The clock is non-judgmental
It doesn’t care at all.
No thought it gives to me
As it stands within the hall.
The gold watch on my wrist
The alarm clock by the bed,
What care they for misery
Or joy that may lie ahead?
They only serve one purpose
And that’s to track my life,
Moment by moment, clock ticking
Time maps this life of strife.
The good days and the bad
They are the same in length
As you and I struggle to balance
Our pain against our strength.
I try to stop the pendulum
Save time for better days
But the hands of time keeps clicking,
Caring not if I’m ablaze.
When I was very young, time dragged
Christmas’s eons apart and
I measured life by birthdays,
Knowing not what life would impart.
Why does wisdom come so late?
Could I have been prepared?
Is everyone caught by surprise?
I didn’t plan on being impaired.
Could I have a fresh start?
Can I get a “do over” this year?
Can’t someone in charge give me a pass?
I’m sick of being stuck in here.
I want to kick my feet and rage
I’d love to pitch a fit
But I’ve learned from other times
I’d just dig a deeper pit.
With each day that passes
I grow tired of complaint
It just ravages time;
Therefore I attempt restraint.
I’ve discovered I must savor
The moments, the emotions, the hours
For each of them are fragile.
After bloom they fade like flowers.
Old clock you just keep ticking
And I’ll pledge to savor time,
My life, both pain and joy,
And thank you with each chime.
Sue Falkner Wood
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Dear Friends, Just got the call from the oncologist and all is good news. Cat scan and bone scan showed no spread to organs or bones so just the skin metastases for now. Praise God. Just had to share with each of you. Much love, Sue
Sue…such wonderful news to all of our ears…thank GOD!!!!! Our prayers were heard and answered. I am so relieved for you and your family, as I know you are, that you will be getting the once monthly injection instead of the other alternative. Now, you can rest a bit easier. Love, Jo
Jo, thanks so much for being happy for me. Indeed, prayers kept me going and held the cancer at a distance. The doctor said clearly that will always have metastatic disease but we’re going to try to confine it to the skin and the tumors there should shrink with time and this medication. First shot next Wed. as Jim and I have follow up appt. with our cancer surgeon(six month follow ups apparently for awhile.) I also have an appt with my cardiologist. Hope you’re having a better day than most, Jo. Love, Sue
Sue…so your first injection is this coming Wednesday? Do you have to ride into Portland to get it? I hope that it has minimal side effects for you and you will be able to tolerate it. Hope your back and sitter have settled down some too. I wanted to go to the movies today with a friend, but it was not a good “sitter” day today, so I didn’t go.. But at least our weather has turned beautiful here in AZ. I was actually “chilly” walking my dog this a.m.!! It’s almost time to pull out my leggings, sweaters and my boots. Yay!!
Hope you’re having a peaceful weekend. Love, Jo
Deep breath taken. I have been praying and have many friends who have prayed for you as well.
Bobsled, how sweet and kind of you. Yes, our prayers have been answered. Please thank all of your friends who prayed and save a big thank you for yourself. Love, Sue
Prayers answered.
Janet, so right. How much can change in one conversation. It was a long week and I’m trying to fully bask in the joy of it and not take my life for granted. You okay? Love, Sue
Sue..wonderful news…I’m so so pleased….I want to celebrate oh how great!..wish we could all meet up and cheer …and pray .such good news for your family
Love Chris
Yes Chris, it is wonderful news. I feel so much less tension and I think we are all celebrating, wherever we are. I told the doctor how precious the few years I have left mean to me and he agreed. Now it’s my chore to get through all the other symptoms of all the other problems I have and live life to the fullest. Big order for each of us. Love, Sue
the determination you feel now is clear. And it must feel so good to have that and to look to tomorrow .but for now it’s enough to have this news and feel it’s joy. Deal with tomorrow when it comes after what youve been thru this is good .the release of tension for you all too. I wonder what you are doing now…..
Love Chris
Chris dear, since getting the good news I called my son, my daughter, of course my DH and popped it on here for all to see. Then I put on a jacket and went out and washed our front window because last night I asked Jim to move the settee and chair away from the window so I could get to it today. I did a load of laundry and miraculously I only had to restart the washer three times. That’s it and yes, I do feel such relief. Now I have to make something for Jim to eat because I’m having potato soup. Our old dog, Jakie had diarrhea and I had to clean it up and now my back is killing me. Life goes on but without that terrible fear, just pain. Love you much, Sue
Sue
I thought you’d be doing.something like that ,yep life goes on .and to be without that worry is glorious. I know the pains still there and thats sh.t . But there’s still joy and that is such powerful force
Love Chris
Sue, so so happy for you!! God heard and answered all our prayers. Thank You Lord. I now ask you God to please let these injections she is going to take shrink up the nodules and no side effects. Thank you Lord in Jesus Name! I guess you know how I feel about clear results. I am glad the waiting is over. What relief for you and your family. God is good! I am so excited for you. My heart is overflowing with gratitude. I love you Donna
Donna dear, as a cancer survivor I know you understand so much of what I feel. Thank you for your sweet prayers and love. It is greatly appreciated. Love you, Sue
Chris dear, so pleased to hear such sincere joy from my dear friends. It was a long week and now I don’t want to forget to be thankful. Hope you’re okay. Is your Dad improving? Do trust you are taking it a bit easy and nursing along that concussion until it heals. Thinking of you so much. Thinking of you every time I see boots in a catalog.
I should get out to the store today. We will see how it goes as the day progresses. Strange this life we lead as each act or action we perform has to depend on so much of the body working together. Kind of goofy when you think about it and difficult to explain to those who are healthy and take their health for granted. I pray I do not. Much love, Sue
I have just sent you a message before I leave for the coast, been up since 6am, waiting to sneak down to my office to see if your results were in…………………….fantastic, now I can go to the coast and not feeling so anxious……………back later, love you my brave friend……………………Jennie xxxxxxxxxxx
Thanks so much Jen. I did feel so relieved when I woke up this AM. Have a good time, take lots of pics for us. Love you, Sue
HELLO……GOT TO THE COAST, FOUND THE STEPS DOWN TO THE BEACH A BIT DIFFICULT, BUT MANAGED, HAD A LOVELY DAY, BIT WINDY BUT EXHILARATING. THAT’S IT FOR ANOTHER YEAR NOW,,,,,SADLY.
SUE ……BET YOU ARE STILL SOAKING UP THE GOOD NEWS, I KNOW I AM, JUST FOUND OUT MY CHOLESTEROL LEVEL IS UP A BIT, SO WOULD WELCOME ANY TIPS FOR GETTING IT DOWN AS I NEVER HAD THAT PROBLEM BEFORE…….I BET JIM WAS DELIGHTED WITH YOUR RESULTS TOO…………..SO WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP?? I KNOW YOU ARE STILL DEALING WIT ALL THE OTHER STUFF JUST THE SAME, SO BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERDO, AND WATCH THAT BACK……..I LOVE YOU…JEN X
Jennie, I always found taking Metamucil and eating oatmeal each day really helps. Have to watch some of the meds due to all the side effects. Love, Sue
HI SUE……..TAKING NATURAL PLANT STEROLS AGAIN, AND BACK ON THE OATMEAL TOO, SO WITH CUTTING DOWN ON FATS ETC, AND TRYING TO TAKE A DAILY WALK, PLUS DROPPING A DRESS SIZE RECENTLY, SHOULD BE OK…..BUT WILL HAVE ANOTHER TEST DONE IN A COUPLE OF MONTHS OR SO……………..HOPE YOU ARE OK LOVE, THINKING OF YOU………………….LOVE YOU….JEN X
Hya Jen
Glad you had a good day..how do you think the injection is going?
.at least you got to the coast in good weather
WhAt was your cholestrol reading .. benecol drinks are good.one a day..lowers in by 10pc In Three weeks
Low fat you know about so you know the drill ….no cream have low fat yogurt etc.i think tonie has a herb she said she takes for that
Flora original has good fats in it.
Anyway you had a good day today
How’s our Sue ?
Chris
HI CHRIS…..YES IT WAS A LOVELY DAY YESTERDAY, DID US BOTH GOOD, I WILL EMAILS THE “PICS” TO YOU. I FIND TE CHOLESTEROL READINGS HERE A BIT CONFUSING, I KNOW IN THE UK, A READING OF OVER 6 IS TIME FOR ACTION, MINE LOOKS LIKE 7.61, BUT ITS ALL WRITTEN DIFFERENTLY, BUT GOT A FRIEND COMING TOMORROW WHO WAS A MALE NURSE, AND HIS WIFE IS STILL NURSING, SO THEY WILL PUT ME RIGHT…………….GLAD SUGAR WAS OK THOUGH.
I AM BACK ON THE CHOLESTEROL DRINKS NOW, AND THE NATURAL TABLETS, CUTTING OUT CERTAIN THINGS, ADDING OTHERS, ITS A BLOODY MINEFIELD, BECAUSE OF THE DIVA AND IBS TOO.
HOW ARE THINGS WITH YOU ??………………LOVE JEN X
Sue, what wonderful news! Prayers answered!
Good morning Peeps:
From good ole soggy bottom Virginia ! Cooler Temps and more rain on the way !! YEAH ! 😦 THe kids are already complaining about the rain,,, so funny, at first they couldn’t get enough of it !
Sue I am so happy about your news. Nothing could be better, unless they pronounced you clear !
I was so stressed out last night ! Got a bill from my internet company that they were going to disconnect my service YESTERDAY. THey were supposed to be deducting from my checking. I was deducting it, not looking the bill cause it was being paid right ? wrong !
Bad on me. Stayed on the phone waiting for over and hour (disconnected three times) then the last disconnect, I called back and they were closed. So this morning I must do it all over again ! ARGHH !
Knocked over the blender cup this morning with all the fixings for the smoothie inside, last of my juice. Just starting out lovely !!
So now that you have had a laugh, I bid you all to have a great day !!
Love to all
Tonie
Oh, Tonie, I hope your day improves! Good luck with the internet company!!
Tonie, sure hope your day improved. What a start. Need to ask the kids if they prefer that awful AZ heat to the rain. They’ll love the snow…at least the children will. Hope the internet nightmare got straightened out for you. You gotta just hate days that start that way. Let us know if all is right later. Love, Sue
YIPEE !!!!!!!!!!!! MY WINDOWS ARE IN, NO MORE INDOOR ICICLES THIS WINTER……………..DOESN’T TAKE MUCH TO MAKE ME HAPPY………………….LOVE TO ALL…………JENNIE XX
Jen, Good. Thanks for letting us know. It’s true. Simple things like shelter do matter. Sue
Tonie
What a starter day…I hate those telephone companies and stuff to deal with ,they never know what’s happening and soooo dull..
Liquid everywhere oh boy…hope the rest of the day got better
Jen
Emailed you and glad you got sorted
Hope the weather keeps going on as it is.a good day for getting work done on the house
Well DD and friend coming up tomorrow morning .got a lot of stuff in
I don’t watch sport on TV especially rugby…but it’s Oz v England tomorrow nite. .so dH and DD on th Oz side and her friend the English side and me well I’m Welsh so I’ll sit on the fence..so it should be a fun nite….bought stuff in to eat with it etc
Had to ring Dr about DH heartbeat it was all Scatty ,even with the pacemaker and I saw that was one of the side effects. So he said to stop it and inc. the other tab he’s on..so that’s where we are at moment
My heads still no good have to go back to Dr when back
My dad wants another carer and agency so I rang to sort that out yesterday.but it takes a while..I don’t think I like this one either .
Chris
Oh Chris, I’m a bit confused about DH…surely you meant you didn’t stop the pacemaker but a medication? I’m so sorry you both have that to deal with but know it had to have been a bit scary for both. Life is so complicated, isn’t it. Like Jen said the other day, it takes a lot to keep all this life together when it’s always so complicated.
Sorry you have to see doctor but do understand. What a lot you have been through and knowing you, you put your roles as wife and mother first and keep doing, right? Do try to rest while DD and friend are there. The watching of the rugby together sounds like fun for each of you. I’m convinced anything we can do with our families is so life supporting, don’t you think?
So, your Dad want another caregiver? Oh dear. So, you don’t like the current one? Is it that same fellow?
You’re in my thoughts and prayers as you have so much going on. Please be good to yourself. I didn’t know you were Welsh. Makes you all the more interesting. Love, Sue
Oh my heavens Chris. Although the majority of my ancestors are Scottish or Irish, my farher’s line is straight Welsh. The line Patriarch left for the Americas in 1638 and we can trace right back to the town he came from. (I’d have to ask dad the name I’ve forgotten it). So much to deal with what with your Dd, Dh and father you are surely busy. Take care of yourself
To get back to 1638 that’s great.i wonder where he came from..might be from near where i was born
It can be a small world
Hope you are ok yourself
All best Laura
Chris
Sue
No your right not the pacemaker .the tabs he stopped were doxazosin.the ones he’s inc are candesartan
No I’m not sure of this one carer my dad says he pulls and pushes him..doesn’t hurt him .but I think he’s a bit officious . My dad is on so many meds.and when I was with the Parkinson’s spec with my dad ha said try this melatonin for sleeping.well he Could try it and stop if he wanted.
He takes sleeping meds as well!. He’s been getting tired during the day. Moreso,and his speech is nonexistent. . So he wanted to stop one of them.the carer wouldn’t stop them it’s difficult to understand my dad so I worked out that it was the melatonin thst is making him weird during the day.the spec said he could stop,if he wanted.the carer won’t stop them.so I had a word with him and he got arsy with me.so I had to say I want my dad to stop them tonite……Then he said I then want a new pack of tablets.hes only got to take the big round one out.so after a talk he said he would..I then thought.Mmmmmm..not sure of you mate!. His attitude was unbendable until I spoke up . That’s why I want a change as well as this carer seems to sleep a lot during the day and doesn’t do any cleaning which they should….I mentioned he now pays a cleaner.
I’d have gone back today but Dd coming up tomorrow and DH as he is and changing meds ,and a bit odd on them,will now go back Monday .but the NHS said he really should go into a nursing home..it won’t be long untill he has to have a tube for feeding. But he is fighting to live where he is….oh dear …..all so troubling
Had a coffee with a new mate a few doors up..nice girl well she’s 56 . Had a chat there for an hour and came back.id only gone to go to rubbish bins! DH knows I’m usually chatting if I’m gone long…but it lifts the spirit
Sue did you go shopping like you said?
Well up and can’t go to sleep excited about tomorrow . we’ve got blackberries growing at the bottom of our patch so pick some tomorrow and tumble with the strawberries on half fat creme fresh and some meringue bits and crushed ginger biscuits …not for me tho seeds a bummer
Oh well try and go to sleep
Chris
I had to laugh sue me more interesting…makes me seem mysterious …!
Chris, Yes I went shopping yesterday. Called Jim to come home and carry it all in because of my hurting back and shoulders. It seems like the least I can do and I prefer to pick out my own groceries since I’m the cook.
I understand what you mean about the caregiver. First if he’s supposed to be cleaning, then report him. He shouldn’t be pushing and pulling your Dad or anyone in his condition. Does that make you fear him? As far as the meds, sounds like he’s trying to keep his own arse covered by doing what’s ordered. Melatonin is a good sleep aide but you do have to watch it, even though it’s natural, if used with any other sleep medication. I have to agree things are not looking good for your Dad. All the swallowing problems are a concern. His speech sounds so much like drowning that it’s got to be frightening. Is this caregiver giving him the thickener with his liquids? I sure hope so. Nurses and caregivers don’t always recognize this problem and go ahead and give “just a sip” of water…which is very dangerous.
Yes dear English/Welsh friend, you are interesting to us over here across the pond. Not just because of the national difference but because we have come to love you. You are also one of us because you bravely march forward each day and also manage to care for many around you. Love, Sue
Yea I like to shop stuff myself…some get it ordered over the net and delivered but I did that twice years ago and things were wrong ,veg not right and the dates were to soon on the packs i like to get the latest dates on items
Yep I’m concerned for my dad since we have reported him to the NHS. They take time to find another agency. I trust they have dealt with it gently .my dad knows I’m not too good at moment and I feel is keeping stuff from me..maybe not,but that’s what I feel .so I ring and talk to this carer every day to see and judge him Yes I feel you are right with him protecting himself.
If I ring the Dr. On this tablet issue he will think I’m wasting his time .i will check again about the liquid issue
Your last words were so kind and generous. I feel honoured by them and to be part of this wonderful family
Love Chris
Hi everyone, I know everyone is excited about Sue’s great report. I am glad she only has to have an injection once a month to shrink the nodules. I hate she has to drive so long to get it but at least the rest of her body and bones are clear. Praise God! We are all so happy for you SUE! I am in the same boat as Tonie. We might need a boat to get where we are going by the time the rain stops. My DH had to put mulch on the area right in front of our back door because it was so muddy. I haven’t been out of my house in days. Afraid I might fall. It is not going to get any better for several more days. Nasty mess. We really needed rain but not so much at one time. My DH granddaughter is getting married next Saturday so tomorrow he is doing a meal for her wedding party. 25 people are expected. It is going to be messey with all the cars parking in our yard and people coming up to the house for the bathroom. I hope they bring their umbrellas. At least my DH has an area beside the garage that is closed in so he could put up tables. It would be tough to try and have them in the house. I am going to stay in the house. It will be too muddy for me plus I don’t want to get my walker all wet and muddy. So my hubby can bring me a plate and I will enjoy it from afar. I hope all of you have a good night and sleep well. Goodnight. I love all of you. Donna
Donna
Wow..what a weekend you will have. Here’s me getting excited by two guests and you are having loads! I do hope it all stops raining for you and the house keeps ok and no mud trudged in to mess up. I think it’s a good idea to keep,warm and dry inside for you
Are you going the wedding?
Your DH must be a good cook .i remember you’ve said he has done this for parties before
Chris
Donna, oh dear, so much mud and squish. I am so sorry and know you must be feeling a bit stir crazy and housebound by now. I think Tonie is slightly better off because she’s on a mountain area with a bit more run off. Hope so. ANd to have so much going on at your place…you and DH are very brave. Let’s hope the rain stops before Noah shows up. So much flooding in some parts of the south look so terribly sad.
Thank you for being so happy for me with my scan results. I am deeply relieved to know I may not bite the big one just yet. Same old bit on all the other problems. Somehow they seem easier to deal with now that the big C has a plan for treatment. It is a strangely invasive feeling having these nodules I can see and feel. I look forward to having them shrink and pray the side effects of the shots are minimum.
Thinking of you and hoping the rain stops very soon. Do be good to yourself, okay? Thanks again for your kind remarks. Sue
HELLO……………..WELL EVERYONE SEEMS TO BE VERY BUSY THIS WEEKEND…..EVEN I AM HAVING VISITORS IN ABOUT AN HOUR,
CHRIS……I HOPE YOU GET YOUR DAD’S CARE SORTED OUT, AND ALSO HAVE A GREAT TIME WITH DD AND FRIEND, I TOO SIT ON THE FENCE WHEN ITS ENGLAND AND FRANCE, I AM PART WELSH TOO.
SUE……HOW ARE YOU DOING? WHEN DO THE INJECTIONS START, OR AM I BEHIND WITH EVERYTHING AGAIN? YOU HAVE GOOD MEDICAL SUPPORT WHICH MUST BE A BLESSING, I WISH YOU A RESTFUL WEEKEND SWEET FRIEND.
DONNA….SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE IN FOR A BUSY BUT HAPPY TIME, SO MUCH TO DO, HOPE THE WEATHER CONDITIONS IMPROVE BEFORE THEN.
TONIE….WRITTEN TO YOU……………..HAVE A GOOD WEEKEND.
LOVE AND PRAYERS TO EACH AND A HAPPY WEEKEND…………………………JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Dear Jennie and Jo, since you both asked about the injections I’ll answer you together. Yes, next Wednesday will be the first injection. I do have to travel to Portland to get it otherwise I would have to change to the oncologist here in town and would not like to do that.
Jennie, sounds like you’re going to be pushing the envelope a bit and I hope you enjoy yourself while you do it with your company. Are you cooking? Bet you are. Have fun.
Jo, sounds like you are relieved it is finally getting a bit cooler in AZ. I don’t blame you. Sorry you missed the movie but I sure do understand. The last movie I saw in a theater was CASTAWAY with Tom Hanks. It’s been awhile. We just wait until they come out and rent them or buy them. Hope tomorrow is a better sitter day for you. I am now resting but have been getting dinner on…beef stroganoff. Hope my gut enjoys it and doesn’t keep me awake all night. Life is very complicated but still worth it. Love to both of you dear friends, Sue
HELLO…….SUE. NO I DIDN’T HAVE TO COOK AS THEY WERE COMING TO AFTERNOON TEA, SO GOT OUT OF THAT ONE, OUR FRENCH FRIENDS ARE HUSBAND AND WIFE AND BOTH NURSES, SO THEY TOOK A LOOK AT MY BLOOD RESULTS, AND SAID ALL IS WITHIN NORMAL LIMITS, TO JUST WATCH THE SALT INTAKE A BIT……SO FEEL BETTER ABOUT THE CHOLESTEROL NOW……HOWEVER!! NOT GOING TO USE THIS AS AN EXCUSE TO EAT WHAT I LIKE, LIKE TONIE I AM REDUCING MY WEIGHT AND DOING QUITE WELL……………….I AM SORRY YOU WILL BE DOING ALL THAT TRAVELLING AGAIN, BUT IF YOU GET THE RIGHT RESULTS FROM THE INJECTION TREATMENT, IT WILL BE WORTH IT. I FOUND A MEMORY FOAM CUSHION FOR OUR CAR, AND THOUGH ITS NOT GOING TO FIX THINGS, IT DOES HELP, BET YOU ALREADY THOUGHT OF THAT THOUGH.
MANAGED A LONG WALK ROUND THE LAKE TODAY, FED THE DUCKS, SACHA GOT A GOOD RUN, NOTICED MY DH IS GETTING SLOWER NOW, BUT STILL PRETTY ACTIVE, PLEASE GOD HE STAYS THAT WAY FOR SOME TIME.
A HAPPY SUNDAY TO EACH, HOPE YOU ARE ALL DOING OK…………….MUCH LOVE…..JENNIE XXXXXXX
Hi Sue…Well I hope your gut was able to enjoy the beef stroganoff you prepared for dinner. I love beef stroganoff and need to find my recipe.
Yes, Sue, I am so very relieved to have the Summer behind me though it wasn’t a real bad one. It does get “monotonous” believe me! I don’t feel very well with the hot temps. Tonie knows firsthand what I mean. But it’s the trade off I make instead of the long bitter cold snowy Chicago winters. Can’t do those anymore.
So, Castaway was your last movie at theater. One of my favorite movies..i think it’s from 2000 or 2001.. I have the DVD and have watched it a hundred times. Such good lessons to learn from this movie.
I hope you are enjoying your Sunday, Sue. I’m getting my house ready today for potential buyers to come and take a look tomorrow in between cooking.. I have a turkey breast in the oven and it smells like Thanksgiving in my house! Hope it tastes as good as it smells. Love, Jo
Linda
Hi
Such a sad story but some uplifting moments too.you have mentioned some of your problems before and I thought they had improved for you ,so I’m sad they have not.
And I’m the same with days of the week..I never know..I need markers too. Similar to you …if my favourite tea room is closed for the day
Well have been busy and soooo bored with sport on TV …ugh! Rugby ugh…not gonna even watch the rest of it .
Day went well and the food I cooked was ok weather was good so they went for walks on the beach
Her friend runs and does marathons so she is in training for a big one coming up so she is off for a 15 mike run at about 7 am tomorrow !
Have made a quiche thingy for tomorrow and pot salad. With Cole slaw.gonna do bacon sandwiches for breakfast .
I’m being good and only eating bits so I look like I’m having a meal
My dad seems a bit brighter off the melatonin
That’s it I’m gonna get some sleep…I hope
Chris
I list a post I had done to Laura .so I rewrote it .i think that’s the one that’s awaits moderation as it says
Chris
Oh that’s another post that says this moderation thingy it’s odd
Hi
I’ve written posts to Laura and Linda and all.but I misspelt my name.and my three posts have gone to modemisation and have got lost
Too tired to do others so another day tomorrow
Hope all ok
Been busy
Chris
Chris, sorry. These darn computers demand accuracy. Enjoy your weekend. Sue
My husband just brought all the left over food in the house so I am getting ready to dig in. He fixed potato salad, green beans, baked beans slaw,+ bbq butt & chicken along with hot wings. He fixed it all himself. It was all made from scratch. He bought dessert from Sams Club. A tray full of cookies and 2 tubs of chocolate cake with chocolate pudding and whipped cream done in layers. Cannot wait to eat some of it. I stayed in the house. With the cold air the wind and sprinkling rain I was hurting so badly I was in tears. Only about 5 people came in the house to use the bathroom so it wasn’t too muddy. We live on a hill so we get a lot of runoff. I would say all and all it turned out great. Well I stopped and took a break so I could eat the plate my DH fixed for me. I had a little bit of everything. It was all so good. I will have to wait a little before I try the dessert.
CHRIS, I hope your dad is feeling better. I know you are going to enjoy your DD and her friend. Did you cook for them or are you going to eat out? How is your DH blood pressure? I hope it is staying pretty normal. Please rest when you can. Sometimes it takes a while to heal from a concussion.
JENNIE, you said you were having people over today also. I bet you cooked for them. Hope you enjoy them. Try not to work to hard. You and your DH looked so good in the pictures you posted from your day trip to the coast. Enjoy your visitors!
SUE, Hope you aren’t hurting too bad today. How is your weather? In all honesty I am miserable with all this wind and rain. They say it isn’t going to clear up until Monday. I don’t know when Tonie’s will clear up. This is not from the hurricane, there is a low front stalled over the southern area. I am sick of it. I hate you have to go to Portland for your injections but I wouldn’t want to change doctors either. At least it is only once a month. I have to say that in all the breast cancer or other cancer survivors I have met over the last 14 years, you are the first one with this kind of cancer I have heard of. Amazing. I will have to ask my oncologist about it.
Anyway, my tummy is full and I just had 2 small bowels of the dessert and it was delicious, so I am going to sign off. I love all of you very much, Donna
P.S. I hope everyone has a great Sunday. I pray our wind dies down and very little rain. I pray all of you have great weather tomorrow.Donna
Donna, I know. I always seem to get the unusual things…diseases, etc. I did look it up online and found it’s not all that uncommon for metastatic disease of both lung and breast to go to the skin. Until it happened to me I had never seen any of it in 35 years of nursing. Lucky me.
I have to say your husband’s dinner sounds rather FABULOUS. Jim can make anything out of a can and scramble eggs so we will never starve. I am so sorry to hear the rain is still coming down. How awful for all those being flooded. I hate to think of all that damage to their homes and the danger.
Do stay warm and dry dear girl. Once all the pressure lifts in the weather you should feel better. Love, Sue
Well here I am to try again and not misspell!
Laura
Fancy you can trace back to that time .the family might have been born near where I was born. I like to know ..it can be a small world.
Look after yourself Chris
Linda
I know you have posted before how things are for you.i thought they might have improved .im sad that they haven’t . Life can be lonely as Laura says but you have your friends that’s a bonus to be thankful for
You have had a lot of ill health too . Life is so complicated and some seem to have it so easy .certainly not on this blog!
Well
It’s 6am here. Waiting for the day to start. DD s friend will be going for her 17 mile run soon…….! What it is to be fit it must be all so easy
Donna
Your food sounds all lovely.
Yea I’m cooking for them. Had a stirfry…four different types of Chinese.. chicken in coconut spicy sauce bamboo shoots ,stir fry veg in a peanut sauce .and noodles. Then I did a layered desert of meringue,low fat creme fresh,crushed cookies and strawberries and blueberries with nuts..and topped with a syrup of course I couldn’t eat that with the seeds .but it looked good
Well I might just drift off back to sleep ,looks like nice weather again today .
Oh it looks like we might get your rain over here shortly.they are saying so on TV
Chris
Oh Chris, Chinese cuisine is so much work. It sounds wonderful…all the chopping and stirfry and planning. Hope you’re having a good visit. I’m sure your dessert was a huge hit. 17 mile run? OMG.
Hope you’re having a good visit, hope Dad is okay and that you got some more sleep. Love, Sue
Morning Peeps !!
Took me a bit to get caught up. Got the fiasco straightened out with the phone company. But I still have to pay them 😦 Chris, that desert sounds yumilicious. Wish I could taste it.
Well, my first day alone in about 3 months. I awoke with a start like I had overslept this am. !! It was not 7 yet. I did have to crack the heat on a bit to knock the chill out of the air. SInce we haven’t seen the sun in about a week, it is no wonder. I got my floors cleaned yesterday, and my kitchen on the surface. I have so much organizing to do, it is unreal. I hate it too. Today I am going to tackle my bedroom. Since I see it more often , and neatness calms me. When I look over at the mess of my closet, it is unreal. I even made me a list of each room and what to accomplish in it. Tomorrow I have a Dr apt with the Rheumy. It will be in and out. But while I am in town I want to shop for a couple of skirts or dresses. Mine are getting too big. 🙂 Brutie is sleeping with his head on my shoulder, and the sound of him deep breathing is putting me back to sleep.
Chris, of course we are interested in you. You are like us, yet different in culture. I love when you describe your foods, and just all the things you do and talk about. Jennie as well. To me different from me is interesting. And we love you. So there !!
Donna: hope you haven’t had to get that boat out yet ! Like Sue said I am on high ground, so all is just a soggy mud mess right now. I have to get some crushed gravel for the front of the chicken pen or I am going to slip and fall one day.
I pray you all have a wonderful day. It is not raining, but still overcast. I miss the sun. And yes, Sue even the Az immigrants are tired of the rain. My brother came down yesterday just to get out of the house, said he was going nuts.
Well, must get dressed
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie dear, shopping for new clothes? How exciting is that? I’m so very proud of you and can just hear the joy in your voice and written word. I do hope you’ll be careful tomorrow for the doctor visit in all that wet weather. How awful it has been down in SC. Just terrible. So many lives disrupted.
So, how is it to be a lone dweller once again. I’ll bet it was quiet? How are the kids doing with all the moving in? I know it will take awhile to get settled, because it’s a huge job but Nikki must be so happy. I hope the kids like their new schools and all goes well with that. Now you both have unpacking to do. So you made a list of what you want to do in each room? I’m so impressed you organized lady you. Have fun and do be good to yourself. Much love, Sue
Hello, all, I’ve been enjoying reading about everyone’s culinary goodies this weekend. We had Chinese takeout last night. DH knows I haven’t been feeling great this week, I think. Not sure what I will do tonight. DH is out on a playing gig, so not eating with us. I think both SB and DD will be home. Maybe DD will even want to cook. Sometimes she does. 🙂 We’ve been having a rainy time here, too, but today I believe we are to be rain free! Just in time. The local Humane Shelter is having a 5k walk on the Rails to Trails trail Sadie and I walk on (just a different section) to benefit the shelter. Sadie, DD, and I walked it last year and plan to walk today. Sweatshirts might be in order, it was cold here yesterday. DH and I were discussing if Sadie should wear her jersey. She has been wearing a football jersey of his favorite team on game days (she actually like wearing it!) They have a game today. Of course, the game is during the walk time. Hmm… We have been debating adopting another dog as a playmate for Sadie. She’s a bit much for the kitties. I’ve been keeping an eye on the website for the shelter. There was a senior that was a poodle mix I thought might work – he still is active, and a senior. I feel bad for seniors without homes. But, he bit someone at the shelter – he may simply have been over stressed, we don’t know, but he is in quarantine for now. Not sure he’d be the best fit now. They do have a cute little Jack Russell Terrier – 4 y/o female – but not sure if she is a barker. So many of them are, and we have been working so hard to stop Sadie from barking! Hm. She would be a good size, though… We’d like to stay smaller. Maybe I can ask some of the shelter people at the walk today.
Well, I’ve run on a bit, now, haven’t I? Please forgive. Enjoy the rest of the weekend, all!
Oh, forgot one interesting tidbit. SB is now seeing his most recent girlfriend again. He is quick to say they are not an item yet, just the modern equivalent to dating. I say, perfect. We like her, and what boy needs to be in a serious relationship at 21 when they are still finding their own way? But, we like that he has found someone he wants to date. Bright spot for him right now in the middle of a car fiasco. Oh, I didn’t share that. He bought a 1990 (I think) Mazda Miata about a month ago or so and it died on him a couple of weeks ago. Turns out it needs a new engine. $$$ I guess we may be waiting a bit longer to replace our flooring downstairs. 😦 It really needs it, but he can’t possibly afford the car work on his own. DD is into her online class work and earning mostly 100%s on her work so far. 🙂
HI LYN…………..I HOPE YOU CAN PICK OUT A SUITABLE PLAY MATE FOR SADIE, I AGREE, NOT MANY WILL WANT TO TAKE ON THE OLDER DOGS AND CATS, AND ITS HEART BREAKING SEEING THEM REJECTED TIME AFTER TIME, WHICH EVER YOU CHOOSE WILL BE GOING TO A LOVING HOME.
ENJOY YOUR DAY WITH THE FAMILY……………….LOVE JENNIE X
Lyn, why not let Sadie pick out her playmate? At least you’d know they’d get along. Are you sure you want another dog? It’s twice the work. As far as Jack Russell’s, our Annie was not much of a barker but she was terribly opinionated and strong. On a walk she was always in charge and aggressive. I understand why you’re looking but am trying to envision you walking two dogs each day. Good luck with what will be. If you decide on one, that will be a lucky pup.
Sorry to hear about SB’s car. What a bummer, huh? Sounds like DD is doing well with her education and that’s very exciting. Hope she cooked dinner tonight for you three.
You mentioned you had not been feeling well…so hope all is well with you. Thoughts and hugs if you’re in a rough spell. As ever with love, Sue
Hi Jo, Turkey sounds wonderful. Unfortunately I am married to a man who got burnt out on fowl in the army and only eats fried chicken and turkey on Thanksgiving. I can’t eat a whole one by myself. I do occasionally make a roasted chicken and share with my daughters family. I hope your Open House goes well. SO much trouble, I know. Yes, CASTAWAY is a good film and so touching. They also make it all so plausible.
Unfortunately the beef stroganoff caused me trouble all night but was worth it. Just won’t have leftovers for myself tonight. One can only eat so many potatoes, plain pasta and oatmeal. Take care and hope the sitter is behaving for you after cleaning house. Love, Sue
Jennie, put you off until last today because I knew you’d be sleeping. I don’t think Chris ever sleeps. A walk around the lake sounds so lovely. Glad Sacha is frisky and feeling better, too. Happy your friends were able to allay your fears about your cholesterol level. So you’re losing weight, also. How good for you. I don’t see that you have it to lose so you must hide it well or sit on it? You sound good and I hope you are feeling that way. I know what you mean about DH. I sometimes look at Jim and he’s still so strong but walks differently with both knees replaced and aging. Life just keeps pumping right along, I know.
Yes I have a memory foam pillow that stays in my car all the time and another in the backseat with a strap on it for taking in places. Think it’s just plain foam because it isn’t as heavy. We sleep on memory foam and I love it. I’m on it so much it doesn’t really need a memory…I have two other cushions in the house…one feather one to sit on. Wrote this week’s blog today but did it lying down.Hope everyone likes it. Do take care and know you’re loved. Sue
HI SUE……..YES THE WALK ROUND THE LAKE WAS NICE, BUT I GOT SOAKED, ITS TREE LINED AND THE DEW WAS CONSTANTLY DRIPPING ON MY HEAD, BY THE TIME I GOT HOME, I LOOKED LIKE A DROWNED RAT.
OH MARK MY WORDS I HAVE PLENTY OF WEIGHT TO LOSE, I TRY NOT TO GET A BACK VIEW OF MYSELF, THINK IT WOULD FREAK ME OUT…..GOT DOWN FROM 74 KILOS TO 69, SO GETTING THERE.
I THINK MY CONCERNS WITH MY DH, ARE WHEN HE WILL HAVE TO START BRINGING UP THE LOGS FROM THE CELLAR WHEN WE START LIGHTING THE LOG BURNER, HE FINDS IT SO HARD, AND I CAN’T HELP WITH THAT.
YES I TOO HAVE A MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS, COULDN’T BE WITHOUT IT, AND MY ONE IN THE CAR IS A MINI VERSION OF THAT. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO READING THE NEW BLOG, AND HOW THE HECK YOU MANAGED TO WRITE IT LAYING DOWN I DON’T KNOW….BUT I AM GRATEFUL FOR IT….LOVE YOU…JEN X
Hi Jen, actually I always write my blogs lying down. Most of my activity on the computer is in that position.
I can see it would be a concern to have to haul up logs from the basement. Can we all put our heads together and think of something? Can they be made lighter throw chopping, and maybe hiring that done? Can he rig up a pulley? Poor guy. I know I have to have Jim carry all heavy stuff and I always feel badly asking him. Our guys are aging and I worry just like you do and want life to be easier for them. Yes, I guess old winter is on the way. So many in our south are suffering right now with the flooding. It’s so sad and dangerous. Nine dead thus far and so much damage. Later, Love, Sue
Hya
Yep I’m here awake it’s 2.30am!
It’s so good to be by ourselves after 2days.just think tonie and all her family. It must feel so different now. Like a bit lost with them gone but good that you’ve got time to yourself
Jo
Hope all goes well with the people coming around.it would be good to sell it quick now. But it’s a lot of stress . And your mum and how things are. , be good for the house to go quick and easy now
Lyn
Don’t you feel for your kids and what they go thru. Such a shame about SB,s car how disappointed he must have been….and the girlfriend ..good innit? But don’t you feel like you just want to protect them..you must be so excited and proud of both of them with your DD getting high marks too
Jen
Good about your chol. level. And like Sue I think your weight is just fine.hows the joints now with the injection
Sue
Bummer about the meal and your tum.life is so limiting for us. Wish you could just buy food for ibs people that was good and worked.
Looking forward to new blog
My DD went to see my dad on her way home..she found two tablets hidden in a chair. He’s taken to not taking his antibiotics and Parkinson’s . He was wanting to be helped to this chair as DD walked in and was just hiding them as she went in and got them. From the side of the chair.im list with it all. There nothing I can do so it will gave to be
DD bp seems ok heartbeat even now he us off those meds.
Me I’m just whacked and got this head ,still feel sick with it
I’ve lost 9ilbs ..not eaten much and got used to,it..
.have a good time Tonie shopping for clothes.
,you have lost so much
Same here, I like to hear about how different but the same things are over with you..it’s like new but the same. Look after yourself tomorrow after the Dr and take all the cleaning and stuff just bit by bit
How good to have time to yourself
I’ve got a fridge full of food still ..I shall have to be careful ..I gave them both stuff to take away..but still more in it than usual.
Going back home later today, so have to lug it all home…..so I’ll be back there when next on here
Chris
Well Chris, I guess we’ve all found something good often comes out of some bad happening. Good about the weight loss because I know you want that but sorry the head is still reeling. I’m a bit worried about it and hope you can see a doc when you get home, just to be sure you’re healing okay. Sounds like you’ll be eating leftovers for awhile, huh? It did sound so delicious and so much work.
Well, your Dad is being your Dad. Up to new tricks and old ones. Glad you’re taking it so much in your stride after being through so much. Poor old dear…him, not you. You’re in your prime. My daughter told me the other day she has figured out she can’t think of herself as middle aged any longer unless she’s going to live into her nineties. I remember that feeling. It’s a real eye opener when life slips up on us and says “Boo.” Hope you go back to sleep now dear. Love, and have a safe trip home tomorrow. Sue
HI CHRIS…….OH DEAR YOUR DAD IS BEING NAUGHTY AGAIN, I AM CONCERNED ABOUT YOU MY FRIEND, THIS HEAD BUSINESS IS JUST RUNNING ON, YOU SHOULD BE RECOVERING FROM A BANG ON THE HEAD BY NOW, AND NOT EATING, WELL I KNOW YOU ARE LIKE ME THERE, ALWAYS THINKING YOU NEED TO LOSE WEIGHT, BUT FROM THE PHOTO’S I HAVE OF YOU, IF YOU GET ANY THINNER YOU WILL DISAPPEAR. YOU NEED TO EAT LOVE, OR YOUR BODY WILL BE STARVED OF VITAL VITAMINS AND MINERALS, AND YOU WILL GET DIZZY……..GLAD YOU DD SEEMS BETTER, BUT PLEASE LOOK AFTER YOU TOO…..LOVE JEN X
PS….THE SHOT WAS EFFECTIVE FOR SUCH A SHORT TIME, DON’T THINK I WILL HAVE THE SECOND ONE….X
Sue and Chris, thanks for your concern, but I wasn’t complaining about how my husband is. I have prayed daily (and more) for him, I’ve done what I can. I still love him, even if he doesn’t act like I want him to! I’m okay with it all, just keep myself busy and occupied. We just happen to wish to spend our old age differently.
Sue, as for my esophagus, it’s not a nursing area I ever got involved with, except for people who had chronic problems very high, above the bronchial tubes. The ER docs would try to remove the object, but we’d start prepping for the GI guy on call. But, it makes sense that if it contracts once, it’ll do it again. I”m not choking much, but I have a very hard time swallowing my meds. I take them with Boost, but that’s stopped helping quickly. I do occasionally choke on certain foods, so I avoid them. The worst is the feeling in my chest, about midway down. It feel as if something is there, blocking food from going down and gas from coming up. Just another aggravation.
Chris, I can trace my maternal grandfather back to the 1600’s. His family was from Bedforshire.The one who came to the US was “sentenced” to relocate here for treason and being a heretic–they became Quakers.
Linda, Many years ago I worked for a group of ENT doctors who did quite a bit of the esophageal stretching. In those days it was done by ENT instead of GI. I can be somewhat sympathetic having seen it done and assisted many times. I also have esophageal burns from my radiation treatment last year for cancer. I have problems but not to the extent you do. Hopefully you can get in and get it done with your doctor you like. In the meantime, do be careful. THinking of you. Love, Sue
Sue, my doctor is not taking any more patients who need procedures. They told me to call my pcp and have him refer me to another GI. No one is coming to replace my doctor, so I have a choice of two in town. One I don’t like, but it’s for silly reasons and not for his quality of care. The other I don’t know. So, I decided the devil I know and asked my doc to refer me to him. I do watch what I eat, sticking to mostly fish and baked potatoes. They are both very gentle on my tummy and go down well. It makes sense that an ent would do this procedure. I don’t know if our local guys do that. Might need to look into that.
Linda
So interesting to have ancestors like that. My DH,s were on the first fleet to Oz as criminals. Horse thieves and one poor lady for stealing a few yards of cloth. What they must have gone thru Bedfordshire is not far from me
The swallowing problem I can sympathise with.altho I’m not as bad..what started it for you…?
Life settles how it will nothing can change what it will be..couples all have their own way of getting by.we are all not so different from other couples really.just appear that way
Chris, I have heard a lot of remarks about folks in the US and Oz are all descents of criminals. But, if you examine the crimes and the severity of punishment for the least little thing, I’ll take my “criminals” and be happy with them.
I think what started my problems was acid reflux. At one time, I had it so bad it had burned my nasal cavities and sinuses. Since I had the stroke I have had some trouble with swallowing. So, I’m not sure, and don’t really know what can start it.
You’re right, life does settle as it will. When I get flustered, I remember that I’m being selfish, wanting things done MY way. And I just don’t have the right to force my will on others. Not that I haven’t tried at times! I have to remember too, that it’s not my will that I should be seeking.
HI LINDA…………..I TOO GET THAT FEELING OF HAVING A BLOCKAGE AND NOT DIGESTING CERTAIN FOODS PROPERLY…….I GET IT WITH VERY DRY MEAT OR FISH, AND WITH SOME BREADS, EVEN SOME CEREALS, ITS A PAIN ISN’T IT?
IF YOU AND YOUR DH HAVE SEPERATE INTEREST IN RETIREMENT, IS THAT A BAD THING, MY DH GOES GOLFING, BECAUSE OF MY O/A, I HAD TO GIVE UP A LOT OF MY HOBBIES, BUT IF I FEEL THE NEED TO GET OUT, HE WILL COME WITH ME, AND WE FIND MUTUAL THINGS OF INTEREST TO DO….WOULD THAT BE A POSSIBILITY FOR YOU??? JUST A THOUGHT……MUCH LOVE…..JENNIE X
Jennie, DH just won’t get out. He cancels most of his doctor appointments, reschedules only to cancel them again. He goes when they tell him they won’t refill his meds if he doesn’t come in. At least he’s concerned about that. After my stroke, my voice got weaker and weaker. And it never was very loud. He gets angry when I try to talk to him, says I’m mumbling on purpose just to irritate him. When I suggest we go places that we both used to love to visit, he tells me to ask my son to take me. When I had my esophagus dilated, I told him that someone had to go with me and drive me home. He told me to ask my son or one of my friends. And he used to be right there for those things. I know his legs hurt him a lot and his breathing sounds horrid. He used to love to shop. I’ve never been a big shopper, if you saw me at a store, I had gone for something specific. But he’d wander around Wal-mart for hours, a couple or 3 times a week. I don’t think he’s been in a store for 3 years now. Last year, on his birthday, I told him I wanted to take him out for dinner, at his favorite place. He thanked me and said he’d just rather have his sub. So, I do what I can, but I don’t push.
Dry meat gets me too, but fish goes down nicely for me. Breads will get me sometimes, especially corn bread. Bacon is another thing that I choke on. Well, it gives me something new to talk about! Maybe I don’t choke on veggies for I have always like them what most would consider overcooked. I don’t want them crunchy in the least.
Hon, I have always thought I was right where I was supposed to be, even if I didn’t understand why.
Sue
Posted a comment to you under reply and it said posting comment but got stuck on it and that was it.came out and come in and it’s gone
So just a quicky been watching downton I recorded tonite .and a cup,if tea and chocolate …oh dear..
You will love downton when you see it
Age ..funny thing
Chris
Chris, I’m looking forward to seeing the last season of Downton. Saw it for sale today but only to reserve until Jan. next year when it starts on TV over here. Sorry you lost an entry. So frustrating isn’t it? Now please rest dear lady. Sue
CHRIS….DOWNTON WAS GREAT LAST NIGHT WASN’T IT? GLAD THE WEDDING WENT WITHOUT A HITCH, AND WHAT A LOVELY SURPRISE AT THE END…….OUR FRIENDS ACROSS THE POND WILL LOVE THIS….XX
Oh Chris, I’ve been watching Downton too, and I think this season is the best yet. Sue, you can go to putlocker.com, just type in Downton Abbey, and it will bring up all the seasons and right up to date. The new season of Doc Martin is on Acorn and it’s promising to be very good too. I’m not sure if that’s on putlocker or not, didn’t really need to check it.
Jen
Yep it was good it goes too soon, I gather one long one at Xmas too..looking forward to Dr. Foster ,the last one this week with that awkward dinner party!
Doc Martin tonite
Linda
Yes I’ve heard you can have that from reflux. Also such a thing as a corkscrew esophagus where the muscles work unevenly as they go down.causing someone to get stuff caught
Well back home and it’s raining.ive been asleep ,so tired
Tonie
How did you get on today? Dr? Clothes?
Sue
You getting ready for your long journey on Wednesday . Oh how’s the dreaded washer?
Chris
Chris, glad you’re home if you are. I guess I say that because more is there to bother you. No, the last washer part has not come in yet. Did two loads yesterday and had to restart them each three times. Then found load sitting in water this AM…now finally finished. This will be the last part we can replace when it comes in so we will see…may have to shoot the darn thing. Sue
Linda, hope it goes well with the new doc you’re not very fond of. You’re right. It’s his skills you need. Good old potatoes and of course fish if it isn’t too dry are always safe. Same with chicken. Thanks for the tip about Downton. I’ll look into it. Love, Sue
Chris, the Boykin’s I’m from emigrated from Caernarvonshire, Wales, directly to IOW, VA, (Isle of Wight Virginia) in 1776, not earlier as I thought.