What Did You Do Today?

[DianaB]

Oops....sorry, Judy!!! It was Lindsey that's painting her bathroom!!!

I just got a call from the dr. office on some blood work I had done on Thursday. My A1C is 5.4!!!! That is so great!!! Last time it was 8.2. The doctor wants it below 6.5 so I'm way beneath that!!! My diet is so good for my health!!! They also checked my lipid or cholesterol levels and they were all within range!!! Yay!!!

[Janet]

That's wonderful Diana!!! You're doing such a great job taking care of yourself!!

[Blueyes]

It's so nice to catch up with everybody! I wrote the longest post last week, but I must have pushed the wrong button because it disappeared:rolleyes: Anyway...

We went to our friends ranch last week. It's in the Hill Country, not too far from where Gayle lives. It takes us about 7 hours to get there, but we make plenty of stops along the way. We got there Thursday, and Mike had hunted for about an hour when he killed his deer. It was a big 10 point, and we decided to get it mounted with a skull mount.

We didn't come home until today. There were some things going on in Marble Falls..a pretty little town near the ranch.. but I really couldn't walk as much as I thought I could. My leg and foot was swelling, so I stayed off of it as much as I could. It didn't swell near as much on the way home as it did on the way down there. I HATE to have something wrong with me.

So, what is everybody doing for Thanksgiving?

[DianaB]

That's disappointing, Betsi. I'm sure you were excited to see what was going on. I hope your knee gets better soon. Would a wrap help the swelling?

For Thanksgiving I think that we'll be home with the kids. This is the year that my Mom and all of her sisters have Thanksgiving in Texas and I would like to go but Glen said that he will still be harvesting and he doesn't like to leave until he's all done. I really wanted to go this year because we didn't go last time (they get together every other year). So that means that my Mom and step-dad won't be here.......just us and the kids.

Damon seems to think that he may be out of jail by Thanksgiving but I don't think so......if he is then Dae Lynn will be going to his family's because my family is mad at Damon and it wouldn't be a pleasant day. There are three people in my family that......well........oh, never mind. I'm upset too but still....he is family.

[gja1000]

Our kids are coming on Tuesday before Thanksgiving, so I'll be cooking the traditional feast, except the turkey. Everyone wanted a smoked turkey, so I'll just be heating that up. They will leave to go back to Houston Friday morning, so Gary and I will head to the deer lease at that time. We'll stay till Sunday, so it will be a nice holiday!

[Janet]

This year I'm not sure what we're going to do. I use to go to Mom's, then I started fixing the meal for Ricks side of the family. We no longer get together with his side of the family at the holidays. They all go in different directions now. I wouldn't go to my younger brothers house and my older brother hasn't asked. He did tell me his daughters would be there. So....I could fix dinner for the three of us like I did last year, but that was a lot of work for just the three of us. We have talked about going out to a restaurant, but not sure which one. It's going to be a whole different kind of Thanksgiving from what I've grown up with. Guess I need to be deciding what we'll be doing.....it's coming up real quick.

[Blueyes]

Mike and I have had to make major holiday adjustments since our kids moved away and our parents died. We always had big celebrations on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas day. Last year we had Christmas dinner at a Chinese restaurant by ourselves. We just wore our santa hats and made the best of it, lol! We are having Thanksgiving on the Saturday after with my brother and family across the street.

[DianaB]

Last year at Christmas it was different for us too. We had celebrated the day before so the kids could go to their inlaws. I spent a lot of the day in tears........just remembering how things used to be. I found out that my sister-in-law was going through the same thing so I may check this year and see what they're doing. We may see about getting together with them and playing cards or something.

[DianaB]

Not much going on today. Just Dean and I at home. He's been getting into sooo much!! I can't tell you how many things I've had completely dumped out......cereal and chips!!! He's getting tall enough that just putting things on the counter isn't working. He can reach around the edges so things have to be scooted back. Plus the pantry door has to be kept shut and it won't shut completely........I guess that maybe I should work on getting that fixed!!

We had The Alley last night. Amy has the kids divided into 4 teams now and they were each given a roll of aluminum foil, a roll of plastic wrap, and a roll of toilet paper, plus they could use any other supplies found at the church. They had to use one person plus ALL of the supplies they were given and make something pertaining to Thanksgiving!!!

The team I helped decorated a boy as a turkey.......another team decorated a girl into an Indian....complete with a tomahawk!!! The younger teams had a Statue of Liberty.....that was darling!!! The young boys team had a boy wrapped up like a turkey that was baked in foil and then they wrapped up three boys and they were baked potatoes to go with the turkey!!! It was so much fun!!! Amy is so creative!!!

Oh....I forgot to mention that we had SNOW yesterday!!! It didn't last for long but really came down pretty good for a short while!!! I was in town so I ran to the store to get stuff to make homemade hot cocoa mix. The kids have been wanting it so I figured I'd better get it made if we're going to have weather like this!!! They love Grandma's hot cocoa!!!!

[Janet]

Not much going on here today either. I came home and went back to bed. I have a bit of a cold, mostly sinuses going crazy and a little pressure behind the eyes. Couldn't believe I slept a couple of hours....shocked me...lol. I do feel a bit better since my nap so hopefully whatever this is won't last long.

[gja1000]

Pretty boring at my place too. I guess this is the calm before the Thanksgiving storm. LOL!

Oh, I have a damned bladder infection - I haven't had one in 15-20 years. Dang it!!! I was able to run see my nurse practitioner (NP) before my class this afternoon and then got my antibiotic on the way home from class this evening.

When I called for an appt. this morning, my NP didn't have any appointments, so I had to get one with the doctor - who is fine, but I much prefer seeing my NURSE! She just happened to stick her head in the waiting room and she saw me. She motioned me back and asked me what I was doing here. When I said I had a bladder infection and she didn't have any appointments, she said, "duck into this room, I'll take care of you" WHEW! I was so glad. Also, she was on maternity leave when I had my laryngo-pharengeal (GERD-like) issue (making me cough when I ate), so she asked me about that and when I told her it was bothering me some now, due to (in my opinion) all the stress from mom breaking her leg and all the subsequent surgery, rehab, etc, she agreed. She looked at what the doc had put me on and said, "Oh, you are on the wrong med" :mad: She gave me samples of a better med - one that my daughter has taken and my other nurse practitioner friend told me about - and hopefully it will help. It is long acting - and since I'm having my problem in the evening - it should help a lot, hopefully.

I was so glad to see her - almost glad (but not quite) I had a bladder infection that brought me to the office. She said if the new GERD med works, to let her know and she'll get me an RX.

Welp, that's the sum total of my exciting day. LOL!

[judy]

I'm going to Jessie's for Thanksgiving. It will just be us, and maybe my ex. She makes a full out traditional Thanksgiving dinner. She wants the kids to have that. She is such a good Mom, and a wonderful daughter. I'll either bring stuff, pay for some of the dinner, or ????

I was supposed to go to the doctor today to see how my eyes are healing, but there were snow flurries as I was driving. I was near Jessie's house, so I turned around and went there. I called the doc and made another appt. for Tuesday. Wouldn't you know it stopped snowing within half an hour! I wanted to go to TJ Maxx and JC Penney's in Schenectady too! I'll go on Tuesday. Something to look forward to! Maybe I can stop at a Walmart too. I love Walmart!!!

Tomorrow I am going to see Mackenzie sing. Jessie forgot to tell me until today. This is not like her, and it worries me.

I hope you feel better, Janet, Betsi and Gayle!!!!

Where is Sandy? Yoohoo Sandy!!!!

[Janet]

Didn't do much today. Still not feeling the best with the sinus crap. Also missing my Mom and for some reason today....I've felt angry. I think I know the reason, but it still doesn't make it go away.

I have some options for tomorrow, there's an auction, flea market in Kokomo and a flea market here. Not sure which one I want to go to, if any. Just have to wait until tomorrow and see what I feel like doing. Sure wish you ladies lived here so I wouldn't have to go alone.

[Blueyes]

I would love to go with you, Janet!

Mike and I just rode around today looking for some fall leaves. It's been so dry here that the leaves aren't very pretty. We stopped in Jefferson, a cute little antique town about an hour north of us. We ate lunch at a place that has cornbread sandwiches. They are delicious, and they have great pie, too! It was a beautiful day, but still a little cool to put the top down on my car:p

[Janet]

Well...let's see...what did I do today??? When I got out of bed I read the morning paper, drank my coffee, had some toast and orange juice and then started cleaning this house. Didn't do any deep cleaning, just dusted, ran the sweeper and mopped the kitchen. Then I filed my ugly broken nails and took a long relaxing bath. Then.........I planted myself on the couch and didn't hardly move. I was here by myself and enjoyed the peace and quiet.

Still have a bit of the sinus stuff and a slight cough, but don't feel bad at all.

Tomorrow I do need to go to Mom's and check and see if there is any mail...most of it comes here now, but some slips through and then go buy a cheap cordless phone. The one in the kitchen doesn't work anymore after I banged it on the table in anger. Guess that will teach me, huh?

[gja1000]

I drove home from the deer lease today. Gary went on Friday and I drove up yesterday. It is a nice drive and I only went because Gary wanted me to help him get things set up for a few days' stay. He'll come home on Tuesday.

It is a really pretty drive, this time of year. The drought has really brought out the colors of many bushes (sumac) and other trees. The color is the best I have ever seen in Texas. Too bad it is caused by the drought.

The little town near our lease was just bustling with activities. Gary bought a new hunting gun :roll eyes: in the little town and I would imagine no less than 5 employees thanked him for his business. He bought the gun because it is shorter and lighter than his gun and thus, easier to climb up into the deer blind with it hanging on your shoulder. He didn't really need it but it didn't cost too much and so why not. We also try to buy all the things we need for the deer lease, plus our groceries, etc. in the little town. I know they need the business.

I drove home this morning and am trying to get the house straightened up from all the stuff I brought in. I did some Christmas shopping too, at the little local store, mostly stocking stuffers, but now I need to put away all my bags and stuff.

I'm going to the Texas women's basketball game here in just a bit. The game is at 2:00. After the game I have GOT to go to the store and do the rest of my thanksgiving dinner shopping. The game will be over about 4:00, so I should have plenty of time. I need to stop by and see mom too. Everything will be easier since Gary isn't here and I don't have to worry about taking care of him!

[Lindsey]

On Friday I had a great day at work. First thing in the morning it was "Payday Breakfast" with French toast and bacon. I didn't have any because I wasn't hungry but the office sure smelled good lol! At lunch time, a girl had arranged a shoe party in the basement. I tried on a couple of pairs, but I thought Scott would probably kill me if I bought another pair of $50 heels! But it was fun anyway! At 4:00 we had happy hour, as we do every Friday. I didn't have a beer, but I did have a long talk with a coworker and go to know him better! So yeah... I still love my new job haha

After work, we picked up my grandma and went for supper. We went back to her house and relaxed for awhile, and then my uncle came up (he lives in her basement suite) and we played Canasta for awhile. My cousin (and bridesmaid) was coming into the city that night for a conference Saturday, so when she got in, we picked her up at her hotel and went to the movies! We saw Jack and Jill, with Adam Sandler. It was good!

We got back to my grandma's at 1 a.m. to pick up Layla and head home! Then I collapsed in bed! Too much excitement for one day lol.

Saturday I painted the OTHER bathroom. Today Scott is finishing putting the chair rail back up over the wainscoting. The room was really dark brownish red, and now it's grassy green. I think it looks much better!

I also brought out Christmas decorations today and have been busy decorating the house :) The tree will go up either tonight or next weekend.

[Tiramisu]

I feel like I've been on a roller coaster and have too much on my plate again. I literally told my boss to get a grip and stop taking her frustrations out on me. She said we need to talk ... At 730 tomorrow morning. I get my carport, stove top and oven Tuesday morning

Jeff, abby and Sarah came in and he did lots of work on the house. House repairs are totally done, just lots of painting left. I have too many projects started.

I'm going to Laura's for thanksgiving, just for the day. I'm off work Thursday and Friday, so I'll be thankful to get a few more walls painted. I'm moving so slowly, but my neck and shoulder won't take much.

I am thankful for all of you.

[Janet]

Yesterday Rick's 90 year old aunt was visiting her sister (Rick's other aunt) and invited us to have a Thanksgiving meal with them and his cousins. It was really nice visiting with them. One of his aunts is from Schenectady, NY but recenty moved in with her daughter and her husband in S. Carolina.

When we got home Rick got an attitude. He hadn't drank all day until he got home so I'm sure that had something to do with it. (Diana....please tell Dae Lynn it's really not worth it).

I work today and tomorrow and then off the rest of the week. So glad HE only gets Thursday off.

Sandy, I'm glad you finally said something to your boss. Maybe things will start to get better, at least I hope so.

[Blueyes]

Mike and I really didn't have anything to do today, so we went to Longview..our "go-to" town about 45 minutes from here. We went to the movie and saw J Edgar. Then we went to Red Lobster. Oh, we also got dog food, lol!

We are supposed to get a thunderstorm tonight. It's still so very dry here, that every drop helps! Hopefully the temperature will drop some, too.

[gja1000]

Hey Betsi, how was the movie? I've been thinking about seeing it.

I'm trying to get ready for the kids to come tomorrow. They won't be here till late. I made my noodles for thanksgiving dinner, they are laying out all over the table drying. My house is pretty much picked up and clean, I just need to get my cooking done, but there really isn't much more I can do tonight.

I have to take my mom to the doctor tomorrow, just a followup check for her leg. It's at 8:45 though, and the traffic will be terrible cause it is across town. Then I have a meeting at school at 1:30, which should last till 3:00 and then I am done!!! I'm not going in on Wednesday as I want to see the kids and I'll really need to cook on Wednesday!

Well, now for the bad news. Gary wrecked the pickup today. He's fine, in fact he was sitting still and someone else hit him, so technically HE didn't wreck the pickup, but he was in the wrong, so it was his fault. He thought there were two lanes going in the direction he was going, so he was in the right hand lane (which really was the shoulder of the road), and a truck turned right and scraped the side of the pickup. He says it's pretty bad (he's still at the deer lease) I haven't seen it yet - but it is drivable, so that is good. He'll be home tomorrow and we'll have to take it to the estimator when I get home. Just what I need, another problem!! :mad: It will be OK, of course, just a minor hiccup - could have been so much worse.

[DianaB]

Sorry, but I haven't had time to be on here. We're getting ready for Thanksgiving. Cleaning is done and now we're getting all the cooking done that we can ahead of time. I'll set down on Friday and catch up on everything!!

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!!

[gja1000]

Busy day, kids here, cooking, out to dinner with everyone, a little shopping with Abigail. A good day!!!

[Lindsey]

I have been busy but I can't even say with what! I just feel like I've been so run down but I haven't really gotten anything accomplished.

I don't know why, but I checked my facebook right before I left work today, and saw a local rescue is promoting "adopt a senior month" and they featured two little senior dogs, best friends. They are a bichon mix and a yorkie mix, and they need to go to their new home together. I sent the link to Scott before I picked him up, and we talked about it on the way home, and when we got home I filled out an adoption application. Whether they think we're suitable or not, I hope they find a good home. We have been thinking about adding another for a couple of years but we got off track when Layla had her back issues. Now that we're handling that, I think we might be able to add to our family. Even if Layla can come into town with us every day, the other two could stay home and not be lonely. Scott is talking about installing a doggy door already. Of course, whether we get them or not, I think whatever happens is meant to happen.

Tomorrow after work, my "profit centre" is having our own little holiday gathering, by having a bowling night! So that should be fun. I think it's glow bowling.

[Lindsey]

Oops double post

[Janet]

Today I spent most of the day alone. The guys went hunting till noon and then went back out. We had a small supper and now Rick is asleep on the couch, Ricky is playing video games and I'm in bed on the computer. Aren't we an exciting bunch??? :D

Not sure what I'm doing tomorrow, but Saturday I'm pretty sure I'm going shopping with a friend in Lafayette. I know it's going to be a crowded mess, but we're gonna give it a try. I'm not really looking for anything special yet. Only have to buy for two this year. Maybe something will catch my eye.

[judy]

Happy after Thanksgiving!!!

I had a lovely Thanksgiving at Jessie's. The kids helped her with all of the cooking the day before, so she wasn't harried. Dinner was so delicious! Then, we relaxed and watched a movie, and I went home. It was just us and my ex. He is here, in his house, a lot now, and it is fine. The kids were adorable, and we had fun. Mackenzie "window shopped" online, and emailed me about an outfit she liked. I ordered it, but won't tell her! I keep saying, "maybe I did, and maybe I didn't!" I have been going to TJ Maxx and Target lately, and always look for things for her, so I guess she figured I was hankering to buy her some clothes. I was!

Some of my summer friends are here for the weekend, and it has been wonderful seeing them. Susan came over yesterday to visit, and I hd dinner at Debby's last night.

I think the kids are sleeping over tonight, but I do want to go over to Jessie's friend's before they come. She opened up a beautiful little shabby chic shop on her land, and is having open house. Besides, it is Small Busines Saturday, and I want to buy something there. I have been shopping this month! Not expensive stuff, but it adds up. The weather has been so nice that driving to different towns and shopping is nice.

So...life is good!

[Lindsey]

We have two extra little doggies here today for an overnight visit. It looks like our family is probably going to be growing by two.. :D

[Blueyes]

Lindsey- That's so exciting! Does Layla like them? How old are they?

Judy- I'm glad you had a nice Thanksgiving! Is your ex remarried? I'm just being nosey:rolleyes:

Gayle- I'm so glad Gary wasn't hurt!! Now you get to deal with insurance and repair shops...fun, fun.
I really didn't like J Edgar that much. It was interesting, but boring:confused: We went to see the new Twilight movie today. It was pretty good, but I think the next one will be better. I want to see Courageous. I think it comes out this weekend.

[Janet]

Saturday was such a fun day for me. I went shopping with my friend Diane. She had a list made out for her nieces and nephew. It was fun shopping for little girls, such cute adorable things. We laughed so much and caught each other up on so much.

We ate our lunch at The Olive Garden and it was so darn good. We ate until we were rolled out of there...:D Then we went to Mulberry to the nursing home to visit with her Mom for a little while and then she took me home. I really enjoyed getting out and doing something fun with someone fun.

Today....I slept until 9:45...I couldn't believe it. I was asleep by 11:00 I know. I did wake up around 4 a.m. and went to the potty and then just layed and listened to the rain...I love that. Then...that's all I remember until 9:45. So today...I didn't get a whole lot accomplished, but then again...I didn't really try to. I just lounged around and enjoyed a rainy day.

[gja1000]

Gayle- I'm so glad Gary wasn't hurt!! Now you get to deal with insurance and repair shops...fun, fun.
We've already got the insurance check and the truck will be fixed by next week, so all is well on that front

I really didn't like J Edgar that much. It was interesting, but boring:confused: My daughter said the same thing - she learned a lot of history, so she liked that, but didn't really care for the movie

I'm not a Twilight fan so I'm not interested in that. I'll wait to see J Edgar on TV.

I worked on decorating the house this weekend. We decided not to put up the big tree since the kids won't be here and it'll only be Gary and I till we go to Houston for Christmas. So, I bought a few things for the house, and got a 3 foot tree and decorated with little balls, tinsel, etc. It was fun. I got a few cardinal ceramic pieces at Cracker Barrel, they had them on 40% off this weekend. So my house looks pretty Christmasy, lacking a big tree, it still looks good and has me in the Holiday spirit!

[DianaB]

I'll catch up on the last few posts later when I have Dean down for a nap!!

It's been a crazy weekend!!! Having Dae Lynn and Karlie home really changes things around here!!! Dae Lynn's a great help but has her own ideas on what needs to get done so I just follow her lead and try to stay positive about it all.

We had a great Thanksgiving!! It was just us and Amy's family for the noon meal. Then later on the others joined us for left overs. They had both been at their other family's house for the noon meal. Before Feyn's family and Jaci and Nate got here we all took four wheeler rides!! The weather was so nice......a little chilly but not bad. I'm starting to tell that I've lost weight because I am a little more cold than I have been!!

We all went off of our diet for the day but not too bad.....by Saturday I was back on!!!

Our little Alco store had some Thanksgiving and Friday sales so Dae Lynn and I ran in and bought a few Christmas gifts for the kids. I've also bought some things on Aeropostale....if you "like" stores on FB they'll have coupon codes to use when you buy something from them. I save 40% on Aeropostale on stuff that was already 50% off!!!

On Saturday Dae Lynn decided that she wanted the Christmas tree up so we got out all of the stuff and got it decorated. With the kids helping it was pretty fustrating!! I have soooo many decorations and some are fragile so having the kids dig through all of them was hard. We didn't get near all of them on but the tree looks full enough....plus we tried to keep the wood and plastic down low where Dean can reach.

Then yesterday after church Dae Lynn, Amy, and I went to Walmart. Dae Lynn picked up groceries while I worked on gifts for a stocking for church that will go to inner city Chicago. We fill them with toys and stuff and they pass them out to poor kids up there. I still need to pick up some toiletry thing and then I'm done.

Ahhhhh......today is back to normal!!! Dae Lynn and Karlie are back at school and it's just Dean and me at home!!! I have to admit that I enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with just having Dean!!! I haven't been on as much as I'd like to but sometimes when I sit down with the computer I want to do things that I don't have to think so much about. It's like my brain just wants to shut off. I've been taking more baths in the evening and it's where I sit and read in peace and quiet.

I hope that all of you had a great Thanksgiving!!!

[Janet]

Today I ran my route, it was good to see most of the kids..lol They all seemed ready to go back...not so much for school, but to be with their friends. I didn't do much else except my usual Monday run to town and to the bank. When I got home there was a message on the answering machine from the lawyer. They need a death certificate for my sister for this stock stuff. The only reason I can come up with is to prove they only need to divide it 3 ways instead of 4. So...I'll need to run to town again tomorrow.

[Tiramisu]

All is well with me. I'm getting better at picking my battles with life. Had a ver good dinner with Laura and family, then us girls went shopping at midnight. It was great to spend time with them.

[Lindsey]

Betsi, Layla tolerates them and is willing to let them sleep in her beds and she will sleep in them still after. She came a long way within one day so I think it will just get better over time. She will get used to them! We don't know ages for sure, but they are considered seniors. The yorkie is for sure, but the bichon mix seems way younger! I will make a new thread about them after I have my bubble bath!

Scott is away for work this week so it's just me and Layla at home! It's pretty relaxing so far. I had a pretty busy day at work, came home and closed my eyes for a bit because I had a headache, and then I watched tv for the rest of the night :) Now I'm just going to have a bath. I still have remnants of my headache so I took an Advil and hopefully it will go away soon.

I'm glad everyone had good Thanksgivings! We started to decorate for Christmas last weekend too, but we don't have the tree up yet, and we don't have some of the decorations outside up yet either.

Do we want to do a Christmas card exchange again this year?

[gja1000]

Today was Gary's birthday and we went out to eat steak at Texas Roadhouse. Unfortunately, Gary's steak was so fatty and grissley he couldn't eat it - :mad: - but they didn't make him pay for it since it was obviously uneatable :). He didn't want another one because he had eaten a few bites and then had a HUGE baked sweet potato. We had pie at home, so he ate some of that when we got home. Tomorrow I'm going to fix him venison chicken fry which is his absolute FAVORITE to make up for the lousy steak. We've eaten at this steak house many many times and never had a bad steak. I'm just sorry it was on his birthday!

This is the last week of school, YAY! I'll have lots of papers to grade after class is over on Thursday, but I'm so glad this semester is OVER!

[Janet]

Poor Gary, at least he didn't have to pay for the steak, but still why did it have to happen on his birthday, so not fair! I hope he had a really good day anyway. It's really sweet of you Gayle to fix him his favorite meal. You are truly an angel for him.

Sandy....I'm sorry, it sounds like there are still some things causing you problems... I'm getting better at picking my battles with life. I pray that whatever it is stops and that you can live your live your way with no regrets and no interference.

Yesterday we got about 2 inches, maybe a bit more of snow. Yuck!!!! It came down pretty good while on my afternoon route and it took an extra 36 minutes for me to get home. The snow came down so wet and heavy that the bus wanted to slide every which way. This morning it was much better and I was only 5 minutes off my route time. The sun is shining now and it really is very pretty....with that said....it can go now! :)

I'm here alone, both guys at work so I'm enjoying my day. We had a 2-hour delay this morning because of the snow and some power outages because of the snow so I was able to sleep a little later. The school let us know last night so I set my phone alarm to use this morning. The temp is 36 so what snow is here with the sunshine, probably won't be around long...I hope.

[DianaB]

That's too bad about Gary's steak. At least you didn't have to pay for it so you can go back another time and still consider it for his birthday!!!

Janet, I'm glad that you made it on your route safely. I'm sure driving with a load of kids is very stressful when it's bad. At least you're experienced at driving the bus! With the sunshine I'm sure the snow won't be staying long!!

Well.....Dean's been a mess again this morning!!! He got into a bottle of mouth wash and poured out probably a cup and a half!!! He soaked his socks and jeans.....plus a pillow that he had pulled into the bathroom!! It's always something!!! At least the house smells minty clean!!! I have to keep an eye on him constantly!!!

Glen's got an appointment this afternoon to hopefully get his cast off. I'm so ready.....it's been stinking really bad lately. He's tried Fabreeze and other things but it still doesn't help. I told him that if the doctor doesn't take it off to let him know that he's staying with him!!! LOL I've got the sheets and blankets in the laundry to get the smell out!!!

[Blueyes]

Diana, I hope the stinky cast gets put in the trash! I know Glen is ready to get that thing off. How long has it been?

Gayle, I don't think we've ever had a bad steak at the Roadhouse. I DO love their sweet potatoes! I guess as soon as Mike's deer is finished being processed, I'll be frying him some, too:rolleyes:

Janet, I'm glad that your snow will probably melt for a little while. I would LOVE it if we could have a white Christmas!

I went back to the Orthopedist yesterday. I have to wear my brace for 3 more weeks. That will make 6 weeks, and I sure hope I can take it off then. I got several more exercises to add to my routine. My knee cap is freezing up like he expected it to, so I have to move it in all directions with my hand several times a day. I could bend my knee better, but boy does it ever hurt! Well, at least it doesn't stink:lol2:

[DianaB]

Yay!!! Glen got his cast off!!! He came home this evening and took a bath and I told him that he had better scrub it REALLY good!!!! He has only had it on for 5 weeks and the doctor really wanted it on for 6 so he's suppose to take it easy with it for a couple of more weeks. He didn't bring the cast home so I'm assuming that the doctor's office is taking care of throwing it away!!! YUCK!!!!

I'm sorry that your knee is still causing you problems, Betsi. Keep doing the exercises and soon you'll be good as new!!!

[Blueyes]

YAY for Glen!! I know he's thrilled to have it off! At least I can take mine off to shower, and I can step in to the tub easier than I could. I sure would like to take a long bubble bath, but it would take a wench truck to get me out, lol!!

[Janet]

Hooray for Glenn!!! I bet he is thrilled to get that smelly cast off. He probably feels like something's missing now huh? LOL. Since he was able to get the cast off early, he'll need to do what the Dr says and take it easy.

[DianaB]

Glen's being very careful with his cast off. I think that he felt secure and protected with it on and didn't realize it. When he wears his boots he's fine but when he takes them off he worries about it. He's still hobbling around but I'm sure in time that will get better. He does feel better about getting clean......me too.....it REALLY stunk!!!!

Dae Lynn had to go to Wichita yesterday. Damon's Mom's health isn't good and she was taken to the hospital out there to have a procedure done. Since none of the other family could go Dae Lynn went out to be with her. Come to find out she hasn't been taking good care of herself and it's making things worse.....Dae Lynn was pretty fustrated with her by the time she left. It's easy to tell where Damon gets his problems from......she is also an alcholic and has a problem with overdosing on prescription drugs. It ended up that the procedure didn't work so she'll be staying in the hospital for several more days.

Since Dae Lynn was gone the kids and I made some salt dough hand and foot print ornaments for Dae Lynn. They are actually pretty heavy to use as ornaments but maybe she'll find a frame or something for them. Now I just need to get them dried!!! I have a couple of ideas to make for Dae Lynn and Karlie for Christmas. I'm really enjoying Pinterest and have gotten some great ideas and recipes to use!!

Amy came over this morning and we picked out some things for her to use in her Christmas play at church. The kids and helpers are putting on a little play (and I have a small part) and it takes place in a little clothing store. It takes place in a couple of weeks or so. The kids all have small parts and even the songs are just the chorus instead of the whole song.

So now here I am.....trying to keep an eye on Dean.....he's into so much lately!!! If he's out of the room you had better be finding him because he's into something!!! He keeps Grandma on her toes!!!! But he is also getting so cuddly!!! I love it when he gives hugs or kisses without being asked.....it melts my heart!!!

[Janet]

I really envy you all...with the larger families. I wish I had a large close family. Yes..I know there is a bit of drama in all families, but mine is/was a little too intense to be enjoyable. Now...we won't be getting together and my brothers seem very happy with that. Very sad...but it will soon be over and a new year will begin.

[gja1000]

I don't really have a big family either Janet - just my daughter Brooke her husband and Abigail and Emma. I have some step family, but I really only see them every few years and even then, even after being with them for 54 years, I am still the step child. Weird I know. Gary has a big family, and although I like getting together with them, they aren't my family. So, I sorta understand how you feel.

[Janet]

It sounds like you do understand. Oh...I would still want my alone time, but I always dreamed of a big family, it just never happened. I just love hearing about everyone's family time.

[gja1000]

I just finished Christmas shopping for Gary's grandsons, got them wrapped, boxed up and ready to mail tomorrow. Whew! I'm glad to have that done. My shopping is going to be pretty easy this year. Gary's sons always get money, Brooke and Bryan usually want money and I've already got their stocking stuffers. Abigail wants gift cards and I just have to find out what I need to get Emma and I should be mostly done. I am not buying anything for Gary - his Colorado elk hunt and a new pair of binoculars are his presents, so I may have a pretty easy time of it this year! YAY!

[Janet]

I hate to admit this, but I didn't bother to get dressed today...lol. I went through some pictures and scanned them in to email to my brothers. Thought why should I use up all my ink and paper...they can print them out and use theirs. I've been on the computer, read the Sunday paper and picked up around the house. Can't believe Monday will be here tomorrow....seems like the weekend just got here.

I did put out some Christmas decorations and will probably put out a few more tomorrow. Need to put our tree up too. Maybe on Ricky's day off. I would rather buy a new one that is only 3 or 4 feet high instead of the 6 foot one we have. Maybe next year. No use spending money when we already have a tree.

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Seems pretty quiet around here (4WT). I miss having a lot of new posts to read when I get on here. I know with the holiday getting closer and closer that everyone is busy.

[gja1000]

Need to put our tree up too. Maybe on Ricky's day off. I would rather buy a new one that is only 3 or 4 feet high instead of the 6 foot one we have. Maybe next year. No use spending money when we already have a tree.

I bought a new THREE FOOT tree, Janet! It cost $14. I sat it up on a little cabinet I have in the living room. I covered the cabinet with stuff that looks like snow and so my little tree looks like it is sitting on a snow drift. I put a snowman and santa beside it. I didn't feel like putting up the 6 foot tree either and I'm so glad I got a new little one. I just love it. I spent about 5 dollars on tiny bulbs, garland, etc. I decided I could buy new decorations every year and change the look! YAY!

[gja1000]

Here's a pic of my little tree. Sorry, it is sideways, I don't know why that happens sometimes when I take pics with my camera. It is right up on my computer, but posts sideways. Oh well, you can sorta get the picture. LOL!

[Janet]

Gayle it is so cute!! That does it, I'm going to get me a smaller one.

[gja1000]

OK, I'm trying to fix my sideways tree. It'll probably post sideways again. Oh well

YAY! I FIXED IT!!!

I have tiny little pretty boxes (empty) under the little tree - and we won't have many real presents, but if we did, I'd just put them around it on the floor on top of the "snow"! I really like the little tree. My daughter said it reminded her of Charlie Brown's poor little tree - but I like it!!!

[Blueyes]

I like it too! Mike and I put up a tree like that, only with lcd lights. We did it last year because Kirby was 6 months old and he would have eaten a tree he could reach, lol! We'll put it up again this year!

[DianaB]

Cute tree, Gayle!!! I would have liked to have a smaller tree this year so it wouldn't take up as much room but I didn't want to buy a new one so we ended up putting up what I had. Dean's done pretty good about staying out of it.

I had a larger family because I had only one brother and we're almost 6 years apart. My Mom has 5 sisters and they're really close......I grew up with cousins around all the time and an Aunt that was only 7 years older than me......more like a big sister. I started out wanting 6 kids but happily settled for 4. I really would like for my kids to be closer than they are to each other.......and the girls are but having a son and daughter-in-law makes a difference. So that's why I have a larger family......I wanted that closeness that my Mom and her sisters have. I still love to get together with my aunts, uncles, and cousins. They are still a huge part of my life!!!

Well......to change the subject......Dean's about to drive me crazy!!! I don't know what it was about this weekend but even my Sunday School kids were active......ALL of them!!! I have a couple that cause trouble but on Sunday it was the whole class!!!

After church Glen and I went out to eat with Jaci and Nate. Dae Lynn calls and Dean had gotten open a new bottle of paint that I had just bought. You know.....the small bottles of craft paint.....and he had poured it all over the living room carpet when Dae Lynn went to the bathroom!! She was furious!! She called wondering how to clean it up.......and it ended up that she just got out the shampooer and cleaned it. It turned out pretty good but you can still tell a little where it was at. I think that when some dirt gets mixed into it you won't notice it. So fustrating!!!!

Even this morning he's been into all kinds of things.......if he's out of sight then you better be finding out where he's at!!! I've spanked him a couple of times though and he seems to be settling down. I sure hope this doesn't keep up!!!

A sorority here in town has an annual home tour and it was yesterday. They usually have three homes but this year they only had two. One of the homes was a lady that has an antique shop. Her home was flooded severely when we had the big flood a few years ago but she had a group of Mennonite men that came in and helped her fix things back up. Her home was so unique that it was worth the money to just see it!!! She had incorporated a lot of salvage stuff from other houses and furniture into it and it was so cool!!! I just loved it!!! Matter of fact.....I'd like to go back and look again!!!

Last night we had a Christmas banquet with the church. We had a nice supper and then had Greg Winn perform for us!! He is so awesome!! Here's his website.....http://www.gregwinn.com/

[judy]

How is Glen's foot today? It does feel weird when you have a cast removed! At least they kept the stinky cast, and you didn't have to smell up the car, or bother getting rid of it!

Betsi, how awful that your knee got so hurt from that fall! It was more of a slip, wasn't it? Things just change on a dime, don't they? I hope it heals before Christmas.

Gayle, how annoying that Gary's birthday steak was not good! Knowing you though, I'm sure you have made up for it! I have never tasted venison. I'm going to have to get somebody to give me just a little piece!

Janet, I grew up in a huge family of cousins, aunts and uncles. It really was a blessing! I have such great memories of family! I still am in touch with 3 of my first cousins, and one aunt. I love them so much! I have no idea what it is to have siblings though. I wish I had a brother or a sister.

I have been busy doing things in the house like cleaning out the pantry, putting the deck stuff down in the basement, putting up some pictures, etc. I have to go through the closets, drawers and cabinets. I have lived here over 3 years now, and it is time to resort things, and get rid of stuff. I do not like clutter! As it is, I really have no more room for knick knacks, or furniture. Too bad! I love decorating! I can always get rid of some things!

I'm going with Jessie and Kassidy for blood tests and a sonogram for Kass. Her doctor thinks she may have mono. I doubt it, but she has been sick with bronchitis for a few weeks now, and her side hurts. She is a tiny thing, with no body fat, so she doesn't recover easily from things. Jessie has some symptoms of an MS flare up, so that is always upsetting. I'm trying to be as helpful as I can. She has been through this quite a few times, so she is handling it very well. Of course, that helps me handle it better, and then I can be more helpful. She does need to go on medication that is preventative, for the long run. It's hard to find a doctor up here, but she will have to, I think.

Not much else is doing here. I am just enjoying my solitude, and the quiet. My eyes are healing well, and I am very happy with the results. I'll get somebody to take a picture to post.

[Tiramisu]

Thanks Janet!

Ready or not here comes Christmas. I'm sad that Laura and hers can't go on my road trip, but Jeff and his are going with me to Branson. I'm leaving on the 22nd and should get back on the 30th. We'll have Christmas eve on the trail and Dixie stampede the day after. We are very excited about the trip.

I'm in a year end crunch and praying for an awesome 2012.

Ain't this roller coaster life a blast! Love you all

[Lindsey]

I can't believe Christmas is only a few weeks away!! So much for our big old family Christmas we were trying to host. Everyone has backed out, the last ones being my brother today. My grandma told me last week that she will just come out if my brother is there with the girls. She'd come watch them open presents, and then go back home. Without the kids, there is no point in coming. So I guess there will just be Scott and I, my parents, and his parents. His parents are coming just in time to eat Christmas dinner and stay overnight. I think my parents will come on Christmas eve. I am pretty disappointed because we told everyone last Christmas that we'd love to have them over this year and everyone agreed, but at the last minute they all made other plans. We have a 14 lb turkey in the freezer (from my mom, for Christmas), and a 10-14 lb ham ordered through Scott's work. I guess we'll just go buy a smaller turkey, let my mom have hers back for when they have company, and just keep the ham frozen for another time. Oh well, what can you do?

Yesterday I had quite a morning. I dropped Scott off, drove to my parking lot, and walked to the traffic lights. I got there too late and had to press the button for a cross walk. Finally the lights changed, just as someone else had come up behind me. I started walking across the street without seeing who it was. I was almost halfway across when all of a sudden there were lights and squealing tires!! I jumped out of the way and a car stopped maybe a foot from my legs. They were left turning and didn't even slow down to see if there were pedestrians crossing with the walk light!!! The person behind me yelled in fright... and it was my boss! He said he was just looking at the ground and all of a sudden there was a car right there. It took about an hour for my limbs to stop feeling like rubber! Thank goodness it wasn't icy and the car was able to stop! It was going really fast!

Other than all that, I've been keeping busy with our new dogs. I'll update the other thread about them though!

[Tiramisu]

My little tree!

[Janet]

Aw Sandy your tree is cute too. I'm going to town tomorrow to get a little 4 foot one instead of putting up the big one. It also seems like a fun thing to do and not work like the big one is.

Tell us more about your trip...what will you be doing?

Lindsey...so glad to know you are safe. What kind of maniac was driving like that???? Someone should have gotten the plate number. Those kinds of drivers need to stay off the roads.

Judy it sounds like you are really keeping busy around your home. I love taking care of where I live, most of the time.

My mother had a large mirror that hung in the living room for as long as I can remember. After she passed I brought it home with me to hang and today I tried to hang it up. It will have to go into studs because it's rather heavy. Ricky was off today so he helped me, but it doesn't look like I'm going to be able to hang it, at least till I figure out a better way. The studs are 16 on center and there is no way to change the hooks to hang it with. I was so disappointed. At Mom's house the walls are plaster so didn't really need to worry about it pulling out of the wall. There is no way I could hang it on drywall. Hopefully I can figure out how to get it hung soon.

Rick as some kind of class at work until 10 PM tonight, tomorrow and Thursday nights. He doesn't want to go but it's mandatory. He took some extra clothes in case the weather gets bad or if he's just too tired to drive home. I'm gonna love being home these 3 nights....LOLOL.

[judy]

Can you set the mirror on the floor?

Here are some ideas I found:

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/hangheavymirror

http://www.ehow.com/how_12141571_make-floor-standing-mirrors.html

I think that if you rest it on the wall, and get Rick to build a base to rest it on, and hold it in place, that would be interesting.

[Janet]

I'll have to take a picture of it for you. It really wouldn't look good on the floor. I do think we have it figured out though. We will probably put the heavy hooks into the studs and use a heavy guage wire to hang it. Hopefully we can find a guage thick enough that I'll feel safe it won't fall.

[Tiramisu]

Janet, maybe put a board horizontally nailed into the studs and then hang the mirror onto the board, if the mirror hides the board. Studs: such a diverse word. I bought me a stud finder, but it hasn't worked yet.

I'm coming to accept my new boss. I think I can outlast her. And, I'm almost not being friends with my admins and not letting them take advantage of me.

I'll drive up to Jeff's on the 22nd and we'll get on the road early the next morning, taking probably 12 hours to get to Branson. I booked a silver dollar city package, but I'll be hanging out with Katey so Jeff and Emily can take Abby and Sarah to the park. We have reservations on Christmas eve for Christmas on the trail, which looks like a wagon train sort of thing. We're taking one small gift for each of the girls to open on Christmas morning and we'll chill and cook in the cabin. On the 26th, we'll go to the Dixie stampede, which is a dolly Parton shindig. Then, we hope to go to shepherd of the hills on the 27th and head back on the 28th. There are some shows the big kids want to see, but we'll work those in as we go. Depending on what time we leave, we might spend the night somewhere along the way back.

I'm excited and yes, we're loosely planning this trip because it's such a break from tradition. What a blessing.

[Lindsey]

Sandy, I hope you have a lot of fun on your trip! It sounds like it will be a good time and it's nice to not do too much planning, so you can have some time to relax too!

Scott and I just took Layla to the vet and she has a pretty severe UTI :( I knew it. I had a feeling for months. I knew it smelled too strong when we expressed her, but Scott insisted it was normal. I should have listened to my gut a long time ago. The vet inserted a needle through her tummy into her bladder to get a sample, and she knew there was something going on as soon as she saw it. My poor little girl. I feel like we dropped the ball here. She is on antibiotics for two weeks and we'll see how it goes after that. She also had protein in her bladder which the vet said could be there because there's so many white blood cells there, or it could be that there's an issue with her kidneys. She also said it seems like Layla is breathing harder and struggling to open her lungs for enough air. She thought the dark color of her tongue might be because she's not breathing out enough. It could be because of the nerves and maybe there's some muscles she can't control there because of her paralysis. I don't know, it just seemed like there were a ton of things wrong. I've held it together but I feel like I'm letting her down. I need to be on top of her health. We will tackle one thing at a time and hopefully get the infection out of her urinary tract to begin with.

[Janet]

That may work Sandy, I'm have to check it out sometime tomorrow. I'm in bed now and the mind just isn't working properly...lol

You're too strong a woman to let anyone take advantage of you, no matter who it is!

Your trip sounds really nice! Since this Christmas is going to be tough getting through, I wish we could have made other plans. You are going to have so much fun!! Since I hardly ever get out of my county, please take some pictures so I can pretend I went too. :)

I have to go back to town again tomorrow to the attorneys office. Have to pick up the consent forms for my brothers to sign and take the deed in so the secretary can get information to make another or something for me. Then I have to come home and get ready to go to the Mulberry nursing home to share in the Christmas celebration with my friend and her mother. There will also be another girl I went to school with so looking forward to a very nice evening and a great meal.

Guess I'd better try to get to sleep...mornings come around so fast.

[judy]

Oh dear Linds! Poor little Layla! Like you said, one thing at a time. I hope it all gets better very soon, and isn't terribly expensive. Maybe it is nerves because of the new dogs? Sbe will get used to them. She is such a trooper!

Sandy, your Christmas plans sound like fun, but I must confess, I cannot picture this. I guess I'm just used to cold, snowy Christmases. I can't wait to see pictures!

Janet, I think if you can use the studs, you will be able to hang the mirror. It is nice to have your Mom's stuff in your own house. Then, you can move it back when you move into her house for good!

It snowed last night. I don't know if you remember that I had a lot of trouble with my steps being very icy and dangerous last winter. I got permission to build railings to hold on to, but I chose not to. Ther steps go to 4 houses, and I don't know what my liability would be. Steve also told me it would cost about $2000. The wood is very expensive, and he wanted to be paid for labor. Long story short, I don't want him to do the work. It's too much chaos! At this point, Jessie told him he cannot charge me for work anymore since I let her use my charge card, and I helped them out with money on their vacation. I do have work I need him to do for me, but I really prefer not to go that path anymore.

The good news is that the maintenance staff has been so on top of cleaning the snow off of my steps! They were here at 8:30, and all of the steps are clean. I know that cthey are making sure to keep it safe over here. They are probably liable if somebody gets hurt. They're also very nice here, and...I give good Chrisrmas presents! I appreciate them, and like to give them nice gifts to say thanks.

It's hair day,and then I will come home and hang a shelf in the kitchen. I also got some new glazes, and I am going to glaze some pottery. I'm excited about that.

[Lindsey]

Judy I am so jealous of your snow! We had a lot of snow last month but it has been warm for the past couple of weeks (on and off) and pretty much all of the snow is gone. Today it's -25 C (-13 F) with windchill and I hate when it's this cold and there's no snow!!! I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed for a white Christmas this year. We put our Christmas display up on the weekend and pounded the pins straight into the ground with no snow cover. It's just weird! I may have to just drink enough rum and egg nog until I see snow this Christmas!

I hope these antibiotics work for Layla, and work quickly. I hope the protein disappears too and we can rule out a kidney problem. She seemed to be breathing normal at home so maybe she was just nervous at the vet's office. I'm sure breathing is different anyway with the position of her body now. Her front legs sit further back than a normal dog and her weight is pushed more forward. Maybe she is just pushing harder because her legs are right against her ribs when she's sitting.

[DianaB]

Cute tree, Sandy!!! Make sure you dress warmly for Branson.......we're pretty cold up here now! You'll love Branson because there's so much to do!! I'm not sure what the traffic is like in the winter but in case it's bad make sure you get a map and use the side routes. You'll get to where you want to go so much quickly. Your motel will have them. The Dixie Stampede is nice.......make sure you go to the pre-show as well.

Janet, have you thought about placing your mirror on your fireplace mantle? What would it look like there?

Lindsey, how scary!!! Thank goodness you were alright!!

What a scare with Layla!!! Thank goodness you've got her on meds!! There's no reason to think that you did anything wrong......I'm sure her health is very delicate. Maybe having an appointment every three months or so to have her looked at.

Sorry again that I haven't been on. I can't explain how much Dean is into things and keeps me running. I can't hardly let him out of my sight. He's learned to push the chairs over to the cabinets now so that creates a whole new set of problems.

Dae Lynn, Amy, and I are going to Wichita tomorrow for Christmas shopping......anyway if we can get the kids situation figured out. I think that Glen's going to stay home and watch Dean. He knows that he has to keep an eye on him because he's been home with us.

I can't tell you how tired I am. Running after a 1 year old all day long. We've all been grouchy at different times.......It's not easy having them live with us.

[Janet]

Diana...I don't think I could handle being with a child all day again. Don't think I have the patience anymore. Ricky doesn't even date, so it doesn't look like I'll have grandkids born until after I'm gone at this rate. Then if I do, I'll be too old to even old them without supervision...lol

How long did you say they would be with you? It's probably not quite as bad in the summer as it is in the winter having them live with you. When doors and windows are open it feels like there is so much more space. You're missed when you're not here.

[judy]

Very true, Diana! You are missed!

How is Karlie these days?

[Tiramisu]

Wow, everybody's busy. We're all so blessed.

It's been in the upper 20s the last couple mornings with ice on my truck windows. Got my carport installed today, so mornings should be much nicer.

I took my admins to a nice lunch today and we sat there for 3 hours, it was so fun. And, I'm learning to deal with my boss. Working towards finishing up this year on a good positive note.

Love you all.

[judy]

That sounds good, Sandy!

Is your Christmas trip going to be in the cold? I hope the concerts are indoors!

[Janet]

Today was sooo cold. In the 20's and low 30's, but seemed a bit colder because of the wind. I had to make another run to town this morning. This time the lawyer wanted a copy of the appraisal. They mailed it to me without making a copy....duh! For some reason I keep forgetting to check my gas guage in the van so definitely needed some gas before heading back home. Also got my hair cut, feels so much better.

Rest of the day was normal routine, bus route, pick up around the house..etc. Not sure what the weekend has in store for me, but I hope it's not boring.

[DianaB]

I'm not sure how long Dae Lynn and the kids will be with us. It all depends on what happens after Damon gets out of jail. He goes to court next week and may get out......we'll see. He doesn't have a job and I don't think that my BIL will be hiring him back since it's winter and there's not much to do. Plus I'm not sure if Glen will let him move in with us and Dae Lynn. He should be with his family but Glen's still pretty mad at him so he may have to move in with his Mom or sister....who both live in another town. I'm just saying a prayer that God will work things out because I don't know what to do.

Dae Lynn loves Damon and wants him to go to rehab to get help but if he ever gets drunk again then I'm sure she'll be done. This time I do believe that she really means it. So they'll be staying with us until Damon gets his life straightened out......I think.......We'll see.

Karlie is....well....Karlie!!! Always in trouble!!! It doesn't help that Dae Lynn works at the school and sees how much she's in trouble!!! There are three kids that are always in trouble at lunch.....which Dae Lynn works the lunch room.....and one of them is Karlie. They make them stand at the wall so it's pretty easy to see Karlie when she's there!! Dae Lynn took a Christmas present out from under the tree and told her she would have to earn it back......but before she got that done she lost another present!!! She's not gotten one back so maybe the other one will be back today. Some days I feel so sorry for her and other days I could wring her neck!!!!

Dae Lynn, Amy, and I went to Wichita yesterday and worked on Christmas shopping. Wow......did we shop!!!! The fun part.....well, it was all fun......but we stopped at Goodwill!!! I loved it!! I found a couple of shirts for myself, a nativity set ......like new, in the box.....from Department 56......and several other things!!! I'm going to have to go back and spend more time there!!!

I got lots of stuff!! I've bought sooo much for Karlie, Dean, and even Dae Lynn!!! I'm going to have to quit on them!! I got most of Amy's, Tammy's, and all of the grandkids. Now I need to figure out what to do for the guys and a little bit more for my Mom and Step-Dad. I called Mom and all she could think of that they needed was gloves!!! Maybe I'll get a gift certificate for Penney's. They would use that!!

I found a little toy wind-up scuba diver that can go in the bathtub.....for Glen!!! He'll get a laugh out of that!!!

Amy and Dae Lynn were so funny!! We ate supper really late at IHOP and they loaded up on coffee to drive home......then they also get giggly when they're tired so the trip home was hilarious!!! I love going places with my girls!!! Such fun!!!

[judy]

God will take care of Dae Lynn, the kids and Damon, Diana. Which way it goes, it will be for the best. But, you know that already! I'll keep them in my prayers.

I think long car trips with your kids are the best! There is nothing else to do but enjoy each other. or talk things out, if need be.

I am so bored today!!! I have something in my system, and am not feeling great. I stayed in today and yesterday, and I really need to get out! I have been gettingt a ,lot done in the house, but I need a break!!

Jessie wants me to watch the kids tonight and tomorrow. I told her I don't feel well, but I don't know if she is bringing them anyway. It feels so late, but it is only 6:38. She was going to call me, but I haven't heard from her. She could just pop in. She is probably afraid to call me! I might say no. It seems that Steve has gotten a job starting Monday, so they want to do their Christmas shopping tomorrow. It's a strange job...he will learn welding, but will have to travel and be away for a week at a time. Not that far, but he will be put up in a hotel room with another guy. They will have opposite shifts, so won't get in each others' way. ????????????? What is there to say? Will he actually go? Who knows! I do not like this idea, but am keeping it to myself. He is a drinker, and this would not be a good situation for him, especially if all the other guys drink. He won't like being away from home, and the hotel and meals out thing sounds like an awful way to live. I did tell her that I don't think he will go. She said he has to. They have no money. I'm sorry I said even that much. I believe in minding my own business. Sharing it all here helps, of course!

I finished reading a book today, and now have nothing I want to do. I guess I'll switch off the dogs' pee pads, and wash the dirty ones. That sounds like fun!

[gja1000]

Diana, I'm glad your Christmas shopping was so much fun. You have so many to buy for, I don't know how you do it!!!

Judy, you sound like you have the blahs! I have felt that way for the past couple of weeks. I've been really bitchy too and snappy with almost everyone. Someone at school asked me if I was mad at them. I had to laugh, because no I wasn't, but in some ways I feel mad at everyone! I think I just miss having the kids here during the holiday season. It doesn't seem near as much fun.

I could have killed Gary last week (a couple of times in fact - LOL). He went out and bought (unbeknownst to me) a Yorkie-Poo for his aunt. She lost her dog 2 years ago, and has talked about getting another one, but hadn't for various reasons. So he just goes out and gets one - from a puppy mill, I am sure (he knows nothing about breeders). She was cute, but woefully underweight. She was only 2.2 lbs but has already gained a pound, so I think she'll be OK.

I was so mad. He THOUGHT we were going to keep it till after Christmas and take it to her in Oklahoma after Christmas. Well, I was so mad at him, he took it too her the day after he brought it home. All is well, she is thrilled with the dog, her husband - not so much. Like me, he will have to take care of the dog - Gary's aunt has a variety of physical and mental problems and she isn't able to do all that needs to be done with a puppy. It is 3 1/2 months old, so at least it wasn't a tiny baby. Even though everything worked out OK, sometimes I think my husband has lost his mind. If someone just brought me a puppy out of the clear blue, I would kill them! LOL! To me, it's kinda like having a new baby in the house.

Then the second time I wanted to off him was when my stove was delivered. I don't think I've told you the stove saga. Well, we got a new stove in August when we replaced our kitchen counters. I don't cook much, especially in the summer so I didn't use the oven right away. When I used the oven (very rarely) I noticed that when you turned it on, a fan came on and blew air out the front of the oven door. I didn't think too much about it at the time, thought it was odd, but didn't notice it too much. The air initially was cool, but if the oven was on for 30 minutes or so, the air got hotter. And yes, there was a regular oven vent in the top back of the stove, I don't know what this damned fan was doing except blowing air out the front of the stove.

When the weather cooled off, I used the oven more and I guess it was in October, I was cooking something in the oven and also cooking (stirring) on top of the stove. Well, the longer the oven was on, the hotter the air coming out the oven door got. It was so bad I couldn't stand to stand in front of the oven and stir. Also, when you opened the oven door, the fan blew all the hot air right in your face. I just hated it. So I called sears, it was a Kenmore. It was past my 90 days to return it but they were really nice and I went to the store and picked out a stove that DID NOT have the fan and they changed it out last week. But alas, when they delivered and installed it, it DID HAVE A FAN. Gary knew it had the fan when they installed it but didn't call me to tell me. I would have told them to take the damned thing back right then. So, when I came home to a NEW stove that STILL blew hot air on me - I was furious - I mean REALLY furious. So, back to Sears I went last night. I changed brands, from Kenmore to GE. If this stove has a fan that blows on me, I don't know what might happen! LOL!

[Janet]

Wow!!! You've had a 'hot' week haven't you...lol. I think we all go through those blah days...I know I do for sure.

I wouldn't want anyone bringing me a dog or a puppy. I would want to see it and see if there was a connection of any kind first. It's good that everything is working out, but I bet her husband was ready to punch Gary too....huh?

Had no idea you were having trouble with your stove. So glad that Sears was nice about it, but what was Gary thinking? LOL Poor guy...he didnt' stand a chance did he???? :D

I hope you're feeling much better now Gayle and I'm thrilled you let Gary live. I'm not sure prisons have wi-fi or internet.

[gja1000]

I hope you're feeling much better now Gayle and I'm thrilled you let Gary live. I'm not sure prisons have wi-fi or internet.

Oh Janet thanks! You started my Sunday with a big ole belly laugh - I'm thinking the day might just be better because of YOU! Thanks.

[Blueyes]

You girls make me smile:D Gayle, why in the world would anybody make a stove that vented through the front? That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard! I didn't use my oven all summer, either, because of the heat. I can't imagine if it was blowing out the front, lol!!

[Janet]

I'm so glad I made you laugh Gayle.

Today Rick and I went to town, needed milk and I needed to take something back. Found a real nice crockpot cookbook at WalMart so he bought it and I'll get it at Christmas. I like the recipes that are really easy and these are. Now I'll be able to do my least favorite thing....cooking!!! lol We also stopped at Aldi's to get milk. We go through milk so fast around here, at least a gallon or more every other day. At Aldi's it's $1.79, but is planning to go up to $2.49 after the first of the year.

[gja1000]

Why on earth is milk going up so much???? I know people in Texas had to get rid of some cattle, the drought dried up all the grass and it was too expensive to feed them - but there are lots of dairy cattle in places other than Texas so I'm wondering why milk is going so high.

I KNOW BETSI - dumbest oven design EVER!!! It HAD to be designed by a man who NEVER cooks. LOL! I must say the air that blows out in front is not as warm as the air that blows out the back vent - but the air coming out the front is way to hot for Texas summers. Heck it was too hot when I was fixing Thanksgiving dinner. I just do not understand. The other kicker is that NONE of the salesmen/women at Sears, Home Depot, or Lowes have a clue what I am talking about. Their stoves are not hooked up to gas or electricity so they have never experienced this. The repairman knew exactly what I was talking about so I am sure I am not the first person who has complained or thought something was wrong when hot air was blowing out the oven door.

[judy]

What kind of stove vents out of the front? Especially in Texas!!! Imagine 104 degrees, cooking, and getting hot flashes!

I had another boring day. You are right, Gayule. I do have the blahs.

I found a letter from my first love, Gary. He was the love of my life, actually. We grew up together; went steady for about 4 years, from 14 to 18, and then back and forth for another couple of years. Whenever I hear music from that time, I get such nostalgia, that sometimes tears comee to my eyes. He took his own life at about 30 years old. I don't know what happened exactly, except that he just gotten crazier and crazier. Somebody told me it was from drugs, but I never pursued it.

Long story short, the letter was from him when he was 29, and it really rocked my world. He was coherent, did love me, but was definitely losing it. It has opened up a lot of questions for me, even though it was 35 years ago that he wrote it!

My questions are why do I pick unstable guys? He kept referring to how crazy I had been, so am I crazy? I guess I was, but not anymore. Everybody is crazy in their own way, I think. I'm pretty comfortable in my own skin now, but thinking back, I don't know how I was then. The last question is why did he break up with me? Didn't he love me enough? I know that is a ridiculous question, after so many years. I certainly could not have married him , and I don't remember planning on that. I have to just sit with these feelings, and see where they take me. Actually, I'm not sorry that I have to work these things out. It just popped into my life out of the blue! I also am so sad that happened to him. He never got to live his life.

[judy]

I feel like such a weight lifted off of me because I could share all of that with you.

What a blessing you all are!!!

[Janet]

Judy....your post made me so sad. What a love story. I think for most everyone at one time or another we wonder 'why'. We can sit and wonder for hours and nothing changes. Now you've got me going down memory lane... :)

What makes you think you pick unstable guys? Thirty-five years ago was a crazy time for everyone. Some made it out just fine...others not so much...still others...not at all. I wouldn't try to figure it out now, just cherish the memories you have. You are so loved Judy, by your family and by us!!

[gja1000]

I am so glad you were able to share that with us and that you feel better. I have no idea why you attract unstable guys - maybe it's because YOU are more stable and make them feel they have someone to hold them up. I'm just babbling, I really don't have a clue.

I know that I like certain types of men, I don't think I would ever be attracted to someone who wore a suit to work. LOL! Isn't that ridiculous! I've always been attracted to men who do manual labor, like carpenters (Gary), cowboys, ranchers, oil field workers,
and the like. So, there must be a type that we are attracted to.

I remember reading once that we choose people who we feel are not "better" than we are. I know I came from a very poor rural upbringing and I am very uncomfortable around people with power or money. I don't know what to say or do.

I know that I love my husband with all my heart, but if anything happens to him before me (which is extremely likely), I will never marry again. I don't think I will ever be romantically involved again, but I probably should not say, "never". I love being alone, I love working with women, I do not like the company of men (in general), so I feel comfortable in saying that. Oh well, I am completely off topic.

Judy, again I am so glad that you could tell us your story and feel better. You are such a special person and I hope you know that.

[Lindsey]

Judy, I know I am young enough to not have much time to reflect, but I know every single guy I dated before Scott was also unstable. I thought I needed to help them. I have never touched drugs in my life but every guy I dated except two or three were on drugs and most were also depressed. Before Scott, I dated Kyle who degraded me constantly and it took him hitting my dog for me to realize I couldn't do anything for him and I wasn't safe. I don't know what I was thinking staying with him so long. I think most of me felt worthless and I would feel worth something to help someone, like I wasn't just worth love alone. But I never dated any other kind of guy. I didn't even know I could until Scott came along.

I hope you can work through these feelings and know that you are very loved and what happened happened for a reason. You know if things didn't work out as they had, you would probably be missing the other blessings in your life, like your daughter and your grandchildren. God has a plan for us all, and it couldn't have happened any other way.

[Janet]

Why on earth is milk going up so much???? I know people in Texas had to get rid of some cattle, the drought dried up all the grass and it was too expensive to feed them - but there are lots of dairy cattle in places other than Texas so I'm wondering why milk is going so high.

Just curious as to what you all pay for milk. Like I said at Aldi's it's $1.79 until the first of the year. Everywhere else it's over $3.00. Usually around $3.49 -$3.59.

[DianaB]

I'm so fustrated!!! Last night Dean got a hold of a bottle of baby shampoo and dumped half of it on the carpet. We got out the carpet shampooer but it took forever to get out all of the bubbles. Dean was in big trouble!!

Then this morning he has pulled a shelf/table out of the wall. I'm not sure if I'm going to put it back up or just wait until they move out......I'm leaning more toward waiting.

It is getting soooo old having stuff dumped on the carpet and having things beat on with his toys. I try to keep things nice but I'm not sure what things are going to look like by the time they move out.


GGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRR................

[Janet]

Oh Diana.....I feel so bad that you're having to deal with the bad times. Good times with them out weigh the bad, but boy when they do bad....they do it good don't they? Anyway can you tie him up with some duct tape???? LOLOL.....just kidding. I could definitely feel your frustration. Now we know why mother's in days past used playpens.

[DianaB]

My favorite time of the day........Dean's naptime!!!

Even Dae Lynn was fustrated with the kids yesterday. They hardly took a nap so were up most of the day with her. Karlie doesn't play on her own so she pesters you to play with her.......and then Dean's fiasco with the soap!!! Dae Lynn was fuming........I told her that I had to deal with it every day.......I think she's starting to understand what I've been dealing with.

Judy, I'm so happy that you feel comfortable to share your personal thoughts. I'm sure that because of this man you were a better person. It's too bad that things didn't work out for the two of you.......time dims our memory of why we did what we did. I hope your memories give you a lots of smiles and a happy feeling.

Gayle, I can't believe that Gary would buy a dog for someone else without knowing for sure that it was all right!!! He was probably just trying to be nice.

As for the stove......I'd be hopping mad too!!! Sears is NOT my favorite place to buy appliances. I've had some problems there. I'm glad that you got it all taken care of. I'm sure that you're right in saying that the stove with a fan was designed by a man!!! LOL

[Blueyes]

Judy, if a crazy man tell you that YOU are crazy...that's just wrong! I'm glad you are reflecting on your past. I think it's great that at our age we can still learn things about ourselves. Just don't have regrets.. learn the lessons that must come to you, and then move forward.

Lindsey, I'm so glad you have Scott. You are wise beyond your years :)

Janet, that's about the same price that milk is here. Makes me glad I don't have to buy it for a big family, lol!

Diana, I'm sorry Dean is making such a mess. I can't imagine cleaning shampoo out of carpet! What a bubbly mess:eek:

Gayle, I have to say that I admire a man that is as comfortable in a business suit as he is in his camo:p

[gja1000]

Gayle, I have to say that I admire a man that is as comfortable in a business suit as he is in his camo:p

LOL! Betsi! I guess I've never met one like that!

[gja1000]

Our boys went to get their teeth cleaned today. I wish I could make myself brush their teeth regularly so they didn't have to go through this. They both did fine, but I worry so much when they have to be sedated to have this done.

YAY! I finished all my grading and submitted my grades today. I was the biggest procrastinator these past couple of weeks. There is no reason to NOT have had this done a week ago. Oh well, it's done now.

I've got a busy day tomorrow, but on Thursday a couple of girl friends and I are going shopping in Bastrop. This is the central Texas town where the worst of the wildfires were this summer. We figured it would be the right thing to do to spend some money in their little town. They are trying hard to help everyone affected by the fires to have a good Christmas, and we think we should help, however little. I haven't driven through the fire area since it happened, so I am anxious (and sad) to see the damage.

[Janet]

That is such a worry isn't it Gayle? Joey needs his cleaned so bad, but I know they will pull most of what left. His are just horrible. Still need to get Brenna her annual, it was due in October and then of course....the kitty. She really should have vaccinations to keep her healthy. Pets can be so expensive.

Today, I mostly lounged around since I'm not feeling the greatest. Thought I would take a nice nap on the couch in between routes, but as soon as I layed down, the phone rang. So the nap was put on hold for another day... :(

I was going to call the Dr. today after my morning route, but he's closed on Wednesdays. If I'm not feeling better, then I will call him on Thursday. I sure don't want to be sick over Christmas.

[Blueyes]

Janet, :getwell:

Gayle, we went through Bastrop on our way to the ranch right after the fires. In fact, they were still smoking some. There were firefighters everywhere, emergency insurance sites set up in parking lots, along with lots of disaster relief. I tell you it was a scary, humbling sight! The devastation will just make you sick. I'm glad you are going there to shop, that's a great idea!

[Lindsey]

Layla really needs her teeth cleaned too! She is not a fan of having her teeth brushed :( I think we will schedule a cleaning in the new year.

I feel like I've been so busy lately, but I haven't really been. All of our presents are wrapped and under the tree. I just mailed a big pile of Christmas cards today. On the weekend we went to my Christmas party Friday, and then I won tickets to a hockey game Saturday so it was a full weekend compared to normal! This weekend we're visiting Scott's parents. Other than that, we just go home from work, play with the dogs, eat, and go to sleep!

A couple of nights ago my brother went to the emergency room with terrible pains and it turns out he has a hernia. He will be seeing a specialist and will be going for surgery sometime in the new year. I guess my dad had a hernia when he was about a year old, and his brother also had one when he was young. I talked to my brother yesterday and he's staying off work and he said he's in quite a bit of pain when he stands up, but laying down is okay.

[judy]

I hope he feels bettee soon, Linds!

You also, Janet! Sounds like a flu.. I'm with Gayle...I never go to the doctor. I like my doc, but they probe and test, and by the time they are done, you usually have recovered anyway. I did go for a mammo, and got a letter from the radiologist that I do not have cancer. What a nice letter!!! I always say "Thank you God" when I get a negative pap smear, mammo, and a skin check. One of my doctors would send a postcard with Mona Lisa smiling when you got a negative pap smear.

We all should brush our yorkie's teeth. I never have, and never remember. I do have a toothbrush and doggie toothpaste somewhere. I hope everybody's dogs' teeth stay healthy! There was a nice young woman on YT who washed her dog's face, put her in her pj's, and brushed her teeth nightly! Bless her heart!

Diana, why not try a playpen for a couple of hours each day? Or, is this considered child abuse these days? Jessie loved her playpen. She had special toys in there, her bottle, and I often found her sleeping in her cozy little nest. Do you think Dae Lynn would allow it?

Thanks for your advice about my old boyfriend. I think what I'm getting to is that I want that kind of love again. I was so lucky to have had that, especially as a teenager, when things can be so hard. I did not have it hard then because of Gary. I did have a rough time because my mother was so ill, and I think that Gary, and my two ex-husbands suffered from depression. I know I did. I probably felt comfortable with men who felt the same way I did. At any rate, I want that kind of love again. Not the teenage stuff, but he and I really did love each other.

[Janet]

I didn't do much today except cough and pee...lol. Oh I got laundry caught up so I wouldn't have to do it over the weekend, mailed my Christmas cards, and made a list of things to do tomorrow. I need to get to town and see if there is any kind of mail at Mom's. It's starting to really dwindle down now finally. Our WorkForce One is offering free certified nursing assistant training, so I want to go and see what that is about. I think I would really like that, we'll see. I have been thinking about it since before Mom passed and then all of a sudden I see this in the newspaper, glad I did, because I'm getting ready to cancel the paper....:)

I always felt bad for Mom when someone else had to take care of her and I want to be able to give that kind of comfort. Not saying it will be for me, but I want to check out what they are offering

[judy]

That sounds nice Janet. I remember you wanting to do that when Mom was sick.

I have lots of stuff to do today, but I'm not sure I will get anything done. I may just relax!

[Janet]

That sounds like a great thing to do Judy and I could that all day....LOL

I did call about the training and it doesn't sound too promising. It's mostly for unemployed or lower income. Not sure I'll qualify. Oh well...we'll see.

[gja1000]

I've had a nice quiet weekend. Gary decided at the last minute to go to the deer lease with the other couple that are on the lease too. We needed to check on the trailer before we leave this Friday for a few days, so its good that he went. I hope he doesn't come home sick though.

Yesterday I went shopping early (Dollar Tree) for a few stocking stuffers for his sisters and their husbands. It was good because the stores were not crowded yet. Then I ran a few more errands and came home and made potato soup. That's mom's favorite so I took some over and ate lunch with her.

Then I just came home and did a few things around the house and rested. I took mom to the Texas women's basketball game last night, the first since she broke her leg. She was so excited! A friend of mine who has front row seats gave us her tickets so mom wouldn't have to climb the 17 stairs to our regular seats. I took mom in the arena in her wheelchair and then she just got right in the seat. It is a very different perspective watching a college basketball game in the front seats. It's up close and personal. One time a player from the other team was diving for a loose basketball and landed in my lap. :eek: Fortunately, everyone around me put out their arms to stop her so she didn't land on me too forcefully.

Mom is doing well, but doesn't seem to have made a whole lot more progress (walking better) in the past couple of weeks. We see the surgeon this Tuesday and I think he will release her to put full weight on the leg. I'm going to ask if she can continue physical therapy for a while longer because I'd like to see her walking better. She says her knee is hurting and it probably is since she is walking "differently" due to not being able to step full weight on it.

This morning I think I'll go out for a leisurely breakfast and then go to the grocery store early before the crowds. I hope everyone has a good day.

[Janet]

Gayle....I just felt so relaxed reading your post. In your writing you seemed so content and it transferred right on to me.

I've had too short a weekend...as usual.. :) Didn't even get dressed yesterday, just not feeling like I should. Still have that cackling noise going on and I'm not liking it one bit. Also still have a cough, not a really bad one where I'm hacking all the time, just once in awhile I have a deep cough and then well....we all know what happens.... lol.

I got upset with my husband, (gee, who'd a thought?). I was sitting at my computer when he came home from playing Cowboy Shooter. I was printing out pictures for my friends Mom and putting them in a small album. He asked how I was feeling and I told him not really any better or any worse. Then he pops off with "what'd I do now?" Being as I wasn't feeling the greatest, I popped right back that "not everything revolves around what you did or didn't do. Why because I don't feel well does that have anything to do with you?" I honestly very seldom confront him, I usually just hold it in, but he is always asking this question and it makes me insane. Okay...enough of that.

I have been busy online looking for other jobs. Even if it's part-time (with my bus schedule) and could work into more hours in the summer months. There really isn't much out there. I can do office administration and I've worked retail as a department head over mens, ladies, and children's clothing and then as a stock room supervisor. Everyone wants all these degrees. I will continue to look and once I feel better will start right after the first of the year (try to beat some of the school and college kids) going door to door at places of business and putting in a application or leaving a resume. Sure hope something comes along, I'm a hard worker so I just have to be patient. I really want to start putting some money back, for myself.

Today I slept in just a tad and as of yet (12:06) still haven't gotten dressed. Don't really have anything on my agenda until later so why dirty some clothes...lol.

Tuesday Ricky will be 21 and has to work until 7:30 so I told him last night that we would take him out to eat this evening where ever he wanted to go. His favorites are Red Lobster and Outback. Can't believe my baby will be 21. Where did the time go?????

[gja1000]

You know Janet, when someone is irritating to us, just about no matter what they say, it sets us off. I don't know why that is, but I find that it is true. I'm sorry you have to feel like you can't say/do whatever you want, that really isn't a very healthy way to live.

Maybe with another job or one to supplement the bus route, and your mom's house to live in, you could make a move???

[Janet]

Been thinking of it Gayle, it's just gonna take some planning. Oh please don't think I can't say or do what I want. I do...believe me, probably too much, lol. But when it comes to arguing or dealing with that kind of stuff, I just try to avoid it. Not worth the aggravation.

[2tiredmom]

Had our office party last night at my bosses house. She is such a dear friend. Husbands were invited too. Got to be with my best friend and her hubby too. They are just such good sweet Christen people. My bosses hubby is 59 and the retired police chief. Sweet people. I am trully blessed. It was a fun night played po keen oh. Gary won just about every other game. lol. Then I won the grand prize. 2 wine glasses and a bottle of wine from our local winery. Satek Winery.
Today didn't do much. Gary left a little after 5. I hate it when he leaves. I feel like a piece of me is missing when he is not here. He goes back to Dr on Friday for his back. Not much else going on. Jennifer is out with friends. College kids. lol.
Have a great week everyone.

[DianaB]

Janet, I hope you're feeling better!! This isn't a good time to be sick. It was so nice talking to you the other day!!

Linda, it sounds like you had a good time at your Christmas party!! How nice that you won a nice prize!!! I wish that you were on here a little more......you're missed!!!

Sorry, I haven't been on much again!! Glen and I went to Joplin for a couple of days to finish up our Christmas shopping. Actually Glen got his own Christmas gifts......he bought himself a scuba outfit and all the stuff that goes with it!! Plus we got him a new suit and a dress jacket.......he needed them so badly!!! He spent enough that I'm not worrying about getting him anything else!!!

I'm not wanting much for Christmas.......I did make out a small list of a few things I wanted but nothing expensive. I really like being able to buy things on e-bay so I'm content with just having that!!

Anyway, we got our shopping done......or figured out who we were giving money to!! LOL I think that next year that's all we're going to do.....give money.

This evening we had our Christmas play with our children's church kids. It went really well!!! I'm so glad that it's over though and I don't have to teach Sunday School for a couple of weeks since they fall on holidays!!! I could use the break.....even though I have great kids. Maybe they'll feel more like listening and sitting still when we come back from break!!! Ha Ha!!

Tomorrow is Damon's Mother's funeral so we'll be going to that and bringing Dean and Karlie home. Damon gets out of jail for 6 hours to attend the funeral. I hope the funeral goes well.....because the family doesn't get along too well. Our pastor is doing the service and he's handled families like this before so I know that he'll do a good job for them.

We're having our "Christmas" with the kids on Friday evening so I'm going to be pretty busy for the next few days getting things ready. I guess it's been decided that we're having "Mexican" food!! That's alright because we can fix that to go with our diet!!

Love ya'll and I'll talk to ya' later!!! Hugs!!!

[judy]

It sounds like you had fun, Linda! I hope the funeral goes smoothly, Diana. How much longer is Damon away for? Karlie will be happy to see him!

I went over to Jessie's yesterday. The kids got 2 new puppies for Christmas. They now have 10 little dogs running around the house! 3 yorkies, 5 Japanese Chins, and now 2 pomchis (pomeranian/chihuahua combos). They are just beautiful, and very sweet. I think Jess and Steve are completely out of their minds, by the way. Listen to this...we think one ofr the Chins, and maybe one of the yorkies are pregnant. Who's the daddy? Who knows? :confused::confused::confused: Nobody seems to be upset about this, so I kept my mouth shut.

Brandon has had very bad hives over the past couple of years. Thursday night, he felt his throat closing up, which was one of the fears they have about these kind of hives. They have an epipen, but didn't need to use it. They called an ambulance, and by the time they got there, the benadryl kicked in. They have to use the epipen if it happens again. The thing is that he is only 10, and too young to be left to take care if himself. Jessie is keeping him home, doing home schooling, until January. She is looking for a specialist. I looked it up, and it seems to be angioedema, which can be very difficult because sometimes they can't find the trigger that causes the hives. I didn't tell Jessie that, but I am sure she knows. I get external hives, and they are very painful. Mine go away with a cream that I have. I cannot imagine how painful poor Brandon's must be, since they are internal as well. He has been tested inside and out for allergies, and has come up negative for everything so far. That doesn't mean anything to me, since I also come up negative for almost everything, and still get hives.

It would be wonderful if they could find the cause! And no, he is not allergic to dogs!

[gja1000]

Judy, hives can be caused by topical things, such as laundry detergent or other things like foods, medications and such. Gary gets hives when he eats high potassium foods such as tomatoes or milk - but - it only happens when his blood level of potassium is high and THEN he eats a high potassium food, it doesn't happen all the time. It took us forever to figure out what was happening. Also a few years ago, he and a friend of his got hives off and on for several weeks, and we never did figure out what was causing them. It was very frustrating.

I would think a teacher at school would be responsible for administering the epi pen, if he should need it.

[judy]

The 2 fourth grade teachers are just awful! One of the teachers at the school, transferred her own daughter out to another school for fourth grade. Jessie just does not trust them.

[gja1000]

Oh dear Judy, that's just terrible! Of all the people we SHOULD be able to trust, teachers should be high on that list.

[DianaB]

Poor Brandon!! I hope that the cause can be figured out. And it is scary to think that his throat is closing up.

Dean is so funny!! In between breakfast and lunch he usually gets a little snack of crackers or something. This morning I gave him a little bit of cereal and told him that he was NOT to give it to the dogs. Later I checked on him and he had poor Reuger in a head lock and was getting on to him!! I gathered that Reuger had eaten some of his cereal......but even funnier than that was that Jazzi was eating another bit of cereal while he wasn't looking!!! So funny!!! He really keeps us laughing!!!

[Janet]

Poor Brandon...rashes are not fun especially if they cause any kind of discomfort. I still have the rash (look more like zits) in my arm pit area, but it doesn't cause me any problems.

Are Steve and Jessie breeding the smaller dogs? Or just the bigger ones? I didn't know they had so many...wow. And I thought my 5 were driving me crazy. If I had 10 in the house they would have to put me in a straight jacket...lol.

[gja1000]

We are loading up getting ready to head to Houston tomorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing the kids. Gary was sure we couldn't get everything in the car, but YAY!, we did! It has been hectic getting myself, Gary, my mom, and 2 dogs ready to go. WHEW!

We will travel to Oklahoma on the 26th or 27th to see Gary's sons, grandsons, and sisters. We are never sure when we will come home, usually before New Year's Eve, but we usually just play it by ear. I'll have the iPad and will check in but won't post as much as usual.

I hope everyone has a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

[Lindsey]

Merry Christmas Gayle!! I hope you have a great trip!!

I am getting the house ready for Christmas. I am cleaning and doing laundry tonight and probably making up beds for our parents. Tomorrow I am working a half day (I have worked through my lunches this week to make up the time!) and we will go grocery shopping after work. We need to make it to Costco and another grocery store. I'm sure the traffic and last minute shoppers will be terrible! There are a few more things I need to get for Christmas dinner though, and it's the only time to do it. I will also drop off my Christmas presents for my grandma and for my brother and his family before we head home. On Saturday, my parents will be arriving, and on Sunday, Scott's parents will be arriving. Then, on Monday, they are all leaving and we can relax :D

I think we are heading up to the cabin for New Years and we'll do some ice fishing! We're keeping our celebrations low-key this year :) I can't wait to see the pups running around in the snow up there! They have more there than we have. Should have moved Christmas there this year! :(

[Janet]

Safe travels Gayle! Have a wonderful time and of course, pictures are a necessity. Didn't do much today, except for cleaning the kitchen a bit and laundry. Laundry is a never ending job it seems.

[DianaB]

I'm busy today so I don't have time to catch up on the reading......but I hope all is well!

We're having our Christmas with the kids tonight. I finally got the presents wrapped a couple of days ago and cleaned part of the house yesterday and am working on the rest of it today. We're cooking Mexican food for tonight.....so that will be easy and different.

Tomorrow I'll be able to catch up and spend more time on here. Christmas we'll be opening gifts with Dae Lynn and the kids so that will be nice. We're just planning a simple lunch. On Christmas Eve we'll probably be going to Glen's Aunt's house. She always has a big party and that's where Glen always celebrated Christmas because his house was too messy to have it at home (remember Glen's Mom was a hoarder).

I'll talk to you later!!! Hugs!!!

[judy]

I went out for a bit today, and then decided to just come back home. It's snowing lightly, but it feels damp outside. I was going to get my nails done, but I would rather stay in.

The last gift has yet to be decided upon. I promised Mackenzie a cell phone, and a prepaid monthly plan for a year. She, being 14, wants a fancy phone. She could pay for most of that herself with her Chrisrmas money, but the $45 plans only cover basic phones. They don't have real wireless, etc. I left it at....either get a lower priced, less fancy phone, or pick something else. She is calling PopPop to see if he will get her an ipod for Christmas, and then she will have all of the functions she needs. Her ipod fell into the kitchen sink into a pot filled with water, and that was the end of that.

I have to admit that I have no patience for all of these discussions and phone calls back and forth about this. I'm a very "cut to the chase" person, which is why I was a good teacher. All the other crap is just a distraction, and most of the time, the answer is still NO, or these are your choices.

Whatever! I do want her to be happy, I just do not want to be involved with her parents trying to figure out what I already know.

Other than that, I gave out all of the gifts except for my family, and enjoyed that tremendously. I have stocking stuffers for the kids that I will wrap tonight, I will write 2 checks - one for Jess, and one for Steven, and then go over there.

My friends are coming up this week, so it will be busy and fun.

Have a great trip, Gayle.

[JJJ]

That reminds me Judy. I need to get the boys their cell phone too. Which they don't deserve. One for losing his and the other for not getting good grades. Of course they will be getting the free ones. I have them on my family plan so it's just $10 each monthly.

I went out to eat, then went to buy a few groceries. Came home and wrap the presents. Boys are so excited they keep trying to peek inside my room :D

Have a safe trip Gayle.

[Blueyes]

Happy Christmas Weekend everybody!! I have been busy the last few days just like I'm sure the rest of you have... cooking, baking, wrapping, etc. We will go across the street to my brothers tomorrow for our family Christmas with our nieces and nephews and their kids. It's nice that we are on our next generation of kids..it's fun to have little ones around for Christmas! I won't get to see any of my kids, but we talk on Skype every couple of days:D

I love you all, and I hope you have a very Merry Christmas:presents2:

[Lindsey]

We are still trying to get things ready for company tomorrow! We have all of our groceries bought now, and a last minute gift bought for Scott's dad. I need to empty the dishwasher and hand wash some pots, finish the last load of laundry, and clean the bathrooms! I just made some devilled eggs and put them in the fridge for appetizers tomorrow.

Maybe I just wasn't feeling Christmasy because I was done everything so early this year! All the stress and hustle and bustle of today is making me feel a little more in the spirit! And knowing I'm now on holidays for 10 days!!! :D

[Janet]

Today I had to take my little Joey to the vet to have his teeth cleaned. His have been the worse of all my dogs. I was a little worried because I knew he was having some pain so I didn't want to wait any longer. I just put it on the charge card. Turns out he had 3 pulled and 4 fell out while they were being cleaned. On a scale from 1-5 (5 being the worst) Joey's was a 4. His gums had infection so they washed out as much as they could. He has to take antibiotics and pain meds for a week. My poor baby!!! Joey only has 9 teeth left.

The rest of the time I just played games on the computer, napped and spoke with a great friend on the phone.

[Tiramisu]

Merry Christmas from Branson. Love you all.

[gja1000]

Merry Christmas to you too, Sandy! Hope you are feeling better!

[Janet]

Picked up around the house a little bit and mostly just been lazy. Now...it's 9:01 and Rick is asleep on the couch, Ricky's in the kitchen eating leftover pizza and on his computer.....me.....I'm in bed on my computer and watching Dog the Bounty Hunter on TV.

Merry Christmas everyone.

[gja1000]

A nice Christmas day so far. It's mid morning and all the presents are opened. Breakfast is done and everyone but me, Emma and Abi are napping. I have Janet's dressing in the crockpot so not much to do for a bit.

Have a happy day everyone!

[JJJ]

Merry Christmas!!!

Kiddos open presents in the morning. I send them off to aunts house where they are going to spend the night. I'm back to my books trying to get 7 sections in for my test tomorrow.

[Janet]

We all slept in this morning. Rick was the first one up but didn't because he didn't want to deal with the dogs and making coffee. I woke up a little after 10 AM...couldn't believe it and Ricky woke around noon. As we got up we had coffee and cinnamon rolls for breakfast and then leftover pizza throughout the day.

We opened our gifts around 12:30 I think it was. Rick rec'd a manual for some specific reloading size, a Boresnake to clean his rifle or something, ear muffs and a watch. Ricky rec'd 3 pr of jeans, a game camera, some tools and SD cards. I rec'd a Crockpot cookbook (with really easy recipes) and a wireless keyboard and Ipad jacket for my IPad. Also rec'd 5 lottery tickets that netted me a whole $1.00....lol.

Most of the day I was lying on the couch and the boys were out in the garage doodleing. Rec'd a phone call from one of my friends and a text message from another. Also rec'd a text message from one of my nieces. That's been the whole day. Oooops....forgot, while the guys were out in the garage I did my usual pay the bills and get the deposit ready to go to the bank.

Tomorrow, is going to even top today....I'm going to go through the Christmas decoration boxes that I haven't put back up yet...clean them out and then while the boxes are down from the attic, I'm going to clean the attic out and start getting rid of some stuff. Then I will put the Christmas decorations back in the attic and call it a day... :) Man...that made me tired just thinking of it. Oh I don't think they'll be in, but I need to call the attorney's office so my brother can be satisfied.

Life is grand!

[Lindsey]

We had a successful Christmas! Our parents got along great, and it sounds like Scott's parents might be making a trip to the cabin for an ice fishing weekend in the next couple of months. His dad was really interested, his mom not so much, but we'll see if it happens. There were a lot of laughs and a TON of food! We won't be cooking for a week.

My parents loved our presents to them so that was great! My brother and his fiance gave us a Whirley Pop popcorn maker with theatre popcorn. I have wanted one forever and was going to put one on our wedding gift registry lol! They also sponsered a goat for a Maasai family in Kenya through Ten Thousand Villages, in our names. I think that was the best gift of all.

My parents got me a Sony E-Reader and I love it! I also got a gift certificate at Jysk (just like IKEA) and some money :) I didn't get a tablet from Scott, but he just found one on dealfind today so I purchased a voucher with my Christmas money! It's a Google Android 2.2. Regular price is $399 and I paid $85, with free shipping! I can't redeem it until Jan 6 though. I will have it sometime next month! Anyways, now for what he DID get me ...:) He gave me a gift certificate for Chapters/Indigo so I can buy some books, or get some for my new E-Reader! He also gave me a bath caddy thing that holds a book, because I always complain about my arms getting sore when I read in the bath lol! He also got my this big beautiful jewelry box I've been looking at every time we go to Costco! I just have my jewelry sitting all over the house because I have nowhere to put it. Now I do!

So now our company is gone and we can just relax. I think I will be laying on the couch and drinking water all day lol... Even our parents out-partied me last night :eek: They were all still playing cards and drinking egg nog while I fell asleep on the couch with the dogs! Boy, I'm just not as young as I used to be!

[Janet]

Sounds like your Christmas turned out beautifully Lindsey!

Ricky had to work today and Rick was out in the garage doing whatever it is he does and I cleaned out the attic. Took all the decorations down and put them away. My house is back in order...well sorta....needs cleaned up a bit, I did sweep the floor, but I need to do a few other things that will just have to wait. I'll be busy most of the day tomorrow so maybe I can catch up on housework Wednesday. Glad the hard part is over though.

[Tiramisu]

Feeling better as long as I take the mucinex. We really like Branson and are getting sad that we checkout Wednesday, but are getting homesick.

[Lindsey]

I decided to try for a refund for the tablet I bought a voucher for today. After some research we found out it's a piece of crap! The site advertises it at $399, but it turns out there's hundreds of them on ebay for $60 or less. From reviews, it is super slow and many of the apps are Chinese and you can't switch them to English! So hopefully we'll get the money back and I have decided I don't really need a tablet. My e-reader does internet and books, and if I really need to play a game I can use Scott's smart phone. My next phone will be an Android phone too so it might be pointless to have a tablet too. I thought I would use it on the treadmill and play games while walking or something, but who am I kidding? I haven't used the treadmill in months!

It has been such a lazy day! Even the dogs have been sleeping, and just getting up for pee breaks! Scott has been playing games on his cell phone all day long because I didn't allow him to play games while we had company. I did catch him on it a few times anyway though. I have been figuring out my ebook and looking online for boxing day or boxing week sales. We're going to the city tomorrow so I'll be spending some Christmas money I hope!

[Blueyes]

Have fun spending your Christmas money, Lindsey!

We are leaving in the morning to go to our friends ranch for a few days. Mike gets antsy after a few days of sitting around, so it's off we go!

I guess I'll be shopping for new tennis shoes along the way. I wear Sketchers, the kind that have the thick rounded sole that rock when you walk... Anyway, my niece told me that I can't wear them any more. She is a Volleyball coach, and she won't let her girls wear them because they are supposed to be bad for your back and knees, according to a recent study:rolleyes: At least she watches out for me, lol!

[Janet]

Today has been somewhat productive...lol. I did get up earlier than I have been lately. I think it was around 8:00 and had some coffee. Rick was already gone to work and Ricky was getting up too because he and a friend were going to do some car repair in the garage. Here it is almost 5 pm and I don't think they've done much of anything yet.

I waited for the roads to clear and then headed to town. Needed to go to Mom's and see if there was any mail. After a whole week there were only 4 pieces so it's slowing down finally. Then I went to a hardware store to pick up a heavy guage wire so I can finally hang the mirror that was at Mom's. After that headed to Wal Mart to get a few grocery items...not much, just a few things.

I'm back home now and well...you can probably guess I'm on the computer....LOLOL.

[Lindsey]

After getting back from the vet, we didn't do a whole lot. I got an email from Groupon Getaways, and then I got thinking about our honeymoon again so I looked up some trips. Around 3:00 we got ready and headed into the city. I couldn't find much I liked at the mall, so we headed to Jysk and I almost bought some shelves for the bathroom, but we decided we should measure first. We went to Montana's for supper, and then we went glow bowling! It was a good date night for us. We don't get out often.

Now we're home and I think we're going to head upstairs and watch a movie on the big screen. I am almost ready to go right to sleep!

[gja1000]

That sounds like a fun day/evening, Lindsey. You and Scott need to have some fun relaxing times together.

I must say I have done the same thing, bought something only to find out it has bad reviews. I finally got a stove I like after three tries. At first I didn't find very many bad reviews (about the fan that blows hot air on you when the oven is on), but now there are quite a few reviews that alert people to that problem. It must be a new thing to have an internal fan running when the oven is on, because our final stove has one I can hear running, but it blows out the top back of the stove, not out the oven door!!!

Gary's asthma is a little better today of day 2 on Prednisone. He says he feels a little better and his oxygen numbers are better too. But the Predinose messes up his blood sugar, it gets so high and we have to keep a close eye on it. We are having a good visit in OK. I know Gary enoys seeing all his family.

[Janet]

Ricky had the day off so he helped me hang my mother's mirror. It looks so nice it's hard to not keep looking at it. Almost feels like it's still on Mom's wall when I look at it. I've grown up with that mirror on the south wall of her living room and now it's on the south wall of my living room. I absolutely love it and I had no idea it would make be feel this way.

I was going to give the dogs a bath today, but that didn't happen. Just didn't have the energy...maybe tomorrow. They need it bad. I may shave most of them completely down so I don't have to brush or comb them. I want to keep my little Joey longer so I'll just give him a trim.

[Lindsey]

Gayle, my oven does that too but it's a wall oven so it can't vent anywhere else!

Janet, I'm so glad you finally got that mirror hung!

Today, we got up and headed into the city to meet Scott's sister for lunch on their way home to Edmonton. Their daughter is sooooo adorable! She was in a good mood too. I like babies when they're happy lol! After lunch we did some looking into wedding stuff, which I've already written about in another thread. While we were in Costco, I also bought a new blow dryer and curling iron. Scott bought a new electric razor. His parents gave us a Costco gift card for Christmas, so there went that!

We finally felt it's been long enough that we could maybe look at the leftovers in the fridge, and we warmed some up for supper, threw some out, and put some in the freezer for another time.

Now, Scott's gone back to the city to visit friends, and I'm holding down the fort with the dogs! These last few weeks I have felt so exhausted all the time, and all I want to do is sleep! I think I will be heading to bed early again tonight.

[gja1000]

We are headed back to Austin today. We planned to stay at the lake a couple of days with Gary's aunt and uncle but they have a stomach bug that we DO NOT WANT, so we will just drive home today I love staying at the lake but I will be glad to be home.

I developed a sore throat and the sniffles last night so I stopped and got some zinc lozenges and took them all night and this morni g. The sore throat is gone and the sniffles have not gotten any worse. I hope I can beat it back. I don't have time for a cold.

[DianaB]

Sounds like everyone had a great Christmas!!

Sandy, you're going to have to let us know what all you did in Branson!! It's a great town with so much to do!! We love to go there once in a while and I've heard that Christmas is a good time to go!!

We had a great time with the kids on Friday before Christmas. The only thing was that it wasn't long enough doing it in the evening. The grandkids all spent the night....except for Daya. She's not real social.....like her Dad!! Glen made breakfast the next morning then they all went home to get ready for Christmas at their own homes.

On Christmas we had Dae Lynn and the kids to open presents with. I miss having my kids be that age!!! It will be so hard when they move out!! I had made a list with some small things that I wanted and Dae Lynn made sure that I got them!! Then.......Glen gave me a present.....and it was filled with glass!! He had bought the greenhouse that we looked at a while back and had been working on it at the shop!! It needs sooooo much work!!! I've always wanted a greenhouse so I'm really excited about it.......just not the work!! I'm afraid that by the time we're all done and finished we'll have as much in it as if we'd have bought a new one but.....oh, well. So I've been going over to the shop to help him work on it so he can move on to other things. Today we're getting ready to paint the primer on.

We have a few more parties to go to yet so we're still busy. On Friday we're going to Glen's sister's for a party with Glen's family. Then the girls are planning a New Year's party here at the house......then we have a Christmas party with my family on Monday......Whew!!!

[Janet]

Today I was able to get the dogs groomed and bathed. I think this was the 2nd time since Mom passed in August. I just couldn't seem to get up enough ambition to do it. They all look so much better. I cut all of them down really short except for Joey...I'm ready for him to be in long coat. He's my baby and I really prefer the long coat, just don't like taking care of 5 of them.

I started around 10:30 I think it was and finished at 5:15. It absolutely wore me out. I have one of those wash tubs that I put in the bath tub so I don't have to be on my knees for so long. Then have a card table all set up in my bedroom to do the grooming. After getting everything out and then putting it all back up and then sweeping the floor....it's no wonder I kept putting it off.

Then I took a relaxing shower and now...of course I'm on the laptop, in bed.

[gja1000]

Janet, you make me tired!

[Janet]

I make myself tired. Maybe if I kept busier instead of on the computer so much I'd get some of this weight off.

[judy]

Wow! Christmas is over! It sounds like it was good for everyone.

I went over to Jessie's. Steve's uncle was there, and so was my ex. It was not the most comfortable situation. Steve's uncle is some piece of work! He has spent most of his life sponging off of family members, living in their houses, not contributing, and it always ends badly. He lived with Jessie and Steve for a while, but it was when she first got MS, and he did help a lot around the house. He send money to his daughter, who lives inm Hawaii, and claims to have none of his own. It's very crazy! He is sick now with cancer, and is trying to con Jessie and Steve to take him in. They found him an apartment nearby, and offered to be available if he needs help, but of course, he turned it down. He is a real scam artist, although he is sick, and I wish him well. We all make our own choices though.

Jessie took Brandon for tests today. He may have idiopathic anaphylaxis, which means that his throat closes, and they don't know the cause. It is very dangerous, so Jess and Steve are very worried. I am too, but I am optomistic that it is treatable. He will probably need to be on steroids. He only had the throat closing once. He has gotten hives and other symptoms for a couple of years now. I feel so bad for him!

Other than that, it is nice and quiet. My summer friends are here for the Christmas vacation, and we are having a New Year's party. We had a party a couple of nights ago too. I love when they are here!

[Janet]

Steve's uncle does sound like a piece of work, but I'm sorry he has cancer. I really hope Jessie doesn't let him move in. It doesn't sound like a good thing for her health. I know we are to help people and I'm sure they will, but her family needs her to be healthy.

How scary for Brandon to have his throat close. I pray it never happens again. Whatever is going on with him, I hope they can get it under control with very little to no medication. Could he be allergic to something? Food, environmental? Please keep us updated, I don't like it when our kids/grandkids are having health problems.

[gja1000]

I have developed a bit of a cold, so I don't feel real good. My symptoms are easily controlled by cold and cough medicine and my mucus is clear so I'm OK, just don't feel like doing much of anything. It seems like I ALWAYS get a cold the week after Christmas. Must be stress, but I really don't feel THAT stressed.

Gary is really tired and we haven't' even finished unloading the car! We still have our stocking stuffer things out there and a couple of other bags. I guess that will be our chore for tomorrow. LOL!

I'm fixing a meat loaf for dinner - because - I don't like meatloaf but Gary loves it - and - so I won't eat it and can eat a diet dinner because I DESPERATELY need to get back to eating LESS!!!

[2tiredmom]

Boy everyone has so much going on. We got home this morning about 12:15 got to bed by 1. Then got up at 7:00. Started by taking down the Christmas Tree and then cleaned and had to go into town to pay some bills before the end of the year.
Took Gary to Ft Wayne to get his shot in his back. Dr told him he may have to have surgery. While we were sitting waiting for him to go back Gary checked the weather and it showed a snow storm with lake effect snows for Sunday and Monday right though the area where he drives though to go back to Wisconsin. SO now I will worry about his drive back. If it's not one things it's something else. Thanks for reading. Everyone enjoy there New Year.

[Janet]

Hopefully your cold won't last long Gayle. I still have that darn cough. It's not as bad, but at times, it's hard to catch my breath. At least I don't have that cackling noise anymore. I just wish I didn't pee when I get into one of the coughing spells.

Linda, I'm sure glad you're back with us now. You really are missed when you're not here and I like hearing how you and Gary are doing. What kind of surgery will Gary need? I wasn't aware he was having back trouble, did he injure it somehow? I'm just glad you're back.

Today I got all the laundry caught up for the weekend and cleaned out the drawers in the kitchen. I need to go through the cabinets too, but it was getting later into the afternoon so I called it a day.

[DianaB]

Janet, I don't know how you groom FIVE dogs!!! I can barely take care of two and it takes me all day!!!

Gayle, I hope that Gary's tiredness is just from traveling and not something worse and that your cold gets better. I've been fighting a cold since before Christmas.....but the whole family has been too.

Linda, I hope your husband doesn't have much trouble getting to work!! I know that that would be so worrisom to have him traveling in a bad storm. I hope the shot helps his back. Back pain is so hard to ignore.

Judy, I hope that Jessie sticks to her guns about not letting this uncle live with them. She has her hands full already and doesn't need the added responsibility of taking care of him as well.

And Brandon......I hope that they find out what's causing his problem....that would be so scary knowing that his throat could close at any time.

Well......Our plans have changed in the last 24 hours. Glen's going scuba diving on Sunday at Beaver Lake.......Can we say BRRRRRRRRRrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!! The friend that he took lessons with is planning on going with their dive instructor and wanted Glen to come as well......so we're headed to Branson (Sandy, too bad that you're not still there!!) to spend the night and then tomorrow Glen's going diving with Logan and Logan's wife, Teresa (who I've been good friends with for years), and I are going shopping. I don't know if we'll shop at Branson or head back to Joplin. We'll meet up with the guys in Joplin before we all come home.

The girls have having a big New Year's Eve party here but it's alright that we miss it. We'll have to be back on Sunday because I have my family over for a late Christmas party on Monday at noon!!! Dae Lynn's suppose to get the house ready and hopefully I'll have time to get stuff ready for the meal!! Glen's so excited about going.......I'm worried about him getting too cold. I bought him some hand and foot warmers and I think that he's going to add them to his shoes to help keep his feet warm. Being diabetic I worry more about his hands and feet than I used to because his Mom had so much trouble with hers.

Poor Dean was putting his hands over his ears this morning and saying "Oh....." We finally decided that he had an earache so Dae Lynn has run him into the ER. He's been cutting teeth and I also think that he's got a touch of this cold-thing going around and his poor nose has just ran and ran. Poor little guy!!

Well.....I better go because I have packing to get done!!! I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year!!! Hugs to all of my Special Friends!!!

[gja1000]

HI Diana! It's so good to hear from you. SCUBA DIVING :eek: WOW! That will be COLD. BRRRRR. I hope you have lots of fun shopping and I hope Glen enjoys his dive. I'd love to be after Christmas shopping in Branson or Joplin, either one, it would be fun.

We're having a low key NYE. Gary had a leftover meatloaf sandwich and I fixed myself roasted brussel sprouts, steamed asparagus, and acorn squash. I'm trying to shut down the eating of JUNK! So far, so good!

I bought a bottle of Asti Spumonti Martini & Rossi and took a nap so hopefully I can make it to midnight! :D

[Janet]

I love meatloaf and meatloaf sandwiches. Even though I'm full right now....meatloaf does sound good.

I can't believe Glenn wants to dive, won't he freeze? I wish I was there shopping with you, what fun!

Our NYE is pretty low key too. We went to Red Lobster and now I'm home in bed. Not much longer and 2012 will be here.

I had the Admiral's Feast with clams, jumbo shrimp, scallops, clams and flounder, plus garlic chees biscuits and ....... 2 very cold beers. It was sooooo good!

6864 6865 6866 6867

not real healthy being all fried. I'm going to try and do better tomorrow.

[gja1000]

We went to see Mission Impossible III today. It was fine, nothing special, but Gary LOVES movies and he wanted me to go with him. Then I fixed cabbage rolls (in recipe thread) and they were delicious! Oh and we had black eyed peas too, but no matter how I fix them, then are never delicious. :D (but they were OK). Now we are home for the evening, watching football and just veging out.

[DianaB]

Glen had bought scuba stuff before Christmas but it wasn't in so the scuba shop loaned him some things to go. He said that he was actually very warm in the water except for first going in. The suit allows a little bit of water in next to the body then your body keeps the water warm therefore keeping you warm. He was given a hint to first fill the suit with warm water then your body doesn't have to warm it and you don't get cold. He and Logan both had a good time and were laughing and joking by the time Teresa and I caught back up with them. I'm glad......I was so worried about Glen's feet getting cold expecially with his diabetes.

Teresa and I had a great time shopping. We went to a little shopping center that had a huge Christmas store. We didn't get anything there but did find some other things in some of the other stores. Then we went to Tanger's mall and shopped. Branson is known for it's outlet malls and Tanger's is one of them. Then after lunch we drove to Springfield......stopping on the way at an antique store. Soon after that the guys called and they were on their way back to Joplin so we headed that way too and we both got there about the same time. We went and ate at a Japanese Steak house and it was really good!!

For New Year's Eve we went out to eat at a nice steak house then went back to our condo to visit until midnight. We used to do so much with Logan and Teresa but we kinda' drifted apart with us both being so busy with our families so it was nice to reconnect again. It helps that they finally have a little granddaughter so we spent a lot of our time talking about our grandkids!!

I'm sure that with the guys being "scuba buddies" that we'll be spending a lot of time together in the future!!

Ok.....now to get ready for tomorrow and our Christmas with my family!!!!

[Tiramisu]

Spent NYE at the Kemah boardwalk with Laura and her bunch. It was a blast as usual. Was actually driving, alone, at the stroke of 2012. Cooked my pork loin, cabbage, cornbread, and blackeyed peas for Laura and gang to join me for lunch today.

Still have my cough and sniffles. My throat is sore, but not on the inside, on the outer gland area.

No resolutions ... Only a goal to enjoy the year and the extra day we get.

[DianaB]

Resolutions!!! I've been so busy that I completely forgot about making any!!! I think that I'll make one to continue on my diet......and to read my Bible more!!!

[Tiramisu]

I feel rotten today. Didn't get to sleep until around 3 and can't seem to get started this morning. I've had this crud for two weeks and I'm worn down.

[Janet]

Same here Sandy. Still have a bit of a cough...not too bad but it's been a couple weeks now and it is as you say...wearing me out. Still have no energy. What have you been taking for it? I ended up at the Dr and he put me on antibiotic and Robotussin with codeine cough medicine. Didn't work near as good has it had before. Feel better soon girlfriend!

[gja1000]

i've got the respiratory crud too and feel lousy. I'm trying to clean as we have relatives coming in tomorrow for a couple of days on their way to South Padre for the winter. We were gone last week for my regular housekeeper's day to clean so the house is dirty. I'm not used to all this cleaning! :D But it doesn't help that I don't feel good!!! :mad:

[Tiramisu]

Took mucinex for about a week, then treated it like an allergy. Now taking stuffed something. I won't sleep again tonight, but I'm crashing on the couch. Yuck

[gja1000]

I finally got my house cleaned up - took me all day. I worked a little, rested some and worked some more. I didn't feel good this morning at all. I had to take a nap though, so I'll probably be up all night :rolleyes:. Now I'm watching football, there have been some good games on today.

Sandy, I hope you start feeling better soon and you too Janet. I feel a little better this evening.

[Tiramisu]

Took my nap and am feeling worse. Must go to work tomorrow.

[Janet]

Sandy I hate to hear that. Maybe if you can get a good nights sleep you'll feel better in the morning.....at least I hope so.


Today has been a bit stressful. Ricky and a friend left at 7 this morning to drive about an hour away to some car/trucks part salvage yard. He didn't call or phone at all until finally around 3 this afternoon we called him. The roads were bad and there were reported accidents all over the area they were going. All we really ask of him is to check in with us. To let us know he's okay. He's 21 years old now and needs to show some consideration.

Another sore spot is the friend he took with him is only 17 years old. We wish he would find someone older to hang with, but says all his other friends are at work or work different shifts. It just makes his dad and I a little uncomfortable.

He's also spending money when we told him he needs to pay his school loans off first. We just can't seem to get through to him. We are just a bit upset with him right now and now he's upset with his dad because his friend will have to find some place else to work on his junk vehicles and not in our garage. So....... I was hoping there would be no drama for awhile, but it seems I can't escape it. Sometimes it can be so hard being a parent, but I'm sure you all already know that.

[gja1000]

Janet, I can imagine that you were really worried with the roads being so bad. Sometimes kids have no concept of what it's like to worry about someone. Nope, no one is going to work on junk cars in my garage, not gonna happen. I would have put my foot down too. Being a parent is really stressful sometimes. I hope things get better.

[Janet]

Thanks Gayle....oh I'm sure it will get better. He's a good young man....he just doesn't always think....oh crap......he's a man....it will never get better........roflmbo!!!!

[DianaB]

Ricky is just showing his independence since he's turned 21. They don't understand that Mother's worry at ALL ages of their lives!!

As for the friend working in the garage on his car.....I would just let Rick handle it and then it's not your problem. You can stay neutral and not have to deal with Ricky being upset at his parents.

We had our last Christmas party yesterday. My poor Mom......Only my brother showed up from his side of the family. I know that she was disappointed. She had already passed out her Christmas money so I'm sure that was part of the reason that they didn't come. At least most of my family was here and we still had a good time. The kids ended up staying all day.

We bought Jaci a camcorder when she was young and her and the kids used to make commercials and skits in the basement and record them. She brough a bunch of the disks and we watched them off and on all day. I laughed so hard!!!! I'm soooo glad that we did that!!! We also watched some of our 8 mm tapes of when the kids were little........I just wanted to cry at all of the time that has passed. The kids were so dog gone cute when they were small and it was so wonderful to hear their baby voices again!! I wished so badly that I could go back and hold them one more time!!!

I'm so ready for Christmas to move on......we've had enough!!! Now for some craft time!!!!

[Janet]

I love looking at home movies. I had all the ones if when I was little put on tape....now I need to have them all put on DVD's. To hear their little voices is the best thing isn't it?

What crafts are you going to do?

[Tiramisu]

Feeling a bit better right now, but so tired, at least it was a quick day.

[Janet]

Take a nice hot bath and get a good nights sleep Sandy. Keeping my fingers crossed that you feel much better tomorrow.

Today I did a bit of running around. First thing I went to the bank to do my weekly banking and then went to the attorney's office. I told her what Jerry had said on the Friday before Christmas and she said my brothers were a$$holes....LOLOL. She's quite blunt and I like that...lol.

Forgot to bring the stock check I rec'd from the estate so went back home and then back to the bank. Finally had enough to get some groceries....finally. We were really getting low. Tomorrow I'm planning on making beef stroganoff in the crockpot. Really looking forward to that. Also have to run back to town to the attorney's office to sign the new deed and it will be mine....I think. Only thing left is the house in Florida and it looks like it will be appraised this week if the papers are signed making me the exectutrix. I sure hope so.

[Lindsey]

Haha sounds like you have a good attorney Janet!

We went back to work today. It was a little slow getting back into things, but I actually was missing it a little on my time off!

After work, we made some nachos and then took down all the Christmas decorations. Now we're watching Canada get annihilated by Russia in World Junior hockey :(

[DianaB]

What crafts are you going to do?

I have some things to spray paint. I bought a little cast iron table and it's dark green so I bought some tan spray paint and I'm going to change the color.

I also have a LOT of pictures to frame......plus I need to get some pictures printed off. I finally put the pictures off of the new camera I bought this summer onto the computer. Dae Lynn hasn't taken any professional pictures of Dean but I do have some good ones that I need to get printed off. I only have one baby picture of him sitting aound the house. I always figure that January is MY month.......to do what I want to do!!! It never works out the way I'd like for it to but it's a neat thought!!!

[DianaB]

I had a stinkin' squirrel get into my electric lines AGAIN this morning!!! Thank goodness our electric company is quick to respond and in an hour we were back up and running. I asked them about putting a squirrel guard on to help prevent this and I guess that they did!! Yay!! We probably have this happen a couple of times a year.

Feyn brought birthday gifts this morning. Glen's birthday is Dec. 29th and he got a weather station thing to attach to the house. Then.....he also gave me my birthday present even though my birthday is still three weeks away.........AND I got a KINDLE!!! I was so excited!!! I love to read so this is a really thoughtful gift!! I felt bad that they spent so much though. One thing about your kids growing up is that you get better gifts!!!!

The greenhouse is coming along! Glen started putting the glass in yesterday and I got the door back together and hung. We need to finish putting in the glass......add the lights and electricity.......move it here to the house and it will be ready to go!!! Yay!!!

[Tiramisu]

I'm so ready to get started planting. I bought two blueberry bushes this evening and hope to find some live oaks and crepe myrtles tomorrow. I called 811 today to get all my underground things marked so I can start digging. Hope to start my veggie beds within a couple of weeks. Yum yum

[Janet]

Even though it was 56 degrees here today....we won't be able to plant anything for 3-4 months. I sure wish spring was here.

[DianaB]

We haven't even had WINTER yet so we're not thinking of planting anything yet either.....except maybe in my new greenhouse........once I figure out what I'm doing!!

[judy]

The greenhouse sounds amazing, Diana! Have you decided what you are going to plant in there?

I haven't been sick, but yesterday was the first day I had any energy since the holidays! Might have been a bug, but it is gone now. I hope all of you with that respiratory thing feel better! Janet, you have been sick with that cough for quite some time now!

I have been doing chores around the house. I finally hung the bird feeders out on the deck yesterday, and I see birds today!!! I am so excited! I don't know about bird species, but they have white heads, and are small. When it warms up, and the bears come out of hibernation, I will put the hummingbird feeders up. I had to hang the hooks facing in on the deck, which means bird poop and seeds all over, but I could not manage to hang them on the outside of the deck, facing out. As long as the dogs don't eat the bird poop, it will be okay.

Steve went to work!!! He got a welding job, which involves him being out of town for 3 or 4 weeks at a time. Jessie is thrilled! Freedom at last!!! I don't know if he will stay on at this job, but at least he went. As always, I am minding my own business!;) It is the only road to sanity!

Brandon's doctor said that there is medication for Brandon, which will help a lot. It seems that this is fairly common. There is one more test they are waiting for. He is back at school, with instructions for everyone about using the epipen immediately if he starts to have trouble. Jessie taught him how to use it himself. She also taught Kassidy and Mackenzie. They send a practice epipen, without a needle, and Jessie finally stopped Brandon and Kassidy from trying it on each other, leaving marks all over their bodies!

Not sure what I am doing today. I have to go into town, but that's it. I will take the dogs with me and may let them walk around town sniffing everything out. It is going to be in the 40's all week!!! I really love this weather we are having, but I am beginning to worry about global warming. This warm trend is all over the country, and really is not normal. A little scary!

[gja1000]

WHEW! I am tired!!! Gary and I brought home our travel trailer and most of his hunting stuff (deer stand and feeder and GOBS of other "hunting" stuff). We worked yesterday taking down his stand and feeder, taking everything apart and getting it back to the camp. The feeder was down in a canyon and we had to haul it out in pieces on the 4-wheeler. We had been camped out there since September so you can just imagine all the "stuff" (not the word I really wanted to use) we had out there. We had to take 2 vehicles, our FJ Cruiser pulling our 16 foot flatbed trailer for the 4-wheeler, feeder, stand and other "stuff" and then also the pickup to pull the trailer home. The flatbed was full of stuff, the back of the pickup was full of stuff and the inside of the cruise was full of stuff. How can one man accumulate so much STUFF????? The travel trailer is just filthy. It was so dusty out there and even with sweeping it is very very dusty.

Both Gary and my back is killing us tonight. I've been sitting with the heating pad. I can't take any ibuprofen because I am having a screening colonscopy (no problems at all, just something you are supposed to do occasionally when you are over 50) on Monday and can't take any aspirin or ibuprofen. Tylenol just really doesn't cut it.

We haven't unloaded everything yet and probably won't get it done for a few days as we'll just unload a little at a time. The travel trailer needs to go to the shop to have some work done, so I'll need to get it unloaded and cleaned up to take it to the shop. It's nothing major, but just a few minor things that Gary just doesn't have the energy to fix.

It feels really good though, to have almost everything home - especially the travel trailer. We have to go back for another feeder and stand, but it won't take much time at all to get them. We'll just drive down and back in one day.

[DianaB]

Glen worked on the greenhouse this morning and the glass is half in!! He's determined to move it with all of the glass in it so my fingers will be crossed when he decides to bring it home from the shop AND get it off of the trailer it's on!!! I've always wanted a greenhouse so I'm really excited!! There are a few things that I would have done differently if I had a choice......like polycarb windows instead of glass. If we have a hail storm.......well, you get the picture!!!

I'm glad that you're feeling better, Judy. We've had some kind of something here too. I'm finally feeling better but Dae Lynn's had a little something. We're all finally on the tail end of it so.....YAY!!

That's great news that Steve got a job!! I'm sure that they're hard to find. Maybe he needs it bad enough that he's willing to go whether he wants to or not. Welding is hard work.....my SIL has done that before. Hard, hot, and dirty.

I'm glad that the doctors are still checking Brandon out. I hope that there is something that can be done. That's gotta' be really scary to have your throat swell shut and not know what's caused it.

Gayle, I can imagine that you ARE tired!! That sounds like a lot of "stuff" to bring back home. I'm sure that each time Gary went out that he packed more out there and it does start adding up!! Take a nice warm bath and that should help!! Hope all goes well with your test tomorrow!!!

My nephew's wedding was very nice. Very simple but nice. I couldn't believe all of the grandparents and step-grandparents!!! It was ridiculous!!! And one wasn't even invited because she's an alcholic and they were afraid that she would come drunk!! Steven was thrilled that we were there......especially Jaci!! They were close in age and were very close when they were little and lived here.

My neice, Natasha, was there with her new baby!! She was such a little doll!!! I could have brought her home except she's fussy and needs Mama to feed her!! She was so tiny and adorable!! Her name is Annaleisia......with the Ann pronounced like "on". Such a big name for a little girl!!!

After we got done with the wedding we went out to eat at one of our favorite steak houses......Big Ed's!! Yummm..........We had Dae Lynn and the kids, Jaci, my Mom and Step-Dad, Art, and Glen and I. It was sooooo good!!! It's been awhile since we'd been there so it was a special treat!!

[judy]

The wedding sounds like it was fun, Diana! Are they going to call the baby Annie? Maybe Onnie? Doesn't matter...little girls are so cute!

Gayle, you are such a trooper! All of that STUFF!!! My first husband and I went camping a lot, and we also had STUFF!! We tented though, so it wasn't all that much. It had to all fit into a VW every weekend, and we did it! It is worth it though, don't you think?

Steve is home! He lasted one day! The job was awful, and had a lot of health hazards involved. He had to wear a respirator. Actually, it was cleaning out incinerators, and then welding the grates that break down because of the garbage. Yuck!!! BUT...he has a story for every job! Jessie told me that she felt bad because she was very disappointed in him. I told her that this is a case of the boy who cried wolf, and that who could blame her for being upset?

I hope they figure something out soon. He is still blaming everyone else for him not having a job. They don't hire anyone but locals, they don't pay enough, blah, blah, blah. I think I will stay away from there today. I am not upset that he left a terrible job, just upset and worried that he is not stepping up to the plate. I would love it if he could stop playing the victim.

Please pray for them. I think he has real problems, and needs all of the help he can get.

[gja1000]

Diana, I know you are so happy to get your greenhouse. I can hardly wait to see pictures and hear about everything that you will be planting in it!!! I know you will just love it because you love your plants so much. This will give you so many options for having plants year round.

Judy, I am so disappointed in Steve too. Yes I understand it was a terrible job, but it was a job and he desperately needs one for his family. I think back to the early 1900's and think what if everyone decided the job was too hard or too dangerous. Think about the men that built the railroads, bridges, dams, etc. in the early 1900's. They made our country, but the jobs were hard and dangerous, yet it had to be done. If Steve was wearing a respirator, his lungs were protected. Gary has had to wear respirators many times in his work in construction throughout the years. I understand it was a horrible job, but sometimes we just have to buck up and do what needs to be done. Grit and determination is what this country was built on and I don't think Steve has any of it. I feel terribly sorry for your daughter and grandchildren.

I am feeling better today, my back is better too. I start my clear liquid diet and laxatives at noon. I've never done this before so I know it is going to be soooo YUCKY! :mad: Gary has done it a couple of times so I know what to expect, but that doesn't make it any better. I'm afraid I'm going to be so hungry. I've got pineapple and apricot jello, beef and chicken broth, along with assorted drinks to get me through the day. I'm sorta hoping the laxatives will upset my stomach so I won't be hungry. Isn't that a terrible thought? :eek:

[2tiredmom]

Gayle good luck tomorrow. I will be thinking about you. I have to have a scope done every 2 years. The prep is the worse thing about it.
Diana have fun with your greenhouse. Sounds like work. lol
I got busy today and cleaned my kitchen. CLeaned the walls, cabinets and mopped the floor. I am now all alone. Jennifer headed back to college and Gary headed back to Wisconsin. SO the house is very quiet. SO i am watching An Affair to Remember. Every one have a great week.

[Blueyes]

An Affair To Remember... I love old movies:)

Wow, everybody has a lot going on! We are sort of in a lull around here. Hunting season is over...thankgoodness!! I really don't have anything I have to do or anyplace I have to go for awhile. I think I'm getting old before my time, lol!

I have gained so much weight, I'm really mad at myself! I'm such an emotional eater, that the stress of Dustin having so many health problems and my kids moving to France almost did me in:rolleyes: Sooo here I am dieting AGAIN!! Oh well, story of my life! I have 3 sizes of jeans in my closet..and they ain't little sizes, either:p

[Janet]

I had a long post and lost it. I do so much better typing on my laptop than my iPad. I'll try again, but with a Reader's Digest version....

Diana I sure hope your new greenhouse can be moved without breaking any of the glass. I would love to have a small greenhouse. I really miss going out to my in-laws greenhouses. They've all been torn down now and it makes me sad.

Judy, I just don't understand how Steve can live with himself or have any kind of pride. He's not setting a very good work ethic for his children. I've done quite a few jobs I didn't like doing, but it paid the bills. I feel so bad for Jessie and the kids.

Hope you're doing okay with the prep Gayle. I just can't do it. As soon as it goes down it comes right back up so I won't do it any more.

Today we went to Mom's and replaced all the doorknobs. I know that sounds strange, but the bedrooms never had doorknobs that I can remember. So we put some on the bedroom doors, three closet doors and the bathroom. The ones that were on the doors were those glass diamond looking knobs and I wanted to keep them. Why??? Because I remember when I was little I thought we were rich....lol. Also had some keys made and then before we went home we stopped at Pepe's and had a plate of Carnachos and beer. So good!!

[Blueyes]

Oh Janet, I had that kind of doorknob on my bedroom when I was little! I remember thinking that they were diamonds and we were rich, lol! I wish I had my doorknob, and I'm so glad you are keeping them. When you get ready to move in to YOUR house, you can put your diamond doorknobs back on:D

[DianaB]

Sounds like you need to knock Steve in the head, Judy!!!! Welding usually isn't the most fun job but it does pay good. How childish that he couldn't last more than one day! My SIL worked at a welding job inside of railroad cars. It was hot and dirty and I felt so sorry for him but he did it for years and even went back later to work again. He worked so hard but he knew that he had a family to support. He needs to grow up!!

Gayle, I know that you'll do good getting ready for your test. I hope that it all goes well.

Betsi......if you need support with your diet just let us know or call me personally!! I've found that it works so much better when you have support!! We've been trying to get back on our diet but we're all finding it difficult to get as serious about it. I think that once we get a few weeks under our belt without any temptation we'll do better. I did gain about 4 pounds over the holidays but I'm excited to get it off and get going again!! Good luck, Betsi!!

Linda, I'm jealous of you and your quiet home!! I very seldom get that now and I miss it!! Wanna' trade places for awhile? LOL

Janet, I love the glass door knobs!! Why don't you have them mounted onto a board and turned into a coat hanger or a towel hanger? Then you can still keep them out and display them!!

You could also just hang one up to hang your purse on or use them to hang your jewelry!! So many ideas!!

Here's some ideas from Pinterest.....

http://pinterest.com/search/?q=door+knobs

[Lindsey]

Janet, my parents have those knobs in the cabin! My mom would never get rid of them either. I saw a cute idea on This Old House where they made a shelf for the bathroom with tap handles for hanging things on but I think it would be cute with doorknobs too, like what Diana was saying! Here's a link to the how-to http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/how-to/intro/0,,20317867,00.html

I have decided to start a diet too. Well, not really a diet, but just thinking about eating more healthy foods and getting more exercise. I know I told Scott to slap me if I ever said I want to lose weight for our wedding, but now I do. But not just for the wedding... I haven't been feeling so great about myself lately. I think my metabolism has slowed down a lot so I used to have no problem eating chips every night but now I do! I went shopping on the weekend and I found the cutest dress at Guess, which was on sale and then had an additional 40% off... it was a size bigger than I normally wear, and when I tried it on, I couldn't even zip it up :( I handed it to my cousin, who has three kids and looks fantastic, and it fit her like a glove! So that's it, I'm going to get skinny again.

I had a great weekend with my friend who came to dress shop :) It has been a year and a half since I've seen her!!! My cousin was great too, but she had to go home after shopping so we didn't get to spend that much time together. My friend and I went back to the city after supper and visited with Scott's friend, who is also his best man and will be paired with my friend at the wedding. They got along great, and the two of us started reminiscing and we were laughing so hard we were crying! It only took one of us to say one word to remind us of something else and we'd laugh all over again... the guys had no idea what was going on but it was fun anyway :) Then Scott drove us to a country bar to meet up with my old roommate for her birthday. I hate that bar to begin with and it's even worse now than I remember! I am not a big fan of country, and neither is my friend who came with me, so she immediately bought us shots :eek: and I had to buy her one back later... and a few drinks... and we only stayed for an hour but I still felt it yesterday :rolleyes: I'm not quite as young as I used to be!

[judy]

Jess is so angry at Steve. I really think he needs a good psychiatrist! Or a good beating on the butt with a switch, but he's too old for that. The example he is setting for the kids is horrendous, and I just have lost interest in any of his excuses. I told him that last time he turned down a job because it was too far away. I am not getting involved, as always, but I am plenty worried! Who knows how this will end up? This is a time for prayer.

I am going out with my womens' group for dinner tonight. I m back on my diet though since I gained 7 pounds since the end of August. I've lost 2 pounds already, and know that I will go back down. It's the everyday eating after the weight loss that seems to be troublesome. I have to get over to the gym and set up a time and day with a trainer. I can't just diet. I need to exercise also.

I love doorknobs Janet! Light switchplates too. I think those little finishing touches make the room so beautiful! I am so glad you have the diamond knobs!!!

Gayle, hope you are done with your test, and all is well!

[gja1000]

Janet, we used to have those door knobs too and I put one on an antique door we put in at our old house. I loved using it everyday. I've seen the door knob accessories like everyone has suggested, but like someone said, when you move back into the house, I would put them right back on the doors.

Betsi, Judy, Diana, dieting is the story of my life and I get so tired of it. I don't care what anyone says, I will never get used to eating low fat, low calorie food. It doesn't taste as good and it never will. Sigh. About the only way I can lose weight is to cut my portions way down and eat food that is not outrageously fattening. I do pretty well counting calories. Anyway, I'm back on track and I'm hoping to lose a few pounds before summer.

Judy, I hope Steve pulls his head out of his A$$, but I fear that won't happen.

Well, I survived my colonoscopy, but just barely. The prep yesterday was just awful. This may be TMI for some so stop reading now, if you want, Lol! My butt started burning so bad about half way through through the prep. It is the stomach acid coming out that causes the burning. I finally found a site on line that said to put on vasaline and that saved my life.

So we were at the outpatient surgery site this morning at 6:30 and everything went fine.............until I woke up. OMG! :eek: the sedation medication made me so sick, I just wanted to die. They gave me Fentanyl and Versaid, which I had never taken before. I haven't had surgery since 1966, so I haven't taken many pain meds. LOL!

I didn't throw up in the center so I got to leave but I felt horrible. Then of course I threw up two times on the way home. I went straight to bed and slept for 3 hours and felt some better when I got up. Now in the early evening, I feel better. I tell you what, if I ever have this done again, I will do it differently! Everything looked great but I did have one tiny polyp which they said was pretty normal for my age. It is cold and rainy so it was a good day to stay in and sleep.

[Blueyes]

I'm glad your tests came out ok, Gayle. I haven't had that done in quite awhile, but it's just awful. I'm sorry you got so sick afterwards. That just sounds miserable! I hope you are off tomorrow. Tests like that aren't as easy to get over as they used to be:rolleyes:

I haven't done a thing today. Slept late, folded some laundry, and listened to it rain:) Oh, I did go get a few groceries, too. I had to towel off my big hairy dogs every time they came back in the house. Kinda like trying to dry off a mop, lol!!

[DianaB]

Poor Gayle!! That sounds awful!!! You'd have thought that they would have already known about the Vaseline and let you know ahead of time so you could be prepared. I'm sure that you got some much needed rest after you got home. I hope you don't have any more problems from this procedure!! Sounds like something that I'd like to skip having done!!!

[gja1000]

I am feeling MUCH better this evening. WHEW! I must tell you my sil had this done last month (different doctor) and his prep was much easier and he didn't have any problems after the scope like I did. So, just because I had problems, doesn't mean you will. Everyone should have this done at least once after age 50. It is an easy way to detect colon cancer. I think since I had a tiny polyp, I will need one again in 5 years. I would do it again, but not the same way as this one.

[Janet]

I had to drink that stuff I think it was called 'GoLight' and it was just horrible. The first couple if drinks were not too bad, but the rest of the time as soon as it went down it came back up. Like you Gayle....I was so sore and that's when the hemorrhoids appeared. Not going to do that again.


Sometimes I think it just not worth aging!! When I was coughing my head off last week, I felt my neck snap. This time it goes down my left side and is 100 times worse than when I had the MRI done for the right side. I was hoping it was just a pulled muscle, but I really think it's a pinched nerve. There are times it feels like little hairs on my hand are moving, but for the most part, I'm in a lot of pain.

Calling the dr this morning and hoping to leave out the middle man and go straight to PT. I don't think I can stand this much longer, It is so painful and I can't get it comfortable.

[judy]

I have never heard of the vaseline cure either, Gayle. Good to know. I am so sorry you got sick from the anesthetic too! I bet you did lose a good 3 pounds though! (every cloud has a silver lining). As long as there is only one small polyp, and you feel better, it did work out well in the end.

Janet, what happened with your neck? Are you still coughing? It sounds like your body is still not back to normal since Mom's passing. Stress can weaken us so much! Are you eating healthy? Veggies and fruit? You might want to add these to your diet. I hope you feel better very soon!

Gayle, I don't think Steve even knows his head is up his *ss, so getting it out would have to be if he tripped and it just popped out!

[Janet]

Judy, I still eat junk. Like this morning in had toast w/pnt btr and coffee. Lunch was tomato soup. Yesterday was cereal and pizza. I do need to eat much better foods.

I was in a bad coughing spell Judy, and felt something in my neck. It started hurting and I thought it was a pulled muscle, so I used a heating pad and it hurt using it so I used ice and that seemed to help some. It has just gotten worse and very hard to tolerate, especially bouncing on the bus.

I did call the dr today, took a lortab and now waiting on the dr to call me back. Seems there is always something.

[Tiramisu]

Not a boast by any means, but I'm one of the lucky ones that gets the colonoscopy every three years because of diverticulosis and polyps. I've only had a couple of problems. Once they only twilighted me because of insurance coverage and I woke up too soon. I told the doc it felt like a hard labor pain. Then, the last time I got too dehydrated and it had problems finding a vein. I'm due again, but don't have anyone to drive me home after.

I've had SIL issues in the past, and am not jealous to walk in your shoes. Does Steve have side jobs to support them?

[gja1000]

I have never heard of the vaseline cure either, Gayle. Good to know. I am so sorry you got sick from the anesthetic too! I bet you did lose a good 3 pounds though! (every cloud has a silver lining). As long as there is only one small polyp, and you feel better, it did work out well in the end.

LOL Judy! It DOES have a silver lining! I still don't have much of an appetite! So maybe this will help me get my diet back on track!!!

GOOD NEWS! The path report came back and the polyp was completely normal so I don't have to have another scope for TEN YEARS!!! I'm so excited!!!

Janet, I am so sorry that you are having neck pain again. I know that is so miserable. Gary is having neck pain again also. He is going to the doctor Thursday and will ask for another epidural pain injection in his neck. His last one was back in March so I'm sure they will give him another one (you can have 3 per year) and since that one lasted 9 months, I'm hopeful this one will too. Maybe you could ask your doctor about that type of injection.

I feel much better today but I was still "fuzzy headed" until about 3:00PM today. I do feel almost normal now. Sandy, I can't imagine having a scope every three years. If you don't find any one to drive you home, I'll come to Houston and drive you. Just let me know.

[DianaB]

Gayle, I'm glad that you're feeling better. I would have it done if my doctor recommended it......I just wouldn't look forward to it!!!

Janet, that's awful that your neck is hurting again.....and worse than before. Call the doctor's office and let them know that you're having bad pains and need to get in quickly!!!

Dean is into EVERYTHING!! Yesterday he climbed up his highchair and tried to pour himself some coffee. The coffee pot had turned off but was still hot so his hands got burned a little......not enough that you could tell it....Thank goodness!!!

He got a little riding motorcycle for Christmas and a tool box with tools and he turns his motorcycle over and "works" on it. Right now he has the measuring tape out and is pretending to measure things. He amazes me at what he understands.....he won't be two until March!! And he's talking soooo much!!!

Karley and Kiley had a basketball game last night in town so Glen and I went to watch. They played a really hard team so it wasn't the best to watch but Karley amazed me at her efforts on the court. She really got in their face!!! My nice quiet Karley!!! Even Tammy commented on how aggressive she plays!! I really enjoyed watching but I really need to figure out what it all is about!!!!

[gja1000]

Karley and Kiley had a basketball game last night in town so Glen and I went to watch. They played a really hard team so it wasn't the best to watch but Karley amazed me at her efforts on the court. She really got in their face!!! My nice quiet Karley!!! Even Tammy commented on how aggressive she plays!! I really enjoyed watching but I really need to figure out what it all is about!!!!

Wish I were there Diana, I would love to explain it all to you. Basketball is my GAME!!! I LOVE IT!

[DianaB]

I know it is, Gayle!! I thought of you several times while I was watching the girls!!!

I'm about to go crazy!!! Dean is into EVERYTHING!! I know that I say that everytime I'm on here but it's true!! I can't hardly be on the computer because I have to keep going and get him out of things. He's learned to open the front door so he keeps letting Jazzi out.....she goes out every time the door's open......then she scratches and scratches for me to open the door and let Reuger out so she can jump on him and be mean.......so Reuger won't go out and Jazzi won't come in and it's awful!!!

Then Dean gets into the pantry and pulls out crackers and chips to eat. Today he's found dog biscuits from Dae Lynn, I guess, and he's feeding them to the dogs. I don't feed them dog biscuits!!! Now I don't know where he's put the box!!

A while ago he had a little chair on the footstool and was sitting on it......now I can hear paper ripping in his bedroom so I better go check and see what he's doing!!!.........Ok, nothing was torn and he had on one of his sister's shoes!!

[DianaB]

I know it is, Gayle!! I thought of you several times while I was watching the girls!!!

I'm about to go crazy!!! Dean is into EVERYTHING!! I know that I say that everytime I'm on here but it's true!! I can't hardly be on the computer because I have to keep going and get him out of things. He's learned to open the front door so he keeps letting Jazzi out.....she goes out every time the door's open......then she scratches and scratches for me to open the door and let Reuger out so she can jump on him and be mean.......so Reuger won't go out and Jazzi won't come in and it's awful!!!

Then Dean gets into the pantry and pulls out crackers and chips to eat. Today he's found dog biscuits from Dae Lynn, I guess, and he's feeding them to the dogs. I don't feed them dog biscuits!!! Now I don't know where he's put the box!!

A while ago he had a little chair on the footstool and was sitting on it......now I can hear paper ripping in his bedroom so I better go check and see what he's doing!!!.........Ok, nothing was torn and he had on one of his sister's shoes!! He sure is keeping me hopping!!! I'm ready for naptime.......WHEW!!!!!!

[Janet]

Gayle I'm so glad everything came back good on the colonoscopy. Ten years till another one??? WOW!! [

I think I will ask the Dr. about some kind of injection. I honestly don't know how much longer I can take this. I started taking the muscle relaxent and take the Lortab. I can sleep alright, but during the day and on the bus....I just can't get my arm comfortable or pain free. It's horrible.

That is so cute that he's trying to 'work on' his motorcycle...LOL. It sounds like I'd be hanging him on a nail on the wall....LOLOL. He would wear me out. Can't believe he was going to get himself some coffee. He is a hoot!!


I haven't been able to type much, my computer is still in the shop and it's so hard typing with the iPad. I get it all typed and then hit something and the post is gone. Ricky is letting me use his for a little while.

It's been one thing after another here. Rick's favorite uncle passed away on the 6th and then a cousin he was fond of in New York passed on the 9th. He was a pallbearer at his uncle's funeral which I think helped him with his loss.

Looks like I may have the Florida house sold. I haven't told my brothers yet and won't till I know for sure. They don't have to sign a release like they did when I bought Mom's. The potential buyer is suppose to call the attorney down in Florida and get instructions on what she needs to do. She told me she definitely wanted it. It was appraised at $22,500. I will be so glad to have it sold, it was the last thing needed done. Then the whole estate can be closed on April 11th.

[gja1000]

Hmmmmm.......... today is Friday the 13th..........:o

[gja1000]

I read on FB where shoveling snow hurts your neck/arm. You probably shouldn't be doing that AT ALL right now. I know, I know, Gary says the same thing, "Well someone has to do it" (OK, we do not shovel snow in Texas - but he says that about other things he shouldn't be doing).

Ask your doctor about an epidural injection in your neck for the pain. Gary went to his ortho doc yesterday and he is getting one (just waiting for them to call us to set it up). The last one he had was in March, so it lasted 9 months!

[DianaB]

Janet, I hate to hear about you having pain in your arm again. I hope that you can find something that helps. Don't shovel the snow......ask the guys to help you out.

I'm wondering if Dean is starting into the "Terrible Twos". He'll be two in March so it could be that he's becoming more independent. Whatever it is........it's about to drive me crazy!! Even Glen saw it yesterday when he was home and he finally stepped in and got onto him. Discipline was never Glen's strong suit when we had kids.....I was the one who did all of that......so it sounds funny to have Glen getting onto Dean.

It was really cold here on Wednesday night and we got some light snow. I went to let the dogs out before bedtime and our ONE chicken was huddled by the front door trying to keep warm. We had a rooster.....which was just beautiful, but mean......and he finally disappeared. I'm glad because he went after the kids and even Dae Lynn. But now we just have one poor hen so I picked her up and took her to the garage to spend the night with Mollee!!! We have a heater in the garage for Mollee because she's getting old and has trouble getting around. When I checked later the hen was right beside the heater!!! Poor thing!! I feel sorry that she doesn't have any other chickens to cuddle up with when it's cold. She lays an egg every day in the same place so she's worth keeping but in reality probably a coyote or bobcat will probably get her one day. We also have 6 ducks but the same thing will probably happen to them as well. That's how things are in the country.

Nothing much going on here today......except keeping Dean out of trouble!!!

[judy]

After the terrible twos come the worse threes! They really can drive you mad!!! I wish you luck, Diana!!! Good thing Dean is so adorable!

Poor hen! It was so nice of you to put her in the garage. I don't want cats in the house because I don't want the litter, but I won't have outdoor cats because of the coyotes, so I know what you mean.

My friend Debbie is here, so I will see her later. I think the kids will probably sleep over too.

It is snowing and very cold out, so I will be staying in for the most part. I wish our supermarket was open, but their insurance company is paying out very slowly, so they are saying they may reopen in May. When they are open, town is much more lively. It is pretty empty now, except for the tourists. Boring!

I gained 7 pounds!!! I have to go back onto the medifast diet to get back down, but my downfall has become candy. I love candy like Werthers, or tootsie roll pops. I found sugar free candy, and this is the third time I have had a whole evening of the runs! I googled it, and the sorbitol can cause this. I thought I found a great substitute for that craving, but nooooo! On the bright side, I did lose 1 pound!!!

I need a sweets substitute. Any ideas?

[DianaB]

How about sugar-free gum? Or try eating cheese sticks. If you stay away from carbs in a few days the cravings go away. I know......it's hard to do!!

The girls and I were going to get serious about our diet on Jan. 2 .......and we did but it has been hard. I gained about 4 pounds over Christmas......not too bad.....so now I'm trying to get it back off. Dae Lynn and Amy are back to where they were so hopefully we'll be on the path to losing once again soon!!!

I went to town this morning and watched Elijah play basketball!! He plays on a little league since he's not old enough for school sports yet. He did pretty good!!

I finished an art project for Dae Lynn.....a late Christmas gift. I'll get some pictures posted soon......and I gave Jazzi a bath yesterday. She needed it sooo badly and had so many tangles but we worked on them and she looks pretty good. I have a few more that I need to work on but I thought that I'd let it go for awhile. Poor thing!!!

I know.....it's kinda' dumb to feel sorry for a chicken!!! But she's the only one left!!!

Judy, have a good time with your friend, Debbie!!! I'm sure that you'll enjoy her company!!

[Janet]

Don't worry....I have no intention of doing any shoveling of snow. The most I ever do if any is a path from the back door to the bus. Other than that, I'm on the lawnmower with a snow blade. This recent snow really left some drifts. I was able to drive right through getting out of my drive in the bus, but when I got home....I backed up, got stuck and when I tried to go forward again...the back end of the bus slid off into the yard. I radioed for the Transportation Director to come pull me out if he wanted me to drive in the afternoon, so he did. The a neighbor came down with his backhoe and cleaned our drive out. If he hadn't Ricky would not have been able to get his truck out of the garage to go to work. Just one reason why I will not be living out here when I'm old. Too much snow and too far to town on bad roads.

Today I went into Mom's and washed all the outlet and switch covers. Also went to Wal Mart to get some paint chips to see if I can get close to the same color. She painted the bedroom ceiling the same as the walls and I don't want to paint the ceilings. I don't know how I'm going to paint anyway until this arm gets better. Then the only thing left to do at Mom's (till spring) is wash out the kitchen cabinets.

I did get the Florida home sold. It will take some time for everything to get done, but we will definitely be able to completely close the estate by the first week of April. Then everything will be done. It will be a relief for sure.

After I got home today....I didn't do much of anything but sit in the recliner and nap. I really need to get off my butt. Just being in at Mom's washing those faceplates I was wore out. It has got to be becauses I just am not active. Drives me nuts getting so tired so fast. Need to get this weight off too. I've really gained since Mom has passed. Too embarrassing to say how much, but it's not healthy!

I'm on Ricky's computer still. I don't ask to borrow it very often, but typing on the iPad is too stressfull. Once I get a post completed I'll hit the wrong button with my finger and lose it all.

Not sure what's on the agenda for tomorrow, I just know I can't be sitting all day. Wish me luck!

[gja1000]

I hope everyone gets back on the diet track without too much difficulty. I know I'm trying but I'm having good and bad days.

Judy, I hope you have a good time with your friends.

Janet, I hope you are feeling better.

Gary and I went to the deer lease today to pick up the last deer feeder and stand. Now, everything is home. I'm so glad! But I'm really tired and so is Gary. Gary is going to look for a lease closer to home. I'm sure he'll find one.

[gja1000]

Just one reason why I will not be living out here when I'm old. Too much snow and too far to town on bad roads.

Also went to Wal Mart to get some paint chips to see if I can get close to the same color. She painted the bedroom ceiling the same as the walls and I don't want to paint the ceilings. I don't know how I'm going to paint anyway until this arm gets better.

I did get the Florida home sold. It will take some time for everything to get done, but we will definitely be able to completely close the estate by the first week of April. Then everything will be done. It will be a relief for sure.

I've really gained since Mom has passed. Too embarrassing to say how much, but it's not healthy!

I'm on Ricky's computer still. I don't ask to borrow it very often, but typing on the iPad is too stressfull. Once I get a post completed I'll hit the wrong button with my finger and lose it all.

I hope you get to move sooner rather than later!! :)

Janet, you can take a chip of the paint off the wall (in an inconspicuous place like in a corner behind the door) and take it to Lowe's or Home Depot or any paint store and they will color match the paint. It works really well, I've done it before and I know it would work fine for the walls to match the ceiling.

I'm so glad the FL house is sold - I know you are ready for this to be over.

Diana, Judy, Betsi and I are in the same "weight gain" boat. It is so hard, but all you can do is TRY! That's where I'm at, trying to get back on the healthy eating and portion control, track. Some days I do good, some days not so good, but I am trying and that's all I can do.

Look into the keyboard for the iPad - actually the iPad is blue tooth so any wireless keyboard should work with the iPad - but they do make keyboards specifically for them. Here's a link to the keyboard that goes with the iPad - but really any wireless keyboard should work. http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC184

[Janet]

I would like to move too, but until I can find a job that will support me, I'll be here. I've been looking, but jobs are really hard to find and I have got to have insurance. Things are not so bad right now. Since he found out the house is in my name only, he has stepped up a bit and that's good. If it was intolerable, I'd be out no matter what, but it's okay.

I think it's great that they can match up the paint so easily now. Really makes it much easier. I'll probably go to town tomorrow and get the paint and what few supplies I'll need. Normally I would be driving the bus but Monday was a built in make-up day in case we had to make up a snow day. Since we don't, we get it off. Don't know why they would have our make up days in January and February, doesn't make much since to me since those are the months we get a lot of snow.

[DianaB]

That is odd that your make-up day is before most of the snow!!! Oh well, a day off is a day off!!!

The girls and I are pretty much back on the diet but I think that to start losing again I need to start getting in some exercise!! Obviously chasing Dean isn't enough!!! LOL

Glen got the greenhouse unloaded yesterday!!! I'm so excited!! I've got to get some silicone sealer to seal some gaps. I don't know if we're going to heat it. I guess that will depend on what I end up doing with it. He did put in some new florescent lights and a couple of plug ins. It's just set up to use an extension cord from the house but some day he'll probably have it set up with electricity.

He did have one broken window when he got here but he said that it actually broke when he was putting a clip on the window before he moved it. I'm surprised!! He must have drove very slowly across the low water bridge because it's pretty rough!!

[Janet]

This morning I called the dr first thing and was able to get in at 11:00. He rolled his little chair up to examine my neck and shoulder. I told him he must be a good shot because the first touch sent me standing and screaming, it also brought tears to my eyes. I was so embarrassed, but it hurt like heck! He doesn't think it's a pinched nerve, he seems to think it's more of a twisted/sprained/pulled muscle from when I had that horrible coughing spell.

He gave me a stronger muscle relaxant and some Prednisone. He said if I didn't feel some bit of comfort within a few days to call back in and they will schedule physical therapy. I am so anxious to find out if the new meds will finally give me some relief.

Today is Rick's birthday. The poor guy isn't thrilled that he's 59 now and the next one is 60. LOLOL. Ricky and I bought him some socks and a pair of jeans, things he needed and wanted and then I took the easy way out and bought some mini cupcakes.

Tomorrow it's back to the bus driving...how fun. I need to remember to have a new wiper blade put on, probably won't be hard to remember since it's suppose to rain tomorrow.

Finally got my laptop back. Had to put my antivirus back on and then run a couple scans. Should be good to go except for seeing if my external hard drive will be able to add back whatever I've lost. If not, I'll add it back as I go. Guess I know what I'll be doing most of the time tomorrow... :)

[2tiredmom]

WOW.. Everyone's so busy busy busy. Over the weekend my daughter Jennifer and I went out with our soon to be Daughter in law. She invited us to go and watch the bridemaids pick out their dresses. It was a fun day just getting to know the girls and all. Then we went to lunch. At 3 the guys had to go get measured for thier tuxes. Our son Dustin asked my hubby if he would like to go be fitted so he went too.
While we were waiting on the guys I went dress shopping and found a dress. Only spent $38.00. Not bad for mother of the groom dress. LOL. Had today off so I cleaned carpets, Then Jen and I went to Ft Wayne to find a dress for her. We did.
spent $24.00 on hers. So it was a productive day. Back to work tomorrow.
Everyone have a great week.

[gja1000]

Gosh Linda, you got some really great deals!!! I can't wait to see some pix of the wedding.

Janet, I sure hope the stronger muscle relaxants and prednisone help. I know you must be miserable.

My school was closed today too, so Gary and I drove up to a lake about 50 miles north, where he will be taking our trailer with his aunt and uncle and fishing for a couple of weeks in March. We found some really nice camp sites and reserved them. Yesterday we drove to a lake even closer (about 25 miles) and picked out camping spots for another couple of weeks.

Usually Gary and his aunt and uncle fish for a month about 160 miles south of Austin and I have to drive down every weekend to check on Gary, organize his medications and change out his insulin pump. Now, he will be so close I can go out anytime I want. I am so thankful they will be closer. I hope they catch some fish though. The lakes are down so much this year, I'm unsure if the fishing will be any good or not.

My school starts back tomorrow so I will be much busier now for the next few months. I'm looking forward to it though, I love starting a new class. I'm teaching health policy this spring and I have 21 students in my class. I've taught this class before so it is much easier when it is not the first time teaching a class.

We are having such a weird winter. It was 77 degrees today. Tomorrow a cool front is coming and it will only be 60 on Wed. Then on Thursday the forecast is back in the 70's. I would like to have a bit more cold weather. We've hardly had any days below 60. I know those of you up north would love that, but I would like to be cold for just a little while before is gets dastardly hot again this summer.

[gja1000]

Gary is not feeling well at all today. His neck is killing him and they haven't called to schedule his pain injection. They have to get clearance from his cardiac doc to stop his blood thinners for 3 days so that they can do the injection. They must be having trouble getting hold of her.

He could barely turn his head back and forth this morning. He was in so much pain. When I left him, he was in the recliner with a heating pad and a pain pill. He was also having trouble breathing, so I gave him a breathing treatment and set up his oxygen. I think he was just hurting so bad that he was not breathing well because his blood oxygen level was OK, but he felt like he couldn't get enough air.

He was a little better this evening, but I don't think he's been out of the chair all day. He certainly has not moved since I've been home. I feel so sorry for him (and you too Janet), I know he is miserable.

[Janet]

The weather here has been so INDIANA...lol. This morning when I woke up it was 59 degrees. During the night we had storm warning, thunder and lightning. On my way to pick up the kids in the afternoon, it was in the 30's, snowing, misting and sleet. Tonight getting into the teens and the wind is blowing so hard. I know I sound like a broken record......but, I want spring!!!

Gayle I feel so bad for Gary. I usually have a pretty high pain tolerance, but this has been horrible. Last night before bed I took the muscle relaxant.I slept pretty good but I didn't want to start the prednisone until this morning. After just two doses, could feel a difference....still hurting, but not bad where I would get sick in my stomach. If the meds keep working at this rate I'm hoping to be pain free by the time the meds are gone. I still have the tingling, but maybe it will go away too.

This evening I fixed a meatloaf. I love meatloaf..lol. I didn't fix a big meal, but did add some peas and some yellow hominy. Very nice meal. I used 2 lbs of hamburger and between the three of us....well, we can probably make a couple sandwiches and that will be it.

I sure hope Gary can get in for his injection soon, it's just not right to make some one wait so long.

[gja1000]

Wonderful news Janet! Maybe it will reduce the inflammation SOON and you will be pain free!!! Oh, and if you haven't taken much Prednisone, be aware that it can cause insomnia. When Gary takes it for his asthma, it is not unusual for him to stay awake all night watching movies. Of course, he doesn't have to go to work the next day. :roll eyes: So, just in case this happens to you, you will understand that it is the Prednisone.

[Janet]

Thanks for letting me know Gayle. I don't remember the dr telling me that. You watch...not only will the prednisone keep me awake, but I'll be thinking about it too and that won't help either.... :D

[gja1000]

It doesn't keep everyone awake, so hopefully, it won't affect you that way, but just in case it does, I think it helps to know.

[Tiramisu]

We're a sad lot ... Bad necks and shoulders and busy grand babies and lazy son-in-laws and crazy bosses. Life is so great. My boohoo today is this nagging dry cough. One of my admins convinced me to go get it checked. Im worried because I haven't had my lungs checked since i was cleared after the lung surgery. I needed to find a new doc closer to where I live, so I'm trying a nurse practitioner on Thursday.

Its time for my yearly overall physical ... Colonoscopy, mammogram, etc. Then, I'll start with the dental work. I went for new glasses last week.

My laptop is so bad, I can't get it to load and run turbo tax. I'm trying to decide if. I can get by with a netbook. Any suggestions?

My boss is only getting needier, but I'm trudging rough.

My ex, who gave me a really hard time for being on facebook too much, invited me to be his Facebook friend. He's certifiable.

Love you all.

[gja1000]

OH SANDY!! OK first things first, why did you have lung surgery? Yes, you need to get that dry cough checked. It's probably just residual from your Christmas crud, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

So sorry about the zany boss - it would be so yucky to go to work everyday to that environment.

I am so sorry you have to have a colonscopy - mine set me back about 4 days last week. DON'T WANT TO DO THAT AGAIN! :mad: Things in my lower track are still not quite back to normal and it was EIGHT DAYS AGO!

Your ex is a piece of work - aren't you glad he's your EX! :D

[DianaB]

Linda, it sounds like you had a good day!! What great buys you got on your dress and your daughter's dress!! I can't wait for pictures!!

Janet, I hope the meds give you some relief. It sounds like you hurt so badly.

We're not having the wild weather that you're having. Our temps have been pretty mild.....except we did turn a little colder yesterday but we haven't any precipatation besides a little bit of snow. We're hoping that we don't have a dry winter.

Gayle, Poor Gary. I hope he feels better soon. I know that you'll take good care of him though!!

Sandy, Sorry about your crazy boss!! You definitely need to be checking into your lung situation.

I've been cleaning my greenhouse and trying to figure out exactly what I'm going to do with it. I really don't know anything about them so I have some cheap books ordered from Amazon about greenhouses. I really wanted to have it to keep houseplants in and winter them over but with this greenhouse being covered in glass that's not going to be too practical unless I find a good way to insulate it.

Dae Lynn finally got into it with Damon's lawyer's secretary!!! She's been trying to get a release date from his lawyer ever since his last court date in December with no luck. She called yesterday and the secretary gave her all kinds of excuses and a couple of times Dae Lynn called her a liar.....well, not exactly in that term but the same as. The woman finally told her to never call back but that she would call HER when she had news. Dae Lynn ended up calling a woman who worked at the jail who gave her the information that she needed. Damon's lawyer has been a real jerk to them, not seeing Damon and not giving them information. The secretary even went so far as to tell Dae Lynn that their case wasn't important.......and Dae Lynn let her know that it WAS important to them!!! I'm so proud of her for standing up to this woman and staying calm in spite of being so angry!! She is certainly her father's daughter in that regard!!!

So Damon's release date is March 8th. It's going to be tough having him out.

We have a new young man at church and we took him out to eat on Sunday. He's had an alcohol problem and has been through the Teen Challenge program. He was very interesting to listen to and maybe, fingers are crossed, he may be helpful to Damon in the future.

[Janet]

You're right Sandy...we are one heck of a group..lol I don't remember you having lung surgery either, so what's up with that? If you haven't had a check up, of course you need to get that done. Sometime I wish I could find a nurse practioner here. I mean, I like my Dr., but sometimes I would feel more comfortable with a woman to speak with.

Sorry that it's your turn to have computer problems. Maybe it just needs a tune up? I've thought about netbooks too, but the keyboards are small. I'm so use to the normal size keyboards I find it very hard to get use to any of the smaller ones. I'd definitely play with them in a store first.

Sandy is there anyway you can tell your supervisor she's a pain in the a$$? :D Would a good talk help any or does she even have a clue? I really don't have any advice, just wish you the best in this situation.

Your EX sounds like a real piece of work. He must just want to be able to keep an eye on you. Make sure all your settings are set so he can't see your page.

I'm on my laptop now....Yay!!!! It's has taken me two days to get it back where it should be and I still have a few things to tweak. Then I have to download iTunes again so I can update and sync my iPad. Wow....so much to do when these darn things crash.

I am pleased to announce that the prednisone is a wonder drug for me. Maybe a very slight pain now and then, but just after 4 total doses....I am mostly pain free. I am so relieved. It was getting so it was making me a nervous wreck. So....lesson learned....get to the dr. and not wait anymore. Geesh....took me long enough to learn that didn't it????

[Tiramisu]

OH SANDY!! OK first things first, why did you have lung surgery? Yes, you need to get that dry cough checked. It's probably just residual from your Christmas crud, but it's better to be safe than sorry.


In 2004, I was on Enbrel for rheumatoid arthritis. I developed pleurisy on my lung that got so bad (missed by my doc twice and ER once) it collapsed my lung. Third visit to my doc she followed me to hospital to be admitted in ICU. 12 painful awful days in pulmonary ICU and 8 days in regular room. They broke my ribs, took my lung out, scraped it and tacked it back in. I was on mega antibiotics and they called my family in a couple of times.

No big deal, right!

I think I have a fungal infection in my lungs. Should have kept going to doc until they gave me an antibiotic. I have an appt at 1:30 tomorrow. I'm actually blowing the whole day off tomorrow. I need a break to give myself an attitude check.

[Tiramisu]

I'm typing from my new laptop I got today. I picked the Dell 14Z and it seems a little slow, but it's probably my basic internet service.

I have chats with my boss quite often that she is too demanding or that she's asking things of me that no manager has ever asked of me. She is aware that she's asking more, but was told that I can handle the load. She has some really good times, but not often.

Janet, I'll ask my new NP for some wonder drugs tomorrow. My shoulder still gives me grief, but I'd summed up that my is nerves and stress. How long will you take the meds?

I know I have mineral rights to my inherited land and that there are quarterly checks for the pipelines and that my sis is banking it for herself, but I know that she needs it more than I do (for now) and that my parents would want me to leave it alone. I would like to know how much it is.

[Janet]

Janet, I'll ask my new NP for some wonder drugs tomorrow. My shoulder still gives me grief, but I'd summed up that my is nerves and stress. How long will you take the meds?

I have to take 3 pills a day for 3 days, then 2 for 3 days then 1 for 3 days and then a half for 3 days. It sure is working, sure hope it stays that way. It's Prednisone, a steriod I think.

I know I have mineral rights to my inherited land and that there are quarterly checks for the pipelines and that my sis is banking it for herself, but I know that she needs it more than I do (for now) and that my parents would want me to leave it alone. I would like to know how much it is.

Why can't you just ask her how much it is? Or check with whoever sends the checks? I think I would want to know too.

[Tiramisu]

Janet, it was a couple hundred a year and she puts it to good use with her foster/adopted kids, so I'm ok with her taking it .. just wish she'd be open about it.

[Janet]

I don't blame you Sandy....I much prefer someone to be honest and open.....but it is just too hard for some...not sure why.

[DianaB]

Sandy, glad that you have an appointment to have your lung checked. Thanks for explaining the surgery. It sounds like you really had an ordeal with it.

I understand letting your sister have your share of your oil profits. It does sound like she could use it. Do you have to turn in your share for income tax reasons? If so then you should receive a statement with how much you receive.

Janet, I'm so happy to hear that the meds are working for you!! I can tell in your posts that you're feeling much better!!! Yay!!!

Glen has the flu. He was up in the night sick to his stomach. Hopefully he'll stay in the bedroom until Dean goes down for a nap. I really don't want the kids to catch it......but it is going around the schools. I never like to expose others if I can help it. I checked with Amy and Tammy today to see if Dean could go over there but they were both busy and Jaci lives too far away to take him there and then go pick him up.

We've had a cold snap come through......brrrrrrrr!!!! I'm so ready for snow!!!

[gja1000]

In 2004, I was on Enbrel for rheumatoid arthritis. I developed pleurisy on my lung that got so bad (missed by my doc twice and ER once) it collapsed my lung. Third visit to my doc she followed me to hospital to be admitted in ICU. 12 painful awful days in pulmonary ICU and 8 days in regular room. They broke my ribs, took my lung out, scraped it and tacked it back in. I was on mega antibiotics and they called my family in a couple of times.

No big deal, right!

I think I have a fungal infection in my lungs. Should have kept going to doc until they gave me an antibiotic. I have an appt at 1:30 tomorrow. I'm actually blowing the whole day off tomorrow. I need a break to give myself an attitude check.

Let us know what the doctor says! You DID have an ordeal!!! Gary had a similar thing happen to one of his lungs too, but they caught it right away and his surgery was much easier and his stay was shorter. But he has a lot of damage to his lungs now, so it really affects his breathing, then with asthma on top of that, it is tough sometimes.

[gja1000]

Glen has the flu. He was up in the night sick to his stomach. Hopefully he'll stay in the bedroom until Dean goes down for a nap. I really don't want the kids to catch it......but it is going around the schools. I never like to expose others if I can help it. I checked with Amy and Tammy today to see if Dean could go over there but they were both busy and Jaci lives too far away to take him there and then go pick him up.

We've had a cold snap come through......brrrrrrrr!!!! I'm so ready for snow!!!

Janet, I'm so glad you are feeling better.

Oh Dear Diana, I'm sorry Glen has the flu, it's going around down here, I hope I escape it. I sure hope the kids, especially Dean don't get it.

[Janet]

The stomach flu is going around here too. So many kids out sick. I've been lucky not to get it yet, but I'm keeping my hands extra clean.

[DianaB]

Glen's better today!! I'm so glad because he's always on the verge of death when he's sick!!! Yesterday he kept to the bedroom quite a bit so I didn't have to hear his complaints!!

Nothing much going on today again!! Just Dean and me and a pile of laundry and housework that I need to get busy on!!

[Tiramisu]

Doc said it's allergies on top of just coming off the Christmas crude. She sent me for chest xrays and bloodwork. And, I liked the new doc and NP. She gave me steriods and cough syrup with codeine, so I don't know if I coughed last night or not because the codeine knocked me out!

Feeling much better today, but goofing off at home again to catch up on some rest.

[DianaB]

This sounds really dumb but it does usually work......put Vicks Vaporub on your feet with socks on when you go to bed. Any time I've done it it's worked!!! Hope you get to feeling better, Sandy!!

[Janet]

Oh Diana..... :sidesplit::sidesplit: I'm so glad because he's always on the verge of death when he's sick!!! Don't most men act like that?


Sandy you should be feeling better in no time. That's what the Dr. gave me...Robitussin with codiene and it sure did help. Now with the pain...the steriods are working wonders.


This sounds really dumb but it does usually work......put Vicks Vaporub on your feet with socks on when you go to bed. Any time I've done it it's worked!!! Hope you get to feeling better, Sandy!!

I've heard of this before but have never tried it.

[Tiramisu]

Doc called back yesterday evening to say that the chest xrays show mild pneumonia and calleld in another prescription. I coughed a lot last night and it seems to be breaking up today. I think it was probably full pneumonia over the holidays and is now at it's end.

I feel better, but have little energy. It's a bed to recliner day!

[DianaB]

I've done the Vicks thing several times and it's always worked for me. Last winter Glen even tried it and, he hated to admit it, it worked for him too. Being diabetic and taking several meds I have to be careful with cough medicines so this is a wonder for me!!!

I know......it sounds so weird.......but so does sleeping with a bar of soap for leg cramps........but it works!!!

Elijah had a couple of basketball games this morning so Glen and I went in to watch. Our recreation commission has games for the younger kids so Elijah's involved with that. They won both of their games. The first one was very exciting!! I've got to start asking questions so I can understand more of the game!!!

After that Glen and I went to a local restaurant and had lunch........a grilled chicken salad for me.......trying to stay on my diet!!!

[gja1000]

Doc called back yesterday evening to say that the chest xrays show mild pneumonia and calleld in another prescription. I coughed a lot last night and it seems to be breaking up today. I think it was probably full pneumonia over the holidays and is now at it's end.

I feel better, but have little energy. It's a bed to recliner day!

Sandy! I bet you are right, you had full pneumonia over the Holidays. :mad: That just cannot happen with your lung history!!! Take care and slow down till you GET WELL! :)

[gja1000]

This sounds really dumb but it does usually work......put Vicks Vaporub on your feet with socks on when you go to bed. Any time I've done it it's worked!!! Hope you get to feeling better, Sandy!!

Are you saying this works for controlling coughs, or helping you to breathe?

[Blueyes]

Sandy, I'm sorry you have been so sick! I think you should stay home from work for a couple more days!

Whatever the Vick on the feet helps, I bet it leaves your feet really soft:D Would sure be worth a try!

I have been doing laundry all day, fun fun! I have also had a hungry day, so I've been fighting with myself to not eat. I have lost 9 pounds in 2 weeks, so that helps to keep me going. I also got the brace off of my knee after 10 weeks. I start physical therapy on Tuesday for 6 weeks, and I'm really scared that they'll hurt me! BUT...I have a major goal...I want to go to Paris for the last 2 weeks in April to SEE MY BABIES!!!!!!!

[gja1000]

Betsi! Paris is the springtime! WOW! OK girlie, you gotta get that leg working so you can GO TO PARIS IN THE SPRINGTIME!!!

I've been hungry off and on all week - sometimes I gave in, sometimes I didn't

[Janet]

Sandy you take better care of yourself you hear???? Glad you're on the mend, but be careful not to let yourself get so run down. Another couple days off won't hurt.

Betsi....Paris???? What a great time to be going too. I know you'll be busy with the kids, but you will have to take lots and lots of pictures. I know I'll never make it to Paris, so I'll just have to enjoy it through you.

Yesterday, I spent most of the day at the sewing machine. Started off paying the bills and then cleaned the kitchen a bit. Then finally got the sewing machine out to make belly bands for the boys. They still have to wear them whenever they are loose in the house which is most of the time. The last time I made any was a few years ago and they are getting so ratty looking and falling apart. So I sat from 1:00 until 9:30 cutting out and making belly bands. I shouldn't have to make anymore for a few years I think. I made so many that I took half to use and put the other half up for later. There are still some of the older ones that are usable, but quite a few I need to toss too.

I was so tired that when I got things put away that I washed up and got in bed with my laptop. Checked things out on FB, but when I came to 4WT my shoulder was hurting so bad I just couldn't sit up anymore. I'm down to 2 prednisone a day now. Usually it doesn't hurt, but maybe from sitting all day and then trying to type on the laptop was just a tad much for the day. This morning it's not hurting at all (still in bed..lol), but I sure have the 'pins and needles running through it.

Planning on running to town today before we have another winter blast. Need to pick up just a few things, but mostly the dogs are out of food. I was using Life's Abundance and it was shipped directly to the house so I never worried about it. Since I'm trying to cut costs, I cancelled that and paying less than half of what I was, but now I have to remember to get some.. :)

[gja1000]

Janet, sitting at the sewing machine for hours is what has caused your neck pain to flare up. It will probably settle down since you are still on Prednisone, but don't do that again till your neck is completely well. I created a similar issue when I was a teenager by sitting at the sewing machine for hours. Back then they gave me a cortisone injection for my problem - so definitely no more sewing for a while.

I wish you'd take a pic of your new belly bands and tell me how you made them. I have a boy who I can't find the right size for. the extra small is too small and the small is too big. I could make them too, but I don't have a pattern. If you just told me how you did it, I could do it too.

[judy]

I think I just caught up! I didn't realize how many days I haven't been on!!! I haven't been on fb much either. I have been doing little, long needed chores in the house, made also much needed phone calls, etc.

All of the illnesses! It sounds like Glenn and Gary have recovered, Sandy, you feel better, but should have gotten your butt to the dr. sooner! Pneumonia with your lung issues...well, you know what I mean! Janet, it sounds like this might be a lot of stress winding up in your muscles. Stress finds spots in the body to torture us until we pay attention to it. It is wonderful that you have gotten the Florida house sold!!! Now that the estate is done with, maybe your stress levels will go down.

Diana, I cannot wait to see pix of your greenhouse! You can plant heirloom veggies in there, I think. People up here do that in the warm weather. Your weather is a bit warmer than ours, so maybe it would work.

Betsi, good news that you are brace free, and have lost so much weight! Paris and your babies...what a wonderful adventure! I know how you miss them!

Janet, I saw a post that Ricky is thinking about moving out. Of course he will be fine, but it is just so hard to let go!!! I still remember how my heart hurt when Jessie moved out! If he cannot handle it financially, he can move back home!

I am going to visit Jessie and the kids today. We are into winter, snow and all. It's not very cold, not is there much snow, but I don't like going out in the cold or the snow, so have been home. I am bored!!! I have a busy week, so that will be good.

[Janet]

I should have realized that sitting at the sewing machine would have caused me problems Gayle, but the whole time I was sitting there it really didn't bother me until I sat in bed on the laptop. Today when I went to town, it was really hurting and the tingling was so annoying. As soon as I got home I took a Lortab so it's feeling much better right now. I will be calling the Dr. tomorrow I think. As soon as I started the lower dose of prednisone, the tingling started up and then slight pain. Don't want it to get as bad as it did before.

I'll take a picture of the pattern with measurements I use and a picture of the belly bands and get it posted soon.

[Blueyes]

Take good care of yourself, Janet! I hate for you to be in pain.

I guess I'm weird, but I have never really dreamed of traveling to France or Italy or anyplace like that. I just need to see my kids! I'll be lucky if I get to see them twice a year, so I don't care if I never leave their apartment, lol!! I can think of lots of things I'd rather spend money on than plane tickets! But... I'm going to Paris!! I know I'll be excited. I would like to see the architecture and the artwork, and go to a couple of designer perfume houses:p

[DianaB]

Are you saying this works for controlling coughs, or helping you to breathe?

It helps for coughs!! Sorry I didn't clarify that!!!

[DianaB]

Betsi.....Wow!!! Paris!!!! Better get a move on with your therapy!!!! Can I shrink down and catch a ride in your pocket?? LOL........I would love to go to Paris but, like Janet, would love to see pictures when you get back home!!!

You'll NEVER guess what I have cooking on the stove right now............OCTOPUS!!!! Amy bought one a while back to cook for a family night but it hasn't worked out so she gave it to Glen because the men have a Wild Game Feed night at church tonight!!! It smells so fishy that I'm really not liking the smell. After it cooks for awhile then I'm going to peel the skin off.....cut it into smaller pieces and fry it. It's really shrunk down since I've started cooking it. Glen's going to be disappointed in how little there will actually be!! I'll let you know later how it tastes.

Judy, my greenhouse isn't very big so I'm not sure what I'll be growing in it. I really just wanted to winter over some houseplants and outdoor plants but I'm going to have to do something to insulate it or it will cost too much to heat. I've been reading some forums and have gotten some great ideas. I also found one woman that has a greenhouse and she plants directly in the soil of the greenhouse and grows her garden. It was so cool but her greenhouse was much, much bigger. We'll see what I actually end up doing and if I outgrow this one we can always buy a larger one. This is the one I was talking about........

http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/load/strucs/msg111908035853.html?60

I don't know if any of you have ever checked out this forum site but they have topics for everything!! It's interesting to read some of the posts!

Well, Dean was his ornery self AGAIN this morning. Glen was watching him before I got up and Dean found some baby powder and pretty much dusted all the furniture in the living room!!! I looked and looked but couldn't find the bottle but......sure enough.......pretty soon he had it back out and was dusting his toys with it!!! Grandma was NOT happy!!! Oh.....and Glen......he was in the office the whole time this was going on!!! You can't leave an almost two year old where he doesn't have anyone watching him!!!!

Not much went on this weekend. Went to Elijah's basketball game on Sat. morning. He really gets into it!! They won both games!!!

Betsi, congrats on losing the weight!! I'm having trouble staying with my diet but the girls are too. We're trying just not quite getting it done. Are you on a special diet? Which one? We're doing Atkins.

[Janet]

Diana, in would love to have a greenhouse...nothing big, just big enough tonged flowers started for spring. Use to get them at the in-laws, miss them and the greenhouse so much. Maybe someday, have other things I'm saving up for to....all takes time. :)

I sure don't have any suggestions about Deans terrible two's. I didn't have to go throughbthat with Ricky, I was very blessed and lucky. I dont see how you can get anything else done ...lolol. Little guy has so much energy and curiosity.

[DianaB]

Just thought that I'd let you know that the octopus wasn't too bad. I boiled it to make it tender and it turned purple and shrunk!!!! Glen was surprised to see how small it was before I fried it. I cut it into little tiny pieces because they were expecting 100 men at the supper. I tasted a piece before I fried it and I have to say that it tasted like chicken!! LOL Can't say that I will ever be cooking THAT again!!! Thank goodness......it smelled so fishy!!

When Dae Lynn got home from work she asked me if I'd been in her bathroom and I said that I was looking for diapers for Dean......well, I guess that he had powdered her toilet and had headed for the door shaking as he went!!! She had a big laugh out of it!!! I figure it was Glen's fault for not keeping a good eye on him!!!

This morning he's pretty calm and right now is sitting by my side, sucking his thumb with his eyes glued on Mickey Mouse!!! Probably won't last for long!!!

We're getting ready to head to town in just a bit. I need some silicone sealer for the greenhouse to seal the places where the air can get in. We've got some beautiful weather today so I'm planning on being outside.

There's a donkey basketball game at the school tonight that I think that Glen and I might go to. Some of our friends are actually riding donkeys and playing basketball. Should be interesting!!!

[Blueyes]

Diana, Donkey Basketball sounds fun! I haven't seen that in years! OK, WHERE did you get an octopus to cook?? Was it tender? It's funny that it tasted like chicken, lol!!

I started Physical Therapy today. I'll go 2-3 times a week for 6 weeks, and I just know it will help:)

[Janet]

I'm so glad you get to have your therapy. It really helped my right arm when I had pain. I know you'll be feeling better in no time.