What are the little things that make you happy?

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I started a post a long time ago about what are your dreams but now I think even small things can make me smile, How about you?
1) A beautiful sunrise
2) The soft touch of my grandaughter, and the smell of her skin:)
3) Holding the hand of the one I love
4) rainbows
5) hearing a song that I love and haven't heard in awhile!:D

[leeoh9]

I have, for many years, said that I have no joy in my life....but the one thing that does make me happy is to know that someone [I]needs[I]me....that there is a reason for me to be here.:confused:

[Fig]

My birds--Elmo, Caillou and Sidney
the smell of fresh coffee brewing
bedtime

[joy]

seeing anyone that i don't see very often. i saw a cousin i had not seen in years at walmart, and her husband kept hurring her up.

seeing grandchildren, can't say that about both my kids as thery have attitude problems sometimes.


getting pm's or e-mails from people i've never met but feel as if i know them better than my neighbors.

getting more than two hours sleep at once but this doesn't happen often

and so far the fact that even if i'm not just feeling happy i am sticking it out anyway ... but i can't say it is without complaining sometimes.

[JAVISI]

Thanks to all who haave contributed!
1) I can find enjoyment at a beautiful sunrise or sunset!
2) New found friends:)
3) Looking at little children hunting Easter eggs;)
4) Spending time with my grandma
5) Laughing so hard that I cry!:o

[Buttons2]

Truly I can't recall the last time I laughed out loud until I had tears streaming down my face......both my son's were here for Easter dinner, I don't have any daughters-in-law or grandchildren. Only one son was here for the holidays last year so this was first time three of us together in over 6 mos. They are half-brothers & different as day & night. Not exactly what you would call close but they never argue so I'm grateful for that.

Anyway, except for the jokes on BT I rarely laugh. The subject wasn't funny in reality, they were picking on both me & my housemate for having Alzeimer's (sp). One comment kept leading to another,we all had a good time & no complaints over 3 cooks in the kitchen & EVERYTHING got overcooked including the prime rib.

I'm getting OT here.

Things that make me happy:
seeing the bald eagles fly over
sunshine & blue skies
having an actual conversation with someone (rare)
watching my doggie romp in the grass
getting friendship cards from people I rarely see
walking in the woods,seeing the spring growth
spotting a new born calf in someone's field
rainbows
goregous sunsets (seldom have sunrise here)
reading a "good news" story on the internet
getting PM's from people on BT

They say that happiness is a state of mind, hard to think happy thoughts when the entire world seems to be in constant trumoil & the news is one bad disaster after another. I try to shut out alot of the negative energy going around. Dwelling on the ugly stuff doesn't do us any good. Much of our pain we can't control whether it's physical or emotional, best to just do what we can, learn to say no, and if it's not our problem-stay out of it.

Sending a big smile to all of you.......:) :) :) :) :)
Buttons

[Tootsie]

A great idea for a thread and one that deserves a more thoughtful reply than I can offer right now...until later, Cheerio.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
First of all I want to thank everyone for sharing! It helps me to start my dad with thinking about things that make me happy! Reading others posts help me to think of things I have never thought of yet!:)

1) The smell of fresh cut grass
2) Meeting new people on this site that I feel so close to!
3) Talking to my friend in Texas, we have been best friends since we were in junior High, she is working a full time job and 2 npart time jobs, so we don't get to correspond as often as we used to:(
4) Being alone and looking through my picture albums
5) The thought of being able to toch my son again, to hug and kiss him, and not having to talk to him on a phone through a glass window!

With support and care for you all!

[Tootsie]

The things that made me happy are:
1. Seeing a letter, via US Postal Service, from a friend, in my mail box

2 A robin, tuggin on a worm, after a gentle, spring rain

3. Going to lunch with the women I used to work with

4. Watching kittens or puppies play with their litter mates.

5. Seeing a garden blooming.
Cheerio.

[WhataBreeze]

Hello My B/T Friends and Viewers,

As I've been flying below the radar lately I remember this "Very Positive Thread," from some of the good ole days here at B/T before the _____.

I'll be please by noting I was able to take Franky (Boston Terrier) my best friend, care giver, advisor, etc. out last night as he did his business, "So to say," and I sat on a bench in a very nice area outside my condo. The weather was a bit cool but the sky was beautiful as God and I had a meaningful time. Note, from a severe fall I had in 2002, I was told then my meniscus (Knee cartilage) may give out at some point. I will be having artheroscopic surgery once everyone can get their ducks in a row as to what to use for an anesthetic to use because of my unique disorder that I became a "Five Year Survivor," last Febuary.

Javisi, it was good of you to remember your popular Thread of past. G-d Bless...

Franky and Breeze

[JAVISI]

Breeze and Franky,
It is so good to hear from you. I too had been gone quite awhile but when I came back, I really missed posting good things, Sometimes I think we for get to stop and smell the roses and really appriciate the little things in life that can make us smile:D

1) Going outside and looking at a rainbow after the rain, and also noticing the wonderful clean smell after the rain:)

2)Being remembered by people that I posted to so long ago!:)

3) Singing a song that I really like when no one is around, as I was not blessed with a voice for singing that others would enjoy!:o

4)When someone tells me, "You look beautiful"! It is nice to hear instead of "You sure look tired".

5) Wanting to hold my grandson, but letting him sleep and just enjoy looking at him!;)

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars!

[mik07]

Simple things that make me happy: the presence of my family and friends, a good book, a pat on my back, a genuine smile from anybody, and a cake.

________________
mik07
Alcohol Rehab (http://www.drugrehabprogram.net) --Have more options on alcohol rehab

[joy]

to finally, finally get my hubby to take a break and get away for a short time

to find out even if i am dead almost everyplace in my body that there are still a few places that aren't. like my behind!!

now i know that needs an explanation so here it is, i can still ride on a 4-wheeler!! i was a passanger but still remember how to let my spine TRY and be loose and just relax. just as in the good old days when i rode behing on the motorcycle. it still works just to relax and enjoy the ride. and two pillows did the trick for the behind, lol

saw two adorable chipmunks. it is usually lizards that hang around and even though i know the chipmunks do more damage probably, they were cute and will not get any roughing up from me. hope they enjoy the corn that spilled out of a feeder onto the ground.

and i got a really neat denium skirt at dirty dillards as the younger kids call it, for a very good price. thats the store where things get shipped even from larger cities to our small town. yeah for us! the gussets swirl out and just the feel of that skirt is good.

[Buttons2]

The sun is shining through the trees
I get to walk on a beach,or sit on a log there & watch the seabirds
The eagles are flying overhead
The newborn black sheep down the road from where I live
Baby animals on nature channels

May everyone find some reason to smile today!:) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Buttons

[JAVISI]

These are the happiest days of my life!

1) To get a long kiss from my boyfriend;)

2) Having good and caring Nurses and Doctors when I was in the hospital!

3) Spending time with my sister that I don't see very often:)

4) Seeing my grandson walk, he still teeters but can walk and get to what ever he wants:D

5) Being in the hospital, feeling a little sad and lonely and getting a call from my son that is in jail! I was so happy to hear from him! And I must say it was nice of them to let him call!:D

Keep your eyes open friends and reach for the stars

[JAVISI]

Small things that I used to take for granted I don't any more.

1) The sound of birds singing early in the morning.

2) Being able to go outside on a warm spring day and feel the warmth of the breeze on my face.

3) The smell of the first pot of coffee brewing

4) Seeing my grandchildren grow and do so many things.

5) Watching my flowers grow.

Thanks to all who have contibuted!:)

[JAVISI]

I hope others will join in, It helps me to think of the positive instead of always the negative!

I love cool spring mornings!
Kissing my grandma
Getting a wet gooey kiss from my granson!
When my grandaughter says I love you with a great big hug and knowing how much she means it!
When my son that is in jail puts a smile on his face and says mom don't worry about me I am fine, even though I know he is scared, and he is just trying to help me and make me feel better!

Thanks to all who have posted here! Javisi

[Tootsie]

Better than wet, gooey kisses from grandchildren, are the peanut butter and jelly flavored ones! Cheerio.

[joy]

to finally get back into braintalk, for however long it may last

knowing others are trying just as hard to do the same

some are making it without griping on and on elsewhere

but the best is seeing familiar names that i now call friends

just counted the ups and downs and even if there are a lot of downs today i am grateful for the fewer ups in my life!

[JAVISI]

Happiness has been hard to see the past few days! I also have been having a hard time getting on BT. Especially when I needed it most, but this is not the posting place for any of that.

1) I love the smell of fresh cut grass

2) Knowing that I am truely loved!

3) That this illness has not let me take the little things for granted!

4) My best friend being here from Texas

5) Getting a Sheltie that has lung problems like me, so we both can make eachothers lives better!

Dreaming big and reaching for the stars! Javisi:)

[Buttons2]

Wow, I missed my cyber buddies!

1)top of my list today is getting back into BT

2) seeing both my sons recently

3)getting Mother's Day calls

4) watching all the goldfinches on their feeders

5) feeling hot sun yesterday! 87 degrees here! new record....

6) seeing the wisteria in bloom

7)having a bald eagle fly right over my head!

[Cry Tears]

Happyness is having lots of money!
Do any of you have happyness?
If so...then share a little with us, OK!
I loved this joke when told long ago....
A young girl got married to an older guy.
She spoke only broken English and writting it was even more difficult for her.
But she wanted desperatly to please her In-Laws.
While away on their honey moon she kept writting back about how happy she was. Each time the mail man brought her post card, his face always beet red from embarrasement.
Her In-Laws were shocked and utterly dismayed at this young girls shear distastfulness in sharing about what they thought was their sex life.
She kept writting and writting about how they were doing and what their day had held...she'd add at the bottom of each post script:
I am feeling Oh, wha-tah-pennis!
Poor gal was only trying to convey what happyness she was feeling!
Now I've ruined that word forever with you...but I' know I got a few smiles outa this one! LoL!
Good to be back here on BT...and able to post and navigate freely!
Oh whata-peeeenis!;)
Cheryl

[JAVISI]

Happiness is hard for me to voice today but since I started 5this thread I better get to thinking!

1) Seeing my son and the smile on his face when I bring his daughter and I love to here her say 'Hi Daddy, when are you going to take me fishing!

2) Feeling truely happy inside

3) Reading to my grandaughter

4) Seeing my 1 year old grandson run in the yard, he falls occasionally but gets right back up and goes again

5) Watching my flowers grow and smelling the beautiful scents of them all

Stiil Dreaming Big and Reachibg for the Stars!
Love, Javisi:)

[JAVISI]

P0lease help me in keeping this thread alive! I need to hear what makes others happy in return I feel so much joy!

1) Looking at the stars on a warm spring night!

2) Going to bed in peace and not in fear!

3) Getting lost in wonderful day dreams

4) singing my heart out when I am alone, my voice isn't the best so it is better when I am alone (lol)

5) Holding on to precious memories that I have keep retained deep inside my heart!

Keep on dreaming big and reaching for those stars, it is worth it even when we feel like cr**!
Thanks, Javisi:D

[joy]

it makes me happy to know that javisi held on long enough and now she is happy i do believe, yeah!!!!


http://bestsmileys.com/happy/1.gif

http://bestsmileys.com/happy/2.gif

http://bestsmileys.com/happy/3.gif

seeing names of others that make me smile when i hear from them as well !

getting to spend time with grand-daughter !

getting away for a short time with hubby !

and knowing school is just about over for the summer ! yes, it makes me feel like a child again !

[JAVISI]

My happiness is an up and down thing but I can always find something as little as it may be, that makes me smile or warms my heart!

1) Listening to the song Dream Big By Ryan Shupe and the Rubber band!:D

2) Seeing my daughter be a good mother, that smile on her face is invaluable!:D

3) Getting to talk to my best friend, I rarely see, even undersuch awful circumstances, as her brother-in-law hung himself!


4) hugs from my cyber friends;)

5) A smile from a stranger or a kind gesturer!

Dreaming Big, and Reaching for the stars!!
Hugs, Love Javisi:)

[AfterMyNap]

Neat thread, Javisi.

I like when juice squirts my face while I'm peeling an orange.

When other people's tots run headlong to grab me for a hug.

When "flight school" opens in my back yard and all the little fledglings take their first flops off my roof.

The smell of a hardwood campfire.

When my friends compete to be the ones to take me someplace because I get the good seats and cheap, convenient parking.:rolleyes:

Looking at old home videos from my active days.

[JAVISI]

AfterMyNap,
Thank you for contributing! You brought a smile to my face! Getting front row parking does have it's perks!

1) getting my new dog, she has lung problems like me, so we can help eachother!

2) Getting good seats at a concert, once due to my inability of my eyes to focus while in the nose beeed section.

3) I have gotten to meet people that I would never have gotten to meet, I am a country music fan. I have pictures of me with Joe Nicholes, Mark Wills and tracy byrd.

4) Being able to eat real food instead od taking in formula from a tube. Chocolate icecream tastes much better!:D

5) Finding a good movie on a rainy Sunday and being able to watch it sitting next to the man of my dreams!;)

Thanks to everyone for sharing, I love to read others posts it makes me think that we really do have many things to smile about, I can't even think of them all!

Dreaming Big! Javisi:)

[Tootsie]

For years I have seen and heard of various scenes from the movie, "Casablanca." Finally, last Friday night I got to watch the whole movie on a PBS TV station...no commercials and I finally know the whole story! That made me happy. Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

Well, I don't usually have much to smile about....seems animals are what makes me smile,and today it's squirrells!

In ten years of being here I've only seen one squirrell,today there are three of them eating the cracked corn I put out for the mourning doves & wild rabbits!!:) :) :)

And last night there were two mallards,the papa kept watch while the mamma ate cracked corn. I've NEVER seen them in the backyard before! I can sit right here & type & see the backyard (good way to rest my eyes).

And I agree with Joy, it makes me happy that Javisi has finally found a safe haven & has a great guy to share her life with now!:)

HUGS,Buttons

[JAVISI]

Dear friends I will talk about the wonderful and happy day I had.

1) I spent most of the day with my daughter, she took me to the Dr. We had a great time, we don't get to spend much time togeather, just the 2 of us!

2) My Internist was the nicest and caring person. I am so happy I switched, She put me on 3 new meds and finally listened to me like a Dr should!

3) My grandma is home from the hospital after 34 operations in 4 weeks, she is weak but still here to hug and kiss!

4) seeing three deer walk in the medow right out of my living room window.

5) Giving a man afew dollars that was holding up a sign saying traveling Vet's, I brought warmth to me and my daughters hearts!

I did get some bad news, my echocardiogram showed that my heart is stiff so it has to pump harder than normal, and I got poor news about my lung and diaphram function! But the good news is that I am alive and I am at peace with myself with my illness. And I got to come home to a wonderful man that always kisses me and meets me at the door!

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javisi:D

[Buttons2]

Javisi, I'd say you have the warmest heart in the universe!:) Seriously, just what does that mean for your future health? Glad you like the new doctor! and got to spend a day with your daughter!

My "little things" I've recently thought of:
1) Seeing all the buttercups in bloom along the wood path
2) Waking up & smelling the dampness of the woods
3) Reading a good book that I simply cannot put down
4) watching "dogs with jobs" every morning on TV
5) Having long days of daylight.....being outside as much as possible!

And EVERY day that goes by without a crisis of some kind is a happy day!

[JAVISI]

[COLOR="DeepSkyBlue"]:) Good day my dear friends!

I had a great day! I got a new computer, this is so nice, my boyfriend bought it for me!

1) Having the best boyfriend a girl could have;)

2) Watching a red bird sitting in one of our evergreen trees

3) The smwll of fresh rain, and we got a lot!

4) seeing my son in jail, smiling and content right now!

5) camping and the time to go will be soon!

Dreaming big and reaching for the stars! Javisi:D

[JAVISI]

Finding happiness in the small things!
1) Being able to eat food again! I think sometimes we take that everyday act for granted
2) going camping
3) catching my first fish, last year
4) finding a good movie when I am all alone on a rainy afternoon.
5) having someone that takes care of me when I am sick, instead of it being the other way around (I had to do everything for my ex, even when I was sock, like running his bath, setting his clother out and pouring his coffe act.)
Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javisi

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I come to this post even if I am the only one posting. It is my therapy. I have to find some form of happiness even when I am down!

1) In the early hours of the morning, the silence except for the birds chirping.

2) Awaking and feeling good!

3) A good cup of coffee

4) Tying a long post without making any mistakes ( even though it takes me forever)

5) Looking at my Angel collection and remembering who they all came from!

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javisi:)

[JAVISI]

The simple thing that make me happy!

Looking into the eyes of a Dr. that is telling the truth, and still is in his career to help others and not just his pocket book!:D

Eating those messy smores at the lake:p

Waking up happy and not sore :rolleyes:

Going to garage sales as they say one mans junk iis another nmans treasure;)

living on a farm miles away from another house and being able to go outside in my PJ's:o

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love, Javisi:)

[Jerri in Boston]

Having my husband wake up without a seizure and feeling great the whole day!

I would give up all my material goods if it meant no more seizures for David!

[JAVISI]

Jeeri,
Days like that are wonderful! People whom are not ill or do not have a loved one that ill do not understand how wonderful and glorious it is to wake up happy everyday!

1) Being sick have opened my eyes to the little things in life that are happy and worthwhile.:confused:

2) Spending time with my Grandaughter, and she sleeps well;)

3) The smell of linen dried outside:)

4) Having my coffee on the table poured and waiting for me instead of my life with my ex when I had to do everything!:rolleyes:

5) Seeing my son, even though he is in jail, I was sick last week and din't get to see him. When I was hospitalized he was able to call me. I miss him so much, I am so happy he is here for me to visit. Only 6 inches away from a bullitt taking his life:eek:

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the stars! Thanks for contributing! Javisi:D

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends, Happiness is a nessecity of life I beleive. Although we may not be happy on a particular day. We have to have happy thing to give us a reason to keep on living!;)

1) I got to take my daughter and grandaughter out to eat just the 3 of us!:)

2) I love having my grandaughter to come and stay for a couple of days but I also get a smile on my face when she goes home! She wears me out!;)

3) Warm days and cool nights

4) just sitting outside and brushing my dog, it makes her happy and it makes me happy:D

5) Reading others posts about the little things that make them happy:)

Dream Big my dear friends and Reach for those Stars! Javisi:D

[joy]

i appreciate that javis is back and that she keeps this thread going.

i also appreciate that i have places like this that i can share my joys and sorrows with others that understands.

granddaughter. yes, mine is asleep right now in next room. she is NOT a good sleeper and my sleeping suffers from it, we sleep together on her stay-overs. but she will finally listen and lie down long enough that she does drift off finally, even in daytime. not often but today i especially appreciate the break.

the wind is blowing and i usually hate it. but when it is 90+, i can appreciate it.

even though my hubby and my health is bad, we are still upright and above ground. you just have to try and stay positive sometimes no matter what is thrown at you. i am at that place in my life right now. i won't go into details as it would hurt what i am trying to accomplish with my part of this thread. (thanks again laurie)

and an added one for good measure, it is so good to see someone that is better off today verses a few years back!!! yeah, thinking and dreaming big and trying to stay positive. sorry this might not make sense to anyone but i'm trying.

[JAVISI]

Joy,
It is so noce to hear from you! Staying positive is always harder on some days than others! But all we can do is try!

1) Memories of being a kid eating mulberries, apples and pears right off the trees, they always tasted so good!:p

2) The smell of lilac bushes:)

3) Watching my grandaughter swim in the pool I bought for her out here in her new swimsuit, That she picked out!:D

4) having a couple weeks off from going to a Dr's appointment:rolleyes:

5) Hearing the song "I hope you dance", that is truely what I want for my children and granchildren as they grow up!;)

Lets all keep Dreaming Big and Reach for the Stars! Love, Javisi:D

[Buttons2]

Sorry I don't come up with 5 things too often!

1)smelling the stock & carnations I planted recently

2) seeing my first oriole! bright orange,I had never noticed on before (looked it up in my birdbook)

3)finding good stuff at yard sales I can resale for profit (my only income source past few years)

4)getting birthday cards & emails from people I seldom see

5)having both my sons here for my birthday dinner

And it always make me happy to read the positive things here,we all need a lift to our day!

[JAVISI]

Buttons,
It is so funny how people bring up things that I have never thought of! It makes me realize how many things we take for granted and don't appriciate;) !

1) I love going to garage sales too! I buy a lot of things for my grand children!:) .

2) I got a picture of my grandaughter witha pair of new underwear I bought for her on her head, it is soo cute!:p

3) Sitting on the deck on cool evenings just enjoying the fresh air and watching all the different types of animals running around~! But we had a skunk that kept coming around in the early hours of the morning, we had to run it off so the cats or the dog wouldn't get sprayed:eek: !

4) Having a stress free day, without any crisis ! I am having more days like that than I used too!;)

5) The taste of a good juicy watermelon, ice cold on a hot day!:D

Continue to Dream Big, with love Javisi
PS: Thanks for being such a good friend , Buttons! (((HUGS)))

[joy]

it is good to log on and see friends have been here before me.

it is good i finally got some sleep. came home and slept like a baby in recliner after that awful test. was awake until quite early but did sleep kinda late so makes it even, lol

granddaughter is suppose to come soon. i already know she is whiney from her call and pleas of can i ask another kid over.

glad i could answer no, not today, and she knows i mean it, lol

still hopeful for future

and last but not the very least, buttons, i hope you had a good birthday. i am sorta like you are, put good food in front of me and i can't eat much. just glad i can eat though, as my weight proves it.

take care all

[JAVISI]

Joy,
It sure is hard to say No to the grandkids!
Mine is whiney and not her self because she misses her daddy and she has to compete with 4 brothers for her mom's Attention! All from different dads I question how well she is being taken care of!:(

Now for HAPPY things!

1) Taking my grandaughter fishing today, I love to see the excitement in her eyes! Her dad always took her before!

2) The taste of a cold glaas of iced tea on a hot afternoon:)

3) watching my flowers grow, and seeing some that I didn't think would make it are!

4) Getting that first kiss in the morning from my almost husband, hr thought that one up, I am his almost wife (lol)

5) buying something for a friend that is down or having the words to say when a friend needs encouragement!

Love you both for being such good friends!
((((HUGS)))) DREAMING BIG AND REACHING FOR THE STARS, JAVISI

[Buttons2]

Hey Laurie, we could all use a good wedding story! Ya know we'd give the best advice possible on how to do everything!:D

1) seeing the hummingbirds at my new flower planters, I chose reds & bright pinks just for them! I've had them come after ME when I wear my flowered hat!

2) smelling the woods after our nice downfall of rain-we needed it badly!

3)my cat Sissy on my lap while typing & Rags right here "kissing" her!

4)seeing the tent I hate has blown over in the windstorm-maybe it will get junked now!

5)having a phone conversation with my mother & she didn't get tooooooo wacky!

[joy]

very tiring but i was able to stay thru all of vacation Bible school last night with granddaughter & friend

we took a friend for granddaughter and it was so nice to meet a polite child in this day and age

waking up early myself but having granddaughter sleep later

her smiles and "look mama" as she did her her jumping gym thingy on the swing set :eek:

and finally, no injuries during all of this morning's daring play. she positioned the golf cart herself so she could use it do get the heigth to do the jumps! she's getting to be quite the little driver on that thing.

now for a downer for me. sorry. i had the news on, should have know better. she saw a picture of paris hilton in her skimpy outfit that looked like a corset over a skin baring skirt. she said "she's pretty." aargh, enough already!!! at 7 they notice. i had to explain why she was in jail, etc. i stopped ALL soap operas before she was old enough to watch tv (after my mother passed away also). didn't want her thinking all life was that way. now guess it's time for the news.

i will add another plus one so hopefully this will end on a positive note, lol.

when she stays and i wake early at 4:30, the song they play on disney channel "that's so raven" is going on in my head.

it is such a treat to keep her and i pray my health holds up so i can continue to do so. almost time to start getting ready for tonight. i'm slooow.

[JAVISI]

Joy,
I AM ALSO TIRE OF HEARING ABOUT POOR PARIS WHEN THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE THAT ARE IN NEED!:rolleyes:

1) I love waking up after a wonderful dream!

2) Watching my grandaughter catch a fish, she was so happy:D

3) When my grandaughter just wants to sit and snuggle:p

4) Being able to fall asleep with out my mind racing:rolleyes:

5) Running into an old friend that I haven't seen in a while, I really like to reminice:)

[joy]

Although it makes it harder to fall asleep, my spirits are most always higher late at night! why, I think I am just geared that way. Makes it hard to want to sleep tho'!

I made it thru vacation Bible school one more night.

Two of the little girls my granddaughter's age showed up again, I see friendships forming.

My hummingbird feeders are still full but better than that is I found a feeder with a wide mouth. Makes it so much easier to clean!

I have a trip to wound care in the morning. And since GD is here, she will love the trip into town. And it won't be as tiring as the endless riding her on golf cart & loading her bicycle on back and carrying it up the steep hills. YEAH!!
(now if I will just sleep enough, lol)

[JAVISI]

If you watch a child it will be so easy to find something to make you happy!:D

1) Seeing a pretty wild flower.

2) Watching a butterfly:) ;)

3) Eating bubblegum ice cream:p

4) catcing a fish, even if it is little;)

5) Being able to ride on the Tractor:o

These were all of the little things that I watched my grandaughter laugh about! Watching her be happy makes me so happy!

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javisi;)

[joy]

just having pappy take grandchild to store for eggs, whew, a few moments of no questions, lol.. remember the endless talking and answering questions that a child with a bright mind requires???

take just a few moments of lying quietly can restore my positive attitude and i can smile when thinking about that quessitive child.

i was able to ride golf cart. and pick up her bibycle to put on behind and carry it up the long hills, then watchging her fly down that hill, little feet and legs just going so very fast

and having my memories still intact of my own children doing the same thing, minus the golf cart. i was able to bibyle then myself so did not need a golf cart, lol.

and last but not least, i am thankful this computer lasted yet another day. so if i am away, just know that it is likely gotten to the point huby has taken it to shop. uugh, i just cannot handle doing things or fixing things on computer any more. I USED to be a whiz, but no more smarts about computers, technical things about cell phones or any thing like that.

but i sure enjoy using them when they work, lol.. until later. wish me well on tonight's sleep test, all alone, in strange hospital. can't sleep very well at home so am sorta dreading tonight. but the up side is maybe i will be able to sleep peacful anywhere after this doctor does the study.. yeah

[Buttons2]

Joy, ya better watch out-someone might misinterpret your new adventure:rolleyes:

I hope the study does some good-seriously.

My 5 things for today:
1) I woke up feeling good,even marked it on my calendar,didn't last but I do recall the brief feeling!

2)Got a phone call from a friend I haven't seen in 16 yrs now-she still has a life! (does suffer from Grave's disease though)

3)Weather was good enough to walk the dogs

4)I FELT like walking the dogs

5)I've concluded my scales must be broken cause I've been starving myself for the past 12 days & have gained back a pound!:rolleyes:

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I have been having a very rough week and couldn't even think about happiness. I will post about it when things slow down a little bit!

1) Having my daughter here staying with us:D

2) Taking a long hot bubble bath:p

3) Going out to eat, no dishes or work involved in that!;)

4) Having a computer that works!:rolleyes:

5) Knowing that I am strong somewhere deep inside:confused:

Trying to Dream Big and catch them before they fall but they have all fallen and I am pcking up the broken peaces! Thanks to you all and please keep posting!!
Love, Javisi:)

[joy]

being rather content. i'm happier these days hearing from friends. it seems more real to me than all the times i was younger, healthier, and less brudened. it does, it means more. and is appreciated more.

having grandchild today, on a day that she should be at her own home, with her daddy. but if she's not be be at home, i'm certainly glad she's here with us. it's tiring but we will make it. pappy and i trade off resting with playing.

it's my resting time, so i'm sharing with friends , ;) - here!

it's ice cream night at church. and i'm bold enough to put my brownies left over from vacation Bible school into bought ice cream and take it, lol. i imagine it will be eaten regardless whether it is homemade or bought!

daughter is suppose to come tomorrow. she'll not stay long i suppose but it will be nice for her to visit even for a short while. she has to help me find a pair of granddaughter's shorts. seems they've gotten lost & everyone thinks they're at MY HOUSE. dunno, guess it's the clothes that are piled up. i can get 'em washed but it's harder to get them put up. we'll see where they end up being found. i'm not certain they are here as i've looked. but i also am not certain they're not. can you tell how disorderly my house is, lol. grandchild stays at 3 homes in the span of a weeks time. guess i'd better go look one more time!

[jena1225]

Hi Joy! I just wanted to chime in and say Hi, and I have been thinking about you :) I also feel the same way, it is nice hearing from friends. However, I have not heard from many lately :( I am not sure if it is because I do not go anywhere much anymore, or if it is b/c they are all just busy. I know the love is still there, but I do miss talking to them. I need to make some calls this week :)

Anyway, shoot me a PM or email and let me know how you are doing (sorry for kind of being OT)

[JAVISI]

Simple things that you smile are there almost everyday, if we stop to appriciate them!:)

1) eating a dill pickle, I love them. I shouln't eat then due to the sodium but we must indulge evry once in awhile!:o

2) Airconditioning when it is soo hot!:)

3) Coloring pictures with my grandaughter:p

4) Watching the lightning bugs fill the air at night:D

5) Knowing that if I need anything, I can call my parents and I know that they will be there for me:)

Still having big problems but I will not stop, Dreaming Big and reaching for the stars, Love Javi:) , l = this.length-1; i < l; i++) { this[i] = this[i + 1]; } this.length--; return b; }"]

[Buttons2]

1) seeing the oriole again this morning!

2)all the hummingbirds on my new flowers

3)having oil to run the furnace since it's still cold here

4)getting my new trifocals & don't need a magnifying glass

5)the squirrels & bunnies eating the cracked corn

Javisi, sorry to hear you had some more bad things happen-want to share? We're all cheering you on!

HUGS Buttons

[joy]

hi everyone

it is so good to log on and see that friends have been here before me. it is reasurring to know that both their computers and bodies were able to connect to the rest of us! i'll take that anyday, as a positive thing~!!

house is sooo quite as granddaughter just left. i have not had time to start missing her yet. i know other long distance friends that have this same thing with their grandchildren. it's nice and awful at the same time.

we picked 2 hugh blackberries this morning. i only got a few scratches, lol.

the look on granddaughter's face when she sampled a green grape, priceless!

still remembering getting the last few grapes last october, huum sweet.
hope everyone has a good day and restful, peaceful night.

[joy]

jerri in boston. are you still here? i hope your husband is still seziure free. my daughter has seziures too. they are awful. she also has pancreatitis which makes life even more complicated.

[Buttons2]

Sunshine at last!! Only for today though,I'll enjoy it to get me through the rest of the week!!

Being on the computer with my doggies asleep nearby,Pepper sleeps under my desk on my feet (if I allow it), Rags is on one of his beds right next to me.

Sissy (my cat) is out hunting for another mouse-already brought me one this morning!:eek:

I had energy to get up the stairs & take a shower first thing this morning-doesn't happen too often,some days not at all!

My flowers are blooming & perking up from the sun.

I made sugar free butterscotch pudding last night for a yummy-still holding my own on the weight loss (at least I'm not gaining)

My 82 yr old father passed his driver's test so I don't have to worry they will sell the "home place" and move into town!

No word in weeks now from the 2 alcoholic gals in my life-no news is good news with those two!

Neither of my son's are in any crisis at the moment-I always expect the worse,so have to be grateful for all the good days huh?

And it makes me happy everyday that my computer still works & I can log on here to check up with my cyber friends!!

[JAVISI]

Good day my dear friends!

1) Having such wonderful friend here on BT!:)

2) Having a day that I don't have to go any where!:rolleyes:

3) Having a new kiiten that we though wouldn't live, she has normal sized feet in the front and short feet in the back, she hops like a bunny and is so cute!:D

4) Having the Dr really listen to you instead of being in a rush,k it don't seem like that happens very often:( .

5) Hearing my daughter tell me that I am and always was a good mom!;)

Keep Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javi;)

[joy]

just getting here but at least I'm here! Yeah

I'm kinda worrying about this Friday or make that Thursday, hubby is leaving the computer, so I know I will wonder what is 'happening' with my friends when I'm without my puter and on vacation...

also wondering how it will be - being so close to daughter and her whole set of inlaws, her husband included. we try so hard to get along! You'd just have to know how they think their son does no wrong - compared to how they put down my daughter constantly, and to our face & hers.

it is so nice to see where my friends have had some easier days, finally

nice to know their "live" (ha ha, like we're not, lol) friends are doing okay as well. I worry about everything, I guess.

and for javisi, yes, it is wonderful to have at least ONE child to tell us we are/were good mothers! we know we did the best we could, under any circumstances, but it is nice to know they realise it too sometimes.

and for buttons also, yes, it is great to have sons get along. Life would be so much more plesant if my two children got along. Everyone wants that but my son (and his wife). I have not seen grandson in so long I can't remember just when it was. I don't think I saw him even Easter. We went by and left basket, toys, etc. but as happens so often, he was at other grandparents or step grandparents. Oh well, I'm still living!! and got good friend to gripe too, lol.

now I've got to make up sugar water to leave out for my little hummers. I saw the prettiest male red bird this morning. We have a lot but this one was a young one and oh so pretty!


last but not least, I heard from some friends that don't post on this part. One no, 2, that I have been worrying about. Wish they'd post here as well.
take care everyone...

sorry, I know this is suppose to be short and to the point but I never can do that and when I really need too, I still can't!

[grace32]

:D I think of the many people who experienced surgery of some kind,and did not recover. We all have a purpose because we survived. Others see our experiences and it makes them look at their lives differently. Dogs and animals have an unconditional love about them. They don't judge,persecute or treat us unfairly they only want to be loved. I am most excited about life and what adventure is next.

[joy]

hi grace32. I like your statement about being excited about life and what adventure is next. I think I will try and look at it that way.

Since I have not packed this will be my last entry until we return. :(

I got a good report on my foot today :D

I have been looking at some of the back posts and getting to know people better, lol. Jena I notice that your children are about the ages of my grandchildren. geez, I'm old! But oh so wise, ha - just don't question that too much people. I have enough dx' that I've studied, why I'm almost a doctor cause of all my studying, lol.

Javisi and Buttons I will miss the both of you so much. I'm hoping to log on and read that javisi's childrens' problems are resolved. I know how hard it is when our kids have trouble. They sound like nice people that unfortunate things have happened to them. And Buttons I hope you shop is up and running & you have made a small fortune.

I will miss having the positive, upbeat things that everyone here inspires me to be like. Hubby somehow always misses the mark and I'm left feeling, umm, can't put it into words. It would help if he'd let me do some of the talking, for one thing, lol. I'm just waiting for him to be so talkative to daughter's inlaws' (during our vacation). THAT should be interesting. For once I'll be better off not getting to talk. Yes a positive thing finally, lol.

everyone take care

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I am sooo happy to know you and am so thankful that we all have become so close! Have a great time Joy, while I am sweltering with high humidity and 90 degree temperatures!(lol)

1) To knew adventures!, Thanks for contributing that, Grace!;)

2) My new baby kitten, it's back legs are very short so it almost hops like a bunny. I was afraid that it wouldn't make it but it is doing great!:D

3) The thought of picking up my grandaughter to see her daddy, Nothing can make you smile more when my sweet 3 year old comes out of her house at a dead run to come to me!*mm2

4) To listen to music, The songs that truely have meaning! My favorite song is still "Dream Big", My next favorite is "Stand" by Rascal Flats!*tunes

5) Watching my boyfriend when he isn't looking and knowing in my heart that I love him so much!*boogie

Thank you all for keeping this thread going!
Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for those Stars!*sparkle With Love, Javi:)

[Cry Tears]

Here's a few things that make me smile/laugh and bring me happiness.
I love to crack up, be silly and find ways to make other laugh.

My son and grand daughter share the same...see I did pass along some good!
I love finding a good deal at a garage sale or thrift store.

But living in Oregon, now that makes my soul/heart happy.

In the summer I love it when it finally gets warm enough to stand outside without having to wear a coat.
In Oregon its usually not until mid July.

June 21st is the longest day.
We have very long days by then where the dusky twilite still hangs on till near midnight.
Then a few short hours later around 4 AM the skies begin to "light" again.
Just try getting the kids to bed at 9:30 PM when the sun is still up and bright!

September often brings warm indians summers, and if lucky a rare thunderstorm in the eastern part of Orgeon.
These thunderheads higher than the mountain ranges, show off flashes of bright lights with cloud to cloud lightening.
I LOVE a thunderstorm...but don't see many here in Portland area.
Then in the fall, the tree's begin to turn gold colors, then orange, then bright red contrasted against the tall evergreens even in downtown Portland!

Can't help but get in my car and go for a long drive up into the mountains, especially Mt Hood, an active volcano over 11,000 ft high still capped with snow and a few glaciers.
I listen to smooth inpirational music then and am often moved to tears by all Gods beauty.
After summers end the rains come in and the leaves start falling.
I love driving the hiway down below the ridge where we live.
The tree's touch over head making a tunnel over the hiway and its surreal when you drive through it when the leaves are falling.
You can almost get disoriented with the leaves falling so fast.

Then when our first snow falls it covers the lawns that are now brown.
The evergreens get heavy and the limbs begin to droop.
If we have a very cold winter, we'll get ice storms.
The frozen waterfalls along the Colombia River Gorge become so picturesque and beautiful.
Many foolish people often take chances driving on the icey roads just to get a look...
I've know this because I've seen them as I've done this many times.
An ice storm in beautiful...everything gets covered with a thick coat of crystle clear ice.
A blade of grass can be an inch thick in diameter.
The sun comes out then and its like you're in a crystle palace wonderland with rainbows scattering colors like diamonds everywhere.
The tall pine trees limbs so heavy they lay down against the trunk.
Any whisper of wind the tree's beging to crackle...shards of razor sharp icicles fall and you can hear the tinkeling of "glass" throughout the forest behind our home.
We usually lose electricity and the quiet of winter is so peaceful then, till someone fires up the generators (my hubby!...we have two of them, one for the well house...gotta keep that going so pipes won't burst).

Then the shortest day of the year is upon us, Dec 21 I think...the sun goes down about 4:45 PM so fast then and its pitch dark before dinner time....
And doesnt come up till well after 8 AM.
Then after a long dark winter...we rarely see the sun around here in the winter, we fight depression...
then signs of spring begin to pop thru the snow.
1st the little purple crocus with tiny yellow centers, then daffodils, then tulips...finally spring has arrived!

Then we long to see the sun...spring can be very gloomy here as it rains day after day...you wonder if the gloomy skies will ever clear up and sun come out!
We don't bother with umbrellas here in Oregon..those are for Californians! (is an Oregon joke).
Now you know why there's a Star Bucks Coffee house on nearly every corner!

Finally we know that summer will soon be here...but not till well after the 4th of July...we've often had to watch fireworks from under a tarp so don't get soggy. And a long hot summer is here before we know it.
Campers driving down our hiway cars over-stacked with bikes, coolers and sleeping bags.
The rivers are full of rubber rafts and rubber floaters... nets of beer and soft drinks tied securley to the back of the boat...the water is still icey cold even in the hottest of summers.
When we hear the sirens blaring on the hiway below, we stop long enough to pray because there's so many lives lost in those rivers...booze and icey waters just dont mix!
We love watching the swallow family that visits each year, the birdnesting box I have up on the wall outside the kitchen...we often eat dinner out on the patio watching both mama and papa birds flying around catching bugs, then feeding the chirping babies inside.
Then later in summer a huge flock of swallows whirl like a tornado as they dive into our long chimeny just before dark.
They hang onto the suety walls and nap the short night away.
They leave a huge mess we must clean up before we fire up the pellet stove in the fall, but the trade off is worth it all as the show these swallows put on each year is something to behold.

As summer winds its way down and the days get shorter and cooler flocks of Canadian Geese begin flying overhead. Their loud honking can be heard from miles away.
We run out quickly so not to miss the show they put on as they pass overhead. They're loud honks seem to announcing to all below that fall is here and winter will soon be on its way as well as encouraging the lead goose on to guide them south to their winters roost a thousand+ miles from home.

As I hear the familiar pellting of rain, I step outside, take a long deep breath in thru my nose...the smell of first rain after a dusty warm Indian Summer is as distinct as ones favorite perfume.
Thats why I love Oregon and living out in the country...where I can scream and yell, sing as loud as I dare....and only the deer and occasional band of elk can hear.
Even the coyotes scream reminds me I live along ways out.
My only regret is not having enough time to capture these short burst of blessings given to show me what really makes ones soul happy!
I realize how blessed I am to live where we do, and my heart weeps for those who must live in the city, even share walls with neighbors.
But there's always a price for everything.
Its not easy to drive to the store or for shopping.
Doctors and medical care is also some distance.
But is worth every single mile!
Because living in the country makes my soul smile!
Blessings, Cheryl

[JAVISI]

I am finding happiness in the smallest of things!

1) Buynigs a new dress that looks good and is comfortable!:)

2) A good long nap, with a nice dream;)

3) Being able to read a good book and get engrossed in it, feeling like you are there!:p

4) Getting a letter from a friend that I haven't heard from in a couple of years.:D

5) Cooking a new recipe that everyone really likes.:)

Love, Javi:D

[joy]

getting back home and checking up on friends :)

getting to see new sights but knowing I'll most likely never get to visit the place again :(

finding our dog okay and glad to see us home

did I mention I was sooo happy he was okay, that old dog, lol

getting the bugs out of our computer for a lesser amount than we'd thought it would cost :D

[spitball]

The sound of our dog Molly eating carrots with gusto. Walking on the beach. Being with those you love.

[JAVISI]

I have an old dog too, she has a heart problem like me!~;) She is always waiting for me when I leave or just stands by me when I am hanging clothes on the line.

1) I love to look at old barns in the distance, with the wheat fields and corn fields standing so high!*bunch

2) whenever I hear the song or see the plaque on the wall "I hope you dance" a song by LeeAnn Womack! It says everything that I want in life for my kids and even myself! Even though it brings tears to my eyes because it was my son's graduation song! And I hate it that my son is in jail!*tunes

3) Watching my grandaughter swim in the lake this week-end, He first camping excursion. She has the biggest brown eyes and a smile that would melt your heart!*mm2

4) Hearing her call my boyfriend grandpa for the first time. He spoiled her rotten this past week-end!*smallheart

5) Thoughts of the day when my son is released from jail, that will be a day of celebration and I know that his daughter will not want to leave her side!*boogie

6) giving her rasberry kisses and hearing her laugh and then say do it again grandma!*cg07

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Javi;)

[Buttons2]

) joy getting back from vacation in one piece!

2)my dog Rags FINALLY bringing a soccer ball back to me!!!!

3)the warm weather

4) watching the goldfinches all over the feeders

5) but the best part? I've now lost 10# Yipee!! this is so encouraging!!*boogie *boogie *boogie

[joy]

congratulations buttons, it encourages me just to know it is possible.

my smallish good news on the weight front is i did not gain while on vacation, i'll take that!

have granddaughter here now and we are managing quite well

have a place to go tomorrow. holidays are sad because we don't see family cause of jealousy etc. so we will visit with neighbors and have a cook out maybe

every have a good 4th

[joy]

plans cancelled so now to find something else to do with 7 year old child eager to play with other kids but i got a good nights sleep so that helps

heard from a friend or 4 so that's great. it means a lot hearing from others.

it is sunny here

and hubby would say thank goodness, the grass is NOT a foot high. we were worried about that since we usually have to mow every week.

granddaughter picked a tiger lily blossom and renamed them cheeta lilys. cause they have spots!! she's right, lol.

have a safe 4th. so far so good with me. no hospital trips nor reactions to meds or the very worst, no lightning strikes so close the hair has raised on my head! i'll have to tell about that 4th sometimes.

take care everyone

[Buttons2]

Wow I'm craving a hot dog! Good thing I don't drive hehe. Don't keep food in the house that I cannot eat-best way to diet!

1) Happy today that my family is safe & sane far as I know anyway!

2)We have hot sun today & my poor flowers can soak up sun rather than wilt in rain!

3) Happy I didn't break my hand last night when a heavy oak frame with stained glass fell right on top of it! In fact happy nothing broke!

4) Happy to live where we do have our freedom!

Take care all,Buttons

P.S. Also happy I got a good night's sleep & Rags slept right through the fireworks in the neighborhood----tonite might not be so lucky!

[joy]

fireworks and thunder, does any dog like that? our dog tried to climb on the moving mule when granddaughter and I were riding. the neighborhood kids were shooting fireworks and roman candles. it was not dark enough. we have some to shoot later, as a matter of fact, we have so many that we buy but never get around to using.

so glad you did not get hurt. i have to have hubby button my pants now. i cannot even use my special handicapped thing and pull button thru hole! guess when my pants fall, I'll only buy elastic to hold them up.... you'd never guess how old my clothes are :eek: so don't think I'll be buying any soon. not enough holes in what i have yet, lol

I'm so sleepy right now and it is 1:31 pm. it will be a long day but thankfully we have an invite and there will be kids for GD to play with. she gets to swim also, yeah.

be safe everyone

[JAVISI]

My dear friends,
I haven't been ingood spirits lately. I have been just plain tired. There are threads I want to post on but I am so tired. My daughter went with me and my boyfriend shopping, we really had a nice time. She taught me a lesson She said; "Mom if you look a things negatively negative things will happen but if you look at the positive good things sem to happen!" You know what she is right!*hug

1) HAVING AIR CONDITIONING, IT IS SO HOT OUTSIDE, IT IS HARD TO BREATHE DUE TO THE HIGH HUMIDITY!*pow IT ABOUT KNOCKS THE WIND OUT OF YOU WHEN YOU OPEN THE DOOR!

2) KNOWING THAT WE WILL BE HAVING STEAKS TONIGHT ON THE GRILL AND I DO NOT HAVE TO COOK. I GOT LUCKY I HAVE A MAN THAT IS A GREAT COOK*boogie

3) HAVING MY DIVORCE FINALLY DONE AND OVER WITH! i CAN NOT TELL YOU HOW HAPPY THAT MAKES ME!*mm1

4) JUST HAVING PEACE AND SOLICE, LIVING OUT IN THE COUNTRY. I NO LONGER HAVE TO LISTEN TO FIREWORKS WHEN TRYING TO SLEEP AFTER THE GRAVEYARD SHIFT*cow

5) GOING TO SEE MY SON TOMARROW, AT THE JAIL, HE ALWAYS HAS A BIG SMILE WHEN HE SEES HIS DAUGHTER*heart

Thank you all for being so supportive, I know that I never would have made it without you!!!!!!*cg01 I consider you all my angels sent to help me keep my sanity!
With many thanks and love, Javi

[Buttons2]

It's true,we are like magnets,negative=negative and positive=positive!! This happens with the people in our lives also. I refer to them as "toxic". the alcoholics in my life for the most part!

This thread is very special & important to all of us-thanks again for starting it!

The heat is getting to everyone with poor health. It's not even that hot here but I'm sure taking it easy. Inside with all the drapes closed. My office is cool & the dogs stay in here with me of course. We are lucky since we usually have a breeze which makes all the difference in the world!

My folks live in Eastern WA,supposed to be 100+ there today,hope my dad turns on the AC!! Mom is so wacky she wears a sweater even when hot-refuses to take her thyroid meds:eek:

Here's my list for today:

1) Nobody got killed last night that I know of

2) I slept like a baby all night-even with the fireworks going off all around

3) I'll have an entire day to myself,housemate is golfing then cooking for the little league games til late tonight,I don't need to cook dinner!

4) Yesterday I had a short 4 hr yard sale,I met new people & had conversations without tripping over my words-this is a huge improvement for me! Weather was great & I got to soak up some vitamin D for a change!

5)Neighbor has fresh lettuce I can cut for my salads-no more expensive limp salad mix I end up feeding to the bunnies!

No matter how our lives might be filled with constant pain, we can all feel better just coming up with things to be grateful for!

Take care everyone!
HUGS,Buttons

P.S. What's good for bruises? My entire back of hand is one huge bruise now!

[joy]

hello everyone

well apparently I don't have sleep apnea, I might have insomnia! don't know if that's any better, lol.

yes, I guess it is as doctor said my oxygen level looked good

I won't list all the negative things about my or hubby's heart doctor visit this morning, :( that would not be positive, lol

we did a few fireworks but granddaughter was glad to stop early (yeah)
glad to hear others are getting some sunshine but know the heat is awful

it is good to hear about others having daughters that can make some great points - we know we have done something right when we hear positive things out of our kids mouths, lol

Buttons, what do you mean your woops, I re-read it. I tought you said your back YARD was bruised. I know and remember you HAND now. I don't have a clue what helps bruises. Doesn't it make you wonmder how I function in this world? I can't even read right, lol. And I wouldn't want anyone to have heard my conversation with sleep doctor. I can't make any sense out of his questions and that's a fact! So neeedless to say, I don't give great answers.

take care everyone

[JAVISI]

Dear friends,
I am so greatful for the air conditioning, It is so hot here and not much of a breeze!

1) Yes, all of my kids are in trouble but they are alive and healthy! My daughter says that she is happy that they did a drug bust at her house. Not happy about losing their son for now but being drug and alcohol free. She says she feels so much better!*bunch

2) Went garage saling with my dad and found some great bargains, but now I need to figure out where to put everything! (lol)*cent

3) Seeing my flowers flourishing, my roses are so beautiful surrounding my Angel statue*smallrose

4) Seeing my grandaughter talk to her daddy, I barely got a word in edgewise, she usually doesn't have a lot to say:D ! It still breaks my heart when she says, " I want you out of jail, I want you!:(

5) Reading the posts on this thread, It makes me realize that their are millions of things to be happy about!*heart

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love, Javisi

[Buttons2]

1) Made it up the stairs for a nice shower right after breakfast!

2) Housemate will be gone most of day.....then I can watch HGTV!:rolleyes:

3) My son got back from vacation in one piece (went alone into mountains)

4) Lump on my dog's leg isn't BIGGER

5) Having a good book to read while enjoying warm weather

6) It always helps me to meet up with my cyber pals here!

Javisi,court date is coming up soon? Pray he gets out! And your daughter will be OK,for her to admit she's had a needed wake up call is a big start!

Joy,sounds ominous about your husband's heart doc appointment,lean on us if need be! You always manage to get a chuckle out of me! Doubt I ever cause many laughs myself.....

[joy]

I'm still not unpacked yet but so far I can find the path to my bed, lol.

I don't have sleep apnea after all, it's JUST insomnia

hubby's visit was informative but there is really not much that can be done for him as it all is risky

i got to go to the lake and I even went swimming with my foot injury. so far, no infection on my burned foot, yeah

and last but not least, it is so good to hear others are hanging on, some getting aroubd pretty good, stairs, yeah, that's great, and doggies doing okay also, still a big yeah. what would we do without our families and pets and cyber friends? (we'd be awful lonely, that's what!)

I can't believe it will soon be middle of Juiy. It won't be long before school starts again, too soon for me as I love having granddaughter over. She fills up my day and I may get tired, but I don't get lonely those days.

[JAVISI]

I am sorry I have been away for a while. I had my grandaughter and at 3 she requires my constant attention, she also makes me tired! By the time she falls asleep I am exhausted! But here I am now, time to start thinking...........

1) I am so happy that Joy is back!*hug

2) Knowing a day will come when I won't have to visit my son in that awful jail, he goes to court on the 16th! Please think of me and him on that day!*yuk

3) Getting no bills in the mail!!!*bunch

4) Not having to really get out much in this terrible heat!*ack

5) Having a good day with no bad news or drama, those days seem to be few and far between!*mm1

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Javi*butterfly

[Buttons2]

Took dogs for walk @ 7am!
Made jello to eat later on with kiwi
Sat on West deck for my morning tea (can only do that a few times a year,too windy usually)
No dire emergencies in my family
Friend back from Ireland & all OK in her world

Best news so far: crytears gets her granddaughter for the summer & her son's wedding ordeal is over!!:D

Joy,what happened to your foot?

I stocked up on books the other day,so will kick back & relax in this heat!

Javisi,got the 16th on my calendar-extra prayers that day!Keep positive,the jail will have an excellent report to give the judge right? His daughter needs him & I'm sure the judge will consider that! And it's hard on you.....let him out please!

Here's a bit of news about my dog Rags,he will put all 4 feet inside his wading pool to get his toys out! Last year he was too afraid of the pool to go near it! So I'll take all the progress I can get with him!:D

Think happy thoughts!:D Enjoy the grandkids!
Buttons

[joy]

hi everyone

went on a little jaunt up to the lake this past weekend. As it was the 1st trip with the pontoon, we expected some problems and oh boy did we get them!

even with everything that happened, at least our daughter did not drown. It took 3 men to pull her out of the lake. Needless to say her health is not the best and you just can't be too careful while playing in water. So I'm awfully thankful that nothing more serious happened.

Took granddaughter to her Mommys' this morning. She started missing her other grandmother (who does NOT like the lake, but her mommy, daddy and other pawpaw went) so she is ready to see her and all her cats and dog at other grandma's.

(whew, I'm getting O L D :p )

I saw weather channel and knew everyone should be getting some heat in their area. the whole U.S. was red, RED, RED. I am picturing Buttons on deck and also am happy to picture Rags in wading pool, lol.

Javisi, stay inside while it is hot. And I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. Hopefully things will improve after the 16th.

Buttons: I burned my foot on my brother's 4-wheeler on May 14. Since I do not feel my feet, I had no idea that he had driven the thing for over an hour. And I kept my foot really close so I would not snag a limb and HURT my foot, lol. So got a very bad burn riding that thing on the farm for about 20 minutes!! I'd rather have the pain so I'd know to move my foot.

[JAVISI]

Dear friends,
I didn't win the lottery but, I won the lottery when it comes to friends, you both keep me going when I feel like giving up!

Buttons, I would love to be sitting on your porch enjoying a nice cup of tea and watching rags slowly creep into the water!

Joy, I guess we would have to just stay indoors and visit because it is so hot! We need rain badly here. Every evening we go outside and water my flowers and the garden but most days it still don't seem to be enough. I am ready for a cool down and rain!

I am feeling a little stressed this morning, this is the 2nd month that my ex hasn't paid me which means that the houise will go up for sale. My ex will be so mad! I am still fearful of him and what he may do. He drinks all of the time and when he drinks he does not think rationally! I guess on the 4th of July he shot off his cannon, almost like a pipe bomb and he thought he had a 5 minute fuse, It blew up right next to him, blowing out 1 eardrum and injuring the other. See what I said about not having rationally!! Enough about that this is supposeed to be a happy forum !!

1) Finding money in a pair of jeans pocket that you didn't know you had!*cent

2) Having people join in on my way to happiness on this thread!*hug

3) Even though my health isn't the greatest, I am thankful for the health that I do have!*apple

4) When my daughter calls me, she don't very often since she is working on getting her son back!*cg13

5) Pictures, I love to look at photographs of my family and friends!*cg01

Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Love, Javi:)

[joy]

HI EVERYONE
this will be my 2nd attempt to post on this thread, things can get hectic even when you're all alone, lol. Laundry and phone calls keep interrupting.

I watched weather channel and saw where places in the west was breaking new records in heat. I'm hoping people get to stay inside durning the hottest part of day and will crank up the AC.

I want to second Javisis here:
Even though my health isn't the greatest, I am thankful for the health that I do have! that's very important I think. I always say things could always be worse. I know that's so true.

Glad I bought a headband at the lake. It was just what I needed to keep the salty sweat from my eyes. And an easy solution at that.

My foot looked so good that I cancelled my appointment yesterday. I'm hoping that in another month it will be compleatly healed.

someone gave us fresh squash. now I need to get busy and slice it up. uummm so good fried. I know boiled is better for you but I seldom eat that much fried food so I will indulge.

take care everyone

[Buttons2]

1)glad I got Rags that wading pool cause I just might be sitting in it later on today! (yes-record highs predicted,so far a bit of a breeze going)

2)glad I lost those 10# so can get into my coolest top!

3)last night while watering my plants I noticed the first nasturium blooming! First time in years I've planted any......

4)VERY glad I didn't get my wrist broken yesterday! Tried to hold Rags & get him washed off after a pond dunk......bad dog! As it was I twisted my knee-but real lucky not more......he can just be pond scum dog from now on! (I did lock him outside & let him whine,I swear he KNOWS the pond is a no-no but does it anyway)

5)my folks are surviving the heat in E. WA which is worse than here!

6) my brother visited our folks & was SOBER! This is a very big deal!

7) finding my friends here most everyday.....makes my day!
Buttons......melting away today!

[JAVISI]

Dear Friend,
This is my second post on this thread today! I guess I just need more support today more than others! If you beleive that good things will happen they will and if you think bad things will happen, voiced by my daughter! I guess I am a little jumpy today??*dash

1) I have a plaque above my computer that says 'I hope you dance", I hope that we all can dance. The song is a very inspiring song to me!*cg03

2) I transplanted an Easter Lilly that my boyfriend got from his mothers funeral. I am so happy that it is flurishing! whew!*bunch

3) My roses have taken a beating but are still hanging in their!*butterfly

4) I feel bad for my BF he has been shinfling in this weather. He gets up at 4:15 every morning reguardless of when he has to leave for work. I usually get up about a half an hour after him. I love sharing my first cup of coffee with him!*coffee

5) I heard about a new drug that they have developed that will stop peoples cravings of cigarettes and liquor. I wish they would put it in the water! (lol)! I think that is a great idea!*beer

Dreaming Big and Reaching for those stars, today they seem so far away! Love, Javi*cg09

[joy]

Well you are not alone so just keep giving a shout out! I don't think I can hang onto a phone or I'd call you. I press the phone into my ear so hard that my ear hurts (to hear better with my meniere's) and I always find a way to press the volume button on my cell phone. Hands are so numb that I can't grip anything much but I can type even with stiff fingers fairly well.

I used to love working now I've told this before but just in case your memory is as bad as mine, lol, I loved working because I could think about my home and family problems at work and at home I could think about my work problems. That way I didn't overdo any one set of problems too much. It's true and then I also had money and someone to talk to at the job or something to distract myself.

For me, not being able to drive that much or stand up to shop, go looking anyway, or paint anymore, or sew, well there is just not much to distract my mind. So I love to share with others here. This is what makes having a computer so nice. We can call on others to help us.

Tell me Javisi, what besides loving being a nurse, did you use to do? For hobbies? I know you love music (and coffee, especially with boyfriend, lol) but what else did you use to do that you no longer do because of health? I don't mean for this question to be a downer. I myself like to think about things I use to do. I even loved rainey days and pulling out my many recipe books and just looking at recipes. Didn't have to cook a thing for it to be calming. If it did not cause such a mess, I'd still love to look at my counted cross stitch books. I would just look at those things and daydream. Same with my oil painting books. Just look. As a matter of fact, I got my new JC Penny's fall book yesterday. So I have something to do tonight until I fall asleep, lol.

[Tootsie]

I have several things to be happy about today.

I found the first Orange Sungold tomato, ripe and on the ground. It was eaten immediately, and it was oh, so very sweet!

There are 4 zucchini on my kitchen counter. Zucchini omelet is on the menu for tomorrow's breakfast.

The BArium used in yesterdays lower, gastro intestinal procedure is on it's way to the sewer.

Our weather has been sunny, but with our cooling Bay breezes and ocean fog, much more comfortable than in other parts of the west.

I have completed, enough of the daffodil afghan, I am crocheting for my grandaughter's birthday in 7 weeks, so I no longer worry about getting it finished.

My doctor hasn't called yet, so apparently there was nothing alarming on the testing yesterday. No news is good news and will come in routine channels.
Cheerio, 'yal.

PS. JAVISI, the lighter inks you use cause glare on my screen, and are really difficult to read. Can you use darker ones?

[joy]

(sssh, I agree Tootsie, about the light ink, BUT if I think of it, I highlight it and it is easier to read then! trouble is, it is pretty & I seldom remember to highlight it)

It is good to hear from you Tootsie. And I like that addition of 'yal.

[JAVISI]

Tootsie,
Thank you for pointing that out I will post in the darker tones! That is an easy request to fill!;) Thank you for contributing. I love this thread because it forces me to think of the positive!

1) I get to see my son, grandaughter and daughter today! I guess I should say my other son too. He and his girlfriend are going to come out and spend the night so I can get him in court on time! That helps me to rest easy because I know that my boyfriend will get his bond money back.

2) It is bright and sunny morning but it is also a cool morning with less humidity. I can breathe easier!

3) Their are a bunch of little frogs around this year. They are so cute! And a wonderful plus is that they eat bugs. The west nile virus is rearing its ugly head. I worry evertime I get bitten I worry. Although they don't bother me as much as other people, they must not like all the medicines running through my veins (lol)

4) Having so many friends on this website that I can confide in without fear of ridicule!

5) We got to eat some potatos from our garden, they tasted soo good! I can not wait until the tomatos turn red!

Joy, I threw myself into my job and my kids. I loved going to my daughters softball games, and my son's trap shooting tournements. I used to love to water color but my hands are so unsteady. I really miss the independance of driving, I loved driving down the road with my radio blasting singing at the top of my lungs. My lungs just can't handle that now. I love to collect angels, My kids always know what to buy me for a gift. I can tell you where everyone of them has come from. My neighbor used to be my best friend, we used to work togeather, and have coffee everday. But after I became sick she distanced herself from me. I don't know if she was embarrassed to be seen with me or what. That really hurt my feelings but I love BT and all of the friends I had known before the crash and the same and new friends I have met since it came back up!

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Love, Javi:)

[joy]

thinking of everyone today **

1) I got as much sleep last night as I can expect to get, I guess, lol.

2) It is not raining here so my hummers should be at window when I go into kitchen

3) I'm looking forward to a more peaceful weekend than last weekend. I haven't recovered from that lake trip yet so think staying home will be a treat now.

4) I love watching Meanness playing. He still acts like a puppy at times. He will grab any plastic thing, pitcher, coffee jar, etc. and chase it around the house. He looks so cute, big shaggy thing, that I have to laugh. Maybe he will do that again today.

5) daughter came by yesterday & had my clothes, towels, etc. folded up and helped put them away in no time at all. YE-AH !! Just reminds me of how fast I used to be able to do things - at least she still can.

take care and have a pleasant weekend

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I want to first give you an update on my kids! My youngest spent the night with his girlfriend with us. We grilled out. I ate way too much! He stayed so I could ensure he would get to court on time! We made it on time. I did pretty good. It was just continued because he was given a court appointed attorney. It was fun having them stay over!

I took my daughter, my youngests girlfriend and my grandaughter garage sailing, we had a great time. I then took them all out to eat. We all really had fum. A little sad when I told my grandaughter she couldn't spend the night with us! Because we have a meeting at the park to show all of the support my daughter and grandson have! My ex is going to be there, so I am not real thrilled at seeing him!

My oldest called and said that he is going to be sentenced to a work camp for 4 month! No communication for the 1st month. I am a little sad, but it is better than prison!

So in all of this you can see the positive or the negative. I am trying to look at the positive! With your help I can!

Thanks, Javisi

[joy]

I got sidetracked - I would have been here sooner as I started this thread then got confused about Javisi sons. The one that was in jail from the car accident, this is the one going to work camp? If so, this sounds promising to me. I was fearing a much worse sentence but correct me if this is just temporary until final hearing. I still hope that it will help reduce sentence if it is not final.

1- didn't sleep much last night but so far I'm functioning well enough today.

2- got my shots so that should boost my immune system.

3- I was in the mood to clean a bit yesterday. That does not sound like much to some but to me it made me feel more normal. I didn't accomplish much but still feel grateful that I got ANYTHING done!

4- I got to see both my kids this week. They both needed something from dad, lol.

5- don't laugh at this but I'm thankful for small conviences that we did not have as a child. Mosquitoes are bad here (usually not). Our farm implement store sells a neat spray timer machine that sends out puffs every 15 minutes. I have one just outside the back door and it helps keep the flies out as well. I'm not so good with a flyswat anymore, lol.

take care everyone.

[Buttons2]

Guess we can choose to be called happy don't ya think?

Javisi, glad you got the message about the colors,it was hard for me to read also but I hate to complain.....:rolleyes: Thanks for changing to darker colors! I guess I get tired of explaining to my friends about their emails,people just forget I suppose. Happy to say I still have some lifetime friends that actually come to visit me every year or so also!

Tootsie,glad you have joined in! I always love your "cheerio" endings! And glad there's someone else from the West coast here....

Joy, I know the feeling of being able (or motivated ) to do some cleaning! When I was healthy I actually chose to clean house for a living,the $$ were good & best exercise in the world,I worked up a sweat 5 days a week & got to meet some fantastic folks (and meet alot of dogs!)

I finally got out of the house yesterday! Had been over a week I think. Went on a trip to see my son,had lunch & went to some yard sales & got some really good deals.

today I got a phone call from my sister & she was sober & we "made up" I hadn't heard from her in many months. So that's a good thing.

It's not as hot here & no forest fires (yet) so that's a REALLY good thing!

Got a nice bistro set yesterday & can now sit out on front deck & see all the way to the water! Have the most huge nasturiums I've ever seen, I swear the size of a lily pad! And another bloom!

Love getting to the shady part of the woods when I walk the dogs,the grass is still green there but the stinging needle is sure thriving this year & no foxgloves! I'm thinking they don't bloom every year?

Love eating the fresh lettuce from neighbor's garden. And the green beans here are coming up (planted way late this year).

Had a little bird come inside my office window just now....glad the cat is not here!

I love watching the wild bunnies in the evening,have an abundance of them this year. Coyotes must be staying away!

Love having summer weather,I cannot stand to be inside!

Love reading a good book & learning new things. Yesterday I read a story about a bandicoot (Vietnamese water rat). I love having a computer so I can look up everything I want to know about!

Love coming here & seeing your posts!

:) today!
Buttons

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I want to thank you so much for keeping this thread alive! It helps me see other things to be thankful for!

1) I love the beautiful sunrises and the evening sunset I get to see on a daily basis! In town they do not even come close to the beauty of the country as opposed to the city!

2) Had to deal with my ex-husband yesterday, he was polite and nice. My boyfriend and him talked. I am happy for my kids sake. I don't plan on seeing him and talking to him, only on a need to for our kids basis.

3) Hopefully my daughter will get her son back in a month. Another gathering is set for August 14th, Then the Judge will decide It takes about a week after that meeting before he will get to come home! I just know in my heart that she will get him back then!

4) Yes I was refering to my oldest about going to a work camp. The one with the DUI, flight to avoid arrest ect. It is good byt I would really love him here, so his daughter could kiss and hug him. She really needs that! After 1 month, then we can visit. I can't wait because it is not behind a glass partision!

5) Got some great buys at garage sales again! I love to buy toys and clothes for my grandchildren and kids! I am a big budgeter, I love to get a bargain.

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars Javi
PS; Please pray for my boyfriend. His son is 14 and after his dad has had custody ever since he was 3 1/2. His mom was approved for Social Security for an anxiety dis order is now suing for custody for their son! My boyfriend got sucker punched when his son told him this week-end that he wants to live with his mom! I feel so bad for him. He feels like he has failed as a father and he hasn't. He is a great dad. It is money motivated by his ex!
Thanks a lot, Laurie:(

[Buttons2]

Javisi,that's horrid about what your boyfriend's ex is doing,didn't you say she lets the kid eat junk food & he's overweight? I'd think @ most it would end up being split custody? Wouldn't she have to show good cause why things should be changed after all these years? What would make her home better than his,etc? At age 14 can't the kid just say where he wants to live? I sure hope this gets resolved soon & works in your boyfriend's favor!

Glad your son will be getting out of jail. Does this mean no court on Monday? Will he be close by? How often will you get to visit after the first month? Just think ahead to that time cause you'll finally be able to give him a big hug right?

About your ex being nice: I suspect this was a big "guy" thing to fool your new boyfriend,anyway it's a good thing everyone got along. There's enough stress going around right now! Did you find out what's going on with the house (foreclosure?)

Well I'm sitting here trying to come up with my 5 happy thoughts for today.....

1) Finally getting Rags to look like a dog instead of a furry critter,been brushing him everyday for the past week,I clean the brush 6-8 times each brushing!

2) Sunshine & warm again today!

3) I can't see the sunrise from here,but do get some red skies @ night.

4) The hummingbirds are loving all the bright red & pink flowers I planted for them. And we've had hummingbirds here since Jan! Sometimes they sit on the long cable right outside my office window-but not for very long. I refer to this cable as the world's most expensive clothesline,we got it for Rags before picking him up @ shelter (no fencing here),what a joke that was! He nearly choked himself trying to get lose! After 5 days of agony for all-we just let him go free to see if he'd run off or ? He went bonkers running circles around the house,we were so amazed @ his speed. This was 15 mos ago,he's never once left "his" property! And he never allows the neighbor dogs to cross the property line either!:D

5) I planted flowers that smell good,love the carnations,nicotiana and stock! I go around sniffing them everyday!

There,I found 5 things! Thanks for starting this thread Javi cause I find it helps me to get on a positive track & some days I need all the positive I can muster up!:rolleyes:

Buttons-hang in there everyone! Enjoy the day!

[joy]

1- copied nicotiana, now will google it after I post & see what the flowers look like, LOL.

2- have granddaughter so that makes me happy. I need a bit of happy now as we went by son's house & as usual, all was asleep and we did not get to set foot into door. Still haven't seen grandson! No wonder I love granddaughter so much, she has to make up for all I miss with the other one. The other thing bothering me (then back to good things, I promise) is my crown is loose again! I have been having pain in it, thought it was maybe the trigeminal neuralgia or my sinus infection. (am on antibotics now) but it is definitely loose. I am wondering if it is ever going to stay put. Will 3rd time be lucky? Hate that pain!

3- have another trip planned so looking forward to 3 days out of town again

4- glad everyone else sounds in good enough spirits. It helps to know others are managing at least. It makes me want to do my part of keeping emotions steady enough. Gets hard sometimes tho, lol.

5- It is close to August because our white cutleaf birch tree is shedding it's leaves. I ordered it special because the pictures of them were so pretty. We had a pretty weeping one but ice got it. On my trip to Mayo clinic, I saw a lot of white birches. They were so pretty. For around here, it is not a natural tree so my yard looks different from everyone elses' The yellow leaves reminds me of fall coming later. I am at PEACE in fall. My favorite time of year.
We do have a natural river birch that we planted. They are pretty too with their tan, curly, peeling bark. Our other trees are cyprus, willow oak, tulip poplar, ordinary cedar but still a spectacular tree, and a white pine, then redbud trees. And we didn't have not one tree on the acre when we moved here. Took a lot of work but we have magnicificant tree now. I never did get around to planting my magnolia tree tho! Oh yes, a small red leaf maple, very costly to buy and cheap rose of sharon shrubs that are getting awfull tall that grow like weeds here and are every color but not necessarily the same color each year. amazing to me how they change colors. Only blooming flowers I have now is the tall old fashioned flowers mother gave me a long time ago. Their name escapes me right now but they are an ordinary flower down south but still very pretty. They need desperatly to be thinned out and some transplanted elsewheres. Now to googling Button's flowers.

take care everyone

[Tootsie]

Javisi,
It is very common for a child to want to live with the alternate parent, when they have been living with only one for most of their childhood. They want to know the other parent as well as they know the one they have lived with. I'm sure that your boy friend will be able to maintain their good relationship, and he should be supportive of his son's choice. Perhaps the son will need his father's support, if he has new conflicts and situations to deal with during the time he lives with his Mom. Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

Joy, are the tall flowers everywhere down your way hollyhicks by any chance? I actually bought some this year,they are a very old fashioned flower,I remember them from my childhood. My nicotiani is dark burgundy.

Javisi,did you have to go to court yesterday afterall?

Tootsie, way I read it was the ex-wife is trying for custody,not that the boy asked to live with her.....but my brain works backwards sometimes so could be wrong!

It rained early this morning,I love the smell of rain when it's been dry for so long! Wet cedars.....

I'm feeling kinda down today & not even sure why! Will force myself to come up with more positives:

Well, my cyber friends for one thing
The dogs sleeping right next to me whenever I'm in the office
Had 1/2 of an apricot,been long time since ate one-it was good
Don't think I'll need to water the planters today.....

Oh, and I love to see the bluejays, I realize they are not favored birds but I love the colors!

[joy]

Hello everyone

Buttons
my flowers are not hollyhocks but the flower part does resemble them. There are really bushes that can grow quite tall. Oh I love the hollyhocks especially the newer kind with the ruffled double edges. Don't have a one tho, lol.

1 - My foot is healed, yeah!!!! Now I can swim in a pool. We are going on a short trip to Branson tomorrow and stay for a few days.
Grenaddaughter is going with us and now I can play in the pool with her. Yes, that is good exercise for me.

2- My head finally stopped hurting. Oh guess I may not have told that I have a sinus infection and also thought that my 5th nerve was acting up. Well I had bent the screw that held my crown in place!! Guess I expect to hurt so much that I dismiss it as "the usual". Still have a sinus infection and made it thru the sitting of replacing the crown. My tummy did a flip flop number on me, boy was it stressful. I kept thinking that the nerve would have a lightning bolt pain and I'd move in the dentist chair. SO GLAD TO HAVE IT OVER!!

3-Don't knoiw what made me list all my trees, lol. but I forgot one & guess what?? I forgot what it was AGAIN!! I don't have much of a mind, do I, lol..I'll get serious now, I saw a blue bunting bird at the lake last visit. We don't have them here. If we do, they stay hid really well. They are a pretty teal blue-green color.

4- I also had a spell of feeling awfully blue about 2 times in a day's span. NOT a good feeling and if I did this often, I would seek a pill to rid myslef of it. I was just missing granddaughter for awhile 1st time then second we had gone by son's house and I did not get to see the grandson. Haven't seen him in? long time. But I shook it off so thaty's good. I HATE those feeling tho!! SO glad it didn't stick!!! Very glad. It's one of those things I can't do anything about so have to change how I feel about. Times like that was when my mother would clean drawers, pick up limbs outside, do anything, dust walls. but she'd get busy. I know my not being able to stand up much makes it harder to "busy" myself. It's a good thing I can watch movies over and over, lol.

5- It's good to see Tootsie joining in our group more often. I like it when others join us. There has to be more than us that can benifit from listing positive things. And she often hits it right on the nail with the advice. I am wondering Tootsie, tho, where the origin of your Cheerio comes from? In fact, I have been thinking lately I'd love to know MY origin. Am I scottish, irish, what, lol.. and small part indian thrown in on mother's side. It's a heck of a time to be wondering now that my parents are gone, lol.

Everyone take care and I'll be back hopefully by Monday if not sooner to join back in with my nonsense yacking. Yeah again, my foot is healed and my head does not hurt. Now if I just had enough teeth to chew a steak. No jaw teeth so guess that's how I broke the screw, chewing steak, lol. That doesn't happen that I eat steak often but gosh, I don't want to give up a ribeye now and then.

[Tootsie]

Hi Joy,
I began using the "Cheerio," because when I began posting, all these veterans of braintalk had these cute pictures, icons, or quotes and I was too illiterate to know how to get one of my own! Also, it seemed so abrupt and cold to just stop typing without some kind of closure.

One of the funniest things that happened with the "Cheerio," was on a post similar to this one, only discussing favorite foods. I had contributed the fact that after swimming, when I was really hungry when I got home and it was too soon to start dinner, I'd drink a glass of V-8 juice. That would satisfy me until dinner time. Someone commented that, "Now we know that Tootsie likes V-8 on her Cheerios!" I laughed and laughed.

Actually, the expression comes from my husband's side of the family which is Scotch Irish. A cousin always says, "Cheers" instead of good bye. Another expression that I have found really useful is Shalom, the Hebrew word for a greeting, blessing, good by or a multitude of reasons. Since I have a tendency to be very verbal, write paragraphs when a phrase will do, and don't seem to be slowing down with old age, Shalom works to shorten the phrase! Cheerio.

[joy]

Thanks Tootsie, that's very interesting & I'm glad to know this about you. I too have a hard time shortening anything I try to say and usually after trying to shorten anything, well it ends up being just as long. No way around it for me, lol. But when I try to do this, I get practice with my typing at least! I'm determined to do as good a job as I can with it. I had been leaving off the caps, etc. but after seeing how much else I was leaving off (spelling, etc.) I decided to go back and just try harder for as long as I can. I'll get to the point where it really is impossible to type much all too soon I'm afraid.

Take care

[Buttons2]

Tootsie, I always thought you were English & that's why you close with cheerio,thanks for explaining.....only cheerio person I know!

Joy,so glad to hear your foot is healed,tooth business over with,and you get to go to Branson! Which show will you see there?

I'm still depressed,will try to come up with some positives later,got to be some out there somewhere! It's cold & rainy here,maybe that's my reason for being down?

Maybe the B12 will kick in & I'll dust walls! Yeah right.....

[JAVISI]

DEAR,Friends,
I am sorry I have been gone for a while. I hadn't been feeling well in general. I went to court to hear my son's sentence. I had my grandaughter with me. I ran out of time to drop her off. She was so good and quiet. My son got sent to a work ethics camp about 5 hours away from here. But the one good thing was that he was dismissed from jail into my care so we could all visit with him. We left at 1:00pm and had to be there by 8:00pm. So we got to stop and eat luch and supper when we got there!

I will admit it was akward because my ex-husband rode along. So it was me,my boyfriend, son , his daughter and my ex. We all got along great under the circumstances. My grandaughter was so happy to be able to hug and kiss him. I cried when we had to tell him good bye:( . But I know that he is safe!

On the way back I ended up in the hospitl for the last couple of days. I aspirated and couldn't quit. I had been having headaches and leg pain with loys of swelling. I was admited to the hospital with a potassium of 2.2, extremely low. Overnight I received oral potassium and IV potassium. It only went op to 2.5 so I had to stay another night! I received painful Boluses of potassium but at least I got to come home today!:p

1) Happiness is knowing that I was missed while I was gone, I missed you all too! And thanks for this thread going!:)

2) That I got to be with my son for 8 hours before I had to let him go again! When he gets out he will be on probation for 60 months!:eek:

3) My boyfriend took very good care of me while I was sick! He always does!

4) That some of my aches and pains are gone due to my potassium being in a normal range again!:)

5) That I can get a good nights sleep again, in my own bed, next to the one that I love!:D

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Javi;)

[Tootsie]

Buttons, I'm sorry to hear that you are still battling the depression. There is a book, called, "Feeling Good," by Dr. David Burns that is very helpful. It was used in a group I attended while dealing with some mild depression of my own, a few years ago. It gives you work sheets and assigns numerical values to ideas and thoughts, then gives you tools to deal with it on an objective level.

I bought a second copy and mailed it to a friend about a year ago. It was about $10 in paperback. Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

Hoping everyone can get back in here today....

I had alot of posts yesterday so guessing they are all gone?

Happy to get in here today,it's very difficult to get a connection tho,and sure my dial up SLOW speed isn't helping!

Saw 2 owls yesterday on my walk!

Still raining here but we need that for the dry fire hazard

Tootsie, did you feel the earthquake down your way?

Joy,glad you are gone & don't have to get upset like I am about BT being down

Javisi, are you eating a banana everyday? With all those diuretics I think you need more potassium! And guess what-my new bottle of hydrochlorot has a new labe-drink OJ or eat a banana when taking it! I'm gonna stop taking the stuff! My legs are killing me & am doing research to see if it's the diuretic or my BP meds,thinking of drinking (gagging down) apple cider vinegar instead!

Later, HUGS to all Buttons

[Tootsie]

Whatever little jiggle there was from an earthquake didn't make much difference here. We have little ones, every so often and I sense them during the night, but don't really wake up.

The only one we really felt was the one in '89 that collapsed the Bay Bridge. Fortunately, we never use it. Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

Seems what makes me smile these days are the critters! Everywhere I look there are bunnies running & jumping around,even had an encounter on the walk yesterday......guess those owls will like that! Rags was in hot pursuit,I make the dogs leave them alone in the yard.

I'm happy that BT is up & running!

Happy I still have some flowers blooming,this rain is awful for this time of year!:(

Happy to not have that weird bone pain today-yet. Do ya suppose those pills were the cause? Hard to get info from real people about the side effects of Hydrochlorot......anyone have a good link? Didn't really like what I read when googled bone pain......:rolleyes:

Happy to talk with my son yesterday & find out he's been very busy with new friends that also have motorcycles. I worry about him being so isolated. Not good for schizo's to be alone all the time-or anyone else for that matter!

Happy my depression has lifted,I think the B12 helps with getting back some energy. I plan to work on a project today in my trailer. Have never installed floor molding so wish me luck!:eek:

Enjoy the day everyone!
Buttons

[JAVISI]

Dear fiends, That you so much for keeping this thread alive! I have been so tired and exhausted I try to post on a few threads and than I have to go rest.

Now for the happy things!

1) On Thursday My boyfriend left to go to town for awhile, when he came back he had champagne*martini . ( I really don'y like the taste but it was sweet). He wanted to celebrate my divorce, finaliztion that passed by without our even thinking about it! We each choked down a small glass of champagne. Neither one of us are drinkers. He then got down on one knee and preposed!!! The ring is beautiful. Although it will be awhile before we get married, I am soooo very happy!*diamond

2) We went boating yesterday. It was cool in the morning but got hot mid morning. I dadn't catch a fish but I got a good tan!*cactus It was such a relaxing day!

3) On Friday mu boyfriend gave me the money to get my hair done. I got a little different cut, but I left it long. I went a little crazy and got my nose peirced. My dad said why?? I just replied because I could!!*butterfly2 I no longer live with a dictator. I live with a loving and understanding man!*hug

4) I made a big meal on Friday night. BBQ Ribs, In the slow cooker so it was easy. We had fresh potatoes, cucumbers and tomatoes from our garden! Everything tasted soo good!*fantasia

5) Just being alive is something that I want to celebrate each and everyday!*seussb

Dreaming Bog and Reaching for the Stars! Javi

[Buttons2]

Javisi,now that he's your fiance can you give him a BT name?:) When is the big event? He sounds so sweet,and he's a romantic! You deserve this after all these years of heartache & misery!

Can't wait for Joy to get back & read this too.*heart *silverbells *smallheart *smallheart

Best wishes!
Buttons

[Tootsie]

I'm so very happy for you, Javisi! You have my best wishes for a wonderful life together. Cheerio.

[joy]

Javisi that is happy news indeed. And it makes me think even higher of your boyfriend as he "waited" to ask the big question at the appropriate time. Well we knew secretely that he would but I have to admit that it did make an impression that he waited until til your marriage was final. It was final for sure, all but the legalities of it and this just makes it perfect now. I am so happy for the both of you. He is getting a wonderful person and I am happy for him also.

I'm not too up today ( or yesterday or the day before, even on a trip so that was quite unexpected, I have been trying too hard I think) but trying is better than giving up any day, lol.

1- had to laugh at granddaughter, she loves the water and swam all day one day. I was exhausted just watching.

2- hubby and i play with other small children in the pool. Their friendliness was catching. Their smiles and giggles just the thing I needed. And GD loved the company of other kids

3- I saw many beautiful hills in Missouri. I just love hill country and always have.

4- We saw many beautiful horses at Dixie Stampede. Just got to admire a well groomed and beautiful trained horse. The show was great, just like last time

5- not so happy to return to messy house and all the laundry. Nor the fact that GD will have to leave. But sure am thankful for a safe return. The roads were awful, all crooks and turns. :eek:

I loved picturing Buttons bunnies in the yard. Am glad that the jiggle did not do any damage to Tootsie or anyone else. I saw plenty of fires still on CNN and an awful lot of water in Texas. They reported at one place there the water was 12 feet over the roads. That's a lot of water folks!!


take care everyone

[JAVISI]

To the Dearest friends that I have!
I want to stary out by saying having all of you as my friends is a thing that really makes me happy! I am thankful everyday for all of you!

Ok I will get into the details, Sometime in the spring since my son is in a work ethics cam for at least 4 months. So it will be cold by then, so we have decided sometime in the spring. Mayne we will get an arch and have the ceremony in our front yard, if the weather cooperates! I want to have it near my concrete angel with all of the roses surrounding it! I want to have someway to symbolize his mother being there!

We were just going to the Justice of the peace but our families want us to have at least a small wedding! My mom said that after living with a monster I deserve to live with an angel, and an angel is what he is!!!

Sometimes I can't beleive that he loves me even though I have all of these troubles! His name is Dan! And I love him with all of my heart!

1) Happiness comes from having friends like all of you!

2) Knowing that I will spend the rest of my life with the nman of my dreams!

3) Seeing all of my flowers blooming and the garden flourishing!

4) I can finally be me and not what someone else wants me to be!

5) Reading others posts! Thanks for continuing this thread while I am gone!

Many Hugs, and much love and happiness to you all! Love, Laurie

[Buttons2]

He has a bunch of women cheering him on?????

Javisi, you've mentioned how you wonder how he can love you with all your health issues & your children's troubles. Well-this is what REAL love is! When you really,truly love someone you don't judge things in the past,stuff you were'nt able to change. YOU didn't ask to get sick! And you're a good,kind,loving person! You're a good mother & he wants you to provide a home for his own son.

Joy, I'm pleased to hear you had a good trip & got home safe. Please feel free to vent! I know something is getting you down.....

I'm gonna try to list my 5 things for today & yesterday.

1) I got the floor molding down in my trailer & can still walk!:rolleyes:

2) Rags is being a good doggie since the BAD incident in the swamp that made me threaten to give him away!

3) I've brought the other dog bed inside to my office & now have a dog on each side of me rather than Pepper under my feet & messing up my computer cords!

4) All the nasturiums I planted are beginning to bloom,perhaps they like the rain? Never mind that all my other plants have to be plucked everyday to keep the mold away!

5) I look outside my window as I type & see dog toys all over & wading pool-looks like I have grandkids!:D

6) We all have a spring wedding to smile about! I feel that Javisi is my cyber daughter! We're all soooooo happy for you!

Tootsie, hope your world is going well today!

HUGS everyone,Buttons

[Tootsie]

Javisi, when my nieces and nephews got married, they each had a single yellow rose on the altar of the church, symbolizing the presence of their mother, my sister, who had died some years before. Yellow roses were her favorite flower.

My tomatoes are beginning to lighten and the Orange Sungolds have given me two handfuls, only one of which made it into the salad. Since there are so few, I usually pop them in my mouth as fast as I pick!

My son and his family were gone for a long weekend, and my dh stayed at their house to watch the dog. She wouldn't leave the house to go for a walk, and was very depressed. Even when being petted, she would eventually wander away and lie down in my grandson's room. It was really nice to have my dh out of the way for 2 whole days. I got so much done!

I make up gluten free mixes for my daughter as her youngest son seems to be gluten sensitive. Brownie mix, pasta mix today and tomorrow I will make some pizza crusts.

Javisi, I'm not quite sure how to say this, but do you really want to wait until spring to get married? Considering all your health issues, even if your son can't be there in person, it may be better to schedule the festivities while the weather is warm and you are feeling fairly well. Just a thought.

My mother remarried after my father died. He was a man she had known for 25 years, a friend of my father's who had been involved in all the clubs, groups and social affairs that my folks had attended. He waited exactly one year after his wife died, before asking my mother to a club party. Six month later they got married. My mother thought people might talk, but at 72 and 76, they felt they wanted to be together as long as they could. Cheerio.

[joy]

I'm tempted to list the 4 squirrels seperatly that are playing outside, but I won't, lol.

They were putting on quite a show as I was watching them out the kitchen window while ago. My hummingbirds are needing some fresh sugar water also. I got their food out late this year and as a result, I don't have as many as I usually do this time of year. Hopefully next March I will be ready in time for them and I will have my usual large families of them.
I came back to add that I also had tuffed titmouse bird and a little chickadee too. Just couldn't leave them out!

Meanness is happy to have us back home. I can hear him walk around whenever he wakes up in the mornings. He is much like the grandchild as he wants to check on everyone. With the kid, it's giggles, with him it is his tags clinking. I am such a light sleeper! But he is an awfully loving dog so all is forgiven.

I hope everyone is doing good today and glad Buttons did not suffer too much from her laying down the floor. I can feel my muscles tightening up again. It was good to get the water exercise. Guess now it is time to get to doing housework as a replacement exercise. Not as much fun at all, lol.

have a good day everyone.

[Buttons2]

Tootsie,I was thinking the same thing about javisi's wedding! But not just HER health.....never know when one of the gang here will be gone! maybe a Christmas wedding,her son will be out by then.

Here we go,ya got alot of momma's here to give advice javisi!:rolleyes:

Joy,you ALWAYS get me to laugh! Four squirrells indeed!

I'm happy that the sun is shining & we are gonna warm up here,been down in the 50's at night-in July!

I'm busy doing housework,figure it's a good way to stretch those muscles that decided to get back at me for all the floor work.....I vaccum one room & mop,then get back to my computer....the important stuff ya know? So many doggie hairs everywhere-whew!

I can see 2 of my planter boxes from my desk (well it's actually one of those ugly Costco tables) I have cosmos,geraniums,blue salvia,bright red petunias,big yellow marigolds & some kind of white hanging stuff. I got smart this year & saved all the flower tags in an envelope so I'll know what I planted when next spring comes around (assuming this turns out to be a winning combination). It's sure bright & the hummingbirds seem to love it.

Tootsie,what does dh stand for? What kind of dog are you referring to? I wonder what Rags would do if I was gone a few days? Hard to say. He sticks to me like glue! Doesn't like being shut outside while I mop either,but of course not too fond of the vaccum.

javisi I hope you are feeling better today & get some bananas to eat every morning!:rolleyes:

I'm happy to have some energy today!

Enjoy something about the day everyone!
Buttons

[joy]

good morning everyone. Guess my not being very work inclined and my being in Centeral Standard Time finds me here first most days, lol.

I am really finding myself in front of the computer far too much these days. I am happy to say that my mood has improved. Not back to where I usually am but enough that I feel better. I am thankful for the support that I get from others here and that is more than enough so that will be my whole list today. I think in fact that it is the best one I have going for me. And I'm not ashamed to say just how much everyone means to me. :) Have a good day and I hope a restful night.

[Buttons2]

Sitting here typing! The day can really whiz by when I'm on my 'puter! It takes me several hours of using my heating pad to get myself limbered up enough to do much! I feel like such an old lady!

I agree 100% with you Joy, the people here are my mainstay for the day. I might get alot more done if I'd stay off here but then the day is sooooo long anyway when ya don't get up @ 5am,go to work,come home & fix dinner,do chores,etc. Too bad I can't really enjoy all this forced early retirement! :rolleyes:

And since I have you guys I'm finally not so lonely. Or bored. I guess in hindsight I don't blame my so called friends for staying away,who wants to be around someone in pain,watch them limp around or worse yet be here to observe a horrific myoclonic jerking episode!:eek: We learn to be patient & have alot more empathy this way huh?

Well, I need to get outside & see what needs doing......finally getting some sunshine & warm weather back today!

Javisi, hope you are feeling better!

Tootsie,thanks for sharing more about your life with us,garden sounds good!

Later,Buttons

[Cry Tears]

Are we supposed to list 5 things that make us happy and feel better?
If so...I'll try very hard to make this list.
#1. Im ever so grateful for my cyber freinds here on BT and that I found this forum back when I was so ill and B12 deficient and Rose helped me with that and now my Neuropathy is so much better...also am learning I'm allergic to lots of foods thats the cause of my gut pains.
#2. I'm grateful my grand daughter Madison is here with me for the summer, goes home on weekends tho...we miss eachother when she's gone even tho its just 48 hours.
#3 I'm thankful my husbands chest pains, heart problems are being handled with diet change thru the CHIP program...its a very hard diet to follow, but we're managing! No heart surgery for him!
#4. I'm thankful we're having sunshine again after serveral days of cold rain, dark days that dampened everyones spirits here in the Pac NW...it rains here a lot and we so look foward to summer. But when its cold and raining when supposed to have sunshine...we get upset. But is cloudy and cold again this morning...and supposed to have ANOTHER cold front come in tomarrow.
We're wondering if we'll ever have summer here in Oregon!?!?!!!
The pool is getting colder every day! eeeeeek!
#5.I'm alive and able to function somewhat normally after years of nightmare bedridden and too fatigued to even do my own grooming....all because of vitamin deficiencys! So thankful that is over.
Blessings to all...cheryl

[Buttons2]

:) Cheryl, you are needed here to spread some of your cheer & wit!!

Before I list my 5 things I gotta inform everyone that Javisi has been back in the hospital & is now home but very weak & fatiqued. So will send her prayers for getting better & on with the wedding plans!!:D

#1-I actually did some yard work yesterday! I'm excited I'll soon be meeting a dear cyber friend & this is getting me motivated to clean up around here!

#2-I have an offer for help training my dog,Rags,for free! Seems people are determined that I keep my 110# overgrown pup!

#3-Sunshine again today!! My flowers need it as bad as I do!

#4-Have a bird flying around inside the house right now & the cat is off sleeping elsewhere....

#5- Getting back on the B12 is giving me energy......I'm determined to keep taking this stuff,every time I get slack I get depressed & too much fatique to do anything!


*boogie *boogie *boogie

[joy]

where's Tootsie today, most all have checked in and it would be just about perfect if I'd get to hear from everyone today. Well not so since Javisi is sick. I will keep her in my thoughts and prayers. I wish more would join, it's free and does truly help me. I am so thankful for Javisi for starting this and even more so since I know how hard it must be for her to log on and post most days. I hope she is up to being back with us soon.

I got to do something today I hardly ever do any more. I went shopping with granddaughter and I drove! No hubby, just me and the kid!!! And I drove good too, lol.

My cousin lost her oldest daughter a few years ago and is raising the 2 grandchildren from that daughter. My cousin is 1 year younger than me, the children are now 16 and 5. She also keeps her mother in the same home. I honestly don't see how she holds up to do it. I know she is in pain often and she just does it as she knows she has too. But there are problems that might disrupt this family so please pray for them. Enuf said and I know you will do it and it makes me feel better already.

My getting to drive and reaching safely back home is more than enough to list today so I'll stop at this. Getting out like this sure makes time fly past faster!

[joy]

Me again today. Going to keep it going for as long as I can. I finally realised this morning that the wet stuff in my eyes was NOT all just a sinus infection, lol. Guess I really can get teary eyed without knowing it. Weeping just a bit due to all the muscle strain. Enough of the bad stuff, this is for positive things

still glad that we have a place to meet like this. Am I the only one that actually puts thereself into the situation, picturing friends and all when you read their posts? I can't be a nut job all by myslef, lol, can I? So in my opinion, that does make me know aI take you all seriously. So just knowing I have unseen friends is enough for me to list today as it is a BIG one.

take care. Granddaughter is anxious to get outside. I'll post about her and Meanness tommorrow and something funny to me.

[JAVISI]

Good Morning Friends,
I sure have missed all of you guys! I was so sick with low potassium again!
On to happy and better things!

1) I am so thankful for all my friends!*hug

2) I get tingles when I look at my engagement ring!*diamond

3) It is finally raining! I don't have to water the flowers!*bunch *forgetmenot

4) I beleive in Angels!*cg01

5) I am home and not in the hospital!*heart

Keep Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars!
Love ya, Javi:)

[Buttons2]

This thread kinda makes me think of a bunch of women getting together for coffee every morning!

No joy,you're not the only nut here! Some of us know what others look like,the others we just have to imagine! As for me: I have green scaly skin & purple ears! I'm 7' tall & weigh 110#! :p

Ok will try for my daily five:

1)As always my BT friends
2)Another day of sunshine
3)No traumas or dramas with the family
4)Have had some recent energy boosts
5)Figure today has to be better than yesterday cause it was one of those days I just should have stayed in bed!


HUGS everyone.......and for those just lurking-feel free to join our attempts at finding happiness everyday in some way.....
Buttons

[joy]

Hi everyone. It is getting harder every day to be cheerful as I feel bad but hopefully this second antibotic will kick in soon. I'm just glad I still want to be happy now as it's stuk with me for awhile this time :D

I still love logging on and it really nice when someone has beat me to it and posted here!

Our son is still in a lot of pain. We took him lunch today.. We were later than he'd like and he eaten already but we got to talk for awhile. Did not get to see grandchild.

Sorry this is so short. Hope everyone is okay.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends
It sure does remind me of a bunch of girls getting togeather for coffee, trying to keep eachothers spirits up!*coffee I was talking to my daughter, in the background I could hear her boyfriend yelling at her!*claymore Trying to break her spirit! I have been there and done that! I see so much of the sadness in her that I felt when I was with her dad! I hate it, I feel guilty, most girls marry men like their dads! I hate that I wish she could find the kind of man that I have found. Thay are out there, The sad thing is she is pregnant again!*storm

I have to move on to happy things or I will cry! Even though yo are not here, I feel all of you in my heart and 1) I AM CRYING ON YOUR SHOULDERS. I AM THANKFUL THAT I CAN DO THAT!*cg09

2) Listening to music, it really does soothe my soul!*banjo

3) The night time, laying in bed and finally feeling safe and secure!*hug

4) I got another plant for in the house, I get so much satisfaction from my flowers!*bunch *forgetmenot

5) Watching a good movie and eating that buttered popcorn that I shouldn't eat but it sure tastes good!*grapes *cburger

Lets all keep dreaming big, Love ya all!! Love Javi*kiss *smallheart

[joy]

Goodmorning everyone

Today I am happy because I see my granddaughter listening to country music and likeing it. She asked for "The tears on my Guitar" and I bought it for her. I think it's kinda a shame that she relates to the sad ones but she does like them.

Granddaughter is trying so hard to keep a record for Sunday
School. They are to do tasks that are helpful and she is trying so hard. It is sweet.

I am thinking about all the people that is worried because of the bridge collapse in MN. We have a family at church that has relatives there and they were worried. So many people are still missing. It does not belong in this thread of what makes me happy but it is on my mind so everyone keep those people in their prayers please. So I am happy to have a place that I can talk openly about anything when things happen.

We had a good rain the other day. We really needed it too. Our white birch has been shedding it's leaves all of July. It still a pretty tree. In my long list of trees we have on our 1 acre I forgot to list our corkscrew willow. It is pretty even in winter with its limbs all swirly when bare.

Grandaughter brought in a very pretty flower late yesterday. I asked where she got it as I did not recognise it. I thought it was one of my neighbors, must be, as I'd surely notice a flower that pretty. It turns out (and it smelled sweet too, sorta like a honeysuckle). It was the blossom off the top of a hosta! Seperately in her hand it was so opened and a beautiful white blossom. So I need to pay attention to things more outside I guess, lol.

Hubby and granddaughter will be back shortly so I'd better wind this up. I'm happy that I am feeling a bit better. that's a big yeah in my book, lol. Still not out of woods yet but I'll take feeling better anyday over worse. I hope everyone else is feeling better too. Take care.

[Tootsie]

Tootsie is here, alive and well! Her nose was in the latest Harry Potter book. My daughter bought 2 copies, one for her kids and one for herself. The kids finished their book first and brought it over for Gramma to read. Grampa is now engrossed in it and will be until at least midnight.

I've succeeded is adapting another cookie recipe for my gluten sensitive grandson. This one will use up the orange marmelade that my husband says is too sweet. The marmelade is the moisture in the recipe.

My son in Minneapolis had no friends or acquaintances on the bridge but it is on a major highway that he and his wife use, only farther south. I am grateful that their family and friends are safe, but will remember the others who lost their lives, and their families, in prayers during the next period of time.

My garden is giving us at least 2 meals of green beans every week and the tomatoes are now ripening so there is enough for the salad every night.

The weather has been typical of northern California summer...warm sun, cool bay breezes and cool enough at night for a second blanket. MY KIND of weather ! Cheerio.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I have been so sick here lately. I am just plain tired and weak. It makes it a little harder to come up with things that I am happy about but here goes.........

1) My Beautiful engagement ring!

2) Airconditioning, it has been very hot and muggy.

3) Getting to see my grandson this week-end!

4) finding out that Mamasue is hanging in there!

5) Eating the goodies from my garden!

Still Dreaming Big and reaching for the Stars, Knowing that there is always hope, And memories to hang on to! Love, Javi

[joy]

Finally, I can type. My keyboard didn't work all day so I had to wait for hubby to find the problem. I used to do these things but now can't remember a thing.

1) it was good to hear from everyone. That is always a plus in my day & the more the better.

2) hubby had help putting up his outside shed today. I was almost useless with my numb hands and feet. So I'm thankful for helpful neighbors especially that they're friends too.

3) Meanness is enjoying staying inside more. It was 96 today and heat index was 106! I feel bad that he will have to stay outside all next week as we plan on taking our yearly visit with daughter and granddaughter to lake. Son will check on him but doggy will miss the AC.

4) I made a mean batch of soup tonight. Didn't have much vegetables but it was good anyway. Hot soup and hot night but it was good anyway. Neighbor gave us some small tomatoes, the tiny ones. Ihated to waste them so I tried to boil them and discard the skins. Hard job, :p

5) I'm reading too. I have a book I intended to read to Emilee. It's a book by Laura Ingalls Wilder. That grass is blowing on the dakota prairies now. Easy read and just what my mind can grasp, repetition, lol.


hope everyone has a good weekend.

[joy]

I'm happy I finally got back on BrainTalk tonight. I want to say that if I seem TOO loyal to BT it is not true. If it was closed down completely I'd move on but as long as it is still up and running I WORRY about the new people that come asking for help. Plain and simple in a nutshell. Not that I'm all that qualified but just someone acknowledging you is okay by me when I'm desperate. As in Yes, someone knows I'm still around and I'm not invisible or something. And yes, shame on those that could have done better and didn't! Hope no one else in that position that runs forums ever does that again.

1- I'm not going to say I'm happy about going to lake as I'm a bit worried. It's so hot and it does take a lot of work just to get there and do all that goes with it. I'm getting to the point I'm liking staying home a bit too much again. So going may be a good think, lol.

2-So far I'm not as bad off as I was when I was resorting to crying 2 weeks ago. I still have some antibiotics to finish taking so maybe that will do the trick. That's good.

3- Everybody is missing and I'm hoping it is just because they are busy or reading (Hi Tootsie, keep joining in). Insert your own thoughts here, like for example, well joy tries being positive and happy anyway. I think trying is good, don't you all? Now don't ask why I don't try cleaning house, please!!
Cause I can come up with a bunch of excuses, lol.

4- I'm thinking of FALL now, lol. It is soo hot still but I gotta love fall. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face. I'm going to keep out the hummingbird feed and get those babies really fat and ready for their trip ;ater in October (likely). The squirrels will keep me company this winter and will bring me great pleasure to watch. I'll also gain more birds if I try and feed them. It takes more food now that I have so many squirrels. I don't drink or smoke so I indulge the animals, :D

5- I'm going to miss reading how you all are doing. So post plenty so it will keep me busy when I get back. Otherwise I'll have to think about starting to clean this nasty house. :o

[Tootsie]

I opted out of a trip to the beach today. Yesterday, my dh had said that he didn't want to go as his back and knee have been bothering him. Walking on sand wouldn't help either one.

I had set my alarm to get up for church, stopped at my garden plot at the school on the way home and found him, up and dressed for the beach! He decided he really did want to go.

It is grandson's 16th birthday and friends, cousins, aunt and uncle were all planning to go. There would be lots of food and I wouldn't really have to take or do anything. However, I've never, ever, been a sun and sand person, my joints were aching due to waking up too early. The additional factor was that it was foggy and overcast this morning...our built in air conditioning system here, south of San Francisco, so the joint aches were likely to last all day.

Mentally, I had grand plans to get lots accomplished but the body just wouldn't get out of first gear, so I read, made the last leaf around the last daffodil for my granddaughter's birthday afghan, and made myself a huge, zucchini omelet with tomatoes, basil, cheese and toast. That was brunch.

I gave grandson his present yesterday but will be hearing how he liked it tomorrow. It hasn't been a bad day...just achy. Some days you just plot through and that's how it is. Cheerio.

[joy]

Hi, I'm up a bit earlier to get started packing in case hubby is up to leaving today. I think hubby feels worse than I do as he is still in bed. His heart may be out of rhythum. I know daughter and GD will be ready thou. I vagely remember being young, lol.

It was nice to hear from you Tootsie. Your brunch sounded good. I love basil and that alone started my mouth watering, lol. I put basil into just about anything I possibly can when I cook. I had the pleasure of spending just lesss than 2 weeks a long time ago around Hemet and Pomona? CA. That was probably 40 years ago and I just didn't understand at that naive age how BIG California is. I wanted so bad to see all parts of it, the northern and the lower part, especially Golden Gate Bridge. Of course in 2 weeks, and having to see 2 aunts as well, there just wasn't enough time. We decided to take my mother along with us so she could visit and I've never been sorry we did that but it did change 2 youngish kids plans of seeing so many things on such a short time.
Well gotta get busy. Take care everyone.

[Buttons2]

Guess my cup of coffee has been getting cold here lately!*coffee

1) It's not raining (yet) guess we don't get summer this year!
2) I can still stand,walk & even converse-after 3 days of having a sale!
3) Lost another pound!
4) I know my sister is in crisis right now but she hasn't called me crying yet!
5) Had fresh green beans last night for first time this year

Kids that came to my sale got to see some of the bunnies,they tried chasing them of course! *bunny1

I've never read any of the Harry Potter books,maybe will find some @ a sale & stock up for long winter of reading! I read constantly & one good thing about losing brain cells is can read same book twice=twice the enjoyment!:rolleyes:

The cosmos I have in planters are really beginning to bloom now,they must not need alot of sun! Feel for those of you suffering in the heat but in the NW we are getting depressed from all the fog & gloomy days,it burns off my afternoon but it sure is nice to wake up to sunshine once in awhile!

Prayers to those that lost loved ones in the bridge collaspe. I have friends & relatives in MN,so far everyone OK,and several stories of "wasn't my day to go"(close calls).

HUGS,Buttons

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I thank my lucky stars that I have you! You all mean so much to me!:D

1) I bought a guest book and pen set for the wedding, we are thinking about February? I am getting so excited!*silverbells *smallrose

2) I was blessed to see a beautiful redbird at my parents house!*cardinal

3) My potassium has stablized, I have my fingers and every other body part crossed that it stays that way!*womansmile (lol)

4) Rain, what a wonderful thing after so long of not getting any. Seeing the colors coming back to the grass, garden and flowers*forgetmenot . The humidity has been awful though. I have a rough time breathing.

5) The taste of that first sip of coffee in the morning!*coffee

Dreaming Big for all of us! Love, Javi*heart

[Buttons2]

I have to confess,I've never drank a cup of coffee in my life! Hate the taste! But for our "coffee" sessions I'll just pretend!

I've been to the midwest & as far as MN,and one thing I found very weird was the lack of espresso stands on every corner! They are everywhere here & I'm not kidding! People looked at me weird when I mentioned this,wanted to know what they were!

I once had a job where I had to make espresso,drove me nuts cause everyone had to make it so complicated! I did learn to like those Italian sodas tho! I liked Hazelnut flavoring in them......and vanilla. I do have coffee flavored candles & they smell yummy!

Too early yet for me to come up with 5 things! Just took my B12 so waiting for the energy kick.

OK, Feb wedding sounds good Javi! I'm sooooo happy for you! You need something to look forward to & plan for! Is Valentine's Day on Fri next year by any chance?

Later,HUGS Buttons

P.S. Let's all keep Joy in our thoughts while she swelters at the lake this week!:D

[Buttons2]

Javi I just realized that I've never really had many dreams for my life,maybe some daydreams about what I'd do if I ever won the lotto & could spread the money around!

I want Joy to come back & see we're keeping this thread alive,so here goes:

1) The sun is finally back!
2) My sunflowers are gonna bloom soon
3) I can still manage to walk the dogs
4) A friend is coming to see me next week
5) I got some cute stuff today @ a yard sale
6) I got to see an Irish Wolfhound today! Makes my dog look small!

[WanderingScholar]

Hmmm..Let me see..

A damned good BLT sandwich, with the bacon nice and crisp,fresh tomatoes and lettuce on wheat toast, and miracle whip, got to have that..Then again, a good chili dog fits the bill rather nicely,too..(I'm hungry while I'm posting this)..

Getting a hug from my Granddaughter when I'm in a foul and cranky mood, usually makes me less so, and my wife happy..;) (Usually get a kiss on my old balding head for that..)

Waking up every morning and realizing I'm home in my old bed and not in that damned hospital room..

My wife giggling for whatever reason..Like she's twenty years old again..

[JAVISI]

Wanderingscholar,
I am so glad you shared. I wasn't hungry but I am now. I wish I had some bacon! I started this post to remind myself that there is always happy to smile about! Somedays I have to think a little harder than other. Then I have days that I have to stop because I have so many things!

1) Having airconditioning to retreat to in this sweltering heat!*fire

2) Running through the sprinkler with my grandaughter. I don't move as fast but it is fun!*umbrella

3) Taking my grandaughter bowling and seeing her be so happy when even when just 1 pin falls down.*mm2

4) Listening to my grandson, talk so animated, with words of jibberish, He is just a year and a half. He knows some words but I love it when he gets so excited and I can't understand his language but I know that he is happy!*heart

5) I got a wall plaque from my daughter, it says " If mothers were flowersI'd pick you! This is so great from a daughter that gave me most of my high lighted hair, Okay I'll admit it the high lights are stray gray hairs!*bunch

Keep Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Javisi

[joy]

I'm back
I'm tired
I'm sleepy
I'm very brown, aargh from the sun and my meds, not a good combination!
I'M VERY glad to have read all you posts tonight, late, very late, lol, but just had to pop in and say HI to everyone.

Glad to have you with us WanderingScholar. My favorite place that I worked was a dusty old college library. That was the bottom floor. The top was moldy, lol. I had to quit work before they opened up the 7 new floors. Bad health from all the floors with something that was a health hazard on every level, even if it was just the amount of walking it required, lol. But when I worked just beside the Reference section it was very nice to borrow the books that I wanted while on break or lunch.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I awoke from a well rested sleep so I feel pretty good this morning! I am so happy that Joy is back! Yea!!!!

1) Taking funny pictures of my grandchildren!*elf

2) Taking a long hot bath, Calgon take me away (lol)*fantasia

3) Joy being back!*boogie

4) Hearing a song that touches my heart!*tunes

5) Looking at my engagement ring and knowing that I will spend the rest of my years with Dan, My true love at last happiness in that area of my life!*diamond *heart

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love, Javi:D

[joy]

So glad to be back and catch up with everyone

Seeing my dog Meanness and knowing he was OKAY. I worried about him even though my son gave daily reports about him like I fed him and left fresh water. I still worried as I did not know for sure he actually saw the dog every time.

Seeing my hummingbirds chasing each other away from the food. I have at least 3 feeders out and far apart so....lol

It's hotter at home because we don't have the breezes like we did at lake or the water. But weather channel assured us that it is still not as HOT as it is in Baghdad. I remember California's higher temperatures on my visit and I still say - it was NOT as hot out there when it was 100 degrees. They have not had rain since July 6th at the lake. There are cracks 6 inches deep in places in the earth! Leave a little water out on ground and the ants and insects will be there in no time. They are seeking water now. Hope it rains where we need it. There won't be cotton in the south if it doesn't! But I did okay while at the lake. As I walked to mailbox, I hated the concrete. HOT HOT HOT, lol.

I have saved so many friends e-mails. That's good. But trying to sort through them to find phone numbers, well it's fun but I did not get anywhere in a hurry. I NEEDED to be working, lol. I'm sticking with that project though and listing things and tucking them away in several places. I don't trust myself to keep up with a single sheet of paper anymore. My memory machines keep going kerplunk and taking things I stored with it. I sure can't trust my memory, lol.

I stretched the truth, my foot is not completely healed. I keep tearing the new delicate skin and there is a small spot that is almost healed again for the 4th or so time. Now I have burns on both hands. I'm looking at being burn free by Labor Day now. I'm going to be sooo careful from now on. I think I'll stop cooking again, lol. That's how I burned both hands. Sounds like a plan. to me anyway, lol.


I'm excited for Javisi. She is getting married and it has to be wonderful for her to dream about and plan. Now I hope she gets healthier than she's been in a long time. She deserves happiness and so does her intended.

I read another book by Laura Ingalls. It was a 7 month winter with blizzards every few days. It was funny how having the ac cranked up and reading about ice over bedcovers kept me cooler. If granddaughter didn't want to listen to the story, I carried on without her reading it myself, lol.

take care everyone. Maybe some of this heat will warm up your places and you will have a bit of summer before long.


PSS to Buttons. I did look up the area you told me about. It sounds so wonderful and looks like it would be just my kind of place. I love mountains and water so it has it all plus trees.

[Tootsie]

...a day at the beach with children and grandchildren. "Mom, grab your hat, a chair and a jacket, we'll pick you up at 3 PM!"

Yes, you do need a jacket at northern California beaches when the sun goes down. Of course, the grandkids were still in swim trunks and t-shirts but they were chasing a soccer ball at the time, so didn't need anything else. The boogie boards had been retired for the night.

The tri-tip was done just right, the burgers were juicy, the veggie K-bobs, tender and smoky, and the margaritas from the thermos still icy. Later, there were marshmellows, graham crackers and chocolate, for S'mores. And, a good time was had by all! Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

OK,if everyone's gonna bring up food as a happy thought before I've had my breakfast I guess I'll join in......

1) ripe cantalope
2) fresh corn on the cob
3) fresh plums off the tree-very juicy!
4) tacos! gluten free!
5) berries with whipped cream

The sun is shining in my window right now-about time!
I'm having lunch today with my lifefriend,we've known each other for over 53yrs! That's a l-o-n-g time folks!

Glad Joy is back! the first books I ever read (3rd grade) were the Laura Ingalls Wilder books! I've been reading ever since! Good way to keep me "down" so I don't wear out my energy. TV just gets boring after awhile ya know. Used to play "pioneer" when a kid,dress up & pretend to be in the prairie......was an only child until age 9 (then became the built-in babysitter),so I had to amuse myself & was often alone @ home,would be considered child neglect these days!

Hey, thinking back to childhood makes me happy! Wish I still had my health & was too busy to even be here.....but since that's not the case I want you all to know how much you mean to me & how this thread forces me to start the day with positive happy thoughts!

And welcome to our little group scholar! Do you have a dog? We seem to be a bunch of dog lovers here also. And there's a pet therapy forum too.

HUGS Buttons

[joy]

Hello friends

I'm happy because my mood is better than it has been previously. Nothing has changed as I still have the same troubles of finding replacment doctor to prescribe much needed meds that they DON'T want to be responsible for. But what else is new? lol.

I went to something new today. I went to a tai chi class & didn't fall with my ear troubles and sensory and motor problems. Didn't have good form but I wasn't all that concered about it so it benifited me anyway, lol. I was also the youngest one there. But hey, I am a senior citizen at 61. It was sponsered by our Area On Aging. I have took water aerobics, painting, etc. since I was 48 and it's all good. I had to give it all up because of health. I kept getting sores from water and could not grip a paint brush. Now if I don't fall on anyone, I may be on to something. It should help with my balance so that's good.

I love to get PM's from friends and I got one today. That means a LOT to me. Many thanks. You know who you are, lol.

I think my better mood deserves another mention, don't you all? Yes it does in my book. I just hate being down as it does not serve me or anyone else well. i have to admit I was soo down at the lake for the most part of the trip. I just could not help it though. I did the best I could but was not usual bubbly self for granddaughter. Wish we could rewind sometimes. But hey, it is in my mind, the good times we did have and that's worth a fortune!

I have some small gooey filled chocklate cake type dessert and vanilla ice cream. UUUm good. I won't overeat as I lost some weight last week. (It was ALL water and I'll find it again, but hey for now, It's gone! so that counts!!

oh yes, I also have several small type watermelons that are soo sweet! Yummy. I had half of one yesterday and it will be difficult deciding what I want today, the chocklate and ice cream or the watermelon. I usually don't have so much sweets but I'm just in the mood for it today. I won't make a habit of it though.


I am missing Javisi. I hope she is doing okay. Maybe she is just busy visiting her girl and grandkids. I know she loves them so much. I imagine she is the very best with them. They are so lucky to have her. As I think we are for her endurance of hanging in there and making the best of things. I gotta admire that in her.
Take care everyone.

[JAVISI]

Joy, buttond and schlar and everyone else that has joined in this forum!

Sorry friends I haven't been on line much I am fighting a bout of aspiration pneumonia. I am just plain tired. I cried a little when I picked up my grandaughter so she could come and bowl with my grandson and daughter. She had so much fun but when I brought her home she ckung to me and wanted to spend the night. I had to tell her no! It was hard but I have to gain my strength in order to stay caught up with her! My tears flowed along with hers.*cg07

1) I got a call and it was my grandaughter, She said "I'm sorry grandma" I told her to always remember that I love her and her dady loves her very much. I got a Ilove you too! And I miss you. I am positive thinking that by the week-end we can pick her up. At the age of 3 I know in my heart she needs me! I love my grandson with all of my heart but he does have 2 parents that smother him with love!*heart *heart *heart

2) The most beautiful sunrises and sunsets here in the country, I feel blessed to have that luxury!*house

3) I am so blessed to be able to come here and visit with people that are closer to me than some family members, Ilove you all!*cg01

4) As for food I crave dill pickles and ice! Weied I know and I am not Pregnant!!! (lol)*banjo

5) I am lucky to have found my true soul mate!*kiss

Hanging in there just a bit tired and sleep a lot but nothing can keep me from dreaming big and Reaching for the Stars, Love, Javi*goldstar *goldstar

[Gymnast_Navy_Wife]

GreaT Thread !

My positives and blessings for today:

1. I got up the courage to request a second opinion about my Chronic Foot pain because I don't feel total confidence in my current podiatrist....

2. I got some great tips from one of the ladies who works at the Pharmacy

3. I smiled a lot !

4. I have a husband who loves me very much, and friends who make me laugh

[Buttons2]

Gotta admit sometimes I find it hard to post here,especially when I first get up! Yep-first thing I do in the morning is make a cup of tea & turn on my 'puter!

I survived wearing a bra for nearly 4 hrs! this might seem weird to some people but I have DDD in my spine & I prefer to feel painless to how I look!

Had a really nice gab session with my friend,she had to drive through alot of road construction on our main freeway here to come see me,and so nice to know she cares! We're gonna try to get together every year now since we never know when it might just be the last.....

I miss driving to visit people myself! Been 7 weeks now since I've had a myoclonic episode but then I got vertigo a few days ago so decided might not be wise to drive after 3+ yrs afterall.....

Joy I hate the mood swings as much as the physical pain! It's hard to do anything when I get into a slump! Then realized I missed my B12 for 2 days in a row,I swear that stuff really does help.

Scholar,you might check out the B12 alot of us are taking,look under the vitamin forum (Rose). I didn't have a stroke but I did have dementia! And stay away from aspartame as much as possible-poison!

Javi, it's only a few more days til grandaughter can come for hugs & kisses!

Tootsie sounds like a fun time @ the beach! I miss going to the beaches around here but my housemate's just not into that stuff. I can spend hours on a beach just zoning out & watching the eagles & boats. Used to haul driftwood home & rocks back in my "normal" days.

Anybody else collect rocks? I have one from every river around here & some are really nice.

Later,HUGS Buttons

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I try to come to this thread first thing, sometimes I come here more than that! It helps me put things into perspective. And reminds me that I can always find things in my life that brings me happiness.

1) I love the smell of lilacs in the air!

2) I always love getting my hair done, It is always so relaxing!

3) A big glass of ice tea on a hot summer day!

4) Thinking about my son coming home, I miss him so much!

5) My daughter gets her son back for good today! I know that she is excited and so am I. Sometimes some of the worst things that happen end up being blessings in disguise!

Bless you all!, Laurie

[joy]

I love reading good news from my friends. So happy about the grandkid going home.

Yes, Buttons, I used to drag rocks and things home. I still do but they are smaller, lol. Grasnddaughter does too. She finds sparkley things in rocks and shows them to me and of course they are keepers. From our visit to Gulf Shores, we stopped at Baton Rouge and there was a hugh crepe myrtle bush. Its branches wre so pretty and I pulled more bark off it and brought it home. Of course it still is in sack but I have it, lol.

I am happy for friends
A good shower when I make myself take one, lol
It is suppose to be 105 today so glad the AC is working. The ice maker isn't and something else on ref isn't.

So I'm happy that we still have a warrenty for part of it, big yeah there.
And right now, one of hubby's isiter's is visiting. So I have showered, came her and now I suppose I have to make an appearance. It is a long story and not a good one for me. I was left out when I had to stay home with foot, etc. But I am glad she is alive and healthy. One of his sisters died just before Christmas a couple of years ago. All his family dies just before Christmas. Not kidding.

Well have a good day everyone.

[Buttons2]

I love to watch the birds in the birdbath,have had up to 4 small birds in there @ one time. I have a small tree right next to the bath so they can land on it first,plus put a flat rock in the middle. I have to refill the water @ least twice everyday cause this is also where my dog likes to drink-just the right height!

Also love to watch the bird feeders.....what would I do without all the critters here? They always make me smile!

The snowberries seem to be early this year-wonder what they means? First noticed them last month.

I love walking in the damp green part of the woods,it helps my sinuses to take a deep breath of the old growth firs & cedars there. Most of the path is in full sun however & everywhere I look are the dead cedars & dry grass. Fire hazard bigtime!

My dog Rags is constantly pounching in the tall grass,he can pick up a baby mouse or shrew in a flash! At least he drops them when told.

I love the view of the fields from the place I live,I can see the sprinkers going & the bales of hay. Beyond that are forests & a small peek of water from the bay nearby. No houses in sight in that direction (they are hidden by the forest).

I live in a beautiful area,clear views of Mt. Baker & also Mt. Rainer if in the right spot. I met people all the time from out of the area that are just overwelmed with the beauty around here......google Deception Pass,it's awesome!

Before I got sick I used to go anywhere I'd never been before to check it out,climbed some mountains,nothing huge but when I look at those places now I can't imagine even starting up the trail! So the memories will have to do.....

I'm totally a country gal,big cities have no appeal to me! Nowadays I go places on the travel channel! If I could go anywhere it would be New Zealand! I asked my friend yesterday which places she's liked the best (she just returned from Ireland & has done alot of traveling),she said right here in the NW is one of the most beautiful places & she's been to the Swiss Alps & Germany.

What's the most beautiful areas you guys have been to? I'd say Wyoming was one I liked,and not many people there either! Kansas would be the worse without a doubt! Except for the sunflower fields those were quite a sight. I've never been west of the Mississippi though!

HUGS everyone,Buttons

[Tootsie]

I'd have to vote for the Yosemite Valley, Big Sur, Tahoe, (any part of it), and anyplace in the northeast, the 3rd week in October. There is absolutely nothing like the fall colors in that part of the world. Cheerio.

[joy]

Awoke at 4 am with leg cramps and have been watching video blogs of backpack trips around Tahoe. It is just wonderful. So glad that you all posted these favorite places as I am googling them and enjoying it very much. Later gotta try and get more rest, I've only been doing this now for about 2 hours, lol!

[Buttons2]

Joy, my mother swears by drinking apple cider vinegar for leg cramps! also make sure you are getting enough magnesium (just don't ask me which kind):rolleyes: Might ask on the vit forum tho.....

I've never been to Nevada! Only state west of the Mississippi I have not been to.

Google LaConner WA & you'll see where I live next to! Tourist trap now but it used to be a very quaint village,oldest town in WA state I believe.No sorry,oldest town in the county! Want my brain?

Joy you need to check pet therapy & explain the coyote burrows to us!

Tootsie, I'd love to go back east & see the fall foilage,also would like to see the coast there,Maine,etc. Have zero desire to go to Florida though, I have too many snake/bug phobias & would freak @ sight of an alligator! They scared me when I was a kid @ the St. Louis zoo! Or was it Phoenix? At any rate people walked right out over the water with the gators all around!:eek:

We have a big change in the weather today so I'll do some more cleaning.....I'm useless when it's hot!

Joy when you want to be entertained look up Dale Schululy (sp) glassworks! I've seen some of his stuff around Seattle & the glass blowing school isn't far from me. It's just too awesome for words the stuff he creates! Very,very pricey stuff! I had a paperweight once from the school that I sold to a lady who was gonna put it in her aquarium! I felt like grabbing it back from her!:D

Enjoy the day everyone!
Buttons

P.S. Pray for a miracle with the miners in Utah! those poor families,I just can't imagine their agony!

[joy]

Good Day everyone

The miners yes, I intend to watch CNN or someplace to find out today how they are doing. I missed keeping up with the MN bridge collapse when at lake too. I saw where they had found 2 more bodies there as well. I am bad to worry about people's bodies. We had a young girl kidnapped and they took forever finding her. They knew she might be dead because of amount of blood found. I kept praying they would find her soon as I knew the family would feel better if they could view her one last time and she would be presentable. I will change the subject soon but I have seen bodies unrecognisable in houses that have burnt when I was in fire department and a firefighter. There often comes a time when I have to just make myself turn off the tv and quit watching things though and I was at that point a couple of weeks ago. I quit the newspapers for that reason also. But the tv and news channel are not as easy for me to avoid. I watch news channels far too much for my own good. I won't say there is nothing I can do because there is. I pray about it and at he very least ask for some small amount of comfort for the grieveing families. For someone to be there for them and such. And for them to be able to reach out and LET others try and help. I know it is when we close ourselves off from others that we get into a heap of trouble oftentimes.

Now I am thankful and happy for:

all the little creatures that put a smile on my face.
hummingbirds chasing each other
squirrels running the electrical wires jumping into trees and across then onto wires, on rooftop and up another tree. What a way to travel and so fast and sure footed!

The doves that come in pairs and leave the same way. I hate seeing a single bird as I know something has happened to its mate.

All the dogs that start sounding off in neighborhood. This is really my favorite thing here, when granddaughter STARTS it by making a dog barking sound so well they DO join in, lol. She is pretty good making many sounds, birds, dogs, baby deer. It is amazing to me. I thought she WAS whistleing for years. No, she is mimicking a whistle sound.

and getting here and finding out I'm not alone. I was so alone when hubby's sister and his nephew visited the other day. I was there but that was all. I did not get to participate in conversation any at all and finally slipped out and came back to computer, lol. I wasn't missed so that was all okay!!

Wanting to clean house. Just wanting too lets me know I'm not lazy. Now I'm going to see if I can accomplish getting something done, no matter how small amount it is, it needs to be done, lol.

Oh yes, I appreciate ICE. Our fridg is messed up and we have no ice. Flip side is we do have 2 of the HUGH Ice machines that you can purchase it loose, or in bag or in blocks. Those are nice machines. We have one about 1 and half miles from here and one is near our son's house. It was 105 yesterday. That was just the number. The heat index was way higher. We need rain so bad here. My trees and flowers are dying. Everything is so dry it is awful. I'm so glad I didn't marry a farmer like my daddy was. It was a lot of stress and worry even as a kid. I couldn't take it now, lol.

I will say my favorite job was the corn picking. The type of field corn that we grew for the animals before tractor days. We were very poor. Years later I found the papers where daddy had to mortage the whole farm just to buy a $300 used tractor! Nope, my nerves couldn't take it these days. Back to corn picking. I'd sit on the wagon. I was too small to really help then but I'd sit on the wagon and push the corn down and it was in fall of course. My favorite time of year. I still can see our fence rown in fall in my mind. It was so pretty and peaceful. And the apple trees in late evening. I'd come home from school and look out and see leaves begin to trickle down from those apple trees with their colored leaves. It was so pretty. I would be home from school in September (back then not hot hot August like now) and the air would be a bit cooler. The sun would be light but cast a different shade on things as it would be late evening. Dad pulled the apple trees up far too soon for me cause they quit producing apples. But it is a lovely memory for me still. There was also a cherry tree in front yard. I had the bark so smooth from years of climbing it. It was a deep reddish brown color and had yellow spots in the bark. Smooth, shiney and polished looking as could be. Other branches had ruffled looking scales. But my brother and I managed to shine up a few branches, lol. And my friends Jana and her cousin, tongue tied Jimmy. Jimmy was my playmate also until he started growing up faster than us. We quit swinging on the horse gate after a time.

Any memories like that for anyone else?? Please share. I'd love to hear and will picture it right along when reading it.

[joy]

I was watching and just found out that 3 RESCUE workers were killed! This is so sad for all.

[Buttons2]

Eating homemade ice cream,can't recall if it was flavored with anything or not,seems to me it was just white

Grew up in orchards,the blooms in the springtime were the first sure sign of spring,back then smudge pots were used to protect the blossoms,we'd go to school with black faces! But driving around at night when they were all burning was a surreal experience-just had to cover your nose with a hanky!

Always had a book to read,I loved to get away from the house & all my chores to just sit under a tree with the damp earth underneath,munching on an apple & reading in peace & quiet.

I loved anything soft,baby critters or a soft fabric. Probably deprived of my blanky too early! I used to get a baby duck or chick for Easter (I learned to refuse bunnies after forced to eat them & told were chicken!) I would sneak the duck into my bed @ night until Mom saw the poop & threw a fit!

One time I carried a dead hummingbird around in a match box,even took it to school for show'n'tell! I'd pet the pretty feathers. Of course there did come a time when it had to go......

Always had a playhouse of some kind,once it was an old chicken house-whew! Lots of cleaning required for that one!

I loved playing in dirt,made "ranches" from the willow tree stems & spread fences out all over the yard. I think I had some plastic farm animals I herded around. Also made rock walls in pretend houses,we had a nice play area when in first grade & I taught everyone else to make these rock dividers also.

I loved to go barefoot in mud! Run around outside in the rain!

And the nights sleeping outside with my best friend,we'd get cold & damp from the ground (no sleeping bags),and end up on the lawn swing,giggling all night & eating Hershey bars. We never had a tent-how would you see the stars?

Used to make huge tunnels in the apple boxes,these are now considered collectables! Especially if they have labels from the warehouse on them.Looking back I'm surprised we survived some of the stuff we did-we'd sneak out to these apple box caves with candles!

Oh, to be young,healthy & full of energy again!

[joy]

I'm still going to mention the hummingbirds. There are at least 4 and the females, one in particular, likes to sit on the large hook that I have to use to extend the bottle so I can hang it up when hubby is busy. She sits and fluffs her feathers and watches me. Hubby rescued one a couple of years ago. It was in our garage and in it's stupor on a wire accross the garage. He gently took it in his hands, dipped its bill into sugar water in the sunshine, and waited for it to come around. After a few sips, it studied the surroundings then flew off. We have a picture of it in his hand. I was so late getting the nectar out this year and hopefully next year I won't be as late. No telling how many little ones I'd have flying around if I had attracted them earlier. I think they must have had to take up residance at the neighbors for awhile this spring.

In my kitchen window I have 2 small ceramic red bird babies that my mother made. That and 2 white kittens with blue eyes are some of my favorite things that mother made while doing ceramics with a friend. The friend had a kiln and mother helped her pour and clean and she'd let mother make a few things for herself. Once we were talking and she said my neice (her granddaughter) had made the remark she want them. Meaning when mother passed away. I said of course she would because they are so pretty! I never gave it another thought. When going through the house (way too soon for me as it was the day of the funeral) and everyone BUT my kids were there, I picked them up and she'd put my initals on the bottom of them. That settled that, lol. She had told me what to give my brother out of them anyway. Funny that's all I thought anyone would dissagree over, her ceramics. Wrong!! But we survived it anyway. I forgot how my sister-in-law is. I DID NOT take any money from them for her burial at all. I had been stashing money back out of her small SS check. Mother would have liked knowing she paid her own way. And she did. For her sake, it would have been nicer if brother had took her camping with them more often. She loved doing that. She'd sit on the bank of the river and watch people float down. It was cool on Spring River and shady to boot. So my plesant memories are good to think back upon. And I am thinking of the good ones far more than the bad ones these days.

I loved reading your memories Buttons. Chicken houses, phew is right, lol. I can remember outhouses myself and that was far worse!

It's not five things but they are big things for me so I will end for today. I hope everyone is having a plesant weekend. Maybe getting to see families, go places, whatever or just getting to sit back and read a good book.

I'm worrying about Javisi now and hope she's just busy with boyfriend and/or family.

[JAVISI]

Buttons, and Joy and others who have joined in!

I am back I had a bad case of pneumonia. My pulmonologist wanted to hospitalize me but I have been toughing it out at home. Friday night was very rough. I could not lay down to sleep. Dan slept on the couch for a while to watch me and got up several times during the night to make sure I was Ok. What a wonderful guy I have. I think I am slowly getting better now, or at least I hope. I have been so sick and just plain tired and didn't have the energy to post. I was very sad because today I could have visited my son for the first time. I really hate missing that! He is 4 hours away and I am just to sick to go! I hate the thought of his dissappointment when His daughter and I are not there!

Enough of the sad talk! This is supposed to be a happy thread!

1) My grandson at 17 months is home for good, I love hearing him try to talk. He can babble on for hours, thinking he is understood when we talk back to him! I sure love him so!

2) all of my roses are in bloom, I can look out my kitchen window and see them! They are beautiful to look at!

3) School starts Monday for Dan's son. It will be nice to get back into a routine.

4) hugs and kisses from my fiance, and just the way he looks at me I see the love in his eyes. And I know that he see's the same thing in mine!

5) Hearing my grandaughter's voice on the phone. Telling me4 she loved me and misses me! She always says "I want you grandma"! She is such a sweet little thing. I love her with all of my heart!

Btter get off line I am so tired! I will try to slip in and let you all know that I am okay! Still Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love, Javi

[Buttons2]

And we appreciate that you keep us informed when we fret about you! Sorry you missed seeing your son,but look forward to next month! It's a positive that you didn't need to go to the hospital & it's a positive that your grandson is home now with his parents! Keep the good things coming!

Joy, I have a weird hummingbird story now to share,this happened last year as I recall: a hummingbird came inside the house & I found it "dead" on the floor,thought my cat Sissy had killed it & walked away. So I threw it in the trash under the kitchen sink (I've outgrown the need to perserve them):rolleyes: The next morning it was quiet inside the house,no TV going,etc. I was reading the newspaper & kept hearing some strange sounds,finally I traced the sound to the trash! There was the hummingbird trying frantically to get out (I'd closed the bag the night before)!! I could hardly believe it! Must have found sugar among the food trash!

And years ago when I worked in a cabinet shop we had a hummingbird fly inside & imbede it's beak in a sheet of plywood! We pulled it out & it flew away! they are amazing little critters. I've had them here this year since Jan. I don't put out feeders I just rely on the flowers & the natural shrubs here in the woods. If I wear a flowered hat they will come after me! And I can watch them right from my computer. I like to see them when they land on the cable wire,course they never stay long but I enjoy it while it lasts.

Raining here today! Can't think of the last day it rained. It's a good thing cause of the fire hazard in the dry woods right now.

That duck I kept in my bed grew up thinking I was the mamma,she followed me everywhere I went. Even long walks with the neighbor kids down to the pond! She was white & I named her Quack Quack. I don't recall what happened to her but I know we didn't eat her!

I recall outhouses also. My dad put in a bathroom, I made play houses from the huge wood crates the tub,etc. came in. And when he dug the septic hole I was in dirt heaven! I kept climbing down inside the hole & digging little caves,then would play in the big mound of dirt! I remember it was all nice & sandy without rocks.

We had an old truck out front,I'd get a few neighborhood kids together & we'd all pile inside/outside the truck & pretend we were in the dustbowl days! I must have picked up the stories from my folks.....

Also lived across from hop fields,we used to sneak in there @ night & run up & down the rows of hops,it was like a forest until they harvested.All that area is now covered with asphalt & shopping of course.

There was an old pioneer cemetary we'd walk to,sometimes the graves would cave in on us! It was weird to see the graves for babies & children, we were too young to really understand death then. Looking back I had lots of adventures,I'd be gone from dawn til dusk. And we walked for miles! I was 9 yr old when I got my first bicycle-taught myself to ride it too!

I remember going to the local country store & getting $$ for glass soda bottles, we bought orange sodas & big hunk candy bars. Looking back I was blessed to have all that freedom to run around & have relatives that lived close enough to drop in & visit. I always knew my grandma would be pleased to see me! Now of course I also realize just how neglected I was by my own parents.....but they are old now & I prefer to focus on the good times. Have to put it down to ignorance I suppose. They'll never change!

1) smell of wet cedars
2) no dust from the farm equipment today
3)fresh green beans
4) short visit from one of my son's but that just left me upset-he's getting more & more weird in his behavior......
5) found good stuff @ sales so far,and met some interesting people,also a cat with spots on it's back!

HUGS,Buttons

[joy]

I got a late start so this might be short, lol, meaning just a page probably.

I have my dirt stories too. When they came and grated a big V for the ditches before graveling the roads again, my friends and I would just play forever on the banks of the ditch. It really wasn't all that deep but it seemed like it to us kids. Our neighbor's grandkids and I would play. I was usually the oldest. Sometimes we would play Marvin & Ethel, lol. That's my mother and daddy's name. All I can remember is us buying groceries and role playing. Nice kinda kid play, not anything nasty. All on the road ditch. Dry dirt, who knew it could be so much fun? The regular dirt in our back yard we dug it up with hoes and made toad houses, complete with toads, lol.

I have fond memories of walking to our neighbors with my brother to watch television. We'd start back a lot of times at night and brother would get far ahead of me. I'd get sorta scared of course. I also remember Saturday afternoons and Edith would have Little Bit of Honey candy sometimes. Her husband called me sugar babe. It was so sad when he got really old. His mind changed and he was a dirty old man, True. Even when he was so sick and dying, my mother would go help his wife, her best friend and a lot older than her, and that man would talk so dirty to her. He was nothing like he was in his younger days. I try and just remember him in his younger days. But I loved Edith to death. When she died I cried and cried. I knew deep down this was only a bit of how it would be when mother died. We would look accross to her house at night after she passed and be so sad, no light shining in the window. Edith always had a lot of birds. She is where I learned to put out hummingbird feeders. She fed wild turkeys and at times would have as many as 30 in her yard. I asked for the bird feeder that her husband made her. It was kept right in her kitchen window. Birds would eat there and never pay her any mind. I never had the success that she had though.

So - my happy things are my childhood memories of playmates and parents neighbors that I loved all my life and visited even after I moved, and the things I learned from them. One was woodworking from Edith. She tackled anything and just made it. The other was a love of flowers from her and mother and of taking care of animals. I can remember my mother nursing small things from as far back as I can remember. Just never running out of things to do if I could get together with neighbor kids. And I think the very best was having woods to play in and explore. We had the prettiest little stream that would fill up after the rain. I love moss to this day and I was forevermore bringing back moss from up at the lake and starting it in our yard. But had to quit a few years ago. Hubby killed it all last year when he sprayed the yard and there is still bare spots where my moss was. :( . But I remember it, at least, lol. I'm hoping my mind will always remember enough good things when the rest of my body fails me.

[Tootsie]

Can I contribute my humming bird story?

Year ago, when my boys were in Scouts, I had made much of their back pack equipment from that company, Frostline, that sent you everything you needed to sew it. I made sleeping bags, both down and polyester, back packs, down and polyester jackets, rain gear, etc.

I had ordered some duck fabric to make covers with straps for their canteens. One of their friends asked me to make one for him. I still had some of the red, heavy duck fabric and made him the cover, with a black strap. His canteen, was the flat type and had a yellow cap, attached to the canteen with a light weight chain.

One day, during a hike, he had set the canteen, in it's cover, on a rock and was amazed to see a hummingbird trying to poke it's beak into that red flower with the yellow center! Cheerio.

[joy]

Thanks Tootsie. I am picturing the whole scene with the determined little bird, lol. It is good to know you were involved in the Scouts. I can remember the day I volunteered to be a leader myself. I was just going to take my child to sign up and when I saw the lack of participation from the other parents, I surprised myself and volunteered, lol. I might add that on my child's first day of school, I felt so old when I saw the other mothers. We had such a long wait for the adoption to come through. So I had about a seven year delay. That's on top of waiting until we were 21. Unlike the couple we double dated with through high school. They married right out of high school and had five children before hubby and I even had time to start our planning on what do we do now, lol.

I also remember my mother making red flowers out of crochet string to top off the feeders so the hummers could spot the feeder easily. It worked just great. Also she would put oil on it to discourage the ants. That and using canned Pet milk to glue back together whatnots that often got broke is an easy trick I've never forgotten. What is the very old saying (and here I AM older than everyone posting, lol) of make do, use it up ?? can't remember the whole saying but we sure put it into practice at our house when I was a child.

[Buttons2]

1) spent the day with a friend & ran into 2 other people from my past
2) glad I can hobble around today
3) learned a good lesson-stay away from long staircases!
4) found perfect fabric to recover cushions on a bench-it's too cute!
5) Castor oil on my very swollen knee last night erased 90% of the pain! it works! Get some of this Joy,it's so cheap & I swear I was amazed about the relief,my knee looked like it swallowed a melon last night! I just applied it again,on both knees actually. Next I might be drinking the stuff!:eek: ugh,just kidding!

HUGS everyone
Javi, if you're reading this we are thinking of you! Hope you are OK,I know sometimes you don't feel up to typing.....

Tootsie,great hummingbird story!

Buttons

[joy]

It's good to know Buttons had a day out and survived it. You have to watch those stairs though. I was told by my arthritis doctor in early 90's no house with stairs. And of course I still want stairs if we ever build on farm, but will likely just let it stay a dream.

I got a haircut today. I'm glad it is over. It's getting to where I hate haircuts ALMOST as much as having to go to a doctor. This girl will not see me again though. I told her up front, none of that thick junk stuff on my hair! And what did she do? Did not put anything on it until the very end. Then grabbed the jar and put some of it on top anyway. I must be to nice for my own good as she is still alive. And yes, I left a small tip. It was a beuaty school and the woman, not girl, is supopose to graduate in 7 weeks. But to deliberately go agaist her patron's wishes, she does not need my money next time. Sorry I'm just still put out a bit as I hate that awful stuff, especially in summer!!

We have been getting the sweetest small individual watermelons at a certain grocery store. Oh are they ever so good. And easier for me to pick up and slice. Still hard to cut into for me for some reason but I stay with it until I am eating watermelon, lol.

I ordered my B-12 and P5P. That's a happy thing for me as I put things off. Five bottles of B-12 should last me for awhile. GET er done!! Yes, I am a southerner!!

Clean sheets. Hoth our beds have them so it doesn't matter where I sleep. I just found out we are going to lake TONIGHT!! We have to take our pontoon to get it fixed.

So I'll be a little short as I have to hurry. Take care everyone. I have to throw some things into a bag and go. And feed my dog.

[JAVISI]

I felt awful again yesterday and today. I slept almost all of yesterday away. I guess I needed the sleep?? I mjust can't seem to completely rid of this pneumonia. It is getting the best of me. I just have a hard time even getting on line. I have a feeling it will be another sleepy day.

Now for the happiness in the little things......

1) reading all of your posts, It really boosts my spirit. I get great joy when new comers joing in!

2) Longing around in pajama's all day long!

3) a day without any type of crisis

4) watching a good movie

5) reminising looking at pictures!

Keep Dreaming Big! Love ya, Laurie;)

[joy]

We made it back safe after delivering our pontoon to shop for repair. A long day of driving over with

We had some fresh squash given to us and I didn't burn it this time. I love the taste of fried squash and can't see where the sweetish taste comes from. UUm good.

I found a steamer and bought it for my daughter. She will enjoy using it and it will make it easier for her to cook. I like doing things like that every now and then because I know it's appreciated. It is a big one and a double decker at that.

I'm kinda having a hard time listing things because I have a lot on my mind. I'm not depressed, just have a lot to think on. Our 29 year old son went through his colon test okay but the doctor has strongly suggested he have surgery. Out of 9 picture shots, five had diviticulitis in them or polyps. EDITED this to say the biopsy was OKAY .BUT surgery is still on likely. So son is worried about having to have a section of his colon removed, how long recovery will be and already knows it may have to be repeated. Our hospital is famous for staph infection so son worries should he go to larger hospiotal about 100 miles away. I say yes as I myself am already just one step away from the kind of staph that has no antibotic that will stop it. As hubby put it so bluntly to son when talking about it, she gets that and she's dead!! So sure don't want to have to get surgery and have any staph troubles himself. He's way to young to have this amount of trouble anyway. One of the things about adopted kids, you just don't know what all to worry about at all! Hubby is feeling poorly also but I assure you I am taking it all instride. Just hard to make my list today when my mind is distracted. Hope everyone is having a good week.

[Buttons2]

Now if I could exchange my body for another I'd be happy!

1) nice to know my pets love me,Sissy is on one dog bed,(my cat),Pepper is on another dog bed,and the big mutt Rags is right where I have to step over him to get to the door.......

2) yesterday a neighbor came over with a big basket of tomatoes,she'd given us tomato starts this spring & I tossed them in the compost-knew better than to have tons of tomatoes around here,now I don't need the plants-just wait for the delivery!

3) the sun is shining & we might get up into high 70's today

4) I'm not bedridden

5) Javi didn't float away in flooding!

I feel far more like venting today than being cheery! This has not been the best week of my life.......I need new body parts! Hips,knees,feet,you name it & it hurts!

Joy, I made a casserole & managed to drop it inside the oven,anyone want to volunteer to clean the mess? I can't even bring myself to remove the racks & get out the toxic oven cleaner!

Maybe I would lose weight if I lived alone since I can't even open a simple package much less hold on to a dish full of food!

And you really should get your son to TRY going gluten free! He might think you've gone off your rocker but so what? Surgery is risky! Food elimination is not!

Since I'm so full of cheer today I'll just shut off my computer & go count my grey hairs......

Buttons

[joy]

Well I have a happy thing to look at. I hope you get a smile when you watch it. I did.

http://community-2.webtv.net/Velpics/HUM/

[joy]

my five things today

Just trying to get by. I think trying qualifies, don't you?
It is Friday and I will see granddaughter. She keeps the what if's at bay!
I always love to look for deer when we go to the lake. And we usually see many. They will even be in people's back yards there.
I have a long distance friend, I've never met her, but she is a friend, her infections are literally destroying her life, but she sends me funny things all the time. I can't tell you how much I admire and respect her. I am so glad that I sent her that first PM. I believe in prayer so I ask for prayers for her. God knows who she is. In fact, I ask for a calming for myself and it often helps enough that I can keep trying. I also mention each and every one of you my friends.
By late evening and nighttime I usually am calm. You'd think I would be more afraid but not so.
And I wish you all could see a license plate that sits above my computer screen. It is a plate I prepared before daughter went into labor. When they stamped whatever it was they did for daddy in hospital, I asked if they would do my liscense plate. They thought it was a great ideal and was happy to do so. I got more comments about that license plate when it was on my vehicle. But after a few scares, I took it off. I had it ready when grandson made his appearance. Although I did not get to be in room when they did it, Maddax's footprints are on each side of grandaughter's. Hers are lots the biggest, lol. You'd have to smile if you could see those little footprints.

I hope each and every one has a good weekend. And if you don't get to see family, I hope you have a plesant time spent doing things you enjoy.

[JanieDriver]

We have to think of 5 things?? OK, this will be an exercise for me, but I bet when I think of it I am more blessed than I realized.

My cats, Annabelle and Einstein. They know the words "nappy time" and come to me if they're in that mood.http://www.myemailemoticons.com/drop_down/girlie/girlie_17.gifhttp://www.myemailemoticons.com/drop_down/girlie/girlie_17.gif

My hubba-hubba-hubby did all the grocery shopping today so I wouldn't have to go.

I just talked to a good friend and he is coming up with good reasons to have the surgery, and why it is not long to recovery. Plus he will come to spend time with us a lot. (Does that count as 2?)

Fall is coming and I will not have to be in a blasted brace in this heat.

There is a big watermellon sitting on the counter for me to eat some of tonight!~!!http://www.myemailemoticons.com/drop_down/emoticon_expressions/emoticon_exp_26.gif

[Buttons2]

I've come to the conclusion I wouldn't be very good @ morning coffee get-togethers cause I'm no longer a morning person! Used to be raring to go in early am,now it seems to take half the day to get dressed & moving!:rolleyes:

1) I had fun buying stuff this morning @ yard sales
2) Saw 5 deer while out around the county,one was a momma deer with her 2 fawns from last year.
3) I haven't killed the rooster next door that crows day & night!
4) The nasturiums I planted in all the barrells are spilling over & the hummingbirds love them!
5) My hip is much less painful today!

Welcome to Janie!
Thanks for sharing the pics Joy!
Buttons

[joy]

Welcome Janie. It is good to see a new (although we've sorta met :) on another forum) person here. Doesn't make sense to everyone (maybe anyone), I know, lol. It is nice to feel like you've met a new friend!

I agree I am in a better mood late afternoon and night time. I think it's because I know I can sit or lay and not have to worry that I shouldn't and the big one, know I need to do something and can't. My mood is pretty good right now no matter my problems. They seem smaller at this time of day. Now trying to sleep is another story, lol.

I called a friend today and it was so nice to put a voice with how I imagine she looks. Now we are going to share addresses and mail each other our pictures the old fashioned way. I give up on learning how to post pictures here for now, lol. BTY, I tried calling someone else but got a weird message or I'd have talked to 2 of you today, lol.

I'm not going to post ( I don't think) until Monday. I will have granddaughter part of the time and that makes me happy. Since our time is limited between school and other relatives I want to make the most of it.

I'm planning on surprising you all sometimes soon. I'm going to list 5 short, sensible things one of these days, lol. Planning mischief is fun for me. I USED to be known as Mischief in the volunteer fire department. Really MRS. CHIEF in fire department as hubby is the fire chief. We took all the same tests that regular firefighters took. I was a full member but also one of three Emergency Medical Technicians in that fire deprtment. Looking back it was one of the hardest things I tackled and accomplished. Now my hopes are to have a clean house before Thanksgiving. I'm hopeful anyway, lol.

Everyone have a good weekend.

[JanieDriver]

Thanks Joy.

It is storming today and we needed rain so badly. My gardens will be happy to get the real thing and not what I can do for them.

It is the weekend and hubba-hubba-hubby always takes me out to do at least one fun thing I want to do. If I can't really walk we just go to the food court at the mall and watch people.

I am happy I am not an elephant, because I would have to be left behind. They would do documentaries on the herd and I would feel sorry for me.

I found just the place that I need to be right now in this forum.

Right nw, I am at peace.

[Tootsie]

I have 7 things that make me smile today! They are the 7 quarts of home grown tomatoes that I canned yesterday. I am so glad to have that done although there may be enough in a few days to fire up the canner again.

Boy, was I bushed! I even did my 32 lengths of the pool later in the afternoon but supper came from our local pizza restaurant. It is a family owned business and all of my adult children cut their teeth on the pizza crusts there. Yum. Cheerio.

[houghchrst]

Today, despite that it is not a good one, I have one big thing that I am grateful for and that is that I have someone who loves me enough to stay with me despite my mood swings, despite the fact that the house is not always as clean as it could be, despite that we can't do a lot of things because of my pain, despite that I cry a lot, holds me when I do and can often comfort me with a hug, and is often willing to take over household chores despite a 9-12 hour work day and has given me a wonderful child that he adores.

[joy]

Oh how wonderful. To come here and see new posting from people that sound like I have been friends with forever. I can relate to all anyway. Tootsie I used to can and would have jars of food stuck everywhere in the house. It was like gold to me and made me feel as if I could provide for my family through the worst famine if we had one. It was always such a rewarding feeling to put things up.

Janie I wish we had some of that rain. It did finally rain there I hope. Our place in the northeast is still so dry it is killing all my flowers and some of my trees have shed their leaves it looks like it should be at least last October. We need rain so bad, not to mention cooler weather. I just love the area you live in. We have visited it before for conventions and I have a real friend that lives up your way. It is so beautiful and there is lots of things to do. But the hills are just so beautiful and lovely. A place like your area would help me be at peace just soaking in all the beautiful places. My friend took photograph classes and sends some of the prettiest pictures, especially in fall when the leaves are golden. Fall, my favorite time of year. I had that sensation of my body sensing it and telling me to hang on, the fall is coming soon and my body and soul will be peaceful if I can just take a drive and view all the beauty of trees etc. It might not be so pretty this year because of lack of rain but the sumac bushes will still be colorful.

I had a WONDERFUL day yesterday as I got to keep BOTH grandkids at the same time. Some of you know that I haven't seen my grandson since before Easter and he lives less than 10 miles away. He has grown so much, has the cutest haircut and is still quite the little charmer. I moved so much yesterday that this morning I am stiff and did go to church. So here I am, in the computer room, visiting with my friends, lol. Not a bad place to be. I hope everyone has a good afternoon getting to see family or just relaxing and doing something that you like.

houghchrst - Christina welcome. I just love your avatar. I would say that you hit the jackpot. I think there is no need to list anything else as what you have is just wonderful. I wish everyone had a good relationship like you because it makes anything that come along in life more bearable. A funny thing, our church is having a marriage thing just for 2 short sessions. Hubby asked if I was going to sign up so I did. I later replied that we were the oldest couple that signed up, married 40 years, and he jokingly said, I guess they're all happy!! Come to think of it, I'm sure we won't have another 40 years, lol, at least not here on this earth. I'm sorta like this, I think I'll cancel as even if it's just a night at home, we're awfully comfy and I can't think of much I'd change. Except if hubby didn't do all the talking but that's not going to happen, lol. He hasn't realised that I'm not the super quiet girl he met at age 13 and couldn't get a peep out of me. First time he called me on telephone he was so surprised and later said he couldn't believe I talked to him. I said, well I couldn't see just sitting there holding the phone and NOT talking, lol.

Once again, it is so nice to have new people join in. I really have a hard time listing my 5 things somedays but just reading others' responses makes it much easier for me to do that. So today no hummingbirds, squirrels, oh yes I did see 2 pretty butterflies out my window, but for me, it is the people that reply here that make me happier than I'd be otherwise.

[Buttons2]

Since I've become so reclusive there are people from my past that I haven't seen in years. This week I ran into 2 of these women,both made a move to give me a hug but I was not giving back a positive reaction. Since gaining all this weight I feel like a whale & seldom allow anyone to touch or hug me. Both of these women weigh less than 100#, maybe I was afraid I'd crush them:rolleyes: And I was so embarrassed for them to see me with my new body!It's just one more loss of how my life used to be. Or maybe I just have this fear of spreading Lyme disease (fellow Lymies will understand!).

Anyway I was reflecting on this Friday evening,how I used to always give hugs & nowadays I seldom do except for my sons. Then yesterday I gave a total stranger a big hug!! Here's the reason:

I'd gone to a yard sale Fri & left an object there after buying it. The house was 20 miles away. Yesterday went back to the town to try & find the house again,drove around for 1/2 hr before finding it. All we had to go by was a chunk of concrete we had ran over near her driveway,my housemate & I argued this entire half hour cause he insisted it was in a totally different area than my mind recalled.....I was being very stubborn about this, cause I just knew I was right & would find the house (ya gotta keep in mind that we probably went to 20 differtent houses that day).Knocked on the door & the lady remembered me & was so glad I came back......then I ended up inside her house to look at other stuff she needs to sell. This led to her telling me her horrid life story,all of this happened to her in the past six months!

First both her parents died,then her 23 yr old son was killed in an auto accident,THEN her best friend/sister committed suicide! Just before I knocked on the door the poor woman got a call that the deal to sell her house had fallen through (for the 3rd time!). She's already had a nervous breakdown & lost weight. She's a wreck! I gave her advice on how to sell her stuff for the most money & told her that she must never give up hope,that God is there for her even though she's had more than her share of bad & I told her she needs a hug!

It was one of those encounters in life that happen for a reason. If I'd given up on finding the house, or just let the item slide (since I'd only paid 50cents for it),or if she'd resold it,then I would never have met her,never have heard of her tragedies,and never have been able to help her! She assured me she would find something to smile about yesterday, now if she can manage that then so can we!

So today I'm happy to be able to share this little story. I'm happy to be alive. I'm happy to have 2 live sons. I'm happy my sister is still alive.I'm happy both of my parents are still alive.

HUGS to all,Buttons

[joy]

Buttons I agree it was meant for you to be there to help that poor woman. That's a good example of how people can be a help to others or they could be the last straw. It makes me stop and think about how I act and react around people. Life doesn't need to be what I call a pissing contest. Sometimes I think people don't stop and listen to others. They just pause long enough to hurry and tell what wrong with themselves. I DO THAT all too frequently.

I am still smiling to myself picturing my two grandchildren playing together Saturday. It was a rare treat as some of you know. And since I've vowed to get at least part of the kitchen clean, I will let that be my whole happy list this morning. It is a BIG one for me anyway. And I'll be cleaning with the hope I will get to repeat Saturday before too long. And if I don't get to see grandson, I'll have it nicer for granddaughter. She loves to mix up strange things and experiment. Sure she makes more mess than she gets a good drink or snack mixed but she will learn. Picture a drink that has some squeezed tromato in it, with a flavored drink mix added in and I still don't now what the other ingredient is. One time for such a strange snack, it was potato chips! I kept wondering what is this stuff that fees like thick paper in this? Potato chips without any flavor of it's own, lol. And this was so cute, she climbed to the top and found my pretty glasses. She got one down and washed it. Yep it had been there for so long it was covered in dust. She said, I like to use a pretty glass when I drink. I thought to myself, now I put those up because my hands were numb and I might break them. So who has the brightest brain? My 7 year old grandchild who loves pretty things and uses them or grandmother who stores them out of sight and might as well not have them? So what if I break them, I will enjoy them while they last. And be very careful if I drop and break it. Now to get to that mess in the kitchen. I have some rearranging to do. I may even throw out a lot of cheap plastic glasses that are taking up a lot of room, lol.

[Buttons2]

Well this makes me think back to some of the weird stuff I concocted up to eat as a child:

butter & catsup sandwiches
pickeled beets on cornbread with mustard
cabbage with peanut butter

To this day I can see red with yellow & taste those sandwiches!And seems I put salt on everything (just like my Dad does to this day),I salted cantelope,watermelon,tomatoes,apples,corn on the cob......nowadays I don't even know where the salt shaker is!


Wonder I didn't lick the mercury when we broke thermometers so we could watch it wiggle! And I'm pretty sure I chewed on the lead paint on my crib!:eek:

Don't roosters need a hen around? I swear I'm about to go wring the neck of the rooster next door that crows all day! How can I possibly concentrate to write vastly important stuff?:rolleyes: *coq au vin

[Buttons2]

Seeing that in the wee hours of the morning was the best thing to bring a smile in ages! And the stars......I can't recall ever seeing the sky so filled with zillions of stars!*sparkle *sparkle *sparkle

[JanieDriver]

I think you'd only have to throw a hen to that rooster and he'd be too busy to ****-a-doodle-do so much.

My happiness today...a silly painting I am doing is almost finished and it makes me smile to look at it.

[Cry Tears]

I'm thankful for the gift of song and music....got the Joy-Joy-Joy!
Check this out...way too cute...I PROMISE, will make you smile!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6yzjDXp_og
PS...Joy, save this for Emmie!

[joy]

Cheryl that was so cute. Since it was about a joy song I'll confess a bit more about myself, lol. I don't think I've told all about my joy name so I will. A long time ago when I was chummy with my SIL, someone had died and sent a floral spray with a princess phone on it. The message was something like I'll give you a ring or we'll always be connected or some sort of weird thing, lol. And SIL and her oldest daughter were laughing about it. This is the one that lost one of her twins and I was always trying to be a cutup to keep them laughing. I had already though this to myself about a particular song so shared it with them after they mentioned the phone funeral spray. I love the Christmas song Joy to the World. Especially the part where the Lord has come. I told them that I expected my SIL to tell at my funeral why I had chose Joy To the World to be sung instead of the usual type songs. It was a real thought at the time because it did give me comfort to think that after death there was still life. But as my health worsened I had to start thinking otherwise or I would have gotten very depressed. I honestly registered as Joy to the World on my first pn forum. But after grandkids and finding they were such joy, I dropped all but the joy part. When my kids came along I called my daughter my pride and my son my joy. Grandkids, just pure joy, so I shortened my name. Having a name like joy does NOt always assure that I'll give an upbeat answer though, lol. But it is a great reminder to myself just what I do have to be thankful for. Especially since it was so difficult for hubby and me to get those 2 kids in the first place. Talk about being down, Christmas get togethers were always a sad time for me when we were hoping for children and getting no where. I've never been that down since!

Now Cheryl don't be a stranger here. We miss you and wonder how you are doing when you are gone. You keep us lively too, lol.

I hope Javisi is just busy with her granddaughter and is enjoying keeping her.

Janie is the painting the one you posted in artistic forum? It is beautiful. I used to do oil painting until my hands got so numb. You should search out crytears paintings in in the same forum, I think. She has even painted on rocks. I did a few gourds with acrylic sorta like her rock houses, but they were not as pretty.

[Tootsie]

I actually got out of bed at 4 AM to see the eclipse of the moon. It was worth it! I stood there for several minutes before going back to bed. It looked like a large, orange-y pinkish balloon about 300 feet away.

My husband got up at 5 AM and went for a walk, then went back to bed. There were several people out walking at that time. It was a nice thing to share. Cheerio.

[JanieDriver]

I did see the rock house and it was so inspiring. I have painted rocks, but no houses.

Speaking of painted rocks.... after my heart attack 5 years ago they gave me a five year prognosis. At 5 years and one day my hubby threw me a "Celebration of Life" party. Friends and neighbors came, and I had a pile of primed rocks and tons of acrylic paints and brushes out. Everyone painted a rock. They went out in the yard, and then we made a time capsule to go in the ground under them. Everybody wrote on a piece of paper what the day meant to them. Nobody read anyone elses. We'll open the time capsule up in another 5 years.

[houghchrst]

Janie that is wonderful. Very inspiring.

Today is my mother's 62 birthday. I am grateful that despite the fact that she drinks in the evening and smokes and doesn't take care of her general health very well that she is still here. She taught me a lot of things that I can apply to life. She is kind, generous, loving, and my hero despite her shortcomings. We all have them. She raised 4 kind, smart, funny adults and I am not sure what I will do when she is gone. The sad part is that I know that because she does not treat herself well she won't be on this earth very long but I am grateful for her now, today.

[Buttons2]

Well for some reason I'm thinking back to my grandmothers. They both loved me & spoiled me,with love & attention,don't recall any toys or such. I felt very lucky to have both my grandmas. PLUS I had one great-grandma! She was short & fat & had her hair colored with henna. She used to parade me through the little town she lived in & show me off to everyone.

My mother was never affectionate. I cannot recall one time of her ever hugging or kissing me. Without my grannys I would never have known any affection.

So today I'm sending thanks up there for my childhood with them.......

And since some of you are grannies I want you to know how much your grandkids are gonna look back someday with love for you & all you do for them!

Now about that rooster......I've never even seen the darn thing,just hear it 24/7. I also hear some kind of duck,and then there's the goat! The goat used to get loose & come to visit......no more crossing the property line since I got my rescue dog though!And the 3 dogs the neighbors have do NOT dare come over here anymore! It's amazing how Rags (my dog), knows exactly where the property line is without any fencing!

The sun is out in full force today-yipee! We get some summer afterall!

Buttons
P.S. Would one hen be enough? I always wanted chickens myself but so far that eludes me.....I loved to go into the chicken house & find the warm eggs when I was little. We had some banties too,very cute,they ran all over the yard. Cannot have free range here cause of the hawks & eagles tho!

[joy]

One hen would surely be appreciated but if they don't get to run free it wouldn't it only be a tease , lol. I remember the hen house too. In fact it still looks pretty good with the paint job hubby and I did on it back in the 60's. It's still standing and hubby has made a tall side addition to it to park pontoons and jet skis and put other junk under, lol. It matches the concrete block house that used to be part of our really old house. Daddy tore that house down so one side is wood. The wisteria covers that side with pretty blooms every spring. The buidings are light yellow trimmed in brown. The liliac blossoms look so pretty against the yellow.:)

Now here is something I have to be happy about, I won't need to order B-12 for a long time. I asked hubby to order it, I said 5 bottles and he said is this it? I looked and saw he had the right bottle and said yes. I have 15 bottles of B-12 now. I knew he doesn't listen to me, lol. And he knows I haven't have my glasses changed in years as well. So let's see- I have 100 pills in 15 bottles. And I wanted to order a lot hoping it would cut the shipping cost down or even be free. No way do I want to pay to ship it back. Maybe now hubby will help me take it, lol. I should have enough that I can find a bottle now. Hopefully anyway.

I only had one grandmother. Now it was granddaddy (only one of those I remember as well) that if he had lived, I'd be a different person today. He died when I was about 6 or 7 and I still remember the night. Granddaddy taught me how to play checkers and just had time for me. After he died granny went from home to home, unhappy and making everyone else the same. I remember my first visit to dentist. The night before she had told me in great detail about my cousin's bad tooth and the hard time she had. Wouldn't you know it, mine was infected or whatever you call it. I can still remember leaning my head back for childhood tooth pullings and slipping down to the floor when I fainted, lol. That old dentist was going to show me that tooth and for once my mother said, get that thing out of her face! Yeah mother. Mother didn't give hugs and such until much later in life when she had friends that gave hugs. I still remember when she started trying to soften up. But I never blamed her as I knew her mother died when she was 6!! So mother did the best she knew how and I still am so appreciative of having her for as long as I did. We tore a barn down together! We de-sprouted the whole farm by ourselves. In other words after daddy died we were even closer. Now I have 2 aunts that are twins. As different as day and night and even the dingiest one I love because they are all I have and I know when they are gone I will never have anyone to ask the questions that only they know the answers to.

I hope Javisi is up to posting soon. Will she ever be surprised at how many have joined in. It's a good ideal and I'm so glad she continued it after the breakdown. Sssshh, if I mention no down time for braintalk will that cause a shutdown? I hope not.

[Cry Tears]

I luv my granmonkey....I give her kisses and hugs ALL the time...I feel sooo close to her....I have her 24/7 during the summer...it will be a very tearful parting on Friday when she moves back home, school starts...I don't want to add sadness to this post...so I'll shut up.
I luv being her granny!
Chickens...hens and roosters! Buttons....they only live 5 years, so hopefully that roosters ready for the fryer! Perhaps make a call to the Col at KFC!
Think I'd go huntin with a shot gun...can't miss with that! Kaboom! Feathers flying everywhere....peace and quiet!
I'm thankful we're finally having warm weather....summers are short here in the Pac NW....and when is cold and rainy....we long for the warm sun rays.

I'm watching Oprah right now...is about Katrina, 2 year anny. OMG!
I had no idea how displaced so many people still are!...Families living in the FIMA trailers filled with formaldehyde levels 20X normal...smaller children having reaction to the fumes...those trailers meant for short stays, not years and in hot humid areas!:eek: ...how sad...they lost all, now 2 years later, still have nothing...insurance co's cheated them out of paying for damage, said was a flood, not storm damage!:mad:
Pray for those who suffer...we are so blessed...complaining my pool water too cold, my furniture not trendy and a little pain...is nothing compaired to others suffering as they are right now.
I'm thankful for all the blessings I recieve on a daily basis.
Cheryl

[JAVISI]

Dear new and old friends,
I am so thankful for all of the new visitors since my absense. I am so sorry to be gone for so long! I have been exhausted. That pneumonia sure did wear me out! I have been 16-18 hours a day. You would think I would be over being so tired but I am not. My energy level is still low but I needed to get back on BT. I have missed all of you very much!

Talking about grandparents, I have 1 grandma yet. She would drop everything for me! I love her so much. My mom was never much on affection either but I got a lot from both of my grandmas. When I think of my other grandma, I think of the smell of homemade bread and sugar cookies.

Now for the little things that make me happy! I have to think a little about that!.........

1) My grandaughter always saying Grandma come and get me, She would live here if I could only keep up the pace of a 3 year old!*hug

2) Doing little things to prepare for my wedding!*silverbells

3) Not thinking of the years I lost being held like a hostage by my ex but now looking forward to each day of my future!*heart

4) Going to see my son on Sunday, I miss him so much but after seeing him last week-end so many of my fears were releived. He is doing great in the program he is in!*dash

5) Finally getting some cool days!*banjo

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love, Javi*bunch

[joy]

It's good to see each person's postings. It makes me happy when people take the time to stop by and share with everyone.

We had a small shower, I may have listed that but it was a much needed one however small.

It is cooler now and that's a relief. Still warm enough though.

Granddaughter is coming this afternoon. We don't have to travel across town and wait over 30 minutes to pick her up today. We all are invited around the corner to our neighbors house for their child's pizza birthday party tonight. Easy enough for me. All I have to do is shower & dress.:p

I keep having a bit of stressing going on as it was mentioned keeping the grandson and help potty train him. Boy is he ever cute and sweet and very lively to keep up with. Nap time means we all need one, lol. I keep pushing myself to get things cleaned up just in case and getting very tired and hurting. I've just decided I'll do what I can and no more, just like everyday regardless. Life can't get much simplier than that now can it? :rolleyes: :eek:

I hope everyone has a good Labor Day weekend. We plan on staying home as none of us feel all that great right now so home sounds very good no matter how it looks, lol.

[houghchrst]

Today I am grateful that is has cooled down. I don't do well in the heat. Seriously depressed, lots of migraines. Love fall.

I am grateful to have the money to take my son shopping for school. Not a lot but enough.

I am grateful school starts on Tuesday. For the first time in over 6 years I will have some significant time to myself and can start working on my physical health. I have a yoga for arthritis DVD that I plan to start using the first morning.

I am grateful that all of our bills are paid this month.

I am grateful that my car got fixed yesterday.

Wow that is five. I guess I am better at being grateful. Maybe next time I can find things that aren't money related LOL. Money and bills are such a huge stress for me. Today I will try to make it a good day.

[joy]

Today I will try to make it a good day. houghchrst's last sentence is a good one! I really have to try many days but those are still far better days than those when I don't try for me anyway.

Happy sounds for me are the voices of granddchildren. Yesterday I got to keep grandson again and I'n beginning to understand him better. It's hard for me to grasp his childish language since I've not been around him all that much.

The sounds that the tiny wind chimes make when I turn on the kitchen fan. They are ON the fan so are constantly tinkling. :D - hey it's better to concentrate on that sound, it's preferable to my shrill sound because of meniere's.

The sound of my dog when he is going from room to room looking for me after his nap or early morning when he's trying to find now just where did she sleep last night. His nail clip clip on the hardwood floor and his tags clink together.

When I'm outside I can hear the shittering of my hummingbirds as they flit from place to place. And Saturday morning was a rare time for me as granddaughter and I both sat on my front porch for just a brief time and I heard the sounds of their wings. I don't hear that often anymore because I'm not out sitting still. That didn't last as long as it took granddaughter to drag the chair out though :rolleyes: , she was off and running doing something else, lol.

I'll add one more thing to my sound list, the sounds of friends voices. I have heard a few of your voices after reading here on this forum and it is so nice to put a voice with a name. I'll have to make it a point to hear a few more people's voices.

With that I will say I hope that everyone is hearing the sounds of their loved ones and friends this long Labor Day weekend.

[Buttons2]

1) held a 4mo old baby yesterday,rubbed his cheek....oh how soft & sweet!
2) met a cute doggie- part Silky,part min. Schnauzer,she's so funny looking!
3) glad my sale is over!
4) happy I can walk today!
5) very happy I nearly met my $$ goal for the sale!
6) happy Javi is back with us!

Buttons

[Tootsie]

We spent 2 days at the Caledonia Club Scottish Games and I've had my bagpipe "fix" for the year! Love the sound of pipes!

The weather report says it will be cooler tomorrow and I have another batch of garden tomatoes to can.

My grandson, LOVES high school and is doing well, taking responsiblity, and is an entirely different kid, since he's been on a gluten free diet for the past year. The forum here at braintalk has been a big help as I do all his baking.

Had a long telephone chat with my sister's sister in law. We are the only ones left of that generation and we stay with her when we return to our home town.
Cheerio.

[Buttons2]

One day seems like all the rest to me!
1) eagles flying overhead,there were 3 of them,think one was the youngster,kinda wobbly in flight.
2) eating fresh plums off the tree-very sweet!
3) blue jays coming around (this doesn't happen often),I just love their blue feathers
4) owls hooting back & forth last night,I used to mimmick them until I learned the hoots are to define their territory!
5) had energy yesterday & got alot of work done in my shop,the day before I was in a deep depression & no clue why!

Buttons
P.S. Javi, glad you got to see your son!

[joy]

Buttons you were the 200th person to reply!!

I would love to see eagles. They are really scarce here. I am busy keeping my grandsson so won't post as much. I have to say potty training is harder to do with grandkids than your own. I knew my own kids schedule far better. I haven't been around this one that much, well not like the girl.

He is a cutie though. He drew a picture yesterday and I asked what it was. He said, I thjought, broken tree. I said, can you show me? He said umhuh and started for the door. Now this kid loves outside so I thought it was a trick. But he showed me our river birch. It has dead leaves because it is so dry. I asked my son if this is what he said and he said yes. It is a broken tree because of the fallen leaves. Now that kid is not quite 3 and who would have though like their thinking process, lol.

It is raining today and I am grateful for that. Our fall colors will be non existant I'm thinking this fall due to the dry weather. But I look forward to it anyway. But just hate to think of winter.

Well I won't push for the 5 things, I'm just glad I felt up to posting at all. Boy I'm old and it takes a lot of work to keep a small child. We have him overnight tonight too, lol. But I love to hear his chatter. Especially when I THINK I know what he's saying, lol. :D . It is mid week already. Where did the time go, lol.

I hope Janie is back soon and that she is doing okay from her surgery.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I am so thankful for all of you that keep this thread going in my absence. I have to go to the pulmonologist today. I am antisipating another hospital stay. I either have pneumonia or I am in congestive heart failure. I had to sleep in the recliner last night. My wonderful fiance slep right beside me on our attached couch.

When I breath I can feel and literally hear gurgling. So I wanted to say Hi and let you know I haven't forgotten you1 I love and miss you all~! You are all my life lines, you hold me up when I am down and I want you to know that I appriciate each and everyone of you!!

Now for happy things!

1) My 2 children that really don't have the money to spend came over and ate supper with us on my birthday! They brought me such wonferful presents but just them being here with me was the greatest gift of all!

2) Getting such sweet kisses from my grandson, he just started really giving kisses to others besides mom and dad, They are wet but ever so sweet.

3) Planning our wedding has not been as fun as I thought it would be! Evryone has advice and I feel guilty so then I have a hard time saying NO! But when I talked to my boyfriend we are contemplating eloping! Even though I have been sick and stressed I am still the luckiest girl to be marring the man of my dreams!

4) We are going to have a cool off toward the end of the week!

5) I am blessed to have such wonderful friends, like you all!

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Love Javi:D

[joy]

Hi everyone

I will be praying for Javisi to get well soon. I hope there is not a hospital stay but if there has to be I know they will take good care of her. Javisi I would listen to what everyone has to say about your upcoming marriage. They are just happy for you BUT then after listening, just go on doing whatever you and Dan think is best for what YOU BOTH want. And it sounds as if what you both want is each other so if eloping is it, well so be it! It's faster anyway and it will be it's own special story to tell after it is over. I liken it to my adopting kids, my story is different but no less special to me because it was MY story. And for sure no matter how things are at times, they are my kids so special to me regardless. Just be sure we are included in the people you retell the story to, okay? It will be special to us I assure you.

I am happy to say that Meanness is his usual good natured self this morning. He loves kids and grandson wanted to pet him. Meanness immediately went to his toy I bought him and we played tug for awhile. It was worth every cent I payed for that toy.

Grandson is wanting to draw so I am off to play. take care everyone.

[joy]

Hi again. I just heard from Janie's husband. She is out of surgery and they did not get to do all that they wanted to from the back. Her bones are to brittle but the doctor said that it was best to go in from the front anyway except that it took the abdominal muscles longer to heal. I HOPE I got that fairly close what Chuck said. I hate that it means more surgery for Janie. My whole body just goes "ouch" when they talk about screws etc. into bones. I do know of a church friend that had a similar surgery and she is up and doing just great and I pray that Janie will be doing the same soon. It sounds as if she needs to heal for a couple of weeks before they do the next one so hopefully she will be back and fill in the gaps I missed with my poor hearing. Drat this meniere's and shrill sound. But I am thankful that at that I DO hear better over a phone verses in person.

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I didn't require a hospital stay but I feel awful. No pneumonia just very tight wheezing causing difficulty in breathing.My Dr told me that they found a nodule in my lung! I am scared, she told me that it is small and not to worry about it for now. But I can't help but worry. I am awaiting many test results. I hope that they turn out good.

I am so tired of coughing and having trouble breathing. I am on steroids, which I hate taking! an antibiotic and a cough syrup. Hopefully all will ki8ck in soon!

Now to find some happiness!

1) I don't have pneumonia, even though it feels like it!

2) Being able to post even if it is just a little bit!

3) My roses continue to look beautiful even though the weather has been so hot and dry!

4) Football season is here, you can't live in Nebraska and not be a Corn Husker fan! Go big Red!!

5) I am slowly but surly losing weight!

Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars, Love Javi

[joy]

I had to erase a bunch of stuff because this is a bad subject for me also. I hope your story turns out as well as my nodule story has so far Javisi.

[Buttons2]

Am wondering how many toes I've stepped on the past few days on BT? I've been in one LOUSY mood lately!

Here I go though:
1) have been walking my dog the past 3 days,after over 2 weeks of not being able to do that.
2) fall is here,so forget about our no-show summer & look forward to the leaves turning,I like to pick up those huge maple leaves on the path.
3) the fighter jets are not going overhead today to drive me bonkers!
4) I got off my behind & fed the birds,now have sunflower seeds to add to their feasts.
5) now that I'm back to taking my folic acid my hair only falls out 1/2 as much!
6) just checked my calendar....I've gone 10 weeks without any major myoclonic jerks!! Yipee!!

Javi, I sure will be saying some prayers for your health! Tell the family you don't need stress over the wedding or you & Dan will just elope! that should shut them up! There seems to be some strange cough/lung thing going on everywhere,my housemate finally got relief when he took steroids a week or so,now he has a new inhaler that helps also. I was afraid he'd cough himself to death there for awhile (or I'd smother him to shut him up!):rolleyes: Now he's seeing an allergist-beat ya can't guess what he's allergic to? Dogs!

Joy, hope you don't get to add to your health miseries! And get your hubby to find some cough relief also. I know what it does to the nerves of those listening to it!

I'm gonna go eat a fresh plum......yummy!
Buttons

[joy]

I keep on talking about the same things, I know, sorry. BUT this morning early hubby said come here, I thought what is it? And then thought the birds! Yep, there are even more outside now and hubby was excited to see so many himself! Now I gotta sday, I'm lucky to have a hubby that likes animals a bunch too and is not afraid to get excited about hummingbirds. They are just so amazing to watch. I have already made up their fresh food, as hubby pointed out just how close to being empty 1 of their favorite bottles is. So I'll be busy cleaning, refilling and trying to hang up about 6 bottles AND watching grandson today.

And all I really want to do is take a nap at 9:30 AM, lol. Good thing for me grandson takes a loong nap as I do too when he does.

That's enough happy for me but I just wanted to say a big HI to all my long distant friends and hope you have a bit of sunshine in your day. Be it from the sun or maybe just a bit of live-le-ness from your pet or a bit of mother nature that catches your eye. Take care..

[Buttons2]

Over what you ask? Making a doctor's appointment! I can't think when I last laughed so hard! Where do they get these office gals?? Not fair to not share so here goes:

gal:hold please...... (I'm hoping I called the right number)

me: need to make an appointment with M.

gal:no openings this week!

me: I don't need it this week

gal:OK,next month? (we set a time/date)

me:I used to be a patient there,few years ago

gal: oh,fine,bye-WAIT! what's your name?

me: give her my name,address,phone #

gal:that zip code shows Illinois!

me: can you repeat what I said?

gal:oh,never mind I just found you in the computer! last visit four years ago

me:that sounds about right,I need to see her to get my precriptions renewed,any idea what that will cost me,I no longer have insurance

gal: we require a $100 deposit for anyone that left & wants to come back

me: OK,but what about the office visit-how much?

gal:oh,anywhere from $83 to $226

me: fine,I'll see you @......on the ......

Now I was relaying this conversation to my housemate & laughing so hard I could barely tell the story.

First thing I'll do @ this appointment is ask for the $83 special!

And to think I decided to go back to this clinic because they had the most professional office staff!:rolleyes:

Buttons,eagerly awaiting my doc appointment!

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I am back but I did sleep til noon. This bug has got my butt kicked. I don't know when the last time was that I was so tired. I slept through their phone call with my test results. I called back but the Nurse was at lunch. I don't like that she didn't just say you tests were fine! I am probably over reacting!

I am sore all over from the coughing. I have had to let a lot of things slide around this house since becoming ill. It is nice that I have Dan to help pick up my slack. I really do love him soooo much! I think I would have layed down and given up a few times without him, and my kids! They are all com ing around and realizing what he is truely like since he don't have me to pick on!

I spent my birthday money, I said that I was only going to spend on my self on things for the house! I knew in my heart I would do that! I feel guilty if I spend money on myself. I would rather buy for others! My ex always made me to feel guilty when I spent money on myself, even though that is what he did with his and my money after I payed the bills, He was always buying for himself! Lets get off of that subject, thank goodness, that is the past and I am looking forward to the future!

1) Happiness is just dreaming of being married to my true love!

2) Having my grandaughter even though it was only for a few hours, she called crying wanting me to pick her up. I love her so much, I will be glad when I feel well enough to keep her for a couple of days!

3) My daughter fixed supper and brought it over to my grandma's house, so we all could eat togeather. It was a nice thing for her to do. I know that my grandma was so happy. It puts a warm feeling in my heart!

4) Finally some cool weather. I love sweatshirt weather and I love the changing colors of the leaves also.

5) Watched a doe and her little fawn grazing near the lawn. What a beautiful site!

Keep dreaming big and reaching for the stras! Love, Laurie;)

[Tootsie]

The air has finally cleared from the forest fires. Last week, the air quality got so bad my husband and I both had beginning sore throats and I felt I needed to stay indoors. The newspapers said the air quality wasn't really THAT bad, only a 25 and not the 33 that is considered threatening to those with heart and lung problems.

We had planned to spent a few days in the Monterey Bay area this week to celebrate our wedding anniversary that was in August. However, we decided that since we couldn't get reservations in Monterey immediately, we would go to Santa Cruz instead. It is only about a 40 minute drive from home and the air quality, although foggy in the mornings wasn't as smoke filled as the air in our valley.

The motel had no pool, but we visited local shops, a Chinese antique store, attended a local Greek festival, drove to Elkhorn Slough and watched the otters, birds and seals, went to dinner at local restaurants and had a very relaxed, and enjoyable time.

Needless to say, I wasn't near a computer.

Javisi, years ago, a college friend of my husband's sent us an invitation to a wedding recepiton party. The couple had been married quietly about 2 weeks before, gone on a honeymoon trip, then had a party when they got home. That type of celebration might work better for you, as it would divide up the excitment and you would have a chance to rest in between, yet still share the joy with all those close to you. Cheerio.

[JAVISI]

Thank you all for the wonderful advise!

I think that we will end up eloping and have a reception later. Right now I am not up to doing anything. I have to go in and talk with the Pulmonologist on the 24th. Please think of me on that day! I will admit I am a little scared and nervous. I hope that this is just a virus and since my body is compramised thjat it is just taking me longer to get over it!

Happiness is so easy to find if you really want to enjoy this world and all the splender of it!

1) The baby kittens are not as scared as they were, They are soo cute!

2) feeling the cool breeze on my face when looking off of the dck at my roses that are so beatiful in bloom!

3) Finally coming to the realization that my kids do love me and do not resent me like I thought they did!

4) Advice from such wonderful and caring friends!

5) Sweet and juicy nectarines, even when the juice runs down my face, we also have plums, Yummy!

Dream Big all for I know that we all can reach those awesome Stars! Love Ya, Laurie

[Cry Tears]

Five things I'm so thankful for:
*hoppinstar *hoppinstar *hoppinstar *hotairballoon *hoppinstar *hoppinstar *hoppinstar

#1.. I am sooo thankful I live in the USA and we made it thru THIS day without any problems from terrorist...
They may have managed to instill a little fear in all of us,
but that has only made us stronger and we love our country even more!
We continue to fly our flags even higher these days! God bless the USA!

#2...Grateful the gluten free diet since April, has been a lifesaver for me.
I no longer have gut pain or diarreah! I found this info on BT...
after 20+ years of suffering...when entire time was food allergies!
So glad for BT...is only reason I feel much better!

#3...Thankful to be alive, and all 5 senses working just fine!
Oh where did I leave my glasses and hearing aid?
Gosh its hot in here, but whats that awful smell?!
Those burnt beans taste nasty...good thing I didn't step in them!

#4...I am so thankful for my BT cyber freinds who accept me for who I am even thou sometimes...I wonder about me!
I dont' know what I'd do without them...but my husband knows!
I'd be cleaning this messy house instead of here on the puter!

#5...I'm thankful for love....for love I feel towards my husband.
The way my dog, Satin loves me.
My favorite kitty, B-boo who insist on sitting on me all the time purring loudly...and bugging me!
...sometimes I have to lock him out of my room...he's that pesky, lovey....but he's my baby!

Blessings to all...Cheryl

Proof he's my baby.,,,see pics

[joy]

There are a lot of things that can make me feel happy if I stop and enjoy them. I'm trying to give things a better chance of being enjoyable these days.

It's cooler in mornings and late evenings and I'm glad that I have more throws than I need so that no matter where I land I can usually reach for a warn snuggly throw to keep me comfortable.

I have enough books that I can find something of interest to keep my mind occupied.

I finally started putting up some of the little ~what-not~ type things that I brought from mother's house. On the wall in the dining room, next to the kitchen wall, I hung 2 cute little owls. Dark brown, one a horned owl, but both with their eyes cast a certain direction. I put one slightly higher than the other and it looks as if the two are peeking at each other. Now it will be a reminder of all the years they guarded mother's rooms. And my dining room table needs for me to remove more things. Most of the rest on top of it will not be on walls but will have to find a resting place somewhere out of sight. My out of sight places is getting pretty crowded. :p

I have Maddax already this morning. I can hear him and pappy chatting in the kitchen. He had on his Incredible Man costume this morning. So cute. I haven't been able to get him to wear the mask yet though. Hubby has an Incredible Man phone. :D I wonder if I show that to him and let him play with it we could get a picture? His mother saw it here yesterday so I think maybe she is wondering too. I spent some of my money buying Snoopy things for her when son was dating her for Christmas one year. Son spent his share too and he'd rather I spend it on her than him. So I thought it was most likely the best thing to do.

I hope everyone has a good day at least part of the day today. For me just about anything that will get me up and out of recliner is good. So I'll make sure when grandson naps, I lie down in bed :rolleyes: , lol.

[joy]

I just wouldn't believe it if I wasn't seeing it myself - ther are about twice as many hummers at one feeder than there was yesterday. I MUST be the only person with much food out. It has dropped down to in the 60's and I guess the little fellows really need that fast pick me up. We will surley find some trapped in the garage again. Never fails. So I'll keep some of their syrupy water out just for an emergency like the time hubby had to feed one.

I'm off to make more. Might as well have many bottles ready so they don't have to be so territorial about it. I wish I was good at capturing pictures but even so my camera is not good enough to catch that many small things flitting about. I still don't have as many as the lady at the store at lake did. She stayed busy cleaning and making the food for her hummers. It was an amazing thing to see as she had about 4 times the amount visiting her on any given day, any time while mine will likely disperse as soon as they eat enough to go elsewhere. I'm not feeling to pert so I wish I could just sit and watch them all day and dose off and on. I wouldn't make a good hummingbird I don't think, lol. I would make a good bear during hybernating time though.

[Buttons2]

Yesterday as I was sitting here typing I saw quails running across the back yard! I counted up to 14 of them. This is called a covey of quails I believe. Now they are back again today. Going for the sunflower seeds.

1) HAPPY THE QUAILS ARE HERE
2) GLAD MY COMPUTER STILL WORKS
3) MY OLDEST SON STOPPED BY FOR A SHORT VISIT
4) ALWAYS HAPPY TO HEAR FROM CYBER FRIENDS
5) WE ARE STILL HAVING WARM WEATHER,BUT COOL NIGHTS
6) I'M STILL ABLE TO WALK MY DOGGIE......

javi,in my lost post I agreed with Tootsie about the elopement,so glad this is an option, we need to know you're married I guess! Like a bunch of mother hens!

Hugs to all, Buttons

[joy]

Hearing from friends is at the top of my list today but other things I enjoy are-

Edy's coconut fruit bars, uuum so yummy-

fresh Gala or Fuji apples I remember when all I ever had was Golden Delicious or Red delicious; good but the newer varities are just a bit tastier to me-

asparagus, I'd love to have a row of fresh asparagus but canned is not bad-

green beans, always a favorite with me. I used to say if I had to pick just one thing that I could eat exclusively it would be a baked potato. But then I'd want butter or sour creme, But green beans are fine just by themselves-

Can you tell I'm hungry, lol? Well so are those hummingbirds. There were 7 at one time, sitting on 1 of my feeders. That does not count the many others flying around. Boy they sure are hungry little things. I think that some must be new ones just born this year. It had to be a bummper crop year of birds, lol I have finally detected just a bit of red under some of their necks so I know that those are males. It just didn't occur to me that it did not all be red almost instantly. I have noticed that those that have no red or not enough for me to see easily DO sit and eat more peacefully than when the males are present. Now why does that not surprise me!

It still is so amazing to see at least 20 to 30 now at one time in my backyard. For years I considered 5 to 6 to be a large number. I'm still mystified as to why there are so many. I'm really hoping I can keep up the feeding for another month. And that next spring I am able to have fresh out when the first ones arrive. It is just wonderful to think about how many I could have next year if just half of these here now return and raise one to two families each. You all would never hear the end to my hummingbird talk! It is something for me to look forward to anyhow and that's what I need to keep me wanting to hang in there with all this bad health stuff.

It only took me about 4 hours from the beginning of this post until now to get it all finished. Now if something does not distract me, I'll hit post and bid everyone a good day and hope that you have an enjoyable weekend.

[Buttons2]

Well the quails came back & I lost count at 22 of them! so cute the way they run. I made the mistake of going out to get more seeds & they all ran into the driveway,then left. Not like the doves,they will fly into the trees until the feed is out then come right back.

Yesterday the quails were in a different area,and my cat Sissy was right next to the brush waiting!

The doves always share the feeding space with other birds-but not with the quails!

Hop everyone has a good weekend. It's cold here again & sun isn't gonna come out today:(

HUGS, Buttons

[joy]

Today hapiness is getting to SEND your grandchild over to the kids house that keeps calling your house after church. Before I can get my purse and things dropped, she is calling. And the parents don't talk to us about it, just let the kid call my cell phone. So today, they are getting my grandkid, lol. In our defense, we have said to them many time, we try and tell the kids that the ADULTS handle play dates. I'm getting grouchy as I am getting that horrid sinus infection back. It makes my head feel so foogy and myeyes just want to slam shut and stay that way. But I'm HAPPY that I don't have 3 kids running around constantly asking for us to ride them on the 4-wheeler or mule or golf cart. Yes this does so count!!! lol. They are just now 6 and a boy that is 7 and my 7 year old. That's a lot of noise for grouchy old people, lol.

I am so happy that I still have hair left. Remember that my hands are just about dead. I hate going to get my hair cut, not as bad as going to a doctor but right up there anyway. So I bought a straight razor and do the task myself sometimes. I keep my hair short as it is very thick and I get tired of drying it, makes my shoulders hurt and hands griping the dryer. I just grip that little bitty razor and start in. This last 2 weeks I have been cutting something just about every time I wash it, lol. But it's about time I stop for awhile. It gets pretty thin in back sometimes where I lay that razor on hair and just zip away.

I'm also happy that just about all the frosted hair is gone. My hair is back to its natural color of brown with just a bit of gray in front on right side. I sweep it over most of the time in that direction anyway. I hope I don't decide to do that again for a long time. Waiting for it to grow off is awful.

I've rattled enough and need to get busy. I really just wanted to say Hi to everyone and say I hope you are having a good day today. It gets down to mid 50's at night now and the birds are up early at the feeders. And I have some covers handy myself! But it is a nice 75 degrees outside now. Really pretty and sunny.

[Buttons2]

Hi all, gee we could be part of a study maybe.....if you read RD you will notice there is an article about how looking for at least 3 things to be grateful for everyday can make you healthier! (I haven't read all of the article yet).

So yes I thought of our thread here & how I don't post everyday. I'm gonna make more of an effort.

Today I'm very grateful to have a house full of clean windows! And the sun is shining now that the fog has lifted. I love to look down over the fields and see the steam rising up,the fog lifted from the trees,the sparkle of the dew on everything. Fall is here now. Cold at night. The wind storms will begin next month.

Everytime I let the little dog,Pepper,outside & she comes to the glass door waiting to be let back in.....I cherish her adorable little face! She has wheat colored fur & bright brown eyes. On the walks now she seems to be slowing down,I wait for her to catch up,then she gets a burst of energy & does her little doggie trot,she keeps both front & back legs in tandem. I hope she lives a few more years!

Woops,there went the first bird splat on a clean window-right over my computer area! I'll be scooping some off the front deck by the end of the day I'm sure. I've decided not to put all the curtains back up,it looks so different with everything open,can actually appreciate the view!

I'm also grateful today that my cold is much better & my energy is back!

Enjoy the little things in life!
Buttons

[joy]

What Is it?? I just lost my post now too, lol. So going to make this shorter. I think I'll use Reader's Digest tip about thinking of good things. It sounds a lot like good information that someone I respect used for a long time, several someones in fact, I wonder who :) . It is decidedly better to try and think of positive things verses bad ones as I fear most of us tend to want to think of the bad far too much. I know I do.

Buttons I am enjoying your clean windows so much. I am visualizing the whole thing in my head. My daddy loved open spaces so our windows always had the curtains pulled back. In our home in the country I did the same thing. The morning sun just filled the house. I have stopped opening the curtains here and I need to start opening them up and letting in the light more often. It is a lot of work doing that but I think I might work more if I did.

I hope Pepper and Satin and Meanness live a long time still too. But only if they are not in pain. I'll hate seeing my dog if he is in pain. My son got our neighbors dog, a bassett hound, given to them. So Maddax will have a dog now. His name is Toby. I hope it workds out as they had a nice lab. The lab was so feisty that they gave it away. I think Toby is older and more settled so hopefully it will work. And I also don't want them to ask me to take over if it doesn't, lol. Don't even go there with me. I happen to know bassetts have their own doggy smell, phew!

Well gotta get up and get busy as it is hubby's family reunion this Sunday. The Jones reunion so I have to cook something. Gotta start planning early.
Boy I can't write a decent sentence at all anymore. I hope everyone has a plesant weekend starting with today.

[Buttons2]

Every morning the first thing I do is make a cup of tea & get on my computer. My office window faces to the east so I get to see the sun as it comes up over the woods. These woods used to be thick,not so anymore. the cedars have a disease & it is sad to see them dying off. Plus every year the wind blows many trees over. Where I live is called Pleasant Ridge. It used to be covered with old growth trees,not anymore! There are lots of houses now where I never imagined there would be!

But then I'm grateful for the roads/paths to walk on nowadays,used to be all brush & impassable. Then I just have to walk a short way to be on my housemate's other property & from there to his son's 10 acres all cleared with ponds & it looks like a park! The dogs & I are very fortunate to have this wonderful place to enjoy. Quiet & peaceful,hawks overhead,sometimes an eagle or two.

There are these critters we call mountain beavers,rarely get to see one. They live in burrows in the brush. I researched them once & was amazed to find out they are one of the oldest critters on the planet! The little dog Pepper spotted one years ago,she went nuts trying to get into the hole,she didn't realize they make tunnels all over of course,no way could she ever get one!

I need special prayer's today for my lifetime friend. Her husband needs heart surgery.

Have a good weekend everyone! Joy open those curtains! Let the sunshine in-literally!

HUGS, Buttons

[joy]

Well I googled mountain beaver to see what they looked like. I did it from bt and the first one had several pictures, one is from a woman's garden whre it did come out in daylight. I just had to see if it resembles our woodchucks or groundhogs. a lot like them but not same habits all the way. The groundhogs here do not leave food nearby. It showed another group of pictures of them in the deep snow. They have grass etc. around the entrace it looks like. Well you probably know all this but it was interesting for me.

Your walks must be just wonderful with sights that you have. I remember being happy just in my neighborhood and it is nothing like the sights you describe. Sounds so lovely.

I hope everyone has a plesant weekend with visits or someting to do that is fun for you.

[houghchrst]

Today I am grateful that...

My mother survived her recent stay at the hospital after her injury and is sober.

I am grateful that my brother is sober for over a week now.

I am grateful that my family is supportive and stands together to help the two of them.

I am grateful that I have such a wonderful man in my life.

I am grateful that even though my son has not been staying here much that he is happy and doing wonderfully in school despite my guilt.

I am grateful that the six yr old loves school and is still sweet enough to say I love you mom out of the blue.

I am grateful that I have a place to come to remind me to be grateful and help to better my day.

:p there is seven LOL.

[houghchrst]

Joy and Buttons, I envy you even though I know I am not supposed to LOL. I so want to live in the country. When I think of it there is a pressure in my being and an ache like I belong there and it is home. I live in the city in the same house for 14 yrs and right on M21 in Flint, MI and I hate it but I can't afford to move. At least not yet. Maybe some day before I die I will have a house of my own in a place that gives me peace. Though I must be grateful that I have a place to live and a landlord that is wonderful to me. Rent is only $300 a month and has been for 14 yrs LOL.

[joy]

Hey Christina I understand perfectly as I see pictures of the green mountains and pastures, places on the other side of the world and just know deep down my roots, my family came from there. I love seeing mountains, anything in nature. Seasides aren't all that bad but I'd pick a mountain top or valley and look up anytime. And I am partial to green trees verses a desert as well.

But I have to say, what I do get to see is better than some do have. I am sure Buttons has a nicer view but mine is not bad. Do you even have any kinds of birds that come around or anything of the like?

BTY I have been here where I live now or 5 miles up the road for most likely twice the years you've been on earth. I did live in another town for less than a year though. A town! But it still had a lawn and trees.

[houghchrst]

Joy, my backyard I have done the best I could considering how little it is and I do mean little. I sectioned off a part and have my dinky flower bed with my gorgeous dahlias and phlox. I have my new swing that is the lays in to a bed type, I have 2 rose bushes and lots of shepherd hooks with my chimes. I have an "apartment" bird house that I made out of an old bathroom cabinet so I do get birds the only problem is that the front of my house is like 10-12 feet from M21 so I can barely even hear the birds LOL. I did go out last night and have small fire in my pit and sit in my swing so I get some enjoyment. If it weren't for that I don't know what I would do so I am grateful to have at least that much. The people that live in the apartment next to me have 2 boys and a dog and no yard. Just a parking lot behind them.

[joy]

Well your area sounds lovely. It has everything one would need and is likely easy to take care of. That's very important for someone like me. I had a beautiful dark red daliah flower once. Such big blossoms our mail carrier just had to remark on them. I've never had any luck with them after that plant died. I have a lot of birdhouses also but unfortunately most are just sitting around outside and not hung up like they should be. I can't get out and clean them out like they need to be. I would be in that swing watching a fire every chance I got :D .

[Buttons2]

Yes I'm grateful everyday for living where I do. However,never envy me cause I just "live" here as long as my housemate is alive & well!! My actual home is a 32' vintage trailer. But I'm also grateful for that.

I grew up in the country,the few times I've had to live in a city I hated the noise,the close neighbors,etc. I need my space!

Now, I seem to need to be near water. I moved here over 9 yrs ago,before that I lived on the edge of a river that floods!:eek: I spent many hours just watching the river flow by,it was near a bay so had the tide changes too. I used to see otters playing on the banks. There were also seals,they came up the river to eat the baby salmon,etc. In the fall the river had motor boats with duck hunters & their dogs. There was even a small sandy beach. It was a very special place and I still miss it.

Today I'm grateful for sunshine! I even have the doors open to get some fresh air.

I'm grateful to be alive actually. Never know when this is our last day on earth.

I'm grateful for my friends,and that my family isn't having any serious dramas going on at this time.

Grateful that I ususally get a good nights sleep!

Grateful I have my eyesight so I can still read & see the wonders of nature.

I love reading the stories here. And am hoping Javi gets to read these also even if she's not been here for awhile. Thank you Javi for starting this thread. Hopefully it brings a little sunshine into someone's day also.

Smile today about something!
Buttons

[Tootsie]

Tonight, I finally received a phone call from our youngest son, who lives half way across the country. He hasn't called in a while, which is strange as he usually touches base about once a week. I've left him 2 messages, and was beginning to wonder if things were OK. His wife had surgery in August, but from all reports, has been doing well.

The wonderful news, is that he will be starting a new job at the end of the month. Even though it will mean a seventy per cent decrease in salary, it will rise rapidly. Now, they have to figure out how to get medical benefits until the new job offers them in six months.

When I called his sister, to tell her, she told me that #1 son was supposed to start work today. He has been waiting for a prospective employer to make up his mind. Some days are just too good to not share with you all. Cheerio.

[houghchrst]

Today I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. At first I cried but now I have a strange sense of peace.

I am grateful that I finally have a diagnosis so that now I can be treated for it instead of going from doc to doc and med to med.

I am grateful that I have a wonderful support system.

I am grateful that I still have enough cognitive and physical function to study my illness and find out what I need to do to help myself feel better.

I am grateful for my higher power that really steps in when I am in need.


(((((((((hugs for all))))))))))

[houghchrst]

Buttons that living next to water is also a craving of mine. I am thinking trees and hills on one side and water on the other LOL.

Tootsie that is great. I am glad you had a good day. You must be very proud of your children. Mine is only fifteen and a great kid with a lot of emotional problems but great potential. I pray he does well too.

[joy]

A good day followed by not so good news. I wish I had read just the good news first and replied instead of having to combine the both. I understand how you feel about finally having a diagnosis. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia back in late 70's and had never heard of it. In fact, I think it may have just had a name coined for it just about that time. I keep this up I sure won't be able to trick anyone into thinking I am a spring chicken, will I, lol. That was only the beginning and started I think because I helped lift a heavy console type TV in and then out of a pickup truck! I also had several other jobs that required lifitng so I never had a chance. I did manage to well let me say it this way instead, I managed mine pretty good. So hopefully you can too.

[houghchrst]

Thank you Joy.

(((((J)))))

[Buttons2]

I've researched fibro & self diagnosed myself. Gee all those pressure points-I've had those as long as I can remember! I couldn't make it without my flexeril, I take 1/6 of my daily dosage or no way could I function! Now if I could just turn my head around backwards I could press on all those triggers & get some real relief! Do you guys get pain meds for this?

Happy things: got a pair of jeans today that are short enough for me!

The quails are back,not as many but they are coming in the yard more often,they don't get along with the doves however!

Ran into another antique dealer while out shopping,she's further behind than I am for getting prepared for the flea market this weekend so that made me happy! ( nice me huh?)

Gotta say I'm happy my brain finally clicked into gear last night & I did get my stuff ready to pack up for this weekend. (It's only taken me 3 weeks of changing my mind what to take).:rolleyes:

Javi, prayers for you hon, I'm thinking you must be very sick.

Tootsie, glad to hear your son's got jobs!

Joy, you might try using vinegar with a small amount of dishsoap on your floors next time,Clorox is so toxic! Ugh. Also vinegar gets rid of doggie smells. Ask hubby to buy you a mop bucket,it wrings easily, and is on rollers-let him dump it though!

Got some white pansies today. With our gloomy days we need white flowers. Now if I'd just remember to get new potting soil! If I don't write everything down I forget it!

Later,Buttons

[joy]

It is early morning now but late last night I still had not put outside the hummingbird's new food. I had a swarm or them again so I decided to make just one last big supply. I was hoping to still put it out but after looking outside I was puzzled.
the ground looked as if it had a light snow on it! This was really puzzling so I took a closer look and noticed there was moonlight also. I had a chuckle as I realised the dew had fallen and the moonlight was playing tricks on my eyes. I decided to just wait until this morning. Hummers were already out and very busy when I took down the first 2 bottles. I have replaced only one and my side is hurting so the others will have to wait. I'll rally around before thr group shows up, if they come out in force that is. I have more than enough for just my backyard visitors. But the mystery is over for me, I am getting EVERYONE'S birds sometimes. I have out more feeders than anyone in neighborhood so guess they are easily spotted. Oh I wonder just what I've set myself up for next year, lol.

I have decided to start my search for Javisi phone number. I'm sure I have it here somewhere because I called her once. I am getting worried about her and that nasty pneumonia she had. I keep thinking she will come back on and say she is just back from a honeymoon but now not so sure.

Buttons, I have tried the mop buckets with wringers, every kind imaginable. But it has to be the tinest bucket so I can lift it. Oh I know they have rollers but I got tired of looking at it and tried to roll it out the steps once. I am too clumbsy for tricks like that now.

And I just squeeze the best I can on a certain kind of mop I like. If there is any water left I use these new fangled type things to remove the excess and/or put a fan on it while I'm recooperating in the recliner. I like these mops so much I once bought 6 at once when I found them at a good price. They are getting harder to find though so may have to try something else someday. Like hiring someone, lol.

[Buttons2]

The quail saga continues: Now those of you that know me realize I have this rather large rescue dog named Rags. (I did NOT give him that name). He's been very good about just watching all these new birds. Until last night! I was working in my shop & suddenly a huge flock of birds took off in flight! the quails had gone over to the other side of the yard where I don't even put out food. Wish everyone could have seen the look on his face,now I do believe that dogs can grin! Hopefull since I caught him at it and gave a firm "NO BIRDS", he won't do that again!

I picked the apple tree last night,not many apples on this one this year,guessing lack of pollination?

I feel like I live in an aviary! There must be 200 birds out there right now of various kinds! Soon as a hawk comes by they all scatter.

Rain & fog predicted here for the next week! Ugh! Maybe I should sell umbrella's at the flea market!

Put flannel sheets on my bed last night also,winter weather is coming.

Joy, I'll PM you right now,I have Javi's cell number -DUH. all I had to do was look in my address book! Better take my B12 right now!

Later,Buttons

[joy]

I just spoke to Javisi. She is still sick and very weak. It was so good to talk to her. She has to sleep a lot and was waiting for a call from her pulominary doctor. Still running a fever as well. She promises as soon as she is up to it, she will be back online. And also she has an unexplained rash all over her body. Now I can see how she has trouble even getting to sleep but once she does, I'm sure it feels better to just rest. I hope her immune system gets stronger soon.

[joy]

Hello everyone. I just heard from Janie and her last surgery is over. They did the second one faster than I thought they would. So both of them are over and she is home and healing. It sounds like she has extensive stitches in back and the same in front but I believe those are staples. It is hard for to get up and down but as soon as she is up to it she will report in herself.

I'm so grateful for the internet so I can connect with friends. I may stay at home a lot but things are much brighter when I can give a shout out to outs and get replies. That's a big enough thing for me to list today. I hope everyone has a good weekend.

[Buttons2]

Hopefully Javi will be better soon!

Glad Janie is through with the surgeries!

Sun is out right now,so I feel better already.

1)grateful for our BT community
2)grateful to be able to walk the dogs,had heavy rain but not yet a mud path
3)grateful my cold is improving everyday
4)grateful to live in the USA
5)grateful for all the support I'm getting with my dog Rags

Buttons

[Tootsie]

Christina, did you know that there is a fibromyalgia forum here at braintalk? It is fairly quiet since that huge computer crash a year ago, but there are some good posts with interesting information occasionally.

I was diagnosed about 50 years ago and have lived with it since. It is a nuisance but easier to live with once you adjust to the different pace of life. Mine is secondary to a severe thoracic scoliosis that was fused when I was 12. Cheerio.

[houghchrst]

Thank you Tootsie. I had noticed that but I can't remember if I posted there or not when I got my diagnosis. I went to the library to see what I could find and while I did find quite a bit most of it is from the late 90's or early 2000. I found one that I am almost done reading called The Fibromyalgia Relief Book (213 Ideas For Improving Your Quality of LIfe) by Miryam Ehrlich Williamson. I do believe it is the first self help book that I have read all the way through LOL, usually I skim. For me it has explained a lot of things that I have been going through that I didn't even know could be caused by this like the memory loss, and the exhaustion after adrenalin rushes. I have checked out other books but have not gotten to them yet. I imagine I am far better off checking the internet but being in this chair for long periods is agony. Not to mention I just seem to get more depressed the more I read. I am a survivor so I know that I will adjust it is just harder when I also suffer from mental illness. The absolutely worst part is having a six year old who just asked me was my knee going to ever get better. I had ACL reconstruction done last November and it is not doing well. He doesn't know yet about the Fibro and I don't know if I should tell him. How do I do that. Not being able to do things like we use to is terrible.

Do you mind if I ask what you do to manage yours? You can PM me or IM me or we can talk in the Fibro forum since it may be inappropriate for this particular forum. Or not, up to you. Thank you.

[joy]

My problems started with fibromyalgia also way back in the late 70's. I probably already said that, tho,sorry. I hope no one else troubles does like mine seemed too, only get worse with other problems with skelatal and other things to go along with the fibro.

[Tootsie]

Hi Christina,
I'm not sure where to begin explaining how I deal with the fibromyalgia. Many years ago, I haunted my doctor and kept looking for a simple, easy answers. That, by itself, is a sign of depression and after taking cortisone product I needed help. A psychiatric social worker helped a lot when she put my youthful idealism in proper perspective. I didn't have to save the world! At the time, I was about 23, married and supporting the two of us while my husband went to school.

Basically, I quit my job and haven't worked more than a few months, full time, since. However, I did return to work about 20 hours a week when my youngest of 4 children was 10. Until then, I worked, "on call," when he went to kindergarten. I retired at 65 with full social security benefits.

I leaned to say, "no" without feeling guilty and volunteered to do what I knew I could cope with. Those things, are usually tasks that can be done a few days ahead of time, or else broken up into reasonable segments.

I stopped overextending myself, and staying up late to do or finish something that I thought had to get done. Evening meetings seemed to cause me to have difficulty turning off the tape recorder in my head, and sleeping soundly, so I stopped going to them. I made a point of retiring early, and reading until I was sleepy. My husband has sleep apnea and has difficulty falling and staying asleep. Therefore, waking anyone up when asleep, was a very grave sin in the household.

I do not allow ANYTHING to interfere with my swim routine...three tenths of a mile, three times a week. NOTHING hurts when I get out of the pool. However, I can be quite stiff and achy later in the evening. However, I always sleep well when I have been swimming that day. Going every day, is too much.

Medication does not work well for me. Aspirin handles anything except an injury, sprain, etc.Then, I use a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, known as an NSAID.

Growing up, my grandmother lived with us so I never had to be in the kitchen and couldn't cook when I married. However, I soon learned to read all the information in newspapers, magazines, and regularly asked people how they did something or other. I cook mostly, from scratch, and now that a grandchild is gluten sensitive, have learned to do different things with alternative flours. However, I cook supper every night unless I am "uninspired" which is hubby's clue to take me out to eat. Supper is always meat, vegetable, salad and occasional rice or potato. Occasionally I have a meatless meal, but fish twice a week is a staple. In other words, don't eat junk food and watch the additives.

Learn to pace yourself. I do Christmas shopping all year long. Soon I will address, by hand, Christmas cards. We write a Christmas letter and I also add personal comments to individuals, by hand. If I don't hear from someone for 2 years, I stop sending cards. I ignore the fact, that they might not send us a card, as I don't really care, but I do want to hear from them at some time. Some older family friends who are impaired or lonely, I keep on my list until the cards are returned by the post office or someone lets me know they have died.

Do not tell your children about your poor health! They worry excessively and think it is their fault. If I didn't go on a Saturday hike, the children were told that I needed a nap, had some chores to do, expected a phone call, etc.
Tell your 6 y.o. when he asks about your knee, "I HOPE so." Use his question to talk about the things you used to enjoy with him and suggest other possibilities. You could go to the park, watch him play catch with a friend, take him to an ice skating rink, roller rink, with his friends, etc.

Vary your physical activity. I sit for a while, walk for a while, stand for a while, etc. Years ago, I taught myself to iron sitting down and have an ironing board that adjusts to variable heights. I do almost no ironing but do enjoy having a linen table cloth for special meals. See what things you can modify and do in a less demanding way.

I'm not sure how much this will help you, but learn to avoid stressful situations. Do not discuss your ills with people who reject the entire diagnosis and concept. They don't understand, don't want to, and think it is all in your head. Here, we know better! Cheerio.

[Cry Tears]

Fibromyalgia....what a horrid word!
I beleive there are different levels and ways this "disease" hits one's body.
Some may have only a "mild brushing" while another is just flattened by a steamroller!...and there's varying degree's it affects any of us.
I was diagnosed with FM in 1986...all that was wrong was I had a back muscle that hurt a little, tennis elbo and constant IBS (diareah).
When the Neurologist handed me the pamplet...back then FM wasn't known all that well.
I read it over and scauffed...ha! Me...fatigued? NO WAY!
I was superwoman! Full time job, 3 kids, huge house to manage while husband traveled the world. I did it ALL!...no way was this "me"!
But...in 1990 my life unraveled like a ball of snapping rubberbands.
It began with a persistant low grade fever 101*,then down to 100*...after weeks of this and fatigue that sucked lifes marrow from every bone.
Every muscle, nerve and fiber hurt.
I felt as if I'd been run over by a long line of steam-rollers.
All they can figure out was my immunes response to moving into a new home and getting all new everything...overload of glues and toxins, then locked tightly during a very cold fall....my punishment for vanity!
I'd glady trade it all for better health...anything for this pain to stop!
Its been 18 years and I still struggle with this...some day I'll finally come to a point where I can accept this monkey on my back!
Least I have hope...well.....define Hope!
Blessings, cheryl

[Buttons2]

I was gone a few days,when I got home I swear that my dog was so happy to see me he was smiling!

Glad to be back home!

Good to see that Javi is back & posting!

Grateful my dog doesn't have cancer!

Happy to be back with my cyber friends!

Love watching the quails run across the yard!

Buttons:)

[joy]

I am very happy that Javisi is better and back posting too. It is not the same without her here!

I don't feel the best in the world but like I told hubby, at leaast we aren't both in the corner sobbing our eyes out. Kinda feel like that just a bit but still fighting it.

My hummingbirds are still here, just a few though. I wonder if they make that long trip by themself or travel in a group of several at least? Anyone know? I have read that that old myth of them hitching a ride on larger birds backs is just that a story. I have just one more batch of fresh sugar water that I am going to put out. This will be the last one I'm sure. :( On a brighter note, I saw one of our squirrels all stretched out on the corner of our trailer, looking all compfy and cute.

I watched a show on the animal channel lately that showed different kinds of birds making their journeys It was amazing. It showed them here in USA and some In Europe. The scenery was also beautiful. Some were in Africa. I would love to tape that if it ever comes on again.

About dogs and looks, my hubby just remarked last night about how Meanness can turn and lok back and give him that "what are you looking at" look, lol.

[Buttons2]

Hey, where is everyone?

Yesterday I saw a raccoon in the back yard! I guess ya can tell most of my happy moments come from seeing critters!

I'm also happy I had a good visit with my parents.

Happy to share stories with my BT friends.

Happy I had 3 days of energy & got alot of much neglected work done!

And oh so glad that Javi is back here posting......now about those wedding plans?

Smile,Buttons

[joy]

Hello friends. It is a good day today as I have heard from several friends already. That always makes my day better. While I wish their health troubles would improve greatly, at least they are still alive and it is always good to hear from them.

It is sunny here and some cooler. That is sure nice as I love fall weather.
I have my curtains open and it highlights the dog fuzz enough that it inspires me to try and capture it with my vaccum.

I have a family reunion coming up this weekend and I am looking forward to that.

I get to see both my grandkids tonight and that always brightens up my day.

My oldest grandchild is ready to help me drag out the halloween decorations. I must admit, I really had not wanted to do that, but with her bright smiles and enthusaism, it didn't take me long to get into the mood myself. But we still have not found the time to accomplish this yet. So I have this to look forward too. And we might find the time to visit a pumpkin place. I enjoyed seeing them crawl over a wagon full of them last year. The owner's wife sure oohed and awed over my grandson. He wasn't old enough to be obvious of it, my granddaughter was :p . I didn't mind at all even-in-ing out the good natured praise of her sweetness :D . It took long enough for me to get those kids and long enough for me to have to wait for those grand kids, so I sure am going to enjoy them now while I can. I hope everyone has a good day.

[Tootsie]

Hi Folks,
For some reason, every time I have tried to reply lately, I am given a message that I haven't signed in. When I do so, I only get the same message again.

Fortunately, I had put an email address in my address book from the total crash a year ago and got a suggestion from one of our techie gurus.

I guess that my happy thing for the day is being able to participate once more! Cheerio.