Best/worse/what did I learn today? Chat with friends..

Hello To All ! Sending this THEN going back to read ......

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU Barb and Norm! Love my pressie !
A Beautiful Card from Barb and Norm…. a Christmas Hug! (HUGS)…. New Hampshire State Pure Maple Candy YUM! An Angel Christmas Ornament – so so cute ! very interesting wooden “Quilt” pin… can’t wait to show my Dad… it is many pieces of wood made into a pin that looks like a Quilt however no stains dyes or paints are utilized… from woodquilter.net. Barb knows I LOVE to cook… It’s a BOX of laminated dessert recipes… A few I can’t wait to try…Coffee & Cream Bars (For DS GF)…Rocky Road Cookie Pizza…. Lots of Pies I can try with my newly honed pie crust knowledge… They are cards in a box and laminated so you can take one out and use as a guide while cooking without worrying about getting liquid on it !
AWESOME ORIGAMI ! I must have mentioned how Dad brought back Origami books from Okinawa when I was growing up… and I’ve been wishing I had them to try… DS and DSGF will join me in trying these… kit has everything needed! Even Glue stick and scissors !
Lucky me to have my Santa Warren Friend as one of our Quilters… Barb made me an heirloom Christmas Quilted Centerpiece…. Can you see the beautiful colors and gold flecks ! It’s just gorgeous and I will treasure it … Will stay on the table through the holidays… now Barb will be with me every year when I unpack my Christmas Boxes…
Thank you so much Barb… and Norm too of course ! I really love my gift and wish you could see the HUGE Smile on my face. It means so much especially in light of all you are going through and yet found time to get this box out…. (HUGS)
I”ll be popping back on soon… got to get dinner and Hubs / son on their way home… everything laid out so I can show them as well……

very very nice, how cool you had each other !!

Holy wah, all I can say is you both got spoilt..

Now Barb, how on earth did a southern gal like Mary get Timmies????
And here you were just saying you were missing a cup..fantastic box for sure..

And Mary, imagine both of you getting each other's name..love the centerpiece and knowing just how much work goes into these projects, am sure each stitch was done with affection and a smile knowing how you would appreciate it.

Cookbooks, puzzles and so many other things you both share a liking for, just touches my heart!!!

I'm so glad you liked your present Mary. I must admit I wasn't really sure about the origami but after reading how you and your son and his girl enjoy doing things like that together, I thought it would work for you. Making the table topper for you was a labor of love for me. You have been so supportive of me in this journey that Norm and I are on and I so appreciate it. I hope you enjoy a little of NH this year!!!!!
And my cup of Timmies was just fantastic!

Now how did I kow you would already be drinking a cup?? Bet Norm got his first..

Dianne, going to have to listen to the news..Lordy the Hitch House if the one near me has a main building that looks like it belongs in the alps..we bought our first trailer there..nice people, big trailer park in the rear..

((((Barb & Norm)))) What a sweet pair you are....... so much that you're going through, and Still you keep sending Christmas pressies! I'm sure I wouldn't have the strength you two have. Cry away, girl - we're Here for you..... What lovely pressies! Great cookbook!

((((Dianne & Quill)))) So happy Quill seemed better when you got home, and ate something! You're likely right, she may be saying "bye", but isn't it nice you have Diesel to help you through your worry.....

Mary - it IS unusual to be swap mates with Barb & Norm lol too funny! And those presents! Origami is a wonderful art form! Just think - we have an artist in our midst!

Betty - you deserve a night off! Just put your feet up, with your jammies on, and relaaaaa-ax!!

Jean - nasty scammers!! Always a new one, eh?

2nd day at work went even better - my boss sent me an email thanking me for helping her so much my 1st day, and saying "you hit the ground running, and with little support! Just keep doing what you're doing!"
Bob had a good day, too. Tomorrow they let them "play" with tools! LOL It's going to be an actual Work Day. He gets paid just for showing up, so work is good, too!
He picked me up from work. I left early enough (4:30) that it was still light, and on my way to the bus (about 2 blocks) Bob called out to me, and gave me a ride home! Woo Hoo!
At lunch I went for a 16 block walk - quite a hike actually, as the streets are long ones. Anyway, good exercise should help my knee!

here's a link re: Hitch House fire
http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/2012/11/27/numerous-fire-crews-called-out-to-battle-blaze-at-business-north-of-barrie

Thanks for the link, this hitch house is just around the corner from work..not the other one I was thinking about..could have been disastrous..thank goodness for emergency plan the had ..

You both Susan must be feeling like a load is off your back..glad things are going well at work..

In bed, time to grab some shut eye..

That Hitch House proprty is acres isn't Betty? Lots of flammables to go up too - propane and gas in each unit. Horror show for the fire fighters. Hope all are safe.

Not to be flippant but dizziness and recent widows seem to go hand and hand.I am in daily contact with 2 other recent widows and they are suffering from it too. Just shaking my head thinking about it.

Susan so glad your first 2 days of work went well

Barb and Mary just loved your Santa Warren Exchange presents. I just know he is smiling and clapping his hands with glee.


This message was edited Nov 27, 2012 11:34 PM

I am still just amazed at the quilted centerpiece (and EVERYTHING!)..... just beautiful.....I've never had anything like this....

Wow, look at all the wonderful pressies! Nice job ladies!

Mary, doesn't Barb do beautiful work? I have her piece on my piano, and when not there it is in my Moms hutch. I just love it.

I have hectic day tomorrow. Off and running early, going to get some Timmies and have good thoughts of all of you, and Barb & Norm sipping a hot
cup together. I have yet to pack one thing and have to leave for airport at 3:30 a.m. on Thursday morning!

Sweet dreams all....

Debbie

OH DEB! It is so beautiful... The middle stitches are little red stars... The gold and silver flecks are just gorgeous !

Everytime I pass by it I just stop to look.... Maybe one day I will get into this and follow Grandmas footsteps into quilting until then it is just such an art form... and Barb is a master at it.......

You'll miss this post Deb getting up so early... but my prayers with you on this difficult trip and hoping at least a glimpse of the beach will comfort you a bit as it does me...
Dianne makes me happy that Santa Warren is watching us unfolding our surprises and love and hugs for each other....

Barb - As Jean / Moonie can tell you Community Coffee is a HUGE local company... we "All Drink Community" I really wanted to send you Cafe Du Monde Coffee but had some trouble finding it...

So glad you are enjoying the Timmies !
Hugs
Mary

MY dear Mary you have no idea how special the Timmies was to receive. It has become my favorite "comfort drink" just as hot chocolate is to others. And I'm so looking forward to making more totes soon. The fabrics you sent are wonderful. We are headed up to the hospital today for Norm's chemo treatment and nine more totes are going with us!!!

Our thoughts and prayers travel with you and Norm..
How thrilled they must be to get these totes..am sure they bring smiles and comfort to young!

morning all,

Plow man was here last night, almost looks as though it's melting out there but am sure it's not.

Running late, was bust drilling holes and packaging workshop projects..will chat when I get to work..

morning all,

barb, prayers out to you and norm..
hoping all go,s well.

nice gifts everyone is receiving.

thanks Linda Kay, were doing good, kenny's doctors are very happy with his readings he is still insulin free he just takes glipizide for his blood sugar, has that been a big challenge for me to learn how to cook and keep him within range.
im doing good my cardiologist is happy with my swimming everyday he just ran a cholesterol and basic blood work so i wont know those results till DEC 11, so now we wait for this nasty storm comming on suppose to get 8 inches of rain :( guess the sewing machine will start running soon lol

hope everyone else is good and healthy

Morning everyone!
Prayers going with you and Norm also Barb.
Liz, glad to hear your both doing well! Diabetes is hard life to live with, but just watch his beef and carb intake. Breads, potatoes, startchy foods.

Mary I don't leave until tomorrow....waiting for Shannon to come down stairs. Taking her to doctor, she either has strep or tonsillitis again.

Off and running.....

Debbie

Waving 'hi' Liz, health issues improving means both of you are following Dr.'s order.hurrah







Thinking of our Tubby this morning...posting for him

First Christmas Joke

Three men died on Christmas Eve and were met by Saint Peter at the pearly gates.

'In honor of this holy season' Saint Peter said, 'You must each possess something that symbolizes Christmas to get into heaven.'

The Englishman fumbled through his pockets and pulled out a lighter.. He flicked it on. 'It's a candle', he said.

'You may pass through the pearly gates' Saint Peter said.

The Scotsman reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys. He shook them and said, 'They're bells.'

Saint Peter said 'You may pass through the pearly gates'.

The Irishman started searching desperately through his pockets and finally pulled out a pair of women's panties.

St. Peter looked at the man with a raised eyebrow and asked, 'And just what do those symbolize?'


The paddy replied, 'These are Carols.'

....And So The Christmas Season
Begins......

LOL! Good one Betty!

Debbie, sorry to hear that Shannon is sick again! Hope it is nothing serious? Time to have the tonsils removed?

I dont' know Linda Kay. She works at Target and sick people at the counter all the time. She had a flu shot also, but doesn't help a virus. She has only had this twice....so I think a bit early to jump on taking them out. BUT to start this at 22 is strange. Worries me if her immune system is plummeting again, she was born with immune system deficiency which is what started all the issues as a baby and up. Shane was also, but his went into remission.

Let's hope it's simply the flu bug Debbie..you all packed? Don't forget your camera...

Mary, I bought beignet mix from Cafe Du Monde...thought I'd make them Christmas morning but now that I won't be home will have to save them for another day!

Sewing hyde on knitted dickie for godson..lordy, hard to believe he's 46..keeps asking Greg everytime they are snowmobiling together that he needs a new one..sooo will drop it of at my Uncles when I visit a week Saturday!

Suzanne brought in the rag quilt I put together for her little one, feels that it needs an extra row so brought it in to do as well..

Keeping busy, passes the day!

What are you all up to?

Barb and Mary, such wonderful gifts each received. You are indeed 2 very lucky ladies.........oh my, the Timmies for Barb. Also love the Community Coffee..we get it here and love it. Of course, our really special treat is to order Costa Rican coffee for the holidays.

Barb, my thoughts and prayers are with you and Norm during this long walk you are taking. Know someone is walking with you every step of the way....can't say I feel what you are feeling as no one can truly feel another's stress/pain but I can oh so remember the feelings. Hugs!!

Betty, what day to you leave for Florida and what is the return date. Need to get my planning done in order to met up with you in the Ft. Myers area.

I believe Marion I will leave on Dec. 21st and come back the 5th or 6th of January.
Would imagine as Darlene's back is bad that we'll not arrive till Dec.24th, do some stopping along route..

Thanks, that works out just great. Kim and I plan to leave for Mom's about the 20th, give or take a day. Actually Kim has dental work on the 18th so it depends on how she is feeling. The last 2 times she has been really sore so we shall see. I will need a way to contact you so we can arrange a get together.......this is gonna happen!!!!!

I'll have my ipad and at least some point will have contact Marion..how long do you normally spend visiting??

I've done well this morning..managed to put extra row on Suzanne's rag quilt, put deer hyde on the knitted dickie and now I have the last item I want to include in my Santa Warren box to make and I can mail it early morning on my way to work tomorrow! Productive day so far...

Suzanne has blocks and blocks of flannel from her two rag quilts, would love to mix them together in a mishmash of color for her daughter so she has squares from both grandaughters in it..we'll see

I have 2 blankets to quilt and if I have time before leaving then I shall do it..brought them into work..could do a few rows here and there

Good morning all,

Didn't Diesel do a good job of matching people up?

This morning I finally got out and about and got my gas tank filled (need to drive south about five miles to get diesel fuel). Got fresh orange juice and home-grown tangerines from Manuel and Araley; also about ten pounds of fish which will keep the dogs happy while I'm gone. Stopped at Saul's for chicken legs and rice.

I might leave tomorrow. If not, i'll wait until Monday so Tony doesn't have to work Sunday. Need to finish laundry. We didn't have water for a couple of days. We have a tank for washing dishes and drinking but it doesn't go to the washer. Life in Mexico.

My right should is sore today. It's been much better but recovery is up and down. At least I slept well last night so I'm not dragging.

Barb and Norm, lots of prayers and good thoughts coming your way. Debbie, too..

Susan, so glad your new job is going well.

hugs, katie

Katie, such a different life you live in Mexico.. seems so relaxed

Wish I wouldn't miss my family I'd be moving your way during retirement..

Think driving that distance will be hard for you.

went to fabricland to pick up few things I needed to finish gifts, bet there wasn't 5 people shopping, more staff than sales people..maybe everyone is finished or they've priced themselves right out of a job.

Going to lunch then hoping to finish the 3rd project I brought in today..perm at 5:30pm..will be tired by the time I finally get home.

Jeff just called, wanted to meet up in Barrie for supper tonight with the boys..no can do, have perm appt.
Guess I'll miss out on a free dinner..lol

Asked Jeff what kind of telephone he has and which he bought for Caleb, said it's the i-phone 5, something 'unlock' feature and 32gbs...my nephew is a salesperson for apple, he did get a discount and they are hard to come buy, full market not yet selling..have no idea what that all means

This message was edited Nov 28, 2012 4:11 PM

This is the release on the IPhone 5

http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2012/09/12Apple-Introduces-iPhone-5.html

I have been running all day! Drove home in a small blizzard and panic hit with me having to get on a plane in the morning.

Shannon has strep throat. Is on antibiotics and sick as a dog. 102 temp and feels nasty.


I got my Santa Warren Box!!!!! Thank you Liz!!!!

It was so odd as I stopped at the cemetery on the way home to have a chat with Mom. Shannon text me that "You have a box here!" So I got excited and
said "on my way". Talked to Mom about a few more things then left.

WELL, I get my Santa box from Liz and opened it......and it is full of beautiful snowmen, and cardinals and OOOOHHHH!!! I am in love with it all. Thank you SO SO much!

Will have to take a picture...batteries are charging for the camera now.

Be back.....I haven't packed ONE thing!!! BUT my toes look pretty lol

Debbie

Can't wait to see what Liz sent!

I talked to Judy a little while ago, she is having internet connection problems! Company is supposed to be out this afternoon and check things put! She is busy playing taxi for everyone, paperwork for the business, and just life in general.

Just got off the phone after receiving some horrible news. A former co-worker's DD ( aged 26) has died from complication of gastric bypass surgery. A tube that the family was told would remain in Candus' body for 20 days was taken out after 2 days. With a blink of an eye the young lady turned septic and was gone. Help me out here - what does on say or do for someone in such a tragic situation? They don't even have enough money for a funeral and asked that any donations be funnelled into a fund established to cover the costs of the funeral. I am just at a loss of what to say or do for Lauralee.
D

Perhaps just the sound of your voice and knowing you are there for her is all she needs right now. i am sure they are all in shock and anything warm and comforting will be appreciated. Sometimes simply asking how you can help is all that is necessary. Deepest sympathies to your friend and her family for their loss.

I agree. Keep it simple as there is nothing to say or do beyond, "I'm so sorry this happened." How very sad. hugs, katie

Oh my Dianne!!! I'm so sorry to hear this about your friends. But the ladies are right. Just a simple call to say that you are sorry and ask if there is some way you can help. You might ask where to send a donation or offer to help with food (if they live close). It is a difficult time that's for sure. And I think Jean is right too- just the sound of your voice may be a comfort.

Norm made it through another chemo today but he is ready to do in the murse who did his IV. One tried and couldn't get it in so another tried and didn't give any lidocaine for the new injection site. He said he came so close to swatting at her. His arm is so swollen and bruised. I think this is the first time he has ever complained about any of what he has been going through. On an ironic note, while we were there, we were asked to participate in a study to see how things can be made better during infusion. I'm going to tell them that a well trained IV nurse would be wonderful!!!! In all the time we have been going this is the first time Norm has complained. Only one more chemo - in Dec. and then it is on to scans once again. He asked me to thank you all for your prayers and thoughts of concern. He does appreciate them as do I....

Deb - I'm so sorry to hear Shannon has strep. Will this keep you from going to FL? I hope not. Hope you can show us what you got from Liz.
Betty - sorry you missed out on a free dinner but I'm sure it will happen soon. How is Ann feeling? And Darlene?
Safe trip Katie~~~~
I'm off to have a relaxing Timmies!!

Glad it got there safe

Barb, I do agree with that suggestion. We went through this with Ross when he was getting treatments at Shands, of all places. The nurses would try and try leaving his arm very bruised and just nasty looking. Finally the head nurse took over only to find out 1. they were using to large of a needle and 2 he had what was called a running vein. She could get the needle in the first try everytime. Hope Norm's arm is doing okay. I so can relate to all this. Sending huge hugs to you both.

Thanks Marion. I'll tell Norm about the needle maybe being too big. I know I will say something in Dec when he goes for the next chemo......