Best/worse thing &what did you learn today? Pt.16-friends...

morning all,

shar, hope your having a good time visiting

judy, omg i couldnt post last night you made me giggle most of the night with jude o lantern
but in all good humor i hope its not to painful for you maby they can make you a bridge oh you poor thing, i bet you were relieved to drive around in your new van now did you go all over town from the excitement.
laura, hope you hear something soon on your new job, and how was the counsling,
is the weather there warm yet, we had two days of warm but the mornings are sure cold

betty,
well sounds like your shopping was good i admire anyone that can pick out outfits in a hour and a half, and im feeling better still have congestion but i guess it will take a little time to subside and i will have to work like a dog this weekend being sick put me behind on outdoor decorations:(
new girls how nice oh the halloween his rotisery is a for turkey so theres lots of room at the bottom dont know if you have them there but its called halloween superstore he got the head there and the flame is a electric flaming cauldron pot there cool its three lights and some material cut out like flames and it has a blower so when you plug it in at night it looks like a fire then we found the blood on a roll its jelly like and comes on a strip so that was on the frount of the pot then we found a menu and put it below i'll take a pic of it.
so the last two days i had to drive in to the other store its ok cause i'll get reinbursed for 122 miles but my boss oh she killed me i took dh long bed truck i can drive the truck but omg parking well thats another story i had her in tears yesterday when we went to in and out burgers i found the stall next to a lawn so i only had to deal with one car well two trucks parked behind me... with several choice words and backing up 6 times holding up traffic she's hysterical laughing i looked at her and said whats wrong with you she said that was the best one yet earlier when i picked her up she just had to have a doughnut so she says ITS THERE LEFT i looked at her after i passed it and said on the road dare me so i put it in reverse and went in she shook her head and said omg dont tell kenny your backing up on the road then when we parked i hit the meridian with the tire we looked at each other i said who's the idiot that put that there... i think i need a back up sensor to tell me when im to close and remember those things on the older cars that were on the wheels to let you know your near the curb i need those to glad im driving a normal car today lol .
best: no more going to that store to help out
worst: having a issue with the assembly of my tin man pumpkin hopefully can fix it tonight
learned: nothing for yesterday

everyone have a great day liz

hi vicki,

lol we crossed posts, i'll have more pics this weekend what is it about craft rooms lol i have a junk room to and the worst part is that everything has a home just cant get motivated maby when it starts to rain good luck on yours.
today is order day we get three pallets of merchandise every week its been busy at work i guess lots of people want there hair done

laura, i missed that oh im so sorry for leopold, but i know it was done in his best interest
hopefully you can go visit.

ok betty here is the sign in frount of the rotisery head

Liz love the sign.

I would love to get 3 pallets of merchandise.. Yesterday it was 582 boxes and 27 repacks. I will have to take my camera to work so you can see the mess. We don't have shelves to stack anything on. The Christmas merchandise is piling in and we aren't ready to put most of it out yet. I was tossing boxes way up because nowhere else to stack them. The truck driver was pretty good at unloading but everyonce in a whle a case would fall off and we had a gallon of Sunny D fall and the lid popped off. Had to stop and clean up that mess. All in all a fun day. I feel sorry for whoever has to restack all those boxes and make more sense out of them. We do get alot of the regular merchandise put out the same day if we get the truck early enough. It is a different world from what I am use to!

i hate repack boxes usually consists of one of this two of that takes forever to check in makes you jump all over the packing list lol i wouldnt mind cleanning up a spill of sunny d try perm solution yuck stinks out the whole place lol

Morning all, it's only 50 out this morning..never sure how to dress anymore..I'm always chilled so have micro furnace on in the office..so comfy in bed, hated to get up...now why can't I be that comfy on a weekend morning..can never understand that...

Laura...OMG, how sad you must be..poor Leopold..along witht he others I am hoping that you can at least visit him...bet she'll love him to death! Very brave thing for you to do...but then that's what is called 'true love' when you put your own needs secondary..and that's what you did for 'Leopold'... How did your appointment go..it was yesterday was it not? Keep going, am sure your talks will be of value...

Judy, you are a card...can't imagine all of us getting together...surely would be a comedy in action...

Vicki, I'm like you..if I make a 'to do' list I work twice as hard because I just like crossing the items off..lol..maybe now that the craft room is clean you will want to spend more time in it...mine was in good order, then everyone came last night, took out all the pattern boxes, binders etc. no time to clean it up..this morning it looked like a tropical storm had passed through...then Diane (girlfriend I go painting with) dropped in and brought 2 big boxes of wood pieces and gourds as she thought that some of the girls might want to do projects with them..so now her shelves are clean, mine are overloaded...lol...nice friend...can really tell fall is here..I leave for work in the dark and get home in the dark..so you are right, day goes by to quickly...

Liz..can't compete with Halloween decorations but maybe will match you with Christmas ones..lol...actually in the wood pieces Diane brought were 3 Halloween pieces..one is a witch table where she's holding the top (for treats) in her hands...too much on my plate I think to try and finish these projects..unless of course I want to give up sleeping....thanks for the info on the rotisery..don't think we have that type of shop...will check on internet today...love the sign..so creative...sitting here laughing at your truck experience...being able to laugh certainly makes to job more enjoyable and the day go by......will go back in the next week or so and pick up a few more outfits..they are so comfy..surely you can't have that much more halloween stuff to put out...there is a young man in our area who started a 'haunted house' has it in his barn..so professional..walk through a maze and there is about 30 little rooms you walk through..you just know that some of the creatures are animated, some are real and you don't quite know which it which..as you are going through the maze, it's so dark, foggy,eerie and all of a sudden a creature is chasing you with axe or chainsaw...very well done..a few times I've laughed so hard I've even pee'd my pants..so enjoyable...it's $10.00 to get in and a food item for the under priveledged...
as for my shopping, ezzewear is a clothing line that has co-ordinating clothing and mix and match..find a color and they get you the correct sizes

Boss will not be in till 11am and his next appt. 3pm so I think when the client who is in with Suzanne leaves in a few minutes that I'll take my painting out..as Vicki said, a good kick in the rump will do the trick....so enjoyed your posts...

Vicki that sounds like mass confusion...you must be tired at night after all the manual labour you do? double the work..handling it twice...

We need a bigger stock room and more square and not long and narrow! We could of done several things lots better if we had had a say in the design and setup. But the company has full control over how everything is done. And things are handled lots more then twice! I think part of it is busy work so that we really earn the piddly wages they pay for the work! Out in the store it is move this here move that there. Every month. I understand why they do that because you move something to a different spot and it will sell.

But it is a southern based company and things are different up here. Not alot but enough to notice. Even the customers will comment on that. So yes somedays it is pretty interesting and some pretty frustrating!

Popping in to say Hi again.
Liz..love the 'Dinner Menu"
I am thinking of making stuffed Harvest fella..you know..wearing old overalls and boots pumpkin for the head..straw hat on..and sitting him in my wicker rocker on the front lawn.
It is fallsih here..and the trees are truning red.
This is my Amur Maple in the Secret Garden.
The apple trees are loaded..had two friends come and pick yesterday..seven bags betrween the two of them.
I made some apple crisp yesterday that was delicious and easy..and of course put whipped cream on top.

I enjoy all your posts
.
have a great day.

Cheers,
Carol

Seven bags Carol..wow..going to the big Applefest Harvest in Meaford this weekend..great craft show, well anyway..that's where I'll pick up a few bushels..some for eating and some for thanksgiving pies...love your Maple...I have one as well, not sure of it's name but has deep/deep maroon leaves..I did plant about 4 shrubs, burning bushes that are suppose to turn color but no so far...newscaster said that we are about 30% color right now so still more to go...you've made me hungry Carol..apple crips/whip cream..yum/yum

Vicki you work later in the day???

Pretty much 2:30 -8:30 at night. Wed. is a float day because of truck.
3 days a week. That's why I should get more done at home. But I am lazy at heart! LOL

Enjoy the apple fest. We have our own trees and I peel tons for the freezer and DH has plenty for the deer. I give away some also. If we spryed they'd be so much nicer. But it always seems to be windy when we should spray.

Maybe I should plant a few trees...have 2 flowering crabs planted for their beauty but not sure I'd know how to look after orchard apple trees...

OK everyone...getting to be a Christmas fanatic..so here goes..giving you a lot of time to become a 'Christmas Angel' with all our schedules some of us can't leave it till the end...I'm going to post it on my refrigerator as a to do and hope I can cross them all off..if nothing else I'll be prepared and will better understand the true meaning of Christmas....after this weekend I should have one task completed...each and every year I purchase a special tree ornament in memory of my DH..on Christmas eve when we all get together, the grandchildren who never knew their grandfather put it in the tree..Meaford has lovely christmas shops so I'm hoping to find it then...

~How to Be a Christmas Angel~

Polish your halo with a secret good deed.
Find a bright star in the sky and name it
after someone you've loved and lost.
Deliver Christmas food baskets in person to needy families.
Do something for someone else every day in December.
Bake gingerbread snowmen for a nearby kindergarten class.
Spend a day at a nursing home, visiting those who are alone.
Offer your arm to elderly neighbors caught in the holiday rush.
Offer to help decorate your church for the holidays.
Hold doors open for everyone.
Give a pair of gloves to someone in this season of warmth.
Be as generous with time and money as you can this Christmas.
Reflect on how God has blessed you and those you love.
Give the gift of hope to all you meet.
Adopt a needy family and make it a Christmas to remember.
Apologize to anyone you wronged during the year.
Feed the birds and enjoy their song of thanks.
Read one book during the holidays that affirms your faith.
Ask a nursing home if you can be a 'buddy' to a lonely senior.
Teach your children pride in their ancestors' holiday customs.
Watch fewer games on TV during the holidays
And play more with your kids.
Try to do better between now and next Christmas.
Count your blessings.
Sing your heart out.
Make a joyful noise.
Go home for the holidays if you can.
Give the gift of "I Love You" this Christmas
To someone who hasn't heard it enough.
Practice kindness to all.
Don't be a Scrooge.
Send cards signed "Love, Santa"
To nursing home resident who don't get much mail.
Run errands for an elderly person who has trouble getting around.
Give thanks.
Believe in what you cannot see.
Bring tidings of comfort and joy to all you meet.
Share stories with your kids of favorite
Christmas mornings when you were a child.
Share your Christmas meal.
Let good cheer begin with you.
Do your best to give others a very merry Christmas.
Look for miracles in every child's eyes.
Give the gift of giving.
Give more than you take.
Write a Christmas letter to the one person
Who made you believe in yourself.
Toss all your regrets and "Bah Humbugs" away.
Put visions of sugarplums in a child.
Strengthen family ties.
Wear red a lot.
Take a homebound neighbor to see the holiday lights.
Wear one red and one green sock,
just to bring a smile to someone's face.
Point out to others the beauty of Christmas.
Lift someone's spirits.
Give a Scrooge a reason to believe in Christmas.
Keep spirits bright around you.
Take an elderly neighbor Christmas shopping and out to lunch.
Let nothing you dismay.
Hang an ornament on your tree to honor a loved one who passed away.
Give a gift to those who make your life run smoothly.
Don't forget to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
Keep a list of ways to make the holidays brighter and check off one a
day.
Buy a cup of coffee for someone working out in the cold.
Listen closely when people share their Christmas memories.
Give from your heart.
Spread Christmas joy everywhere you go.
Learn to say "Merry Christmas" in different languages.
Prove to a child that Santa is real.
Forgive someone's debt this Christmas.
Help a child mail a letter to Santa.
Listen to Christmas bells, and remember how angels get their wings.
Ask Santa what he wants when you sit on his lap.
Bring a basket of Christmas cheer to your local fire and police
station.
Surprise your kids by waking up before they do on Christmas.
Be the first to wish "Merry Christmas" to all you meet.
Practice forgiveness this holiday season until you get it right.
Help rekindle someone's faith in Christmas.
Hug someone who has the Christmas blues.
Discover the true pleasure of giving anonymously.
If friends are alone for the holidays, invite them to join you.
Be good for goodness sake.
Listen to the prayers of children.
Be someone's secret Santa.
Count your blessings and don't stop until you reach one hundred.
Thank those who make you realize you have a wonderful life.
Be a friend who listens in this season of fragile emotions.
Keep the fantasy alive for a child.
Bring joy to someone's world.
Let the memories of those you loved and lost live on.
Be merry and bright.
Make someone's Christmas the best ever.
You are Christmas Angel

Hi everyone,

LOL Liz you are the Dare lady of thread! How funny. I love the Recipe!

Nice Christmas list Betty...Once you get the crafting group going you'll simply have a ball, will be nice one the office is closer to home with extra minutes + to yourself.

Carol, Oh my your apple tart made me hungry...I love love baked apples.
Your Maple tree is beautiful!

Wonder, sorry to hear about your pup. Any chance of visitation(s)?

Well, I have to say I am really loving the new ride. The kids too. Took younger D Dress shopping...Time: 3.5 hours, whew exhausting...but found a very pretty black semi formal dress. She looks elegant, and...very grown up(tear in the eye)
...LOL what fun teaching her how to put pantyhose on--ROTFL
Modeled for the family last night- oh gosh thought dad was going to drop. He is having a difficult time realizing his baby girl is growing up. Big sister going to the dance too so won't worry too much, she was too cute too. Told us not to worry she will keep a strick eye on "The Boy"....

My world is busy and quiet today...maybe I can finish early and leave.

Hope your having a fun day.
Judy

Hi everyone. Well, the past few days have been just peachy (I'm dripping w/ sarcasm there!)

So on Tuesday, my work laptop decided to die. It couldn't wait 3 more weeks until my employment is over. It had to die NOW! Anyway, I called it in to our help desk and was told I would need to bring it in and they would look at it. Well, I couldn't do that cause we took our van in for routine inspection, so my DH had the truck. I tried to use my Blackberry which was not easy!!

So later in the day, the garage called to let us know about the van. You can start laughing now cause that's the only way I made it through the phone call! They told me that the ABS "modulator" was going bad and it we wanted the "anti-lock" brakes to work it would need to be replaced for a cost of about $550. But wait! he wasn't done! The van needed 2 new back tires in order to pass inspection. They were $86 each. On top of all of that, we had the oil changed. Cha-ching!

So this morning, I took my DH to work, drove out to my work and dropped off my laptop to be fixed. Also found out that my company has done another lay off - about 380 peeps this time. So, there go my chances of getting another position with them!! AGH!!!!! (but I'm still laughing!) So after dropping off my laptop, I decided to stop by the garden center I absolutely love which is literally right around the corner from my house. They had an ad in the paper Sun for a Nursery Supervisor plus a Greenhouse Buyer so I filled out an app. Of course, while I was there, I had to spend some money so I bought 2 gorgeous mums and some Johnny-Jump-Ups; came home, planted one of the mums and a couple of the violas in my whiskey barrell & cut down all my dried up perennials. I had to go back and get my DH at 12:30 because he had a mtg out at my campus at 1:00 (I told you we both work at the same comp., right?) Anyway, while I was showering, the garage called and saaid the van was ready so I flew out the door, picked my DH up, stopped at the garage where I picked up the van (and DH went onto his mtg). So I paid for the van ($982), then had to get gas cause I was riding on fumes; drove out to work and picked up my laptop; came home and collapsed on the couch! So as I type this, I am chuckling thinking - about the bucks we have shelled out and my job situation (or lack there of!). My DH is feeling the stress a little more then me so I worry about him. I'm trying to make him laugh about it. He asked me last night if I ever thought about just selling the house and moving to Alaska and starting all over. HA! I told him, if my parents were not still alive, I would consider it but since I have both and they are only an hour away, I cannot leave them. But it's good to dream! We need to start playing the lottery!!

So that's been my day(s).

Wow Jeannine...you have to laugh or start crying..you are on the right road..it's hard though...maybe we should all start a commune in Alaska..lol...something will come up..will add a few prayers for good measure...let's hope you hear something from the nursery..might be less $$$$ but might carry you over for awhile..now that's a lot of people for one company to lay-off! Don't you just feel lost without the computer??? couldn't get on the other day and was panicking...

Judy, a little black dress..every woman should have one..right? How cute..isn't it an exciting time in her life...dad had better get used to it...won't be that many more years and you and DH will be empty nesters..comes a lot sooner than you think...

Hope you get to go home early...Paul has been in meetings all day..just went upstairs for another meeting..too bad, was hoping he'd come in and give us tomorrow off..it's ok though, next weekend is our Thanksgiving..will try to con him into adding Friday that way it will be a 4 day weekend....

Spoke the Greg (eldest son) this morning and he said his wife was going to Meaford with mom and sister on Sat. so said he'd drop in and keep me company..as if..told him quickly that he won't have his mom either because she's heading out with friends to same location..lol...

hello,
no chance of visits unfortunatly.

Oh dear, i cant stop crying and im just really down right now. sorry gang, i always seems to be the bearer of bad news and cloudy skies dont i?
Im usually moe fun! lol
its been a difficult year....
my days are filled with stress and my nights filled with nightmares. today is dark and stormy. its really gusty out there and brooding, guess thats not helping.
I went to the psycologist and she is lovely. can only have 4 visits tho as work pays for it and thats all they allow, she is only working for them so if i need more i have to get referred elsewhere and pay $100 per session!! can you believe it?

I need some distractions so betty, can you please send me a list of what i need to do and to buy to makesome stained glass? Now there is no need to send it all, you have been more than kind to me. I have my folk art which i try to pick up from time to time but a change would be good. I have finished my xmas gifts for you all and will be sending shortly bit by bit. so its time for something else, too much time to think is not good.
My DH will get the glass for me (I need to know thickness) and i have a glass cutter. tell me what type of soldering iron i need. i need to look for a supplier but not sure what to ask for....i need to do something.

i try not to burden you all, your all so up beat and I am the opposite at the moment. so sorry guys but if i didnt tell you, I would have no one, you really understand and i need you right now. hope thats ok. Man! cant stop crying! this is silly!
You remeber the fall I had, well, things havnt been as good as i let on. I have been in pain ever since and cant walk properly. I know i should have said something but i just feel bad about being 'negative nelly!'. I think my hip may be out of wack and i an in constant pain.when i had xrays it showed collapsed disks and arthritis throughout my body. it just seems that since the fall, its getting worse. will go to the doctor and have a chat about that and arrange the referral i need.
sigh................. so there you have it.....

On an up note, there are worse things and i will try and dwell on the good things so as not to slide to deep.

Thanks for listening.... hahaha captive audience!

I am married to a man that gets "down" when the weather turns dark and stormy, and I have never understood it. Have you ever watched a herd of horses as the weather changes, how they get excited and kick up their heels and run for joy? That is always how I feel when a storm moves in. It is the opposite for DH and I know you can't change your feelings but maybe it would help to think about a beautiful herd of horses in your imagination, running with their tails and manes flying and kicking up their heels for jsheer joy! I am sorry to hear about your fall and that you aren't quite over it, yet. We take longer to heal as we get older but never give up hope!

Wow laura that is pretty wretched. Don't apologize. I advise you to get Glucosamine/chondroitin suppliments, mineral suppliments and try getting codliver oil gel caps for the lubricating of your arthritic joints, it may help. The rainy days are going to be Hell. Poor thing. Make the windows, it will help you to have something pretty and will fill you with needed endorphins. Hugs.

Betty I don't know how you are so positive and remain so busy?

Best today is the weather and we got part of the house primer on the house.

worst, not much bad today except I feel real tired. Oh I lied, Greg got this spare frig out of my kitchen after 3 years. My kitchen looks huge now.

This message was edited Sep 27, 2007 3:33 PM

I know that alot of people too much melatonin production when it is dark and endorphins get lowered when Seratonin is altered too with the darkness, which helps balance mood. Some people need light physically to balance all that.

What has really helped my husband is that I installed metal halide lights in the house...and while it took a little while for him to get used to the bright light, he doesn't get quite as down in the winter. They're great for plants, too. I replaced the lights at my desk with full spectum, too.

Wow, go shopping, come in and what do we have here...

Laura, first of all, you know I care and I've tried to be a good friend, you've upset me sweetie, there is no such thing as 'nagging' ...you tell it like it is..when one is down, we're up, when we're down you will be up..we are here to support each other...no more leaving 1/2 the story off the thread...if anyone does not wish to hear the 'down' days of others, than that day perhaps they could read other threads for the day...you've had more than your share this past year....so, want to know everything...

Now listen you guys, don't for one minute think I've not had my share of ups/downs...many deaths in my family over past 5 years..all the most important people in my life! Very tragic...

Back a few months ago we were telling our stories...I then stopped and there was a good reason for my doing so..wasn't something I wanted to share..but I will tonight (must be tired and my guard is down) just so you all know how important strangers/friends etc are and maybe you'll understand me a little better...so Laura, I will join you tonight with a few tears, happy and sad!! I will make the story short and sweet, but you will get the drift...

When Roger died and thought I wouldn't live let alone find happiness...2 years went by where my life consisted of work/work/work and finishing projects that I thought that if I could complete them then that meant Roger would not have died in vain..so I build over the water the most beautiful craft room imaginable..all windows overlooking river and the bay...got the kids through college/university, I was so sad..don't think a pretty young woman of 43 doesn't get offers...she does..too many to mention and what a shock,a lot of married men, friends husbands etc. but, I kept mourning the loss of my DH and would ask them to visit and bring along their wives and yes I was lonely and their wife surely would be company for me...none came...surprise/surprise

As recreation Co-ordinator I had many dealings with a contractor, wonderful man, Roger thought the world of him..owned his own company..shop on the water, well respected...my goodness two weeks before Christmas one year we were at a party, Bill asked what I was doing for Christmas and I said nothing as did he, before the evening was over we decided that as FRIENDS we would shock everyone and go to Florida for 3 weeks..imagine, spur of the moment decision...my boys were in their early 20's and his son 19 and daughter 20..they all thought this was the best thing since sliced bread as did all our friends..he had divorced his wife and both children no longer spoke to their mother..the girl was certainly a daddy's girl..well, from that trip on we both thought we had found life partners...I absolutely adored him..often laughed, because I spoilt Roger..when Bill and I got together he was so independent but within 1 year he was same of Roger..couldn't (or wouldn't lol) do anything for himself...said it wasn't the guys it was me..had an obsession to wait on them hand and foot..my grandmother that raised me had done the same..it was natural for me and I loved it... when we got together Bill wasdivorced but needed to close the up the financial part ..he did and gave her just shy of $30,000 a total of 3/4 of a million dollars (home on the water and $$$)...at same time he always wanted to own a farm,so he purchased 120 acres with an old/old home, rented it out until the time would come that we would move in...a few years later I sold my property on the water..gave the boys some $$$ and spent the remainder on the farmhouse..my goodness is was a dollhourse..so adorable...Bill being a road engineer, made roads throughout the property, and to make up for my leaving the water he dug a pond about 2 acres in size..then purchased golf cart for me, trailer and set it on the site so I had my own 'heaven' to go to..we called it "Camp David" a retreat... another 6 years went by..spent winters in Florida..bought r.v. did some travelling but things were changing..his daughter who had 2 children from same father, who fought like cats/dogs, who never worked and daddy paid for everything talked daddy into separating the property and building her a home...I had suggested that he purchase a home in town for her...but he thought it would be best and guaranteed that it would not interfere with our lives...Now for act 2..his ex-wife sued for an accident she had -was traumatized and she couldn't drive for 3 years..spent a lot of time with daughter/son..but the month after she received 850K her fear of driving left and she purchased brand new car...,remember now she had the money and property Bill had given her..then up near her home the construction firm was putting in new roads and they blasted, she sued the construction firm for loss of hearing..and won..(great lawyer) another 250K...so, now Bill has built this girl a new home but that's the end of money for her from him, so now MOM becomes her very best friend...mom now is flush with the money with daughter/grandaughter and grandchildren..I was their only grandmother for 8 years..but now, I'm the scum of the earth..trouble/trouble/trouble...I'm going to keep this short because I could write a book but I'll refrain...

Bill had also gifted me with a studio on acreage behind his newly built construction shop/barn he built when he sold his construction site on the water.....we had chickens/20 goats (pets) life was beautiful...people would always comment on how they never saw two people more suited, never without a smile...if ever there was soul mates...we were them...

So now the grandson is about 11..he's taking what we called the 'goat mobile' because Bill would ride these goats around to entertain the kids (pun) grandchildren mine and his ....this young boy would take the vehicle and ride 80 mph in the back roads on our property..the grandaughter would be screaming..so dangerous..dirtbiking through the flower beds...trouble with police /fighting/stealing etc. it got to the point that when I'd try and reprimand the children I'd be told, you are not my grandmother, my grandmother says I don't have to listen to you, push me, tell me to f......off....this from the grandson and of course the grandaughter whom the sun shined on for me...things got so unbearable...when they would visit, butter wouldn't melt in their mouth, the minute Bill would leave it was a different story.. I was truly mistreated...I finally broke and told Bill what was going on..he felt I was too old fashioned and that these children had a bad break in life and I MUST not reprimand them because his daughter felt if I did they would no longer be able to come to visit..blackmail...anyway, at my lowest, we decided to take the RV and go for 3 weeks down East..what a wonderful trip..got back Sunday aft. got myself organized for my classes Monday morning, Bill spent the evening with his daughter and the children..now when he came home I showed him the damage they had done to much of my equipment...said it would be replaced not to worry...next morning he left for work, I taught my class of 10, had a wonderful morning, kids took their motorcycles, kept racing around the studio for 2 hrs...was asked to stop..called the mom who was home, she came over told me it was her dad's property and it would be best if I left...within an hour daddy was home, head hung low, said that he had to think of his daughter and grandchildren, now this is while the ex and his children and my students look on, and ask me to leave the property...would not hear what had transpired...I was in total shock...could not comprehend what had happened...my world fell apart...wow....students tried to tell Bill what they had seen over the past months but he wouldn't listen..said his support MUST lie with his family...they needed him now...

Went into the house packed less than a dufflebag and with less than $50.00 in my purse I left my home....much of the next 2 weeks were a blurr..stayed at my sisters, boys came and were in shock..my grandchildren always called me 'grandma Bill' which was cute..now they couldn't understand why I hurt so bad when the words were said...my mom had a cottage and so I spent another 2 weeks there...a girlfriend said the following: "Betty, they've tried to break you for a few years now, if you sit and do nothing, they've won- you are better and stronger than that.." the next day I spoke with Jeff who told me to go out and find myself a house..he'd do the downpayment and I could with my pensions support myself...so within that month I had a house to move into, one that nobody could ever ask me to leave...it was a house on a very large double lot..it was one of the first prefabs they had done..had basement with private entrance-3 bedrooms upstairs..in terrible shape..but that was ok because I knew I could make it my home..I asked for Greg's opinion and he said ' oh mom, no' find yourself an apartment..too much work for you'....asked Jeff his opinion and he said, I have non mom it's whatever you want to do..but then, he had not seen the place I had bought...so now, it's moving day..friends went to the farm and got a lot of my stuff but much he would not allow me to have...I had purchased a few months before (put in both names a new 4X4) but I did the payments that was part of my contribution to monthly expenses...when I left He wouldn't let me have it, he had 2 big work trucks and of course the little 'goat mobile' so when I left I took it and it was in his name only..also the rv was in both our names and the double wide trailer that I used for my studio was a gift to me from him as well...none of it was I allowed to take...

better send this much and then I'll continue..not much more..promise...



This message was edited Sep 27, 2007 10:27 PM

Laura, don't be so down on yourself! We all get spells of the blues - some more then others. I'm sure your blues are exasperated by the pain you are having in your hip. And the weather without a doubt can contribute to depression! Y'all are also just coming out of winter, right?
Lately, I am finding that on days that are cloudy or rainy here, I feel very anxious. I know my job situation right now is the crux of all of it. I know some people don't believe in medication for depression and anxiety but I am not one of them! I have taken meds for 8 yrs now. At first I was ashamed. People will think I am crazy. Well you know what? Who cares what anyone else thinks! All I care about is how I feel! And with meds, I feel "normal" for the most part. I haven't had any panic or anxiety attacks in over 3 yrs. I am a worrier. My mom is a worrier and I learned it from her. I used to think of something really obscure like someone in my family being in an accident (anything that was out of my control!) and within minutes I had run through the entire emotional gammit - from the hospital to how I would feel if they were to die. I made myself sick! If something horrible happen in the news, I would imagine what the people were going thru and how would I react if it were me and I'd end up sick to my stomach from worry. Not anymore! Sorry Tom Cruise, but drugs ARE good! ;-)

Anyway Laura, are you able to see a chiropractor for your hip? I swear by them when all other resources don't work. It's quite possible that your fall made something in your spine shift which is pressing on the nerve to your hip. Just a thought.

Well everyone, it's night time for me! I hope everyone has a pleasant night!
Jeannine

OH, BETTY....YOU ARE BREAKING MY HEART....

Betty - - - I don't know what to say. I am so sorry that you - a person with the biggest heart I knwo - would have to go through pain like this. I look forward to the rest of your story but I'm sure I know the end - YOU came out on top and are truely blessed!!!!

So now it's the day the house closes...Jeff met me in Barrie and made arrangements for me to choose a new livingroom outfit while he came to the house..when I got back he was sitting in the middle of the living room, looking so sad, asked him what was the matter and he said nothing, asked him to tell me the truth and he said....'mom, I can't let you live in a place like this...not after all you've worked for, after all you've had' brought tears to my eyes but I said it will be my home...the next morning, in comes about 20 people, a few in each room, all rooms were nicely painted...the next week my mom/Jim had flooring delivered, that week my girlfriends' husband came over and installed new dining room, kitchen and living room flooring... my other girlfriends' husband came and put new kitchen counter, another friend her son worked making zincs...came home to find new zinc installed and new taps...deck in the back was falling apart...another couple of men were here to upgrade it...I worked from morning to night..every waking minute I worked and worked either inside and outside to keep from dying inside...a friend would just happen to have a new double bed, or 2 brand new single beds they had no room for..another had a $3K living room outfit that they were replacing..now sits in my basement looking mighty pretty...day after day, someone would be by my side...never a day went by that calls didn't come in to make sure that I didn't need anything..not best friends, friends you would have thought would have been there, but people just so shocked at what had happened, strangers that had compassion for me...they will always be my "earthly angels"...

About 8 months later I received a letter in the mail from his lawyer saying I had 10 days to give him back his vehicle..not worth $1,000....
Again I was devastated, to think this man I adored could do such a thing..I had enough money for monthly expenses, perhaps not much more so there would be no car for me...but that was ok..I wasn't going to break yet...

My BIL (boss) Paul, came over one evening during this 10 day car grace and told me he wanted me to bring the vehicle to storage in the city and he would deal with the car matter...told me he'd drive me home afterwards...well, got to the office gave him the keys, came down in the lobby and a 2002 Hyundai was sitting there with 56,000miles on it..he handed me the keys and said, "I've had it all checked over, it's full of gas, is in your name, drive safely" if you don't think I was not in tears...(shedding one or 2 right now from the memory of it all...)sob/sob

So still I'm doing whatever I can to upgrade the house...each time the boys came over they were more and more impressed with what I was able to achieve...my first Christmas Jeff and Greg gave me gift cards from Home Depot..spend my Christmas holidays drywalling the basement BY MYSELF, if you don't think that a challenge for a 5' lady..my girlfriend came over and we did the putty part, did better than most drywallers..no cracks nothing...no money for flooring, so I painted on my knees for 2 weeks until I had a lovely rock floor...needed shelving to make the room more attractive..I build fireplaces...each and every day the girls would come painting they see something else done...it became a way of life for me..something to take the pain away...

Several months after my BIL gave me the car he called and asked if I could help him out..his employee had left and he needed someone dependable and knew, because in his youth I had hired him at American Express and he had worked with me that I had the ability to be an asset in his company..said I'd be very well paid, no stress, they'd try to make sure I would have a ride each and every day and basically I could do what I wanted in my office providing that when calls came it would be my priority...so, I took the job..everything came easily..when people would call in I could empathize..I could feel their pain, they could hear that in my voice and I booked 4 times as many bookings as they had ever had because people could feel that I cared, that I hurt for them...they had to a few times though, prevent me from offering my home to these people..lol...I'm doing better at that now...

Still to this day, I am blessed with supper left in the refrigerator for me a few times a week, gifts left in hopes it makes me smile, kindness surrounds me...I TRULY AM BLESSED... do I have sad time, yes I do, you all have been a blessing to me..yet more strangers who have become friends....

I have to say in the 2 years that I have worked in the city I have been able to purchase a new car, dress and feed myself very well, was able to put a new peaked roof, new decks, siding,windows..etc so please know I've SURVIVED...and am stronger for it..

Would I get something from Bill financially...nope, I had signed a pre-nuptual agreement..Bill always had said if something would have ever happened then all the money I had done to redo the farmhouse would indeed be given to me..his words ' a man is only as good as his word' well girls, I've replayed those words in my mind a million times...I have never contacted him since that day..can I fight it, yes, but do I want the additional stress...no way..did receive a letter from him 2 years ago telling me that he would make arrangements that should he pass on, that I'd be paid the money..lol..as if I want to look forward to his death to get my money...my son Jeff and Greg whom Bill thought the world of no longer speak! All who urge me to go after him are told that it's a lesson of life well learned and it would only mean he would be taking away yet some of my good time...

So I guess why I am telling you this tonight is to make you all understand that life works in mysterious ways..that all is not perfect in anyones life..but I can choose to cry, I can choose to stay in bed or I can live...

So, 90% of the time, I am positive, upbeat, loving and compasionate for those all around me, but sometimes, there is sadness and tears, but I give myself a little shake and think of those who are a lot worse for wear...I have family, I have friends, but not friends in the general description of friends...I have friends who have shown what true friendship means...not for a week, not for a month, not for a year but forever watching over me...again, the good Lord has given me much, that day I was left on my own he made provisions that I would ALWAYS have a friend, and to HIM I've made a promise that I would in return try and the a friend to all , give what I can give, forgive those who need forgiving, asking from those I may have hurt forgiveness...I try to see beauty in each day..I get up smilling everyday because I truly cannot imagine where and what I could have ended up being if it were not for these 'earthly angels'...

So now when I am keeping myself busy, you know it's to keep the sadness and the devil from within...don't feel sad for me, even though I have been through so very much, I try to be compasionate to everyone because they to have a story 'to tell'..thanks for listening..

This wasn't the post I was going to do when I came home excited about my evening of shopping..but none the less, for you sweet Judy and Laura and all others who are going through their hell..it's a story to let you know that we all hurt, we all need to feel that someone is there to listen..and if any do not feel comfortable enought to post it, just d-mail and I'll listen...

You girls have made me cry..Shar..with your call, you've shown that strangers can become very good friends..Jeannine, you've guessed my ending..where it will end, I do not know, but HE does, and HE has given me the strength to be strong...

Ok..enough of that...

My best...well I got the mask I ordered for the evil clown, not quite what the company had listed but Braedon will love it...press a button and the lights go swirling..he'll get a kick out of that..

Worse...well really no worse...went into Midland after work and purchased 2 meters of materials for the crazy monkey costume..it really isn't the monkey whose crazy it's this grandma..will post a photo of the fur I bought...36.98 a meter and I needed 2 plus all the other supplies...just think..only 2 more costumes to go..will have to mortgage the house this halloween just to pay for costumes..lol...

What did I learn...I did not really learn a whole lot, just affirming what I already knew...it's sure is nice to have friends......

night night girls...morning comes early...in bed at 11:30 last night and now look at the time..haven't even had supper....will post photo of mask and of fur...guess what, another pair of dress slacks just wanted to be in my closet..lol...

My dear Betty,
I think you should write a book. What a blessing you are to others.
Thank you for sharing......your heartfelt words will help all of us .
We are truly blessed to have you in our lives.
Sharon

Sharon, I do so agree - I feel like I am one of the luckiest people alive for knowing Betty.

Betty,

Your story touches me to the core! You ARE such a wonderful, strong and talented woman! You are tenuous and a real survivor. You will always come out on top! You know the saying, "You can't kill crabgrass!".
Even though i do not post a lot here, I do read all your stories, especially yours, and I wanted to share this Poem with you and everyone else as well.

It is an "Oldie". Used to always be requested by the readers of the old Ann Landers columns. I have always cherished this Poem and it never has ceased to bring tears to my eyes.

For you!......... Read it every day and it will give you strength.
Print it out and put it on your fridge.

Gita

**********************************************


“After a While”

After a while you learn
the subtle difference between
holding a hand and chaining a soul
and you learn
that love doesn't mean leaning
and company doesn't always mean security.
And you begin to learn
that kisses aren't contracts
and presents aren't promises
and you begin to accept your defeats
with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of woman, not the grief of a child
and you learn
to build all your roads on today
because tomorrow's ground is
too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down
in mid-flight.
After a while you learn
that even sunshine burns
if you get too much
so you plant your own garden
and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone
to bring you flowers.
And you learn that you really can endure
you really are strong
you really do have worth
and you learn
and you learn
with every goodbye, you learn...

© 1971 Veronica A. Shoffstall

Gitagal, I'd forgotten that poem - I sure do remember it, though, and appreciate you sharing it.

betty, wow you have to be one of the most remarkable woman i have ever known im simply speechless i felt your pain through your story that was horrible to have gone through all of that, and the wonderful people who came by oh betty you are truly blessed to have the friends you have i admire your strength thats what makes you the kind hearted person you are thank you for sharing.

evening all,
wow lots to cover i'll post in the morning

laura, now really you should of told us.. im not going to scold you but we do care what happens to you, your downs are our downs and your ups are ours to no need to hide things from us i would never see you as negative nelly we'll still love you just the same so know were here for you whenever needed i hope the specialist can do something for you to relieve the pain your in have a good evening and take a deep breath nite

Gitagal...I remember the poem too, and used to have it on my fridge. I had forgotten it till you reminded me. Thank you so much......will copy it and read it daily.
Have a good Friday, all of you.

awww you guys, made me cry but in a good way.

thankyou betty, i needed to hear that story.

you guys are the best...

xx

Well morning has come a little too early..lol..it's dark outside and on the cooler side but the nicest part of the day other than all your wonderful posts is that it's Friday and I only work till one...

Suzanne (SIL) had a terrible migraine start on our way home last night..once she arrived home she had a nosebleed and that seemed to relievem uch of the pain..she just called and said that as we were taking 2 cars as far as Barrie that she isn't well enough to do her exercises in the next town and that I should meet her at home and we'd take one car....I'll drive so that she can put her head back and rest..maybe we'll leave early if the boss call in I'll tell him how unwell she is...must be the weather that is causing everyone to have such headaches...

Laura I do wish the best for you today...less pain both physically and mentally...

Gitagal, I will copy the poem and will share with friends....I've never come across ths poem...but isn't it the be all of life...

I'll post llater to each of you once I arrive at work..realized I hadn't sent you the photo's last night..I'll add them now...

Only thing left to do on costume is put patches and something to make him look evil..any suggestions.????

Now how like monkey fur is this....lol....my to do this weekend worked into a day at craft shows...hmmmm I can do it... am I nuts..$36.98 a meter..worth it, the boys in the city I don't get to spoil that often..so it will be my pleasure...

morning all,

ok betty now im ever so curious how your going to sew through that? i cant wait to see it now that table you mentioned a witch holding up a table for treats is that a wood pattern? ok kenny has a evil clown tee shirt here it is maby you can get some ideas from it hope it didnt scare you to much lol it is kind of (rolling eyes in the back of head) scary

betty - about your list. i am guilty of nbr 9. never so embarrased in my entire life. good thing turned out that she lost alot of weight and she looks wonderful.

laura - i am sorry for the bad things going on in your life. you know where o can find me if you want to talk abouth things. miss you on the other thread. stop by here every so often to keep up.

hugs

morning all,

carol,your tree is turning lovely colors dont have to much around here in town to go see colors changing oh how fun a stuffed harvest fellow now that sounds like a plan i love to drive around the neighborhood to see everyone in the halloween spirit "ahem cough"although i admit right now im just green with envy someone three blocks away is all decorated and lighted up hmmm i guess next year i'll get set up in september lol that was a lot of apples you had and mmmmmm does that apple crisp have a recipe??

judy, shhhhh dont let the cat out of the bag when i went skydiving my granny said oh my well you always were the dare devil type lol lol
glad to hear your enjoying your new van aww she's growing up i loved the pantyhose story i bet it was a crack up have a good day...

jeannine, omg when it rains it pours you poor thing gosh i hope things turn around for you wow 380 people and so close to the hollidays so sad, now im praying you get that job oh woudnt that be nice to be so close to home and to be near plants to bet you can get in lots of trouble lol what quilt are you working on.

beth, im glad you found a solution for dh glad that helped him out.

gita loved the poem

everyone have a great day liz