian, but I am on FB each day so drop by and say hello. Hopefully the new drug will give me more energy and help me walk again without pain!
Sue and Jim …. all the best and I am with you in spirit!
Love and Prayers … Pommum Brenda
Certainly not too long, Pommum. It is great hearing from you! I can’t imagine an auction like that. Family keepsakes kept so long. How do you possibly decide how to narrow down what to bid on? So glad you were able to get some special pieces. Of course I do know that RA fatigue. It stinks. I do hope that in time your new med offers you some relief. Hm, I think I’m friends with Teddy but didn’t know you had an account just for you?? I’ll need to search you out! Would love to see your pics. 🙂
OH BRENDA, SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU POST. SORRY ABOUT THE PAIN YOU ARE IN AND SENDING YOU HEALING PRAYERS FOR LESS PAIN. I CERTAINLY KNOW WHAT PAIN IS NOW.
THE AUCTION SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD A NICE TIME. SO HAPPY YOU NOW HAVE THAT BEAUTIFUL OAK TABLE AND THE LAMP CERTAINLY SOUNDS INTERESTING TOO ALONG WITH OTHER ITEMS PURCHASED. DO TAKE GOOD CARE DEAR FRIEND. XXX
Hi Brenda, so good to see you on here again. I would have loved to go to that auction, everything sounds so great. I’m glad you made peace with your brother. Gives me hope for my sister who now has not spoken to me for 2 years.
Much love and prayers to you.