Emily March Fans discussion
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Paula wrote: "Hi, Lesley and Lola -Lesley, I came home feeling a bit better - the sun is out and that always helps. And even though I couldn't write while I was there, I felt like I could move in that directio..."
Dear Paula,
So sorry to hear of your granddaughters heart issues. As a mother to 2 out of 3 daughters with heart issues, I understand the worry and the anger(the "why the precious kids when they havent even grown up yet?" and the "why do bad things happen to great people?" anger) Been there, done that. If I had a quarter every time I mentally yelled at God at the unfairness of it all... well Id have a ton of quarters! I dont know if it would help but Id be glad and honored if your daughter or granddaughter wanted someone to talk to about all this. Heather also said she "would love to talk to Layla and tell her it will be ok and nothing to be afraid of." She said she could show Layla her scars and tell her it doesnt hurt anymore. She even said Layla could have her heart coloring book that Heather got when she had open heart surgery when she was almost 4 years old. She got it from the cardiologist. Heather kept it in her momento box. (I'm sure they have better and more updated coloring books now but I promised Heather I would pass on the offer from her. It means a lot to Heather to help kids. She wanted to be a physical therapist for handicapped children and photographer since she was 5 and practiced on her Dad. She would give him a neck, shoulder, back or foot rub and tell him "hold still I'm taking the ouchies away".)
Speaking of hearts, Heathers has been "misbehaving". Thank the Lord she has a pacemaker/defibrillator implanted. She has been shocked by her device over 15 times since September. The cardiologist was very concerned so we went for an echocardiogram which for the first time since her heart attack it showed signs of thickening again. She is at the top range of "mild" thickening stages. There are 3, mild moderate and severe. Dr Fairbrother is terrific and as far as we are concerned "the best!". He tried switching her to Atenolol but after checking her device a week later seen another 4 shocks had happened, he switched her back to Nadolol and upped the dosage a 5th time. Heather is not a candidate for a heart transplant ever. Her allergy to anti-rejection medications as well as her rare blood type on top of other complications with her Fabrys diagnosis makes transplant impossible. So, at the end of the day, we are just happy to have her with us for as long as God lets me keep her. And I am blessed. She is smiling, happy and enthusiastic about life 99% of the time. We do have good news to share. Heather has been practicing eatting and at least 5 days a week she eats a whole scrambled egg, and 3 times a week she eats all 4 of her chicken nuggets from MacDonalds without choking so she should pass her next swallow study that happens in April. When she passes we will be able to "officially" feed her real food. Also her doctor got her an appointment to get botox injections in her hand to help open it up more. Then she has a speech and physical therapy evaluations to see if she is able to get pool therapy as well as help with her speaking.
Im sorry I havent been on in a long time. I had shingles really bad for over a month. I couldnt believe how much a "rash" could hurt. But boy howdy! I felt like someone was sticking me with a red hot poker even in places where I didnt have a rash. Then I got strep and I've just been so damn tired.
I need to go help Michael but will post again in a few minutes.
Love and hugs to you
Jina and the girls
Jina,You have had a lot going on and to deal with. Hope the shingles are getting better. My mom and dad have both had them. It is miserable. Keeping all of you in my prayers.
Jina, It's lovely to see you posting again. So sorry you have been having a rought time & hope you are feeling a little better.Good news about Heather's eating, hope it continues to improve.
Love & hugs to you all xx
Hi All,We have been off line for 3 days because our satellite has been buried in snow ,it is crazzzzzzy here I have never seen so much snow! Melt off will not be fun ,I hope it doesn't melt too fast.
I pray everyone is doing better ! I better go my computer is slowing down again. Love Lola
Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hi, Lesley and Lola -
Lesley, I came home feeling a bit better - the sun is out and that always helps. And even though I couldn't write while I was there, I felt like I could move in..."
Hello, Jina -- I'm so sorry to hear you've had so much on your plate and it really touches me that Heather wants to help. I know it takes a long time for shingles to heal and they're so painful - Ray had a mild case of them a few years ago and it was miserable. I hope you're feeling better every day. Please give your girls a big hug for me.
Layla is doing fine with the exception of an ear infection that just won't stay gone. She has to see a specialist for that - she may need tubes put in. I hope not -- she's a tough cookie but her mother and I will be a wreck. I hope to take a quick trip out to see them as soon as I can. My broken toe is taking its time to heal, but it IS getting better - I just can't run on the thing, so trying to get through an airport doesn't sound like something I should try.
And OMG the weather all across this country! The snow that Lola's buried in, the tornados in the southeast, the incredible rain here...not a great time to travel anywhere. I hope everyone is safe, warm and dry.
Given the lousy weather, has anyone been reading a book they LOVE? I'm reading a book for review right now and it just isn't doing it for me. The storyline isn't bad -- but there are too many characters (not all seem necessary at this point) -- and too much dialogue with too little action for my taste. I need something that gets my heart pounding and my blood racing.
Stay safe everyone. Spring IS coming.
Paula
Lesley, I came home feeling a bit better - the sun is out and that always helps. And even though I couldn't write while I was there, I felt like I could move in..."
Hello, Jina -- I'm so sorry to hear you've had so much on your plate and it really touches me that Heather wants to help. I know it takes a long time for shingles to heal and they're so painful - Ray had a mild case of them a few years ago and it was miserable. I hope you're feeling better every day. Please give your girls a big hug for me.
Layla is doing fine with the exception of an ear infection that just won't stay gone. She has to see a specialist for that - she may need tubes put in. I hope not -- she's a tough cookie but her mother and I will be a wreck. I hope to take a quick trip out to see them as soon as I can. My broken toe is taking its time to heal, but it IS getting better - I just can't run on the thing, so trying to get through an airport doesn't sound like something I should try.
And OMG the weather all across this country! The snow that Lola's buried in, the tornados in the southeast, the incredible rain here...not a great time to travel anywhere. I hope everyone is safe, warm and dry.
Given the lousy weather, has anyone been reading a book they LOVE? I'm reading a book for review right now and it just isn't doing it for me. The storyline isn't bad -- but there are too many characters (not all seem necessary at this point) -- and too much dialogue with too little action for my taste. I need something that gets my heart pounding and my blood racing.
Stay safe everyone. Spring IS coming.
Paula
Hi ladies --
I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had a chance to absorb it. But I want to send her something and I have no idea what. She has a delightful, crazy sense of humor. She's not a big reader like I am. She loves to work in her community's garden, but I don't know how much of that she will be able to do during her next round of (more aggressive) chemo.
I can't even begin to tell you how much her friendship has meant to me. I know there's no way to express that with a gift, but I feel like I have to do something - there's so little I can do from so far away. I've thought about a trip to visit her and another one of our friends who lives about an hour from Nottingham - but now is not the time for that. I feel helpless.
Any thoughts??
I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had a chance to absorb it. But I want to send her something and I have no idea what. She has a delightful, crazy sense of humor. She's not a big reader like I am. She loves to work in her community's garden, but I don't know how much of that she will be able to do during her next round of (more aggressive) chemo.
I can't even begin to tell you how much her friendship has meant to me. I know there's no way to express that with a gift, but I feel like I have to do something - there's so little I can do from so far away. I've thought about a trip to visit her and another one of our friends who lives about an hour from Nottingham - but now is not the time for that. I feel helpless.
Any thoughts??
Dear Paula,I am so sorry for you and your Sister of the Heart, Marie . Do you know if she has an aerogarden ? I love mine so I can grow plants in the winter. I don't know anything about the electricity in the UK. Lesley can answer that. You can probably find one on sell this time of year. Hope this helps. Please tell her she has Prayers and Love coming from across the pond. Love Lola
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies --I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had..."
I'm so sorry to hear that Marie has bad news concerning her health. It must me a very hard thing for you to comprehend right now. I have heard you speak of how close you have become. I will keep you both in my prayers. Take care of yourself and keep us informed about Marie please.
Love Linda
I found this gift basket on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Dont-Send...
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies --I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had..."
Hi Paula, So sorry to hear about Marie. Distance is a pain at times like this, so try not to let the news pull you down too much (easier said than done I know) Hopefully you can Skye/Facetime her. The gift set Linda found on Amazon is a good idea of there is a page/site on Facebook called Live Better with Cancer who sell/suggest various gift packages. Otherwise what about a music CD or DVD of her favorite artist or a talking book.
Does she enjoy a manicure/pedicure? If so perhaps you could find out from a family member where she goes & arrange to pay for it.
Thinking about both you and Marie. Love and hugsxx
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies --I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had..."
Hi Paula,
Your Layla will feel so much better once the tubes are in her ears. Sam had to have them at 4 years old. She had so many ear infections that it was a near monthly event. Once the tubes were in her pain and infections were gone. The only 2 things that we had to change once she got her tubes was we had to get ear plugs and the silly putty type clear moldable stuff as well for when she had a bath or went swimming and we got her a nice pillow and scotch guarded her 2 pillow cases so when her ears drained it didnt ruin the pillows. We got a pillow that wasn't noisy and a flannel pillow case as well as another pillow with a soft cool pillowcase, it helped her sleep so much better. We also put a small fan on in her room at night to help with the ringing in her ears. As long as the fan was going it drowned out the ringing that gave her headaches. I hope those tips help. We send you all prayers for healing and no more pain or anxiety.
Love you!
Jina and the girls
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies --I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had..."
Hi again,
I am sorry to hear about your friend. Does she like adult coloring books? Those could be fun, especially the ones with sayings on them and that would keep her hands busy and mind occupied while getting treatments or after treatments when she is trying to relax. Another idea I had was an mp3 player and you could get it on amazon and download songs on it for her. Sam knows a website where you can get all the songs you want for free. The only semi-annoying thing about the site is that after 5 or so songs you have to watch an advertisement before downloading more. I could also send a data cd or thumb drive that we have saved over 3000 songs of all types of music that you could use to transfer songs to an mp3 or mp4 player. The mp4 can have pictures, videos, books etc saved on it. They are lifesavers for me and the kids and help so much during car rides or waiting at doctor appointments.
Another idea is if she likes to crochet or knit you could send some yarn and needles or hooks to along with sing her up for her to receive emails of free patterns. I get an email every other day with free projects across all skill levels for her to choose her project from. I also know word finds and suduko books are fun for the girls when they dont feel well.
My last idea is one Sam just reminded me of. I really loved the devotional/bible study for women with journal. I really liked one that is greenish blue in color with a lighthouse on it. I will find it an amazon and messenger a picture of it to you.
The weather is crazy right now but signs of spring coming is popping up all over outside. We have grass turning green, little green buds on some trees and daffodils are everywhere.
I love you!
Jina
Ps. I have been reading a lot I just finished Darynda Jones First Grave on the Right. It was so funny and entertaining. I also loved Jim and Joyce Lavenes "Retired Witches mystery series" (three books), Fern Michaels Sisterhood last 2 books, Janet Chapmans "Charming the Highlander" and Ellery Adams "Pecan pies and Alibis" (loved that book!!! I hated when it was over. Christine Feehans "Shadow Rider", Shadow Reaper etc.... series is really cool too. I could go on and on but these are some of my favorites I have read lately. :)
hi, everyone...
Sorry I dropped out of sight for a few days. There's a lot going on around me, and it got a little overwhelming. And thank you for the thoughtful gift ideas! I'm going to do a little online shopping tomorrow, now that my latest paycheck has arrived.
I did some reading over the weekend - finished a romantic suspense series that I loved. It was such an intelligent, complex, sometimes heart-stopping story - but definitely in the erotic romance category, so probably not ideal for sharing in the group. I also have a couple of new reads for reviews, but I'm not thrilled with them. I'm halfway through the first one and I cannot bring myself to care about the characters. I hate to say that, but after 50%, I should feel something -- but no.
We are finally free of the rain for the next several days. Honestly, I don't mind the rain (except for the fact that it tends to drive the ants inside to higher ground and I HATE ants). Once late May/early June gets here, we won't see any rain again for months, and wildfire season cranks up again...
I don't know about you, but as much as I love the spring I am not a big fan of Daylight Saving Time. I always have a few days of feeling like I'm in a fog -- and today was just plain crazy. Ray has a bad case of bronchitis, and won't stay home to take care of himself, so he's grumpy....so, so grumpy. I'm hoping he keeps his germs to himself and that he recovers quickly. I just wish he would stay home for even one day -- I'm afraid he is just making his situation worse. But....men.
I hope everyone is healthy - and starting to see some spring here and there, wherever you are.
Take care,
Paula
Sorry I dropped out of sight for a few days. There's a lot going on around me, and it got a little overwhelming. And thank you for the thoughtful gift ideas! I'm going to do a little online shopping tomorrow, now that my latest paycheck has arrived.
I did some reading over the weekend - finished a romantic suspense series that I loved. It was such an intelligent, complex, sometimes heart-stopping story - but definitely in the erotic romance category, so probably not ideal for sharing in the group. I also have a couple of new reads for reviews, but I'm not thrilled with them. I'm halfway through the first one and I cannot bring myself to care about the characters. I hate to say that, but after 50%, I should feel something -- but no.
We are finally free of the rain for the next several days. Honestly, I don't mind the rain (except for the fact that it tends to drive the ants inside to higher ground and I HATE ants). Once late May/early June gets here, we won't see any rain again for months, and wildfire season cranks up again...
I don't know about you, but as much as I love the spring I am not a big fan of Daylight Saving Time. I always have a few days of feeling like I'm in a fog -- and today was just plain crazy. Ray has a bad case of bronchitis, and won't stay home to take care of himself, so he's grumpy....so, so grumpy. I'm hoping he keeps his germs to himself and that he recovers quickly. I just wish he would stay home for even one day -- I'm afraid he is just making his situation worse. But....men.
I hope everyone is healthy - and starting to see some spring here and there, wherever you are.
Take care,
Paula
Hi, hope everyone is doing ok. Like Jina, because of the weather, cold, wet and windy at the moment with us here in UK; I'm doing quiet a lot of reading. Bob was listening to the radio and heard about a book he thought I might like to read by a new author to me. I checked her out on Google & then had a look to see if my local Library carried any of her books. Her name is Kate Mosse & she lives in the UK & France. Luckily I was able to get several of her books from the Library, her new book 'Burning Chambers' & a Trilogy Labyrinth, Sepulchre & Citadel. If you are interested in Religious history, they are a mixture of fiction based on historical fact from 12th century through to present times. Not to everyones taste but I thought I would give them a try & see how I got on. They are book that you have to concentrate on but surprisingly I'm finding them quiet interesting.I am also a member of a Jude Deveraux Reading Group on Facebook where we are reading Rememberance this Month. I usually love her books but I haven't read this one before & I'm finding it a bit hard going, don't know why but I'll persever with it.
I have also read Melissa Foster's latest book 'Bayside Escape', book 4 in her Bayside Summers Series. I love her books.
Also Duchess by Deception, an Historical novel by Marie Force, which is a different genere for her.
Anyway I better close for now & get some jobs done. Talk soon.
Love & hugs to everyone.
Hi All, I had my last check up with my Surgeon today, passed with flying colors ! I can now get my mamo, yea ,not. But it will be fun seeing the tech's face who has done my mamo for over 10 years, she is going to be surprised. I just hope it will not hurt worse. I am listening to a series from one of my faves Cleo Coyle , a husband and wife team that also write the Coffeehouse series. This one is about a bookstore with a ghost. Just started so will have to let you know how I like it. Love Lola
Hi Everyone is doing ok.Just popped in to say that I have managed to pre-order Emily's new book JACKSON, due out in June on Kobo UK. That's a first to me I usually have to wait ages to manage that. Looking forward to a new book from Emily to talk about with you all.
Take care
Love Lesley x
Hi Lesley,I am just praying for no more snow , we still have places in the yard with at least 3 feet of snow. It is melting but I am ready for it to be all gone.
I haven't heard about the new book is it a stand alone novel or part of Eternity Springs?
Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Hi Lesley,I am just praying for no more snow , we still have places in the yard with at least 3 feet of snow. It is melting but I am ready for it to be all gone.
I haven't heard about the new bo..."
Hi Lola,
I hope your snow soon disappears and that you are keeping well otherwise.
We have had a fairly mild winter this year with very little snow where we live in Lincolnshire. Other parts of the Country have had more. I hope this isn't a sign for a poor summer as we usually have to 'pay' for having a mild winter; I hope not.
Here is the 'blurb' from the new book.
Jackson (The McBrides of Texas #1; Eternity Springs #16)
Sometimes it takes a new beginning
Caroline Carruthers married young to a much-older man. Now that he's gone, she's lost...until she dares to chase a dream all on her own. Moving to Redemption, Texas, is chapter one in Caroline's new life story. Opening a bookstore is the next. Finding love is the last thing on her mind as she settles into this new place called home. But when she meets a handsome, soulful man who's also starting over, all bets are off.
to reach a happily-ever-after
Jackson McBride came to Redemption looking only to find himself, not someone to love. Ever since his marriage ended, he's been bitter. Sure, he used to believe in love--he even has the old song lyrics to prove it--but the Jackson of today is all business. That is, until a beautiful young widow who's moved to town inspires a change of heart. Could it be that the myth of Redemption's healing magic is true...and Jackson and Caroline can find a second chance at a happy ending after all?
Take care
Love Lesley x
Lesley wrote: "Hi Everyone is doing ok.Just popped in to say that I have managed to pre-order Emily's new book JACKSON, due out in June on Kobo UK. That's a first to me I usually have to wait ages to manage that..."
Hi Lesley,
I have pre-ordered it as well. I saw it while I was looking on Amazon and placed my order. It seems like forever since we had a book from Emily to read. I am looking forward to it.
Glad you had a mild winter. It has been colder than normal here. Seems like the weather is crazy all over the world right now.
I wish people would take global warming seriously but when you have a government leader who does not believe in it, well, it is not a priority. I do what I can so I guess that's all I can hope for at the moment. I am hoping for a new administration in 2020 that is more concerned about our earth and it's people than money and power. It's all in God's hands now so there you are.
I am beginning to make grocery shopping bags from the sacks our chicken feed comes in. I think I will like them. They are larger than the ones I have now. Our city is banning plastic throw away shopping bags and making business use paper, which they charge you for. I figure I can recycle my feed bags and save money at the same time. I really dislike those plastic bags from the grocery any way. I saw online the other day where a lady from Germany knitted a complete outfit, skirt, jacket, and purse out of those plastic bags. My first thought was how itchy they would be. lol. Maybe she lined it with fabric. I don't know how you would clean it though.
Sorry, I am rambling.
I hope you have a great week.
Take care,
Linda Manthey
Hi Linda, you are right about the new book, global warming and politics. Our government is in a state as well at the moment about Brexit. I just wish the individual MPs would get on and carry out the wishes of the Country from the results of the Democratic vote instead of all the stalling. We can still use plastic shopping bags but also have a buy them. I have bought and use proper reusable ones. Now I’ll stop rambling on and go to bed. Hope you’re keeping well. Love Lesley x
I always take my own bags ,I love the bags I have bought at Costco, they are huge. Wolf put some photos on facebook today with the snow we still have left. Thankfully it has warmed up a lot getting into the 50's today ,lol that is above zero . I can't believe last month we did have -40's. I will have to check and see if Emily's book will be on Audible if not I will have to get the ebook.
Love Lola
Hi ladies!Gosh I sure miss you all. Its been a trying winter so I am glad spring has sprung. I just wanted to pop in and see how you all are doing. I hope you guys are getting warmer and are healthy. Paula has been sick for weeks and even went to the Emergency Room a couple times. I anxiously await any more news on how she is feeling. Let's all say extra prayers for her and her family.
Meanwhile, I sent you all hugs and well wishes. We shall overcome this cold winter with a bright and happy spring. Positive attitude is key!
Hugs to all!!!
Love you bunches,
Jina and the girls
Yes, I am very excited for Spring. I have been working in the yard today hoping to salvage some of the plants that did fare so well over the winter months. I lost one Rhododendron bush my hosta plants. I bought some plants yesterday but I need to clean up the old dead one and add some new soil before I plant them. We have had such a beautiful weekend. The sun shining and warm I hate to think of the rain returning at the end of the week but such is life in the Pacific Northwest. I too hope that everyone is doing well and thawing out from this crazy winter we have just endured.
I am hopeful we will all have opportunity to begin posting again and discussing our various subject matter soon. I have pre-ordered Emily's new book that is due out in June and I am looking forward to discussing it with you all.
Have a good day everyone
I have "A Discovery of Witches " set to record ,I hope it is as good as the book!, which I am going to listen to again next.The snow is melting ,my garden is snow free .Now I have to wait for it to dry out a little before I do the clean up, I usually do that in the Fall but had to put it off because of the surgery . I am really ready to play in the dirt.
Linda do you use peat moss it is great in flower bed it fluffs up the soil and helps keep everything moist. I use it for a mulch too because you can work it back into the soil.
Love Lola
I am loving that spring if finally here! I hate having winter in my birthday month. Right now working and my son is sitting across from me due to having to be out of daycare due to a fever. His flu shot helped make it more of a 24-36 hr bug instead of worse. Thank goodness. Hoping everyone feels better soon!love brandi
Lola wrote: "I have "A Discovery of Witches " set to record ,I hope it is as good as the book!, which I am going to listen to again next.The snow is melting ,my garden is snow free .Now I have to wait for it ..."
I spent the day working in my front yard. I have not been very active in the care of the yard since my breakdown two years ago, but I am feeling more like getting out and playing in the dirt now days. My poor rhododendron bushes have been neglected so that I am afraid I have lost one. The other two are looking pretty sad. I pruned the one I think may be gone way back and I will wait and see if it comes back. If not I will remove it and replace it with something else. The evergreen bushes were a mess. All the undergrowth was dead and I started trying to trim it back. I went a little crazy and now it is very small but I think it needed to be cut down and closer to the ground because it had become flat and very wide. I know it will come back and I will keep it trimmed to a better size. the other evergreen bush is a mess. I have not attempted to trim it yet. It is supposed to rain tomorrow and I wanted to get the weeds pulled out from around the cherry tree.
No, Lola, I have never tried peat moss in my garden. I bought some bulbs to plant so I may give it a try. I need to get them in right away though or it will be too late. They say to plant early Spring so I will get to that after the rain clears up this weekend.
I am finding I really like working in the front garden beds. I can see immediate change and it makes me feel like I have accomplished something.
Dave is doing some work in the back yard so I will probably wait until he is done before working out there. I have enough to do in the front to keep me busy for a while.
Anybody else have the itch to get into the garden? Let us know what you are planning and how it is going. It will be fun.
Take care everyone.
Linda M.
Lola wrote: "I have "A Discovery of Witches " set to record ,I hope it is as good as the book!, which I am going to listen to again next.
The snow is melting ,my garden is snow free .Now I have to wait for it ..."
Hi, Lola! I LOVED the Discovery of Witches TV series. For the most part, I thought they stayed faithful to the book, and I loved the lead and secondary actors, the settings -- all of it. And it's been renewed for another season, so Book 2, Shadow of Night, will be available as well. I saw that it was nominated for an award in the UK - it didn't win, but still, to be nominated is fantastic. I also love the fact that Deborah Harkness has had so much influence in the screenplays and the filming. Nothing could ever be as amazing as the books because our imaginations are so much more powerful, and they're not limited by the time and other constraints of screenplays. I think the All Souls Trilogy will forever be my favorite series, because it's the books that started me reading again after years of neglect. I hope you enjoyed watching it and am eager to hear your opinion.
Paula
The snow is melting ,my garden is snow free .Now I have to wait for it ..."
Hi, Lola! I LOVED the Discovery of Witches TV series. For the most part, I thought they stayed faithful to the book, and I loved the lead and secondary actors, the settings -- all of it. And it's been renewed for another season, so Book 2, Shadow of Night, will be available as well. I saw that it was nominated for an award in the UK - it didn't win, but still, to be nominated is fantastic. I also love the fact that Deborah Harkness has had so much influence in the screenplays and the filming. Nothing could ever be as amazing as the books because our imaginations are so much more powerful, and they're not limited by the time and other constraints of screenplays. I think the All Souls Trilogy will forever be my favorite series, because it's the books that started me reading again after years of neglect. I hope you enjoyed watching it and am eager to hear your opinion.
Paula
Hello, everyone - It felt so good to catch up on group news today and hear about how spring is finally arriving in our group world. We have had a blessedly wet winter and hopefully drought won't be as much of a concern as in past years; I also hope it helps forestall the fire season; I always dread when the clouds go away for months at a time. Growing up in Virginia, we had clouds year-round. But seriously, in our part of California, we can go for weeks at a time between June and October without seeing a single cloud - of any kind. We are due for more rain at the end of this week, but I swore after last summer's wildfires I would never complain about the rain again, and I won't. I DO wish it didn't drive the ants indoors, but other than that, bring it on. :-)
As Jina pointed out, I've been sicker in the last three weeks than I've been at any point in the last five years. Two trips to the ER with a viral infection that decided to convert to a bacterial one, two full weeks in bed, too sick to read, write, work, eat, or do anything but drink as much water and tea as possible and take every decongestant and cough medicine available over the counter. Then 10 days of antibiotics, which ends tonight.
From what I can understand, this particular virus hits all ages the same way - fast, hard, relentless, and long-lasting. So while I felt like my age was catching up with me, I've been assured that everyone else felt the same way, until it ran its course.
I finally finished one new book, called Meet Cute, by Helena Hunting. I enjoyed it because it was both light-hearted AND emotional. I ordered Emily's new book this morning. It's listed as Eternity Springs #16, but it's set in Texas (as you can see from the blurb), so I'm looking forward to it. I agree it feels like it's been too long since we had a book to talk about together.
I have one more book I have to read for a review, besides the one I just finished (that one releases next week). I've read one other book by the author, and I wasn't overly thrilled with it, but I made the commitment so I will stick with it. I agreed to read this one before I read the first one in the series - something I probably won't do again. There's nothing wrong with the writing, I've just gotten so much more "picky" about what thrills me in a book. I may need to switch genres and take a break from romance, but my to-be-read pile says otherwise.
I'm rambling and should go. I have to drive to Sacramento today to attend a workshop for the next couple of days. It's the first time I've left the house without being driven somewhere in THREE WEEKS. That's some sort of record for an independent brat like me. I'm sure my husband will enjoy some alone time after we've both been under the weather for literally the entire month of March.
I hope you are all well and that spring brings you many wonderful, uplifting surprises. Keep us posted!
Paula
As Jina pointed out, I've been sicker in the last three weeks than I've been at any point in the last five years. Two trips to the ER with a viral infection that decided to convert to a bacterial one, two full weeks in bed, too sick to read, write, work, eat, or do anything but drink as much water and tea as possible and take every decongestant and cough medicine available over the counter. Then 10 days of antibiotics, which ends tonight.
From what I can understand, this particular virus hits all ages the same way - fast, hard, relentless, and long-lasting. So while I felt like my age was catching up with me, I've been assured that everyone else felt the same way, until it ran its course.
I finally finished one new book, called Meet Cute, by Helena Hunting. I enjoyed it because it was both light-hearted AND emotional. I ordered Emily's new book this morning. It's listed as Eternity Springs #16, but it's set in Texas (as you can see from the blurb), so I'm looking forward to it. I agree it feels like it's been too long since we had a book to talk about together.
I have one more book I have to read for a review, besides the one I just finished (that one releases next week). I've read one other book by the author, and I wasn't overly thrilled with it, but I made the commitment so I will stick with it. I agreed to read this one before I read the first one in the series - something I probably won't do again. There's nothing wrong with the writing, I've just gotten so much more "picky" about what thrills me in a book. I may need to switch genres and take a break from romance, but my to-be-read pile says otherwise.
I'm rambling and should go. I have to drive to Sacramento today to attend a workshop for the next couple of days. It's the first time I've left the house without being driven somewhere in THREE WEEKS. That's some sort of record for an independent brat like me. I'm sure my husband will enjoy some alone time after we've both been under the weather for literally the entire month of March.
I hope you are all well and that spring brings you many wonderful, uplifting surprises. Keep us posted!
Paula
Paula wrote: "Hello, everyone - It felt so good to catch up on group news today and hear about how spring is finally arriving in our group world. We have had a blessedly wet winter and hopefully drought won't be..."Glad that you are feeling better Paula. It takes a while to completely recover.
Melinda wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hello, everyone - It felt so good to catch up on group news today and hear about how spring is finally arriving in our group world. We have had a blessedly wet winter and hopefully dr..."
Thanks, Melinda. It really, really does.
Thanks, Melinda. It really, really does.
Just checking in to see how everyone is doing. I am feeling better since my medication adjustment. It is Spring so allergy season is upon us now and I also had to begin taking my allergy meds again today. Hopefully I will be able to get back out into the garden this weekend if the rain lets up. Seems like the guys have been working on cars for weeks now. We were down to just my car one day but they got two more running on Tuesday so things are looking up.
I am trying to stay busy but so far I have lots of plans and no action. lol, I really need to do something about that.😊
Hope everyone is well. Have a great day.
Linda wrote: "Just checking in to see how everyone is doing. I am feeling better since my medication adjustment. It is Spring so allergy season is upon us now and I also had to begin taking my allergy meds again..."Glad that you are doing better and the guys were able to get two more cars running. Allergy season has been hard here as well. Things seem to take longer to get done for some reason . I am working on de-cluttering my room and the books. We are trying to do that we the rest of the house as well. Looking forward to Emily's new book which I have pre-ordered.
Emily is hosting a Goodreads Giveaway for her upcoming book, Jackson! She has 100 copies from her publisher to give away. Here's the link - copy and paste in your browser if need be. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Hi ,I got to play in the dirt today and my body is letting me know about it ;>) Last year you know we built the raised beds this year I am working on the pathways, digging up the damn grass that I can never get rid of ! I am putting down cardboard then mulching straw over that. I can tell you one thing I love gardening with my new "store bought boobs" as Wolf calls them. It is so much easier ,wish I had done it years ago!
Hope everyone is doing ok. Glad to hear you got your meds taken care of Linda. I know what you mean about the rain ,we had snow again yesterday and today sunny and 60 ,crazy time of year.
Everyone take care ! Love Lola
Doing ok here. Still trying to get rid of a cough I have had since February. Getting ready for kindergarten round up and T-ball for my son. I can't believe he will be in kindergarten this fall.
Good to hear from you Brandi ! Sorry about the cough , have you checked if you have a sinus infection ? That is why I get coughing fits. Don't our kid grow up fast, mine will be , OMG mine will be 47 in Oct.Wolf and I love the Little Leagues play-off games and the L.L. World Series ,we watch the games every year.
I had better hit the garden. Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Hi ,
I got to play in the dirt today and my body is letting me know about it ;>) Last year you know we built the raised beds this year I am working on the pathways, digging up the damn grass that I..."
I admire your determination and gardening instincts. Our yard is so overgrown it looks like the Serengeti. It's just been too wet to do anything and it's getting worse by the day. Ray is a bigger procrastinator than I am, but I am allergic to freshly cut grass and break out all over when I try to mow it, so I told him he either has to do it, or hire someone to do it next week.
This week we are going to Napa for the weekend - we have a tasting event over there and Ray wanted to get away after a long week. We are having Easter dinner with our son and daughter-in-law in Sacramento -- she's due to deliver their first child almost ANY day now, so it could be exciting over there.
AND at long last I've started writing again - at least 250 words a day, but two days ago I hit over 2500. The muse was chatting up a storm. I hope it continues - the first draft is SO close to being done.
Hope everyone is well and enjoying spring - will check in again soon.
P
I got to play in the dirt today and my body is letting me know about it ;>) Last year you know we built the raised beds this year I am working on the pathways, digging up the damn grass that I..."
I admire your determination and gardening instincts. Our yard is so overgrown it looks like the Serengeti. It's just been too wet to do anything and it's getting worse by the day. Ray is a bigger procrastinator than I am, but I am allergic to freshly cut grass and break out all over when I try to mow it, so I told him he either has to do it, or hire someone to do it next week.
This week we are going to Napa for the weekend - we have a tasting event over there and Ray wanted to get away after a long week. We are having Easter dinner with our son and daughter-in-law in Sacramento -- she's due to deliver their first child almost ANY day now, so it could be exciting over there.
AND at long last I've started writing again - at least 250 words a day, but two days ago I hit over 2500. The muse was chatting up a storm. I hope it continues - the first draft is SO close to being done.
Hope everyone is well and enjoying spring - will check in again soon.
P
The wind got me today , I really wanted to clean out more of the garden but it kept blowing in my face so "I took my rake and went home" lol My seedling tomatoes are all doing good , I will transplant them into bigger containers next week, I always use 1/2 gallon paper milk cartons. Then into the greenhouse the first week in May.I am happy you are writing again , I really want to know what happens! Love Lola
Good afternoon ladies.I have had a very busy day. Dave took me to breakfast this morning over by the little airport here. You can sit at the window and watch the little planes take off and land. It is peaceful and we like it.
Then we went to Fred Meyers and got some potting soil. I planted some of my flowers out front and made four hanging pots for the front of the house. I went back to Fred Meyer because they have a table set up today for advice from Master Gardeners and I wanted to get some help with determining what is wrong with my rhododendrons. I took leaf samples and they told me they have a lace wing bug infestation. It only happens to them when they are in full sunlight, I guess, but mine don't get full day sun so I am confused. Anyway I have to spray them from underneath with a full force nozzle a few days a week to try and remove the nits that adhere to the bottom of the leaves. I really don't want to use insecticide if I don't have to.
I hope to have a lovely array of flowering blooms in a few weeks.
I just love spring. Everything is coming to life anew and it just makes me happy, until the allergies set in, but that is part of life so I will take my allergy pills and not complain.
Hope you all have a blessed Easter Sunday. I am going to cook a ham and feed all my guys, plus my future daughter-in-law. It is so nice to have another female in the house after all these years of being out numbered by men. I am blessed though. My boys take good care of me and I couldn't love them more. Wish you all were closer so I could give you some eggs. Lord have mercy, I have at least six dozen right now. I will have to make deviled eggs tomorrow. Some how that just doesn't seem right, "deviled" eggs on Easter Sunday. I will have to think of another name for them lol. " Resurrection Eggs". There you go. That's what they will be. lol Have a great night.
Happy Easter Everyone! Hope you are having a nice day.
Hi Melinda,We had a wet Easter here, I hope yours was better.
Lola wrote: "Hi Melinda,We had a wet Easter here, I hope yours was better."
Hi, Lola,
We had a sunny day. It was nice and quiet here. I cooked brunch for Mom, Dad and me. Hope You and Wolf had a good day despite the rain.
Hi, hope everyone has/had a great Easter.We spent Saturday & Sunday with our son John & his fmily over in Doncaster. Back home today. Weather great.
Lesley wrote: "Hi, hope everyone has/had a great Easter.We spent Saturday & Sunday with our son John & his family over in Doncaster. Back home today. Weather great."
Lesley,
Glad that you were able to spend time with John and his family. Now you can rest from the trip.
Hi, all - Nice to hear from all of you about your Easter celebrations and springtime pursuits. We went to Napa last weekend and then up to Sacramento for Easter dinner with our son and daughter-in-law, who are about to become parents any day now. It was a busy weekend and I still feel like I need to make our own Easter dinner here at home - but as always, the cupboard needs a refill first.
We have a couple of exciting problems. First, we have an enormous bulge under the hardwood floor in our dining area, extending to our great room. We have no idea what the heck is under there, but we're assuming it's water from one of the many deluges we've had this very wet winter. We've notified our insurance carrier and they will be sending someone out to assess it. But I can tell you...it's bad. Like replace the hardwood bad.
AND on the east coast, our granddaughter needs her adenoids removed and ear tubes placed; it's scheduled for May 31st so I'm planning to make a quick trip out there to be with my girls for the procedure and initial recovery. It's a quick outpatient procedure, BUT with Layla's mitral regurgitation, she needs to get clearance from the cardiologist first. That's scheduled for May 16th. April flew by, and I suspect that May will too.
Ray is off this week and we are up to our ears in projects - excluding the crazy floor problem, which will take priority once we get the estimate and find a decent contractor. Every time we think we're finally going to fix our kitchen and our bathroom, and paint the house, and re-do the landscaping, something MUCH bigger happens. So we will soldier on and pray there's enough left over to fix this place up for sale. I'm over all this homeowner stuff, to be honest - ready to downsize and go home.
Take care - check in when you can - and God bless,
P
We have a couple of exciting problems. First, we have an enormous bulge under the hardwood floor in our dining area, extending to our great room. We have no idea what the heck is under there, but we're assuming it's water from one of the many deluges we've had this very wet winter. We've notified our insurance carrier and they will be sending someone out to assess it. But I can tell you...it's bad. Like replace the hardwood bad.
AND on the east coast, our granddaughter needs her adenoids removed and ear tubes placed; it's scheduled for May 31st so I'm planning to make a quick trip out there to be with my girls for the procedure and initial recovery. It's a quick outpatient procedure, BUT with Layla's mitral regurgitation, she needs to get clearance from the cardiologist first. That's scheduled for May 16th. April flew by, and I suspect that May will too.
Ray is off this week and we are up to our ears in projects - excluding the crazy floor problem, which will take priority once we get the estimate and find a decent contractor. Every time we think we're finally going to fix our kitchen and our bathroom, and paint the house, and re-do the landscaping, something MUCH bigger happens. So we will soldier on and pray there's enough left over to fix this place up for sale. I'm over all this homeowner stuff, to be honest - ready to downsize and go home.
Take care - check in when you can - and God bless,
P
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies --I need suggestions for a gift to send my friend, Marie, in the UK. She just got some devastating news about her medical condition, which she's asked me to keep private until she's had..."
Hello Paula
I hope you are doing well. How is your family? How is your friend Marie doing? Did you figure out a way to support her? You asked us for ideas a while back on ways to cheer her up, what did you end up doing?
Much love from the girls and I
Hi All,Nothing much happening here, it has been so windy I can't do much in the garden. My seedling tomatoes are doing good, I will need to transplant them into bigger containers soon. I use paper 1/2 gallon iced coffee cartons. I got my seed potatoes yesterday.
Paula , I am sorry about the floor, are you wanting to move back to Virginia? I don't blame you for wanting to be closer to Family. Funny story about my Family, my Nieces are opening a private retirement home in Texas and they told me I have a room if I need it. ;>) Love Lola
Hi all! Jina, I donated to a cancer charity in the UK, basically “sponsoring” Marie when she shaved her head. She looks beautiful and I’m so proud of her. She has a long, uphill road ahead...her initial chemo had no effect on her cancer, and it has metastasized. She’s trying a new treatment now. I think of her every day and pray for a miracle. She deserves one. I’ve never met anyone I respect more.
Lola, our floors are a total disaster. I can’t believe it. I hope our insurance will help out with the claim, because I’m sure we’re going to have to replace the hardwood floor and the sub-flooring, too. I’ve never seen anything like it. This is another situation where I tend to believe it could only happen to us. :-/ we can actually trip over the bulge in our dining room. *eye roll*
And, yes, I want to move back to Virginia when we retire...we expect to do that in about three years. Ray is on board with the idea and I love him all the more for it. I miss my “home” every day, but I still enjoy our life here.
I’ve written every day this week! I’m so excited. At this rate I should be able to finish the first draft of my novel by the end of June...and the real fun begins. *eye roll #2*
Love you guys!
P
Lola, our floors are a total disaster. I can’t believe it. I hope our insurance will help out with the claim, because I’m sure we’re going to have to replace the hardwood floor and the sub-flooring, too. I’ve never seen anything like it. This is another situation where I tend to believe it could only happen to us. :-/ we can actually trip over the bulge in our dining room. *eye roll*
And, yes, I want to move back to Virginia when we retire...we expect to do that in about three years. Ray is on board with the idea and I love him all the more for it. I miss my “home” every day, but I still enjoy our life here.
I’ve written every day this week! I’m so excited. At this rate I should be able to finish the first draft of my novel by the end of June...and the real fun begins. *eye roll #2*
Love you guys!
P
Hello everyone,I have had few quite productive days. I am working to redo the gardens in the front of he house. Oh my, what a mess. Everything was overgrown and a couple of the plants were not salvageable. I was so sad to have to dig up one of my Rhododendrons. I talked to my neighbor and he said it had been there for probable thirty years and it was just gone. Not even a leaf on the whole bush, just bare wood. I could have cut it way back and waited to see if it would come back but being in the front of the house it was just to ugly to let it stay. I still have two more out there so it will be okay. I decided to plant my blueberry bushes where it was. I also removed a dead juniper bush and there is one more that is going to go as well. I hate juniper bushes, they are so ugly and don't go with the plants that are already there. They planted too many plants in that area and they are overcrowded and have grown into one another. I now have easy access to the water spout and the plants won't be competing for nutrients in the soil. My Bing cherry tree is just loaded with blooms. I am so happy. I love cherries. In the backyard, my wisterias are beginning to bloom. I just love them. I was afraid the one was gone last year but it has come back and will be small but is blooming. Dave is putting in a new fence for the chickens and to keep the dog away from the fence separating our house from the neighbors. They have a little dog and she and Lucy bark at one another. Lucy is very territorial and can get quite boisterous and assertive in her barking. The owner of the little dog has become quite vocal about it and squirts Lucy with the water hose when she barks. All the work I had done with her to get her to come when I called her in went down the drain. So we will start over when the new fence is in. By the time Summer gets here we should have the house looking good.
I am tired and sore but feeling good about accomplishing something that is visually noticeable. I can see what I have done and be proud of the finished product.
Hi Paula,Sorry about the floor problem. I hope things work out with the insurance company. We have a similar problem with out deck out back. Dave bought lumber to fix the boards that were damaged and found that when they built the deck they put it over the top of a cement stoop where the side door is. He said they only put thin one inch strips of wood down to nail the board : to and the water pooled underneath and rotted the wood. They did a bad job when they put it up because they did not use treated wood and just painted the surface instead of sealing it. When we can, Dave is going to replace all of the damaged boards and sand and seal the whole thing. It will look nice when it's done.
It is good that you feel the call to move home to your native state. I don't feel that way about where I grew up. When I think of going home it is usually to Spokane where we moved when we left California 24 years ago. California just doesn't feel like home even though I was raised there and lived there until I was in my mid thirties. I just am not a city girl and love nature too much to live there again. I grew up in Orange County and watched go from strawberry fields to housing tracts. Big shopping centers and businesses. My friends have told me that I would not recognize it now because Huntington Beach has been transformed into a big resort area and all of the old historic hangouts have been torn down and replaced with huge hotels and trendy shops. I just don't have any desire to return there. Most of my friends have moved away as well and none of my family lives there anymore. I only regret that I was unable to take my boys to Disneyland when they were young but that can be an adventure they can have on their own as adults if they want to go. I grew up with it so close it has happy memories for me. We used to climb onto the roof of my friends house when we were kids to watch the fireworks at night. When we lived in Anaheim after Dave and I were married we only had to stand I the front yard because we were about a mile away. Every night at 9:00 all the car alarms on the street would go off because of the fireworks going off. You couldn't put the kids to bed too early during the summer because they had to go out and watch them go off. Different time, different world. I think those apartments are gone now. Disney bought up all the land when they expanded. We left right about the time they were beginning to board up the houses to make way for the freeway expansion and offramp for Disney. Ha, Ha, I remember watching the coverage of O.J. Simson and his famous car chase on TV and seeing it go right by our area. Wow. That was a long time ago. I'm getting tired and rambling. Got to go to bed.
Have a great day tomorrow.
Love and hugs,
Linda.
I am so glad you are safe! It was crazy looking on tv ! I think we are on the way to a record snow fall , melt off is going to be just as crazy! I went walking in the backyard and the level part of the yard was mid-thigh high, the drifts are at least waist high. I was panting by the time I got back inside. I made a video of Wolf plowing the driveway and he put it on facebook, I will have to share it.
You stay dry ! Love Lola