Emily March Fans discussion

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message 301: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Lesley wrote: "Hi everyone, I'm sorry to be the bear of sad news but I have to tell you that our son Mark peacefully lost his fight with life at about 12.10 p.m. British time today, 10th May with his wife Tina by..."

My dearest Lesley,

Words cant describe how sorry I am that you all are going through such a loss. Even though you knew time was short it cant possibly prepare you for when the fight is over. The only blessing is that he is out of pain and in Jesus arms now. I wish I lived closer and could be there to help and support you through this. I am praying for all of you. Keep us in mind when you need to vent, cry, be angry etc. You will feel the whole range of emotions for a while and you'll need to lean on someone. We are here and will help you through the stages of grief. We love you.
With Love and hugs,
Jina and the girls


message 302: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Dear Group,
Its been busy here. Heather is still sick from unknown infection. I could read posts but got booted or a pink coded error message would come up when I tried to post a comment. I want to thank all of you for the birthday messages and ecards and lovely gifts. You all humble me. I am so truly blessed.
I will post more later.
Love and hugs,
Jina


message 303: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Lola wrote: "Hi ,
Sorry I have been MIA , we have been busy . We got the raised bed made and filled up , now just waiting for my seed potatoes to come. We went to Lowes and picked out our new shower, it is goi..."


Hi Sis!
Can I have your energy? I feel like I'm running on empty. I ordered me a fidget cube to help with my anxiety and to keep calm through the worrying. Your garden will be lovely and productive. Post pictures when you can. The new shower will feel great. Do you have a magazine rack or bookshelf by the toilet? I do. Lol
Please add a little boy named Ethan to your prayer list. He is 11, is autistic and has cerebral palsy. He went to Duke to have spinal reconstruction done and after the surgery his lung collapsed and now has a tube in his lung, he is on a ventilator and unresponsive. We are all praying for a speedy recovery but things look pretty bleak right now. I met the little guy and his Mom when Heather was in the hospital the same time he was.
In case yall have plans for mothers day. I want to go ahead and wish you all Happy Mother's Day and have a wonderful weekend.
Lesley, you and your family will be always in my thoughts and prayers this weekend.
Love,
Jina and the girls


message 304: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Paula wrote: "Hello, ladies! I always worry when days go by and the group is quiet, but as Linda pointed out, there is so much going on at the moment, the group is probably the last thing you have time to think ..."

Dear Paula,
I hope you feel better real soon. Sinus infections, allergies and other Ear, Nose and throat problems are running rampant here.
Your writing muse will come back. Are you possibly being over critical of yourself and putting more pressure on yourself since a deadline is looming. I found 2 things that help me when I "have" to write. One is I make a list or outline of things I want to include and 2, I open my "writing prompts" book to a random page and start free writing about the topic. Thats when it hits me.... an idea or way to continue writing on my required assignment. Also in the car driving listening to music a letter or thing I need to write will come to me out of the blue. To remember the words or idea , I have a notepad and pen attached to the console so I can jot down notes when I get to a stop light or parked.
Emily's soon to be released book is on my mind. I cant wait to read it and get into a discussion. I have missed everyone and book discussions terribly. Emily is on my mind a lot too. I hope "the Gift" is doing well. He looks so precious in the pictures on her website. I pray for them daily too. I wish we could get updates regularly on how he is doing. Could you pass on to Emily our thoughts and prayers are with her and her grandson? I bet he is growing so big right now. That age is one of my favorites. So much happens and the child learns and does new things everyday.
We are here if you want us to be a beta reader or give you feedback, whatever you need. (Hint hint :) ).
Hugs to you,
Jina and the girls


message 305: by [deleted user] (new)

Hi, Jina!

The sinus issue was a 24-hour thing, and today I was 90% better. I even got outside for a long walk, made granola, and worked for 5 hours on clinic stuff (for tomorrow).

I often use music to give me writing inspiration. Today I managed to come up with some dialogue ideas and a starting point for the back cover synopsis. I've been dictating notes into my phone for later. I work tomorrow, but Friday I plan to write all day and hope I can do more than stare at a blank screen.

I'm finalizing some changes to the first 35,000 words of the manuscript and when that's done, I'll send it off to you to take a peek.

Emily was at the big RT convention last week, so I'm sure she's been burning the candle at both ends. I sent her an e-mail recently, and hope to hear from her if and when things settle down a bit. I hope to get to that convention next year - it's amazing. It's in Denver, a bit closer to home for me. I'd love to finally meet Emily face to face, wouldn't you?

I, too, am excited about her new release in June. I'm thinking of sneaking in a reading of a favorite ES book in the next week or so, as time permits. I'm going to post a discussion question - an easy one - for us, as a temporary distraction from harsh reality. Watch for it!

Paula


message 306: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Paula wrote: "Hi, Jina!

The sinus issue was a 24-hour thing, and today I was 90% better. I even got outside for a long walk, made granola, and worked for 5 hours on clinic stuff (for tomorrow).

I often use mus..."


Dear Paula,
Can I have your recipe for granola? My grandmother made some when I was little andcI miss it. The store bought just isn't the same.
I'm glad you are feeling better. Yes it would be wonderful to meet Emily but I would also love to meet the members of this group in person too. Yall have become such cherished friends.
Love,
Jina and the girls


message 307: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Jina wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Hi everyone, I'm sorry to be the bear of sad news but I have to tell you that our son Mark peacefully lost his fight with life at about 12.10 p.m. British time today, 10th May with h..."

Hi Jina, I also wish you were all nearer but it helps greatly that you all 'listen' to me and offer support.
I hope Heather is improving daily & that you are looking after yourself as well as the family. I don't now how you continue to be so strong with the things you & your family continually have to deal with. Love & hugs to you all xx


message 308: by [deleted user] (new)

Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hi, Jina!

The sinus issue was a 24-hour thing, and today I was 90% better. I even got outside for a long walk, made granola, and worked for 5 hours on clinic stuff (for tomorrow).

I..."

Hi, Jina -- this is the easiest, best granola recipe I've ever tried. I make it all the time. It's so flexible you can substitute any of your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. My favorite is shaved, unsweetened coconut, sliced almonds, and pumpkin seeds. I use coconut oil and maple syrup, but I'm going to try it with honey instead of the syrup when I make my next batch, just to change things up!
Here's the link to the recipe:
http://cookieandkate.com/2015/healthy...
Enjoy!
Paula


message 309: by Linda (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments Lesley wrote: "Hi everyone, I'm sorry to be the bear of sad news but I have to tell you that our son Mark peacefully lost his fight with life at about 12.10 p.m. British time today, 10th May with his wife Tina by..."

Dear Lesley,
I share in Lola's thoughts. My deepest sympathies for you and all those who loved Mark. I will lift you up before the Lord asking for comfort. May the peace of God be with you all.
Love , Linda


message 310: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Linda wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Hi everyone, I'm sorry to be the bear of sad news but I have to tell you that our son Mark peacefully lost his fight with life at about 12.10 p.m. British time today, 10th May with h..."

Thank you Linda x


message 311: by Linda (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments Lola wrote: "Hi ,
Sorry I have been MIA , we have been busy . We got the raised bed made and filled up , now just waiting for my seed potatoes to come. We went to Lowes and picked out our new shower, it is goi..."


Lola,
You made me laugh. Thanks, I needed it.
Things have not changed a lot here. My mom is up one day and down the next. Dr. says it all depends on her body and whether she begins eating and drinking more fluids. He said to not force anything. If she wants something give it to her, if she refuses it leave it alone. Her body will tell her what she needs.
She is still very mentally alert. lol, She doesn't miss a thing. And her wit and humor is as good as ever. My brothers and I were in the kitchen talking and my oldest brother was shaking his head to one side, as in come this way, and my mom looked at my other brother and said, in her sweet quiet voice, " Does he have fever with them spells ?" lol we all had a good laugh.
It will be hard to leave on Sunday but I know I need to go home for a while. I will come back when or if they need me. We have secured care for her in addition to Hospice a lady we know will be here 3-4 times a day to turn her in bed and look after her care. She has been working for them for about a year cleaning hous and driving them to Dr. appointments. She has a background in homehealth care and we all love her. The important thing is she loves my parents and will do anything for them. ( I think I am giving myself a pep talk here as I prepare to go home lol.).
Well I have rambled on long enough.
Have a lovely day.
Love and blessings,
Linda


message 312: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Evening Ladies, It's 10pm here in the UK.
Just to let you know that Judy peacefully joined Mark this morning, Saturday 13th May, with her husband Colin by her side.
May they both now rest in peace. Thank you for all your love and support through these difficult times. xx


message 313: by Linda (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments Lesley wrote: "Evening Ladies, It's 10pm here in the UK.
Just to let you know that Judy peacefully joined Mark this morning, Saturday 13th May, with her husband Colin by her side.
May they both now rest in peace...."


Dear Lesley,
Please know you are in my prayers continously. you must be overwhelmed by all that has happened in the last few days. I have found that taking one day at a time is most helpful when you are trying to process so many things coming at you from all directions. If we can just get through today we can think about tomorrow when it comes.
God be with you my friend,
If you need to release feelings of anger or grief, remember we are here to listen. No judgement, just open hearts and an ear to bend.
Hugs and prayers
Linda


message 314: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments Dear Lesley,
I am so sorry, I could not know the pain of losing your Son. But this pain I do know , I still find myself wanting to call Cornelia to laugh about something ,then remember she is gone. As Linda said we are all here for you! Love Lola


message 315: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments Lesley, I plant trees for members of my family that have passed . I just planted the 2 apple trees ,one for Cornelia and if it is ok with you the other for Mark & Judy. Love Lola


message 316: by Melinda (new)

Melinda M (researcher707) | 592 comments Lesley,
I am sorry . It has certainly been a hard week for you and your family. I know right now things are busy but as it calms down , let your self go thru the range of emotions. I know there are times that I forget about my Aunt being gone. The good thing is neither Judy or Mark are hurting anymore. Keeping you in my prayers. We are here if you need to vent.


message 317: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Dear Lesley,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know we love you and are praying for you and your family. We are here whenever you need us. Take care of yourself through this crisis. You are needed and loved.
Lola, that is a wonderful tribute idea. My family does the same thing with flowers, trees or bushes. Take a picture and post it here so we can watch it grow.
Love,
Jina and the girls


message 318: by Melinda (new)

Melinda M (researcher707) | 592 comments Linda,
Know you will be glad to sleep in your own bed. I will keep praying for your Mom and Dad as well as you and the rest of the family.


message 319: by Linda (last edited May 14, 2017 05:41AM) (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments As I sit here this morning reading these messages I can't help but think we are here together for a reason. I truly believe God put us together in this little group because He knew we would need each other. God knew we would pray for one another and give support when needed. We have all been through difficulties in the time we have been united in this forum. God is working in us, and through us, leading us and guiding us to where we need to be and comforting us when nothing else can. We are truly blessed to have one another and I am eternaly grateful for each and every one of you.
Peace be with you my friends.
Hugs and prayers
Linda


message 320: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments AMEN!!!!! Happy Mothers Day !!!! Love Lola


message 321: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Lola wrote: "Lesley, I plant trees for members of my family that have passed . I just planted the 2 apple trees ,one for Cornelia and if it is ok with you the other for Mark & Judy. Love Lola"

Hi Ladies thank you all for your kind words, I agree with Linda that we must all be in this group for a reason.
Lola, That is lovely & so kind. We are thinking of doing something similar in our garden when we can decide what to plant. It will have to be something 'hardy' & can look after it's self as we aren't much as gardeners.
Love & hugs to everyone xx


message 322: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Linda wrote: "As I sit here this morning reading these messages I can't help but think we are here together for a reason. I truly believe God put us together in this little group because He knew we would need ea..."

Dear Linda,
I totally agree. My mom calls it "the Guest list". I think she got the phrase from either Joyce Meyer book or from Debbie Macomber. The way I understand it is, God puts people to cross your path and enter your life to bring meaning, purpose love and support and even those people that you dont get along with are to be there to teach you a lesson of some sort. Like tolerance, patience, forgiveness, the golden rule etc... it teaches us to be strong and rise above, be a better person. We are lucky to have each other.
Love you,
Jina and the girls


message 323: by Melinda (new)

Melinda M (researcher707) | 592 comments Jina wrote: "Linda wrote: "As I sit here this morning reading these messages I can't help but think we are here together for a reason. I truly believe God put us together in this little group because He knew we..."

I agree Jina, Linda and Lesley.


message 324: by Linda (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments Hello ladies,
I arrived home Sunday evening to Spring in bloom. I posted a photo of my wysteria. It is just beautiful.
I am thankful for God's blessings of nature showing signs of new life all around us.
It is good to be home but my heart is with my parents in Oregon. Momma was alert and reading her newspaper when we left. She made a point of telling me how much she loves me and to admonish me to be happy. I think she feels she may not see me here on this earth again. I had the same thoughts. I will return asap if they need me. I am confident we have a good support system in place and they will be safe and well taken care of in our absence.
I went to my DR. appointment yesterday. The L&I nurse was there to meet me. She sat in on my appointment and the DR. told her she was sending her report to L&I saying I was able to return to work. She said the evaluation should have been done by a psychiatrist because her forms only have choices for physical illness not psychological and there was not box to check for my situation. She said according to the paramiters given she had no choice but to say I am able to go back to work with exception to being alone in the workplace. I told her I would not go back there because it is not safe. She wrote notes all over the form trying to get her point accross that I need counceling before returning to work and I could not return to that same job. She put down that I need to have vocational training for a new job outside of my current type of employment.
The L&I nurse said she doesn't know if I will be removed from the workman's comp program or not. She said she would advocate for me and try to explain to the case manager what the doctor was trying convey in her notes. I pray they will take to heart what she has to say.
Well that is all the news in my little corner of the world.
I hope and pray life is being kind to all of you and that you are subject to many blessings.
It is dark and raining here this morning. I think I will go turn on the fireplace and relax some before I start my day. I need to do some house cleaning in a big way lol.
Be good to yourselves
Love and prayers
LInda


message 325: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Linda wrote: "Hello ladies,
I arrived home Sunday evening to Spring in bloom. I posted a photo of my wysteria. It is just beautiful.
I am thankful for God's blessings of nature showing signs of new life all aro..."

Linda, I don't know what to say to help you in current personal & work situation but I hope that everything manages to work out the way you wish for. Pleased to hear that you were able to leave your Mum alert & talking to you. Love & hugs xx


message 326: by [deleted user] (new)

Lesley wrote: "Evening Ladies, It's 10pm here in the UK.
Just to let you know that Judy peacefully joined Mark this morning, Saturday 13th May, with her husband Colin by her side.
May they both now rest in peace...."


Oh, Lesley - I've been off-line a couple of days (Mother's Day weekend was very hard for me, despite my many blessings). I just read your note about Judy, and I'm stunned, to say the least. I sensed this might happen; as a nurse, I can't tell you the number of times I've seen similar situations in close families. If you're like me, there's relief mixed with grief -- when my father passed, I felt his soul was finally free of pain, but mine was just beginning. Same with my mother. I know you will weather this storm with grace, and you know we will be here for you anytime. God Bless.
Paula


message 327: by [deleted user] (new)

Linda wrote: "Hello ladies,
I arrived home Sunday evening to Spring in bloom. I posted a photo of my wysteria. It is just beautiful.
I am thankful for God's blessings of nature showing signs of new life all aro..."


Hi, Linda -- I'm so sorry to hear that you're confronted with two equally bad possibilities about your work life, and I sincerely hope the nurse is able to convince someone to step up and get you the help you need to feel safe and fulfilled again. There are so many misunderstandings about PTSD, as if you can just flip a switch and go on. I hope that the right people are placed in your path to lead you to a job you'll love. Your health must be your only priority. Thinking of you.
Paula


message 328: by [deleted user] (new)

Ladies - I apologize for being away but I had to take a much-needed break from social media for a few days. I ran across a funny meme on Pinterest this morning, and one the other day that I will post in our photos -- I hope you get a laugh out of at least one of them.

Paula


message 329: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Dear group,
So much is happening in all your lives and I have fallen short in my duty to be there for all of you.
Lesley, there are no words to help you feel better in this difficult time, trying to let go of not only your son but Judy as well. I dont deal with death well at all. I am the queen of denial, I get angry at the unjustice of it all (I even go so far as too ask the good Lord why the good ones suffer and pass when there are murderers and rapists and truly evil people that are hurting others, why cant it be them instead of such beautiful and loved people. I feel ashamed of myself for thinking that way. Who am I to judge. (Judge not lest you be judged comes to mind). My heart however is with you, the girls and I pray for comfort and peace for you and your family. Heather is still sick and I am running out of energy. She was feeling a little better on Mothers day and made me a fabulous card. All by herself. She is writing real well now. Its a slow process vut she is determined. So Mothers day a friend of ours who ride with us on the motorcycles asked mike and I to join them for a ride to lunch, Fort Macon and the beach. It was a wonderful ride but Mike got sad news that his very dear friend has lung cancer. Stage 4 and the one lung keeps filling up with fluid in the plural(sp) area so he is in great amount of pain. Thankfully he has pain meds and pain patches to help him get comfortable. Thomas and Brenda are wonderful people and such a cute couple. They are in their 70s but act like teenagers or newlyweds. They hold hands going everywhere and if we are eatting and he gers food in his moustache, shes right there with a napkin. They are so cute. Anyway after we rode to the beach we went by their house to give hugs, support, whatever we could do. Thomas and Brenda thanked us atleast 5times each for taking the time to look in on them. There were lots of tears and we were glad they had our shoulders to help them lay their load off for a while. Our group of friends are going to look in on them and help out where we can.
I need to run. Heather needs me. I will write more later.
Love and hugs to all.
Jina and the girls


message 330: by [deleted user] (new)

Jina wrote: "Dear group,
So much is happening in all your lives and I have fallen short in my duty to be there for all of you.
Lesley, there are no words to help you feel better in this difficult time, trying ..."


Hi, Jina - I'm so sorry to hear that Heather is still feeling under the weather, and I hope she gets better very soon. It's an odd coincidence, but I found out this weekend that a dear friend of ours has Stage 4 lung cancer, too. His family feels like part of our family, especially to Sarah, who's known him all of her life. He's also in his 70's and only stopped working last year when he had a stroke. He has additional tests next week and then they will decide on a treatment plan.

My best to you, your family and friends at this difficult time.
P


message 331: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Paula wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Evening Ladies, It's 10pm here in the UK.
Just to let you know that Judy peacefully joined Mark this morning, Saturday 13th May, with her husband Colin by her side.
May they both now..."


Hi Paula, Thank you for your message


message 332: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Jina wrote: "Dear group,
So much is happening in all your lives and I have fallen short in my duty to be there for all of you.
Lesley, there are no words to help you feel better in this difficult time, trying ..."

Jina, Thank you for your message & I hope Heather improves real soon xx


message 333: by Jina (new)

Jina Gibbs | 763 comments Can I just say "Cancer sucks rocks!!!!!" At times like these I need a "dammit doll". If you haven't seen or heard of them, they are very skinny (just big enough for you to get your hand around ) and tall fabric dolls. Their purpose is to help people get their frustrations and anger out in a semi non threatening way. (I bet the doll thinks its very threatening) I am sure each of us at some point in the last couple years has wanted or needed something to pound away on. For all of you who are hurting due to cancer hurting your friends and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. If it helps you might think of getting yourself a "dammit doll".
Hugs to all,
Jina


message 334: by [deleted user] (new)

Hi, ladies -- It's been quiet in here for a few days, and I've been under the weather since we got back from Napa on Sunday. I finally went to the doctor today and am on antibiotics, but I'm sleeping a lot and generally feeling like aliens have taken over my body. I expect to be back to "normal" (whatever that is) in another couple of days.

I'm thinking of all of you. Lesley, my heart goes out to the citizens of the UK, and especially Manchester, at this tragic time. There are no words. We cannot live our lives in fear, but it's hard not to be afraid for those we love when we see such callous violence taking root in our world. Let us all pray for those affected by this tragedy and hug our loved ones every chance we have.
Paula


message 335: by Melinda (last edited May 23, 2017 08:40PM) (new)

Melinda M (researcher707) | 592 comments I agree Paula.
Hoping Heather is doing better Jina.
How far from Manchester is Lesley?

Keeping all of you and the people of Great Britain in my prayers.


message 336: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments Hi All ,
I have been MIA , working a lot in the garden. Just about have everything planted, except the corn that I have growing in the greenhouse . It has almost gotten too big for it's peat pots but I don't want to transplant it until all chances of frost is over. I ran across an article about sister gardening (with that name I had to check it out lol) it is the way Indians planted their corn. I knew about planting green beans around the corn so it can vine up the stalks and help hold them against the wind ,but I didn't know about growing squash around the base of the corn . It acts as a mulch keeping the corn moist and adds nutrients the corn needs. Now that I have given my lecture on gardening for today , I would like to add my voice to Paula's and say how sorry I am for all the people of the UK. This world of ours is going bonkers , when you brag about killing children you are lower than a snakes belly ,as they say in Texas. I better stop now before I start using bad words.
You all take a little time to just breath and oh man does it smell good in my back yard when I just breath , lilacs and apple blossoms , nothing sweeter. Love You All, Lola


message 337: by Lesley (new)

Lesley | 669 comments Hi everyone, I suppose Manchester is approximately a couple of hundred miles north West of Lincolnshire. A couple of the younger victims came from the town we lived in, Leyland Lancashire, before we moved back home to Lincolnshire about 12 years ago.

Luckily for us we didn't didn't know anyone who was killed or injured in the attack but we do know a couple of people who attended the concert and are ok.

My heart goes out to those who have lost or injured family or friends but I agree that we cannot let these people rule what we do in our lives or they will think they have won.

Hope you are feeling better Paula. Love to all xx


message 338: by [deleted user] (new)

Hello, friends -- today was a better day and I expect to be back on track tomorrow. I got my partial manuscript back from my content editor today, and she was incredibly encouraging about the story, so as soon as I feel better and don't have to work out of town I'll be starting back in on it, heading for the finish line. I have some work to do on the sections she edited, of course, and I'm so blessed to have her working with me. She won't let me give in to the occasionally overwhelming desire to quit and make a run for it. LOL. I hope the heat and the storms aren't wreaking havoc where you are. The heat is really miserable here, but tomorrow is supposed to be cooler. Take care, everyone, and stay safe.

P


message 339: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments OMG The Republican candidate here in Montana just attacked a reporter because he ask a question about the Medical Insurance Bill , the election is tomorrow ! The Sheriff is investigating the attack and the reporter was taken away in an ambulance !!! The attack was sound recorded and they played it on Anderson Cooper on CNN. I was already going to vote for Rob Quist, the Democratic candidate ,now I am sure I picked the right man! CRAZY !!!! Love Lola


message 340: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments Paula, So glad you are better! I can't wait to buy your book and brag that my Friend is the Author !!!!! Love Lola


message 341: by [deleted user] (new)

Lola wrote: "Paula, So glad you are better! I can't wait to buy your book and brag that my Friend is the Author !!!!! Love Lola"

Hello, Lola and thank you for that! I'm writing the book with all of you ladies in mind. I'm now at 43,000 words, just about half-way, and the plot is getting ready to take a GIANT twist. It's exciting. I also updated the working draft of the blurb on my GRs author page, but it's definitely not the final. I'd love feedback and questions about it.

xo


message 342: by [deleted user] (new)

Hello, everyone, and I hope you're having a blessed Memorial Day. I've just finished the first round of revisions on the first half of my unfinished manuscript, with feedback from the woman who taught my editing certification course. She was very encouraging, and I've found new energy to tackle the story now that I feel I have a solid foundation that's worth pursuing.

I'm thinking of all of you who are, or have in your family, military veterans or current service members. My mom and dad both served, Mom pre-Korea, Dad in Korea and Vietnam. I wish I was in Virginia today to visit them and place flowers/flags, but I couldn't make it this holiday.

I also hope you're celebrating with some good food, family and friends. Ray is on call, as usual. But if and when he gets home, I've got a picnic-feast planned, and we had a great supper yesterday.

I'm going to Charlotte, NC later this week on a writer's retreat, Thursday through Sunday. I may be off the grid for a few days because the agenda is packed full and it's a fly-in/fly-out situation. I'm excited about it, though. It's my first group retreat and there are some indie authors attending that I've been anxious to meet.

That's it for me. Update me when you get around to it. Take care and stay safe!

P


message 343: by Brandi (new)

Brandi (poohfanatik) | 117 comments So here is where we all have been posting. :)

I so need to get back here. I have been seeing a therapist by myself and with my to be ex. My last session we were talking about negative self talk and such. When the session was over, she commented that I probably will be much stronger with out him in my life. My biggest priority right now is making this easy for my 3 year old boy.


message 344: by [deleted user] (last edited May 31, 2017 07:26PM) (new)

Brandi, your therapist is probably right on target. I was a single mom for a few years, starting when my daughter was 5. I had support from my parents and a good friend who's daughter was one of Sarah's babysitters. Sarah was better off because our home was happy and stable. We didn't fight when she was around and didn't talk negatively about each other in front of her. We had some nasty custody, property, and support "discussions" apart from her though.

Yesterday, my daughter called at 7:00 AM. Her significant other, Layla's father, has decided he wants to live alone and be free to spend time fishing, drinking beer and hanging out with his guy friends. He bailed on his first wife when his son was 3 (he's now 16). He literally threw Sarah and Layla out of their home. They left late at night in Sarah's car with their belongings in garbage bags. She's staying with the same friend that was with me when Sarah's dad and I separated. It's temporary, to give her a safe place and a place where Layla feels comfortable. I'm flying to Virginia Sunday to help her get legal counsel and get her settled in WITHOUT storing her clothes in trash bags. (I'm so furious I could spit nails.) She's heartbroken and afraid, worried for Layla. So I'll tell you what I told her yesterday. Children who are preschool age statistically weather divorce better than those who are older. They don't blame themselves as older children sometimes do. Your son needs to know his daddy loves him and you will be there for him. As long as he has YOU, and your reassurance that things are different, but they will be okay, he will find his way through this. It's not easy or painless, but if he feels safe and loved, he will do fine, and so will you.

If you want to talk at any time, just contact me. I'll be in Virginia Sunday morning. And - LOL - her ex was already a little bit intimidated by me because I think he knew I had his number. I was so sure he'd bail I set aside money to help Sarah get settled. Mothers know these things. :-)


message 345: by Brandi (new)

Brandi (poohfanatik) | 117 comments Thanks for the kind words and insight. I think Ryan will be fine. I make sure he knows i will always be there when he needs me. We haven't told him about daddy living somewhere else yet because he hasnt moved out. We will ask our counselor this week when would be the best time to tell him. I got a book on what happens when so and so has two houses. The book is pretty simple.


message 346: by [deleted user] (new)

Brandi wrote: "Thanks for the kind words and insight. I think Ryan will be fine. I make sure he knows i will always be there when he needs me. We haven't told him about daddy living somewhere else yet because he ..."

That's a great idea. I'll hit a bookstore while I'm in Virginia Beach and give it to Sarah to use when the time is right. I'm not leaving Virginia until I know she's in a good place. My heart breaks for her. I'll be thinking of you, too!

P


message 347: by Brandi (new)

Brandi (poohfanatik) | 117 comments Yeah the to be ex was like this book is awful simple. I was like well we are being amicable and moat divorce books deal with anger and yelling. This was the only one that basically put it as now you have two houses (name of book) and two rooms and two kitchens etc.


message 348: by Lola (new)

Lola  | 1001 comments Girls ,
You both are so brave! It is so hard when it is your child and you are half the country away, I know about this. We went through a bad time when Jen was living in Texas, I had to do the same thing you are doing Paula ,jumped on an airplane and flew down there. Only her boyfriend killed himself the night she got away from him, and my Nephew, who was a Fire Chief, was the one who cut him down, now that was strange ! Thank Goodness she moved back up here and met Bill ,June 20 they will be married 17 years. I will keep both of you in my Prayers ! Love, Lola


message 349: by [deleted user] (new)

Hello, ladies. I hope you're all having a good week, good being a relative term for some of us at the moment. I'm in the San Francisco airport after 4 hours of sleep. I'm a packing procrastinator. And my suitcase is OVERLOADED. The next three days I'll be in Charlotte at a writing retreat for indie authors, many of whom are in the same boat as me ... manuscript in progress. The agenda is packed, literally 10-12 hours a day if you attend all the sessions. I'm leaving a little early on Sunday to fly to Norfolk, VA to spend some time with my daughter and granddaughter, who just found themselves "homeless" when baby daddy decided he wants to live alone from now on. Do I even have to tell the mama bears in this group how angry I am at that man??? Sarah and Layla are staying with very close family friends for now, and we see an attorney on Monday. This is going to be a long, painful journey for both of them and I'm grateful I can be there to help. I'll update everyone when I get settled in there. If ANYTHING serious happens to anyone in the group, PLEASE email me! (paula@paularadell.com). Until later, be safe and well and take care of your beautiful selves.

Paula


message 350: by Linda (new)

Linda (lindamanthey) | 413 comments Paula wrote: "Hello, ladies. I hope you're all having a good week, good being a relative term for some of us at the moment. I'm in the San Francisco airport after 4 hours of sleep. I'm a packing procrastinator. ..."

If I were in your shoes, OUTRAGED would be putting it lightly. As a matter of fact, if I were the mother of the young man I would tear him up one side and down the other. What childish behavior! My boys would never do such a thing because they were raised to respect women and accept responsibility. ARRRG!
GO GET HIM MOMMA BEAR.
Sorry, I think he must be a special kind of stupid to throw away his family this way. I guess"You can't fix stupid".
I will pray for comfort and wisdom for you and your girls. God will provide what they need. They have the love of a kind and compassionate mother/grandmother, so half the battle is won already.
Hugs, Linda


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