Daily Ooos: September 3-4: Weekend Edition

[faerywings]

Hello O-Fam! I just took the dogs outside and was treated to an utterly stunning sunrise. Stripes of pink clouds (almost) make it worthwhile being up so early.

I had a mostly quiet day yesterday which was nice. Now that most of Gary's arcade project is done, he has been slowly bringing the pieces and parts of it back upstairs. That means I have visible surfaces to clean LOL. I spent time on that, then a little bit of scrapping. Took a long walk with my friend across the street- she goes back to work FT on Tuesday and it's harder to meet up. She is looking fwd to the engagement party and was asking me about what recipe she should contribute to the cookbook they are compiling. Caitlyn asked her DD to be a bridesmaid and we were joking about how we are going to need sooo many tissues.
Caitlyn gave me a heart attack last night. She called on her way home from work, hysterically crying. She finally got out that she was OK but that the anniversary caught up to her, the weather was the same (she had seen Dan in the TJ MAXX parking lot that day, she was there because it was a beautiful day and she was done with her first day of the semester) -- too many similarities all bunched up at once. Gary and I offered to meet her and drive her home but she only needed some distraction so I blabbered about the rats and the dogs, and how Brett (my friend's DH) was so happy that he got to show Caitlyn the bats living under their deck. That got her calm enough to finish the drive home.

No plans today- Scott is going to be home but I know he is on call for Sam and her family (the "Samily" as they say LOL).
I didn't have any nightmares last night thankfully but man, did I have a BAD dream. BAD! I dreamed that Leah (barf) came over to give us gifts and she hugged me. (double-barf). The bad part of the dream - other than her- was that I *wanted* to hug her back. Isn't that so messed up? My emotions are def. getting the best of me ATM. I guess that is not too surprising, seeing connected *waves arms allll over* they were
(For those who don't know, here is the very short story - Leah was Scott's GF for 9 1/2 years and broke up with him last Christmas, it was bad)

But going back to the good-- the sky was beautiful this morning, so peaceful. Gotta focus on that! ♥

 

[LSlycord]

Good morning ladies! I got up before 5. Shaun had to go to work so I needed to watch Decker. Temps are nice 73* (feels like 82*) but it's cloudy. We are supposed to get more rain...we just get lots and lots of rain right now. I thought I was living in the Sunshine State.

Yesterday was my last day of work. I don't know what is upcoming but for right now, I'm enjoying the time off. I have goals...scrapping goals, office goals, organization goals, cleaning goals, travel goals...oh yes, I have goals.

Talked to Sydney last night. She and her roommate had planned to go climbing on the rock wall at the gym but all of the slots were already taken so she didn't know what her plans were for later last night but she is going to the football game tonight, grocery shopping today, "thrifting" with friends tomorrow. She seems stressed about the homework...that it never ends and that it is very hard. I told her not to worry about it. All she needs is a 3.0 GPA to keep her scholarship. However, for someone who is accustomed to a 4.0, that's a totally different thought process.

For me, I'm working on my goals...lol.

 

[faerywings]

@pachimac Did you sleep better last night, hope that the neighbor's dog was inside

@LSlycord congrats on being a free woman again! How was the coffee mtg with the boss? I would happily send you cold air and fuzzy socks for heat and sun in the middle of winter

@BrightEyes Enjoy the time with your kids! Pop in when you can, if not- we can't wait to hear all about it on the flip side

@taxed4ever I am drooling over the description of the cheesecake. Mmm, bet it was delish!
Oh my goodness, the Junk Journal is incredible- you are so extraordinarily creative!!! I would love to see more pics/videos if you want to share. Wow!
Hope you and your Gary get to Costco early enough that you don't meet all of the people who forgot to get XYZ for their BBQ at the last minute.

@Cherylndesigns Thank you soooo much for the love and hugs for my kids. I think Caitlyn wasn't expecting that punch in the face when she was driving home. I know you get it
We always have poop bags on the dogs' leashes It's a town code to pick up after them but not everyone does. A few years ago, this woman would let her dog poop and pee on the edge of my lawn which then made my dogs go bonkers every time they were out there #mad

WHY are we talking about this? BWAHAHA Seems pretty normal in here.

Right?? ROTFLMAO!!!
Any pics of Daisy and Bailee together?

@vickyday How nice to visit your friend, bet she appreciated the company!
Gary uses Stevia in his tea too, what a difference from the days they had to use Sweet N Low or Equal, right?
Can't wait to see the LOs of your old photos, make sure you let us know when you post them.

Firefox locked up and I had to do a hard power off and look at this-- Oscraps saved my draft!

 

[Betty Jo]

Hello, Everyone! I've missed a few days due to physical problems again. I'm not going into detail this time as it seems that's all I talk about lately. I was invited to a family gathering for tomorrow (celebrating three birthdays), but I think I will have to decline as I simply don't feel up to it.

@faerywings The hysterical call from Caitlyn would have scared me silly. I'm so far behind I don't know what 'the anniversary' is that she was so upset about.

@LSlycord Glad you have the time off so you can work on your goals. I'm so thrilled I don't have all the homework Sydney is struggling with. With your encouragement, she'll do fine, I'm sure. Sounds like she's having fun despite all the hard work.

I'm going to sign off for now and hopefully will be back soon, feeling like my usual chipper self!! Wishing everyone a healthy and safe weekend. ♥

 

[faerywings]

Where was I?

Waves to @scrap-genie !!

@Amandajk Thank you for the prayers, very appreciated ♥
Your "yelpy chihuahua" comment reminded me of when we first moved here, the people who were across the street at the time had a Jack Russell who stayed on the deck much of the time. I would look out my front window and hear the little barks and see the dog bouncing up and down. You wouldn't see him, and there he was, up and down. That little dog could get some air!
The cabin and area you were at-- how pretty and serene and I would love to have a boardwalk like that!
How are you liking the Ring of Power? I see very different reviews of it. It seems like many die-hard LOTR fans are not happy with it. Wondering if casual fans would like it?

@tanteva Work sounds like a nightmare, but just a couple more days of the voting part and then it will feel so much calmer. It has to.
Yikes about the glasses!!! That is so expensive! Good thing Urbans likes your cooking

xoxox

 

[faerywings]

Hello, Everyone! I've missed a few days due to physical problems again. I'm not going into detail this time as it seems that's all I talk about lately. I was invited to a family gathering for tomorrow (celebrating three birthdays), but I think I will have to decline as I simply don't feel up to it.

@faerywings The hysterical call from Caitlyn would have scared me silly. I'm so far behind I don't know what 'the anniversary' is that she was so upset about.

@LSlycord Glad you have the time off so you can work on your goals. I'm so thrilled I don't have all the homework Sydney is struggling with. With your encouragement, she'll do fine, I'm sure. Sounds like she's having fun despite all the hard work.

I'm going to sign off for now and hopefully will be back soon, feeling like my usual chipper self!! Wishing everyone a healthy and safe weekend. ♥

This is absolutely a safe place to complain if you need to-- just look at my posts most days.
Sending you good thoughts and hopes that you feel better ASAP!! ♥
The anniversary is of one of my kids' best friend's (Sam) brother's death. It was a bad car accident and the entire situation was incredibly messed up. It changed every part of their lives (Sam's as well as Scott's). I am not trying to be cryptic, it is so very complicated...
But thank you and feel better!

 

[Betty Jo]

I'll complain later, once I'm through it. Thanks for the good thoughts!

Oh my, no wonder Caitlyn was so upset. Details are not necessary, Chris. I still get horribly upset over the death of my best friend in 2020 due to neglect and conditions in the care home she was sent to while recovering from a broken leg. She basically starved to death.

 

[BrightEyes]

Another quick in and out to say HI and wish everyone a happy holiday weekend. DD#1 and I made up for staying up so late the night she got here.... we were in bed just after 8PM last night although I didn't turn off the light until after 9. So - of course I woke up at 4 AM and couldn't go back to sleep. I worked on a LO then popped in here to see how everyone is doing.

So glad I went to the library sale yesterday... came home with 9 DVD movies and 7 CDs... Then DD#1 and I went to the grocery store and got several things we need. Glad we went when we did as the crowds were arriving for holiday shopping just about the time we finished. DD#3 called and came by after her PT session so we had a nice visit with her for a couple of hours. I talked her into taking a big bag of plums home with her... Not sure what is on DD#1's agenda for today. The nice thing is she drove here so has her car to do what she needs to when she wants.

 

[LSlycord]

@faerywings I am so sorry that your kids are having such a tough time right now. And Sam and her family...just really, really hard! The memories come flooding in I'm sure. Dreams are funny things...our minds work in very strange ways...so many things down deep. Is Caitlyn getting a cookbook of homemade recipes for her shower? Are you collecting recipes? Would she like some included from her mom's crazy O'friends? I would love to find one of my good recipes to include. Do they need to be vegan or vegetarian or whatever? I have lots of recipes and I really would love to find one for her. And I promise that if I have any symptoms, I'll get in to the doctor right away. And ugh about the friend of the hiring committee putting their resume in...fingers crossed for Cait!

@pachimac I hope that you got good sleep last night.

@BrightEyes I am so excited for you that DD1 has made it to spend time with you and that she will still be there when DS is there. You have a busy week ahead...that will be so much fun for you! And for them!

@taxed4ever I love those journals. I do hope that you will do a video so that we can see the insides. I am really in awe of what you do! And I hope that you don't get the rain on Sunday when you are at the in-laws. I'm sure that you are constantly aware of the clock ticking down on the time that you can get into the lake...hope it happens for you!

@Cherylndesigns good morning. Love your stories...I can't wait to see what you do with the porch for Halloween. And my vote is that you put the hay bales out. Just because I miss putting out a hay bale with cornstalks to celebrate fall. And @pachimac and @Cherylndesigns and @faerywings picking up dog poop. This time at Decker's visit, he has decided that he likes to poop and pee on the pool deck. So we have to do even quicker clean up than usual. Don't know why he is doing this now. But he leaves Tuesday morning so we will survive.

@Betty Jo I am sorry that you aren't feeling well...especially missing a family gathering. And I'm sorry that you weren't feeling well for a few days but I'm sure glad that you are better now.

 

[faerywings]

@LSlycord OMG, you are the BEST!!!! ♥

Caitlyn getting a cookbook of homemade recipes for her shower? Are you collecting recipes? Would she like some included from her mom's crazy O'friends? I would love to find one of my good recipes to include. Do they need to be vegan or vegetarian or whatever? I have lots of recipes and I really would love to find one for her.

She and Tom are having a potluck for their engagement party. They have asked everyone to bring their favorite dish and to include the recipe (They have this adorable bat-bucket for the guests to drop the recipes into, so cute!)
My friends and family have been having a good time trying to come up with recipes to share- Debbie (Friend across the street aka Mom #2 to Cait) was asking about which of her Christmas cookies is Cait's favorite. My BFF - absolutely known for *not* cooking* said she is probably going to order a tray of something and the recipe card will list instructions for ordering out. Ha!!
If you -- any of you-- would like to post a recipe for her, she would *love* that! She has literally grown up with you all, I know that would mean a lot!

OK, here come the kooky mom emotions and tears...
You have no idea how much this means to me and how much I needed something positive and fun to think about today. *I* had no idea how much I needed this.
Like Cheryl said, you get punched in the face
I didn't even know Dan outside of being Sam's brother.

Ok, gotta go. xo


Oh man, I only came here to look at the details of the Storybook challenge and saw the noitfication. Got totally sidetracked and still didn;t look at the challenge info iy yi yiiiii

 

[LSlycord]

@LSlycord OMG, you are the BEST!!!! ♥

She and Tom are having a potluck for their engagement party. They have asked everyone to bring their favorite dish and to include the recipe (They have this adorable bat-bucket for the guests to drop the recipes into, so cute!)
My friends and family have been having a good time trying to come up with recipes to share- Debbie (Friend across the street aka Mom #2 to Cait) was asking about which of her Christmas cookies is Cait's favorite. My BFF - absolutely known for *not* cooking* said she is probably going to order a tray of something and the recipe card will list instructions for ordering out. Ha!!
If you -- any of you-- would like to post a recipe for her, she would *love* that! She has literally grown up with you all, I know that would mean a lot!

OK, here come the kooky mom emotions and tears...
You have no idea how much this means to me and how much I needed something positive and fun to think about today. *I* had no idea how much I needed this.
Like Cheryl said, you get punched in the face
I didn't even know Dan outside of being Sam's brother.

Ok, gotta go. xo


Oh man, I only came here to look at the details of the Storybook challenge and saw the noitfication. Got totally sidetracked and still didn;t look at the challenge info iy yi yiiiii

When is the party?

 

[faerywings]

October 16 ♥

 

[tanteva]

Will sure add some Swedish recipes for them.

 

[vickyday]

I'll complain later, once I'm through it. Thanks for the good thoughts!

Oh my, no wonder Caitlyn was so upset. Details are not necessary, Chris. I still get horribly upset over the death of my best friend in 2020 due to neglect and conditions in the care home she was sent to while recovering from a broken leg. She basically starved to death.

Oh I'm so sorry to hear that about Caroline, @Betty Jo ! I didn't know that part! How sad!

 

[Amandajk]

Good Saturday everyone!
We have sunshine and 88 degrees F. I hope to get hubster to clear out the garden patch as those plants are done producing and give our yard a better look. No other plans for this Labor Day weekend-DS & DIL don't want "plans". Even though we are only a few minutes drive away we rarely see the adults, just the grands. For the most part I have made peace with seeing them once a month. Seems like it should be more, based on our upbringings. Family is not what family was to me (us?) when our generation was coming up. I can't take their decision personally like I used to. At least I talk myself through it in a few minutes now. Think, talk, peace. Repeat, LOL!!! Anyhow, I am working on two weavings, One is a large tapestry of a Lion's face, and the other is organic weave with sticks and stuffs. Trying to build up my inventory so we can start our creative business. Cheryl knows, but the rest of you may not know my husband builds Cherokee flutes. They are beautiful! I've encouraged him to get his stock built up and we will open a shop online (at first) and sell our wares. We are going to collaborate on a few as he is not a visual artist. I want to decorate some of his flutes in a colorful patterned way. Then he will have two lines. Ok, now to respond...

@faerywings When we "lost" our adoptive Honduran daughter ( had to return her to her birth mother at age 19 mos.) it was like a death but more like a sci-fi, because she was still alive yet we didn't know where she was, etc. I dreamed of her constantly! We shared all her "firsts". So bad we left the country and returned to U.S. So when you say seeing someone switched on the pain, I get it. I used to "see" her in every dark haired, tanned little girl. I learned to embrace "Cassie days" and know they wouldn't stay, just visit me. That was 22 years ago. HUGS. The recipe /potluck thing is genius!!! VERY cool! Wish we could do that for DD as we all are "foodies", but she really has only dated 3 times. Sigh. She's an academic. Anyway, that dinner is going to be so memorable AND helpful. I only cooked Spaghetti, Tuna Noodle Casserole, crepes, and roast when we married. DH got chunky REAL QUICK, lol!!! I feel for Sydney, I had a 4.0 when I was in school a few years ago, then I dropped a class but the registrar's office failed to record it properly and penalized me for it, giving me a fail grade!!! GRRRR. We went rounds with Liberty U. for a few months and then dropped it. And I left school. But you are right, she will be ok. Her grades won't be asked for once she graduates!!!
The Rings of Power was good in my opinion. I am not one of the LOTR fans, in fact I fell asleep in two of them, much to DD and hubster's dismay. Tongues were clicking at me! ha. But I LOVE period pieces, and fantasy so I did enjoy it. The others had so many dark sections. Due to a childhood experience, I stay away from "dark". Period. You might enjoy it as a distraction, though (SPOILER ALERT for compassion's sake), there is a loss of a brother in it early on.
@pachimac No worries! I didn't take offense! Our most treasured pet was a beagle mut- runt of the litter. Adorable and LOYAL to the hilt. We named him Goliath, LOL!

@taxed4ever : really curious about your forum name?? You are quite an active lady here and at home!!

@Cherylndesigns How did your porch turn out? Pics??
Bet you could take one of the dogs laying on it!

@Betty Jo : Sad to hear your friend's story. Our nephew had similar treatment. He had severe Aspbergers so he was in a home. Had abdominal surgery with unaddressed complications and died. They didn't tell his father or grandparents about the surgery til after the fact.
We share the same middle name! I rarely use it but it's there. Dad wanted a boy so I got the name Jo instead of Joseph or James.
@LSlycord I hear a line from the Fiddler on the Roof song: "Ambition! ambition! " hahaaa! Go for it girl!
@tanteva Hope you find some fun time!! Your comment reminded me to follow up on being a poll monitor this fall. THANKS!!
OK, I've written quite the book. ENJOY, cos that rarely happens!!! ha. Have a safe and joyful weekend y'all!

 

[vickyday]

@LSlycord OMG, you are the BEST!!!! ♥

She and Tom are having a potluck for their engagement party. They have asked everyone to bring their favorite dish and to include the recipe (They have this adorable bat-bucket for the guests to drop the recipes into, so cute!)
My friends and family have been having a good time trying to come up with recipes to share- Debbie (Friend across the street aka Mom #2 to Cait) was asking about which of her Christmas cookies is Cait's favorite. My BFF - absolutely known for *not* cooking* said she is probably going to order a tray of something and the recipe card will list instructions for ordering out. Ha!!
If you -- any of you-- would like to post a recipe for her, she would *love* that! She has literally grown up with you all, I know that would mean a lot!

OK, here come the kooky mom emotions and tears...
You have no idea how much this means to me and how much I needed something positive and fun to think about today. *I* had no idea how much I needed this.
Like Cheryl said, you get punched in the face
I didn't even know Dan outside of being Sam's brother.

Ok, gotta go. xo


Oh man, I only came here to look at the details of the Storybook challenge and saw the noitfication. Got totally sidetracked and still didn;t look at the challenge info iy yi yiiiii

Totally off anything you said, Chris, and you may be too young to remember the Frito Bandito commercial, but now I will hear him singing "iy yi yi yi, I am the Frito Bandito! I love Fritos corn chips, I love them, I do! Give me Fritos corn chips and I'll be your friend, too! I may need to make a snack run now!

 

[taxed4ever]

Morning ladies! A quick in and out for me this morning as per usual on a Saturday! We are off to Costco this morning, but DH had to go and pick up the power washer from Brother- In -Law Mike, he is unable to fix it. So I guess we will be looking to buy a new one. Got our appraisal back and we were pleasantly surprised with the value of our home! So now we wait for the bank to set up our Home Equity Plan. There could be some major reno's in our future LOL.

@faerywings - I will send along a few of my fav recipes too, what a fun idea!!! Sorry that everyone is feeling down today, but so totally expected considering the circumstances! Give everyone a big old hug from their O family!! Gotta run and get into the shower, I hope to get back here later today, but I bet that doesn't happen LOL. CYL!!

 

[vickyday]

Good Labor Day weekend to all!
Our only plan for the extended weekend is to, hopefully, ride on Monday with our dear friends from church, and eat out, of course!

A bit of backstory...which kinda sounds like a soap opera!
My deceased husband (DH#1) was a pastor and my current husband (DH#2) was a member of our church. DH#2 actually helped DH#1 and I move from WV to NC when DH#1 accepted the church in 2008.
The current pastor was a pastor at one point but I don't know what happened. Anyway he was a member of our church, too. He and (DH#2) were good friends and rode bikes together and went on trips.
DH#2's wife died the year Dh#1 was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma. He died in 2017.
Our current pastor was preaching for DH#1 when he was too sick to preach. So after his death the church voted him in as pastor. He and Mark remained riding buddies.
I had no intention of ever getting married again and Mark had decided he was ok not being married (after his dating again was a fail). But a year after Tim died the Lord brought Mark and I together.
So, long story short, we ride with the pastor and his wife when we can. And, hopefully our plans to ride on Monday will work!

That's all, Folks!
Have a great weekend!

 

[Lynn Grieveson]

It's Father's Day morning here and both daughters have done paintings for their Dad. Now I need to make a digital card for my Dad and email it. He is usually up by 5am so I had better get on with it!

Spent yesterday evening filling in my new planner which I ordered months ago but finally arrived. Now feeling stressed over finally travelling again over the next few months (visiting my parents, going with DH on work trips, visiting friends and family in Australia ...) and how I am going to meet designing deadlines!
#dk


@faerywings sorry about the shock of the phone call - it's so hard to hear them cry over the phone when you can't actually give them a hug :-( Good luck with the party planning

@LSlycord yay for goals ;-) I just bought a new planner that covers Aug - end of 2023 (yikes!). Well, I ordered it months ago but it just finally arrived. Hoping to keep THIS one nice and neat!!

@Betty Jo Hope you are feeling better! And that is so sad about your friend. Terrible.

@BrightEyes Scrapping a layout sounds like a lovely way to deal with a very early morning!

@Amandajk your online shop idea sounds amazing. What a creative pairing

@taxed4ever Good luck dealing with the bank. It drives me batty ;-) PS I'd love to know about your forum name too!

@vickyday Have a fabulous ride

 

[Cherylndesigns]

Good afternoon, all. The kids have been in and out all day and I just got on here. I had to finish up a layout that I started last night for a CT. My next-to-oldest gs, Jordan is here. I haven't seen him for a long time - Chuck and I were trying to remember the last time (he) saw him. It was several years ago in FL. He kind of got "derailed" but he looks good, and he seems to have it together, as together as he ever was. He seemed really sweet today, but he just got here, so we shall see. He's the daddy of Kinleigh and lives in the Detroit area. He has a decent job and seems to be trying to be a good dad and a better person. He does love that baby, so we think he's trying for her, as well as for himself. He's the "pickle" of the 5. He's never been here and he was awe-jawed over the beauty.

Chris @faerywings it doesn't take much to set us off - I get why Cait had a bad time (so suddenly) yesterday. A certain song will still set me off. Even a commercial on TV. I' so glad you and Gary were able to "talk her down". Poor girl - poor all of you - I'm sure thinking of you right now. Sending more love and cyber hugs. Yes, Chris and Linda @LSlycord I have decided that I want hale bales again. I just told Chuck and he said "do you really want that mess again?" LLOL I told him that I did NOT want the big, heavy bales that we had last year - I had both last year. Those big ones are very heavy and hard to handle. Actually, the small ones are messier than the field bales, Chris - you asked about that. They're just very "sheddy". I DO need someplace for Tex and Lex to sit and my two wagon wheels are gone and the porch looks very naked. I told you girls that we found a handy man, I think. Casey knew of a guy who did odd jobs and one of the things I had him do was hang my wagon wheels on the front of the house, up on the peak. I need to take pics, don't I? I also had a great big medallion that I wanted hung on the back of the house and he hung that too. He even hung my horseshoe up over the front door. Those were two-year-old jobs that had never gotten done. Our house is really heavy metal over wood, and you need a powerful drill to go through anything you hand on it. He scampered up and down that extension ladder like a monkey. LOL He even came down face first - literally - he ran down that thing. I had to cover my eyes and I told him I hoped he had insurance. Haha

I'm a little disappointed in the size of my front door rug, so we're going to get a bigger one. It's adorable though - I know why I fell in love with it - the pumpkins look like Anna Aspnes' pumpkins. I KNEW there was something really familiar about them. I'm going to get one more and put one at the French doors in the kitchen and one inside at the front door. I have a fug for boots and shooes, but it's beside the door because the door won't open over it - it's too thick. This pumpkin rug is very thin. It looks very cute, even if it's too small for the front porch.

I just took pics and will post them tomorrow - and I'm going to take pics of my wagon wheels, too. If you all remember, they've been on my front porch for about 2 years.

Amanda @Amandajk I can't wait to see Hubster's website!! His work is fabulous and how exciting that you're going to be helping him in the designs. These girls don't know how extremely talented you are - you are a real artist! I'm so in awe of anybody who works with textiles. Please keep us posted on websites!

Well, I've been slacking on the pool news. It's technically finished. Lot's of work left to do, but the pool is done and almost filled with water. We were sitting with our feet in the water yesterday. I didn't have my phone, so I didn't take pics, but we're going up there later today and tomorrow is Ava's birthday, so we'll all be up there.

I'm going to sign off and see what I need to do on the site. Hugs to all.

 

[Cherylndesigns]

It's Father's Day morning here and both daughters have done paintings for their Dad. Now I need to make a digital card for my Dad and email it. He is usually up by 5am so I had better get on with it!

Spent yesterday evening filling in my new planner which I ordered months ago but finally arrived. Now feeling stressed over finally travelling again over the next few months (visiting my parents, going with DH on work trips, visiting friends and family in Australia ...) and how I am going to meet designing deadlines!
#dk


@faerywings sorry about the shock of the phone call - it's so hard to hear them cry over the phone when you can't actually give them a hug :-( Good luck with the party planning

@LSlycord yay for goals ;-) I just bought a new planner that covers Aug - end of 2023 (yikes!). Well, I ordered it months ago but it just finally arrived. Hoping to keep THIS one nice and neat!!

@Betty Jo Hope you are feeling better! And that is so sad about your friend. Terrible.

@BrightEyes Scrapping a layout sounds like a lovely way to deal with a very early morning!

@Amandajk your online shop idea sounds amazing. What a creative pairing

@taxed4ever Good luck dealing with the bank. It drives me batty ;-) PS I'd love to know about your forum name too!

@vickyday Have a fabulous ride

Hi Lynn,

Happy Father's Day to the dads in your life. Sending hugs.

 

[Amandajk]

@vickyday what an amazing story. Faithful providence.
@Cherylndesigns PICS PICS PICS!!!! Including your pool when its done!!

So, I popped back in here today cos I need to vent a bit. I have 3 sisters, two older, one younger. Oldest, Debbie, was diagnosed with Parkinsons a few months ago. Why her husband and kids didn't take a more proactive role on her behalf is beyond the rest of us and sooooooo frustrating; they had noticed she was having difficulty over 2 years ago. Considering that Dad is fighting Alzheimers, they knew the signs of mental illness. Mom says she is twice as bad shape as my Dad. Thankfully he still has "good days".
She lives up in Ohio, and I don't see her hardly at all. I know why now. She is in very bad shape.

She has lost so much cognitive ability. Can't use her phone or computer. She (they) visited Mom and Dad in Indiana last weekend, and was not able to figure out how to unwrap cellophane from a head of lettuce for taco making. SHE taught me how to make tacos. She has next to no clothes she said, because she isn't eating and has dropped 60 lbs. Mom had to take her shopping and show her how to put on clothes. She has to be prompted to move every 30 minutes to avoid muscle atrophy.

Last week she had to sell her Curves business that she built 20 years ago. He husband may be overwhelmed, but he isn't helping. He mocks her for wanting to watch her favorite(and familiar ! ) shows. He chided her and insisted they have baked goods for the business closing, but did nothing to procure them! My younger sister arranged it online. sssssssssssssssssssssss. Worst of all, we just learned that her home of 50+ years has been overtaken by her husband's hoarding illness. I remember when they built the addition with a basement, a beautiful fireplace in the new living room, a bedroom and full bath with french doors out to their deck in the back, overlooking the forest. NOW she has no bedroom, no access to any of that due to his collecting. She can't find her clothes!!! She wouldn't let my Mom & sister come this week to her house help her find her tax records, and finally was told by my niece why-- the condition of their home. She doesn't have the ability to cook any longer.

So she isn't eating. I don't know how she is to function at all. I fear for her life. She has always been organized, compassionate, and successful. Learning of her daily "living" situation

had me in shock for over an hour. I couldn't find any words!!! My brother in law has filled their yard with old junk and vehicles- all the way back into the woods.
My. Heart. Breaks.
Thanks for listening. #kiss

 

[vickyday]

@vickyday what an amazing story. Faithful providence.
@Cherylndesigns PICS PICS PICS!!!! Including your pool when its done!!

So, I popped back in here today cos I need to vent a bit. I have 3 sisters, two older, one younger. Oldest, Debbie, was diagnosed with Parkinsons a few months ago. Why her husband and kids didn't take a more proactive role on her behalf is beyond the rest of us and sooooooo frustrating; they had noticed she was having difficulty over 2 years ago. Considering that Dad is fighting Alzheimers, they knew the signs of mental illness. Mom says she is twice as bad shape as my Dad. Thankfully he still has "good days".
She lives up in Ohio, and I don't see her hardly at all. I know why now. She is in very bad shape.

She has lost so much cognitive ability. Can't use her phone or computer. She (they) visited Mom and Dad in Indiana last weekend, and was not able to figure out how to unwrap cellophane from a head of lettuce for taco making. SHE taught me how to make tacos. She has next to no clothes she said, because she isn't eating and has dropped 60 lbs. Mom had to take her shopping and show her how to put on clothes. She has to be prompted to move every 30 minutes to avoid muscle atrophy.

She had to sell her Curves business that she built 20 years ago. He husband may be overwhelmed, but he isn't helping. He mocks her for wanting to watch her favorite(and familiar ! ) shows. He chided her and insisted they have baked goods for the business closing, but did nothing to procure them! My younger sister arranged it online. sssssssssssssssssssssss. Worst of all, we just learned that her home of 50+ years has been overtaken by her husband's hoarding illness. I remember when they built the addition with a basement, a beautiful fireplace in the new living room, a bedroom and full bath with french doors out to their deck in the back, overlooking the forest. NOW she has no bedroom, no access to any of that due to his collecting. She can't find her clothes!!! She wouldn't let my Mom & sister come this week to her house help her find her tax records, and finally was told by my niece why-- the condition of their home. She doesn't have the ability to cook any longer.

So she isn't eating. I don't know how she is to function at all. I fear for her life. She has always been organized, compassionate, and successful. Learning of her daily "living" situation

had me in shock for over an hour. I couldn't find any words!!! My brother in law has filled their yard with old junk and vehicles- all the way back into the woods.
My. Heart. Breaks.
Thanks for listening. #kiss

Amen! You don't see it while going through the trial, but on the other side you can see it clearly!
So sorry to hear about your sister! Big hugs to you and the family!

 

[Cherylndesigns]

Oh, Amanda, how terribly sad. I can't even imagine how upset you must be. That's so sad! It sounds like she's going downhill fast! I'm sure your family is feeling pretty helpless right now. Her husband must be some piece of work! Thinking of you and sending lots of love and hugs.

 

[LSlycord]

Good morning ladies. So much chatter in here today and I love it.

@Amandajk I am so sorry to hear the news of your older sister. How hard that must be for everyone...but I'm sure that it must be really difficult for your mother to see this. And family was always everything when I was growing up. We had a 30 minute drive to my grandmothers' homes and we spent every Sunday afternoon there. I would usually go with my mom to my maternal grandmother's house while my dad and brother would head to my paternal grandmother's home. I spent a great deal of time with my cousins on both sides. When my parents were alive, we spent lots of time with them and my brother's family. We were late having kids (both my son and daughter are adopted from China so your story of your adopted daughter breaks my heart) and so our nieces and nephew were our lives. I miss them terribly and I'm really looking forward to my trip back to Iowa to celebrate a great-nieces first birthday!

@Cherylndesigns so anxious to see the pool pics! Perfect timing for the birthday party! I'm glad that you got to see your grandson and I'm glad that he is doing better---sounds like his daughter has been a good influence. I feel like I need to see an org chart of your family...whose son is this?

@Lynn Grieveson hope that Father's Day was good! How fantastic that your planner arrived! I am thinking that I need a new planner and I totally get what you are saying about getting everything in the planner.

@vickyday what a great story about how God works in the details! Love that!

 

[faerywings]

Weather Alert from NJ: Current conditions are cloudy, with a chance of rain later in the day. please oh please!
We might even get some rain Mon and Tues. Sorry to the people who are having Labor Day picnics.

I spent much of my day yesterday wandering about- in the house, outside, online. In my mind. That is the scariest place to be sometimes hehe. But I got through yesterday and will make it through today as well. My day today is most likely going to be similar to yesterday. Scott didn't make it home until dinner time and all he had time for was to take a shower, get some coffee and head back out for the nighttime candle lighting memorial. Tom and Cait are going to the Philly Zoo today and will be home tomorrow, I hope they don't get rained out. (Just let it rain up here, please!)

To Do List: Scrap, do laundry, make my menu and schedule for the week.
Play with rats
Not too bad, right?

Have fun today!

 

[faerywings]

@LSlycord Having a perfectionist for a DD is a blessing and a curse. You remember how I would say that Cait was stressed over her classes but wouldn't/couldn't give herself a break? Once they are used to A's-- god forbid they get a B. I hope that Syd finds a good balance and has fun as well as good grades.
Enjoy working on all of your goals too- I have the same ones but am not as organized as you.

@Betty Jo I hope that you are having a better day!!
How awful to hear about your best friend. Hugs~~~~

@BrightEyes You always have the best times with your DDs. Pretty soon, however, they will hide from you and your plums Haha!!!
Great score at the library!

@LSlycord again, I can't tell you how happy it makes me that you want to contribute to the cookbook ♥
And I am going to hold you to that promise re: going to the dr. *nods firmly*

@tanteva Swedish recipes are fine., Just NO KETCHUP!! #angry2

@Amandajk I am sorry that you don't get to see DS as much as you would like. But you do get to see the grands which has to be a joy to you! "Think, talk, peace" is fab advice.
How awesome is that for you and DH to be opening a store together! I can't wait to see it when you are online. And you weave?? So talented and creative and I am so jealous! --But happy for you both. That is very exciting.
Oh my, that had to have been heartbreaking. My brother and SIL lost their first adopted baby but it was only after a few days when the birth mom changed her mind. It was utterly heartbreaking then so I can't imagine having that happen after so much time. I can see how much it still affects you after 22 years. Thank you for sharing even though it has to hurt. Hugs back
I will suggest to Gary that we give the Rings of Power a try - we watch a little of everything. And thank you for the spoiler. I am fine with people dying, but if there is a dog/animal that does-- I rely on DoestheDogDie.com and the second I see a dog, I search for that
(I sobbed through Frankenweenie. Yes, a cartoon, mmm-hmmmm)

@vickyday I vaguely remember Frito Bandito but not the song, I am going to search for it.

@taxed4ever Yay--great news about the home appraisal!! Good luck with the loan process and can't wait to see what plans you have for the house. BTW- the new card you shared-- incredible. You have more patience than I ever could have, steadier hands for sure, too

@vickyday Wow, that is truly a soap opera story! Wonderful how close you all were and are!

@Lynn Grieveson Eeep. Just reading about all of the things you added to your planner stressed me out a bit! You always seem to have everything under control, it's gonna be *great!* You got this!

@Cherylndesigns How nice to have Jordan staying with you for a bit- hopefully Cici will make him see how important family and staying on track are to him and to Kinleigh. If anyone can do it and make it stick, it is you
xoxo for everything ♥
That is great that you found a handyman to do some of the bigger and heavier jobs for you guys!
I hope that you post the pics of the rugs and house soon!
Happy b-day to Ava!

Oh my, Amanda what a truly awful situation. You must be so angry with your BIL for letting all of -- well, everything - slide. You must be sad and angry and sheesh, astounded by the news.
I have no words.
Love and support coming your way!

Linda- hope you are having a good day and see the sun at some point!

 

[tanteva]

Homemade Ketchup is easy to make and uses fresh tomatoes!

Homemade Ketchup is easy to make and superior to what you'd buy in the store. This recipe uses fresh tomatoes making it extra delicious!

boulderlocavore.com

 

[faerywings]

No no noooo!! No ketchup - at least not on spaghetti

PS: Has anyone seen/heard from Rae??? I hope she is doing ok and is feeling better. *trying not to worry*

 

[BrightEyes]

Morning, all. DD#1 is still sleeping so have a few minutes to pop in here. Yesterday turned into a very busy day. She was up early so we got a lot of visiting done. Ended up taking her over to the library book/DVD/CD sale where she found several CDs and books she wanted. They had put out 2 more racks of DVDs and I ended up with another 12 DVDs!!! Of course, DD was so helpful by handing me 4 of them that she recommended!!! I managed to find a replacement for the "Twilight - New Beginnings 1" (2 months ago, I had bought the 2 disc version but disc 1 was bad). I thought I had 'ET" on DVD but didn't so was glad to get it. We ended up watching "Willow" last evening. Still have 3 more DVD movies that she wants to watch before she leaves at the end of the week. I took her over to Barnes/Nobles so she could pick up a couple of books she wanted. I had made an appointment and got my annual Flu shot in between the other stops. There have been a few cases of that flu already so glad to get my shot. The arm is a bit sore this morning but no fever, etc.

@BrightEyes You always have the best times with your DDs. Pretty soon, however, they will hide from you and your plums Haha!!!
Great score at the library!

My neighbors are already there, Chris... and DD#3 said that was the last bag of plums she wanted... and even her neighbors don't want any more!!! There are more plums that have fallen on the ground... and I have seen the neighborhood rabbit, a road-runner and several birds feasting on them at different times. Didn't get to my camera in time to get photos. I will go out later this week and pick up the pits that are left. After I slipped and nearly fell the last time I was picking plums, I have decided that it not worth taking a chance on falling on the slope to pick any more.

DD just got up so need to get a fresh pot of coffee on. CYL