Emily March Fans discussion
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Random Thoughts & Ideas
Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy year BUT at Thanksgiving one of the things I am most thankful for is this group. Y'all have picked me up, pulled me out of the Abyss, and made some really truly hard days turn around to be ending knowing it will get better and that I am not alone. There are things that I can't or wont share with my friends locally but I can always share with you guys. Inevitably you all circle the wagons, send me delightful ecards (thanks Lola) or scripture verses (thanks Linda) and caring confidence (Thank you Lesley, Paula, Emily and the list goes on). Thank you for being my family, a sisterhood that I belong to when sometimes I feel I dont especially fit in different places. You guys are awesome and I am glad that I can pop in and leave a quote or happy thought to show you I care and I want you all happy and healthy.Love,
Jina
Hi group,If anyone is interested in true stories and historical stories I have a recommendation for you. Its kind of like Little House on the Prarie meets the Donner party without the cannibalism. In fact an episode of Little House on the Prarie was about this tale. Its the blizzard of 1888. It takes place close to my hometown and is actually set where my girls grandfather on their fathers side lived and made a homestead. Its called "The Children's Blizzard" by David Laskin. Its a story of a teachers strength and a towns trying to survive during a time when there wasnt the technology we have now. Where neighbors helped each other and some people being heros, sacrificing their own safety and life to save children.. The story will make you travel to a time period most of us have only read about. Youll be inspired and heartbroken in places too. When I go home I drove past a sign, a memorial of sorts to the people who died saving others and the survivors who helped each other get through a horrible sudden natural disaster.
I hope some of you read it. It is an amazing book.
Love Jina
Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy year BUT at Thanksgiving one of the thin..."Hi Jina, the caring works both ways, yu are there for us as well. Love to you all xx
Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy year BUT at Thanksgiving one of the thin..."OK girlfriend, this made me cry. I feel the same way. We have had a lot of dark days this year collectively. But together we have weathered the storm and helped eachother to see that the light will overcome the darkness in time and we are stronger because of the journey. I am so happy we all have one another and I will forever be thankful for the support and encouragement I have found here. You are all a blessing to me and I am proud to be a part of this wonderful Sisterhood. Peace be with you.
Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy year BUT at Thanksgiving on..."Hi Lesley,
Can you tell me Marks favorite colors and Judys as well. Yours too by the way. I hope you are having a woonderful holiday season!
Love you,
Jina
Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy year BUT at ..."Hi Jina, What are you up to now?? I would say Mark's is navy blue, Judy's would be purple/lilac & mine is red. As far as the holiday season goes, I'm afraid I haven;t summoned up much enthusiasm yet but hopefully I will get there nearer Christmas. I expect the girls are getting excited. Love to you all xx
Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, sometimes crappy..."Dear Lesley,
We are up to a project we have been working on all year. Heather is frustrated because each part takes her awhile to get it "just right" but she allows her sister and I to put in our ideas and "help" a little too. I tell her it will be worth the work when we are done. But she wants to make rubberband bracelets for Mark and Judy so that "they can carry her strength when they are tired". "We" are nearly done with the project so we will be mailing things soon. She will include the bracelets with your package. Can you message your address to my inbox exactly how your address needs to be wrote so it will get to you without getting lost?
Love you bunches,
Jina and the girls
Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its been a hectic, s..."Jina,
You have the sweetest girls. Heather's comment "they can carry her strength when they are tired" touched my heart so. Made me cry actually. What a precious child. She has been through so much, and yet she wants to be a stronghold for others. If only all the world could follow her example. God has His hand on her, I feel it. He had a reason for keeping her here on earth and I hope she knows how special she is. Please "give her a hug and charge it to me" as my Mother would say. My Mom and Heather have a few things in common. She has Parkinsons and it has made it difficult for her to speak. She can not get around very well, it is difficult for her to walk. She used to sew, crochet, knit and work with her church ladies mission group, but her many ailments have taken this away from her. Th;ank God she can still read. It is her solace. She is 81 years old though, unlike your sweet girl she is in the final chapter of her lifes journey. I know the disease will take her from us before long and I feel guilty that I can not spend time with her. Sorry, I didn't mean to go off on a pitty party.
I hope you have a glorious day. I am going to work with a much better adtitude thanks to Miss Heather.
Thank you for sharing.
Love to you all
Linda
Linda wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Jina wrote: "Thank you Paula!!!! Now I can pop in and leave a joke or uplifing quote or tell you all how much this group means to me. Its bee..."Dear Linda,
Heather has always been a gentle happy soul. When she was young, she would see people and tell me what color they were. She would not be afraid of the purple, lt. blue, white, yellow, green and a couple more colors. She was scared and wouldnt go to the brown, red or black people. She wasnt being racist because she would say that a person looked red or black and they were Caucasian. One day when Heather was 3 and in the hospital for asthma and pneumonia a nun came in to pray with us. Heather sang "Yes Jesus loved me" with her and after they spent some time together the nun told me that Heather had God's light within her and she would be a lightworker. I have never looked it up and was befuddled and humbled so I didnt ask anything more although looking back I wish I had asked many more questions. Heather still sees some "colors" but after her heart attack she woke up once the first day for 3 minutes then went into a coma for 21 days. When she woke up and since then Heather has a peace about her. Like she knows something she didnt know before or while she was out, she went somewhere. I dont question her. She will talk about it if its meant to be shared.
Sorry your mom cant do her favoriite hobbies, I wish I had some of her favorite patterns, I would crochet or sew something for her. I never learned to knit but I hope to one day. I have a ton of books on audio cassette tapes I would send them to her (or you to give to her after you've listened to those you want to). Let me know if she is interested. I have Danielle Steele, Nora Roberts, J. D. Robb, James Patterson and many others. Shes welcome to them. I would love for them to get used again.
Oh and you didnt go into a pity party. I have the same worries about my parents. They are doing well but they are in their 80s. The finish line is closer than the start line.
You take care of yourself and thank you for being a friend.
Love you,
Jina and the girls
Hello, ladies! It's been a wild end of the week, but since my favorite football team is getting soundly hammered on the field this afternoon, I decided to forego cheering them on (it's 'way too late, I'll console them tomorrow...) -- so here I am, catching up.
I'm not sure I told you all but I just got a new job as the Compliance Officer for the clinic I've been freelancing for since 2014. It pays well but it's going to be a lot of work, particularly since we are due for a survey this fall; and we have nearly continuous grant renewals that have to be submitted against tight deadlines. I'd love to say I love it - but the fact is, I'm grateful for it, not in love with it. My book has gotten far behind, this Tuesday is my last writer's workshop and our coach wants to see our works-in-progress, then follow up with critiques in January. In the meantime, out of the blue, my characters took a sharp left turn and decided to twist the plot, so it's rapidly becoming a romantic suspense novel. I'm excited about it, but it has completely changed my outline, so I've had to take a step 'way back and do some more research.
The new job won't make that easy, but I'm determined.
I'm finding myself struggling with finding my holiday spirit this year. A lot of it is related to the first Christmas without my mom - she loved this season so much; and the fact that Ray has to work Christmas Eve, Christmas Day (on call for 72 straight hours). We won't be with family. BUT, we are planning a trip to Virginia Beach around New Year's when Ray is not on call.
I know that many of us have struggled this year, and I am all too aware of the blessings I have to be thankful for, this group being one of them. So thank you for being there to encourage each other and for being so supportive when I'm a bit disorganized...
I'm going to check the Elfster enrollment and see where we are; AND I swear I will get Christmas cards out this year, one way or the other!
P.
I'm not sure I told you all but I just got a new job as the Compliance Officer for the clinic I've been freelancing for since 2014. It pays well but it's going to be a lot of work, particularly since we are due for a survey this fall; and we have nearly continuous grant renewals that have to be submitted against tight deadlines. I'd love to say I love it - but the fact is, I'm grateful for it, not in love with it. My book has gotten far behind, this Tuesday is my last writer's workshop and our coach wants to see our works-in-progress, then follow up with critiques in January. In the meantime, out of the blue, my characters took a sharp left turn and decided to twist the plot, so it's rapidly becoming a romantic suspense novel. I'm excited about it, but it has completely changed my outline, so I've had to take a step 'way back and do some more research.
The new job won't make that easy, but I'm determined.
I'm finding myself struggling with finding my holiday spirit this year. A lot of it is related to the first Christmas without my mom - she loved this season so much; and the fact that Ray has to work Christmas Eve, Christmas Day (on call for 72 straight hours). We won't be with family. BUT, we are planning a trip to Virginia Beach around New Year's when Ray is not on call.
I know that many of us have struggled this year, and I am all too aware of the blessings I have to be thankful for, this group being one of them. So thank you for being there to encourage each other and for being so supportive when I'm a bit disorganized...
I'm going to check the Elfster enrollment and see where we are; AND I swear I will get Christmas cards out this year, one way or the other!
P.
Be good to yourself Paula. Don't sweat the small stuff and take it one day at a time. We love you and support you in all you do.
Dear Group,I have a few questions. Just curiosity more than me being "up to something" (which we all know I usually am :) ). When decorating for Christmas do you have a theme? For instance my Mom is the Queen of Christmas decorating. One year she had a dozen trees decorated around the house. One was the Santa Claus tree which her Santa collection is well over 500. She also had a white one with pink lights and burgundy poinsettia flowers, a silver and gold tree with white lights, a white tree with blue lights and silver icicles, etc etc... She has a garland over the arched room separations, puts poinsettia wreaths on the ceiling fan globes. How do you do your designing? Also, whats your favourite Christmas songs (top 5 will be fine since nobody can pick just one favourite). 3 of my favourite songs are Little Drummer Boy, Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time, and of course Silent Night. I love Mannheim Steamroller, Pentatonix, Straight No Chaser, and the Trans Siberian Orchestra to name a few favourite groups. For traditions we always bake a birthday cake for Jesus and my favourites that my Mom makes is her Angel Food and the Hummingbird Cake. Mom also makes fresh Apple Cider and homemade ice cream. Its the one time of year that she makes oyster soup. My family has always been about Jesus first, then music and decorations, and lastly gifts for the kids. Our family togetherness is what we love most. As a kid my folks weren't dirt poor but there was very lean times. Sometimes we got a small gift but those years we had such a fun time. My Uncle Marvin and all my cousins came over with my Aunts and Uncles and Marvin would get on the tractor and pull a car hood around behind the tractor. We would get rides that way. We would go ice skating on the pond in the pasture and would sled, ski, or go tubing down the hillsides. Those are the Christmases I love and remember the most. Do you have a favourite Christmas memory?
Sorry I got carried away.
Love to all,
Jina and the girls
Dear Paula, I am so sorry!!! I wrote my post before readinng the other new posts. How insensitive and stupid of me to mention my Moms traditions knowing how hard this first Christmas will be for you and your family. I was just reminiscing and getting sentimental and decided to share my thoughts and memories. If it would help I would love to hear stories and learn more about your Mom. It may be good therapy to get it out and share with us.
Love you,
Jina
Paula wrote: "Hello, ladies! It's been a wild end of the week, but since my favorite football team is getting soundly hammered on the field this afternoon, I decided to forego cheering them on (it's 'way too lat..."Paula, At the end of the day, Christmas Day is just another day in the big scheme of things, don't put pressure on yourself to do or feel things this year, do what feels right for you & Ray. Apart from church & a slight;y different meal for Bob & I our Christmas is being delayed until we all meet up for Mark's wedding on 30th Dec. You may even manage to do some writing on your book while Ray is at work over the two days. Look after yourself xx
Jina wrote: "Dear Paula,
I am so sorry!!! I wrote my post before readinng the other new posts. How insensitive and stupid of me to mention my Moms traditions knowing how hard this first Christmas will be for y..."
Jina -- don't worry about that one bit. I love hearing about traditions and your memories are always interesting. I expect ups and downs this holiday, but it's natural, and I don't want to rain on anyone else's Christmas parade!
I am so sorry!!! I wrote my post before readinng the other new posts. How insensitive and stupid of me to mention my Moms traditions knowing how hard this first Christmas will be for y..."
Jina -- don't worry about that one bit. I love hearing about traditions and your memories are always interesting. I expect ups and downs this holiday, but it's natural, and I don't want to rain on anyone else's Christmas parade!
Lesley wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hello, ladies! It's been a wild end of the week, but since my favorite football team is getting soundly hammered on the field this afternoon, I decided to forego cheering them on (it'..."
As soon as I update the group today, I plan to write. Ray is on call today and I'm going to dig in to clean up what I need to turn in to my writing coach tomorrow night. It feels like an exercise in futility, because my story took a sharp left turn over the weekend, but still, it's good to get feedback from an expert on the overall feel of the book and anything I might have done that's cliché or just a plain ol' rookie mistake!
As soon as I update the group today, I plan to write. Ray is on call today and I'm going to dig in to clean up what I need to turn in to my writing coach tomorrow night. It feels like an exercise in futility, because my story took a sharp left turn over the weekend, but still, it's good to get feedback from an expert on the overall feel of the book and anything I might have done that's cliché or just a plain ol' rookie mistake!
Jina wrote: "Dear Group,
I have a few questions. Just curiosity more than me being "up to something" (which we all know I usually am :) ). When decorating for Christmas do you have a theme? For instance my Mom ..."
When Sarah was young, we had as many as three trees -- two "real" ones and a small artificial one for her bedroom. One of our trees was all red & white ornaments - that one was the "family" tree that we put gifts under for the family only; the other one was all gold with tiny white lights - kind of a designer tree that we put a few gifts under for friends & neighbors.
The last time I went all out decorating was in 2005, when we lived in Washington and I entertained 35 staff members in our home. I nearly wore myself into the ground that year, but I do think it's the most beautiful decorating I've ever done, before or since.
Since we moved here, we don't entertain more than two people at a time ... it's just the way it is. We have a 12-foot artificial tree with multi-colored lights and a hodgepodge of decorations accumulated over 50 years, between a few that were on our tree when I was a child, and all the ones Sarah made in school. We always buy an ornament when we go on vacation to someplace new, so our travel memories are a big part of our tree. It's very personal, and it means more every year.
I have to say that my childhood and early adulthood Christmases are full of some truly bad memories. Our family was affected by alcoholism on both sides, and I married an alcoholic right out of college. I dated guys who drank, and one showed up at my door at 10:00 in the morning, then promptly passed out. He'd arrived 14 hours early for Midnight Mass. (Needless to say, I never dated him again...)
After my dad got sober, he left my mom for a younger woman, who kicked him out when he was diagnosed with cancer. He returned home, but needless to say, the next few years were painfully awkward.
As I write this, I think I'm finding a new book idea in all this chaos.
My best memories are the traditions Ray, Sarah and I established after we married and lived in Virginia. Other than that, I remember Christmas as a frantic, unstable time, full of not-so-good surprises. Mom did her best to make it "perfect" - and I love her so much for that. This year, I'll remember all the peaceful Christmases we had together later in her life, as she watched her granddaughter grow up and she became a great-grandmother.
Seriously, guys - I know this sounds like a downer post, but it's just a slice of the other side of life. I still have a bit of a "fear" of the holidays that's deeply rooted - always expecting something to happen and relieved if and when it doesn't. I am proud of the fact that Sarah has only good memories of Christmas, and now I'm a grandmother who gets excited about seeing Christmas through my granddaughter's eyes (and spoiling her rotten with girly gifts.)
Much Love,
P
I have a few questions. Just curiosity more than me being "up to something" (which we all know I usually am :) ). When decorating for Christmas do you have a theme? For instance my Mom ..."
When Sarah was young, we had as many as three trees -- two "real" ones and a small artificial one for her bedroom. One of our trees was all red & white ornaments - that one was the "family" tree that we put gifts under for the family only; the other one was all gold with tiny white lights - kind of a designer tree that we put a few gifts under for friends & neighbors.
The last time I went all out decorating was in 2005, when we lived in Washington and I entertained 35 staff members in our home. I nearly wore myself into the ground that year, but I do think it's the most beautiful decorating I've ever done, before or since.
Since we moved here, we don't entertain more than two people at a time ... it's just the way it is. We have a 12-foot artificial tree with multi-colored lights and a hodgepodge of decorations accumulated over 50 years, between a few that were on our tree when I was a child, and all the ones Sarah made in school. We always buy an ornament when we go on vacation to someplace new, so our travel memories are a big part of our tree. It's very personal, and it means more every year.
I have to say that my childhood and early adulthood Christmases are full of some truly bad memories. Our family was affected by alcoholism on both sides, and I married an alcoholic right out of college. I dated guys who drank, and one showed up at my door at 10:00 in the morning, then promptly passed out. He'd arrived 14 hours early for Midnight Mass. (Needless to say, I never dated him again...)
After my dad got sober, he left my mom for a younger woman, who kicked him out when he was diagnosed with cancer. He returned home, but needless to say, the next few years were painfully awkward.
As I write this, I think I'm finding a new book idea in all this chaos.
My best memories are the traditions Ray, Sarah and I established after we married and lived in Virginia. Other than that, I remember Christmas as a frantic, unstable time, full of not-so-good surprises. Mom did her best to make it "perfect" - and I love her so much for that. This year, I'll remember all the peaceful Christmases we had together later in her life, as she watched her granddaughter grow up and she became a great-grandmother.
Seriously, guys - I know this sounds like a downer post, but it's just a slice of the other side of life. I still have a bit of a "fear" of the holidays that's deeply rooted - always expecting something to happen and relieved if and when it doesn't. I am proud of the fact that Sarah has only good memories of Christmas, and now I'm a grandmother who gets excited about seeing Christmas through my granddaughter's eyes (and spoiling her rotten with girly gifts.)
Much Love,
P
OOPS - I forgot my favorite songs...
O Come All Ye Faithful (Josh Groban and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
Joy To The World (by Josh Groban)
Breath of Heaven (by Amy Grant)
Believe (from the Polar Express) by Josh Groban
You Just Gotta Love Christmas by Peter Cetera (formerly of the original Chicago)
Hope is Born Again (Jim Brickman)
I also love Pentatonix, got to see the Transiberian Orchestra once, and we have all kinds of Mannheim Steamroller holiday CDs.
O Come All Ye Faithful (Josh Groban and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
Joy To The World (by Josh Groban)
Breath of Heaven (by Amy Grant)
Believe (from the Polar Express) by Josh Groban
You Just Gotta Love Christmas by Peter Cetera (formerly of the original Chicago)
Hope is Born Again (Jim Brickman)
I also love Pentatonix, got to see the Transiberian Orchestra once, and we have all kinds of Mannheim Steamroller holiday CDs.
Paula wrote: "OOPS - I forgot my favorite songs...O Come All Ye Faithful (Josh Groban and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
Joy To The World (by Josh Groban)
Breath of Heaven (by Amy Grant)
Believe (from the Polar ..."
Dear Paula,
Do you have pictures of when you decorated for all those people or other "trees" you have done? I would love to see everyones tree pictures.
Alcoholism is very rough on everyone and I am sorry you went through that. I am glad you rose above the fog and resentment of the disesse and its aftermath.
Take care and be kind to yourself.
Love you,
Jina
Paula wrote: "OOPS - I forgot my favorite songs...O Come All Ye Faithful (Josh Groban and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
Joy To The World (by Josh Groban)
Breath of Heaven (by Amy Grant)
Believe (from the Polar ..."
Dear Paula,
Couldnt sleep last night, one of those nights we all have sometimes. I couldnt shut my mind off. I have a bad feeling about something that is going on here but I dont want to say it for fear it will become a reality in some way. I truly believe that words have power. Just like people say "careful what you wish for" and " once something is said its ouf there and you cant unsay it or take it back and things be the same.
So anyhoo, while I was staring at the ceiling I had a thought. I am going to donate for Emily (so inbox me where to donate or if I can just send you a check and you take care of where it goes). But I was wondering if we could do a baby, Mama , Grandma shower for them in this group. I really want to "lift them up" and show we care and are praying and thinking of them. Maybe we can send a care package or something. (It could be we send amazon gift cards and they can get whats needed. ) I just feel its important for them to know we are here and they are not alone. Tell me what you think. I know I am always srarting something and I am probably a pain in the tuckus with all my ideas and suggestions, and questions of course. But I know how much you all have helped me by your caring acts and words. Its meant so much and this site and this group has gotten Heather interested in reading and creating things which is great therapy for her on many levels. I cant tell you all how much its meant to me. So that being said, I want to give back, pay it forward, or whatever its called.
Hugs to all,
Jina
Ps a card shower would be cool too.
Ps can we get an update on how Mama and Baby are doing?Jina
JinaDo we know when the baby is due? We could put together something after Christmas. I would LOVE to make a baby quilt for them. I am so busy right now I think I catch my self coming and going. lol. Let me know what you think. If we all d something handmade it would be more personal. Even if it is just a note or card. That is just my opinion. I always appreciate handmade gifts because you know thr giver put love and thought into the gift.
Hope you have a great day.
Love and prayers for you worries. Linda
Hi , Ladies, I need a virtual hug please. We have recived the results of Mark's latest scan and it's not good news. They have found traces of cancer in his liver and lungs. Xx
Lesley wrote: "Hi , Ladies, I need a virtual hug please. We have recived the results of Mark's latest scan and it's not good news. They have found traces of cancer in his liver and lungs. Xx"Dear Lesley,
I'm so so sorry for the devastiating results. I know it wasn't what any of us thought could happen and we all prayed it would be great results. I am sending prayers and much love and hugs to you and your family. We need to remember that staying positive and not letting anyone think its the end is very important. Laughter, love and hugs and eating healthy and exercise all helps a persons spirit. I know you cant think of laughing today but its important you make each day count. Making good memories and giving of your time and spirit helps. I love you! Message me anytime.
Hugs xoxoxo
Jina and the girls.
Lesley wrote: "Hi , Ladies, I need a virtual hug please. We have recived the results of Mark's latest scan and it's not good news. They have found traces of cancer in his liver and lungs. Xx"Oh Lesley, I am so sorry to hear the test results were not good. I am praying for you and Mark. I wish I could give you a great big hug and help you weather this storm, but alas, an ocean divides us physically. But in spirit we are all united as one with our Heavenly Father and the bible says Where two of you are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. We are here for you Lesley. I lift Mark up in prayer and ask our Heavenly Father to touch him in the name of Jesus.
Father, you know the heartache of having a son in peril, please give Lesley comfort and assurance that you will be with her and her family as they walk the path that has been placed before them. Give them your strength and in your mercy grant them the peace that passesses understanding. We ask this in the name of Jesus and all glory and praise will be given to you O Lord. Amen.
My prayers are with you and please message me if you need support. Sending Hugs and much love,
Linda Manthey
Lesley wrote: "Hi , Ladies, I need a virtual hug please. We have recived the results of Mark's latest scan and it's not good news. They have found traces of cancer in his liver and lungs. Xx"Lesley,
Sending a hug,a listening hear and plenty of prayers . Know this is not what you wanted or expected. Praying for you all. No matter what remember to enjoy your time with Mark. We all need to make each day count. May the next scan be better.
Linda wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Hi , Ladies, I need a virtual hug please. We have recived the results of Mark's latest scan and it's not good news. They have found traces of cancer in his liver and lungs. Xx"Oh L..."
Linda, Agreeing in prayer with you.
Thank you ladies for your thoughts & prayers it really helps to have to all to 'talk' to. Love to all xx
Oh, Lesley, I ache for your family. I am so sorry. There are no words, only big, big hugs and tears with you. I have no wisdom to add to what the rest of these wonderful women have said. But you know we are here for you. xoxo
With respect to the idea for Emily and her family, I'll contact her and ask for an update. She's been swamped, I know. The cookbook just came out...hope you got yours in the email! The holidays are wonderful but they complicate life for busy women, nonetheless.
I love your ideas and will get back to you ASAP.
I love your ideas and will get back to you ASAP.
Paula wrote: "Oh, Lesley, I ache for your family. I am so sorry. There are no words, only big, big hugs and tears with you. I have no wisdom to add to what the rest of these wonderful women have said. But you kn..."Thank you Paula x
Oh Lesley , I too am so sorry !!!!! I have not been here for a few days. I pray the treatments go better and take out those cancer cells. I sometime picture playing Whac-A-Mole with the cancer cells ! And I am good at Whac-A-Mole ! Love You & Big Hugs Lola
Lola wrote: "Oh Lesley , I too am so sorry !!!!! I have not been here for a few days. I pray the treatments go better and take out those cancer cells. I sometime picture playing Whac-A-Mole with the cancer cell..."Thanks Lola, we are hoping the next round of chemo does some good. Love Lesley
I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas spirits has gone poof! Love Lola
Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas spirits has gon..."Dear Lola,
So sorry Big Sis. I am going to share something to you on Facebook messenger so be looking for it please. Hopefully it will help, I already shared it with Lesley earlier today. Thinking of you and your family and keeping y'all in my prayers.
Love you,
Jina
Lola~you might want to check out Marilu Henner's recent book on how her husband beat bladder cancer. And I think it was quite advanced.I found it in my local library and it might be helpful to you at this time.
Oh, Lola!!! I'm hugging you really hard right now. I know he's facing a difficult decision. My thoughts and prayers are with you. <3
Thank You All !!! Nancy I will check out the book. Love Ya'll Lola
Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas spirits has gon..."Oh Lola, I'm so sorry to hear your news. Men can be so stubborn sometimes, praying for you both. Try & enjoy Christmas as best you can & make some happy memories as we are going to try & do. xx
Lesley wrote: "Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas sp..."Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas spirits has gon..."
Dear Lola,
I'm sorry for your bad news. I will Dave in my prayers. I am listening to aCD I recently bought by The Rambos. The song is "There is nothing my God can't do" That is my motto for the day. Be good to yourself my friend. Your sisters are praying.
Big hugs and much love.
Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All my Christmas spirits has gon..."Lola,
Sending a hug and prayers your way. GOD is right with you. Lean on him. I understand about Christmas Spirit going . Remember i miracles happen. Treat yourself to some down time .
I will put Dave on the prayer list.
Extra hug.
Melinda
Linda wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Lola wrote: "I got some bad news too the cancer screening show that the cancer is invasive in Dave. He will not agree to having his bladder removed so I don't know what is next. All ..."That is so true ,Linda.
Thank You All so much, it fills my Heart with Hope! I finally talked to Dave today , today is his Birthday. He said there are a couple of trial treatments the Doctors want to talk to him about and he may be weakening on not removing his bladder. I will just have to Let Go and Let God take over. We are finally above zero , all the way up to 16, a heat wave lol !You should see this, I have a plastic bottle of used cooking oil on the back deck ,for Wolf to recycle ,it is frozen solid ! I didn't know oil could freeze. As of last week the Huge Lake behind our house was completely open water , today they had ice fishing shacks out on the frozen lake . Crazy weather for a crazy year! Thank goodness it is almost over ,come on 2017 PLEASE be a better year for all of us !!! Love Lola
Hi, ladies -- I haven't been away, but the comments I entered on the 18th didn't post, and now your recent comments are showing up as "new" again. It would seem that Goodreads has done another update!
Lola, it's encouraging to hear that Dave has options to consider. I will continue to keep you both in my prayers.
The ELFSTER gift exchange has been extended to December 30th so that you can continue to log in if you've registered or need more time. I received my gift from my Elf a couple of days ago and it's awesome. I shipped a gift out to my secret pal and it should either have been delivered, or will be delivered today.
It's been a crazy couple of days. I met the work deadline, then ran around yesterday to take care of a few last-minute items around town. I lost my ATM card at the Post Office -- and discovered that in the grocery line 30 minutes later. I canceled the card, and fortunately no one had a chance to use it. They also didn't have a chance to turn it in, apparently.
I just about had my pre-holiday meltdown yesterday, after realizing that I also shipped the gifts from Amazon to MYSELF and not to my family in Virginia. It would be funny - I'd make a blonde joke - but the reality is, this year, without my mother, is affecting me in ways I didn't expect. I expected sadness, and a sense of "unfinished" business. I didn't expect to be so absent-minded and emotionally stunted that I'd do things like screw up online orders (seriously?!?) and lose an ATM card. I've also been cranky.
So...I say...if you have a funny Christmas meme, post it on our Photos page - so we have a few laughs when things start getting crazier over the next couple of days.
I'll go post one now.
Take care, everyone. Tonight I think I'll finish making candy for gifts and read a Christmas romance.... how about you?
Lola, it's encouraging to hear that Dave has options to consider. I will continue to keep you both in my prayers.
The ELFSTER gift exchange has been extended to December 30th so that you can continue to log in if you've registered or need more time. I received my gift from my Elf a couple of days ago and it's awesome. I shipped a gift out to my secret pal and it should either have been delivered, or will be delivered today.
It's been a crazy couple of days. I met the work deadline, then ran around yesterday to take care of a few last-minute items around town. I lost my ATM card at the Post Office -- and discovered that in the grocery line 30 minutes later. I canceled the card, and fortunately no one had a chance to use it. They also didn't have a chance to turn it in, apparently.
I just about had my pre-holiday meltdown yesterday, after realizing that I also shipped the gifts from Amazon to MYSELF and not to my family in Virginia. It would be funny - I'd make a blonde joke - but the reality is, this year, without my mother, is affecting me in ways I didn't expect. I expected sadness, and a sense of "unfinished" business. I didn't expect to be so absent-minded and emotionally stunted that I'd do things like screw up online orders (seriously?!?) and lose an ATM card. I've also been cranky.
So...I say...if you have a funny Christmas meme, post it on our Photos page - so we have a few laughs when things start getting crazier over the next couple of days.
I'll go post one now.
Take care, everyone. Tonight I think I'll finish making candy for gifts and read a Christmas romance.... how about you?
Hey everyone. I took my youngest son to a job interview this morning at the Tulalip Casino, and he got the job. We are all so excited for him. He has some disabilities that challenge him but he has such a strong disposition that he just pushes on through the pain and frustration. I am so proud of him. I also have to give thanks for the educational programs offered by Goodwill Industries. They prepared him and taught him skills that enabled him to go to the interview with confidence. He found the job through a job fair that was sponsored by Goodwill. They have several companies that work with them to employ the graduates of their programs. This is a great day for our family. Paula, I know what you are saying about being a little out of sorts during this holiday season. I have had my moments when thinking about my nephew Ian. My mother is also not doing well. It is hard to be so far away when I know my dad could use my help with her. He tells me the Parkinson's has caused a change in her personality and demeanor. She has always been a very positive and gentle person and she has become short tempered and demanding. My dad has become the opposite as he has gotten older. It's really odd for me to see how they have switched roles.
I have a lot of guilt about not being there for them. I guess I should look at things realistically, even if I had the opportunity to go there I would not be able to get over the mountains at this time of year. I will call them often and do what I can from here. I sent them a big box of gifts for Christmas. They received it yesterday. I asked my dad if he opened the box and he said " No its not Christmas yet." I told him everything was wrapped and he said he would open the box but he could not guarantee how long my mom could hold out before opening the presents if he did. lol. He's right. She has probably opened them already. lol.
Well, I need to get to bed I have to work early tomorrow.
Try to stay positive as we approach this Christmas and I will do the same. As my mom would say, Only Happy Thoughts.
Hugs and Prayers for you all.
Yeah !!!!! Linda , What a big step , I am so happy for him! My Daughter and I are always shopping at Goodwill, what a great service they provide. I search for old jeans there, I like low slung jeans that you just can't find any more .I miss my Sister so much right now, this is my first Christmas without her too.She was my pressure valve ,I would call her and she would have me laughing in no time .
I finally got my prime rib roast for Christmas ,after Wolf got us plowed out with his ATV . I am so glad the man sold the plow along with the ATV when Wolf bought it last spring ,little did we know we would get snowed in. Then yesterday a big Chinook wind ,that is a very warm wind, came thru it got up in the 40's and a lot of the snow melted. We are really lucky we have a great butcher department in our local grocery ,they get all their meat local, and have that wonderful Amish Butter .
I had better get busy ,pre-Christmas cleaning starting today , Fun, NOT lol !!!! Love Lola
Great news, Linda!! I'm so pleased for your son. And I remember passing by the Tulalip Casino on our way north when we lived in WA so I know where he will be. I just did a pre-Christmas closet clean out and took things to our Goodwill in town that I hope will be helpful.
Lola, my thoughts are with you, too. I had a minor meltdown this morning; it's been 11 months today since mom passed away. The feelings have been building up for days and sometimes we just need that cleansing cry.
Then I went for a run, turned up the Christmas music and made candy. Now I'm running errands to make more candy for the neighbors & Ray's work team.
Be well and be strong, ladies. xo
Lola, my thoughts are with you, too. I had a minor meltdown this morning; it's been 11 months today since mom passed away. The feelings have been building up for days and sometimes we just need that cleansing cry.
Then I went for a run, turned up the Christmas music and made candy. Now I'm running errands to make more candy for the neighbors & Ray's work team.
Be well and be strong, ladies. xo
Lola wrote: "Yeah !!!!! Linda , What a big step , I am so happy for him! My Daughter and I are always shopping at Goodwill, what a great service they provide. I search for old jeans there, I like low slung jean..."Dear Lola,
I am glad that you arent snowed in right now. Plus I think you had divine intervention with the ATV and snowplow purchase. If you need a new pressure valve you can always call your Little Sister. :) I will inbox you my phone number.
I know how great it is to have fresh local meat. Growing up on our farm we always had fresh beef, and my Uncle George had two big hog operations so each year we had a whole hog in our freezer. We had fresh fish from a few lakes and a 2-3 acre garden. My mom canned A LOT! You cant beat fresh meat and produce for taste.
I am so sorry that a few of us are having a rough Christmas this year. I allowed myself a 5 minute cry today before I told myself to knock it off. I ran across some videos of Heather when she was 14 and perfectly healthy (I thought). I listened to her voice talking and laughing, watched her running and riding her bike. It hit me again that she has been robbed of her real life and dreams. I had given myself a goal to have her talking and walking on her own and eatting and drinking by now. I failed. But after my good cry, I told myself that I am not giving up, I am going to try 200% more to help her reach her potential. I made calls today and after her dental surgery on January 9th, we will have a swallow study done and she will start speech therapy AND last week her occupational therapist Winnie told me that she is recommending that Heather receive physical therapy services since she is getting stronger in some areas. For me January 3 is the hardest but I try to make good memories like go to a movie or have a game day with the kids to change the day into a positive. I hope your Christmas is fabulous.
Hugs to you,
Jina
Paula wrote: "Great news, Linda!! I'm so pleased for your son. And I remember passing by the Tulalip Casino on our way north when we lived in WA so I know where he will be. I just did a pre-Christmas closet clea..."Dear Paula,
What kind of candy do you make? Can you post a picture of it? I am SO sorry that this year is going to be so tough during the holidays. Just know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
I too have been thinning out my closet and different areas of the house. When I take 3or 4 bags of clothes and stuff to goodwill, salvation army or the women's shelter, it makes me feel like I accomplished something and the house looks cleaner.
Have a wonderful Merry Christmas!
Love you,
Jina and the girls :)
Feel free to recommend books, but please, no promotional content other than your recommendation and the Goodreads link to the book you're talking about.
Thanks to Jina for suggesting this folder....