Emily March Fans discussion
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Quick Updates from the Moderators
Lola wrote: "I just heard from the Hospital I need to check in tomorrow at 5:15 AM Mountain time. YIKES That means we have to leave here at about 3:45 and I have to take a shower with this antibacterial body wa..."Hope all goes well for you Lola, will be thinking about you. Love and hugs xx
Praying that you and your family were safe during this storm.
Thank You Lesley ! I wish Emily 's book was out. I need something to keep my mind off of it. Love You, Lola
Lola- praying everything goes well tomorrow. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Lola wrote: "I just heard from the Hospital I need to check in tomorrow at 5:15 AM Mountain time. YIKES That means we have to leave here at about 3:45 and I have to take a shower with this antibacterial body wa..."Dear Sis,
I hope all goes well with you and your surgery. Please keep us posted or have Wolf message to let us know how you are. I love you.
Hugs,
Jina and the girls
Thank You All My Sister's ! Jen just called boosting me up ! Wolf or I will let you know how it goes. I did finish doing the deck YES!!!! That was my biggy to get done before . Man I have to go to bed early for me tonight, no midnight tonight. Love You All ,Lola
Jina wrote: "Lola wrote: "I just heard from the Hospital I need to check in tomorrow at 5:15 AM Mountain time. YIKES That means we have to leave here at about 3:45 and I have to take a shower with this antibact..."Lil Sis,
How are you feeling? I loved reading Sams posts ! Love You and Our Girls , Lola
Jimnlori wrote: "Lola- praying everything goes well tomorrow. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers."Hi Jimnlori,
It is so nice to hear from you ! Thank You for your prayers ! Love Lola
Brandi wrote: "Thanks for the info, Lola.I think if properly measured mine would be 38 to 40 G. I understand the look down and see boobs thing.
Still getting use to my new normal here. It has been almost a yea..."
Hi Brandi.
I am glad to hear your son is adjusting well. Sports are a good way for children to release stress, stay healthy and make friends. You might want to look into a tae kwon do class, or join a fitness club that has a pool. You seem to be doing better than a year ago. Its amazing how much can change in a years time. I am proud of you. You have handled everything you have gone through with grace and faith. Take care my friend and keep us posted.
Hugs,
Jina and the girls
Melinda wrote: "Jina wrote: "Hi all,It looks like my area is going to get a direct hit from the hurricane. If you would like you can watch the forecasts etc from our local stations. WITN7 or WNCT are the ones tha..."
Thank you for your prayers and kindness and support. We were very fortunate that we only lost power one night for 3 hours. The only damage we had was some of the trees lost a lot of branches. Its been rough though because I cant do anything. My back and stomach are still swollen from surgery and it is hard to move, walk, lay down or get comfortable. I have pain medications and that helps some but sometimes the meds upset my stomach. I feel very weak. Mike or Sam have to be with me when I shower so I dont fall and they can reach my legs and back whereas I cant bend over, twist, lift or stay in one position for very long. I am so blessed to have Sam and Heather. I lay down on one end of the couch and Heather sits on the other end. When I am in pain she rubs my feet or holds my hand and Sam ,God Bless her, is doing all the errands, housework, cooking and caring for Heather and I. I dont know how I would manage if I didnt have Sam.
Take care. Hugs to you,
Jina and the girls
Jina,Glad that you, Mike, and the girls made thru with only a little bit of trouble. It takes awhile to get your strength back.Keeping you all in my prayers.
Brandi,
Glad that you are doing better. It all takes time.
Lola,
Keeping you and Wolf in my prayers.
Paula,
Are you still near the fires?
Linda,
Hi, hope things are well with you and your family,
Hi, Jimnlori
Hi All,I am finally un loopy lol. Everything went fine I am only having a little pain in my left breast. I am going lightly on the oxi. More tomorrow. Love Lola
Hello, friends
I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened social media, so I am completely out of touch. It's late now, because I've spent the last 3 days catching up on work projects for the two clinics I'm working with.
On the up-side, one of my summer clinic projects - a grant proposal - was just approved by the Feds and the clinic will receive $282,000 for an enormous expansion of our behavioral health services, office space, and equipment, among other things. I worked on it with our Behavioral Health Director and we are beside ourselves with the results.
As for my writing, I've hit a standstill. The words I wrote on vacation were -- frankly--crap. I'm stuck and need to take a step back to do some outlining before I dig back in. I've set everything aside for a week while I decide whether or not to go to a novel writing workshop sponsored by Writers Digest in October. Maybe I need some inspiration and some education to get me over the hump so I can finish the dang thing. It's not terribly expensive because it's in Southern California, an easy flight from SF or Sacramento. I'll decide by the end of the week.
The main thing I need to talk about with all of you is that I need help in the moderator role. I am completely overwhelmed right now, mostly from an emotional standpoint. I'm stressed out and my blood pressure is out the roof. I have had two minor episodes of chest pain, when my blood pressure was critically high - but I was able to get it under control at home. I know it's being driven by stress - and I can't go into all the reasons why, but I'm in a transition phase of life, I can feel it. I'm exercising daily, and doing all kinds of homeopathic and natural stress relief tricks to reset myself, but there are three things I need to do right away: 1) Organize my digital life, 2) cut back on social media, blogging, book promotions, and book reviews, and 3) get help with this group so I don't feel like I'm a complete failure at keeping it going while I'm struggling along. I just can't seem to keep up the way I want to and need to in order to be effective.
If any of you have the time and the interest in monitoring our discussions and contributing in a more structured way, please let me know and I'll give you the rundown. It's simple, really, now that we aren't actively reading book after book. I just need to know that someone is listening out when I'm not able to do it.
All of your friendships are precious to me, as is the group itself. The relationships here are so meaningful - they've helped each of us and all of us through some difficult times and I hope we can continue for as long as our core members are willing.
This was much longer than I expected - so thanks for patiently reading! I'll check in again before the end of the week and reply to all the messages I missed while we were away.
I'm thinking and praying for all of you, even when I'm not online. Stay safe and well.
xo
Paula
I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened social media, so I am completely out of touch. It's late now, because I've spent the last 3 days catching up on work projects for the two clinics I'm working with.
On the up-side, one of my summer clinic projects - a grant proposal - was just approved by the Feds and the clinic will receive $282,000 for an enormous expansion of our behavioral health services, office space, and equipment, among other things. I worked on it with our Behavioral Health Director and we are beside ourselves with the results.
As for my writing, I've hit a standstill. The words I wrote on vacation were -- frankly--crap. I'm stuck and need to take a step back to do some outlining before I dig back in. I've set everything aside for a week while I decide whether or not to go to a novel writing workshop sponsored by Writers Digest in October. Maybe I need some inspiration and some education to get me over the hump so I can finish the dang thing. It's not terribly expensive because it's in Southern California, an easy flight from SF or Sacramento. I'll decide by the end of the week.
The main thing I need to talk about with all of you is that I need help in the moderator role. I am completely overwhelmed right now, mostly from an emotional standpoint. I'm stressed out and my blood pressure is out the roof. I have had two minor episodes of chest pain, when my blood pressure was critically high - but I was able to get it under control at home. I know it's being driven by stress - and I can't go into all the reasons why, but I'm in a transition phase of life, I can feel it. I'm exercising daily, and doing all kinds of homeopathic and natural stress relief tricks to reset myself, but there are three things I need to do right away: 1) Organize my digital life, 2) cut back on social media, blogging, book promotions, and book reviews, and 3) get help with this group so I don't feel like I'm a complete failure at keeping it going while I'm struggling along. I just can't seem to keep up the way I want to and need to in order to be effective.
If any of you have the time and the interest in monitoring our discussions and contributing in a more structured way, please let me know and I'll give you the rundown. It's simple, really, now that we aren't actively reading book after book. I just need to know that someone is listening out when I'm not able to do it.
All of your friendships are precious to me, as is the group itself. The relationships here are so meaningful - they've helped each of us and all of us through some difficult times and I hope we can continue for as long as our core members are willing.
This was much longer than I expected - so thanks for patiently reading! I'll check in again before the end of the week and reply to all the messages I missed while we were away.
I'm thinking and praying for all of you, even when I'm not online. Stay safe and well.
xo
Paula
Paula,I am glad that you are trying to take care of your self. I think transitions are hard some times., especially if you do not quite have al the information. I understand because I know things are transition here but I am in that be quiet and wait for an direction period. I have changed somethings so my stress is less but still have to change a couple more things. Keeping you in my prayers.
Melinda
Paula wrote: "Hello, friends I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened social media, so I am completely..."
Dear Paula,
It is so good to hear from you. I have missed you and have wondered how things are going with your lovely novel, with your daughter and granddaughter with the separation or divorce and how did they fair during Hurricane Florence. You had injured your knee or ankle awhile back... is that better.
Im sorry to hear about your blood pressure. I dont know if you remember my Sam had trouble with high blood pressure a few months ago. When she went in the ambulance last spring her blood pressure number was ---/220. They took it again and it was the same---/216. It was very scarey. Since then Sam has struggled with blood pressure issues until now. July 1st she and I started doing a homeopathic remedy and the results so far are amazing! She and I take 2teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Sam has lost 68 pounds and went from size 28w jeans to 22w. Her hair has grown a lot and her skin is clear, she doesnt get sick feeling all the time and is happier than I have ever seen her. As for myself I lost 17 pounds and went from size 14 jeans to size 10. I also started a program called One and Done with Meredith Shirk. You can try her workouts by going to her Meredith Shirk and Svelte training facebook page. I love the workouts, they are fun and you see results very quickly. I cant do them right now until I get cleared by the doctor to be active again. Let me know if you try her workouts, she also has some under her name Meredith Shirk on youtube. Sam had her blood pressure checked a couple weeks ago and it was 132/96 a much better reading than a few months ago.
I would be honored to help you moderate if you would like. I check goodreads everyday but if there isnt a new post I dont post anything. You could have a couple people help and pick up the slaxk to keep the group updated and enjoying the books and hearing about and supporting each other like we have been doing for a while now.
The friendships I have made through this group are so precious and special to me. I love you all so very much. I will help you anyway I can so dont hesitate to ask.
Love and Hugs,
Jina and the girls
Paula wrote: "Hello, friends I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened social media, so I am completely..."
Dear Paula,
I forgot to tell you congratulations on your grant approval. I took a grant writing class when going for my Health Information technology degree. Grant writing has so much red tape and crossing t's and dotting i's and the quart of blood and first born child etc... to get approved that Im very impressed and admire your efforts. I know when you found out you got it and for how much you wanted to drink your favorite vineyard dry with all your closest friends. I am very happy for those people that will be getting better health care and more jobs because of your efforts.
I wish you a very happy weekend and hope you celebrate.
Love you,
Jina
Dear Lola,Hi Sis. I hope you are recovering nicely and not in too much pain. Have you went shopping for new clothes yet? I know you will feel so much better once you are completely healed. Your back will be relieved. Its amazing how much tatas effect how a persons back feels.
Emilys book release date is fast approaching. What are you reading or doing to pass your recovery time? I have read about 5 books and started crocheting a present for my sister Joni since my surgery on the 6th. Its about all I can do so far. I go back to the Dr for my first postop visit on Monday to have xrays and check my 7 incision sites. Besides them being swelled and hurting they are starting to itch so I am taking benadryl to try to keep from scratching.
I love you and if you need anything call me or message.
Hugs and prayers to you,
Jina and the girls
Hello everybody!It feels good to be back online. For a while there it was all I could do to read and comprehend a novel. Sam got pretty tired of reminding me of things or repeating herself so I could understand that she got to the point she looked like Bill Envalls comedy skit about when he had hernia surgery and his wife was trying to get him to listen and understand while he was under the influence of Vicodin. She was like "Mom... Mom... Look at me. (Pointing to her eyes and then to mine) Now repeat what I just said back to me." Me: "Huh? Did you say something dear?" Sam: "Argggggg!" (Big sigh) "Nevermind". She's so cute when she gets annoyed.
I hope everyone is doing great. What have you guys been up to? How's work? This year has zoomed by. I am looking forward to fall temperatures. What are you guys looking forward to? Any trips coming up?
Love and hugs to all,
Jina and the girls
Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hello, friends I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened social media, so I..."
Paula, Congratulations of the Grant approval, it must give you a sense of satisfaction after all that hard work. Sorry you are feeling stressed & under the weather. take care.
Jina, do you add the lemon juice, etc to hot water to drink it? I might give it a try.
Hope you, Jina & Lola are both progressing well following your surgery.
Love & hugs to everyone.
Lesley xx
Love
Hi All, I can't type much. I am feeling much better today. The drains were taken out yesterday. She took about a pound & a half off each breast. My niece from Texas is coming today. I better lay back down. Love Lola
Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hello, friends I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't even opened socia..."
Dear Lesley,
Hi Sis. You can add it to water if you would like it better that way. My daughter and I make the raw apple cider vinegar, lemon juice and cayenne pepper into a shot glass and chase it with 8 ounces of water. A friend of mine takes the juice of half a lemon or lime and adds that to 8 ounces of water and she has good results as well. Not as quickly as Sam and I have but she no longer has the belly bloat and her cholesterol levels and blood pressure are better. Another side effect of apple cider vinegar is that you dont crave junk food. Its been a couple months now and I cant even try sodas or sweets because they taste too sweet.
I hope you are doing well.
Hugs to you,
Jina
Lola wrote: "Hi All, I can't type much. I am feeling much better today. The drains were taken out yesterday. She took about a pound & a half off each breast. My niece from Texas is coming today. I better lay ba..."Hi Sis,
Thanks for the update. I hope recovery gets easier. Thinking of you and sending healing prayers.
Hugs,
Jina and the girls
Hello Ladies,I have been MIA for quite a while. I apologize for that. I have had some issues with depression and anxiety that have kept me from social media. A friend sent me a video of a woman's first hand account of an attempted assault this past week and it caused me to have a severe anxiety-panic attack. It has taken me days to recover but I am feeling some relief today. It is amazing what an image can do to the brain when you have P.T.S.D.
On a happy note my husband and I are going to Seattle tonight to a concert at the fabulous Paramount Theater. I have never been there but I have seen photos and it is going to be awesome just to see the venue before the concert. We are seeing a favorite singer of ours, John Prine. If you don't know who he is he has written many songs for famous singers. Bonnie Rait's "Angle in Montgomery" is one of them. I am very excited but also anxious as well because of the crowd and the panic disorder. I think I will be okay because Dave is with me. I bought aisle seats just incase I need to escape. I have my medication so hopefully it will not be an issue.
Well, I have to get ready to go. I will let you know how things go tonight.
Hope you all are having a good weekend.
Love to all.
Linda wrote: "Hello Ladies,I have been MIA for quite a while. I apologize for that. I have had some issues with depression and anxiety that have kept me from social media. A friend sent me a video of a woman's ..."
Dear Sis,
I think you would qualify for a therapy dog. I know a young lady whose childhood was rocky and her doctor was able to get her a therapy dog for her anxiety. Ots something to think about. The dog becomes not just your protector in social experiences where there is a lot of people but also a companion and something to cuddle and be soothed by. Think about it. I know it helps Angel immensely and Angel even takes her therapy dog everywhere she goes.
I hope you have a great time at the concert.
Why in the world would a friend send you such a disturbing thing knowing what you have been tbrough.? Whoever it was you need to tell that person to not send you anything like that again. How rude and insensitive!!!
I love you to the moon and back my dear. You can call me or message me anytime you are anxious or in a panic. I will help you any way I can.
Hugs to you,
Jina and the girls
I was curious about something. Do any of you read a series that is similar to Emily's Eternity Springs? Do you mind sharing the series? I enjoy those type of books where yoj get to know the community not just the main characters and books with a good message. Sherryl Woods O'Brien's series and Chesapeake Shores, Robyn Carr's Virgin River series, Debbie Macomber's Blossom Street series and Nora Roberts Quinn Brothers series set at the Chesapeake area. Are any of those your favorites too? I love books that you dont want to put down and when the book is read you get impatient for the next installment so you can visit the characters again like seeing old friends. Love to all,
Jina
Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hello, friends I was out of town for nine days and missed a lot! We retreated to the coast to celebrate my birthday and for the last 12 days I haven't ev..."
Thanks Jina, I'll give it a try. I already drink Lemon & Ginger Tea but even though I'm active & do yoga my weight seems to be gradually creeping up & I don't like it.
How's your pain doing, hope it's improving & you are getting more comfortable.
Love to you all xx
Linda wrote: "Hello Ladies,I have been MIA for quite a while. I apologize for that. I have had some issues with depression and anxiety that have kept me from social media. A friend sent me a video of a woman's ..."
Hi Linda, Hope you both enjoyed your concert and you were able to manage your anxiety. I always fine that music is good for you, whatever genre. Take care, love xx
Hi All,I feel better every day ,like Jina the itching has started. All my sutures are on the inside ,on the outside glue and tape. It is hard to use my arms because I am cut from under my arms and 1/2 way around the breast on both sides. So I can't type long.
Hi Lil Sis, I am reading, Hopes Crossing series, by RaeAnne Thayne ,it goes on to Haven Point series. Got to go.
Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Hi All,I feel better every day ,like Jina the itching has started. All my sutures are on the inside ,on the outside glue and tape. It is hard to use my arms because I am cut from under my arms an..."
Hi Lola,
I'm glad to hear you are getting better everyday. And wow!!!!! Thats a big incision area. I am sure once you heal you will feel so much better. My husband keeps reminding me that "it has to get worse before it can get better. Please know you are loved by so many. Thanks for keeping us updated on how you are. (((Hugs)))
My recovery is very slow. I have only went out of my house twice to ride about 10 minutes to get to the place where our dogs are. We stayed only a few minutes and then returned home. By the time I got home I was crying and Sam had to get Heathers wheelchair to help get me in the house. Its very hard to get comfortable enough to sleep. So I sit in my glide rocker with a couple covers and the fan on. I have my feet up on a big box so that is how I have been trying to sleep.
Sorry but have to go. I will be back soon.
Love to all,
Jina and the girls
Jina wrote: "I was curious about something. Do any of you read a series that is similar to Emily's Eternity Springs? Do you mind sharing the series? I enjoy those type of books where yoj get to know the communi..."Hi Jina, I have shared a Facebook link with you for Melissa Foster e-books for several of her series, the majority of which interlink and the first in each seies is free so you good give them a try & if you don't like them you don't have to buy any more.She also publishes the same series, only a 'sweeter' version under the name of Addison Cole. I really enjoy them but that doesn't mean you will.
Have you tried any by Marie Force, I love her Gansett Island series. She also has other series, Green Mountain/Bulter Vermont, which I think is similar to Gansett. There is also a Suspense Series- Fatal which is based on two main character. I haven't read either of those two but they are on my 'To Look At List'. If you enjoy something a little more racy/kinky try her Quantum Series, which she has published in two different versions, one is tamer than the other.
Lie you I've read alot of Robyn Carr's books. Have you looked at Susan Wiggs Lakeshore Chronicles or Susan Mallery's 'Fools Gold' or 'Happily Incs' series?
If you like historical, have a look at Sephanie Laurens, I fist borrowed her earlier books from our Library.
Hope this gives you some to think about, and that you pain and mobility levels are improving.
Love to you all xx
Lola wrote: "Hi All,I feel better every day ,like Jina the itching has started. All my sutures are on the inside ,on the outside glue and tape. It is hard to use my arms because I am cut from under my arms an..."
Lola, It's good to know you are on the mend. Although you will be uncomfortable for a while, just think of how much better you will feel/look when you are fully healed. Also you will be able to have an amazing new wardrobe of clothes. Take care, slo & steady.
Love & hugs xx
Hello again -
I am feeling so far behind, I don't know where to start responding to your messages, but I appreciate all your support and kind words.
Lola and Jina - it only gets better from here. Recovering from surgery is slow and tedious, and there are always a few setbacks - mostly when we push ourselves too hard or expect too much. So take your time and let yourself heal. The end is in sight - and you will be so much better off than you were before the surgery that it will all be worth it. Just know it can take MONTHS until you truly feel like yourself again, so it takes a lot of patience. And books.
I enjoy Jill Shalvis - her "Heartbreaker Bay" series is sweet with just a hint of spice, and it's an easy, fun read.
There is also a new author who's a friend of mine - her name is Lyz Kelley, and she's written about 9 books now. She has a series based in Colorado that is reminiscent of Eternity Springs - but it isn't classified as inspirational fiction, it's contemporary romance and suspense. It's called the "Elkridge" series, and the first book, Blinded, has two characters you'll love. Like Eternity Springs, the series has that family feel that we all love. Lyz has been very encouraging to me as a newbie writer, so look her up if you're so inclined. I've reviewed each of her books so you can check out what I said about them if you want to know more.
Linda - I'm sorry you are still experiencing the worst of what PTSD has to offer. It, too, will heal over time, it takes patience, and it will - in the end - strengthen your resilience. Be gentle with yourself. I hope you enjoyed the Paramount - Ray and I have very fond memories of the theatre productions we saw there when we lived outside of Seattle. I miss the Pacific Northwest nearly every day. Especially when it's hot as Hades here.
Lesley - I hope fall has arrived in the UK and I wish I could be there to see it. I know it means rain - but right now, if it would rain here, I'd go out and dance in it! It's been over 4 months since we had a drop of anything.
Jina - I hope you didn't experience the worst of that flooding and that you are safely high and dry. I've been all over North Carolina and it's hard to wrap my head around the damage from that storm. I rode out a hurricane in Wilmington when my dad was in the Navy, stationed in Florida - when we got hit by the same hurricane THREE times! Once in Wilmington, once in Jacksonville, and then it came back up the coast again. It was many, many years ago and I thought it was funny at the time because when you're a kid, hurricanes are like big sleepovers. Now -- not so much.
I signed up for a writing conference in Pasadena at the end of October, and I hope it will help me get to "the end" - literally. It took me over a week to decide to sign up for it because I was afraid to put myself out there, alone. Mind you, I've traveled many, many places alone, but the last time I went to what I thought was going to be a great opportunity to bond with other authors, I was dead wrong. This time, I think I'm better prepared. We'll see, won't we? :-)
Talk to you soon - take care and keep in touch. Use FB messenger or email if you need me as I'm still avoiding social media like the plague.
P
I am feeling so far behind, I don't know where to start responding to your messages, but I appreciate all your support and kind words.
Lola and Jina - it only gets better from here. Recovering from surgery is slow and tedious, and there are always a few setbacks - mostly when we push ourselves too hard or expect too much. So take your time and let yourself heal. The end is in sight - and you will be so much better off than you were before the surgery that it will all be worth it. Just know it can take MONTHS until you truly feel like yourself again, so it takes a lot of patience. And books.
I enjoy Jill Shalvis - her "Heartbreaker Bay" series is sweet with just a hint of spice, and it's an easy, fun read.
There is also a new author who's a friend of mine - her name is Lyz Kelley, and she's written about 9 books now. She has a series based in Colorado that is reminiscent of Eternity Springs - but it isn't classified as inspirational fiction, it's contemporary romance and suspense. It's called the "Elkridge" series, and the first book, Blinded, has two characters you'll love. Like Eternity Springs, the series has that family feel that we all love. Lyz has been very encouraging to me as a newbie writer, so look her up if you're so inclined. I've reviewed each of her books so you can check out what I said about them if you want to know more.
Linda - I'm sorry you are still experiencing the worst of what PTSD has to offer. It, too, will heal over time, it takes patience, and it will - in the end - strengthen your resilience. Be gentle with yourself. I hope you enjoyed the Paramount - Ray and I have very fond memories of the theatre productions we saw there when we lived outside of Seattle. I miss the Pacific Northwest nearly every day. Especially when it's hot as Hades here.
Lesley - I hope fall has arrived in the UK and I wish I could be there to see it. I know it means rain - but right now, if it would rain here, I'd go out and dance in it! It's been over 4 months since we had a drop of anything.
Jina - I hope you didn't experience the worst of that flooding and that you are safely high and dry. I've been all over North Carolina and it's hard to wrap my head around the damage from that storm. I rode out a hurricane in Wilmington when my dad was in the Navy, stationed in Florida - when we got hit by the same hurricane THREE times! Once in Wilmington, once in Jacksonville, and then it came back up the coast again. It was many, many years ago and I thought it was funny at the time because when you're a kid, hurricanes are like big sleepovers. Now -- not so much.
I signed up for a writing conference in Pasadena at the end of October, and I hope it will help me get to "the end" - literally. It took me over a week to decide to sign up for it because I was afraid to put myself out there, alone. Mind you, I've traveled many, many places alone, but the last time I went to what I thought was going to be a great opportunity to bond with other authors, I was dead wrong. This time, I think I'm better prepared. We'll see, won't we? :-)
Talk to you soon - take care and keep in touch. Use FB messenger or email if you need me as I'm still avoiding social media like the plague.
P
Paula, Thank you for your encouraging words. I think I am harder on myself than anyone else could ever be. I am still fragile after this last episode. My therapist said it is common to feel this way after a severe anxiety attack. I am more quiet, easily upset, and basically want to avoid interaction with others. I know I need to venture out of my self inflicted hibernation, but I think I need to do it slowly. Good news is, we had a wonderful time at the concert. I planned the seating out well when buying the tickets so I did not feel enclosed and we still had a perfect view of the stage. For a 72 year old man, John Prine is quite spry. He actually danced off the stage at one point. Then came back and sang at least four more songs. All in all the concert was three hours long so he was on stage for two hours. As he would say "This old man was going to town."
Jina and Lola, I will write to each of you later.
Lesley,
thank you for your encouragement and I hope all is well with you.
Melinda, your kind words have meant a lot thank you. I pray you are doing well.
Brandi,
I am happy things a working out for you and life is getting easier as time goes on. It takes a while to heal from trauma, but it will continue to get better because you are striving to grasp what the future has for you in a positive way.
I hope I did not forget anyone. If I did I apologize. My memory is not up to par these days.
Love and hugs to you all.
Wow! It looks like quite a few of you have jumped back on here since I was on. Hope you are all doing well and if you were near the storms or fires are safe now. We are in CA and there have been fires all around us, but so far none in the valley so we are safe. Praying for a speedy recovery for those of you who have been ill or have recently had surgeries. I know it can be frustrating, but at least you have Emily's new book to look forward to and in the meantime there are some awesome releases coming out by authors that write similar heartwarming series that can hold you over. Also, some wonderful new Christmas stories.
Take care,
Lori
Jimnlori wrote: "Wow! It looks like quite a few of you have jumped back on here since I was on. Hope you are all doing well and if you were near the storms or fires are safe now. We are in CA and there have been fi..."Jimnlori,
so happy you are safe from the fires. It has been a terrible year in that respect. My nephew and his family were evacuated in the Redmond area but, Thank God, their home was spared.
We are having pleasant weather here in Washington State. I am so glad the heat is over. We are not used to it and we complain a lot when it comes for any length of time, lol.
My copy of Emily's new book was downloaded to my Kindle yesterday but I am waiting until everyone has their copy so I don't get too far ahead. I haven't been in much of a reading mood lately anyway so it is fine to wait. I know I will be consumed once I start reading and will finish it quickly so best to wait.
I hope you have a wonderful day.
Peace be with you, Linda
Jimnlori wrote: "Wow! It looks like quite a few of you have jumped back on here since I was on. Hope you are all doing well and if you were near the storms or fires are safe now. We are in CA and there have been fi..."
Hi, Lori! It's great to hear from you and I'm happy to hear that, like us, you've been spared the worst of the summer fire season. We were on alert, packed, and ready to go for two weeks - surrounded by the Mendocino Complex fire - but we were fortunate and the firefighters were able to stop it before it got too close. I don't know about you, but I'm so excited to see rain that when it finally falls, I swear I will go out and dance in it.
I have a stack of books waiting for me on my Kindle, but I've been out of a reading mood for a couple of weeks now. It's unusual for me - rare, even - but I think I over-saturated myself with advanced reading copies and reviews this summer, and I need to read something completely different. I'm about to start a book by Deborah Harkness that I've been waiting for almost a year. I want to finish it by the time I meet her again at a signing in Corte Madera on October 9th. I plan to lose myself in it this weekend since Ray is on call. Then I will start Emily's new story.
I'll open a discussion thread for Emily's new book - and other autumn reads - today, so please visit again soon!
Paula
Hi, Lori! It's great to hear from you and I'm happy to hear that, like us, you've been spared the worst of the summer fire season. We were on alert, packed, and ready to go for two weeks - surrounded by the Mendocino Complex fire - but we were fortunate and the firefighters were able to stop it before it got too close. I don't know about you, but I'm so excited to see rain that when it finally falls, I swear I will go out and dance in it.
I have a stack of books waiting for me on my Kindle, but I've been out of a reading mood for a couple of weeks now. It's unusual for me - rare, even - but I think I over-saturated myself with advanced reading copies and reviews this summer, and I need to read something completely different. I'm about to start a book by Deborah Harkness that I've been waiting for almost a year. I want to finish it by the time I meet her again at a signing in Corte Madera on October 9th. I plan to lose myself in it this weekend since Ray is on call. Then I will start Emily's new story.
I'll open a discussion thread for Emily's new book - and other autumn reads - today, so please visit again soon!
Paula
Linda wrote: "Jimnlori wrote: "Wow! It looks like quite a few of you have jumped back on here since I was on. Hope you are all doing well and if you were near the storms or fires are safe now. We are in CA and t..."
Hey girl - I'm glad to hear you enjoyed yourself at the concert. I just read that my husband's two favorite performers - Mick Jagger and Keith Richards - are 75 now, and it encourages me to see that they are still up there going strong too.
Like you, I've been "off" on my reading for the last week or so. I think I need to read something completely unique before I dive back into another contemporary romance novel, so I'm going to start Time's Convert, by Deborah Harkness, this weekend. I've been waiting for this companion to the All Souls Trilogy for almost a year, and Ray is on call, so I'm going to dive in tomorrow after I get a few things done around the house.
P
Hey girl - I'm glad to hear you enjoyed yourself at the concert. I just read that my husband's two favorite performers - Mick Jagger and Keith Richards - are 75 now, and it encourages me to see that they are still up there going strong too.
Like you, I've been "off" on my reading for the last week or so. I think I need to read something completely unique before I dive back into another contemporary romance novel, so I'm going to start Time's Convert, by Deborah Harkness, this weekend. I've been waiting for this companion to the All Souls Trilogy for almost a year, and Ray is on call, so I'm going to dive in tomorrow after I get a few things done around the house.
P
Hi Sisters,It is slow healing here , I just found out I have about 100 stiches or more in each breast. They also swell if I do anything even taking a shower. For me not doing things are driving me nuts. Jina has it so much worse. If this is TMI sorry. Better get my order to Walmart while I can still type. Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Hi Sisters,It is slow healing here , I just found out I have about 100 stiches or more in each breast. They also swell if I do anything even taking a shower. For me not doing things are driving m..."
Hi sweetie.
Wow I hope you feel better soon. When do you travel back to the doctor for postop check? Have you tried cool packs for your chest? There is a "home remedy" of sorts that may help you. Fill one leg of a pantyhose with the soft gel packs you can refrigerate or freeze leave enough room at the toe end of the hose to be able to tie or safety pin to the other hose leg. If you hurt or are swelled all the way around you can fill both legs with cool packs and secure it like you are wearing an panty hose inner tube ice pack. You can close where the butt is by rolling it upa couple inches and pin that as well. You will be surprised at how much relief that may bring you. Now take your medicines young lady and go rest your sweet head.
Love you,
Jina and the girls
Lola wrote: "Hi Sisters,It is slow healing here , I just found out I have about 100 stiches or more in each breast. They also swell if I do anything even taking a shower. For me not doing things are driving m..."
Ps the first time I read your post I thought it said you had a 100 inches in each breast. An image of betty boop with boobs way oug in front of her and I thought well no wonder why she cant see her feet." Lol Its comical what pain medications make you think of. :)
Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "I was curious about something. Do any of you read a series that is similar to Emily's Eternity Springs? Do you mind sharing the series? I enjoy those type of books where yoj get to kno..."Hi Sis,
Thank you for the links. I meant to comment to you earlier so I am sorry if you felt like I overlooked your post. I checked out a few of the books you recommended. My short term memory is really effected a lot by all the medications I am on. I read when I can, I am also doing a lottle writing, taking care of the 5 puppies at our house and housebreaking 3 of them for their new homes. Its been a real challenge since I am not able to bend twist lift or run, and should only sit for short periods of time. I am supposed to lay down or stand up.i am not good at being still when I see so much that needs doing. Prednisone makes me feel angry or upset all of the time. I am doing a lot of praying. So much is going on in the news and in my family it is all so overwehming at times. I hope everyone is doing well.
Love to all,
Jina
Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "I was curious about something. Do any of you read a series that is similar to Emily's Eternity Springs? Do you mind sharing the series? I enjoy those type of books where..."Hi Jina, that's okay, I hope you managed to find something interesting to read when you feel up to it. Hope your pain levels & mobility are improving.
I don't envy you taking care/training five puppies. We fetched our new member of the family home yesterday. She is an 8 week old black labrador & we have named her Poppy. Feeling a little tired today from listening for her in the night but she has been very good. I will post a photo when we mange to get a good one of her. Love to you all xx
Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "I was curious about something. Do any of you read a series that is similar to Emily's Eternity Springs? Do you mind sharing the series? I enjoy those type o..."Hi Lesley,
How precious! I love labs. They are so sweet and loving. Take lots of pictures and share please. They grow so fast. Lots of love and hugs,
Jina and the girls
Jina wrote: "Lola wrote: "Hi Sisters,It is slow healing here , I just found out I have about 100 stiches or more in each breast. They also swell if I do anything even taking a shower. For me not doing things ..."
Hi Lil Sis , What Beautiful Flowers from You and our Girls! Thank You! lol Had a good laugh about Betty Boop ! I can't use cold pacs or a heating pad. I stopped the oxy and started using my sleeping pills. Wend. I can stop sleeping on my back. I may have to keep sleeping on the sofa. We are old Hippies and still have a waterbed. I'm not sure if I can get out of it yet without hurting the "Boops " lol
It snowed here yesterday great big fat flakes but didn't last long, but was so pretty for a while . Love Lola
Jimnlori wrote: "Wow! It looks like quite a few of you have jumped back on here since I was on. Hope you are all doing well and if you were near the storms or fires are safe now. We are in CA and there have been fi..."Thank You Lori,
A little better everyday. I am one of those people who can't sit still long so that is the hardest on me, I can't even sweep the floor for a month. Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lola wrote: "Hi Sisters,It is slow healing here , I just found out I have about 100 stiches or more in each breast. They also swell if I do anything even taking a shower. For me not ..."
Hi Sis!
I am glad you enjoyed the flowers. I wish I could send you "Sissy" the only girl puppy from Shiloh's litter. She is so pretty and such a sweet soul. She and Pongo are the only puppies not to have a home yet. She is mostly housebroken. The only accident she has had was when I was too slow getting her to the back door. Anyway, I love you and hope you feel great soon.
Hugs,
Jina
Just checking in to make sure everyone is still hanging in there. It RAINED last night and I loved every second of it. The air feels so fresh and clean after a summer full of heat, dust, and smoke. I wish I could see some of those big Montana snowflakes as well. I've been watching Hallmark movies - the ones with lots of snow - to keep myself cool all summer. LOL.
I just love this time of year, with cool mornings and evenings, actual clouds in the sky that aren't smoke, the potential for rain, and the beauty of the changing leaves. I hope all of you are enjoying those little touches that signal the new season.
Speaking of fall...
Is there a recipe you love to make this time of year - or a food you look forward to, even if you can't make it right now - something that reminds you of autumn and makes you feel all cozy inside? Ray knows it's fall when I make my tried-and-true, 25-year old recipe for Brunswick Stew, and fix his favorite chili and cornbread for the first time. I haven't made either of them yet - but I'm looking forward to it when the weather gets just a bit chillier. And I am already craving apple cider - those pumpkin spice lattes don't do it for me (lactose intolerance and all...!).
Are there any other "fall traditions" that are special to you? I'm "almost" looking forward to fall cleaning and a little decorating - and cleaning out my overloaded, disorganized closet. But that's going to take more time and energy than I have at the moment. I need at least one full day to take it apart and another to put it back together,
The dog is staring at me because we're two hours late for our walk and she doesn't care that it's been raining all morning, so I'd better get her out so I can work, uninterrupted, this afternoon.
Take care, everyone, & chat soon. Message me on FB if you need me - I'm still avoiding all things political and all things social media until further notice.
xo
P
I just love this time of year, with cool mornings and evenings, actual clouds in the sky that aren't smoke, the potential for rain, and the beauty of the changing leaves. I hope all of you are enjoying those little touches that signal the new season.
Speaking of fall...
Is there a recipe you love to make this time of year - or a food you look forward to, even if you can't make it right now - something that reminds you of autumn and makes you feel all cozy inside? Ray knows it's fall when I make my tried-and-true, 25-year old recipe for Brunswick Stew, and fix his favorite chili and cornbread for the first time. I haven't made either of them yet - but I'm looking forward to it when the weather gets just a bit chillier. And I am already craving apple cider - those pumpkin spice lattes don't do it for me (lactose intolerance and all...!).
Are there any other "fall traditions" that are special to you? I'm "almost" looking forward to fall cleaning and a little decorating - and cleaning out my overloaded, disorganized closet. But that's going to take more time and energy than I have at the moment. I need at least one full day to take it apart and another to put it back together,
The dog is staring at me because we're two hours late for our walk and she doesn't care that it's been raining all morning, so I'd better get her out so I can work, uninterrupted, this afternoon.
Take care, everyone, & chat soon. Message me on FB if you need me - I'm still avoiding all things political and all things social media until further notice.
xo
P
Oh Paula I am going to be so into Fall cleaning after having not to do anything for 6 weeks. My Hubby has been so sweet trying to take care of everything but he is not me, I am a clean freak in the kitchen, now I am having to grin and bear it. Yeah today is 2 weeks I can sleep on my side, maybe if it doesn't hurt. I am getting better everyday. I am really happy with how they look ,she did great. Both the same size and shape.My favorite Fall meal is My Harvest Soup using everything from the garden , I'm glad I made a huge pot before the surgery, it was our favorite of all the meals I made ahead of time. Wolf didn't even want to add meat to it because it took away from the flavor .
Love Lola
Paula wrote: "Just checking in to make sure everyone is still hanging in there. It RAINED last night and I loved every second of it. The air feels so fresh and clean after a summer full of heat, dust, and smoke...."Hi Paula
Hope you are feeling a little more on an 'even keel' and not so pressured. Even if you are really busy, please try and find a little bit of 'me' time and do something for pleasure, read a book you don;t have to review, take the dog for a walk or spend time with Ray. Love & hugs xx
Love Lola