A MAGIC MEDICINE CHEST FOR STRESS

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A MAGIC MEDICINE CHEST FOR STRESS

What an interesting idea. Wouldn’t it be great to have a magic chest where we could go for cures or remedies for life’s stressful situations? This chest would have much in it much like Mary Poppins satchel. Remember the lamp she removed? Yes, it would have to be magic. Every one of us have a medicine chest in our bathrooms and they are filled with pills of all shapes and sizes, toothbrushes, creams of all types, but is there anything in there to make stress disappear? I know there may be a pill or two that is appealing but the stress doesn’t really go away with a prescription; it is simply numbed for a while. When the numbness and the effects of the medication or alcohol if that’s your preference leave, the stress is still there, lurking or sometimes screeching.

We seem to be surrounded by stress and as a world we are suffering from the fatigue of that stress. Politicians are blasting out their messages, the news is insane, madmen are killing and nations are dissolving and yet, here we are, those who suffer chronic pain and chronic illnesses, already stressed to the limit. It is a bit surprising the world as a whole doesn’t have hypertension, bleeding ulcers and migraines, don’t you think? Is it possible for us to have a collective nervous breakdown? Where can we go to escape the madness? Don’t we have enough challenges without adding onto the pile we already carry every day of our lives?

Speaking for myself, and I always do, I find I don’t handle stress as well as I used to. I often ask myself, after I’ve calmed down, “Why?” I believe living with chronic pain can make us so on edge we often feel like Atlas and find the world far too heavy. That’s when it’s time to put it down. I find I awaken to disappointment to find my problems are still there and have to be faced anew each day. If I could escape my body just for a little while, how grand that would be. I wish I could get this lobster that grasps my rear end all the time off of me. Now there’s an image one can find cartoonish but that is the reality of sacroiliitis and it fits, uncomfortably but fits. Perhaps I am influenced by living on the coast in my choice of a lobster claw. I could just as easily have referenced the metaphor of sitting on a pitch fork or something more pastoral but I think you get the picture.

People are usually surprised when I write or say something humorous about all the physical problems I face but I don’t see why? Having a pain in the tush is funny if it’s not your tush. When I tell someone, anyone from a doctor to a perfect stranger I have pain in my ass, they always smile; therefore, it must be humorous. I’ve lived with it for a long time and when you add a dozen other problems, many of them painful to an already painful rear, well, any stress from an ant on the floor to a mad bomber can send you over the edge. My nails are often ragged from clinging to that edge but I haven’t fallen in yet. I may be a bit grumpy, depressed or angry but I’m still holding on.

Why don’t we see if that magic medicine chest has something in it for the rigors of this way of life and the stress that is induced both inside and outside of our bodies? Since the medicine chest I envision is here at home, close at hand, we don’t have to travel far which is a thought many of us can embrace. Funny, isn’t it how the shortest and most mundane things in life can become gargantuan when you are handicapped? We just have to use stronger tools I guess, what else? Let me tell you about my magic medicine chest that I often have to reach into for the sheer joy of survival.

Sue’s magic medicine chest is full of hopes, dreams and yes, even an aspiration or two. We cannot live without something to look forward to. When your world becomes smaller and smaller and your limitations pile up like logs blocking the roadway, you often have to search a bit harder to find some light in the darkness in order to move forward. Forward is a wonderful word, isn’t it? Standing still is boring and although it may be painful, forward is our only choice for survival. We can’t go back and reclaim a healthy self, if we sit still and don’t move that is tantamount to dying, therefore, forward march, crawl, limp or scoot.

I understand darkness and despair but I don’t really care for them. I often have to walk away from them. That’s why there is always a light shining in my magic chest to dispel the darkness of depression and self-pity. It doesn’t really matter how long the list may be or the rationale for being in despair, it is a dead end street, a hole in the road and a waste of life all wrapped in a grey package. You might want to say to me, “But you don’t know how awful my life is!” Yes, my dears I do understand but you still can’t take a free ride on it because life is moving on. Hear that ticking sound? Listen carefully for it. Hear it? That’s your life and mine ticking away. Guess I’d better be sure to have a nice large clock in the chest, just as a reminder.

So many of the remedies for life are things you find around the house like the love of a worthy companion and a loving pet. There’s just something about a hug, whether it is given or received coming from a person or a pet. Life reaching out to life is always doubled or tripled in size. So much joy sitting right there in front of us. Plant life can be pretty wonderful, too. Just look, for instance, at the lowly geranium. My son gave me a beautiful red geranium this weekend. It is a wonderful candy apple red, actually the same color as my car, and I love it. Geraniums just keep blooming all spring and summer and will not be deterred as long as they have sun and water. Whenever we grab the clippers to dead head the spent blooms, there are always wonderful new, tiny hopefuls waiting to take their place. My home is full of African violets that keep reproducing. A couple of them have to sustain themselves beneath lamps for part of the day but I think it is worth it to see the white, violet or deep purple blooms with their tiny yellow hearts. They don’t question life as long as they have the basics. Oh, to have the optimism of a flowering plant. Why can’t we humans get more joy out of just being alive? I think it’s because we have regrets and we don’t like change. For many of us the change is ruthless and painful but it only wins if we forget to go forward. If we let it sit on us and beat us to death, well, that’s it.

Another vital item for the medicine chest has to be one’s own personal philosophy and faith. I happen to be a Christian and believe God has my back. I’m not always happy with His decisions but I know He will not ever let me down. He never has. I’m not always polite in my conversations with God but I know He understands just like any loving father does. For instance, one of my favorite whines is, “Gees, when are you going to give me a break?” I have not had a bolt of lightning strike me down…yet. We don’t always agree, but eventually I come around or something interesting and often wonderful happens in my life. My idea of wonderful is very personal and I think it should be for each of us. Whether we are disabled or in pain we are still individuals with talents, gifts and ideas of our own. We are each unique to this world and need to explore our own hearts and minds for answers and spend less time on the old self-pity path.

We have to look very deeply into the chest on some days to find humor but humor is to us what the sunshine is to the geraniums. We need it in order to live, to connect and to persevere. When life gets a bit too foggy and thick around here we always put in a humorous show or DVD. I got my husband some of the old Carol Burnett shows on DVD for Christmas and we’ve been watching the joy in those. Watching other human beings interact, be silly and laugh is wonderful fertilizer for the soul. Yes, we have to have joy and laughter in our magic chests to combat fatigue and sorrow.

Where are we as we gaze into our individual magic medicine chests? I can’t speak for you but I have discovered mine is filled with remedy after remedy in the form of sunshine, ticking clocks, hopes, blooming flowers, dreams and warm hugs both given and received. It is full of faith and that is a challenge these days when life inside and outside our bodies is so tense and yes, painful but it helps me to know and truly believe that good is stronger than evil, that life has healing answers for me and love is stronger than hate. Don’t give up my friends. Life is just that; life giving, nurturing and miraculous.

167 thoughts on “A MAGIC MEDICINE CHEST FOR STRESS”

  1. Sue
    As usual that was just so good..just what’s needed for me
    House meant to exchange Friday waiting all day it didn’t …problem down the chain.monday now.but can’t go any later as my house I’m buying she goes to Portugal for a few weeks and you have to be intouch to answer sols by phone..its up then down again.got some boxes from removals to start as all was ok for Friday ..then….
    So trying not to think about it this weekend
    So I’m looking deep into my treasure chest!
    Hope you are getting over the inj and it’s working . Is that pot in pic yours..lovely colours .ive got that colour pot in a few spots .
    So…I’m mesmerised by it all here..but what will be..I’m fed up of struggling with the phone calls to put it all ok
    Need an extra cupboard for my hip!…..and I wanna get going with it all.fed up of hanging around
    But really in the light of the worlds problems its small fry
    Tonie
    Hope all went ok for you ..thinking of you
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris dear, I can feel your frustration and truly understand it. Oh these situations that stretch out, seemingly forever do test us, don’t they? I pray all is well on Monday and you both will be able to move ahead with your packing and move and new home. Putting these kind of issues aside, out of the mind, is so difficult but do offer a modicum of peace for us. I am sorry your hip is giving you so much pain. Sometimes we forget how Sjogren’s can affect the joints because we get caught up with all the dryness issues.
      The picture of the pot is Tonie’s. I do have a blue pot on my porch that has a hot pink geranium in it. The geranium I speak of in the blog is a large, deep red hanging pot, the one my son bought for me at Sunday market while he was here. I wrote and asked Tonie if she had a picture of a red geranium and she answered, yes, I have one on my front porch. Small world, huh? She takes a good pic, huh?
      No, I don’t think the injection has helped and so far was not worth the problems it caused. I had to try but I may have too much damage in there now. We will see as time passes. Do have as good a weekend as you can, Love, Sue

      Reply

  2. Sue
    I’m so sorry about the inj…maybe it will still work..what did he say? Also you would always wanted to have tried it and it’s out of the way now..but is it back to how it was before you had it done yet?
    Yea good ol Tonie…she does take a good pic…and being able to put it on here with your blog too…she’s one to go!
    Weather not too bad today but still so dull .doesnt it drag like that
    Rain has been bad.a 40 min drive away cars flooded up to the top in the streets boats going down them
    But it is improving at least now and all the thunder has stopped .It gives sun towards the end of next week
    So here I am trying to put my mind on other things..could read a book but a few pages and I’m off again thinking!
    So best thing is lay in bed and put TV on I think
    Live chris

    Reply

    • Chris, awful news about the flooding. When will spring arrive? They’re warning how weather in the USA West will be much hotter than normal and dangerously so. Hope that doesn’t include us. Poor Jo in AZ they are predicting 120 degrees. I have a niece in that direction and they’ve already had so much heat.
      I can understand why it is difficult to concentrate on a book right now. At least I finally found out why I can’t read as well now without very tired eyes and blurring…darn medication called Plaquenil. Off it soon after cutting dose in half. We often forget how toxic these meds can be for us. Don’t know what to think about the injection. Later, rest now. Sue

      Reply

  5. Sue .
    Yes you’ve always said about not reading and your eyes . Be good to be that better
    Yes indeed poor Joe I have lived in that heat on the edge of a desert and it is so sapping
    Well gonna try and sleep
    Chris

    Reply

  6. Sue – I frequently read your posts but rarely comment. Thank you for keeping them going.

    I’m a retired librarian who finds it hard to hold books, and to sometimes focus. However, I discovered that listening to books is something I can do on even my worst days. Give it a try! I get audible books through libraries near me, but also through the National Library Service. It’s free for people with all kinds of disabilities. They send simple to use equipment and the materials can be ordered many different ways. They have audible magazines available as well as books.

    Feel free to ask me questions, if you or anyone else might be interested in the service.

    Reply

    • Karen
      I just saw your post and had to let it go on, since it is your first, now they will show up quickly. I would LOVE ago know more about the National Library Service. Who do we contact about getting the books and equipment ?
      Tonie

      Reply

    • Karen, I would also love to learn more too. I’ve just recently gotten into audio books . A friend bought me a couple, and I loved it.
      Thanks, Jo

      Reply

      • HI KAREN, I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO LEARN ABOUT THOSE BOOKS. WOULD HAVE TO ASK OUR LIBRARIAN IF WE COULD GET THAT HERE. I LIVE IN CANADA SO THINGS ARE VERY DIFFERENT HERE. WHAT A TREAT THOUGH TO LISTEN TO A BOOK BEING READ TO ME. TROUBLE HOLDINGBOOKS NOW. THANKS AGAIN KAREN. XXX

    • Karen, are you one of my FB friends? Thanks so much for sharing such great information. My sister in law and my DH both love books on tape and have used them for years when traveling. I have a hard time concentrating and prefer the book. Many will value any info you can send and share. Sue

      Reply

      • Hi – I am a Facebook friend of yours. I’m leaving town tomorrow, and have been dealing with medical issues the last couple of days. As soon as I get back, I’ll give what information I have to help those interested.

      • Karen, hope the medical issues are better and you found some answers. Since we don’t deal with last names on here it is hard for me to know which Karen you are but wishing the best for you…always. Hope you’re better. Fondly, Sue

      • Thank you for wishing me well on the medical tests, Sue. I have one more coming up Monday. Sue, you have always been nice in the times you’ve replied to me, and I appreciate that. I’m not on here enough to become known to anyone. But, I have followed you since you were doing blog posts on Everyday Health.

        Finally I’m back to talk about the National Library Service for the blind and physically handicapped. They administer a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States. It is a wonderful service. I have now used it for years. I download books to my phone, and listen to them on there. But, you can also get a machine from them, and listen to books that way. Here is a link to the site: http://www.loc.gov/nls/index.html. The site talks about what is available, how and where to sign up. There is even a link to find out which library in your state can help. If this still isn’t enough information, let me know, and I can help anyone to get into the program.

        I don’t know what is available for people in other countries. I would recommend asking at a library near you to see if there is such a program.

        Also, many public libraries now have books that can be downloaded and listened to on people’s phones and tablets. Many have a service called Overdrive that you can use if you have a library card. Check out periods through public libraries are usually three weeks. The delight of getting the materials through the National Library Service is that there is no limit to how long you have to read it.

        There is also a commercial site called Audible.com. This company is now owned by Amazon. These books can be purchased. It is possible to either by individual books, or you can pay a monthly fee and get the books at a reduced rate.

        I use all three of these services, but I am a pretty heavy reader/listener. If I can’t get a book from one site, I will go to another.

        I hope this helps people. If I can be of any help, let me know.

        I do know reading/listening can be a wonderful distraction from pain.

  7. Sue, ❤ Love this.
    I am sorry the injection is not helping. As Chris asks, is it possible it still might? I know sometimes they take a bit of time, others are to help straight away. I found out my sister in law has joined our ranks of chronic pain. Fibro and Chronic Fatigue. No wonder it took so long to diagnose. Another diagnosis by elimination. Needless to say, she is having a hard time adjusting to realizing this is how life will be. She is younger than I and still working. With kids in college and HS, she will need to remain working for now. Her husband, my step brother, has taken a job in another state – double the pay he was making plus a share in the company, so good for them financially, but he is away during the week now. Thankfully, the kids have divided up housework (at my brother's insistence) to help her out.

    Everyone, I have good news about the girl many of us have been praying for! Yesterday she was moved from the hospital she had been moved to, back to the hospital where her newborn is! Thank you, everyone who prayed for this gal and her family. She made an amazing, perilous, journey and hopefully now will be able to fully recover. So scary.

    Chris, sorry for your ups and downs. Hopefully Monday it will be! Meanwhile, enjoy your weekend. Weather has been beautiful here. So glad we don't have that heat out west Sue spoke of, or the flooding over your way.

    Happy Father's Day to all Dads!

    Reply

    • Lyn, Gratified you found something to love in the blog. Such good news about the young mother we’ve all been praying for with DIC. Wonderful and unusually fast improvement. God is good.
      Sad news about your SIL. I was about her age when I first became ill with one kid in college and one in HS. We each understand what a difficult adjustment it is and feel for her. Hope you directed her to the blog and many of the older ones. Is her pain and loss of energy intermittent or constant? Poor gal. Hope her family will understand under all the circumstances. Inconvenient is just one of the words we use, right?
      Enjoy your good weather. We are also fine in that dept. with a bit more rain than usual. I’ll take that every day compared to heat. Hope all the family and critters are well and happy. Love you, Sue P.S. Don’t know about the injections but hopefully they will kick in.

      Reply

      • Sue, I do want to chat a bit more with my SIL. It was a group discussion on Friday. It may be more constant right now. I’m hoping once she has some meds and made some adjustment it may not be?? We’ll see, I guess.

        Oh! My niece and her family may be headed out to Portland sooner than we thought. Perhaps soon. I know they will be looking for a house soon there. Excited for them. And, hoping for a visit once they are settled. 😉

  8. SUE…THIS IS SO EXCELLENT . I LOVE IT AND THE MESSAGE WAS MUCH NEEDED FOR ME TO HEAR. I’M SORRY THE INJECTIONS DID NOT GIVE EACH YOU SOME RELIEF YET. IT’S BEEN A WEEK FRIDAY YOU HAD THEM DONE. RELIEF FOR ME FROM AN EPIDURAL LUMBAR INJECTION DID NOT GIVE ME ANY RELIEF UNTIL TWO WEEKS LATER!! SO HOPING IT WILL STILL HAPPEN.
    A FEW ROUGH DAYS BEING FATHER’S DAY AND MY DAD’S BDAY. IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE IT’S OVER 2 YEARS ALREADY. I WAS ABLE TO GO TO THE CEMETARY IN MAY AND THAT FAVE ME COMFORT.
    YES. POOR ME…120° FORECAST TODAY AND TOMORROW. I LONG FOR THE GOOD OLE DAYS WHEN IT WAS A 105° 😅😆😎 BIT I JUST DO ALL MY ERRANDS VERY EARLY ST 5 OR 6 A.M. IT STILL BEATS 30 BELOW TEMPS WITH SNOW IN CHICAGO WINTERS.
    THANKS FOR ANOTHER GREAT BLOG SUE!! .REREAD IT TWICE ALREADY. ENJOY YOUR SUNDAY . LOVE , JO

    Reply

    • Jo, thank you for gleaning something out of this blog. I always have doubts, oh yes, until I start hearing from all of you, my friends. I always expect someone to say, “Well you sure missed the boat this time, Sue.”
      I hope the injections do work eventually. It was a miserable position to be in but the injections didn’t really hurt that much.
      I am also saddened by Father’s Day. I had a wonderful, funny and very loving father. I understand your wound of grief is still so fresh. Two years isn’t a very long time in the whole scheme of a lifetime. It’s such a fine thing to have such wonderful memories that they can actually hurt.
      Oh my that heat. I don’t think I would still be breathing in such heat. I remember when we lived in the Central valley of CA and remember times when the air cond. went out and I had to lie on the bed covered with wet towels. Yuk. Obviously you have acclimated well. I agree that it must be easier to adapt to than those frozen winters. Are there shops open that early in the AM in AZ? Love to you and hope life is better for you in the sitter department. Sue

      Reply

      • Sue, you never miss the boat with your blogs. I don’t know how you come up with one relevant blog after the next!
        Well it is 120° again today. We knew this extreme heat was coming so I had done lots of grocery shopping last week. I just plan ahead. I walk ava early in the morning around 5:30 to 6 a.m. It’s so dangerous for the dogs to be out in this extreme heat with their Paes on the pavement . I get so angry when I see some dogs put out in the yard in this heat. Some people have no brains. We do have stores open early here and of course the 24 hour ones like walgreens and walmart. Thank God this isn’t really normal to have these high temps. I’ve only experienced these temps maybe 3 times in the last 15 years. I’ve learned to adjust and rearrange the times I do things.
        Have you noticed any improvement yet from the injections? We never know until we try. If we didn’t go for it, we would always wonder if it would have helped. I’m just getting anxious to get my health insurance straightened out. Such a bind the State of Illinois has put myself and Mike in. I was entitled to receive retirees health insurance benefits when I turned 60 from Illinois for working 20 plus years for government . So in December Mike and I switched over to that health insurance, a cigna plan only to find out 2 months later they were bankrupt and hadn’t paid any of my claims. the crooked Governor ordered to stop paying the claims for all retirees and employees! Yet they continue to take premiums every month from every one. It’s criminal what they are doing and there’s not much we can do. Sorry for ranting on…it’s just been so frustrating😣
        Hope you are having a pretty good afternoon. Send some of that cooler weather my way, would you??? Much love ….Jo

      • Thanks Lyn. It is dangerous heat. It normally should be 103 for a high, not 120°!
        I was glad to read the young lady was doing better now. The power of prayer never ceases to amaze me. I feel for your SIL.. I am diagnosed with the same things as her. Chronic fatigue syndrome back in the 90’s and Fibro in 2004. It’s a rough combination but the right treatments, meds and supplements along with lifestyle changes can help a lot.
        Enjoy your beautiful weather….send some my way😀

      • Lol..I bet you are!! Are you sure you don’t miss the blast furnace in your face?? One of the downsides to living here. Staying very cool in my house but I hate to see my electric bill this month🙄
        Glad to read the ablations are helping the pain . That means the dr. got the right spots on you. Take care and enjoy yourself!

  9. Hello….dreading Thursday with the vote to remain or leave te European Union, if we go out, it could affect us in so many ways, health being top of the list, we couldn’t afford to stay here, and cannot afford to go home………scary.
    We had a politician murdered in my beloved Yorkshire in the UK, she was all that was good in politics, and even though most of you don’t like Obama, he send condolences to her family in a tiny town in Yorkshire……nice.
    We have just accomplished six weeks of rain, be it by day or by night, its been there…..so depressing.
    MRI tomorrow, and DH’s second shot, doesn’t seem to be making much difference yet. Hope they don’t suggest surgery for me, cos its not happening.
    So glad prayer helped with Lyn’s friend, so gratifying when that happens.
    Hope the move goes good for Chris.
    Jo…..wishing cooler temperatures for you.
    Sue can you pass on some of your weather to us, really don’t want to get the boat out……lol
    Tonie……hope all is well where you are…..you enjoying being with FM…..daft question really.

    Just found out our next door neighbour is moving to another area, devastating for us, young couple, he speaks good English and has done a few jobs for us, we have grown to love them and their little dog, its surprising how upset I am really, I think its because they have been a lifeline, knowing they could be counted on in an emergency was comforting.

    Much love to all………..Jennie

    Reply

    • Jennie, pleased you liked the blog. I can see why you are concerned about Thursdays vote. You’re faced with some possibly bad choices if England pulls out. Sorry to hear about the murder of the politician you liked and the move of your neighbor. Change is hard, I know, especially if they act as a lifeline and you are so fond of them.
      I don’t quite understand why you don’t want surgery on your foot if it would take the pain away? I’m told recovery is about 6 weeks. Is that it? If you might lose your health coverage would it be better to get it done now? It is the growths on your foot that we are talking about isn’t it? Hope DH starts to show some improvement from the injections. Hope you finally have enough sunshine for the plants and enough to dry out your depression. Love, Sue

      Reply

      • HI SUE…..WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE VOTE BECAUSE IT WILL TRIPLE IF NOT MORE, OUR MEDICAL BILLS, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CLAIM BACK FROM THE UK WHAT WE HAVE PUT IN ALL THESE YEARS IF THE UK NO LONGER BELONGS TO THE EU…..
        I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT DIFFERENT OPINIONS ON TENDONITIS WHICH I HAVE JUST BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH, AND THE SUCCESS RATE OF HAVING THE TUMOURS SURGICALLY REMOVED ARE NOT GREAT, AND EVEN IF I HAVE IT DONE, THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE THEY CAN COME BACK……INJECTIONS ARE A SHORT TERM SOLUTION. NOT SURE WHAT TO DO, MAYBE IF I AM OFFERED SHOCK WAVE TREATMENT, I MIGHT TAKE IT.
        WE ARE PROMISED SUNSHINE TOMORROW………….YIPEE!! XX

  10. Hi all
    Guess what….we’ve exchanged contracts….yippee ..no one can back out now.move 15 July. Decent interval to pack up
    Such stress this morning waitin for the first in chain to say go ahead she waited till 11.30 ..why? We waited for her while her father died 4 weeks. So why do that after messing about as well on Friday .anyway it’s all ok now
    Tonie
    Hope all went well at mammogram for you
    Haven’t heard from you
    Jen
    I think they will remain..seems to be feeling that way
    What a shame about the neighbour..they were interested in your house once I think
    Hope tomorrow goes well for you
    Well gotta go into garage and look what we’ve got to do there
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris….that is the best news, so happy for you now you have peace of mind…..a nice long time left to get organized without getting in a flap……yes you are right as always, it is the couple who were interested in our house, the rent next door, and wanted to buy it from the owner, but sadly it wasn’t to be, Be glad to get tomorrow out of the way, foot hurting badly now…..thanks for your good wishes……Jen x

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    • Chris, yippee indeed. How wonderful to hear some good news and to know you finally have a date to move. I know it will be a lot of work, like moving always is but it’s a good kind of confusion as it allows you to sort and get rid of things and occasionally come across something you forgot all about. Such good news and I am so happy for you. Couldn’t get on here sooner as had the grands here this AM. Do try to pace yourself and DH as best you can. And remember to take it one box load at a time. How exciting for both of you. Love ya, Sue

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      • Jo, How awful to hear about your experience with health insurance through Illinois. That’s so criminal. Why do people keep paying their premiums if they aren’t getting their benefits? Terrible news. We found the insurance offered through our state was far too expensive and went or rather stayed with the company we were with for the last 18 years.
        So hope you get things worked out very soon.
        Good that so many stores are open during the cooler hours and I know…agree with you completely about folks who mistreat dogs in the heat. A pavement or sidewalk can get so hot, even out here.
        No, Jo I haven’t felt any improvement yet. Now with cutting back on one of the inflammatories gets a bit complicated but still hopeful.
        I am so sorry you have to deal with that dreadful heat but see you’re on top of it. Hang in there and know you’re thought of…very highly. Love, Sue

    • HI CHRIS…….NOT SURE HOW THINGS WILL PAN OUT, EVERYONE KEEPS SAYING HOW WE WILL STAY IN, BUT THEN THE PUBLIC HAVE A WAY OF DOING THE OPPOSITE, TO TRY SOMETHING NEW……BT AS CAMERON SAYS, IF WE LEAVE, WE CAN NEVER COME BACK.
      I HOPE EVERYTHING IS GOING TO PLAN FOR YOU REGARDING THE MOVE, HAVE YOU SORTED THE GARAGE OUT YET??…….XX

      Reply

  11. Lyn, Is your niece anxious to move out to Portland. Is it a job change for her or her DH? It’s a large town with three fourths of the population of OR in it but doesn’t always feel big because it is divided into some charming areas. They have kept many of the older homes and they are lovely.
    Thinking of your SIL and know you can be a tremendous help to her. Pray she gets better. Love, Sue

    Reply

    • Sue, my niece had a job offer she couldn’t refuse. A great opportunity for her. Her husband is an engineer and apparently there are lots of “his thing” (specialty/interest, I think) out that way. I think at first he will be a house husband, taking care of their 18 mo/old. We’ll see.

      Reply

      • Lyn, it does sound like a great opportunity. Tell her there is a great deal of rain but it makes everything so lovely and green, but guess you are all used to that. We don’t have any of the brown of CA. Are they in a large city now? Hope it turns into a wonderful adventure for them. Know you’ll miss them and the baby. Love, Sue

  12. Hey all
    Been a hectic couple of days, and last night just wanted to rest. Cooked FM a pork roast for Fathers Day, and we watched a horse movie and talked horses til I was going to sleep on the couch ! Chris, Mano was fine. The lump is a cyst and is full of fluid which is causing some twinges she said. So all is well until Dec. then check it again. I have an apt next Thursday for the follow up on my back. Then I will talk to him to get the pinched nerve blocked out , hopefully he will do it that day.
    So glad I a, not in Az anymore. Don’t think I could handle the temps. I need to call and check on Millie.
    Glad you like the picture Chris. Jennie, hang in there, the sunshine is coming. The vote on Thursday is not good huh ? We have so much going on everywhere. Prayer is needed for this world.
    Well, I think I need some coffee to wake me up for supper ! Haha ! Praying all your shots are taking effect and that you are feeling better. Chris, good news on the move date ! FINALLY
    Love
    Tonie

    Reply

    • Tonie, sounds like a busy life right now. Wonderful to get a new porch built. Pleased you two are doing so many things you both love to do. So important we make the most of our lives in the moment. Aren’t you glad to not be in AZ right now? Do hope Millie and Bill are doing okay with the heat. Sounds like your weather has been pleasant like ours.. Talked with a good friend in CA tonight and it was 110 degrees there. Miserable. It was 68 here today with wind. Lovely. May have rain tonight. Busy week for me with two days for the grands. Later, Love ya, Sue

      Reply

      • Sue
        The weather here has been wonderful, however, the heat from Az is headed this way soon and with it thunderstorms which will not be good for getting in the hay or building a porch. But…. I am on ,y 4th cup of coffee this am. Cloudy and cool this morning making me sleepy. Have to give Ms Alice a shower when she wakes up. I could go back to sleep myself.
        Enjoy your time with the grands !
        Love ya
        Tonie

  13. Everyone! That lovely young lady we were praying for? She’s going home today!! Now, to put this in perspective, DIC is an extremely serious condition which affects about 20,000-some women a year. Very rare. They’ve never had a case at this hospital before. They’ve had other pregnancy/delivery complications, of course, some of the more serious situations the patient has had to stay in hospital a much as a month. This gal is leaving having only stayed a week! The doctors are all amazed and calling it next to a miracle. They can’t believe her progress! I was in tears viewing her Mom’s video last evening. A miracle, indeed. Thank you to all who prayed for this family!

    Reply

  14. Tonie
    Glad all went well.
    Can’t really catch up with all the posts for now as busy busy.but it’s good

    Sue hope all this moves away for you and gets better with off these meds and the injection .thinking of you
    Jen
    How you doing today with the hospital as well as DH
    Maybe back later
    Chris

    Reply

    • CHRIS….TODAY WAS AWFUL…..THE RECEPTIONIST TOOK A DISLIKE TO US, AND WAS RUDE AND UNCOOPERATIVE, THE MEDICAL STAFF HOWEVER, WERE GREAT, AND THE LANGUAGE WAS NOT A PROBLEM FOR THEM. WHEN I WAS DONE WITH, WE WERE ASKED BY SAID RECEPTIONIST TO WAIT FOR THE DOCTORS LETTER…..WE KEPT SEEING FOLKS COME AND GO AND GET THERE SCANNER RESULTS AND LETTERS, BUT WE WERE JUST LEFT THERE. I WENT TO HER TO ASK HOW LONG, AS I HAD A BAD MIGRAINE, AND WAS TOLD TO SIT DOWN, DESPITE ME SEEING THE LETTER ON HER DESK…..I AM IN NO DOUBT THIS WAS DELIBERATE. IN THE END I WENT TO THE DESK AND TOLD ER I WOULD HAVE TO GO SIT IN THE CAR OR I WOULD VOMIT ON HER FLOOR…..FIVE MINUTES LATER, MIRACLE OF MIRACLES, MY DH APPEARED WITH THE LETTER………ANYWAY, GOT TO TAKE THE RESULTS AND LETTER TO THE RHUEMY NEXT TUESDAY WHEN DH HAS HIS FINAL INJECTION……….HOPE YOU ARE OK AND YOUR DH, A TENSE TIME FOR YOU, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF….X

      Reply

  15. Morning all
    Nice day for sleeping in here, wish I could have done it. But… When you need the dough you gotta go, to work that is. Chris, so glad to see you are getting busy with the move. My FM is looking at some properties that maybe we can get. We think it would be good to find a place with more acreage for our yet to be bought horses. And if something happens to me first, if he doesn’t want to stay on, he could sell out without messing up our families land.
    Donna, hope you are enjoying your stay with your daughter. Jo, don’t melt ! Jennie, hope you are feeling better. Go have the surgery if it will stop the pain….why not ? I worry about the politics there because of FMs retirement. So sure they are going to up the age again. They now are saying if you want to retire early, you must PAY them a years salary in order to get YOUR money ! Insane !
    Well, gotta go to the john before Ms Alice wakes up from her morning nap. She must have a shower this morning.
    Love to all
    Tonie

    Reply

    • TONIE….HOPE YOUR FM DOESN’T HAVE TO EXTEND HIS RETIREMENT, HOW LONG WILL IT BE FOR IF HE DOES HAVE TO? HOW IS MISS ALICE DOING? HOPING TO GET SOME SUMMER HERE SOMETIME THIS WEEK, LOOKING AT DARK GREY SKY AS I SPEAK……..WHAT HAVE YOU GOT GROWING NOW? WE HAVE POTATOES, BEETS, CARROTS ONIONS, LETTUCE AND LEEKS……..AND HALF A DOZEN STRAWBERRY PLANTS….FOR COLOUR YO UNDERSTAND……LOL X

      Reply

      • Hey Jennie Poo
        We have no idea for how long it would be, depends on the new regime coming in next May. We have lettuce, greens, radishes, potatoes, garlic, onions, broccoli, zuchinni, corn, beans, tomatoes, melons, cucumbers, and a few peas. Enough for the neighborhood ! Lol. Take care you and watch for the sunshine !
        Love
        Tonie

  16. Jen, that sounds like a horrendous situation if England pulls out, at least for you guys. Over here the feeling is that they will not. So sorry you have that worry on top of all else. I think you should report that receptionist to the doctor. Do you think it was because you are English? What a rotten woman to do that to you.
    I confess I am confused by your diagnosis. Seems like an unusual presentation of tumors for tendonitis. Don’t injections of steroids sound better than an iffy surgery? Our tendonitis over here is more inflammatory in nature. Maybe it’s a language thing that is confusing me. Either way, doesn’t sound like you got the answers you need. Did he give you anything to help? Meds, Ideas? Treatments? I know you were hoping for so much more and must be very disappointed right now. Hope that migraine clears up very soon. Much love, Sue

    Reply

    • HI SUE…….I TRANSLATED THE DOCTORS LETTER, AND HE SAYS …..SUSPECT LEDDERHOSE, WHICH IS ANOTHER NAME FOR PLANTAR FASCIITIS, I KIND OF SUSPECTED THAT……ANYWAY, I CAN’T DO ANYTHING UNTIL NEXT TUESDAY, I WAS NOT GIVEN ANYTHING AS HE PRESUMED THE RHUEMY WOULD HAVE DONE THAT….HE DIDN’T HE SAID NOT UNTIL HE HAD SEEN THE SCAN……SO I TAKE ANTI-INFLAMS IF THE PAIN IS OUT OF CONTROL…..AS FOR THE RECEPTIONIST, WELL YES I THINK IT WAS AN ENGLISH THING. AS FOR THE OPTIONS, NOT SURE, BEEN READING UP ON SHOCK WAVE TREATMENT, BUT TO ME IT SOUNDS LIKE ANY OF THE OPTIONS ARE A BIT HIT AND MISS. ……..HOW YOU DOING SUE?? X

      Reply

      • Jen, I think you need to take the anti inflammatories all the time until you get it resolved. They need to be in your system all the time to work right. Am I correct Sue ? Other nurses ?

      • Jen, The kind of anti-inflam. you’re taking may need long time use but not necessarily. A lot of the over the counter ones are short term, like Aleve. What does doc say about the kind you have? I’m more confused than ever because plantar fasciitis can be helped tremendously by many of the items sold on Amazon for that condition but it doesn’t usually involve a tumor like growth. I had it a few years back and the foot doctor wrapped the foot and then after that tape wore off I bought some tight bands for the foot and inserts for the shoes. Both helped and it went away. It is a terribly painful condition, I know. Are you dealing with two different issues?
        I still think you should report the b—- at the doctor’s office. No excuse for that. Love you, Sue

      • HEY JENNIE POO I GET THAT HERE ALL THE TIME. EVEN IF THEY CAN SPEAK ENGLISH, THEY CHOOSE NOT TOO. HOPE ALL WORKS OUT FOR YOU AND YOUR FEET. LOVE YOU LOTS AND PRAYING FOR YOU MY FRIEND. XXX

  17. Jen

    What a day and what a joke for a receptionist!
    I hope you don’t have to see that idiot again….how you feeling now?
    Hopefully the rheumy can explain it all when you go see her
    The weather gives it hot your way next few days and us too so you can sit out in garden
    The garage….still going thru it….so much and the shed stuff, it’s full of boxes and still going
    Had to stop for today as it made DH dizzy
    Going into town to pay sols and removals today..but going for a cheese scone first as a treat!
    My hip is so sore taking the least anti.inflams I can
    I’m sure we will stay in on Thursday they seem a much stronger voice
    Hope your head is better
    Love Chris

    Reply

    • HI CHRIS….
      MAYBE THE RECEPTIONIST WAS HAVING A BAD DAY, BUT WE WERE ALWAYS TAUGHT THAT AS THEY WERE THE FORST PORT OF CALL FOR SICK PEOPLE, THAT A SMILE AND A FRIENDLY ATTITUDE COULD MAKE A HECK OF A DIFFERENCE…..ANYWAY SHE LOOKED LIKED SHREK, SO I GUESS THAT’S A PROBLEM IN ITSELF.
      HOW IS THE GARAGE CLEARING GOING? YOU NEARLY THERE YET? I AM GLAD YOU ARE STILL FINDING TIME TO HAVE YOUR CHEESE SCONES ETC. WATCH THAT HIP OF YOURS, AND REST IT WHEN YOU CAN…..TAKE CARE…X

      Reply

  18. Hi
    Still at the garage stage another day and it will be finished .have to do it after hospital appt. DH has a dermatology appt. in morning
    Oh I ordered single beds for our bedroom .. As I got kicked!….the double mattress we ordered had to go back it went a bit odd.they came and saw it and are taking it back.it worked in good as we had to have single beds after I ordered that double
    So have to get all single bed stuff now!
    After the garage we will do the shed,then we will start on house…that will be easier I think
    So that’s my story today so far
    Can’t believe we got the bungalow …
    Hope you are improving Sue
    Oh Jen DH has those lumpy things on his hands Duph…something . They are growing but with the warfarin they don’t want to do anything he keeps pressing them down..he was told to..but they are sore .
    Apparently they can just disappear….or go away slowly
    Rain here today.and muggy….waiting for that nice weather they said…..but gives thunder tomorrow !
    Well voting tomorrow..I’m sure it will go how you want it Jen .they seem a stronger team and I think it’ll swing that way
    Tonie
    I do hope FM can sort his pension and retirement out…but enjoy the time now
    Chris

    Reply

    • HI CHRIS…….BLIMY I HOPE YOU ARE RIGHT, WE WILL KNOW AROUND 6-7AM TOMORROW I THINK ITS BEEN SAID………….I THINK THE FOOT TUMOURS ARE HARDER TO GET RID OF ON THE HANDS, AND THE DOC AT THE HSPITAL SAID THEY WILL NEVER GO……BUT NEVER SAY NEVER I SAY…….STARTING ON CALCIM IOOOMGMS AM AND MAGNESIUM 400MGS PM…………READ A MEDICAL ARTICAL THAT THIS HAS HAD GOOD RESULTS………..WHATEVER IT TAKES.
      WE JUST GOT THROUGH A THIRTEEN HOUR STORM HERE, IT WAS TERRIFYING, THOUGHT THE WINDOWS WERE GOING TO BLOW IN, DOG WAS SCARED AND KEPT US UP MOST OF THE NIGHT……ALL IS CALM NW, YOU WOULD NEVER KNOW UNLESS YOU LOOKED AT THE MESS IN THE GARDEN.
      THINGS SEEM TO BE MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FOR YOU CHRIS, WON’T BE LONG NOW, HARD WORK, BUT IT WILL BE WORTH IT………………LOVE JEN X

      Reply

      • Jen, your storm sounds horrendous. Hope you don’t have too much damage to either house or garden. Poor Sacha. Well, according to the bookies in England the measure you fear is going to be defeated. That’s according to our news. I hope they are right for your sake dear girl.
        Sorry the growths on your foot are causing you so much distress. Did the doc say anything about the steroid injections my foot doctor recommended if my one didn’t get better. Don’t know if you have fibromyoma or not. Calcium will be good for you at least whether it helps or not. Just beware of too much CA.+. Remember a couple of years ago Jim got a kidney stone from too much calcium.
        We’re having rain today after three sunny days. Lovely soft rain for the flowers. Hope your weather turns warmer and more enjoyable. Love, Sue

    • Hey Chris, I get those little cysts sometimes as well. They do go away if you press on them, hurts but must be done. Glad you are getting your stuff sorted. Twin beds huh ? Well…..hanky lanky will be tough in them little things Lol ! Just joking. As we age some things are more important in life, comfort and a good nights sleep being foremost.
      Take care loveTonie

      Reply

      • Tonie
        Only you tonie……!
        Yea twin beds…..well they can be pushed together as they are only inches apart…I got a long stick if he starts snoring ,never mind any hanky lanky
        Looks like you got a market garden there with all there is sounds lovely
        Chris

    • CHRIS SO HAPPY FOR YOU AND DH. LOTS OF WORK BUT WORTH IT IN THE END. HOPE ALL WORKS OUT FOR YOU GUYS WITHOUT ANY GLICHIES.
      AUNTY HAS BEEN GIVING ME A RUN FOR ME. NOW SHE WANTS TO MOVE BACK TO WHERE SHE USE TO LIVE. NOT HAPPENING. MY HEART BREAKS EVERYTIME SHE GETS THAT WAY WHICH IS BECOMMING MORE FREQUENTLY.
      I HAD A FLARE WHICH KEPT ME IN BED FOR OVER TWO WEEKS. LOTS OF TROUBLEWITH MY KNEES, BACK AND SITTER. WAS NOT ABLE TO GO VISIT AUNTY……. IWILL TRY TO GO TUESDAY AND BRING HER TO THE BANK, JUST TO GET HER OUT. I’M FEELING GUILTY I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO BE THERE FOR HER. I THINK HER MIND IS GOING FAST. NOT REALLY SURE WHAT TO DO EXCEPT CALL THE SOCIAL WORKER. WHAT DO YOU THINK CHRIS?
      THANKS CHRIS, LOVE YOU BOTH. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH. XXX

      Reply

      • Suzanne
        I think that’s a good idea to call a social worker if you can…..they would be used to this sort of thing and maybe give you advice how to deal with it.it will be an ongoing thing for your aunt ,as I expect she will be fixated on it when she sees you.or your cousin…..maybe she forgets when you’re not there
        I know from my dad everything was just ongoing and it was a case of putting everything off and the same old routine of placating and ignoring.its not good when you are like this either…yes I think it’s a good idea as it will perhaps put your mind at peace a bit when you leave you aunt.
        Really looking forward to being at the new place now..it’ll be a different way of living I think
        Hope all goes well and you feel better soon these flares are a bind without all the extra to deal with
        Love Chris

  19. Morning all
    Things are still moving quickly for most of us. Busy time of year summer is. Taking a little break. Had to give Ms Alice a shower today. Got her meds and fruit and sitting nearby on the couch. Love this sun porch. Mine will begin next Wednesday.
    Ms Alice has a bad time with her bowels due to inactivity. Fran had to reliveve her yesterday and was slightly miffed this morning. Said she thought when she stopped nursing that would be the end of those things…but ! Anyway, adding Fiberone bars to the morning fruit cup, hopefully this will help. Prune juice or stool softener put her into …well lots of clean ups and changes. So gotta try another approach. Any more suggestions out there ? She eats good, lots of fruits and veggies ( you know me) but still not enough moving around.
    Anyhow, must get things in place for my reunion on Sat. Tomorrow we go swim, then we are going to look at some property for sale. See what it is like. Then home to cook for Sat, then to horse show at night. Lots of goings on this weekend. But it is fun. He has to go back the second week of Aug. I will be sad. So get things we can do together while he is here. I have lots on the agenda. I have to update my passport also. Maybe a trip in store for me.
    Well, must run. Hope all is well for everyone today.
    God bless
    Tonie

    Reply

  20. Tonie
    It all sounds exciting for you ..you will have to keep a diary not only for appts but also a reminder and record of your life at present
    No comments on the movement I know how difficult it was with my dad..just keep on with it is all there was to do
    Jen
    I see you had bad weather and it’s on it’s way up.Kents been hit with it and cars floating along streets we are forecast it tonight with the thunder and warnings
    where’s summer ..well it is Glastonbury I suppose ! It looks terrible there.they had long queues on roads of 8 hrs
    Been doing garage..another hr tonight we’ll be finished
    Dermy went ok this morning
    Lyn
    How’s yours going have you heard when it’s being done
    Sue
    How’s things
    Chris

    Reply

  21. WELL THE UNTHINKABLE HAS HAPPENED, WE ARE OUT……..HOW THAT WILL NOW AFFECT US ALL WILL BECOME CLEARER AS THE TIME GOES ON,I HOPE IT WILL NOT BE A DISASTER FOR ALL COUNTRIES INVOLVED……EVERYONE WAS SO SURE THE UK WOULD REMAIN, BUT ALWAYS HAD THAT UNEASY FEELING, SEEMS I WAS RIGHT TO.

    SUE…….DO YOU THINK 1000MGMS OF CALCIUM TO 400MGMS OF MAGNESIUM IS ADEQUATE OR TOO MUCH??
    WARMER WEATHER HERE NOW, SO AT LEAST THAT IS BETTER, AND I CAN GET SOME FRESH AIR IN OUR SLIGHTLY BATTERED GARDEN………LOVE YOU X

    CHRIS….I WAS LOOKING AT THE FLOOD DAMAGE ON UK TV, ITS BEEN BAD IN SO MANY AREAS, BET YOU WERE SURPRISED BY THE RESULT HUH? HOW IS THE PREPPING FOR THE MOVE GOING?

    TONIE…..EXCITING TIMES FOR YOU, PROPERTY HUNTING, REUNIONS ETC, ENJOY IT ALL, I AM SO PLEASED YOU ARE GETTING YOUR SHARE OF HAPPINESS LOVE, GOOD LUCK TO YOU……

    THEY ARE CALLING IT “INDEPENDANCE DAY” ALREADY IN THE UK, LETS HOPE THEY DON’T MAKE A MESS OF IT.
    JENNIE………………..A VERY SCARED BLOGGER XXXXXXXXXX

    Reply

    • Jen, We were also up half the night watching the results in the UK. We don’t understand all the ramifications like you do and yet were also surprised. You are sounding relatively subdued but I know how worried you are and thought about you with the news. Time will tell. I’m concerned for you but don’t know as much about it as you do, of course. Does the exit have any good aspects to it in your opinion?
      Yes, the recommendation for women for calcium daily is 1000-1200 but that is also counting food. I try to get mine with food so I don’t have to swallow those huge pills. The chewable type stick in the teeth, etc. It is just a matter of what you prefer as long as you get the right amount. Do try not to worry but I know you will. Prayers dear friend, Sue

      Reply

  22. Hi Jen
    Very surprised. I stayed awake all nite.the results out just kept coming.the country areas vote out compared to the city ones although a lot of those were out too. People I think are frustrated with full schools and hospitals
    I hope you will be ok Jen and try not to worry .i was concerned when the results come in for you. Don’t know what to say .its all so surprising…resignations being talked about now
    Love chris

    Reply

  23. HI CHRIS……CAMERON ALREADY GONE, LET’S JUST HOPE THAT BUFFOON BORIS JOHNSON DOESN’T GET IN….AND AS FOR FARAGE????????????????
    YES I DID HAVE A FEELING EARLIER ON, IN FACT WHEN THIS FIRST STARTED THAT IT WOULD END LIKE THIS, WE HAVE A COUPLE OF YEARS TILL PANIC TIME, BUT WE WILL NEVER SELL OUR HOUSE NOW, IF WE GET ANY VIEWERS AT ALL, THEY WILL BE FRENCH, WHO WILL KNOW THEY CAN OFFER AS LOW AS THEY WANT……GREAT HUH?/
    JUST ANOTHER WORRY.

    Reply

    • JENNIEPOO PRAYING FOR YOU. YES I HEARD CAMERON HIMSELF HE WAS OUT OF THERE. I ALSO SAW THE BUFFOON ON THE NEWS. JUST DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY AND NOT SURE HOW IT WILL EFFECT CANADA. WE ALWAYS WENT THROUGH LONDON ON MANY THINGS. DON’T KNOW HOWTHEY WILL BE TRADING NOW. KEEP ME POSTED MY FRIEND. GOD BLESS YOU. LOVE YOU JENNIE POO. YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS EVERY DAY. XXX

      Reply

  24. I guess we’re all going bonkers on both sides of the ocean. I pray all works out.
    Just wanted to pop on and check in. I’ll be out of town the next few days and today will be crazy with prep. On top of it all, as those on FB may already know, our kitten has somehow injured himself. He cannot bear weight on his right hind leg without pain. The vet thinks perhaps around the knee. He even mewed when I touched his foot yesterday. He’s on pain meds and rest for a few days to see if that helps. If he’s not better by Monday, we’ll do xrays. Always something. It is a traveling and singing weekend for me. Concerts, one in the western part of our state on Saturday, then a church service Sunday morning, then travel to Chautauqua Institution in New York state for a Monday evening concert. It will be nice to be able to explore around there again. I loved it there the first time we went. We are traveling by bus. The bus will leave right after the concert Monday evening, then I have another 45 min drive home after that drop off. I believe I’ll be a tired pup on Tuesday! So, I probably won’t be able to check in here again until after that. 😦 Take care, all!

    Reply

    • Lyn, I see what you mean about the timing and dear Luka. Hope he gets better soon. Who is elected to give the pain pill in your absence? I hope he improves soon and know he will miss his Mom. It’s so hard to see our pets suffer, isn’t it? Sounds like a wonderful trip for you so be sure to enjoy every aspect of it, okay? Do take time to rest in there somewhere and travel as comfortably as you can. Love ya, Sue

      Reply

    • Lyn…sorry hear about the little one, I do hope he soon gets better, what a worrying time, as a devoted animal lover, he has my prayers. Good luck for the concert this weekend, have fun, yes no doubt you will be tired, but it will be worth it. x

      Reply

      • LYN WILL BE WITH YOU IN MY HEART. HOPE THERE WILL BE SOMEONE HOME TO TAKE CARE OF THE CAT AND HIS MEDS. SENDING YOU ANGELS AND PRAYERS MY FRIEND. DO ENJOY YOUR CONCERTS. LOVE YOU. XXX

  25. Jen
    Well forget it for now. Take it one step at a time .it mite even work out ok.you could go round in circles with over thinking. Just enjoy what you have now and you have enough to sort out with all you have etc
    How’s the weather with you.its muggy here dull then bright then rainy
    Still found stuff to pack in garage..but will finish today .packed the shed .so that’s outside all done.inside to do that will be easier I think.. Managed to hit my sore hip and it’s really sore now
    Yea I wonder who will get in what will Osborne do as it was said he was going to run for it when Cameron went…but can’t see him being with boris
    What a to for!

    Lyn
    Do have a great weekend it all sounds busy yet wonderful..hope your kitty improves while your away
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris, sounds like you are making wonderful progress for the move. What a job huh? Sorry you bumped the hip and know how sore that must be. What a good feeling however to finish up the garage. How much did you throw out? There are always so many decisions to make when one moves.
      I know you must be feeling the BREXIT vote but possibly differently than Jen. I try not to get involved in politics in other countries because it isn’t my business or the reason for the blog besides, we have a controversial election coming up here as well. I am concerned when the results affect my friends abroad.Hope you’re not worried excessively. Enjoy this time and hope you’re planning for your new home. I’m excited for you to get that sunny garden and different bedroom. Love, Sue

      Reply

  27. Sue
    It doesn’t really affect me..just worried for Jen …we will have to see how it turns out here for all
    Well we threw away a big skip full a few weeks ago and still every day something in the car goes
    I’m so looking forward to having a meal the first night ..well a take out….in the conservatory .DD is coming over to help so we can enjoy one together .
    Be good with all our stuff about still in boxes..a kind of I don’t care about it!
    How are you?
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris, what a lovely idea to look forward to. Glad your DD is coming and know she will be a big help. I always feel the hardest part of any move is the packing and moving it all in and from then on you can empty boxes in your own time and at your own speed. It’s kind of the fun part…the getting settled with all of your possessions in a new environment. There’s also something uplifting about cleaning out and throwing out. We sure do need to do that.
      Glad you’re not feeling as affected as Jen is by the politics of the moment. Our stock market is falling. I guess the whole world is feeling a bit of a quake temporarily. We will all have to wait and see.
      Thanks for asking about me. I fight the daily fight as each of us do. Daily problems with IBS and what to eat to keep from losing more weight. I always ask myself at the end of the day if I’ve had enough calcium and try to watch that with these terrible bones. Haven’t had any increase in pain since cutting out the Plaquenil which was affecting my eyes, glad for that. We will see if that lasts and hope eyes get better.
      Lots of babysitting this week. DD out of town for the weekend and the kids will stay with us and with friends of theirs. With Jim retired we are getting the porch, etc. cleaned up and planting a few pots and all is looking good. Feeling like summer but still having quite a bit of rain. I don’t mind the rain because I don’t have to water except for porch plants. Lazy here. Do take some time to rest. Love, Sue

      Reply

  28. Hi folks
    Sue
    Look after your self this weekend i know it is wearing even if enjoyable looking after your grands
    Going out for a cheese scone for breakfast in morning
    Have a good weekend all
    Chris

    Reply

  29. SUE ……THANK YOU FOR THE CALCIUM ADVICE……IF THE LIMIT IS UP TO 1500MGMS, I SHOULD BE OK THEN……1000MGMS IN TABLET FORM AND LIKE YOU THE REST IN FOOD……
    EVERYONE IN OUR VILLAGE IS VERY SUBDUED, EARLY DAYS YET, DUST HAS TO SETTLE, ALSO FRANCE ARE GOING TO THE POLLS SOON, GOT TO SEE WHAT THEY HAVE IN MIND FOR US.
    HAD SOME DECENT WEATHER RECENTLY, BUT ITS GONE BACK TO SPRING LIKE CONDITIONS NOW, BARELY IN TO THE SIXTIES……AH WELL NICE WHILE IT LASTED.
    I HOPE YOUR STOCK MARKET PICKS UP, I’M SURE WHEN THINGS SETTLE DOWN, IT WILL, ITS HIT THE POUND TOO, BUT THEN ITS THEIR OWN FAULT.
    HAVE YO MANAGED TO PUT ANY WEIGHT BACK ON SUE, IT MUST BE DIFFICULT WHEN OUR CHOICE OF FOOD IS SO LIMITED. I AM HAPPY THE PAIN IS UNDER CONTROL, AND YOUR EYES ARE MORE COMFORTABLE……ALL THESE THINGS WE HAVE TO THINK ABOUT, I WAS ONLY THINKING THIS MORNING, HOW MUCH MY HOME IS COMING TO RESEMBLE A PHARMACY…..I CAN REMEMBER BACK IN THE DAY WHEN I WOULD VISIT MY GRANDPARENTS, AND THINK GOODNESS ALL THE HEAT RUBS AND PILLS AND POTIONS IN THE BATHROOM AND BEDROOM……..NOW ITS MY TURN.
    WELL MY FRIEND, WISHING YOU A CALM AND PEACEFUL WEEKEND, ENJOY THE GRANDS, ………..LOVE AND GOD BLESS
    JEN X

    Reply

    • Jen, SOrry I didn’t get back to you before your bedtime. We are having sunny weather this weekend and will be a bit warm. Our old, ancient house always gets warmer than the outside, at least the upstairs. I’m going to try to plant a few echinechea plants I bought. THey’re so bright and sunny. Have a lot of lavender coming back up and so happy to see it. Had to smell the tiny leaves to tell they weren’t weeds. Hope you’re able to enjoy your garden.
      As far as the calcium, 1200 is the recommended max and you can easily get half of that in food. You can get 300 mg in just a cup of milk. Yes, my weight is barely holding and I’ve been eating lots of fattening food for the calcium and the calories like ice cream and cheese with pasta. Eyes are so so and had to add a bit of the meds back due to pain, still on half dose. I tried to do without the plaquenil all together and had too much joint pain. I’m taking Turmeric three times a day to supplement it because some anti-malarials I took years ago had curcumin in them and they worked very well. They took them off of the American market years ago because they could’t get enough of the ingredients out of India.
      Yes, it’s true. Our home also looks like a pharmacy. The grands are with friends and will be over tomorrow. I just rented a couple of movies although I don’t know why. We have every Disney film ever made. George and I are resting as I am trying to find the health to give the poor little stinker a bath. Hope you’re feeling more calm today about the future. SHould take years to get the politics settled. For now we all just need to stay safe. Much love, Sue

      Reply

  31. Hi all
    Went out for b.fast and come back to a bit of packing..got three weeks to do inside so all good
    At least the outside is done..such a lot there with all dh hobbies and all the shed from the coast as well as garage type stuff
    Using up freezer stuff..had some quorn mince mixed it with onions ,grated carrot and then with some mashed up chick peas seasoned and put in some curry and will bake it…..goodness knows how it will turn out!..ill serve it with some greens and leftovers put into wraps
    Well time to go downstairs and look at some baked pots I got on
    Jen
    Yep I’m with you on the pharmacy bit….
    Chris

    Reply

    • HI CHRIS….ALL GOING GOOD THEN?? LOVE WHAT YOU ARE COOKING, SAVE A BIT FOR ME. MAYBE A GARAGE SALE WOULD BE A WAY TO CUT DOWN THE WORK LOAD……HOW LONG IS IT TO GO NOW?
      GOING TO CHURCH TOMORROW, HAVEN’T BEEN FOR AWHILE, THINK IT WILL DO ME GOOD.
      I SEE SCOTLAND WANT TO BREAK FREE FROM THE UK AND STILL BELONG TO THE EU……ALL VERY WELL, BUT TE LAST TIME THEY WANTED THEIR OWN PARLIAMENT, BUT STILL WANTED ALL THAT ENGLAND HAD ON OFFER…..DON’ T THINK IT WORKS LIKE THAT.
      WELL BETTER GET DINNER STARTED…….ENJOY YOURS.
      JEN XX

      Reply

    • Chris, three weeks huh? SOunds very exciting. I agree with you on garage sales. I find them too much trouble for what you get out of them.
      I’m not sure what quorn mince is, could you explain? Interesting how different so much of our food is but the roots of origin so much the same. I’ve noticed you eat more curry over there than we do here. Of course, I’m married to a strictly meat and potatoes man who wouldn’t eat curry for a buck or more. Lovely day here today, looks warm. I just made a quick trip to the video store to get the third disc in the CALL THE MIDWIFE season 5. We love that show maybe because we’re nurses. I’ll have to buy the fifth. We own the others.
      Hope you’re getting some rest in amidst all this packing. Thinking of you and the move. Love, Sue P.S. Rest that hip when you can, okay?

      Reply

      • Well quorn mince is a vegetarian thing…..your Jim would love it !!?!
        I do it for DH as it is low in fat.there is a lot of curried food for sale and Indian restaurants
        Well today was a rest day and this evening we went to the coast for a drive and another blimmin icecream …
        The midwife is popular here..I didn’t watch it as there was always another program on at same time
        I expect you are busy with the grands
        Live Chris

      • Sue, I saw the first two seasons of CALL THE Midwife on Netflix and loved it but they haven’t had future seasons and I haven’t seen it for sale but I must look or maybe check Netflix again as DH might not have noticed beaus it really wasn’t his thing, lol! If you get the fifth enjoy!!!

  32. Hi Jen
    Can’t be bothered with a sale…its chuck it or keep it. Ive gone to the charity shops with a lot
    Meal was ok..I’ve rolled the leftovers into balls to bake and I think have with rice and a curry gravy thingy
    You will benefit from the peace at church Jen good idea
    It’s all going to take some years I think to sort the split up…..don’t listen to stuff ,it’s going to be up and down with all having their say….and when it’s sorted it’ll prob all be different
    Sunny here thunder earlier
    There is a pancake waffles rest. in town …but they sell lovely icecream in cornets . new opened
    We have been a few times just to get icecream a then a Quick drive to the side of a local lake to have it
    That will be our Saturday nite out!! Easily pleased with our single beds as well!
    All sport on tv this week..ugh
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris, no,, grands coming tomorrow. We’re their back up home. Beth knows I can’t do two days or nights and they like staying with friends also. Thanks for the recipe explanation. I could easily be a vegetarian but you’re right, Jim…no way. Sounds like you’ve had a lovely day. Me, well, I’ve been trying to put on weight with ice cream every night and have discovered salty caramel sauce. So good. Love, Sue

      Reply

  33. SUE YOUR BLOG WAS VERY GOOD FOR ME. I HAVE BEEN VISITING THOSE DARK PLACES AND DON’T LIKE IT. HAVE BEEN CRYING BY MYSELF UPSTAIRS IN THE BATHROOM. JUST COULD NOT STAND NOT BEING ABLE TO WORK IN MY FLOWER GARDEN BUT COULD NOT EVEN BEND MY KNEES. TRIED WALKING BUT WAS NOT EVEN ABLE TO DO THAT. YOUR BLOG REALLY HELPED ME PUT THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE. THANK YOU MY DEAR FRIEND. MY COMPUTER NO LONGER WORKS, WOULD NEED TO BRINGTO APPLE STORE BUT JUST DON’T HAVE THE ENERGY THESE DAYS. AT LEAST I THINK THE FLARE IS JUST ABOUT GONE. HAVE TO BE VERY CAREFUL WITH WHAT I DO. AUNTY IS CAUSING ME LOTS OF STRESS CAUSE SHE WANTS TO MOVE BACK TO WHERE SHE USE TO LIVE BUT IN A DIFFERENT BUILDING. NOT REALLY SURE TO HANDLE THAT BUT THANK GOD I HAVE MY COUSIN TO HELP ME OUT. SHE IS REALLY AN ANGEL IN MY LIFE. WELL HAVE TO STOP HERE VERY TIRED NOW. LOVEYOU SUE. HUGS TO YOU MY FRIEND. GOD BLESS AND MAYBE THAT INJECTION WILL WORK IN A COUPLE OF WEEKS. PRAYING FOR YOU SUE THAT IT WORKS OUT. XXX. WILLBE BACK LATER.

    Reply

    • Suzanne, I am so saddened to hear you’ve been having such a rough time of it. Girl, we’re only human and when you get beat down enough, well, you cry. Hang in there and if it doesn’t pass can you get to a doctor? It’s a terrible feeling when we have to realize how much we have lost. I know. We usually cry when we grieve and that’s what we are doing. I think it’s good to let all of that sadness out and then move on.
      SOrry your aunt is so troublesome for you, and your cousin and it must be so sad for your aunt. Just remember you can’t give what you don’t have so please, take care of yourself first. Love, Sue

      Reply

      • TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU SUE. WENT OUT WITH AUNTY YESTERDAY AND TODAY I’M IN BED. DID TOO MUCH ONCE MORE. WILL I EVER LEARN??? AUNTY is just not HAPPY WITH WHERE SHE IS LIVING AND WANTS TO MOVE. TOLD HER I WOULDNOT BE HELPING HER WITH THAT. ALSO EXPLAINED TO HER THERE WERE LOTS OF PHONE CALLS TO MAKE TO CHANGE ADDRESS AND GOVT PAPERS AND I WOULD NOT HELP THERE EITHER. I JUST DON’T HAVE THE ENERGY TO DO IT AGAIN. SHE FEELS THE PEOPLE THERE ARE BELOW HER……… JUST DON’T UNDERSTAND HER. TRYING MY BEST BUT JUST NEVER GOOD ENOUGH. I CERTAINLY FEEL TERRIBLE FOR AUNTY BUT SHE IS COMPLAINING REALLY FOR NOTHING. WHILE WE WERE WAITING OUR TURN AT THE BANK SHE ASKED THE MAN WHO WAS AT THE TELLER IF HE WAS BUYING THE BANK CAUSE IT WAS TAKING SO LONG……..I COULD NOT BELIEVE MY EARS. WELLGOING BACK TO BED SUE. HOPE YOU ARE SLOWLYFEELING BETTER.
        GOD BLESS YOU MY FRIEND AND THANK YOU ALL FOR LISTENING TO ME GO ON AND ON. JUST WANT TO LET YOU ALL KNOW MY TEARS HELPED ME. LOVE TO ALL. XXX

    • Suzanne
      I agree with sues comments for you
      And take it one day at a time. It would be great to get those audio books ..I wonder can you download some on your iPad ..I think you said you had one..would that work for you? Ok just got back so gotta sort a few things out …its great to get involved in books I miss it when I haven’t got one on the go..an audio one would be an escape I think
      Love Chris

      Reply

      • YES CHRIS I WILL HAVE TO LOOK INTO IT. TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF CHRIS, AND DON’T FORGET TO PACE YOURSELF MY FRIEND. LOTS OS LOVE GOING YOUR WAY. XXX

    • Suzanne
      It is good to have a cry sometimes. Out of frustration, sadness and regret…just let er rip ! Then shake it off and go on ahead. God bless you dear. Praying for you

      Reply

      • THANKS TONIE. HAS JUST BEEN VERY HARD WITH THE PAIN. YES A GOOD CRY DOES MY HEART GOOD AND THEN I CAN GET ON WITH IT. LOVE YOU SWEET PEA. XXX

    • SUZANNE….SO SORRY THAT YOU CANNOT ACCESS YOUR BELOVED GARDEN. YOU COULD DO WITHOUT THIS EXTRA STRESS WITH AUNTIE, BUT YOU ARE A KIND HEARTED SOUL , SO GLAD YOU HAVE YOUR COUSIN TO LEAN ON……PRAYING FOR YOU SWEET LADY, THINGS WILL GET BETTER, JUST GRIT YOUR TEETH AND PUT YOUR TRUST IN GOD…..LOVE YOU BIG…..JENNIE POO X

      Reply

    • CHRIS AND SUZANNE..YES YOU CAN GET THE AUDIO BOOKS BY AUDIOBOOKS IN THE APP STORE FOR Itunes-Apple for the i-pad. There are many free books to try it out to see if you like it. It’s great…you can listen for hours..good for a long gone drive or plane ride or just resting in bed. It’s very relaxing listening to the story bring read to you. I just started it myself!
      Jo

      Reply

      • JO, JUST LOVE THE SOUND OF THAT. HAVEN’T BEEN READ TO SINCE BEING A CHILD. THANKS FOR THE INFO. LOVE YOU LOTS. GOD BLESS YOU AND DH. ENJOY YOUR TRIP, I’M SURE IT WILL DO YOU BOTH THE WORLD OF GOOD. XXX

    • Doing pretty good, Chris. Enduring the hot weather but looking forward to a trip to Colorado and through Utah where the temps are much cooler! I know what a busy time this is for you but you’ll be happy when it’s done and enjoying your new home.. I’ve gone though most of my house and garage and gave many items to charity already. So when our time comes it will be easier. Take time to rest…..Jo

      Reply

      • Jo, sounds like you are unfeathering your nest getting ready for the move one day. It will be such a nice change for you to get to a higher elevation and get cool for awhile. We’re having a lovely breeze here today and so much lovely clear air.After years in Calif. we still appreciate air you can see through after 18 years up here in OR. Thinking of you as you travel with your body…if only we could leave them for awhile, huh? Love, Sue

      • SUE, YOUR WEATHER SOUNDS WONDERFUL. I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN BY CLEAR CLEAN AIR. I’M LOOKING FORWARD AND NOT LOOKING FORWARD (THE CAR RIDE)TO VISITING COLORADO. FINALIZING PLANS TO GO TO STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, GLENWOOD SPRINGS WHERE I HAVE A RELATIVE AND MAYBE INTO DENVER ITSELF. WE’LL SEE. I AM GOING TO SET UPTHE BACK SEAT OF MY CAMRY WITH BLANKETS AND PILLOWS IN CASE I NEED IT (WHICH I WILL. ) CSN YOU FO SOMETHING LIKE THAT IN YOUR CAR IF YOU WANTED TO TAKE A SHORT ROAD TRIP?
        YES , I WOULD LOVE TO LEAVE MY BODY HOME…IF ONLY!! THE FRESH MOUNTAIN AIR WILL BE A JOY AND RELIEF . IT’S TOO BAD THE SUMMERS HERE ARE SO MONOTONOUS BECAUSE FROM OCTOBER TO MAY IT IS JUST BEAUTIFUL HERE. IT’S LIKE HEAVEN AND HELL LIVING HERE😀 HOW HAVE YOU BEEN FEELING SUE? WHEN ARE YOUR NEXT DR. APPTS? SOUNDS LIKE YOU’RE ENJOYING THE GRANDS AND WEATHER AND HAVING DH HOME. IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT BRING US JOY. THINKING OF YOU…LOVE , JO

  36. Morning all
    Wow, a lot to catch up on. I have had an incredibly busy weekend. Yesterday I was so worn out I could hardly go. No church too tired. We had a good time at the horse show Fri and Sat, and with the family reunion. Wonderful, all of it, but very tiring, too much in one period of time. Today I have one hen dead, and one injured. So I have to skip my swim and repair and have a funeral, maybe two if the hen doesn’t recover. One of my horses has a lame foot. It pours. I am stressed about a situation with my daughter, I won’t get into it, just keep me in prayer.
    My FM got to hold a hummingbird in his hand. One flew into my Jeep and got stunned for about 15 minutes. We were praying for it to recover. He just stirred and flew away, came back later to eat. He saw his first Tennessee Walking horses at the show. The one I want. Met some nice people who have them, a new farrier, and a prospect of a breeder where we can see some good horses. The property was no good for us. On a mountain all the land covered in trees, too much work for us older people. Twenty years ago, maybe…
    So.. Jennie, Chris I am thinking of you. Ana d Suzanne. I get an update everyday from FM and a lesson on how this can affect everyone. He is a social studies teacher. He too is concerned about how the British citizens in France will fair, and how this next election will affect him and everyone. He says a lot depends on the US president and their world outlook and policies.
    Well, I have to get going. We have to get to work. Maybe go down the mountain afterwards . Look at some shops and get fresh fruit from the stands.
    Prayers all around. And for Lyn and her kitty. Prayers please for all the flood victims over in West Virginia. So much bad in this world.
    Love to all
    Tonie

    Reply

    • HI TONIE…YOU MUST BE TIRED TO HAVE MISSED CHURCH……AT LAST I MANAGED TO GET TO MINE, GLAD I DID, AS THE EU WAS DISCUSSED A LOT, FELT BETTER FOR IT, WE ARE EXPECTING SOME REMARKS MADE TO US FOR BEING BRITISH AND STILL LIVING HERE, AND E=WERE ADVISED THE BEST WAY TO HANDLE IT IF IT HAPPENS TO US…..
      SOUNDS LIKE THE WEEKEND WAS WONDERFUL MY FRIEND, I LOVE THE PHOTO YOU PUT ON F/B, WHAT A HANDSOME COUPLE YOU ARE. SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE CHUCKS, HOPE NMBER TWO RECOVERS, WHAT HAPPENED DID SOMETHING GOT INTO THE HEN RUN? ALSO HOPE THE HORSE WILL BE OK.
      PRAYERS FOR YOUR DAUGHTER, COULD DO WITH ONE FOR MINE TOO……BEEN SIX WEEKS SINCE I HEARD FROM HER NOW….BIG PAIN IN MY HEART.
      SHAME ABOUT THE PROPERTY, BUT AS YOU SAY, TOO MUCH HARD WORK, YOU’VE HAD ENOUGH OF THAT IN YOUR LIFE.
      THE BREXIT THING IS OUT OF OUR HANDS TONIE, SO DOING MY BEST NOT TO WORRY, THERE ARE WELL OVER A MILLION BRITS LIVING ABROAD, THEY CAN’T IGNORE US ALL…….JENNIE XX

      Reply

      • Jennie
        FM says to tell you with the Pound coming down and you are getting Euros you will come out better for a while. Even if you sold your house.
        Love ya

    • Tonie
      You sound like Heidi in the book with going down the mountain sounds romantic!
      Fancy holding a humming bird in the hand ..magic
      What a shock to see your animals like that..hope the other survives ok
      You both will find the right place …prayers for you DD
      Chris

      Reply

      • Chris
        It was a beautiful walk on that mountain, even if we were tresspassing ! FM says he will never forget seeing his first hummingbird and holding one in his hands. I will email you the pics. Ya gotta give it up and get on FB woman…you are on the grid anyway with email and such. We would love to have you
        Love ya
        Tonie

    • Tonie, oh my, so much going on in your life. Sorry to hear about the chickens and hope the second injury victim pulls through. Is it the same varmint as last year? Which horse is lame? Glad you have a good horse man visiting you right now. The horse show sounds such fun for both of you and hope a horse of that type is in your future. Much good to look forward to dear girl. Sorry the weekend wore you out so much but know it was worth it for you.
      Interesting to get your FM’s views on the world. Hope it doesn’t affect his retirement in years left to work. So hard to be at the mercy of these huge global issues. and
      It’s so terribly tragic what is going on with the flooding in W. Virginia.
      Sounds like your FM got a full dose of your family at the reunion. How did it go? Hope you enjoy your shopping trip today and take it a bit easy. Quiet here with lovely weather. Spent a few hours with the grands yesterday before DD and SIL got home from Vegas. Jim and I sure could use a trip to Vegas. I’m always so lucky it would be good to spend a few days at that but can’t travel right now and surely we can’t leave George. We would have to find a casino that would let us stick him in a purse but he’s a bit too chubby for that. Take care of yourself, okay? Love you, Sue

      Reply

      • Sue
        You see doggies all over the casinos in Vegas. And you can always leave him in the room for short times. Didn’t get the shopping trip yesterday. We were at it until 5 pm ! Mr fixit is very precise in his repairs. Tore apart, rebuilt, cutting down brush around the hen house. It was tiring, but good to get it done right. We also hauled off all the trash accumulated, and cleaned up the shed so no car it’s take up resident. Now I have to give Ms Alice a shower and hope she will take a nap. I am so tired still. Tomorrow the porch building supplies will be delivered. Excited about that. He is leaving Aug 3rd. Time will go so quickly.
        Take care
        Love Tonie
        Ps it was Baby who was lame, she is walking much better today. The chicken was Juliet that was injured. She is still hanging in, I think very sore from where she was for who knows how long ?

  37. SUE….I KNOW YOU HAVE ANOTHER APPOINTMENT COMING UP SOON, SO WILL BE THINKING OF YOU, AND HOPING TINGS GO OK……I DO APPRECIATE ALL THE ADVICE YOU GIVE ME, AND ACT ON IT.
    A LITTLE WORRIED TOMORROW WHEN I TAKE MY RESULTS IN, IF I OPT OUT AND DON’T GO FOR THE OP SHOULD IT BE OFFERED, IT WILL BE A BIT LIKE BREXIT……LOL.
    WENT TO MY FAMILY DOCTOR TONIGHT, HAD A REALLY BAD THROAT FOR TWO DAY, HURTS WHEN SWALLOWING OR CLEARING MY THROAT, SEEMS THERE IS A VIRUS IN MY TRACHEA…..EVER HEARD OF THAT? ANYWAY AMOXCYCILLIN HERE WE GO AGAIN.
    BACK TO COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS ONCE MORE, WE HAD A COUPLE OF DAYS LAST WEEK, SO GOT TO BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT……TAKE CARE DEAR FRIEND……LOVE YOU….JEN X

    Reply

    • Jen, It will be interesting to see if they can come up with some idea besides surgical removal for those growth. If it is truly plantar fasciitis, I hope you try the stuff available on Amazon. When I had it the doctor wrapped the middle of my foot with tape and after it finally came off I got a tight band to wear there. They also have inserts for the heel. As far as the growths, did they mention steroid injections to shrink them at all? Yes, dear, sore throats are usually in trachea.s if not in the tonsils. Glad you’re better. Over here it’s impossible to get antibiotics for a virus unless you’ve had it for more than 10 days. They think they go away on their own but sometimes it sure would be nice. Hope you’re better now.
      Another lovely day here but still cool. I don’t mind that as long as we get enough sun for the plants. Porch looking lovely thanks to Jim cleaning it so nicely after winter.
      Hope your gut and all the rest is behaving. Thinking of you, Love, Sue

      Reply

      • Also, Jen, try some shoes made for helping that condition. I wear , and have worn for some time now a brand called Vionic. Made by a podiatrist ( well designed). I have had no trouble with Plantar since I started using them. They even have house shoes. Made a real difference for me
        Love ya

      • HI SUE…..YES THOUGHT ABOUT AMAZON, SAW A SORT OF MIDDLE OF FOOT SUPPORT LIKE A BANDAGE, I GOT INSERTS AT THE WEEKEND, THE HELP. HAD A DREADFUL TIME AT THE CLINIC, TOOK MY SCAN RESULTS IN, HE EXAMINED ME AGAIN AND SAID HE DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO DO…..CAN YOU IMAGINE THAT? ALL HE DID THE WHOLE TIME IS MAKE SPITEFUL REMARKS ABOUT DAVID CAMERON AND OTHERS, LIKE IT WAS ALL ME AND DH’S FAULT DESPITE US VOTING TO STAY IN…….
        HE SAID HE WAS GOING TO PHONE A COLLEAGUE TO SEE WHAT TO DO, I WAS LISTENING AND HEARD HIM GIVE MY NAME, THEN HE SAID “ANGLETERRE” ENGLISH, AND WE COULD HEAR THEM LAUGHING. AS WE LEFT HE SAID HE WOULD TELEPHONE, THEN COULDN’T GET RID OF US QUICK ENOUGH…….DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO NOW, HOW LONG DO I WAIT? I WANT TO GIVE HIM THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT IN CASE HE IS TRYING TO CONTACT OTHER DOCTORS, BUT IF I LEAVE IT TOO LONG MY FAMILY DOCTOR WILL BE ON HOLIDAY, SO CAN’T GET A SECOND OPINION, WHAT A MESS.
        I BET YOUR PORCH LOOKS SO NICE, GOOD THAT JIM NOW HAS THE TIME TO DO THESE THINGS I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LIKE YOUR GARDEN AND PLANTS…..ENJOY.
        MUCH LOVE…JENNIE X

  38. CHRIS…..YOUR ICE CREAM ADDICTION IS RUBBING OFF ON ME, LAST NIGHT I HAD A BIG BOWL OF PISTACHIO ICE, ON SATURDAY I WATCHED MICHEL ROUX MAKE A PANCAKE DISH, THOUGHT I WOULD GIVE IT A GO……MAKE UP PANCAKE MIXTURE, THEN PUT A SMALL AMOUNT OF ORANGE JUICE BUTTER AND HONEY/MAPLE SYRUP TO WARM IN A PAN, MAKE THE PANCAKES AND FILL WITH FETA CHEESE, FOLD IN HALF THEN HALF AGAIN, PUT BACK IN FRYING PAN, AND POUR LIQUID JUICE OVER TOP AND REFRY FOR 4 MINS,SPRINKLE WITH SPICE OF CHOICE OR EAT AS THEY ARE…..GORGEOUS. TODAY HAD SOME MORE ICE CREAM ITS DH’S FAULT FOR BUYING IT…….HOPE ALL IS MOVING ALONG AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT…….LOVE JEN X

    Reply

    • Jennie
      I must have ice cream. And FM is addicted to pancakes. But he uses so little syrup it is disgusting ! Wish I had his motivation ! Enjoy my friend

      Reply

      • TONIE….WILL LOOK UP VIONIC SHOES, THANK YOU FOR THAT…..ALL FRENCH PEOPLE ARE ADDICTED TO PANCAKES, I LOVE THEM WITH CHESTNUT PATÉ, AND YES I MUST HAVE ICE CREAM……ALL FLAVOURS.
        LOVE YOU…JENNIE X

  39. Hope this virus of yours goes now…I always think they are worse in the summer
    DH has not been to good bending and turning with doing packing with his menieres has not been good.but his psa was higher this time and he has to have another soon and his bladder has been no,good.but went to Drs tonite and he has an infection so he is in antibiotics now.
    What a time to all happen!
    But health first
    I’ve got two physio appts at hospital tomorrow then hair done in town
    Glad you felt better after church
    Chris
    Oh I had another icecream tonite. Salted caramel ..yours sounded really good

    Reply

    • CHRIS…..YES I AGREE A VIRUS SEEMS WORSE IN SUMMER, YOU KIND OF EXPECT THEM IN WINTER. OH DEAR I AM SORRY ABOUT YOUR DH AND HIS MENIERES, ALL THAT BENDING, NOT GOOD FOR HIM IS IT? AN INFECTION ON TOP OF THAT, POOR MAN, I DO HOPE IT CLEARS QUICKLY. I HOPE YOUR PHYSIO WENT WELL LOVE, HAVING YOUR HAIR DONE WILL BE SUCH A BOOST, JUST THE TICKET TO CHEER YOU UP. ALREADY WRITTEN ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED AT THE CLINIC TODAY ON A REPLY TO SUE, SO WON’T REPEAT MYSELF…..NOT TRIED SALTED CARAMEL CHRIS, DON’T KNOW IF WE CAN GET IT OVER HERE, SOUNDS GORGEOUS.
      LOVE JEN X

      Reply

      • Jen, I’m replying on your post to Chris since there is a reply blank here. First of all let me apologize for an error yesterday about throat infections. I meant to say usually in the tonsils and larynx, and left the larynx out, sorry, then the trachea. Sure do hope yours is better with the antibiotics.
        I am also sorry your doctor’s appt went so badly. Some of the doctors and their helpers you have described are not very professional, are they. Hasn’t this guy ever heard of the Hippocratic oath for the sake of the patients he serves? I am sorry you and DH are caught up in such a sensitive issue. Over here the opinions are quite different but don’t want to get too political on here so won’t go into detail. What’s going on over here is so different because we aren’t in the EU I realize but it is a small world for politics, huh? Your nationality or politics should never be a factor with a doctor. Awful. Well, all you can do is get another referral from your main doc or try the band you saw on Amazon and give it time. I don’t think those measures will help the growths. Is most of the pain coming from the plantar fascsciitis? It can be very painful whereas the growths can or cannot be painful. What were his opinions about surgery? Once again, just keep looking and try these measures we discussed, okay? Love you lots, Sue

    • Chris dear, Give my regards to DH and tell him he needs to drink a lot of water with those antibiotics to get that infection washed out of him because you both have much to do. Poor guy. Hope you’re happy with your hair and hope the physio went well. You’re right. Health first because otherwise, nothing gets done…I have this mental picture of all of us being towed behind our cars as life drags us along. Life is has no respect for our plans, or should I say our body isn’t.
      We’re having sprinkles here today, cold last night and yesterday was so beautiful I planted three new plants into pots on the porch. Have to go to the dentist this afternoon, oh joy. Do take care and know we all probably wish we could be Mary Poppins and pop in via umbrella and help you pack. Love, Sue

      Reply

      • I wish you all could magic yourselves here too ..what fun it would be
        It seems DH is a bit better And he’s drinking ,he always has water by him tho
        Physio went ok
        Had two appts one for knees and then hands.couldnt do much for my knees just gentle exercises becos of hips.then got some support things to put on my thumbs and more exercises
        Tomorrow we are going to give ourselves a treat and go out for cheese scones and tea
        Still doing stuff with sols for my dads will ,much to fill in and an appt with them
        Hope the dentist was straight forward and no,problems
        Love Chris

  40. Chris
    Salted Carmel, that sounds good. I love gelato as well, but so darned expensive in the stores. I have to go to the store after work and I will pick up some more ice cream , only have vanilla at home. I made a trifle Wednesday and we ate it all by Sunday.
    Take care
    Tonie

    Reply

    • Tonie, sounds like you are sooooo busy. Hope it’s going okay with Ms Alice. I know how difficult that can be for her and for you. How exciting to have your porch supplies arriving and to have it done well. Aug. 3 is rolling around much too soon.
      If you can’t find salted caramel ice cream, SMuckers has a new ice cream topping of salted caramel. It’s so wonderful on almost any kind of ice cream. I’m taking your advice to eat more ice cream even though I’ve never been a huge fan. I’ve gained a couple of pounds. Makes me nervous when my weight gets below 120#.
      Hope Baby is better and chick. Love to you, love the pic on FB of the two of you. Sue

      Reply

  41. Jen
    Perhaps it will all calm shortly..everyone seems so opinionated about it and it’s all so personal.i don’t like it and you must feel vulnerable. He surely must do his work for a patient .maybe some more countries will vote to leave and it won’t seem so pointed.still that doesn’t help you now. I wish it would go your way more for you
    I’m sure you would love the salted caramel ice cream At the hosp today at costas I had a salted caramel muffin…I think I’m addicted !
    Tonie
    I know ,I hear you….but it’s me and I’m stuck in a time warp! I’ll have to get DD on it for me…….sometime!
    And that was very restrained keeping the trifle going till Sunday I would have eaten it all!
    All dun packing for nite off to bed now
    Chris

    Reply

  42. Sue
    I’ve just checked you weight in uk stones . That is a bit light . Can you..and you must have had those build up drinks ….can you eat more mash potatoes …fries.and cakes .your tummy must be quite tiny now and need small amounts often
    But here’s me telling you and you know much more than me. Just worried you put some weight on
    Live Chris

    Reply

    • Chris, I agree, that’s what I try to do but don’t often feel like cooking so try to keep lots of snacks on hand. I can’t eat large quantities since my breast surgery. I was wrapped so tightly across the chest because I had a bleed. I think the IBS is the real culprit here so there is much to consider.
      Sounds like a pretty good day for you. Hope DH is better soon. I was biting my cheek when I slept and ate so the dentist had to polish the last crown I got. Hope it helps. Hope you’re getting enough rest with all you are faced with…remember, one box at a time. Love, Sue

      Reply

  43. Hello, everyone, a quick pop on before I head up to bed. I am now paying the price for a most wonderful weekend even though I did rest as much as I could. Sweet kitty Luka is seemingly back to normal now. Hurray! Thankfully, his meds were liquid, so much easier to administer. DH took care of it while I was gone. Sadie pup gave me a wildly excited greeting when DD and I got home at 5 this morning. That overnight bus ride was a bit grueling. I did manage a little sleep, but spent most of my time trying to find a semi-comfortable position to try to do it in. Came home and slept until 9, then tried to take it easy. Short, slow walk with the pup (SB had given her a long walk yesterday, so she was happy with the short one today, too), afternoon appointment with my Pilates/exercise physiologist/massage therapist that was just what I needed after the weekend of singing and enjoying Chautauqua Institution grounds. Tired and heading to bed soon. Tonie, you’ll be in my prayers as will all. I would ask for a few for my Grandmother, who at 94 is getting a pacemaker tomorrow. Hopefully, it will help her with her breathing and other heart related issues. She had a rough weekend. I’m sorry I haven’t the energy to write more, but I was able to catch up on comments since I was last on. Please know I am thinking of you all.

    Reply

    • Thanks, Jennie. No word yet on the surgery. I am assuming it went well. I do hope they kept her in hospital until tomorrow. Resting today, although I did walk the dog too long and paid for it. Poor thing was so excited to be walking on the Trail again, though. I hope your Fam Doc can help with your foot later this week.

      Reply

  44. HELLO,
    WELL NO WORD FROM THE DOCTOR, I WILL GIVE IT TLL TE WEEKEND THEN GO BACK TO MY WONDERFUL FAMILY DOCTOR AND TELL HIM WHAT HAS HAPPENED….. AT LEAST THE THROAT IS GETTING BETTER THANKS TO HIM.

    SUE….NO NEED TO APOLOGIZE, I KNEW WHAT YOU MEANT, I AGREE WITH CHRIS, YOU NEED TO PUT A LITTLE WEIGHT ON, AND I CAN SEND YOU SOME OF MINE IF YOU ARE UP FOR IT……A BIT OF LIPO SUCTION, THEN SENT IN A STERILIZED CONTAINER SHOULD DO IT……..I WISH.
    BACK TO BASICS….THE FOOT HURTS IF I STAND THE WRONG WAY, LIKE IF YOU MAKE A SUDDEN TWIST, YOU FEEL IT TUG, AND THAT IS AWFUL, ALSO THE ACHILLES TENDON ACHES AND IS OFTEN SORE TO TOUCH, AND THE FLAT OF THE HEEL THE WEIGHT BEARING BIT ACHES A LOT TOO….SO I AM PERPLEXED AS TO WHAT TYPE OF SUPPORT TO BUY ON AMAZON, THERE ARE SO MANY.
    AS FOR THAT DOCTOR, HE IS A MORON, AND I WILL REPORT HIS ATTITUDE TO MY FAMILY DOC, HE SHOULD KNOW WHAT HE IS LETTING HIS REFERRALS IN FOR……MIND YOU THEY WOULD MAINLY BE FRENCH, SO WOULD NOT HAVE TO SUFFER THE ATTITUDE.
    HANK YOU AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR HELPFUL ADVICE, I WOULD BE LOST WITHOUT YOU…..X

    CHRIS……SEEMS YOU ARE NOW ADDICTED TO THIS SALTED CARAMEL, GOT TO TRY AND FIND IT. I THINK MCDONALDS DO IT IN THEIR MUFFINS, I NEVER GO THERE BUT FOR THEIR GREAT COFFEE,BUT GOING TO GO SEE.
    YES I AGREE, TONIE WAS STRONG TO KEEP HER TRIFLE GOING FOR TWO DAYS, LIKE YOU I WOULD HAVE DEVOURED IT IN ONE SITTING……BUT THEN I AM SUCH A PIG……..CUT THE SHOPPING BILL RIGHT DOWN LAST WEEK, FELT PROUD OF MYSELF, THEN I FOUND OUT MY DH AD SNOOK OUT OF THE PRETEXT OF A DIY NEED, ONLY TO FIND HIM SNEAKING DOWN TO THE CELLAR WITH BALSAMIC CRISP/CHIPS, ICE CREAM AND CHOCOLATE, AND CAKES…..TELL ME WHAT CHANCE DO I HAVE TO KEEP ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW????…..X

    GOING TO RISK A SHORT MESSAGE TO MY DAUGHTER, WHAT’S THE WORST THAT CAN HAPPEN, SHE CAN ONLY IGNORE ME, AND SHE IS DOING THAT ALREADY……….
    MUCH LOVE TO ALL……JENNIE X

    Reply

  45. Sue
    Silmilar here with a crown I keep getting ulcers under my tongue where it catches I’ve got to have that done..just putting it off!
    Hope yours does the trick
    Lyn
    Hope you are getting all the rest in .the trip sounds as if it went well for all
    Yes prayers for your grandmother a stressful thing for her
    Jen
    I do hope it all calms down soon. Maybe your dr will have some ideas now results are thru
    As for DH it sounds like a midnite feast at boarding school kind of Famous Five….made me laugh
    Hope DD replied you can only keep trying Jen till she does
    Raining windy good to be inside
    Had my hair done pleased with it
    Chris

    Reply

    • Chris….well no news again from doc, so will have to chase it up at the end of the week, really looking forward to that. yes my DH has a habit of hoarding goodies, he thinks I don’t know half of the time, but he is not good at hiding evidence like sweet papers etc. No contact with Nikki this time, didn’t feel up to being ignored or worse….take care x.

      Reply

  46. Good morning all
    Everyone has been so busy on here. Lyn, so glad you had a good trip. Now rest and recover. I will pray for your grandmother, that is quite an undertaking at her age Chris, I found the salted caramel ice cream yesterday. Had a bite last night, very good. I had an upset tummy yesterday so, didn’t even want ice cream. FM knew I didn’t feel good when I turned down ice cream ! Jenny, find the supports for plantar and get ones with a good arch support. Or that is what helped me. The shoes did more. Vionic a have supports as well. I keep a set in my boots.
    Baby is doing better. We cleaned hooves and gave worm meds yesterday. Hoping my guy comes and cuts the hay soon, it is starting to dry a lot. Jennie, yes, sending letters or messages can be the only thing that helps sometimes. The problem with my daughter may solve itself without me having to get involved, but still pray please.
    Sue, the hen is doing better. She was up on the roost last night instead of under it. FM took a zuchinni and hollowed it out ( halved) filled it with boiled eggs and parmasean cheese and broiled it…..and ate it, said it was good. Just the thought on my upset tummy made it roll over. So he has another one for lunch today Lol ! He says it is the athletes diet, you eat anything with protein . However the man eats snails too …..so I reserve my opinion . I have a load of zuchinni coming in, so I must give some away at church tonight. I will freeze some for this winters soups and stews, and make , of course, some zuchinni bread.
    Still tired today, but not as bad as yesterday
    Take care all
    Tonie

    Reply

    • Tonie….thank you, don’t think my budget will stretch to the shoes at the moment, but seen the arch supports and will get some of those as a start. Zuchinni bread sounds good, used it in cakes to keep them moist, works well. Back to cold weather for us, hope all is well with your daughter, I didn’t contact mine, after reading her mails I kept in drafts I couldn’t face it……another time. Glad Baby is on the up, hate it when the animals get sick, glad to hear the chuck is also improving. Its natural for a Frenchman to eat escargot as well as frogs legs and gizzards…..not tried any and don’t intend to……lol. xx

      Reply

  47. HELLO,
    ALL KICKING OFF IN THE UK NOW……NOBODY SEEMS TO KNOW WHAT TO DO, ANOTHER REFERENDUM MIGHT WORK, BUT DON’T THINK IT WILL HAPPEN.
    NO WORD FROM THE DOCTOR AT THE RHEUMY CLINIC, SO I GUESS HE WILL HAVE TO BE RULED OUT……GOING BACK TO MY FAMILY DOCTOR AND MAKING A COMPLAINT, DON’T LIKE DOING THAT.
    THE ATMOSPHERE HERE IS DREADFUL, NERVOUS TENSION EVERYWHERE. ITS PALPABLE.
    I HOPE THINGS ARE BETTER IN THE USA, BUT PERHAPS ITS TOO SOON YET, STABILITY IS WHAT WE ALL NEED, BUT IT WILL TAKE TIME.
    SO FAR WE HAVE FOUND OUT THAT IT COULD BE SHOULD WE USE AN AIRLINE TO FLY TO THE UK FOR ANY REASON, WE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO USE THE UK GATES, BUT BE RELEGATED TO THE “FOREIGNERS” GATE……PLEASE GOD DON’T LET ME HAVE TO FLY HOME ANYTIME SOON, COULDN’T HANDLE THAT.
    SORRY TO KEEP ON ABOUT THIS EU STUFF SO MUCH, NO-ONE ELSE TO SHARE IT WITH…..SEEM TO HAVE PERMANENT IBS ALL THE TIME NOW.
    LOVE YOU GUYS, TAKE CARE……JENNIE X

    Reply

    • Jen, I think you should give up on the rude doctor. He doesn’t appear to want to help you. You might try calling but will probably get no satisfaction. Can’t your GP help if you are honest with him?
      I’m sorry you are so upset by the EU business but if you notice, most of us do not get political on here. Politics is not something we are all going to agree on because we are a mix of liberals and conservatives, different national origins and I find that politics is a touchy subject with many of us who feel passionately about it. I don’t want friendships to be affected or broken over a political matter. Things here are very heated with the upcoming elections as well and best left alone on here. Now FB is another matter entirely. That is a place of diversion and opinion. You don’t have to agree but you can express yours. I agree with Chris and wish you could put this aside for the sake of your health right now. IBS every day is not unusual when you are this upset. I can get it from watching the news for heavens sake. You can’t affect the outcome of this and will just have to vote when you can and that’s all you can do to change the result and the same is true for us in the USA.
      Jen, I am deeply concerned about your stress levels right now and do hope you can just wait and see how this goes for you two. I am sorry it is so tense in France and hate it when you are the victims of it by the French. I saw where your French President has made an endorsement in out elections and that tells me a lot. Please feel free to write me a PM or communicate on FB. I remain your loving friend and colleague in this life of chronic pain. Sue

      Reply

  48. Jen
    I hope things all settle soon when a new pm is in and goes into discussions….they do all seem in a turmoil in the government .just try not to think into it and just live today..easy said I know but it’s the best choice.
    There doesn’t seem much tension in the town here…but I mite not notice it… when they interview on TV they choose the worst places and I think a lot of it is media led.they ask the right questions in the right place to the choicest people!
    Can you ring that dr who said he would get back to you…is that awkward to do?
    There was talk of some sort of treaty ..so maybe all will be ok
    Chris

    Reply

  49. Well all its a sunny day here.we decided with Dh as he is to get packers in too finish his dizziness was too bad to continue.so only have downstairs to do and they will do it the day before we move so we have the things we need till nearly the endHe started to feel better yesterday when we stopped it all. Be easier on me as well
    Don’t fancy paying but better too than be ill
    Jen
    DD being Australian had to always go thru a diff gate to us and when she was a kiddy ,when we travelled then ,she used to think it was great fun ..dH has dual nationality and had a British passport then .later when she travelled with GS .he is British. when he was a toddler they had to go thru diff gates and it was his turn then,to see her go thru another one to him and he thought it was good…Don’t get concerned it doesn’t matter at all..why should it.
    I’m going to give up reading and watching the news fed up with it ,it can happen without me knowing about it for a while . They try to all give one side that they want to .
    DH not awake yet but if he’s ok again today we will go out I think. No packing to do now and sun is shining.? Could you go out somewhere to lift things a bit for you .the situation ain’t gonna change so just a small change would be refreshing . You love living where you are ,you have a lovely home and garden …oh and not forgetting your DH he’s ok too!😄
    Thinking about you with it all ..just get to your dr to talk to about your foot and that’ll be a step forward…. There’s a pun there somewhere. …and go and join DH for one of his feasts! sounds good to me . I want you to feel better about it all or not think about it . That’s an order …
    Well gonna move and see what the day brings
    Love Chris

    Reply

  50. Chris, glad you are getting some packers in to help. It will relieve so much of the pressure from both of you. Hopefully, a bit of a rest will allow his Meniere’s to improve a bit. It’s such a frustrating condition. This was once it is all packed and in the house you have as much time as you want to get settled. I remember how harrowing our two moves were the summer we moved here, 18 years ago and feel again how much work the whole process is. It would surely take dynamite to get Jim to move again.
    Lovely here today as well with sun, wind and many tourists pouring in or the Fourth of July holiday. Hope you got out and about and both felt well enough to enjoy it. Love you, Sue

    Reply

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