Can you imagine 35 boxes of French? 22 years of my life boxed up in 35 boxes. We managed to make a dent in those boxes and now, poor Ginni has the back of her van filled to the brim with the school's books, posters, stickers, tools to teach with and lots more. I sent a copy and copies of my papers that I had created. They are going to be arriving there the first day of school. The new teacher will probably think I am nuts, but if she delves into the boxes, she will find some marvelous ideas and sheets to use. Nothing like tooting my own horn! But, I must say I loved teaching. It was one of my true passions and traveling with the kids to Europe, Canada and New York City. I always had the best of times with my kids.
Every time that we took Eastern Travel, which was yearly. The bus driver and the hostess always announced how well behaved my kids were. They said that they were the best student passengers ever. I have to confess that it was true. Even the other riders chimed in and congratulated my kids on how well they behaved with a round of applause.
I am hoping that I don't cry the first day of school. Ever since I was unable to teach due to my illness, I have cried the first week. My poor mom would cry right along with me. What better company for a crying jag. I missed the kids and teaching. My mom felt bad that I couldn't do what I loved. I loved my job so much, that I never knew when I was getting paid. I would go to my mailbox and voila, there was my paycheck and I would say, I can't believe they are paying me to have fun. I worked tremendous hours, but I loved what I was doing. Believe me, I wasn't getting paid all that much for what I was doing, but as we know, money isn't everything.
Even during the summers, I was taking technology classes, so that I could implement this in my class. My students earned a Technology Award. We received that award as the best in the whole BOCES district. Can you tell I was proud of my kids? Imagine using French and technology together. When I became sick, I was just starting to go for this program where you have to show how you are an excellent teacher in your particular field. I went to a meeting to find out what I had to do to "prove" that I was an excellent teacher. We went over what was entailed-observations, video tapes of me teaching, students working together on tape, presentations of unique projects, how my room was set up to enable the kids to learn, video tapings of the kids integrating technology, tests given, students' speaking ability in the target language and so much more. I was ready for the challenge, but my challenge turned into staying alive. Not what I had planned.
So, this year, I am hoping not to cry. On the first day of school, all the B.G. retired teachers are meeting for lunch and I am invited. I am not the conventional type of retiree, but nonetheless, mom and I will be attending. I consider my mom to be a teacher. She has taught me so much over the years that I couldn't even begin to list all the things she has taught me-unconditional love, morals, values, work ethic-she never missed a day of work, whether on the farm or at Amphenol-she is a meticulous worker and gives 100%+, goodwill, compassion, empathy, a doer for everyone who needs help, charitable-she funds kid driven projects yearly as well as several other entities that need money, never mentioning her charitable projects, kindness, generosity of her time to help others-imagine her constant 3 years with me-who else, but a mom would do all the things that she has done for me. Well, this is my short list, but you can imagine how long my long list would be.
When I arrived at Gin's house with a trunk full of school supplies and paraphernalia, Gin asked where my mom was. She was in the storage shed, faithfully working away. LeeAnna, my niece and I remarked she was chained to that shed. We are kidding. You have to know my mom, when she starts a project, she doesn't stop until it is done. She is a hoot and a half.
Well, Mom rearranged that shed from the back to the front. We now have only the essentials for my new home. Woo Hoo!!! I am hoping that I can move in within 30 days or so. And then, after the house is set up, I am having a huge bash at the new house in celebration of life, family and friends. It shall be a grand time and I can't wait. I am already planning the food as I am having a restaurant prepare the main dishes.
Holly has offered to run the kitchen. My nephew has made his suggestions-things he likes, which I can do. Is he spoiled or not? Not, he is like my own. I am having appetizers, main dishes, toss salad, baguettes and Phyllis' delicious celebration cake. Phyllis is fabu with cakes. Wait until you see her artwork, you won't want to eat the cake.
Hopefully, my bear will be in attendance to greet you all when you enter, Chateau Soleil. We will be waiting with open arms to meet and greet you. His manners are impeccable and he is a bon vivant like his owner. We make quite the pair. I told Mom that he is the new man in my life. We agreed that he is the best kind to have. He doesn't talk back. He is respectful. He is fun to hang out with. He agrees with everything I say. Hey, you may want one of these fellows. He is easy on the eyes and brings joy to my heart. He likes to fish, but I will request that he stays put to greet our guests. He won't be able to hang out his shingle, gone fishing because I am busy greetin' and meetin' our family and friends.
Well, my friends, Mr. Bear and I will be seeing you in the near future. Meanwhile, we wish you the best.
Cheers to Mr. Bear and our new home together.
May you find the small things in life that bring you joy and a heart full of love.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Salvaging the Storage Shed!
Mom is on a cleaning frenzy and this time, it is all my "stuff" that is my rented storage shed. We or I should say, mainly Mom has been hauling my French boxes to our house to sort through them. When I left school abruptly due to passing out and Al had to do CPR on me, he saved my life. Luckily, he was taught to do CPR because of coaching football for so many years. He must renew his skills every year. Well, I became the recipient of his extraordinary skills as I hit the floor fast and he had to literally get me breathing again. It was traumatic for him, no doubt. I was too sick to get the fact that my life was changing fast and one would never begin to imagine how fast the change would be, nor how drastic.
At any rate, all of my stuff from B.-G. was packed up haphazardly and in reality, it is a mess. They even packed up the school's books, bulletin boards supplies, posters, etc. How crazy. Mom said toss it out, but you know me, I have to see every single paper and book and return what is not mine to the rightful owner. So, alas, our days have been spent tending to this overwhelming task. 35 boxes to go through and dispose of.
I am giving copies to a new French teacher in the Binghamton area. My friend JoAnne, who is also a French teacher, now retired, is in charge of giving the new young French teacher my supplies. Thanks, JoAnne. Meanwhile, we are packing up the school stuff to head back to its original home and Ginni has graciously said she would collect these boxes and return them.
So, my day today will be spend in the shed salvaging what I can, along with my mom and niece. The boxes are heavy and I worry about my mom's stamina and back. So, I have hired my niece to help out. She is very helpful and does everything we ask her to do.
You all know what I am doing on Labor Day. I am laboring away in the shed salvaging books, papers, posters, etc. I hope that you are not laboring away on this day. Enjoy the sunshine and warm weather.
May your Labor day be a labor of love.
At any rate, all of my stuff from B.-G. was packed up haphazardly and in reality, it is a mess. They even packed up the school's books, bulletin boards supplies, posters, etc. How crazy. Mom said toss it out, but you know me, I have to see every single paper and book and return what is not mine to the rightful owner. So, alas, our days have been spent tending to this overwhelming task. 35 boxes to go through and dispose of.
I am giving copies to a new French teacher in the Binghamton area. My friend JoAnne, who is also a French teacher, now retired, is in charge of giving the new young French teacher my supplies. Thanks, JoAnne. Meanwhile, we are packing up the school stuff to head back to its original home and Ginni has graciously said she would collect these boxes and return them.
So, my day today will be spend in the shed salvaging what I can, along with my mom and niece. The boxes are heavy and I worry about my mom's stamina and back. So, I have hired my niece to help out. She is very helpful and does everything we ask her to do.
You all know what I am doing on Labor Day. I am laboring away in the shed salvaging books, papers, posters, etc. I hope that you are not laboring away on this day. Enjoy the sunshine and warm weather.
May your Labor day be a labor of love.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
More News about Heather adds to the story!
Check out the latest happening to our friend, Heather, who is taking on her ex because he wants full custody of their kids because she has WG. Meanwhile, he is less than exemplary. Boggles the mind how men can get away with this.
Ex-wife of county's top prosecutor seeks $19k in back child support Originally published August 29, 2008By Kate Leckie News-Post Staff
NEW! Click photo to view additional photos
Staff file photo
Heather Price Smith
Charlie Smith, Frederick County's top prosecutor, is heading to court.
Filing papers with the circuit court clerk's office, his ex-wife is putting him in the defendant's chair.
Nearly eight years after their Dec. 1, 2000, divorce, Smith's former spouse, Heather Price Smith, is seeking unpaid child support totaling $19,444. The amount represents $209 a month.
They have two teenagers, a daughter and a son, of whom they share custody.
In a statement issued Thursday, Heather Price Smith doesn't give a reason for seeking contempt charges now.
"Despite continued oral and written requests for child support payments, no such payments have ever been made," she wrote. "This matter will be resolved in a court of law."
Contacted Thursday night, she again declined to say why she filed the paperwork now.
"Those personal reasons will be set forth in court," she said. "I do have a rational justification, but I will not respond to it now."
No court date has been set.
Charlie Smith already was deputy state's attorney when the couple divorced. He was elected to the top post in November 2006.
He denies her allegations, saying that when they first separated, he paid her at least $200 a month. Sometimes he gave her more.
But when Heather Price Smith found a new job in 2001 as the chief attorney for the City of Frederick, they agreed that neither owed the other child support, he said Thursday.
Whatever the children needed, they would split the expenses, Charlie Smith said.
Not true, Heather Price Smith wrote in her statement Thursday.
On Thursday, Charlie Smith said he hadn't been served with the petition for contempt and only learned of it from reporters.
"It's just heartbreaking that my children have to deal with this sudden personal issue being played out in public," he said. "I'll be contacting an attorney and will continue to do whatever is in their best interests."
This fellow is so full of it, I don't know how he manages to swim. He broke Heather's arm, threatened her concerning her job, her children, etc. He has been getting away with all of this, but also, there is the fact that he did not pay child support at all, even though it is a minimal amount despite his salary being so high.
Heather is unable to work due to her WG. She has all she can do to stay alive and now, she has to fight him just to keep her children. It is exhausting to be ill, but taking on an ex makes it even worse.
In my case, I pretty much left everything behind, which was O.K. because it wasn't worth it to me nor my lungs to fight over materialistic things. I need to breathe and not waste one breath over fighting. Besides, it is nice to start anew-new memories to behold. My cousin, Huckleberry, has always said, "One more day that you spend fighting, one less day of living." He has said that in a nutshell. I was a nut to stay as long as I did considering the circumstances, but when I said, "I do", I did. So, the for better and worse and the sickness and health part kept me going. I believed that no matter what, I made a commitment and I needed to full fill it. But, unfortunately, it was worse than better and sickness over health took over. No one else was affected, except for me. I, finally, figured it out. They were use to living in total dsyfunctionality, whereas I didn't. So, my life changed into trying to get the husband to see that his kids were out of control, their manners, morals and values were and are nonexistent. It was apparent to many, but not to them. Unfortunately, my husband chose not to see, because if you see the problem, then you must deal with it. So for him, it was easier to rationalize their horrific behaviors by letting the children and himself use the excuse of the mother's death.
They used this ad naseum and it worked very well for them. Everybody felt so bad that the children had lost their mother to cancer that they allowed them to get away with bad, inappropriate behaviors and the kids took advantage of it completely. It became their life. A game-my mom died, poor me.
Unfortunately, nowhere did they encounter anyone telling them no, except me. So, in their eyes, I was the evil stepmother. But in reality, I tried to hold them accountable for their negative behavior only to hit a wall-the husband, who couldn't be bothered to take charge. I don't think he cared enough about them to make them mind. He figured it was easier to let them be hooligans than making them mind. An easy route to take, but in the long run, a terrible mistake, that turns a child into a not so nice "adult", who invariably has all sorts of problems. This was apparent as one of three were constantly calling about their problems. Mind you, they were never at fault for all of their problems, it was, of course, everyone elses. They really believe this. It is so sad that they have created their own reality- a reality that is way out there. Oh, well, I don't have to deal with them anymore. But for those people around them, they do.
Another part to the puzzle was the fact that their mother worked at school. So, even school personnel allowed them to act horrible because the kids played the mother trump card. There was no one anywhere to say, "enough is enough." Plus, the teachers didn't want to confront Al about their behaviors because he was/is a colleague. A disservice was done to these children by their father, his family, her family, their friends, the school district and the list goes on.
I learned that no matter how badly behaved a child is, a parent doesn't want to hear it and you become the bad apple for pointing out the obvious, because then their bad behavior is in the parent's face and because they don't want to deal with it, it gets swept under the carpet. So, every time you walk across that carpet, you can feel the ups and downs, the bumps ahead. They will never have a smooth road. As I said, one out of three calls on a regular basis. Usually, they are in need of money and expect it, no matter how much. Unwisely, Al has provided them with unlimited funds. Who needs a credit card, when you have the Bank of Arotsky funding you and paying your bills.
This has been going on for years to the tune of ________dollars. You fill in the blank because if I did, you would have a stroke, a heartache -oops, I meant heart attack or both. Yikes. I don't concern myself about this either as I no longer have to hear that because of me, Al couldn't retire. In reality, Al can't retire because he is assisting at least 2 out of 3 with monthly funds. The third one doesn't receive near what the others do. It isn't fair and you don't hear the other two telling the third about their funding from good ole dad. They don't want the gravy train to stop. Well, I am off that train, if anything, I am the one that paid the majority of the bills, so that Al could send them to college without them taking out loans.
They have no clue that this wouldn't have been possible without me paying the majority of the monthly bills. If they do know, then they don't care. They figure that it is their right. They look for people to manipulate and use and when they are done, they move onto the next victim. So, you can imagine what type of people that they hang out with.
My diligence in providing counseling did not work. They were so ingrained in their non-reality world that they had created from day one, that they have no clue what is important in life. The only thing of interest to them is green in color and they honestly believe that the green stuff will solve all their problems. They never look at what is inside, but rather the outside- making a fake facade to fool the people some of the time, but not all of the time. As my one friend always says, ' I can't believe those stepmonsters." And sadly enough, she is right.
Well, if you can't fix it , forget it. There ain't no fixing this lot. Better to pack your bags and keep moving. My baggage says,"Fight to Live another day, and live another day to fight." Well, I am prepared now, but I sure wasn't back then. It took me a bit of time to conclude that their family dynamics were missing important parts-respect, doing the best you can and even if you think you are on the right path, there are signs along the way that tell you to merge, get in the left lane, drive slow, look out for construction, slow down and the list goes on. They didn't get this idea at all because they were not taught the basics in creating a solid foundation.
I, at least, could escape from the insanity pit, but poor Heather has two children that she is the process of trying to protect. She has to deal with this on a constant basis. I bless her. It can't be easy.
May your spouse support you for always. Then, check out where you want to be. While you are moving along, may the friendship between you and your spouse remain essential. It will carry you over those rough roads, black ice, potholes and curves.
Ex-wife of county's top prosecutor seeks $19k in back child support Originally published August 29, 2008By Kate Leckie News-Post Staff
NEW! Click photo to view additional photos
Staff file photo
Heather Price Smith
Charlie Smith, Frederick County's top prosecutor, is heading to court.
Filing papers with the circuit court clerk's office, his ex-wife is putting him in the defendant's chair.
Nearly eight years after their Dec. 1, 2000, divorce, Smith's former spouse, Heather Price Smith, is seeking unpaid child support totaling $19,444. The amount represents $209 a month.
They have two teenagers, a daughter and a son, of whom they share custody.
In a statement issued Thursday, Heather Price Smith doesn't give a reason for seeking contempt charges now.
"Despite continued oral and written requests for child support payments, no such payments have ever been made," she wrote. "This matter will be resolved in a court of law."
Contacted Thursday night, she again declined to say why she filed the paperwork now.
"Those personal reasons will be set forth in court," she said. "I do have a rational justification, but I will not respond to it now."
No court date has been set.
Charlie Smith already was deputy state's attorney when the couple divorced. He was elected to the top post in November 2006.
He denies her allegations, saying that when they first separated, he paid her at least $200 a month. Sometimes he gave her more.
But when Heather Price Smith found a new job in 2001 as the chief attorney for the City of Frederick, they agreed that neither owed the other child support, he said Thursday.
Whatever the children needed, they would split the expenses, Charlie Smith said.
Not true, Heather Price Smith wrote in her statement Thursday.
On Thursday, Charlie Smith said he hadn't been served with the petition for contempt and only learned of it from reporters.
"It's just heartbreaking that my children have to deal with this sudden personal issue being played out in public," he said. "I'll be contacting an attorney and will continue to do whatever is in their best interests."
This fellow is so full of it, I don't know how he manages to swim. He broke Heather's arm, threatened her concerning her job, her children, etc. He has been getting away with all of this, but also, there is the fact that he did not pay child support at all, even though it is a minimal amount despite his salary being so high.
Heather is unable to work due to her WG. She has all she can do to stay alive and now, she has to fight him just to keep her children. It is exhausting to be ill, but taking on an ex makes it even worse.
In my case, I pretty much left everything behind, which was O.K. because it wasn't worth it to me nor my lungs to fight over materialistic things. I need to breathe and not waste one breath over fighting. Besides, it is nice to start anew-new memories to behold. My cousin, Huckleberry, has always said, "One more day that you spend fighting, one less day of living." He has said that in a nutshell. I was a nut to stay as long as I did considering the circumstances, but when I said, "I do", I did. So, the for better and worse and the sickness and health part kept me going. I believed that no matter what, I made a commitment and I needed to full fill it. But, unfortunately, it was worse than better and sickness over health took over. No one else was affected, except for me. I, finally, figured it out. They were use to living in total dsyfunctionality, whereas I didn't. So, my life changed into trying to get the husband to see that his kids were out of control, their manners, morals and values were and are nonexistent. It was apparent to many, but not to them. Unfortunately, my husband chose not to see, because if you see the problem, then you must deal with it. So for him, it was easier to rationalize their horrific behaviors by letting the children and himself use the excuse of the mother's death.
They used this ad naseum and it worked very well for them. Everybody felt so bad that the children had lost their mother to cancer that they allowed them to get away with bad, inappropriate behaviors and the kids took advantage of it completely. It became their life. A game-my mom died, poor me.
Unfortunately, nowhere did they encounter anyone telling them no, except me. So, in their eyes, I was the evil stepmother. But in reality, I tried to hold them accountable for their negative behavior only to hit a wall-the husband, who couldn't be bothered to take charge. I don't think he cared enough about them to make them mind. He figured it was easier to let them be hooligans than making them mind. An easy route to take, but in the long run, a terrible mistake, that turns a child into a not so nice "adult", who invariably has all sorts of problems. This was apparent as one of three were constantly calling about their problems. Mind you, they were never at fault for all of their problems, it was, of course, everyone elses. They really believe this. It is so sad that they have created their own reality- a reality that is way out there. Oh, well, I don't have to deal with them anymore. But for those people around them, they do.
Another part to the puzzle was the fact that their mother worked at school. So, even school personnel allowed them to act horrible because the kids played the mother trump card. There was no one anywhere to say, "enough is enough." Plus, the teachers didn't want to confront Al about their behaviors because he was/is a colleague. A disservice was done to these children by their father, his family, her family, their friends, the school district and the list goes on.
I learned that no matter how badly behaved a child is, a parent doesn't want to hear it and you become the bad apple for pointing out the obvious, because then their bad behavior is in the parent's face and because they don't want to deal with it, it gets swept under the carpet. So, every time you walk across that carpet, you can feel the ups and downs, the bumps ahead. They will never have a smooth road. As I said, one out of three calls on a regular basis. Usually, they are in need of money and expect it, no matter how much. Unwisely, Al has provided them with unlimited funds. Who needs a credit card, when you have the Bank of Arotsky funding you and paying your bills.
This has been going on for years to the tune of ________dollars. You fill in the blank because if I did, you would have a stroke, a heartache -oops, I meant heart attack or both. Yikes. I don't concern myself about this either as I no longer have to hear that because of me, Al couldn't retire. In reality, Al can't retire because he is assisting at least 2 out of 3 with monthly funds. The third one doesn't receive near what the others do. It isn't fair and you don't hear the other two telling the third about their funding from good ole dad. They don't want the gravy train to stop. Well, I am off that train, if anything, I am the one that paid the majority of the bills, so that Al could send them to college without them taking out loans.
They have no clue that this wouldn't have been possible without me paying the majority of the monthly bills. If they do know, then they don't care. They figure that it is their right. They look for people to manipulate and use and when they are done, they move onto the next victim. So, you can imagine what type of people that they hang out with.
My diligence in providing counseling did not work. They were so ingrained in their non-reality world that they had created from day one, that they have no clue what is important in life. The only thing of interest to them is green in color and they honestly believe that the green stuff will solve all their problems. They never look at what is inside, but rather the outside- making a fake facade to fool the people some of the time, but not all of the time. As my one friend always says, ' I can't believe those stepmonsters." And sadly enough, she is right.
Well, if you can't fix it , forget it. There ain't no fixing this lot. Better to pack your bags and keep moving. My baggage says,"Fight to Live another day, and live another day to fight." Well, I am prepared now, but I sure wasn't back then. It took me a bit of time to conclude that their family dynamics were missing important parts-respect, doing the best you can and even if you think you are on the right path, there are signs along the way that tell you to merge, get in the left lane, drive slow, look out for construction, slow down and the list goes on. They didn't get this idea at all because they were not taught the basics in creating a solid foundation.
I, at least, could escape from the insanity pit, but poor Heather has two children that she is the process of trying to protect. She has to deal with this on a constant basis. I bless her. It can't be easy.
May your spouse support you for always. Then, check out where you want to be. While you are moving along, may the friendship between you and your spouse remain essential. It will carry you over those rough roads, black ice, potholes and curves.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Billy Joel's History Lesson!
I received this from Betty M. awhile back and it is fabulous. Here's your lesson for the day, week, month if you click on every person, event over the past 50 years or so. You'll learn tons or it may refresh your memory. Either way, this creation is awesome. I sent it to Al for him to use in his Social Studies class as he can cover a lot of ground in just one song. I even came up with an interactive activity that he can do with his kids. I hope they have fun with it. I love doing lesson plans. Give me a topic and I am figuring out a way to creatively teach it.
So, take a click and look see and you will be amazed. So, would the piano man, Billy Joel.
SO WORTH LISTENING TO!
Whether you are a Billy Joel fan or not, you probably remember his great song "We Didn't Start the Fire."
Here it is, set to pictures- very, very cool.
& ;nbs p;
It's a fabulous flashback through the past half century. Pictures of events that had long been forgotten are now quickly remembered.
Turn up volume, sit back and enjoy a review of 50 years of history in less than 3 minutes! Thanks to Billy Joel and some guy from the University of Chicago with too much time to google!
CLICK HERE:&nbs p;&nb sp;
http://yeli.us/Flash/Fire.html
http://yeli.us/Flash/Fire.html
Gin, I hope you can figure this out, if not, call me or I can show you.
Where were you born in this time line of happenings?
May some of our history not repeat itself. Certainly mine.
So, take a click and look see and you will be amazed. So, would the piano man, Billy Joel.
SO WORTH LISTENING TO!
Whether you are a Billy Joel fan or not, you probably remember his great song "We Didn't Start the Fire."
Here it is, set to pictures- very, very cool.
& ;nbs p;
It's a fabulous flashback through the past half century. Pictures of events that had long been forgotten are now quickly remembered.
Turn up volume, sit back and enjoy a review of 50 years of history in less than 3 minutes! Thanks to Billy Joel and some guy from the University of Chicago with too much time to google!
CLICK HERE:&nbs p;&nb sp;
http://yeli.us/Flash/Fire.html
http://yeli.us/Flash/Fire.html
Gin, I hope you can figure this out, if not, call me or I can show you.
Where were you born in this time line of happenings?
May some of our history not repeat itself. Certainly mine.
I need the bear necessities for my new home.
When I was well, Al and I would frequently take the Mustang and the Model A for a spin around the neighborhood. We would take back roads so as not to disturb the drivers, who have their foot on the gas pedal. Our poor Model A went about 40 to 45 miles per hour. As I was always the passenger, I could easily check out the scenery-wild animals foraging for food-mainly deer, turkeys, hawks, blooming flowers along the roadside and in the Fall, the leaves were plentiful and colorful. It was grand fun zipping around the back country roads to discover nature at its best.
We would often pass by a house with this fishing bear out front. I would gaze out the window and exclaim to Al, "Isn't he a great bear? Look at his blue jean bibs and his fishing pole!" I was intrigued with this happy go lucky looking fellow, who seemed so life like. After the 5th time by there, we knew he was a replica of the one bear, who nearly destroyed our chicken coop with the chickens locked inside it. The real bear had managed to rip off the wooden strips along with the small door that allowed the chickens a way in and out very easily. They had their own ramp.
Well, after that bear ripped off our little door, he stuck his hand in their to make himself a feast. One chicken coming right up, second chicken finger licking good, third chicken-yum yum yum and so the story goes. Al managed to fire a shot at our chicken robber. He just scared the poor fellow, who lumbered off.
Finally, after seeing my fishing bear buddy hanging out in front of this house, I told Al that I wanted to stop and see if they were selling the bear to which he replied, " They aren't selling that bear. It is their lawn decoration. Besides, you don't need a bear." Well, I dare say that I would prefer encountering a carved out wooden bear than a real one. I, always, think of bears as being nice. I know that they can be dangerous.
I noticed, eventually, that the fishing bear had gone fishing. He was nowhere to be found. After my dentist appointment, I decided to drive over to the bear house and inquire whether they made the bears or not. And if not, who had made that jean clad, fishing pole carrying bear that I had grown so fond of.
I pulled into the dirt drive, hauled myself and George, my oxygen tank out of the car. I stood watching this fellow with sandals, shorts, long sleeved shirt, protective eye wear, helmet and chainsaw in hand crafting a dog from a photo that a family had provided. It was turning out to be beautiful and so life like.
I didn't yell, since I didn't want to distract him from his work, but more importantly, I didn't want him to cut himself with the saw if he became spooked. So, I waited patiently. That is a feat for me some days.
We ended up visiting for quite awhile. I was fascinated by the whole process of carving out the bears. We compared notes about the original fishing bear. I learned that he was and is living a life out in the country and his owner has even given him his own fishing hat and name. This type of bear is the best kind to have.
The bear creator himself needed to figure out how to sell his troop of bears. He is currently working on a bear that can be on his back with his legs up creating a coffee table. If you put a piece of oval glass on top, you have an interesting, unique coffee table or you can put him back on his feet and his back holds the oval shaped glass. I have to admit, I just wanted to pet that cute bear.That started the whole episode of me ordering myself a mascot, who will be the first official one.
Who says you can't have a bear to welcome family and friends to your new home? Well, my bear will be coming along shortly and I am so excited to see him. No name yet. I think I will have to see him in order to know his name. I've heard that about babies and naming them. You see them and then, the name pops into your head.
Jeff, the chainsaw expert showed me his photo album book. His various pieces are true artwork at its best. There are the bears, of course, mooses, dogs, Santa Claus-I just love him. I don't think that there isn't anything he can't create.
I asked if he saw the finished project in the over sized pieces of wooden logs that laid adrift at his feet. Jeff said he could visualize the finished product, by just looking at the log. It was truly interesting to talk to him. Next time, I shall call him to give him a full warning of my impending arrival, so as to not scare him.
If you get a chance, it is well worth a trip to this fellow's house to view his creations. Just tell him that I sent you. You might even find that you may want a mascot fishing bear like mine.
I can't wait for my bear to get home as he is way overdue. He will be the official greeter at Chateau Soleil. I can trade his fishing pole in for a flag. Look out for the 4th of July. He will be all star spangled out.
Here's the information to contact Jeff. Take a jaunt out there. Check out the glorious, country scenery and wait until you see his bears. I am telling you that they will steal your heart and you will be like me needing a mascot- a bear one, at that.
Bear Creations
Jeffrey Trask
(607) 967-2918
Trask117@frontiernet.net
You will be amazed by Jeff's talent and visual acuity. After seeing his "herd" of bears, I want a coffee table, a nightlight bear that has an old lit lantern extending a welcome light to guests and that is just the beginning. We wouldn't want my fishing bear to be lonely.
Call and make an appointment to see his bears. They are all just so unique, just like Jeff's talent.
May you have all the bear necessities in life.
Listen to this Disney classic.
We would often pass by a house with this fishing bear out front. I would gaze out the window and exclaim to Al, "Isn't he a great bear? Look at his blue jean bibs and his fishing pole!" I was intrigued with this happy go lucky looking fellow, who seemed so life like. After the 5th time by there, we knew he was a replica of the one bear, who nearly destroyed our chicken coop with the chickens locked inside it. The real bear had managed to rip off the wooden strips along with the small door that allowed the chickens a way in and out very easily. They had their own ramp.
Well, after that bear ripped off our little door, he stuck his hand in their to make himself a feast. One chicken coming right up, second chicken finger licking good, third chicken-yum yum yum and so the story goes. Al managed to fire a shot at our chicken robber. He just scared the poor fellow, who lumbered off.
Finally, after seeing my fishing bear buddy hanging out in front of this house, I told Al that I wanted to stop and see if they were selling the bear to which he replied, " They aren't selling that bear. It is their lawn decoration. Besides, you don't need a bear." Well, I dare say that I would prefer encountering a carved out wooden bear than a real one. I, always, think of bears as being nice. I know that they can be dangerous.
I noticed, eventually, that the fishing bear had gone fishing. He was nowhere to be found. After my dentist appointment, I decided to drive over to the bear house and inquire whether they made the bears or not. And if not, who had made that jean clad, fishing pole carrying bear that I had grown so fond of.
I pulled into the dirt drive, hauled myself and George, my oxygen tank out of the car. I stood watching this fellow with sandals, shorts, long sleeved shirt, protective eye wear, helmet and chainsaw in hand crafting a dog from a photo that a family had provided. It was turning out to be beautiful and so life like.
I didn't yell, since I didn't want to distract him from his work, but more importantly, I didn't want him to cut himself with the saw if he became spooked. So, I waited patiently. That is a feat for me some days.
We ended up visiting for quite awhile. I was fascinated by the whole process of carving out the bears. We compared notes about the original fishing bear. I learned that he was and is living a life out in the country and his owner has even given him his own fishing hat and name. This type of bear is the best kind to have.
The bear creator himself needed to figure out how to sell his troop of bears. He is currently working on a bear that can be on his back with his legs up creating a coffee table. If you put a piece of oval glass on top, you have an interesting, unique coffee table or you can put him back on his feet and his back holds the oval shaped glass. I have to admit, I just wanted to pet that cute bear.That started the whole episode of me ordering myself a mascot, who will be the first official one.
Who says you can't have a bear to welcome family and friends to your new home? Well, my bear will be coming along shortly and I am so excited to see him. No name yet. I think I will have to see him in order to know his name. I've heard that about babies and naming them. You see them and then, the name pops into your head.
Jeff, the chainsaw expert showed me his photo album book. His various pieces are true artwork at its best. There are the bears, of course, mooses, dogs, Santa Claus-I just love him. I don't think that there isn't anything he can't create.
I asked if he saw the finished project in the over sized pieces of wooden logs that laid adrift at his feet. Jeff said he could visualize the finished product, by just looking at the log. It was truly interesting to talk to him. Next time, I shall call him to give him a full warning of my impending arrival, so as to not scare him.
If you get a chance, it is well worth a trip to this fellow's house to view his creations. Just tell him that I sent you. You might even find that you may want a mascot fishing bear like mine.
I can't wait for my bear to get home as he is way overdue. He will be the official greeter at Chateau Soleil. I can trade his fishing pole in for a flag. Look out for the 4th of July. He will be all star spangled out.
Here's the information to contact Jeff. Take a jaunt out there. Check out the glorious, country scenery and wait until you see his bears. I am telling you that they will steal your heart and you will be like me needing a mascot- a bear one, at that.
Bear Creations
Jeffrey Trask
(607) 967-2918
Trask117@frontiernet.net
You will be amazed by Jeff's talent and visual acuity. After seeing his "herd" of bears, I want a coffee table, a nightlight bear that has an old lit lantern extending a welcome light to guests and that is just the beginning. We wouldn't want my fishing bear to be lonely.
Call and make an appointment to see his bears. They are all just so unique, just like Jeff's talent.
May you have all the bear necessities in life.
Listen to this Disney classic.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Heather's News Makes the News in no Time Flat!
Hi everyone.
I've been so exhausted for the last few days. Here's a link to the
first news article in a local paper...I'm not so thrilled about it.
www.gazette.net/stories/08282008/frednew163249_32470.shtml
I declined to give any personal info - just confirming that I filed,
but my ex gave a few quotes. His quotes are included in the article.
His comments are all lies. The reporter called me a few days ago - I
confirmed that I filed the Motion to Show Cause and the Order of
Contempt. When the reporter went to the courthouse, the file was
MISSING. For 2 days, no one in the clerks' office could find it. As
you know, I had the Clerk of Court make a secret duplicate copy - so
she gave that to the reporters and is looking for the file. My ex
always told me he would make, "the file disappear", if I ever filed.
It's just the beginning.
I'm trying to stay above it all and let the Courts decide.
I'll send you more links....there is a bigger local paper that will
explode the issue.
HEALTH QUESTION: I know I've been under a lot of stress lately, but I
have a "new" symptom I'd like to know if anyone else has
experienced. I have Severe Mastalgia (Breast Pain). Have any of you
had this symptom? I'm going for a mamo tomorrow. There are very
rare cases of vasculitis in breasts due to Wegener's.
Also, my palattal ulcer is getting larger and deeper. I'm on an oral
steroid that I swish and spit - but it's only getting worse. Has
anyone had this also? What meds were used? Is this going to eat
it's way all the way through to my nose?
I've been so exhausted and in pain. My trigeminal neuralgia doesn't
even respond to Oxicontin.
My minister came by yesterday. He told me to just pray for one day
at a time....my biopsy results should be in this week soon, and then
I'll know if I'm on the dying track or the living track.
Heather
Hopefully, the truth will prevail and justice will be rendered. This ex is getting my dander up and me being on prednisone can easily turn me into a twirling, whirling Tasmanian She Devil.
Poor Heather. She is becoming the news of the day, trying to combat a relentless ex and a disease that just takes over your body rendering you tired, scared, nervous, nauseous, feeling like you are buried under a pile of rocks with no way out. She is getting bumped and hammered from all sides. This poor gal needs a break. But, that is not to be as this is just the beginning, which is so unfair to Heather and her children, especially in the debilitating condition that she is in. Talk about totally unfair. Heather's situation sure is. We shall continue to support her with our prayers, good wishes and advice.
As that commercial used to say, "You've come along way baby." Don't give in or give up because in the end justice will prevail and you shall win.
May you win the important battles in your life.
I've been so exhausted for the last few days. Here's a link to the
first news article in a local paper...I'm not so thrilled about it.
www.gazette.net/stories/08282008/frednew163249_32470.shtml
I declined to give any personal info - just confirming that I filed,
but my ex gave a few quotes. His quotes are included in the article.
His comments are all lies. The reporter called me a few days ago - I
confirmed that I filed the Motion to Show Cause and the Order of
Contempt. When the reporter went to the courthouse, the file was
MISSING. For 2 days, no one in the clerks' office could find it. As
you know, I had the Clerk of Court make a secret duplicate copy - so
she gave that to the reporters and is looking for the file. My ex
always told me he would make, "the file disappear", if I ever filed.
It's just the beginning.
I'm trying to stay above it all and let the Courts decide.
I'll send you more links....there is a bigger local paper that will
explode the issue.
HEALTH QUESTION: I know I've been under a lot of stress lately, but I
have a "new" symptom I'd like to know if anyone else has
experienced. I have Severe Mastalgia (Breast Pain). Have any of you
had this symptom? I'm going for a mamo tomorrow. There are very
rare cases of vasculitis in breasts due to Wegener's.
Also, my palattal ulcer is getting larger and deeper. I'm on an oral
steroid that I swish and spit - but it's only getting worse. Has
anyone had this also? What meds were used? Is this going to eat
it's way all the way through to my nose?
I've been so exhausted and in pain. My trigeminal neuralgia doesn't
even respond to Oxicontin.
My minister came by yesterday. He told me to just pray for one day
at a time....my biopsy results should be in this week soon, and then
I'll know if I'm on the dying track or the living track.
Heather
Hopefully, the truth will prevail and justice will be rendered. This ex is getting my dander up and me being on prednisone can easily turn me into a twirling, whirling Tasmanian She Devil.
Poor Heather. She is becoming the news of the day, trying to combat a relentless ex and a disease that just takes over your body rendering you tired, scared, nervous, nauseous, feeling like you are buried under a pile of rocks with no way out. She is getting bumped and hammered from all sides. This poor gal needs a break. But, that is not to be as this is just the beginning, which is so unfair to Heather and her children, especially in the debilitating condition that she is in. Talk about totally unfair. Heather's situation sure is. We shall continue to support her with our prayers, good wishes and advice.
As that commercial used to say, "You've come along way baby." Don't give in or give up because in the end justice will prevail and you shall win.
May you win the important battles in your life.
A Visit Puts Things in Perspective.
My goals for the day turned to mush when all was said and done. It was not fun, in fact, it was a nuisance. I thought everything would fall into place, but that wasn't happening, so back to the drawing board. Where is Dr. Suess when you need him?
Frustrating, more frustration. I was in need of a major diversion so that I wouldn't think about the travesty of my money, not being where I thought it was.
But who should arrive at my door step with blueberries, in hand, from their very own bushes, but Marcia and Dave. What a delightful surprise-both of them and then the blueberries.
I told them I would be their new neighbor and hopefully, I wouldn't cause a who haw in their neighborhood. They felt that I could do no damage at all. Yeah. I am ready to move on over to this quiet, middle aged neighborhood with few kids.
Thanks for the visit Dave and Marcia and the offer to help me move. How very kind.
May you find ways to lessen your stress. Blueberries from friends works for me. Thanks for picking Dave.
Frustrating, more frustration. I was in need of a major diversion so that I wouldn't think about the travesty of my money, not being where I thought it was.
But who should arrive at my door step with blueberries, in hand, from their very own bushes, but Marcia and Dave. What a delightful surprise-both of them and then the blueberries.
I told them I would be their new neighbor and hopefully, I wouldn't cause a who haw in their neighborhood. They felt that I could do no damage at all. Yeah. I am ready to move on over to this quiet, middle aged neighborhood with few kids.
Thanks for the visit Dave and Marcia and the offer to help me move. How very kind.
May you find ways to lessen your stress. Blueberries from friends works for me. Thanks for picking Dave.
No accounting of my accounts.
I received the big ole packet for my house loan, only to find that I had to track down a whole bunch of information that was not readily available. I had a lot of explaining to do and in one case, I was told that I had no money in my account with my mom. Well, imagine my surprise and attitude when I heard that?!!!! I was not a happy camper and the fiasco continued on.
I consulted with the financial institution and explained my dilemma. How do I get the rights to my money, even though I had stated that it was mine and my mom's name is on my accounts along with my name. It so happens that a bank employee put my mom as primary and me as secondary. I found out that I am unable to get an accounting of my account. No copy of the latest developments with the account. Because Mom is the primary person, I have no right to my money nor a copy of what is exactly in my account. As primary, my Mom has all the control. As secondary, I received a kick in the pants and was told, "You can't access this account because you have no money here."
Well, I begged to differ. So, tomorrow I am tackling this institution and we will probably cash in my C.D.s despite a major penalty, but my money doesn't do me any good just sitting there, since I can't access it and use it. Furthermore, if I should die this money should go to the Mott Charitable Trust. This is not a happening event, either. So, what is the purpose of this money if I can't access it, use it as I see fit, since it is my money?!!!
If mother and I should die together-say a plane accident going to Pitts., then my money would go to her estate and it would be used as she has left instructions for her estate. Well, this won't be happening on my watch. So, watch out you all, because this Marge is coming to town and she isn't too happy about this whole nightmare.
I know that if I die, my Mom would make sure that my money goes to my charitable trust, but she doesn't need this headache. I am already her major headache! Who needs another headache? Not her, I can guarantee you that.
It would have been nice if the employee had let us know this, when she set this account up. It was my understanding that I would be able to access the money as well as Mom being able to access it if I couldn't. ex.-lung transplant and stay in the hospital for 2 weeks.
May you pay attention to details concerning your accounts. There is no accounting for what may happen if you don't. You'll be like me, mad as a wet hen. Needless to say that my feathers have been ruffled and I am looking forward to de-ruffling them tomorrow. Wish me luck getting control of my money back. Once I have it, off we shall go.
I consulted with the financial institution and explained my dilemma. How do I get the rights to my money, even though I had stated that it was mine and my mom's name is on my accounts along with my name. It so happens that a bank employee put my mom as primary and me as secondary. I found out that I am unable to get an accounting of my account. No copy of the latest developments with the account. Because Mom is the primary person, I have no right to my money nor a copy of what is exactly in my account. As primary, my Mom has all the control. As secondary, I received a kick in the pants and was told, "You can't access this account because you have no money here."
Well, I begged to differ. So, tomorrow I am tackling this institution and we will probably cash in my C.D.s despite a major penalty, but my money doesn't do me any good just sitting there, since I can't access it and use it. Furthermore, if I should die this money should go to the Mott Charitable Trust. This is not a happening event, either. So, what is the purpose of this money if I can't access it, use it as I see fit, since it is my money?!!!
If mother and I should die together-say a plane accident going to Pitts., then my money would go to her estate and it would be used as she has left instructions for her estate. Well, this won't be happening on my watch. So, watch out you all, because this Marge is coming to town and she isn't too happy about this whole nightmare.
I know that if I die, my Mom would make sure that my money goes to my charitable trust, but she doesn't need this headache. I am already her major headache! Who needs another headache? Not her, I can guarantee you that.
It would have been nice if the employee had let us know this, when she set this account up. It was my understanding that I would be able to access the money as well as Mom being able to access it if I couldn't. ex.-lung transplant and stay in the hospital for 2 weeks.
May you pay attention to details concerning your accounts. There is no accounting for what may happen if you don't. You'll be like me, mad as a wet hen. Needless to say that my feathers have been ruffled and I am looking forward to de-ruffling them tomorrow. Wish me luck getting control of my money back. Once I have it, off we shall go.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Gotta Love a Baby, especially this one!
My girlfriend, Sheryl like me, waited a long time to get married. She is a fantastic person that I enjoy being around. She has always wanted children for as long as I can remember. I volunteered to be the Auntie as I have no children of my own when her children came along. But in order to have those children, Sheryl needed a fellow who felt the same way she does about life and having kids. Well, this is one story that is for the record books.
My dear friend, Sheryl met her now husband on the Internet through a dating service on-line. When she told me about her sister-in-laws signing her up and taking care of the details, I was a bit anxious. So, when Greg invited Sheryl on a picnic in the park, I started being a worry wart. My advice came fast and furious.
Sheryl, don't go out of the park with this guy, you don't know.
Make sure there are other people around.
Don't go off with him alone.
You can easily get the picture from my point of view.
I waited and waited for a phone call about their date, only to find, not only had they had their picnic at the park, but had gotten on so well with each other that he took her out for dinner.
After this, they were inseparable. You can't imagine how happy I was for my dear friend. Well, the days followed in a mad dash of courtship-dates, dinners, movies, etc. They found out that they felt the same way about all the important things that matter in life-morals, values, love, how to raise children, respect, honesty, integrity, loyalty and so much more. They were and are a perfect match.
By Valentine's Day end, our Sheryl was engaged and plans for a wedding were under way. Sheryl asked me to read the verse pertaining to Hope, Faith, Love.. but the Greatest of these is Love. I had to decline as my health was precarious and if I landed in the hospital, I didn't want her to worry about a replacement for me at the last minute. Things happen by the minute, I believe, at all weddings, but I wanted Sheryl and Greg's day to be as perfect as possible. And it was!!! I enjoyed watching my friend marry Greg, who absolutely adores her. He is such a sweetheart.
Well, the good news came that Sheryl and Greg were expecting. They discussed names, but never divulged their choices as they opted not to know whether they were having a boy or a girl.
Well, nine months later, that question was answered with the arrival of Joey and now, only 2 weeks old is Kayla, who is a little princess that has a set of lungs when she is hungry or otherwise. Mom and I brought them gifts today. Books, of course. Aunt Margie is a firm believer in children having books, books and more books to read and explore. Also, there was a picture frame for the 4th of July for the future, since Sheryl and family missed the family lake house as Sheryl was on complete bed rest, while caring for almost 2 year old Joey from her almost permanent position on the couch.
Well, Sheryl is up off that couch and doing great. Kayla is growing and gaining weight weekly. Sheryl's children are so well mannered. She spends a lot of time with her children. Rightfully so!!! They are sweethearts and she and Greg are doing a great job in raising respectful, not out of control children. I say a triple Woo Hoo to that as kids do what they want to do these days, with little parental guidance.
May you find a love like Sheryl and Greg's that has now created their family that they have always wanted. Your wish has been fulfilled, not only once, but twice.
Many happy trails to you as the days, weeks and months fly by and your little ones grow into responsible young adults that allow you to be grandparents. Cheers.
May your children be a blessing in your life. The most important reason for being-being a caring parent that raises respectful, hardworking individuals with the skills to succeed in life and give what they have received when their time comes to be parents.
I still maintain that the most important "job" that one can do in this life, is to raise one's children to be productive, honest, respectful individuals that can eventually be independent. Mom and Dad will have succeeded when this comes to fruition.
To Sheryl and Greg, you are fantastic parents, who get the real deal-your kids are your everything, but they are not spoiled nor do they take precedence over you two-instead they have impeccable manners and smiles that steal your heart immediately and they are an extension of your love for each other. Thanks for sharing your most precious gift with me. So, if you need a break, send them to me C.O.D. I'll gladly pay.
My dear friend, Sheryl met her now husband on the Internet through a dating service on-line. When she told me about her sister-in-laws signing her up and taking care of the details, I was a bit anxious. So, when Greg invited Sheryl on a picnic in the park, I started being a worry wart. My advice came fast and furious.
Sheryl, don't go out of the park with this guy, you don't know.
Make sure there are other people around.
Don't go off with him alone.
You can easily get the picture from my point of view.
I waited and waited for a phone call about their date, only to find, not only had they had their picnic at the park, but had gotten on so well with each other that he took her out for dinner.
After this, they were inseparable. You can't imagine how happy I was for my dear friend. Well, the days followed in a mad dash of courtship-dates, dinners, movies, etc. They found out that they felt the same way about all the important things that matter in life-morals, values, love, how to raise children, respect, honesty, integrity, loyalty and so much more. They were and are a perfect match.
By Valentine's Day end, our Sheryl was engaged and plans for a wedding were under way. Sheryl asked me to read the verse pertaining to Hope, Faith, Love.. but the Greatest of these is Love. I had to decline as my health was precarious and if I landed in the hospital, I didn't want her to worry about a replacement for me at the last minute. Things happen by the minute, I believe, at all weddings, but I wanted Sheryl and Greg's day to be as perfect as possible. And it was!!! I enjoyed watching my friend marry Greg, who absolutely adores her. He is such a sweetheart.
Well, the good news came that Sheryl and Greg were expecting. They discussed names, but never divulged their choices as they opted not to know whether they were having a boy or a girl.
Well, nine months later, that question was answered with the arrival of Joey and now, only 2 weeks old is Kayla, who is a little princess that has a set of lungs when she is hungry or otherwise. Mom and I brought them gifts today. Books, of course. Aunt Margie is a firm believer in children having books, books and more books to read and explore. Also, there was a picture frame for the 4th of July for the future, since Sheryl and family missed the family lake house as Sheryl was on complete bed rest, while caring for almost 2 year old Joey from her almost permanent position on the couch.
Well, Sheryl is up off that couch and doing great. Kayla is growing and gaining weight weekly. Sheryl's children are so well mannered. She spends a lot of time with her children. Rightfully so!!! They are sweethearts and she and Greg are doing a great job in raising respectful, not out of control children. I say a triple Woo Hoo to that as kids do what they want to do these days, with little parental guidance.
May you find a love like Sheryl and Greg's that has now created their family that they have always wanted. Your wish has been fulfilled, not only once, but twice.
Many happy trails to you as the days, weeks and months fly by and your little ones grow into responsible young adults that allow you to be grandparents. Cheers.
May your children be a blessing in your life. The most important reason for being-being a caring parent that raises respectful, hardworking individuals with the skills to succeed in life and give what they have received when their time comes to be parents.
I still maintain that the most important "job" that one can do in this life, is to raise one's children to be productive, honest, respectful individuals that can eventually be independent. Mom and Dad will have succeeded when this comes to fruition.
To Sheryl and Greg, you are fantastic parents, who get the real deal-your kids are your everything, but they are not spoiled nor do they take precedence over you two-instead they have impeccable manners and smiles that steal your heart immediately and they are an extension of your love for each other. Thanks for sharing your most precious gift with me. So, if you need a break, send them to me C.O.D. I'll gladly pay.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
What Comes with a New Home?
As you know, you don't own your home, it owns you. But for me, that is O.K. fine as I was lucky enough to find a completely renovated house that is in my estimation, beautiful. The seller has done a tremendous amount of work on the house and just walking through it, is proof enough that the house is well taken care of and filled with incredible furniture and furnishings. I am sure that the seller wishes she could keep her home as she must have poured a lot of time, effort and money into modernizing my new home.
I can't begin to tell you how exciting this prospect is for me. A home of my own, at last. Woo HOO!! Have no fear, I will not be lonely as I have so much to do.
Here's the growing list.
home owner's insurance
mortgage company that gives you the best deal
buying insurance to pay off the house loan, should I die.
setting aside enough money for taxes
setting aside enough money to take care of impromptu bills that you were not expecting
finding someone to come and clean the house from top to bottom
finding someone to do some lawn work-the bacteria from the dirt can affect my lungs
meeting with the cleaning lady to show her my new home and what is involved (bless her as I can't be around chemicals to clean as my lungs can't take it.)
the home inspectors are coming on Saturday morning to inspect walls, toilets, faucets, the roof, the foundation, wiring and the list goes on-I think all will be well with that-no crumbly foundations for me anymore
finding a gravel source and a portable "garage building" to protect the Mustang
starting the search for furniture for the new home-I love antiques.
finding porcelain tiles that spell out Chateau Soleil, a French name for my new home as the French always give a name to their homes
a mezuzah for good luck that will be placed on my front door
finding room for Bernie the Bear, who is my mascot and official greeter at Chateau Soleil
keeping my lawyer up to date on paperwork and more paperwork
I am starting to wane at the mere thought of all of these things that I must accomplish, so that I can move in, within sixty days or less.
A big WOO HOO to that!!!
I am sure that other things will crop up as we progress with this house buying process, but as I say, don't sweat the small stuff.
I must thank profusely Ellie P., who is the best real estate agent in the area. Her attention to detail is topnotch, but most of all her kindness, honesty and endurance in finding me a home that suits me perfectly is second to none. She is a shining star to me. She has even worked during a few weekends to make one of my dreams come true- a home that suits my needs and best of all, a home that my Mom likes just as much as me. I couldn't ask for a better person than Ellie. She is a sweetie pie.
May your house be your home, where you can rest, relax, entertain family and friends and be comfortable. If you should need help in finding a home instead of a house, call Ellie P. as she will do her best to put you where you need to be. She believes that there is a reason for everything. I know her wisdom is correct.
I can't begin to tell you how exciting this prospect is for me. A home of my own, at last. Woo HOO!! Have no fear, I will not be lonely as I have so much to do.
Here's the growing list.
home owner's insurance
mortgage company that gives you the best deal
buying insurance to pay off the house loan, should I die.
setting aside enough money for taxes
setting aside enough money to take care of impromptu bills that you were not expecting
finding someone to come and clean the house from top to bottom
finding someone to do some lawn work-the bacteria from the dirt can affect my lungs
meeting with the cleaning lady to show her my new home and what is involved (bless her as I can't be around chemicals to clean as my lungs can't take it.)
the home inspectors are coming on Saturday morning to inspect walls, toilets, faucets, the roof, the foundation, wiring and the list goes on-I think all will be well with that-no crumbly foundations for me anymore
finding a gravel source and a portable "garage building" to protect the Mustang
starting the search for furniture for the new home-I love antiques.
finding porcelain tiles that spell out Chateau Soleil, a French name for my new home as the French always give a name to their homes
a mezuzah for good luck that will be placed on my front door
finding room for Bernie the Bear, who is my mascot and official greeter at Chateau Soleil
keeping my lawyer up to date on paperwork and more paperwork
I am starting to wane at the mere thought of all of these things that I must accomplish, so that I can move in, within sixty days or less.
A big WOO HOO to that!!!
I am sure that other things will crop up as we progress with this house buying process, but as I say, don't sweat the small stuff.
I must thank profusely Ellie P., who is the best real estate agent in the area. Her attention to detail is topnotch, but most of all her kindness, honesty and endurance in finding me a home that suits me perfectly is second to none. She is a shining star to me. She has even worked during a few weekends to make one of my dreams come true- a home that suits my needs and best of all, a home that my Mom likes just as much as me. I couldn't ask for a better person than Ellie. She is a sweetie pie.
May your house be your home, where you can rest, relax, entertain family and friends and be comfortable. If you should need help in finding a home instead of a house, call Ellie P. as she will do her best to put you where you need to be. She believes that there is a reason for everything. I know her wisdom is correct.
A Beautiful Day for a Beautiful Wedding!
My blond haired, adorable niece just married handsome, sweetie Bruce this past Saturday and what a special day it was. I was so happy to see Jessica dressed in a gorgeous one of a kind white gown with a blue ribbon around the waist that trailed down the back of her gown with an embroidered design. She was most fetching in her slip on white flip flops that we did not see until pictures were taken outside.
Bruce, bless him, did so well during the ceremony as did Jess. What a sparkling couple. Samantha, Jess' niece also wore a white gown with blue ribbons on it. She had a mini tiara in her long blond hair and her basket of petals. As she started down the aisle, she became overwhelmed by the amount of people and stopped in her tracks. I whispered to her to continue as she was doing great and not to forget to drop her petals on the red carpet. She was set and off she went. She was absolutely adorable.
After the ceremony, while pictures were being taken outside, Samantha delivered petals to the young and old with a serious manner as she was doing the duty that she had been given. It was way too cute. Of course, I took pictures. Henry, the ring bearer became tuckered out due to the excitement and heat. He ended up sitting on Bruce's feet and leaning up against his legs. So much, for standing!! His poor little face was turning red.
Meanwhile, Sam was busy whirling and twirling about enjoying the festivities. She announced to Jess that they were princesses and indeed, they are and were.
The Cooperstown trolley brought the wedding party to the gray stoned church as well as to the reception. I believe this was a gift to Jess and Bruce as Bruce is an excellent welder and he does repairs for Cooperstown.
He graciously said he would help out with my new house if I should need assistance. I know that Jess and Bruce will be happy, since they both think the world of each other.
I needed to use their house to do my treatments and check their answering machine to see if Pitts. had called. At various locals around Hartwick, I didn't receive cell reception. Speaking of receptions, Brook's catered this wedding affair. The food was fantastic-their renowned chicken, roast beef with their special sauce, potato, pasta and toss salad. Rolls along with baked beans and cole slaw. All of it was delicious.
Wine was served to toast the newly married couple. I poured some tea into my wine glass. I guess that is what you call being a tee-totaler. The blue and yellow flowered cake was stunning and of course, delicious. It didn't have that over sugary taste at all.
The guys discovered a horse shoe pit and so the fun began. Dancing under the tent and horse shoe pitching outside the tent to country music. The D.J. said he had some Rednecks on his hands. Oh, well, the main thing was that everyone was having a great time. Many happy memories for Jess and Bruce.
Well, we returned to their house to do another treatment and we had forgotten to put our cards in their wishing well, so I told Mom to put our cards in their refrig. as a joke. Mom added a note of her own that said we have left you some hard cold cash. Can you imagine their surprise at finding cash in their refrig. No doubt, Bruce is thinking, boy, have I married into a crazy family or what?!!!
Sister Helen, no she is not a nun, but a nurse, left another note stating that we did not have time to do the laundry nor the dishes, but we did feed MJ and Haley dinner and gave them water. My sister and Mom took them outside to heed the call of nature. They are such good doggies-but big. Poor Bud would fit under their bellies.
I am sure Jess appreciated those notes.
Well, here is my note to Jessica and Bruce, may happiness, good health, joy, goodwill and unconditional love be at every fork, bend, dip in the road that you encounter. Don't hesitate to glance in the rear view mirror and remember fond memories that you have had together. Keep those side mirrors at the right angle to see all the wonderful things that surround you and watch where you are driving, even if the road may be bumpy. Remember the greatest gift you will ever have in this life is each other. Treat each other with love and respect and you will find that this will carry you through the muddy roads ahead as well as a new paved road.
May you all experience a day like Jess and Bruce's wedding day-good food, fine company, horse shoe games, music, family and friends and most of all, the brilliant smiles on both Jessica and Bruces' faces as they said, "I do."
Bruce, bless him, did so well during the ceremony as did Jess. What a sparkling couple. Samantha, Jess' niece also wore a white gown with blue ribbons on it. She had a mini tiara in her long blond hair and her basket of petals. As she started down the aisle, she became overwhelmed by the amount of people and stopped in her tracks. I whispered to her to continue as she was doing great and not to forget to drop her petals on the red carpet. She was set and off she went. She was absolutely adorable.
After the ceremony, while pictures were being taken outside, Samantha delivered petals to the young and old with a serious manner as she was doing the duty that she had been given. It was way too cute. Of course, I took pictures. Henry, the ring bearer became tuckered out due to the excitement and heat. He ended up sitting on Bruce's feet and leaning up against his legs. So much, for standing!! His poor little face was turning red.
Meanwhile, Sam was busy whirling and twirling about enjoying the festivities. She announced to Jess that they were princesses and indeed, they are and were.
The Cooperstown trolley brought the wedding party to the gray stoned church as well as to the reception. I believe this was a gift to Jess and Bruce as Bruce is an excellent welder and he does repairs for Cooperstown.
He graciously said he would help out with my new house if I should need assistance. I know that Jess and Bruce will be happy, since they both think the world of each other.
I needed to use their house to do my treatments and check their answering machine to see if Pitts. had called. At various locals around Hartwick, I didn't receive cell reception. Speaking of receptions, Brook's catered this wedding affair. The food was fantastic-their renowned chicken, roast beef with their special sauce, potato, pasta and toss salad. Rolls along with baked beans and cole slaw. All of it was delicious.
Wine was served to toast the newly married couple. I poured some tea into my wine glass. I guess that is what you call being a tee-totaler. The blue and yellow flowered cake was stunning and of course, delicious. It didn't have that over sugary taste at all.
The guys discovered a horse shoe pit and so the fun began. Dancing under the tent and horse shoe pitching outside the tent to country music. The D.J. said he had some Rednecks on his hands. Oh, well, the main thing was that everyone was having a great time. Many happy memories for Jess and Bruce.
Well, we returned to their house to do another treatment and we had forgotten to put our cards in their wishing well, so I told Mom to put our cards in their refrig. as a joke. Mom added a note of her own that said we have left you some hard cold cash. Can you imagine their surprise at finding cash in their refrig. No doubt, Bruce is thinking, boy, have I married into a crazy family or what?!!!
Sister Helen, no she is not a nun, but a nurse, left another note stating that we did not have time to do the laundry nor the dishes, but we did feed MJ and Haley dinner and gave them water. My sister and Mom took them outside to heed the call of nature. They are such good doggies-but big. Poor Bud would fit under their bellies.
I am sure Jess appreciated those notes.
Well, here is my note to Jessica and Bruce, may happiness, good health, joy, goodwill and unconditional love be at every fork, bend, dip in the road that you encounter. Don't hesitate to glance in the rear view mirror and remember fond memories that you have had together. Keep those side mirrors at the right angle to see all the wonderful things that surround you and watch where you are driving, even if the road may be bumpy. Remember the greatest gift you will ever have in this life is each other. Treat each other with love and respect and you will find that this will carry you through the muddy roads ahead as well as a new paved road.
May you all experience a day like Jess and Bruce's wedding day-good food, fine company, horse shoe games, music, family and friends and most of all, the brilliant smiles on both Jessica and Bruces' faces as they said, "I do."
Monday, August 25, 2008
Beth Shares a Warning to All of Us and our Loved Ones.
My dear friend, Beth, from college has experienced so many tragedies that I often wonder how she retains her sense of humor and goodwill. She never ceases to amaze me. After reading about Heather's trials with her ex husband, Beth shared a very personal story with me about her beloved brother, Mark. Mark adored our Beth and for good reason. She was the apple of her brother's eye and justly so.
After reading Beth's personal account concerning Mark, I asked her if I could post this very important story as to help others. As always, Beth was there in a heartbeat willing to help others, despite the loss of her beloved brother. She is so much like me, wanting to help others. Beth decided to amend her story, so that you would fully understand. You won't believe your eyes after reading this.
Hi Marge,
Yes, you can put this on your blog...but I did a touch up since people might not follow not knowing the background...if you want, go ahead and use it.
Ciao, Beth
Following Heather's story, I recently wrote Marge telling her a story that happened while my brother was in the hospital fighting for his life. She asked me if she could put it on her blog, but I thought the readers might find it easier to follow if I reworded it since the way I wrote it to Marge was taking into account that she knew my brother personally and knew the story behind the story. So here is a "revised edition" for those who care to read.
I told Marge that her blog has really been of help to many people and that she has become the "Marge Landers" for Wegener's and PH on-line. The situation with Heather's ex brings to light that part of our society that really focuses on egocentric behavior and the idea that only "I" exist. Who cares if you hurt those around you as long as you make your way to the top or get something financially out of it all.
Back in 1999, my brother (40 years old at the time) was diagnosed with Acute Mylogenous leukemia. He had been down in Costa Rica for a few months after years of working himself to death, met a Costa Rican girl, who he later married, and then fell ill. At first they thought it was some sort of tropical illness, but when he headed back home, they found that it was leukemia. This kind of rang warning bells in our family as my father died of chronic lymphocytic leukemia nearly 30 years earlier. Our family gathered from far and wide to try and support my brother through all of this. Friends also gathered to be of support...but during these moments, you can see both the best and worse of people, and I told Marge about one case in point.
While my brother was fighting for his life, he was under the care of some really special people. Unfortunately, among those very good, capable and giving people there was a rotten apple. A girl who was working as a nurse's aide (at least that is what I believe her title was) started becoming very friendly with my brother. Mind you, they had given my brother only a 20% chance of winning this war, so it didn't look good for him. She would go into his room and cry about not having things for her kids, etc. (To me she was praying on the attentions of a dying man, hoping to get something out of his death)
After my brother was released, she kept calling my mother's house asking for my brother, until she finally tired him out and he ended up lending her the $3,000 she said she needed for her kids Christmas presents. OK, if that were really the case, my brother would have been the first to "give" it to her, not lend it, because that is just the kind of person he was...but he knew better. A few months later, his situation took the final turn towards terminal....6-8 weeks. He asked her to sign a paper, in good faith, stating that she would give the money back to my mother, in installments, in the event he should pass away. She disappeared off the radar and refused to talk to him. It was eating him alive. He had already been "screwed" out of money, and a good sum at that, by somebody he truly believed to be a good friend. That person never once phoned him after he was diagnosed! He would have told his "good" friend to forget about paying back, but rather than chance it..."the good friend" stuck her head in the sand and pretended never to know my brother. That was already a kick in the stomach...then this nurse's aide started playing mind games with him. I saw him suffer so much for the way he was being taken advantage of...and it didn't help his state of mind one bit.
He decided he wanted to go back to Costa Rica with his wife one more time before he passed away, so he left, and I was home in the States at my mother's house for another few days. I asked our friend Jaci if she could help draw up something for that girl to sign, guaranteeing repayment (more for Mark's state of mind and proof that she was harassing terminally ill patients than for repayment. I knew full well we'd never get that money back, but I felt it was unfair that somebody like that should be in a position working with terminally ill people. What would stop her from doing it to another person. She hurt my brother enough...it had to stop there.) Once Jaci got me that paper, I went to a beautiful person, a nurse who was so good to us and to my brother, and explained everything. I wanted her to witness this girl signing the paper, which she did. Once my brother came back from Costa Rica and was back in the hospital for "pain control" (it was too late to do anything else...his time was up), she pulled him aside and asked him to tell the head nurse since she (our friend the nurse) couldn't do anything personally, and she impressed on him how this person had taken advantage of him and it shouldn't happen again with another terminally ill patient. Long story short...the girl was fired that day and awhile later was in jail for possession of drugs...something I think my brother knew about and thus his hesitation in giving her money in the first place. She also lost custody of her kids. Sad story...but throughout all this, there were so many beautiful people supporting us and coming out in small ways.
Moral of the story: there are some really rotten apples out in this world, and they tend to drain our energy resources. I've found that the best medicine is to surround yourself with the good apples...there are lot of them out there, but often we just don't see it until we are in dire straits ourselves.
My Beth is just as poignant as can be. Her love for her brother superseded everything. She sought justice and in the end, she succeeded on behalf of her brother, Mark and others, who were and are terminally ill. Beth, as always, you do your brother proud! Beth is so correct in saying how special Mark was. He would and he did give his shirt right off his back to those in need. A truly remarkable individual with the biggest heart that you can imagine.
May you never experience this type of "care" in your life, especially when you are terminally ill.
Beth, your heart has always been in the right place and I admire you greatly for this. You are your brother's keeper and a devoted one at that. He couldn't have asked for, nor wished for a better sister than you. Ditto that on our friendship. Love you much and your wisdom shines in my heart.
After reading Beth's personal account concerning Mark, I asked her if I could post this very important story as to help others. As always, Beth was there in a heartbeat willing to help others, despite the loss of her beloved brother. She is so much like me, wanting to help others. Beth decided to amend her story, so that you would fully understand. You won't believe your eyes after reading this.
Hi Marge,
Yes, you can put this on your blog...but I did a touch up since people might not follow not knowing the background...if you want, go ahead and use it.
Ciao, Beth
Following Heather's story, I recently wrote Marge telling her a story that happened while my brother was in the hospital fighting for his life. She asked me if she could put it on her blog, but I thought the readers might find it easier to follow if I reworded it since the way I wrote it to Marge was taking into account that she knew my brother personally and knew the story behind the story. So here is a "revised edition" for those who care to read.
I told Marge that her blog has really been of help to many people and that she has become the "Marge Landers" for Wegener's and PH on-line. The situation with Heather's ex brings to light that part of our society that really focuses on egocentric behavior and the idea that only "I" exist. Who cares if you hurt those around you as long as you make your way to the top or get something financially out of it all.
Back in 1999, my brother (40 years old at the time) was diagnosed with Acute Mylogenous leukemia. He had been down in Costa Rica for a few months after years of working himself to death, met a Costa Rican girl, who he later married, and then fell ill. At first they thought it was some sort of tropical illness, but when he headed back home, they found that it was leukemia. This kind of rang warning bells in our family as my father died of chronic lymphocytic leukemia nearly 30 years earlier. Our family gathered from far and wide to try and support my brother through all of this. Friends also gathered to be of support...but during these moments, you can see both the best and worse of people, and I told Marge about one case in point.
While my brother was fighting for his life, he was under the care of some really special people. Unfortunately, among those very good, capable and giving people there was a rotten apple. A girl who was working as a nurse's aide (at least that is what I believe her title was) started becoming very friendly with my brother. Mind you, they had given my brother only a 20% chance of winning this war, so it didn't look good for him. She would go into his room and cry about not having things for her kids, etc. (To me she was praying on the attentions of a dying man, hoping to get something out of his death)
After my brother was released, she kept calling my mother's house asking for my brother, until she finally tired him out and he ended up lending her the $3,000 she said she needed for her kids Christmas presents. OK, if that were really the case, my brother would have been the first to "give" it to her, not lend it, because that is just the kind of person he was...but he knew better. A few months later, his situation took the final turn towards terminal....6-8 weeks. He asked her to sign a paper, in good faith, stating that she would give the money back to my mother, in installments, in the event he should pass away. She disappeared off the radar and refused to talk to him. It was eating him alive. He had already been "screwed" out of money, and a good sum at that, by somebody he truly believed to be a good friend. That person never once phoned him after he was diagnosed! He would have told his "good" friend to forget about paying back, but rather than chance it..."the good friend" stuck her head in the sand and pretended never to know my brother. That was already a kick in the stomach...then this nurse's aide started playing mind games with him. I saw him suffer so much for the way he was being taken advantage of...and it didn't help his state of mind one bit.
He decided he wanted to go back to Costa Rica with his wife one more time before he passed away, so he left, and I was home in the States at my mother's house for another few days. I asked our friend Jaci if she could help draw up something for that girl to sign, guaranteeing repayment (more for Mark's state of mind and proof that she was harassing terminally ill patients than for repayment. I knew full well we'd never get that money back, but I felt it was unfair that somebody like that should be in a position working with terminally ill people. What would stop her from doing it to another person. She hurt my brother enough...it had to stop there.) Once Jaci got me that paper, I went to a beautiful person, a nurse who was so good to us and to my brother, and explained everything. I wanted her to witness this girl signing the paper, which she did. Once my brother came back from Costa Rica and was back in the hospital for "pain control" (it was too late to do anything else...his time was up), she pulled him aside and asked him to tell the head nurse since she (our friend the nurse) couldn't do anything personally, and she impressed on him how this person had taken advantage of him and it shouldn't happen again with another terminally ill patient. Long story short...the girl was fired that day and awhile later was in jail for possession of drugs...something I think my brother knew about and thus his hesitation in giving her money in the first place. She also lost custody of her kids. Sad story...but throughout all this, there were so many beautiful people supporting us and coming out in small ways.
Moral of the story: there are some really rotten apples out in this world, and they tend to drain our energy resources. I've found that the best medicine is to surround yourself with the good apples...there are lot of them out there, but often we just don't see it until we are in dire straits ourselves.
My Beth is just as poignant as can be. Her love for her brother superseded everything. She sought justice and in the end, she succeeded on behalf of her brother, Mark and others, who were and are terminally ill. Beth, as always, you do your brother proud! Beth is so correct in saying how special Mark was. He would and he did give his shirt right off his back to those in need. A truly remarkable individual with the biggest heart that you can imagine.
May you never experience this type of "care" in your life, especially when you are terminally ill.
Beth, your heart has always been in the right place and I admire you greatly for this. You are your brother's keeper and a devoted one at that. He couldn't have asked for, nor wished for a better sister than you. Ditto that on our friendship. Love you much and your wisdom shines in my heart.
We've Lost Another Tiffany Jewel.
My step dad and my mom's brother in law passed away after struggling with multiple maladies. He was like me, on oxygen 24/7, and Aunt Lily, my step dad's adorable sister took wonderful care of Uncle Bob. He was an extraordinary fixer of plumbing and electrical woes. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his few words were filled with wisdom.
Aunt Lily is the funniest, tell it like it is person that I know. I think that she is awesome. Here is a true happening in their life together. While on vacation in sunny, warm Florida, they were in a serious accident that landed them in the hospital for a time. When the accident occurred, several ambulances came to take them to the hospital. Unbeknownst to each other, they were taken to different area hospitals and they could not find each other for several days, each thinking the worst had happened to the love of their lives. Imagine being in a strange hospital, unable to find your loved one because a tragic accident has happened and you are dependant upon others to help you find your mate. Truly, I can't imagine.
If you know Aunt Lily and Uncle Bob like me, you know that nothing could or would keep them apart. They did find each other and I imagine it was quite the reunion-the best kind-to be alive and know that your best friend is still with you.
As the story unfolded, the insurance agent demanded a picture of the totaled vehicle as proof of the accident. As the vehicle looked like a crushed tin can, it was hauled away. Thus, there was no picture of this accordion vehicle that nearly took their lives. This particular insurance agent insisted on having i.d. of this long gone vehicle. Finally, Aunt Lily, at the end of her rope, said,"Did you want me to carry it on my back or push it from Florida to Pa.?" Well, who could say this any better than Aunt Lily!!! You should have heard me laughing over that one.
Today as Mom and I went to Pa. for the funeral of Uncle Bob, we marveled at the fact that we were blessed to be apart of Tiff's family. They have always welcomed us with open arms, hugs, kisses, goodwill and a sense a humour that has carried us through the deaths of so many Tiffany Jewels. As the minister pointed out today, Uncle Bob was a casual, every day person, who willingly helped others. He was just like the Tiffany's. Tiff's family is our family and we adore them. They all have a very special place in our hearts as they are the link to our beloved Tiff.
After the funeral, Mom and I went to Gibson to visit Tiff. We planted miniature roses for Tiff as he was a lover of roses. For Father's Day, I always bought him a rose bush. I would tell him that he was the rose between all of us thorns. Poor fellow! He was out numbered by all of us girls, but I suspect that he loved every minute of it. I had bought him so many rose bushes that mom said they were running out of room.
So, Helen and I, as a joke decided to fill the lawn with those pink flamingos that Tiff despised as lawn ornaments. Our plans included putting a flock of those brilliant pink birds on the front lawn, so that when Tiff awoke, he would be in his glory with a flamingo flock of his own. Only, despite going to several stores, those flamingos were sold out as they were so popular that year. Or did Tiff out maneuver us as he got wind of our idea to flock him with those two legged birds? Instead of the birds, we bought him an outrageous, bright, colorful Hawaiian shirt that we knew he would dislike upon sight as a joke. But to our surprise, he sported it to the Tiffany family reunion at Aunt Lily's and Uncle Bob's.
As I stood gazing at his miniature roses that Mom had just planted,I told him that he now had Uncle Bob to visit with and that one day, we would all be together and that Mom and I had planted his favorite flowers-vibrant colored roses-just like him.
My eyes are welling with tears as I write this. Despite Mr. Tiff not being here with us, he is always here with us in spirit and fond memories. From the time that I got sick, I wasn't able to go to the cemetery and so for me, this was a special day in so many ways-the loss of Uncle Bob and his struggle to live, paying tribute to our beloved Tiff, seeing the Tiffany's once again to be embraced in this wonderful, giving family and to know that despite losing a loved one, the sun will shine once again lighting our way to fond memories.
May Uncle Bob and Tiff enjoy their conversations in Heaven as we enjoyed reminiscing about them today. They are the best. Much love to them from us.
I thought of this song today as Mom and I were riding along and chit chatting about life. This song came to mind when Aunt Lily and Uncle Bob were separated by that unbelievable accident. Kathy Mattea sings this song with such grace and feeling.
Aunt Lily is the funniest, tell it like it is person that I know. I think that she is awesome. Here is a true happening in their life together. While on vacation in sunny, warm Florida, they were in a serious accident that landed them in the hospital for a time. When the accident occurred, several ambulances came to take them to the hospital. Unbeknownst to each other, they were taken to different area hospitals and they could not find each other for several days, each thinking the worst had happened to the love of their lives. Imagine being in a strange hospital, unable to find your loved one because a tragic accident has happened and you are dependant upon others to help you find your mate. Truly, I can't imagine.
If you know Aunt Lily and Uncle Bob like me, you know that nothing could or would keep them apart. They did find each other and I imagine it was quite the reunion-the best kind-to be alive and know that your best friend is still with you.
As the story unfolded, the insurance agent demanded a picture of the totaled vehicle as proof of the accident. As the vehicle looked like a crushed tin can, it was hauled away. Thus, there was no picture of this accordion vehicle that nearly took their lives. This particular insurance agent insisted on having i.d. of this long gone vehicle. Finally, Aunt Lily, at the end of her rope, said,"Did you want me to carry it on my back or push it from Florida to Pa.?" Well, who could say this any better than Aunt Lily!!! You should have heard me laughing over that one.
Today as Mom and I went to Pa. for the funeral of Uncle Bob, we marveled at the fact that we were blessed to be apart of Tiff's family. They have always welcomed us with open arms, hugs, kisses, goodwill and a sense a humour that has carried us through the deaths of so many Tiffany Jewels. As the minister pointed out today, Uncle Bob was a casual, every day person, who willingly helped others. He was just like the Tiffany's. Tiff's family is our family and we adore them. They all have a very special place in our hearts as they are the link to our beloved Tiff.
After the funeral, Mom and I went to Gibson to visit Tiff. We planted miniature roses for Tiff as he was a lover of roses. For Father's Day, I always bought him a rose bush. I would tell him that he was the rose between all of us thorns. Poor fellow! He was out numbered by all of us girls, but I suspect that he loved every minute of it. I had bought him so many rose bushes that mom said they were running out of room.
So, Helen and I, as a joke decided to fill the lawn with those pink flamingos that Tiff despised as lawn ornaments. Our plans included putting a flock of those brilliant pink birds on the front lawn, so that when Tiff awoke, he would be in his glory with a flamingo flock of his own. Only, despite going to several stores, those flamingos were sold out as they were so popular that year. Or did Tiff out maneuver us as he got wind of our idea to flock him with those two legged birds? Instead of the birds, we bought him an outrageous, bright, colorful Hawaiian shirt that we knew he would dislike upon sight as a joke. But to our surprise, he sported it to the Tiffany family reunion at Aunt Lily's and Uncle Bob's.
As I stood gazing at his miniature roses that Mom had just planted,I told him that he now had Uncle Bob to visit with and that one day, we would all be together and that Mom and I had planted his favorite flowers-vibrant colored roses-just like him.
My eyes are welling with tears as I write this. Despite Mr. Tiff not being here with us, he is always here with us in spirit and fond memories. From the time that I got sick, I wasn't able to go to the cemetery and so for me, this was a special day in so many ways-the loss of Uncle Bob and his struggle to live, paying tribute to our beloved Tiff, seeing the Tiffany's once again to be embraced in this wonderful, giving family and to know that despite losing a loved one, the sun will shine once again lighting our way to fond memories.
May Uncle Bob and Tiff enjoy their conversations in Heaven as we enjoyed reminiscing about them today. They are the best. Much love to them from us.
I thought of this song today as Mom and I were riding along and chit chatting about life. This song came to mind when Aunt Lily and Uncle Bob were separated by that unbelievable accident. Kathy Mattea sings this song with such grace and feeling.
A House Hunting We Will Go!!
House for sale-Ranch with 3 nice sized bedrooms, a full bathroom with a built in Jacuzzi in the tub, plenty of closet space, new carpet in the bedrooms covering hard wood floors, a spacious living room with new hardwood floors and a propane fireplace to keep you warm during those cold winter nights, a kitchen that even Rachael Ray would be gnashing her teeth over-brand new cupboards, appliances, 5 burner stove that my Aunt Bea wants- I told her that she can come and cook any time, washer and dryer at the end of the kitchen, where a door opens and a clothes line awaits those white and colored clothes of mine. There is also a deck that runs the back of the house, where you can access this by the sliding glass doors from the dining room.
There is a one car attached garage and a walkway that takes you to the back of the house. It is a rather large lot for being in town and best of all, it is near my mom's abode. The basement contains a huge family room that is tiled, a half bathroom and of course, the newer furnace and hot water heater.
Can you picture this little gem that is situated up town, where you can't see the neighbors and there is place for the 'Stang 66. Woo Hoo! I dragged one of my friends over there to ask his opinion about where to put the Mustang. He came up with a great idea. No, not his garage, though he would probably go for that.
Well, may I say that I am the owner of this fabu house and I am so THRILLED that you can't imagine. A home of my own after 10 years of living with my soon to be ex's first wife and her personal effects from family pics. on the wall to you name it. I didn't mind them having their mom's pictures in the house. I only wanted a few things of my own. But, that was not to be as my personal items disappeared, were destroyed or hidden away. I guess, to the step kids it was a "game", but to me it was tantamount to being mean, malicious and totally inappropriate. So, now I can have all my "stuff" around me without worrying about their demise. Woo Hoo!!!
Mind you, I am not about material items, but when gifts from my family were mysteriously destroyed, I was not a happy camper. It was the sentimental value of those long gone gifts that bothered me. They were irreplaceable, just as the kids' mothers' personal belongings were irreplaceable. They were all intact covering all the surfaces in their house. To be honest, I don't think they really cared one wit about their mom's possessions. It was evident when we moved to our new home and they refused to help pack up their mother's belongings leaving my mom and I to do that.
I sorted through their family photos and my mom supplied photo albums that we put together for them, so that they would have pictures of their mom and them. As I look back, I feel sorry for their mother. By all accounts, she was a wonderful woman and somehow, her children, unfortunately do not emulate her. It is truly a sad story as she lost her life to cancer way too young. Bless her. Recently, friends of hers have stopped me while I have been running errands to say what a lovely person she was and how they think that I am a lovely person, too. I didn't know her personally, but can feel sympathy and empathy for this woman, who was so sick. We've traveled similar paths.
As life goes on, I am leaving the past in the past. There is no better place than the past in the past. Life marches forward as I am keeping up. I am looking forward to decorating my home with all my family treasures, French paraphernalia, gifts from family and friends over the years and pictures of my loved ones that will adorn my walls-a constant reminder of the important people in my life.
Even when Al and I moved to our new house, his kids insisted on having their mother's things in our home, despite the fact that I had lived in their house until all the kids had graduated from high school(my agreement with them as I could understand wanting to live in the home that they had always known) and had moved on to college. I figured I was due to have my things around me. What a struggle!!!
Needless to say, I can't wait for the day that my house becomes my home. Double Woo Hoo!!! Just a word of wisdom here. If you are walking in my shoes or are contemplating marrying with step kids, move to a new home, where the rules aren't already established or non rules in my case. Being in their home did not allow me the ability to do what I felt was important as they were already in a negative pattern previously established. Our counselor told us that it is best to start from scratch-buy a new house, where you can establish the rules right from the start. I won't even charge you $80 an hour for this advice. I am freely giving it to you, so that you may have a better life than I did for the past 10 years. I am all about saving others from going through what I went through. You can learn from my mistakes and the toll it has taken on me.
I plan on having a party. I don't know what I will call that party, but I am so looking forward to celebrating as life is good once again.
My cousin, bless his heart, thinks perhaps that I am putting the cart before the horse. Well, this horse is going at full gallop as life doesn't promise us tomorrows, only todays. Well, today is my day and I am making the most of it.
I told my mom if I should not make it through the surgery or afterwards, she could move into my home. Mom currently lives in a lovely house that she loves, but when you come in the front door, you either go up or down. I worry about her and her ability in the future to manage those stairs. So, I told Mom that I would not buy a house unless she definitely approved as she would have the choice of living in my home, selling it or renting it if I should die. When she is done with my house, the house will be sold and the money will go into the Mott Charitable Trust to fund those who need help. Mom likes the house as much as I do. I am just as happy, if not happier that she would feel comfortable at Secor Street.
I can't say it enough, that I would have nothing in this life, if it wasn't for my mom. So, in my small way, if I can make her life easier, then I have given her a mere fraction of what she has given me from the day I was born. She has held my hand and my heart for 45 years now and she continues to be my guiding light. Her love for me has kept me going when my tank has been running low. She is the essence of the word blessing. My mom is my home away from home.
May you be blessed with a house that you can call your home and a mom just like mine. You may adopt her as she is always helping others, especially me.
A quote that is in my mom's home.
A house is made of sticks and stones,
but a home is made of love alone.
May your home be made of love alone like my new home and mom's.
There is a one car attached garage and a walkway that takes you to the back of the house. It is a rather large lot for being in town and best of all, it is near my mom's abode. The basement contains a huge family room that is tiled, a half bathroom and of course, the newer furnace and hot water heater.
Can you picture this little gem that is situated up town, where you can't see the neighbors and there is place for the 'Stang 66. Woo Hoo! I dragged one of my friends over there to ask his opinion about where to put the Mustang. He came up with a great idea. No, not his garage, though he would probably go for that.
Well, may I say that I am the owner of this fabu house and I am so THRILLED that you can't imagine. A home of my own after 10 years of living with my soon to be ex's first wife and her personal effects from family pics. on the wall to you name it. I didn't mind them having their mom's pictures in the house. I only wanted a few things of my own. But, that was not to be as my personal items disappeared, were destroyed or hidden away. I guess, to the step kids it was a "game", but to me it was tantamount to being mean, malicious and totally inappropriate. So, now I can have all my "stuff" around me without worrying about their demise. Woo Hoo!!!
Mind you, I am not about material items, but when gifts from my family were mysteriously destroyed, I was not a happy camper. It was the sentimental value of those long gone gifts that bothered me. They were irreplaceable, just as the kids' mothers' personal belongings were irreplaceable. They were all intact covering all the surfaces in their house. To be honest, I don't think they really cared one wit about their mom's possessions. It was evident when we moved to our new home and they refused to help pack up their mother's belongings leaving my mom and I to do that.
I sorted through their family photos and my mom supplied photo albums that we put together for them, so that they would have pictures of their mom and them. As I look back, I feel sorry for their mother. By all accounts, she was a wonderful woman and somehow, her children, unfortunately do not emulate her. It is truly a sad story as she lost her life to cancer way too young. Bless her. Recently, friends of hers have stopped me while I have been running errands to say what a lovely person she was and how they think that I am a lovely person, too. I didn't know her personally, but can feel sympathy and empathy for this woman, who was so sick. We've traveled similar paths.
As life goes on, I am leaving the past in the past. There is no better place than the past in the past. Life marches forward as I am keeping up. I am looking forward to decorating my home with all my family treasures, French paraphernalia, gifts from family and friends over the years and pictures of my loved ones that will adorn my walls-a constant reminder of the important people in my life.
Even when Al and I moved to our new house, his kids insisted on having their mother's things in our home, despite the fact that I had lived in their house until all the kids had graduated from high school(my agreement with them as I could understand wanting to live in the home that they had always known) and had moved on to college. I figured I was due to have my things around me. What a struggle!!!
Needless to say, I can't wait for the day that my house becomes my home. Double Woo Hoo!!! Just a word of wisdom here. If you are walking in my shoes or are contemplating marrying with step kids, move to a new home, where the rules aren't already established or non rules in my case. Being in their home did not allow me the ability to do what I felt was important as they were already in a negative pattern previously established. Our counselor told us that it is best to start from scratch-buy a new house, where you can establish the rules right from the start. I won't even charge you $80 an hour for this advice. I am freely giving it to you, so that you may have a better life than I did for the past 10 years. I am all about saving others from going through what I went through. You can learn from my mistakes and the toll it has taken on me.
I plan on having a party. I don't know what I will call that party, but I am so looking forward to celebrating as life is good once again.
My cousin, bless his heart, thinks perhaps that I am putting the cart before the horse. Well, this horse is going at full gallop as life doesn't promise us tomorrows, only todays. Well, today is my day and I am making the most of it.
I told my mom if I should not make it through the surgery or afterwards, she could move into my home. Mom currently lives in a lovely house that she loves, but when you come in the front door, you either go up or down. I worry about her and her ability in the future to manage those stairs. So, I told Mom that I would not buy a house unless she definitely approved as she would have the choice of living in my home, selling it or renting it if I should die. When she is done with my house, the house will be sold and the money will go into the Mott Charitable Trust to fund those who need help. Mom likes the house as much as I do. I am just as happy, if not happier that she would feel comfortable at Secor Street.
I can't say it enough, that I would have nothing in this life, if it wasn't for my mom. So, in my small way, if I can make her life easier, then I have given her a mere fraction of what she has given me from the day I was born. She has held my hand and my heart for 45 years now and she continues to be my guiding light. Her love for me has kept me going when my tank has been running low. She is the essence of the word blessing. My mom is my home away from home.
May you be blessed with a house that you can call your home and a mom just like mine. You may adopt her as she is always helping others, especially me.
A quote that is in my mom's home.
A house is made of sticks and stones,
but a home is made of love alone.
May your home be made of love alone like my new home and mom's.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The Insight of Children Shines!
What illness can not do to a family filled with love and concern. Is this heart touching or what? Read on.
I've been reading along for awhile now and I want you all to know
that I'm thankful for your posts and advice. I just wanted to share
with Heather and with everyone with small children what WGs has
REALLY taught me about the unconditional love a child can give.
My children are 2 1/2 and 6 months. The docs actually found my lung
nodules while I was pregnant with my baby girl. I was on IV
antibiotics at home for the 1st month of her life (I was mis-
diagnosed and mis-treated at that point) and was in the hospital for
most of the first 4 months of her life. I was even in a coma for 10
days when she was only 3 months old. I say all this, because her and
I still have a mother-daughter bond that cannot be destroyed. I'm
also cherishing every moment I have with her now, because I've
learned how precious life is.
My 2 1/2 year old had to go throughMANY changes including being raised by "the grandmas" for a couple months, but he still loves me and trusts me. I was so afraid he would think I left him, but I know now that he will ALWAYS love me
and welcome me with open arms. I also try to be wonder woman, but on
those bad days I have to remember that Super-Mom can also take a day
to lay in bed and read Green Eggs and Ham over and over again. Super-
Mom can snuggle a baby and take a nap at the same time. I also know
that I can just sit and watch (the running and jumping and playing)
and it's the fact that I'm there that counts even if I can't run and
jump with him. Children are AMAZING and they understand so much more
than we give them credit for.
Even my typical crazy-headed two year old knows what "mamas boo-boos" are and he knows that he can't be rough with me. He knows sometimes I have to go to the doctor and he knows what to expect (tubes, cuffs, doctors touching mommy, etc), but
he's cool with all that. He likes to play doctor at home and he has
made it his business to "take care" of his little sister. Both of my
children know I love them and both of them love me
unconditionally...wegeners and all. I'm SO blessed.
Life is very challenging when you are trying to raise young kids and deal with
good ole wg, but it's do-able. I'm with the crowd that believes in
asking for help and accepting any help offered. Life is good though,
especially with little miracles!
Sara
dx April 2008
Oh, the miracle that children are. How did they get to be so smart?
May your family surround you with love and support constantly, especially during the difficult times. Being supportive of the one you love comes back to you tenfold.
I've been reading along for awhile now and I want you all to know
that I'm thankful for your posts and advice. I just wanted to share
with Heather and with everyone with small children what WGs has
REALLY taught me about the unconditional love a child can give.
My children are 2 1/2 and 6 months. The docs actually found my lung
nodules while I was pregnant with my baby girl. I was on IV
antibiotics at home for the 1st month of her life (I was mis-
diagnosed and mis-treated at that point) and was in the hospital for
most of the first 4 months of her life. I was even in a coma for 10
days when she was only 3 months old. I say all this, because her and
I still have a mother-daughter bond that cannot be destroyed. I'm
also cherishing every moment I have with her now, because I've
learned how precious life is.
My 2 1/2 year old had to go throughMANY changes including being raised by "the grandmas" for a couple months, but he still loves me and trusts me. I was so afraid he would think I left him, but I know now that he will ALWAYS love me
and welcome me with open arms. I also try to be wonder woman, but on
those bad days I have to remember that Super-Mom can also take a day
to lay in bed and read Green Eggs and Ham over and over again. Super-
Mom can snuggle a baby and take a nap at the same time. I also know
that I can just sit and watch (the running and jumping and playing)
and it's the fact that I'm there that counts even if I can't run and
jump with him. Children are AMAZING and they understand so much more
than we give them credit for.
Even my typical crazy-headed two year old knows what "mamas boo-boos" are and he knows that he can't be rough with me. He knows sometimes I have to go to the doctor and he knows what to expect (tubes, cuffs, doctors touching mommy, etc), but
he's cool with all that. He likes to play doctor at home and he has
made it his business to "take care" of his little sister. Both of my
children know I love them and both of them love me
unconditionally...wegeners and all. I'm SO blessed.
Life is very challenging when you are trying to raise young kids and deal with
good ole wg, but it's do-able. I'm with the crowd that believes in
asking for help and accepting any help offered. Life is good though,
especially with little miracles!
Sara
dx April 2008
Oh, the miracle that children are. How did they get to be so smart?
May your family surround you with love and support constantly, especially during the difficult times. Being supportive of the one you love comes back to you tenfold.
Prevailing Winds for Heather and Those Canadian Geese!
Heather trying to catch up on sleep wakes to find a new day is dawning and yes, she can do it. Here goes Heather.
Goodmorning my dear friends!
It's almost 2 pm and I'm out of bed. That's a good start.
My kids are at_______ house, so I've got the weekend to pamper
my self. Any ever try massage or acupunture? Maybe go to the pool and
get some sun reading some trashy novel - or better yet - go get some of
the books you all have been recommending.
Joan - what an amazing story. Your e-mails are such a support for me.
The one thing I'm going to do that could make me a better person? I'm
gonna stop feeling sorry for myself.
If anyone ever calls me Heather Wegners I would die laughing!!!
I think I go birding. I used to be an avid birder: traveling to score
new species and then making a list (do I sould like a type A or what).
Once went on a pelagic trip to see thousands of nesting puffins.
I'd be happy with a few Canadian Geese right about now.
hugs to everyone. you have become a part of my daily life! I feel
better everytime i check in with you all.
Heather
__._,_.___
Heather,
I join the rest of this group in thinking of you and sending you Light every day.
It has taken some darn awful "fertilizer" hehe...but for myself, I feel as though I am finally truly blooming.
I was on such a rat race path, would consistently honor the needs of others and deny my own. And in a weird way this awful disease has opened me up, taught me so much about what is really important, softened me while also strengthening me. Taught me how to feel real pain and act on it, instead of stuffing and denying it as I did for 50 years, and made the periods of less and no pain really beautiful.
What you are doing is courageous and right. You will prevail.
You mentioned you are a birder. Me too. We have lived under a migration path for 20 years now. Each year the Canada Geese start to move south within a day or two of the first freeze, I marvel at how they know, but they do rarely erring. And I jump for joy like a child and run outside every late winter when I hear the first honkings as they fly north again, because only very rarely will it ever snow past that point.
Last fall one day I was outside pretending to rake leaves, and heard the loudest honking of more voices than I had ever seen in my life. I heard it a good few minutes before anyone came into view, and I gotta tell you, the anticipation was marvelous as I scanned the skies!
And then, I saw the multitude of smaller nuclear families that breed on every waterhole around here, and the larger community groups they'd formed by mid summer, come together overhead from literally every direction and form this huge, incredible, shifting, enormous "v" on an early evening blue gray sky. Each one blending into the whole, drawing support from the wings of others, perhaps knowing in time, it would take its turn to lead and allow others to lean on itself. It filled the sky and as you can tell, it took my breath away.
We are like the geese. You have found the "V", LOL...actually the double W...
You are gearing up for the winter, and you will make it through.
You are finding those who can help you watch your back. It is only right to pay attention to the hairs on your neck when the rise, and you are doing that.
You will prevail.
And when the geese return this spring, it will be a new year for you and you too will bloom, and there will be those who will lean on you.
Perhaps it is coming along just as it should, and you are just where you need to be for this next phase of life. And we are here with you.
Sunday best to you and us all,
susan
May you find yourself in a flock of geese that carry you on the wind with them, when you can no longer flap your wings for yourself. I know this first hand as my mom is my wings for now.
Goodmorning my dear friends!
It's almost 2 pm and I'm out of bed. That's a good start.
My kids are at_______ house, so I've got the weekend to pamper
my self. Any ever try massage or acupunture? Maybe go to the pool and
get some sun reading some trashy novel - or better yet - go get some of
the books you all have been recommending.
Joan - what an amazing story. Your e-mails are such a support for me.
The one thing I'm going to do that could make me a better person? I'm
gonna stop feeling sorry for myself.
If anyone ever calls me Heather Wegners I would die laughing!!!
I think I go birding. I used to be an avid birder: traveling to score
new species and then making a list (do I sould like a type A or what).
Once went on a pelagic trip to see thousands of nesting puffins.
I'd be happy with a few Canadian Geese right about now.
hugs to everyone. you have become a part of my daily life! I feel
better everytime i check in with you all.
Heather
__._,_.___
Heather,
I join the rest of this group in thinking of you and sending you Light every day.
It has taken some darn awful "fertilizer" hehe...but for myself, I feel as though I am finally truly blooming.
I was on such a rat race path, would consistently honor the needs of others and deny my own. And in a weird way this awful disease has opened me up, taught me so much about what is really important, softened me while also strengthening me. Taught me how to feel real pain and act on it, instead of stuffing and denying it as I did for 50 years, and made the periods of less and no pain really beautiful.
What you are doing is courageous and right. You will prevail.
You mentioned you are a birder. Me too. We have lived under a migration path for 20 years now. Each year the Canada Geese start to move south within a day or two of the first freeze, I marvel at how they know, but they do rarely erring. And I jump for joy like a child and run outside every late winter when I hear the first honkings as they fly north again, because only very rarely will it ever snow past that point.
Last fall one day I was outside pretending to rake leaves, and heard the loudest honking of more voices than I had ever seen in my life. I heard it a good few minutes before anyone came into view, and I gotta tell you, the anticipation was marvelous as I scanned the skies!
And then, I saw the multitude of smaller nuclear families that breed on every waterhole around here, and the larger community groups they'd formed by mid summer, come together overhead from literally every direction and form this huge, incredible, shifting, enormous "v" on an early evening blue gray sky. Each one blending into the whole, drawing support from the wings of others, perhaps knowing in time, it would take its turn to lead and allow others to lean on itself. It filled the sky and as you can tell, it took my breath away.
We are like the geese. You have found the "V", LOL...actually the double W...
You are gearing up for the winter, and you will make it through.
You are finding those who can help you watch your back. It is only right to pay attention to the hairs on your neck when the rise, and you are doing that.
You will prevail.
And when the geese return this spring, it will be a new year for you and you too will bloom, and there will be those who will lean on you.
Perhaps it is coming along just as it should, and you are just where you need to be for this next phase of life. And we are here with you.
Sunday best to you and us all,
susan
May you find yourself in a flock of geese that carry you on the wind with them, when you can no longer flap your wings for yourself. I know this first hand as my mom is my wings for now.
More Helping Hands for Heather!
Heather's newest fears concerning her ex and his possible reactions to finding out that Heather is taking him on and not backing down from him as he wants to take her children away. Here's Heather and her wondering mind when it comes to the ex.
I'm sorry Cyndi if I missed your offer...I'm exhausted most of the
time, and trying to read everything I can get my hands on to
understand this disease. I try to read every post, and could
inundate this list serve with a million questions a day.
Thank you so very much for your offer. I can't believe that any
judge would allow a full blown hearing based upon WG's. I talk to my
lawyer on Monday.
The advice I've gotten from people here has helped me to re-evaluate
and understand that I will have certain limitations for the rest of
my life.
I feel so blessed to have found you all.
Thanks again for your offer! I don't think it will get that far.
I'm scared to even get in my car and drive these days...thinking
he'll have one of the sheriff's pull me over, plant something on me
and then make a case....that sounds paranoid, but this man is going
to be desperate. He could lose his license to practice law. He
could be thrown in jail. He could have his wages garnished. He
could have a lein placed on his house(s).
I can't image he won't retaliate. It's a true bummer trying to cope
with a new dx, and wondering what the future holds for me and my
children.
You are the best.
Thanks again.
H
What an ex!!!! As if this poor gal hasn't enough to worry about, but now, will the ex retaliate in some mean, harmful fashion? Who knows? For Heather's sake and her children's, I hope he doesn't. He is a looney tune, for sure and not the Disney type, either.
May your find the good in everyone, despite the dark side of some.
I'm sorry Cyndi if I missed your offer...I'm exhausted most of the
time, and trying to read everything I can get my hands on to
understand this disease. I try to read every post, and could
inundate this list serve with a million questions a day.
Thank you so very much for your offer. I can't believe that any
judge would allow a full blown hearing based upon WG's. I talk to my
lawyer on Monday.
The advice I've gotten from people here has helped me to re-evaluate
and understand that I will have certain limitations for the rest of
my life.
I feel so blessed to have found you all.
Thanks again for your offer! I don't think it will get that far.
I'm scared to even get in my car and drive these days...thinking
he'll have one of the sheriff's pull me over, plant something on me
and then make a case....that sounds paranoid, but this man is going
to be desperate. He could lose his license to practice law. He
could be thrown in jail. He could have his wages garnished. He
could have a lein placed on his house(s).
I can't image he won't retaliate. It's a true bummer trying to cope
with a new dx, and wondering what the future holds for me and my
children.
You are the best.
Thanks again.
H
What an ex!!!! As if this poor gal hasn't enough to worry about, but now, will the ex retaliate in some mean, harmful fashion? Who knows? For Heather's sake and her children's, I hope he doesn't. He is a looney tune, for sure and not the Disney type, either.
May your find the good in everyone, despite the dark side of some.
Heather is Offered a Helping Hand!
A helping hand is given to Heather as she tries to find her way with this debilitating disease, called WG. Here's Heather's thought on being sick.
I HOPE someday that I will be a source of strength and encouragement
as you and others on this group are for me. I just don't recognize
myself in the mirror; I can't adjust to the pure exhaustion; friends
are falling by the wayside - do they not know what to say, or do they
just not like fat people? Your message is a comfort to me. Thank
you and God Bless you. Sometimes, I just want to run away. I want
to go where no one knows me. I want go acclimate, adjust, to who I
am and what is to come. I hope you all keep writing to me to help me
along.
Finding you all has been a blessing.
xoxoheatherxoxo
Amy wrote:
> YOU aren't WG's; IT is a part of YOU. You feel the way we all did
when we were first dx'd, trying to figure out how to live with this
disease. But you can do it. Yes, you'll have to work around it and
pay more attention to what your body is telling you. Just for being
able to deal with the disease and raise children and work; you ARE
Wonderwoman, we are all Wonderwomen....well, except for the men, they
can be Batman. It isn't easy, I'm not going to lie, but you will
learn to live with it. Sure, WG makes us FEEL miserable, but don't
let it rob you of your spirit. At least you are alive! At least you
still draw breath, even if its painful. You are still able to be
there for your children, and when Mommy has to spend a few extra
hours in bed because she's sick, they'll understand! Please don't let
Wegener's dictate your life! *HUGS*
> Amy
> dx'd 2000
It is true that you lose your identity because what you used to do that defined who you were is gone, so you fall into an abyss of figuring out who you are and what you can do and can't do. The can't do list far outweighs the can do list, unfortunately. So, life becomes a daily struggle, not only dealing with the symptoms of your disease, the side effects of the meds. keeping you alive, but also, the complete destruction of your foundation that takes time to rebuild and redefine. It becomes a work in progress that is not easy by any means. Reinventing one's self is the most difficult thing a person has to strive for. Your soul can die if you don't try to embrace life and find a reason for being.
May you follow in Amy's shoes, a disease doesn't define you, only you can define yourself. Go for the gold Olympic style!!!
I HOPE someday that I will be a source of strength and encouragement
as you and others on this group are for me. I just don't recognize
myself in the mirror; I can't adjust to the pure exhaustion; friends
are falling by the wayside - do they not know what to say, or do they
just not like fat people? Your message is a comfort to me. Thank
you and God Bless you. Sometimes, I just want to run away. I want
to go where no one knows me. I want go acclimate, adjust, to who I
am and what is to come. I hope you all keep writing to me to help me
along.
Finding you all has been a blessing.
xoxoheatherxoxo
Amy wrote:
> YOU aren't WG's; IT is a part of YOU. You feel the way we all did
when we were first dx'd, trying to figure out how to live with this
disease. But you can do it. Yes, you'll have to work around it and
pay more attention to what your body is telling you. Just for being
able to deal with the disease and raise children and work; you ARE
Wonderwoman, we are all Wonderwomen....well, except for the men, they
can be Batman. It isn't easy, I'm not going to lie, but you will
learn to live with it. Sure, WG makes us FEEL miserable, but don't
let it rob you of your spirit. At least you are alive! At least you
still draw breath, even if its painful. You are still able to be
there for your children, and when Mommy has to spend a few extra
hours in bed because she's sick, they'll understand! Please don't let
Wegener's dictate your life! *HUGS*
> Amy
> dx'd 2000
It is true that you lose your identity because what you used to do that defined who you were is gone, so you fall into an abyss of figuring out who you are and what you can do and can't do. The can't do list far outweighs the can do list, unfortunately. So, life becomes a daily struggle, not only dealing with the symptoms of your disease, the side effects of the meds. keeping you alive, but also, the complete destruction of your foundation that takes time to rebuild and redefine. It becomes a work in progress that is not easy by any means. Reinventing one's self is the most difficult thing a person has to strive for. Your soul can die if you don't try to embrace life and find a reason for being.
May you follow in Amy's shoes, a disease doesn't define you, only you can define yourself. Go for the gold Olympic style!!!
Heather Standing Up for Herself!
Here is another e-mail from our Heather, who is taking on her ex (there is many reasons for him being an ex), who is trying to take her two children away from her because she has WG.
Here is Heather's latest news.
Hey Diana,
Thanks for your reply. I think some people can be so evil minded.
I'm still in a state of shock that he is trying to take my kids away
b/c of WG's. I'm also shocked that I finally stood up for myself
(the kids, really) and filed for support. That night I could night
sleep inspite of 1mg of ambien. I finally fell asleep around 5:00 pm
the next day and slep for 24 hours straight. I was going to file a
Motion to Modify the court order - asking for more support for the
children - but I slept through the day.
I've read a lot of the postings, and I pick up on a common
thread...if you do too much, you will pay for it later. I think
that's what happened to me.
But is it emotional or physical exertion that causes this?
I used to work out with a personal trainer 4 days a week. I'm lucky
now that I can just stretch.
I'm new to WG's, so I know this must sound like old sentiments to so
many out there, but I feel lost...almost useless. I can't make
money. I can't keep up with the housework. I can't make all the
volleyball, football, lacrosse and soccer games. I can't cook gormet
meals. What am I? Wegner's?
I think I'm depressed. My Dr. started me on an antidepressant when I
was dx'd, so I don't understand.
I'm waiting for the news to hit the papers. I think it will be on
either Mon or Tues. I'll keep everyone posted.
Thank you for taking the time to write.
Heather
dx May 2008
Diana wrote:
>
> Heather,
> My husband was a lawyer, and secretary of the Massachusetts Bar.
He
> fell in love with my "best friend" and wanted a divorce after 13
> years. I did not want a divorce, but he left me no choice.
> We had two small children.
> He was in a large firm, and I had trouble finding a lawyer who
wanted
> to represent me. The judge was my husband's fishing buddy. He was
> horrible to me during the proceedings.
> At that time Mass was one of two states that did not mandate child
> support. The judge said he was giving me any money I got as
alimony,
> as that gave my husband the tax break (50% of alimony I got had to
be
> paid to Uncle Sam). He argued that in the end it was better for all
of
> us, as it meant more money overall if my husband got the tax
break.
> Worst of all, he would not give me the set amount I was
requesting,
> instead he gave me "30% of what my husband made monthly". He made
a
> lot, and it sounded great on paper, but I knew it was a mistake.
> My ex paid me about $2500 a month for a few months. Then he told me
he
> had gone out on his own (true) and was just making it. Every month
he
> "broke even" and 30% of nothing is nothing.
> Every year he bought a new Audi, etc. I never bad-mouthed him to
my
> kids, but I did not have to, They figured him out all by themselves.
> There is lots more-and we have not seen him or heard from him in
> years. Both children were married without him. The marriage to my
> friend lasted 3 years-and he married two more times.
>
> I wish you all the best. I feel confident you will prevail.
> In the end, I got what really mattered. Their names are Jenna Lynn
and
> Anders.
> Diana Pa now
What is it with these "men"? Are they soulless? Who DIDN'T bring them up properly? It is a shame as this type of totally inappropriate behavior affects each generation that comes along. It is so sad-actually beyond sad.
May you feel like Diana in Pa., who knows what is important and what matters-her Jenna Lynn and Anders. Can't put a price tag on your children or the effect you have on them as their parent. What you role model is what they get and for the most part, tend to be like and have behaviors like their parents.
Here is Heather's latest news.
Hey Diana,
Thanks for your reply. I think some people can be so evil minded.
I'm still in a state of shock that he is trying to take my kids away
b/c of WG's. I'm also shocked that I finally stood up for myself
(the kids, really) and filed for support. That night I could night
sleep inspite of 1mg of ambien. I finally fell asleep around 5:00 pm
the next day and slep for 24 hours straight. I was going to file a
Motion to Modify the court order - asking for more support for the
children - but I slept through the day.
I've read a lot of the postings, and I pick up on a common
thread...if you do too much, you will pay for it later. I think
that's what happened to me.
But is it emotional or physical exertion that causes this?
I used to work out with a personal trainer 4 days a week. I'm lucky
now that I can just stretch.
I'm new to WG's, so I know this must sound like old sentiments to so
many out there, but I feel lost...almost useless. I can't make
money. I can't keep up with the housework. I can't make all the
volleyball, football, lacrosse and soccer games. I can't cook gormet
meals. What am I? Wegner's?
I think I'm depressed. My Dr. started me on an antidepressant when I
was dx'd, so I don't understand.
I'm waiting for the news to hit the papers. I think it will be on
either Mon or Tues. I'll keep everyone posted.
Thank you for taking the time to write.
Heather
dx May 2008
Diana wrote:
>
> Heather,
> My husband was a lawyer, and secretary of the Massachusetts Bar.
He
> fell in love with my "best friend" and wanted a divorce after 13
> years. I did not want a divorce, but he left me no choice.
> We had two small children.
> He was in a large firm, and I had trouble finding a lawyer who
wanted
> to represent me. The judge was my husband's fishing buddy. He was
> horrible to me during the proceedings.
> At that time Mass was one of two states that did not mandate child
> support. The judge said he was giving me any money I got as
alimony,
> as that gave my husband the tax break (50% of alimony I got had to
be
> paid to Uncle Sam). He argued that in the end it was better for all
of
> us, as it meant more money overall if my husband got the tax
break.
> Worst of all, he would not give me the set amount I was
requesting,
> instead he gave me "30% of what my husband made monthly". He made
a
> lot, and it sounded great on paper, but I knew it was a mistake.
> My ex paid me about $2500 a month for a few months. Then he told me
he
> had gone out on his own (true) and was just making it. Every month
he
> "broke even" and 30% of nothing is nothing.
> Every year he bought a new Audi, etc. I never bad-mouthed him to
my
> kids, but I did not have to, They figured him out all by themselves.
> There is lots more-and we have not seen him or heard from him in
> years. Both children were married without him. The marriage to my
> friend lasted 3 years-and he married two more times.
>
> I wish you all the best. I feel confident you will prevail.
> In the end, I got what really mattered. Their names are Jenna Lynn
and
> Anders.
> Diana Pa now
What is it with these "men"? Are they soulless? Who DIDN'T bring them up properly? It is a shame as this type of totally inappropriate behavior affects each generation that comes along. It is so sad-actually beyond sad.
May you feel like Diana in Pa., who knows what is important and what matters-her Jenna Lynn and Anders. Can't put a price tag on your children or the effect you have on them as their parent. What you role model is what they get and for the most part, tend to be like and have behaviors like their parents.
Little Oxygen Boy Helps Me Stay Alive!!
While Mom was at the dentist, I drove on over to the infamous $ store to purchase stickers to make my personalized soaps. I have had more fun making these soaps and distributing them to family and friends, especially young children.
I made a personalized soap for Ginni's granddaughter, Emily. She came for a visit with her Nana and I gave her the Disney character lettered soap spelling out her name. Also, I had a book about Elmo taking a bath that I read to her. She was enthralled with her own soap and asked her Nana if they could go home. She told her Nana, "Tub, Nana, Tub." How cute is that!!!!
Well, Elmo had bubbles on his nose, he had bubbles on his toes as the night time book made a huge splash with Emily. Emily was ready to go home and take her bath for the evening. No fuss, let's just go, Nana. What fun for me. I love reading kids books and even more so when I have a little kid audience.
Back to the $ store and how funny life can be. I had a stack of soaps as I am creating all sorts of soaps-hand painted roses of varied colors, bluebirds and cardinals in trees, a hot air balloon for my nephew and little kids' soaps.
Though I have to confess that I did make a very special soap for my awesome pharmacist, Ed. He has been and is incredible. He has kept me supplied with meds. since the beginning, despite constant changes in m.g., types of medicines, no insurance due to a filing error on someone else's behalf to delivering them to me at my Mom's. Is he incredible or what? I just love Ed.
So, I put his name on the soap along with a cute fire engine red truck. I told him that he is always saving me. He is probably thinking that I am nuts and am in need of another medication. Who gives a grown man a cutie patootie soap with his name? Well, I do. So much for being nuts.
As I ambled up to the check out counter with my pile of soaps and stickers, my phone rang. I retrieved it from my bra. The poor clerk was probably wondering who sticks a cellphone in her bra and purchases 4 packs of soaps that total 12 soaps. What could she possibly be doing with that??!!!! Needless to say, she was not shocked as I told her my mom was calling to make sure that I was alright. She thought my mom was adorable to be worried as her mother had had pneumonia and ended up on oxygen and then succumbed to it. It was apparent that this poor clerk adored, loved and missed her mother terribly. I told her that she was a wonderful daughter and no doubt her mom was proud of her. After wishing me the best of luck, I started to leave the counter with my bag full of goodies, when I little boy planted himself in front of me.
He was curious to know what was in my tank. I told him that I had oxygen in there so that I could live and that we all needed oxygen to live and I just needed a little bit more. He then inquired how did I get that oxygen out of that tank. Me being the teacher that I am, showed him how to turn off and on the oxygen and that the light would let me know if I needed a new battery or not. I explained the function of the cannula to him and he listened very intently and observed everything I was showing him.
Putting his little hands on his hips, he said to me, "Guess what?" There really is tea in China. Kidding, I didn't say that, but instead said. "What?" He replied very quickly and succinctly that he needed oxygen too to stay alive. I agreed with him wholeheartedly.
His next comment came as a surprise as he informed me that he wanted to help me stay alive. He looked at me very seriously and announced, "Make sure that you check the road before you cross it. Look left and right, so that you don't die." I told him that he was such a good boy to tell me that and that I would be looking out for traffic. I thanked him profusely for his staying alive advice and told him that he was a smart young man, who obviously knew to look left and right before crossing the road.
Suddenly, I heard someone in the back of the line calling my little helper. He looked at me so seriously and turned toward the voice. As I glanced over my shoulder, the line was long and not one person had moved as they had gleaned my little oxygen boys' advice on staying alive. The clerk stood staring, not moving a muscle.
My little imp held out his hand and said to his mom and dad, "but I didn't get a chance to tell the lady about my choo choo train" that he held clutched in his hand.
Well, my little O2 boy put the biggest smile on my face and the biggest kerthump in my heart. What a precious little one! I would have taken him in a second if he hadn't had such great parents. He was an absolute charmer.
You can see why I miss teaching so much. Every day at school with my kids was just like my little tyke at the $ store. Kids say the Darnest Things and I love every minute of it.
May you experience the wisdom of a child who blesses you with his affirmation that he wants you to live. Despite seeing an oxygen tank, he was not scared, but curious. His curiosity may save someones' life one day. He already saved mine that day as I made sure to check left and right before crossing the street to the parking lot.
Don't forget what our little man offered as advice because life is a highway and we do need to make sure that we don't get hit by all that "traffic" out there. Blessings to my little guy and his red choo choo train.
I made a personalized soap for Ginni's granddaughter, Emily. She came for a visit with her Nana and I gave her the Disney character lettered soap spelling out her name. Also, I had a book about Elmo taking a bath that I read to her. She was enthralled with her own soap and asked her Nana if they could go home. She told her Nana, "Tub, Nana, Tub." How cute is that!!!!
Well, Elmo had bubbles on his nose, he had bubbles on his toes as the night time book made a huge splash with Emily. Emily was ready to go home and take her bath for the evening. No fuss, let's just go, Nana. What fun for me. I love reading kids books and even more so when I have a little kid audience.
Back to the $ store and how funny life can be. I had a stack of soaps as I am creating all sorts of soaps-hand painted roses of varied colors, bluebirds and cardinals in trees, a hot air balloon for my nephew and little kids' soaps.
Though I have to confess that I did make a very special soap for my awesome pharmacist, Ed. He has been and is incredible. He has kept me supplied with meds. since the beginning, despite constant changes in m.g., types of medicines, no insurance due to a filing error on someone else's behalf to delivering them to me at my Mom's. Is he incredible or what? I just love Ed.
So, I put his name on the soap along with a cute fire engine red truck. I told him that he is always saving me. He is probably thinking that I am nuts and am in need of another medication. Who gives a grown man a cutie patootie soap with his name? Well, I do. So much for being nuts.
As I ambled up to the check out counter with my pile of soaps and stickers, my phone rang. I retrieved it from my bra. The poor clerk was probably wondering who sticks a cellphone in her bra and purchases 4 packs of soaps that total 12 soaps. What could she possibly be doing with that??!!!! Needless to say, she was not shocked as I told her my mom was calling to make sure that I was alright. She thought my mom was adorable to be worried as her mother had had pneumonia and ended up on oxygen and then succumbed to it. It was apparent that this poor clerk adored, loved and missed her mother terribly. I told her that she was a wonderful daughter and no doubt her mom was proud of her. After wishing me the best of luck, I started to leave the counter with my bag full of goodies, when I little boy planted himself in front of me.
He was curious to know what was in my tank. I told him that I had oxygen in there so that I could live and that we all needed oxygen to live and I just needed a little bit more. He then inquired how did I get that oxygen out of that tank. Me being the teacher that I am, showed him how to turn off and on the oxygen and that the light would let me know if I needed a new battery or not. I explained the function of the cannula to him and he listened very intently and observed everything I was showing him.
Putting his little hands on his hips, he said to me, "Guess what?" There really is tea in China. Kidding, I didn't say that, but instead said. "What?" He replied very quickly and succinctly that he needed oxygen too to stay alive. I agreed with him wholeheartedly.
His next comment came as a surprise as he informed me that he wanted to help me stay alive. He looked at me very seriously and announced, "Make sure that you check the road before you cross it. Look left and right, so that you don't die." I told him that he was such a good boy to tell me that and that I would be looking out for traffic. I thanked him profusely for his staying alive advice and told him that he was a smart young man, who obviously knew to look left and right before crossing the road.
Suddenly, I heard someone in the back of the line calling my little helper. He looked at me so seriously and turned toward the voice. As I glanced over my shoulder, the line was long and not one person had moved as they had gleaned my little oxygen boys' advice on staying alive. The clerk stood staring, not moving a muscle.
My little imp held out his hand and said to his mom and dad, "but I didn't get a chance to tell the lady about my choo choo train" that he held clutched in his hand.
Well, my little O2 boy put the biggest smile on my face and the biggest kerthump in my heart. What a precious little one! I would have taken him in a second if he hadn't had such great parents. He was an absolute charmer.
You can see why I miss teaching so much. Every day at school with my kids was just like my little tyke at the $ store. Kids say the Darnest Things and I love every minute of it.
May you experience the wisdom of a child who blesses you with his affirmation that he wants you to live. Despite seeing an oxygen tank, he was not scared, but curious. His curiosity may save someones' life one day. He already saved mine that day as I made sure to check left and right before crossing the street to the parking lot.
Don't forget what our little man offered as advice because life is a highway and we do need to make sure that we don't get hit by all that "traffic" out there. Blessings to my little guy and his red choo choo train.
Med Bracelet is a Girl's Best Friend!!
What girl needs diamonds when she has a med. bracelet? I have the newest fashionable bracelet that you can imagine. I had already had imprinted my disease(s) and then needed to add that I could not have codeine or morphine as I am allergic to them. Rich C. from downtown Sidney graciously said he would add this missive to my diamond less bracelet that is truly worth more than any diamond bracelet as it lets the EMS', doctors and nurses know something instantaneously about me.
Mom and I went to Cooley's Jewelry store to pick up my newly engraved silver bracelet and Rich insisted on me not paying. Not only that, but he gave me the best hug ever. What a sweetie. But I must say that his sister, Sabina is a sweetie, too. She had been my guardian angel and my Mom's too when my step dad passed away. She has been there for me through out my 10 years with Al and his kids. She is a fount of information and more importantly, a true friend that has pulled me back onto my feet on several occasions. She is the best. She has found that someone special in her life and I am thrilled to pieces for her. She deserves this and she is so happy that I'm in awe that she finally has found true love and happiness. So, there is the ability to move on and find your own happiness.
Well, these two siblings are so kind and gracious. I have to say that I was on my way to Rich's store to give him a thank you card and a hand painted soap that I had made just for him, when he spotted me in the street. He immediately gave me a hug and asked if I was hinting to him that he smelled. Yikes, that was not my intention!!! He has a great sense of humor.
I told Rich that when I received my lung transplant, I would be trading in my med. bracelet for a diamond one. We had a giggle over that one and the fact that we had no idea what pain killer they could give me as I can't have codeine or morphine. Did I hear someone say beer? No can do, just the smell of beer makes my stomach turn.
May you have the bracelet of your choice, whether it be diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, etc. I will be sticking with my med. bracelet for the rest of my life. There couldn't be a better bracelet this gal could ever wear.
Mom and I went to Cooley's Jewelry store to pick up my newly engraved silver bracelet and Rich insisted on me not paying. Not only that, but he gave me the best hug ever. What a sweetie. But I must say that his sister, Sabina is a sweetie, too. She had been my guardian angel and my Mom's too when my step dad passed away. She has been there for me through out my 10 years with Al and his kids. She is a fount of information and more importantly, a true friend that has pulled me back onto my feet on several occasions. She is the best. She has found that someone special in her life and I am thrilled to pieces for her. She deserves this and she is so happy that I'm in awe that she finally has found true love and happiness. So, there is the ability to move on and find your own happiness.
Well, these two siblings are so kind and gracious. I have to say that I was on my way to Rich's store to give him a thank you card and a hand painted soap that I had made just for him, when he spotted me in the street. He immediately gave me a hug and asked if I was hinting to him that he smelled. Yikes, that was not my intention!!! He has a great sense of humor.
I told Rich that when I received my lung transplant, I would be trading in my med. bracelet for a diamond one. We had a giggle over that one and the fact that we had no idea what pain killer they could give me as I can't have codeine or morphine. Did I hear someone say beer? No can do, just the smell of beer makes my stomach turn.
May you have the bracelet of your choice, whether it be diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, etc. I will be sticking with my med. bracelet for the rest of my life. There couldn't be a better bracelet this gal could ever wear.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Car cleaned, lessons learned!
Mom and Dad had come for steak dinner one night and Mom was saying that she would love to get her car cleaned inside and out. This would be a feat as Dad has recently had two knee replacements and Judy's mom is sick and Judy is her caregiver and support.
As you can imagine and have probably experienced these types of situations, you are so busy taking care of every one's daily needs, that other "things" fall to the wayside, due to time constraints, energy and a whole host of other responsibilities.
So, I took it up on myself to call the resurrecter of cars, Donnie Stevens in Oxford. I explained to Donnie that I would prepay him for cleaning Mom and Dad's car. Well, he did in Donnie style-making her car look brand new. He is amazing, kind, generous and helpful and does an incredible job in restoring any vehicle to its former glory. Too bad, he couldn't redo my rusty frame, but I have a qualified team to give me a new overhaul, lungs! And boy, will I be running fine after that.
Well, no sooner than her car was finished, than the doorbell rang and there was a beautiful vase filled with lovely flowers. A thank you gift from Mom and Dad saying thank you, but I shouldn't have.
Well, I should have because for many years, Judy and Karl took me camping, fishing, roller skating, to family outings and so much more. More importantly, they have treated me just like a daughter. I tell them all the time how fortunate that I was to have them in my life. Their love and support of each other has always inspired me to seek that type of love. I am still hoping that type of love is out there somewhere. Perhaps, some day I may have luck on my side and I will find that unconditional love that carries you through the good times and bad. It all comes down to RESPECT for one another. It is a joy to be around Mom and Dad as they exude this constantly. The care and respect that they have for each other is a blessing to all of us, who surround them.
Yes, Mom and Dad, I know I didn't have to "gift" you with a new looking car, but you did so much for me over the years, that this small gift to you is so minor, to what I have received from you. You have given me so many happy times, memories filled with laughter and the ability to smile, despite the rain. You have always found the rainbow and have taught me to look for the rainbow with all its beautiful, radiant colors.
My wish for you is continued good health, so that you may continue to van camp and enjoy nature as you always have. Know that my heart is filled with love for you.
May you remember that doing little things for loved ones brings joy and sunshine to them, no matter the weather.
As you can imagine and have probably experienced these types of situations, you are so busy taking care of every one's daily needs, that other "things" fall to the wayside, due to time constraints, energy and a whole host of other responsibilities.
So, I took it up on myself to call the resurrecter of cars, Donnie Stevens in Oxford. I explained to Donnie that I would prepay him for cleaning Mom and Dad's car. Well, he did in Donnie style-making her car look brand new. He is amazing, kind, generous and helpful and does an incredible job in restoring any vehicle to its former glory. Too bad, he couldn't redo my rusty frame, but I have a qualified team to give me a new overhaul, lungs! And boy, will I be running fine after that.
Well, no sooner than her car was finished, than the doorbell rang and there was a beautiful vase filled with lovely flowers. A thank you gift from Mom and Dad saying thank you, but I shouldn't have.
Well, I should have because for many years, Judy and Karl took me camping, fishing, roller skating, to family outings and so much more. More importantly, they have treated me just like a daughter. I tell them all the time how fortunate that I was to have them in my life. Their love and support of each other has always inspired me to seek that type of love. I am still hoping that type of love is out there somewhere. Perhaps, some day I may have luck on my side and I will find that unconditional love that carries you through the good times and bad. It all comes down to RESPECT for one another. It is a joy to be around Mom and Dad as they exude this constantly. The care and respect that they have for each other is a blessing to all of us, who surround them.
Yes, Mom and Dad, I know I didn't have to "gift" you with a new looking car, but you did so much for me over the years, that this small gift to you is so minor, to what I have received from you. You have given me so many happy times, memories filled with laughter and the ability to smile, despite the rain. You have always found the rainbow and have taught me to look for the rainbow with all its beautiful, radiant colors.
My wish for you is continued good health, so that you may continue to van camp and enjoy nature as you always have. Know that my heart is filled with love for you.
May you remember that doing little things for loved ones brings joy and sunshine to them, no matter the weather.
Outings!
This week has been a busy one from dental appointments, changing the oil and filters in my car to eating out with Dan and Karen Tennant. We celebrated Dan's retirement from B.G. and his move to his hometown of Cazenovia. He is so excited. It is thrill to hear about his plans.
And, of course, he will be painting-his true passion and calling in life. He was/is a phenomenal teacher who willing shared his gifts and talents over many years with his students, but also with his colleagues. He inspires us all with his incredible talent.
Here is just one example. Because I love French food and it loves me, I usually pop into the French Cafe in Norwich with mom and we taste test whatever sounds appealing to us. While there, a young girl named, Rachael, and I struck up a conversation about school. She is not too fond of school, but loves art. So, we talked about pencil drawing, painting on canvasses and of course, I mentioned my friend, Dan and how he is a wonderful painter and that he and his wife would be joining us at a future date at the restaurant and I hoped that she would be there, so that she could meet him.
Before leaving the eatery, I left her with Dan's website. I told Rachael that I hoped that she was at the cafe when Dan came and much to our surprise, Rachael was. She was in awe of Dan and he was wonderful with her. Rachael's mom insisted on taking pictures. Dan offered to have Rachael come to Caz. for a day and watch, paint perhaps in his studio. Little Rachael's eyes became so much bigger and there was a sparkle in her eyes. She was delighted.
Another great day-a tasty lunch with a delicious dessert, fine company, a cutie patootie Rachael, who is just beginning to explore her passion and one unique, one of a kind, Dan Tennant, who still continues to teach and inspire even in retirement.
Blessings to Karen and Dan in their next chapter in Cazenovia. Be happy and well.
May you inspire others to follow their passions like Dan.
And, of course, he will be painting-his true passion and calling in life. He was/is a phenomenal teacher who willing shared his gifts and talents over many years with his students, but also with his colleagues. He inspires us all with his incredible talent.
Here is just one example. Because I love French food and it loves me, I usually pop into the French Cafe in Norwich with mom and we taste test whatever sounds appealing to us. While there, a young girl named, Rachael, and I struck up a conversation about school. She is not too fond of school, but loves art. So, we talked about pencil drawing, painting on canvasses and of course, I mentioned my friend, Dan and how he is a wonderful painter and that he and his wife would be joining us at a future date at the restaurant and I hoped that she would be there, so that she could meet him.
Before leaving the eatery, I left her with Dan's website. I told Rachael that I hoped that she was at the cafe when Dan came and much to our surprise, Rachael was. She was in awe of Dan and he was wonderful with her. Rachael's mom insisted on taking pictures. Dan offered to have Rachael come to Caz. for a day and watch, paint perhaps in his studio. Little Rachael's eyes became so much bigger and there was a sparkle in her eyes. She was delighted.
Another great day-a tasty lunch with a delicious dessert, fine company, a cutie patootie Rachael, who is just beginning to explore her passion and one unique, one of a kind, Dan Tennant, who still continues to teach and inspire even in retirement.
Blessings to Karen and Dan in their next chapter in Cazenovia. Be happy and well.
May you inspire others to follow their passions like Dan.
It did get a whole lot worse!
Well, I must say that life does throw you curve balls from time to time and you hopefully are able to duck and take cover. Our Heather shares what happened to her in the past. And to think the ex is still an attorney is chilling.
Here's what Heather had to say.
Hey Everyone!!!!!
Wow - thanks a ton for your support. I feel like I have found a new home. You are ALL so wonderful. By the end of the day, I was wiped out. One half of my face was raging from my trigeminal neuralgia and covered with an ice pack, while the other side was smiling...almost snickering...that I finally had the courage to do it.
Let me fill you in on your math. We have joint custody, so the kids spend some time with him...so the formula was lower. It was 209.00 a month, but the Court Order dictated when the payments started, etc...and we're not yet at the end of a year yet. For the last 7 years I was the City Attorney for my City while my ex was the State's Attorney. He always told me that he could have the Mayor (for whom I worked) fire me (I can't believe I bought that, but politics is a strange beast) and he also said that he could have Social Services take the children with a wave of his hand. He said if I ever filed against him, the pleadings would just disappear. I was intimidated. I admit it. I'm not proud about that.
From the City, I was recruited by a national law firm and worked for them for 3 years until I decided to open my own practice. (after 17 years of working for others). Virtually the day after my grand opening I started wheezing and had blinding headaches. Sinus infection and infection....you know the drill. The local Dr.'s gave me so many Rx's for antibiotics that they totally stripped by body of magnesium and I landed in the hospital. I was misdiagnosed there and sent home.
Eight LONG months later I found Hopkins and was dx'd within 5 mins., literally. I always needed the money, but was terrified to ask. He totally abused his position of power to intimidate me. When I called 911 after he hit me, he hung up. They called back and he told then who he was and the the kids were fooling around on the phone. After he hung up he turned to me and warned me never to try anything like that again...or else. I went to the hospital and my arm had a minor fracture.
I'm going tomorrow to get my records. I told them that my ex had hit me - and who he was - and insisted they write that in the report. I was too scared to call the police. I guess I was a real pushover. What a looser.But TODAY, ALL THAT CHANGED. I know the Clerk of Court, so I pulled her aside for a private chat. I told her what I filed against Charlie and that he said he could make the file disappear.
After all, it's his office that would normally enforce my contempt motion. She is a friend of mine. She assured me that would not happen. In fact, she opened a secret double file...to be kept under lock and key. God Bless her. Tomorrow, I am going to file a Motion for Modification - my circumstances have changed, I am unable to work, and he needs to pay me much more. My mom, the judge, found me a lawyer to help me. I am calling him tomorrow. I couldn't find a lawyer in my County that would take my case for fear of retaliation.IT DOES INDEED SOUND LIKE A CNN STORY.
I am so proud of myself. I'm in a mild state of shock.I did it. I did it. It makes me feel powerful and strong, and I believe it will help me fight WG's too. I'm gonna kill two birds with one stone.
Thank you all sooooooooo much.
xoxoHeather
Well, you can imagine the flurry of e-mails that hit our WG site concerning Heather and her plight with her ex . This is unbelievable, but true. She is fighting for her very life and existence to take care of her children and protect them from their father.
It is understandable why she would not want him to have total custodial care. I suspect she would be worried that he might harm his children. This ex needs to be sent packing and the general consensus is we would love to pack his bags and hall him to curb for waste management to pick him up. Talk about having no morals or values. His name is written all over those two words-lack of.
Heather received e-mails stating that other mothers with WG would fly in and testify on her behalf stating what it is like to have WG, but you still can take care of your kids. Another lady, who is so incensed with her ex physically and emotionally abusing her offered to fly in and sit in the courtroom as support. When this group decides to rally and support each other, they are more than willing to help. We all realize that we are all in the same boat, and paddling in the same direction and when one of us isn't able to paddle for a bit, the rest of us take over to keep us all afloat.
Well, I must say that there is no finer group than ours-people from all over the US and foreign countries that share their trials and tribulations because of one disease that has us trying to survive from day to day. We have lost so many to this disease, but those left behind continue to shine in spirit, kindness, goodwill, sympathy, empathy and the continual desire to help others.
Truly this is our reason for being. Putting Heather back on that train, where she is the driver. (previous blog-worth checking it out several times-it lifts your spirits).
My faith is restored as I see the outpouring of love, concern, support that our Heather deserves.
May you find the support you need in times of crisis'.
I have Heather's theme song waiting right here for her any time. You go, Wynonna. Sing it like it is.
Here's what Heather had to say.
Hey Everyone! It's me, Heather. Update:> >
Today I filed for child support payments against my ex who threatened > to take my kids away b/c I have WG's. > > I also asked for ten years back payments to the tune of $19,450. and > change.> > Should be headline news in about three days.> >
Poor State's Attorney. You know, his office is the one that > supposedly enforces child support payments against dead beat dads. > The irony.>
> I feel like a mama bear - someone came way too close to my cubs.> > Tell you more.> > Dead tired now. But for a good reason.> > Hugs and thanks to everyone out there for your support!>
> Heather
Hey Everyone!!!!!
Wow - thanks a ton for your support. I feel like I have found a new home. You are ALL so wonderful. By the end of the day, I was wiped out. One half of my face was raging from my trigeminal neuralgia and covered with an ice pack, while the other side was smiling...almost snickering...that I finally had the courage to do it.
Let me fill you in on your math. We have joint custody, so the kids spend some time with him...so the formula was lower. It was 209.00 a month, but the Court Order dictated when the payments started, etc...and we're not yet at the end of a year yet. For the last 7 years I was the City Attorney for my City while my ex was the State's Attorney. He always told me that he could have the Mayor (for whom I worked) fire me (I can't believe I bought that, but politics is a strange beast) and he also said that he could have Social Services take the children with a wave of his hand. He said if I ever filed against him, the pleadings would just disappear. I was intimidated. I admit it. I'm not proud about that.
From the City, I was recruited by a national law firm and worked for them for 3 years until I decided to open my own practice. (after 17 years of working for others). Virtually the day after my grand opening I started wheezing and had blinding headaches. Sinus infection and infection....you know the drill. The local Dr.'s gave me so many Rx's for antibiotics that they totally stripped by body of magnesium and I landed in the hospital. I was misdiagnosed there and sent home.
Eight LONG months later I found Hopkins and was dx'd within 5 mins., literally. I always needed the money, but was terrified to ask. He totally abused his position of power to intimidate me. When I called 911 after he hit me, he hung up. They called back and he told then who he was and the the kids were fooling around on the phone. After he hung up he turned to me and warned me never to try anything like that again...or else. I went to the hospital and my arm had a minor fracture.
I'm going tomorrow to get my records. I told them that my ex had hit me - and who he was - and insisted they write that in the report. I was too scared to call the police. I guess I was a real pushover. What a looser.But TODAY, ALL THAT CHANGED. I know the Clerk of Court, so I pulled her aside for a private chat. I told her what I filed against Charlie and that he said he could make the file disappear.
After all, it's his office that would normally enforce my contempt motion. She is a friend of mine. She assured me that would not happen. In fact, she opened a secret double file...to be kept under lock and key. God Bless her. Tomorrow, I am going to file a Motion for Modification - my circumstances have changed, I am unable to work, and he needs to pay me much more. My mom, the judge, found me a lawyer to help me. I am calling him tomorrow. I couldn't find a lawyer in my County that would take my case for fear of retaliation.IT DOES INDEED SOUND LIKE A CNN STORY.
I am so proud of myself. I'm in a mild state of shock.I did it. I did it. It makes me feel powerful and strong, and I believe it will help me fight WG's too. I'm gonna kill two birds with one stone.
Thank you all sooooooooo much.
xoxoHeather
Well, you can imagine the flurry of e-mails that hit our WG site concerning Heather and her plight with her ex . This is unbelievable, but true. She is fighting for her very life and existence to take care of her children and protect them from their father.
It is understandable why she would not want him to have total custodial care. I suspect she would be worried that he might harm his children. This ex needs to be sent packing and the general consensus is we would love to pack his bags and hall him to curb for waste management to pick him up. Talk about having no morals or values. His name is written all over those two words-lack of.
Heather received e-mails stating that other mothers with WG would fly in and testify on her behalf stating what it is like to have WG, but you still can take care of your kids. Another lady, who is so incensed with her ex physically and emotionally abusing her offered to fly in and sit in the courtroom as support. When this group decides to rally and support each other, they are more than willing to help. We all realize that we are all in the same boat, and paddling in the same direction and when one of us isn't able to paddle for a bit, the rest of us take over to keep us all afloat.
Well, I must say that there is no finer group than ours-people from all over the US and foreign countries that share their trials and tribulations because of one disease that has us trying to survive from day to day. We have lost so many to this disease, but those left behind continue to shine in spirit, kindness, goodwill, sympathy, empathy and the continual desire to help others.
Truly this is our reason for being. Putting Heather back on that train, where she is the driver. (previous blog-worth checking it out several times-it lifts your spirits).
My faith is restored as I see the outpouring of love, concern, support that our Heather deserves.
May you find the support you need in times of crisis'.
I have Heather's theme song waiting right here for her any time. You go, Wynonna. Sing it like it is.
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