What's Happening In Your Life?

[Troubadour]

Hope you're doing okay, Willie! I echo everyone else - you have raised two awesome, independent, confident young adults! I know it must be hard to let them go, but you should be very proud. (Besides, they'll be back soon enough... when the laundry pile gets too high to see over. ;))

I'm sorry I've been quiet lately... this is the first real chance I've had to spend time on The Border since I arrived home from America. I've been on Facebook but mainly on my phone. I was ill for the first few days after I arrived home - I'm only just feeling back to my normal self. I have a bit of a sore throat still, and a cough that's lingering, but I feel SO much better than I did! I then had to work a stretch of four night shifts, so all I did was sleep and work over the weekend.

My PGCE (teacher training) interview was yesterday. I only received the invitation letter last Tuesday, so I didn't have too much time to psyche myself up for it, but I think it went well. I should know before Christmas whether I have been offered a place or not. If so, I will be starting next September. The PGCE Primary courses are very competitive though, so we will see. If it's meant to be, it will be.

As some of you may have seen on Facebook, I had a wonderful time in America. Vegas was so much fun and the concert was awesome. It was great meeting up with Nancy again! I feel so lucky to have such amazing friends out in Oklahoma... it's like I have a whole other life over there. I had not one but two Thanksgiving dinners, and saw a lot more of the state during my second week. Christi introduced me to a guy that she has known for ages, and we just clicked... He took me to various places, museums and historical sites, that were so interesting. We had a lot of fun, and really liked each other. We have been in touch every day since I have been home. I am going back over there in the spring and he is working on getting a passport, so I know he is planning to come over here at some point... I guess we will see what happens, but I am so glad that I met him. Without getting carried away, it feels totally different to anything before. I miss him a lot, and I know he feels the same. We'll see how it goes. :)

I chatted to Jess and Christi the other morning on FB when I got home from work, and they are already making plans for my next trip! I feel so blessed to have such good friends and to have seen such incredible places. And all because of The Border.

[TimothyBFan]

So excited for you Lou!!! He's very handsome!! Hope it all works out for you and can't wait till you can get back over here in the spring.

[Koala]

Lou, sounds that the trip to america was in every way good for you! I'm happy for you!
No worry about the PGCE interview, I'm sure you have made this great!

[Brooke]

Troub, this is great! Glad you are feeling better!

[Glennsallnighter]

Sounds like everything is going so well for you Lou and I too am delighted. Your new guy looks lovely and I'm sure you will have a great time when you return to see him in the Spring. I hope too that the PGCE will bring you good news. You sound like you have a very exciting year to come. I really hope everything works out the way you want it to. You deserve it :hug:

[sodascouts]

Glad to hear from you on here, Lou! Of course you know how much fun I had with you guys! Glad you're feeling better and I sure hope things go well with the interview.

I didn't know about this guy! oooh la la! ;)

He's very handsome!!

Did I miss something? I don't see a photo - was it posted on Facebook?

[TimothyBFan]

Yup Soda, Look at her pictures from her trip, there's a picture of the two of them. Very handsome and as Cathy said, very Don Henleyish. :heybaby:

[Glennsallnighter]

I was just looking at the stats. Amazing! We have reached 3000 threads. soda, did you ever think in your wildest dreams that the Bordeer would be so successful? Well done to you and once again, thanks for all the hard work that you do to keep it up and running, and interesting!

[Troubadour]

No-one knew about this till yesterday, Nanc (apart from Jess and Christi!) I haven't mentioned it on FB because it's very early days, and he is a friend on there. LOL. But I wanted to share it with you guys and partly to explain why I might seem a bit preoccupied at the moment. ;)

There are a few pics of him at the end of my "Stateside" album. His name is Howard. (I have tagged him.)

[sodascouts]

I was just looking at the stats. Amazing! We have reached 3000 threads. soda, did you ever think in your wildest dreams that the Bordeer would be so successful? Well done to you and once again, thanks for all the hard work that you do to keep it up and running, and interesting!

Funny you should mention this - the Border turns five tomorrow and I was planning a celebratory thread! Cool that it has lined up like that!

[Brooke]

No-one knew about this till yesterday, Nanc (apart from Jess and Christi!) I haven't mentioned it on FB because it's very early days, and he is a friend on there. LOL. But I wanted to share it with you guys and partly to explain why I might seem a bit preoccupied at the moment. ;)

There are a few pics of him at the end of my "Stateside" album. His name is Howard. (I have tagged him.)

And where is this Troub? I looked at your profile, but didn't see any album.

[Troubadour]

I think you need to be friends with me to view my photos. Feel free to add me if you have an FB account!

To make it easier, I'll post this one here for now, but will take it down shortly!

*REMOVED*

[Brooke]

Wow! Thanks! Lovely picture of the two of you!

I thought you meant your profile here, not FB. :doh:

[Troubadour]

Ah, I see! Sorry for the confusion. And thanks :)

[Troubadour]

Well, that was fast... I have just received an unconditional offer from Kingston University for the PGCE Primary course! Very pleased.

[Glennsallnighter]

Yay! Congrats Lou! That's wonderful. They must have seen immediately the stuff you are made of!

[Glennsallnighter]

Lovely pic of you both Lou! Wow! Everything's happening for you at the moment! I'm thrilled for you!

[Henley Honey]

Well, that was fast... I have just received an unconditional offer from Kingston University for the PGCE Primary course! Very pleased.


Good for you! Contratulations!! Good things come to good people.
Love the picture too. You two make a cute couple. If things progress and you end up together, I think Soda should be a Bridesmaid!!! She's a little like George Bailey in the movie "It's a Wonderful Life". She has affected so many people's lives in a positive manner by starting and maintaining the Border. If not a bridesmaid, then maybe a Godmother? :nod:

[Koala]

Congrats Lou!
Great photo from you both!

[sodascouts]

ooh - nice!

[EaglesKiwi]

Well, that was fast... I have just received an unconditional offer from Kingston University for the PGCE Primary course! Very pleased.
Yippee, that's great news! (And you didn't have to wait too long & stress out!).

PS Nice photo ;)

[TimothyBFan]

I know I've always congratulated you on the offer but I wanted to say "way to go" again!!! What a wonderful Christmas present for you!!

[Prettymaid]

Me too Lou. I've congratulated you on FB and I'll do it again here.

And I think I should be considered for godmother status too, as it was I who spotted that photo on FB and immediately asked who he was! Lol! And noticed the Henley-like qualities! :heybaby:

[sodascouts]

It's been a long day and I got almost no sleep last night, but I made it to Houston for the holidays without incident. I just hope I didn't forget anything as I was rushing out the door after looking for Milton for almost an hour (turns out he was hiding IN a cabinet, the door of which he'd managed to get open and then close behind him, and BEHIND the fire extinguisher to boot). My cat may not understand too many words - or at least acknowledge too many words - but he can sure figure out the best places to hide!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

My mother, my sister and her two boys have come to VA for the weekend. We'll bake some cookies and work on my yard. With working 70+ hour weeks since the beginning of October, I'm so far behind on everything and they decided to help!

[WalshFan88]

It's been a long day and I got almost no sleep last night, but I made it to Houston for the holidays without incident. I just hope I didn't forget anything as I was rushing out the door after looking for Milton for almost an hour (turns out he was hiding IN a cabinet, the door of which he'd managed to get open and then close behind him, and BEHIND the fire extinguisher to boot). My cat may not understand too many words - or at least acknowledge too many words - but he can sure figure out the best places to hide!

LOL! IIRC, didn't he make you late for a flight awhile back or something because you couldn't find him? :hilarious: He sounds pretty smart if he is able to open and close a door!

[sodascouts]

Yes, that's right, and thank goodness I didn't miss another flight because of him!

[TimothyBFan]

Milton just cracks me up!!! He's so freaking clever!

[TimothyBFan]

Literally just watched one of my 2 best friends, Barb, and her daughter pull away in a moving van, moving to Washington. She lost her mother who lived out there, 2 weeks before I lost my Mom this summer and her father is not taking it well. Since she lost her job a couple years ago, she's been going back to school full time (was in 2 classes with one of her daughters who was also a college freshman :laugh:) and since her sister and brother and their families are still out there, had decided to move back out there. She was there for 3 months while her mother was dying and she saw just how hard it was going to be for her Dad.

We have been friends for YEARS, have been thru so much together, and I literally helped her raise her 3 daughters when she was left to do it herself and wanted to work and not go on assistance. The youngest daughter (17) and my daughter are very close and she's literally been on all of our family vacations with us the last 10 years or so. Her 2 oldest daughters (20 & 23), who have other obligations right now, are staying behind till end of next summer, and then will also move. So I'm selfishly happy I get to keep them for awhile. They've always all been so close so they are having a very hard time today.

Larry & I always host a big breakfast the Saturday before Christmas for family and friends at our favorite restaurant in town and this past Saturday was pretty hard because we knew we'd all be saying goodbye. We all did pretty well till it was time to leave the restaurant. A few family members who weren't aware of what was going on probably thought we were all nuts crying and hugging till Larry went over to them and explained that they were moving. Threatened my friend Amy that she had better stay put because I was tired of losing the ones I love lately. She assured me I'm stuck with her-especially since they live right across the street. :laugh:

Told hubby that this has been one of the toughest years of loss that I have ever or will ever (hopefully) have. Thought the year I lost my Dad, an Aunt and a good family friend was bad. This one tops it with our dear "other" mother, Millie, my Mom, my best friend's Mom, my other best friend's (Amy) Dad (all 3 of us lost parents within 3 weeks of each other), both kids moving out on their own and a best friend moving all the way across the country. And to top it off, received a phone call from my Aunt Joan last night that my great aunt, the woman who raised my Dad & my Aunt Joan, passed away yesterday afternoon.

Life sure seems tough some times!!!

[Brooke]

Glad you made it to Texas safely, Soda! Evidently Milton doesn't like to fly! Silly boy! Surely he wouldn't want to be left home alone for the holidays! :lol:

Willie, I'm sorry to hear about your friends leaving. Best of luck to them and you. :hug:

[Glennsallnighter]

Willie! It certainly has been a difficult year for you with the passing of so many people who are dear to you and now the leaving of your great friends. I hope next year brings you much joy.

Can I ask you all to say an odd prayer for my cousin Lucy please? We only heard over the weekend that she has been through the mill. In October a growth was discovered on her brain and she was operated on immediately. thankfully it turned out to be benign. However through the month of November she has had setback after setback. Infection set in and she was rushed back to the theatre 5 times over the last month or so. Apparently she is now out of danger, but has lost the use of her left side. She will come to Dublin (From Cork - 160 miles away) for rehab treatment in the new year although she is still in Hospital at present. She's still not allowed visitors.
Lucy is a lovely warm friendly person, active in music and drama, and is the life and soul of a party - the type who is first up to dance, and last to sit down, as well as being a wonderful caring person. This will have hit her hard I'm sure.

Because my parents are elderly (She is Dads neice) and her own father has passed on, and her mother is in her late 80s its mainly her sister who has been looking out for her (as well as trying to work fulltime herself). She felt she had to deal with all this herself before she alerted us to what had happened. Even when I texted both of them on the anniversary of their father (my godfather) she answered me from Lucy's phone.

I have been very upset about this over the weekend since I heard, so I really would appreciate an odd prayer for her over the Christmas.

[Henley Honey]

My thoughts are with you, GA. I'll definitely keep Lucy in my prayers.
The brain is extremely complex and fascinating. My cousin suffered an acute, spontaneous brain bleed and everyone wrote him off -- neurosurgeons, ICU nurses, physical therapists -- everyone. Guess he showed them! After 8 months of hospitals and rehab he is home and doing really well. He had some serious setbacks along the way as well but a positive attitude and lots of support from family and friends was paramount in his recovery. When she is allowed visitors, even if you can't be sure she hears you -- hold her hand and talk to her anyway. You never know what gets through. We'd play music for my cousin and that really seemed to make a difference. Good thoughts and prayers to you and Lucy!

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks HH. I will! We would hope that we might be able to see her over Christmas, but if not I will definitely so out to see her when she is in Rehab.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

GA, will very definitely add you and Lucy and all your family to my prayers.

[sodascouts]

Willie, I'm sorry you have to deal with so much loss. At least in this day and age, the internet makes it easy to keep up with friends who move away - not the same, I know, but better than losing touch.

GA, I will definitely keep Lucy in my prayers.

[Koala]

TBF, I'm sorry to hear this!

:hug:

GA, My thoughts are with Lucy and your whole family!

:hug:

[EaglesKiwi]

GA & TBF, will have you and your loved ones in my prayers.

[TimothyBFan]

GA---Lucy & your whole family will be in my thoughts also. Hopefully the rehab will work and things will improve for her.

[Brooke]

Yes, Ga, Lucy and your family are in my thoughts and prayers too.

[WalshFan88]

GA - Prayers/good thoughts sent!

TBF - Sorry to hear of your friend(s) moving away. I know it's tough. :( Take care! :hug:

[Lisa]

All good wishes sent.

[Molly]

GA, many prayers sent to Lucy. Hopefully, rehab will help her gain back much of her mobility.

Willie, sorry to hear your year from hell continues. You and your family certainly need some time to catch your breath. Hang in there.

Hope everyone is doing well. We're hunkering down here waiting for the arrival of our first grandchild, Owen Steven, any day now. All my friends and co-workers with new grandbabies have been torturing me with their pictures of their little cuties. It's making me really anxious and excited!

Poor Audra is so uncomfortable, but nice to see that she still has her sense of humor! She just sent me this "latest photo of Owen".
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y137/mollycinder/babybelly.jpg

[Mrs Frey]

Molly, congratulations on the imminent arrival of Owen!

GA, I'm so sorry to read about your cousin, Lucy. I really hope she will be able to pull through this difficult time. :hug:

Willie, you poor thing. I have an idea of what you're going through, and I feel for you, girl. May the Lord give you the strength to deal with all this loss. :hug:

The Festive Season is never an easy time for me. It's a time of intense loneliness. I miss my mother terribly, and I'm not seeing much of my best friend now either, because it is family time for him. It's tough when one sees someone on a weekly basis, and then suddenly there's a three-week lull. Written correspondence just doesn't compare with the person's presence.

At least I will be spending some quality time with other close friends over the next few days, and I'm looking forward to that. My next show is on New Year's Eve, and I can't wait for that. I haven't been on stage since 8 December, so I'm having some withdrawal, in spite of the fact that I'm tired from a tough and busy year. I just keep looking for something to fill the emptiness I feel. Not easy. :sad:

[Glennsallnighter]

Thank you so much for all the kind words, messages, support and prayers. Lucy is so lucky to have people praying for her from 4 different continents! You are all such a wonderful bunch of friends! And I sincerely hope 2012 will bring the chance for me to meet up with more of you.

Molly! Good luck to your son and Audra on the impending birth. I hope all goes well for them. I'm sure you will be a brilliant Grandma! And I love the pic!

MF, my friend, I hope at least that you get some time over the Christmas to relax and pamper yourself. Reflect on the positive things that have happened over the past year, and look forward with hope to next year! And enjoy the time you spend with your close friends. Best of luck for your New Years gig.

[Brooke]

Molly, long time no see! Welcome back! What a cute pic of the newest addition to your family! I wish you and your family all the best as you welcome your new grandson!

MF, it's nice to have you back too and best of luck with your upcoming gig. Hope you have many good times with your friends over the holidays.

[Mrs Frey]

MF, my friend, I hope at least that you get some time over the Christmas to relax and pamper yourself. Reflect on the positive things that have happened over the past year, and look forward with hope to next year! And enjoy the time you spend with your close friends. Best of luck for your New Years gig.

Thanks, my angel, it means a lot. :hug: :hug: :hug:

[Mrs Frey]

MF, it's nice to have you back too and best of luck with your upcoming gig. Hope you have many good times with your friends over the holidays.

Thanks so much, Brooke :hug: - it's nice to be back with all of you, and I hope that I'll be able to make more time for The Border in the New Year. My mind has been all over the place this past year, and it's time I introduce some order! :smile:

[EaglesKiwi]

Hope everyone is doing well. We're hunkering down here waiting for the arrival of our first grandchild, Owen Steven, any day now. All my friends and co-workers with new grandbabies have been torturing me with their pictures of their little cuties. It's making me really anxious and excited!

Poor Audra is so uncomfortable, but nice to see that she still has her sense of humor! She just sent me this "latest photo of Owen".
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y137/mollycinder/babybelly.jpg
What a gorgeous photo, Molly! Hope all goes well for Audra and baby Owen comes REAL SOON. Audra's not going to be able to fit much Christmas dinner in otherwise... :laugh:

[Koala]

Molly! Good luck to your son and Audra!

MF, its never easy when a loved one is missing, especially at Christmas, they are missing much!I know this!Hope you can nevertheless enjoy the holidays a little!

[Brooke]

Getting ready for the big next couple days. I got a day off today and Monday, besides the next two days. Preparing for the kids to come home and spend the night with us over the holiday. Cleaning, cooking, preparing two bedrooms. Busy, busy, busy! :crazy:

[sodascouts]

Molly - hello there! Wow, a grandbaby?? My mind is blown!

MF - I'm so sorry the holidays are a hard time for you. I hope you can experience some of the joy of the season - try to focus on the happy things, like the upswing in your career.

I've barely been able to get on the Border - my little nephews keep wanting to play, my parents have planned a lot of activities, my sisters want to spend time with me... which is wonderful! I love to spend time with my family! But all my big plans about getting things done are coming to naught. :(

[EaglesKiwi]

I've barely been able to get on the Border - my little nephews keep wanting to play, my parents have planned a lot of activities, my sisters want to spend time with me... which is wonderful! I love to spend time with my family! But all my big plans about getting things done are coming to naught. :(
We understand! Just enjoy the wonderful family times you are having, we will still be here when you get a chance to catch up!

Santa will be visiting here within the next hour or so, and then it's a pretty big day tomorrow, and a really lazy day (I hope) on Boxing Day.

[tequila girl]

I know I haven't been here (actively) for a while and I don't know how you all feel about "spiritual" type things? but I felt the need to share this with you ........and would be grateful for any feedback/insights

This is a link to something I posted earlier tonight on my Parrot forum

I know this (original) post is two years old - but I figured this was the best place to put the follow up! http://www.parrotlinks.com/modules/Forums/images/smiles/icon_eek.gif http://www.parrotlinks.com/modules/Forums/images/smiles/icon_eek.gif

Again, it'll probably be a bit long in order for me to try and explain the goings on....

So, first off a short explanation of things (and i'm not looking for sympathy in any shape or form) but I have to give the facts to make it understandable! (I hope) http://www.parrotlinks.com/modules/Forums/images/smiles/icon_wink.gif

Right here goes.....
My mum died in Aug 1961 when I was 5 years old - her birthday was Dec 25th
My dad died on Dec 27th 2008

so, first off Christmas Eve......I was ironing in the spare bedroom and had a scented tea light lit, I went away for a couple of hours and left it unattended knowing 100% that nothing could possibly happen (it couldn't fall and wasn't close enough to anything to set alight........
when I came back I found this

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/carolwayne/IMGP3041.jpg
notice it looks like it's been blown out 'backwards' spots of wax up the wall & on the lamp - bit strange, but I didn't really think anymore of it - I knew there was no draught or anything in the room to have put it out and just left it at that really http://www.parrotlinks.com/modules/Forums/images/smiles/icon_confused.gif

Yesterday
I was in the kitchen with Charlie on my arm (filling the kettle up) when he took off in fright! landing on the worktop across the room.....and there he stayed frozen like a statue for at least 5 mins - no amount of talking/stroking/trying to bribe with cheese would shift him (normally he'd do anything for cheese!)

Today the anniversary of my dad's death
first off I was washing the dishes at lunch time and got a really strong smell of vinegar - the only time I use it is on chips about.....every couple of months - and hadn't had any lately - my dad LOVED pickled Onions & Beetroot!
Then later on as I was coming down the stairs......and this is the strangest of all I think... I heard "chomp chomp chomp mmmmmm yum yum yum" which comes from a novelty dinosaur torch that lives on top of the fridge (dad loved this - it made him laugh)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/carolwayne/torch.jpg

and as you see from the pic it has a trigger like on/off switch (the yellow bit under the handle) that couldn't possibly have set itself off......
so, what's the verdict......am I going mad? http://www.parrotlinks.com/modules/Forums/images/smiles/icon_lol.gif

[Lisa]

New batteries for Christmas? Just joking about the dinosaur starting on its own.

[EaglesKiwi]

Scent is supposed to be one of the most powerful memory triggers... I'm not sure if it works the other way (i.e. if you remember someone can you smell them?).

I've often felt that my grandfather was watching over my children, but I've never had anything like that happen - just a sense of him. :-)

[Mrs Frey]

MF, its never easy when a loved one is missing, especially at Christmas, they are missing much!I know this!Hope you can nevertheless enjoy the holidays a little!

Thanks so much, Koala! :hug:

[Mrs Frey]

MF - I'm so sorry the holidays are a hard time for you. I hope you can experience some of the joy of the season - try to focus on the happy things, like the upswing in your career.


Thanks so much, Soda :hug:. I have been trying to focus on the positive things - sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, but I have enjoyed the last few days, I must say. I do have some very special friends, and I've managed to have time with all of them. I am very blessed.

[Molly]

I know I haven't been here (actively) for a while and I don't know how you all feel about "spiritual" type things? but I felt the need to share this with you ........and would be grateful for any feedback/insights

This is a link to something I posted earlier tonight on my Parrot forum

Wow! I for one, do believe that "spirits" are all around us. I've had personal experiences similar to what you've described myself. Who knows. Nothing can be explained, but nothing can be disproved either, can it?

Sounds like your folks wanted you to know that they're still all around you.
I'd take it as Christmas gifts from them!

MF-sending hugs your way. I know this time of year is always tough for you.

[Molly]

Well, I'm a Grandma!

Owen Steven Lindley 12/27/2011 11:58 p.m. 9lb. 2oz. 21 inches.

No pix yet-letting the kids get some rest before we all descend upon them this morning. It was a very long day (18 hrs. of labor) for Audra. Tom sounded just exhausted when he called @ 12:30 a.m.

Anxious to see the little man.

[EagleLady]

Awwww Congrats Molly!!

[Mrs Frey]

MF-sending hugs your way. I know this time of year is always tough for you.

Thanks, Molly :hug: - so much appreciated. And congratulations on the birth of your grandson!! What a wonderful way to end the year and start a new one!

[Glennsallnighter]

CONGRATULATIONS:partytime::partytime::partytime:

To Tom and Audra on the birth of their gorgeous baby son, and to you both Molly and Steve on becoming grandparents!

Well done to Audra. I'm sure once she has a sleep those post pregnancy hormones will kick in and she'll be just fine.

[Brooke]

tg, very strange. I think I'd have to agree with Molly that your parents are letting you know they are watching over you. I've never experienced any thing like that.

Molly, congrats on becoming a Gramma!

[TimothyBFan]

Congrats Molly!!! Spoil him rotten!!!

TG--- I also believe there's something to it. You're not crazy---be thankful they're letting you know they're still with you.

[sodascouts]

TG - I don't believe ghosts walk the earth or anything like that; I think people head straight to either Heaven or Hell. However, perhaps there is a "looking down from Heaven" thing going on.

Molly - congrats to you and your fam!!!

As for me, while I love my nephews and my niece, I am once again reminded as I spend time with them that motherhood is not for me! I'm looking forward to some time to myself again.

Finally, I'm posting this from my new Christmas gift - an iPad!

[Glennsallnighter]

Welcome to the iPad ranks Soda. I find mine invaluable. Good luck with it.

I totally agree with your Motherhood comment. It's a full time job and commitment. Some are cut out for it and some aren't. The worst suggestion that a person or couple can be given is that they have children. That's a personal decision that only they can make. I'm blessed with two wonderful children that I wanted and wouldn't be without. But they DO clip ones wings a bit.

[Prettymaid]

Congratulations Grandma Sheryl!

[Freypower]

Well, I'm a Grandma!

Owen Steven Lindley 12/27/2011 11:58 p.m. 9lb. 2oz. 21 inches.

No pix yet-letting the kids get some rest before we all descend upon them this morning. It was a very long day (18 hrs. of labor) for Audra. Tom sounded just exhausted when he called @ 12:30 a.m.

Anxious to see the little man.

Congratulations to you & your family, Molly!!!! :grouphug:

[Molly]

Here's Owen. He's pretty awesome! It's been a very good day!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y137/mollycinder/owen.jpg

[sodascouts]

Adorable!

[Koala]

Molly, Congrats to you and your family! Owen looks very cute!

[Mrs Frey]

Lovely photo, Molly!

[Wildthyme]

What a sweet little face...Owen is truly adorable! Congrats on becoming a Grandma Molly!!

[Brooke]

Awwww, how sweet Molly!

For some reason I expected the cheesehead hat! :lol:

[Glennsallnighter]

Here's Owen. He's pretty awesome! It's been a very good day!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y137/mollycinder/owen.jpg

He is absolutely gorgeous Molly. Once again congratulations to all your family.

[EaglesKiwi]

Congratulations Molly! What a dear wee boy Owen is! (Okay, 9 pounds is quite BIG... :?). Wishing you and your family much joy together.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Congrats, Molly!!

[Mrs Frey]

I just wanted to report that I had a FANTASTIC New Year's Eve show with my friend and musical partner, James. We played a Bowling Club, where we also played 6 months ago to an enthusiastic audience, and NYE's show was even better! The audience comprised about 150 people (apparently they could have had 200 or more people if they were able to accommodate that many), and they danced, whooped, hollered, screamed, whistled and loved us from beginning to end. I could not have asked for a better beginning to the new year. I feel very blessed. :yay:

We started at 20:30 and ended at about 01:30 the following morning. We did a countdown to the New Year, and I led the audience on "Auld Lang Syne". We played 3 hour-long sets of wonderful golden oldies, and James DJ'd with some music in-between while we rested our voices and bodies. It was boiling hot, and we probably lost some kilos, but it was fun-fun-fun!

I am also happy to report that I performed 3 songs related to the Eagles: "Take It Easy" (the first time I've done this song live), "Heartache Tonight" and "The Heat Is On" (the latter two are now staples of our show). :nod: :nod: :nod: I introduced my "tribute to the Eagles" by mentioning that they were to visit our shores in April. :-)

At least 3 people told us that it was the best NYE show they had ever attended. How wonderful is that? :D

Our next show is on 13 January; a private function. My voice is a little hoarse, so I'm going to rest it for the next couple of weeks. But I'm feeling GOOD! :yay:

[Koala]

I am so happy for you and your friend James
that you had such a fantastic Performance
with such a wonderful audience.
Its Great to hear you had 3 Eagles related songs in your setlist, love which songs you had chosen!
Good luck to you for your Next concerts.

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks, Koala! :hug:

[Glennsallnighter]

I'm thrilled your show went so well MF. It's wonderful to have so many people wanting to see you both that they could not all be accommodated. Sounds like everybody had a brilliant evening. Great too that you could include some of our Eagles favourites in your set list. I hope you both go from strength to strength.
Rest your voice over the next week or so and I'm sure it will be perfect for your private function. :yay::yay::yay:

[Brooke]

MF, I'm so glad your show turned out so well on New Year's Eve! That had to make it very gratifying for you that everyone was having such a great time. Nice of you to put in a plug for the Eagles too! Well done! And take care of yourself so you'll be ready for the next one!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Good for you, MF!! Good job!

[Prettymaid]

Thanks for sharing Owen with us Molly. He's adorable! I'm sure he's your 'new reason to live'!

Congratulations Mrs. Frey on a very successful New Year's Eve show! I'd love to hear you do those Eagle songs - especially The Heat Is On!


Working in a customer service job, I am always amused by what 'small talk' my customer will bring up. For some reason, people have come to use the phrase "Are you ready for Christmas?" during the holiday season, and for some reason, this question irkes the :cuss: out of me. Probably because I am not much for small talk and don't know how to answer without sharing too much! However, I have decided this year to make the best of something I don't like. Starting today, Dec. 1, every time somebody says that phrase to me I'm going to mark it down, and after Christmas I'm going to donate $1 for every time it was said to a charity of my choice.

Does anybody have any suggestions for something I can answer back that is short and witty?

I posted that just before December and thought I'd share my results with you. Here is the tally sheet I made. My customers were not aware of what I was doing.

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/Me%20doing%20stuff/12-29-2011091154AM.jpg

As some of you can guess, I donated my $31.00 to the Wildlife Center of Virginia.

Here is my email to them.

To Ed Clark and the staff at the Wildlife Center of Virginia,

As a bank teller, I come into contact with dozens of customers every day, some having the "gift for gab". I've noticed the last few years during the holiday season I am asked the question over and over again, "Are you ready for Christmas?"
Now, I'm not completely sure what this question means or how to answer it, and being asked several times a day can get a bit redundant to the point that this year I was not looking forward to being asked the dreaded question.

One morning in late November I woke up with a thought; I could turn something that I considered to be 'bad' into something good! Starting December 1, I would mark down every time the question, or any form of it, was asked of me at work by a customer, and after Christmas I would tally up the number and donate $1.00 for every mark to WCV! I made it a fun thing and challenged my co-workers to do the same for their favorite charities.

After Christmas I counted my "chicken scratches" and discovered two things: 1) I wasn't asked this question nearly as much as I had thought, and 2) the total was enough to treat myself to a Caring for Critters sponsorship, something I had asked for but not received this Christmas.

I have learned through this experience to be more kind and patient with my customers; after all, they don't know that the past ten customers before them have told me that we're in for some rain, or that there was a fire on Main Street. People are generally good and kind, and working in a service capacity makes me thankful for that every day.

So, attached is a copy of the tally sheet I used to conduct this experiment. I will soon be sending my check for $31.00 - not much by monetary standards - but given with more respect than I have ever donated to a charity, knowing that the Wildlife Center of Virginia does indeed teach the world to care about and to care for wildlife and the environment.

and their response...

Thanks so much for your lovely email! What a sweet idea for the holidays! Once we receive the check, I will be getting a packet of information about the animal you wish to adopt together and sent to you.

I hope you’ve had a wonderful Holiday season and Happy New Year!

[Molly]

Yeah, MF! The photos I've seen posted of you singing show that you put so much passion into your performances, I'm not surprised your NYE show turned out to be fabulous!

PM, what a good idea to turn a negative into a positive! I get multiple emails from a coworker every day that drive me batty...maybe I should start keeping a tally sheet. Our local Humane Society shelter could always use some $$$.

[Prettymaid]

Well, there ya go Molly!

[Mrs Frey]

Thank you, GA, Brooke, VA, PM and Molly! :grouphug: You all say the sweetest things.

I am happy to say that I got my exercise regimen up and running last night, and I have another date with my bicycle tonight! I am also resting the voice as far as possible.

PM, that certainly is a wonderful idea to donate to your favourite charity. Well done!

[TimothyBFan]

LOVE IT PM!!!! Any excuse to contribute to an animal cause is oh right with me. I actually thought it would be more also. Let us know about what animal you adopt. How exciting!!!!

[Annabel]

Cathy, what a fab idea. :yay:

[Prettymaid]

I can already tell you what animal I adopted...

http://www.wildlifecenter.org/wp/norfolk-botanical-garden-eagle/

It's Buddy, their educational bald eagle! Well, educational-in-training...:lol:

I can't wait to get my packet!

[Glennsallnighter]

Congratulations PM. Your whole idea was wonderful and how appropriate to adopt an Eagle!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

PM, that is so cool! There are eagles all over Virginia (only the feathered kind, unfortunately) but I like taking the riverboat cruises around Tappahannock and seeing the bald eagles.

[Prettymaid]

VA, my bucket list now includes going to Virginia and visiting the Norfolk Botanical Gardens (where this whole feathered eagles thing started for me) and up to Waynesboro hopefully during a Wildlife Center of Virginia open house.

Here in Central Illinois bald eagle sightings are not very common, but if I play my cards right I might be able to make short trips at the right times to see them.

[Koala]

PM, the whole idea was so wonderful! was a good choice to adopt an eagle!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

VA, my bucket list now includes going to Virginia and visiting the Norfolk Botanical Gardens (where this whole feathered eagles thing started for me) and up to Waynesboro hopefully during a Wildlife Center of Virginia open house.

Here in Central Illinois bald eagle sightings are not very common, but if I play my cards right I might be able to make short trips at the right times to see them.

Norfolk is 2.5 to 3 hours from me, depending on traffic. The cruise I was talking about is actually a winery cruise, so you can see where my interests lie. Let me know if you ever decide to make the trip!

[Brooke]

Cathy, what a lovely idea! How nice of you! And that was very nice of your co-workers to participate too.

We see lots of bald eagles around here. I guess because we are close to the Mississippi River. I saw one just the other day feeding on a dead deer along the road.

[sodascouts]

Glad to hear your show went so well, MF! Wish I could have been there! Maybe one of these days you'll make it to the "land of Elvis" and we can meet.

PM, your idea was terrific and I'm glad to see that what was an annoyance became a blessing.

I'm back in Memphis now and trying to "get into the groove" again. It's back to work tomorrow, but today, I'm taking a day off.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Glad to hear your show went so well, MF! Wish I could have been there! Maybe one of these days you'll make it to the "land of Elvis" and we can meet.

PM, your idea was terrific and I'm glad to see that what was an annoyance became a blessing.

I'm back in Memphis now and trying to "get into the groove" again. It's back to work tomorrow, but today, I'm taking a day off.

Welcome back to the Border, Soda, was thinking about sending out a search party...:-)

[sodascouts]

Yeah, it was so crazy spending time with the fam. I was thinking I would get all this work done... what I didn't count on was that my nephews, niece, sisters, and parents would be demanding so much of my time. I barely had any time to myself unless it was after midnight. I understand it - family is more important than board time, after all, and I don't get to see them very often; I wanted to spend time with them, too. However, by the end of each day, I was freaking exhausted. I don't know how you folks with children find the energy to have lives outside of your families!

[Brooke]

Welcome back Soda! We've missed ya, but completely understand!

I know what you mean about having the kiddies around. Mine are grown, but when the nieces and nephews are around, it's crazy! They are like energizer bunnies and I'm glad to go home to the peace and quiet! :crazy:

[Glennsallnighter]

Welcome back Soda! :yay::yay:

[EaglesKiwi]

Yeah, it was so crazy spending time with the fam. I was thinking I would get all this work done... what I didn't count on was that my nephews, niece, sisters, and parents would be demanding so much of my time. I barely had any time to myself unless it was after midnight. I understand it - family is more important than board time, after all, and I don't get to see them very often; I wanted to spend time with them, too. However, by the end of each day, I was freaking exhausted. I don't know how you folks with children find the energy to have lives outside of your families!
I'm sure you said something similar last time you were on vacation with the family, Soda! (Something about kiddies spending lots of time with Aunty Nancy...) :rofl:

Welcome back!

[Mrs Frey]

Glad to hear your show went so well, MF! Wish I could have been there! Maybe one of these days you'll make it to the "land of Elvis" and we can meet.

I'm back in Memphis now and trying to "get into the groove" again. It's back to work tomorrow, but today, I'm taking a day off.

Thank you, Soda! :hug: Yes, it would be wonderful to finally make it to Graceland. It is certainly on the cards - I'm just not sure when - possibly within the next two to three years.

I'm glad you're back! Take it easy, now. :wink:

[sodascouts]

I'm sure you said something similar last time you were on vacation with the family, Soda! (Something about kiddies spending lots of time with Aunty Nancy...) :rofl:

You bet... but that was only one nephew and niece. I had two more little nephews added to the mix this time! Yeah, at this point in their lives, they still think Aunt Nancy is cool. My most heroic moment came when I was able to figure out how to get the old, dust-covered VCR to play on Mom and Dad's high-tech TV, since we only had Muppet Family Christmas on VHS. There was much cheering and celebration as the room filled with the strains of Kermit, Fozzie Bear, Rowlf, Gonzo, and the rest of the muppets singing "We Need a Little Christmas"!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtgYDpvRCMI

[Henley Honey]

Way to save the day, Soda -- and your sanity!!

[sodascouts]

Just started the new semester yesterday. So far so good! I'm happy with the classes I'm teaching (although I'm bummed my Shakespeare class got cancelled) and I have a great schedule - I'm not teaching any classes on Fridays, which works out well if there should be any reason that I need to go somewhere for a weekend. ;)

[Henley Honey]

How Convenient!!!! I think the band should take that into consideration and schedule their dates accordingly. Keep in mind, I can call in sick any Friday. I have a very understanding boss -- me!! No doctor's note required!

[Glennsallnighter]

That's nice and handy Soda! Pity about the Shakespeare class though. Our schedule doesn't change all year. But I have an easy Freyday so can pull a personal day easily enough if I have to!

Would you be my boss HH.? I need one who totally understands my need for time off to make mad dashes across the pond...... Rather than one who looks at me funny and says 'Glenn WHO???'

[Mrs Frey]

Hahaha, Soda, HH and GA - you ladies are funny! :lol:

I must say, though, I don't have any trouble booking leave when I need it. I take leave mainly to accommodate my shows - if I have a show in the middle of the week, for instance, and I need to be at the venue early, or if I'm away - out of town - for a few shows in a row.

The situation can be tough, though, because I do sometimes feel like I need a proper break, but I can't take too many days off, because then I won't have any left when I really need them.

Oh well, I have to look after my second career. It's my passion after all.

I'm looking forward to doing a private function - a 60th birthday party - on Friday evening, so I've taken leave for the day. It looks to be a blast - I hope it turns out that way. The gentleman having the birthday has really rolled out the red carpet for James and me - not all clients are as accommodating as he has been.

[Brooke]

Whew! I'm back! I just had an unusually busy weekend and start to this week! No Border time......:scowl:

Nothing big going on around here really, just the usual stuff. House cleaning, grocery shopping, basketball games, board meetings, end of year stuff at work, reports, etc. :thumbsdown:

Maybe now I'll have a little more time to indulge.

Congrats on having no classes on Fridays Soda! Must be a Freyday for sure! :wink:

I really can't take off work very easily during the first 2 weeks of the month unless it's an emergency. I work for a utility and that is the busiest time of the month and there are only 2 of us that work in the office. The rest of the month is anything goes though. It's kind of a pain, and no one has told us we can't take off during that time, but out of respect for the other girl, and her for me, we try not to if at all possible. It's just too much for one person to handle.

[Mrs Frey]

Glad you're back, Brooke!

Your situation at work can't be easy - anything can happen in the first two weeks of the month for you to need time off, and then you can't take some.

[Glennsallnighter]

Well really as a teacher my time off is pretty good. I get 12 weeks in Summer, one in October, 2 at Bith Christmas and Easter and 1 in February. Then of course there are 2 public holidays. However these are really just class contact hours. Most of us will do some work during the holidays - preparing work, marking exams, organising classes, designing worksheets etc. If we really need a day off for something important (like a trip to Niagara Falls) we can usually apply for it as a personal day and I've rarely seen them turned down. but most of us realise our time off is good and keep time off to the minimum. It's a pain though that the travel companies always hike their prices during the school holidays so if we want to travel we end up paying top dollar!

Good luck with your Party tomorrow night MF. I'm sure you will wow the guests with your performance!

[Peekaboo]

I'M BACK!!!

Just wanted to pop in and say a big Hello to everybody here!! I realize that I've been MIA from here over the last few months but trust me when I say that I've missed you all. I needed some time to get myself together and gain some perspective. This last year was a rough one for me and although much hasn't changed with some situations I'm glad to say that I'm finally feeling better. It took a long time but I think I'm finally starting to get to a good place in my life again. One of my New Years resolutions is striving to stay positive and to be happy. So far, so good. :thumbsup:

Another one of my New Years resolutions is to post on The Border more often. I want to get back into the swing of things here. I think this resolution will work out quite well. The next couple of weeks are gonna be pretty busy for me but I'll try to log on here when I can. I've got lots to catch up on. I can't wait to check out the photo threads and see what kind of eye candy I've missed out on.

Happy New Year to you all. I hope it's gonna be a good one for everyone here! :D

[Glennsallnighter]

Welcome Back Peek! I hope 2012 will be a much better one for you - I know how rough last year was. Its great that you are feeling a lot more positive now. Take care of yourself.
And of course a very Happy New Year to you too :hug:

[Brooke]

Welcome back Peek! We missed ya! Glad to hear you are feeling better about things. Hang in there! :hug:

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Welcome back, Peek! Good to have you back. I like your positive attitude. Good things will happen!

[Freypower]

Good to see you again Peek. :yay:

[sodascouts]

Yes, Peek, so glad to see you again!

Don't get overwhelmed by all you have to catch up on. Just work from the most recent stuff back, and if you can't get to it all, oh well! What's most important is that you're posting again!

[WalshFan88]

Peek - Welcome back!!!!

----------

I haven't been posting so much lately as it's been pretty stressful around here. My grandpa is in the hospital with blood clots in his lungs and I am pretty worried about him - we are pretty close. I go in myself on Thursday to have my stomach scoped both upper and lower and will be of course sedated for that and will be down for that day. Then I have my Florida trip coming up at the first week of next month and I hope I can leave for it with not many worries and actually enjoy myself as I need it. I haven't been myself lately (grouchy, lethargic, etc) and it's just because of stress, anxiety, and frustration. There are some days I don't even get out of bed and I just lay around doing nothing. I haven't played guitar in god knows when because I just haven't had the drive too. My main worries right now are my grandfather and also hoping they find the cause of my constant stomach pain. I'm tired of getting the run around. I'm going tomorrow afternoon to Springfield to see my grandpa and I'm hoping he's in good condition as I really hate going to see family in bad shape. I have enough stress in my own health and I hate having close ones sick/not well. I'm just hoping they can fix this.

[sodascouts]

My best wishes for the health of both you and your grandad, Austin.

[EaglesKiwi]

Good luck Austin, for both you and your grandpa.

Peekaboo - welcome back! Here's hoping 2012 is a much more positive year for you.

Mrs Frey - hope your performance tonight goes really well:-)

[EaglesKiwi]

Just started the new semester yesterday. So far so good! I'm happy with the classes I'm teaching (although I'm bummed my Shakespeare class got cancelled) and I have a great schedule - I'm not teaching any classes on Fridays, which works out well if there should be any reason that I need to go somewhere for a weekend. ;)
Soda - what would your Shakespeare class have covered if it had gone ahead?

[sodascouts]

We start off with the sonnets, then go on to the dramas. I choose to do a sampling of his plays so we can get in-depth. The ones I cover are Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Hamlet, Henry V and Richard III. I thought about replacing Romeo and Juliet with Macbeth because Romeo and Juliet is already so familiar to many students, but decided since I personally prefer Romeo and Juliet to keep it. Teacher's prerogative. ;) Besides, some familiarity can help them feel less intimidated by a play. I also thought about trying to squeeze in his most-performed comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, but I find Puck so freaking annoying that it interferes with my enjoyment of the play! Again, personal preference wins out, lol.

[Freypower]

We start off with the sonnets, then go on to the dramas. I choose to do a sampling of his plays so we can get in-depth. The ones I cover are Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Hamlet, Henry V and Richard III. I thought about replacing Romeo and Juliet with Macbeth because Romeo and Juliet is already so familiar to many students, but decided since I personally prefer Romeo and Juliet to keep it. Teacher's prerogative. ;) Besides, some familiarity can help them feel less intimidated by a play. I also thought about trying to squeeze in his most-performed comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, but I find Puck so freaking annoying that it interferes with my enjoyment of the play! Again, personal preference wins out, lol.

Soda, one day you & I are going to have to have a 'Shakespeare' topic. I would love to ask you some questions on your preferences, but will only say that the class sounds fascinating.

[EaglesKiwi]

We start off with the sonnets, then go on to the dramas. I choose to do a sampling of his plays so we can get in-depth. The ones I cover are Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Hamlet, Henry V and Richard III. I thought about replacing Romeo and Juliet with Macbeth because Romeo and Juliet is already so familiar to many students, but decided since I personally prefer Romeo and Juliet to keep it. Teacher's prerogative. ;) Besides, some familiarity can help them feel less intimidated by a play. I also thought about trying to squeeze in his most-performed comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, but I find Puck so freaking annoying that it interferes with my enjoyment of the play! Again, personal preference wins out, lol.
That sounds GREAT. Wish I was taking that course!

There are a couple of performances over summer (next couple of months) - Much Ado About Nothing, Antony & Cleopatra and Macbeth are all being done in Auckland, so I'm hoping to get along to some of them.:pray:

[Freypower]

That sounds GREAT. Wish I was taking that course!

There are a couple of performances over summer (next couple of months) - Much Ado About Nothing, Antony & Cleopatra and Macbeth are all being done in Auckland, so I'm hoping to get along to some of them.:pray:

So, EK, are you also a Shakespeare buff?

When I went to the Globe Theatre in 2010 (Henry IV Part One) it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. You may notice I haven't said anything about favourites yet.

[EaglesKiwi]

Soda, one day you & I are going to have to have a 'Shakespeare' topic. I would love to ask you some questions on your preferences, but will only say that the class sounds fascinating.
There may be others interested! :bye:

[WalshFan88]

Thanks everyone!

We went and saw him today in the hospital and they've moved him out of the ICU into the heart general floor. He seems to be in good spirits but he's still having a lot of trouble with breathing and his oxygen saturation would drop from talking to us so we had to leave early as he was getting pretty tired. They are talking about sending him home on Tuesday but I just don't think unless his breathing changes (for the better) that that would be a good idea. He's still in the low 90s for oxygen saturation (normal is 97-100 and his was ranging from 90-94). He has what they call a saddle pulmonary embolism. The doctors say he's lucky he got there when he did. They really don't know what else to do but give him blood thinners and oxygen and just watch him. From what they said, that clot just has to dissolve on it's own. He also has a lot of small clots in his left leg, which we are worried will go to his lung and completely block it. I wish they were doing more tests or treatments as it really worries me if they are going to send him home this soon. Today was the first day he felt like doing anything and got out of bed to sit in the chair for a bit.

As far as me, I'm not my main worry right now. My stomach pain seems to be getting more frequent though and a bit stronger but I'm just hoping the scopes on Thursday will show exactly what is going on and the problem. The surgeon wanted these done to rule out ulcers, etc before he'd investigate the gallbladder any further. I just want it GONE.... I am sick of being nauseated and in pain every time I eat. But as I said, my main worry is my grandad and his health. But hopefully they will fix my problem soon.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Austin, I'm glad to hear your grandpa is doing better. I've had several friends with blood clots and a couple of them got as far as the lungs. It's nothing to fool with, as you know. Unfortunately, Coumadin/Warfarin is about the only treatment. As far as tests, they know where the others are and are monitoring those. The concern would be how they formed to begin with, in order to keep it from happening again.

I hope your stomach pain gets resolved. Keep us informed!

[WalshFan88]

Austin, I'm glad to hear your grandpa is doing better. I've had several friends with blood clots and a couple of them got as far as the lungs. It's nothing to fool with, as you know. Unfortunately, Coumadin/Warfarin is about the only treatment. As far as tests, they know where the others are and are monitoring those. The concern would be how they formed to begin with, in order to keep it from happening again.

I hope your stomach pain gets resolved. Keep us informed!

That's the scary thing - we don't know what caused it. He has no risk factors. The only thing different he did right before it happened was start walking daily with some friends for exercise. We don't know if he had the clots in his legs and then they moved to the lung from the walking or what.

Hopefully they will find out something soon. I'm mainly concerned about the breathing thing and the clots in his legs right now.

[Koala]

Peek, so glad you are back!

Austin, hope you and your granddad are feeling better soon!

[Glennsallnighter]

Austin I too will pray for your Grandad that he makes a full recovery and for you that the powers that be finally sort out your problems too.

[Henley Honey]

Sorry to hear you and your Grandfather are having such a tough road right now. I'll keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

[WalshFan88]

Thanks everyone! I talked to him on the phone today and he seems to be doing better. They have him up and around in a wheelchair and they were able to start weening him off of the oxygen. His Coumadin levels are coming up and hopefully will be at the right level soon. The plan now is for him to come home mid-week. He of course wants to get home but I'm still worried about the possibility of another clot or something happening.

Tomorrow I go to the pharmacy to pick up my colonoscopy prep - fun fun fun. :lol: I've had it done twice before. Gotta start it Tuesday night, then the procedure is on Wednesday morning at 8AM. I'm so hoping the endoscopy/colonoscopy will show something or at least lead them in the right direction for treatment.

[Mrs Frey]

Gosh, here I'm feeling so good, only to discover some major troubles among my friends here on The Border. :sad:

Austin: I really hope your grandfather's health continues to improve, and I hope the doctors are able to help you with your stomach pain. Your stress levels related to your grandfather's ill health has probably not helped the pain - perhaps that is why it has worsened over the last while. All the best to you - I can imagine how tough life must be for you right now.

Jess: lovely to have you back on The Border! I remember some of the troubles you experienced last year, and I hope that this year will bring you much joy and happiness. Stay positive, girl - I keep saying that to myself when things get tough, even though it's easier said than done sometimes - perhaps with a more positive attitude you will attract more positive things into your life. All strength to you!

Furthermore, thank you all for the good wishes regarding my performance last Friday night. It went wonderfully well, thank you. My friend James and I were extremely well received - the dance floor was full all night. The birthday boy has let us know that we have quite a number of new fans now! :grin::grin::yay::yay: It makes it all worthwhile to get feedback like that.

The venue was stunning - just a magnificent view over a beautiful, windless valley on a wine estate. Not too warm, just magnificent. Ah, I had a wonderful time.

I'm looking forward to the date with my bicycle tonight. We're having something of a heatwave in Cape Town right now - it's 35 deg celcius here today, and more heat is forecast for the rest of the week - but I have no complaints. Life is good!

[Glennsallnighter]

MF my dear friend, I'm so glad your gig went so well. Positive feedback is a really great thing to get. I hope it generates you more performances too.

Austin. Glad your Grandad is on the mend. I hope that you too get some clarity after your tests re your condition.

[Mrs Frey]

Thank you, GA! :hug:

[EagleLady]

Austin, Good luck to You and Your Granddad!

Peek :hug: so Good to have you back.

[sodascouts]

MF - so glad your show went well! I must also say that it is a joy to have you posting regularly again after all these years.

[WalshFan88]

Thanks everyone!!! :)

MF - glad to hear your show went well!!!!!! :)

[Koala]

MF, I'm so happy for you that your show went so well!

[Mrs Frey]

MF - so glad your show went well! I must also say that it is a joy to have you posting regularly again after all these years.

Awww, thanks, Soda! :hug: And I'm glad to be posting regularly again. I missed all of you.

Please don't be alarmed if it gets to a point again where I'm somewhat absent from The Border - it just means that my life is hectic again, but rest assured that all of you are always in my thoughts. :smile:

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks everyone!!! :)

MF - glad to hear your show went well!!!!!! :)

Thanks, Austin! I hope you are feeling better now.

[Mrs Frey]

MF, I'm so happy for you that your show went so well!

Thanks so much, Koala! :hug:

[TimothyBFan]

Oh boy, where do I start? :hilarious: JK It's just been very busy so I've really missed my Border time the last few weeks. After a much needed two weeks off, I jumped right back into working. Poor hubby's working mega amounts of hours and we took on a unexpected project here at home.

I've been b*tching about my kitchen for years now. It just needed a facelift. First I hate drop ceilings so I wanted it gone and of course one thing always leads to another in these old houses, ours is 123 years old and the kitchen was part of the original house so who knows what lurks behind the walls, which would need to be redone, etc.... So we've always strayed away from starting it. Well I was complaining about it the day after Christmas, again, and hubby must of said I'll call her bluff because next thing I knew, he made a contractor friend of ours in the house a half hour later giving us an estimate and the work began 2 days later. OMG---What a mess!!! Every wall has been taken down, the ceiling was taken down and all new drywall is now up and being mudded and sanded, and the new soffits with recessed lighting is in. Next will be new cupboards and countertop, then onto paint, floor, appliances..... What was I thinking!?!? Our kitchen/dining area is pretty good size, 28x16 so it's a major project. Give me patience to get through this.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

TBF, just keep your eye on the major prize at the end! I completely remodeled my kitchen a few years ago and I tried to do most of the work myself. But I was traveling for my job back then, four and five days a week. My sister made the cabinets for me and so they went up as she got them done. The worst part was once I removed the old vinyl flooring, the adhesive was still on the subflooring, and it went a while before I could put the new down. And the poor cat as he walked through had to yank each little paw up. The look on his face as he looked at me would have been great on the 'caption this' thread! Anyway, I quickly put a 'path' down for him, but he wasn't happy until the kitchen was done. At the end of the whole process, I had a fantastic kitchen and I still love it to this day. It's all worth it, just keep telling yourself that.

[Mrs Frey]

As VA says, TBF, just think of the end-result! I'm sure you'll love your new kitchen once it is done.

[Brooke]

The last few days have been hectic for me too. What's going on around here anyway?! I hate it when I don't have any Border time!

Austin, I'm so sorry to hear about your Granddad's and your problems. It's good to hear he is doing better. And I wish you the best of luck in finding out what ails you, too. I know it would be nice to just feel good all the time. I never think about it until I don't feel well. Feeling good is supposed to be normal!

MF, I'm so happy you are about and posting again regularly too! I'm happy that your gig went so well and hope that leads to more!

TBF, best of luck with your remodeling! It's so hard to live in it and do it at the same time, but keep your eye on the finished project. Be sure to show us a pic of the new results! I was just thinking the other day that our house is almost 14 years old and needs some updating, but I really don't want to spend the money! I would rather just snap my fingers! :rolleyes:

[Mrs Frey]

MF, I'm so happy you are about and posting again regularly too! I'm happy that your gig went so well and hope that leads to more!



Awww, thank you, Brooke! :hug:

[sodascouts]

Man, that sounds like some kind of project, Willie. I remember how big that room is! How long do they think it will take?

[Henley Honey]

I don't envy you at all ! It was torturous having my kitchen done but well worth it in the long run. Keep you eye on the prize -- a beautiful new space that you'll enjoy for years to come! And one piece of advise -- order everything WAY in advance. Fixtures, appliances, lighting. Something will end up being on back order or out of stock. It never fails. Always have a plan B ready just in case.

[EaglesKiwi]

Willie - A new kitchen - how exciting! Okay, it's gonna be stressful too, but hey, you're getting A NEW KITCHEN!!!

Austin, hope everything goes well for your (hands over my ears, eyes shut, saying "LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA") tests.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, hope everything goes well for your (hands over my ears, eyes shut, saying "LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA") tests.

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: LOL!!!!!!!!! I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. :lol:

Thanks! :D

[Glennsallnighter]

Willie, good luck with the new kitchen. We rebuilt ours in 07 and with 2 small chikdren off for the summer it was Heaven and Hell for about 3 months. But it was well worth it in the end and even 5 years later I feel that it is still 'new'.

One bit of advice if you wish to take it. Overbudget, there is no telling what little extras you will want to add on as the job progresses and it would be a pity to 'spoil the ship'. We overborrowed to do ours compared to the estimate and I'm very glad we did.

Also add several weeks to your timeframe for completion. Inevitably the job will drag on longer than you initially planned, so you won't feel frustrated if things don't go to plan.

But best of luck to you. I'm sure it will be a wonderful project and will have a great result when it is finished that you will enjoy for many long years to come.

[WalshFan88]

Well I think they finally found the problem!!!

I have an ulcer starting and moderate-to-severe gastritis (inflammation of the stomach). I also have colitis (inflammation of the colon). They said no wonder I was in pain.

Basically I will be on 4 different meds, and when they get my biopsies back if it shows another problem, I'll add two to that.... They said the ulcer that was starting they somehow treated and cauterized the bleeding and so with meds it should not turn into a full peptic ulcer.

Finally have some answers - thank god! Hopefully these meds will get me some RELIEF!!!!

[Glennsallnighter]

Well I'm delighted that you have some news Austin. Hopefully they will be able to treat the ulcer successfully and you will be out of pain.

[Mrs Frey]

Oh my goodness, Austin! You poor thing. I really hope the medication will help.

If I may offer my 2c worth of advice, watch out for stress. It could be the reason for your ulcer developing. Take care of yourself and get lots of rest!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Austin, so glad they found the problem(s)! Hopefully soon the pain will be a distant memory. How's your Grandpa?

[Brooke]

Austin, I'm so glad they have figured out your problems. I'm sure it's a big relief just knowing! I hope the meds work FAST for you and you are out of pain.

Willie, you have now got me thinking about doing some updating, much to my hubbies dismay! He's so busy right now (and he's supposed to be retired!) I'm sure we won't get started any time soon, but at least we can think about it and start making some plans. :yay:

[Glennsallnighter]

I've been in the hospital all day with my Dad. I'm drained!

[EaglesKiwi]

Take care of yourself, GA. :hug:

Austin, so glad you FINALLY have some answers! Now they just need to sort out the pain relief!

[Mrs Frey]

I hope your dad's okay, GA. Get some rest, girl. :hug:

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks MF! He's is in hospital for the next few days anyway while they carry out a scan and a few tests. I called up this morning and he seems to have had a good night, although he was very confused this morning. But that is normal even at home now.

[Henley Honey]

Sending good thoughts and prayers your way, GA.

[TimothyBFan]

Good luck GA and take care of yourself also. It can be very stressful for the caregivers.

[Brooke]

Here's hoping all goes well for your Dad, Ga. Take care of yourself too.

[WalshFan88]

GA - sending good thoughts your way. :)

---------

Thanks everyone! I'm very glad I finally have some answers. I'm on LOTS of meds and just a mix of different things to try to fix the problem. Hopefully it works soon!

[Koala]

Good luck to your dad, GA!

Austin,glad you have answers now! Hope your can finally be helped!

[sodascouts]

Austin - glad they have identified the problem.

GA - you are your dad are in my prayers!

[EaglesKiwi]

I'm celebrating my wedding anniversary! Only 12 years, but wow, they sure have gone by fast! :lol:

[Glennsallnighter]

Congrats EK and hubby! It is amazing how this years just glide by! Isn't it?

Thanks to all for the good wishes for Dad. He's getting better every day. Still in hospital though. :grouphug:

[GlennLover]

Congratulations, EK! It's been close to 22 years for me, but it sure doesn't feel like it.

GA, so glad to hear that your father is doing better. I'll keep you both in my prayers.

[Henley Honey]

I'm celebrating my wedding anniversary! Only 12 years, but wow, they sure have gone by fast! :lol:


Congratulations! That's quite a milestone.
Here's to the next twelve! :cheers:

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks GL, and everybody else of course too.

[Mrs Frey]

A belated congratulations, EK, on your wedding anniversary. I hope you and your hubby celebrated in style!

GA, I hope your dad is going from strength to strength.

Austin - hang in there. I'm sure you will see some improvement soon. And don't stress!

[WalshFan88]

EK - Congrats!!!! :)

Thanks again everyone. I am already feeling some relief from these meds. I was so scared the scopes weren't going to show anything (as they have done before) but I was actually excited when the doctor told me I had something wrong. Because mainly it told me it wasn't in my head as I think some were starting to believe (mainly doctors and family) and also that I at least have a reason for the pain. And now I feel much better and seem to be a bit more energetic.

[Brooke]

Belated congrats on your 12th anniversary EK! :cheers: I know, time does fly. I'm working on 37 and cannot believe it's been that long! :headscratch:

Glad to hear you are feeling some relief Austin!

[Mrs Frey]

Austin, I'm so glad to read you are feeling better. I hope you will make a full recovery soon!

[Windeagle]

Glad you're feeling better, Austin.

And GA, glad you're Dad's doing better. I had a similar scare yesterday. My dad was sent to the hospital with what they thought was a stroke. It turned out to be some kind of fainting spell, so thankfully much less serious. They kept him overnight for tests. We'll see how things go this morning.

[Mrs Frey]

I hope all goes well with your father, Windeagle.

[Koala]

Good Luck to your father, Windeagle

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks to everybody again for the good wishes for my Dad. Happily he is out of hospital now, and has been thoroughly checked out. No problems thank God.

WE, I hope your Dad too has a full recovery.

Austin! Glad the meds are working for you too!

[Mrs Frey]

I'm glad to hear your father is okay, GA.

[sodascouts]

Thanks for the update, GA!

WE - how frightening! Thank goodness it wasn't a stroke!

[WalshFan88]

WE - hope he makes a full recovery soon. Take care. :)

[Windeagle]

Thanks for the thoughts, everyone. Dad's been home for a few days now and is doing fine.

Yesterday, we got some unrelated good news - my daughter got her first college acceptance letter! We're very excited. It was one of her top 3 choices.

[sodascouts]

Congrats to your daughter!

[EaglesKiwi]

GA & WE, glad to hear your Dads are doing well. And WE - congrats to your daughter!

Austin, it's just GREAT that the "experts" have FINALLY found the cause of your ongoing pain. Very happy to hear that you're feeling better.

Thanks everyone for the good wishes on the anniversary. Have just come back from a few days holiday, need to go catch up on sleep now!

[Lisa]

Congratulations to Windeagle (sorry about the error) (and daughter) for the admissions offer!

Congratulations to Freypower (and daughter) for the happy visit to the Hard Rock Cafe!

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks for the thoughts, everyone. Dad's been home for a few days now and is doing fine.

Yesterday, we got some unrelated good news - my daughter got her first college acceptance letter! We're very excited. It was one of her top 3 choices.

That's brilliant! Congrats to your daughter WE! :cheers:. What does she hope to study in college?

[Freypower]

Congratulations to Freypower (and daughter) for the admissions offer!

It's Windeagle's daughter, not mine. My daughter starts Year 8 at high school today.

[Windeagle]

That's brilliant! Congrats to your daughter WE! :cheers:. What does she hope to study in college?

Thank you, everyone. She's majoring in communications media (or digital media or interactive media). Every school calls it something different.

[Koala]

WE, congrats to your daughter!

[Glennsallnighter]

Good luck to Rosalind FP!

WE, that sounds very interesting, she should have a great career with all the opportunities around now in Communications

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks for the thoughts, everyone. Dad's been home for a few days now and is doing fine.

Yesterday, we got some unrelated good news - my daughter got her first college acceptance letter! We're very excited. It was one of her top 3 choices.

I'm glad your father is doing well now, Windeagle. And congratulations to your daughter! Wonderful news! :yay:

[Mrs Frey]

I had a rather busy weekend.

On Friday evening my friend James and I performed our "Legends Of Rock And Roll" show at a theatre called "Villa Pascal". It's a theatre in a house in an upmarket residential area called Durbanville, a suburb of Cape Town.

Unfortunately, only 21 people turned up (of a capacity of about 80), but at least they enjoyed the show. I believe that people have already started booking for our 25 February appearance there, so hopefully the turnout will be better. The problem is that people just don't have money for shows after the long month that is January. They're still paying for Christmas.

On Saturday evening I did a solo show of about 50 minutes for a birthday party at a Rugby Club called Northerns, in the suburb of Parow. I had something of a larger audience, and was on the bill with several other musicians. It was a bit strange without my partner, but the audience gave me a standing ovation afterwards, so that made up for it. :grin::grin::grin:

I am happy to report that I opened my set with "The Heat Is On", and I included "How Long" into my set for the first time. Most of the people didn't know it (one learns to recognise facial expressions from the stage), but I saw heads bopping and feet tapping, and the applause confirmed that they enjoyed it. I made mention of the fact that the Eagles are coming to visit our shores in April.

I'm not performing again until 24 February :sad:, but tomorrow rehearsals begin for our 10-week run at the Roxy Revue Bar (theatre), GrandWest Casino. I may have mentioned it before, but my friend James is presenting a new Elvis production, starting on 4 April, in which I will be doing lead vocals, duetting and back-up vocals.

[Brooke]

Sounds like you will be a busy girl, MF!

Congrats on your shows going well! A standing ovation? :cool:

[Glennsallnighter]

My goodness MF, you are VERY busy being fabulous. But it looks like you are very happy with your shows, and that you are becoming very successful. I hope this continues.

And I hope our boys realise they are being vigorously plugged. How clever of you to give the audiences a taster!

[sodascouts]

Sounds like things are going well for you, MF, despite the occasional small crowd. More power to you!

[Troubadour]

Very cool, Monique. I love that you squeezed in some Eagles tunes and a plug for their upcoming shows! :nod:

WE, awesome that your daughter has been accepted by at least one of her top three colleges! Well done to her.

[Koala]

MF, I'm so glad to hear your shows are so successful!

[WalshFan88]

WE - Congrats to your daughter!

MF - Very cool!!!! :)

---------

I'm leaving tomorrow morning for Florida. It's a little over two hour flight. I get down there at around noon Florida time... I can't wait! :D I dread flying but other than that I'm pretty excited!

[Brooke]

Have fun Austin!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Have fun, Austin!!

[sodascouts]

Don't get into any trouble down there! ;)

[Windeagle]

Have a great time, Austin!

[WalshFan88]

Thanks everyone!

And Soda - I will do my best to stay out of trouble! :D

[Koala]

Have a great time, Austin!

[Glennsallnighter]

Have a wonderful time Austin, you deserve a bit of fun!

[Troubadour]

Enjoy yourself, Austin!

[sodascouts]

My desktop has just crashed hard-core. It contracted a virus a while back and I put in some antivirus software tonight, thinking to purge it. Instead, it completely went berserk and I got the blue screen of death! Guess I'll have to take it in to the computer store, but this better be salvageable. This computer is not even two years old!

Btw this is when one is very glad to have a laptop and/or an iPad.

[EaglesKiwi]

My desktop has just crashed hard-core. It contracted a virus a while back and I put in some antivirus software tonight, thinking to purge it. Instead, it completely went berserk and I got the blue screen of death! Guess I'll have to take it in to the computer store, but this better be salvageable. This computer is not even two years old!

Btw this is when one is very glad to have a laptop and/or an iPad.
Aaargh! Hate computer problems!

You've just reminded me to do another backup of files (after Austin's lecture I try to keep on top of this and have several copies of photos & music files & anything else that's important).

Hope you're up and running on the PC soon Soda!

[Glennsallnighter]

My goodness Soda! I really hope everything is ok and that you don't lose anything important as a result of this. Thank goodness for the iPad. my computer screen went last June after only 3 months and I had to send it away for repair, thankfully I had just bought the iPad or I would have had a problem booking tickets for Fallsview!

[Mrs Frey]

Sounds like you will be a busy girl, MF!

Congrats on your shows going well! A standing ovation? :cool:

Yes, indeed, Brooke, and thank you! I'm very grateful to be busy.

[Mrs Frey]

My goodness MF, you are VERY busy being fabulous. But it looks like you are very happy with your shows, and that you are becoming very successful. I hope this continues.

And I hope our boys realise they are being vigorously plugged. How clever of you to give the audiences a taster!

Yes, GA, very BBF, and thank you for the support! Well, I certainly hope I have been able to contribute to people's interest in attending the shows of our boys.

[Mrs Frey]

Sounds like things are going well for you, MF, despite the occasional small crowd. More power to you!

Thank you, Soda! I certainly hope so. I'd just like things to pick up a little for February and March.

[Mrs Frey]

Very cool, Monique. I love that you squeezed in some Eagles tunes and a plug for their upcoming shows! :nod:



Thank you, Troub! And yes, anything for our boys! :nod:

[Mrs Frey]

MF, I'm so glad to hear your shows are so successful!

Thank you, Koala!

[Mrs Frey]

MF - Very cool!!!! :)

---------

I'm leaving tomorrow morning for Florida. It's a little over two hour flight. I get down there at around noon Florida time... I can't wait! :D I dread flying but other than that I'm pretty excited!

Thank you, Austin!

I'm sorry I'm late on this, but I hope you are having a super time in Florida!

[Mrs Frey]

My desktop has just crashed hard-core. It contracted a virus a while back and I put in some antivirus software tonight, thinking to purge it. Instead, it completely went berserk and I got the blue screen of death! Guess I'll have to take it in to the computer store, but this better be salvageable. This computer is not even two years old!

Btw this is when one is very glad to have a laptop and/or an iPad.

I'm sorry to read this, Soda. I hope you won't lose anything.

[Glennsallnighter]

Hope you are back on track now Soda! I won't be around for the next few days. My parents wanted to attend a memorial service in the Lake District in England this weekend for a cousin's wife who passed away late last year. Anyway while it's straightforward to fly to Manchester the rest of the travel arrangements wouldn't have been as easy. So being a dutiful daughter :angel: and as we are on Midterm this week anyway I volunteered (!) my services and both Laura and I will accompany them. I can hire a car in Manchester and do the driving. We'll be back Monday evening. For my mother too it's a test of how well Dad will take to travelling. If it goes well they can plan for the Summer.
Laura and I are hoping to make it to the Hard Rock Cafe in Manchester on Monday

[VAisForEagleLovers]

Have a good and safe trip, GA!

[sodascouts]

Safe travels, GA.

I've had a bad day. I woke up this morning with a scratched face, aching body, and a sore tongue and I knew what it meant. I'd had a seizure last night in my sleep. :( I think it's because for the past few nights I had hardly gotten any sleep. Still, it's upsetting.

[WalshFan88]

GA - Have a safe trip!!! :)

Soda - Sorry to hear that. :( Get well soon!

-------

I have arrived home safe and sound... Big difference though in weather - I miss the warmth of the Florida sun. :hilarious:

[Troubadour]

Hugs to you, Nancy. I know you are somewhat used to having seizures, but it must be scary when you do have one, or realise you had one in your sleep... I hope you are okay.

Enjoy your short trip to England, Lis! I hope you and Laura make it to the Hard Rock Cafe. Shame Manchester is a little too far for me to be able to meet up with you this time.

[TimothyBFan]

Hope you have a great trip, GA.

Austin--Living in the Midwest the same as you do, I bet you are missing the Florida warmth right now since we've been sent into the deep freeze this weekend.

Soda---So sorry to hear that!!! A bit scary too, I'm sure. Has it happened in your sleep before? Take care of yourself and get some rest.

[timfan]

Nancy: Sorry to hear about the seizure. You know I know how it feels..not a fun expeirence! At least you have an idea why it happened; the most frustrating seizure IMO are the ones that are unexplainable ( that happen without an obvious reason). Hope you recover quickly :)

[sodascouts]

It's not scary - just inconvenient when you hurt yourself. I've had them in my sleep many times before over my lifetime. It's a drag but it could be worse! Still, sent my weekend straight into the crapper.

[Lisa]

I'm sorry to hear about all of the bad stuff. I hope that things get a little better again.

[Koala]

GA, have a nice and safe trip!


Soda, sorry to hear that, get well soon!

[EaglesKiwi]

GA, have a good trip, hope you get to take Laura to HRC, I'm sure you'll have a blast together if you make it there.

Soda, I hope you're feeling better now. I used to date someone with epilepsy, he always felt really crappy after a seizure. If you've been missing sleep it could be time to look after yourself a bit... :hug:

[Mrs Frey]

GA, I'm late on this, but I hope your journey to Manchester was comfortable and that you will have a safe journey home.

Soda, I'm so sorry about your seizure. Take it easy!

Austin, I'm glad you had a good time in Florida - I can imagine how depressing it must be to return home to unpleasant weather. Ah, just look at the photos you have from the trip and reminisce! Perhaps that will help the blues. :smile:

[Glennsallnighter]

Austin! Glad you had a good time in Florida. I know how excited you were going. I hope it lived up to your expectations.

Soda, I hope you are feeling better and not as sore. I can understand what a bummer it must be. Do try to take care of yourself as best you can.

I'm back a couple of hours. It was an interesting but exhausting weekend. I was delighted to meet some cousins that I have not met in decades, and some of their children too! But I did over 500 miles driving in the two days and am shattered. We DID make it to the Hard Rock in Manchester and have bought the compulsory pins and t- shirt as well as a cute bracelet with guitar charms that hang on. Laura bought pins and a teddy bear. And we all loved the food as always!

I'll post a few pics in s day or two when I'm less tired. Thanks for all the good wishes folks!

[Freypower]

Austin! Glad you had a good time in Florida. I know how excited you were going. I hope it lived up to your expectations.

Soda, I hope you are feeling better and not as sore. I can understand what a bummer it must be. Do try to take care of yourself as best you can.

I'm back a couple of hours. It was an interesting but exhausting weekend. I was delighted to meet some cousins that I have not met in decades, and some of their children too! But I did over 500 miles driving in the two days and am shattered. We DID make it to the Hard Rock in Manchester and have bought the compulsory pins and t- shirt as well as a cute bracelet with guitar charms that hang on. Laura bought pins and a teddy bear. And we all loved the food as always!

I'll post a few pics in s day or two when I'm less tired. Thanks for all the good wishes folks!

Glad you got to the HRC in Manchester (:-?) GA...

[Glennsallnighter]

I thought of you while I was there FP. Laura bought a limited edition MUFC Hard Rock Pin. Wasn't sure if you'd approve :wink:

[Mrs Frey]

Glad you're back safely, GA. Now get some rest! :wink: :hug:

I had the most amazing rehearsal last night with my friend James, another singer and fellow band members for our upcoming show at GrandWest Casino. I just felt so inspired thereafter - I was like the Duracell bunny, hahaha. I'm really excited about the show - we are working with such talented musicians, who are also super people. It's a pleasure to know and work with them.

[Troubadour]

I got myself a new laptop today. Keep your fingers crossed that it will serve me well... I am sick of computer issues! I have three years breakdown cover with Argos though, and they are always pretty good with returns and replacements. It's an HP (in my favourite colour - red) and I'm really enjoying setting it up and customizing it. Loving it so far.

[Windeagle]

Glad to hear it went well, MF! Onward to the Casino!

[Brooke]

Welcome back to all who have been gone!

MF, I'm glad your having such a good time with your friends!

Soda, be good to yourself!

Troub, I'd love to have a laptop!

For me, work has been crazy the last few days and home stuff over the weekend was just as bad. Hopefully things will settle down a bit now. :crazy:

[Glennsallnighter]

You need to take it easy too Brooke!

Troub! Enjoy your new laptop. It's well deserved. I hope it gives you many trouble free years. I too felt it such a pity that being on your shores we could not have managed to meet up. I'm really hoping for next time!

MF. I'm so thrilled that your singing career is going so well. It's brilliant that you are getting to do these shows. I'm sure you'll go from strength to strength. Maybe in a few years you'll have a fan site dedicated to you too!

[Freypower]

I thought of you while I was there FP. Laura bought a limited edition MUFC Hard Rock Pin. Wasn't sure if you'd approve :wink:

Is there such a thing?! Hmmmm.

There should be an HRC in England's REAL rock music capital (apart from London), you know, that city on the west coast....