Most days I feel like that cartoon picture of Bambi on ice. If I don’t move I’m in trouble but if I do move; who knows? As we age and simultaneously watch our bodies fall apart, some of us more than others, we can become dismayed, disoriented and discouraged. Where does peace lie in all this mess of “disses” or is it even attainable? Here we are living with and in pain every day and counting the losses in all the other areas of our lives. We’ve lost our appearance, our function, our form if you count all the bodily changes and for many of us all or most of our social life. As for me, I was never a raving beauty but I did used to be attractive, stand up straight and have enough of a figure to draw a glance or two. I used to be free to socialize, sit and walk freely. So much of that is gone for me; how about you?
During this holiday season we are often wished peace on earth and that doesn’t seem too likely this year for the world but that doesn’t mean we have to give up entirely on the whole idea. We pray for the leaders of this world, both good and evil and vote according to our beliefs but much of it is out of our hands. I believe in order to find peace we have to look for it first within ourselves. Many people confuse peace with happiness or joy. I see them as two entirely different packages or gifts; although they are closely related.
Personal peace has to go all the way to your core, including your core values and beliefs. For many of us it is a sense of personal faith in a power greater than we are. For others it is in the comforting rituals of religion and for others, it is as personal a quest as finding love can be. Do you remember when you were a child in school and you’d be searching for commiseration over some math problem and your mother would say, “Put it away. It will all make more sense in the morning”? That is, I believe how it is to find joy, peace and love. You have to sow the field of yourself, rest quietly and let them come to you. Therefore, let’s talk about sowing the fields of our minds and hearts.
I know that all sounds pretty dry and cerebral but let me explain. When we are in a constant state of pain, we become agitated. Peace cannot be attained with agitation, worry and anger. It just isn’t a fertile soil for it to grow in. Life becomes a sort of confusing mess because we become so angry in our agitated pain-filled state we can’t achieve peace and around and around it goes. Each of us have to find our own answers but I can, for the sake of this blog, share some of the methods that have helped me with all of you.
In my own quest for coping with all the joint pain I live with every day, I use the power of joy. That’s one of the reasons I love animals, children and yes, even the laugh lines of Facebook, cartoons, light films. Each of us sharing a laugh can bring about a relief of that horrible tension living in pain can produce. Joy is all around us if we have the eyes to see it. It’s in films, TV, human behavior and often in ourselves and our own behavior.
In the early years of my illness I talked about my pain constantly. I was deeply frustrated by the years it took to get a diagnosis. I think I was trying to engender sympathy from others but had to eventually learn that sympathy is a shallow pool indeed for bathing and for the basis of a relationship. Understanding and true empathy can go much further to soothe a troubled soul. I also believe my constant chatter was my way of accepting these diseases that befell on me.
I also used to cry a great deal and still do but not nearly so often and not for the same reasons. I cried for myself out of self-pity and frustration but found it to be a wet and lonely place. I simply learned to prefer joy and laughter. It’s difficult to laugh and cry at the same time unless you’re laughing so hard at something it’s causing you to cry. When I cry now it is out of physical pain, because I don’t take nearly enough medication for complete relief of the pain. I cry out of frustration over some stupidity I observe has happened to me or someone I care about. I cry in sad movies, when reading sad stories or those of triumph over hardship and am totally unashamed for doing so. As far as my remark about not taking strong pain medication, I decided many years ago I would rather endure the physical pain my body can produce than to be going through life in a stupor. I just don’t like it and find it also dangerous for those of us who are in danger of falling or hurting ourselves by some clumsy act. Heavy drugs also rob us of our independence, i.e. driving, etc. I’ve seen a lot of abuse of prescribed drugs in my own family and have seen the damage they can do to the body, the mind and extended family.
At one time in my nursing career I worked as a Director of Nursing at a hospital with an alcohol rehabilitation wing and wanted to learn to do all that the rehab nurses were doing. I went on rounds with the doctors each day and vividly remember one elderly woman who was asked, “When did you start drinking?”
She replied, “Oh, I can’t remember when I didn’t. My pappy had a still outback and I used to drink what was left in the jars. I musta’ been about seven or eight years old.” All those years she went on to explain, were like fog to her. She couldn’t remember segments of her life amounting to many years in some cases. Imagine what that would be like. I also observed over the years that people who are stoned or drunk, even with good cause, don’t realize what fools they often make of themselves and never note how dangerous it is to be walking, driving and interacting with others, especially children and small animals. Life is full of so many natural “highs.”
I’ve explained that part of my life to you as an explanation for why I’m against heavy drug use but my reasons are more vast than that. Among my problems with rheumatoid diseases, I also suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and simply can’t tolerate the chronic constipation that most of the narcotic drugs induce. I’m a writer and I need a calm stomach and a clear mind. I have become adept at finding other methods for alleviating pain and use many of them such as heat, ice, stretching, etc. No, I’m not a martyr and have not come to like my pain, in fact on most days, my body and I are barely on speaking terms but my mind has to be in charge. Peace has to come from the soul, the mind and lastly, the body. As for joy, I think that starts in the brain then sort of trickles down and bubbles in the gut. I think joy is good for us and we need more of it in order to find peace. It is not possible to have more than one thought at a time. When the pain becomes my primary thought I have learned through painful days and nights to use distraction through simply thinking of something else which is more uplifting, reading, music, TV, etc. The world is full of distraction and when we gaze at our own navels too long…well, you know what happens; that’s all we see. Pain behaves like a spoiled child when given too much attention and time. It, like a spoiled child will dominate your life and steal more than it already has.
I’d like to share an anonymous poem I probably have previously shared. Please gain some peace this holy season from its words and significance.
“I asked God for strength, that I might achieve
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey…
I asked for health, that I might do greater things
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things…
I asked for riches, that I might be happy
I was given poverty, that I might be wise…
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God…
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things…
I got nothing that I asked for—but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed!”
Anonymous
Be blessed my friends this Christmas in spite of what life throws at you. You and I have been given life; let us enjoy all things.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Certainly this is one to reread…and you are so right distraction is a good pain relief
Like you I can’t take meds that leave me with ibs and other stuff and I like to be in charge of me.
Wasn’t it comforting to hear your mum say stuff like that..it put the world to rights and so settling
Comforting thoughts and peace what a combo!
That along with some distraction ..perfect
Yes sympathy is an empty vessel
Natural highs they come along it’s just trying to catch them they are evasive . Perhaps I should practice catching
Sue this was so good to read and worth waiting for.and the poem it makes you think chris
Chris, thank you for always there to confirm to me that occasionally I hit upon a universal truth. When I write I am happy if some of the folks get and take to heart some of it. Hope you’re feeling better. Just came from dentist so resting. Hate going there. Peace, I need peace. Love, Sue
Sue there is a song that runs through my brain often “let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me”. I was in a pretty frenetic place emotionally by mid November due to my lack of rheumatologist follow up, issues with continuity of care especially regarding my orencia infusion and interesting lymphoma enough I am calm at this point. I have 3 masses to sing special music for next week without an infusion this month (already past due) I figured out during one of my painful sleepless nights that getting all “twiddlepated” would not make it happen. I also refused to allow the practice I was leaving to bully me into having an infusion in one of the 100 worst hospitals in the nation for infections. I was better without than with the med and an infection. I “may” take my very low dose prednisone (5mg) Christmas eve to manage the 6-8 hours in my choir seat singing or not. Remi will tell me if I’m getting in trouble with inflammation. That’s one of her jobs. Even though I only take the stuff 3-4 doses a year I always have a dose with me. I always think about your sister Sue and make a conscious decision weighing the pros and cons before the pill hits my mouth. Fortunately my cardiac status and bone density are both good at this point despite the disease. My water balance class has improved both from where I was a few years ago. I do still cry with pain but try to do it at home as I feel that few of my friends and family understand what it is to never be without pain. I also hate to worry my dad.
Bobsled, always good to hear from you although I do know you are going through an especially bad time right now thanks to all this rot you’re having to put up with from changing doctors, etc. That sounds like you have a good plan in mind and as far as the prednisone, remember, I could not function without my 5 mg. dose daily. I have not gone above that for any reason in over 20 years because I also remember what my dear older sister went through but do remember hers was massive amounts of that dangerous drug. Crying is good. Hey that pressure cooker has a valve, right? Hang in there with dear Remi for your concerts and know you have friends who do understand what your life is like as much as possible. I know we each have our own challenges to face but basically we have a sisterhood going here. As ever, Sue
Have no idea why lymphoma is in my post…weird.
New development…I think Remi may be coming in season so may have to bring Nessie out of retirement yet again…well she’s rested a whole week lol. Poor old lady dog can’t catch a break. It’s going to be a day by day thing.
Bobsled, my daughter and SIL are going through this with their chocolate lab right now so I have a good mental picture of what you’ll be going through and somehow can’t envision the line of male dogs parading into the church during your concerts. Oh no…Nessie will be proud. Sue
As always thank you Sue! For reminding all of us how great life IS! Merry Christmas!🎅
Great one Sue. Writing from hotel room in Arlington, TX. Will be here for the next 6 days. Tomorrow going back to my old gym for one class then lunch with my old friends. Over a year of catching up to do. Very tired after 5 1/2 hour drive. Love to everybody. Janet
Janet, have a wonderful time. Hope you’re rested up tonight and ready for tomorrow. What a very long drive…hope you get to sleep in. Much love, Sue
Janet:
Such a fun thing for you to be doing. Enjoy your time with all your friends, and have a wonderful Christmas ! I know you will. God bless you dear lady, think of you often.
love
Tonie
Well you nailed that one. I am so glad at my “young age” I learned that living on pain meds & coffee were not the answer.
#1 I refuse to live my life in a pill bottle constantly looking at the clock waiting for my next dose and missing EVERYTHING.
#2 My body will no longer be a pharmaceutical trash can. I can’t control the pain but I can control how I react. As soon as you realize there is no “magic pill” to fix you, you have to make a decision. It may be on a daily basis but you make it. It just sucks that your body and your mind have this constant battle. Like two old women in a car and each are backseat drivers. I’m sure there is a Far Side joke in there somewhere.
Sue you are my Yoda. I love you.
Hi Sue, I agree with your statement about tears. I have so much to cry about since my son has passed but I must go to work every day and I am basically a person who loves to laugh. When you are laughing, it’s hard to cry. God bless you and your message.
Brenda S. I am sorry to hear about your heartache but must say, you seem to have found such a great mix of sweet and sour; laughter and tears. We must be honest with ourselves regarding what we feel and that is what you have obviously discovered in your inner most heart. Please have a peaceful and blessed Christmas holiday. Fondly, Sue
Good morning peeps !
I tried to write on here last night, and must have went to sleep while I was ready it, don’t remember 🙂 It was a long day yesterday. Bobsled, I have also seen such an improvement in my water classes from two years ago. And I am swimming much longer than last year as well. My shoulders are getting stronger, so it is helping. I still can’t bring them out of the water to do a stroke, but it will come.
Chris, have a Happy Christmas with your family. Hope it all goes well
Sue, such a wonderful read. It is whatever it takes to get your mind off the pain. Someone was telling me the other day that they were worrying about my back pain, then realized I was always in pain. I said yep, it is one thing or another, whichever is yelling the loudest gets the attention. Back is okay today so far. But I haven’t fed the horses yet, so that could change at any given moment.
I must be getting ready for work. I will speak with ya’all again tonight I hope.
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie, you always have such helpful suggestions. I know you’ve been so consistent and dedicated whatever your circumstances with the swimming. Glad it’s paying off. Please dear friend, have a wonderful Christmas with your family this year, so near. Love you much, Sue
Sue:
Thank you sweet friend. I pray that you and yours have a happy and wonderful Christmas. I know how much you enjoy them and I pray that your pain will be less and your joy more. Thank you for all you have done and that you do
Love
Tonie
Great one, Sue. You know I share your less is more approach with respect to pain meds. Of course, that’s not so hard since they don’t really help to relieve my RA pain anyway. While I was still teaching it was a particularly difficult decision. Do you take the little pain they offer (in my case I had to take the higher dosage just to get an edge off the pain; it didn’t take it away) or do you try to teach with the pain. It was awful. I know you know precisely how it was, as do many if you all those who read here. When it gets really bad, I find I go to my quiet place. Like you, I read or watch TV or a movie, but my family can usually tell because I get very still and very quiet. I use breathing, sometimes try meditation of sorts, pray -not usually for myself, but for those around me and of course for those here. Of course, this little family community we have here is a constant source of support and understanding. What a blessing!
Catch up – what I’ve been up to, and why I’ve not been as present here. (But been thinking of all of you.) As Sue and Bobsled Laura know, this year’s Christmas concert season was particularly stressful for me. We can all relate, though. The group is a 30-35 member chamber choral group that performs on a very high artistic level. It is not unusual for me to have a solo (or solos) in the concerts. This year we performed Respighi’s Laud to the Nativity, which you may be familiar with. 20 years ago we performed this same work and I performed the solo part of the Angel. I was “cast” in the same role this year, but part of the solo was not quite as effortless as it used to be (thank you, aging process). That was quite stressful in itself. I did, however, find a way to do it almost as easily, but still… Then, … I got sick. We’ve all been there haven’t we? Each day was extremely stressful and revolved completely around voice care and prayer. You see, there was no back up. No understudy. No one else could do it. No pressure, right? And stress is so good for those of us with rheumatoid disease, right? Ok, reigning in the tale. It was touch and go, and a LOT of monitoring and hard work on my part that no one else had a clue about. But, I made it. The audience didn’t have a clue, nor did many choir members I’m sure. Thank heavens we have been having very temperate weather, nothing like what dear Sue has been experiencing, which has been good for my arthritis. So, I didn’t have to contend with that like I usually do. So, that’s what I’ve been up to. Now I need to finish my Christmas prep. How did I get so behind?? Is anyone else finding themselves behind the 8 ball this year? I can’t believe it is just days away! Wishing everyone many blessings this holiday season!
Lyn, I so appreciated and was pleased to hear your concerts went better than for you than expected and hope the infection will clear for Christmas. You showed remarkable courage and I’m certain many were blessed by your intention, your lovely voice and your sweet face. I pray you and your family have a peaceful and quiet Christmas so you can recover. Sounds like your weather has calmed quite a bit. We have had heavy winds, pounding hail that covered the roofs, raucous thunder and lightning…and that is just today. Have a blessed holiday season, Love you much, Sue
HELLO……WHAT A GREAT BLOG SUE, THANK YOU YET AGAIN FOR INSPIRING US, AND TO MAKE THE MOST OF WHAT WE HAVE, MADE ME A BIT TEARFUL ABOUT THE ALCOHOLICS STORY…..OH MY!
I DO HOPE EVERYONE WILL GET AS MUCH OUT OF THE FESTIVITIES AS POSSIBLE, AND ENJOY BEING WITH YOUR FAMILIES, I CANNOT BE WITH MINE, BUT IT DOESN’T STOP ME WANTING IT FOR EVERYONE ELSE.
I MANAGE TO GET SOME CHRISTMAS SPIRIT LAST NIGHT, WITH A TRIP TO TOWN IN THE EARLY EVENING, THE DECORATIONS WERE SO BEAUTIFUL, I WANTED THEM ON CAMERA……WE POPPED INTO A COFFEE HOUSE TO WARM UP, AND INDULGED IN SOME ALMOND CROISSANTS, THEY WERE SCRUMMY, AND PEOPLE IN THE CAFÉ WERE SO FRIENDLY WISHING US BONNE NOÉL, I LOVE THE FRENCH………………………
TONIE……I AM THINKING ABOUT YOU LOVE, AND IT MUST BE SO HARD FOR YOU TO BE APART FROM YOUR GUY, WRITE TO ME SO I CAN UNDERSTAND FULLY WHAT YOU MEAN……I HAVE LOST YOUR COMMENTS ON THE PREVIOUS BLOG.
SUE….I HAVE SENT A PM TO YOU, AND ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU FOR YOUR WISE WORDS.
CHRIS……HOPE YOU ARE OK AND HAVE DONE ALL YOU NEED TO DO FOR THE FAMILY.
LYN….YOU SEEM TO HAVE CAUGHT UP NOW, AND GLAD TO SEE YOU BACK, THE MILD WEATHER CERTAINLY GIVES US A BREAK FROM THE PAIN OF ARTHRITIS.
JANET, LAURA AND BRENDA……..WISHING YOU ALL FONDEST LOVE AND BETTER HEALTH.
MUCH LOVE…JENNIE XXXXX
Sue, this is a wonderful blog. Even though it talks about pain and crying, you made it so uplifting. I have seen that poem before, and it always works to make me appreciate what I do have. It helps me concentrate on the positive and put aside the negative.
As of late, when I wake up every morning I ask God to help me be a pleasant person to be around and not be short or use my sharp tongue on anyone. I have started making an effort to tell my son how much I appreciate him and all he does for us. Thanksgiving, he made us the full dinner, with the works. He managed to include me by asking me to help him make a couple of dishes that he wanted to taste “just like yours”. I know it was a lot of hard work for him, and he had a lot to do for his girlfriend and her family that day too. I find when I am spending my time being thankful for others and what they do, I have less time to think about my pain.
I have recently moved up to an opiod for pain relief. It’s a very small dose; I have taken it before in much higher doses. I am getting extremely constipated, and I’m not sure if it’s the new med or the Fentynal. I’m talking constipated like I didn’t know folks could get! I fought and strained 3 hours this morning, and by the time I was through, the commode wouldn’t flush it down. I’ve been taking stool softeners 3 times a day for a month and a mild laxative at least once a week. I want to tell neither the gastroenterologist nor the pain specialist. They will both think it’s their med causing this. I want to stay on the Entyvio, for the first time in 8 years, I don’t get nauseated when I think about eating, my abd doesn’t cramp and hurt, and I don’t think I’m going to die after eating a few bites. I only use a Fentynal patch 12 mg (and I have used 50 mg in the past with no problem). It doesn’t stop my pain, I’m smart enough to know I will never be pain free. It only stops what I call “the screaming memies”, meaning that my pain isn’t so bad and sharp that I want to scream and cry. This dose doesn’t stop any pain at all when it rains or the weather changes. My treatment regime obviously isn’t working, so I know I have to talk to my doctors. I’m not going back on prednisone. That stuff nearly kills me. But, for the Crohn’s, the dose is 40 mg a day. I appreciate that it helped me start to get better those years ago, but it’s a horrible med and I don’t want it again.
Christmas. With most of my family dead now, my Christmas is small. I’m trying to make it easy on Keith for our dinner. We have a ham and we’re doing simple things. I think he worked hard enough Thanksgiving. Our washer died last week. it had been blowing a fuse when you closed the top and nobody told me. This time it blew more than a fuse. When we called a repair man, he advised us to just replace it, as old as the machine was and as expensive as the labor costs, he thought a new one would be more cost effective. he also said that as old as the machine is, more and more was going to go wrong with it. So, Ed and I decided that’s our gift to each other. Suits me just fine. My sister still isn’t speaking to me. I seldom think about it now. Four years is a long time to be mad at somebody. I still don’t know why. It just is. I do know that I don’t want a relationship with someone who doesn’t have a second thought about hurting me like that. We both had the same loses. She got every material thing Mom and Rosa owned, I didn’t ask for anything and I wasn’t offered anything. I keep praying for her. I don’t want my sister to be in the kind of pain she must be in to act like this. I’ll always love her, but I think I will never like her again. Ever heard the expression “poison only harms the vessel that holds it)? My soul can’t find any peace holding poison in my heart. Peace is what I strive for.
I wish you all peace, and a wonderful, pain free (or pain bearable) Christmas. I hope the New Year brings great blessings to us all. I love each and every one of you, I pray for you all daily and think of you often.
Linda
Linda, enjoy your Christmas present. 🙂 I’d be happy with that present as well. I am sorry your sister still isn’t talking to you. You have such a wonderful and healthy perspective on it all. I know it hurts, but I am proud of you for being able to see it in this healthy light. She’s the one really being hurt at this point. Wishing you wonderful Christmas blessings now and the whole year through. Hugs.
Thank you Lyn, and I wish you a wonderful Christmas also, and blessings the whole new year. Thank you for being here for me. I don’t post often, but I post too much when I do, but I read and think of you all.
You don’t post too much, Linda. You have to catch us all up! 🙂
LINDA….THE SAME TO YOU MY FRIEND, MAY 2016, SEE YOU IN BETTER HEALTH, I PRAY FOR THAT FOR YOU….GOD BLESS……JENNIE XX
Linda, I agree with the rest of our friends on here that it is always good to get caught up. We’ve been with you through so much this last few years we are invested in you. Sounds like you have reached much peace over the situation with your sister as one can only be tortured so long and it’s destructive. Enjoy that wonderful Christmas present to each other and appreciate that fine son of yours. Wonderful and blessed Christmas Love, Sue
Dear everyone, My visit to Weatherford went very well. Getting more into the spirit of the season. Have to learn how to balance activities vs rest. Busy morning, followed by 3 hour nap, now just to get thru dinner, which is right now my son tells me. Wish me luck and a few prayers wouldn’t hurt, Love, Janet
JANET….WISHING YOU ALL THE LUCK THAT YOU NEED, GLAD YOU ARE GETTING IN THE MOOD, ENJOY IT ALL….GOD BLESS….JENNIE X
SO HAPPY FOR YOU JANET. SENDING PRAYERS YOUR WAY DEAR LADY. I STILL FIND IT HARD BALANCING THE ACTIVITIES VS REST. USUALLY WHEN MY BODY IS SCREAMING AT ME, WHICH BY THEN IT’S TOO LATE, I’LL STOP AND REST. HMMM.
GOD BLESS YOU JANET. LOVE YOU
XXX
Suzanne, Thank you for your kind words and prayers. Love you back, Janet
Janet, good to hear from good old beautiful rural Weatherford. My Dad spoke of it so often and we got our Jack Russell who passed yet gave us so much pleasure from there a few years ago. Hang in there dear lady and enjoy all you can and hopefully in a day or two the pain will be forgotten. Love, Sue
Thank you Sue for a wonderful blog at a time when I really needed it.
Wishing you all the Love, Hope, Joy and Peace of Christmas …. now and throughout the coming year
Pommum, hope critters all well and DH and strength wished for you right now. Good to hear from you and please know you’re in my prayers. Much love, Sue
GOod morning all:
A rainy and very warm day before Christmas Eve here in Virginia and supposed to get even warmer. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happier New Year. Hang on to all you love with both hands. Tell them and show them just how much they are loved. We are all so swiftly gone from this world we have no idea when will be the last time together. Take care all today.
Love to you all
Tonie
Having the same weather here, Tonie. It is so very strange, isn’t it? My favorite part of Christmas, or any holiday really, is time spent with those I love. 🙂
Lyn:
This weather is freaky, if it gets finally cold, cold, it will kill me !! However, all this damp is not helping. My knee has been killing me and it just hit me it is because of the dampness. I found some samples I had of diclophenic cream and used it, helps. I sure hope you are resting after all you have done these past few weeks. Christmas season is so hectic, yet I love the outcome of it all. Culminating in being with family.
I agree with all, Tonie – weather and Christmas! My very favorite part is family. 🙂 Yes, the damp is taking it’s toll. Today was rainy all day, and I felt it. Would have been worse had it been colder. I still have some things to do before Christmas, but the end is finally in sight! I took a little time out this evening for some Christmas movie watching.
WITH YOU ON THAT ONE TONIE…..HAVE A GREAT TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY, FEBRUARY IS JUST A HEARTBEAT AWAY……GOD BLESS….JENNIE XX
Jen and Tonie, What’s this about February? Is your friend coming back in that month Tonie? Sue
Tonie, doesn’t sound like Christmas weather at all. We’re still slouching around. This morning we had a huge loud sky fall of hail followed by a huge clap of thunder. Poor George about had a stroke. He was groomed yesterday and will be adorable for Christmas in a new red harness and sweater. Is this dog spoiled? Ya think? Hope your pups and horses, chicks, etc. are all well. Enjoy that weather and think of us wading through water. Personally, we have been blessed compared to so many of our neighbors in coastal and Portland communities. Hope you hear from your Frenchman with good news very soon. Much love dear friend, Sue
Sue:
Been seeing all that stuff you have going on. They say we could have a thunderstorm tomorrow., On Christmas Eve. So strange. The trees are getting buds on them. I hope it doesn’t come a big freeze and kill everything. Oh well, the Lord has it all in hand doesn’t He ? All the animals are fine. I got a pic of the chickens eating with the horses tonight, so funny. Our of their grain dishes. Yes, your Georgie is spoiled bad. If I get another dog it will be a tiny one like that , one I can handle with no problem.
My Frenchman called today, it lifted my spirits.
Merry Christmas and love to you and yours
Tonie
Tonie
Such wise wise words. We take all for granted
Chris
CHRIS…..BET YOU ARE BEING BUSY? DON’T FORGET TO TAKE A BREATHER AND REST IN BETWEEN, I HOPE ALL GOES WELL WITH THE FAMILY, ESPECIALLY DAD, HE WILL ENJOY SEEING YOU ALL……LOVE JEN X
SUE…..HOW IS IT GOING, A BUSY HOUSEHOLD FOR YOU, I HOPE JIM HAS MANAGED TO GET ALL HIS SHOPPING DONE, AND ALSO THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO EAT SOMETHING MORE FESTIVE WITHOUT YOUR GUT BEING UPSET…..I LOVE YOU ..JEN X
ANOTHER MILD DAY AGAIN, IT FEELS SO STRANGE, BUT COME JANUARY WE MAY BE SINGING A DIFFERENT TUNE, SO MAKING THE MOST OF IT LIKE LYN (JOINT WISE) GOT ALL THE SHOPPING DONE, ITS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO SHOP HERE IN FRANCE, NO LONG QUEUE’S, NO FIGHTING FOR SPACE IN THE AISLES, NO KIDS SCREAMING, JUST NICE AND EASY, WHICH IS GOOD FOR ME WITH LIMPING AROUND……MY CARPET FROM THE UK CAME TODAY, NEVER EXPECTED THAT, THOUGHT IT WOULD BE JANUARY.
GOT THE BILL FOR THE GLASS THAT WAS FIXED………..TOOK IT DOWN TO THE SHOP AND TOLD THEM WHERE TO STICK IT, THE CHEEK OF IT, THEY BROKE IT AND WE ARE EXPECTED TO PAY???? THREATENED THEM WITH AN INSURANCE CLAIM, THE BILL WAS QUICKLY ADJUSTED, AND ALL WE PAID WAS FOR THE CHIMNEY BEING SWEPT……NEEDLESS TO SAY, NEXT YEAR WE WILL CHANGE COMPANIES………………………..LOVE TO ALL……JENNIE XX
Jennie, the way you describe the shopping in France sounds so peaceful and quaint. I hope you have a wonderful, peaceful Christmas and eat lots of goodies and enjoy each others company.
I can certainly understand why you’d be storming into the business who tried to charge you for their mistake…oh brother. Guess we all have to speak up and stand up for ourselves.
I’m in quite a bit of pain in the back and sitter so will make this quick. The dental chair and a day of babysitting plus a morning trip to the store with my dear man have done me in. House is almost ready for Santa, all gifts wrapped. Now resting. Have a good one dear lady, Love, Sue
Jennie:
HAHA ! I know it wasn’t funny to you, but I can just picture our Yorkshire Tyke storming into the shop and giving em an earful !! They thought they would smooth one over on the Englishers huh ?
When my Frenchman called today there was a bus full of Chinese that unloaded right by him, going to the Christmas market there in Colmar.
As he told me Joyeax Noel !
Love ya
Tonie
Jen
What a blimmin cheek…yea go to someone different next year
That’s great you got the carpet now for Christmas
No Im Not really busy at all…went out for coffee and scone then the library.
Lovely day here sun shining and warm.seems like we are all having strange weather..still more floods up north tho.homes flooded three times in a few weeks .more forecast for Xmas day there
Linda
Yep it seems like we have to strive for peace….we must have been born with it and it just got out of our grasp
Chris
Oh Jen
Would have loved to,have been at the shop when you took the bill in and seen there faces….good for you.
Pity we both couldn’t have upset them and finished them off!!
I’ll drink to that Chris……………………love Jen x
I’M WITH CHRIS ON THAT ONE….. WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE BEEN THERE. GOOD FOR YOU JENNIE POO.
XXX
They are saying we could reach 70*F tomorrow, Christmas Eve day. What the heck?!?! About 30* above normal! It just feels wrong.
Jennie, good for you! The nerve of those people!
Had to take poor little Rufus to the vet this evening. Seems he has an upper respiratory virus. Vet prescribed antibiotic and eye drops for the poor fellow. Other cats have sneezed, but not really showing any other signs, thank goodness. They may escape the meds. Kitten is doing well and is a source of delight for all of us. Sadie pup loves mothering him and playing with him. Rufus usually enjoys playing with him as well, though not so much lately, understandably. Little Luka kitten just curled up next to me. Perhaps it is bedtime. I can’t believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve already. But, I think I’m finally about ready. In case the day gets away from me, please know I’m wishing all a most Merry Christmas and Joyeux Noel!
LYN……I DO HOPE THE ANIMALS ARE OK, AND THAT THE EYE DROPS WORK FOR THE LITTLE ONE. ITS LOVELY WHEN DOGS AND CATS GET ON, SACHA WAS BROUGHT UP AMONG THIRTEEN CATS IN SPAIN, NOT ALL AT ONCE I HASTEN TO ADD.
JOYEUX NOÉL AND BONNE ANNÉE…….JENNIE XX
Lyn, Poor Rufus, and hope it gets better soon and keeps the virus to himself. Must get busy but wanted you to know I was thinking of him and that extra bit it gives you to do today. Merry CHristmas and do get better, okay? Love, Sue
SO NICE READING ABOUT YOU LYN, HAPPY YOU ARE CAUGHT UP. HOPE RUFUS GET BETTER FAST. NOW I’M HOPING YOU ARE OKAY ALSO. TIME SURE IS FLYING BY. WE WILL HAVE THE WHOLE FAMILY AT OUR HOME FOR CHRISTMAS SUPPER. DO TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF, BUT AFTER READING , YOU SEEM TO BE DOING A GREAT JOB OF TAKING THE TIME FOR YOURSELF TO FEEL BETTER. SO PROUD OF YOU.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND JOYEUX NOEL TO YOU AND ALL ON THIS BLOG.
GOD BLESS. XXX
What an excellent blog, Sue. One I will reread again in the next couple of days over and over. Everything you said is exactly how I feel. I share your same belief with the pain medications. I go with the bare minimum each day, unless it is a REALLY bad day, then I will only take half of one of my stronger pain meds. I, too, do not like walking around like a zombie, unable to focus on what needs to be done, and just feeling numb. It was a decision I made a few years ago to taper off or not use at all stronger pain meds. It isn’t easy as I know you know all too well. My Christmases have changed from what they were just a few years ago. My parents used to come out to AZ for many years and I miss that. I miss my Dad and feel bad for my Mom in Chicago. I just heard she was going to be alone for Christmas Eve and it bothers me. I am having a hard time understanding why my brothers and other sister would let this happen. I promised myself I will spend Christmas there next year. This year we were invited to a old friend’s home for Christmas Eve. I have known her for 40 years. We worked together in Chicago. She is making all different kinds of fish for dinner. As Italians, we don’t eat meat on Christmas Eve. For Christmas Day, we are going for dinner at my sister’s. Need to make several dishes to bring to both.
Sue, I hope you have recuperated from the dentist by now. Sounds like you are all ready for Christmas, presents wrapped and ready to enjoy your family. I wish you peace, more joyous moments and less pain this holiday season and into the New Year.
I’m wishing all who read here a very Merry and blessed Christmas. Peace to each and everyone of you.
Love, Jo
Hi all
We will all be busy tomorrow . I will be coming and going between places
All have a peaceful day and have time to relax for yourselves
Be thinking of All of you
Live Chrisx
Chris, I wish you a peaceful, enjoyable day and hope your time with the family was and is fun and festive. Much love, Sue
Morning all:
Just a quick MERRY CHRISTMAS to you all. Know that I love you all and wish you the best and most painfree Christmas you can have. I am working til 12 today, and it is raining cats and dogs. The ground is a mushy mess and I must get out and go feed the anmals as I leave. God bless you all !
Tonie
Tonie, Sorry the ground is messy. Right now, here in OR we are just thankful if it stays where it is. All sorts of problems all around us. Sorry about those tornadoes in the South. How awful. I know you’ll enjoy your day with the family and tell them all Hi for me and wish them a Merry Christmas. Love, Sue
HOPE IT ALL TURNS OUT WELL TONIE. LOVE YA SWEET PEA!
GOD BLESS.
XXX
TONIE AND CHRIS……WISHING YOU BOTH MUCH LOVE FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR……MUCH LOVE….JENNIE X
SUE……THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT THIS PAST YEAR, IT MEANS EVERYTHING……I LOVE YOU XX
FOR EVERYONE……GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALL SAFE……..LOVE YOU ALL…………….JENNIE XXX
Jennie, have a peaceful and enjoyable day this CHristmas. Much love, Sue
THANK YOU SUE, THAT WAS A GREAT B LOG. IT REALLY TOUCHED ME. PARTS OF IT SOUNDED JUST LIKE ME. ACCEPTING WHAT YOU HAVE IS VERY HARD, AND I CRIED FOR QUITE A WHILE BUT NOW I SEEM TO HAVE DAYS THAT I’M OK WITH IT, SIMPLY CAUSE I DON’T HAVE A CHOICE. I WAS TOLD I WILL ALWAYS BE IN PAIN AND THEY WERE RIGHT BUT LIKE YOU SAID IN THE BLOG YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR MIND BY DOING DIFFERENT THINGS. THIS YEAR DH AND I MADE CHRISTMAS TREES OUT OF PINECONES WE PICKED UP IN THE FOREST. I WAS SO BUSY BAKING PINECONES AND HOT GLUING THEM THAT THE PAIN WAS NOT SUCH A BIG DEAL. THANK YOU AGAIN MY DEAR FRIEND FOR ALL YOUR ADVICE AND ALL THE FRIENDS I MET HERE THAT ALSO GIVE GREAT ADVICE.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL, YOU HAVE BEEN MY LIFE SAVER CAUSE I WAS GOING DOWN THE WRONG PATH FOR AWHILE.
LOVE YOU!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL. I WILL BE MAKING CHRISTMAS DINNER AT OUR HOUSE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, THAT SHOULD KEEP ME BUSY, RIGHT. JUST HAVE TO PACE MYSELF.
BLESSINGS TO ALL FOR A PEACEFUL AND JOYOUS NEW YEAR. YOU ARE ALL MY LIFE LINE.
NICE HEARING FROM LOTS OF YOU ON THE BLOG.
XXX
Suzanne, have a blessed and peaceful heart for Christmas. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Yes dear, do pace yourself so you can enjoy your family. Much love to you, must go, much to do. Sue
Suzanne, Hope you had a wonderful Christmas ! I would love to see a pic of your pinecone tree. It is nice how things like that take our mind off pain and make us happy. Take care and have a joyous New Year.
Love you too
Tonie
I WILL TAKE PICS TONIE AND SEND THEM TO YOU. CHRISTMAS DAY WAS GREAT WITH ALL MY FAMILY. COULD NOT HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT DH’S HELP. HE DID A WHOLE LOT. THEN THE KIDS DID ALL THE DISHES. JUST SO GRATEFUL.
LOVE YOU RIGHT BACK. XXX
OH DARN! SUE I WROTE A RATHER LONG POST AND AGAIN ITS NOT HERE. I JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU WHAT A N EXCELLENT BLOG. I RELATE TO EVERYTHING AS IM SURE WE ALL DO. I FIND DISTRACTION WORKS FOR ME TOO. MY FAVORITE MUSIC, MOVIE OR WORKING ON SOME CRAFTS. I WISH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS AND A NEW YEAR OF IMPROVED HEALTH, MORE
PEACE IN YOUR HEART AND LESS PAIN. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR WISDOM AND ADVICE FOR ANOTHER YEAR! I WILL RE-READ THIS ONE BEFORE I LEAVE TODAY FOR CHRISTMAS EVE AT MY FRIENDS. THANK YOU. LOVE, JO
I W A NT TO SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU, CHRIS, TONIE, LYN, JENNIE AND EVERYONE ELSE WHO READS SUE’S BLOG. HOPE YOU ARE ALL ABLE TO ENJOY THE FESTVITIES. LOVE TO ALL♡♡♡
JO
OH DARN! SUE I WROTE A RATHER LONG POST AND AGAIN ITS NOT HERE. I JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU WHAT A N EXCELLENT BLOG. I RELATE TO EVERYTHING AS IM SURE WE ALL DO. I FIND DISTRACTION WORKS FOR ME TOO. MY FAVORITE MUSIC, MOVIES OR WORKING ON SOME CRAFTS. I WISH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS AND A NEW YEAR OF IMPROVED HEALTH, MORE
PEACE IN YOUR HEART AND LESS PAIN. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR WISDOM AND ADVICE FOR ANOTHER YEAR! I WILL RE-READ THIS ONE BEFORE I LEAVE TODAY FOR CHRISTMAS EVE AT MY FRIENDS. THANK YOU. LOVE, JO
I W A NT TO SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU, CHRIS, TONIE, LYN, JENNIE AND EVERYONE ELSE WHO READS SUE’S BLOG. HOPE YOU ARE ALL ABLE TO ENJOY THE FESTVITIES. LOVE TO ALL♡♡♡
JO
Jo, I’m always gratified you enjoy something I say. I hope you have a peaceful yet joyfilled Christmas. I also wish you less pain for the coming year. Much love, Sue
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!! May 2016 treat you all gently. Much love to all. Janet
Merry Christmas, one and all! We’ve had breakfast and gifts with the kids, now some down time. DD is making lasagna for our Christmas dinner again this year! Have a wonderful day!
HELLO…..WELL THAT’S IT FOR ANOTHER YEAR……WENT BETTER THAN I FIRST THOUGHT…..LOOKED AT WHAT WE HAD THOUGHT WAS A TURKEY BREAST, IT DECIDED TO GROW A COUPLE OF LITTLE LEGS WHICH I SWEAR WERE NOT THERE WHEN WE BOUGHT IT??????? TURNS OUT TO BE GUINEA FOWL, AND IT WAS DELICIOUS. WE WILL BUY IT AGAIN NEXT TIME, SO LONG AS WE DON’T MISTAKE IT FOR TURKEY………….TIME TO PUT DOWN THE COOKING SHERRY.
I WAS THINKING OF EVERYONE AND HOPING YOU WOULD ALL GET THE BEST OF ENJOYMENT OVER THE HOLIDAY, WITH NO SICKNESS OR MISHAPS.
ITS AN ORDINARY DAY HERE IN FRANCE, THEY DON’T HAVE BOXING DAY, OR THERE IN THE STATES HUH? SO GOT THE HOUSE ALL CLEANED UP, MADE A POT OF SOUP FROM THE LEFTOVERS, AND STOCK FROM THE BONES OF SAID CREATURE……….TREATED HUBBY AND MADE HIM A BREAD & BUTTER PUDDING FROM LEFT OVER PANATONE……ADDED SOME APPLE ……HE IS A HAPPY MAN.
LOVE AND GOD BLESS TO EACH…………………………………JENNIE XX
What a lovely little surprise! It sounds like you had a merry little Christmas with hubby and pup. 🙂 No, we don’t really celebrate Boxing Day here in the States, either, although my uncle did mention it on Facebook right away, so there is talk, but not a thing here. Probably thanks to our Canadian neighbors. 🙂 Feeling a bit tired this morning. Must gather some strength. Heading down to my Mom’s to celebrate Christmas with my side of the family today. Enjoy your quiet day!
YOU TOO LYN…….HAVE A LOVELY DAY…….JENNIE X
Lyn, hope you enjoyed CHristmas yesterday with your Mom and your side of the family. Bet you’re tired but sated. Too much good food and talk but enjoyed it. We are resting up and being lazy but still finding time for a few mundane things like laundry. Life goes on in spite of Christmas. Hope yours was a happy one and all are well, especially you. Love, Sue
Jennie, here you are always educating us as to the wonders of France. I’ve never had guinea fowl either. DId you roast it like chicken or turkey? It sounds delicious and with your culinary skills I’m sure it was. How was the soup? Both Beth and are making beans and hams or I was thinking of split pea soup. WIsh I could find some yellow dried peas. THey are so much sweeter. Must stop. My fingers are tired and fumbling. You’ve been in my thoughts. Much love, Sue
Good morning all:
Had a quiet Christmas Day yesterday. Plans changed last minute and my son and kids are coming up next Sunday to celebrate with us. So, I just laid low and slept most of the day. Surfaced a few times to snack on leftovers I had. Then back for another short nap. I did clean the floors, all the rain and muddy little paw prints. I see you all had a good day all around. So happy it was good for everyone.
Our family all came together for Christmas Eve. It was so good to see my grandkids open their goodies, We all found a place to eat and talk and enjoy.
It is a foggy muddy day today, but so warm it is unreal. I left the kitchen window open last night ! I need prayers for my Baby horse. She has a nasty growth on her rectum (it has been protruded since I have had her) and it is really nasty. I have been washing her and putting ointment on it. Giving her penicillin. But I think it is time to call in the vet. It is so expensive I try to avoid it. She is indeed looking better than she did on Christmas eve, but still not good. She is eating and doing well, but this thing is either cancer or some sort of yeast infection gone crazy, At any rate I appreciate your prayers for her. I hate to think I saved her just to put her down.
May you all have a Wonderful New Year, Jennie, your dinner sounds so wonderful. I have often wondered about guinea’s . People have them here, but mostly just for their look, they lay their eggs out in the wild and you have to hunt them, unless you pen them up. I wish you a Bonne Annee as well. Happy New Year to you all, as we look forward with anxious eyes to what awaits us in some areas and happiness in others. Have a happy day all !
Love to you all
Tonie
PRAYING FOR YOU TONIE, HOPE THE BABY HORSE, ONE SHE SEES THE VET, WILL GET BETTER. PRAYING IT’S NOT CANCER. LOVE YA GIRL.
XXX
TONIE….SORRY I DIN’T WRITE BEFORE…..I TOO HOPE THAT BABY’S PROBLEM IS NOT SERIOUS AND CAN BE DEALT WITH EASILY, TRY NOT TO WORRY, ITS A CLICHÉ ISN’T IT, COS I KNOW YOU WILL……YOU TOO HAVE A GREAT NEW YEAR, IT WILL BE THE ENDING OF ONE YOU WILL NOT FORGET IN A HURRY WON’T IT?
LOVE YOU MY FRIEND XXXXXXXXJEN XXXXXXX
Tonie, have private messaged you…Sue
Hi
Well hope all went well for all
Our Christmas went off fine. ish ..we are at shed now and DD came up with dogs but on her own..she had words with partner….happening a lot lately.he didn’t come over with her Xmas day either. And he didn’t get up to open pressies in the morning.GS was annoyed with him as he upset DD…I think he may cause the rows on purpose somehow to not come over.but he is always picking on DD …Worried with it really ..I don’t like it
Anyway she’s gone back and Had a good time dogs running in sea it was so warm just windy
Back later Chris
CHRIS….WRITTEN TO YOU, HOPE THINGS ARE A BIT CALMER NOW…….LOVE JEN X
THINKING OF YOU CHRIS AND HOPE DD IS OKAY. DON’T THINK THAT GUY SHOULD STAY IN HER LIFE. NOT A GOOD FEELING. YOU TAKE CARE NOW. LOVE YOU ALL.
XXX
Hi all
Yep things calmer for her..as that’s how HE wants it today
Very angry and worried for her . I can give advice and be here and listen …..
Tonie I hope all is well ,or better .its a worry when you don’t know what it is
Such floods up north here..cities and towns without elec ,chest high water in homes.thousand evacuated
More rain forecast…roads swept away…what is it and why such weather.i know it’s happening over there as well
Well be back later
Chris
Chris, how awful about the flooding. I can’t imagine how cold, displaced and heart broken so many are both here and over there. Flooding is not only destructive but so sad. Do be careful dear lady when you’re out and about. Prayers for your wonderful old country, homeland to so many of us through our ancestry.
I am sorry to hear about your daughter’s situation and it doesn’t sound like it is going to get any better, does it? Guys like that don’t change. Is she afraid of him? Is that why she stays? Time doesn’t usually improve someone like him.
Hope you’re still at the coast and getting some down time. We are lazy here, eating leftover ham and pastries. I wasn’t able to eat much over the holiday with my sore mouth after a trip to the dentist last Monday and have to go back tomorrow. Hopefully the crown will be in and in good condition. Both sides have been sore and that was a bummer. Otherwise, a wonderful holiday. The children got too many gifts, of course. Got a call from our son in TX and all is well with the family except their kitchen all torn up for the holiday. He was grilling/barbecuing a primerib out by their pool and thankfully they had nice weather there. It has changed now. Their old dishwasher was leaking and no one noticed because it was behind the sink and cabinets and now they have to redo their whole kitchen. The workmen broke their granite counter top and that now has to be replaced. Thankfully, they have insurance. Jim about died when I told him they were barbecuing a prime rib but our son has a huge gas barbecue and knows what he’s doing with it. That’s Texas where they do a lot of that. Do be good to you, okay? Love, Sue
Sue
He has been like this for a while. He is a jealous person too.and DD is a very open and bubbly person so ..ugh..
But I sure wish he would go.get booted out or summat.i know she feels as if she should stay till she feels GS is settled ..but maybe it’s the uncertainty…but when she sees the opening I know she will take it.,just difficult when we don’t like him after knowing what he’s like.and trying to remain ….well you know
Well one year out of devilment we did our Turkey in the BBQ at Christmas and it was the best one we’ve had
How awful for their kitchen to be like that over Xmas good job they are insured
Glad you Xmas went ok and not long to get that tooth sorted now.must have been difficult over Xmas with it .i hope the soreness gets better quick and the new crown settles easy
Chris
FLOODS GETTING WORSE, CREEPING UP TO WHERE MY SISTER LIVES….ANYONE KNOW IF ANNIE IS OK AS I NOTICE PARTS OF TEXAS ARE AFFECTED………………………………PLEASE TAKE CARE ALL OF YOU, FLOODS OR NOT……LOVE JENNIE X
Jennie, I spoke to my son on Xmas and he lives just outside of Dallas where Annie lives and he was barbecuing and it was in the 70’s. THey were expecting rain later that night so believe all is well in that part of the country for now. Sue
Hey all:
I am calling the vet in the morning, but not a good feeling. But please keep praying for Baby , we need them.
It was over 70′ here today. Got home from church and put on a pair of shorts, opened windows and doors and let it air out. It will be freezing in a couple of days so soaking it up while we have it. It will be winter as usual in the New Year.
Chris, I have lived the life your daughter is in and it only gets worse. I pray she will wise up and get out before she gets hurt. They never change only evolve. Jealousy is indeed a monster, and it turns them into one. Prayers for that one dear friend.
Okay, bedtime is calling. Hope to swim tomorrow.
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie, You know we have you and dear Baby in our prayers and thoughts. I hope she isn’t suffering at all and I know you’re taking very good care of her and will do what is best. Let us all just hope for now it a cyst or a massive infection because it came on so fast.
I must agree with your advice to Chris but know her daughter is the only one who can make the decision; and know you speak from a position of sad experience.
It’s so fine to see how your life has evolved and so many blessings have fallen upon you in this past year…more to come, no doubt. Love you much, Sue P.S. Be sure to let us know how you’re feeling and hang on until you can get into the doctor.
Hi…..Tonie praying for the vet to find its not what you are worried about…..climate here starting to go down a bit.
Sue…..Thanks for the weather update…..hope its ok where you are/
Chris….Tonie is right, and I too had a relationship like that many years ago…..it goes nowhere good.
Love to all……Jennie x
Jennie, Yes, we have had a couple of days without rain and just cold, however those terrible devastating tornadoes in Texas were about 30 miles from our son and his family. They are fine and just got a hail storm but it was terrible with so many killed and miles of houses razed to the ground. What a year. Take care, Sue
HELLO SUE…….THANK GOODNESS YOUR FAMILY ARE OK, AS ARE MINE, THOUGH IT WAS ABOUT THE SAME DISTANCE AS FROM YOURS……MY GREAT NIECE WHO IS STUDYING LAW, AND WORKING IN A STORE THROUGH HER HOLIDAY, DROVE TO WORK AND FOUND THE CAR PARK UNDER WATER, SO SHE THOUGHT, “MY CAR MAYBE AN OLD BANGER, BUT ITS NOT GOING IN THAT LOT”……BUT THE PLACE UNIVERSITY WHERE SHE IS AT IN YORK, THE RIVER THROUGH THE TOWN GETS FLOODED YEAR IN AND YEAR OUT, YET NOTHING IS DONE.
YES INDEED, WHAT A YEAR, IT SEEMS EVERY TIME WE SWITCH ON THE NEWS, YET ANOTHER DISASTER OF SOME SORT, I HOPE YOU ARE ALL SAFE IN OREGON, AND ENJOYED CHRISTMAS…….MUCH LOVE….JENNIE XX
Yes folks
I agree with all the comments
ANd today he txt me a happy Xmas .ugh…all fine for him..like I know nothing!
I like your words tonie
They don’t change only evolve …so right
My DD seems fine and so it goes till,the next time
I’m gonna tell my DD tonies words
Well we were going back tomorrow ,but nice sunny weather for a few days so we’ll go back then and put the shed to bed for a couple of months .it closes for four weeks .but think we’ll leave it drained down Incase of frosts.it will save on the Ch instead of keeping on frost setting we can leave it off
Head not too good try and keep off the amitryp as it makes my heartbeat odd.so I take just Panadol ,not much good really .but I bumped my head last night and the pain went to town!
Back later
Chris
Oh hope the dentist went ok and no,pain…huh I can not imagine that sue …hope the crown ok
Tonie hope the vets went ok
Oh Chris, I am so saddened to hear you bumped your head. I suspect you are not as steady on your feet after your concussion. I hope they can find something that will bring you a bit of relief. Yes, the situation with your daughter is concerning and you both have my prayers for it to work out for the best. I have been watching the flooding on TV in York. How very awful and what is there to be said in such a tragedy?
My crown for my tooth was not ready and they didn’t call and I went down there and have to admit I was not disappointed because my mouth is still sore from last week. What a day. Do enjoy where you are..Love, Sue
Maybe it was fate that protected you with your mouth and no crown .but they should have saved you a trip to them
Yep it is bad In York and around also loads of rain forecast tomorrow as well
How awful for that weather to be so close to your son let’s hope that is the end of it now,I’ve seen the scenes on TV and they are shocking
Your right my balance has gone.luckily after the night the pain settled to what I usually have.at the moment I’m awake with bad wind pains .i think after dieting for months then eating like a pig! It’s upset me…yea I know those icecreams…I think I stretched everywhere there
But I’ve got heat on it at moment ..I don’t want to take any antispasmodics as it causes me other probs.have to see how it goes
Thankyou for your prayers for my DD she could do with looking after herself better as well .she is so busy at work and she is putting on weight and tired all the time…
Well going to spend a few more days here as sun looks to shine .got porridge for the morning ,don’t know if that’ll be a good thing or not.
Got TV on and they’ve just show snow in Texas ..
Chris
CHRIS…YOU HAVE MY PRAYERS ALSO…ITS A TRICKY SITUATION, AND I HATE THAT YO AND YOUR DH ARE CAUGHT UP IN IT, AND I KNOW ALSO, THAT WHEN THERE ARE FAMILY PROBLEMS THAT AFFECTS YOUR KIDS, IT GOES STRAIGHT TO YOUR TUMMY LIKE ME.
PORRIDGE IS GOOD CHRIS, GO FOR IT, AS LONG AS ITS A SMALL PORTION.
I HAVE DONE THE SAME AS YOU, GOT MY WEIGHT DOWN AND GOT USED TO SMALL AMOUNTS, THEN ALONG COMES ALL THAT RICH FOOD, AND WHAM, ON THE DOWNWARD SLOPE, SO NOW CUTTING DOWN ON EVERYTHING, SMALLER PORTIONS ON A SMALLER PLATE, TRYING TO FOOL MY MIND……HA! NOT EASY.
IT GRIEVES ME TO SEE MY BELOVED YORK UNDER WATER, I WAS BORN NEAR THERE SO IT IS SPECIAL TO ME, YET THEY DO NOTHING TO HELP STOP IT, JUST SEND IN THE ARMY INSTEAD OF BUILDING MORE FLOOD DEFENCES………..I WISH YOU BETTER CHRIS, KEEP YOUR HOTTIE HANDY, AND PUT YOUR FEET UP AND REST MY FRIEND…….LOVE YOU…JEN X
Hey all:
Well, put in a call to the vet. Waited til this afternoon, then called them back (someone was supposed to call) still no call. I put in a call to the other large animal vet, hopefully she will call me back. Good grief !
Chris we are getting the rain again as well, We have soggy muggy rain soaked ground. So now it is getting even worse, flooding in the lowlands. Take care of that head. I pray your daughter will listen, it is a dangerous situation to be in. I finally walked out when he had a knife to my throat. Had it not been for my daughter coming in, he would have cut my throat.
Sue, sorry they didn’t have your crown ready. I went up to swim today, and was early, and had to take a water Zumba class instead (ugh) they had the whole pool opened up. Friday it is closed. Fran and all will be going to California soon so I can go whenever I want.
Sleep well all
Love
Tonie
Tonie
I’m shocked you had to go thru all you did ,but you survived and look where you are now. But a terrible story … And your DD must have been traumatised
I’m awake it’s 3 .30 am it’s one of the things on my mind
Well I hope one of the vets gets back to you.
All this rain and warm weather..Altho it gives sun here later. We aren’t too bad as up north
At the shed its muddy as its all grass .much like yourself I expect
Chris
Chris:
Yep mud and grass, no sidewalks and stuff to keep me from getting muddy. My daughter doesn’t remember it. She was only 6 at the time. Thanks be to God.
We are supposed to get cold now. It is 40′ this morning, still warm but colder by 10 than it has been. Hope you got some rest.
Love
TOnie
TIM AND CLAIRE HAVE JUST INFORMED ME, THAT WHEN THEY GET BACK TO CORNWALL FROM THEIR TRIP TO ESSEX, THAT ON NEW YEAR’S DAY THEY WILL BE JOINING THE LOCALS FOR THERE USUAL DIP IN TE FREEZING COLD SEA…..CLAIRE BOUGHT TIM A WETSUIT FOR CHRISTMAS, BUT HE IS NOT ALLOWED TO WEAR IT FOR THIS ANNUAL EVENT ITS BUDGIE SMUGGLERS (BRIEFS) ONLY……GOOD LUCK WITH THAT….THINK ITS GOING TO BE ON THE CORNISH TV NEWS, WILL BE WATCHING THAT……MUST BE BONKERS……CAN’T THINK WHERE TIM GETS IT FROM?????
Jennie, I know how proud you are of Tim and Claire, and I agree. I’m sure those briefs will keep him warm…not. It’s truly a wonderful act or charity but I suspect it will also be a kick for him. After that all but skinny dip experience he will probably be hot in a wet suit. Hope you’re okay now and getting some reasonable weather for you and DH. Tiring day for me with the grands, but fun. Must rest. Love ya, Sue
PS…….THE KIDS HAVE JUST TOLD ME THEIR SWIM IS FOR CHARITY FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER……..A BIT DIFFERENT FROM THEIR CHRISTMAS DAY WORK FOR THE HOMELESS…….JENNIE X
Oh well done Tim and Claire they do sound a lovely couple
I had to take the spasmonal..too much pain.i get it even when my bladder is full.and to walk from bed to bathroom is so much pain I’m doubled up.tum all windy and not really easing.its not biting so bad just so sore. When I sit down too…….anyone else likeit ever?
Came home as I feel better at home
Meds for it dry me out….gotta watch for constipation
Ok that s it.
Tonie any news from vet
Jen. More rain tonite there awful..such a lovely city and so much history
Sue
Hope your mouth not so sore
Chris
Chris, my goodness but the weather and the flooding news is so horrific. How awful. Yes dear, I get some of the same problems you get when I don’t stay regular. That’s so important and you know your self well enough to know what agrees with you and does not. I suspect some of this is the holiday eating plus anxiety over daughter. I hope relief comes soon and do wish you could get better relief for your head. Oh dear, what a time you’ve had. Much love, Sue
CHRIS…..YES I GET THE SAME, FEELS LIKE YOU ARE SITTING ON YOUR INNARDS, WELL I SUPPOSE OU ARE IN A WAY, BUT ITS QUITE SEVERE PAIN, I FEEL FOR YOU LOVE.
YES MORE RAIN, JUST MESSAGED CLAIRE, SHE SAID THE SAME IN CORNWALL…A DELUGE. SO IT SEEMS ONCE AGAIN WE ARE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT….OR SOON WILL BE, PERHAPS WE COULD BUILD AN ARC, AND SAIL IT TO SOMEWHERE IN THE CHANNEL, BOTH HOP ON WITH OUR KIN AND GUBBINS THEN SAIL TO AMERICA AND PICK UP THE REST OF THE CREW…….JUST THINKING OUT LOUD…TAKE CARE LOVE.
JEN XX
Jen. are so funny they just keep coming out
Do you get pain when you spend a penny too with it..like it’s any pressure on the bowel?
Hey all:
CHris, yeah the woman vet called me back. She agrees, don’t sound good. She just got back in time so she is going to let me know when she can be here to take a look. Maybe Sat. We had another beautiful day, almost 70. Now it starts going down, more and more until New Years, Hope you feel better.
Jen, that is great what your kids are doing together. The fact they are doing these things for others speaks volumes. Kudos to them Kiddos !
Does anyone get like leg spasms from gabapentin ? Makes my legs feel like I have to stretch them for about an hour, Only when I take the higher dose.
Well, time for sleep.
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie, Trying to play catch up here. Had the grands all day with school out. Had a great time but I’m more than exhausted now. Had to check in on here and see if you heard from the vet. I know you need an answer and will all wait to see. As long as Baby isn’t hurting. I also know you well enough to know you’re preparing your heart for whatever news comes from the vet.
Sounds like the weather is getting a bit colder…we’ll see how much for you. Later, and please take care. It will be nice when your charge moves out west for awhile. Who looks out for Ms. Alice out there? Sue
Sue:
Ms ALice has a “Tonie” out there as well. Had a longer day with her today. Her daughter had to go to the gyno today. Can’t believe it has been a year already. I have to make that apt for myself, it has been too long since I did that.
I haven’t heard back from the vet yet. Baby is still doing good. Eating like a ….well you know. 🙂 Yeah Frenchman called me today, first thing he said again was don’t let my heart get in front of my wallet, and then still have to make that hard decision. Frankly, I will be happy for the cold at least it will freeze the mud. Really bad when I have to use 4 wheel drive to turn around in the yard.
Yeah, I will be happy for that move, so I can sleep in a bit. Winter weather makes me lazy.
Love ya
Tonie
HI TONIE….HOW HAS IT BEEN FOR YOU? I AM PRAYING STILL FOR BABY, PLEASE GOD LET THE VET DECIDE IT WILL BE OK WITH MEDICATION, I KNOW WHAT THOSE HORSES MEAN TO YOU……CHIN UP PETAL, CAN’T TELL YOU IT WILL BE OK, BUT YOU ALWAYS FACE THINGS HEAD ON, AND YOU WILL THIS TIME…GOOD OR BAD, AND WE ARE ALL HOPING FOR THE SAME RESULT……..YES I AM PROUD OF THE KIDS, I WOULD GIVE ANYTHING TO BE ABLE TO SEE THEM DO THESE THINGS, THEY WORK WELL AS A TEAM.
KEEP WELL LOVE, AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR…….JENNIE XXX
Hey Jennie Poo:
Thanks for the prayers for Baby (and all of you who are) Yeah, all I can do is do what I have to . Sorry ya’all are having so much rain. We are finally gonna be rain free until next Thursday or so, and the temps are to be normal. At least the mud will freeze.
Happy New Year (Bonne Annee) to you as well !
YES TONIE I DID WHEN I WAS ON THAT PILL. HAD TO STOP IT BECAUSE OF THAT. THEY JUST NEVER SEEMED TO STOP.
SLEEP WELL SWEET PEA.
GOD BLESS. XXX
It only does it sometimes Suzanne, that is why I asked. Wondered if it was the gabapentin
Tonie
I hope when the vet comes and sees the sore it’s not what she thinks and something safer
It’s so much warmer here than it should be too.but more rain forecast
Well gonna try and get back to sleep
Chris
GOSH ITS BEEN A ROTTEN DAY….A DOUBLE DOSE OF SCIATICA, NO SLEEP, FEELING WEEPY……IT WILL PASS.
SOME GOOD NEWS, SOME MAY REMEMBER MY WRITINGS IN REGARDS TO MARK, TIM’S ALCOHOLIC FRIEND……HE ALMOST DIED LAST YEAR……WELL SINCE THEN, HE HAS BEEN DRY FOR 5/6 MONTHS, AND AFTER A LONG CHAT WITH TIM, HE NOW WORKS AS A VOLUNTEER FOR A HOMELESS CHARITY……YAY, WAY TO GO……MAY IT LAST FOREVER.
JUST WANTED TO SHARE THAT…………………..LOVE JENNIE X
Jennie, that is great news. One day at a time for him.
Sorry you’re going through a bad time. I understand. Going through a dark zone myself. Hang in there, Love, Sue