Best/Worse/What did I learn today? Chat with friends

Luna there with you? Hugging her I am positive would be a calming thing to do. As I reach to hug Diesel!

She is right next to me, and if I sit in the recliner, she gets up in my lap!

Hi..Linda kay, waiting to hear and comtinue prayyers as well...
just know we are with you..I hope the procedure is going well for dad.
Sending you both gentle armwraps.

Ok..Linda Kay, i wasgoingto call but think I better leave the line open.
Was glad to see you have Luna with you to hug and tAake care of, as im sure your mind is with Dad. You doing alright?

Waiving hi to everyone.

Doing fine, just worried about Dad. But he is in good hands.

Update on my Dad...
The angiogram is done, he has extensive blockage in right leg from groin to just below the knee. He will need bypass surgery to run a synthetic tube to reroute blood flow and will most likely amputate the toe at the same time. But first he needs a stress test and a green light from cardiology. His heart is in and out of a-fib.
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers!

Are they going to keep him and dothis right away?

No, he will go home today, they have to make appt next week with the cardio doc, and go from there.

Glad to hear today's surgery is over. Continuing to send positive thoughts and prayers to your dad and to you too LK. It is very difficult to have a loved one in a serious health situation and be miles away. When my sweet father was hospitalized ( 6 hour drive from me) I had the cleanest house in town. I had to keep busy while I waited for updates so I would zip into my cleaner bee hat and clean away. When I started to iron the tea towels Warren about flipped out and refocused me to the wood pile and handed me a chain saw.

Safe travels Betty, hope your trip with Patti will go smoothly.

Snowing here again - its Debbie's fault. She sent it across the lake directly to me.

Hope everyone has a great evening, I plan to go to bed early and finish my book Driving the Saudiis - a true story about an actress turned chauffeur. Finished Heads in Beds last night and sure learned plenty about the hotel industry.

Sweet dreams!
Dianne

Evening all,

LindaKay, started to read and almost hated to read further I ncase your dad didn't make it through the operation. Sigh of relief when I saw your last post..know there
Is still much to be concerned about, but one step at a time.

You are probably right Jean and all, maybe being with strangers and in different area will help. You know Mike's parents are in Venice, less than 1 hour away from her and they didn't even call her since she has been there..hard when you not only lose your husband but his family as well

had a great day..Patti is looking after me like an old mother hen, no worries. In mega pain from sitting so she stopped for me to walk around, take meds and off we went..travelled 700 miles, only 1/2 hour to go and we will be in Tennessee.hot bath, early to bed, maybe a movie..must stay awake as we ordered a pizza..should be hear any time.

Debbie, my first visit to cracker Barrel this trip..bought another watch. Lol, had a peacock stained glass I almost came home with but talked myself out of it.

Ooops supper is here..do you all know how much you mean to me..the care and concern you show for me and my friends is unbelievable

God bless you all!!



This message was edited Jan 3, 2013 7:35 PM

That's what love is all about dear Betty. And we sure do love you!!!!!

You are a sweetie Barb..

Got an email from Darlene, said she had a major headache but managed to take a walk ..said it was a hard day but she will make it seeing so many have her in their prayers..says to thank you

Please let her know that she will always be in our prayers. Just the same as Ann. Once there, we don't walk away or let go!!!!

Darlene was in my thoughts all day. I can just imagine how difficult the day was for her. I think the people surrounding her in Florida will help distract her a bit. I can't get over how friendly everyone seemed to be to you the newcomers. Warren would have freaked out but I would have been putting the kettle on for tea. Hope Darlene gets to put that kettle on several times this winter.

Still snowing here but it is very windy. The wind is just carrying the snow right across the property. Fine with me less to shovel around the house. Wouldn't want poor Diesel to get his feet all wet. lol He bounds into the snow almost laughing as he sinks into the snow. My sweet Quill is still trying her best everyday to stay with me. Today I actually walked the 2 of them together this morning. I just cut the walk short as I knew we would be outside working on the wood for at least an hour. I brought a blanket out for Quill and put it in the spot I have shovelled for her in the car port.She wandered back and forth from the woodpile to her blanket and seemed quite happy to be with Diesel and I.

Obviously haven't started to read yet and now darn you Betty I have pizza on the brain. Somehow the cold chicken I was going to have for dinner doesn't seem quite as good as it did an hour ago. And of course I don't have a pizza in the freezer either.

Debbie have you heard anything from Crissy? I am sure she is crazy busy right now.

Definitely heading to read now.
Dianne

LK - happy to hear your Dad is out of surgery, and doing well enough to go home right away!! Like Betty - I came on the thread late in the day, and zipped through the posts to see yours..... bated breath...... then I started to breathe again when I saw he was alright!!!
Betty - I concur - Darlene is likely to feel better away from the insistent memories.......
Glad you're stopping and having a hot bath, Betty. Pattie sounds like a very caring person - nice in a new friend!

We sure DO love you, Betty!!!

Dianne, Crissy is doing fine. They had major snow there and was off work a few days. She received my Santa gift Monday before Christmas. Sent her a fuzzy blanket (with dark blue with white snowflakes), a bunch of Christmas ornaments that were little frogs, pigs and critters she likes...and a cardinal. Some Christmas kitchen decor/towels and filled some "stockings" with candy.

LK So relieved that your DD made it through... so far so good.

Dianne... chuckling at your comment and loving your learning spirit.

I finished "Life of Pi" .... do recommend it. Checked out of library today "Successful habits of highly effective companies".

I think Jean put it so well Re: Darlene. Safe Travels Betty and enjoy your pizza.

It's been a Bear at work.... as Jean most certainly knows from the news....welcome to the new year...

(HUGS)
Mary

Mary - we just Have to go to the movie Life Of Pi......... it's in the theatres, and Bob & I got theatre gift certificates from Doug this year!

Debbie - thank you for the update on Crissy - wow what a storm, eh?! Glad she got your Christmas present before Christmas - bet she loved it lol

Susan - Take me with you to watch the movie! Think it's not in theaters here anymore...

Debbie what a wonderful gift for Crissy ! I'll bet she needed some Christmas Spirit with everything going on....

Morning all,

Shuffling off to Buffalo this am..not sure what route Patti will take..different being the passenger. Lol

Debbie did you take a photo before sending?

Off and running
Gab later

safe Journey Betty, I am off to work the early shift.

Y'all have a great day.

LK I was catching the news on Good Morning America and when the weather report came on there was Del Rio!!!! Kinda cold there eh??? But then I had to chuckle because your temp said 39* and mine is only 13*! So I guess the laugh is on me!!
Safe travels again today Betty and Patti. Hope your trip is going well!!!

Betty??? You coming up 75? I'm in and out today. Sure hope that I get to see the two of you! I'll leave a calendar on the porch just in case I'm not here and you do stop by. Safe travels, both of you.

LK, glad your dad made it through the procedure. Continuing prayers hoping that all will turn out okay.

Waving to all!!

Barb, it is cool for us, but we also had freezing rain off and on yesterday and last night. Nothing is sticking to the ground, it melts just about as fast as it hits! Right now it is 35, but supposed to reach 48 today! Guess we can't complain too bad! I have not seen anyone in a jacket yet, just sweaters and maybe a sweat shirt.

We have strong wind warnings today, gusts up to 50 mph they say. I expect the power & cable to go out.

I had a very rough day yesterday and think my son is gone. He is unreachable right now, and it is in God's hands.
Doesn't mean my mind is at peace....but as a parent I have done all I can and it is up to him.

Going for coffee, remember to stay safe and warm today.....

Hugs to you all
Debbie

Sorry to hear about your son Debbie, they all reach that age, that no matter what is said or done, they think they know better. That is when you send them on their way, let them do what they think is right, and they will quickly find out otherwise! My son was about 17 when he started acting up, I made his Dad come and get him, as we were divorced. His Father took him to Florida, dropped him off at Grandma's house, thinking that would be good for him! HA!!! He moved out of Grandma's house, moved in with a bunch of kids his age, and they all landed in jail for petty stuff, but he finally learned his lesson, as no one bailed him out when he called! It was hard for us, but we had to stand our ground, and make him learn!

My son took off in my car when he was 16. I had him arrested and took him to court. The judge realized I was trying to teach him a good lesson and then released him into my custody saying he didn't want him to learn all that he would have in jail....After three nights in jail, he learned well. Never a problem after that which he didn't handle himself. Stupid things like fighting with IRS> You never win with them.....But he learned!!!

Hugs to you Debbie. It is hard to watch the sweet baby you had become someone you don't really recognize. They get this idea that they are invincible and untouchable and far wiser than anyone they know. Sometimes all you can do is leave them to Heaven, love them, pray for them and hope they make it through this relatively unharmed. Hopefully his wake-up AHA moment will come sooner rather than later....but no matter what he has to figure it out for himself. Take care of yourself in the meantime and as LK said...make your decisions based on what is best for the family, and stand your ground.

(((Debbie))) Right there with you sis. I have been involved in several situations like this as a professional BUT never as a mother. As everyone has said the lessons he learns might be hard and harsh but will be invaluable when he is ready to listen and to learn. It will be hard - he is your baby son but there comes a time when you you have to step back and let Shane face the consequences, have a time to realize that his safety net is still there if he wishes to follow your family rules. LK and Barb and Moon gave you an excellent insight into what can happen even though it will break your heart while it is occuring.My own brother the hobnobbing millionaire business man had his own very serious brush with the law when he was 17 - the repercussions scared him straight, He found out mom didn't make his bed in jail, he couldn't order up from mom what he wanted for each meal if he didn't like what was being served and that many of his friends didn't even know he existed for awhile even once he was released. Hoping and praying Shane will come to his senses sooner rather than later. He has a good heart and you and Paul gave him a wonderful moral compass, it is up to him now to decide how he wants to live his life.Love you sis..... right there is you need me to listen to you.

Safe travels Betty and driver Patti. How was that pizza? My mouth is still watering thinking about it. Puffed wheat doesn't really fit the bill.

Bitter wind here with some light snow. Plan to stay inside and warm most of the day.
Dianne

Just heard a noise upstairs and thought one of the cats had locked in a room.

Imagine my surprise opening door and Mr. "I will never set foot in this %$#@ house again" was sleeping in his bed.

I think he has burned bridges with friends he has been staying with (or their parents) and no place to go was a reality check.
Not holding my breath...know this isn't the end but the beginning of something.

Thank you all so very very much, it helps to know what other parents have dealt with and how. Never had these kinds of issues with
the girls.

Debbie

It can happen with daughters too, Debbie...but most girls seem to figure things out faster. Burned bridges teach lessons too....glad he is safe.

I started another thread two days ago and what do you know...GONE, GONE, GONE! Will have to start all over.
As most of you know my DIL, Stacey (Fairy1004)is expecting her second child. She has had all kinds of problems with this pregnancy; 4 months of sickness, blood thinner shots 2 x's a day since 3rd month, problems with breathing and carpel tunnel in both arms so that she wears braces to bed. She has been in the highest risk category for pregnancies. But the ultra sound last Monday showed the baby is 5.5 lbs even though she is not due until Feb. 20. All Doctors seem to agree Alexandra Evelyn will arrive sometime this month. And to top it off, my son is now unemployed.

With family small and scattered, and winter snows already here I have decided to hold an

Internet Shower for Stacey on January 20

You are all invited to send cards, good wishes, small gifts like booties, bibs, etc. (I do not crochet or knit) either straight to her or to me (my address is in the exchange) and I will see she gets them. She is no longer on DG, so you can send to her e-mail address, fairy1004@gmail.com or D-mail me for her address. She is registered on Amazon Baby Registry under Stacey Combest for ideas. The baby theme is...fairies, what else!
I know that Stacey will enjoy hearing from any and all of you, she asks about you and your families.
If you have any questions, just d-mail me. Below is the quilt I made for Alexandra.

This message was edited Jan 4, 2013 12:01 PM

Thanks for the info Janice! I will get a package together and send it out!

Update on your father LK? Praying he had a comfortable night. It is extremely difficult for the caretaker to have their loved one sent home the day of the procedure. How is your sister holding up?

My son's friend who was injured in the accident on Boxing Day sat up in a chair for a few seconds twice yesterday. It was an enormous struggle but he was determined to do it. Did I tell you this young lad is a fighter? Chuckling to myself as I am sure I have many times. The wheels fell off of the wagon about 2 am this morning and he really almost cost him is life with his actions. He managed to get out of the physical restraints that had to be put on him earlier in the evening. He had ripped out several tubes by his DW ran from the room where she was sleeping in ICU and was working at pulling out his air tube. He got the vent tube far enough that the only answer was to pull it out completely. There was a huge collective holding of breath by all then he coughed and took a breath all on his own. The docs did not want to risk putting the vent tube down again and cause more injuries so he was hooked up to a Cpac. Another wee bit of positive news yesterday is there is a tiny bit of improvement in his kidney function. Nothing to wave a flag about
yet but things are moving in the right direction. He did get to see his 2 little angels yesterday which made them all happy and excited. Hopefully seeing daddy will help ease some of the girls' fears. Thank you all for your positive support.

UPS is doing a great job of ticking me off royally. I received not 1 but 3 EXCEPTION notices online. Now try and contact UPS via phone. You have to SKYPE them. I tried to call the local Kingston office and the person answering the phone was very rude and obviously not helpful at all. I have no patience left in me so will attempt to solve this problem on Monday.If I can't get help I will go to Amazon, they as the sender should be aware of the difficulties UPS is causing me.

Mary, up for a walk tomorrow? Remember to dress in layers to keep warm. Do you even have the correct clothes to wear for my temp? Don't worry I have lots of cold weather apparel.

When do you expect to be home Betty? I am so glad Patti is taking such good care of you.
BBL
Dianne

My Sister just called to tell me they will do a chemical stress test next Tuesday, and regardless of the outcome they have to try to get circulation to that leg, and foot, or the infection he has will only continue to get worse, and create more problems! So they are going to do surgery next Friday, and try to get a new artery in that leg. If he makes it through surgery, 30% chance he might, then the new artery might make the foot heal up, but there is a small chance that he may still have to have the foot removed. If they don't do surgery, then they would have to remove the leg at the groin as there is no circulation. Not a good outcome either way!

Keeping your Dad in my prayers tonight LK.

Dianne, that news I find very encouraging even with all he tried to do to himself. The fact that he is breathing on his own is a tremendous start and I will pray that all else follows suit.
I t was cold and windy here today too....

No matter what the circumstances Deb, I know the relief you had when you found him in his bed!...There is a lot to work on and as much as I hate to say this - YOU have to be firm. He has to understand that this is your and Paul's home and the rules are yours and if he doesn't want to live by them, then the door is open. I wouldn't want to see him use you by coming there when he needs to only and then being a horse's patootie the rest of the time.... But do believe me, I do understand.....I'll keep Shane in my prayers too...

♥♥♥ hugs Deb♥♥♥ and prayers here too!!!!

Been there, Debbie. If you need to talk, you know where to find me!

I haven't heard from or seen Betty today. I have a feeling that she's probably past me by now. It will depend on what time they got on the road.

Had a girls day out with Bertie today. Smash Burger, Nails, Christmas Tree Shoppe, JoAnn's and Sam's Club. Whew! Had lots of fun!

Ohhhh..almost forgot...Sending prayers and hugs LK!

This message was edited Jan 4, 2013 7:35 PM

Evening all,

I'm in Mentor, Ohio ..was a sunshine day although where we stopped for the night there is quite a bit of snow! Brrrr

Tonight we ordered in, chicken alfredo..yummy/yummy! Already bathed, am comfy under the covers, chatting with you all ..

Joyce, because I was driving with Patti and she decided to go I-71 south of Cincinatti I didn't want to take her out I'd the way.she is a great driver and again, always asking if I've taken my pain meds etc. she didn't want to take the $100 for gas nor did she want me to pay for hotel room but it's only right...

Ooops, time to eat..be back in a sec, just wanted you to know we were ok

Prayers and hugs for LK and others. Especially, too, Deb, Love you all.

I've had a really good day. My Christmas blues lifted and I worked on a craft project while continuing the seemingly endless task of getting things put away now that my storage room has shelves that will work for me. It's hard to be patient with myself but if I rush it I will wreck it. Keeping any kind of order while building/decorating is difficult.

I think my friend Barbara, who did Christmas rounds with me, was a bit startled when we got home and, as she was leaving, I was picking some cucumbers for her and I turned and shouted into space, "F...you, Dad, that's one more Christmas you didn't get to ruin." Tony and I both move carefully through the holiday season and are happy to be with others and to help bring what we can in the way of cheer but I think we both heave a sign of relief when they are over.

I tend to get a burst of energy from realizing I made it through another season sober and without ruining it for anyone else. Something that few people in my family ever managed.

I got two presents today. Some oyster nut seeds from my friend in Costa Rica and a box of stuffed toys for the kids here along with a table mat for myself. It was such a treat. I can enjoy the toys for almost a year and then take them with me next year as Santa. Thank you, Thunder.

Did errands in town today and got TWO beef livers. They are not always available so I grabbed them and a bag of bones and a box of chicken legs. The dogs are all very happy. One of the livers is cooking for our dinner.

The Jeff Probst show today was wonderful. It featured a woman who thought she had the flu, finally went to the hospital and woke up five weeks later with her hands and feet amputated. It was done to save her life from a flesh-eating disease. She was on with her husband and it was wonderful to hear their story.

If it's not too cold tomorrow I will be working in the garden. I need to get plants into pots. My gourd plants are overdue for transplanting.

I'm feeling so happy. Many, many thanks to all of you for your company during the hard times and the good ones.

hugs, katie