We are off to see the Wizard of Albany Med. tomorrow. We must be there at 8:30 in the morning as that is the only time Dr. Beegle can see me. Up early and on the road we go.
I talked with Pittsburgh and they want me there on Monday to see the transplant doctor, do PFT's and a 6 minute walk. So, we will be leaving on Sunday and returning on Tuesday, if all goes well.
I called to see if we could take the plane, no oxygen tanks allowed, a concentrator is allowed, but it won't give me 5 liters of oxygen, so we are driving. We will be using the Tom Tom to help us along the way.
They are going to check me out thoroughly and see what is up. We will see. Well, I am off to inhale the wonders of Ventavis and mentally plan for tomorrow.
After the many phone calls this morning to the doctors and their hospitals, we had a fantastic lunch with our friend, Judi C. and her husband, Chuck. They just received a camper that they are doing over and it will be stunning once they finish it. Judi can sew like nobody's business and Chuck is a Jack of all Trades. What a complimentary couple. Can't wait to see the finished camper that will be parked near their new pond. Picnics and barbecues will abound as well as their kids being able to sleep out in the camper, where the bears won't, hopefully, visit them.
Be well while I am out and about trying to figure out what is next on our agenda in getting me well.
May you do the 6 minute walk in no time flat and may the bears leave you in peace.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Finally, Finally, all is done!
Today was a long day as we started out in the cold and ended up in the rain. Oh, raindrops keep falling on my head.
Off to see the financial advisor. What a shake up in the stock market. Is it having a trickle down or would it be up effect? Don't know, but my Mom is not happy about the bailout when she thinks that the CEO's need to be halled in instead of bailed out. Interesting concept?
Then, a meeting with the Mott Charitable Trust lawyer. I am so happy to say that it is done and all the entities that will be helped financially is in place. The poor lawyer asked me if I wanted to have it completed today. My immediate reply, "Yes." It seems like this project has taken a bit of time. Reconfiguring the trust to finalize it is a job in itself. But, all is well. We took a lunch break, then back to the charitable table. Woo Hoo!! All done!!!
Quick trip back to Sidney as Ginni B. and Carol S. met us for dinner and what a nice time we had, discussing this and that. It was relaxing to just sit and visit. As always, the food at the Country Club is good.
Off to home, where Barnie is starting to wonder about all this rain. I'll have to buy him his own yellow, Paddington Bear raincoat.
May you have one of those big yellow raincoats to see you through the raindrops.
Off to see the financial advisor. What a shake up in the stock market. Is it having a trickle down or would it be up effect? Don't know, but my Mom is not happy about the bailout when she thinks that the CEO's need to be halled in instead of bailed out. Interesting concept?
Then, a meeting with the Mott Charitable Trust lawyer. I am so happy to say that it is done and all the entities that will be helped financially is in place. The poor lawyer asked me if I wanted to have it completed today. My immediate reply, "Yes." It seems like this project has taken a bit of time. Reconfiguring the trust to finalize it is a job in itself. But, all is well. We took a lunch break, then back to the charitable table. Woo Hoo!! All done!!!
Quick trip back to Sidney as Ginni B. and Carol S. met us for dinner and what a nice time we had, discussing this and that. It was relaxing to just sit and visit. As always, the food at the Country Club is good.
Off to home, where Barnie is starting to wonder about all this rain. I'll have to buy him his own yellow, Paddington Bear raincoat.
May you have one of those big yellow raincoats to see you through the raindrops.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Yikes, Another Rainy Day!
Aren't rainy days grand? They are indeed as you just slow down on these days and take in the calm. I painted soaps today and managed to make a dent in my scattered clutter. Checked in with Chris, the paint chip fellow. We will be picking colors for the new house at Secor Street, where Barnie and I shall be living shortly.
Letter of Commitment and a date with the two attorneys and all will be set. Woo Hoo! Furniture shopping, rug shopping, household supplies shopping. Common theme here is shopping. My cousin, Huckleberry sent a picture of two little girls holding hands walking down the street with their shopping bags. He claims that no doubt, we are out shopping. He would be and will be right about that as I have a 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathroom, living room, dining room and kitchen along with the laundry on first floor. It will be fantastic to move in and start decorating.
Before that, Jody H. is painting the rooms for me and power washing the house. He is going to paint the shutters either cranberry or a denim blue. I haven't decided yet. Perhaps, I'll have to have a contest to decide. Barnie's bibs are denim blue, but cranberry is good color for Barnie, too.
I told Jody that I would not put any furniture in the house until the painting is done. Too much to contend with. He agreed me. No vaulting over beds and dressers, no moving couches and love seats or chairs for him.
Ellie called to say the radon mitigating fellow had checked out the house. The flue man is coming tomorrow and then, all will be set. A double Woo Hoo to that!
The pieces to the puzzle of life are slowly falling into place. I am looking forward to every match in putting together this puzzle.
May your puzzle of life be perfectly balanced.
Letter of Commitment and a date with the two attorneys and all will be set. Woo Hoo! Furniture shopping, rug shopping, household supplies shopping. Common theme here is shopping. My cousin, Huckleberry sent a picture of two little girls holding hands walking down the street with their shopping bags. He claims that no doubt, we are out shopping. He would be and will be right about that as I have a 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathroom, living room, dining room and kitchen along with the laundry on first floor. It will be fantastic to move in and start decorating.
Before that, Jody H. is painting the rooms for me and power washing the house. He is going to paint the shutters either cranberry or a denim blue. I haven't decided yet. Perhaps, I'll have to have a contest to decide. Barnie's bibs are denim blue, but cranberry is good color for Barnie, too.
I told Jody that I would not put any furniture in the house until the painting is done. Too much to contend with. He agreed me. No vaulting over beds and dressers, no moving couches and love seats or chairs for him.
Ellie called to say the radon mitigating fellow had checked out the house. The flue man is coming tomorrow and then, all will be set. A double Woo Hoo to that!
The pieces to the puzzle of life are slowly falling into place. I am looking forward to every match in putting together this puzzle.
May your puzzle of life be perfectly balanced.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Another Rainy Day!
Barnie has fallen in love with this rainy, misty, humid weather of late. He has found the fishing to be quite good. Me on the other hand, is seeing a different side to his happy, rainy days. Conferring with Dr. Beegle all week long in trying to figure out what is happening with my feet swelling up, a dry cough, wheezing, even moving throws me into a huffing and puffing fit that I have to pace myself with not walking, in my case, dawdling along slower than a sloth.
Well, another medical mystery to solve. Dr. Beegle sent me off to get an x-ray as he was wondering if I had pneumonia. This is pretty problematic for me as it doesn't show up easily. So, off to Dr. Dygert only to find that they could not read the x-ray stat. I was in need of a stat x-ray so that Dr. Beegle could figure out what to do with me. He thought about putting me on an antibiotic, but when the results came in-no pneumonia. So, no meds.
By Saturday morning, I could hear a rattle in my chest. I thought, here we go again. Definitely not wanting to end up in the E.R. room at Albany Med., I gave a call to Albany Med. and the doctor on duty. Once you call in, you have to wait for them to call back. As they didn't call back as soon as they usually do, I was becoming a bit concerned as my pharmacy closes in the afternoon.
Finally, the doctor called back to say he would check my files. Dr. Beegle and I had discussed this as he wasn't going to be on duty this weekend. In Dr. Beegle style, he said that reading my 16 charts would be like trying to read War and Peace in an hour. There was just too much know about me. Imagine that? I must be one interesting case. Actually, my case is so complex that diagnosing me, treating me, tests results, blood work, etc. has caused them to require quite a space for all my papers. I sound like a convict-I call to check in on a regular basis, they've kept records on me since 2003, do regular blood work to check various levels to see if all systems are a go, can't leave the area without checking in to check out. While you get the whole mug shot view.
The only thing that throws people is the oxygen line. I find that young children are so curious. They stare trying to figure out what is going on with me. Meanwhile, the parents drag the kids along as they crane their necks to see if what they saw is really there. It is interesting see their facial expressions.
Since my medical history reads like whatever book you find to be the most boring, the doctor on call consulted with two other lung doctors and they decided to have me take Levaquin. So, day two on more meds. and I feel like a Mac ran over me-not the McDonald's kind. Yikes!
We ventured out as Kohl's was holding washing clothes and a big ole picture frame for me. If you don't pick them up within a week, then you lose them to the shelves. Before tackling Kohl's, we had lunch with my nephew. The humidity was so bad that I didn't eat all that much or maybe it was the combo of meds. The food was good, though. As we were being seated, one of my former students came to greet me. What a thrill! Scott I. is doing well and I was so happy to see him that I screamed and poor Mom and Derrick about flew under the table. We chatted a bit about his college days. It was so neat to see him. It felt like a mini BG reunion right there in the Olive Garden. If Olive is in the Garden, where is Popeye?
Off to Kohl's where Mom checked on my wash clothes and I waited for the restroom facilities to reopen. I don't know why it was taking the man so long in the ladies facilities to clean as we were all commiserating about the need for entry into the kingdom of thrones. Finally, fearing that the ladies were ready to rebel, I took charge and out maneuvered the cleaning cart with all sorts of cleaning supplies with George, my ever present O2 guy to yell, "Are you done in there as we all need to use the facilities out here?" Looking back at the growing gaggle of women, I said, "Ladies we're flushing that fellow out of there," much to every one's amusement.
Out the fellow came only to discover a bevy of beauties awaiting his arrival. I am sure he felt blessed by all of our presence. He ruminated with me about the placement of bathroom facilities and why weren't they placed in the front of store as well as the back of the store. Good point, if you are handicapped. Mom says that they put the precious porcelain in the back, so you discover more things to buy en route. Well, talk about talking trash, there were plastic bags of trash from the female side of the restrooms you had to dodge and weave through. What a maze to the bathroom. So much for actually shopping.
After our bathroom tour at Kohl's, we went to A.C. Moore's for benefit supplies that my sister needs for my lung transplant benefit. Tiff referred to this holy craft place for crafts as the China junk shop. I left Mom to her own devices there as I was a bit light headed. I figured I was safer in the car seat than on my feet. I said to Mom if I hit the floor, just call 911. Poor Mom, just another rainy day with Marge.
My nephew had helped me to the car and tucked me in. He is such a sweetie as we were a little bit late as I had to hit the bathroom facilities en route. I was speeding at 65, when my Mom said, "Don't you know that the speed limit is 55 here?" "Yes," I responded, but I am in need of a bathroom ASAP. "Well,"declared Mom, "wonder if the police stop you, then what are you going to do?" "Tell him the truth, look out, I have to go to the bathroom," I replied. I am sure this is a common excuse for many folks caught speeding, but in my case, there is no denying my need for the facilities.
Aren't our conversations titillating? We know more about off and on ramp bathrooms than you would ever want to know about. All, I know is that when nature calls, who cares whether it is raining or not.
Please make sure you don't squeeze the Charmin. Some toilet paper is so thin, you couldn't squeeze it if you wanted to. I'll leave it the Charmin man.
May bathrooms on your highways be plentiful and no sign stating that they under "construction or destruction ."
Well, another medical mystery to solve. Dr. Beegle sent me off to get an x-ray as he was wondering if I had pneumonia. This is pretty problematic for me as it doesn't show up easily. So, off to Dr. Dygert only to find that they could not read the x-ray stat. I was in need of a stat x-ray so that Dr. Beegle could figure out what to do with me. He thought about putting me on an antibiotic, but when the results came in-no pneumonia. So, no meds.
By Saturday morning, I could hear a rattle in my chest. I thought, here we go again. Definitely not wanting to end up in the E.R. room at Albany Med., I gave a call to Albany Med. and the doctor on duty. Once you call in, you have to wait for them to call back. As they didn't call back as soon as they usually do, I was becoming a bit concerned as my pharmacy closes in the afternoon.
Finally, the doctor called back to say he would check my files. Dr. Beegle and I had discussed this as he wasn't going to be on duty this weekend. In Dr. Beegle style, he said that reading my 16 charts would be like trying to read War and Peace in an hour. There was just too much know about me. Imagine that? I must be one interesting case. Actually, my case is so complex that diagnosing me, treating me, tests results, blood work, etc. has caused them to require quite a space for all my papers. I sound like a convict-I call to check in on a regular basis, they've kept records on me since 2003, do regular blood work to check various levels to see if all systems are a go, can't leave the area without checking in to check out. While you get the whole mug shot view.
The only thing that throws people is the oxygen line. I find that young children are so curious. They stare trying to figure out what is going on with me. Meanwhile, the parents drag the kids along as they crane their necks to see if what they saw is really there. It is interesting see their facial expressions.
Since my medical history reads like whatever book you find to be the most boring, the doctor on call consulted with two other lung doctors and they decided to have me take Levaquin. So, day two on more meds. and I feel like a Mac ran over me-not the McDonald's kind. Yikes!
We ventured out as Kohl's was holding washing clothes and a big ole picture frame for me. If you don't pick them up within a week, then you lose them to the shelves. Before tackling Kohl's, we had lunch with my nephew. The humidity was so bad that I didn't eat all that much or maybe it was the combo of meds. The food was good, though. As we were being seated, one of my former students came to greet me. What a thrill! Scott I. is doing well and I was so happy to see him that I screamed and poor Mom and Derrick about flew under the table. We chatted a bit about his college days. It was so neat to see him. It felt like a mini BG reunion right there in the Olive Garden. If Olive is in the Garden, where is Popeye?
Off to Kohl's where Mom checked on my wash clothes and I waited for the restroom facilities to reopen. I don't know why it was taking the man so long in the ladies facilities to clean as we were all commiserating about the need for entry into the kingdom of thrones. Finally, fearing that the ladies were ready to rebel, I took charge and out maneuvered the cleaning cart with all sorts of cleaning supplies with George, my ever present O2 guy to yell, "Are you done in there as we all need to use the facilities out here?" Looking back at the growing gaggle of women, I said, "Ladies we're flushing that fellow out of there," much to every one's amusement.
Out the fellow came only to discover a bevy of beauties awaiting his arrival. I am sure he felt blessed by all of our presence. He ruminated with me about the placement of bathroom facilities and why weren't they placed in the front of store as well as the back of the store. Good point, if you are handicapped. Mom says that they put the precious porcelain in the back, so you discover more things to buy en route. Well, talk about talking trash, there were plastic bags of trash from the female side of the restrooms you had to dodge and weave through. What a maze to the bathroom. So much for actually shopping.
After our bathroom tour at Kohl's, we went to A.C. Moore's for benefit supplies that my sister needs for my lung transplant benefit. Tiff referred to this holy craft place for crafts as the China junk shop. I left Mom to her own devices there as I was a bit light headed. I figured I was safer in the car seat than on my feet. I said to Mom if I hit the floor, just call 911. Poor Mom, just another rainy day with Marge.
My nephew had helped me to the car and tucked me in. He is such a sweetie as we were a little bit late as I had to hit the bathroom facilities en route. I was speeding at 65, when my Mom said, "Don't you know that the speed limit is 55 here?" "Yes," I responded, but I am in need of a bathroom ASAP. "Well,"declared Mom, "wonder if the police stop you, then what are you going to do?" "Tell him the truth, look out, I have to go to the bathroom," I replied. I am sure this is a common excuse for many folks caught speeding, but in my case, there is no denying my need for the facilities.
Aren't our conversations titillating? We know more about off and on ramp bathrooms than you would ever want to know about. All, I know is that when nature calls, who cares whether it is raining or not.
Please make sure you don't squeeze the Charmin. Some toilet paper is so thin, you couldn't squeeze it if you wanted to. I'll leave it the Charmin man.
May bathrooms on your highways be plentiful and no sign stating that they under "construction or destruction ."
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Homecoming for Barnie!
Handsome Barnie Bear arrived today and no less by automobile. How did Jeff fit Barnie in his backseat? Barnie is quite large and just bearly managed to be seat belted in. Mom retrieved a dolly trolley for Barnie and both Mom and Jeff pushed, dragged Barnie to his favorite spot in front of Mom's big bay type window.
Mom and I can see Barnie's profile out the window. I have had several conversations with Barnie today and I do believe he is happy here at the Tiffany Hotel and Restaurant. He has his fishing pole in hand and he is looking mighty fine. Jeff touched Barnie up a little as traveling caused him a few bear spots. He is looking spiffy, if I don't say so myself.
Jeff had been up for 24 hours straight as he has a night job and then he had to attend to family matters and then there was Barnie to deliver. Well, Barnie behaved himself for Jeff on the jaunt over here.
My friend, Jean K. took wonderful pictures of Barnie as she admired his beauty. We have become rather attached to Barnie. Mom may not let me take Barnie to his new home with me as she likes him too. Meanwhile, I told Mom that I had chit chatted with Barnie this evening while she was out with friends seeing the Patsy Cline show (one of her birthday gifts from me). She looked at me and said "Did anyone see you?" I said I didn't know and she retorted that people would think I am nuts talking to Barnie.
Well, that wouldn't be the first nutty thing I ever did in my life.
As Jean and I were looking out the bay window, Jean exclaimed that as a car was driving by, they were checking out Barnie. Well, I knew I had a good looking guy and cars slowing down to check him out, only reaffirms that Barnie is one hunk of a bear.
So, it is nighty night for Barnie and I as Barnie plans on fishing and I plan on seeing what Mom and I can conjure up. No doubt, a little something!!!
May you talk to inanimate things, so that I don't look too crazy. Stop by and chat with Barnie yourself. He is very personable and will greet you with a smile and a fish.
Mom and I can see Barnie's profile out the window. I have had several conversations with Barnie today and I do believe he is happy here at the Tiffany Hotel and Restaurant. He has his fishing pole in hand and he is looking mighty fine. Jeff touched Barnie up a little as traveling caused him a few bear spots. He is looking spiffy, if I don't say so myself.
Jeff had been up for 24 hours straight as he has a night job and then he had to attend to family matters and then there was Barnie to deliver. Well, Barnie behaved himself for Jeff on the jaunt over here.
My friend, Jean K. took wonderful pictures of Barnie as she admired his beauty. We have become rather attached to Barnie. Mom may not let me take Barnie to his new home with me as she likes him too. Meanwhile, I told Mom that I had chit chatted with Barnie this evening while she was out with friends seeing the Patsy Cline show (one of her birthday gifts from me). She looked at me and said "Did anyone see you?" I said I didn't know and she retorted that people would think I am nuts talking to Barnie.
Well, that wouldn't be the first nutty thing I ever did in my life.
As Jean and I were looking out the bay window, Jean exclaimed that as a car was driving by, they were checking out Barnie. Well, I knew I had a good looking guy and cars slowing down to check him out, only reaffirms that Barnie is one hunk of a bear.
So, it is nighty night for Barnie and I as Barnie plans on fishing and I plan on seeing what Mom and I can conjure up. No doubt, a little something!!!
May you talk to inanimate things, so that I don't look too crazy. Stop by and chat with Barnie yourself. He is very personable and will greet you with a smile and a fish.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Looking for Heather? and a Whole Lot More!
I sent out a note in search of Heather, who is fighting WG and trying to keep custody of her children from her less than stellar ex. We hadn't heard from Heather in a few weeks and I was really concerned as to what was going on. Was her WG worse? Was the ex still coming off as the Saint that we know he ain't? Much to my relieve, Heather posted. You won't believe what you will read next. Heather and are in the same boat, paddling in the same direction and leaving a ripple behind of where we've been, but we are still paddling and looking forward. Hopefully, the next bend will be full of good surprises for us both. Heather's e-mail goes like this...
Hi Everyone.
Lots to read and catch up on - first of all, Steve, congrats. I dream of hearing the word, 'remission'. I retained an attorney this week in my domestic case.
For those that don't know or recall, when my ex discovered that I had Wegner's, he decided that he'd file for custody of my children.My lawyer was great and says that my ex will legally be bound by the court order - and that we should be able to settle it quickly once he retains a lawyer.
Yesterday, I heard from his lawyer that he wants to 'settle' the matter. Life goes on...I will keep you posted.I am feeling very depressed. In addition to the personal matter with the kids, I am watching my law practice fall by the wayside - and my home go into forclosure. The fatigue is amazing. I'm take an antidepressant, and have been for awhile, and started therapy for someone else to talk to, but mornings are tough. I'm on Imuran and weaning off prednisone. I started at 60 mgs. about 5 months ago.
Everytime I reduce the amount by 5 mgs, I have extreme body pain everywhere. My MD says it's prednisone withdrawl. Has anyone else experienced this? What do you do to combat this fatigue?Do other's deal with this depression, or do I need to 'suck it up' like my father would have said if he were alive. I'm having a harder time getting up every day. Pain, fatigue, etc...Friday, I've got an appointment with a facial pain specialist at Hopkins. I've got trigeminal neuralgia b/c the wegner's have eaten so close to this major nerve.Are there any others out there with WG and TN? If so, I'll let you know what they say. I'm currently on Oxycontin and Oxycodone for 'break through' pain.
Thanks for any advice.
Heather
Here's my post to Heather.
Hi Heather,
Sorry to hear you are going through such a rough patch. I, too, was in pain-especially my back, that I would cry because it hurt so bad. I even called my sister, who is a nurse. She said to put a pillow between my legs, when I sleep on my side. I do it without thinking about it, now. I used a heating pad and it helped. No more than 15 minutes at a time, though.
Have you tried the pain patches? You have to change them every three days. My step dad used those and they worked well. I know that when my prednisone was below 10 mg, then my joints in my hands, feet, knees, etc. ached. Does your doctor have any other suggestions for you? I was told not to do a massage because of the prednisone. Your tissue and bones can be injured fairly easily because the prednisone wreaks havoc on your bones. Are you taking Fosamax once a week? This will keep you from getting osteoporosis.
I can imagine your depression. It is hard to force yourself to do things, when you don't feel well. When I couldn't do anything and I mean anything.(My mom had to put me in the shower, get me out of the shower, I sat on a shower chair in the shower, Mom wiped me down, helped me dress as I had all I could do to get to the couch and lie down) She made me lunch and took care of me for 2 and 1/2 years faithfully. I am waiting for a lung transplant and my mom is the wind beneath my broken wings, until I can fly once again on my own.
Have faith that your condition will improve. I think that once your ex-husband situation is over, you will feel better. To combat what I was going through, I read all the time. That was all that I could do. It kept me focused. Like you,few people understand about the reality of WG in your daily life.
I am in the process of a divorce because my soon to be ex couldn't handle me being sick, so he took it out on me, heaping verbal abuse upon me daily-day and night. My poor mom was beside herself as she wanted me to move in with her. I was so sick, I couldn't even defend myself. This does not include his children, who have been abusive since the day I married their father. After getting sick, I realized that the kids were just like their father. Very scary!!!
Even though I need a lung transplant, I am much happier at my mom's. I should have baled out from the beginning. What a lesson to learn, unfortunately.
So, Heather, keep us posted on your progress and what your doctors suggest.
Wishing you the best.
Marge
More from Heather...
Marge,
Thank you for the reply. I have been a single mom for 1o years and thought I finally met the man of my dreams. He cared for me and my 2 awesome children while I was desperately ill. In May, I was diagnosed and began treatment.
Since then, my white knight thinks I should be capable of more....as an attorney...making money...taking care of the house...making gourment meals....you name it. I feel a growing resentment. It makes my heart ache, b/c I thought he was perfect.
It's the lack of money that drives him crazy; it has changed his personality fundamentally. I used to make well over 100K as an attorney. I think I made $3,500 in the past year - pushing myself to write an amicus brief and hold onto a few national clients. But I think I am loosing the battle. I am thinking about closing the office, quitting the practice of law...after 17 years. It would be a difficult career to continue since stress can yank a Weggie out of remission. I used to live on adreneline and have so many proffessional accomplishiments.
I only wish I could achive a personal accomplishment - a happy marriage. I think Wegener's has ruined that chance for me.It makes me sad, but things has definitely changed. He used to be a doting, caring, emotionally available, man - in addition to the sexy, intelligent, strong and steady kind. Never met anyone like him... but things are not going well. I think WEGENER'S can kill anyone in it's path - not just the person dealing with it.
GOD BLESS YOU.
Heather
Our Heather needs are blessings and I sent her the following- a true account of my so called marriage. Mom would not approve of me doing this as I would be airing dirty laundry-but I am coming clean in order to help someone else, especially Heather. I would rather tell the truth and know that if I can save one person, mind you , one person, then I have fulfilled my duty in life. To help those in need as I have been helped. If you don't want to read about my dirty laundry, then reel in the clothesline and shut her down. If you can learn from my experience and have a better life, then my ten years of ______here on earth will not have been in vain.
Hi Heather,
You have courage and fortitude that will pull you through.
As far as this fellow in your life, you are seeing his true colors. Sorry to be blunt, but what you are currently going through was what I went through.
My husband back in the beginning was thrilled to be married to me because in hindsight, I paid all the bills pretty much. Car insurance for 5 vehicles, though I owned only one of them, grocery bills, Sam Club's bills to the tune of $300 per visit, phone bill, prepaid the oil bill, so that he would have money to send his kids to college.
Also, I paid the taxes-town, school to the tune of $6,000 and also, our yearly taxes. He was getting a free ride. He had money to put into a retirement without my knowledge. Meanwhile, I didn't have enough to do that as I was paying the bills. Silly me.
Meanwhile, he made out like he didn't have much money. So, me being me, I paid the bills. The back of his old farm type house needed to be fixed as the foundation was giving way. I invested over $10,000 to fix it and upgrade the back of the house with a new bathroom with a big stand up shower. His parents were/are elderly and it was much easier for them to use this bathroom.
I had the side porch completely enclosed and redone. Meanwhile, his kids threw a fit that they wanted it the way their mother had it. It was a wreck and needed fixing. They went to the store to find the paint and wallpaper when they realized they weren't going to win that battle. It was a whole lot of nonsense.
When we finally sold the house, the only reason it sold was because of the new porch-the lady has tons of plants in there and calls it her Florida room and the new bathroom with the washer and dryer there. I just saw them this past weekend.
Well, when I fell sick and could no longer work, he was not a happy camper. According to him, I was ruining his life, he had no social life because of me (meanwhile, he had no social life before I came into his life) His friends now are the people I introduced him to. I was going to bankrupt him because of my medical condition.
When I became so seriously ill, I took the A Plan, which cost more in premiums, but paid for everything, including my frequent ambulance rides. He told me not to get a lung transplant because it was too much for him. I couldn't expect him to live in Pitts., PA for three months after the surgery and take care of me, because it was too much for him and besides, my mom was too old to go through this too. I needed to think of him and my mom and not have a lung transplant. Also, he informed me that we would be living in a cardboard box with a tin roof.
I could go on for ten more years about theses yahoos.Oh, when he started paying some of the bills, he complained bitterly. An $80 food bill was bankrupting him, though 1/3 of it was for beer. He started drinking heavily this past year.
Meanwhile, when his kids were home, I was spending a heck of a lot more and I didn't say a word to him about the expense.
Well, his true colors came through loud and clear when I was diagnosed with an unknown vasculitis and Pulmonary Hypertension. These types of fellows "love" you when you are footing the bills, making them comfortable-doing the meals, laundry, cleaning, etc. They have it on easy street, but when the road becomes bumpy, they don't want to "take it." They don't step up to the plate as my counselor says.
Speaking of counselors, find yourself a good one and explain what you are going through and no doubt, s/he should be able to give you strategies. To be perfectly honest, when I finally decided to get out of my no win situation, a boulder had been lifted from my shoulders. Health wise and mental wise, I am doing so much better. You might find this to be your case, too. I can empathize and sympathize with you as we are walking down the same path.
Have you consulted with a second WG doctor? Perhaps, a new doc. could add more to your care and make you feel better. As far as giving up your job, I had to leave teaching. I LOVED my job, especially the kids. They were the light of my life and they were just like my very own children because they were with me for four years 9-12. They still send me cards, call, visit and are real blessings in my life.
I wouldn't be able to return to teaching because of the germs, even after the lung transplant, so I am creating a Website for French teachers that will cost them to use for the year. I am living on disability, which isn't much compared to what I was making. So, hopefully, this will work out to help me financially. I taught French for 20 years + and took adults and students to Canada, France, Italy, etc. I took the kids every year to NY to see a French play, a French restaurant, etc.
I was so active and now, I can barely walk short distances without huffing and puffing. So, Heather, you have a lot to think about. You will have to reinvent yourself somehow. The essence of you won't change, but what you will be able to do will.
But, in the end, you are still alive and there for your kids. Money can't buy you happiness, health, love or a free ride. Perhaps, you could create a website on how to choose a lawyer, helpful hints, etc., where people pay a flat fee to glean all the info. you can provide them.
Keep us posted. If you should like to talk via the phone, e-mail me your phone number at mmottarot1@hotmail.com and I can call you.
My best to you, Heather.
Keep going. It will get better. Just another bump in the road of life. If you want, you can check out my blog at http://www.breathingtolive.blogspot.com/ and check on the train entry. It will inspire you. It did me. Let me know what you think.
Hugs,
Marge
You are probably thinking that I am nuts to be openly discussing this. But I have to say that it is embarrassing to me to have allowed myself to get in this situation in the first place. I always wondered why women stayed with physically and mentally abusive men and I thought it could never happen to me. I am smart, educated, have a wonderful, kind, generous, sweetest mother you could ever have ( she has given me her life so that I can live) A mother's love is never ending. I just figured that was how life is. But then the shock came of a totally dysfunctional family that thrived on their dysfunctionality and loved being the way they are. They know no better and have created their "own reality" that is so far off base that it is scary.
Consequently, I had a difficult time dealing with this constant non-reality group of yahoos running amok on a daily basis. We could never have a meal without a fight ensuing between the kids or the kids and Al. Talk about dinner time fun. We couldn't go out as a group without whining, complaining and misery surrounding them like the blanket of Linus from Peanuts. It permeated everything in their lives and mine as I was married to Al.
But, in reality, Al wasn't married to me. He never was. He finally admitted that the reason that he married me was to save him and his children from the black hole that they were living in after his poor wife had passed away.
That is entirely another story that makes me sick to my stomach with what she had to endure at the hands of her so called husband and so called children. I don't say this lightly as I have heard from many people the sad tale. So not am I only speaking on my behalf, but also on the behalf of this woman I never knew. She doesn't have a voice because she is dead. So, I am her voice and mine too. And I really don't give a darn whether people like it or not. It needs to be said.
Am I disappointed in myself for allowing this to happen to me? You betcha. Am I getting over it? Yes, on my good days. The bad days are when people say to me that they feel so badly about what happened and that I didn't deserve that type of treatment from him or his kids. They, also, tell me how abusive Al was to Kathy and how the girls never helped their mother when she was sick, but Sam did.Kudos to Sam. This was from Al's own family members that told me that. It is so sad that it breaks my heart. A dying woman left in the clutches of those people. If anyone should get and be in Heaven, then it is Al's first wife as she deserved so much better than what she got.
They are so disrespectful, that for years, I paid for the flowers to be put on her grave. I felt so sorry for her. I would purchase flowers at Noxon's Frog Pond and ask Sam to pick out the flowers that he wanted for his mom. Then, he and Al would go and plant them. Or so, Al said.
His daughter called to say that she had discovered flowers on her mother's grave and why wasn't she informed of this? Why wasn't she included? Let's see, there wouldn't have been any flowers if I hadn't paid for them and insisted that they be planted in honor and respect for their mother.
Secondly, when I first married Al, I asked him to take them all to the cemetery and plant flowers only to have Sara and Becky throw a hissy fit that they would not go with their father or Sam to put flowers on her grave. They physically threw themselves around and drove off to God knows where. Al was devastated and I was appalled. I couldn't even say anything because I had never in my entire life seen such actions. This was constant and I could never adjust to these wacky, crazy, disrespectful actions. The poor mother.
Instead of telling Becky the truth of who made sure her mother had flowers at the cemetery, I kept my mouth shut. But no longer! They can't do me anymore harm as they have done the worst. The only thing left for them to do is knock me off. I know they were hoping for that when I got sick. But, once again, I disappointed them. Aw, shucks. The she devils were disappointed once again. They came to the hospital to gloat about me being so very ill. They wanted to see first hand my supposed demise.
My confidence in Al, to tell the truth is nonexistent, at this point. Though, when I bring up these items of him and his children not telling the truth, he accuses me of picking on him. For crying out loud, the man is 54 and he can't deal with hearing the truth as if I could make up all of this. Please, spare me and everyone else he has lied to along with his kids.
During the divorce process, Al has said some rather nasty, untrue statements about me within the hearing of some BG students, who unbeknownst to me, came to my defense. I've said repeatedly and I will continue to say that my kids at BG were the best. I loved them all and I think that they knew this as they have stood up for me time and time again. I bless them for telling the truth and being honest whereas the husband I thought I married turned out to be ______________ and his children no better. It is a disgrace that Al and his children have maligned me so, when I gave them everything I had, even my health. They still can't tell the truth, nor be honest with themselves, each other and their friends and family. It is truly a sad day for me to have learned this.
After confronting Al about his untruthful remarks about me robbing him of his Mustang and the furniture, which is still there by the way. Their animals ruined perfectly good furniture and why would I want the nasty stuff! I had all new furniture myself when I moved there only to have them damage and destroy it. Of course, they would never tell the truth about stealing my possessions and hiding and destroying them. They destroyed several sentimental items that were given to me by special people in my life.
The one that broke my heart was from my step dad, who spoiled me in a good way. He was generous to everyone. I would record French music for my kids at school and give them the music on cassette tapes. I always would go to my parents to fast dub the tapes as I would have to do 20+ tapes at a time. My step dad would joke with me about it.
One day, my parents showed up with my very own radio, cassette dubbing machine for me to use at my house. Well, Al's kids destroyed this without admitting to it nor apologizing. I went off to the repairman in Bainbridge-the fellow across the bridge and he said it was not worth fixing as it would cost me more to have it repaired than to buy a new one. Did Al ever do anything about this? Why no. His cherubs wouldn't do any such thing.
Meanwhile, my BG kids overhead Al talking to the new woman in his life, who wasn't so new after all- another story that he denies-but people once again feeling bad for me, have told me the truth-Al denies once again his involvement in these loathsome activities-but as you can tell, I have had enough of being unfairly slandered by him, his kids and their so called friends.
Furthermore, he keeps telling me that he hasn't done any of these things and he swears on his wife's grave. That's a real good one, let me tell you. I informed him to let her rest in peace. He and his kids have used her death to the hilt for sympathy, manupilative purposes, etc. Enough already. This has been going on for well over ten years. Just let her be, for goodness sake. Not to mention that Becky and the wonderkin Cory asked people to donate to the cancer society in her mother's honor. What a great show for those all attending, while the gravesite of her mother was in deplorable condition, not a flower in sight, only a mass of weeds. Talk about disrespect, Becky has it in spades. She sure did look good to those attending, but the dirty little secret is out.
By the way, what I am saying here is nothing that good ole Al hasn't heard from me. If you want to know if I am telling you the truth about it, feel free to call him at 607-967-4600 and I am sure he will enlighten you.
Speaking of Kathy's grave, when Al was here I told him that he needed to apologize for maligning my mom, which was the straw that broke this camel's back when I left. I will take abuse, but when you start on my mom, you had better run for cover because I am relentless and I will run you over if it is my last breath and I don't say that lightly as I am on oxygen. After my shaming him into apologizing to my mom, I told him to go and clean up the cemetary and put flowers there for Kathy with his kids.
This evening as I let him have it for being such a ______________, he told me that he had cleaned up the gravesite and put flowers there. If he did this, then perhaps, he has learned a little something about respect. I shouldn't have to tell him this, though. Once again, if he loved his wife, he would have been doing this all along.
You are probably wondering why I can't let go, since I am out of the live reality show that doesn't need a script, only a camera crew to follow the yahoos and the new woman in Al's life that he is madly in love with. He hasn't moved her in yet as people have already told him what a loser he is. Well, he doesn't want to admit to the fact that he is less than honest, so if he moves his new woman in, it only proves what a __________he really is. But, as I told him tonight, we all know the truth, so show her over the threshold and put her horses in your pole barn minus the Mustang that I supposedly stole from him.
Well, what did get me all revved up? It was Al asking me to have my lawyer, remember Al didn't want a lawyer because it would cost him MONEY, even though I advised him numerous times to do so and my lawyer even advised him of this, write a letter stating that this was it, there would be no changes in our agreement.
So, in essence, Al was insinuating once again that I was taking advantage of him. Imagine that?!! Well, I heard that about once too many times. So, the good people of Bainbridge heard me in the street in front of the pharmacy letting Al know just what I thought about who was robbing who. Instead of owning up to his insinuation and blaming me for misunderstanding him-oh, everybody else's fault, except his own in his book of lies- this continued on into the town hall, where he told me to calm down. Calm down after being talked to this way and hearing all the Kathy and Al stories, the new woman stories. What planet does he think I am living on anyways? Well, the good folks in the town hall got an ear full and frankly, I didn't give a hoot. Of course, Al didn't want me bringing up any of this because he would look like a _______________________and rightfully so.
Does the apples not fall far from the tree? Who would have thunk that Newton's Law of gravity would prove the Arotsky Theorem that you are what your parents make you and teach you-the supposed role model for being a good, upright citizen. Where did they get lost? And why don't they try to get back on track? I don't have the answers and I suspect that I never will. The problem is that they are narcisstic-money first, me second, my pets maybe and to heck with the rest-you exist in their life only to be used and when they can't use you anymore, you are kicked to the curb like yesterday's trash and if you are their friend, then you are just like them.
In my phone "conversation" with Al, he asked me when I would stop hounding him, picking on him and his cherubs, we are getting a divorce-why can't I just let it go, he asks innocently, as if he has no clue. Well, here is the clue that I told Al, as soon as you stop telling lies about me and your kids stop lying about me, then I will not be calling you on your deplorable behavior. It seems that I am the only one, who tells him to knock his crap off.
Furthermore, I told him I will be happy to put in the paper what I received from the legal separation agreement and what he received. He knows and I know that he got the better deal all the way around. He got rid of me and my health issues and he kept the property on Searles Hill Road. He does not want me to put this in the newspaper at all. Hmm.. I wonder why not???!!!
I, also, told him that I would also declare in the newspaper that I would not seek anymore of his assets as he felt that me receiving 50% of the appraised value of the house and property was too much. In his words, he should have had 60% and me 40%, but lucky for me, New York state says 50-50. Is he worth my breath? Not at all, but for Kathy and myself having lived through what we did, I have to tell the truth. She deserved better and I deserved better.
When you don't have a conscience, moral fiber, truth, honesty, love, self respect and respect for others, you end up like this totally dsyfunctional family. They need blessings because they have missed the meaning of life entirely. They will have left this Earth no wiser, no happier, no healthier, no more anything. What a shame. You can always learn from your mistakes and become a better person. Then, people like me can say, at least they got the meaning and made themselves be better human beings, but when you know your faults and you don't want to deal with them, then I have no sympathy or tolerance for you. This entry proves it hands down.
I wouldn't have revealed this, but I am done being pushed around and verbally attacked and now I am simply telling the truth. Enough is enough.
I, also, told Al that I have my checkbook records to prove how much money I spent on him and his kids. My first year into the marriage, $50, 000. Multiply that by 10 years- an average amount. I offered to have the bank pull these checks and send them to him and if he was so inclined, he could start making restitution on a monthly basis. So once again, who robbed who? You do the math.
At the end of the conversation, he said that a newspaper will not print our legal separation agreement in the newspaper, nor will they print me stating that I will not "rob" him of anything else.
Well, I'll be busy tomorrow ringing up the newspapers to find out. Al wanted a letter from my lawyer stating that the legal separation is final and that I won't get anything more. Well, I have no problem stating what I received and what he received. There will be the proof that he has requested in black and white and for everyone to see. So,when he and his kids start trashing me and lying about me, the newspaper has it all.
When you make mistakes, admit it, fix it, apologize and don't do it again. You can be forgiven for that, but when you continue to lie, not accept responsibility for your lies, then you can not be forgiven in my book. We can all make improvements in our lives and how we treat one another. I know that I am not perfect as I told Al, but I can look in the mirror and know that I have done the right things in my life- the important things that count. He, on the other hand, looks in mirror and I don't have a clue what he sees. He probably doesn't know either. I told him to quit his drinking as he claims he had no clue that he even said such salacious things about me. Was he so drunk with his new woman, that he forgot what he said or did he merely "forget" like his kids did when they broke all my stuff or stole it or hid it. They don't even tell each other the truth. The only thing they all agreed upon was running me out of their dsyfunctional family.
I should have rode out of Dodge when I could have done it on my own.
If you see Mom out and about, please do not mention this to her as it only upsets her. This is my business and what stays on the blog, stays on the blog. My mom doesn't need to know or be reminded of my past ten years. She already knows the price I have paid and it only makes her feel helpless and sick.
Hi Everyone.
Lots to read and catch up on - first of all, Steve, congrats. I dream of hearing the word, 'remission'. I retained an attorney this week in my domestic case.
For those that don't know or recall, when my ex discovered that I had Wegner's, he decided that he'd file for custody of my children.My lawyer was great and says that my ex will legally be bound by the court order - and that we should be able to settle it quickly once he retains a lawyer.
Yesterday, I heard from his lawyer that he wants to 'settle' the matter. Life goes on...I will keep you posted.I am feeling very depressed. In addition to the personal matter with the kids, I am watching my law practice fall by the wayside - and my home go into forclosure. The fatigue is amazing. I'm take an antidepressant, and have been for awhile, and started therapy for someone else to talk to, but mornings are tough. I'm on Imuran and weaning off prednisone. I started at 60 mgs. about 5 months ago.
Everytime I reduce the amount by 5 mgs, I have extreme body pain everywhere. My MD says it's prednisone withdrawl. Has anyone else experienced this? What do you do to combat this fatigue?Do other's deal with this depression, or do I need to 'suck it up' like my father would have said if he were alive. I'm having a harder time getting up every day. Pain, fatigue, etc...Friday, I've got an appointment with a facial pain specialist at Hopkins. I've got trigeminal neuralgia b/c the wegner's have eaten so close to this major nerve.Are there any others out there with WG and TN? If so, I'll let you know what they say. I'm currently on Oxycontin and Oxycodone for 'break through' pain.
Thanks for any advice.
Heather
Here's my post to Heather.
Hi Heather,
Sorry to hear you are going through such a rough patch. I, too, was in pain-especially my back, that I would cry because it hurt so bad. I even called my sister, who is a nurse. She said to put a pillow between my legs, when I sleep on my side. I do it without thinking about it, now. I used a heating pad and it helped. No more than 15 minutes at a time, though.
Have you tried the pain patches? You have to change them every three days. My step dad used those and they worked well. I know that when my prednisone was below 10 mg, then my joints in my hands, feet, knees, etc. ached. Does your doctor have any other suggestions for you? I was told not to do a massage because of the prednisone. Your tissue and bones can be injured fairly easily because the prednisone wreaks havoc on your bones. Are you taking Fosamax once a week? This will keep you from getting osteoporosis.
I can imagine your depression. It is hard to force yourself to do things, when you don't feel well. When I couldn't do anything and I mean anything.(My mom had to put me in the shower, get me out of the shower, I sat on a shower chair in the shower, Mom wiped me down, helped me dress as I had all I could do to get to the couch and lie down) She made me lunch and took care of me for 2 and 1/2 years faithfully. I am waiting for a lung transplant and my mom is the wind beneath my broken wings, until I can fly once again on my own.
Have faith that your condition will improve. I think that once your ex-husband situation is over, you will feel better. To combat what I was going through, I read all the time. That was all that I could do. It kept me focused. Like you,few people understand about the reality of WG in your daily life.
I am in the process of a divorce because my soon to be ex couldn't handle me being sick, so he took it out on me, heaping verbal abuse upon me daily-day and night. My poor mom was beside herself as she wanted me to move in with her. I was so sick, I couldn't even defend myself. This does not include his children, who have been abusive since the day I married their father. After getting sick, I realized that the kids were just like their father. Very scary!!!
Even though I need a lung transplant, I am much happier at my mom's. I should have baled out from the beginning. What a lesson to learn, unfortunately.
So, Heather, keep us posted on your progress and what your doctors suggest.
Wishing you the best.
Marge
More from Heather...
Marge,
Thank you for the reply. I have been a single mom for 1o years and thought I finally met the man of my dreams. He cared for me and my 2 awesome children while I was desperately ill. In May, I was diagnosed and began treatment.
Since then, my white knight thinks I should be capable of more....as an attorney...making money...taking care of the house...making gourment meals....you name it. I feel a growing resentment. It makes my heart ache, b/c I thought he was perfect.
It's the lack of money that drives him crazy; it has changed his personality fundamentally. I used to make well over 100K as an attorney. I think I made $3,500 in the past year - pushing myself to write an amicus brief and hold onto a few national clients. But I think I am loosing the battle. I am thinking about closing the office, quitting the practice of law...after 17 years. It would be a difficult career to continue since stress can yank a Weggie out of remission. I used to live on adreneline and have so many proffessional accomplishiments.
I only wish I could achive a personal accomplishment - a happy marriage. I think Wegener's has ruined that chance for me.It makes me sad, but things has definitely changed. He used to be a doting, caring, emotionally available, man - in addition to the sexy, intelligent, strong and steady kind. Never met anyone like him... but things are not going well. I think WEGENER'S can kill anyone in it's path - not just the person dealing with it.
GOD BLESS YOU.
Heather
Our Heather needs are blessings and I sent her the following- a true account of my so called marriage. Mom would not approve of me doing this as I would be airing dirty laundry-but I am coming clean in order to help someone else, especially Heather. I would rather tell the truth and know that if I can save one person, mind you , one person, then I have fulfilled my duty in life. To help those in need as I have been helped. If you don't want to read about my dirty laundry, then reel in the clothesline and shut her down. If you can learn from my experience and have a better life, then my ten years of ______here on earth will not have been in vain.
Hi Heather,
You have courage and fortitude that will pull you through.
As far as this fellow in your life, you are seeing his true colors. Sorry to be blunt, but what you are currently going through was what I went through.
My husband back in the beginning was thrilled to be married to me because in hindsight, I paid all the bills pretty much. Car insurance for 5 vehicles, though I owned only one of them, grocery bills, Sam Club's bills to the tune of $300 per visit, phone bill, prepaid the oil bill, so that he would have money to send his kids to college.
Also, I paid the taxes-town, school to the tune of $6,000 and also, our yearly taxes. He was getting a free ride. He had money to put into a retirement without my knowledge. Meanwhile, I didn't have enough to do that as I was paying the bills. Silly me.
Meanwhile, he made out like he didn't have much money. So, me being me, I paid the bills. The back of his old farm type house needed to be fixed as the foundation was giving way. I invested over $10,000 to fix it and upgrade the back of the house with a new bathroom with a big stand up shower. His parents were/are elderly and it was much easier for them to use this bathroom.
I had the side porch completely enclosed and redone. Meanwhile, his kids threw a fit that they wanted it the way their mother had it. It was a wreck and needed fixing. They went to the store to find the paint and wallpaper when they realized they weren't going to win that battle. It was a whole lot of nonsense.
When we finally sold the house, the only reason it sold was because of the new porch-the lady has tons of plants in there and calls it her Florida room and the new bathroom with the washer and dryer there. I just saw them this past weekend.
Well, when I fell sick and could no longer work, he was not a happy camper. According to him, I was ruining his life, he had no social life because of me (meanwhile, he had no social life before I came into his life) His friends now are the people I introduced him to. I was going to bankrupt him because of my medical condition.
When I became so seriously ill, I took the A Plan, which cost more in premiums, but paid for everything, including my frequent ambulance rides. He told me not to get a lung transplant because it was too much for him. I couldn't expect him to live in Pitts., PA for three months after the surgery and take care of me, because it was too much for him and besides, my mom was too old to go through this too. I needed to think of him and my mom and not have a lung transplant. Also, he informed me that we would be living in a cardboard box with a tin roof.
I could go on for ten more years about theses yahoos.Oh, when he started paying some of the bills, he complained bitterly. An $80 food bill was bankrupting him, though 1/3 of it was for beer. He started drinking heavily this past year.
Meanwhile, when his kids were home, I was spending a heck of a lot more and I didn't say a word to him about the expense.
Well, his true colors came through loud and clear when I was diagnosed with an unknown vasculitis and Pulmonary Hypertension. These types of fellows "love" you when you are footing the bills, making them comfortable-doing the meals, laundry, cleaning, etc. They have it on easy street, but when the road becomes bumpy, they don't want to "take it." They don't step up to the plate as my counselor says.
Speaking of counselors, find yourself a good one and explain what you are going through and no doubt, s/he should be able to give you strategies. To be perfectly honest, when I finally decided to get out of my no win situation, a boulder had been lifted from my shoulders. Health wise and mental wise, I am doing so much better. You might find this to be your case, too. I can empathize and sympathize with you as we are walking down the same path.
Have you consulted with a second WG doctor? Perhaps, a new doc. could add more to your care and make you feel better. As far as giving up your job, I had to leave teaching. I LOVED my job, especially the kids. They were the light of my life and they were just like my very own children because they were with me for four years 9-12. They still send me cards, call, visit and are real blessings in my life.
I wouldn't be able to return to teaching because of the germs, even after the lung transplant, so I am creating a Website for French teachers that will cost them to use for the year. I am living on disability, which isn't much compared to what I was making. So, hopefully, this will work out to help me financially. I taught French for 20 years + and took adults and students to Canada, France, Italy, etc. I took the kids every year to NY to see a French play, a French restaurant, etc.
I was so active and now, I can barely walk short distances without huffing and puffing. So, Heather, you have a lot to think about. You will have to reinvent yourself somehow. The essence of you won't change, but what you will be able to do will.
But, in the end, you are still alive and there for your kids. Money can't buy you happiness, health, love or a free ride. Perhaps, you could create a website on how to choose a lawyer, helpful hints, etc., where people pay a flat fee to glean all the info. you can provide them.
Keep us posted. If you should like to talk via the phone, e-mail me your phone number at mmottarot1@hotmail.com and I can call you.
My best to you, Heather.
Keep going. It will get better. Just another bump in the road of life. If you want, you can check out my blog at http://www.breathingtolive.blogspot.com/ and check on the train entry. It will inspire you. It did me. Let me know what you think.
Hugs,
Marge
You are probably thinking that I am nuts to be openly discussing this. But I have to say that it is embarrassing to me to have allowed myself to get in this situation in the first place. I always wondered why women stayed with physically and mentally abusive men and I thought it could never happen to me. I am smart, educated, have a wonderful, kind, generous, sweetest mother you could ever have ( she has given me her life so that I can live) A mother's love is never ending. I just figured that was how life is. But then the shock came of a totally dysfunctional family that thrived on their dysfunctionality and loved being the way they are. They know no better and have created their "own reality" that is so far off base that it is scary.
Consequently, I had a difficult time dealing with this constant non-reality group of yahoos running amok on a daily basis. We could never have a meal without a fight ensuing between the kids or the kids and Al. Talk about dinner time fun. We couldn't go out as a group without whining, complaining and misery surrounding them like the blanket of Linus from Peanuts. It permeated everything in their lives and mine as I was married to Al.
But, in reality, Al wasn't married to me. He never was. He finally admitted that the reason that he married me was to save him and his children from the black hole that they were living in after his poor wife had passed away.
That is entirely another story that makes me sick to my stomach with what she had to endure at the hands of her so called husband and so called children. I don't say this lightly as I have heard from many people the sad tale. So not am I only speaking on my behalf, but also on the behalf of this woman I never knew. She doesn't have a voice because she is dead. So, I am her voice and mine too. And I really don't give a darn whether people like it or not. It needs to be said.
Am I disappointed in myself for allowing this to happen to me? You betcha. Am I getting over it? Yes, on my good days. The bad days are when people say to me that they feel so badly about what happened and that I didn't deserve that type of treatment from him or his kids. They, also, tell me how abusive Al was to Kathy and how the girls never helped their mother when she was sick, but Sam did.Kudos to Sam. This was from Al's own family members that told me that. It is so sad that it breaks my heart. A dying woman left in the clutches of those people. If anyone should get and be in Heaven, then it is Al's first wife as she deserved so much better than what she got.
They are so disrespectful, that for years, I paid for the flowers to be put on her grave. I felt so sorry for her. I would purchase flowers at Noxon's Frog Pond and ask Sam to pick out the flowers that he wanted for his mom. Then, he and Al would go and plant them. Or so, Al said.
His daughter called to say that she had discovered flowers on her mother's grave and why wasn't she informed of this? Why wasn't she included? Let's see, there wouldn't have been any flowers if I hadn't paid for them and insisted that they be planted in honor and respect for their mother.
Secondly, when I first married Al, I asked him to take them all to the cemetery and plant flowers only to have Sara and Becky throw a hissy fit that they would not go with their father or Sam to put flowers on her grave. They physically threw themselves around and drove off to God knows where. Al was devastated and I was appalled. I couldn't even say anything because I had never in my entire life seen such actions. This was constant and I could never adjust to these wacky, crazy, disrespectful actions. The poor mother.
Instead of telling Becky the truth of who made sure her mother had flowers at the cemetery, I kept my mouth shut. But no longer! They can't do me anymore harm as they have done the worst. The only thing left for them to do is knock me off. I know they were hoping for that when I got sick. But, once again, I disappointed them. Aw, shucks. The she devils were disappointed once again. They came to the hospital to gloat about me being so very ill. They wanted to see first hand my supposed demise.
My confidence in Al, to tell the truth is nonexistent, at this point. Though, when I bring up these items of him and his children not telling the truth, he accuses me of picking on him. For crying out loud, the man is 54 and he can't deal with hearing the truth as if I could make up all of this. Please, spare me and everyone else he has lied to along with his kids.
During the divorce process, Al has said some rather nasty, untrue statements about me within the hearing of some BG students, who unbeknownst to me, came to my defense. I've said repeatedly and I will continue to say that my kids at BG were the best. I loved them all and I think that they knew this as they have stood up for me time and time again. I bless them for telling the truth and being honest whereas the husband I thought I married turned out to be ______________ and his children no better. It is a disgrace that Al and his children have maligned me so, when I gave them everything I had, even my health. They still can't tell the truth, nor be honest with themselves, each other and their friends and family. It is truly a sad day for me to have learned this.
After confronting Al about his untruthful remarks about me robbing him of his Mustang and the furniture, which is still there by the way. Their animals ruined perfectly good furniture and why would I want the nasty stuff! I had all new furniture myself when I moved there only to have them damage and destroy it. Of course, they would never tell the truth about stealing my possessions and hiding and destroying them. They destroyed several sentimental items that were given to me by special people in my life.
The one that broke my heart was from my step dad, who spoiled me in a good way. He was generous to everyone. I would record French music for my kids at school and give them the music on cassette tapes. I always would go to my parents to fast dub the tapes as I would have to do 20+ tapes at a time. My step dad would joke with me about it.
One day, my parents showed up with my very own radio, cassette dubbing machine for me to use at my house. Well, Al's kids destroyed this without admitting to it nor apologizing. I went off to the repairman in Bainbridge-the fellow across the bridge and he said it was not worth fixing as it would cost me more to have it repaired than to buy a new one. Did Al ever do anything about this? Why no. His cherubs wouldn't do any such thing.
Meanwhile, my BG kids overhead Al talking to the new woman in his life, who wasn't so new after all- another story that he denies-but people once again feeling bad for me, have told me the truth-Al denies once again his involvement in these loathsome activities-but as you can tell, I have had enough of being unfairly slandered by him, his kids and their so called friends.
Furthermore, he keeps telling me that he hasn't done any of these things and he swears on his wife's grave. That's a real good one, let me tell you. I informed him to let her rest in peace. He and his kids have used her death to the hilt for sympathy, manupilative purposes, etc. Enough already. This has been going on for well over ten years. Just let her be, for goodness sake. Not to mention that Becky and the wonderkin Cory asked people to donate to the cancer society in her mother's honor. What a great show for those all attending, while the gravesite of her mother was in deplorable condition, not a flower in sight, only a mass of weeds. Talk about disrespect, Becky has it in spades. She sure did look good to those attending, but the dirty little secret is out.
By the way, what I am saying here is nothing that good ole Al hasn't heard from me. If you want to know if I am telling you the truth about it, feel free to call him at 607-967-4600 and I am sure he will enlighten you.
Speaking of Kathy's grave, when Al was here I told him that he needed to apologize for maligning my mom, which was the straw that broke this camel's back when I left. I will take abuse, but when you start on my mom, you had better run for cover because I am relentless and I will run you over if it is my last breath and I don't say that lightly as I am on oxygen. After my shaming him into apologizing to my mom, I told him to go and clean up the cemetary and put flowers there for Kathy with his kids.
This evening as I let him have it for being such a ______________, he told me that he had cleaned up the gravesite and put flowers there. If he did this, then perhaps, he has learned a little something about respect. I shouldn't have to tell him this, though. Once again, if he loved his wife, he would have been doing this all along.
You are probably wondering why I can't let go, since I am out of the live reality show that doesn't need a script, only a camera crew to follow the yahoos and the new woman in Al's life that he is madly in love with. He hasn't moved her in yet as people have already told him what a loser he is. Well, he doesn't want to admit to the fact that he is less than honest, so if he moves his new woman in, it only proves what a __________he really is. But, as I told him tonight, we all know the truth, so show her over the threshold and put her horses in your pole barn minus the Mustang that I supposedly stole from him.
Well, what did get me all revved up? It was Al asking me to have my lawyer, remember Al didn't want a lawyer because it would cost him MONEY, even though I advised him numerous times to do so and my lawyer even advised him of this, write a letter stating that this was it, there would be no changes in our agreement.
So, in essence, Al was insinuating once again that I was taking advantage of him. Imagine that?!! Well, I heard that about once too many times. So, the good people of Bainbridge heard me in the street in front of the pharmacy letting Al know just what I thought about who was robbing who. Instead of owning up to his insinuation and blaming me for misunderstanding him-oh, everybody else's fault, except his own in his book of lies- this continued on into the town hall, where he told me to calm down. Calm down after being talked to this way and hearing all the Kathy and Al stories, the new woman stories. What planet does he think I am living on anyways? Well, the good folks in the town hall got an ear full and frankly, I didn't give a hoot. Of course, Al didn't want me bringing up any of this because he would look like a _______________________and rightfully so.
Does the apples not fall far from the tree? Who would have thunk that Newton's Law of gravity would prove the Arotsky Theorem that you are what your parents make you and teach you-the supposed role model for being a good, upright citizen. Where did they get lost? And why don't they try to get back on track? I don't have the answers and I suspect that I never will. The problem is that they are narcisstic-money first, me second, my pets maybe and to heck with the rest-you exist in their life only to be used and when they can't use you anymore, you are kicked to the curb like yesterday's trash and if you are their friend, then you are just like them.
In my phone "conversation" with Al, he asked me when I would stop hounding him, picking on him and his cherubs, we are getting a divorce-why can't I just let it go, he asks innocently, as if he has no clue. Well, here is the clue that I told Al, as soon as you stop telling lies about me and your kids stop lying about me, then I will not be calling you on your deplorable behavior. It seems that I am the only one, who tells him to knock his crap off.
Furthermore, I told him I will be happy to put in the paper what I received from the legal separation agreement and what he received. He knows and I know that he got the better deal all the way around. He got rid of me and my health issues and he kept the property on Searles Hill Road. He does not want me to put this in the newspaper at all. Hmm.. I wonder why not???!!!
I, also, told him that I would also declare in the newspaper that I would not seek anymore of his assets as he felt that me receiving 50% of the appraised value of the house and property was too much. In his words, he should have had 60% and me 40%, but lucky for me, New York state says 50-50. Is he worth my breath? Not at all, but for Kathy and myself having lived through what we did, I have to tell the truth. She deserved better and I deserved better.
When you don't have a conscience, moral fiber, truth, honesty, love, self respect and respect for others, you end up like this totally dsyfunctional family. They need blessings because they have missed the meaning of life entirely. They will have left this Earth no wiser, no happier, no healthier, no more anything. What a shame. You can always learn from your mistakes and become a better person. Then, people like me can say, at least they got the meaning and made themselves be better human beings, but when you know your faults and you don't want to deal with them, then I have no sympathy or tolerance for you. This entry proves it hands down.
I wouldn't have revealed this, but I am done being pushed around and verbally attacked and now I am simply telling the truth. Enough is enough.
I, also, told Al that I have my checkbook records to prove how much money I spent on him and his kids. My first year into the marriage, $50, 000. Multiply that by 10 years- an average amount. I offered to have the bank pull these checks and send them to him and if he was so inclined, he could start making restitution on a monthly basis. So once again, who robbed who? You do the math.
At the end of the conversation, he said that a newspaper will not print our legal separation agreement in the newspaper, nor will they print me stating that I will not "rob" him of anything else.
Well, I'll be busy tomorrow ringing up the newspapers to find out. Al wanted a letter from my lawyer stating that the legal separation is final and that I won't get anything more. Well, I have no problem stating what I received and what he received. There will be the proof that he has requested in black and white and for everyone to see. So,when he and his kids start trashing me and lying about me, the newspaper has it all.
When you make mistakes, admit it, fix it, apologize and don't do it again. You can be forgiven for that, but when you continue to lie, not accept responsibility for your lies, then you can not be forgiven in my book. We can all make improvements in our lives and how we treat one another. I know that I am not perfect as I told Al, but I can look in the mirror and know that I have done the right things in my life- the important things that count. He, on the other hand, looks in mirror and I don't have a clue what he sees. He probably doesn't know either. I told him to quit his drinking as he claims he had no clue that he even said such salacious things about me. Was he so drunk with his new woman, that he forgot what he said or did he merely "forget" like his kids did when they broke all my stuff or stole it or hid it. They don't even tell each other the truth. The only thing they all agreed upon was running me out of their dsyfunctional family.
I should have rode out of Dodge when I could have done it on my own.
If you see Mom out and about, please do not mention this to her as it only upsets her. This is my business and what stays on the blog, stays on the blog. My mom doesn't need to know or be reminded of my past ten years. She already knows the price I have paid and it only makes her feel helpless and sick.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Visitation Rights Revoked for my One and Only Bud!
It happened out of the clear blue sky as I tried to pay for dinner for my Aunt Bea, Uncle Don and my Mom at the Country Club. My aunt insisted on paying as I had babysat Bud. Well, I adore Bud and he is so well behaved that babysitting and chit chatting with him is a pleasure.
We almost ended up in an arm wrestling match that my Mom had to break up. Finally, my aunt said that if she could not pay the bill, then I could not visit Bud. My visitation rights would be revoked. How do you like that? Well, I asked her if he could still come to my pawty at my new home on Secor Street. "NO," was her emphatic reply. One not to despair, I figured I needed to get back in my aunt's good graces.
She and my uncle were headed to MA to stay with my Aunt Joan and Uncle Don along with Bill and Cindy B. So, I called out there to inquire if they were alright and if Bud was a happy camper, which he was. He took over Jasmine's bed, even though he can walk under her belly, I think. Imagine that- the little one told the big one to move it on over and she did.
I told my Aunt Joan about my Aunt Bea revoking my visitation rights to Bud and that I was calling to see if she would relent. My Aunt Bea got on the line and I explained my reasons for calling. She said that even though I was Bud's Godmother, she would have to think about it.
So, when they came home from MA., we invited them for dinner along with Bud. They arrived with Bud, who was sick. His nose was dry. He hadn't eaten or drank anything all day long. I was forbidden to feed him, but I did water him. He didn't want his swanky water from the tap, either. He sat on my aunt's lap all day long and did not jump up or down at all. Poor Bud was under the weather. So, my aunt had made him a vet's appointment at 7. She agreed to call us with the findings about Bud and his medical condition.
Sure enough, my aunt called to say that Bud had put his back out and needed pain killers, an antibiotic and his puppy stairs up to his parents' and his bed. I want to see these steps. Aunt Bea surmises that Bud had jumped off Aunt Joan and Uncle Don's bed, which is rather high and strained his back. I asked if there is a dog chiropractor. I know that they have psychologists for dogs that are depressed. I wonder how that works? Needless to say, our Bud will be on bed rest with no jumping for awhile.
My aunt would like a Westy dog. I asked,"What type of dog is that?" "A cute one," she replied. My uncle Don has forbid her to get a Westy from the East side. So, what to do? Jean said,"Don't be surprised if Marge delivers a Westy to you soon. Would you keep him/her if he/she was a gift?" "NO,"said my uncle. Jeez, who will win this dog go round?
Meanwhile, an official envelope from TN. arrived with my name on it. It was from an attorney by the name of Kathy W., who had sent me a legal document stating that I could now visit Bud, without any troubles. I was reinstated as the Godmother once again. The legal document proclaimed my ability to see Bud and interact with him when I wanted. I had finally won the battle to see my godson, Bud with the legal expertise of my lawyer, Kathy W.
I have invited my attorney to stay at my house, especially at the time of my big pawty that Bud will be attending. He will be surrounded by family and friends and of course, Kathy, my lawyer, who has given me peace of mind as a Godmother.
Thank you, Kathy for your expertise in this area. I know that I will be using your legal document real soon, after I have it framed. My aunt Bea said, "Don't worry, Bud will come to your pawty." Meanwhile, I am framing this document for my aunt and uncle as proof that I reserve my rights to see Bud at their abode, etc. Also, I will be painting them a picture frame just for Bud and them.
Will my aunt once again revoke my visitation rights to Bud, once she is "served" with this legal document? I hope not.
May you have a buddy like Bud and an aunt and uncle like mine. They all are great fun as well as my cousin lawyer, Kathy, who is one of Bea and Don's daughter, who is a real peach of a gal.
We almost ended up in an arm wrestling match that my Mom had to break up. Finally, my aunt said that if she could not pay the bill, then I could not visit Bud. My visitation rights would be revoked. How do you like that? Well, I asked her if he could still come to my pawty at my new home on Secor Street. "NO," was her emphatic reply. One not to despair, I figured I needed to get back in my aunt's good graces.
She and my uncle were headed to MA to stay with my Aunt Joan and Uncle Don along with Bill and Cindy B. So, I called out there to inquire if they were alright and if Bud was a happy camper, which he was. He took over Jasmine's bed, even though he can walk under her belly, I think. Imagine that- the little one told the big one to move it on over and she did.
I told my Aunt Joan about my Aunt Bea revoking my visitation rights to Bud and that I was calling to see if she would relent. My Aunt Bea got on the line and I explained my reasons for calling. She said that even though I was Bud's Godmother, she would have to think about it.
So, when they came home from MA., we invited them for dinner along with Bud. They arrived with Bud, who was sick. His nose was dry. He hadn't eaten or drank anything all day long. I was forbidden to feed him, but I did water him. He didn't want his swanky water from the tap, either. He sat on my aunt's lap all day long and did not jump up or down at all. Poor Bud was under the weather. So, my aunt had made him a vet's appointment at 7. She agreed to call us with the findings about Bud and his medical condition.
Sure enough, my aunt called to say that Bud had put his back out and needed pain killers, an antibiotic and his puppy stairs up to his parents' and his bed. I want to see these steps. Aunt Bea surmises that Bud had jumped off Aunt Joan and Uncle Don's bed, which is rather high and strained his back. I asked if there is a dog chiropractor. I know that they have psychologists for dogs that are depressed. I wonder how that works? Needless to say, our Bud will be on bed rest with no jumping for awhile.
My aunt would like a Westy dog. I asked,"What type of dog is that?" "A cute one," she replied. My uncle Don has forbid her to get a Westy from the East side. So, what to do? Jean said,"Don't be surprised if Marge delivers a Westy to you soon. Would you keep him/her if he/she was a gift?" "NO,"said my uncle. Jeez, who will win this dog go round?
Meanwhile, an official envelope from TN. arrived with my name on it. It was from an attorney by the name of Kathy W., who had sent me a legal document stating that I could now visit Bud, without any troubles. I was reinstated as the Godmother once again. The legal document proclaimed my ability to see Bud and interact with him when I wanted. I had finally won the battle to see my godson, Bud with the legal expertise of my lawyer, Kathy W.
I have invited my attorney to stay at my house, especially at the time of my big pawty that Bud will be attending. He will be surrounded by family and friends and of course, Kathy, my lawyer, who has given me peace of mind as a Godmother.
Thank you, Kathy for your expertise in this area. I know that I will be using your legal document real soon, after I have it framed. My aunt Bea said, "Don't worry, Bud will come to your pawty." Meanwhile, I am framing this document for my aunt and uncle as proof that I reserve my rights to see Bud at their abode, etc. Also, I will be painting them a picture frame just for Bud and them.
Will my aunt once again revoke my visitation rights to Bud, once she is "served" with this legal document? I hope not.
May you have a buddy like Bud and an aunt and uncle like mine. They all are great fun as well as my cousin lawyer, Kathy, who is one of Bea and Don's daughter, who is a real peach of a gal.
Wednesday is so Fine compared to Tuesday's Down Time!
Tuesday, Tuesday, what a day! I started off making several phone calls to Pitts. trying to update them on my condition. No one answered, until I received their answering service. Here goes the joy of speaking with them.
Me: Hello. I am calling to speak with the pre-transplant coordinator about my condition.
Them: Is this an emergency? If so, please call your local 911.
Me: I am calling because my doctor in Albany said that I should let the pre-transplant coordinator know that I am short of breath and retaining fluids.
Them: Can't you call back some other time?
Me: Not really as I need to coordinate this and figure out what the next step is.
Them: Well, let me see if I can connect you to someone.
Me: O.K. Thank you.
A looooonnng pause, then a recording and the line goes dead. I went through this cycle five times and finally, I reached a gal named Laura, who I told immediately,"Do not pass me on to anyone else. I have had enough of being sent on a wild goose chase. This type of set up does not inspire confidence in me to have a lung transplant there as I can never speak to anyone, nor do they answer my e-mails. I receive recordings to leave messages and then, no call backs. This is ridiculous," I said. Luckily, Mom was not listening or she would have been disciplining me.
Well, when your tank runneth over, it runneth over and the only thing to do is to let it flow freely. Laura was kind and said she was sure that the secretary was giving them the message. Finally today, I spoke with Melissa, my pre-transplant coordinator and they have decided I should make a trip to Pitts. sometime in October for a checkup.
So, I called my Dr. Beegle's office to ask him to speak with Pitts. as I would rather do any testing in Albany than drive all the way to Pitts. to do the testing there. It is a long, long trip when you are on oxygen. I purchased a Tom Tom and haven't installed it yet as I forget to do it, until I am in the car and heading somewhere. Tom Tom users say they are a fantastic device. You can't get lost and if you do, Tom Tom will direct you back to where you should be. Tom Tom doesn't know me that well.
I am sure you are thinking, "Boy, that girl could sure use some directions." Well, Jerry B. told me that the Tom Tom, or perhaps, his is Garmin will tell you where restaurants are, detours, gas stations, etc. You know me, of course, I was inquiring whether it said where the restrooms are located en route. Imagine my surprise when Jerry said that it did. No need for my http://www.toiletsacrossamerica.com/. Well, I was so happy to be "privy" to this info. Now, my Tom Tom is worth every penny, that is if I get it installed properly and can find the restroom facilities. It will even tell me the directions verbally. I think that Tom Tom and I will get along just fine.
I cleaned like a Mad Hatter today as my mom was beginning to despair with all my cluttering crafts all about. We managed to straighten up and organize my crafts, somewhat. It is a never ending process with me of cleaning up, cluttering up, rearranging, cleaning up, and the beat goes on. Mom is up to a thirty room house for me, so I have enough space for all of my crafts.
Little does she know, we probably haven't uncovered them all as of yet. Another day, another time, another moment of despair for my mom. Yikes!!
While I was decluttering in one room and transferring the clutter to another room, Claudia B. called to say that her daughter, Heather and new baby girl, Sienna Rose were in town for a visit and could we come over? Come over??!!!! Well, I had bells on as the pictures of Sienna Rose are just so cute.
Heather let me hold her and she is a doll. She is so alert and she knows her momma. She is very observant and is checking out her surroundings. I chit chatted with her and finally, her little eyes became a little droopy. We were keeping her awake with all our ramblings. I wonder what she thinks. She is a cutie patootie as is her mom, Heather and her grandmother, Claudia.
I wish we could have stayed longer to chit chat. I told Heather that mom and I would be taking Sienna Rose home with us as she has such a sweet disposition, but she forestalled that quickly by saying that daddy expected his little girl to be home on time. Aw, well, I tried. I just love babies. There is just something about them that makes you smile inside and out.
I imagine it will be hard for Heather to go back to work. It would be for me if I had a little one. I think Sienna Rose is one lucky little girl, who will grow up to be one fine gal as she is the apple of her mom's, dad's, grandmas' and grandpa's eyes. Mom and I took a shine to her immediately. Oh, her outfits are so adorable. She wears color coordinated outfits that are just so cute.
Wishing Eric, Heather and baby Sienna Rose the best to come, yet. Happy trails as they love to travel. Sienna Rose will have logged more traveling miles than I did in college and thereafter by the time she is ten. Bon voyage!!!!
Dinner in with my Aunt Bea , Uncle Don and Jean K. We had a delightful dinner of chicken, fresh veggies with dip, fruit salad, fresh picked corn and apple crumb pie for dessert. Delicious, delicious!!!! Price Chopper did the main part of the meal and we did the rest. Thank goodness for the PC here in town.
Counting down, until Barnie shows up with his fishing pole in hand.
Kenny T. is coming on Sunday to meet Barnie as he would like a bear named Grizzly, named after his tools. Grizzly will take up residence in Kenny's workshop. He has looked all over for a carved, wooden bear to no avail. So, as luck would have it, he wants a bear just like Barnie, overall bibs and all. Should be interesting!
May you eat an enjoyable meal with family and friends. May you finally connect with whom you need to. May you hold a true cherub like Sienna Rose and admire all her small features, personality and so much more. May you be blessed with good health, good family and good friends.
Me: Hello. I am calling to speak with the pre-transplant coordinator about my condition.
Them: Is this an emergency? If so, please call your local 911.
Me: I am calling because my doctor in Albany said that I should let the pre-transplant coordinator know that I am short of breath and retaining fluids.
Them: Can't you call back some other time?
Me: Not really as I need to coordinate this and figure out what the next step is.
Them: Well, let me see if I can connect you to someone.
Me: O.K. Thank you.
A looooonnng pause, then a recording and the line goes dead. I went through this cycle five times and finally, I reached a gal named Laura, who I told immediately,"Do not pass me on to anyone else. I have had enough of being sent on a wild goose chase. This type of set up does not inspire confidence in me to have a lung transplant there as I can never speak to anyone, nor do they answer my e-mails. I receive recordings to leave messages and then, no call backs. This is ridiculous," I said. Luckily, Mom was not listening or she would have been disciplining me.
Well, when your tank runneth over, it runneth over and the only thing to do is to let it flow freely. Laura was kind and said she was sure that the secretary was giving them the message. Finally today, I spoke with Melissa, my pre-transplant coordinator and they have decided I should make a trip to Pitts. sometime in October for a checkup.
So, I called my Dr. Beegle's office to ask him to speak with Pitts. as I would rather do any testing in Albany than drive all the way to Pitts. to do the testing there. It is a long, long trip when you are on oxygen. I purchased a Tom Tom and haven't installed it yet as I forget to do it, until I am in the car and heading somewhere. Tom Tom users say they are a fantastic device. You can't get lost and if you do, Tom Tom will direct you back to where you should be. Tom Tom doesn't know me that well.
I am sure you are thinking, "Boy, that girl could sure use some directions." Well, Jerry B. told me that the Tom Tom, or perhaps, his is Garmin will tell you where restaurants are, detours, gas stations, etc. You know me, of course, I was inquiring whether it said where the restrooms are located en route. Imagine my surprise when Jerry said that it did. No need for my http://www.toiletsacrossamerica.com/. Well, I was so happy to be "privy" to this info. Now, my Tom Tom is worth every penny, that is if I get it installed properly and can find the restroom facilities. It will even tell me the directions verbally. I think that Tom Tom and I will get along just fine.
I cleaned like a Mad Hatter today as my mom was beginning to despair with all my cluttering crafts all about. We managed to straighten up and organize my crafts, somewhat. It is a never ending process with me of cleaning up, cluttering up, rearranging, cleaning up, and the beat goes on. Mom is up to a thirty room house for me, so I have enough space for all of my crafts.
Little does she know, we probably haven't uncovered them all as of yet. Another day, another time, another moment of despair for my mom. Yikes!!
While I was decluttering in one room and transferring the clutter to another room, Claudia B. called to say that her daughter, Heather and new baby girl, Sienna Rose were in town for a visit and could we come over? Come over??!!!! Well, I had bells on as the pictures of Sienna Rose are just so cute.
Heather let me hold her and she is a doll. She is so alert and she knows her momma. She is very observant and is checking out her surroundings. I chit chatted with her and finally, her little eyes became a little droopy. We were keeping her awake with all our ramblings. I wonder what she thinks. She is a cutie patootie as is her mom, Heather and her grandmother, Claudia.
I wish we could have stayed longer to chit chat. I told Heather that mom and I would be taking Sienna Rose home with us as she has such a sweet disposition, but she forestalled that quickly by saying that daddy expected his little girl to be home on time. Aw, well, I tried. I just love babies. There is just something about them that makes you smile inside and out.
I imagine it will be hard for Heather to go back to work. It would be for me if I had a little one. I think Sienna Rose is one lucky little girl, who will grow up to be one fine gal as she is the apple of her mom's, dad's, grandmas' and grandpa's eyes. Mom and I took a shine to her immediately. Oh, her outfits are so adorable. She wears color coordinated outfits that are just so cute.
Wishing Eric, Heather and baby Sienna Rose the best to come, yet. Happy trails as they love to travel. Sienna Rose will have logged more traveling miles than I did in college and thereafter by the time she is ten. Bon voyage!!!!
Dinner in with my Aunt Bea , Uncle Don and Jean K. We had a delightful dinner of chicken, fresh veggies with dip, fruit salad, fresh picked corn and apple crumb pie for dessert. Delicious, delicious!!!! Price Chopper did the main part of the meal and we did the rest. Thank goodness for the PC here in town.
Counting down, until Barnie shows up with his fishing pole in hand.
Kenny T. is coming on Sunday to meet Barnie as he would like a bear named Grizzly, named after his tools. Grizzly will take up residence in Kenny's workshop. He has looked all over for a carved, wooden bear to no avail. So, as luck would have it, he wants a bear just like Barnie, overall bibs and all. Should be interesting!
May you eat an enjoyable meal with family and friends. May you finally connect with whom you need to. May you hold a true cherub like Sienna Rose and admire all her small features, personality and so much more. May you be blessed with good health, good family and good friends.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
No Monday Blues for Me!
Monday rolled around in usual fashion. The beginning of the week, which is filled with things to do for the week is always busy or so it seems. So, I composed a list, not a small post-it as my list is long and filled to the edges. Perhaps, I can put it on the copier and shrink it, so that I don't think about ALL the things I must do and the list will give me the illusion that the list is do-able.
My list of things went like this-
1. Finish my MIBISIGI projects. I am thrilled with my finished pieces that range from a Halloween Boyd's bear that is sitting in a painted bear bucket that I did. When I go to the MIBISIGI event, I will be bringing popcorn balls made with candy corn. Yum yum. My sister suggested the recipe and she is a way better cook than I am hands down, oven and stove on without causing a red hot fire.
My other projects include a painted snowman tray that says Brr.....It's time for hot cocoa and marshmallows and on the painted tray, I put two holiday mugs with Swiss Miss hot cocoa mixes. How did she get to be the Swiss Miss? How about the Swiss man? Or is it not manly to drink hot cocoa?!!!!
I also painted a shelf sitting sign with a snowman that says,"Snowmen will melt your heart." And of course, I painted a cute snowman with flakes falling on him.
Next, I sewed a dog Christmas stocking that is filled with all sorts of goodies for the canine in your family. The material has dogs on it of course. I also painted a dog bone frame that says, "Dog gone cute." So, your favorite dog picture can be easily displayed.
I put together a cute glass door that says Hayrides- 5C each along with small pumpkins that won't fade on the vine or rot. It is very cute.
I think that was everything. The MIBISIGI extravaganza is so much fun that I can't wait to see all the goodies.
Betty M. will keep me posted on the latest news with that and I will post what she sends me. I invite you all to come and have some fun.
2. Make phone calls about the chimney flue at the new home. Santa will be having problems getting down that flue, if it isn't fixed. It seems that all the chimney folks are busy. Tis the season for cleaning repairing, installing, upgrading and scads of other problems that go hand in hand with chimneys. I am learning more about this type of flue than the flu. Which is worse? I am not sure.
3. Called the doctor's office and received a recorded message to record a message and after hearing my recorded message, they would then phone me. Have I hear anything yet? Heavens no.
4. On the trail of my Super Detox soap, which I think is working and helping out my second mom with a soap that she is in need of. Her current situation is mind boggling as both her mom and brother are in the same hospital with various troubles. Dad is possibly experiencing some heart difficulties after having both knees replaced and poor mom has a horrific cold. I think she is trying to do too much. So, hopefully the soap will put a smile on her face during this difficult family time. Mom is a wonderful blessing to her family, including me. I am one lucky gal to be apart of their family. My prayer is that they all recover quickly and can all go home soon.
5. Pick up of the sleigh bed and matching accessories at Pete's Barn kitty corner to the Unadilla Drive In. My good friend, Tom G., who I have known for years is an absolute peach of a fellow, who can get you laughing in no time at all. He has the biggest heart of any fellow that I know. He is genuine, kind and a sweetie pie. He picked up my furniture and he and his dogs, Spice and Mo delivered the goods to the storage shed. The dogs were so excited to be apart of the moving experience. Either that or they had to go to the bathroom. Who knows which one it was?
Needless to say, my cousin, Huckleberry will be happy with the bedroom suit as he is wrestling with the idea of staying at the storage shed instead of Motel 8, where they leave the light on. I did discover that you can buy those lights with the batteries. I shall have to invest in them as Huckleberry will need a nightlight. I believe he may have a shotgun with him to ward off any varmints that might want to share his bed. I told him no noise after 10, but you never know with him. He reminds me of Larry the Cable Guy, when it comes to poachers, especially at the storage facilities. No doubt, he will take chalk and write out the conditions and expectations while he is residing at the storage shed out in front on the pavement. Then, he will pray that it doesn't rain and remove his particular commandments.
6. After taking care of the bedroom furniture, off to my first meeting with my sorority sisters in 2 and 1/2 years. It was so exciting to see them all. They are just as I remembered them-welcoming, funny, engaging, happy, full of life and willing to help others. What a sensational group of women with many similar aspirations, but still retaining their individualism. I told them that it felt wonderful to see them and hear their voices. Lorrie R. and Pat N. gave us a tour of their trip to Greece, Italy, France, etc. They had a great time with many funny stories. We were howling with laughter after Pat N. told us about being locked out on their balcony and trying to find someone to rescue them. Call Pat if you should need help after this incredible episode on the cruise ship. Mind you, they were not even on land yet and already the fun began for her and Bob. What a classic story. We won't mention what happened to Lorrie during the trip.
I so enjoyed myself. What I love about my sorority is the ladies, of course, but that our sorority is service oriented-doing for the community in our small way.
7. Planning my transplant benefit-This is not an easy feat coordinating everything, I must say. My sister is in charge of the stamping up part and the Chinese auction. I am helping out there. I've crafted a bunch of items. Also, we will be seeking donations of gift cards, certificates or items from our local community. My sorority will be offering various foods. It will be a fun day, no doubt. Just getting it from its infancy to the actual day will be a challenge-but a good challenge. I am lucky to have so much support. It is encouraging to me to receive this kind support. When I know all the details, I will post them.
8. Well, could there be anymore things that needed my attention? Oh, yes, the insurance company, who billed my blood labs incorrectly. So, the loopy loop cycle begins once again in trying to correct the billing department. A recording? No, that can't be. What is worse, a recording or talking to someone in a foreign country that you can't understand? I think I would have to toss a coin on that one.
May you not have any Blue Mondays, but instead Happy Mondays!
My list of things went like this-
1. Finish my MIBISIGI projects. I am thrilled with my finished pieces that range from a Halloween Boyd's bear that is sitting in a painted bear bucket that I did. When I go to the MIBISIGI event, I will be bringing popcorn balls made with candy corn. Yum yum. My sister suggested the recipe and she is a way better cook than I am hands down, oven and stove on without causing a red hot fire.
My other projects include a painted snowman tray that says Brr.....It's time for hot cocoa and marshmallows and on the painted tray, I put two holiday mugs with Swiss Miss hot cocoa mixes. How did she get to be the Swiss Miss? How about the Swiss man? Or is it not manly to drink hot cocoa?!!!!
I also painted a shelf sitting sign with a snowman that says,"Snowmen will melt your heart." And of course, I painted a cute snowman with flakes falling on him.
Next, I sewed a dog Christmas stocking that is filled with all sorts of goodies for the canine in your family. The material has dogs on it of course. I also painted a dog bone frame that says, "Dog gone cute." So, your favorite dog picture can be easily displayed.
I put together a cute glass door that says Hayrides- 5C each along with small pumpkins that won't fade on the vine or rot. It is very cute.
I think that was everything. The MIBISIGI extravaganza is so much fun that I can't wait to see all the goodies.
Betty M. will keep me posted on the latest news with that and I will post what she sends me. I invite you all to come and have some fun.
2. Make phone calls about the chimney flue at the new home. Santa will be having problems getting down that flue, if it isn't fixed. It seems that all the chimney folks are busy. Tis the season for cleaning repairing, installing, upgrading and scads of other problems that go hand in hand with chimneys. I am learning more about this type of flue than the flu. Which is worse? I am not sure.
3. Called the doctor's office and received a recorded message to record a message and after hearing my recorded message, they would then phone me. Have I hear anything yet? Heavens no.
4. On the trail of my Super Detox soap, which I think is working and helping out my second mom with a soap that she is in need of. Her current situation is mind boggling as both her mom and brother are in the same hospital with various troubles. Dad is possibly experiencing some heart difficulties after having both knees replaced and poor mom has a horrific cold. I think she is trying to do too much. So, hopefully the soap will put a smile on her face during this difficult family time. Mom is a wonderful blessing to her family, including me. I am one lucky gal to be apart of their family. My prayer is that they all recover quickly and can all go home soon.
5. Pick up of the sleigh bed and matching accessories at Pete's Barn kitty corner to the Unadilla Drive In. My good friend, Tom G., who I have known for years is an absolute peach of a fellow, who can get you laughing in no time at all. He has the biggest heart of any fellow that I know. He is genuine, kind and a sweetie pie. He picked up my furniture and he and his dogs, Spice and Mo delivered the goods to the storage shed. The dogs were so excited to be apart of the moving experience. Either that or they had to go to the bathroom. Who knows which one it was?
Needless to say, my cousin, Huckleberry will be happy with the bedroom suit as he is wrestling with the idea of staying at the storage shed instead of Motel 8, where they leave the light on. I did discover that you can buy those lights with the batteries. I shall have to invest in them as Huckleberry will need a nightlight. I believe he may have a shotgun with him to ward off any varmints that might want to share his bed. I told him no noise after 10, but you never know with him. He reminds me of Larry the Cable Guy, when it comes to poachers, especially at the storage facilities. No doubt, he will take chalk and write out the conditions and expectations while he is residing at the storage shed out in front on the pavement. Then, he will pray that it doesn't rain and remove his particular commandments.
6. After taking care of the bedroom furniture, off to my first meeting with my sorority sisters in 2 and 1/2 years. It was so exciting to see them all. They are just as I remembered them-welcoming, funny, engaging, happy, full of life and willing to help others. What a sensational group of women with many similar aspirations, but still retaining their individualism. I told them that it felt wonderful to see them and hear their voices. Lorrie R. and Pat N. gave us a tour of their trip to Greece, Italy, France, etc. They had a great time with many funny stories. We were howling with laughter after Pat N. told us about being locked out on their balcony and trying to find someone to rescue them. Call Pat if you should need help after this incredible episode on the cruise ship. Mind you, they were not even on land yet and already the fun began for her and Bob. What a classic story. We won't mention what happened to Lorrie during the trip.
I so enjoyed myself. What I love about my sorority is the ladies, of course, but that our sorority is service oriented-doing for the community in our small way.
7. Planning my transplant benefit-This is not an easy feat coordinating everything, I must say. My sister is in charge of the stamping up part and the Chinese auction. I am helping out there. I've crafted a bunch of items. Also, we will be seeking donations of gift cards, certificates or items from our local community. My sorority will be offering various foods. It will be a fun day, no doubt. Just getting it from its infancy to the actual day will be a challenge-but a good challenge. I am lucky to have so much support. It is encouraging to me to receive this kind support. When I know all the details, I will post them.
8. Well, could there be anymore things that needed my attention? Oh, yes, the insurance company, who billed my blood labs incorrectly. So, the loopy loop cycle begins once again in trying to correct the billing department. A recording? No, that can't be. What is worse, a recording or talking to someone in a foreign country that you can't understand? I think I would have to toss a coin on that one.
May you not have any Blue Mondays, but instead Happy Mondays!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Wagon Wheels, Bears and Cats! Oh my!
For the first time, I made a bid on e-bay. Now, I will probably be addicted to this shopping mecca that is worldwide. Mom and I have been looking for a wagon wheel to put back out at the driveway entrance to the Tiffany Hotel and Restaurant. My step dad had a beautiful wagon wheel there with the Tiffany name on it and NO VACANCY. Kidding! He would joke with all of us about doing our laundry, cleaning, etc.
As Mom and I were going through some of my pictures, we discovered pictures of the Tiffany Wheel of Fortune and Mom said she would like a wheel put back there. So, me being the computer guru at Loomis Drive, tracked one down. Mind you, I am not much of a guru as Mom doesn't even know how to turn the computer on . She can now scroll due to my diligence in training her.
The wagon wheel man just e-mailed to say that he received my check and after a ten day wait period, the wagon wheel will be on its way. Woo Hoo!. I volunteered to repaint the Tiffany part of the sign.
Had a message waiting that Mr. Bear was done and in need of his home. He will be delivered this Saturday by Jeff, my favorite bear maker and his family. We are having a bear reunion at Mom's as he will be out in front of her house until my house is ready, which should be the end of October. So, my fishing bear will have two new homes, Mom's and mine. I have to tell you that Barnie is just way too CUTE. I absolutely adore him and I could look at him forever. He has such a personality. I am going to paint a sign that says, "Gone Fishing." His pole is authentic as well as the wooden fish. He looks just like the bear from the Disney movie. He has buttons on his bibs and he has been sealed, too. Signed, sealed and delivered, he's mine. Je l'adore. Also, I will be making him another sign, which will have the name of our home (French style), which is Chateau Soleil.
Of course, I took pictures of my darling Barnie and he is one handsome bear, indeed. Jeff was worried whether I would like Barnie or not. I told Jeff, "How could I not like Barnie?" He is every girl's dream. He smiles all the time. He is happy go lucky. He brings dinner home on a regular basis that is non-fattening. He has excellent table manners-no belching and burping. He stands up straight and does not slouch. He keeps his bibs clean while he is out fishing. He doesn't walk through the house with dirty paws. His fingernails and toenails OOPS-excuse me, his claws are well manicured and clean. He is fastidious about his looks. His eyes are golden brown when he looks at you dreamy eyed. He doesn't have a jealous bone in his body. He listens intently and attentively. He doesn't snore or take up the whole bed. I know what you are thinking, ladies. He is one beary good catch. How right you are! Are any of you ready for a trade-in yet? Well, Barnie is the bearman, without a doubt. Sorry to say that Barnie is already taken and unfortunately, he is one fellow that I won't share with anyone, except my Mom.
Learned that Eddie, our construction cat died. He lived at the house on County Road 17 and he was a cat with an attitude, was our Eddie. When I first started dating Al, Becky wanted a cat, since their cat Rodney died at the time her mother did. For a very long time, Al had said, "NO more cats." Becky told me that if I asked Al for a cat, she was sure that he would say,"YES." So me being the softie told Al that she missed her cat and no doubt, her mom, so why not let her have a cat. Well, instead of her coming home with one kitten, she arrived with two, which were named Mo and Riley. Mind you, we had or should I say, they had four dogs, two cats and geese running amok when all was said and done.
One morning about 6, my phone rang and it was Al saying that he had fed Abbie, their big black German Shepard her morning breakfast and he had not put his glasses on. The kitty, named Riley figured it was his food and marched on over to the bowl, where Abbie, being protective of her morning breakfast picked Riley up by the neck to set him aside, only to break his neck. Al, without glasses is like the blind leading the blind, so he didn't see Riley headed for Abbie's dish. Al was in a quandary as what to do. I told him he would have to wake Becky up and explain what happened and they should bury Riley together. In the background, I could hear Mo crying and I told Al that perhaps, he would have to get another cat as Mo would be lonely. Thus, the story of SPCA Eddie and Martha Stewart with me in the middle.
After three days of Mo crying, Al called to ask me to go to the SPCA to find a kitten about the age of Mo. So yours truly went in search of a kitten, only to find a cat about 1 year old. He looked friendly and had long gray and white fur. Me not being an animal person, had no cat carrier, let alone a box. The shelter had no box, so I calculated the risk of taking Eddie in my brand new Surbaru Outback over to Al's. Al had assured me that the house would be unlocked and that I could put Eddie on the back porch until he returned home from football.
So, Eddie was happy sitting in the backseat on the Martha Steward towel I had placed on the new seats. He came up front to visit and then settled back down. I arrived at Al's house with no mishaps or dramas, only to find that the house was completely locked up tight. I couldn't leave Eddie outside and there was nowhere safe that I could leave him in the red barn. So, I headed off to football practice to inform Al of my dilemma. What to do with Eddie?
I pulled up and climbed out of the car, when I heard the football players saying, "Hey, Mr. Arotsky, Miss. Mott is here." as I was trying to wave him over without losing Eddie, who had decided to take a # 2 in my car en route to the practice field on the Martha Stewart towel. Let me tell you that the smell was enough to make my eyes water. I couldn't open the windows for fear that Eddie would take a flying leap out of the car. Well, Eddie scared himself so that he hid under the passenger seat up front and I couldn't get him out.
Al came off the field with a look of what is going on?!!! Let's see, I found the purrfect cat, only to realize I had no cat carrier of any nature, except my new Subaru, the house was locked that you promised would be open (his dad was visiting and had left the house, so he locked it up, not knowing that I was en route with the cat), the cat took a dump on Martha Stewart's towel (one use she hadn't probably thought of), now he is under the passenger seat and won't come out and that is all that is going on. I said he better not be taking another bathroom break under the seat.
Al tried to coax him out from under the seat to no avail. He was a scaredy cat. So, I told Al that he had better get his tools out to take the seat out as neither of us could retrieve him. Al wanted to know what I was going to do with the cat. My immediate reply was, "This is your cat, so you are in charge of him. I did my duty and found the cat for you and I've done my part."
So, Al noting my major problem of Eau de PoopPoo decided to scavenger a cardboard box out of the school dumpster to house Eddie, once we could get him out of the car. Al had driven our Mustang that day to practice and I don't think he wanted a repeat performance of Eddie's nature calling routine. Box in hand, Al eventually vacated Eddie from my new "smelling" car. Needless to say, Martha and I parted ways as we threw her new color coordinated towel in the dumpster. Au revoir, Martha, I sing songed. It was the best money I had spent as my seat wasn't ruined. The Arotsky's thought I was nuts to have towels covering my seats. Not me! This was a fine example why you need an abundance of towels in your vehicle.
Imagine our first day with Eddie!!! He was the best cat ever with such an attitude and personality that you just had to love him. Well, when we moved to our new house, Al drove Eddie on a long circuit to confuse his circuit breaker as to where his old home used to be. We were only a couple of miles away and could see Al's old house from our new house deck. After three weeks, Eddie discovered his old home and homeward bound he was. The new owners, the Barghers, Dave and Nancy would return Eddie and we would pick up Eddie. After the fifth or sixth time of retrieving Eddie, despite my having a chat with Eddie about his wanderings "home", the Barghers offered to adopt Eddie. We didn't know what to do as Eddie was used to being an outdoor cat, who lumbered inside when he wanted something to eat or drink. In Eddie fashion, he decided when he wanted attention and let you know it by leaping up on your lap with a swish of his tail through your face as if to say,"Here I am!"
We agreed with Nancy and Dave that he would only be happy in his home down the hill. I offered to buy cat food for Eddie and they promptly said,"No" as it was Eddie's home, too and they already had 3 cats. We had installed cat doors, so that the cats could come and go as they wanted.
Well, Eddie ended up staying with the Barghers and ran the household in his own way. He was the top cat and that was that. He decided to mark his territory and ruined Dave's computer and he had to purchase a new one. I was horrified and figured that was the end of Eddie staying at County Rd. 17, but to my unbelieving ears, Dave explained that it was Eddie's house first and no doubt, he was upset with the change. Eddie's adopted parents loved him tremendously and were wonderful to him, despite his penchant for soiling Martha Stewart's towel and ruining their computer. So, today I brought them a little gift thanking them for taking such great care of Eddie, our construction cat. I painted them a set of three blocks that said on block 1 We block 2 love block 3 cats. You can stack them or line them up, etc. Nancy and Dave were delighted with the gift. Nancy had made an apple crisp and insisted we stay to have some.
Funny how things go, everybody at their work place was sad to hear of Eddie's passing as Dave and Nancy had recounted many Eddie stories. All their colleagues wanted to give them another cat, but they declined. Soon after, Nancy discovered a stray cat in their barn and cajoled Dave into keeping the skinny kitty, who was in desperate need of food and a home.
Well, as we were eating our apple crisp, the new kitty jumped up on my lap and Nancy went to pick him/her (they don't know yet if it is a he or a she) up and as she did, the new kitty's tail went right through my apple crisp leaving a trail of crumbs on the table. I had to decline eating the apple crisp-germs and all. Was that a sign from Eddie in cat heaven, still swishing his tail? There are many more humorous cat tales that involved our beloved Eddie, but I shall save them for a rainy day.
May you save a stray, whether the human kind or the cat kind. Once you do, you will be loved for life and rightfully so. Thank you, Nancy and Dave for giving Eddie back his home, but more importantly, your love for him.
A special thank you goes to Sabina C., who generously donated to my transplant fund to help defray the cost of my stay at Pittsburgh. It is much appreciated. You're an angel.
As Mom and I were going through some of my pictures, we discovered pictures of the Tiffany Wheel of Fortune and Mom said she would like a wheel put back there. So, me being the computer guru at Loomis Drive, tracked one down. Mind you, I am not much of a guru as Mom doesn't even know how to turn the computer on . She can now scroll due to my diligence in training her.
The wagon wheel man just e-mailed to say that he received my check and after a ten day wait period, the wagon wheel will be on its way. Woo Hoo!. I volunteered to repaint the Tiffany part of the sign.
Had a message waiting that Mr. Bear was done and in need of his home. He will be delivered this Saturday by Jeff, my favorite bear maker and his family. We are having a bear reunion at Mom's as he will be out in front of her house until my house is ready, which should be the end of October. So, my fishing bear will have two new homes, Mom's and mine. I have to tell you that Barnie is just way too CUTE. I absolutely adore him and I could look at him forever. He has such a personality. I am going to paint a sign that says, "Gone Fishing." His pole is authentic as well as the wooden fish. He looks just like the bear from the Disney movie. He has buttons on his bibs and he has been sealed, too. Signed, sealed and delivered, he's mine. Je l'adore. Also, I will be making him another sign, which will have the name of our home (French style), which is Chateau Soleil.
Of course, I took pictures of my darling Barnie and he is one handsome bear, indeed. Jeff was worried whether I would like Barnie or not. I told Jeff, "How could I not like Barnie?" He is every girl's dream. He smiles all the time. He is happy go lucky. He brings dinner home on a regular basis that is non-fattening. He has excellent table manners-no belching and burping. He stands up straight and does not slouch. He keeps his bibs clean while he is out fishing. He doesn't walk through the house with dirty paws. His fingernails and toenails OOPS-excuse me, his claws are well manicured and clean. He is fastidious about his looks. His eyes are golden brown when he looks at you dreamy eyed. He doesn't have a jealous bone in his body. He listens intently and attentively. He doesn't snore or take up the whole bed. I know what you are thinking, ladies. He is one beary good catch. How right you are! Are any of you ready for a trade-in yet? Well, Barnie is the bearman, without a doubt. Sorry to say that Barnie is already taken and unfortunately, he is one fellow that I won't share with anyone, except my Mom.
Learned that Eddie, our construction cat died. He lived at the house on County Road 17 and he was a cat with an attitude, was our Eddie. When I first started dating Al, Becky wanted a cat, since their cat Rodney died at the time her mother did. For a very long time, Al had said, "NO more cats." Becky told me that if I asked Al for a cat, she was sure that he would say,"YES." So me being the softie told Al that she missed her cat and no doubt, her mom, so why not let her have a cat. Well, instead of her coming home with one kitten, she arrived with two, which were named Mo and Riley. Mind you, we had or should I say, they had four dogs, two cats and geese running amok when all was said and done.
One morning about 6, my phone rang and it was Al saying that he had fed Abbie, their big black German Shepard her morning breakfast and he had not put his glasses on. The kitty, named Riley figured it was his food and marched on over to the bowl, where Abbie, being protective of her morning breakfast picked Riley up by the neck to set him aside, only to break his neck. Al, without glasses is like the blind leading the blind, so he didn't see Riley headed for Abbie's dish. Al was in a quandary as what to do. I told him he would have to wake Becky up and explain what happened and they should bury Riley together. In the background, I could hear Mo crying and I told Al that perhaps, he would have to get another cat as Mo would be lonely. Thus, the story of SPCA Eddie and Martha Stewart with me in the middle.
After three days of Mo crying, Al called to ask me to go to the SPCA to find a kitten about the age of Mo. So yours truly went in search of a kitten, only to find a cat about 1 year old. He looked friendly and had long gray and white fur. Me not being an animal person, had no cat carrier, let alone a box. The shelter had no box, so I calculated the risk of taking Eddie in my brand new Surbaru Outback over to Al's. Al had assured me that the house would be unlocked and that I could put Eddie on the back porch until he returned home from football.
So, Eddie was happy sitting in the backseat on the Martha Steward towel I had placed on the new seats. He came up front to visit and then settled back down. I arrived at Al's house with no mishaps or dramas, only to find that the house was completely locked up tight. I couldn't leave Eddie outside and there was nowhere safe that I could leave him in the red barn. So, I headed off to football practice to inform Al of my dilemma. What to do with Eddie?
I pulled up and climbed out of the car, when I heard the football players saying, "Hey, Mr. Arotsky, Miss. Mott is here." as I was trying to wave him over without losing Eddie, who had decided to take a # 2 in my car en route to the practice field on the Martha Stewart towel. Let me tell you that the smell was enough to make my eyes water. I couldn't open the windows for fear that Eddie would take a flying leap out of the car. Well, Eddie scared himself so that he hid under the passenger seat up front and I couldn't get him out.
Al came off the field with a look of what is going on?!!! Let's see, I found the purrfect cat, only to realize I had no cat carrier of any nature, except my new Subaru, the house was locked that you promised would be open (his dad was visiting and had left the house, so he locked it up, not knowing that I was en route with the cat), the cat took a dump on Martha Stewart's towel (one use she hadn't probably thought of), now he is under the passenger seat and won't come out and that is all that is going on. I said he better not be taking another bathroom break under the seat.
Al tried to coax him out from under the seat to no avail. He was a scaredy cat. So, I told Al that he had better get his tools out to take the seat out as neither of us could retrieve him. Al wanted to know what I was going to do with the cat. My immediate reply was, "This is your cat, so you are in charge of him. I did my duty and found the cat for you and I've done my part."
So, Al noting my major problem of Eau de PoopPoo decided to scavenger a cardboard box out of the school dumpster to house Eddie, once we could get him out of the car. Al had driven our Mustang that day to practice and I don't think he wanted a repeat performance of Eddie's nature calling routine. Box in hand, Al eventually vacated Eddie from my new "smelling" car. Needless to say, Martha and I parted ways as we threw her new color coordinated towel in the dumpster. Au revoir, Martha, I sing songed. It was the best money I had spent as my seat wasn't ruined. The Arotsky's thought I was nuts to have towels covering my seats. Not me! This was a fine example why you need an abundance of towels in your vehicle.
Imagine our first day with Eddie!!! He was the best cat ever with such an attitude and personality that you just had to love him. Well, when we moved to our new house, Al drove Eddie on a long circuit to confuse his circuit breaker as to where his old home used to be. We were only a couple of miles away and could see Al's old house from our new house deck. After three weeks, Eddie discovered his old home and homeward bound he was. The new owners, the Barghers, Dave and Nancy would return Eddie and we would pick up Eddie. After the fifth or sixth time of retrieving Eddie, despite my having a chat with Eddie about his wanderings "home", the Barghers offered to adopt Eddie. We didn't know what to do as Eddie was used to being an outdoor cat, who lumbered inside when he wanted something to eat or drink. In Eddie fashion, he decided when he wanted attention and let you know it by leaping up on your lap with a swish of his tail through your face as if to say,"Here I am!"
We agreed with Nancy and Dave that he would only be happy in his home down the hill. I offered to buy cat food for Eddie and they promptly said,"No" as it was Eddie's home, too and they already had 3 cats. We had installed cat doors, so that the cats could come and go as they wanted.
Well, Eddie ended up staying with the Barghers and ran the household in his own way. He was the top cat and that was that. He decided to mark his territory and ruined Dave's computer and he had to purchase a new one. I was horrified and figured that was the end of Eddie staying at County Rd. 17, but to my unbelieving ears, Dave explained that it was Eddie's house first and no doubt, he was upset with the change. Eddie's adopted parents loved him tremendously and were wonderful to him, despite his penchant for soiling Martha Stewart's towel and ruining their computer. So, today I brought them a little gift thanking them for taking such great care of Eddie, our construction cat. I painted them a set of three blocks that said on block 1 We block 2 love block 3 cats. You can stack them or line them up, etc. Nancy and Dave were delighted with the gift. Nancy had made an apple crisp and insisted we stay to have some.
Funny how things go, everybody at their work place was sad to hear of Eddie's passing as Dave and Nancy had recounted many Eddie stories. All their colleagues wanted to give them another cat, but they declined. Soon after, Nancy discovered a stray cat in their barn and cajoled Dave into keeping the skinny kitty, who was in desperate need of food and a home.
Well, as we were eating our apple crisp, the new kitty jumped up on my lap and Nancy went to pick him/her (they don't know yet if it is a he or a she) up and as she did, the new kitty's tail went right through my apple crisp leaving a trail of crumbs on the table. I had to decline eating the apple crisp-germs and all. Was that a sign from Eddie in cat heaven, still swishing his tail? There are many more humorous cat tales that involved our beloved Eddie, but I shall save them for a rainy day.
May you save a stray, whether the human kind or the cat kind. Once you do, you will be loved for life and rightfully so. Thank you, Nancy and Dave for giving Eddie back his home, but more importantly, your love for him.
A special thank you goes to Sabina C., who generously donated to my transplant fund to help defray the cost of my stay at Pittsburgh. It is much appreciated. You're an angel.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Living with WG-David style!
Young David Cosner was diagnosed with WG when he was a teenager. He missed a year of school battling the battle of WG. It is a constant, daily battle and we are all in hopes of winning the war on WG. Forget the war on terror.
This young man is so upbeat and positive. He loves fishing and has won many awards and trophies. His dream job would be fishing and more fishing. This is how he fights WG. He goes fishing a lot and this helps him to de-stress. I need to send him a gone fishing sign.
Listen to his account of living with WG from a TV interview on his local TV station. What spirit!! We could all use his and his mom's advice. His Mom, Chris is on our WG site and she is her son's biggest fan in all respects. From supporting him through all his WG crisis to his fishing for the big ones.
Here's David Cosner live.
http://www.myfoxaustin.com/myfox/pages/InsideFox/GoodDay?pageId=5.2
What a positive young man, who has been saddled with a horrible disease that robs you of your breath and in some cases, your life.
My hat goes off to him as he never gives in because he knows that one day he will catch that big one with his hook, line and sinker. Wishing David and his family the best.
May you catch the biggest catch yet. How about that show, Deadliest Catch with Sig, Jonathon Hildebrandt and Co. and Phil Harris and Sons? They are quite a "catch" as they sail through the Bering Sea with waves that cover their decks (minus the lawn chairs) and sometimes, you can see them breaking the ice off their boats, ship, fish trawler. I don't know the proper lingo. Well, I know that type of fishing is out for me. I think I will stay grounded and not flounder around out there in that "Brrring" Sea.
I found the Deadliest Catch crews and company on video. It is amazing what they do to catch the crabs and then, check out the chef's food supply for all those anglers on board.
http://dsc.discovery.com/fansites/deadliestcatch/video-player/video-player.htm
This young man is so upbeat and positive. He loves fishing and has won many awards and trophies. His dream job would be fishing and more fishing. This is how he fights WG. He goes fishing a lot and this helps him to de-stress. I need to send him a gone fishing sign.
Listen to his account of living with WG from a TV interview on his local TV station. What spirit!! We could all use his and his mom's advice. His Mom, Chris is on our WG site and she is her son's biggest fan in all respects. From supporting him through all his WG crisis to his fishing for the big ones.
Here's David Cosner live.
http://www.myfoxaustin.com/myfox/pages/InsideFox/GoodDay?pageId=5.2
What a positive young man, who has been saddled with a horrible disease that robs you of your breath and in some cases, your life.
My hat goes off to him as he never gives in because he knows that one day he will catch that big one with his hook, line and sinker. Wishing David and his family the best.
May you catch the biggest catch yet. How about that show, Deadliest Catch with Sig, Jonathon Hildebrandt and Co. and Phil Harris and Sons? They are quite a "catch" as they sail through the Bering Sea with waves that cover their decks (minus the lawn chairs) and sometimes, you can see them breaking the ice off their boats, ship, fish trawler. I don't know the proper lingo. Well, I know that type of fishing is out for me. I think I will stay grounded and not flounder around out there in that "Brrring" Sea.
I found the Deadliest Catch crews and company on video. It is amazing what they do to catch the crabs and then, check out the chef's food supply for all those anglers on board.
http://dsc.discovery.com/fansites/deadliestcatch/video-player/video-player.htm
On a Lighter Note!
Someone sent this to me and I haven't a clue who the person is. But, I was happy to receive this play on words e-mail. See what you think. No doubt, you will chuckle a few times. Enjoy!
1. I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me.
2. Police were called to a day care where a three-year-old was resisting a rest.
3. Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He's all right now.
4. To write with a broken pencil is pointless.
5. The short fortune teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
6. A thief who stole a calendar got twelve months.
7. When the smog lifts in Los Angeles, U. C. L. A
8. The math professor went crazy with the blackboard. He did a number on it!
9. The professor discovered that her theory of earthquakes was on shaky ground.
10. The dead batteries were given out free of charge.
11. A dentist and a manicurist fought tooth and nail.
12. A bicycle can't stand alone; it is just two tired.
13. A will is a dead giveaway.
14. A backward poet writes inverse.
15. A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion.
16. With her marriage she got a new name and a dress.
17. A grenade fell onto a kitchen floor in France, resulted in linoleum blown apart.
18. He broke into song because he couldn't find the key.
19. A calendar's days are numbered.
20. A boiled egg is hard to beat.
21. If you jump off a Paris bridge, you are in Seine.
22. When she saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
23. Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.
24. Acupuncture: a jab well done.
25. When fish are in schools they sometimes take debate.
26. A guy who fell into an upholstery machine was fully recovered.
27. The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference.
May you find the lighter side of life, even though we have to deal with the darker side.
1. I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me.
2. Police were called to a day care where a three-year-old was resisting a rest.
3. Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He's all right now.
4. To write with a broken pencil is pointless.
5. The short fortune teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
6. A thief who stole a calendar got twelve months.
7. When the smog lifts in Los Angeles, U. C. L. A
8. The math professor went crazy with the blackboard. He did a number on it!
9. The professor discovered that her theory of earthquakes was on shaky ground.
10. The dead batteries were given out free of charge.
11. A dentist and a manicurist fought tooth and nail.
12. A bicycle can't stand alone; it is just two tired.
13. A will is a dead giveaway.
14. A backward poet writes inverse.
15. A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion.
16. With her marriage she got a new name and a dress.
17. A grenade fell onto a kitchen floor in France, resulted in linoleum blown apart.
18. He broke into song because he couldn't find the key.
19. A calendar's days are numbered.
20. A boiled egg is hard to beat.
21. If you jump off a Paris bridge, you are in Seine.
22. When she saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
23. Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.
24. Acupuncture: a jab well done.
25. When fish are in schools they sometimes take debate.
26. A guy who fell into an upholstery machine was fully recovered.
27. The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference.
May you find the lighter side of life, even though we have to deal with the darker side.
More Losses Than We Can Bear!
The past couple of days have brought some news to all of us trying to stay alive that has made us realize that every day counts. You truly have to live each day to the fullest, in the happiest and healthiest way you can.
We have lost Georgia Brenda. I met her after she had read my blog about the Mott Charitable Trust. She e-mailed me privately and told me what a worthy endeavor I was doing by helping others. She then went on to say in a post to the PH group that she had gone and made out her will and felt better for doing it and she suggested that we all needed to do that, no matter what our health situation is or was.
Well, Brenda passed away alone and as members of the PH group, Colleen, a lovely young lady, volunteered to keep everyone's phone numbers and addresses and if someone wasn't showing up on-line, then we would proceed to contact them by phone, etc. to make sure that they were alright. This is truly a lifeline and it indeed went into effect only to find that our Georgia Brenda was gone. What a courageous, kind and uplifting woman.
A thank you goes to Colleen for keeping track of all of us and doing her best to make sure everyone in the PH family is doing well. She is a gem.
News came from Frank from the WG site about his dedicated employee, Dana. You may recall that Dana's boss, Frank, went to bat for him for his insurance that his company wanted to cancel on him after working for them for 30+ years. His news was not good. We have lost yet another wonderful person to this dreadful disease. Please read Frank's e-mail. It behooves us to follow Frank's advice, even me.
Hi to all,
I had posted a question a while ago about one of my employees being diagnosed with WG. He has since passed as of Mon. I think that he waited to long to be diagnosed. He was a proud man and did not like the hospital and did not like to exhibit weakness. He will be missed by myself and all the other employees at our plant. He was very dedicated to his job and worked for the company for 38 yrs of his life.
I wanted to know if anyone would like to send a card to his surviving wife as a show of support. I had suggested this discussion group to him a few times while visiting him over the past three months but he was a very proud man and felt he needed to face this alone.I appreciate all of the responses I received back from my post. His wife's name is Regina Knight and there address is: Box 81 Patterson Hill rd. Belfast Me 04915. They just celebrated 21 yrs together on 7/25.
He was a very nice person and it sucks that this happened to him. I am sorry to have brought this somber news to all but think it would be important enough to mention for people in our lives that may not seek help soon enough to prevent what has happened to Dana. Thank all of you and anyone who has been diagnosed please keep fighting for you have people who love you.
Frank's suggestions are right on. If you are not feeling well, get yourself to the doctor's pronto. Secondly, do what needs to be done. Thirdly, surround yourself with people who care about you and will support you in your time of need. Frank is a stellar example of this. He researched WG and found us for his employee, Dana. Fourthly, have faith that you will persevere and keep a positive attitude. Fifthly, make sure that the people you associate with are positive, too. Positivity feeds off of positivity. It is much easier to be negative than positive. You have to decide if your cup of life is half full or half empty. Life depends on your point of view.
I already sent a card out to Frank's employee's wife this morning. I do not know her, but our support of her by a card of sympathy will surely let her know that we are thinking of her. Our weggie colleagues are sending their support in cards, e-mails, etc. What a fantastic group. Always willing to help others. Doesn't get better than that.
Next, is our Mason. He is a young man that has been through more than I can even begin to explain. Despite this, he is the kindest, upbeat, sweetheart, helpful young man that you could ever imagine meeting. If I had a daughter, Mason would be my son-in-law hands down. He is truly an inspiration. At this time, our Mason is experiencing chronic rejection of his double lung transplant. He is back on oxygen and headed back to LA, where his first doctors that treated him are. He is hoping that they can help him. It sounds like he will have to go through a grueling process of having his blood cleansed somehow. All I know is that Mason is positive, never complains and just goes about his business in a positive manner. We adore our Mason. The PH group has adopted him as our own. I've tried to call him several times these past two weeks. Now, I know why he wasn't picking up. So, my heart and prayers go out to Mason.
Please join me in praying for Georgia Brenda, Dana and his beloved family and our Mason, who needs the best of care.
May you heed the advice of Frank, who has gone the extra 5 miles for his employee and his family. In these times, Frank ,as the boss, is the exception of what a true boss should be. Dana was blessed to have Frank on his side and I know that Frank felt the same way about Dana.
We have lost Georgia Brenda. I met her after she had read my blog about the Mott Charitable Trust. She e-mailed me privately and told me what a worthy endeavor I was doing by helping others. She then went on to say in a post to the PH group that she had gone and made out her will and felt better for doing it and she suggested that we all needed to do that, no matter what our health situation is or was.
Well, Brenda passed away alone and as members of the PH group, Colleen, a lovely young lady, volunteered to keep everyone's phone numbers and addresses and if someone wasn't showing up on-line, then we would proceed to contact them by phone, etc. to make sure that they were alright. This is truly a lifeline and it indeed went into effect only to find that our Georgia Brenda was gone. What a courageous, kind and uplifting woman.
A thank you goes to Colleen for keeping track of all of us and doing her best to make sure everyone in the PH family is doing well. She is a gem.
News came from Frank from the WG site about his dedicated employee, Dana. You may recall that Dana's boss, Frank, went to bat for him for his insurance that his company wanted to cancel on him after working for them for 30+ years. His news was not good. We have lost yet another wonderful person to this dreadful disease. Please read Frank's e-mail. It behooves us to follow Frank's advice, even me.
Hi to all,
I had posted a question a while ago about one of my employees being diagnosed with WG. He has since passed as of Mon. I think that he waited to long to be diagnosed. He was a proud man and did not like the hospital and did not like to exhibit weakness. He will be missed by myself and all the other employees at our plant. He was very dedicated to his job and worked for the company for 38 yrs of his life.
I wanted to know if anyone would like to send a card to his surviving wife as a show of support. I had suggested this discussion group to him a few times while visiting him over the past three months but he was a very proud man and felt he needed to face this alone.I appreciate all of the responses I received back from my post. His wife's name is Regina Knight and there address is: Box 81 Patterson Hill rd. Belfast Me 04915. They just celebrated 21 yrs together on 7/25.
He was a very nice person and it sucks that this happened to him. I am sorry to have brought this somber news to all but think it would be important enough to mention for people in our lives that may not seek help soon enough to prevent what has happened to Dana. Thank all of you and anyone who has been diagnosed please keep fighting for you have people who love you.
Frank's suggestions are right on. If you are not feeling well, get yourself to the doctor's pronto. Secondly, do what needs to be done. Thirdly, surround yourself with people who care about you and will support you in your time of need. Frank is a stellar example of this. He researched WG and found us for his employee, Dana. Fourthly, have faith that you will persevere and keep a positive attitude. Fifthly, make sure that the people you associate with are positive, too. Positivity feeds off of positivity. It is much easier to be negative than positive. You have to decide if your cup of life is half full or half empty. Life depends on your point of view.
I already sent a card out to Frank's employee's wife this morning. I do not know her, but our support of her by a card of sympathy will surely let her know that we are thinking of her. Our weggie colleagues are sending their support in cards, e-mails, etc. What a fantastic group. Always willing to help others. Doesn't get better than that.
Next, is our Mason. He is a young man that has been through more than I can even begin to explain. Despite this, he is the kindest, upbeat, sweetheart, helpful young man that you could ever imagine meeting. If I had a daughter, Mason would be my son-in-law hands down. He is truly an inspiration. At this time, our Mason is experiencing chronic rejection of his double lung transplant. He is back on oxygen and headed back to LA, where his first doctors that treated him are. He is hoping that they can help him. It sounds like he will have to go through a grueling process of having his blood cleansed somehow. All I know is that Mason is positive, never complains and just goes about his business in a positive manner. We adore our Mason. The PH group has adopted him as our own. I've tried to call him several times these past two weeks. Now, I know why he wasn't picking up. So, my heart and prayers go out to Mason.
Please join me in praying for Georgia Brenda, Dana and his beloved family and our Mason, who needs the best of care.
May you heed the advice of Frank, who has gone the extra 5 miles for his employee and his family. In these times, Frank ,as the boss, is the exception of what a true boss should be. Dana was blessed to have Frank on his side and I know that Frank felt the same way about Dana.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
It's All in the Attitude!
Last week, I received a phone call from a Sidney teacher, who is retired and worked many years in various capacities there. I was surprised by the phone call and we arranged a lunch date. This particular gal has had a bit of a rough time in many ways and she is getting her life back on track. How do we get so derailed in this thing called life? Are we all suppose to have trials and tribulations in life in order to learn? If so, what are we suppose to be learning? What are the lessons to be learned and how do you go about fixing what needs fixing? If I could answer these, I would be taking on a new job, helping others to figure out their ups and downs in life.
Well, this teacher told me if I could do what I am doing, then she should be able to handle all that has happened to her. She told me that I am an inspiration to all women. Well. I don't know about that. All I know is that I have learned a lot over the years, some good things and not so good things. But, in the end, I've become stronger and I say what I think in a diplomatic way. My Mom would beg to differ as she admonishes me from getting on my high horse from time to time.
I have a difficult time in accepting injustices, so as I told my cousin, I still have a mouth and I am using it. He was cracking up over my synopsis of my life's current events. I invited him as I always do to come stay with us at Mom's or my new place. "Would that be the shed?," he inquired as he knows that a bedroom suit will be delivered there soon. The owners have placed an occupancy sign outside stating that there can not be more than 5 people living in the storage shed. We will have to accommodate their requirements as we will be kicked out for having too many occupants. Lights have to be out by 10, but they don't know that we have a spotlight for checking out nature, plus when nature calls, you need to find the nearest facilities out by the shed. Huckleberry said he wouldn't mind coming to visit as long as it wasn't the big house. I guaranteed him a choice of Mom's place, my storage shed and the possibility of my home.
We were laughing over the inanities of life and why people do what they do, only to keep laughing over the absurdities of life. I told him that I have laughed so much over the past couple of months that it amazing. I hadn't realized that the bubbly, happy go lucky gal that I used to be had disappeared over the last 10 years, worn down by that thing called life. Now, that my life is different, the laughter, the happy go lucky, don't sweat the small stuff gal is back and having the time of her life. My cousin and I are like a comedy routine on the phone. If one of us isn't laughing, the other one is. My Mom has to almost put earplugs in as I tell my cousin that he has to tell Mom all his latest antics.
I wanted him to tell me what color he wants his sign. I am ready to paint him his requested sign, which will read, "Disturbing the already disturbed." Since he is moving and doesn't know the color of his decor, he told me I could pick the colors for his sign. So, what is your sign?
Mine is it's all in the attitude. I quite like Maxine and her dog as she says, "I like my attitude problem." That would be me on a few occasions. Speaking of Maxine, here's some anecdotes from Maxine above. Enjoy!
May you find your "sign."
Well, this teacher told me if I could do what I am doing, then she should be able to handle all that has happened to her. She told me that I am an inspiration to all women. Well. I don't know about that. All I know is that I have learned a lot over the years, some good things and not so good things. But, in the end, I've become stronger and I say what I think in a diplomatic way. My Mom would beg to differ as she admonishes me from getting on my high horse from time to time.
I have a difficult time in accepting injustices, so as I told my cousin, I still have a mouth and I am using it. He was cracking up over my synopsis of my life's current events. I invited him as I always do to come stay with us at Mom's or my new place. "Would that be the shed?," he inquired as he knows that a bedroom suit will be delivered there soon. The owners have placed an occupancy sign outside stating that there can not be more than 5 people living in the storage shed. We will have to accommodate their requirements as we will be kicked out for having too many occupants. Lights have to be out by 10, but they don't know that we have a spotlight for checking out nature, plus when nature calls, you need to find the nearest facilities out by the shed. Huckleberry said he wouldn't mind coming to visit as long as it wasn't the big house. I guaranteed him a choice of Mom's place, my storage shed and the possibility of my home.
We were laughing over the inanities of life and why people do what they do, only to keep laughing over the absurdities of life. I told him that I have laughed so much over the past couple of months that it amazing. I hadn't realized that the bubbly, happy go lucky gal that I used to be had disappeared over the last 10 years, worn down by that thing called life. Now, that my life is different, the laughter, the happy go lucky, don't sweat the small stuff gal is back and having the time of her life. My cousin and I are like a comedy routine on the phone. If one of us isn't laughing, the other one is. My Mom has to almost put earplugs in as I tell my cousin that he has to tell Mom all his latest antics.
I wanted him to tell me what color he wants his sign. I am ready to paint him his requested sign, which will read, "Disturbing the already disturbed." Since he is moving and doesn't know the color of his decor, he told me I could pick the colors for his sign. So, what is your sign?
Mine is it's all in the attitude. I quite like Maxine and her dog as she says, "I like my attitude problem." That would be me on a few occasions. Speaking of Maxine, here's some anecdotes from Maxine above. Enjoy!
May you find your "sign."
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Calls and more Calls about the Calls!!!
Have you ever had a day when the phone rings off the hook? Weell, now, I was hooked on the phone, line and sinker. Doctor's calls, chimney flue calls, pharmacist's calls, friend's calls, financial advisor calls and the calls go on and on. When I spoke to my doctor's nurse today, she told me that our phone was out of line and needed a repair. It would ring in once and go dead. Or it would ring in many times and then go to a busy signal. So, I called the phone company to explain our situation.
Yes, there would be a Frontier's man or person coming to check our telephone line. With a call coming from Pittsburgh, we are in need of a working line. In the afternoon, I noticed a fellow with a tool belt on in our backyard. I sent Mom on a mission to discover who was in our backyard. Lo and behold, it was the Frontier's man coming to "call" about our telephone trials. He noted that the call box was quite old, perhaps since the house was first built and it needed replacing, which he did and even called us to see if it was working. Yes, it was. Woo Hoo!! So, keep those calls a coming, one and all!!
Talked with Jodi H. to see if he would paint the interior of my new abode and he said he wanted to see what was involved. He has signed on to paint the wooden window frames, the garage door, shutters- a cranberry color, the back deck and the interior of the house. We found some electric outdoors for him to listen to his music. He is excited about this. I can hear him now serenading my new neighborhood. They will think that there is a party going on.
Tom, a sweetheart of a guy, is picking up my sleigh bed and all its pieces this weekend and delivering them to my storage shed. The storage shed will be packed to the rafters once again. Tom will not let me pay him, so I made him agree that I would take him and Mom out to eat. Woo Hoo as my cooking is not cooking in any sense of the word. Tom said that he is looking forward to our outing after polishing off the furniture in the sleigh bed shed.
Received news from Dan T. that all is well in his new home near Cazenovia. He is setting up his studio for painting and has invited painter, Diane and Jerry B. from Rochester. We all will be meeting them for the very first time, though we are on the phone a lot together. We are all excited about this rendez-vous. Diane and Jerry will be coming at a great time as nature will be showing off her oranges, reds, yellows, browns in a flourish of fall colors that will tempt Diane and Dan's palettes. Let the painting begin. Just as important will be our spending time together and chit chatting. I can't wait to meet and greet the Bluffs and I am not bluffing about that either.
MIBISIGI is on its way with the following information from Marcia H.
MIBI will be Oct 24th at the Elm Park church on Chestnut St. It is the church that is across from Rite Aid and just down the street from the Dairy Queen. I am not sure about the time. It's usually preview at 6:30 with the auction starting at 7:00. I'll let you know when I have more info.
We invite you all to attend. My sisters, Mom and friends will be eating out first and then, we will head off to preview the handmade and crafted projects, while signing up for a paddle to bid with. It is great fun as it is highly entertaining and all the monies go to good causes. Refreshments are available. You can buy your Christmas gifts with just lifting a finger, or in this case, a hand with a paddle. Happy Bidding!!
When I spoke to Ed, my pharmacist, this morning, somehow, we got on the topic of my outing to find wool for my Santa Claus canvasses. Much to his delight and mine, he mentioned that his sister is into wool, looms, etc. I told him she needed to go and see Lisa M., wooler extraordinaire, loomer, dyer, rug maker, clothes maker, sample maker of felting, etc. Her workshop is fascinating to visit. I did not get up close and personal with the sheep, however. All I know about them is the following-four legs, clip the "hair", feed them-what? I am not sure., two ears, two eyes..By now, you are getting the picture. I am not too knowledgeable about these little critters. All I do know is that they produce the finest in wools, silk, etc. and Lisa M. can turn this into stunning pieces of artwork. No less, Lisa M. lives only 5 to 10 minutes from my bear man. Is this incredible or what? My old neck of the woods is filled with talented and gifted people. What a hoot-in this case- a double hoot.
Bob S. called today from PA. He and his wife, Jeanine were and are the best friends of my parents, Mom and Tiff. Jeanine and Mom's birthdays are on the same day. We've often celebrated their birthdays together. My step dad and Bob were a comedy routine together. We were always in stitches about their childhood stories, schoolhood days, signing up for the Army during WWII, even though they were too young to do so legally, family stories, etc. Our time with Bob and Jeanine has always been extremely special. They are family. Bob has come down with BOOP pneumonia. We wish he had come down with Betty Boop, but no such luck. Bob has been fighting this condition since this past January and his first doctor sounds like he was clueless in how to treat this condition. Finally, as Bob was throwing up blood, he ended up at the Sayre Hospital and the doctor there seems to know how to treat this condition.
I am trying to convince Bob to get a second opinion as you can not fool around with your lungs. I am a prime example of this. I've seen so many specialists and stumped them with my case that I feel like I know enough to be somewhat dangerous. So, my second opinion crusade began again today as Bob called me for help. I researched his condition on-line and the treatment for it, along with the side effects of taking prednisone. We agreed that it is a nasty drug, but it is keeping us alive. Hallelujah! Our eye sight and our bones will take a beating, but we are just like the Energizer Bunny, we will keep on marching.
I asked Bob if he had received our get well cards. I had picked out a card about chicken noodle soup and signed it with Colonel Saunders. Next was a card that said, "I want to get out of this *&^%$#@! hospital." Of course, I signed this George Carlin and the address was Filth Ave., NY NY much to his surprise. Another card involved describing tests that would have to be done. So, of course, this card came from Nurse Hatchet, who lived on Ratchet Lane.
Bob said he opened the cards to discover these bizarre individuals and then he looked at the return address, only to continue laughing about the absurdity of it all. So, today, we sent one from Bessie the Cow. The card said, "Where is your boo boo?" and when you open it, there are these hologram lips to kiss the boo boo. I signed off with mooch love, Bessie. Wait 'til he gets that one. Naturally, THE POPE has sent his regards via a religious get well wish.
One can only wonder what Bob will think with these cards arriving soon. This idea came to me from Kathi B., who, when I was sick sent me faithfully cards from celebrities, Pope Jean-Paul (naturally, I felt blessed.), Britney Spears, etc. I just loved these cards and shared them with my roommates, much to their delight, too. Thank you, Kathi B. as I am paying it forward based on your kindness to me. Bob is still chuckling and saying that if Tiff had received these cards, he would have been howling.
Dinner out with Joyce and Bruce A., very good friends of my parents. They are just down the street from us and have been wonderful friends of ours. We celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary four years late. Can you imagine that? Our good intentions of celebrating their 50th didn't pan out like we thought-me getting sick threw so many important events in our lives to the wayside, but I am happy to say we still celebrated, as this year is their 54th anniversary and we are thrilled for them. They are adorable.
l learned from Joyce and Mom about beautifying my hair. Joyce's advice -wash my hair in beer and it will make it soft. Yes, she has done this. "What kind of beer?," I asked, curious to know more. "Any kind," she replied. She availed herself of Bruce's beer. Mom said she had put egg whites in her hair to keep it shinny blond when she was young. This lead to the Rod and Gun Club in Unadilla making pancakes with beer. I didn't know this. And here is one for the records. My Mom mentioned that she hadn't had the Rod and Gun Club's pancakes in quite some time just this morning. Leave it to me to point out that out to Joyce and Bruce that no wonder Mom wanted to go have their pancakes, as they were made out of beer. By this point, we were laughing again.
So, one of these weekend mornings, we are all off to sample these unique beer pancakes that everyone tells me that are delicious. We shall see- a taste test is in order.
Could there be anything else going on? I don't know, but it turned into a busy day, but a fun filled day. Very enjoyable.
Oh, not to forget, but one of my former students, Scott I. called to chit chat. What a cutie patootie. He is going to college and doing well. He lived in Ireland and loved it. I am so proud of my kids. They are college bound, traveling, learning and living life to the fullest. It doesn't get better than that. It does my heart good to know that my kids are doing well and learning tons.
They are my salvation on bad days. They bring a smile to my face and a song to my heart. Bless them.
May you try beer pancakes, beer on your hair along with egg whites (who is a redneck, now?), celebrate 50 years of wedded bliss, receive an invitation to hang out with a phenomenal artist in his studio, and may you receive get well wishes from all sorts of "characters." Though, my wish is that you are never sick and if you are, here is an Irish blessing, sent to me by Bonnie B. Thank you for sharing.
Just click and be amazed by this blessing. We are all in need of blessings. Here is yours from me to you.
http://www.e-water.net/irishblessing_en.html
Yes, there would be a Frontier's man or person coming to check our telephone line. With a call coming from Pittsburgh, we are in need of a working line. In the afternoon, I noticed a fellow with a tool belt on in our backyard. I sent Mom on a mission to discover who was in our backyard. Lo and behold, it was the Frontier's man coming to "call" about our telephone trials. He noted that the call box was quite old, perhaps since the house was first built and it needed replacing, which he did and even called us to see if it was working. Yes, it was. Woo Hoo!! So, keep those calls a coming, one and all!!
Talked with Jodi H. to see if he would paint the interior of my new abode and he said he wanted to see what was involved. He has signed on to paint the wooden window frames, the garage door, shutters- a cranberry color, the back deck and the interior of the house. We found some electric outdoors for him to listen to his music. He is excited about this. I can hear him now serenading my new neighborhood. They will think that there is a party going on.
Tom, a sweetheart of a guy, is picking up my sleigh bed and all its pieces this weekend and delivering them to my storage shed. The storage shed will be packed to the rafters once again. Tom will not let me pay him, so I made him agree that I would take him and Mom out to eat. Woo Hoo as my cooking is not cooking in any sense of the word. Tom said that he is looking forward to our outing after polishing off the furniture in the sleigh bed shed.
Received news from Dan T. that all is well in his new home near Cazenovia. He is setting up his studio for painting and has invited painter, Diane and Jerry B. from Rochester. We all will be meeting them for the very first time, though we are on the phone a lot together. We are all excited about this rendez-vous. Diane and Jerry will be coming at a great time as nature will be showing off her oranges, reds, yellows, browns in a flourish of fall colors that will tempt Diane and Dan's palettes. Let the painting begin. Just as important will be our spending time together and chit chatting. I can't wait to meet and greet the Bluffs and I am not bluffing about that either.
MIBISIGI is on its way with the following information from Marcia H.
MIBI will be Oct 24th at the Elm Park church on Chestnut St. It is the church that is across from Rite Aid and just down the street from the Dairy Queen. I am not sure about the time. It's usually preview at 6:30 with the auction starting at 7:00. I'll let you know when I have more info.
We invite you all to attend. My sisters, Mom and friends will be eating out first and then, we will head off to preview the handmade and crafted projects, while signing up for a paddle to bid with. It is great fun as it is highly entertaining and all the monies go to good causes. Refreshments are available. You can buy your Christmas gifts with just lifting a finger, or in this case, a hand with a paddle. Happy Bidding!!
When I spoke to Ed, my pharmacist, this morning, somehow, we got on the topic of my outing to find wool for my Santa Claus canvasses. Much to his delight and mine, he mentioned that his sister is into wool, looms, etc. I told him she needed to go and see Lisa M., wooler extraordinaire, loomer, dyer, rug maker, clothes maker, sample maker of felting, etc. Her workshop is fascinating to visit. I did not get up close and personal with the sheep, however. All I know about them is the following-four legs, clip the "hair", feed them-what? I am not sure., two ears, two eyes..By now, you are getting the picture. I am not too knowledgeable about these little critters. All I do know is that they produce the finest in wools, silk, etc. and Lisa M. can turn this into stunning pieces of artwork. No less, Lisa M. lives only 5 to 10 minutes from my bear man. Is this incredible or what? My old neck of the woods is filled with talented and gifted people. What a hoot-in this case- a double hoot.
Bob S. called today from PA. He and his wife, Jeanine were and are the best friends of my parents, Mom and Tiff. Jeanine and Mom's birthdays are on the same day. We've often celebrated their birthdays together. My step dad and Bob were a comedy routine together. We were always in stitches about their childhood stories, schoolhood days, signing up for the Army during WWII, even though they were too young to do so legally, family stories, etc. Our time with Bob and Jeanine has always been extremely special. They are family. Bob has come down with BOOP pneumonia. We wish he had come down with Betty Boop, but no such luck. Bob has been fighting this condition since this past January and his first doctor sounds like he was clueless in how to treat this condition. Finally, as Bob was throwing up blood, he ended up at the Sayre Hospital and the doctor there seems to know how to treat this condition.
I am trying to convince Bob to get a second opinion as you can not fool around with your lungs. I am a prime example of this. I've seen so many specialists and stumped them with my case that I feel like I know enough to be somewhat dangerous. So, my second opinion crusade began again today as Bob called me for help. I researched his condition on-line and the treatment for it, along with the side effects of taking prednisone. We agreed that it is a nasty drug, but it is keeping us alive. Hallelujah! Our eye sight and our bones will take a beating, but we are just like the Energizer Bunny, we will keep on marching.
I asked Bob if he had received our get well cards. I had picked out a card about chicken noodle soup and signed it with Colonel Saunders. Next was a card that said, "I want to get out of this *&^%$#@! hospital." Of course, I signed this George Carlin and the address was Filth Ave., NY NY much to his surprise. Another card involved describing tests that would have to be done. So, of course, this card came from Nurse Hatchet, who lived on Ratchet Lane.
Bob said he opened the cards to discover these bizarre individuals and then he looked at the return address, only to continue laughing about the absurdity of it all. So, today, we sent one from Bessie the Cow. The card said, "Where is your boo boo?" and when you open it, there are these hologram lips to kiss the boo boo. I signed off with mooch love, Bessie. Wait 'til he gets that one. Naturally, THE POPE has sent his regards via a religious get well wish.
One can only wonder what Bob will think with these cards arriving soon. This idea came to me from Kathi B., who, when I was sick sent me faithfully cards from celebrities, Pope Jean-Paul (naturally, I felt blessed.), Britney Spears, etc. I just loved these cards and shared them with my roommates, much to their delight, too. Thank you, Kathi B. as I am paying it forward based on your kindness to me. Bob is still chuckling and saying that if Tiff had received these cards, he would have been howling.
Dinner out with Joyce and Bruce A., very good friends of my parents. They are just down the street from us and have been wonderful friends of ours. We celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary four years late. Can you imagine that? Our good intentions of celebrating their 50th didn't pan out like we thought-me getting sick threw so many important events in our lives to the wayside, but I am happy to say we still celebrated, as this year is their 54th anniversary and we are thrilled for them. They are adorable.
l learned from Joyce and Mom about beautifying my hair. Joyce's advice -wash my hair in beer and it will make it soft. Yes, she has done this. "What kind of beer?," I asked, curious to know more. "Any kind," she replied. She availed herself of Bruce's beer. Mom said she had put egg whites in her hair to keep it shinny blond when she was young. This lead to the Rod and Gun Club in Unadilla making pancakes with beer. I didn't know this. And here is one for the records. My Mom mentioned that she hadn't had the Rod and Gun Club's pancakes in quite some time just this morning. Leave it to me to point out that out to Joyce and Bruce that no wonder Mom wanted to go have their pancakes, as they were made out of beer. By this point, we were laughing again.
So, one of these weekend mornings, we are all off to sample these unique beer pancakes that everyone tells me that are delicious. We shall see- a taste test is in order.
Could there be anything else going on? I don't know, but it turned into a busy day, but a fun filled day. Very enjoyable.
Oh, not to forget, but one of my former students, Scott I. called to chit chat. What a cutie patootie. He is going to college and doing well. He lived in Ireland and loved it. I am so proud of my kids. They are college bound, traveling, learning and living life to the fullest. It doesn't get better than that. It does my heart good to know that my kids are doing well and learning tons.
They are my salvation on bad days. They bring a smile to my face and a song to my heart. Bless them.
May you try beer pancakes, beer on your hair along with egg whites (who is a redneck, now?), celebrate 50 years of wedded bliss, receive an invitation to hang out with a phenomenal artist in his studio, and may you receive get well wishes from all sorts of "characters." Though, my wish is that you are never sick and if you are, here is an Irish blessing, sent to me by Bonnie B. Thank you for sharing.
Just click and be amazed by this blessing. We are all in need of blessings. Here is yours from me to you.
http://www.e-water.net/irishblessing_en.html
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