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

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Evening all..

Just got in, mentally exhausted

Worse

Jim as I said earlier was not aware of our visit..just called Sharon to let her know bad weather from Barrie to here but am now home safely.

Best of the day

Hadn't been to the post office in awhile..there was a package from Shirley for me..lovely Quilt Art 2014 book and the binding thingy, yep, that is what is was called. Made me cry, her thoughtfulness is beyond works..

Her computer is down right now, I will post some of her letter later as some was meant for you all. Misses us all!! I miss Tubby and our joke of the day

LindaKay the colunteercomstress at the door of hospice got me a measuring tape and helped me get measurement for the quilt .. Do have photo's and will post..remember, very simple quilt but I took a liking to it..now to find reds and greens. Lol

Rita just told me her suitcase was delivered at 4:30pm..wants me to take a trip after while to see what fabric she brought back for me

A friend of my DD who quilts told me about the Binding Thingy, says it works great and she wouldn't be without it. I looked it up and am considering getting it.

Sharon just phoned, said the nurses said it could be tonight or tomorrow
Wondering if I should leave and go back

So sorry to hear the latest about Jim. Keeping you and all your family in my heart with prayers. Betty, very interesting you should mention the quilt at hospice. The hospice where Ross was had many quilts that are used to cover the deceased as they leave the facility. I had just been given a quilt from my garden club circle at the finish of my 2 year term as President of the general club. It was ladybugs as you might guess. My dearest friend, who had been beside me through out the process, brought it so I could put it over Ross.

When I packed to move from Gainesville to this house, I thinned out several bags of fabric. I later learned that some of the fabric was used to make a quilt in Ross' memory and was donated to the hospice facility by members of the general club. I don't know about your hospice but they are always ready to take quilts here. Was a wonderful feeling know that the fabric I had given away was made into some nice quilts to bring others comfort.

Our day today was nice but tonight the bad weather is supposed to start edging into our area. Nothing, mind tell you , like you people up there are experiencing but still bad for the Floridians who really aren't used to this type. Monday and Tuesday are suppose to be the worse days here so my groceries today consisted of ingredients to make soups!!! I plan to bundle up and snuggle down!!

Again, hugs and prayers for a peaceful exit.

Marion, thanks for kind thoughts, they are so welcomed.

hospices must be similar, quilts/afghans adorn the beds and chesterfields in each room (10 units in total) then several hanging in hallways and family sitting rooms. The nurse also explained they have a quilt that goes over the body and do a ritual before leaving the facility..much like what you went through with Ross..

I want to do something special for them once this is over.

You deserve to snuggle up until the warm weather returns. Is Kim back in the classroom?

Had another surprise tonight, Darlene had snt $$ for me re Christmas gift but in Rita's suitcase was one of the outfits I wear during summer..most beatiful black,with white and silver design..I sure will look spiffy

Betty, I can only say my thoughts and heart are with you and your family at this time. Yes, hospice place must all be very similar. Several quilts were made for the facility from the bags of fabric I gave away but only one had the memory inscription attached to the back. I, personally, think it is a wonderful place to send quilts, afghans and etc.

Oh I can only imagine how spiffy you will look!!!

Sharon just emailed, Jim is restless
They said they could give him more meds but it quicken death process
Sharon asked what should she do
Asked her if Jim would want to prolong his life being as he is..doubt he would
More meds needed for pain, give it to him

Right?

Absolutely right Betty. No reason in the world for him to be in pain at this time. Hugs to you, if you decide to go now, please be careful travelling.

Betty, that was the decision we did for mom. More meds to help rest, and take away pain.
He deserves to be at peace, you are all doing the right things.

Thanks

Storming , will stay home

Trying hard to fight the meds so I can converse re iPad with Sharon

Can't be there in body but there in spirit

So glad you've been here to gab, even more so having gone through it..yep did same with Roger

If I had it to do over again, Betty I wouldn't change a thing. Her comfort was much more
important to me. AND it made her passing peaceful and pain free.

Sending hugs,
Debbie

Mornimg all

Been a long night, Sharon sat and held his hand..we talked good part of the night, she is exhausted..her vigil is coming to an end. Mike and SIL Kim are heading to Bethel House..Sharon is dreading mom arriving this a.m.

I am not sure as much as I want to be there that I will brave the storm

We are here Betty. And sending our love to you and your family. I certainly agree with all before me. You and Sharon have done the right thing.
I was so pleased to read your description of the quilts there at hospice. I need a change from children's projects for a while and this may be what I need too...

I just got up, having a coffee and will post photo

Will sit and do a graph this morning to occupy myself then will be in search of red and few fat quarters of green

I'm looking forward to it.....
I hope you were able to get some rest last night. Although I imagine it was a comfort to Sharon to have you available... Is it still storming there? We are due to have it come in tonight. Rain, then freezing rain, then rain , then freezing again. And Norm has to drive to southern Mass tomorrow. Wish it were April!!!!

Jewel passed away ..
she fought hard against cancer, but, it won :-(

Going over to the house to see if Ted needs anything, we go right by on the way to the gym.

Prayers and thoughts with you Betty .. funny thing, I feel better as I know Jewel is no longer suffering ..

Toodles

~M~

Oh "M" - I'm so sorry. But you all did all you could for her and it is a relief to know there is no more pain. God bless you as it is not easy to lose a furry member of the family...

So Sorry M, hugs to you and her family.

Morning everyone! Betty, I agree with everyone else, give Jim the meds he needs to be pain free.

M, so sorry to hear about Jewel passing, Sending prayers of comfort for the family.

Jean, thanks for posting the link for Betty. How are you doing?

This message was edited Jan 5, 2014 8:59 AM

Condolences "M", thank goodness Jewel is now pain free! Her husband I'm sure will need your support and kind words.

just got off the phone with mom, Sharon called her telling her perhaps she might want to stay home today knowing mom did not want to be there when he dies (I'm angry about that but maybe many feel the same in same situation) I personally think she will regret it
gabbed 1/2 hr.

If it were not for the storm here and there I would go keep vigil with her but weather hasn't cooperated all through this..

didn't sleep last night, Sharon and I kept messaging back and forth

going to call the hospice in a bit

Shirley's note

I think of you so often. I haven't been on Daves Garden because my computer has some serious problems, until I get a new one this will have to do.

Please tell all the good people on DG happy holidays for me.

The calendar book has a quilt that one of our gals that belongs to our guild made and won many awards on. The picture is the second week of Decembers. She signed her name by it. I thought you would all enjoy.

The temps have been extremely low for this time of year with strong winds..oh well, could be a lot worse.


Will be staying home for the holidays.

My sis from St Joe MO came in November and stayed 10 days. It was nice to have that time together.

I am making a quilt for my daughter, slow process and it has to fit a king size bed so will take some time. I am doing it in browns and country blues.

Just wanted to let you know I think of you often

Take care and God Bless

Shirley


quilt she is speaking of is in the photo

my lovely gifts

Good Morning.

Some better Linda Kay, thanks. Slowly but surely the voice is coming back and the congestion and cough are becoming less troublesome. Still doing the 2 finger typing, but I have tried to read and keep up.

Sending my deepest sympathies to you M, and to Ted and the rest of Jewel's family.

Betty, I must agree. Why should Jim spend his final days in pain? Sending you all the good thoughts and prayers I can muster, along with Hugs and best wishes for the strength and calm you will need.

Susan, good thoughts for your Mom, and the sincere prayer that 2014 will be a much kinder year for you and Bob.

Here is hoping that 2014 will bring us all more joy than sadness, good health, prosperity and the means to live a happy life with fewer trials.

Jean

more fabric for my stash .. Rita thought I needed something to work on the next few months lol

Joyce's tree skirt, ready to post next time I'm across the border

thank you Jean
Sure have missed you.
With each day I pray you will see more improvement..long road to recovery but recovery it will be!

Jean so very, very good to see you posting. I have thought about you often but have been so remiss or maybe wrapped up in my own small world these past few months. Take care and hopefully 2014 will have you posting more.

Love the picture of the wonky trees quilt. Betty, I am still angry with the nursing home that they didn't call hospice nor us when mom took a change for the end. I didn't want her to be alone but alas it wasn't to be. Sending hugs and prayers for Jim to be free of pain and a peaceful passing.

M, so sorry to hear your friend, Jewel, passed. Sending hugs and prayers your way also.

Has anyone been in touch with Dianne lately? I worry about her.

Well need to run pick up a few items at the grocery store before we settle in for the next couple of days. Rains are to start (well said to start) this afternoon and it is supposed to be rather nasty. I know nothing like you guys are having but for Florida.....

Guess sometimes death comes rather quickly! Not even expected by nursing staff
I'm sure your mom passed knowing how much you loved her!

I called mom at Sharon's, no answer, emailed Kim, mom,just arrived at the hospital..I will be in someone's bad books for that


Been snowing since last night anf predicted to be terrible over next few days.

"M" So very sorry to hear of Jewels passing, it is hard to say she is pain free when your heart hurts so much and missing her. Thoughts and prayers.

With you and Sharon also Betty, your Mom is a different type person than you and Sharon, so if what she wants....let her be. She will make more difficult for all of you and Jim.

*** Dianne should be hearing some news tomorrow regarding her internet provider and computer. HOWEVER another storm moving in tonight, so might be delayed. She is doing well otherwise, feels isolated without "us".

Debbie

Debbie, thanks for posting about Dianne. Please be safe and warm!!!

Betty, in our case, we knew she was failing and the nurse that called us did say at the 11 pm nursing change, the prior nurse told her to watch as she was slipping fast. They still didn't call hospice or us....2 hours later she was gone. This was just another example of the lack of care and concern that seems to have taken over the staff at that facility. Just poor staffing and management.

So hope all goes well with your mom being there. Praying for all.

Big sigh..guess we are lucky with Bethel house

Mike said mom said when she took his hand he squeezed it and raised his eyebrow as if to speak..wether he dod or did not she believes he did and that will give her more comfort.

Mike says he is comatose, mouth open and stares t ceiling

Betty that is a beautiful tree quilt. Hope you find the red fabric your looking for.
Love the quilt Shirley is making also. That book looks like there will be lots of projects to keep you busy.

Quilt was made from a gal in her group

Every week of the year for 2014 has a calendar displayed ..gorgeous piecesd

Rita is laying down, one kitty on lazy boy, one next to me, all sleeping..think I might take a snooze as well

Thanks for all your condolences ..
Betty .. make sure you give your Mom 'time alone' with Jim after he passes. It's something we always did on Hospice, as, it allows the remaining spouse private time to say good bye. Hearing is the last sense to g ..
Ted said he was quite touched when the nurse asked everyone but him to leave after Jewel passed .. he spent 15 minutes with her, and then her 2 brothers came in and had their time with her as well.
I'm kickin myself in the butt here for not taking a pic of 2 of the 'bed quilts' in Jewel's room .. just beautiful pieces, made from the heart by a church group and donated.
Well, I know I'll be back there again .. soooooo ..

Good to hear everyone is dealing with the inclement weather .. it's -40 here with the wind chill, couldn't believe we were swimming and watching the snow blow outside ..
The dogs are sure missing their walks.

Best be off, still trying to put away Xmas !

Toodles

~M~

Live is just so darned interesting sometimes!
When I spoke with Jewel's DH earlier today, things were kinda in a state of organized confusion .. I brought Timmies muffins and coffee
I stayed just long enough to give hugs and express condolences.
NOW, the family have asked ME to do the eulogy !!!
However, I am thinking Jewel's best friend and nursing bud (same class) should do it.
Will call Chuckie and see what she says ..

BRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

~M~

I am never good with words at times like this. Just know I hurt for you. sending Extra love and hugs for Betty and Sharon, "M" and friend Ted.

nice poem M.

Betty that tree quilt is gorgeous, can see why you like it so. I dream of being able to do a quilt like the one on the cover of that book. some of them are around $100.00 just for the patterns, including papers for piecing. they sure are pretty.

Debbie, big hugs to you too. exciting to know you are going to have a grand son!! Hows the Momma feeling? Sorry you are having issues with the child. seems as though that never ends with some of them. I have one too, just when ya think they are doing ok.....bam!! something hits.....

so nice to hear from Shirley :)

Just took my last half pain pill. Sure hope the refill arrives safely and soon. I fell asleep - or passed out - during tow movies that I wanted to watch last night. Pain won.

Neighbors had a yard sale today. It was a major success. I set up at my house and sold some t-shirts. Made enough to make it worthwhile, I think, But shut down and went to sleep after three hours

.Today A lot of it was a good tired. I was worn out from seeing so many people that I know and like. And vice vers. Got lots of hugs.

Sorry about the difficulties for Betty and Marilynne. Wish I could do more but I send good thoughts and prayers.

Trying to distract myself by playing poker but it's not working very well.

I did get the dogs fed and tehy will tell you that is all that's really important.

hugs, katie

Heading to bed..today has about done me in..

Sharon went home seeing as mom came, she felt mom had said she couldn't take it being there when he passed and she Sharon would be there 24/7..some feathers got ruffled

Been calling mom every hour, switchboard closes at 9 so can't cann anymore

Earlier when I called she was being so brave and calm, told her I was proud of her

Called an hour later and she couldn't stop crying..in very poor taste someone called mom's, Brian lives with she and Jim, said someone called wanting to look at the cootage, might be interested in buying it
So what does this idiot do, I'm sure thinking he was doing a good thing is call mom and tell her

The very last thing she wants to think about is the sale of the cottage right now..

Bad coming out of many, guess its the stress of losing someone we all love..am sure I m included in that statement

Katie, glad you enjoyed your day, tiring but fun filled..nice when you get to sit and chat with neighbors. Are you winning at poker?? Bet you just wanted to spend your hard earned dollars you made today?

Thunder, will have to go back amd look at the quilt on the cover..think the most I've ever paid for a pattern was about $50.. Have it set aside, not likely I will ever make it..will post a few other photo's of quilts within the calendar book

"M" that is indeed an honor..perhaps her very best friend isn't up to it but would help you with the eulogy.
Still snowing

M - condolences to the family re: Jewel passing......... I know she's pain free.
Betty - Jim will be with his Lord soon..... what a blessing it will be for him.

I got a lovely present tonight.... friends of ours are paying for my return flight to Winnipeg, so I can see my mom in the hospital!!! What lovely friends I have.......
at 94, and weakened enough she's not eating - on IV and oxygen - and only 84 lbs....... I really want to see her!!!

Marilyn, I think it's wonderful that you came back into Jewel's life right here at the end. I'm sure you gave her much comfort as well as Ted. (((((Marilyn)))))

Oh Betty! The tree skirt is beautiful! I love it!

(((((Betty))))) I'm wishing I could be there to give you moral support. This is such a hard time, the waiting. Prayers going out to all of you.

Susan, so happy you will get to visit your Mum. Have a safe trip.

I'm going to try for a Tuesday flight - and come back on the 14th.
I have to pick the funds up first, of course, then cash the cheque.