What's Happening In Your Life?

[Brooke]

:yay: :yay: WE WON!!!!!!

The Lady Mustangs are the girls Class 1 Missouri State Basketball Champions!

The first game on Thursday was a barn burner the whole game. Down by 4 points with 20 seconds left and my niece scored a 3 pointer! Other teams ball, we foul, and they missed a free shot. We got the rebound with 10 seconds left and my great niece dribbled the length of the court and made a lay up for the win!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yay: :yay: :yay: Victory! :thud:

We all felt like that was really the first place game, but we had to play again and beat that team by 20 some points for the trophy yesterday afternoon. :yay: History for our school! :yay:

It really was quite fun and exciting! We are all so proud of our girls!

[EaglesFanatic]

Congrats Brooke, that's exciting news! Sounds like it was a great game too :nod:

[Prettymaid]

That's great Brooke! Those nail biter games are great unless your team is playing! :hilarious:

[MikeA]

Warm Congratulations Brooke and family! Fantastic accomplishment!

[Koala]

Congratulations the Lady Mustangs!

[WalshFan88]

Congrats Brooke! :)

[sodascouts]

Congrats to the Lady Mustangs!!!

As for me, I had a great weekend with my friend - we went to Graceland, got barbecue, all that good stuff.

The bad news: my car is in the shop. It looks like I'll have to rent a car to get to work - and it costs big bucks! What really matters, though, is that I get the car back by tomorrow morning. I'm going on a trip Tuesday evening to Atlanta and I can't afford to rent a car for the whole week. That is HUGELY expensive!

The brakes weren't responding as well as they should so I took it in Friday afternoon just in case. I suspected it was the brake pads, which can be replaced quickly and easily. They said they would let me know Saturday what the problem was, what the rates would be, and when I could expect it to be fixed. I heard nothing. When I called this morning they hadn't even looked at it yet (and yes, I did tell them I was going on a trip Tuesday and it was urgent I get it back before Tuesday afternoon). Oh my gosh, I'm so stressed!

ETA: The guy just called me back. Says my brakes need a lot of work and my bill comes out to $3300 - before taxes - but he can get it done by Tuesday. Oh, and I should get new tires and an alignment, too. Shoot, a couple more bills like that and I might as well get a new car.

[Brooke]

Oh my gosh, Soda! I'm so sorry. Do you trust these people? I can't imagine needing new brakes costing that much. There must be major problems besides that. I think you should have a second opinion. I know time is of the essence here, but really.

Thanks everyone for the congrats. We really are a proud bunch around here and the girls are so deserving.

[sodascouts]

I know, Brooke. I wish I could get a second opinion but I don't feel I have a choice because I'm over a barrel time-wise. It is a family-owned business and I have looked at reviews online where people have said the owners are honest and don't overcharge, but I might be going elsewhere in the future.

[TimothyBFan]

$3,300?????? Say what? I just had my back brakes done 2 weeks ago at a whopping $201.00!! That's outrageous!!! Did you get the details on exactly what they are doing at that price! I'm with Brooke--I just can't imagine that much money for brakes! So sorry to hear this Nancy!!

Hope you have a great time in Atlanta despite it all!

[sodascouts]

He gave me a laundry list over the phone but it was hard to follow since I know so little about cars. I also had to have the timing belt replaced and some other parts. I sure hope I'm not spending thousands of dollars for nothing. That would be too awful. I don't have a lot of money.

[TimothyBFan]

How much would it cost you to rent a car for the week? Just throwing this out there...but I can't see it being nearly as much as the mechanic is wanting and then when you get back, you could have your car checked by someone else. Not saying your mechanic isn't right but, for that kind of money, I'd really have to think twice before I'd give them the ok to do the work.

[Brooke]

I agree, Nancy. This is really ridiculous. Even with a laundry list, he's evidently wanting to do things that could maybe wait and don't need immediate attention.

[MikeA]

It really is a juggling act isn't it Nancy...repair old or buy new!

One thing about those timing belts...they really should be replaced around 100,000 miles...if they break they can really damage your engine almost beyond repair. But that shouldn't cost $3,000. Not unless you are driving a Maserati or something exotic like that.

To tell the truth, that kind of quote sounds very suspicious to me. As Willie said, $200 for brake job...maybe just a little more for turning them or truing up the disks. I think the Timing Belt is around $1,000 tops.

We have most of the work on our vehicles done by a local Goodyear shop and they have been VERY Good in quality of work, turnaround and in price.

[WalshFan88]

But that shouldn't cost $3,000. Not unless you are driving a Maserati or something exotic like that.


Yeah but does her car do 185?????!!!!! My Maserati does 185!!!!

:hilarious:

[WalshFan88]

Sorry to hear about your car Nancy - but I couldn't help the Life's Been Good reference above! :)

[tequila girl]

Sorry to hear about your car Nancy - but I couldn't help the Life's Been Good reference above! :)
Nice one Austin! :hilarious: :hilarious:

Sorry for all the crap with your car Nancy! :sad:

[sodascouts]

It didn't occur to me to think about buying a new car instead of fixing the old one (although in the future it will), and since renting a car for the trip would be about $400, I figured the difference wouldn't be significant enough to justify it. If only this trip wasn't tomorrow - I wouldn't have felt so panicked to have the car ready and might have considered the repairs with more care.

I will ask for an itemized list when I go tomorrow. It's conceivable - although seeming more and more doubtful - that he is asking a fair price.

[Wildthyme]

Is the timing belt included in this $3300? Having replaced my timing belt twice now and having gotten quotes at multiple places I will tell you that that alone for a Honda can cost about $1000. And if you have ABS brakes like I do on my Honda and that system needs work or you need to replace the drums and rotors or the master cylinder or the calipers then it could add up to a couple thousand without much trouble. I have had to have some of that work done and paid dearly for it even after taking it several places to be evaluated. Having owned five Hondas I've discovered that they are ridiculously expensive when it comes to maintenance on the braking system and certain other systems/parts like struts/shocks (try $1200 instead of $200-$400 like for most other cars). Definitely get a full list of what they did. It had better be a lot more than just replacing your pads/shoes. That does only cost about $200 an axle even for a Honda. My best advice from personal experience is to call or take your car to at least two or three places and see if the estimates jibe. Unfortunately there are places that take advantage of women because they think we don’t know anything or will take advantage of someone who needs a repair done quickly.

[Koala]

Sorry to hear about your car, WOW $3300 this is really a lot!

[sodascouts]

Is the timing belt included in this $3300? Having replaced my timing belt twice now and having gotten quotes at multiple places I will tell you that that alone for a Honda can cost about $1000. And if you have ABS brakes like I do on my Honda and that system needs work or you need to replace the drums and rotors or the master cylinder or the calipers then it could add up to a couple thousand without much trouble. I have had to have some of that work done and paid dearly for it even after taking it several places to be evaluated. Having owned five Hondas I've discovered that they are ridiculously expensive when it comes to maintenance on the braking system and certain other systems/parts like struts/shocks (try $1200 instead of $200-$400 like for most other cars). Definitely get a full list of what they did. It had better be a lot more than just replacing your pads/shoes. That does only cost about $200 an axle even for a Honda. My best advice from personal experience is to call or take your car to at least two or three places and see if the estimates jibe. Unfortunately there are places that take advantage of women because they think we don’t know anything or will take advantage of someone who needs a repair done quickly.

Thanks for the info, Cami. At this point, I just really hope that these are indeed legitimate charges because it's just as upsetting to be ripped off as it is to have to shell out the money.

[Prettymaid]

The rule of thumb is if the repairs are going to cost close to or more than the Blue Book value of the car, it's time to get a new car..

[sodascouts]

Got the invoice and it's about $1500 for parts, $1800 for labor, and $400 or so more for tax. Grand total: about $3750.

Ah well. Too late to cry now.

After work today, I go off to Atlanta to see Stevie Nicks perform. I won't be around until Saturday evening or Sunday. You guys behave while I'm away! ;)

[MikeA]

Tell Stevie "Howdee" from me and you have a GREAT time Soda!

[Mrs Frey]

Phew! Where do I start? A week off The Border and I've missed so much news. I've spent the last half an hour trying to catch up, and now I have 5 minutes to respond, so I hope I remember everything I wanted to respond to, and correctly! :blush:

Firstly, Cathy, I am SO sorry about Chuck. There aren't really words to console all of you. All I can say is may the Lord give you all the strength to face this sad reality. :hug:

Brooke, well done to the Mustangs! I am so happy for you all.

Stars, I'm so glad Smokey is responding well to the chemo. May he go from strength to strength!

Koala, congratulations to your father on his 60th birthday! I'm glad you had a wonderful time with your family, and especially that you had a chance to spend time with family you have not seen since the sad funerals.

Soda, I'm really sorry that your car repairs have been so expensive. I'm sure the Stevie Nicks concert will help to make up for this bit of stress, though! Enjoy!!!

Deb, having furniture made from your "grandpa tree" is a wonderful idea and a great way to commemorate your grandfather. The first piece looks wonderful. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Mike, I'm deducing from your posts and your new avatar that you have a new doggie who likes to sleep! :wink: Awww, he's adorable. I'm glad for you after the loss of your kittie.

If I've left anyone out, please forgive me! You are all in my thoughts. I have been so busy here at work, and in my lunchtimes I market myself as a performer. My spirits have been a bit down, though, as I haven't had a gig since 15 January, when I finished work at the GrandWest Casino. I've done two small guest spots at two different restaurants/pubs, which were very well received, but with which came no remuneration, and also no prospects. Sigh. Times are tough, and I've been spending a lot of money on costumes and so forth for the upcoming Elvis Festival Africa at the end of April. I really hope the effort I'm putting into this will pay off.

I've also been working on a CD for the festival, featuring Elvis tracks and a song I composed as a tribute to the man. Then there is a photoshoot I have to plan, for an album cover and marketing purposes... phew. I've also been spending a lot of time either running, pushing weights or cycling. I have an image to maintain, after all... :wink: :lol:

There has been construction going on on our floor here at work for the last month or so. Banging, drilling, sawing, scouring, painting, glueing... eeeewwwww and ughhhhh. I'm so tired of the smell of paint and having a headache from the noise around me everyday. I know it's all for a good cause, but it really isn't pleasant coming to work under these circumstances.

To top it all off, today is the 5th anniversary of my mother's passing. I've had my moments of sadness today, but I think my mother would've liked me to maintain the positive frame of mind I've had for the last few weeks. I'm certainly going to try. She didn't spend 29 years raising and nurturing me only for me not to make an effort in life.

Keep safe and well, everyone! Thinking of you all. :grouphug:

[Mrs Frey]

Ooh, I'm so mad! I have a friend visiting from Indiana this weekend (which means I won't be on the board much, by the way) and so I figured, since my cat makes my apartment gross, I would get my carpets professionally cleaned. Well, the guy comes, basically "steam" vacuums, and charges me $70! I looked online and other places treat your carpets and move your furniture. This guy refused to do even that - I had to move my chairs and ask him to vacuum under them. WHAT A RIP OFF. And the worst thing is, my apartment is still not nice for my friend.

MADMADMADMADMAD

Nancy, I really feel for you. Your pocket has been hit really hard for very little lately.

[Mrs Frey]

I've just spent an hour upstairs trying to do some ironing, with Charlie (parrot) shouting incessently at me.....What ya doin'? eh? eh? what ya doinnnnnn? :hilarious:

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[MikeA]

Times are tough, and I've been spending a lot of money on costumes and so forth for the upcoming Elvis Festival Africa at the end of April.

Monique,

How long does that Festival run? I mean, a Day? A Weekend?. How many performances will you be involved with? Will you be performing your new song at the Festival?

Lady, I'm thinking you ought to be really excited about all that!

[Prettymaid]

Thank you Mrs F and everyone else for your kind words for Chuck and family. I will keep you posted.

Mrs F, among other obvious talents you have the gift of empathy. Your mother would be proud of you.

[Mrs Frey]

Monique,

How long does that Festival run? I mean, a Day? A Weekend?. How many performances will you be involved with? Will you be performing your new song at the Festival?

Lady, I'm thinking you ought to be really excited about all that!

Don't worry, Mike, I am indeed excited about the Festival - it's all (well, almost) I've been thinking about since I finished up work at the casino. I just wanted to have a gig or two before the festival - it does help with one's confidence after all. :wink:

To answer your questions, the festival runs from Friday, 29 April to Monday 2 May (which is a Public Holiday here in South Africa - 1 May is Worker's Day, and because it falls on a Sunday, the Monday has been declared a holiday). I will be performing on all four days of the festival, during the day and at night, as part of the ETA (Elvis Tribute Artist) shows being presented.

I was part of the inaugural festival last year, and although I was very well received by the audiences, the media almost ignored me, except for a radio interview with me broadcast four months later. I hope things will be a little different this time around. It's tough for a woman in the Elvis world. :roll:. If one doesn't wear a jumpsuit, one is not noticed, regardless of talent. People only remember the jumpsuit - nevermind the other 15 years of Elvis' career. :roll: :roll:

Thanks for the support, Mike. :D :D :D

[Mrs Frey]

Thank you Mrs F and everyone else for your kind words for Chuck and family. I will keep you posted.

Mrs F, among other obvious talents you have the gift of empathy. Your mother would be proud of you.

Thank you, Cathy. :hug:

[TimothyBFan]

MF---sending a big hug your way. No matter how many years, it's never easy when those days come around every year.

TG--you cracked me up about the ironing and Charlie! Who the heck would need kids or spouses if you have a bird like Charlie around to talk to!! Love it.

[Brooke]

MF, thinking of you today. I know what you mean. My dear Grandma's birthday is Saturday and I lost her 15 years ago last December. That doesn't seem possible that she's been gone so long and I still have moments thinking of her. She was such a wonderful grandmother and such fun when I was a kid.

[Koala]

Mrs.Frey, thinking of you too. Such sad Moments are always difficult and always will be!


My dear Grandma's birthday is Saturday and I lost her 15 years ago last December. That doesn't seem possible that she's been gone so long and I still have moments thinking of her. She was such a wonderful grandmother and such fun when I was a kid.

I know what you mean, too! The 1th anniversary of my Grandma's passing is next Sunday, already only the thought alone makes me sad again!

[Mrs Frey]

MF---sending a big hug your way. No matter how many years, it's never easy when those days come around every year.



Thanks, TBF. I appreciate it. :hug:

[Mrs Frey]

MF, thinking of you today. I know what you mean. My dear Grandma's birthday is Saturday and I lost her 15 years ago last December. That doesn't seem possible that she's been gone so long and I still have moments thinking of her. She was such a wonderful grandmother and such fun when I was a kid.

Thank you, Brooke. :hug: I'm sorry about your grandmother. I'm sure she's watching over you every day.

[Mrs Frey]

Mrs.Frey, thinking of you too. Such sad Moments are always difficult and always will be!



I know what you mean, too! The 1th anniversary of my Grandma's passing is next Sunday, already only the thought alone makes me sad again!

Thank you, Koala. :hug: I'm sorry about your grandmother too - still so fresh in your mind.

[WalshFan88]

Take care Mrs. Frey and Koala! Thinking of you!

[Troubadour]

Koala and MF - thinking of you both. Time lessens the pain, but it never takes it away. Relish the good memories that you have of your loved ones. :hug:

[MikeA]

This is just a little premature, but a birthday party was held for Megan (grandaughter) and Nathan (grandnephew) Sunday.

Megan is a little messy, but it was a dainty messy!

https://eaglesonlinecentral.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=14&pictureid=924

[Glennsallnighter]

Awwww, is Megan 1 already Mike? Wow! Time flies.

MF, I was thinking of your dear mother on the 23rd even though I didn't get round to texting you. Shame on me :-(. I'm sure she is incredibly proud of you and your singing career. I'm sure you will really make your mark at this years Elvis festival!

Brooke, my thoughts are with you too, and Willie! My Godfather passed away over 25 years ago but I still get a bit emotional on his anniversary, and remember him too on what would have been his birthday - Christmas Day. Cherish the good times with your loved ones.

[Mrs Frey]

Thank you so much, Austin, Lou and Lisa for your kind thoughts. :grouphug:

Mike, Megan is very cute!

I've had a bit of a stressful morning here at work... :sigh:, but hey, I'll survive. I've just had a lovely lunch of cottage pie and vegetables, and ready to do battle with the rest of my working day.

I'm looking forward to a great evening, doing rehearsals with my friend James for the Elvis Festival Africa at the end of next month. I'm busy organising a photo shoot for next month, which I'm also looking forward to.

I might even be doing some more recordings for my CD later in the week - yet to be confirmed.

Oh yeah! I love my life. :nod: :nod: :nod:

[TimothyBFan]

Megan can't possibly be 1 already?! WOW! And what a sweetie!

MF---You seem so happy and content--good for you! Enjoy that cd and all life is offering right now!

[MikeA]

MF, From everything I've read from your hand, you are happiest when either performing or preparing to perform. That's a great combination!

Yeah, she's (Megan) shy of a year by a couple of weeks, but there are so many babies and young kids in our family that we have to combine parties to fit them all in <LOL> And since we generally have those parties at Verna's Mom and Dad's, we have to put a limit on them.

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks for the support, TBF and Mike! Yes, I really do love performing, and the preparation thereof! This year is particularly exciting - and nervewracking too, I must admit - because I'm trying new things. But I have plenty of support, so that is keeping me going, hopefully, in the right direction.

[Koala]

Mike, Megan is a very cute little girl!
Mrs Frey, glad you have a great time at the moment!

[Brooke]

Happy Birthday to Megan! A year old already!

MF, sounds like things are going good for you, too!

My house is getting really full. Our daughter has decided to move to Columbia, MO from Austin, TX and has stopped off here for a few days visit before she goes there. She has brought her cat, Bruce. We now have 3 cats in the house and none of them really get along. Poor Beyonce. Her home has been taken over by aliens! She would like to just ignore them both, but Fishsticks insists on following her around at a couple feets distance and if he gets too close Beyonce hisses at him. That puts Fishsticks on the defense and the chase is on! Bruce is confined to his room so far unless Fishsticks is put in his room. Fishsticks thinks he owns the place! Bruce is comepletely scared of him. Hopefully, my son, his fiancee and Fishsticks will be moving in to their home this weekend, our daughter will be going on down to Columbia and we will have our house back to ourselves! But, Bruce will be staying on for a while until she gets settled. Bruce is pretty mild mannered and I think when FS is gone that him and Beyonce will get along fine. Hopefully. :crazy:

[sodascouts]

MF - Best of luck on your project! I'm sure it'll be great.

Brooke - LOL - I can just imagine! Poor Beyonce!

[MikeA]

My house is getting really full. :crazy:

Brooke,

Have you heard the one about the mouse, the cat and the dog and the canoe and river and having to take two across at a time?

Sounds like you have that problem with the cats!

[TimothyBFan]

I'm sorry Brooke, but I had to chuckle when I was reading that. Aren't you glad you get to leave once a day for work so you can get away from the chaos for awhile? :hilarious:

[Brooke]

I'm sorry Brooke, but I had to chuckle when I was reading that. Aren't you glad you get to leave once a day for work so you can get away from the chaos for awhile? :hilarious:

Most definitely! lol

I think B (dad and hubby), is the one who is really going crazy. He hates cats. Period. Somehow, he's hanging in there. :eyebrow:

[Glennsallnighter]

Thank you so much, Austin, Lou and Lisa for your kind thoughts. :grouphug:

I'm looking forward to a great evening, doing rehearsals with my friend James for the Elvis Festival Africa at the end of next month. I'm busy organising a photo shoot for next month, which I'm also looking forward to.

I might even be doing some more recordings for my CD later in the week - yet to be confirmed.

Oh yeah! I love my life. :nod: :nod: :nod:

You're so welcome MF! :hug:

And let me just say how delighted I am that you are loving your life so much at the moment. I really hope all the preparations pay off well and that you have a wonderful festival.
And good luck with the CD

[MikeA]

CARS! Hate 'EM! (the 4-wheeled kind Willy, not the band!)

Engine light came on yesterday while Verna was driving our Mazda Protege'. She checked the obvious things...gas cap tight, oil in range, engine coolant...that stuff. She was in Oklahoma so I couldn't get out and look at it.

She made it home but said it wasn't running right. Sort of choking down at highway speeds and lurching in 1st gear (standard 5-speed tranny).

So we called GoodYear and took it in this morning to have them put it on their "computer reader" to diagnose it.

Turns out all those problems were caused by a $188.00 Air Intake Hose that after almost 10 years has decided to crack.

But the guy at the shop said it also needed coolant flush ($89) and a timing belt ($300) and spark plugs, spark plug wiring and the coil caps on the plugs ($293.00).

I told him that the plugs and wires were replaced 3 years ago and shouldn't need anything and he agreed...just said that they looked like original equipment and with that many miles on the car, they should be replaced. He's right but didn't know we'd already done that.

I told him that if they wanted to charge me $300 for a timing belt that I'd see them in court and let a Judge rule on the issue because less than two years ago, THEY replaced that belt along with the brakes and a serpentine fan-belt when they ALSO flushed the coolant! I was joking (sort of) when I said that.

The guy rechecked their records and found that the most of that work I'd just mentioned was on another ticket and didn't pull up under my name...it did pulled up under my Wife's name! <LOL>

You just got to watch those guys! I think this was an honest mistake for at 143,000 miles, a car really should have all that done.

I do have to replace the struts (new-fangled way they charge you more for shock absorbers). That is EXPENSIVE but I didn't get a quote on that.

We want a new car, but with ONLY 143000 on it, we should be good for several more years if we take care of it. I'd like to hold off on buying another car until just before I retire. I can get several thousand off of a FORD since we contract with them and are treated as employees and when we buy, I'll pay cash. But we need to stretch the life of this Mazda out, especially with Verna making so many round trips of 120 to Oklahoma. Fortunately, what she wins down there comes pretty close to meeting the maintenance needs of the car!

[Brooke]

Yikes Mike! I was afraid you were going to end up like Soda did with her car! At least it wasn't that bad!

[TimothyBFan]

CARS! Hate 'EM! (the 4-wheeled kind Willy, not the band!)

Darn lucky you clarified that buster!!! :eyebrow:

Glad it wasn't horrible and they found your paperwork so all's good again. How aggravating!!

[Glennsallnighter]

Yeah! Sorry for your car troubles Mike! Glad they realised you had already had the jobs done.

Good luck with the Ford!

Here's a nice little story to make us realise that there are some GOOD people in the world:

On Friday night we headed up to Belfast as a family to bring Laura to the Taylor Swift Concert. While we were travelling up there Pauls gout started to aggravate his foot and as it was no better on Saturday the hotel gave us directions to a Surgery. As he had a while to wait I took the children over to the nearby shopping centre.

About 4 hours later having organised his meds and done a little shopping we were headed up the North Antrim Coast and stopped for lunch and to take a few pics of the fabulous scenery.......

..... and there was the problem. My camera was GONE (Yep, the good one with all the good accessories..... valued about €1000). We searched the car, called the hotel and the surgery. No joy. I started to get numbers for all the shops we had been in as well as the Centre Security but again no result. I had just given up hope when Paul asked had we stopped for a coffee/hot choc?. I got on the phone again and called Marks and Spencer in the shopping centre. Imagine. The girl said 'YEP, we have it'. An honest employee in the coffee shop had left it into their security desk.

Obviously when we collected it the following day (And I was still nervous that it was the right one) we left in a token of our appreciation to him. But it says NOTHING about how grateful I was just to get it back!!

[MikeA]

Way COOL GALN! That does tend to raise your opinion of Human Decency! And also tends to protect your pocketbook from the loss!

I had a similar thing with a Cell Phone. Unknowingly dropped it while getting into my car at a gas station up in Marieta (north of Topeka, Ks about 15 miles).

Once I realized it was gone, I called the service station but they didn't have it and no one had turned it in. Later that night, after Verna had used her phone to call my number, we got a call from my Daughter in Wichita. Some guy had called her saying that he got her number out of the directory of a cell phone he'd found. He gave Amanda his phone number. He didn't even use MY PHONE to call my daughter....!

I got in touch with him and he'd found it in the parking lot of the gas station...the battery had come loose but was fairly close to the phone so he put the two together. He didn't trust the people in the service station and decided to take it home with him (To Lawrence, Ks about 30 mile to the East of Topeka!)

I had to drive over there to meet him to get the phone. He would not accept a reward for protecting me from someone using it to rack up huge bills. He didn't use it at ALL.

Some people are still out there who take that extra step to help others.

[Annabel]

Wow you were lucky there both of you. Glad you both got your camera and phone back.

The christmas before last my DH was out shopping for presents for me, (his own idea no pushing was involved ;)) and he dropped his wallet outside the Borders bookshop in Southampton. A man found it and rang me to say he'd got it, could I arrange for my DH to meet him so he could return it to him. They met outside Borders and the guy handed it over. DH hadn't even realised it was missing :rolleyes:

[Glennsallnighter]

Awww Lovely stories Mike and Melanie! Its great to think that some people out there DO care for their fellow neighbour. I've actually put a label inside the bag with my name and mobile number on it in case this happens again. But I Sincerely hope it DOESN'T!

[TimothyBFan]

Nice to know there are still plenty of honest people in this greedy world!!

[Brooke]

Great stories from all of you-Ga, Mike and Annabel.

I have one too. My hubby also lost his cell phone at a gas station and someone found it and returned it to the cell phone store in a town nearby. When the store called that evening to tell him he hadn't even realized it was gone either.

There really are honest people still out there!

I have a funny story about my cell. I was shopping with a friend a couple weeks ago and it rang while I was putting a big package in the back of my suv. Juggling the phone and this huge package and needing both hands, finishing the call, I laid the phone on the back bumper and put the package inside, closed the hatch and promptly got in and drove away. At a stop light a good half mile away I realized what I had done and decided to go back to the parking lot and see if it was there somewhere. I circled through a car dealer lot and back to the stop light. Sitting there waiting for the green light my friend looked over and saw something laying in the road. I thought it was my cell. I looked at the stop lights and traffic. It was on red all ways (4 lane road with turn lanes), no one was moving. I put my car in park, hopped out, ran across the oncoming lane, saw that it was my phone, grabbed it and ran back to my car just in time for my light to turn green! I'm sure people stopped at the lights wondered what that crazy woman was doing! But I found my phone and it hadn't been run over! :dizzy:

[MikeA]

Speaking of Cell Phones:

Mine buzzed with an incoming IM last night after I'd already gone to bed. It was my son telling me that he and his fiancee' were heading out to the Cotillian. That a small concert hall with a bar in western Wichita.

Anyway they were on their way out there because they'd heard somewhere that Jimmy Vaughan was doing a concert there last night.

I think he was just wanting to tempt me into getting dressed and meeting him over there!

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks Koala, Soda, Brooke and GA for the support! I really appreciate it. :grouphug:

I was enjoying reading the Good Samaritan stories here. Yep, it just goes to show that there are indeed still good people out there. It's a pity it doesn't get onto the news bulletins.

I'm glad for all of you who recovered lost possessions.

Mike, I'm sorry for your car expenses. I hope you car manages to hold out for as long as you need it to. Goodness, I know how it feels - I've given out a lot on my car over the last couple of years. I hope it stops now - there is MORE to life!!! :roll:

I'm still feeling good, albeit a bit tired today. I have a costume fitting tomorrow morning, and I'm looking forward to a birthday party on Sunday. I've been asked to bring my guitar along, so there will definitely be some singing happening, ha ha.

Oh yes, and a photo shoot has been arranged for 12 April, at a theatre. I will be doing a small show for friends who will be there to support me, and the photographer will do his thing. I'm hoping I will have a new costume or two ready for the day! I don't have any gigs lined up at the moment, and the photographer preferred to take performance shots of me, so we asked permission from the theatre to use their facilities. They are not charging, so long as we don't use the theatre after a certain time. It will be happening after a show, so their stage hands will still be there to assist me. It's all very exciting! Who knows, maybe they will like what they hear and recommend me for a show there!

[Mrs Frey]

Brooke, I found your cat story quite amusing - I would love to see these three cats in action. I'm sure I would find it very entertaining! :lol:

[Annabel]

Good luck with the photo shoot Mrs F, and fingers crossed they give you a show. :thumbsup:

Mike, your hero(i)n problem has shown up here in Southampton today. :eyebrow: There I was delivering to a house where I have seen a deer in the garden before, and bold as brass the heron walked out of the woods. Before I could whip out my camera to take a shot, it flew up to a back roof or balcony or something behind the house. But don't worry Mike, he's fine and well. :thumbsup::hilarious:

[Troubadour]

I'm a bit worried about my sister. She went to the doctor today because her feet are always frozen and they turn blue. (I've seen them... they're awful.) They've been like that for a long time, but she thinks they've gotten worse in the past three to four weeks. Anyway, apparently the doctor was quite worried and tried to get another doctor for a second opinion there and then, but no-one was available. She got the nurse to do a blood test straight away and the nurse said to my sister "You know this isn't normal, don't you?" They mentioned maybe referring her to a vascular specialist, too. I think it scared her a bit. She may get a phone call later today if anything shows up in the test - otherwise, she has an appointment with the doctor on Monday evening. Please keep her in your thoughts. I'm glad that she's finally getting this thing checked out - it's definitely not right in an otherwise healthy 23 year old.

[MikeA]

SLAY 'EM at the shoot Monique!

And Melanie: Huge birds, aren't they! Unbelievable predators too when it comes to fish. They (or "he") did more damage in my pond than I thought. We have no larger fish now. Just the little ones. You can guess where the big ones went!

Lou: That Horrible! Must be some sort of circulatory problem. I've never heard of anything like that before.

[Annabel]

Mike, I think he was on his way to the private fishing reservoir in the copse behind the house. Well it was heading towards elevenses. :hilarious:

Troub, your poor sister. That sounds horrible. Hope she gets sorted very soon.

[Koala]

Troub, this nust be horrible for your sister and the whole family you are all in my thoughts and prayers!:hug:

Mrs Frey, good luck with the Photo Shoot!

[TimothyBFan]

Lou--- I sure hope they can get your sister's problem under control. How scary and alarming this must be for all of you. Keep us informed.

[MikeA]

APPRECIATION from me to all you folks across the Pond! I'm getting an education! "elevenses": had no idea what that was until I looked it up! Love it! And "Waltzing Matildas"! Really getting to be a "man of the World"!

I been around the World 3 times, been to 7 county fairs and 4 hog-killin's and ain't never larned this much frum one place!

[WalshFan88]

Troub - I hope everything gets better soon! You are in my thoughts.

Mrs. Frey - Good luck with the shoot!

________________________________

I think this will be a pretty good weekend for me, I'm going guitar shopping tomorrow. I'm in the Les Paul mood so I'll probably get that or a Fender Strat with a maple neck. I'm going to my dealer in Springfield. Todd is very good to work with. He does all of my high end tech/luthier repairs too. "Rock Shop" is the name of the place. Very cool store, homey and great service. I'm gonna go there and play through some different guitars. Also, I'm taking my little Marshall practice amp in and ONE of my Gibson SG's to trade. I'm still gonna have my other SG, which is the guitar I started on. I can just never keep the other one in tune and it's frustrating and I never play it so I might as well get something I WILL play. I'm thinking Gibson Les Paul Traditional or Fender American Strat Deluxe. We'll see. I'll be like a kid in a candy store tomorrow!

[MikeA]

That sounds like PHUN Austin! Hmmm, maybe they got a Hummingbird!

[WalshFan88]

That sounds like PHUN Austin! Hmmm, maybe they got a Hummingbird!

I don't know Mike. They really didn't divulge what they had EXACTLY over the phone, maybe that is Gibson's policy. They just said they had plenty of stock to choose from. But I know I'm going to be spending my afternoon there just trying things out through a Fender amp (so it'll sound more like what it will be either at home or at a gig). Soooo many guitars. I have enough Teles for now. I have 5. So I either want a Maple Neck Strat, a Gibson Les Paul, or a Hummingbird maybe if they have one!!!! I'll have to see what they got. I know one of 'em will "speak" to me! They always do. Sure makes deciding a LOT easier for a gearhead! :D

[sodascouts]

I loved reading all the stories about honest people.

Monique - best of luck to you! Don't forget to post photos!

Austin - have fun at the store (I know you will, lol)

Lou - I'm surprised your sister hasn't gone to the doctor long before this. It's certainly not normal, especially in one so young. She's in my prayers that it's not indicative of a much more serious problem and that whatever is causing this can be fixed painlessly.

[Troubadour]

Thanks, guys. I'm trying not to worry too much but I can't help being concerned. We will know more by Monday so I will keep you updated.

On top of this, two of my aunts are not well. One, Margaret, has lung problems and she is on antibiotics at the moment because her breathing is bad, and the other, Pearl, is not doing well at all. She had five stents put in last week to widen/unblock the arteries, but she feels awful. She had to go back into hospital for a day or two and they initially thought she had blood or fluid in the lungs, but now they're not sure... She's just in a lot of pain and doesn't feel right at all. My uncle (her husband) has lost quite a bit of weight over the past week through worry. I'd really appreciate it if you could keep them in your thoughts, too. Both are lovely ladies and mean a lot to me and the rest of my family.

[Annabel]

APPRECIATION from me to all you folks across the Pond! I'm getting an education! "elevenses": had no idea what that was until I looked it up! Love it! And "Waltzing Matildas"! Really getting to be a "man of the World"!

I been around the World 3 times, been to 7 county fairs and 4 hog-killin's and ain't never larned this much frum one place!

:thumbsup: Glad to help Mike. So will you be partaking in elevenses from now on then. :hilarious: Of course you can also have what the Royal Navy call nine o'clockers. (That would be like supper before bedtime and more savoury than elevenses. Think we might have the day covered now. :laugh: )

[sodascouts]

On top of this, two of my aunts are not well. One, Margaret, has lung problems and she is on antibiotics at the moment because her breathing is bad, and the other, Pearl, is not doing well at all. She had five stents put in last week to widen/unblock the arteries, but she feels awful. She had to go back into hospital for a day or two and they initially thought she had blood or fluid in the lungs, but now they're not sure... She's just in a lot of pain and doesn't feel right at all. My uncle (her husband) has lost quite a bit of weight over the past week through worry. I'd really appreciate it if you could keep them in your thoughts, too. Both are lovely ladies and mean a lot to me and the rest of my family.

Sorry you're having to deal with so much. They're in my prayers as well.

[Glennsallnighter]

Lou! I know you texted me about your sister earlier. I really hope its nothing serious and that it can be treated easily. I'll keep her and your aunts (and uncle) in my thoughts and prayers. Those of my aunts and uncles who are still living are all elderly and many too have health problems so I know what you are going through. :hug:

Monique..... Kill'em at the photoshoot. I'm sure it'll go very well and I'd love to hear you getting a booking out of it. I'm thrilled at how your singing career has started to take off in recent months and I really hope it continues to do so! :hug:

Austin, what a lovely way to spend tomorrow. I hope you find a lovely guitar!

[EaglesKiwi]

Lou, you and your family are all in my thoughts and prayers too. Keep strong.

Monique - all the best for the photo shoot! Looking forward to hearing more about it.

Austin - what did you end up getting?

[Annabel]

As it's Mother's Day here tomorrow, we are all off to see my Mum in the care home she is in. Hoping that she is 'with it' today as it is distressing enough visiting the home. :sad: Makes it so much harder when she is a little 'lost'.

Get to see all my 3 sisters today too and some of their offspring. Bit like a family reunion. Chaos but fun. :laugh:

[EaglesKiwi]

Hope the visit goes well, Melanie.

[Glennsallnighter]

Yep, in this neck of the woods, Mothers' Day falls today (Traditionally the Fourth Sunday of Lent in the Christian Calendar). So to all mothers out there everywhere


HAPPY MOTHERS DAY


And thanks for all the work that you do for everybody!

[MikeA]

In that case.....HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all y'uns!

[Brooke]

Yes, Happy Mother's Day to all good mums across the pond!

Lou, I hope they figure out your sister's problems soon. Sounds awful. And the rest of your family is in my thoughts too.

Mrs F, best of luck with your photo shoot. Sounds fun for you!

P47, hang in there with the computer stuff. I know just how frustrating these things can be, believe me! :dizzy:

We've had a very busy few days. Our son and his fiancee moved to their remodeled home beginning Thursday evening. (Yay, one less cat!) :blueblob: Many trips to and from their house. At least its only a couple miles from ours! Our daughter's birthday was Friday. Birthday party for her with close family Friday evening which required much cooking all day Friday, which also meant day off from work! She then left for her new residence on Saturday in Columbia. We get to keep her cat (Bruce) for the summer! :yay: :rolleyes: At least he is better behaved and nicer than Fishy! And loves to go outside! :yay: Hubby has also been helping his sister and her husband move to a new home here in town also. He said it's nice to be needed. He thinks! :hmm:

[WalshFan88]

Happy Mothers Day! :)

[Koala]

Happy Mothers day to all who celebrate today!
We have our Mothers Day always on the second Sunday in May.

[Annabel]

Well I had a lovely visit with my family on Saturday. Got to see all 3 of my sisters and just one niece with her current youngest DD now aged 2. Niece has just 8 weeks left until DD number 2 arrives. (she will be on time as niece is now 43 so will be induced if she goes over because of her age.) Her sone isn't that impressed that he will have another sister as Amelie is a pain in the butt to him. :laugh: But he loves her all the same. My Mum was in fine form and very with it. She had been very confused in the week apparently. Next visit for us will be at least 5 -6 weeks away.

As for my Mother's Day, I spent most of my day at the garden centre then at home washing. 4 loads !!! :doh:I made lunch and cooked dinner too, then had to help DD1 with her art homework as it involved crafting. :dizzy: DH made me breakfast in bed with the help of our youngest DD. Got my Adele CD from DD1 and DD2 bought me a silver necklace. (all with DH's money. :laugh:)

[Troubadour]

Happy Belated Mother's Day! I cooked a roast dinner for my Mum, and my Grandma was beyond thrilled with the bouquet of flowers I sent her. (She has always been such a strong influence in my life. As has my Grandad. I honestly don't know what we'd have done without them through the years.) I'm actually going to visit them for the day tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to that.

Thanks for all the good wishes regarding my sister. We heard today that her blood tests came back normal, which is obviously good news. She has an appointment with the doctor in about an hour, so I should know more after that. We expect that she will be referred to a vascular specialist at the hospital. Although it's scary, at least the ball is rolling and they are investigating what the problem could be. Fingers crossed it is nothing that will impact upon her life too much - she has had a rough year and she has so much to look forward to right now.

[Troubadour]

Well, as expected, the doctor has referred my sister to the vascular specialist. She said it could be spasms in the blood vessels... but she is still unsure. Having said that, the doctor was very pleased and relieved that the blood test results are normal. That's definitely a good thing. I'll keep you updated. Thanks again for your kind thoughts.

[Molly]

Belated Happy Mother's Day to everyone who celebrated this past weekend!

Lou, glad all the news regarding your sister has been positive. Continued good news as she sees the specialist.

Annabel, glad your visit with your mom went well. As my mom moves onto the next stage of her battle with Alzheimer's, every moment I can spend with her that is pleasant is a blessing. I know I have a tough haul in store for me. I'm gonna need to "toughen up" to get thru it, I know.

Brooke, I envy you that your son's house rennovations are complete! Tom's are moving at a snail's pace. I can't wait to turn his old room into my home office and move out of working in the basement.

Hope everyone is doing well. Missed you all!

[MikeA]

Lou,

Is your sister still showing the symptoms or have they subsided over the weekend? It is sounding like it may not be as bad as originally thought though. Here's hoping....or is it hopping or hopeing...awww, heck, Here's Prayin'!

[Troubadour]

Thanks, Molly and Mike. The symptoms are still there. Her feet have always been bad - always freezing - and she just put it down to bad circulation, even though she's young. But in the past three to four weeks, she thinks the colour has gotten even worse. Her feet and calves go mottled and blueish and two of her toes are really bad (very blue) at the moment. It's definitely not right. I'm keeping positive and, you're right, we're a bit more relaxed after the blood test results... but I guess we'll just have to wait and see what the specialist says. At least she has a good doctor and she her condition is being thoroughly investigated pretty quickly.

[Prettymaid]

Just getting a chance to catch up here -

Lou, thinking of you and your sister as she sees the specialist. I hope it's nothing serious.

Happy belated Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers out there!


Brooke, glad your kids are finding places other than yours to live. :hilarious:

Annabel, sounds like you had a nice visit with your family. I'm sure you cherish the good times with your mother.

My BIL Chuck has received his medicaid card so he can now get his medicine and go back to his doctor. They have found a small ground floor apartment that they will be moving into in May. Next Saturday we are having a rummage sale at their house to pare down their belongings and make some money for them.

[Annabel]

Molly, I really feel for you. We find our situation hard enough and we aren't dealing with Alzheimers, just the effects of a small stroke and standard old age. :(

PM, I live about 60 miles away from my family so when we can get together we do have a good laugh. ;-)
My 2 daughters hate seeing their Nan in the home. I've told them she is their Nan and they need to know her. She won't be around forever, so for now they have to make a little sacrifice, and they do. (Drive me nuts sometimes when they get bored there and 'play' :rolleyes: They sometimes set my Mum off too. Boy old people can be 'norty'. :laugh:)

[sodascouts]

Lou, I'm glad to hear things are looking up a bit for your sister. I hope things continue on that path.

Molly and PM, I can only imagine how difficult this time must be for you and your families. You all remain in my prayers.

[MikeA]

"NORTY"

Hey, I like that. I'm gonna start working on that!

[TimothyBFan]

PM--it must be so heart wrenching to have all of this unfolding for Chuck and his family. It seems to have all happened so fast and so many decision that have had to be made rather quickly without easing into them. He and the whole family are in my thoughts. Hope all goes well this weekend and with the move in May.

Molly, you're in my thoughts also as you deal with what is happening to your mother. I've not had to deal with Alzheimers before but have had friends that have and it's a hard disease to live with for a loved one.

Lou, keep us up to date on the sister front. Glad the blood work came back good.

Harsh reality is hitting our family here also. As I've told all of you, we have hubby's Mom's house up for sale but unfortunately with the housing market the way it is, nothing is moving. Especially in our small town where there are currently about 35 houses sitting for sale. The utilities and taxes here are outrageous and people know it so, therefore, tend to head to the country and a few blocks up the road to the next county where it's a bit cheaper.

With the nursing home taking $8,000.00 a month, the savings dwindles rather quickly while still paying utilities, property taxes and any other bills. It's hard to watch my husband, who is the youngest of the children but the power of attorney, having to make the tough decisions and still try to keep everyone happy (for lack of a better word). I try to keep my mouth shut to the other members of the family (no easy task for me) and be supportive to him. He finally kind of laid it out on the line to one of his sisters last night. His family tends to not speak their mind for fear of offending the others so everyone kind of tip toes around the issues so therefore nothing gets decided. There's been a couple members that have basically completely distanced themselves from it all and left it all up to hubby, SIL & her husband & I. Hubby finally said enough, and said these are the decisions that have to be made, rather you like it or not-Mom needs to be taken care of and that's the bottom line! I could of stood up and cheered for him. Now just need to move things forward again.

[Molly]

Willie, good for your husband for finding his voice. Why is it during the tough times, the crummy stuff always seems to fall on a few shoulders when, instead, that's exactly when families should be pulling together? I'm sure, with your support, he's making the best decisions possible for the situation at hand. Good luck to both of you moving forward...I totally feel for you both.

My mom has 9 surviving children, and 3 of us (my 2 oldest sisters and myself) are the only ones who take turns spending time with her. One sister in law, who is a sweetheart, does her part as well. NONE of my 5 brothers visit unless it's a holiday or they are guilted into it. They say "it's too hard". Really? No kidding? It's no cake walk for any of us. Grow up and deal with it, coz it's only gonna get worse.

My MIL is 2 door down from my mom at the nursing home (woo hoo...fun times!!) She's been either in the hospital or in the nursing home since the beginning of the year. She had her foot amputated in January and it's just not healing (her circulation in her legs is almost nonexistent).

She still thinks she's going to go home, but the reality is, every week that passes that looks less and less likely.

Meanwhile, every week that passes brings her closer to running out of nursing home days with Medicare. Very soon it will all start coming out of pocket.

I imagine, by Summer, we will be trying to sell her house. And, I also know that 99% of this will fall on my husband's shoulders.

Anyone know someone who wants to buy a house that looks inside like it's still 1974? Possibly, a big fan of "That's 70's show" coz it looks like Red and Kitty's living room in there.

[Brooke]

TBF and Molly, I'm sorry for all that you are going through and hope things will look up soon.

These are things that each one of us will have to do, if we haven't already. My Mom is doing very well by herself for the time being. We all know how fast that can change. She had her 79th birthday yesterday. We celebrated with her last Friday along with our daughter's.

[sodascouts]

Money issues and family members not pulling their weight on top of everything else? I'm so sorry to hear it.


These are things that each one of us will have to do, if we haven't already.

It upsets me to think about it, but of course you're right (God willing one's parents live to an old age). My parents are in good health and are only 68, but they're already starting to divide their money between me and my sisters to avoid a hefty inheritance tax "when the time comes."

[Glennsallnighter]

Molly and Willie, I really feel for you both in your different situations. At least you can be comforted by the fact that you know you are doing all you can for the comfort and care of your parents/parents in law. And when the 'time comes' you will have nothing to regret. Unlike those who find it 'too hard'.

Willie, I hope you find a buyer soon. I know markets are bad everywhere. Your husband has a difficult job to do.

Lou! I'm delighted your sisters bloods are ok. I'm sure the specialist will sort the problem soon. Hopefully its a fairly routine problem and a tehre'll be a course of treatment that suits her.

Laura and I both have flu. I'm off work until next Monday having gone away early today. I just couldn't hold out any longer and caught the doc on the way home. Laura was tired and off her food yesterday which we put up to being as a result of dancing in a ballet show on Sunday and being late home as a result. But when she came out of school earlier she said she was too tired to go ti Irish dancing. By the time she got home she was exhausted and couldn't even undress to get into bed. So sounds like the same! If shes not better by the morning we'll be back at the doc

[Brooke]

Awwww, get well soon Ga and timtot.

http://bestsmileys.com/flowers/14.gif

[Glennsallnighter]

Thank you Brooke

[Prettymaid]

And a big get well from me too GA. Put on a pot of tea and watch F1 - sure to sooth what ails ya!

[WalshFan88]

TBF & Molly - I hope everything turns out for the best!

GA - Get well soon!

:)

[Koala]

GA & Laura get well soon!

Lou, glad to hear that the blood of your sister is normal!

TBF & Molly, hope everything becomes as well as you wish it.

PM, good luck at the rummage sale.

[Annabel]

"NORTY"

Hey, I like that. I'm gonna start working on that!


Is that, you are going to be 'norty', Mike. ;) Can't imagine that. :lol:

[Prettymaid]

The rummage sale has been posponed to the following Friday/Saturday since rain is in the forcast this weekend and there is no garage or cover to put the sale items under. I have to work both of those days so I won't be able to help. Hubby will be there though.

Thanks for the good thoughts!

[jdubfan]

Sometimes life just plain sucks, the situations we have to go thru...that's where music becomes so important in my life for the stress relief - I'm guessing it's the same for some of you. My mom's gonna be 89 in a couple months and is still in her home. It's the one silver lining that losing my job has shown, I'm able to do more work for her than before. But also a major downfall as I can't help enrich her with extras either. I'm not sure it's the right thing anymore, more than once I've come in to find the stove or iron still on.... I have 2 older brothers, but I knew their colors, 'cause they were worthless when our dad got sick and eventually passed. Has anyone ever contacted any agencies? The Council on Aging is supposed to be helpful and I know there are others, but we (I) haven't tried doing that yet.
Hang on everyone, they say we're not dealt more than we can do....

[tequila girl]

jdubfan
I can totally sympathise and know where you're coming from...a few years back I had to give up my home, job, etc. etc (it wasn't such a big deal & I didn't mind, but that's the only way I can put it) to move back home to look after my dad after his wife (my step-mother died) he was 87 at the time and couldn't look after himself properly...he still had all his faculties, but just couldn't get around.....anyways to cut a long story short I had all the help I could wish for from my brother...but we also had a step sister in the equasion who to put it bluntly was a pain in the a$$ and made things (more) difficult for all of us...We managed all we had to do until 2 years later dad passed away....but to get back to your point, I was often up til 3 or 4 in the morning just listening to my music and trying to relax and I don't know what i'd have done without that release. I wish you well - You will cope

omg..sorry for the epic post..I don't think i've ever made one so long! :laugh:

[tequila girl]

Molly & Willie, thinking of you and your families too.....hope everything works out...
Lou, I hope your sister is sorted out soon..

[MikeA]

Is that, you are going to be 'norty', Mike. ;) Can't imagine that. :lol:

Right, "Norty".....I have no clue what that is, but it sounds really Kewl! Is it like "Grumpy Old Men?" No? But what I see in the Slang Dictionary it means "Naughty". I can do that!

Speaking of Grumpy Old Men, they're not, but I watched "Bucket List" again last night. What a great show!

[Annabel]

Mike, :thumbsup: Norty = Naughty. Just the 'fun' way of writing it. Well so my kids tell me. :laugh:

[tequila girl]

I have a dilemma :-(.........


My Nephew is getting married on 3rd December in Wales (about 300 miles away) I have my hotel booked for two nights and am all set to go! :)

Then last night, my best friend of about 25 years phones and says that she & her husband have hired a Villa in Tobago (about 4429 miles away) for a week to celebrate their 20th Wedding Anniversary 1-8th Dec (anniversary 4th) - can I make it? :headscratch:

I don't know what to do..........I want to be there for both of them :brickwall: :confused: :?

What would you guys do? Best Friend or Relative?????

[TimothyBFan]

Is it an all expenses paid trip to the Villa? :hilarious:

That is seriously a HUGE decision to make but I'd probably do the nephew thing because it seems right to me. Besides, you have already decided to go and have probably rsvp'd? If the best friend had let you know earlier, it could have been different I would suppose. JMO tho. Let's see what everyone else thinks.

[MikeA]

Carole,

Drop in Wales for the wedding and then book it back to Tobago! If life is worth doing, it is worth Overdoing!

[TimothyBFan]

Carole,

Drop in Wales for the wedding and then book it back to Tobago! If life is worth doing, it is worth Overdoing!


I love that advice!!! I'm going to remember and use that over and over again in the future!!

[tequila girl]

Mike, I did think about trying to do it that way.....but what with getting to the airport, flight availability etc. I wouldn't make it to Tobago until quite late on the evening of the 5th...missing both the anniversary and the Party! :brickwall:

[MikeA]

Mike, I did think about trying to do it that way.....but what with getting to the airport, flight availability etc. I wouldn't make it to Tobago until quite late on the evening of the 5th...missing both the anniversary and the Party! :brickwall:

I hate it when that happens. When it does, I usually curl up with a good book. Ironically, I read a LOT of "good books!"

But look at it this way: It's Win-Win or Lose-Lose. Is you cup half empty or half full?

You need a doppelganger.

[MikeA]

Megan is One Year Old Today! Can't believe it has already been a YEAR.

http://mvabercrombie.net/abercrombie_albums/2011_0409/apr09009.jpg

[Brooke]

I think the relative comes first, plus you have already planned on it. It's a very tough decision, but......

Bummer that it just happens to fall at the same time. :-(

[TimothyBFan]

Awwww....so cute Mike!!! That smile is gorgeous!! She looks a bit like you, don't ya think?

[Brooke]

LOL! What a cutie Mike! Happy Birthday to her!

[Annabel]

Aww Carole, parties can be like buses. Nothing for ages then 2 come along. :brickwall::hilarious:. Difficult decision but I think I'd have to put family first. Well I think I would. :shrug:

Mike, Megan is gorgeous, such a sweetie.

[MikeA]

I think she may have a lot of my "attitude" Willie, but thank God, she doesn't look like me! <LOL>

She's only started that smile with the attitude here in the last two or three weeks.

[Prettymaid]

Happy 1st birthday Megan!

TG, there's some good advice here. Too bad that the "right" thing to do isn't always the one you want to do. I hate when that happens. :-(

[Molly]

Good luck making your decision, Carole. As others said, it's disappointing, but I'm sure whatever you choose to do will be the right decision for the situation.

Be thankful you're not choosing between 2 family things. A few years ago, I missed hubby's 25 year class reunion to fly to Florida to attend a niece's wedding. When hubby gets grumpy, he still brings that up. :roll: For the record, I think the wedding was more fun, so in my mind I made the right choice. :thumbsup:

Mike, Megan is adorable! Bet you wish you could freeze time and keep her small for a little longer.

[Koala]

Happy Birthday Megan!:)

TG, good luck with your decision!

[EaglesKiwi]

Megan is just gorgeous!

TG, that sounds like a hard choice! The wedding is very important, and 20 years of marriage really deserves to be celebrated too!!

How close are you to your nephew? If you have been a big part of his life growing up I'm sure he would love to have you at the wedding and would miss you if you weren't there. On the other hand if you've only seen him every now and then, he'd probably understand if you sent all your love and good wishes... and a thoughtful present!

[TimothyBFan]

Thought I'd come and ask all of you for some positive thoughts being sent this way AGAIN for our friend Brandon. He had another scan Tuesday and received the news yesterday that the tumor has grown, that their is activity in the lymphs under his arm and that his lung is starting to collapse again due to the pressure on his ribcage from the tumor. He heads to Northwestern University today to start a new trial treatment there and if that doesn't work he will head down to Vanderbilt to try another trial treatment there. Honestly, if you saw him, you would never imagine this man has stage 4 lung cancer. His days are normal with work and the family and he and Tiffiany are just the 2 strongest, most amazing people I have ever met in my life!!! Please keep all of them in your thoughts and prayers today as they attempt another hurdle.

[MikeA]

Having been through what you and your friends are going through with Brandon and his battle, I give to You, Your's and Brandon my most sincere encouragements.

[Brooke]

Best of luck to Brandon and his family. I hope something works for him soon. I'll keep them in my thoughts and prayers.

[Molly]

Sending lots of prayers and positive thoughts Brandon's way.

[sodascouts]

Same here - they sound like terrific people. Hoping and praying for the best for Brandon.

[WalshFan88]

TBF - Best of luck to them both. I wish them the very best.

TG - Best of luck with your decision. :-)

[tequila girl]

Willie, sending lots of positive healing vibes Brandon's way - I hope the new treatment is successful....my thoughts and Best Wishes are with you all..

[Prettymaid]

Me too Willie. Brandon and Tiffany sound like they have a very positive attitude through all of this.

[TimothyBFan]

Thanks you guys. They ended up having to drain several litres of fluid off his lung yesterday also. But they have a new game plan and it's just a wait and see. I had the kids for part of the day yesterday and it's no wonder they are fighting so hard--the kids are just wonderful. So much to live for for Brandon.

We're trying to be a shoulder to lean on for several of our friends right now. Not only Brandon, but my bff Amy & her hubby Chris (Nancy & Cathy have met them), one father has prostate cancer and the other has congestive heart failure. My other bff's mother has terminal liver cancer and has been given 4-6 months and her 16 year old daughter who is also going thru some health issues with a intestinal disease that is very, very rare and 95% of the time, found only in the elderly. The daughter had 2 open heart surgeries before she was 1 and is now having some issues with that also. Poor Barb is splitting her time to take Sami to Riley's Children's Hospital in Indy and then she flies back out to Washington State where her mother & father are.

Hubby and I are taking them all out to breakfast tomorrow and spending some time with them. You just feel so helpless and can't do much but just be there. They were all there for me 3 years ago when my father was dying from the C word also so I'm happy to be there for them all now.

[Brooke]

Wow, Willie, you really do have a lot to deal with. I know it must be hard for you and your family too. I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers along for you and all your friends also.

[TimothyBFan]

Wow, Willie, you really do have a lot to deal with. I know it must be hard for you and your family too. I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers along for you and all your friends also.

Oh, Brooke, I've gotten so use to this over the years. When my father was sick, I lost 2 aunts, an uncle and a very dear friend (my kid's Godfather). Then 6 months after Dad died, my Mom was put in a hospital with a spinal infection and we were told she wouldn't make it. When she did, we were told she'd probably never walk again... after 3 months & 4 hospitals & rehab centers, she went back home and walks with a cane and lives independently now.

Of course right now, we are also dealing with MIL and the stroke that put her in the nursing home and trying to get her house sold, etc. And right before that happened, hubby lost his uncle and we lost a dear friend who was only 52 unexpectantly.

Yeah---we're real good at this, unfortunately! What's that saying? "What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger"?

[Prettymaid]

All we can do is be there for them. I'm sure they appreciate you and Larry helping out.

[Molly]

Yeah---we're real good at this, unfortunately! What's that saying? "What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger"?

Not everone can be the shoulder. I'm sure your loved ones find you and hubby invaluable blessings in their lives.

I believe this saying is true, Willie...but sometimes I can't help but thinking a break would be nice to catch our breath! There have been times when my sister has called me on the phone or I've called her and we just know there's bad news on the other end before a word is said. Sometimes our conversations start out with "Now what?" instead of "hello".

We always seem to have 2 or 3 things going on at the same time as well. I used to think my family/friends seemed to be magnets for the illnesses and dramas, but working at a hospital puts it in perspective for me a lot. Just when I think I'm going to start feeling sorry for myself, I come across a case of a patient and family going thru some terrible situations and it makes me grateful that I at least have family and friends to make the bad stuff tolerable.

It's just life, I guess.

[Glennsallnighter]

Willie, you and Larry are a rock for your family and friends and I hope all of them who are ill (and particularly Brandon) have very positive outcomes to their situations. You are wonderful to take so much on so freely. I'm sure they are all soo grateful to the stabilty you can provide.

Carole!!! Some decision. I'm sure you'll make the right one!

Molly! Thats funny that your hubby brings up that missed family occasion..... but he obviously DID give his blessing for you to stalk Glenn :heart: in Pebble Beach!!

Mike..... Megan is just soooo cute! Hope she had a wonderful birthday.

[Molly]

[quote=Glennsallnighter;145200]

Molly! Thats funny that your hubby brings up that missed family occasion..... but he obviously DID give his blessing for you to stalk Glenn :heart: in Pebble Beach!!
quote]

He did, but he does like to bring up that while I was enjoying the California coastline and sunshine, he was home in Wisconsin shoveling out from the giant snowstorm they had while I was away stalking.

[Glennsallnighter]

Lol Molly! :hilarious:

You deserved that Californian sunshine!

[MikeA]

I'm going to have to start going to Church on Sunday instead of the golf course! God is definitely punishing me!

Temps were supposed to be in the low 80's today. It was barely above 60* when we started at 11am. The winds were supposed to be 20mph or less. They were gusting to over 35mph! That just wears out an old man...fighting the wind and the hills!

My normal drive is around 220 yards. Pretty sick when compared to the pros who are hitting it 320 yards off the tee! Well, today, I had to tee off on one hole directly into the wind. I hit it as well as any I've ever hit. I turned my GPS Distance calculator on it and when I got to the ball, I was only 155 yards from the tee! My brother-in-law and I usually hit just about the same distance and his ball fell in at 152 yards!

The best thing about the round was the Bratworst I snarffed when we made the turn to the back nine!

Did have fun though.

[WalshFan88]

LOL Mike about the Bratwurst! :hilarious:

[MikeA]

I really like that SIG.

[Koala]

My sister called me today, I thought they wanted to talk about our short trip from the weekend but unfortunately not, she had very bad and sad news!

Her boyfriend has found his dad dead in his house this afternoon!I do not know what happened,horrible!
This is big stroke of fate for the family, do you remember? I told you that his mother died just last September!

[MikeA]

Wow! What a shock Desire! Please pass condolences from me to your Sister and her Boyfriend. I really feel for them!

[Brooke]

I'm so sorry to hear this Disire. My sympathy to you and the family.

[sodascouts]

Oh, how awful! My condolences!

[sodascouts]

My mother just sent me an e-mail saying her and Daddy got on the "kiss-cam" at a Houston Astros game. They're both 69 and the romance hasn't died. So sweet!

[Molly]

Awwww...Nancy, that's so sweet!

Koala, so sorry to hear about yet another loss. My condolences.

My niece called today to tell us that her husband's dad passed away unexpectedly last night. He was only 65 years old and had just retired from teaching physical education. A very athletic and fit man, he biked 20 miles every week and jogged almost daily.

He was getting a glass of milk from his fridge and his wife heard him fall and the glass crash. She did CPR and called 911, but he never responded.

[sodascouts]

What a shame to hear about your niece's father-in-law dying so suddenly. My condolences there as well.

[Koala]

Thanks for your condolences we appreciate this very much!:hug:

Molly, my condolences!

Soda, how sweet

[tequila girl]

Koala and Molly, my condolences to both of you and your families - So very Sad

[Mrs Frey]

Gosh, I've missed so much again. I've tried to catch up, and unfortunately am not going to have time to respond to everything, but I will say that I'm just about in tears at reading some of the sad news from some of you. I'd just like to make some special mentions:

Molly and Koala: I'm so sorry to read your sad news. My condolences to you and your families. Strength to you all. :grouphug:

Willie: girl, I feel for you. Strength to you. :hug:

Lou: I'm glad your sister's blood tests came back with positive news, and I hope that she won't have to suffer much longer with her feet. I also suffer with cold hands and feet during winter, and my nails turn a purplish colour at times, but I don't have the severity of cold that your sister experiences. My best wishes to both of you.

GA: I hope you and little Timtot are well again. Look after yourselves. :hug:

My apologies if I've left anyone out.

I'd like to thank everyone for the support regarding my photo shoot. It went very well, thank you - I'm collecting the photos on Thursday, hopefully. I've been extremely busy for the last 3 weeks or so, as I'm preparing for the Elvis Festival Africa 2011, taking place from 29 April to 2 May. I'm leaving Cape Town next Tuesday for the 6 to 8 hour drive to Storms River, Tsitsikamma, a most exquisitely beautiful place. We're supposed to be in the second month of Autumn, but the weather has been surprisingly warm and rainless (the latter not being an especially good thing, though, it must be said). Having said that, I hope the weather lasts until we return from Storms River. The cold and wet are usually more severe in the Eastern Cape. I will be performing on all four days of the festival.

I did another photo shoot yesterday - the photographer worked privately with me and took some close-ups. I'm still doing some running around this week, trying to have my CD cover completed. I have to collect the rest of my costumes this week (they're running late) and get all my CDs burned and printed too.

After a day yesterday that started at 04:30 and ended by my coming home at 21:20, I came home to a darkened flat, thanks to another power surge within the course of a few months. My DVD player blew again :roll:, but repairs can wait. I have enough on my plate.

To boot, I awoke at 02:00 this morning with a sore throat, and I'm trying to keep things under control now with medication and vitamins. The last thing I need now is to get ill.

I finished recording tracks for my CD last week, performing 3 duets with my friend James. The CD is not for the market - it will be sold independently for now. It contains Elvis songs, plus one of my own songs that I wrote about him, specifically for the Elvis fans at the festival, who hopefully will enjoy my take on the songs. Hopefully, in the future, if I get some financial backing, I will release a CD for the market.

Well, that's me thus far. Hopefully I will get another chance to connect with all of you before I leave for Storms River next week, but if not, I wish you all the best - I am thinking of you. :grouphug:

[TimothyBFan]

Soda---love the Kiss Cam story!! How sweet is that?!?

Koala & Molly--thoughts are with your family members during their loses.

Monique- SLOW DOWN GIRL!!! :D Seriously, how exciting all that sounds!! Have fun!!

[Brooke]

Molly, that's just awful and I'm so sorry. Just goes to show you that you never know what's going to happen. This man obviously worked hard to stay fit and look what it got him? My condolences to the family.

MF, sounds like you're a busy girl. Take care of yourself and best of luck to you.

Soda, how sweet for your parents! :thumbsup:

[Koala]

Thanks again guys , this means a lot for me and the whole family!:hug:

MF, WOW, you are really busy! Good luck & have fun at the festival!

[MikeA]

Monique: Break a Leg! Just thinking about you and all the fun and rewards this gig is going to open up for you! Seriously, KILL 'EM! And don't forget us when you are rich and famous!

Molly: Hang in there. It's not how well you do when you are riding the crest, but rather how quickly you get to the surface after crashing! Sometimes, folks can throw you a life preserver, but mostly, you just have to swim.

[sodascouts]

Wow, you're a busy lady, Monique! Hope you have a terrific time at the Festival!

[Molly]

Molly: Hang in there. It's not how well you do when you are riding the crest, but rather how quickly you get to the surface after crashing! Sometimes, folks can throw you a life preserver, but mostly, you just have to swim.

Thanks to all. I'm good, Mike-but I appreciate your words. I just feel bad for those around that are going thru such crummy stuff. Like others have said, you have to just kind of stand on the sidelines and watch people go thru stuff and it feels pretty helpless sometimes.

My nephew in law is devastated after losing his dad. He was so close to him. My niece, Becky, will have to "toughen up" in the coming days. She has a terrible phobia (for lack of a better word) about death. She's 32 years old and has never been able to make herself attend a funeral. But, she's been a rock for her husband and her mother in law during this bad time. I'm proud of her. She's doing what she has to do to make things easier for them.


Monique, I think I want your life right now. Sounds incredibly exciting! Like Mike said, don't forget us when your famous! Keep us posted on your adventures.

[tequila girl]

My niece, Becky, will have to "toughen up" in the coming days. She has a terrible phobia (for lack of a better word) about death. She's 32 years old and has never been able to make herself attend a funeral
I can quite understand your niece's "phobia" from a very early age I 'knew' I would be dead by the time I was 30........i'm now in my mid 50's so obviously I was wrong! I think it had something to do with my Mother dying early.....Best Wishes to you all

[WalshFan88]

Molly/Koala - My condolences. Very sorry to hear that.

MF - Have fun at the festival!

Soda - How nice!

[Mrs Frey]

Thank you so much, TBF, Brooke, Koala, Mike, Soda, Molly and Austin for your support and kind words. :grouphug: I really appreciate it.

No, no, no, I will certainly not forget all of you when I'm famous! :lol:

I worked on burning 100 copies of my CDs last night, with help from two close friends, until 03:30 in the morning. I got into bed at about 04:20, and rose again at 07:30 for work. Oh yes, I was actually late for work. :blush:

One of my above-mentioned friends is doing the CD printing for me, after we designed it together last night. I'm having the CD cover printed by professionals. It's looking pretty good so far! :D

I will certainly keep you all posted. I am going on leave after the Easter weekend - tomorrow is my last day here at work until after the Elvis Festival - so I won't have access to The Border, but I will get in touch afterwards as soon as I can.

[Mrs Frey]

Thanks to all. I'm good, Mike-but I appreciate your words. I just feel bad for those around that are going thru such crummy stuff. Like others have said, you have to just kind of stand on the sidelines and watch people go thru stuff and it feels pretty helpless sometimes.

My nephew in law is devastated after losing his dad. He was so close to him. My niece, Becky, will have to "toughen up" in the coming days. She has a terrible phobia (for lack of a better word) about death. She's 32 years old and has never been able to make herself attend a funeral. But, she's been a rock for her husband and her mother in law during this bad time. I'm proud of her. She's doing what she has to do to make things easier for them.


Monique, I think I want your life right now. Sounds incredibly exciting! Like Mike said, don't forget us when your famous! Keep us posted on your adventures.

Molly, it makes me so sad to read about how the people in your life are hurting. I know how this feels, and one can only adapt to life without one's loved ones lost. May God be with them all and give them the strength they need to carry on.

On a lighter note, yes, my life is exciting right now, albeit somewhat tiring. I'm battling a cold at the moment - not severe but enough to worry me so soon before the festival. My main concern is my voice, although I haven't lost it. My throat was excruciatingly sore yesterday and especially last night, but it seems to have improved a bit now. My nose is a bit runny but nothing serious. I'm just going to keep positive, keep taking my vitamins and get some serious rest tonight!

[Prettymaid]

According to Chuck, they did very well on their rummage sale. Next step is to move them into the small apartment at the end of the month.

Chuck shared with Hubby that he contacted the local funeral home. He has now purchased his casket and their burial plots. I guess it's never too early to make these decisions but this poor guy is having to make arrangements for a death that's going to come much too soon.

[TimothyBFan]

Oh Cathy, so sad!! But at least he is preparing for the inevitable and showing such courage while doing it.

Been meaning to ask, how is hubby doing with all of this? These kind of things aren't just hard on the individual but also the ones closest to them.

Monique--take care of that cold!!

[WalshFan88]

Cathy - So sorry to hear that. Take care!

_____

I got a new TV last night. A 42 inch is the biggest I could fit in this room so I bought an LG LCD HDTV and got it hooked it up today. Got my Bluray player (PlayStation 3), Satellite (DISH), and Game Console (Xbox 360) all hooked up... Can you guess what I'm watching to break it in?!?!?! Eagles DVD's! :lol: F1 is playing right now... Because it's probably the highest video quality I wanted to throw it in and see how it looks... The sound quality is incredible! :stunned: PEF is playing right now and it feels like I'm in the Arena with them! Video looks good!

[MikeA]

Cathy, that just sucks, but it does show the heart of the man making those decisions now so that others do not have to do it in grief later. Bad things shouldn't be happening so often to good people.

[Brooke]

WF, sounds like lots of fun! Way to go! :thumbsup:

[Molly]

Cathy, Chuck sounds like an incredibly courageous and special person.

Continued good thoughts and prayers to him and your family as you deal with this.

[Mrs Frey]

Gosh, Cathy, Chuck has a lot of courage, but the situation is heartbreaking. I'm so sorry.

TBF, I will take care of my cold, thank you! :hug:

Austin - how exciting! Good for you!

[Koala]

Cathy, I'm so sorry to hear that !! This must be hard for all!

Austin,how cool, have fun with your new TV!

[Glennsallnighter]

Cathy - So sorry to hear that. Take care!

_____

I got a new TV last night. A 42 inch is the biggest I could fit in this room so I bought an LG LCD HDTV and got it hooked it up today. Got my Bluray player (PlayStation 3), Satellite (DISH), and Game Console (Xbox 360) all hooked up... Can you guess what I'm watching to break it in?!?!?! Eagles DVD's! :lol: F1 is playing right now... Because it's probably the highest video quality I wanted to throw it in and see how it looks... The sound quality is incredible! :stunned: PEF is playing right now and it feels like I'm in the Arena with them! Video looks good!


Thats the first DVD I played on my 42" as well Austin, and in fact I have it on at the moment. The quality is superb. One can only imagine what the LROOE DVD will be like (Assuming they get around to releasing it some time...... you hear me Glenn :heart: :pray: :pray: :pray:) Enjoy your new TV!

MF great to hear of your continued success. I'm sure the cd and photoshoots will be a great success. Have a wonderful time at the festival. I'm sure you'll wow the crowds along with James. Best of luck to you both. :hug:. And I HOPE your cold doesn't get any worse!

Cathy :hug: Chuck and his family are in my prayers this Easter. Is there no hope at all at this stage? He sure is a fighter and is giving this everything he's got.

Koala, my comiserations (albeit late) on your family's bereavement. You have had it rough over the last year and a half. I hope things get better from here. How is the knee.

Laura and I have recovered from the flu. It was a bad bout but thankfully didn't last too long. She will be 10 on Sunday. Her party is tomorrow. :help:

[Koala]

Koala, my comiserations (albeit late) on your family's bereavement. You have had it rough over the last year and a half. I hope things get better from here. How is the knee.


Thank you, indeed the last one and a half years were not easy....but I always tell myself it can only get better!
The knee still hurts, have to go once more to the doctor, let's see what one can make, so that pains are not constant any more!


Laura and I have recovered from the flu. It was a bad bout but thankfully didn't last too long. She will be 10 on Sunday. Her party is tomorrow. :help:
Good to hear you both are recovered from the flu!
Urrrrrrrr a party! Have fun and good nerves!

Happy Birthday Laura!:-)

[Prettymaid]

Cathy :hug: Chuck and his family are in my prayers this Easter. Is there no hope at all at this stage? He sure is a fighter and is giving this everything he's got.

Thanks GA. There is no cure for ALS at this time. People with ALS gradually become more disabled. How quickly the disease gets worse is different for everyone. Some people live with ALS for several years. But over time, ALS makes it hard to walk, speak, eat, swallow, and breathe. These problems can lead to injury, illness, and eventually death.

I would say Chuck is still in the early stages. He can still walk, although when I watch him he does so with difficulty. Hubby and family helped them move into a one story small apartment on Friday, but my fear is that it is not wheelchair accessible and will not fit the bill when that time comes.

[MikeA]

Short ramps and motorized transports? I've seen some pretty small ones that are extremely maneuverable.

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks GA. There is no cure for ALS at this time. People with ALS gradually become more disabled. How quickly the disease gets worse is different for everyone. Some people live with ALS for several years. But over time, ALS makes it hard to walk, speak, eat, swallow, and breathe. These problems can lead to injury, illness, and eventually death.

I would say Chuck is still in the early stages. He can still walk, although when I watch him he does so with difficulty. Hubby and family helped them move into a one story small apartment on Friday, but my fear is that it is not wheelchair accessible and will not fit the bill when that time comes.

Well lets hope that he has as good a quality of life as he can for as long as possible. And you never know. Medical science is always advancing. There may be yet some treatment that if not a cure will stave it off for as long as possible.

Thanks for the wishes Desire. I hope something CAN be done for the knee. You should not be in pain with it all the time.

Yep! My Baby's 10. She had her 2 best friends over for her party yesterday where they watched Bambi and had Pizza, cake and popcorn. We also found an 80's Karaoke DVD and sang along to such classics as 'The Heat is On'. 'Eye of The Tiger', 'Fame' and 'Footloose'. Today we took her to lunch in a local hotel where they had an egg hunt as well. Then just as we were finishing up, the Manager and a few of the waiting staff brought out a cupcake and candle on a plate which had in chocolate 'Happy 10th Birthday Laura'. Whick made her day. She is FINALLY asleep now!!

[Prettymaid]

I'm on jury duty for two weeks starting today. First time I've ever been called. I hear it can be pretty boring. I'm going to take a good book and hope it goes by quickly.

[TimothyBFan]

Wow 2 weeks? This must be a good one. The one I was on a few years back was only 2 days and was rather boring. I just had a friend that did a 4 day duty last week. Good luck!!

[Prettymaid]

I'm not on a jury yet. But around here you have to serve (be available) for two weeks. As Hubby explains it, today I will sit in a room with around 100 other people and we will be split into two groups. Every evening for two weeks I will have to phone in to see if my group reports the next day. If a case happens to come up during that two week period, I might be picked for a jury.

[TimothyBFan]

Wow--that's kinda hard to make plans around for that couple of weeks, isn't it? I think I like it our way better. You have to go for a day or two and if you get selected, you serve, if not, you go home and are off the hook for a couple of years.

[Troubadour]

Cathy, I hope your jury service goes well and that you either get picked quickly or get sent home. I did it a couple of years ago (two weeks is the standard here, too) but luckily I got picked on the first day, after maybe an hour or two, and I was straight in court for a two day case. It was a guy who had been beaten and robbed by a drug dealer. It was fairly straightforward and they released me the day we gave the verdict. From what I have heard, I was very, very lucky! I know my boss had to sit around in a waiting area every day for the whole two weeks and never got called. The phone-in procedure sounds a little better!

[TimothyBFan]

So do you get paid for the 2 weeks you're hanging around for jury duty? Here in Indiana you get a bit of money but nothing close to most people's daily salary. Some employers make up the difference between what jury duty pays and their actual salary, but for me, self employed, I received nothing in addition.

[Prettymaid]

No jury duty for me today. I called last night and an automated voice told me I did not have to come in today. I'm really happy about that because today is my day off work. :yay:

Yeah, the pay is $10 a day only for the days you have to go in, plus .20 a mile. Yesterday I got there at 9:00, was excused at 11:30, grabbed lunch and went to work until 5:00. My boss has scheduled me to work and I just show up when I can.

Nothing much exciting happened for me yesterday. As they took roll call we were told if we're on the 'red team' or the 'green team'. I was on the green team. Shortly after that we were told that one of the judges was needing jurors and said she was going to call 28 names from the green team. I was not one of the 28 :sad:. Those 28 people were given green buttons to wear that said 'juror' and were led down to the courtroom where they were interviewed by the lawyers. It wasn't long after that that I was dismissed.

I would have liked to have been one of the 28. The way I figure it, if I have to go though this I want the full juror experience!

[Brooke]

You know, Pm, if you are very opinionated you might get dropped! Just sayin'! :lol:

[MikeA]

I was called for Duty in the Federal Courts at the end of last year and they were set up the way you guys are set up. Call in on Monday Evening after 5pm and they tell you via recorded message whether you need to show up on Tuesday for possible selection for jury. I never even had to report to the courthouse!

I did have a call to County Jury Duty probably 15 years ago. I was selected the first day after the interview, reported for duty the next day and the Judge got mad and called it a Mistrial because the two lawyers involved in the hearing were introducing evidence that had not been presented in time for the other lawyer to review. That judge was MAD too for wasting his time and the Juror's time!

[DonFan]

HI everyone! Longtime poster returns! Although I haven't posted in a long time, I do visit the site as often as I can and try to keep up with everything.

I hope everyone is doing well. Both of our daughters are in college now; the oldest is a senior and youngest a freshman. I was quite unexpectedly laid off from my job in early December and so I spend my days actively job searching, which is very difficult in this economy. I spent the last month as a temporary executive assistant filling in for an employee on medical leave, but now I am pounding the pavement again. I have had several promising interviews but the job market is flooded with applicants. I remain hopeful, though; I know the right position is out there somewhere.

I read today in a Google alert that Don has scheduled a solo date Sept 21 at the Mountain Winery in San Francisco, so I hope that means more solo dates to come. I can't travel that far, but I would love it if he would come South! I expect more dates as he promotes his new solo album. I am looking forward to buying Brad Paisley's new album in May; not only do I love Brad, but I can't wait to hear Don's song on it, too! There is nothing like Eagles/Don music to make EVERYTHING better!

Take care!

[WalshFan88]

HI everyone! Longtime poster returns! Although I haven't posted in a long time, I do visit the site as often as I can and try to keep up with everything.

I hope everyone is doing well. Both of our daughters are in college now; the oldest is a senior and youngest a freshman. I was quite unexpectedly laid off from my job in early December and so I spend my days actively job searching, which is very difficult in this economy. I spent the last month as a temporary executive assistant filling in for an employee on medical leave, but now I am pounding the pavement again. I have had several promising interviews but the job market is flooded with applicants. I remain hopeful, though; I know the right position is out there somewhere.

I read today in a Google alert that Don has scheduled a solo date Sept 21 at the Mountain Winery in San Francisco, so I hope that means more solo dates to come. I can't travel that far, but I would love it if he would come South! I expect more dates as he promotes his new solo album. I am looking forward to buying Brad Paisley's new album in May; not only do I love Brad, but I can't wait to hear Don's song on it, too! There is nothing like Eagles/Don music to make EVERYTHING better!

Take care!

Welcome back! :) I also am looking forward to Brad's new album - I've just here recently (and I do mean recently) started getting into his music but from a guitarist's perspective. I didn't know Don was on one of his new songs.

[Brooke]

DonFan! Long time no see! It's great to hear from you and that you and your family are doing well. Good luck to you with the job hunt. Something will turn up, I'm sure!

Come back when you can! We miss ya! :nod:

[Annabel]

As if my Mum having a small stroke about 18 months ago wasn't enough, my middle older sister (aged 68 nearly 69) had a small stroke last week too. :stunned: Luckily she lives next door to a nurse who was very quick in recognising the symptoms and called for an ambulance so she got medical help quickly. Thankfully she is home already after just a few days in hospital and seems to be doing okay. It's been a wake up call to her though. Hoping it isn't a family thing. :fear:

[WalshFan88]

I hope it's not a family thing either but as P47 said you might want to get a checkup to be on the safe side.

[TimothyBFan]

Awww Melanie, I'm so sorry to hear that. Hope everyone gets better soon and you take care of yourself also.

Hey DF---Good to see you here again!!

[Molly]

Melanie, hope your sister's recovery is 100%. Quick medical care is the key with a stroke. Know the warning signs and keep your cholesterol in check are 2 things you can do as a preventative measure. Also, make sure your doctor has it in your medical record that you have a strong family history.

Dana! Glad you popped in for a visit. Miss ya around here! Hope your employment situation is resolved soon.

PM, I once got off jury duty because I knew the lawyer. I'm friends with someone who is close friends with this particular lawyer and his wife and we had socialized with them once or twice years before. That was all it took to get out of the jury duty! Sweet!

[Koala]

Melanie, I'm sorry to hear that news. Hope your sister gets better soon!

[Annabel]

Thanks everyone. I will be sure to mention it on my next visit to the doctors (just in case). With Easter out of the way I'd better get the diet going ........ again and with more determination. Need to lose a good couple of pounds.:rolleyes:

[Brooke]

Melanie, sorry to hear about your sister, but glad she is doing well. Yep, better get in for a check up! Soon!

[Troubadour]

Dana - so great to see you around here again! Best of luck with the job search. I know how frustrating it can be. Hang in there.

Melanie - I'm so sorry to hear about your sister. I'll be thinking of her. You take care of yourself, too. Might be worth going to the doc to ease your worries.

Thanks for the concern for my sister that you have all shown. She has had two blood tests, which have both come back normal. Tomorrow she will see the vascular specialist at the hospital so we should know more then about what they plan to do next. She is coming to visit me after her appointment to stay for the night, so it will be cool to catch up. I'll keep you all updated on her condition.

A little bit of happy news for me - a local primary school has agreed to let me get some classroom experience with them for two weeks, starting on the 9th of May. Two weeks is the requirement for the university course (PGCE), so it has put my mind at rest. You have no idea how hard it has been to get a spot, even voluntary, in a school! Very pleased.

[Koala]

Troub, nice to hear the good news about your sister and you!
Have fun at the primary school!

For me there is a small change in the job, I'm going to my normal work in school. In addition a further 10 hours a week caring for a child from school,which has severe problems to follow in teaching and to understand the lessonsand, otherwise, in the interpersonal behaviour has problems, I think this is an interesting and important work.

[WalshFan88]

Troub - Good to hear.

Koala - Good luck.

---------------------

I myself am going to a specialist for a possible immune disorder. I won't go into detail because I doubt anyone cares. My skin has a burning sensation and is breaking out and no meds are working (steroids/antibiotics). It's driving me crazy. I'm stressed to the max. One of those times where you wonder if it (life) is really worth it or not.

[TimothyBFan]

I'm stressed to the max. One of those times where you wonder if it (life) is really worth it or not.

DO NOT SAY THINGS LIKE THAT!!!! I know my life and several others here, would say our lives have been enriched since "meeting" you so of course it's worth it!!! Hang in there, hopefully it's temporary and they will get it worked out for you soon!!! :hug: We're rooting for ya!!

Congrats Troub & Koala!!! Good luck in your new endeavors!!!

[Brooke]

Austin, we don't want to hear you say things like that. I know things like this can be frustrating, but hang in there. Hopefully, the doctors will figure out something to help you. And you know what they say, when life gets tough, the tough get going! You can do it! Play those guitars and try to not think about it. :nod:

Troub and Koala, best of luck to you!

[Koala]

Thanks guys!

Austin, don't say such a thing!It must be hard for you! Hope everything will good for you!

[WalshFan88]

DO NOT SAY THINGS LIKE THAT!!!! I know my life and several others here, would say our lives have been enriched since "meeting" you so of course it's worth it!!! Hang in there, hopefully it's temporary and they will get it worked out for you soon!!! :hug: We're rooting for ya!!

I know - it just seems like it never ends... I can't get into the new doctor for another couple of weeks. :(

[tbs fanatic]

Tomorrow morning 3:00 a.m. - getting up to watch the Royal Wedding. Is it even worth going to bed???? Probably not - lol. I was hoping for an invite but nooooooo. Nice cup of tea, put on my tiara and settle down on the couch - lovely. :yay: I have warned one and all they had better not interrupt my viewing - not even for a minute - or there will be dire consequences. :sword:

[tequila girl]

Hehehe I was going to ask who would be getting up at 6am (here in UK) to watch......but didn't, as I didn't think it was relevent to you lot over there! :-) :hilarious: :hilarious:

[Molly]

I know - it just seems like it never ends... I can't get into the new doctor for another couple of weeks. :(

Austin, hang in there. Have you checked within your area for a support group? Your local hospital or clinic probably offers a variety of support groups for patients going thru a multitude of things. Pain management clinics do this a lot. Ask your doctor.

My niece has RSD, reflex sympathetic dystrophy. It's a chronic condition that causes her nerve endings to not process pain signals correctly. She's in a tremendous amount of pain (in her feet) daily. She often gets down in the dumps about her situation. It happens. Connecting with a support group has been a godsend for her.

Good luck to you.

And congratulations and good luck to both Koala and Troub! Good news!

[WalshFan88]

Austin, we don't want to hear you say things like that. I know things like this can be frustrating, but hang in there. Hopefully, the doctors will figure out something to help you. And you know what they say, when life gets tough, the tough get going! You can do it! Play those guitars and try to not think about it. :nod:

I know. But it just really tests my strength. With my health constantly in bad shape I really can't imagine living my whole life like this and it seems there is no light at the end of the tunnel for me so to speak or any hope for improvement. If it's not one thing it's another. And it comes in clusters and gets you when you are at your lowest.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, don't say such a thing!It must be hard for you! Hope everything will good for you!

Thanks :) It just gets so depressing at times.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, hang in there. Have you checked within your area for a support group? Your local hospital or clinic probably offers a variety of support groups for patients going thru a multitude of things. Pain management clinics do this a lot. Ask your doctor.

My niece has RSD, reflex sympathetic dystrophy. It's a chronic condition that causes her nerve endings to not process pain signals correctly. She's in a tremendous amount of pain (in her feet) daily. She often gets down in the dumps about her situation. It happens. Connecting with a support group has been a godsend for her.

Good luck to you.


Thanks for the support. :) Sorry to hear about your niece. I've struggled with health problems since birth... It's just like I was meant to suffer. :ack: I try to do my best but it really tests my strength and willpower sometimes to the point where I get profoundly depressed. It doesn't help that my band is no more - that was one of the things that kept me going. Also losing my dog last September. That crushed me. I have a new dog but he's very aloof and antisocial but has tons of energy and is fun to play with. My old dog was a lapdog and a very affectionate one at that and was with me 24/7. When he died a part of me went with him. I lost the two biggest things that kept me going. I hate to say this but at times I feel like I stick around for family and friends. I miss my Eagles tribute - we played together and did a lot of shows. I started that band when I was almost 20. I'll be 23 in September. My dying wish is to meet Joe (Walsh) and play one song with him on guitar. Hopefully I still have a few years left though. :lol: But I hope to meet him one day. :)

[WalshFan88]

I need something to distract me. It's a vicious cycle. Once I don't have anything to do I start thinking about things and it starts the domino effect. One negative/bad/sad thought leads to another and before I know it I'm so depressed I'm in bad shape.... I just have to keep myself busy. But also when I'm depressed I lose the drive to do anything and lose interest... But I'm going to make myself get up in a little bit and go play guitar and then maybe watch a movie afterwards. But I really feel like laying down in bed and just shutting myself out from the outside world but that will only make it worse. I'm already listening to sad/slow/depressing music. Take It To The Limit just started playing. Although it's not as depressing as the others.

[Wildthyme]

Hehehe I was going to ask who would be getting up at 6am (here in UK) to watch......but didn't, as I didn't think it was relevent to you lot over there! :-) :hilarious: :hilarious:

It's all over the news and television here--we Americans are fascinated by the Royals :lol: The wedding coverage starts at 1 am here in Oregon and I will be parked in front of the TV in my cozy jammies with a cup of tea and a few biscuits ready for an all night wedding marathon. :rofl:

[MikeA]

It's all over the news and television here--we Americans are fascinated by the Royals :lol: The wedding coverage starts at 1 am here in Oregon and I will be parked in front of the TV in my cozy jammies with a cup of tea and a few biscuits ready for an all night wedding marathon. :rofl:

Good Grief WHY??? Now if it was a basketball game or something. But a Wedding?

[Wildthyme]

Good Grief WHY??? Now if it was a basketball game or something. But a Wedding?

Well, I suppose most little girls imagine being a princess and here is a real-life commoner becoming one... what can I say? I guess it brings out the foofy feminine side of me (despite what some may believe, I do have one...:nod:)

And just so you know, if the Bears were playing a game in London and it was televised live in the middle of the night I would sit up and watch that too... :razz:

[MikeA]

Personally, I'd as soon have prickly-heat as watch a wedding! And about the only thing that would get me out of bed for TV of any kind after 8:30 at night would be a Walsh performance and then, it's not a definite that I'd be awake even if I was up! That happened a year or so ago when Walsh was on either Letterman or Kimble. I managed to watch. Let down though. He played for the audience during commercials so they were cutting away about the time he started playing. He did his standard interview....you know the one....I've only been drunk once: For Thirty Years.

[Glennsallnighter]

Koala! Best of luck with your new posting. I know it can be very challenging but also very rewarding to be working so closely with someone with special educational needs. I hope it all works out for you.

Lou! I was delighted to hear you have some work experience lined up. I'm thrilled because I know you have wanted to start teaching for a while longer. I hope it works out well for you. And I hope your sister's ailment is just a minor one which can be sorted with the minimum discomfort or inconvenience.

Austin, I think your contribution to the board is tremendous. So Please don't think like that. Focus on the positive. Many people go through tough times, but it always gets better in the end. And medical science is well advanced. I'm sure they'll figure everything out for you. In the meantime Molly's suggestion of a support group (Molly.... you mean the Border ISN'T one) is a very good idea. You sound like a great musician and I'm sure you'll get a new band soon too.

Melanie. I hope your sister is doing much better now. I'm thinking of her. Enjoy the wedding tomorrow. I will!! Although I don't think I'll get up as early as 6am Carole!!

Dana, great to hear form you again. I really hope the job hunting pays off. Its difficult these days but keep persisting and I'm sure you'll be successful soon. Keep safe in those storms that I hear are ravaging Alabama at the moment.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, I think your contribution to the board is tremendous. So Please don't think like that. Focus on the positive. Many people go through tough times, but it always gets better in the end. And medical science is well advanced. I'm sure they'll figure everything out for you. In the meantime Molly's suggestion of a support group (Molly.... you mean the Border ISN'T one) is a very good idea. You sound like a great musician and I'm sure you'll get a new band soon too.

Thanks! :) I'm just trying to do the best I can - and that's all I can do.

[Glennsallnighter]

You're welcome Austin :hug:. We're all here for each other when the times are tough.

[Freypower]

Troub - Good to hear.

Koala - Good luck.

---------------------

I myself am going to a specialist for a possible immune disorder. I won't go into detail because I doubt anyone cares. My skin has a burning sensation and is breaking out and no meds are working (steroids/antibiotics). It's driving me crazy. I'm stressed to the max. One of those times where you wonder if it (life) is really worth it or not.

I want to add my support to you, Austin. Believe me, we care about you. Please look after yourself. We are thinking of you.

[WalshFan88]

You're welcome Austin :hug:. We're all here for each other when the times are tough.

Thanks again! :hug:

[WalshFan88]

I want to add my support to you, Austin. Believe me, we care about you. Please look after yourself. We are thinking of you.

Thank you... :)

[sodascouts]

I've only been "offline" a couple days but so much going on!

So the royal wedding is in a few hours? I'll stay up for it, too. As someone who studies English Renaissance literature written during a time when decisions by British monarchs changed the world, I have an extra fascination with them. I'll be watching with a glass of champagne!

Dana, glad to see you 'round these parts! Best of luck getting a new job. If Don comes to Atlanta, we've got to meet up!

Melanie - how frightening. I hope your sister recovers fully.

Koala - it takes a special person to handle that kind of work. More power to you!

Lou - congrats on landing the experience. Good luck!

Austin - I can only imagine what you're going through. I will pray that you find some comfort. Sometimes only God can help. I do like Molly's "support group" suggestion.

[EaglesFanatic]

I'm so sorry to hear about what you are going through Austin. I hope things get better for you in the near future, and just remember that we are all here for you. I know it's easier said than done, but I find that having a little faith and optimism really helps when things are just not going your way :)

As for the royal wedding, supposedly there are 15 hours of coverage... :stunned: Yeahhhh, I won't be watching it lol

[WalshFan88]

Austin - I can only imagine what you're going through. I will pray that you find some comfort. Sometimes only God can help. I do like Molly's "support group" suggestion.

Thanks... I'm trying to keep my mind off of things and hopefully the appt will be here soon.... Then I have another set of worries about what I will find out.

[WalshFan88]

I'm so sorry to hear about what you are going through Austin. I hope things get better for you in the near future, and just remember that we are all here for you. I know it's easier said than done, but I find that having a little faith and optimism really helps when things are just not going your way :)


Thanks! I've tried to be optimistic but unfortunately it's very hard for me to do as it seems it never helps. Instead, I'm trying to keep my mind off it and stay "busy" with playing guitar, listening to music, and watching movies/concert DVDs/TV. Thanks for the support! :)

[AzEaglesFan]

Austin, I have a question, hope it isn't to personal. Did you just start having this immune trouble after the spider bite.
I was watching a commercial for a drug and they listed the side effects of taking the drug as immune problems, rash, shortness of breath and depression.
I was wondering if this trouble that you are having now is because of the spider bite and the meds you took to clear it up.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, I have a question, hope it isn't to personal. Did you just start having this immune trouble after the spider bite.
I was watching a commercial for a drug and they listed the side effects of taking the drug as immune problems, rash, shortness of breath and depression.
I was wondering if this trouble that you are having now is because of the spider bite and the meds you took to clear it up.

No problem! Yes it did occur after the spider bite... I'm trying my hardest to remember what I took for the spider bite but I think it was a combination of Keflex and Dexamethasone if I remember right. I took it for a couple weeks. Speaking of which, the spider bite is gone. I haven't had any more bites thank god.

This is a NASTY red rash ALL over from head to toe. Started on my thighs and now its everywhere. It causes a severe burning pain that feels like a horrible sunburn. It also itches and is a "tickly/tingly" itch and by that I mean it feels like its coming from my nerve endings as it feels like I'm being tickled with a feather or something. It burns all the time but if I dare itch it it feels like my skin is on fire and goes "inside" of my skin and like a little electrical shock. At first they thought it was Poison Ivy, but this is definitely not poison ivy. I read about Shingles but they don't think it's that either. I'm also having some nausea and headaches too and difficulty sleeping. I haven't a clue what it is.

I'm going to a Dermatologist and then from there they will try to diagnose it before they send me to the immune specialist person or any other doctor. They will let me know when my appt is tomorrow and hopefully they were able to get it bumped up.... My primary care doctor is puzzled and she said it's beyond her scope of practice and she thinks it's something more serious than a mild infection or anything like that. I've tried a week of Prednisone, Antibiotics, Cream for Chiggers, mites, etc, and OTC hydrocortisone and Benadryl. Not a one even TOUCHES it. Her last resort before she said to send me off was to try a steroid + antihistamine shot (got that yesterday) but even that didn't work.

[AzEaglesFan]

I have had shingles and it was terrible and I just had a mild case.
Doesn't sound like something to need to mess around with so they need to get you into a specialist ASAP.
Good luck and keep us posted.

[EaglesKiwi]

I have been offline for several days on holiday, and so much is going on!

Troub & Koala - congrats and best of luck to you both.

Austin, we all care very much. I struggled with depression for years, it was like a black hole that could swallow me up any time. :ack:
BTW, you mentioned your dog (Gibson?) was aloof - have you thought about taking him to agility training? (If you have it near you!). It's a bit more interesting for them than obedience training, and really encourages them to focus on you and to socialise a bit with other dogs.

Annabelle, sorry to hear about your sister. You take care of yourself too!

The Royal Wedding is due to start soon... Prince William has just arrived at the church! I have tried to avoid the hours of commentary - some utterly irrelevant and pointless - but confess I am keen to see The Dress. :smile:

[Wildthyme]

Austin... I am so sorry you are going through this. Have they suggested the possibility of Stevens Johnson Syndrome to you? A painful all over rash is one of its primary symptoms and its caused by a reaction to medication or an infection. I am no diagnostician but a friend's sister recently dealt with it so it immediately came to mind... I hope they find an answer for you soon...

[TimothyBFan]

And just so you know, if the Bears were playing a game in London and it was televised live in the middle of the night I would sit up and watch that too... :razz:

WELL DUHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Of course!!!

I've got the wedding on and we just had "the kiss". I loved when they opened the door to come out on the balcony and you could see Kate say "Wow!". I can't even imagine what she has been thinking throughout this whole day.

[MikeA]

Willie,

Was there tongue?

[TimothyBFan]

I couldn't tell....but I sure hope so!!!!

[Brooke]

I've been watching the Royal wedding this morning, too, as I got ready for work and we even have it on here now. I dvr'd it at home, so I can watch the actual ceremony later. I wasn't about to stay up all night or get up at 4 this morning!

I thought Kate was a beautiful bride. She looked so natural and at ease and I loved her dress. It wasn't nearly as overwelming as Diana's was. Perfect! I'm glad it didn't rain on them, too. And I enjoyed seeing all the hats, too!

[tbs fanatic]

Okay, wedding over. Thought she looked wonderful - super dress and loved the veil. Prince William didn't look too shabby either. They really do make a lovely couple.

[Glennsallnighter]

These are just a few screen caps I made off the tv. I'm sure there's better out there on the net. But it was a wonderful occasion. Kate looked serene and happy and William looked incredibly elegant.

Kate and her Dad ready to walk up the aisle

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/Royal%20Wedding/RoyalWeddingKateand.jpg

Overview of her dress!

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/Royal%20Wedding/RoyalWeddingKatesDress.jpg

Princes William and Harry take their places in the Abbey. Nice to see Prince William in the uniform of the Irish Guards.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/Royal%20Wedding/RoyalWeddingtheboys.jpg

Emerging from Westminster Abbey as man and Wife (The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge)
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/Royal%20Wedding/RoyalWeddingcouple.jpg

On the parade to Buckingham Palace
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/Royal%20Wedding/royalweddingcarriage.jpg

And of course, the kiss on the balcony of the palace.
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/Irisheaglesfan/RoylaWeddingthekiss.jpg

They are a bit blurry only having been taken by my phone camera but they may give some idea of the atmosphere and pageantry fo the day.

[MikeA]

WOW GAL,

You really had a birds-eye-view of that ceremony! I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, we all care very much. I struggled with depression for years, it was like a black hole that could swallow me up any time. :ack:
BTW, you mentioned your dog (Gibson?) was aloof - have you thought about taking him to agility training? (If you have it near you!). It's a bit more interesting for them than obedience training, and really encourages them to focus on you and to socialise a bit with other dogs.

Thank you! :) I hope to get Gibson in for obedience training this summer. He is having some problems being aggressive with other male dogs and also he is very independent and antisocial and is SUPER hyper..... He's a male Boxer. He'll be 1 in June. I love him to death but he is nothing like my Shiloh was. I miss him. :(

[WalshFan88]

Austin... I am so sorry you are going through this. Have they suggested the possibility of Stevens Johnson Syndrome to you? A painful all over rash is one of its primary symptoms and its caused by a reaction to medication or an infection. I am no diagnostician but a friend's sister recently dealt with it so it immediately came to mind... I hope they find an answer for you soon...

They have not mentioned yet anything like that. The plan is to go up there and see the dermatology team at SIU in Springfield, IL and have some biopsies taken and see what goes from there. At this point I wouldn't be surprised if they don't put me in the hospital if it gets much worse (the rash/feeling sick). I'm totally confused. I'm waiting for a call to see what day I go up there. Hopefully soon.

Thanks. :)

[Brooke]

Austin, I hope they get you in very soon, cause this sounds awful and I'm sure you are pretty miserable if nothing they have tried is working. What about going in to the ER? Then maybe they would get off their butts and do something! Just a thought.

[WalshFan88]

Austin, I hope they get you in very soon, cause this sounds awful and I'm sure you are pretty miserable if nothing they have tried is working. What about going in to the ER? Then maybe they would get off their butts and do something! Just a thought.

That's my plan if I find out I can't get in for another few weeks.... My plan is to go to Memorial in Springfield as that's where those dermatologists work out of.... I'm hoping they can get me in during the first part of next week. I STILL haven't got a call yet... Talk about ticking me off! I'd like them to be in my shoes!

[Troubadour]

Austin - I'm thinking of you, my friend. I can only imagine how tough this is. Please don't let the docs fob you off. Chase them until you get answers! And, although all of us go through rough times and need to pick ourselves up, sometimes it's not as simple as that. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you are feeling unable to cope right now. It's totally understandable. Sending lots of positive vibes your way and wishing you all the best. Please keep us updated!

Lisa, thanks for those screen caps - great job! I was working this morning but I managed to catch bits of the wedding. I have watched it properly since I got home. I feel very proud to be British today! Kate's dress was beautiful and they looked so happy... I am absolutely thrilled for them. Love the fact that we showed the world we can put on a good event! Hopefully Wills and Kate will have many happy years together and that they will continue to bring some new life to the monarchy and some extra interest to Britain. They make a wonderful couple.

[WalshFan88]

Austin - I'm thinking of you, my friend. I can only imagine how tough this is. Please don't let the docs fob you off. Chase them until you get answers! And, although all of us go through rough times and need to pick ourselves up, sometimes it's not as simple as that. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you are feeling unable to cope right now. It's totally understandable. Sending lots of positive vibes your way and wishing you all the best. Please keep us updated!


Thanks! :)

I just got a call from the Dr and they want ME to call the specialist and of course they are closed and so I will have to wait until MONDAY to even call to ask for an appointment.

[Freypower]

Austin - I'm thinking of you, my friend. I can only imagine how tough this is. Please don't let the docs fob you off. Chase them until you get answers! And, although all of us go through rough times and need to pick ourselves up, sometimes it's not as simple as that. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you are feeling unable to cope right now. It's totally understandable. Sending lots of positive vibes your way and wishing you all the best. Please keep us updated!

Lisa, thanks for those screen caps - great job! I was working this morning but I managed to catch bits of the wedding. I have watched it properly since I got home. I feel very proud to be British today! Kate's dress was beautiful and they looked so happy... I am absolutely thrilled for them. Love the fact that we showed the world we can put on a good event! Hopefully Wills and Kate will have many happy years together and that they will continue to bring some new life to the monarchy and some extra interest to Britain. They make a wonderful couple.

It was good; Britain pulls this stuff off so well. The crowd seemed so happy & good humoured. The music during the service was great (LOVED Jerusalem) and the new Duke & Duchess looked wonderful.

I'm glad they got a ducal title because I thought it was wrong that Prince Edward only got an earldom, which had not been used for centuries (Wessex); if you are the son of a monarch or the son of the heir you should be a duke. You have to go back to a younger son of George III, Adolphus, for the last Duke of Cambridge. Also if they hadn't been given a title she would have had to be called Princess William of Wales.

[Glennsallnighter]

Thanks! :)

I just got a call from the Dr and they want ME to call the specialist and of course they are closed and so I will have to wait until MONDAY to even call to ask for an appointment.


You're lucky you live in the States Austin. Its a Public Holiday in most of Western Europe. It'd have been Tuesday before you could have called. No, seriously, Lou is right. You have to keep chasing these people. Its not acceptable that you be fobbed off. You have real pain and a real problem here. And it needs to be sorted. Good luck when you DO get seen. And keep us posted on how you are doing (Do you have internet on your phone?) We'll all be praying that things work out ok for you :hug:

[WalshFan88]

You're lucky you live in the States Austin. Its a Public Holiday in most of Western Europe. It'd have been Tuesday before you could have called. No, seriously, Lou is right. You have to keep chasing these people. Its not acceptable that you be fobbed off. You have real pain and a real problem here. And it needs to be sorted. Good luck when you DO get seen. And keep us posted on how you are doing (Do you have internet on your phone?) We'll all be praying that things work out ok for you :hug:

Yes I have internet on my phone.... :)

Not to gross anyone out but now I have the "rash" bleeding. :( Its now becoming more like lesions rather than a rash. Its all bloody and nasty.... It's just going to get worse I'm afraid. If it gets real bad I'm going to do what Brooke suggests and head to the Emergency Department in the same city the specialist is in.