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 
Sue
I don’t remember you ever saying you had an ablation…did you have AF. One more thing you’ve had!
dH has that.and had an ablation but then with a pacemaker.it sorted it for him. You keep surprising me with all that you have .
Chris
CHRIS…..I HAD AN ABLATION IN 1990, AFTER SERIOUS ENDOMETREOSIS, WORKED FOR A FEW YEARS, AD THE LINING OF MY WOMB LASERED OUT…BUT IT EVENTUALLY GROWS BACK, HENCE THE HYSTERECTOMY…….SOME INTERESTING COMMENTS FROM THOSE WHO HAD IT IN OTHER PLACES…..STORM BLOWN ITSELF OUT, BUT MORE RAIN……LOVE JEN X
Chris dear, didn’t mean to worry you. Just sharing in the interest of sharing. Since I had a cardiac ablation years ago, need to recheck now and then and being so tired, the heart is a good place to start. I had it for sinus tachycardia with SVT’s.Yes, indeed, I do need to get back in shape or as much as possible. Have been working on this with PT for two months now so we will see but I shouldn’t still be getting out of breath climbing my stairs. We will see and rule out.
I am so sorry to hear DH had to call for help. My gosh, I can’t believe what the poor man has been through with the B/P meds over the years. Let us all hope and pray that this med helps him. I should get Jim’s opinion on this as he is on several B/P meds currently. Poor guy has to have a colonoscopy next week. His first.
Now keep in touch regarding both of the guys and I hope your own pain can get lowered with the meds. Love you gal, Sue
Well had to call it Dr today for DH. Bp up and was very dizzy and loads of other stuff..it’s the tabs and on new ones from today
All phone calls today re my dad too and now going out shopping for him. And get DH script
So all go here
I’ve put myself on diclflenac even tho got reflux as hips so bad.mite give me some relief
But just having an hour to myself and gonna read a book
Jen
The storm looks like it’s gonna miss us
Does your Dr know how many times you go to,the loo …it don’t seem right
All best to all
Chris
PS…TOLD HIM, BUT IT WASN’T AS BAD THEN, WILL GO BACK ON MONDAY IF IT HAPPENS AGIN THAT MANY TIMES…NOT NORMAL….XX
Well all seems ok tonight. DH having a nite free of bp meds then start tomorrow nite. See how they go he is on tamulosin for prostate. But they have given him another alpha blocker as well doxazosin .so not sure of those two together
Oh dear I don’t think men and a colonoscopy go together….
Poor old Jim…
Jen hope today has improved the bladder.weather very close here tonight looks like it mite be a storm coming
Hope all have a goodish w.end
Chris, I know. I told Jim that the prep is the worse part of the whole bit. Why don’t you ask your pharmacist about the compatibility of those two drugs? Why not. Then you’ll feel better. Seems our husbands have similar health issues. Hope your weekend is good and your Dad is stabilizing, with no falls, etc. How’s the swallowing going for him? Thinking of all of you with affection. Love, Sue
Jennie, I answered you on FB. Pray tonight is better, love ya, Sue
HELLO….SEEMS THER IS NOW ANOTHER PROBLEM, MY LAB RESULTS CAME BACK TODAY…POLYMICROBIAL FLORA WITH LEUKOCYTURIA…….WONDERFUL, SO SEEMS LIKE ITS BACK TO THE DOC ON MONDAY THEN…..BEEN LOOKING ON LINE, AND THE WAY THEY MIGHT TAKE THE NEXT “SAMPLE” IS NOT TOO PLEASANT…………LET YOU KNOW ABOUT THAT.
HOPE ALL IS WELL FOR YOU ALL, OR AS WELL AS IT CAN BE….GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALL SAFE….LOVE JEN.
PS. SUE WRITTEN TO YOU. XXXX
Jennie, it sound like inflammation in the urine which as you know means your doc hasn’t cleared up the infection so probably back to a different try of antibiotics or antifungals. Don’t worry now until you have something to worry about because you know from how you feel that it was still there. Too many leukocytes is an indicator as you know and your infection has just proven itself to be a stubborn one. Keep drinking lots of sugar free drinks and water, okay? I’m so sorry you’ve had such a rough time of it. Love, Sue
HI SUE……..I THINK THIS IS GOING TO BE A LONG HAUL, I AM TIRED BEYOND BELIEF, SEEING TE DOC ON WEDNESDAY WHEN THE MEDS RUN OUT, SEE WHERE WE GO FROM THERE…..DOING ALL THE RIGHT THINGS YOU MENTIONED, AND JUST HOPE FOR THE BEST…….HOPE YOU ARE HAVING SOME GREAT WEATHER SO YOU CAN GET OUT IN THE GARDEN…….WE ARE WHICH IS A BONUS………LOVE YOU….JEN X
Well
My dads birthday today.went around there and his eyes were all swollen he’d fallen twice today he said….so we all stayed for a bit and then I called the amb.the paramedics took him to hospital.as they couldn’t leave him as he was..I’m going shortly to see how all is
Sue I did ask the Dr about taking two alpha blockers he said they were ok…but another Dr at the practice wouldn’t do it..so my doubts…I will ask chemist tomorrow.DH has taken first tablet tonite and don’t know how he will be and have to both go to hospital as I can’t drive with my back….all Awkward
Jen sometimes I have had to have three different antibiotics to get an infection gone…and then the last one I had to take a long time
So off to hospital now chris
CHRIS….SORRY TO BE SO LONG ANSWERING, TO GET FOCUSED IS A BIT DIFFICULT, EYELIDS FEEL LIKE THE HAVE PAPER WEIGHTS ATTACHED TO THEM…….I HOPE DAD IS OK, WHICH HOSPITAL IS HE IN? WHAT HAS THE DOCTOR SAID ABOUT HIM KEEPING ON FALLING?
I HOPE YOU ARE ENJOYING SOME PEACE AT THE SHED, AND WEARING YOUR NEW SHOES…BET YOU TOOK THEM BACK……IT WILL BE EASIER FOR YOU TO VISIT DAD WHEN HE IS IN A WARD, AND YOU CAN GO TO THE NURSE’S STATION AND GET UPDATES, SOMETIMES THEY TELL YOU MORE THAN THE DOCTOR’S….THINKING OF YOU LOVE, I KNOW YOU ARE NOT HAVING AN EASY TIME OF IT….LOVE YOU JEN XX
They’ve kept my dad in tonite and will transfer him to a medical ward tomorrow.they are doing a head and a neck scan .his eyes are all swollen and forehead bruised
Dh ..so far so good on meds,early days tho yet.but bp was good 135/75. !! Feels very tired tho,but it has been a busy nite 2am here..just got back
Ok gonna go sleep
Hope all have a good w.end…and Jen get to that Drs Monday ..you must be tired with doing all and up,at nite
Chris
Chris, I’m glad your Dad is staying in the hospital. Sure they are looking to see if he had a bleed they have to worry about. So sorry he fell again…twice. Hope you can sleep tonight and don’t stay awake worrying. Don’t be surprised if you go back tomorrow and both of his eyes are black. Sometimes takes awhile. Pray he is okay but it does look like he can’t be left alone, doesn’t it? Let me know if you need to chat on email. Love you dear girl, Sue
Thank you sue I will.
I slept from 2 .30 till 6.30 so not too bad. I hope they transfer him to intermediate care.and keep him there till the op to take out more of this mole margin.and perhaps it can be arranged to organise a nursing home for him. but I think I will gave a battle on!..I’ll ring up later and go in at visiting time
The Dr was very nice and sympathetic And said don’t worry we’ll look after him
His face is already a funny colour red and blue and his droopy open bottom eye lied are all swollen and closed
I’m gonna ring up chemist they are still open on Sunday about the meds DH is on.
GS chatted a long time yesterday to him so that was nice. He seems to be able too and joke too.better than we do with ease
Ok gonna try and get back to sleep
Chris
Chris, praying for your dad. Hope this will help him to understand that he is not able to stay alone anymore. That is about 4 falls now in a matter of a few days. I am so sorry for him. I would not want him to fall and break a bone or rib. I will pray he will be agreeable to going to a nursing home. Will be praying for your DH blood pressure medicines. He sure has had a time with that. It is tough when the medicine is hard on your body or does not work. I hope he can tolerate this new one and it works. Praying for you too sweetie. You have your own issues to take care of and others. Praying for your healing and strength. I love you. Please keep us posted.
Jennie, praying for you too my friend. I know you are miserable. I have been where you are. Sometimes it takes a certain antibiotic to clear up the bacteria. I love you and pray you will be feeling better soon. You can rest up and take care of yourself once your mom has left. In the meantime, please drink a lot of fluids as Sue said. Remember, no sugar in your drinks.
I have had two days without taking any pain meds. Just a small amount of pain. Thank all of you for your prayers.
LOVE YOU all, sending hugs, Donna
DONNA….ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS, YOU ARE SO KIND……I FEEL SURE THE DOC WILL FIND A SOLUTION WITH MEDS THAT ARE MORE SUITABLE IN THE END, OR MAYBE SEND ME TO A SPECIALIST…………..TWO DAYS WITHOUT MEDS, WELL DONE SWEETHEART, THAT’S THE BEST NEWS EVER…I WILL PRAY IT CONTINUES A WHILE LONGER…..HAVE A GOOD DAY…LOVE YOU..JENNIE XX
Hi
Well Jen he is in The city hospital.they are transferring him to an elderly care ward.till the 19th .see what happens he is being assessed. He is happy there with the TV and biscuits.but I saw his specialist and he wants him in a nursing home….so …..!
Jen shame you gotta wait till wed for Dr. You need a change of meds now
Hope all goes well to the airport…
Donna
Thank you for your prayers. DH bp seems not bad..bit early tho to tell the f side effects .i hope you continue ok with no meds. Is you DD still ok?
Sue the chemist said it was ok to take his meds
Well tired now been a busy time. Just come back from visiting
Props have a sleep. Chris
HI CHRIS……MUST FINISH THE MEDS UP BEFORE I GO BACK TO DOC’S PLUS I CAN GIVE HIM THE LATEST LAB REPORT TOO, THEN HE CAN SEE WHAT IS NEEDED.
YOUR DAD SOUNDS CONTENT ENOUGH WHERE HE IS, THAT MUST GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND SOMEWHAT, AND A NURSING HOME, YOU CAN CHECK OUT FIRST TO SEE IF “YOU” THINK IT WILL BE SUITABLE……HOPE THE ASSESSMENT GOES WELL, AND HE WILL GET A GOOD STANDARD OF CARE….YOU NEVER MENTIONED THE SHOES….STILL GOT THEM???……LOVE YOU….HOPE YOU HAD THAT REST…JEN X
Chris, thank you for asking about my DD. Yes she is ok. She is very happy where she is living. I am so glad she is finally happy. She is living in Wilmington NC which is at the coast. It is a beautiful city. It is only 4 hours from me. I am going to try and go visit for a week or two around July 4th. My sister lives a little less than 2 hours away from me and right on the way. I will drive to her house and spend the night. Then I will drive to my Daughter’s the next day. I know 4 hours does not seem far but with my back I don’t want to take a chance of being in pain my entire time there.
I will be praying that your dad will be ok wherever he has to go and you will be at peace. My advice to you would be, Don’t visit him at the same time each time you go visit. Go at different times, different days so the staff never knows when you will show up. That way you will know if he is truly being taken care of. Ok, I need to get something to eat so I can take my everyday meds. Take care of yourself. LOVE YOU, Donna
PS, praying for you too Jennie and everyone else. LOVE YOU all!
Donna, so pleased to hear things are happier for your DD. She’s got it coming, bless her. I understand so well about the back pain on a trip like that and know once you do it you’ll be glad but as long as she understands that you’ll need to rest the first day, that would help. You deal with so very much each day like so many of us do that it gets so old. When it’s the only choice we have well…we manage. Anything on the horizon to make the back feel better? One can always hope and does. Do take care. Is it getting hot back there? Very pleasant here in OR without rain for a change. May actually have to water outside. Thinking of you…Love, Sue
Chris, glad you checked with the chemist. You’ll soon know if there is a problem with DH’s drugs. Donna’s message about making intermittent visits if your Dad goes to a long term care is good advice. Catch them off guard. Usually, the food in those places is lots of carbs because they’re cheap but the care can vary widely from place to place depending on how good each person is who touches your Dad. We found with Jim’s Mom in home care that it varied as did my Mom’s care but she seemed happy with it at the convalescent home.
So pleased he seems to be getting good care now. It has reached that point for his own safety and I know how hard that is for you. Prayers, hugs and thoughts, Sue
Oh dear. To many spelling mistakes
Jen
Yea…stil got them shoes?.😄..for now!
Yep,had that sleep am going to watch home fires at 9pm
Donna .oh that will be wonderful to see your DD not long to wait either….and yes it does sound a long trip for anyone..so a break at your sister is just the ticket
That’s a good idea about the visiting times that’s if he ever is willing to go to one!
All best to all
X
Oh don’t know if I mentioned my dad had a severe water infection .also he was dehydrated.so he was put on a drip for it. So it was good I called the amb.even tho my dad didn’t like it. He seems much better there tonite…complaining about all.and everyone …so that’s good!!
I have the plastic surgeon sec ringing today as I rang to see if the op could be earlier.if they could do it while he was in hospital would be good.
I don’t know where I am with it all went and got some more stuff for my dad and went over to see him again just I case we go to shed for the day today the shower is there and it’s easier to wash my hair…have to see how DH is . The Hosp have my mobile no. DH wants to go really for a break and I dont know what to do really …if he comes out and goes home mite not get away then. esp if he has the op from home.
And also I don’t know how DH Is On these meds really….so I dunno what to do
It’s 5am nearly..try and get back to sleepChris
CHRIS……POOR DAD WITH A WATER INFECTION……CAN SYMPATHISE AND HOW…..HE IS COMPLAINING …GOOD SIGN. I HOPE THEY CAN DO THE OP WHILST HE IS IN THE HOSP, IT WOULD BE A LOT MORE CONVENIENT I THINK…FOR HIM AS WELL AS YOU, FINGERS CROSSED FOR THAT ONE. GLAD YOU STILL HAVE THE SHOES….FOR NOW. I THINK YOUR DH NEEDS A BREAK AS MUCH AS YOU DO, YOU GO LOVE, EVEN IF ITS JUST FOR THE DAY…..YOU CAN SOON GET HOME IF YOU ARE NEEDED…NOT THAT FAR TO COME BACK………..PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO LOOK AFTER CHRIS….YOU ALWAYS SEEM TO BE THE LAST IN THE QUEUE…….LOVE YOU…JEN X
Jennie, know the day is tomorrow and hope you are able to travel to the airport to see your Mom off. Travel is so hard when you’re having your current problems. Hang in there and if you can’t, you can’t. Thoughts, hugs and prayers, Sue
Chris, that’s the great thing about having your coastal spot so close and having phones…go if you can. Why not? If it will help both of you that is what matters right now. I know this is a rough time and all consuming and taking a break sounds good. I hope the surgeon sees it your way on doing your Dad’s surgery but he may not for many reasons. One of those being that he is still traumatized from the fall and the other being the doctor’s schedule. It does make sense if your Dad is up for it, why not? Doctors don’t usually like to be told what to do so I’m sure you’ll find out.
You are facing so much right now and I so admire how you are dealing with so many problems at once on top of not feeling great, not sleeping well, etc. Hope DH’s current new meds work out for him. He’s got to be running out of new ones to try.
I spent all day yesterday in the toilet with diarrhea. Pretty much shot my whole day got no grocery shopping in so must go today. Busy week for Jim and I here with all that’s going on healthwise. Somehow I’ll get through it. I know Jim is dreading his first colonoscopy, poor guy, although he denies feeling that way.
Just take it all one step at a time as will I and know we’re thinking and praying for all of you. Travel safely. Love, Sue
Chris, P.S. You Dad’s kidney function? Is it okay? That could factor into whether they will let him go or not. Obviously he doesn’t think to drink on his own poor man. Dehydration can be so serious in someone his age as you know. So sorry he has this problem to add to the others. Sue
Yea Here at shed. Go back tomorrow .
Dad has been transferred to this specialist ward…will see what happens to the op.he could be out by then.but I’m having him assessed while in hospital for care..so have to see how it all,pans out
DH bp is Okish
Watching a young rabbit running just all about the place..magic
Sue I hope this diarrhoea sorts itself out for today you don’t want Jim on his meds as well as yourself ….when is the colonoscopy..?have you got your pt as well this week?.
Well they just said it was a urine infection quite a bad one…but he didn’t have water trouble just a bad back…but who knows with my dad .he finds it difficult to drink these thickened liquids.he used to drink a lot of water but can’t now
Lovely weather here sunny will be a nice sunset tonite
Jen hope you ok and as sue says if you can’t make the trip you can’t
Donna
Hope all your pains have eased
Chris
..
Chris, Pleased you’re at the coast watching a rabbit. Just getting out in nature can help so much, can’t it? So glad they will take a look at all things with your Dad. That must be so difficult for him to try to drink those thickened drinks. I understand he is in danger of aspiration and know that is a fear. Life really can suck, can’t it? One day at a time dear girl, one day at a time. Love you and have fun and it already sounds like you’re enjoying all. Sue
Tonie
Look forward to your posts on blog again..hope all is going well
And you too
Chris
Well going to bed now and read a book..morning to come with slice of toast and a good view to see.relax about then home again.then visit my dad..its Father’s Day here this Sunday so look for something just right for him.
Gives good weather,oh yea and expecting an answer from the Drs sec……as you say sue I mite not get what I want…but worth a try,it would be much better to be in hospital after the op than home and risk falling with it,it’s a local anaesthetic but it’s going to take an hour and it’s on the neck
Ok hope all wellish
Sue how’s your eyes lately you did mention them once and not reading..and how’s the breathlessness ?
Chris
Chris, No change for me on either problem. Having the monitor put on tomorrow for 48 hours. Hope you’re enjoying your brief respite. Safe travels. Sue
Sue, quick answers to your questions. Yes it is very hot here. Today it was 99° actual temperature! Going to be that way the rest of the week. I like it warm better than cold but not quite that hot! I will be staying in most of the week because this kind of heat and humidity makes it harder on the breathing. As for the back, I don’t know what they can really do. I am going to ask him next week if he thinks an injection in the hip will help the leg pain. It hurts the worse when I have been out and walking and taking my walker in and out of the van a lot. I am going to call tomorrow and set up an appointment to try and get on the portable oxygen and stop having to deal with all the tanks. I am glad you are having some sunshine finally! Daughter knows about me and driving so she is ok with me resting the next day. She has fibromyalgia and RA also. She also suffers with migraines. I hate she suffers too. Hope the upset tummy is getting better. Will chat more later. LOVE YOU, Donna
Donna, hope you can get the injection if they think it will help the pain and the portable oxygen is definitely a wonderful idea. Dealing with that kind of heat is awful. Of course, it messes with your breathing. I don’t blame you for staying in…makes perfect sense. You shouldn’t be carrying those large tanks around. My goodness, you put up with so much all the time.
Good to know your daughter is so understanding. It’s hard to watch our kids suffer, I know. I’m afraid as far as my gut issues the IBS is always there, sometimes worse than at other times. Got to get through a busy week so fingers crossed. Thanks for getting us up to date. THoughts, prayers and hugs, Sue
Hey, I will catch up with the rest of you tomorrow. Chris, glad you got to go to the coast. Continuing to pray for your dad and for you and DH. LOVE YOU! Jennie, it won’t be too long now for your mom to be leaving. Do you think you will be able to go with her to the airport? I hope you will feel like it. LOVE YOU my friend.
Toni, hope things are going good and soon you will be all moved in and back into some kind of normal routine. Has your family gotten there yet? Hopefully they will be able to get things moving along a lot faster. How is Miss Alice doing? How are your boys handling things? Hope everything is good with Baby, Red and the Chicks. Bless you girl! Take care of that back. Love, Donna
Well good news they will do my dads op a week earlier and if still in hospital I’m to ring up tell them and they will organise it with the ward he is in…magic….hope he is still in be better for him..op a week today!
Sunny here today..DH bp is high so take it easy today as have the drive back later then see my dad
Jen did you manage to go to airport,how is it all?
Chrisx
Just seen your post sue
A nuisance the monitor but worth the agro of it.48 hrs…a long one too.
Will it be on whilst DH has the procedure
What a time .thinking of you and all of it going on
Chrisx
Chris, so pleased they are going to move up your Dad’s surgery and he and you can get that behind you. Pray life calms down for him afterwards as much as possible. Glad you’re enjoying the coast and DH, too.
Yes, I’ll wear the monitor for 48 hours so just took my last shower for 48 hours. Feeling for Jim as his bowel prep begins today while he’s at work for his colonoscopy tomorrow. Oh joy…poor man. I have a feeling it’s going to be a long night around here. I have PT today and Thursday so will be a busy week for us. Tried to get some housework done yesterday but didn’t get too far. Sure wish I had the old me for only a day each week. Wouldn’t that be nice?
Glad things are looking up and hope your Dad is healing well and not having too much pain. Are his eyes less swollen now? Is he getting good care? Love to you, Sue
Hey Peeps !!
Wow so much to catch up on since Thursday ! Hopefully this week I will have my internet back on !! GOt the electric squared away on Saturday, the inspection was yesterday and he okayed it to be turned on. So hopefully when I get home today I will have POWER !!
I still have to get my refrigerator moved in, again, hopefully tonight. My grands were supposed to come today, but some hickup with tickets (they are flying standby) so not sure now what is going on. I forgot my phone and left it at home !
Chris, you have a lot on your plate, I pray all will sort out with you and yours. Jennie, another round of antibiotics looks like ! Hope you got to go see your Mum off. Donna, all is well with the animals. We did find out though that one of the new hens is in fact a rooster ! 🙂 So now I have 2 of them. It has been really hot up here as well. Yesterday was very hot. My sister and I were out in the morning about 4 hours working on the back porch. Then when the inspector got there, he said I didn’t need to worry with it yet, long as I had one entrance ready ! 🙂 that was a relief. It was too heavy for us to do alone. But it is all ready to go up. I got too much sun yesterday and am suffering with stomach upsets today. Ms Alice is snoring away. SHe had an EEG today and is pretty worn out. THe MRI showed she has suffered a stroke. So now we know what happened. SHe is much more coherent of late, and is walking also. So she will do fine. Judy’s friend Mary, who has MS, has also had a stroke. It is very hard for them to take care of her. Her hubby is 80 and my sis is not in the best of shape either. SHe is having to cath herself 4 times a day as well, which is not happening easily. Seems so much going on with all the bad health of us all. I DID get some good news with my labs this month. My Cholesterol numbers are all great !! No probs anymore. I will continue my niacin and red rice yeast. But all is well.
Well, this is a long post ! I had a hip injection last Friday and go for the back tomorrow. Pray it calms the nerve down in the leg. I have been going night and day getting things done. I am down to just dishes and clothes now (except for fridge) so all will be right soon. I can’t wait to get in my little home. The dogs are already living there, so they are ready for me to come home with them 🙂
Sue , what are you wearing a monitor for ? Still praying for your strength !
Love you all !
Tonie
Tonie, well lady, about time. We’ve missed you so much. Also hope you get your internet very soon. It sounds like your ducks are falling into place…or should I say roosters? Two roosters, huh? Is that good? You know me, I’m a city girl and don’t know about these things. Hope you get the refrigerator in today and can get settled in. Hope the kids get there but know they will when it is supposed to be. It will work out, right?
So good to hear you all got to the heart of Ms. Alice’s problems and it sounds like she is improving. It is ironic that she lives with a doctor and nurse and they didn’t know she had had a stroke. ENough said. Prayers for that dear lady. Also sorry to hear about Judy’s dear friend Mary. She lives with so much, poor thing. So much going on with you and around you. Small wonder your back is hurting so much and the nerve from all the lifting. I know…you must but it is hard to watch. Pray all continues to go well. Sounds like you’re over the major hurdles and can settle in gradually now so maybe you can cut back on the lifting. Much love..Sue
Sue
Well kids stayed with Sean yesterday and are on the way to me today. Stayed in my own bed last night. So good. I will get the boys to help move the fridge when I get home fr work. Lots to do and now I have help !
Got my injection yesterday it is already helping. Dr was very good. No hurting. Internet should be on when I get home as well so things are doing.
Hi Tonie, so glad you have just about gotten everything moved. I pray you were able to get your refrigerator moved in tonight. Once the kitchen and bathroom are ready you can move back in. Hope it won’t take long to get your dishes and clothes moved back in. I know your boys will be happy. Hope the back injection helps with the leg pain.. I know where you are coming from my friend.. Hope you got some good news about you’re family coming. LOVE YOU my friend, Donna
Donna
My bathroom and clothes are there. Just need the fridge in. Didn’t happen yet. It will Tonight
Thanks for your prayers. I feel them
Tonie
Yep as I thought busy busy.its all going to be so goodRemember a photo
Sue
What a week ahead for you both….prayers for you
Saw my dad tonight..swollen eyes going down..but I not sure ..they’ve given him some Alzheimer’s drugs and I’m not sure of them also I feel ,I don’t know ,..he rang me from the hospital left a message on home phone ,the nurse was with him and he just kept saying leave a message then sorry ,the nurse didn’t help him at all.i didn’t like it…..only found out when home as I went straight to my dad from the coast….I shall go in tomorrow and see with different eyes..try and have a word with Dr there
Ok gonna go had to wash cover of arm chair.. got split on tonite and I made a hot chocolate and that boiled over…well rather that than summat else!
Chris
Chris, it’s a confusing picture. Do you think the meds are helping or hindering him? Poor man. Glad the eyes are better though. That’s some progress. Keep us posted..Love, Sue, and thanks for thinking of our coming week.
Chris, praying for you and your family situation. I pray your father’s face will continue to heal. If he has just started taking that new medicine, it would probably take a little while before knowing if it helps. He has been through so much lately who knows what is causing him to act a little different. I hope you get some answers soon dear. I am glad he is where he is being taken care of instead of being alone and falling again. Everything is going to work out one way or another. Hope your DH blood pressure is doing better. How is he tolerating the new medicine? Praying for you Chris. I know all this is hard on you. Sending hugs and love to you sweetie, Donna
Chris
So sorry for your troubles. Praying for your dad. And for you. Hopefully you got answers today.
I will send you a pic once my internet is back up. Still got a lot to do. Organizing n such. Hard to find a place for all anew. Curtains to iron and hang. Ugh. I hate ironing. Can’t wait to get home and see my young’uns. You take care and rest
Love
Tonie
Friends, sorry no new blog this week. Natalie who posts for me is moving and a bit overwhelmed. Later though. Sue
Sue, Don’t worry about the blog. You have a lot on your plate and it looks like Natalie does as well.. Hope all goes well with your DH with his colonoscopy tomorrow. Hopefully he will not be in the bathroom all night. Bless his heart. For you I pray the monitor shows up all good but then they will still be looking for the reason you are having shortness of breath. Everything is going to be ok. Good luck with PT this week. LOVE YOU, Donna
No biggie sue. We will continue on !!
I feel Natalie’s paim😭
SUE……I THINK THE SAME AS EVERYONE ELSE…DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT, NOBODY IS COMPLAINING, IT WILL BE ALL THE BETTER FOR THE WAITING…….LOVE AND HUGS…JEN XX
Donna
How are you..you never said …back pain? And all the other stuff?
I didn’t know that your daughter had RA too,,,it must all be a worry for you .
Dh bp is up too high in the morning then goes lower during the day.altho he takes the med at night. No side effects yet..although it’s a bit early to see them and maybe it all takes the two weeks to work
My dad ..well I have issues with what the specialist told me and with what the staff nurse told me last night so I am ringing up the spec.sec. this morning
Sue
Be a good job when this week has been done and dusted. forget any cleaning house this week…heck this is me talking! I am thinking of you and that it all goes well and you can relax this weekend.
Jen
If you went to the airport yesterday,as I think you might have done.i hope you are ok today with sitting so long and the bladder prob. and seeing your mum off….but now you are back to just yourselves you can get on on get better. I expect you are sad to see your mum go…strange times life is never just normal is it? So much to consider..are Tim and Claire their to meet your mum. Did they have a good time in Canada if they are back.concern for them and your mum and yourself ill….it’s all so heavy on you.
Well gotta get up,and going Chris
Chris, to answer your question about my back, it has not been too bad. I think I know what is causing a lot of my pain. Since I have been staying in so much with it being so hot here, I have noticed a lot of difference in the pain level. When I go out and walk with my seated walker and have to take said walker in and out of my van, I hurt so much more. I also have to take the oxygen tanks in and out of my van. I am trying to see if I can get a portable oxygen machine so I can give up the tanks. I have a scooter with a lift to bring it in and out of my van. I am not sure if I am ready to give up using my walker yet. I like using it because my legs get some exercise as long as I am walking. I guess when the pain gets too bad for me to tolerate I will start using my scooter. Until then I will use my pain meds and keep getting injections.
I hope you get some answers concerning your dad. I will be praying. LOVE YOU, Donna
HI CHRIS…..YES MANAGED TO GET TO THE AIRPORT, BEEN SO BUSY GETTING MY HOUSE BACK TO RIGHTS, THERE HAS BEEN NO TIME TO DO MUCH ELSE……WENT TO DOC’S YESTERDAY, GAVE ME A SACHET OF A “ONE-OFF” DOSE OF ANTIBIOTICS, AND THEY HAVE REALLY HELPED, I FEEL SO MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE NOW….WHAT A DREADFUL TIME IT WAS.
TIM AND CLAIRE DON’T COME BACK FROM CANADA UNTIL FRIDAY, MY MOTHER LEFT FRANCE FOR THE UK ON TUESDAY, SO ALREADY THERE.
I WILL BE THINKING OF YOUR DAD WHEN HE HAS HIS OP, ALSO OF YOUR DH’S BP, AND YOUR PAINFUL HIPS…LOVE JEN XX
DONNA …THINKING OF YOU IN THE HEAT, HOPE YOU ARE COPING OK……IT CAN’T BE EASY FOR YOU HAVING TO TAKE OXYGEN WITH YOU ALL THE TIME, ALSO HOPING THE SHOTS HELP YOU….LOVE YOU..JENNIE XX
TONIE….NICE TO SEE YOU PLUGGED IN AGAIN, LOVELY FOR YOU TO BE IN YOUR NEW HOME, IT MUST HAVE BEEN SUCH HARD WORK…..SOON BE ALL NORMAL, AND NOW YOU CAN SLEEP IN YOUR OWN BED…WHOOPEE …LOVE JENNIE XX
Jennie
Still have sundries to move and make all to rights. Talked to the kids and the Internet is on 😎 so getting there. My water heater needs a new element so hoping to get that done tonight. Hot water is a plus ! Glad u are feeling better. Much love
Tonie
Sue
Hope all ok and you will be looking forward to,your shower I know
Tonie
Look forward to the pic .and it’s all going well now for you
Jen,
Good your picking up and better.Yea what a time!
Donna
Do you have air con in the house ….? It must get so,hot for you In the summer
Love Chris
Dear Friends, just a quick entry after two long days. Jim’s colonoscopy went well, well, as well as those gruesome things can go..go..go. It was a hard day for me with all the sitting, riding to another town, then having to do the driving home but I came home and went to bed. My SI joints were just miserable but he did well, poor guy. All is well with him. I got to turn in my holter monitor this AM when I went to have an echocardiogram. Probably all will be fine and we can rule out reasons for my fatigue, etc. Had to cancel PT today due to bad bout of IBS. Barely made it through the echo..what an exciting life I lead.
Tonie, I’m so pleased the grands are there, at least half of them, the bigger, strong half. How wonderful for you to see them and for them to see and help you. You’ve accomplished so very much recently. Glad the shot helped. Hope you’ll be able to rest that poor back of yours now. Enjoy your visitors and your new home.
Chris, and the beat goes on, huh? Hope both your Dad and DH are on the mend. I know you’ll be relieved when the operation on your Dad is over and they get all of the cancer out. Hope his face and eyes heal quickly and all the mish mas of arrangement go peacefully for you and for him.I know it will be tricky for him and sad, quite honestly but he may come around to realizing it is for his safety. Good that you got to go to the coast if even for a while. Thinking of all of you so often.
Jennie, well, the company is gone and you have your DH and life back. Deep sigh. Sounds like you are feeling better and I’m so pleased for you after all you’ve gone through. You are due for some pleasure, rest and comfort. It will come, I just know it. Hugs.
Donna, do hope you get the lighter oxygen. All of that is just too much for you to lift in and out of the car or at home for that matter. I share your pain as many of us do. It might not help that much but at least you know you’re not alone dear girl.
Saw on FB that Janet just had a birthday…best wishes to our TX friend. Our very courageous friend.
Well dears, must get something accomplished around here other than taking trips to the BR. Love to all. Sue
Sue, so glad DH colonoscopy is over and all is ok. As for you, you got rid of monitor and had an echo. I hope they can rule out the shortness of breath being heart related. I hope you are feeling somewhat better. It seems like everyone has been going through a lot lately. Things seem to be winding down for some. So glad Tonie is back in her own home. She has some of her grandchildren to help her finally. Jennie’s mom has left. Things can settle down with her and her DH. Chris , we have a lot of praying to do for her family. I just pray everything runs smoothly with her dad. I pray he will realize he needs to be where he can get help quickly when he needs it. It is for his safety. My heart hurts so much for Chris. Lots of prayers for her.
If everything goes ok I will go visit my daughter Kim in Wilmington for a couple of weeks around July 4th. That is at the beach! Visit my sister on the way down and on the way back.
I hope you will be feeling better by tomorrow with the IBS. I had problems with it last Friday and Saturday. I pray everyone has a good night. Chat with you later. LOVE YOU Sue, Donna
Donna, Thanks. Yep you pretty much summed up everyone. Glad you have plans to visit your daughter and sister. You know what you can and cannot do. Would be good for you to see the sea. I’m with Chris on that, as I also find the ocean and even the beautiful Columbia River here very soothing and life giving. The gut still bad today but it will calm down. I see potato soup in my future. Take care of you. Love, Sue
Chris, yes dear, we have central air. I couldn’t live here if not. My DH put a brand new unit in the house after his dad died. We moved in before pop died so we spent one summer here without it. My husband said never again. His mom got to enjoy it for 8 years before she died. He did a lot of work to the house after his dad died. I went out today for a little while. Did not have too much pain. I was glad for that.
Tonie, glad you got to sleep in your own bed last night. Sure it felt good. Glad you are getting your refrigerator in tonight. I know you were glad to see your grandchildren. How many are here and their ages. Did you say your daughter is moving to VA this summer? It seems like things are coming together for you. Just in time for summer.
Jennie, glad that you were able to go to the airport to see your Mom off. Soon you will get your house back in order. Glad you are feeling better. LOVE YOU all, Donna
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Dear Friends who are also on FB. I posted a mini blog of sorts today on my home page. Hope you all get to read it. Chris, I don’t know how to forward it to you…wish I could. Love to all…Sue
HELLO……WELL WOULD YOU BELIEVE I GOT A NEGATIVE RESULT FROM THE LAB TODAY…..NEVER DID THAT WORD LOOK SO GOOD, ITS BEEN A LONG HAUL, BUT GOT THERE IN THE END.
CHRIS……..YOU KNOW I AND THINKING AND WORRYING ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
TONIE…GREAT YOU ARE CONNECTED, SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD QUITE A PARTY WITH YOUR GRANDS, LOVELY THAT THEY ALL MUCKED IN TO HELP….ENJOY EVRYTHING.
SUE….COULD YOU NOT PUT IT IN YOUR “FAVOURITES” THEN E-MAIL IT TO CHRIS?????
DONNA…HOUSE ALREADY BACK IN ORDER, JUST THE VERY NEXT DAY, TOOK MOST OF THE DAY THOUGH.
GLAD YOU WERE ABLE TO GET OUT TODAY WITHOUT TOO MUCH PAIN SWEETHEART.
OK….MY LOVE TO EVERYBODY, HOPE YOU ARE ALL ENJOYING SUNSHINE AS WE ARE HERE IN FRANCE, LOVE AND GOD BLESS…..JENNIE XXXXXX
Thank you for your words Donna
I hope my dad realises all he needs he can be so obstinate .i can hardly make out what he says and I was asking him about the Drs visit and he was putting a strawberry( I got some for him) in his mouth.i said could you just hold on while you tell me and he looked at me and put it slowly in his mouth.then I said ok I’ll got some of your washing out then I could see him making signs to show he was still eating strawberries behind my back, waving them in the air….it’s so irritating and I’m trying to keep saying nothing!!
It’s great to look forward to see your DD,oh and the sea….as sue says it is so life giving
Sue
Never mind about the blog . It’s so great to have been getting it as we have been.i was wondering do you think the meds for your acid stomach make the ibs I find I can only take them for so long and I get it
Hope dH is recovering from the colonoscopy .how long for you to get your results?
I’ve got a respiratory appt on Monday ,see how that goes
All those sounds of the river you live by just be so kind of ordering in your life ,like you’d miss each sound.
It must be so calming
Well gonna get the day started
Chris
Hey all !
INTERNET at HOME !! Yeah ! Chris, poor thing….Mother used to always say we (and especially men) had a second childhood they go through when they get old. Looks like your dad is there. I know Ms Alice does things like that sometimes too. Still praying for you dear.
Well survived night one of the grands invasion !! What workers they are !! We moved and cleaned the fridge (it is amazing how much bacteria will grow in a fridge over 3 weeks) and put it in the house. Moved a few other things we grabbed between rain showers. Had a shower at Judy;s, and quick pizzas at 8 !! I am taking them to swim this am while I do H20 Aerobics. They loved the horses and it was vice versa as well. We had a heck of a storm last night, lots of rain and lightening. I love summer storms.
Well, gotta run and get ready to go !
Love to all
Tonie
Nearly back to that normal tonie…and it al sounds like fun with the grands. They take everything In their stride and no bother don’t they.?
Yep that second child hood sounds right ,and if I’d reacted to it ,it would make me childish as well…but difficult when your wilting there!
Well going to get the day started our next door neighbour may be cutting down some big bushes for us today
Hope your ok Lynn
Chris
Hi
Going out shortly to a history talk.really looking forward to it.in the cathedral ..about the magna carta.its that very rude bloke I went to see before..I love listening to what he comes out with…..he calls over everything. And a lot disapprove but I luv it
Be back Chris hope all ok .
JUST A QUICK HELLO……TONIE, ALREADY SAID HOPE YOU ARE GETTING SORTED AND WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME, CAN’T WAIT TO SEE THE “PICS”.
CHRIS…..HOPE NO FURTHER PROBLEMS WITH DAD, HOPE THE NOISE FROM NEXT DOOR NOT DRIVING YOU UP THE WALL.
SUE……HOPE YOU AND JIM ARE RECOVERING FROM YOUR ORDEALS, AND CAN HAVE A RESTFUL WEEKEND NOW.
LYN…ITS BEEN AWHILE…ARE YOU OK?? AND YOU TOO SUZANNE??
DONNA…HOW IS YOUR PAIN, ARE YOU GETTING OUT AT ALL STILL, YOU WERE SO PLEASED LAST TIME.
I AM OK, BIT TIRED AND THE OLD BONES ARE HURTING, BUT AS USUAL, DONE TOO MUCH, BUT NOW IT LEAVES ME FREE TO HAVE A BETTER AND MORE RESTFUL SUNDAY…………………BLESSED WEEKEND EVERYONE….LOVE JENNIE XXXXX
Well back and couldn’t hear a blimmin thing too echoie,only made out 40pc so I gave up listening .but Dh had his aid on the loop system and heard every word!!
Went to see my dad he seems worse
Went for a meal after…all too noisy and lots of young people about…well it was in town..so a strange night..so home now ..hot chocolate and read a book…oh dear ! How old am I?
It made me feel ancient ,I prefer the rural side of my life!
Jen
Next door are cutting down bushes in our garden for us. Well I hope so,he said he will try and fit it in
Sometime
Chris
Good morning all. Happy Fathers Day to all of you out there.
What a weekend I have had. Non stop til I dropped yesterday. I couldn’t make myself do any more. All my spoons had been used up weeks before and my butt just said “NO !!” I did get my freezer moved and all the things put in, straightened up the kitchen put away some dishes. I caught a little nap while the kids were at my great great nieces ( how old does that sound ?) birthday party. Baby had to have a pedicure yesterday and she gave poor Bruce a FIT !! I was plumb ashamed of her attitude. I need to get her out everyday for a little while and mess with her feet, and lunge her at least. I told Devin to remind me of it when I said I didn’t have time. Bruce has a wonderful training tool that I must get. It is a bridle , with no bit, but has a bar covered in leather that puts pressure on their bridge of the nose. They don’t like that and it gets their attention.
Chris, I hate you couldn’t hear the lecture. I know how you love that stuff. I do envy your trips to all the historical sights around you. I share the pictures you send with family and friends. It is just so cool ! Sorry your dad is getting worse. Hang in there sweetie, prayers for you.
Jennie, I think of you whenever I am picking raspberries. My sister can’t eat them either, but she make jelly out of the juice and eats that . We have had a great crop of them this year. I pick them so she gives me half. Plus I eat all I want whilst I pick 🙂 . I must get time to tie the tomatoe plants up. My grandson Samuel planted tomatoes for me. They mowed for me, weedeated, cleaned some, and all I had to do was feed em and let them ride the horses !!
Do take care all and have a great day.
Love to all
Tonie
HI TONIE……WE HAVE MINIMIZED ALL OUR RED BERRY FRUITS THIS YEAR, MY DH DID IT OUT OF KINDNESS TO ME, HE KNOWS IT DRIVES ME NUTS HAVING TO LOOK AT THEM AND NOT EAT THEM. GOT A LOT OF WALNUTS COMING ON, GUESS WHAT…..I CAN’T EAT THOSE EITHER!!! I GET THE PLUMS APPLES AND PEARS THOUGH SO NOT ALL BAD. HOW SWEET OF YOUR GRANDSON TO PLANT UP YOUR TOMATOES FOR YOU…WHAT A WELL DESERVED TREAT THEN TO RIDE THE HORSES…..HAVE A GREAT DAY YOURSELF….LOVE JENNIE X
Hi Jennie, I am doing pretty good with the back and hip and leg pain. I know the hip and leg pain are because of the back pain . When the back is settled down, the leg and hip do not hurt. I went out on Thursday to get my hair washed and styled. I get it done at the cancer center at the hospital for free. I have the lymphedema(swelling), in my left arm from the cancer and cannot lift that arm enough to wash it and fix it. I feel very blessed they have a hairdresser at the cancer center and there is no cost. I did very good with the back that day. I haven’t been out since because of the heat. Suppose to be 100° tomorrow. I am getting an injection this Friday. I do hope it will keep me from being in so much pain when I drive to my daughter’s home July 2nd or 3rd. I will be able to get some rest. She doesn’t expect me to jump right up and do something. You rest and enjoy the peace and quiet. LOVE YOU sweetie, Donna
Hi Tonie, so glad you have gotten back in your home and almost back to normal. Glad your grands are there to help you. How is your back doing? Mine is not too bad as long as I don’t have to walk much and have too many errands so I am lifting my walker in and out of my van a lot. Once my back starts to spasm then my leg and hip start hurting. I haven’t been out since Thursday because of the heat. It has been miserable especially being on oxygen. It is suppose to be 100° tomorrow. My youngest daughter is going to come visit me so I don’t have to go out. Do you have central heat and air in your new home? I sure hope so Tonie. Summer is just starting & I want you to also be warm this winter. It is time for you to have an easier life. I know you enjoyed having the yard work done for you. Glad they enjoy riding the horses. I hope you can find the time to work with baby’s feet. I am ignorant about horses so what does lunge her mean? Wish I knew more.
Try and get some rest. Please try and not hurt your back. You have some help now.
LOVE YOU dear sweet friend. Donna
Hey Donna:
Unfortunately no heat pump on the trailer. I have window ac and electric heat for the winter. I will have the gas heater installed back in for that. Lunging is when you let them run in a circle around you, or trot. But it wears them down a bit so they are not so sassy. Did that tonight and then let my grandaughter ride, she did really well.
Very hot here as well. The kids are used to heat but not humidity. It wears them down. My back is doing better, not doing so much lifting right now. DO take care in this heat !!Take care
TOnie
Hi all
Went to see my dad early took some thickener in he needed for his drinks and came to the shed,to check all.very bad storm here last night.good job we did ,the elec had gone off and needed the trip switch done.freezer stuff was going …so not much in there and cooked some meals with it and take home
Go back tomorrow as my dad has op at 1 and I have got resp appt at hosp
Tonie
The thing is everyone else seemed to hear him all laughing at right time.just too echoing for me.also my bum was giving me trouble sitting..I did take a cushion .so all in all …ugh!
Shame
Anyway you are going good..but get some rest soon
I can’t eat raspberries strawberries etc only fruit are peeled apples or pears and bananas are ok
Can’t eat any seeds no nuts. Raisins too. the list goes on.even jams I have to have seedless .no tomatoes or cucumber….so I sympathise with Jen and your sister..oh are jams I think you call jellies
In fact I forgot yesterday and when out for a meal there were sesame seeds on the bread roll ..so hope that goes ok!
Your grands seem to be a treasure and especially for you right now.not long before you are sitting there and it all done and dusted
Chris
HI CHRIS….OH DEAR SESAME SEEDS, NOT GOOD FOR THE DIVER…..I HAVE TO AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE…..GOT A BIT OF DIVER TODAY, THINK ITS EATING TOMATOES. I KNOW WHAT YOU WILL BE GOING THROUGH TOMORROW WITH YOUR DAD CHRIS, SO I WILL BE THINKING OF YOU, AND PLEASE LET US KNOW IF EVERYTHING WENT OK……LOVE YOU…JEN X
Hey Chris:
Still praying for your Dad and you. No Jam has seeds, pieces of fruit, etc. Jelly is just made from the juice of the fruit with sugar and pectin. I like Jam. The kids love it. They have already eaten a small jar of peach jam I made But I have many more in the freezer, and others I made for times like this. 🙂 They are being so good, but running me ragged. I sat down to watch a movie yesterday after lunch and took a nap. Woke up and they were all gone. Went to my friends house for them to see the baby calves and horses. Take care !!
Tonie
Tonie, I know you must be enjoying the grands so much but yes, they take a lot out of you and you’re coming from a place of deep fatigue and over doing it because you had to. How super that the kids are going to be able to ride Baby. I can just imagine their joy at all they see and yes, there is that southern humidity to get used to. They’re you and will be adjusted soon…hopefully. How’s the new place? Feeling settled yet? When is Nikki coming out with the little ones to make her big move? So much going on in your family, huh? Thinking of you always. Love, Sue
Hi all
Came back home…ready for tomorrow
Yep Jen will let you know
Am meeting my GS over there after my appt and will go see my dad
Chris
Hi Chris, Just a quick note because I’m having a bad day. Just know I’ll be thinking of you and your Dad tomorrow. Hope all goes well and that you don’t get too worn out. Love, Sue
Will be praying for you Sue. Hope you can sleep well. LOVE YOU! Donna
Hi Chris, just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and will be praying for your dad. Yes, please let us know how things went. Take care love. Rest in the peace and love of God. He is going to take care of everything. LOVE YOU, Donna.
PS, Back is not hurting too bad so that means the hip is also feeling better. I am getting an injection this Friday. Maybe the trip to my daughter’s won’t be too bad. I will take my heating pad with me.
Hello, one and all! I just finished catching up here.
Chris, I’m sorry for your difficulties this week, and of course, your Dad. I do pray all goes well tomorrow.
Jennie, glad the one time med seems to be helping. I know you were glad for your Mom’s visit, but probably just as happy now to get back to “normal” for a while as well.
Donna, you are an inspiration. I agree with Sue and hope you can get more portable oxygen. I recall my Dad had a more portable variety and it was very helpful.
Sue, so DH’s colonoscopy was a success – hurray! He doesn’t need to deal with negative results there as well as his issues with skin. You can both breathe in relief.I know the trip took so much out of you, but I’m quite sure you are relieved to have the halter finished. Pray all is well there.
Tonie, what great progress! So nice to have those brands around and helping! Terrific!
I’m sorry I’ve been away for a few days. I have actually literally been away. I was attending a conference in Boston Wednesday – Saturday. I rode up with friends and took the train back on Saturday. My friends were continuing on to their daughter’s place and spending some time there before heading home. I attended some very informative sessions and a couple of concerts. I wish there was more time for sight seeing, but I did squeeze in a little Friday afternoon and had a delicious meal and some relaxing time in the Public Gardens that evening. Now, back to normal. We had a nice gathering for Father’s Day at my brother in law’s house today. Friday, however, I have my first colonoscopy and endoscopy. Oh joy Hopefully nothing will be found in one, and something helpful in the other. I’m not looking forward to the prep. I must read those directions through. I was given Suprep. Anyone have that prep?
Well, time for bed soon. I didn’t sleep well in Boston (rarely do in a new place, particularly in a city – I’m not used to all the city noise anymore.) I see one cat has already jumped on the bed and is awaiting a little lap time.
Best to one and all!
Lyn, happy to see you are safely home from your trip. I was following you on Facebook. I have so enjoyed the pictures you posted. The ones from the train were great!. I went from NC to NY and back several times while my daughter lived there and had not gotten to the point I couldn’t do it. I enjoyed the train rides. Of course 14 hours is a long time. I enjoyed the dining car too. The last time I rode the train I sat in Business class and it was so nice. There were movies playing and got free beverages. The seats were nice. It cost very little extra to go buisness class. After that I flew. 1 hour and 20 minutes beats 14 hours on the train. Glad you had a good time. Sounds like your animals are glad to see you home. Get some rest. You are probably more tired than you realize. Try not to worry about your tests on Friday. You won’t know anything. It is better to get both done at the same time. I have done it that way and it was nice not to have two separate procedures. The prep is the worst part. You only have to do it every 10 years. That is a relief. You will do fine. My last prep was pills and I didn’t have to drink all that stuff. It was much better. I am not sure what you have. I will chat more later. LOVE, Donna
Lyn, it’s good to have you home again. I also enjoyed your pics of Boston and the train trip. What a wonderful experience and so much history. As far as the prep for your procedures I’m not familiar with that one…there are many. As you know Jim just had one and his prep was two bottle of mag citrate followed by 9 quarts of Gatorade. DOn’t think he will ever drink Gatorade again. It was, I’m sure, far more pleasant than the other stuff. He had very minimum discomfort except for having to urinate. I think a big part of why it went well for him was because he went on liquids, soups, etc. two day before the procedure. I would recommend that. Will they have you out for both or just the colon part? Do rest up and it’s good that you enjoyed your trip. Love, Sue
Hi to all
Thank you all for your concerns for me today. I’ll be back when all done
Lyn
I pray that all goes well you can then relax at the weekend. Sounds like a great time you had away
Sue
Thank you and I do hope things improve for you soon it was such a week for you.
Donna
100f what a heat! We Used to get that In Oz.it was 110 in the shade once
It must make it so hard carrying those bottles about
So pleased the back is easier..I find that too ,back better legs and hips improve
Jen
A free week ahead for you no bladder stuff either..magic…well I hope it is!
I’m gonna try and get back to sleep..4.30 am here chris
Lyn
Just a thought
Regarding drinking the liquid. Some find it easier drinking it with a big fat straw and placing it on the middle of the tongue. I did both ..just Incase you find it helpful.. It bypasses some of the taste buds.it mite be helpful to have some by you. You just get a bit fed up of the taste by the second lot
But it mite be different stuff over there….in the UK they don’t even put you to sleep ..you get to watch it on the screen!
Chris
Hi
My dad had op done he is just tired.but is soreHE HAD A LOCAL ..but I think it took it out of him
With my appt they given me a nebuliser to try..she said todo it in the morning As I might go tight chested and not parks to breath and have to call someone ….what is that all about…not sure about doing it with all I got on! Sue….panic button hit here
Ok just got home Been a long day
Hope you are better sue
Chris
Hey Chris, I use a nebulizer occasionally and my only problem is it makes me a little jittery and then that wears off pretty quickly. I think the reason she said do it in the morning so if you had some kind of reaction it would be better to get help during the daytime than at night. If I am wrong Sue can correct me. I have never had that kind of problem before. I think she was just warning you of a possible side affect love. Personally, I would try it. You will be surprised at how much better you can breathe. I am surprised she didn’t have you try it in the office before you left. I know it is hard to try something new but if it helps and you don’t try it, you will never know if it helps or not. I will be praying for you dear. Glad your dad did so well. He is a real trooper. How old is he anyway? Try and rest. Love you Chris, Donna
Chris dear, I’m pleased your Dad has his surgery behind him but sorry he is tired and probably stressed. Dear girl, I don’t understand the question about breathing. Is it related to the Sjogren’s and your chronic cough? Have you ever gone tight chested before? Can you explain a bit more and clarify the breathing part? Rest now dear friend. No, as for me still having cramps. On potato and pasta right now. For me the secret is going to the BR every day and I have had such a problem with constipation. Can’t seem to get it figured out, tried so many things and then have to worry about diarrhea and going out in public to PT, etc.Let me know about the other, okay? Love, Sue Did the surgeon say they got it all?
Well sue I didn’t see the surgeon I was at my appt..but I will ring and ask the sec.tomorrow.
I don’t have any breathing probs. really ,just This sore airway with sjogrens or reflux. .i can’t take reflux tabs they make the dryness worse and the peripheral neuropathy.so she is stuck with what to do for me…she said try this to moisten the airways…also I have to go to physio to breath she thought it mite help
No never got tight chested before
I just tried steam inilation..would that be the same as a nebuliser do you think
It just hurts to breath in and out. Well not hurts just feel it sore or something.the cough is incidental really to me..the Solution is saline steripoules 2.5 ml
Wish I could think of something else for you to eat….
Chris
I mean not able to breath..don’t know where parks came into it!
Chris, I would recommend you try it. Sometimes the inhaler make you shake, as Donna said, but it’s worth a try. No, it’s different than the warmth from steam inhalation because it seems to have meds along with the saline. Obviously there is inflammation in your bronchial tubes and no wonder you have a cough. I have the dryness plus the burns in the throat from the radiation and it will always be there so I somewhat understand.
The meds might open up the airway a bit and that would be good. Hope you can sleep now. Love, Sue
Sue
There are no drugs it’s plain saline…..so I’m a bit scared of summat happening with DH as he is
Why does it make you shake…..it’s all weird
Love chris
Chris, just one more thought. I always believe in trying what the doctor recommends unless it’s way out there. This sounds reasonable but the only thing I wanted to add is I used to use saline drops for dry nose and passages and it burned. That doesn’t mean this is going to happen to you. Saline is usually the first line of use because it is compatible with our mucus membranes more than something like water. Try it and you’ll find out. Not sure what the steripoules means. Sue
Yea sue the saline spray for my nose seems to burn my throat as well
Thank you for your quick replies especially with how things are for you
Love Chris
Chris, it won’t make you shake if it doesn’t have any meds in it. Steripoules must just mean sterile. It would only be the burning and you can find that out and it just might help you which would be wonderful. Love ya, Sue
He’s 92 Donna
The nebuliser is it the equipment or the stuff in it that causes the problem?
I am on only a saline solution. What you think? Why should she say that tho…?and I would have preferred trying it there as well
Chris
Thanks Sue..the only thing I’m concerned about is why she said I might gave to call an ambulance if I can’t breath…it doesn’t make sense .i did ask again and she just rephrased it the same..the nurses who showed it me just said the same….it’s daft
I mite do it on a feel safe sort of day…..
Love Chris
Chris, that just doesn’t make sense to me if this is just saline. Personally, with everyone alarming you…think it over. It is illogical for plain saline. Sue
That’s what I think sue
The specialist said to start it during the day instead of at nite In case I would call someone and I said why and she said I case I have trouble breathing. Then I said well how would I be and she said I would know straight away whether To call the Dr or an ambulance …wish I’d ask a third time , but you know you can’t!. I think tomorrow I mite call up the hospital chemist where I got it from and ask them
As you say it’s illogical ….does it maybe flood the lungs to much?
Thanks sue
Love Chris
Chris, I think I would do exactly what you said you might do. Call someone and get more information about it. I have my machine then I add the prescription medicine my doctor gives me to use. It is the medicine I put into the machine that makes me jittery. Not for long. Have someone explain it to you until you understand how it works. Or make an appointment and ask your doctor to give you a treatment in her office. Good luck sweetie. LOVE YOU, Donna
Chris, it comes out of the machine into a hose that is attached to the mask you put on your face. The medicine is a very fine mist you breathe. It opens up your bronchial tubes to help you breathe better.
Donna
Thank you donna
You do have a lot to put up with as does our sue..
Going to my own Dr, and using it there seems a good idea if they will do it.
I’ve just been looking it up and it seems like a bronchospasm seems the problem,along with burning from the saline .which as sue says could be a problem
Love chris
Chris, I asked Jim about the inhalant last night. He used to be a respiratory therapist before he went into nursing and he said it didn’t make any sense to him either. The only thing he could think about was a bronchospasm but didn’t know why they alarmed you so much. Sorry you’re having trouble getting on the blog today. Hope the problem resolves soon. Do take care and try to get a little down time for yourself, okay? Love, Sue
HELLO…JUST WANT TO LET YOU KNOW THAT CHRIS CANNOT ACCESS THE BLOG TO POST…..SO DOING IT FOR HER….SHE IS NOT IN A GOOD PLACE RIGHT NOW AS I AM SURE THE READING OF HER LAST FEW POSTS WILL BEAR THAT OUT, I WORRY THAT SHE IS HAVING TO DO SO MUCH FOR OTHERS AND HER OWN HEALTH IS SUFFERING.
SUE,,HOPE YOU ARE OK, NOT BEEN ABLE TO GET ON HERE TILL NOW, HAD COMPANY AND I CAN’T STRAIGHTEN MY BACK, HAD TO DO A LOAD OF COOKING BENT NEARLY DOUBLE….SO EMBARRASSING.
LYN…..GLAD YOU HAVE GOT ALL THAT DONE WITH….WE ALSO SEDATE FOR THOSE PROCEDURES, I DON’T WANT TO WATC ON A SCREEN, ALTHOUGH WHEN MY DH HAD HIS PROSTATE DONE IN THE UK, HE LOVED IT, NEVER TALKED ABOUT ANYTHING ELSE….HAD IT DONE AGAIN HERE IN FRANCE, AND THEY WOULDN’T LET HIM.
HOPE EVERYONE IS OK, THINKING OF YOU ALL……..ANYONE KNOW IF ANNIE AND HER MUM ARE OK…..??? LOVE JENNIE XX
Jennie, I know you’re a fabulous cook but you pay such a price to do it. Hope you are on the heating pad and resting your sore back. You’ve been through a lot lately and need to relax and heal. I have PT today and one more errand to run about our new tiles out front. Hope to have a low key day after that will have the grands over tomorrow for the day. Always have a good time with them and yes, it is tiring but worth it. Hope your weather is wonderful and you’re enjoying your garden and DH. Love, Sue
SUE…..I THINK IT WILL TAKE MORE THAN A HEATING PAD TO SORT THIS OUT, THIS IS MY SECOND DAY OF NOT BEING ABLE TO STAND UP PROPERLY, AND IF I TELL YOU I AM SCARED…………….
HAD TO GO BACK ON THE STRONG MEDS, AND WILL SEE WHAT HAPPENS, IF NOTHING….TOO SCARED TO THINK ABOUT IT…………..HOPE IT GOES WELL WITH THE GRANDS, HOW THAT MUST BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY…WEATHER COULD BE BETTER, HAD TO PUT THE HEATING ON LAST NIGHT…….TAKE CARE, LOVE YOU…JEN X
Jennie, I am sorry you’ve hurt your back with something as innocent as cooking. I know what you’re thinking. How is your bone density. Maybe you should get yourself to the doc and have an Xray if it doesn’t clear up. Don’t let your fear keep you from getting help, okay sweet friend? Love, Sue
Hi folks
Here I am
Yea sue I read about the spasm…thank you for asking Jim..did he have many have them and does it require like she said emergency treatment..why does it only happen the first time!…it’s all odd.i wish she hadn’t said anything if it is rare
Busy day for you and tomorrow ….went to see my dad he is brighter then yesterday.
Hope you got the tiles you wanted and you were able to do it without bowel restriction!
Love chris
Chris, Just dragged myself in from PT. UGH. No, Jim said it make any sense to him and he thought it highly unusual. I don’t like it when medical personnel frighten patients and just let them go on their merry way. Glad your Dad is more perky today. Good sign.
Today I got a sheet of grouts to pick from that go with the tiles. Left it in the car will get to it later. You take care now, okay? Sue