I don’t know that I’ve ever literally walked a fence, but it is a descriptive phrase which I like to use. It so beautifully describes the balancing act; the teeter-totter effect of parsing out energy, in a life lived with chronic pain. It denotes danger from a journey we have to make under difficult circumstances. That’s how I feel, so many days, when choices of activities have to be made; armed only with the skeletal form of who we used to be and the vital parts we have left. We find ourselves choosing, very carefully what we can, want and are able to do. There is no more running around like crazy fulfilling everyone’s expectations. There is no more being all things to all men, women and children who have their expectations of us. We know those of us with chronic painful problems that we can no longer “have it all.” I’m not certain anyone truly does have it all. I suspect it’s an urban myth we often experience when observing the lives of others. They may look like they have everything but the chances are pretty fair that they don’t.
I guess it is all part of the image we experience via television, movies and folklore about what life should be. What happens when life isn’t what it is supposed to be, whatever the heck that is? We start out on a journey and think we know where we’re going when, in fact, life has other plans for us. When I became a nurse 35 years ago, I didn’t really plan on being my own best patient. It just sort of happened as the tiny time bombs on my strands of DNA exploded and the alarms went off in my pre-programmed existence.
This is not a simple thing to figure out; what you can do, how much of it you can do and when to stop doing whatever it is you are doing. Most of us just go until we “hit the wall.” Like a disoriented person in a dark room, or a child playing “blind man’s bluff” we often roam around until we crash. We become human bumper cars. It hurts. It’s ugly but it’s all we have. If we didn’t venture out there and make some choices to get on with our lives as we intersect with our families and friends we would lead these enormously boring lives. There are no flashing caution signs except for pain. There are no alarms that go off and no clanging bells at the local police station. We just have to try.
The typical scenario for us is to be confronted with an activity we want to participate in, such as dinner with our family, a day of play with our children or grandchildren or a visit from friends from in or out of town. We want to do these things. They’re fun. They give us joy and they’re part of life. We crave and need this connection with others. At other times we need to be productive. We have enough sense and experience to know we have a limited amount of energy; we have pain or will have pain. It only takes a year or two for us to get over the “have to dos.” You know the things that are expected of you and you do them because you’re too chicken to say “no?” Those don’t even count after awhile and you save your energy and that little portion of the day you feel up to doing anything to the items high on your list. You do them, you enjoy doing them and you finish. Then the pain and often, enormous fatigue sets in. For me it’s usually that night or the next morning. Stiffness, pain and deep “who cut my strings” fatigue inhabit your body to the point it is difficult to sleep, walk into the bathroom or even make the effort of feeding yourself. For me it is often a discomfort so intense it effects safe function and also makes me nauseous in its intensity.
You lie in bed, unable to sleep until you reach for a pain pill or a muscle relaxant and you quiz yourself about your choices. “Was it worth it? Should I have done it?” Usually, the answers come quickly. “Yes, it was worth it but you knew it would cost you.” Every activity comes with a price tag. Then you pay the price. Writing a check would be so easy. Scrubbing a charge card would be so simple. The price we pay costs us in the coinage of pain and suffering. The bill usually arrives the day after the activity. We don’t get or give all that much sympathy or empathy. We don’t expect it. We do get some understanding if we’re lucky.
What we really don’t like is the individual who lectures us with the “I told you so.” What do these types of individuals expect us to do? Should we lie on the bed all day? Should we find a cocoon and climb in? Here’s a heads up. If you’re one of those individuals, please understand that we have to live life. If we don’t then we are already dead. We want to be all that we can be, just like those U.S. Army recruiting posters. Just because there are no rules and we don’t always know the parameters and occasionally hit a wall; well, that’s just how we have to do it. Wise up. Please, for the sake of all of us who have to live this way; look outside the box. Try to understand how difficult it is and give us some kudos for trudging on by putting one sore foot in front of the other, day after painful day. Each of us is just trying to find our way to as good a life as possible.
Please let me share a poem I wrote many years ago and shared with you but seems so appropriate today, I would like to share again.
YOU AND I
I know you are hurting,
I understand, I do.
You see, we walk together,
Because I’ hurting, too.
I don’t have all the answers
Most days I have so few.
I do have blinding fear,
But is the sky still blue?
Some days I want to escape;
Could I be someone else, don a disguise?
Let me out. I don’t like it in here.
At the dawn will the sun still rise?
By the way how did we get in this fix?
Was it genes, bad luck, were we stressed?
I don’t know either, but tell me
Does the sun still set in the west?
We can’t always help it you know,
Feeling the way we do.
The good emotions and bad,
Aren’t they all a part of you?
The greatest gift, I think,
Is self-honesty and truth;
Otherwise we’ll harvest
Self-delusion and bitter fruit.
To know why is the question we ask.
Eventually this has to stop
For we find more strength for the fight,
When we finally say, why not?
Was I promised some sort of exemption?
Does my life mean more than another?
Don’t flower strewn paths quickly fade?
We’re each a mother, sister or brother.
We’re connected in so many ways
Walking this path called life;
Why do we think we’re alone?
When we could be united by strife?
Is it possible our pain
Could form a bond of the heart?
Then neither of us will be alone
Isolated, abandoned, apart?
Sue Falkner Wood
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Dear Sue, Thanks for this one, it really comes at the right time. I am in a lot of pain and I have to decide what I can or can not do everyday. I tried to add the PT to what I was already doing and am paying for it. It turned out I just can’t do it that way. Have to either drop the PT or cut back on the gym my body just can’t handle both.
I read everything here everyday and all of the people here are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could write an answer to each and everyone of the comments, but these hands just can/t do it. Just know I love all of you. Janet
Janet, and we love you too dear lady. I was worried about all the PT and gym from your remarks the other day. We need to figure out enough exercise and movement to stay mobile but not so much that it uses up our energy. Some degree of it has to encourage cardiac/respiratory stamina and that’s one I need to work on. The really frustrating ones are the movements that cause pain. I find it a conundrum to decide what is helping and what is hurting. It often takes time, huh, to come up with that answer. Hang in there. I admire all you do and the brave way you’ve taken the move. Love, Sue
JANET…SO SORRY YOU ARE IN SO MUCH PAIN LOVE, ITS HARD TO DO EXERCISES WHEN YOU HURT SO BAD, I KNOW I CRY THROUGH MINE A LOT, ESPECIALLY IN THE WINTER WHEN EVERYTHING IS A THOUSAND TIMES WORSE.
I THINK GENTLE PT IN YOUR OWN HOME WOULD MAYBE WORK BETTER FOR YOU, THEN YOU ARE IN CONTROL AND CAN STOP AND START AS YOU NEED TO……I AM SURE YOU WILL KNOW THE EXERCISES BY HEART, SO NO PROBLEM….WISHING YOU WELL SWEET LADY…….LOVE YOU….JEN XX
Janet:
Sorry for the pain it is causing you. Choose the one that gives you pleasure, I say ! To me that is the only choice when it comes to what I can or can’t do !
Love you !!
Tonie
Well sue
Great write and great poem
Looking back at time..and I’ve been doing this these last few days.my DD is 45 today and who’d have thought I’d be like this today…time and genes knew it was going to be….but not me then…a brave future was ahead then and all this not imagined
How hard it is and you have had so much …
Well today to get thru as yet unmapped and unwrapped even tho I’ve tried to alter the outcome of it
Be back later
Chris
HI SUE, ….GREAT BLOG, ESPECIALLY THE POEM, LOVED IT…….GOT A HOUSE FULL OF FOLKS TO BE ENTERTAINED TODAY, AND NOT UP TO IT, BUT NO CHOICE…..SURE IT WILL BE OKAY, GOT TO BORROW SOME OF YOUR WORDS OF WISDOM AND GIVE MYSELF A TALKING TO……………..HOPE YOU ARE STILL GETTING ON GOOD WITH YOUR PT, AND YOU GOT YOUR FAVOURITE LADY BACK….LOVE YOU ….JEN X
Jennie, my but it does sound like you’ve been very busy. Hope your Mom is helping out a bit. Is the infection clearing up? Sure hope so. I just read about the wind breaking your gazebo. What a shame. I’ll bet your very handy husband will be able to rectify it…hope so.
I don’t have PT this week. My regular one will be back next week and I look forward to it. We’re still a bit in the midst of projects. Fence is repaired and looking quite good now, all painted white. Still choosing tile and ordered paint for the retaining wall around the house. Upholsterer has been ill so chairs stalled for now. It just seems like so much is going on. I think it is because the last year I got so little done I am trying to make up for it and with our weather, all outdoor projects have to be achieved in the spring and summer. Late getting on here today. Bad morning with the gut but getting better now. Chronic constipation with IBS can be such a bother. Take enough meds to blow up a wall and still…oh life. Do take care and I hope you’re better. Love, Sue
Thank you for sharing how I feel everyday I wake up and even the pain gets this bad I am happy to be alive . Please keep writing this for us who feel the way we do . Not everyone knows how bad it can get .
THAT WAS WONDERFUL SUE. ESPECIALLY LOVED THE POEM. TOUCHED MY HEART TO KNOW WE ALL WALK TOGETHER WITH OUR GOOD AND BAD DAYS.
JANET, SENDING YOU PRAYERS FOR LESS PAIN. CHRIS I JUST SENT YOU AND E-MAIL AND JENNIE POO, PACE YOURSELF TODAY DEAR FRIEND. YES YOU HAD BETTER TAKE THOSE WORDS UP THERE AND GIVE YOURSELF A TALKING. BUT HAVE A GREAT TIME TODAY WITH YOUR FOLKS. ENJOY IT ALL.
LOVE TO ALL ON THE BLOG. WISHING YOU ALL A LOW PAIN DAY.
GOD BLESS
XXX
SUZANNE….THANK YOU I WISH THE SAME FOR YOU MY DEAR, TALKED TO MYSELF AND MANAGED TO HAVE A GOOD DAY, ITS A STRAIN THOUGH WHEN YOU ARE NOT RIGHT AND HAVE TO SEE TO FOLKS, SO NOW NEED A WARM SOAK IN THE TUB, AND A WIND DOWN……MY DH’S BIRTHDAY TOMORROW, SO GOING OUT TO LUNCH, NICE FOR ME TO BE COOKED FOR FOR A CHANGE….YIPEE….LOVE YOU…JENNIE POO XX
Suzanne, glad you liked and identified with the poem. You don’t say how you are doing? Better? How is it going with your aunt you watch over? Hope you are finally getting a chance to put some of those plants in the ground after a long, dismal winter up north. Do let us know. Love, Sue
Suzanne
Good to hear you and got email ok
Well
It went ok
The plastic surg said
‘They were surprised by the result…it was a melanoma..and you know you read all about them in the news
They will have to take some more out..and a lump is growing there again he will have to look at that.see what the lab results say and talk to his multi disaplinary team..they wil try to sew the wound as best they can..and maybe after have a look and take out some nodes…he will have an appt every 3 mths’
Every time he got close to saying anything I bent behind my dads wheel chair to give him a glare! He tried to avoid looking at me
When we walked out he winked..so he’d been told about my calls
My dad is just going with the flow .he knew another lump had grown by the scar..but he seems ok with all so far. He mite suspect but it’s not out there so to speak..and he thinks it can be fixed.he said this is the worst one he’s had…
He has a hospital. appt tomorrow with his eyes.the bottom eyelids are drooping away
So I’m glad I didn’t leave it to that other Dr to sort out..as if he told my dad what he did me that would have been awful
I expect what he said is true as it is growing again as he said it would…but he did say no further ops and today they said take out a lymph node…so it’s all confusing and I couldn’t ask too much with dad there
So long wait at hospital as I got there 1 hr early in case the ambulance got there and he would be seen
So then done shopping for him.just got home put washing on and now resting
Jen hope your house full went ok and you not toooooo tired
Sue. How’d the tile shopping go
Very windy here but gives 20 c here for next few days,so Mite go to shed tomorrow till Monday to be back for the Parkinson’s hospital appt
Well that’s it for now
Chris
CHRIS….SORRY NOT TO REPLY, I ONLY JUST NOTICE THAT YOU WROTE ME ON THE LAST BLOG……SO GLAD DAD JUST HAS TO HAVE AN INJECTION, LET US KNOW THE OUTCOME, KEEPING EVERYTHING CROSSED FOR HIM…………..WHAT ABOUT YOU LOVE,, YOU OKAY????? AND YOUR DH? …LOVE JEN XX
PS…OOPS….JUST SEEN THE OTHER ONE NOW, VERY WINDY HERE TOO CHRIS, CRACKED A BAR ON THE SECOND BLOOMIN’ GAZEBO…DH MANAGED TO PUT A SPLINT ON IT, HOPE IT HOLDS COS WE ARE NOT BUYING YET ANOTHER ONE…….HOPE THE PARKINSON’S APPT GOES OKAY AND THEN YOU CAN GET TO THE SHED, BETTER WEATHER TOMORROW AND THEN ONWARDS FROM THERE….TAKE CARE LOVELY……..JEN XX
Chris, I don’t know where to begin. What a week you are having. The situation with the skin cancers is a confusing one in your Dad’s case but it does sound like they are doing what they can. Hope the other appt. went well. I know you’re being protective of him and don’t want him frightened but I suspect at his age he long ago figured out he is not going to live much longer. It’s a natural course of thought for him as he sees others going on before him. I hope and pray he will always be comfortable and hope they are able to sufficiently close that one site. It sounds like your doctors are quite different and your communication has been good. I’m glad you’re there to oversee things.
How is DH and his blood pressure doing? It will be good for both of you to get away to your beach house for awhile. Always is. Thinking of all of you and hope your daughters birthday was grand for her. Awe yes, there is nothing like our kids getting older for us to feel it in ourselves. Love, Sue
Sue:
Very timely blog for me as well ! I am the “walking wounded” of late and will be until my house is established again. I am hoping it will be in and ready by the weekend. I miss my bed !! And the dogs. They have to stay outside and I feel so bad 🙂 . I am , of course pushing my limits these days. Last Friday was the worst !! Moving the appliances, and getting the dishes out, packing up the bathroom, getting all my things out that I needed. Porches off…..it was a long and busy day. Started at 10 and quit at 9 pm. But it has been smoother since then. I will be able to rest pretty much until they bring the new one in. The horses came running up to the fence to see what all the machinery and people were about 🙂 They were so funny ! All the guys were petting them and they were loving it. It was amazing watching this little machine pull that trailer and a guy with a remote running it. Talk about RC Cars ! 🙂 Nice bunch of men. THey moved my porches for me and set up the hottub where I wanted it to be. TOld me they would anchor the old home when they brought the new one.
I have no internet unless I am sitting with Ms Alice. SO will catch up when I can. She is not really good now and needs someone with her all the time. SO my friend Carol has taken up the days I don’t work. Good , cause she is really good with older people and will be sweet to her. Patience is a virtue lacking in this home with anyone and especially Ms Alice. I think that is why we get on so good. I always tell her to take her time, and no yelling. It is hard to understand how one can treat their own parents the way some do. Or anyone older for that fact. If I live to be 93, then I will sleep as long as I want and eat what I want as well 🙂
Have a great day all !! I love you all and miss seeing you everyday ! Pray for me as I finish up this task that I will endure and have the sense to rest when I need to .
Love
Tonie
TONIE….GLAD YOU ARE MOVED AND THAT YOU WILL BE HAPPY IN YOUR NEW ABODE…SEND ME A “PIC” WHEN YOU ARE UP AND RUNNING……..PRAYING YOU WILL TAKE REST AS AND WHEN MY FRIEND….LOVE JENNIE X
Tonie, oh my but you have accomplished so much and had some help, too which is good. Moving is such a fright under any circumstances but when you have to make all of these adjustments and live with someone else and be without your dogs, well, that’s a lot to get through. I pray the new home is up ASAP and you get to start the settling in process. Aren’t the grands coming fairly soon? I hope they will be a help and not a hindrance. May have to crack the whip a bit but they’ll soon get back in line for their Kiki.
As usual you have seen the results and are keeping your eyes on the prize and that always gets you through some of the most trying times. We’ve all seen you do it before. Just do beware with the back. It’s the only one you have, after all.
Isn’t that nice that Ms Alice can have Carol to help out. I am sorry to hear things are not ideal in that household. Relatives!! Some can do it and some just can’t live together peaceably. Thanks for the update and know we’re all pulling for you and at the same time very excited for you. Much love, Sue
Jen
Happy birthday to dH tomorrow.enjoy your meal out
Chris
THANKS CHRIS….WRITE MORE LATER….XXXX JEN
Sue
One thing you said about closing the wound
I can’t remember the words he said ..something like try to close the wound….well what happens how does it heal..its on his neck just behind and a bit lower than his ear.will it heal yucky? Will it heal?
Be prone to infection?
dH bp higher in the morning then lower in the day..155/97 then later 145/75 or 135 /80. But he can’t take any stronger meds than he has …….
This ibs I read in the paper, for that and all gastric problems they are working on shocking the vagus nerve to work on it.you carry it about with you !
Well I hope the weather heats up so you can get the garden done
Tonie
look after your back take it all in easy steps…it will be lovely when all done.im excited for you
Annie
How are things?
Chris
Chris, it sound like DH’s B/P has stabilized to a certain degree. Good that he isn’t having as many side effects. Did you get his hearing aids back yet? As far as your Dad’s wounds and surgery…here in the states we would send him to a plastic surgeon to do a special procedure called a MOHS procedure. I’m not sure what his surgeon has in mind. They surely won’t leave it open and will do the best they can. There is a simple procedure they can do called underplaning where they take an instrument and put it just under the skin around a surgical site in order to stretch the skin. That should do it unless the sight is very large, then they might have to do a skin graft from someplace else on his body. Just take it as it comes and hopefully, it will close easily. Don’t worry so much you borrow trouble as my Mom used to say. Take it one step at a time but it’s also good to be informed, right?
Forgot to answer your earlier question about the tile choice. They want me to see a larger sample before I decide and they have ordered it. Will let you know. The weather will have to be just perfect and we just had rain again yesterday. Good old Astoria, OR. Love, Sue
Another good reminder, Sue. Paying the price here, but I’m not quite sure what from… A little late in the game to be from prep activities for last Fri, but with the temp changes, etc. I suppose it’s possible. Along with all the last minute preps Friday I also had an appointment with the NP at the Gastroenterologist. My gyno. Doc wants me to have the prescribed 50th B-day present of colonoscopy. While out for that they will also to an endoscopy thanks to my reflux symptoms. She also put me on prescription dose PPI. I’m only 3 or 4 days into it, but not noticing much relief yet. 😦 That doesn’t help, especially as two of my favorite (and several close seconds) are on the acidic bad guy list. Adding insult to injury, it is. We had a day of rain today. Poor Sadie has not had the most interesting day. Not only is she unable to have a walk, but most of her toys are out in the yard getting rained on. I’m just as glad I don’t have to move much. Oh dear. Have done some exploring on my new smart phone, though. Well, until my hands start to hurt. I’m hoping the case I ordered will help in that regard. Poor SB had to work today in the rain. I’m washing his clothing from the last 2 days as I type. DD is reconsidering her education in favor of a local LPN program. So difficult to know what to do. Have to just let her work it out for herself.
Take care, all.
Lyn, I am sorry. Just keep in mind we don’t always know for what we are paying the price. Sometimes we just have a rotten day. Blame it on the stars. Why not? I know the weather greatly affects you and you have had some changes of late. Oh, you’re right. The joys of a colonoscopy. Jim has one coming up and it’s his first and he’s older than you. He’s managed to escape until now. The prep is the bad part. If only they didn’t have to see where they’re going. Imagine that. I’m watching an old WWII movie right now and they just used an appropriate expression: fire in the hole.
I’m sorry the new meds aren’t helping. Give them a bit more time, okay? Takes a bit of time. Poor Sadie, but at least all of her toys will be cleared or rewashed by you.
Sorry SB has to work in the rain. Such is the life of a landscape artist. As far as DD, I think she may just be finding her niche if she likes patient contact compared to the paper work end of things. I pray she follows her heart and find her place in this world. That’s so important for young people. One of my grands has just been accepted to American University in DC. He’s very excited about living there and going to that school to work on his Masters in History. His older brother earned his masters in Social Science and his younger brother is going into nursing. Their sister is still in HS. They are my son’s great kids and Beth’s little ones are doing well with the exception of a current bout of the flu and growing much too rapidly.
Take care dear friend. Love you, Sue
LYN…SO SORRY YOU ARE HAVING SUCH A MISERABLE TIME, AND PRAY FOR IMPROVEMENT FOR YOU AND GOOD RESULTS WITH THE ENDO AND COLONOSCOPY……TAKE CARE OF THOSE HANDS TOO…..LOVE YOU …JENNIE XX
LYN….I AGREE WITH EVERYTHING CHRIS JUST SAID…..I’VE HAD MY SHARE OF THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT SEDATION, AND AS CHRIS SAYS, IF YOU CAN GET THROUGH THE PREP FOR THE COLONOSCOPY, THE REST IS A DODDLE……….ALL WILL BE WELL……LOVE JENNIE X
Lyn
When do you have to go for the colonoscopy?
Have you had one before
As sue says it’s the prep that’s the sh.ty bit….lol! But the thing itself is surprisingly ok.i didn’t have an anaesthetic for the colonoscopy or the endo tho ….but it was fine they even took polyps and bits out and didn’t feel anything. I wish someone had told me that .its really ok and no need to worry
The reflux meds do take some time to kick in and some suit different people .if these don’t try some others ,even larger strengths make a difference too
The gardening for SB sounds like a vocation for him..good that he’s found it so young.to do something you enjoy is magic
Sue your grands are doing well….it’s a real treasure to have
Off to shed later today.till Sunday .apparently there’s gonna be a heatwave ..So pleased as I didn’t think we’d get there for a while.but for now it’s ok to go…..
Back Sunday for hospital with my dad and next week he will prob have the op again
We’ll have to get up and get going its nearly 8 am
Chris
HI CHRIS……JUST GOT BACK FROM LUNCH WITH DH AND MUM…..NICE MEAL, SUN WAS OUT, MANAGE AN HOUR IN THE GARDEN WHEN WE GOT BACK, BUT OH BOY GOT A PULLED MUSCLE ON LEFT OF LUMBER REGION, RUINED MY DAY AS I DIDN’T QUITE KNOW WHERE TO PUT MY BLOOMING SELF……
GOOD LUCK FOR SUNDAY WITH DAD, LET US KNOW HOW IT GOES…..ENJOY THE SHED TILL THEN…LOVE JEN X
Chris, so pleased you’re getting to your peaceful beach place. Enjoy and hope you both feel well enough to relax. Love, Sue
Yea
Here at shed
I spoke to another Dr at my dads surgery today and apparently there were satilite ones.but also when he went the other day he showed another lumpy thing near it…but this Dr said it would be the Parkinson’s that will kill him with a chest infection thru aspiration . All of them have a different story to tell
Well it’s been lovey day and tomorrow looks good too
Made a roasted veg and pepperoni open tart tonight sat out and had it with a salad..I cheated and bought the shortcrust pastry already rolled out!
Picnic out somewhere tomorrow
Jen
How’d you do your back..just living I suppose, I hope it clears up quick
Shame it affected the day
Sue
I think when I get to worrying what your mum said
My gran also used to say don’t worry till worry worries you!
Gonna read my book for now
Chris
Oh sue
I see you are going to get some goonie fans there in the next few days!! Big festival!
Hope it don’t curtail you.its been in the papers here
Chris
Chris, Yep. Look like the Goonies fans are coming back. Five years ago they came out 5000 strong…at the least. Whole town filled up and we were going out for a family birthday and had to go all the way to another town. For those who don’t know GOONIES was a big movie back when…I think in the 80’s and has a very loyal following of fans. Some of the aged stars and once the director showed up. THey’ve made a lot of movies in our town including KINDERGARTEN COP & SHORT CIRCUIT among others. GOONIES was by far the most popular.
Chris, glad you got to the coast. Chris, I’m surprised by some of the things these doctors are saying to you. We’ve been talking about your Dad’s chance of aspirating for a long time and he’s still here. I thought the guy that said he would die within a year was the cancer guy. I’m beginning to think they should all just shut it. Live for today sweet girl. It’s all any of us have anyway…right? Love, Sue
Chris, I forgot to mention there is the annual Rose Festival in Portland the fleet turns out so one of the large ships stopped here today and we have sailors everywhere in white sailor suits. I was tempted to roll down my window and yell, “WOO, WOO” but thought my old face would be a disappointment to all those young lads. Supposed to be warming up over the weekend. Are you and Jen getting the heat? Sue
SEND ME ONE !! 🙂
Sue
We all should have been with you and yelled at the uniform…what is it about it…!!? And en mass too….what fun it would be
Your town must be so busy
Well the Dr I spoke to yesterday said it was only my dads umph that’s got him thru others would not have,,it could happen any day now…well it hasn’t as you say….he’s been gurgling for ages with it.
As you say today is all anyone has…my dad thinks he’s ok and we will go with that.what you think sometimes is what you got! That first Dr.that told me he had less than a year to live ,if he’d told my dad that I would have reported him.luckily I rang to ask the results instead of my dad ringing and speaking to him.however I could have done without that…..but..but…who knows what all of your prayers achieved..moving mountains springs to mind….you don’t know how comforted I felt that day I had to make all those phone calls and how they all seemed to work out…so that’s what I’m thinking ,it was somehow a big turn around
Yep we got sun….last day today tho..lightening tomorrow .but I’ll enjoy that..I love a good storm..odd innit?
Shall go and watch it at this hotel we go to on the sea itself.DH try to get some photos
But today we are going for a picnic…well a sandwich and fruit…
Once our house got hit by lightening and all the electrics went I was In it by myself….but I still love the magnificence of it all
Well must get up and going
Jen hope you better…tonie that you’ll soon get back to normal there…annie things are comfortable for you
Lyn..how long do you have to wait before the procedures …and Suzanne your Pain is less..Janet ,as Jen says just do what you are comfortable with
Chris
Chris, No, I don’t think it’s odd at all to like a storm. They can be beautiful, majestic and very exciting. Good luck to DH as he shoots those pics. Oh I could just see some of those young sailor’s faces…all these vintage ladies yelling out the car window at them. I did tell a few I them thank you for their service. No woo, woo.
As far as your dear Dad. God knows when he will go and how long he will stay. He has so many problems it’s true but his zest, stubbornness for living and desire to live go a long way in his behalf. All you can do is face each episode and do the best you can while you handle your own life.
Enjoy the change of weather and stay well dear girl. Love you, Sue
Chris:
I LOVE storms. Living in Az, I would sit out on the patio and watch the lightening. It was so awesome. We have had a few good storms the last couple of weeks. It is very calming to me. I think because my mother made us sit still and be quiet during a storm. She said it was God letting us know He was there .
Just a quickie before heading off to one of Sue’s favorite places, the dentist. Must have a cracked tooth dealt with. As for the colonoscopy/endoscopy, it is scheduled for June 26th. I have a bit of time before that experience. 😉
Just git er dun !! If all is well, 10 yrs later ! . I am there , hated it but over quickly once you get there.
Lyn, I would say keep your mouth shut but…dentists get provoked by that. May you have little tenderness in your jaw tonight. Do take care. Thinking of you. Love, Sue
HELLO…….LYN, GLAD YOU HAVE GOT YOUR APPT SORTED OUT, YOU WON’T HAVE TOO LONG TO FRET, SUCCESS AT THE DENTIST.
CHRIS….IN ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION, I DON’T KNOW, I WAS JUST LEANING OVER THE SINK TO PUT MY LIPPY ON, AND FELT IT GO….IST OK TODAY, THE “TENS” WORKED A TREAT…..CHRIS IT SOUNDS LIKE YOUR DEAR OLD DAD IS DOING OK AS THINGS GO, HE IS CERTAINLY A TOUGHIE, TAKE HEART FROM THAT MATEY, HE IS DEFYING THE DOCTORS, WHICH IS GREAT…WE NONE OF US KNOWS HOW LONG WE HAVE, SO AS YOU QUITE RIGHTLY SAY, MAKE THE BEST OF EACH DAY.
SUE….I TOO WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE ROSE FESTIVAL IN PORTLAND, NOT TO MENTION MY DH…HE WOULD GO “APE” HE’D BE IN PARADISE. SAILORS IN WHITE SUITS…..OH MAN! THIS JUST GETS BETTER…GET THAT WINDOW ROLLED DOWN MY FRIEND, AND GIVE THEN AN EYEFUL……YES TO YOUR QUESTION, WE ARE GETTING THE HEAT AT LAST, AND I KNOW CHRIS WILL BE TOO, AS WE ARE BOTH ON THE SAME WEATHER CHART.
SUZANNE…..ITS BEEN AWHILE, EVERYTHING OK??
WELL TIME FOR TEA, MOTHER IS CALLING………….LOVE TO EVERYONE, ENJOY YOUR DAY….JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXX
Jennie, pleased to see your back is a bit better. So many ways for us humans to suffer but back pain is so invasive of all our activities, don’t you think. I guess whichever misery we have currently is the one which is the worst. Do hope you get to the coast soon. Isn’t Mom going to leave fairly soon, like the end of next week?
Always enjoy your pics on FB. What a lovely country you have. It always looks so clean and bright. It looks so beautiful outdoors here today but when I went out to water the porch plants, whoosh, what a fierce cold wind off the river. Looks like a good stay in day to get some things accomplished.
Do hope all is peaceful at home and you and DH are getting in some good times with your Mom. Life is so short. Love to you dear lady, Sue
HI SUE…..YES ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT…MOM BEHAVING, WE ARE ALL GETTING ON GOOD, SHE DOESN’T LEAVE TILL THE 16TH, SO A WAY TO GO YET.
I AGREE WHEN PAIN ATTACKS THE BACK, IT “PANTS” IT AFFECTS EVERYTHING…ANYWAY MUCH RELIEF WAS HAD FROM MY LITTLE MACHINE…….BEEN A BELTER OF A DAY HERE, REALLY HOT, BEEN PICKING CHERRIES OFF ONE OF OUR TREES, THE ONES THE BIRDS LEFT FOR US HUMANS THAT IS.
SHOPPING DAY TOMORROW…YUK, THEN HOPEFULLY SOME PEACE OVER THE WEEKEND, WITH NO COMMITMENTS………LOVE YOU……JEN X
Hey peeps !!
FInally the sun is out ! YEah ! Well a slight hiccup in the hooking up of the home. I have to up the amperage of the breaker box which means an electrician 😦 you all know what that means $$$$ ! So I am getting quotes, and see who will be the nicest to me . But I have started the cleaning process, Once electric and water are restored I can get to moving all in. First I want to get my shades and curtains up. After I clean all, I will do that. It is here, and I am anxious to get back home 🙂 As are my little guys ! They have been very unhappy the last few days with the rain and cooler temps ! Taking care of my back, new meds to help with the nerve issue there : Tizandine. Working well. Listening to Willie Nelson with Ms Alice…she loves him 🙂
Well, I will check in again maybe tomorrow. I have to sit with her again. I wasn’t here yesterday. Go home today and clean, maybe get the appliances in. Take care all.
Love
Tonie
Tonie, sorry for the glitch, and an expensive one at that. Too bad no one told you sooner. I know it’s frustrating for you but also know it’s not a bad thing to get some of the things accomplished before you live in your new home. It looks very nice from the FB pic. I know you are getting excited. Glad you’re getting in some time with Ms. Alice to pay for some of this move, etc. So she is a Willie Nelson fan. Cute. The dogs must be having fits to get into their new home and out of the weather. The first thing you’re doing in your new tub is to give them a bath…I’ll bet ya…if you have a tub or is it a shower? I’m getting excited for you.
Glad you got a new med. Watch for those dumb old side effects, okay? Feeling better from meds is no license to overdo…hint, hint. I know you’re taking it one day at a time and hope right now you find an inexpensive, fast electrician. Love you, Sue
Sue:
Well, found the electrician. His price is reasonable, but I buy the materials and that is where the expense comes in. Oh well, this too shall pass. I did get the bathroom cleaned up and ready, but the dogs will get their bath at the outside faucet , they are so stinky !! Gotta pick up some blinds today. The others are too small for most of the windows. But that is ok, I don’t have to wash them 🙂 .
Ms Alice is confused today. Poor thing. Her son in law is such a jerk. She woke him up this morning. He was complaining that she was like having a two year old, and that everything in the house was gonna get broken up and it was just too much. He would stick her in a home in a heartbeat ! I had to bite my tongue.
We will all be there if we live long enough.
I don’t feel THAT much better. I still can’t bend over much. We got the washer n dryer in and the stove yesterday. Had help from my neighbor. He is a jewel.
So glad to see all of you doing pretty good. Summer seems to make it all seem less painful don’t it ? My garden is growing by leaps n bounds, due to all the rain we had. Flowers loved it. SUe praying for your strength to return and that you will be able to enjoy more of your grandkids this summer.
Love to you all
Tonie
Well
Good day here
Visited some interesting villages
One pub we came to in this old village ,back of nowhere ,said horses welcome,and one was there tied up and eating hay from a net and water outside the pub It also had rabbits running down the street and a deer on side of road strolling..land time forgot,quite an escape!
Had our picnic on a bench there on the green and then strolled into the church for a while
I’m aching all,over..my finger joints so sore..must rest tomorrow. I think maybe the weather arriving maybe to blame..that or the gardening last week..
Tired tonite hope to sleep
Chris
Chris, what a charming experience. Sounds so wonderful for both of you. Sorry you’re paying the price with your hands. Hugs and comfort coming your way. Sue
Chris:
Sounds so beautiful !! I know you got a picture, you must email me ! Glad you had a good day, sorry you are hurting so. I commiserate with you. I overdo it all the time !
Love
Tonie
Tonie, so pleased you’re getting some help with the appliances and some of the heavies. It will all happen but I know right now you are sick of it all. Sorry your back is still bad but it will take awhile of you behaving and I know that’s almost impossible with the moving you must do. Won’t it feel good to be in there…finally. Hope all goes well with the electric. Hope your weather is cooperating for you. Poor stinky dogs. Life will get better for them very soon…Just start checking it off as it gets done.
Warm here today, so should go buy a shade for one room also but doesn’t look like I’m going to make it out. Kids coming in a couple of hours after school. My cold still hanging on but not worried about giving it to kids…they gave it to me.
I’m sorry for Ms. Alice that she is having confusion and is having to put up with her SIL’s attitude. Tells you he must not have been a very compassionate doctor. Really…
Hang in there dear friend. Love you, Sue
I’ve been reading and re-reading this blog Sue. It parallels to how so many people live, I’m sure; I can only speak for me and it’s a mirror reflection. My son and soon to be daughter-in-law stopped over last night to show me the wedding invitations, they are beautiful! My son hesitantly asks if I think I’m going to be well enough to go to the wedding. “Of course!!” was my response, yet inside I know I’ve prayed to God that August 15th is a tolerable day for me. Of course nothing would prevent me from attending, but I do pray that I can just have that one day. Just that one. And him expressing that fear of me not attending shook me. We’ve all realize that there’re “guidelines” around my activities. For a short drive and dinner with the kids, we plan ahead a couple days, spontaneous isn’t an option. That way I know not to push myself in the preceding days. And the following couple of days are typically spent trying to get back to my “baseline pain” (as my doctor calls it). I feel pathetic at times and I don’t like it. Not looking for sympathy, it’s just frustrating. I get over that feeling but it can rear it’s ugly head now and again.
I’ve dealt chronic pain for many years, but it’s only the last 5 or so (and the failed surgeries) that have lead to my now “disabled” state. I don’t use that word often anymore because I’m learning that I’m capable and competent, just at a completely different level. I know I am still in a grieving phase; for my career, time lost (and still losing) with family, activities I’ll never be able to do again or that I had on my bucket list, damnit!!! It makes me angry, and right now I’m okay with that. I know someday I’ll accept what life’s become for me. I know you and your followers understand. It’s a daily dance. I seldom ever let myself lay in bed all day, unless I’m so bad nothing helps. And the only reason I do is so my family doesn’t see the pain. Especially my son, even at 26 years old. I’m glad they don’t live at home 😅. He wants to protect me, make Mom better. I’ve learned to be able to put on the brave face, smile and joke. I appreciate everything I read on your blog, and I appreciate and respect the strength of your followers. What a blessed venue for us all. I feel okay to say these things here that I don’t want my family to worry about. I pray for all who suffer, I know I’m one of the luckier ones. I’m not battling for my life against an illness, I have my family’s support, and I am now learning how to appreciate and love the little things in life. Looking forward to next weeks blog, it’s like having a favorite magazine delivered! Have a blessed weekend Sue, and all your warriors.
Lori
Hi all
Don’t understand why my previous post didn’t register
But will write tomorrow
Am back home
Chris
Chris, Good. Grands just left. Tomorrow is Beth’s birthday so need to make a potato salad for tomorrow to have with their barbecued ribs, etc. Also need to make chocolate cake. Busy morning for me. Let us know how you’re doing. Love ya, Sue
Well woke up early so here I am
We suddenly realised that in all of the weeks probs and getting away..we had forgot DH had promised to photo an open farm weekend.its a big do and people come from miles to it. It’s all for charity.so last nite it dawned on us so we packed up and came back home.so that’s what we are doing today .rather be at shed as all out friends were arriving we hadn’t seen for a time…but we will enjoy today I’m sure.we would have felt awful if we hadn’t remembered. I usually put it in my diary but my minds been like ugh. They rely on DH every year to photo the machinery,crowds and stalls. And as he never charges he’s always popular! But he does like doing it all..
My joints are bad..so I mite just go for a stroll and sit in car and read,or go to the cafe we go to..the places to eat and drink at the farm are set up like in barns and trendy looking but NOT comfortable
Hope it stays fine
Tonie
What a wrong thing for Ms Alice’s son in law to say.she must feel it.
What’s her daughter like with her?
Sue
Wish that damn cold would go for you
Chris
Chris, You and DH are so dear to do these things for others and yes, I’m sure he does enjoy it. Hope you get some down time, physically. I’ve made the potato salad and resting, next the chocolate cake. Lovely day here, sun shining and tourists everywhere. Tonight our daughters birthday celebration with barbecued ribs at their house. Lots of rest periods in there somewhere. Enjoy your day…which is probably over by now with the time difference. Love to be there and see all you’ve seen. Love, Sue
Sue
Love BBQ ribs with pot salad great.
Hope you all have a good time.and you get your rest bits in between
I didn’t go to the open day..I decided my back couldn’t sit in car for long, so I dropped DH off and came home and picked him up later. However it was so windy there today his eyes are sore,he has this Atropia..where is bottom eye lids fold in and he has to undo them in the morning!and they are sore now
Happy birthday to your DD and have a good time
And yea wish you were here to share it with….
Chris
Chris, Sounds like you made the wise choice. Seems like we miss out on so much. Does DH have some drops that help? How painful that sounds. Still being lazy but must get to the cake. It’s one of our favorite family recipes for sheet cake when you pour hot frosting over the top at the end. Like a thick, rich brownie. Do take care. I would so much like to get out but not up to it. Saving strength for cooking and tonight. Love, Sue
Hello, all. Chris, wise choice. I hope your DH made it through ok.
Sue, that cake sounds quite yummy. Happy Birthday to DD!
Tonie, how awful for poor Ms. Alice. I know you treat her with great care when you are there.
Well, dentist was a success. I think. Sue, my tooth was fine that evening, but I did get a nasty headache. Thankfully, it responded to a couple of extra strength Tylenol. The next day my teeth were sore and the one in question was sensitive to cold. Today is better. I’m hoping the sensitivity will continue to improve. If not, I may need a crown. The crack(s) were worse than she was thinking. More to look forward to at some time. I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. Take care!
Lyn
I hope the tooth maintains its improvement. I have sensitive teeth. And I buy toothpaste for it and rub it also on the tooth near the gum for a minute and try and leave it there.i do that for a while it seems to help. You can get toothpaste for it .sensodyne is one here
Sue
It’s funny your sheet cake we call tray bakes over here .i hope you are able to enjoy all the nite
Well my DD has just got home from Kos and its 2.45 am.shes just txt me to say she’s back they’ll be tired
Chris
Chris, yes, I have sensitive teeth, too, and do use Sensodyne toothpaste. 🙂 It helps. After the work, the refilled tooth was even more sensitive. I’m hoping it is just part of the process and will continue to improve. 🙂
Lyn, sorry about the tooth. Yes, it probably will calm down. I also like Sensodyne but wanted to tell you about something I like. About a year ago my dental hygienist recommended a prescription toothpaste for me that has more fluoride in it and you brush but leave it on the teeth…no rinse. I use it most nights. Takes a bit of getting used to but it does give you a treatment to help the surfaces of the teeth. This whole rheumatoid picture involves so much. Another challenge, huh? Hope your weather has warmed and you are feeling better. Lovely day here on the W. coast. Lots of sunshine. Love, Sue
Chris, tray bakes? I like it. Funny how we do and don’t share a common language. The cake turned out well but one piece was all my gut would allow. It’s a heavy cake due to the hot frosting…more like a brownie with frosting and nuts. Hope your daughter has a fabulous trip. Sure you’ll be hearing all about it and seeing pics. How’s your Dad doing? Glad you got him to the doc with all going on. What a nightmare and what an expense for you with the hot water at the house. Funny how we willingly spend money on some improvements but others we resent. I’d feel the same way. Such a boring way to spend money yet so necessary. Do take care and let us know how life is going for you. Love, Sue
HELLO….SORRY I HAVE GOT SO FAR BEHIND WITH EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING…..SO APOLOGIES, HOPE YOU ARE ALL OK, AND HOPE TO CATCH UP WITH ALL THE NEWS SOON….MOTHER RUNNING ME RAGGED, STILL SHE WILL SOON BE IN THE UK KEEPING SOMEONE ELSE ON THEIR TOES…………………..ANYONE SEE THE DELIGHTFUL PHOTOS, KATE TOOK OF CHARLOTTE AND GEORGE…GORGEOUS.
MY KIDS ARE IN CANADA ABOUT NOW…..CLAIRE HAS SECURED A GOOD JOB IN CORNWALL, TIM WILL BE COMING BACK AND FINISHING THEIR LITTLE HOUSE READY TO MARKET….THEN HE WILL BE GONE TOO…..BUT THERE ARE GOOD CROSS CHANNEL LINKS ACROSS TO CORNWALL FROM FRANCE.
BEAUTIFUL WEATHER SO MAKING THE MOST OF THE GARDEN.
LOVE TO SUE, CHRIS, TONIE, LYN. JANET, SUZANNE, LAURA AND DONNA……GOD BLESS AND ENJOY SUNDAY…LOVE JENNIE XX
Jennie, I know you are run ragged, but do enjoy this time with your Mother. We never know for sure how much time we will have. Wish I’d spent more with my Dad before he passed. Ours was an odd relationship and not always the best, and we spent little time together. Hits you when they’re gone. Good news about the young’uns. 🙂 Do enjoy that garden! We are to have a lovely day today and I plan to spend some time working in ours.
HI LYN……DON’T BE UNDER THE IMPRESSION I DON’T LOVE MY MOM…..I DO, ITS JUST NOT RECIPROCATED, WHICH MAKES IT TOUGH WHEN YOU GIVE HER A CUDDLE AND YOU GET RAMROD STIFF……..I HAVE OTHER SIBLINGS, IT DOESN’T HAPPEN WITH THEM, AND ITS SO DAMN HURTFUL….BUT I AM DOING MY BEST TO DO WHAT’S RIGHT FOR HER, TAKING HER OUT AND ABOUT, AND TRYING TO GIVE HER SOME HAPPY MEMORIES.
YES GREAT NEW FOR THE YOUNG UNS’ SO HAPPY FOR THEM, JUST WANT TO GET TIM TO CORNWALL WITH CLAIRE NOW…….SHE WILL HAVE TO BE THE ONE TO FIND THEM A HOUSE, TIM WILL BE 400 MILES AWAY FINISHING THE PROJECT……THE COMPANY SHE HAS SIGNED UP WITH ARE GIVING HER A MONTH’S FREE ACCOMMODATION………….
HOW ARE YOU DOING LOVE? SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE HAVING SUNSHINE TOO….GOOD FOR THE SOUL HUH?? …LOVE JENNIE X
Jennie, I have no doubt you love your Mom. 🙂
Jennie, good to hear about Claire’s new job and closer to you, that’s good, also. Hope they enjoy all their views and travels in Canada. Sounds like Tim will be more motivated than ever to complete the remodel. Hope you’re doing well. Also would be good if you get to the coast. Love, Sue
Hi Sue….yes good news indeed, could do with some right now…..hope ou are ok and soon back to your PT…love you…Jen x
Hi everyone, I have been reading all the post and keeping up. I haven’t been on here for a while because I am not feeling all that great. I am very fatigued all the time. I sleep more than normal. My poor nose does nothing but drip drip all the time. I am calling my doctor in the morning to see if I can come in for a urine check. I have the symptoms of a UTI too. That can make you feel rotten. I will get back on here tomorrow and write more. Hope you all have a good evening. LOVE YOU all. By the way, thanks for your prayers about my daughter. She is settled in Wilmington, NC with her friend and said she is so happy she can hardly express herself. Of course her husband is trying to get her to come back and trying to downplay what he did and he will never do it again. I am so proud of her for standing up to him and telling him no. Once he choked her, that was it for her. So thank you for your prayers. Again I love you all and will chat again tomorrow. Donna
Donna, I look forward to it. Hope you get into the doc soon. TOmorrow. Sue
Donna, good news about your daughter! Hopefully, all will continue to go well for her. She deserves it! Now, do take care of yourself. It sounds like you are in need of that doctor visit.
Donna….god news about your daughter, I am very happy for both of you. I agree with the others, hope you get to see your doctor soon……love Jennie x
Yea Donna so pleased for your DD..and get yourself to the Drs
Jen that’s so good Claire getting a job down there..it’s all gonna work out now
Hope you ok and all problems..well not so bad!
Sue how did the birthday go…well I hope
Well we got back turned on water for a bath and rads came on no hot water..tried all ways .nowt
So a fella came to fix today..£350 a lot of work and drain system down ,what a mess.and I was aching before.that was this afternoon ..met my dad appt Parkinson’s clinic this morning .Dr was 40 mins late and I was worrying getting back for the plumber ..but it all worked out.he has given my dad melatonin to sleep
And will support him to get free care…..so all good there.but only partly still it’s something
Got back and our lamp outside gone bust..had to go and get a new one and find an electrician…nowt more PLEASE….
So all aching and going to bed now
Another day tomorrow …
Chris
HELLO….WELL IF I TELL YOU THE CANDIDA IS BACK AND CYSTITIS TO GO WITH IT, YOU WILL UNDERSTAND HOW MISERABLE I FEEL….GOT SOME MORE PROBIOTICS, NEED THEM TO KICK IN REAL QUICK, AS MOTHER WANTS HER TRIP TO THE COAST TOMORROW, AND I FEEL LIKE GRIM DEATH…………..THROW IN A MIGRAINE FOR GOOD MEASURE TOO….SORRY FOR THE RANT, NEEDED TO GET IT OFF MY CHEST, I AM SURE OTHERS HAVE MORE PRESSING PROBLEMS THAN THIS…….LOVE TO ALL…JENNIE XXXXXXX
SOOOoooo sorry, Jennie!
Dear Jennie, I am so sorry that things are going so badly for you right now. You are in my thoughts and prayers, love you so much. Janet
Hello Peeps !!
Well I am back for a couple of days, hopefully this time next week I will be ensconced in my new digs ! GOt the water on yesterday, but have some problems, Kitch a little hickup, but the shower had a busted pipe. The mobile home people are responsible for that and he told me last eve that he will get the plumber to refit the entire trailer. Great news for me !
I pulled a muscle in my let yesterday and have a tooth acting up. So I am fighting to stay awake right now due to the pill I am taking. But, must fix Ms Alice her lunch.
Prayers for you all
Love
Tonie
Tonie…hope you are soon feeling better ………and good look with your plumbing……..there is a joke there somewhere……
Lyn…..sick of these infections, trying my best to deal with it.
Janet…Thank you for your concern and prayers, I sure need them right now.
Chris…its been awhile, are you ok??
Love to each……….Jennie xxxxx
Jennie dear, oh my. These infections in the vaginal area can be so tricky. Do you feel like sitting for a trip to the coast? If not, Mom will have to love you more than seeing the coast. Did they change the antibiotics? Be sure to watch the sugar you are taking in. These candida infections thrive on sugar, literally. Keep up the cranberry caps for the urine, as well as Vitamin C, okay? My heart goes out to you for this particular misery. Please know how much we all love you and are praying for you to feel better very soon. Sue
Tonie, Well, I guess it’s best to find all of these problems before you move in. I know it’s taking longer than you planned but hopefully no new surprises are coming your way. Hope you feel well enough to be moving what you can and getting organized, weeding out stuff you no longer need and all those things one has to do when moving. Hope all the animals are doing well. Red is looking great on FB. So pretty. Hope that torrential rain cleared up for you. When are the grands arriving? Coming up pretty soon, isn’t it? I know you’ll enjoy them and also put them to work. Do be good to your back and take as many breaks as you can with your heating pad. Thinking of you. Love, Sue
Sue:
Doing better today. Yes, the kids are supposed to be here on the 17th, barring any complications. Getting things done slow and sure. THe plumbers came by yesterday and looked at it.New piping, new fixtures and they are installing a box to hook up my fridge to water. God is good , AMEN ?
Doing better today, back is ok, but the nerve is still active so makes my leg hurt :(. Animals are well, Rufus is getting interested in the young hens, so won’t be long they will be laying. I must take pics of them for you to see. The rains are gone for the next couple of days. But they are so good for the gardens. Raspberries are coming ripe. Yum !! (sorry Jennie).
I got the carpets cleaned and more blinds installed yesterday and had to mow the yard, it was becoming a jungle. My heating pad is my best friend. Always ! I would love a massage at this point, maybe I will treat myself after all is said and done. Next wednesday I get the injection in my back so hopefully it will clear up the damage I have caused.
Do take care you, I worry you might do too much and hurt yourself again. (birds of a feather and all that ) .
Love you much
Tonie
Hi Sue…not on antibiotics, all finished, I knew they would bugger up my system…staing off them…got some more probiotics today, high strength, drinking a lot, and having lemon ginger and honey drinks…..also taking olive leaf caps and yes the cranberry too….it seems I am going to get this all te time so sent for a six month supply of Pro’s from the UK.on’t want to be around Mom tomorrow if I have to tell her the trip is cancelled.Oh yes……cut all sugar out of my diet, boy that’s hard. if we do make it to the coast, no blooming ice cream for me………….Love you……..Jen x
Hi Jen, sent you a private message on FB. Take care. Sue
SUE….THANK YOU ANSWERED YOU. XX
Hi all
Jen so sorry you got this crap back again….hope there is some improvement
Got to my dad today with some shopping and he was on the floor fallen.so rang the ambulance.as he had cut all his face….he was ok the paramedics checked him out…but he’s none too good his nose is all swollen and he sounded blocked up.
So that took all afternoon ,it was worrying
Alarm being checked ,its annual check tomorrow and then the new outside lamp the next day
At least the weather has been fine to have it all done!
Got another pair of shoes this morning.not sure the arch is a bit flat I’ve put my insole in for it but it pushes my heel up out of the shoe a bit..have to see
Tired tonite
Chris
Oh Chris, your poor Dad. Is his nose broken? How long before you got there had he fallen. Unfortunately, it’s so common as we age. Wish you could get him to carry his phone with him at all times. So sorry for your role in the day, tiring and anxious. Hope the shoes work out. What a bother, huh? Prayers for Dad. Thinking of you.
Went back to the old PT today, went well. Lovely here today in the high 70’s. Wall painted yesterday and tiles chosen today. Now we wait for the perfect weather conditions. Jim called back to jail at 2 AM, got home at 4, showered then back to work so he’ll be so tired tonight. Poor guy. Love, Sue
CHRIS…OMG…YOUR POOR DAD, SOUNDS LIKE HE IS GOING TO BE LOOKING LIKE MY MUM DID… HOPE HE WILL BE ALRIGHT……WHAT DO THE SHOES LOOK LIKE? SEND ME A PIC.
TURNED COLD TODAY, GOT SOCKS ON………I DID GOT TO THE DOC’S….TOLD HIM NO ANTIBIOTICS, SO GOT SOME ANTISEPTIC GEL CAPSULES FOR SEVEN DAYS……DREADFUL NIGHT LAST NIGHT, UP EVERY HOUR…….NEVER MIND, ITS JUST ONE OF THOSE THINGS……HOPE YOU ARE OK….LOVE JEN X
Well the paramedics checked his face..so I’m unsure…it’s gonna be painful tomorrow tho.i asked him would he send for Dr tomorrow but he said no..I shall ring him tho and go see after alarm people gone ..Wondering if the melatonin, the specialist gave made him off balance .i told him not to take them tonite?he has a pull thing around his neck to contact the emergency ,but he won’t use it..but he just can’t move at all can’t move in bed when he’s in pain
glad you hit the right pt today ..the garden sounds as if it’s going to be romantic!!!
What hours Jim keeps tho….he must be so tired
Chris
Chris, my first thought was, with your Dad’s facial injuries, , was he swallowing any blood that he could choke on.That’s common with a fractured nose. Wish he would use the call button. I think the melatonin would just make him a bit sleepier than usual. Hang in there. You’re such a sweet daughter to him. Love, Sue
Oh dear ..I don’t think so..he seemed to be ok ..he went to bed early..I shall ring him first thing.hes alone all nite..
I don’t feel sweet! Worried ,harassed and niggley..sometimes belligerent and that’s just for starters!
Chris
Sweet Chris, you are a veritable thesaurus of descriptions today. Has your Dad vomited after falling? Another important thing to know. You’re only human so give yourself a break. Who wouldn’t be frustrated in your same situation? Love, Sue
Sue
Ok I stand told!
No he wasn’t sick st all. I asked him was he ok etc? In pain etc,and he said no he was fine.when he obviously wasn’t .
It’s 5,30 am here and Im Wondering how he is
Wondering how Annie’s mum is too
Lyn
How’s all your family and how is SB back behaving with the garden landscaping and out in all the weathers ?
Chris
Jen
You will have to get to that Dr. with how this infection is running. Tell him how you feel about all the tablets and things….AND if you can’t go to the coast well you just can’t ..imagine trying to find a loo and walking about
Surely your mum will understand….I feel I know what the answer is there ,but you matter too…
All this juggling isn’t helping….I expect DH is worried . It’s not long too go now….you’ve done the longest stretch of it..you can look back and know you’ve done your best and looked after your mum
But it all might sort itself out I hope so are you drinking enough water ? Being busy you might forget
Chris
WELL NEEDLESS TO SAY THE TRIP TO THE COAST WAS A NO GO…..SPENT THE MORNING AT THE DOCTOR’S INSTEAD….NEW TREATMENT, LET’S HOPE THIS WORKS,,,,BLOOMING HECK, NEVER STOPPED PEEING LAST NIGHT SO FEEL WIPED OUT…NOT ONLY THAT, SOMETHING UPSET MY DOG…..I HAD JUST GONE TO THE BATHROOM FOR THE 6TH TIME IN THE NIGHT, AND THERE HE STOOD OUTLINED IN THE MOONLIGHT…….NEARLY FREAKED ME OUT….HE REFUSED TO LEAVE MY SIDE, AND WHEN MY DH GOT UP TO TRY AND GET HIM IN HIS UPSTAIRS BASKET…HE JUST DUG HIS PAWS INTO THE RUG AND WOULDN’T BUDGE,,,,,,,ENDED UP ON MY BED STARING INTO MY FACE TILL DAWN….OH MY.
ITS HARD TO BELIEVE ITS SUMMER, FEELS LIKE WINTER DECIDED TO RETURN……HOW I LONG TO BE BACK IN THE GARDEN, WE ALL HAVE SWEATERS AND SOCKS ON…..CAN’T BE RIGHT CAN IT???
TAKE CARE ALL…………………….MUCH LOVE JEN X
Jennie, it rather sounds like your pooch was concerned about you and standing vigil.
Doggies know when something is amiss. They can sense things about us. I think we give off a smell when we are distressed ! Good Sasha !
Chris, the family is doing well at present. SB’s lower back is doing very well! Last year this time he needed another round of ablation to both sides. So far the last round is holding, so we are increasing time between, which is great! He seems to be holding up to the landscaping pretty well, although he was weeding all day yesterday and said he felt it in his back. I’m not surprised. I couldn’t have done it all day. I’m sore after just a short time weeding. DH usually does that for me. 🙂 We’ve laid that “fabric” to deter weeds and put stone over it instead of mulch to help keep weeds down and avoid that yearly mulching. 😉 I like the look of the stone as well. We chose a reddish stone which adds color. I hope your dad is recovering well from his fall – and you from the excitement and stress of it all.
Ah Jen he sounds like your dog..looking after you getting up and down in the nite
It would have been a cold old day at the coast today.i do hope the tabs start to work for you now ,what did Dr say. Did you take a sample?
I have had that and no infection and it eventually went….it’s worse than when you do have an infection.
Yea it was cold here this morning I put the heating on a bit
Socks and a woolie on too
Lyn
That is good news on SB back .it must be getting stronger as well.yea we have the same on our front garden….in the back one it is all patio with gardens round the outside.
Well my dad today had a Burma Star meeting booked and lunch and he’s gone out on his scooter to it!
He called a nurse to treat his cut on eye..she was out and he managed to speak to leave a message.she will be calling him back and he’ll be out.he thinks it needs a stitch….but out he’s gone
He says he’s not sore!
Well I went back to bed after the alarm system was checked. I ache All over and my back is sore.DH bp is up and he’s not so good so we both went so here we are 2pm and I’m going to get up,and for lunch
Chris
Well
He rang to tell me he feels giddy so he is not going out . I’ve rang the Dr.to go see him.DH said we’d better go see him he had a bad feeling in the night too about it all..so gonna get ready to go Chris
Oh Chris:
I am so sorry for all your Dad’s troubles. I am praying he will be okay and thing bad is wrong. Can you get someone to stay with him ? Sounds like he needs a watcher. So much can happen at that age. And falls can turn bad. Praying sweet friend. And yes, you have a right to get upset. It is very tough on those who care for elderly relatives. THe stress is enormous. So take care of you as well.
Love
Tonie
Morning peeps !
Well, another day another adventure. They are sealing the driveway of which the entrance is shared here at Ms Alice’. We have to get her out to go to get her hair cut. Not sure how we are going to get her up to the road !! Fun Fun !! 🙂 Oh well we will make it happen somehow.
Jennie, Chris, I am praying for you both ! Lord love you if you don’t have it slamming you both these days ! Mother always said you knew you were doing something right cause the devil was throwing stuff at you !
Lyn, I love the rocks in the flower beds. But it drys them out a lot. I had an entire front yard of them in Az !! But I also had irrigation system for the plants and trees.
I have some flowers to plant in my newly reduced flower bed (trailer is longer) but no time to do it. I need ot get it done before they die. I got some plants as a housewarming present. I didn’t think anyone still did that , it was a nice surprise.
Well, one more blind to get for my bedroom. Carpets cleaned and smells good in there. After the plumbers leave I can clean the floors with Scooba and start moving furniture in. Now is when I will call for help !! The kids can help me move boxes, tables etc.
Well, have to get moving here with Ms Alice. She went to the Dr yesterday. Her bp was only 90/60. So no more meds. Tomorrow, MRI and EEG. See if her system is working right. Bloodwork done yesterday as well. Hopefully we will get some answers.
Okay, love to you all. Soon I will be back daily !
Annie praying for you mom as well and for you !
Love
Tonie
TONIE…..I JUST LOVE YOUR USE OF METAPHORS…..I HOPE YOU MANAGED TO GET MISS ALICE UP THE ROAD FOR HER HAIR CUT, ALSO THAT YOU GET YOUR GIFTED PLANTS PUT IN THE GROUND…YOU HAVE HAD A BUSY TIME OF IT, BUT THINGS SOON GET TURNED AROUND, WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS……PUT SOME PHOTOS UP WHEN YOU ARE ALL DONE, CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOUR NEW OME.
ANNIE …I ENDORSE WHAT TONIE SAID, PRAYING FOR YOUR SWEET MOM….XX
Well folks another call from lifeline my dad had another fall and they called an ambulance.paramedics checked him out,he is ok. They rang Dr about these melatonin tabs and he is to stop them.i don’t think it’s that tho.as he didn’t take them yesterday and he was giddy..I wonder if it’s the C spread.dont know.i heard the Dr say to para that he has stage Four melanoma .so we’ve been around there for the afternoon
But nowt we can do.dr said he’d come if he became more ill.but he can’t do anything.
I’m waiting for this nurse to ring me about continuing care.
Well it’s warm here today and lovely day tomorrow the same but gives thunder later
Hope all,ok Chris
CHRIS……OH DEAR, MORE PROBLEMS FOR YOU TO DEAL WITH…..I AM GLAD DAD WAS CHECKED OUT AND FOUND TO BE OKAY, HE SURE IS A TROOPER I’LL SAY THAT FOR HIM.
BEEN WARM HERE TOO, BUT WE’VE ALREADY GOT THE THUNDER, WITH SOME LIGHTENING TOO, GOT TO WATCH THE ELECTRICS…………..CHIN UP MATE, THINKING OF YOU………..LOVE JEN XX
Chris:
Dear, prayers for you and your father. Hold tight to your faith right now. All is happening so quickly. Not a lot you can do but stick with him and see him through. Know I am thinking of you
Love
Tonie
Chris, oh dear. I am so sorry. Do you think he is generally more weakened? I agree with Jennie, he does have a lot of spunk. I feel so badly for him getting hurt so much and for you having to feel for him and care for him but know you wouldn’t be happier doing anything else. Prayers for courage and strength for both of you as well as good medical care.
I had to be at the doctor at 8AM this morn and now off to PT. I’ll be back to chat with everyone later. Love you much and you’re in my thoughts and heart. Sue
Thank you all of you
It does help
Hope your pt goes well sue
Tonie..do send me a pic when you can of your new home…oh where are you now with the wifi?
Jen
Why don’t you keep this thunder instead of sending it up,here ! Hope your waterworks is easing ..is it?
Chris
CHRIS….SORRY IF YOU RECEIVED OUT AWFUL STORM, AND HOPE IT DIDN’T DO ANY DAMAGE. IT WAS DREADFUL, DRIVING AT OUR HOUSE LIKE IT WAS TRYING TO DEMOLISH IT……OH I DO HOPE ALL GOES WELL FOR THE BIRTHDAY BASH…BE THINKING OF YOU AS ALWAYS……LOVE JEN X
Dear Friends, Been a long day today. Started early with a worked in appt. with the doctor. I’ve been having shortness of breath the last little while so will be having some cardiac studies just to rule out some things. Starting next week will wear a monitor a couple of days and then have a cardiac echo. Went to PT this afternoon and throw in some gut problems and that’s been today. Now resting. Beautiful, fairly warm day here except for a cool wind blowing. I’m not complaining as always prefer it on the cool side. Lovely views all about us.
Jennie, won’t be long before your Mom is off to England and you can get back into your routine and catch up on some rest. I’m sure she’s had a good time with you…no doubt. It will be good for you and DH to have the return of your privacy. Hope that infection is improving and when you can get more rest, let’s hope. I think it will help when you can live, rest and move about on your own schedule, don’t you? Is it still raining in your beautiful part of France? Do take care of yourself, okay? Love ya, Sue
Chris, so sorry about your dad. I have been praying and will continue to pray. You are taking such good care of him even in your own illnesses.Stay strong sweet friend. Please keep me in your prayers. Back and now leg and hip. Cried all the way home yesterday. It hurt so badly. It is bad enough to hurt in one spot but in 2 spots it is horrible. Urine ok. I have been going to the potty a lot because I am drinking so much fluids because of hot weather. 90° today. Love you, Donna
Sue, I see you had a tough day. Sorry dear lady. I have had 2 rough days myself. If you don’t mind, you can read my post to Chris about me so I don’t have to rewrite it. Thanks.
I hope everything is going to be ok with your heart. Always scary when one gets short of breath. I will be praying it is nothing major wrong. Rest and take it easy. Love you, Donna
Donna dear, I think it’s a question of ruling out problems since I am still so low on stamina and short of breath so often. I had a cardiac ablation in 2008 so have to keep an eye on it. Rough day at PT also but always feel like that’s a good pain, for a purpose.
I do know what it’s like to have several things hurt at the same time and there’s nothing fair about it. Some days you just have to look forward to tomorrow…pure and simple survival. Hope they can do something to help you soon. You just go ahead and cry because sometimes it actually helps. We have to have release valves for all of that suffering yet always remember you are not alone. I know that doesn’t carry any of the weight of your pain but somehow…it helps. Thoughts and prayers, Sue
HI SUE…..THINGS NOT TOO GREAT, HAD TO GET UP IN THE NIGHT SEVENTEEN TIMES TO PEE…..SO TIRED, SEEMS TO BE MAINLY IN THE NIGHT…..THEN IT TAILS OFF AROUND MID MORNING, HAD TO CANCEL SHOPPING AS I NEEDED TO BE NEAR A TOILET…….HOPE I AM OK TO GO TO THE AIRPORT ON TUESDAY.
YES IT WILL BE NICE TO GET MY HOUSE BACK AND ESTABLISH A ROUTINE, DON’T KNOW WHERE I AM AT THE MOMENT……WE HAD TERRIBLE STORMS LAST NIGHT, NEVER KNOWN RAIN LIKE IT, HAD TO CLOSE ALL THE WINDOWS, WHICH MADE THE HOUSE STUFFY…..NO A/C AS WE DON’T GET ENOUGH HOT WEATHER TO WARRANT IT. HOPE THE PT GOES AS GOOD AS LAST TIME FOR YOU, I GUESS THAT MEANS YOUR LADY IS BACK FROM HER VACATION…GOOD……..LOVE YOU MY FRIEND….JEN X
Tonie, well dear girl, how’s the camping out going? Hope the plumbing is coming along and you’ll be in your new home by next week. I know you’re excited about seeing and having the grands and am equally sure you will need to remind them all of the rules at your house. It’s been awhile, huh? Teens often have more “attitude”, don’t they. I know you’re doing too much, no doubt about it but it will be good to have them help you lift boxes, etc. They’re going to have such a good time with you. What an enormous change it will be for them to VA from AZ. I’m equally sure they are beside themselves with anticipation about being with their beloved you.
Hope the shades and curtains, pipes, electrical and all will soon be the way they should be and the way that will please you. The pups will be so happy when you’re all settled in. Try to behave…as much as possible. Love, Sue
Jennie, hope your feeling better. I know you have been miserable. So sorry. Well, it won’t be long before your Mom leaves for England. You and your DH will have the house all to yourselves again.I am sure it has been hard with you being sick, but it’s Mom, right? Need to be with her while you can. I will be praying for you and your household sweet friend. If you don’t mind, read My post I wrote to Chris, so I want have to write it again about me and my ills. Thanks LOVE YOU, Donna
DONNA…THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS, AND RIGHT BACK AT YOU. YES MOM LEAVES FOR THE UK ON TUESDAY…..I THINK IT HAS BEEN A BIT BORING FOR HER HERE IN FRANCE, NOT A LOT TO DO, AND BAD WEATHER HAS NOT HELPED. I HOPE YOU CAME THROUGH YOUR COUPLE OF ROUGH DAYS LOVE, AND THAT YOU ARE FEELING SOMEWHAT BETTER THAN BEFORE……MUCH LOVE…JENNIE XXX
Sue
You must have been worried for a time .now you have the w.end to pass thru
Do you think maybe it’s because you are so weak and now getting around to doing more.? Maybe you just have to build up your strength
You are so generous with yourself .I want no more worries for you..
I just wanted the words to stop when I read them
Donna
Sue and you in my prayers of course.i think the heat makes you feel drained too with the pain…a nuisance but wise to drink in that heat. But exhausting to keep getting up with the pain
I had to stop walking, my hips and back and legs playing up with my fingers joining in.!
You are another strong lady,like Sue
Well gonna try and get back to sleep..no more work to be done on house..fingers crossed.! don’t have to put alarm on for workmen coming early so maybe I can sleep in.maybe not as I’ve calls about my dad to make
It’s his birthday this w.end DD making some cakes and bringing them over.oh such times .The tale of two cities said it was the best of times and the worst of times …summat like that….you see the greatness of spirit with the rawness of everything.how come so many people have it so good all the time tho?
Chris