We have James Brown to thank for implanting that line into our lexicon. For those of us who are and have been living with chronic pain, this whole question of movement is one many of us have to consider each day. We’re told by our doctors to exercise and we hear the words, but our hearts sink as we say many things to ourselves, like: “How?” “Let them try to exercise with all the pain I have and see how they like it.” “Does it mean they don’t really believe me when I complain about my pain?”
We feel totally incriminated by our pain, health issues and lack of energy. How can we possibly exercise? Basically, it hurts too much. What if I told you it would hurt at first but feel better later because that happens to be the truth. For those of us who live compromised existences due to these rebellious bodies of ours, the rules are different. No more jogging for miles, weight machines in excess or rock hard abs. Swimming is a wonderful overall exercise and easy on the joints but few of us have access to a swimming facility. What to do, what to do, that is the question regarding movement and these painful bodies, whatever the source of that pain, stiffness or malfunction. We have to get up and move.
I know I’ve told you previously about a wonderful elderly nurse I used to work with. Her name was Goldie and she worked on a medical/surgical unit and she knew the importance of movement and practiced it. My memories of her are of a gray-haired woman moving briskly up the hallway, dust flying in her path, purpose on her mind. She had someone on her radar and all the patients quickly realized it. You could see and hear the scurrying in each of the 2 bed patient rooms as they feared her words as she would say, “What? You know you should be up here walking along this hall. Now get up out of that bed and walk.”
Don’t tell Goldie, but the latest studies indicate much can be achieved by exercising only five minutes a day. These same studies reveal that running for long distances do not necessarily cause one to live longer than exercising or walking for only a few minutes each day. I realize there are enormous muscular, circulatory and respiratory benefits for being ideally fit but for some of us, it isn’t going to happen. Personally, I gave up on ideal many years ago and learned to settle for getting from point A to point B and doing it without more pain. Ignoring the problems doesn’t work. We do become weaker and weaker without movement and the areas we don’t use actually win out against all the healthy surrounding tissue. Therefore,” get up offa that thing” and you will feel better.
The first time I was introduced to physical therapy, I was not a happy camper. Frankly, I thought the doctor was just passing me off to his physical therapist to get rid of me because he couldn’t come up with a definitive diagnosis. I was wrong. The physician was from England and trained in the process and advantages of regular, routine movement. He knew the importance of strength for agility in movement for both safety and function. Movement also keeps us in alignment. In other words, it keeps us straight and lends toward more safety from falls, curvatures and malformations. I used to feel like I was becoming a question mark both physically and mentally. How about you?
My previous experience with physical therapy had been in the hospital setting where I worked as an RN. The PT’s I had worked with primarily got the little old folks out of bed and taught them how to use canes and walkers, worked with post-op hip and knee replacements and other surgical procedures. I was not a little old folk at the time. I am now. My experience with chronic pain and PT was nonexistent until that time.
Physical therapy for specific problems and weak areas is a whole different ballgame. I have received immense relief over the years for spinal pain and sacroiliac problems as well as other problem areas. Going to PT gets tiresome so I have always kept a notebook of the exercises that were taught to me and usually request a print out. I feel any physical therapist who doesn’t want to give you a print out of instructions is just trying to keep you coming back and should be challenged. There is always a certain amount of time when you first find a new one when they have to access you and diagnose the problem. They also have to find out how willing you are to co-operate and how much you are going to put your heart into it. Enthusiasm? Well, let’s not expect too much from ourselves. Showing up will do until you know the plan of attack.
On rare occasions you just don’t click with a healthcare provider and that can be true of physical therapists as well as doctors or other disciplines. Unless he or she is the only show in town, try another one. It’s okay to shop around because it’s your body and you are important. No body, no you.
Eventually, I will be receiving an injection for osteoporosis and I was discussing this recently with my oncologist. He stepped very lightly when telling me to remember that exercise is an important component of any osteoporosis treatment and he didn’t want to demand too much from me, understanding what my life is like. I explained to him that I am not an athlete but I am cussedly independent and did take care of my own home. He smiled as we discussed the fact I live in a three story house and traverse at least one set of those stairs every day, many times. I explained my theory that chores, housework, laundry and cooking are indeed, exercise. You don’t have to take on the world of Atlas in order to stay reasonably fit.
Physical therapy is not always required or if it is, you can learn how to handle it at home and then get discharged. A good place to begin is by doing your daily chores and pushing through that pain. I know. It sucks but it must be unless you want to lose function. We don’t need a huge, complicated plan. We often just need to track one foot with the other and walk to the bathroom. Water a few plants. Do the laundry. One chore at a time is still keeping you functioning. I once realized how weak I was becoming on my non-dominant side, the left, and began to worry. I decided to share my daily chores and hygiene habits like brushing my teeth between both hands and arms to strengthen both, equally. Simple acts count when you live life that way. Brushing your teeth, scrubbing your face, pumicing your feet; these can all be done with alternating arms. Use it, whatever part of your body it is. No, I’m not necessarily referring to your texting finger, your flipping finger or your tongue, although all of those do get more use than more needy parts. I often count as I’m doing chores in the shower. Rough elbows? Try rubbing that soapy washcloth or exfoliate over each elbow to the count of 40. The same counting method can be used for brushing your hair, your teeth or rubbing crème onto your arms, legs and feet. It leads us back to repetition as it builds muscle and restores function that can so easily be lost due to inactivity due to pain.
We’ve all read about the importance of endorphins as they are released via activity and make us feel better about life as well as ourselves. The brain knows because it is busy sending signals when you move so, let’s follow the advice of James Brown and:
“Get up offa that thing
And dance ‘til you feel better,
Get up offa that thing
And try to release that pressure.”
It’s amazing how much of that pressure is from our own frustration from not moving. You see? We’re stuck in a terrible round-about with no way out unless we walk out, crawl out or creep out. Move it. You’ll be rewarded by it and oh so happy you did. Trust me. I know because that’s what I do. Grudgingly, miserably at times but after doing it, always glad I did. Come join me as we keep moving to live. We’re worth it.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Very good one Sue. I really believe that if I hadn’t discovered Silver Sneakers 18 years ago that I wouldn’t still be here. I was exercising, but the group setting keeps me motivated. I have had to cut back on the way I exercise due to the pain, but I do still go 5 days a week . I do try to keep up with the house but am not always successful, but my friends at the gym keep me moving. So I really liked this post, you know how to get the message across that moving is one of the most important things you can do. It may be limited by whatever physical problems you may have but just do whatever you can. Off my soapbox now.
My whole house is now filled with boxes. The hardest thing I do is deciding what to keep and what to discard. I am thankful that I have never been a pack rat.
Everybody here is in my thoughts and prayers. Love to all. Janet.
Janet:
Been praying for you and your move. I am glad you are getting thru it okay. 5 days a week !! Now that is great ! Hang in there and know you are loved
Tonie
Janet, your group sounds great. I’m so pleased you found them because they certainly have helped you. Just going and having a goal can be so fruitful. Oh dear, boxes. The most positive thing I can think of is that it makes us sort out the excess. I wish I could say I wasn’t a pack rat but I am to a certain extent but my DH is..big time. We have things, cedar chests, etc from his Mom, his sis and his uncle. Somehow the belongings of the dead take on a sacred status at least in his family so I try to understand. Unfortunately, lately, I’ve been throwing out a bit of food from the freezer. When you live out of town for six weeks, and have been having issues for months, it seems the old domestic front gets neglected. I do hate to waste food when I know there are many millions in the world who don’t have enough. It has me shop more in moderation.
How much space of your own will you have at your sons? I think you’ve wonderful for all you do and the way you’re doing it. Love, Sue
I will have 2 rooms and my own bath. I am very lucky, I have two absolutely fantastic sons and their wives. I had hoped that I would live out my life without needing their help, but it was not meant to be. As so many of the people on this blog know your body betrays you and you become dependent on others for support. AS I say I am lucky to have my family, not everyone does. Thoughts and prayers to all. Janet
Dearest Sue, What an excellent blog this week. When I read “Get up offa that thing”, I had to chuckle and wonder if you could see me here on my Lazy Boy chair with feet elevated. I am a master at inventing excuses for not getting out and walking, stretching or using my resistance bands. You are correct though and the more we move, the better we feel. Thank goodness for my faithful 4-legged friend, though, as she will not let me rest until she has had her after dinner walk around 8 blocks and through the park. I hope you are healing well and that your pain from the burns is decreasing more with each passing day. Sending my love. ❤
Karen:
8 blocks and around the park sounds like a good walk ! Doncha love them fur faces ? Please come back and talk with us more so we can get to know you.
Tonie
You’re a sweetheart, Toni, as is everyone else here. I love the interaction and camaraderie of this blog and want to come back and talk more often and stop being such an introvert. Our 8 block walk is only 1/2 mile but my fur baby is in favor of increasing that distance at any time and, yes, I do love that sweet little fur face and slobbery kisses. Being on my feet is actually a much more comfortable position for me as I share one of Sue’s maladies where my sitter causes much pain when I sit on it. My heart goes out to Sue each time she talks about her long car rides to Portland. I rode with my son from California to Eugene, Oregon, and then took the train to Tacoma 2 weeks ago and I must have looked like some kind of squirmy worm trying to get comfortable in my seat. Ah well, it is time to get off my sitter now. I hope your week has been and continues to be blessed, Toni.
Hi, Karen, those little furry ones do help keep us moving, don’t they? This spring while I was trying and adjusting a new med the side effects kept me from moving as much as I should. Getting our little Sadie pup was a good boot in the behind. She keeps me going, and consistently. She needs the exercise!
Karen:
I have to smile on your trip. I made that trip from Mesa Az once and was just being first treated for this malady. I was so glad everytime we stopped to get out and walk some. Beautiful trip though. I stopped at Eugene. We came back down thru the Redwoods and into Lake Tahoe. I still have some huge pinecones I picked up there. I saw a lady at the flea market I did the other week selling some of those pinecones. Wish I could get my hands on a box full of them to decorate for our Christmas Bazaar 🙂 You be good to you. I find I squirm more and more in church these days due to lower back stuff,and keep a pillow on the bench where I sit. Comfort is more important to me now than ever. My two fur faces are here on the bed with me as I type. Snoozing now that they have me good and awake 🙂 Take care and DO stop being an introvert. We love conversation here 🙂
TOnie
Karen, I got a chuckle out of your reaction to the title. I have an honest feeling I would have to apply it to myself first of all. Procrastination regarding exercise is just so easy. I love the stretchy bands, don’t you? When I walk with little George I feel sorry for him because he has to make about six steps for every one of mine, with those tiny legs. Then he comes home and sleeps for a couple of hours. They are wonderful though, all that enthusiasm. I took George over to meet my daughters new pup and it’s going to take time. Daisy is a 19 lb not even four month old English chocolate lab and she’s all pup. George was overwhelmed and definitely out weighed with his 7 lbs. He kept hiding behind me. So funny. Poor Daisy misses her sisters and needs to romp with a buddy.
Yes, exercise is our friend but it certainly doesn’t feel like it most of the time, huh? Love ya, Sue
Sue, I had to smile, picturing poor little Georgie with a 4-month old rambunctious lab. That is serious playmate overload for your little guy. Reminds me of my goofball, Sandi, when she plays with our neighbor’s Dachshund/Beagle mix, Jammer. Sandi runs at him full bore, jumps over top of him, brushing his back with only her hind feet which then sends Jammer rolling across the lawn like a sausage. It’s hilarious, although Jammer gets quite annoyed with the game. 🙂
Sue:
What a timely blog. WOnderful blog. I was one of those who worked all day and then the Dr said “you must exercise”. WITH WHAT ??? I had no energy. I would swim some, but it got so hot I didn’t even want to get in the pool. Since moving back to Va. I have found thru necessity that I CAN move more. Course, it is only on certain days, but it gets done. Mondays I usually go and work out on the machines and Friday is water aerobics day. Throughout the week I am doing the chores around here that the dogs refuse to do ! Which is everything except eat ! 🙂 I am slow moving today because I had to do yard work yesterday and I picked some crab apples. Boy are my shoulders telling me about that. I love those tart little apples and they make the best jelly. Last night my brother came down and as he was leaving, just at dusk. I looked over at the apple tree and there were 3 deer under it eating the apples I had caused to fall. I had also had a raid on my tomatoes again so I called out to them (beautiful liittle buck with a small rack) and told them to stay out of my garden. He just looked at me and listened and went on his way, leaping over the fence like it wasn’t even there. Would that I could do that ! As you say those days are over never to come again. But I can do my best to move every part of me in some way everyday ! Love you much, you are in my prayers.
Tonie
Tonie, I so enjoy your stories of nature where you’re living. It is amazing to see the deer leap. Beth has that problem with her garden, also. Sounds like you provided dessert for your deer last night. Bet you don’t feel like doing any leaping now that you’ve worked out there yesterday. Exercise is one of those subjects we’d like to ignore but don’t dare. I know what a sincere and dedicated whack you take at it all the time, mixing duty with trips to the work out pool. I admire you for your efforts sweet lady. Love you much, Sue
Tonie, my Grandma use to make crab apple jelly and I loved the beautiful colour those crab apples made the jelly. I have a Christmas cookie recipe that called for a tiny drop of jelly in each one and I saved that jelly just for those because it was too special just to eat on toast. I love all your stories too, and I’m sure those deer are beautiful, they are such graceful creatures!
WELL I CERTAINLY WON’T BE DOING A JAMES BROWN ANYTIME SOON, BUT MANAGED A PILATES SESSION THIS MORNING AND SOME VERY LOW IMPACT AEROBICS….WILL THAT DO?
SUE….GOLDIE REMINDS ME OF THE MATRONS WE USED TO HAVE IN OUR ENGLISH HOSPITALS, SINCE DISPENSING WITH THEM, THE NHS HAS GONE INTO A RAPID DECLINE….SHAME THAT!
WE NOW HAVE SO MUCH FRUIT IN OUR GARDEN WE ARE HAVING TO GIVE A LOT AWAY, HERE IN FRANCE THEY DON’T DO ROAD SIDE SELLING, I MISS ALL THAT, IT GOES ON ALL THE TIME IN THE UK, WITH AN HONESTY BOX, TWO PLANKS OF WOOD BALANCED ON TWO RICKETY OLD CHAIRS, AND VIOLA!!!! YOU WERE IN BUSINESS. PERHAPS I SHOULD SEND SOME TO YOU TONIE, AS IT LOOKS LIKE THE DEERS ARE EATING MOST OF YOURS.
KAREN YOU ARE A MARVEL. WALKING BLOCKS PLUS THE PARK…WELL DONE YOU, ITS EASIER WITH A POOCH, THEY MAKE YOU GET OFF YOUR BUTT AND MOVE IT.
JANET, I HOPE LIKE TONIE THAT ALL IS GOING WELL WITH THE MOVE, DON’T KNOCK YOURSELF OUT.
WELL I FOUND A GREAT THRIFT/GOODWILL SHOP HERE IN FRANCE TODAY, RUN BY A WELSH LADY, I BOUGHT AN ITALIAN JACKET AND SWEATSHIRT, AND A SUMMER TOP, PLUS TWO NEW BOOKS…..ALL FOR 27 EUROS……SORTED…….LOVE A BARGAIN ME, I’LL GET THE JACKET DRY CLEANED, AND HAND WASH THE REST, IT DOESN’T TAKE MUCH TO MAKE ME HAPPY, WELL PERHAPS A NEW BODY WOULD BE THE ICING ON THE CAKE…CAN’T HAVE IT ALL THOUGH CAN WE???
GREAT BLOG SUE, TOOK ME BACK TO MY WORKING DAYS AS AN OT IN HOSPITAL….HAPPY DAYS.
LOVE TO EVERYONE….JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Great finds, Jennie! And good exercise, too. 😉 Sorry there are no roadside stands for you. I love stopping at the farm down the street from us. Hugs!
thanks lyn right back at you ….jennie xx
Jennie, I agree more modern hospitals need Goldie’s. She’s long gone now and unfortunately most of those with her attitude. Now we’re usually in the hospitals such a short time there is hardly time to get lazy. We usually go from operating room to curbside. In full disclosure I must admit I’ve been lazing around and making myself do the exercises post mastectomy. We had to delay them for awhile due to the burns but lately I’ve been down to it. I have to maintain full use of that shoulder as well as my sitter and well…all of me. Post mastectomy there is a sort of tightly drawn feeling on the empty side and the lymph nodes being taken tighten up the underarm, also. So it’s stretching and “angel flights.” They make you feel a bit like a grounded angel but oh well…whatever works.
Can you advertise in a paper and sell some of your fruit or even give it away in that way? Seems such a shame when so many of us over here get most of our fruit in the spring and summer from fruit stands. Hope your gut and all of the rest of you is behaving within limits dear friend. Love, Sue
Jennie:
I love thrift stores dont you ? I have been going of late to fnd things we can refurbish for the bazaar. I stopped at one after work yesterday. I found me a pair of like new jeans for $3 ! I will wear them soon as it is cooling down quickly here. I pray all my tomatoes that are left will get ripe before it gets colder. There is one store I hit on Fridays after working out, they have buy one get one on Fridays. I want to find me a couple of flannel shirts. The one yesterday had this awesome set of china for $50. I declare I would have bought it on the spot had I had the $$ ! I love dishes. I have never had a set of china. Well, I briefly did and gave it to my daughter. Someone gave it to me and she loved it so……you know how that goes. Anyhow. Bargin hunters UNITE !!
Love ya
Tonie
Tonie and Jennie, I rarely pay full price for anything unless it is a gift for someone. I love antique stores more than bargain/thrift stores. The ones around here, thrift stores, are terribly overpriced. Our antique stores are very reasonable and have so many treasures. Tonie, full sets of china are very common here. One of the dealers told me it’s the economy because people don’t buy luxury items in a downward economy.
Jennie, your clothes sound like such fun. I have a dress I bought many years ago that’s, I think, made of some sort of raffia. It’s a dressy black one and I can’t let it go. Haven’t worn it in years and it needs a slip because it’s not comfy against the skin, but it’s beautiful. Odd the things that strike us and say, “take us home.” Sue
James Brown, eh? I like the song by Reel to Real that was feature in the movie Madagascar- “I like to move it, move it!” That and the Cupid Shuffle. Just a couple of the funky tunes we use with the kids for Music and Movement time (aka Friday Happy Dance). Even getting out on the playground and pushing the kids in their swings loosens me up. Just gotta think like a kid! Squirm-wiggle-fidget-run-dance-jump. Nothing like 3 and 4 yr old PE coaches to keep you on the move. LoL.
I like that one too Annie….sometimes its hard to “move it, move it” just did though, walked up to the farm and back, said hi to the cows, (animal variety) its only 20 mins there and back, but better than nowt…..Jennie xxxx
Annie, kids have a way of pushing us to keep us, especially when you work with them all day like you do. I think more of us should think like kids, don’t you? Take care, Sue
Sue, so enjoyed this one. It’s right up my alley.;)
Lyn dear, glad you liked the blog. Moving, moving…Love you, Sue
Sue, great blog today. It really hit home for me. I have been visiting my oldest daughter for a couple of weeks at a time this summer. When I am there she and my youngest daughter don’t want me to do anything. After my first visit I could tell I was stiff and couldn’t move very well. It took me days to loosen up. When I am at home I do most all things for myself. When I go out I put my walker in the van and I park in the parking deck at the hospital. I walk in the hospital and do not use the Valet parking so I can move. At home I have 14 steps to go upstairs and I consider that as part of my exercise. I do my own laundry. My girls get so mad because I won’t move downstairs in the bedroom that was my mother in laws before she passed away. I try and explain to them that staying upstairs is a way for me to keep moving. They blame it on my husband saying he doesn’t want me to move in his mother’s room. That is not true. One day I will have to come downstairs but until then I will do what I can to keep moving. I am proud of myself for not giving in to making my life easier. Yes it is hard. I am on oxygen as well as all the the physical pain I am in. I thank God that He gives me strength everyday to keep moving. I watched my mother-in-law go from taking care of herself to an invalid before she needed to be one because her granddaughter would not let her do anything for herself. I asked her to let mom do some things For herself but she wouldn’t let her.
Sue, I hope you are starting to feel better. I pray that your skin is healing and not too uncomfortable. You have done so well through all of this. God has answered a lot of prayers.
Hello to everyone and hope all of you are doing well. We have lost our tomatoes and cucumbers to the deer also. I am glad one of our neighbors is keeping us supplied with vegatables. I will chat again at another time. LOVE to all of you. Donna
Donna, good on ya! You stay mobile and independent as long as you can. I’m sorry your dear MIL didn’t have that opportunity. Better for all of us all the way around.
Donna, I want to thank you for your very sweet and thoroughly understanding view of this blog. Indeed, each day we start anew and putting off any activity for more than a day or two can cause the troubled spots to win over the “stretchy” stronger areas of our bodies. So many people just don’t get that. You have to just gently understand that it is simply ignorance. I went through a similar experience with my sister a few years ago. It’s a hard thing for some people to understand. We move because we must. We don’t want to nor should we be wrapped up in cotton wool and set on a shelf. We have to walk, lift and do for ourselves. Just tell them our activity is not always a gauge of what we feel or how we feel.
I’m proud of you for your perseverance. You are a strong, lovely human with a bright spirit. Love you much, Sue
Donna;
It is funny when you know what is best for you. DO it dear and keep moving.
Love
Tonie
Janet, two rooms and a bath sounds good. Of course, so much depends on your own things around you and your mood and the mood of the surroundings. I’m big on that because I think our environs reflect ourselves as well as often setting our temperament. I think that’s why I don’t dare complain too excessively about having to take care of “stuff..” I hope you’ll let me know if you need anything. I know, you probably have an excess at this time in your life. I’d be happy to share anything if needed. One never knows. Anything any of us can do to make this move more pleasant for you and we will. Life is full of transition and we each know so much about that right now, then again, does life ever stand still. We are mere flesh and blood and with the aging process…here we go. I guess all we can do is keep our dignity and try to enjoy the ride. Much love, Sue
Janet:
Yeah what she said !! If we can do anything let us know.
Love ya
Tonie
Thanks Tonie. I have a couple of those huge pinecones that my husband and I picked up on Mt. Shasta on a trip from Seattle to So. California. Neither on of us had ever seen pinecones that large. Another good thing is I get to keep all 3 of my fur friends. There is so much positive about my move and I am trying hard to concentrate on them. You guys are all so good to me. Thank you. Just keep telling your stories. I love picturing your life and you inspire me to keep trying. Love, Janet
Dear Sue, This blog just being here is going to be one unchanging thing in my life. Kind of an anchor. I am going to try to keep in touch with my gym friends, but most of them are not on-line and writing is difficult. Just the thought of 4 new doctors and all that entails is very daunting. But the understanding and love of the people here will help me immensely. Thank you Sue for caring. Love to all. Janet
We’re here for you, Janet!
OH BLOODY HELL, IT WAS FATAL FOR ME TO TALK YESTERDAY ABOUT MOVING MOVING!!!! I AM SITTING HERE IN A RECLINER SOBBING BECAUSE MY BACK HAS GONE AGAIN, ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE THIS TIME…..THERE I WAS IRONING, ON THE LAST ITEM, AND IT JUST WENT, I COULDN’T STRAIGHTEN UP, MY DH WAS OUT SO NO-ONE TO HELP….I WAS VERY FRIGHTENED.
I MANAGED TO CRAWL UP THE STAIRS, AND LAY ON THE FLOOR WITH A SMALL PILLOW, AND WHEN HE CAME IN I ASKED HIM TO RUB SOME 1% STEROID CREAM IN….HE SAID WHEREABOUTS….I COULDN’T POINT SO I SAID “JUST UNDER THE WING”…WHAT’S A WING SAYS HE….POOR THING I ENDED UP SCREAMING AT HIM……HE WALKED OFF, BUT I WAS CRYING SO HARD, HE CAME BACK, AND NOW KNOWS WHERE YOUR “WINGS” ARE…………….I AM SURPRISED HE DIDN’T KNOW BECAUSE HE MUST HAVE EXTRA WINGS HIMSELF BEING THE ANGEL THAT HE IS……..YES I KNOW! CORNY BUT SO TRUE.
I JUST TOOK IBUPROFEN, I AM HOPING IT WILL KICK IN REAL SOON, COS NOT SURE HOW MUCH OF THIS I CAN COPE WITH…THINK WHEN MY DOC COMES BACK FROM HIS ANNUAL LEAVE, I WILL ASK FOR PHYSIO ON A REGULAR BASIS……WHAT DO YOU THINK.
JANET…..I AM WITH THE OTHERS, I DON’T KNOW WHAT I CAN DO BUT PRAY FOR YOU MY DEAR, BUT YOU KNOW I DO THAT ANYWA, I WILL CRANK IT UP A NOTCH.
SORRY IF I SOUND A BIT OF A WUSS, AND I KNOW THAT ALL OF US ARE IN CONSTANT PAIN WITH ONE THING OR ANOTHER, BUT I NEEDED TO TALK TO SOMEONE, AND I THINK YOU ALL FIT THE BILL.
SUE, I HOPE THE PT GOES WELL, AND THE SCARRING IS HEALING.
DONNA…ALL POWER TO YOU BEING INDEPENDANT
TONIE…I CAN JUST IMAGINE YOU AND I AT A RUMMAGE SALE, FIGHTING OVER THE BARGAINS…I TOO HAVE NEVER OWNED A FULL SERVICE CHINA DINNER/TEA SET, BUT HAVE SOME BEAUTIFUL POTTERY…..17 YRS. AND NEVER USED IT, BECAUSE MY CACKHANDED DH WOULD TAKE ONLY WEEKS TO CHIP IT, CRACK IT, BREAK IT, SO IT STAYS IN THE KITCHEN CABINET LOOKING PRETTY.
OK, HOPEFULLY I WILL FEEL A BIT BETTER TOMORROW….MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL, SORRY ITS A LONG POST…WITH LOVE JENNIE X
Dear Jennie, How frightening for you. It’s really scarey when something like that happens and you are alone. You are in my prayers as always. Thank you for your kind thoughts. Love you. Janet
Jen, I’m so sorry! Wish I could have been there for you! I know just where those naughty wings are. 😉
THANKS LYN, I WISH YOU WERE TOO XX
Oh Jennie, that is so scary, just feeling like if you move something will break or fall apart. Lots of prayers and hugs to you. Hope it is better even now. Love you! ❤
THANKS ANNIE FOR THE PRAYERS, I WISH I DIDN’T HAVE TO GO TO BED….TERRIFIED X
Jennie dear, oh I am so sorry. Wounded wings aren’t fun. Yes, first of all, I think regular physio or at least starting out advice to do on your own is a great idea. I hope it wasn’t the pilates yesterday but my guess would be the ironing. That is as bad as mopping. You’re standing and twisting as you do a repetitive motion. I haven’t ironed more than one thing all year. Driers do the work for me. It’s time to identify what does this horrendous thing to you.
As far as DH, it’s often hard for Jim on my behalf because I hurt his feelings when I’m in pain and he takes it so personally when it really has nothing to do with him at all. For instance, when he gets home for dinner he’s hungry and tired and that’s the time of day when I’m ready to get into a nightgown and lie down and call the day over. Bad timing as his day starts early when I’m still asleep, also. We adapt, we grow and most important of all, we forgive.
Sweet friend, for your back try heat today and ice if that doesn’t do it. Lie as straight as you can. Do you have anything for muscle spasms? That’s usually what this sudden onset pain is caused by. Prayers, hugs and many thoughts dear girl. Love, Sue
YES SUE, I HAVE MUSCLE RELAXANTS, I WILL TAKE ONE BEFORE BED, BUT I’VE HEARD THEY CAN CAUSE CANCER WHICH IS A BIT WORRYING,,,,,,,,,,,TRIED A HOT WATER BOTTLE, HELPED A BIT, I DON’T DO THE TYPE OF PILATES THAT WOULD CAUSE THE PROBLEM. I ONLY DO THEM LAYING FLAT ON MY BACK, AND ALMOST STILL, BASICALLY ITS JUST THE WARM UP. I THINK AS YOU SAY ITS MORE LIKELY TO BE THE IRONING.
DH IS BRILLIANT THOUGH, AND HAS FORGIVEN ME FOR SHOUTING AT HIM………IT MUST BE A LOT HARDER FOR YOU WITH JIM WANTING DINNER AND BEING SO TIRED……………
I WILL GO ONLINE AND SEE IF I CAN FIND SOME GENTLE STRENGTHENING EXERCISES UNTIL I CAN GET PROFESSIONAL HELP………………LOVE YOU XX
Hello, everyone. I’m with SB as he gets his left side lower back radio frequency ablation. He will be so happy to no longer be “lopsided”. I’m happy for a bit of rest while I wait. Very busy day yesterday and I’m feeling the effects. SB’s doc just stopped by. He did well and will be back here soon. Once he’s awake and functioning we can head home. Love to all!
Lyn, glad SB’s procedure went well. Have a safe trip home. Did you drive Blue Belle?
Yes, I did, Miss Annie.
Lyn dear, so glad SB is getting another ablation. It sounds like you both were looking forward to it. Don’t blame you and pray it is as good as the last one on the other side and he has much relief with school starting. You take care of you with all that sitting and driving. Thinking of both of you, Love, Sue
LYN ME AGAIN, I DIDN’T SEE YOUR OTHER POST RIGHT AWAY……GOOD LUCK FOR SB, AND YOU TAKE IT EASY WHEN YOU GET BACK HOME XXXX
Lyn, so glad that SB has found something to help his pain, and that all went well 🙂
He is a lucky young man to have you for his mom!
Apparently SB is doing well. His GF stopped by to keep him company this evening and he’s already looking for something to do. She worked a full day and is ready to just crash and hang out, I think. Probably good to help keep him from overdoing. I did some things around the house after we returned and made a delicious, yet simple dinner. Was going to take Sadie for a walk and decided it more important to rest my mildly complaining body. My head is making me feel guilty – we both need the exercise – but my body is winning. It’ll soon be dark, so then a mute point. 😉 You’ll get a walk tomorrow, Miss Sadie.
Lyn, glad you talked yourself out of that particular walk. You chose well. Pleased to hear SB is getting on well enough to be soothed by his GF.
I meant to get back to you last night but pooped out. I spent yesterday morning at the doctor’s, locally and the afternoon at the dentist getting through the first step of a new crown. UGH. Paid for it all night and still am. Life…Thinking of you, Love, Sue
Janet, so glad you get to keep your fur babies! That will make your new place seem much more like home. Praying for peace as you make this transition. Lotsa love from the other Texan!
Thank you Annie. Take care. Janet
Janet, it will be alright. I just know it. Love you, Sue
Janet, so glad you have such a loving family and I know you will enjoy being near them once you are settled … love and prayers!
Karen, loved the pic you painted of your little guy getting jumped over. I can just imagine. Poor thing. George would be terrified. Aren’t they our joy, though? Love, Sue
Great blog as usual sue
I must be doing more exercise than usual with all this moving and stuff!
Jen blimmin hec hope it’s all easing now.them spasms are a killer Dh gets them in his back ,as you know?Valium eases his along with heat
Busy day today and tomorrow .
They Asked DH to photo a memorial service tomorrow and then we are off again after a bit of shopping
Be back Chris
THANKS CHRIS,,I HAVE A SIMILAR THING TO VALIUM, I WILL POP ONE OF THOSE TONIGHT TOO, ANYTHING THAT MIGHT HELP…….HOPE YOU MOVE IS COMPLETE NOW, JUST ENJOY IT ALL XX
Hi all, I posted a message in the last blog but for some reason it went to moderation (using a different lap top maybe?) so I think it may have posted after everyone was reading beyond it!
Sue, wonderful blog on moving! My problem is I try to do too much with this body that is held together by screws! Sometimes I think I am my own worst enemy!!! I have flexeril for my back spasms, but it is only to be taken for a short duration for acute pain I have been told, and that there is nothing that will help with chronic back pain which is unfortunate! I am considering a request to have my back pain investigated although I know that much pain is from multiple compression fractures, but there is also other things going on too. I now have trekking poles for walking at the cottage which help with my fear of falling. I asked my PT about Pilates but she said there was no part of the exercise that I could consider doing. 😦
We are back home from the cottage with things to do in the city, and the past two days have attempted to pack up and return to the lake, but both of us have just been too fatigued to make it back. We lose two days with packing and driving, and the packing and the short trip usually does me in for the next day, and on returning, the trip and unpacking has the same effect. Regulations have changed since the construction of our cottage concerning the set back from the lake, but we hope to get a minor variance which would enable us to build a side porch in which I hope to have a washer and dryer, so all the lugging back and forth, especially sheets and beach towels, would be eliminated. At home I try to wash each day … towels one day, sheets the next, then whites … so it is not such a big chore, but carting two weeks of washing home has become overwhelming … and it must be then packed up and put away at the cottage when we return. I shouldn’t complain as we have such a beautiful spot on the lake, but we must make it work for both of us. A porch would also be a good spot for me to rest as I spend much time in our bedroom where I am comfortable when the others are out and about and would give me a place to put the antique table I bought at my uncle’s sale.
On a more cheerful tone, I do believe my energy is increasing, so I hope that it is a sign that the new drug is finally kicking in!!! 🙂
We are very concerned about our Pom Teddi. He has an appointment on August 18 to speak with a surgeon concerning a tracheal splint which would be a very risky surgery, but we have been told his condition is life threatening … it will be a huge decision. He just turned five years old which is still quite young in Pom years and we love him so much. The medication he is now on is helping him greatly, but unfortunately we are told his condition is progressive!!! His sweetie Bella Pomeranian is coming to visit him from California in late September. She is flying to PA and then driving to Ottawa with is full brother Bailey Boo, so it should be lots of fun! They hope to visit Ottawa and Parliament Hill as well as spend time at the lake, which will be very peaceful and pretty at that time of year! DH is worrying of course about how I will manage such a visit, but since there is two of them, I can rest some days while they sight see.
Our little GS’s special school continues during the summer months and he loves it, and we all are very pleased with his progress!
Sue, We think of you often (DH frequently asks how you are) and hope each day brings less pain and continued healing!
Sending love and prayers to all. Pommum Brenda.
Dear Pommum, Prayers for you and Dear Teddi. He is such a beautiful little guy. I have always loved poms and that is from someone who ordinarily prefers large dogs, but poms don’t know they are little. Please keep us up to date on his condition and give him an extra hug from me. Love , Janet
Pommum, Brenda, it’s so good to hear from you. You’ve been missed. It sounds like you have been so very busy and I know each day is a struggle but you are one of those bright bulbs who make the most of each one of them. I have thought of you and Teddi so often as I read your notes to his sweet girlfriend on FB. What a position you folks are in deciding on Teddi’s surgery. I know it’s a difficult choice involving risk to one you love so much, dear little boy that he is. I know you will discuss it, get the best medical opinion and then leave it in the hands of God. You have our concerns and love, you do know.
Yes, thanks for asking I am better each day but it’s taking so much more time than I thought to get over the burns and the fatigue coming right on top of the surgery with all the baggage I already carry. We each know about baggage, right?
I can’t imagine hauling that much laundry. Heck, I couldn’t even stand carrying it down to the basement and got a second set of washer/dryer for our kitchen, so I really get it. Hope you can circumvent the obstacles. Your idea of being able to see out and be with the others is the way to go. I think about you so often and know you face so very much. Thoughts, prayers and hugs, always, Sue
Lyn
Good to hear SB is up and rearing to go .a good sign
You enjoy that walk the next day
Pommum
Bringing home 2 weeks washing and doing it after travelling must be so much work.you certainly need a washer there.i know what you mean with the coming and going,altho I think your distance is loger than the one I travel to our shed.We have just bought a bolt hole for ourselves and are just getting used to the coming and going. It’s certainly a lifestyle of choosing
Ok folks gonna try and get a few hrs more sleep 6 am here
Chrus
Chris, what is a bolt hole? Our travelling time is only 1.5 hours but we first must pack up (and I like to leave everything clean and tidy) and then load the boat for the short drive to the marina and then load the car. I have been finding this difficult but DH does all the lugging and this year he is finding it tough too … and they call retirement the golden years! When our cottage was built the set back from the water was 50 feet but now due to environmental concerns it is 100feet and there are also regulations on the square footage of buildings compared to the size of your lot to stop high density building, I believe it is only 5%, but we own a double lot but must ask for permission to add on to a building only 50 feet from the highest water edge, but we hope the regulation can be grandfathered! If you remember our dear friends next door (I wrote several years ago about my adventure walking over to their cottage for the first time for dinner), well, they have decided that they love the area so well that they have sold both their home and cottage and have bought a permanent residence on a smaller lake about 15 minutes away so we are sad. They say we will continue to have dinner dates but we will miss them next door. Their grands are the same age as ours so we had plans of them all playing together as they got older.
This afternoon I got some work done on the flower beds so DH says that I am definitely feeling better, but I worked until he had to help me up the steps to come inside and as you can guess, to bed … I am definitely one of those cow boys!!! We now have our new charcoal steel roof so now we are deciding on what outside colours should go with it as the cottage is stained cedar siding which is stained a dull taupe at the moment. We are thinking a bright cedar stain would go well with the charcoal roof, and match the decks, dock and board walk to the roof.
Poor Teddi Bear is feeling much better on his medication but the narcotic cough depressant makes his naps much longer and I miss him chasing the chippies, but it is all for his health. We are hoping a cartilage building drug might strengthen his trachea and make surgery unnecessary but this is new and I believe “off label”.
Love and hugs … Brenda
Brenda:
I think “bolt hole” is a place to run off to for a while ! 🙂
I know typos….just put my drops in!
POMM…..SOUNDS LIKE YOU AND I ARE WALKING DOWN THE SAME PATH…SCARY ISN’T IT……KEEP SMILING LOVE, ITS HARD AT TIMES THOUGH ISN’T IT??? XXXXX
HI FOLKS……………..ANOTHER BAD NIGHT DESPITE THE MEDS, THIS AFTERNOON, MY DH AND I ARE GOING TO CHECK OUT A COUPLE OF LOCAL OSTEOPATHS, NOT HOLDING OUT TOO MUCH HOPE AS EVERYTHING HERE SHUTS DOWN IN AUGUST…YEAH I KNOW, IT MAKES LIFE DIFFICULT, I DON’T WANT TO GO TO A&E, JUST CAN’T SIT THAT LONG.
HOPE EVERYONE IS OK……I COULD SURE USE SOME PRAYERS TODAY…….I FOUND A BOOK I FORGOT ABOUT GIVEN ME YEARS AGO BY A FRIEND WHO IS AN OSTEOPATH…..MY DH HELPED ME WITH THE EXERCISES, WHICH HELPED TO FEE THINGS UP A BIT…SO WATCH THIS SPACE………………..I LOVE YOU ALL……………JENNIE XX
Dear Jennie, Extra prayers for you. I am so sorry you are going thru this bad patch. Hope you get to see an osteopath soon. Gentle hugs, Janet
THANKS JANET, I HAVE MANAGED TO GET A SLOT TONIGHT WITH A KINESITHERAPIST AT 6PM, SO I HOPE HE CAN HELP ME, ONE AND A HALF HOURS TO GO…………..LOVE JENNIE X
Jennie, what is A& E … here it is a TV channel ?
Prayers coming your way! Back pain is scary!
PM xo
HA!!! ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY……THAT MADE ME CHUCKLE, WE TAKE IT FOR GRANTED YOU KNOW WHAT OUR VERSION IS……LOVE JEN X
Jennie, I hope your visit to the new therapist will loosen up some of the problem with your back. I also hope the muscle relaxant helped. Don’t give up. After my DD broke her back several years ago she was discouraged, who wouldn’t be? The neurosurgeons have surgery on the brain and you need to find just the right set of folks to help. She found a chiropractor/naturopath who has helped her immensely make it through the last 20 years. There is an answer for you. I truly believe it. It’s just some of these doctors discourage us and make us lose hope. Not all…but some. Praying for and loving you dear girl. Sue
THANK YOU SUE…THE GUY I SAW WAS GOOD ENOUGH TO TAKE ME AT FACE VALUE, HI IS A KINESI, AND GAVE ME A DEEP MASSAGE FOLLOWED BY HEAT TREATMENT, I WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE A PERSCRIPTION FOR THE TREATMENTS FROM MY DOCTOR, BUT AS HE IS ON VACATION, I COULDN’T GIVE HIM THE REFERRAL PAPER, HE SAID “DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT, JUST BRING IT IN WHEN HE GETS BACK” BUT I COULD HAVE BEEN A TOURIST, JUST PASSING THROUGH, AND GOT A FREE TREATMENT. SO I GO BACK TUES AND THURS FOR MORE OF THE SAME, ITS SOOTHED THE PAIN QUITE A LOT, BUT I THINK WHEN HE IS DONE WITH ME, AND ALL THE OSTEOPATHS ARE BACK FROM THEIR AUGUST HOLIDAYS, I WILL GO DOWN THAT PATH….BUT FOR THE MOMENT, THIS WILL DO.
I HOPE YOU ARE KEEPING OK, AND WELL ON YOUR WAY TO RECOVERY………LOVE YOU…JEN X
Jennie, I am so relieved you got a little help. You do sound better. I know it will take time but at this point any help is welcome, right? If one treatment helped then more should make it better and better. There is always another step to take and I get so irritated and frustrated by doctors, usually surgeons, who tell you there is nothing to do. They usually mean there is no surgery they can do. I know they’re not all that way but some are and it can really hurt a life.
I’m still nursing a bruised jaw from the crown prep and have to go back on Monday. Will be a weekend to stay in around here because it’s Regatta weekend, parade on land and one with decorated boats in the river. Traffic will be mad!! Going to venture out today to get George’s nails clipped, can’t do it with a sore chest. Think we’ll have a microchip put in him, also. I asked how much it will hurt him. They said it would hurt for about 30 seconds so as long as we’re going to upset him with the nail trim might as well go the whole route. I asked about traffic down by the vet and they said police were directing traffic to keep down the craziness.
Jen, hope you continue to rest and feel improved. I know. Maybe not 100% but none of us are, right? We just want to make it through our lives in a semi-normal manner. I think I vaguely remember what that’s like. Much love to you dear friend, Sue
Hi all
Well had an interesting day
Photo,d a memorial service for 18 USAF who crashed in a plane nearly 40years ago
Some came from a base here and about 30 flew in from New Jersey ,along with some from that squadron who knew them
They fly to Normandy tomorrow and the Azores the day after then back home
They played the uk anthem ,then ,is it what they call taps or something.it was so strange In the middle of a ploughed field.but it was lovely
They changed the flag,all done in slow motion it was all very moving.it was at the crash site in the middle of a field.after that we all went to the pub and had a drink.all very good and we all enjoyed it.then we farewelled them on their way
The whole day has gone in a blurr as busy with doing things…but keeps your mind off all!
Jen how’s it all,hope ok..well okish!
Starting to thunder here…we are off again tomorrow and then I come back to a virtual colonoscopy scan.ugh
Ok lights out
Early night off early tomorrow,take the shed over officially…excited
Chris
Chris, I love all the changes in your life although I realize some include extra work but what a joy. I’m happy for your new place to escape to. Take care of yourself along with everyone else..Love you, Sue
Chris, the memorial service sounds like a touching and wonderful human experience. It does sound very moving indeed. Sue
HI CHRIS……I HAVE WRITTEN IN A POST TO SUE HOW IT ALL WENT, SO WON’T REPEAT OR IT GETS BORING….I AM GLAD YOU DECIDED TO GO FOR THE COLONOSCOPY, FOR PEACE OF MIND……WISH I COULD HAVE BEEN IN THE RIGHT PART OF NORMANDY, TO SEE ALL THE PLANES……TALK SOON, LOOK AFTER YOURSELF…..WEEKEND LOOKS GRIM WEATHER WISE……..LOVE JEN X
Hey all:
Well after rummaging for the one nerve pill I saved, I feel better. Been a wreck all day, just one of em. Then I get home and find my tomatoes ransacked one again. 25 plants and I have only gotten 2 tomatoes off them. Only one cucumber , and no peas or watermelons or cantalopes. And soon no pumpkins. Seems I planted a garden for the deer this year. I was so upset !! I picked the 4 remaining large green tomatoes and brought them insdie to ripen !
Well good news ! I have a hearing with a disability judge on Sept 5th !! Was very happy on that !
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie, First of all you know I’m thrilled you’re finally to get a hearing about your disability. We must all pray for a positive outcome for you and a fair hearing. Be sure your lawyer has all the latest xrays and lab, etc. Good, good.
Those darn deer. I don’t blame you for being upset after all the work you put into your garden and the physical price you paid for all that work. No crop. Hold on dear friend and try not to let it get you too upset. I know, I know. Maybe now you can just not bother and let it go back to seed? Try to get some rest tonight, okay? Love you, Sue
Good news about the hearing, sorry about the deer. Will be praying for a good outcome from the hearing. Love, Janet
OH TONIE….WHAT A BUMMER!!! MUCH AS I LOVE WILDLIFE, I THINK I WOULD BE UPSET TOO TO LOSE MOST OF MY HARD WORKED PRODUCE TO THEM THERE CRITTERS.OH MATE, I WISH YOU ALL THE LUCK IN THE WRD FOR THE 5TH OF SEPT, YOU DESERVE TO GET THE BEST OF RESULTS………….LOVE YOU JENNIE POO XX
Brenda
A and E is accident and emergency section at hospital
Tonies right a bolt hole is somewhere to escape to away from the madding crowd
I love all the differences yesterday at the pub I mentioned a fortnight and they said whats that …well it’s two weeks …short for fourteen nights from the olden days.regularly used here
Your distance to your cottage is similar to ours just a teeny bit more ours is 50 mins on a good run or 1 hr if busy
But your cottage sounds lovely
I know we will have some work to do when we take over,but for the first time we will just do nowt
.it gives thunder and lightening anyway! But there are windows in the roof in the bedroom,as well as the sides so we will enjoy it.dont know what it’s like to have what we call velox windows
Our walks are a dark green
Poor teddie and also you with the descision to make
Yep sometimes I hate changes..they leave you feeling so empty
Tonie
So pleased about the date come thru
aNd ..those blimmin deer next year there will have to be an answer for them!there must ge someway to scare them off.hope you are feeling less anxious now.we would all feel the same with things that we grow and nurture to have damaged like that…me I was so annoyed with those ducks.but I used to think we were invading there place…it helped me think it ..well untill i stepped in something again!
Sue
Which part of the back did your DD break? How did she do it?
Well Im awake again it’s 3.30 am ..try and get some sleep again
Chris
Chris, my DD slipped on the ice on the stairs at a speech conference many years ago and broke two of the thoracic vertebrae. It was very painful and will always cause problems.
Your new place sounds so lovely. I love green and the windows in the ceiling, oh my, how great, like a moonroof in a car? Enjoy being free of those darn ducks, too. Just enjoy it all, okay? Love you, Sue
Not walks dark green,the walls…it’s the eye drops
CHRIS……YOU SURE IT WAS THE EYE DROPS???……….lol xx
Hi
Well here we are back at the shed
It’s been pouring here and lightening.it was nice to be here ,even DH could here it raining with his aid turned up
Got our first company coming for the afternoon tomorrow so that will be nice,so gotta shop for that in the morning.gives a nice day tomorrow . Then got to see about a shed for here after shopping ,
Jen. How are you tonight… Hope it’s easier ….still the wit I see!
Sue. Hope the jaw is healing, I Broke my sacrum and that will always give me problems .the pain clinic says that its effecting the bowel too. But your DD still manages a full life…like mother!
Tonie. Come on tell me why is that music called taps…perhaps it’s not spelt like that..it sounded like the American Anthem to me.hope you are feeling brighter today and those blimmin deer well I think they got them here too ,so some say they seen them. I am so sorry to hear what they did, bl..dy things
Suzanne How are you? I feel things are not as they should be
Ok that’s me for now..been hectic today .we had semi moved in.but still had a car load of stuff and things to get sorted
See ya chris
Chris, this sounds like a bigger move than to le hut. I know you’re enjoying it and hope you’ll enjoy your company and pray the wind, lightning and rain let up a wee bit so they don’t get soaked and you can enjoy being close to the sea. Town is filling up here for the regatta. Traffic bad so we’ll stay close to home I suspect or maybe go over across the river tomorrow if I feel up to it. When the weather is nice and I’m regaining me, hate to waste it inside. Wind is whistling here like mad. Took little George for his microchip and nail clipping. He was such a good boy. One of the ladies in there took his picture. He is a charmer.
Have fun and enjoy but don’t work too hard. Can those two go together? Love you, Sue
SUE…HOW DID GEORGE GET ON AT THE VET’S? HE SEEMS TO BEHAVE MUCH BETTER THAN SACHA, ITS FUNNY BUT WHEN WE USED TO TAKE HIM IN SPAIN, HE NEVER BOTHERED ABOUT IT, BUT OVER HERE, HE MAKES SUCH A SHOW OF US, KNEES KNOCKING PEEING EVERYWHERE…VERY STRANGE, OR MAYBE ITS COS WHEN WE WERE IN SPAIN, HE WAS ONLY GEORGE’S AGE, WHERE NOW HE IS MORE KNOWING…LITTLE SOD.
I HOPE THE REGATTA DIDN’T CAUSE TOO MANY PROBLEMS, CAN YOU SEE IT FROM YOUR HOUSE? I HAVE TO GO BACK FOR MORE MASSAGE NEXT WEEK, BUT I AM LOOKING AT IT AS A STOP GAP TO KEEP ME GOING, AND THEN GET MY DOCTOR TO SWITCH ME TO A GOOD OSTEOPATH LIKE YOU SAID…….HAVE A LOVELY WEEKEND MY FRIEND…LOVE YOU…JEN X
HI CHRIS…….YOU KNOW ME SO WELL, BUT I HAVE TO SAY A SENSE OF HUMOUR IS A BIT THIN ON THE GROUND, IT COMES FROM BEING SCARED, I DID SOME IRONING TODAY AGAINST ALL INSTRUCTIONS, ITS OK FOR THIS GUY TO TELL ME NOT TO DO OWT ALL DAY, BUT I CAN’T SIT ON MY JACKSIE ALL DAY, ANYWAY ITS DONE NOW, BUT I AM VERY CAUTIOUS AND DID IT IN 10 MINUTE BLASTS.
CAN YOU SEND SOME OF YOUR GOOD WEATHER OVER TO FRANCE, WE WERE SUPPOSED TO GET WHAT YOU HAVE IN THE UK, BUT ALL WE HAVE IS GREY SKIES. I HOPE YOUR DAY WITH THE RELLIES IS GOING GOOD, AND THAT THEY LIKE THE NEW PLACE…..CATCH UP IN THE WEEK….LOVE JEN XX
CHris:
“Taps: was penned during the Civil War here in America by a Northern Gen Named Butterfield. Taps means to Tap out, This is played every night on a military base to signal the end of the day. And as you know for funerals. I found the words to it for you as well so you can understand. Day is done, gone the sun
From the lakes, from the hills, from the sky
All is well, safely rest
God is nigh.
There are lots more verses but this is the one I remember.
Love
Tonie
Now I know
Interesting ..ta
Chris
PS….ANYONE KNOW IF SUZANNE IS OK….WORRIED ABOUT HER, AND FEEL THE SAME WAY AS CHRIS, SOMETHING WRONG MAYBE???? X
She was on Facebook a couple of hours ago, but don’t know any more than that. Janet
THANKS JANET…JUST BEEN TALKING TO HER ON F/B. HOW ARE YOU, IS THE MOVE COMPLETE YET? TAKE IT EASY, LOVE JENNIE XX
Dear Jennie, My son was out yesterday. He does the heavy lifting after I sort and fill boxes. The actual move isn’t until the end of September. It seems like a lot of time, but I am really slow. Have to stop and rest a lot.
I have you in my prayers, you have been going through so much lately. It seems so many on the blog are having really big problems. Wishing you the best. Janet
Tonie
How are you? Been thinking of you a lot
Jen
They weren’t rellies it was friends from home we went to a party in her garden some weeks ago
She was surprised when she walked in and she liked it,she has asked us to a party at her house,well drinks and nibbles ,on Christmas Eve after the Salvation Army band have a carol service at the cathedral .she lives in the cathedral precincts. And she has a lot of arty friends so it will be lively and interesting .she is one of those positive people and lives for today and enjoys herself and is good to be around
Well I hope you are a bit better after another dose of ironing.cant keep a good woman down!
Sue
The regatta sounds exciting ,they have them here as well.its so great living by the coast but unfortunately every one wants to come too! But it gives it a holiday feel
Parking does become a nightmare !
Having guests from this site over for a few hrs tonite,our other hut was by the side of theirs and they are nice people. All this socialising has only come about with the move to the coast..odd
Gonna start the day now..b.fast then going to a phot exhibition along the coast
Chris
OK SORRY ABOUT THE MIX UP…..TRUST ME. I AM SO PLEASED YOU ARE MAKING NEW FRIENDS AT THE SITE CHRIS, SOMETIMES THINGS HAPPEN THAT OPEN UP A WHOLE NEW WORLD….LOUSY WEATHER THOUGH, DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, HAD AWFUL WIND AND RAIN LAST NIGHT, AND ALL THE DOWNSTAIRS WINDOW BOXES WERE ON THE FLOOR WHEN WE GOT UP……………ENJOY YOUR DAY…..LOVE JEN X
Chris, your day sounds exciting and fun. My goodness you are becoming a social butterfly. How life changes,huh? Hope you’re up for it because it sounds stimulating and enjoyable. How is DH’s B/P holding? Having seen the photos of your new place, well, it looks so nice. Hope your weather gets sunny for you. We’ve been having lovely weather her in the NW of USA. It’s sunny, warm but not too warm. They had a brief spurt of fireworks over the river last night at the end of regatta, Got the dogs attention but not too bad.
You say so little about how you’re doing but it sounds like all this new life is going down very well for you…good. Thinking of you and envisioning you in your new digs. Love, Sue
Hey all:
Another rainy day here in the burg. Starting to feel like Sue’s neck of the woods. I am so tired of late, can hardly make myself to anything. Well, except sit around on a heating pad and read or watch a movie. 🙂 Not a lot to report on. Chris, I am doing okay.
Started sewing on the quilt for the great grandbaby. Gonna be a boy. Kalvin Edward is what the name is to be. Hope I will be able to get out to see him after his first month or so. If all goes well I should be. My tummy is not well this am. I had my cup of coffee, but not sitting well with me. YUK YUK I hate that ! Talked to the grands in SC yesterday and my DD last night. All seems to be going better for her. At least she is working. Have a good day all
Love
Tonie
TONIE…SORRY TO HEAR YOUR TUM IS NOT SO GOOD LOVE. OH I WISH I COULD SEE YOUR QUILT WEN ITS FINISHED, STICK IT ON F/B WHEN IT IS HUH? SOUNDS LIKE WE ARE HAVING THE SAME WEATHER CONDITIONS, SUE TOO BY THE LOOKS OF THINGS, IT SEEMS TO BE A VERY SHORT SUMMER THIS YEAR, ALTHOUGH ITS NOT OVER YET, MAYBE THINGS WILL PICK UP, I SURE HOPE SO AS THE KIDS ARE MAKING NOISES ABOUT COMING FOR THE AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY ON THE 24TH.
I LIKE THE NAME OF THE NEW BABY, HOW MANY GRAND KIDS WILL THAT MAKE NOW? I AM GLAD THINGS ARE BETTER FOR YOUR DD TONIE, FOR MINE TOO. GET AS MUCH REST AS YOU CAN MY FRIEND, KNOCK SEVEN BELLS OUT OF THAT THERE HEATING PAD…..WHATEVER WORKS FOR YOU…….LOVE YOU…JENNIE POO XX
Jennie:
Raining again today ! Oh well, it is watering the grass so I have to mow again, and I didn’t get to finish the one from last 🙂 This is a Great Grandchild, I have 13 grands and this is my great grand. I am getting old !! My heating pads are my best friends 🙂 I can’t do without them. You take care, hope the kids come to see you !
Love
Tonie
Tonie, sounds like the IBS acting up…better than the flu. Hope as the day progresses you feel better. Sounds like things are better with DD and I’m so happy for her and for you. Your quilt for your first great grand sounds good. You’ll have to give us some details. I haven’t quilted in awhile but still enjoy it. The name Kalvin Edward is very dignified. I also hope you get to see him after he comes. Where do his parents live? I know you’re long overdue for a trip to see the grands in AZ. I know we’re all praying you get to make that trip just as soon as you get the disability payments straightened out. Pray that is more than soon.
Do hope you’re feeling better now than earlier. Much love…to you, pups, chickens, etc. but not for those deer. naughty gluttons that they are. Hope all your green tomatoes and hot pepper give them diarrhea! Love ya, Sue
Hey Susie Q !
Feeling a bit better today. I am so tired all the time these days, don’t understand. But it is raining so hard, I can;t make myself get out to feed the chicks yet. It is 8:30 and I know they are restless not having their food yet. I had put out enough for them yesterday am that I didn’t have to go out last night. I will do the same today I think.
The quilt I am making out of denim pieces I cut from the pants of the family. Even a pair of the daddy’s old jeans, many years ago to save for a project like this. Then I have some alternate pieces of Winnie and Eyore to put in it. I still have to get the material for the backing, but that is just some soft flannel I think. I guess I will work on it some more today. The parents live in Arizona as well, If all goes well by Oct or Nov I should be able to go and see them. Lord willing.
I do like the idea of the deers eating the hot peppers ! 🙂 I have some I need to chop up and freeze, and some rhubarb Judy gave me as well. Gonna save that for a pie this fall . It is almost apple picking time, so soon I will be canning applesauce, At least the deer can’t climb the tree and pick them 🙂 Take care and love to you and Georgie. (and Jim of course)
Love
Tonie
Jennie dear girl, No we can’t see the regatta from here unless we sit and the porch and we didn’t. I guess we’re a bit anti-social. Seems Jim works constantly and I rest. Well, as all of you know, it’s just been one thing after another for me health-wise, now the dentist. I’m pretty sick of even talking about it. Think that’s why I’ve been more quiet on here lately. I’ve also been a bit depressed. Think it’s the anti-cancer drug. Hope that changes as I adjust.
Actually, little George was wonderful at the vet’s. Surprised the heck out of me. I told them to muzzle him because he usually hates having his nails clipped. When I saw the needle they use to put in the microchip, I cringed. It’s larger than the ones they use for blood transfusions. He was a champ and just wanted to go home. He’s so dear. Sounds like your dear Sacha has figured out bad things happen at the vets and like a child wants no part of it.
Jennie, sorry, last comment got chopped off. I think Sacha shows a great deal of sense by reacting to the vets. George has only been three times yet he started shaking when we got out of the car.
I am so sorry your beautiful flower boxes got shaken by the wind. That’s awful. No, our weather has been super. Just warm enough for a little air conditioning upstairs and the flowers are loving it. I don’t have many of them this year except on the porch; don’t know what I’ve been doing. We’ve been having some wind but not that fierce stuff. Life has been rather dull except for the weekly visits to the dentist, the doctor, once and Jim working constantly. I think he likes it but I do worry about his long hours. You know there are a lot of sick people in jail and they seem to get sick at night lately so he’s coming and going a great deal.
Jennie, I’m glad you’re getting another treatment next week and one more, right? Let’s hope and pray they help your poor back. I know that pain and it permeates all areas, huh? Love you much, Sue
Janet, I’m glad you have so much time to get your ducks in a row. I know it’s a huge chore. Thinking of you. Love ya, Sue
Hi you guys- finally getting some wind back in my sails this weekend. Had an infusion for migraine and started on Antibiotics for sinus infection Monday and feeling a lot better now (no steroids thank goodness!) Another crazy week at work (still down 2 teachers, child care supervisor and one toddler teacher on vacations, and the cook called in sick Friday… BUT, tomorrow all staff back from vacations, (including my prn nurse who I worked extra days for) and one new teacher starting training, so things are looking up. My boss however is quite ill with Wegeners granulomatosis, a really nasty autoimmune condition, similar to lupus in some ways. Affects kidneys lungs and heart. She has chemo a couple years ago and has been in remission but is now acutely ill again with blood in the urine, and fluid on her heart and lungs. They upped her prednisone and she’s been on methotrexate but may end up In Hospital and on chemo again. Prayers appreciated for her. She can be a real pain at times but I wouldn’t wish her illness on anyone- it’s terrible.
I’ve also started on a new regimen of supplements and probiotics that seem to be off setting the crushing fatigue and some of the pain/ fibro symptoms. Sleeping better and that always helps. Crashed early Friday night and got a decent nap yesterday so this afternoon I’m tackling some projects at home. Trying to play “Clean Sweep” – sorting through stuff to put in a church garage sale first weekend of Sepember. I’m trying to have no mercy on my inner pack rat and keep only things that are truly useful, or have great sentimental value, and get rid of everything else. I’ve decided to get rid of my big squashy arm chair simply because its too big for the space I have in my little sewing room/ office. I usually end up reading on the couch or in my patio chair anyway so I’m just basically tripping over it. I get a merit bonus in October and want to replace my living room furniture at that time so I’ll find something smaller /more suitable.
It is definitely late summer in Texas now. 104 F yesterday, broke out in a sweat walking from my car into the grocery store. Thunderstorms this afternoon but doesn’t look like it will cool off much. Feeling a bit like the wicked witch of the west- “I’m melting” into a little puddle of goo- LoL.
Jr Golden Girls Supper Club was a hoot last night. We went to the movie “Get On Up”- about the life of James Brown, so I got to hear the song Sue mentioned on the blog “Get Up Offa That Thing” (and dance til you feel better!). Miss Mattie was rocking out! I could just see her in a sequin mini dress & go-go boots as a back-up singer in his band! She is so spunky and fun for her 87 years!
Well, break over. Back to the boxes. Love to all, Princess Crabby Pants
Annie dear, I’m relieved on two fronts: Looks like relief at work is on the way and you’re getting some relief for your headache and sinus infection. This is good! I am sorry to hear about your boss and agree, that’s bad stuff. Prayers for her for certain, poor lady.
Sounds like you and your fellow scoundrels had a ball last night. Hope you enjoyed the movie. We’ll see it as usual when it comes out on DVD, etc. Hate those TX thunderstorms, so colorful, loud and oh boy the humidity. That’s why I could never live in Texas as much as I love that state. You know my Daddy was born there. Seems fitting to have my only son and his family living there. They love it so much. Do hope you get some time off now. Looks like you have it coming. Be sure to share your regimen of vits if they’re helping you. We are an open minded bunch. Do take care now, okay? Love, Sue
Annie, you’re sounding good, girl! Keep it up! 😉 And don’t overdo “Clean Sweeping”. 🙂 Sounds like you had a great weekend. I’m sorry about your boss, too. Sounds awful. Hugs!
Annie what are you taking that is helping the fatique ?? I am having it so badly
Tonie, let’s hope you get to dry out soon. What a strange weather summer it has been for you and so many. We’re warm but not too much so and always a bit windy. Apples almost ready sound great. They do keep well, too. Do you have a nice cool place to store them? I love homemade applesauce…no comparison to the purchased stuff. I make it with the peels on and push it through a colander..so good. Hope you find your energy soon. I’m dragging from all this dental work on top of all the regular stuff. Life, huh? Love you, Sue
Sue:
ALl the apples I pick are used in apple sauce , or store a few in the fridge. I just peel em and cook. Leave them chunky and no added sugar. Can them like that. I still have to make my apple jelly. GOt to working on my quilt yesterday and never got to it !
Love