It is the Christmas Concert today. Already 1 has cancelled due to weather, I am hoping no more. Alyssa was going to come and watch the concert but her sister is ill. She also was participating in the secret Santa. Hannah and Lydia will get their presents next week when Aggie comes home for the holidays. She and I will go and get the girls and take them to tea or something like that. I am sure they would like that. I do hope the weather doesn't get worse and make others cancel. That would be a drag. I am a bit sad about today, but as Tia pointed out earlier, Mom will be there in spirit. Just a missing mom day, I think so far.
I slept better last night. I didn't wake up until after 5 am so that was good. I think I went to bed about midnight. I could, of course, go to sleep right now, but it is not time for a nap, or is it? Maybe I will lay down for about an hour. I do have some time before the concert and I am really tired this morning. More later.
The concert went well. All the students did a great job. We had a good time at the reception afterward. One student was like, oh no, I forgot cookies! I told her not to worry about it as I had brought enough for 2 people to bring. I am glad it is over as now it is time to work on competition stuff. Katie has some decisions to make as far as what categories she is going to do. I will help her with the songs. Rachel pretty much has most of her music and Rebecca has a good start. Just have to have Dawson decide if he wants to go, and same with Calli and Acer other than that we are good to go. hard to believe it is time to think about competition again.
I got a new student through the new company. I am rather excited about it. She begins on January 8 at 1 pm. She is 12 years old, perfect for starting to sing. I am so glad that it is starting to get better. I do hope it is a sign of good things to come.
I am going to Kathy's for opening of presents on Christmas Eve after church. I will bring my presents that I got from Richard and the ones I got for her children and we will all open presents together. How exciting. Kathy and I will be able to spend a lot of time together this holiday. The only change would be if Richard comes to town, which is highly unlikely but one never knows. I think at this point I am just being wishful thinking. I just miss him, that is all. I haven't seen those children for 2 1/2 years, which is a lot for growing children. I wonder how much they remember me? They are a bit older now 9 & 11, which means they were only 7 & 9 when I last saw them, but still, how well do they remember me. I don't know how much they remember Mom either and now they won't ever see her again. I hope that Richard will help them know a bit more about Mom by showing pictures of her and telling stories of some of the fun times we had. I hope Richard remembers them. I sure do.
It has been a good day today despite the fact it was the first concert Mom ever missed. We dedicated a song at the end to her. I am sure she liked it, it was We Wish You a Merry Christmas. She loved that song a lot. It was one of her favorites. I hope that today finds you doing well and safe from this terrible snow!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Happy Saturday
It is book club day, so that makes me smile. I also called Julie last night to see if I could borrow Lily to make cookies for the concert tomorrow so Lily is coming after book club. How cool is that? I am pretty excited about it. I have the program for the concert finished. I just need to print 10 more copies and it will be finished. This will be the first concert ever that Mom hasn't been to. She has been to all of mine since I started teaching, so tomorrow will be a bittersweet day. It has been hard getting ready for the concert because she isn't here. Until last year, she helped me with everything, getting the program together, bringing cookies or whatever we were bringing to the reception, assisting me with checking in students, just whatever I needed she was there. I often wonder what she is doing in Heaven, how is she doing, is she missing me, or watching me? I don't know since I have never been to Heaven.
We haven't had book club since September. We had to cancel October and I haven't felt up to having one until now. It will be nice to see Maggie and chat. We chat about the book and so many other things. I don't mind that Aggie won't be here this time. Katie is so overwhelmed with school that she had to drop out. I don't mind it being a small one though. My friend, Stacey might join in the new year. I have presents to wrap today too. I have to wrap the students presents, Donna's, Sammy's, and Lily's. I hope we have wrapping left because I didn't pick any up. I shall find out today that is for sure. We are expecting snow and rain tomorrow. I, of course, am hoping for more of the rain than the snow, unless it is just flurries, because it will be warmer. I have been so cold this season already and my joints are achy. I know many of my friends are feeling the same way. It was a bit sunny yesterday and today so that was nice. I do like waking up to a light blanket of snow this time of year, I am not talking 6 ft worth or anything, just a nice very light covering. The type that melt in the sun and by nighttime is gone.
Pain wise, it has been a bit more because of the cold. I expect it every year. My hands are a bit achy today, which is nothing unusual for this weather. My new hoodies are warmer than the other 2 I bought.
I have good news! I almost forgot! I have lowered my car insurance, same coverage, but with a new company. I have it with the same company that did the house insurance and I save $80 a month now. Talk about very cool. As my income is very small these days, every little bit helps. It took both Mom and I pooling our money to pay all the bills so any time I can lower something is good. Teaching helps, but it doesn't replace Mom's social security, nothing does. I have put that into God's hands though and he will show me the way. I am okay for a few months and I do have back up plans. I just miss Mom in so many ways at times. This is just another one.
2 weeks until Christmas. I am as ready as I will ever be. I have plans for the holiday which will be difficult with being the first one without her. I know that the last few years she wasn't herself with the Alzheimer's but she was still mom underneath all that horrible disease. She really was. Mom really loved opening up her presents last year too. So she could still enjoy things, she was just not quite the Mom I knew years before. I miss both the Mom she was and the Mom she became. She still knew she was my mother, even at the end, she knew.
Kimberly is coming to town and so is Annie! I can't wait to see both those girls. It seems like forever.
Well, we sort of had book club today, Maggie and I went out to lunch instead. Boy was it yummy!!!! We went to my favorite, the Olive Garden. We both got something new along with the really good soup. It had shrimp and lobster on it with stuffed type of pasta. Very yummy to the tummy.
Lily should be here shortly. Can't wait for that. She is coming to make the cookies. I just have to go and finish clearing the kitchen.
I am pretty tired today. I have a hard time sleeping between 2 and 5 am pretty much every night right now. I am so afraid at that hour of the night. I know it isn't too rational, but I am afraid when I am alone. I am hoping this lifts rather soon as my sleep is crazy enough, I don't need to add this to it.
Anyways, I hope your day is good. Mine has been so far.
We haven't had book club since September. We had to cancel October and I haven't felt up to having one until now. It will be nice to see Maggie and chat. We chat about the book and so many other things. I don't mind that Aggie won't be here this time. Katie is so overwhelmed with school that she had to drop out. I don't mind it being a small one though. My friend, Stacey might join in the new year. I have presents to wrap today too. I have to wrap the students presents, Donna's, Sammy's, and Lily's. I hope we have wrapping left because I didn't pick any up. I shall find out today that is for sure. We are expecting snow and rain tomorrow. I, of course, am hoping for more of the rain than the snow, unless it is just flurries, because it will be warmer. I have been so cold this season already and my joints are achy. I know many of my friends are feeling the same way. It was a bit sunny yesterday and today so that was nice. I do like waking up to a light blanket of snow this time of year, I am not talking 6 ft worth or anything, just a nice very light covering. The type that melt in the sun and by nighttime is gone.
Pain wise, it has been a bit more because of the cold. I expect it every year. My hands are a bit achy today, which is nothing unusual for this weather. My new hoodies are warmer than the other 2 I bought.
I have good news! I almost forgot! I have lowered my car insurance, same coverage, but with a new company. I have it with the same company that did the house insurance and I save $80 a month now. Talk about very cool. As my income is very small these days, every little bit helps. It took both Mom and I pooling our money to pay all the bills so any time I can lower something is good. Teaching helps, but it doesn't replace Mom's social security, nothing does. I have put that into God's hands though and he will show me the way. I am okay for a few months and I do have back up plans. I just miss Mom in so many ways at times. This is just another one.
2 weeks until Christmas. I am as ready as I will ever be. I have plans for the holiday which will be difficult with being the first one without her. I know that the last few years she wasn't herself with the Alzheimer's but she was still mom underneath all that horrible disease. She really was. Mom really loved opening up her presents last year too. So she could still enjoy things, she was just not quite the Mom I knew years before. I miss both the Mom she was and the Mom she became. She still knew she was my mother, even at the end, she knew.
Kimberly is coming to town and so is Annie! I can't wait to see both those girls. It seems like forever.
Well, we sort of had book club today, Maggie and I went out to lunch instead. Boy was it yummy!!!! We went to my favorite, the Olive Garden. We both got something new along with the really good soup. It had shrimp and lobster on it with stuffed type of pasta. Very yummy to the tummy.
Lily should be here shortly. Can't wait for that. She is coming to make the cookies. I just have to go and finish clearing the kitchen.
I am pretty tired today. I have a hard time sleeping between 2 and 5 am pretty much every night right now. I am so afraid at that hour of the night. I know it isn't too rational, but I am afraid when I am alone. I am hoping this lifts rather soon as my sleep is crazy enough, I don't need to add this to it.
Anyways, I hope your day is good. Mine has been so far.
Friday, December 10, 2010
projects in the making
I just read a blog that has gotten me thinking. I can feel the wheels a turnin' in my head. You see, I have been missing mom so much today. It is just one of those days where I miss her so much and my chest hurts from it. Well, I read a blog I regularly read and she is a wonderful woman who's passion in the orphan. She has 4 biological children and 6 adopted children who were orphans. When I was in my early 30s, Mom and I sat down and had a deep discussion about how I wanted children. I wanted to be a mom so badly. It had been a dream for so many years. I wanted to be a mom. The thing is, I wanted to adopt all my children so we were discussing about how to begin this process of me adopting a child. I knew there would be waiting lists and I knew each country had their own rules and regulations, but that was okay. We were embarking on a new adventure and Mom was in the thick of it with me. It didn't appear that I would be getting married anytime soon. My illnesses were under control and the pain level was tolerable plus back then, I could walk for miles without a problem. So I got ready to contact the people, we chose the agency, we chose the country and we were getting ready for the paperwork and inspections and all those type things, when, wham! I got hit with the vasculitis. The vasculitis did eventually leave my body, but it aggravated the Fibro to intolerable pain and out of control symptoms, plus, I could no longer walk well. Let me just say, that vasculitis had pretty much killed my dream of adoption because nobody in their right mind would possibly pass me for any type of inspection, I was too sick. Then I got the blood clot. Well, that finished off my dream because I was told by the doctor, there is no possible way I could ever carry a baby full term. Now, this really upset me, although since I always wanted to adopt it puzzled me, but at that point all roads closed. I am glad now that we didn't adopt any children because I am not healthy enough to take care of them and Mom got sick too and she needed care. Even adopting an older child would be doing a disservice to them. I can't be the kind of mom I wanted to be. However, this wonderful woman is starting a ministry to help raise money to help other families adopt orphans from around the world. Well, that I can help with and even though I can't have the children myself, they still are deserving a home and parents as well. I am waiting to hear more of her ministry. I don't know if she is going to partner with an already formed group or start her own, either way, I have crafts that I can donate and some that need to be finished that can be donated for selling. Just a wonderful way to still help children that need a forever home. Even when one dream ends, God sends another in its place. I honestly feel that if I had the family I wanted, I wouldn't have been able to take care of Mom as well as she needed. Because I didn't have other responsibilities I could focus on Mom who so needed me. He had a plan all the time I was disappointed, I just didn't know what it was at that point just like right now I don't know his plan, but I am praying he reveals it too me soon. i am anxiously awaiting my new purpose in life because right now, I don't feel I have one. My purposes are gone at this moment, but I know there has to be one soon.
Like I said, until I read that I was having a sad day. These, I have noticed, tend to come on days I don't have much planned to do. I don't know if that is the problem, but I do know I have too much time on my hands some days and that sets my mind wondering towards missing Mom. I do have some things I need to do by the end of next week but today the pain level is a bit high so I am not working too hard on them. I did go to the secretary of state and fix my title, and to cancel Mom's state ID card. That is finally finished. I just have to copy a few more papers and then turn them in and poof! My bankruptcy stuff will be finished outside of paying the actual fee. They will let me know when that time is. I plan to have the stuff copied by Wednesday so that Thursday I can drop them off.
I plan to bake some slice and bake cookies tonight for the concert on Sunday. I will also be making the program tonight or tomorrow. I just can't seem to remember what everyone is playing so I will have to face book a few people and make a few calls asking. What can I say? I forgot to write them down. I don't have the teaching notebook I used to have when I had a lot of students. I do need to get one for next year so I don't forget as much as I have been. It hasn't gotten to the point of students noticing, but as I am hoping for more students, it could get to that point and I don't want it too.
2 weeks until Christmas. I have all the presents bought now. I ended up buying my students their gifts as I was unable to make them anything this year. Maybe next year I will be able to make them something. Just was really unable to do anything for the entire month of November, December is much better. I still feel like I am walking in mud a lot, although the tears have slowed down. The ache inside isn't as overwhelming most of the time. It was this morning until I read the post and it made me realize how lucky I was to have a Mom like mine. So many children don't have any moms or dads and that is just awful. At least I had a great Mom, and she was. I think all of you would have loved her too. She simply was the best in the world. To me, she was everything and my best pal. We did everything together. yes, I spent time with my friends too, but we had fun when we were together. The post made me again realize how lucky we really were to have her as a mom and not a different person. Not everyone is as lucky as I was and that makes me sad too because they don't have the mom I had. Some of these orphans live on the street, I can't even imagine that. So I am hoping this new idea my blogging friend has, will help many of them find forever families.
The day has improved since I first got up and went to the secretary of state by myself for the first time. I do hope yours is going well and that your weekend will be good too. I hope the pain level goes down, it is a bit high, oh shoot, I just remembered, I forgot to take my morning pain pill, could explain why the pain is so high! Silly me! I hope your pain, if you have any, is not high today.
Like I said, until I read that I was having a sad day. These, I have noticed, tend to come on days I don't have much planned to do. I don't know if that is the problem, but I do know I have too much time on my hands some days and that sets my mind wondering towards missing Mom. I do have some things I need to do by the end of next week but today the pain level is a bit high so I am not working too hard on them. I did go to the secretary of state and fix my title, and to cancel Mom's state ID card. That is finally finished. I just have to copy a few more papers and then turn them in and poof! My bankruptcy stuff will be finished outside of paying the actual fee. They will let me know when that time is. I plan to have the stuff copied by Wednesday so that Thursday I can drop them off.
I plan to bake some slice and bake cookies tonight for the concert on Sunday. I will also be making the program tonight or tomorrow. I just can't seem to remember what everyone is playing so I will have to face book a few people and make a few calls asking. What can I say? I forgot to write them down. I don't have the teaching notebook I used to have when I had a lot of students. I do need to get one for next year so I don't forget as much as I have been. It hasn't gotten to the point of students noticing, but as I am hoping for more students, it could get to that point and I don't want it too.
2 weeks until Christmas. I have all the presents bought now. I ended up buying my students their gifts as I was unable to make them anything this year. Maybe next year I will be able to make them something. Just was really unable to do anything for the entire month of November, December is much better. I still feel like I am walking in mud a lot, although the tears have slowed down. The ache inside isn't as overwhelming most of the time. It was this morning until I read the post and it made me realize how lucky I was to have a Mom like mine. So many children don't have any moms or dads and that is just awful. At least I had a great Mom, and she was. I think all of you would have loved her too. She simply was the best in the world. To me, she was everything and my best pal. We did everything together. yes, I spent time with my friends too, but we had fun when we were together. The post made me again realize how lucky we really were to have her as a mom and not a different person. Not everyone is as lucky as I was and that makes me sad too because they don't have the mom I had. Some of these orphans live on the street, I can't even imagine that. So I am hoping this new idea my blogging friend has, will help many of them find forever families.
The day has improved since I first got up and went to the secretary of state by myself for the first time. I do hope yours is going well and that your weekend will be good too. I hope the pain level goes down, it is a bit high, oh shoot, I just remembered, I forgot to take my morning pain pill, could explain why the pain is so high! Silly me! I hope your pain, if you have any, is not high today.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday brrrr
It isn't as cold as it was, but it is still cold. I do stay warm with my hat and scarf on with my coat. I have a wonderful warm blue scarf and my hat is old (at least 10 years if not longer) but it is warm. I just love my hat. I have mittens that go with them but I don't know where they are. I had Mom wearing them over her gloves last year to keep her little hands warm. They were always so cold.
I had no lessons planned for the day. I can't wait until I teach almost everyday again. I so look forward to that. I am confident that by spring I will have enough students to be okay. It is in God's hands and he has never let me down yet, so I don't expect that to happen anytime soon.
I have the space heater on again. It really helps and I don't have to heat the entire house, it just warms me up in the dining room. It sits on the kitchen counter. I make sure there is no paper around and that it is a safe distance from anything that is flammable. I do take safety very seriously.
I went to Walmart today. I needed to get a new fire alarm. Ours is no longer working now. So off I went to get a new one. I got a first alert one, it was a bit expensive, but I was told it is a good one. I don't mind paying a bit more for something that will work and protect me. I am afraid of fire.
I also picked up a few turtlenecks as I don't have any. I saw the cutest hoodies. Disney ones. They were not too expensive so I picked up 3 for me. A gray one that has Grumpy on it, a white one with Tinkerbell, and the last is red with Mickey on it. The Pooh Bear ones didn't have my size. I was so bummed but as I have several fleece type jackets that have Pooh Bear on it, I don't think I really am missing anything. But I am excited about them. I have Grumpy on right now.
We are expected to have a bit of snow tomorrow. Not too much, but some. Supposedly by Sunday we are getting more. Ugh, white stuff here it comes. It is supposed to be very cold next week with wind chills that will make it seem even colder. I am all set as far as most groceries for the next couple of weeks. I bought some meats today that I plan to cook and then split up for more than one dinner. It is cheaper than the stuff I was buying and you get more than 1 meal out of the meats. I expect to get 3 to 4 out of the roasts I bought. I bought 2 turkey drumsticks (love those!!!), a rump roast, a pork roast, and a small 1/2 of a ham that is already sliced. I have plenty of soups and I made enough chili tonight for another night. I am ready to be in the house a lot for the next few days, not need to go out except for my usual. Gotta have my Tim Horton's. I like to go because it gets me out of the house and I often run into friends there. When I do, we have good visits. I miss going there with Mom and at first I didn't go very much because I missed her so much. Sometimes I go through drive through when I don't feel like getting out of the car and going in. I usually read while I am eating. Right now I am reading the Harry Potter Series again. I am on book 4, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. I am about 1/2 way through. I love these books. I just haven't really gotten into other books right now. I tried, but I just can't so I chose to read something I already I knew I loved the book. It is comforting to read them again. Plus it gets me ready for the movie again. I don't know if I will see it in the movie theatre or wait for DVD, either way I will end up with it on DVD. I plan to reread the Twilight books when I done with Harry, maybe then I will be able to read other things and find the joy in them again. Right now, I have joy sometimes, but the sadness is still there a lot. It isn't as bad as it was when Mom passed away, but it is still there. I do find I can get lost in the Harry Potter books and that is nice. For a while the hurt goes away. I know this first year will be hard, but with family and friends, I will get through. I am very blessed despite losing my Mom, to have the family and friends that I have.
Pain isn't too bad considering how cold it is. My headache is a bit worse than normal, but it is to be expected because of the cold. My one friend, Donna, is not doing very well with the cold at all. I feel so bad for her. She is in just so much pain and there isn't anything I can do about it. I do hope to see her when it warms up a bit.
I do hope you had a good day. If you are expecting snow, I hope it isn't a lot!
I had no lessons planned for the day. I can't wait until I teach almost everyday again. I so look forward to that. I am confident that by spring I will have enough students to be okay. It is in God's hands and he has never let me down yet, so I don't expect that to happen anytime soon.
I have the space heater on again. It really helps and I don't have to heat the entire house, it just warms me up in the dining room. It sits on the kitchen counter. I make sure there is no paper around and that it is a safe distance from anything that is flammable. I do take safety very seriously.
I went to Walmart today. I needed to get a new fire alarm. Ours is no longer working now. So off I went to get a new one. I got a first alert one, it was a bit expensive, but I was told it is a good one. I don't mind paying a bit more for something that will work and protect me. I am afraid of fire.
I also picked up a few turtlenecks as I don't have any. I saw the cutest hoodies. Disney ones. They were not too expensive so I picked up 3 for me. A gray one that has Grumpy on it, a white one with Tinkerbell, and the last is red with Mickey on it. The Pooh Bear ones didn't have my size. I was so bummed but as I have several fleece type jackets that have Pooh Bear on it, I don't think I really am missing anything. But I am excited about them. I have Grumpy on right now.
We are expected to have a bit of snow tomorrow. Not too much, but some. Supposedly by Sunday we are getting more. Ugh, white stuff here it comes. It is supposed to be very cold next week with wind chills that will make it seem even colder. I am all set as far as most groceries for the next couple of weeks. I bought some meats today that I plan to cook and then split up for more than one dinner. It is cheaper than the stuff I was buying and you get more than 1 meal out of the meats. I expect to get 3 to 4 out of the roasts I bought. I bought 2 turkey drumsticks (love those!!!), a rump roast, a pork roast, and a small 1/2 of a ham that is already sliced. I have plenty of soups and I made enough chili tonight for another night. I am ready to be in the house a lot for the next few days, not need to go out except for my usual. Gotta have my Tim Horton's. I like to go because it gets me out of the house and I often run into friends there. When I do, we have good visits. I miss going there with Mom and at first I didn't go very much because I missed her so much. Sometimes I go through drive through when I don't feel like getting out of the car and going in. I usually read while I am eating. Right now I am reading the Harry Potter Series again. I am on book 4, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. I am about 1/2 way through. I love these books. I just haven't really gotten into other books right now. I tried, but I just can't so I chose to read something I already I knew I loved the book. It is comforting to read them again. Plus it gets me ready for the movie again. I don't know if I will see it in the movie theatre or wait for DVD, either way I will end up with it on DVD. I plan to reread the Twilight books when I done with Harry, maybe then I will be able to read other things and find the joy in them again. Right now, I have joy sometimes, but the sadness is still there a lot. It isn't as bad as it was when Mom passed away, but it is still there. I do find I can get lost in the Harry Potter books and that is nice. For a while the hurt goes away. I know this first year will be hard, but with family and friends, I will get through. I am very blessed despite losing my Mom, to have the family and friends that I have.
Pain isn't too bad considering how cold it is. My headache is a bit worse than normal, but it is to be expected because of the cold. My one friend, Donna, is not doing very well with the cold at all. I feel so bad for her. She is in just so much pain and there isn't anything I can do about it. I do hope to see her when it warms up a bit.
I do hope you had a good day. If you are expecting snow, I hope it isn't a lot!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
It is cold outside!
I am not ready for this winter. The only good thing I can say about it is that I don't have to try to keep Mom warm as she froze even in the summer. Poor little lady was dreading winter, and I was along with her because keeping her warm was very hard. I did my best though and generally I was able to keep her warm. I just piled clothes and hoodies on her. We even had a couple of sets of long underwear on her last winter. We had underarmour brand and the regular type too.
I only had 1 student tonight because Alyssa went home sick from school. Poor kid. Tough to be sick this close to the Holidays. I received my first Christmas present today from Dawson. An awesome piano ornament. It is in the shape of a baby grand piano. Simply wonderful. I have to wrap my students presents because I haven't done that yet.
I am waiting for big brother, Richard to call me back. I took William and Abigail's gift to the UPS store to ship, well, they are now in my trunk because it will cost about $300 to ship them. Yeah, that is a lot. Richard and Jennifer have to talk about this because Richard is going to reimburse me for the shipping. I don't really have the money for shipping so he would need to send it to me in order to send them to the kids. I, of course, am hoping that this will sway them to be going this way for the vacation! I know, I know, I am wishing, but hey, isn't this the season wishes come true? I can only hope, but I do have a back up plan. I have told my students that I am teaching during vacation because I am not going out west. So far, pretty much all of them want lessons. How cool is that? Pretty cool if you ask me. I would rather teach than sit around and do nothing. I have to pick up Richard and Jennifer's gift certificates this week so I can send them to them. I also need to get 1 more present. I know what I am getting this special young person, I just haven't picked it up yet.
I am cold tonight. Just a minute, I am going to plug in the space heater. I am freezing. Ah, that is better. I bought it last year to help keep Mom warmer. It helped a lot and was cheaper than turning up the heat because the gas was very expensive where as the electricity wasn't too bad. It is just a small thing that sits on the kitchen counter. I have it pointed right at me. Helps to keep me warm! I have noticed this year that I am colder than usual. I don't know if that is a sign that my blood is a problem or what, but whatever the reason, I am colder than usual. Could be also that we dropped down fast this year instead of taking it slowly down. We are in temperatures we usually see in January and February, not now in December.
I am tired tonight. I had a hard time getting up this morning, but I notice I am waking up earlier than usual and getting tired earlier. Doesn't matter, my schedule is so open most of the time that rare do I need to get up at a certain time.
I met up with my friend, Wendy today at Tim Horton's. We had a really time catching up. We talked for just over an hour and it was fun. I enjoy meeting with her. I like hearing about her children, husband, and family in general. It is so nice that we can do this every so often. She came to the viewing of Mom in October. I really appreciated it. She was there for a long time sitting next to me, I so needed a friend to sit with me as that was one of the worst days of my life. The first worst day was the day Mom died, the 2nd worst day was the viewing, the 3rd worst day was her funeral, and the 4th worst day was her burial. So Wendy, along with many other friends and family were there to let me know I wasn't alone. Richard was there too and so was Andrew. All in all, Wendy and I had a nice visit and enjoyed catching up with each other. She is truly one of the nicest people I know. I only wish I had known her better when we were young. I have several friends I feel that way about. However, I am glad that I have known Kathy since we were 3. Next year, in 2011 I will have known Kathy for 40 years. Seems impossible at times, but it is true, I have known her that long. She knows me so well that she can tell it is me when I am crying so hard when I call. I don't know many others that can do that. Well, Richard can too. I have done that. Thought I was okay to call, but once they say hi, I lose it. Can't even say hi. I haven't done that in a while though, which is good. I try not to.
I hope today has been good for you too. Pain level is normal, nothing out of the ordinary which is surprising since it is so cold out. I hope your pain level is low today and that you are enjoying the joy of the season.
I only had 1 student tonight because Alyssa went home sick from school. Poor kid. Tough to be sick this close to the Holidays. I received my first Christmas present today from Dawson. An awesome piano ornament. It is in the shape of a baby grand piano. Simply wonderful. I have to wrap my students presents because I haven't done that yet.
I am waiting for big brother, Richard to call me back. I took William and Abigail's gift to the UPS store to ship, well, they are now in my trunk because it will cost about $300 to ship them. Yeah, that is a lot. Richard and Jennifer have to talk about this because Richard is going to reimburse me for the shipping. I don't really have the money for shipping so he would need to send it to me in order to send them to the kids. I, of course, am hoping that this will sway them to be going this way for the vacation! I know, I know, I am wishing, but hey, isn't this the season wishes come true? I can only hope, but I do have a back up plan. I have told my students that I am teaching during vacation because I am not going out west. So far, pretty much all of them want lessons. How cool is that? Pretty cool if you ask me. I would rather teach than sit around and do nothing. I have to pick up Richard and Jennifer's gift certificates this week so I can send them to them. I also need to get 1 more present. I know what I am getting this special young person, I just haven't picked it up yet.
I am cold tonight. Just a minute, I am going to plug in the space heater. I am freezing. Ah, that is better. I bought it last year to help keep Mom warmer. It helped a lot and was cheaper than turning up the heat because the gas was very expensive where as the electricity wasn't too bad. It is just a small thing that sits on the kitchen counter. I have it pointed right at me. Helps to keep me warm! I have noticed this year that I am colder than usual. I don't know if that is a sign that my blood is a problem or what, but whatever the reason, I am colder than usual. Could be also that we dropped down fast this year instead of taking it slowly down. We are in temperatures we usually see in January and February, not now in December.
I am tired tonight. I had a hard time getting up this morning, but I notice I am waking up earlier than usual and getting tired earlier. Doesn't matter, my schedule is so open most of the time that rare do I need to get up at a certain time.
I met up with my friend, Wendy today at Tim Horton's. We had a really time catching up. We talked for just over an hour and it was fun. I enjoy meeting with her. I like hearing about her children, husband, and family in general. It is so nice that we can do this every so often. She came to the viewing of Mom in October. I really appreciated it. She was there for a long time sitting next to me, I so needed a friend to sit with me as that was one of the worst days of my life. The first worst day was the day Mom died, the 2nd worst day was the viewing, the 3rd worst day was her funeral, and the 4th worst day was her burial. So Wendy, along with many other friends and family were there to let me know I wasn't alone. Richard was there too and so was Andrew. All in all, Wendy and I had a nice visit and enjoyed catching up with each other. She is truly one of the nicest people I know. I only wish I had known her better when we were young. I have several friends I feel that way about. However, I am glad that I have known Kathy since we were 3. Next year, in 2011 I will have known Kathy for 40 years. Seems impossible at times, but it is true, I have known her that long. She knows me so well that she can tell it is me when I am crying so hard when I call. I don't know many others that can do that. Well, Richard can too. I have done that. Thought I was okay to call, but once they say hi, I lose it. Can't even say hi. I haven't done that in a while though, which is good. I try not to.
I hope today has been good for you too. Pain level is normal, nothing out of the ordinary which is surprising since it is so cold out. I hope your pain level is low today and that you are enjoying the joy of the season.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
I was listed
I was listed as a top 50 blogs for Fibromyalgia. Talk about being excited? I was thrilled and humbled. I mean, what an honor, to have my blog recommended for someone with Fibro to read. I am so thankful for this. A couple of friends were also recommended, my friend, Deb, and my friend, Missy. They have awesome blogs too.
It was a good day today, busy wise, not pain wise. Because it is so cold, I am in more pain that normal, but that is to be expected, at least I took my morning medicine before I left. I met my friend, Jennie for lunch. We live about 1 1/2 or so hours away from each other so we met 1/2 way at Applebees. It was so fun. We had 2 hours to chat and laugh. It has been about 20 years since I saw her. I think we were both in college when I last saw her. Amazing. She is now the mother of four. Her last child was born almost 2 years ago. Her oldest three are about 5 and 7 years older than the youngest. They simply adore the littlest one.
After I came home I went to check my schedule for tomorrow when I realized, oh my, I scheduled 2 things at the same time. I immediately called Hospice and rescheduled the meeting with them. I think I realized it last night, but I forgot again this morning. Silly fibro fog! Thankfully I looked at my schedule and took care of it. I have the meeting on Monday now at 11 am. I am meeting with a grief support person. I think it will help me get through this. Maybe there is some tools I can learn to help when I get overwhelmed by all this. I have been doing alright this week, of course, it is only Tuesday!
I had one student today. Dawson rescheduled to tomorrow right before Alyssa's lesson. His sister and Dad are not feeling to well so he is coming tomorrow. He was ill last week so it has been 2 weeks since I have last seen him. He told his Mom he needs a lesson because he wants to start the new books. It is always exciting to start new books, that I would agree. I always was excited about new books too. I think we are going to play a Christmas one for fun. I just have pull it out tomorrow. I will do that before the lessons. I also plan to send Abigail's and William's presents to them. I wonder how much it will cost? Hard to say with a cello and a guitar. I can't wait until they open it at Christmas. I want to see their faces when they open them up, but I won't be there. Too bad. I would really want a picture of their faces. They are so precious. I can't believe how old they are now, 9 and 11. Seems like yesterday they were just born. I remember both so vividly. I saw Abigail just hours after she was born and William the day after he was born. They are so wonderful to me. I wish I saw them on a regular basis. I miss them a lot. Mom missed them too because we hadn't seen them in 2 1/2 years. That is just so long for Mom not to see them, but they do live very far away and we didn't have the money to see them.
I just talked to Richard, they won't be coming to Michigan for their vacation. Bummer, but that is okay. I already told my students I will be teaching so it works out alright. I am a bit disappointed, but not too much like I was. I do have plans so that is good.
I am heading for bed shortly, I am very tired. I hope your day has been good.
It was a good day today, busy wise, not pain wise. Because it is so cold, I am in more pain that normal, but that is to be expected, at least I took my morning medicine before I left. I met my friend, Jennie for lunch. We live about 1 1/2 or so hours away from each other so we met 1/2 way at Applebees. It was so fun. We had 2 hours to chat and laugh. It has been about 20 years since I saw her. I think we were both in college when I last saw her. Amazing. She is now the mother of four. Her last child was born almost 2 years ago. Her oldest three are about 5 and 7 years older than the youngest. They simply adore the littlest one.
After I came home I went to check my schedule for tomorrow when I realized, oh my, I scheduled 2 things at the same time. I immediately called Hospice and rescheduled the meeting with them. I think I realized it last night, but I forgot again this morning. Silly fibro fog! Thankfully I looked at my schedule and took care of it. I have the meeting on Monday now at 11 am. I am meeting with a grief support person. I think it will help me get through this. Maybe there is some tools I can learn to help when I get overwhelmed by all this. I have been doing alright this week, of course, it is only Tuesday!
I had one student today. Dawson rescheduled to tomorrow right before Alyssa's lesson. His sister and Dad are not feeling to well so he is coming tomorrow. He was ill last week so it has been 2 weeks since I have last seen him. He told his Mom he needs a lesson because he wants to start the new books. It is always exciting to start new books, that I would agree. I always was excited about new books too. I think we are going to play a Christmas one for fun. I just have pull it out tomorrow. I will do that before the lessons. I also plan to send Abigail's and William's presents to them. I wonder how much it will cost? Hard to say with a cello and a guitar. I can't wait until they open it at Christmas. I want to see their faces when they open them up, but I won't be there. Too bad. I would really want a picture of their faces. They are so precious. I can't believe how old they are now, 9 and 11. Seems like yesterday they were just born. I remember both so vividly. I saw Abigail just hours after she was born and William the day after he was born. They are so wonderful to me. I wish I saw them on a regular basis. I miss them a lot. Mom missed them too because we hadn't seen them in 2 1/2 years. That is just so long for Mom not to see them, but they do live very far away and we didn't have the money to see them.
I just talked to Richard, they won't be coming to Michigan for their vacation. Bummer, but that is okay. I already told my students I will be teaching so it works out alright. I am a bit disappointed, but not too much like I was. I do have plans so that is good.
I am heading for bed shortly, I am very tired. I hope your day has been good.
I've been included in this article
I have been included in the following article. I will put the link to it. Isn't it cool???
http://www.mastersinhealthcare.com/blog/2010/50-great-blogs-for-fibromyalgia-support/
50 Great Blogs for Fibromyalgia Support
Roughly 2% of Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, mostly women. The serious, chronic condition causes severe pain in muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints — frequently with only the slightest of stimuli — and sometimes crops up alongside other diagnoses such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue, myofascial pain syndrome and many more. Many patients also experience cognitive issues known as "fibrofog" or "brainfog," which (in conjunction with the pain) heightens their risk of depression and anxiety issues. But those experiencing the illness as well as similar and/or comorbid illnesses do not have to wrestle the torment in silence. Support groups exist both online and off, and many have bravely taken to the internet to blog about their journeys through fibromyalgia in order to shed light on the oft-misunderstood condition. When seeking comfort and information on healthily coping with the harsh reality, make an effort to stop by these resources. They offer up almost everything a patient needs, though the research does not take the place of professional medical advice.
1.
Fibro Blog: Presented by the National Fibromyalgia Association, the Fibro Blog provides pretty much everything anyone could ever want or need on the subject at hand.
2.
Deb’s Fibromyalgia Blog: Debbie Vermilyea started her blog as a means of chronicling her experiences with fibromyalgia with the hopes of reaching out to other patients and their friends and family.
3.
Life and Fibromyalgia: Read one sufferer’s perspective on forging the most comfortable, productive life possible in spite of fibromyalgia and arthritis.
4.
Strangely Peculiar: This resource openly discusses depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, but provides plenty of cathartic humor as well.
5.
Fibromyalgia: Anyone diagnosed with the condition — in addition to their friends and family, of course — will certainly appreciate the detailed information and solidarity found here.
6.
FibromyWHAT?: Stop by here for support and information on spreading fibromyalgia awareness in the United States and beyond.
7.
Fibromyalgia & CFS Blog: Adrienne Dellwo heads up About.com’s highly educational blog and website on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
8.
ButYouDontLookSick.com: Anyone suffering from a chronic illness — including fibromyalgia — should check out this highly supportive blog and community to discuss their lives, pain and treatment options.
9.
ChronicBabe.com: Another excellent blog, community, and general resource on chronic conditions, this time targeting women suffering from fibromyalgia, anxiety, Raynaud’s, asthma and many, many more.
10.
Fibro World: Step into the life of a mother and daughter team as they grapple with the latter’s fibromyalgia, neuralgia, migraines and chronic pain.
11.
Shira’s Fibro Fun: Most of the postings here come courtesy of YouTube and discuss a wide variety of fibromyalgia-related topics.
12.
The invisible disease, the journey of a fibromyalgia fighter: Follow one family’s progress as their mother grapples against the pain of fibromyalgia and pick up some incredible links and advice along the way.
13.
Health Matters Show: Tune in to Cinda Crawford’s podcast, blog and website for the latest news, views and advice on chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
14.
Counting My Spoons: This blog provides an amazing amount of both research and personal insight, making it a must-bookmark resource.
15.
Chronic Pain and Ramblings: After receiving a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, chronic myofascial pain and other conditions, Amanda Lasko turned her attention towards crafts.
16.
Fibro and Fabulous: It may not update as often as some of the others on this list, but Fibro and Fabulous proves that those with chronic conditions can still live happily and productively.
17.
How To Cope With Pain Blog: Many fibromyalgia patients turn towards this general blog by a psychiatrist for information on dealing with their perpetual physical torment both mentally and with medication.
18.
Fibromyalgia…from possible diagnosis of fibro to life beyond…: Since 2003, this blog has provided readers with a running commentary on life with fibromyalgia as well as the latest news and resources. Definitely a must-read for patients, friends and family.
19.
The Fibromyalgia Experiment: One 28-year-old opens up about her fibromyalgia, how it impacts her career and the steps she takes towards caring for financial and medical needs.
20.
Felicia Fibro: Pop by this blog for recipes, resources, and plenty of encouragement for fibromyalgia patients and their loved ones.
21.
Pain and Fibromyalgia: Most of the information offered here revolves around dealing with the chronic pain associated with the condition.
22.
Graceful Agony: Considered one of the best health and chronic illness blogs on the web, Graceful Agony comes packed with an excellent archive overflowing with valuable, relevant information.
23.
Lila Lost in the Fibro Fog: Give this blog a visit when looking for someone who utterly understands the challenges faced by fibromyalgia patients.
24.
Oh My Aches and Pains: Cancer, hepatitis C, fibromyalgia, diabetes, chronic fatigue and more collide into one very valuable pain management resource.
25.
4 Walls and a View: Not all of the entries here deal with fibromyalgia, but Dominique Small provides plenty of inspiration for anyone seeking support.
26.
Seeking Equilibrium: Rosemary Lee takes a humorous approach to existence and her condition, which seems to make her painful life that much easier to bear.
27.
Transform Your Chronic Life: Give this blog a visit when looking for information on alleviating the pain from and coping with fibromyalgia, depression, bipolar disorder, IDI and other chronic conditions.
28.
Blog & News at Fibromyalgia & Fatigue Centers Incorporated: This detailed resource peers into fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue from both a research and a highly personal perspective, with plenty of relatable patient stories to explore.
29.
Fibromyalgia — Online Support Group: The blog may not update often, but anyone suffering from fibromyalgia will greatly benefit from joining this support group and exchanging encouragement and advice with others.
30.
Chronic Connection: In spite of its sporadic posting schedule, many fibromyalgia patients still turn to Chronic Connection for support, coping and treatment tips and a few laughs.
31.
Una Vita Bella: Chronic pain and illness understandably leads to severe depression issues, and this brave blogger’s stories helps readers realize they aren’t always as alone as they feel.
32.
Sherlock’s Stuff: With a plethora of chronic conditions — including fibromyalgia — to contend with, one writer must take her personal and professional life one day at a time.
33.
My Foggy Brain: Updates may come at a slower pace than some of the other blogs listed here, but many fibromyalgia sufferers still turn to it for support and advice.
34.
Fibromyalgia Group Diaries: A plethora of patients keep a collective blog as a means of coping with the various physical and mental issues associated with fibromyalgia.
35.
Mo is blogging…I think: Maureen Kaech suffers from more than just fibromyalgia, so anyone seeking solace when it comes to dealing with it on top of other conditions will find her writings of particular interest.
36.
HAVING A LIFE — Sex, Relationships and a Chronic Illness: As the title states, just because one suffers from a chronic condition such as fibromyalgia doesn’t mean he or she cannot enjoy sex and relationships — it just takes some adjustments.
37.
A New Kind of Normal: Whether suffering from fibromyalgia, endometriosis, Celiac or some other chronically painful condition, Jamee at A New Kind of Normal offers up some incredibly inspiring stories to hopefully make life a little easier.
38.
Fibromyalgia — You’re Not Alone: This online support group does feature its own communal blog, but the entire (moderately active) community is worth exploring.
39.
FibroAction: FibroAction dedicates itself to promoting awareness of fibromyalgia and related conditions in the United Kingdom and beyond.
40.
Fibromyalgia at FightingFatigue.org: Be sure to check out the rest of FightingFatigue.org for a more comprehensive glimpse at dealing with the pain, exhaustion and depression of fibromyalgia and related conditions.
41.
Daily Life with "Hidden" Chronic Illnesses: Blogger Dawn only recently received a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, but anyone suffering from a chronic condition that does not manifest itself externally can easily relate to her struggles against multiple diagnoses.
42.
Faith, Family & Fibromyalgia: For some fibromyalgia patients, religion and family may offer them a respite from the suffering caused by their illness.
43.
I Am FibroCathy’s Blog: Follow one woman’s experience with fibromyalgia and her attempts to eke out a sense of equilibrium amongst the chaos.
44.
Learning to Trust: Another blog that turns towards religion for fibromyalgia support. The solution may not work for everyone, but some readers may find it inspiring.
45.
Blogs at MyFibro.com: Multiple contributors means plenty of different perspectives on fibromyalgia experiences, treatment, opinions and other related topics.
46.
My Life with Fibro: Seek out the "fresh face of fibromyalgia on the web" for lessons in how chronic pain can lead to some surprising self-awareness and insight.
47.
Chronic in the Kitchen: Fibromyalgia patients with a flair for cooking do not have to give up their passion! These recipes are specifically designed for anyone suffering from chronic pain who still desire to cook their own meals and snacks.
48.
FibroDAZE: Kathy from Chronic in the Kitchen takes time away from her cooking to discuss her battle with fibromyalgia.
49.
Phylor’s Blog: Bookmark this inspiring blog for information on living well in spite of chronic pain. The information here benefits more than just fibromyalgia patients.
50.
Chronic Pain Journal: Chronic Pain Journal may not be exclusively about fibromyalgia, but sufferers can still benefit from all the advice and resources available here.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Monday - a very cold day
It is super duper cold out right now. Thank God we didn't get the snow though. It has flurried a bit, but not a dumping ground like it did at my cousin's house. I am grateful for that. I have to find my winter pajamas. I know they are not far, but my fall/spring ones aren't warm enough. I have my sweatshirts and hoodies out ready to wear. I need some turtle necks though. I am going to look at Walmart.com to see if they have any. They did a bit ago when I was looking for the little lady. I hope they are still around.
I downloaded the pictures that were on my camera. I figured it out. I put them on the PC first but I think it will work with the mac too. I will post the pictures of them in a moment. The tree looks very cute, Julie and Lily did a nice job. I have to buy a tree skirt because I don't have one. I will do that this week.
It has been an okay day. I met up with Rosemary at Tim Horton's this morning. That was nice. We had a nice visit. I haven't actually seen her since Mom's funeral. She asked how I was doing. I told the truth, somedays good, somedays not so good. She is in the middle of decorating her house for Christmas. She wanted to get her big tree up today. I told her I was done, because I am.
I had 4 lessons today. Bob is almost ready for the concert this weekend. I have presents to wrap for the concert. I will do them probably on Friday. Acer is ready for his piano song, I think he is planning to play his drums with the little drummer boy which he might also sing with. I don't know. I just know he is planning to do something with that song. Calli is ready for her 2 songs. She is singing one song and playing the piano for the other. She was the first one ready for the concert. It should be a lot of fun.
I have had a bad headache all day, although with teaching, it doesn't hurt as bad when I am teaching. I have a potential new student with the new company. I am not sure though. The current situation is that the teacher comes to them and they would have to come here so I am not sure that will work. I do hope so. It is a more advanced student although they have only been playing for a year, so I am not sure how advanced they are, it is hard to say since everyone plays at a different level and goes with different speeds.
I am meeting my friend, Jennie tomorrow for lunch. I can't wait. I have to google map it only to see how long it will take to get there. I haven't been that far west in a while so I am unsure what time I need to leave. I am excited about seeing her. I will be seeing Wendy on Wednesday. I also am going to see a grief person from Hospice. I unfortunately made the appointment the same time as Wendy, so I need to change the Hospice appointment. I will see what she has left. I think the one on one will be helpful for me because I am tired of being told I am not doing well by some. I think I am doing well.
Here is what the tree looks like plus some close ups on the ornaments on the tree.
I downloaded the pictures that were on my camera. I figured it out. I put them on the PC first but I think it will work with the mac too. I will post the pictures of them in a moment. The tree looks very cute, Julie and Lily did a nice job. I have to buy a tree skirt because I don't have one. I will do that this week.
It has been an okay day. I met up with Rosemary at Tim Horton's this morning. That was nice. We had a nice visit. I haven't actually seen her since Mom's funeral. She asked how I was doing. I told the truth, somedays good, somedays not so good. She is in the middle of decorating her house for Christmas. She wanted to get her big tree up today. I told her I was done, because I am.
I had 4 lessons today. Bob is almost ready for the concert this weekend. I have presents to wrap for the concert. I will do them probably on Friday. Acer is ready for his piano song, I think he is planning to play his drums with the little drummer boy which he might also sing with. I don't know. I just know he is planning to do something with that song. Calli is ready for her 2 songs. She is singing one song and playing the piano for the other. She was the first one ready for the concert. It should be a lot of fun.
I have had a bad headache all day, although with teaching, it doesn't hurt as bad when I am teaching. I have a potential new student with the new company. I am not sure though. The current situation is that the teacher comes to them and they would have to come here so I am not sure that will work. I do hope so. It is a more advanced student although they have only been playing for a year, so I am not sure how advanced they are, it is hard to say since everyone plays at a different level and goes with different speeds.
I am meeting my friend, Jennie tomorrow for lunch. I can't wait. I have to google map it only to see how long it will take to get there. I haven't been that far west in a while so I am unsure what time I need to leave. I am excited about seeing her. I will be seeing Wendy on Wednesday. I also am going to see a grief person from Hospice. I unfortunately made the appointment the same time as Wendy, so I need to change the Hospice appointment. I will see what she has left. I think the one on one will be helpful for me because I am tired of being told I am not doing well by some. I think I am doing well.
Here is what the tree looks like plus some close ups on the ornaments on the tree.
This is what the decorated piano looks like:
Only 1 piano is decorated because I use the piano to the right of it for my lessons. It isn't decorated because I would be disturbing the decorations all the time so we just left, plus I have the CD player on top because I use it for voice lessons.
I hope tomorrow the headache is back to normal because I am not feeling very well right now. I hope tomorrow is a better day. I hope your day is good.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Family Day at Uncle John's
I found out when I got home that my Uncle Ken wanted to go to Uncle John's, only he thought it was still next week. Had I known, I would have messaged my cousin and let her know it was moved to today. Yeah, so next time we go I will be letting my Uncle Ken know so he can go visit too. He needs a ride which is no problem as I apparently go right past his place. Sure, I don't mind.
It was a good day. Andrew wasn't there. He and Angie were on their way but the roads were bad by that time and they couldn't see so they had to turn back to go home. I will see him next time. Hayley and Cathy were both there so I was happy about that. I was part way there when Maia called and so I turned back to go and pick her up. I wasn't that far from home. I also should have at that point, gone home to get my medicine but I didn't so I didn't have my morning medicine today. Yeah, not a good thing. A bit too much pain today everywhere. I ended up leaving a bit early because of the pain and I was tired. I didn't want to drive any later as it is a 1 1/2 hour drive home. I have a good time when I go. I brought a cake this time. Lily made it. People seemed to like it. I did. I had a small piece because there were so many desserts to choose from. Hayley brought candy cane cheesecake and Cathy brought cookie bars. All was really good that is all I can say, really good. Michelle is a good cook. Tillie said that in January she is having a family get together at her house. That will be fun too.
I have a busy week ahead of me. I am meeting my friend, Jennie for lunch on Tuesday, and my friend, Wendy for tea on Wednesday. Then I have to pop over to Windsor for a brief period on Thursday. So I am quite glad I have plenty to do this week. I also have to finish copying all the papers needed for the lawyer for the bankruptcy and take a trip to the Secretary of State's office, a place I dread. I need to ship William and Abigail's Christmas gifts to them this week too. I have to go to the UPS store for that one. I will take care of that early this week. I just have to remember to do it. I think tomorrow I will have Heather B-T bring them up so that I can see them to take in. I hope the kids like the instruments. I will then message Richard to let him know they are on their way.
I finished all the thank you notes while cousin Cathy was here. It was much easier to do them while she was here so I didn't cry all day. I cried the first few I wrote and then thought I would only do a few at a time, but I ended up writing them all. I signed for the boys as they couldn't really sign themselves as they live far away from me and sending the cards to them to sign was a bit silly so I signed them all myself.
It seems so strange to me still that Christmas is almost here. I am not really ready for it. Usually I am so ready for it right after Halloween, but not this year. This year I could sleep through it and that would be fine to me. I am still not sure what is happening those days so we shall wait and see.
I want to scan more pictures of the family in. I now have a memory card for the newer camera. The one from the old camera fits so I switched it today. I know where that cord is. It is in the top drawer in the dining room, the other one, I am not so sure where it is, plus it is an older camera with less mega pixels on it. The newer one takes nice pictures. I took a good one of Katie. During vacation Katie is going to come over and put all the music away. She is also going to reorganize all of the CDs. That would be so awesome if she could. I would really appreciate that. Then maybe she and I can put the office back together so the big computer can be put on the table. That would be good.
I am not as tired as I was earlier, but I am still pretty tired. I foresee going to bed rather soon. I hope your day was good too.
It was a good day. Andrew wasn't there. He and Angie were on their way but the roads were bad by that time and they couldn't see so they had to turn back to go home. I will see him next time. Hayley and Cathy were both there so I was happy about that. I was part way there when Maia called and so I turned back to go and pick her up. I wasn't that far from home. I also should have at that point, gone home to get my medicine but I didn't so I didn't have my morning medicine today. Yeah, not a good thing. A bit too much pain today everywhere. I ended up leaving a bit early because of the pain and I was tired. I didn't want to drive any later as it is a 1 1/2 hour drive home. I have a good time when I go. I brought a cake this time. Lily made it. People seemed to like it. I did. I had a small piece because there were so many desserts to choose from. Hayley brought candy cane cheesecake and Cathy brought cookie bars. All was really good that is all I can say, really good. Michelle is a good cook. Tillie said that in January she is having a family get together at her house. That will be fun too.
I have a busy week ahead of me. I am meeting my friend, Jennie for lunch on Tuesday, and my friend, Wendy for tea on Wednesday. Then I have to pop over to Windsor for a brief period on Thursday. So I am quite glad I have plenty to do this week. I also have to finish copying all the papers needed for the lawyer for the bankruptcy and take a trip to the Secretary of State's office, a place I dread. I need to ship William and Abigail's Christmas gifts to them this week too. I have to go to the UPS store for that one. I will take care of that early this week. I just have to remember to do it. I think tomorrow I will have Heather B-T bring them up so that I can see them to take in. I hope the kids like the instruments. I will then message Richard to let him know they are on their way.
I finished all the thank you notes while cousin Cathy was here. It was much easier to do them while she was here so I didn't cry all day. I cried the first few I wrote and then thought I would only do a few at a time, but I ended up writing them all. I signed for the boys as they couldn't really sign themselves as they live far away from me and sending the cards to them to sign was a bit silly so I signed them all myself.
It seems so strange to me still that Christmas is almost here. I am not really ready for it. Usually I am so ready for it right after Halloween, but not this year. This year I could sleep through it and that would be fine to me. I am still not sure what is happening those days so we shall wait and see.
I want to scan more pictures of the family in. I now have a memory card for the newer camera. The one from the old camera fits so I switched it today. I know where that cord is. It is in the top drawer in the dining room, the other one, I am not so sure where it is, plus it is an older camera with less mega pixels on it. The newer one takes nice pictures. I took a good one of Katie. During vacation Katie is going to come over and put all the music away. She is also going to reorganize all of the CDs. That would be so awesome if she could. I would really appreciate that. Then maybe she and I can put the office back together so the big computer can be put on the table. That would be good.
I am not as tired as I was earlier, but I am still pretty tired. I foresee going to bed rather soon. I hope your day was good too.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Decorating for the Holiday
I went to see Rachel and Rebecca's play this morning. It was good. Rebecca had one of the leads and Rachel had another. Both are quite good. I got back just after 12 noon. I called Lily to let her know I was home and whenever they could come for decorating would be fine for me. I wasn't picky at all. Lily's family was having a new couch delivered today so I had time to have a nap, which I desperately needed as I was very weepy this afternoon before the nap. I started getting weepy right when I left the play. Mom would have loved it and that made me sad because she isn't here to see it. Sometimes these thoughts don't make me weepy, but today since I was tired it did. After my nap, I felt much better. Julie and I were discussing how Mom gave up at the end and I think that is what upsets me the most. Because once she asked me what was going on with her memory, she seemed to fly through the last few stages on Alzheimer's. Well, she doesn't have it now.
Lily and Julie arrived and Lily went right down the stairs to get the tree. We brought up the ornaments, and the nativity snow globe (the coolest one ever). We took down everything on the piano so we could decorate it too. The one I use isn't decorated because I need to use it when I teach. I do hope the New Year brings new students or another part time job. Well, we shall see what God will do. It is all up to him.
Julie went right to work so did Lily. I did a bit, but they did most of the work. It took about 2 hours to get it all finished. I mentioned I needed to make a cake for tomorrow and Lily was like, cool, let's go. Well, she did pretty much everything for it. She put it together. We used Betty Crocker mix. She added the extra ingredients and used my new mixer. It works great. She did a great job. She tasted it and said it tasted great. Then we put it in the oven for whatever amount it needed. Julie frosted it for us as I think we started frosting it a bit too early and it was too warm. Julie frosted it and then Lily decorated it. She even signed her name on it. It was just too cute. She did a great job.
We talked for a while after we were finished. Lily took the last piece of garland and draped it over the hallway entrance at the bottom of the stairs. She was so cute trying to get the tack into the plaster. She finally found a hammer and got it in. She did a great job on the garland. It is perfect.
All in all it was a good day despite my teariness. I also managed to get a load of laundry done too! Wasn't that great? I just have a couple more loads and I am all caught up. I do have a big pile that needs to be put away. I will work on that next week. that is my small goal of the year, put the pile of laundry away. I want the utility room all ready and put back together with the clothes put all by Christmas. For New Years I want to have the living room back to the way it belongs with the rest of Mom's things that doesn't need to be there gone. I will also have the china cabinet the way I want. Julie found the dinner plates to the good dishes in the cabinet under the china cabinet. I knew they were there somewhere, but not I know where they are and that makes me smile.
I hope your day is going well too. I am ready for Christmas, well as ready as I can be without Mom. I think she is happy that I have decorated some. I didn't go over the top like I would have had she been here, but I did some. Maybe next year. Who knows what the new year will bring. We can only wait and see.
Lily and Julie arrived and Lily went right down the stairs to get the tree. We brought up the ornaments, and the nativity snow globe (the coolest one ever). We took down everything on the piano so we could decorate it too. The one I use isn't decorated because I need to use it when I teach. I do hope the New Year brings new students or another part time job. Well, we shall see what God will do. It is all up to him.
Julie went right to work so did Lily. I did a bit, but they did most of the work. It took about 2 hours to get it all finished. I mentioned I needed to make a cake for tomorrow and Lily was like, cool, let's go. Well, she did pretty much everything for it. She put it together. We used Betty Crocker mix. She added the extra ingredients and used my new mixer. It works great. She did a great job. She tasted it and said it tasted great. Then we put it in the oven for whatever amount it needed. Julie frosted it for us as I think we started frosting it a bit too early and it was too warm. Julie frosted it and then Lily decorated it. She even signed her name on it. It was just too cute. She did a great job.
We talked for a while after we were finished. Lily took the last piece of garland and draped it over the hallway entrance at the bottom of the stairs. She was so cute trying to get the tack into the plaster. She finally found a hammer and got it in. She did a great job on the garland. It is perfect.
All in all it was a good day despite my teariness. I also managed to get a load of laundry done too! Wasn't that great? I just have a couple more loads and I am all caught up. I do have a big pile that needs to be put away. I will work on that next week. that is my small goal of the year, put the pile of laundry away. I want the utility room all ready and put back together with the clothes put all by Christmas. For New Years I want to have the living room back to the way it belongs with the rest of Mom's things that doesn't need to be there gone. I will also have the china cabinet the way I want. Julie found the dinner plates to the good dishes in the cabinet under the china cabinet. I knew they were there somewhere, but not I know where they are and that makes me smile.
I hope your day is going well too. I am ready for Christmas, well as ready as I can be without Mom. I think she is happy that I have decorated some. I didn't go over the top like I would have had she been here, but I did some. Maybe next year. Who knows what the new year will bring. We can only wait and see.
Friday, December 3, 2010
new quilt
I got a prayer quilt from the ladies at church today. Pastor Weatherly brought it to me and we visited for a bit. It was nice to see her again. She is a very nice woman. Listens, down to earth, very, very nice over all. She is the associate minister at church. She did Mom's funeral and did an amazing job. The sermon was really nicely done, Mom would have been pleased.
The quilt is green and will go nicely either in the living room or my bedroom. It is beautifully made. I think Julie would love it. I think it is wonderful and I am so thankful that they made it. It is a prayer quilt. I have lots of prayers these days, part time job, more students, etc. So far though, I am doing alright. I am making ends meet and have enough to make ends meet for a few months and then I will be in a bind. I am praying by then that I will either have a part time job or more students to fill in the gap. I gave that worry all up to God a few weeks ago because I was getting major headaches with it.
It is a quiet day here with not much going on now that the minister has left. I am just relaxing and surfing the web for jobs. I have to reactivate my Monster.com account and update the resume. I also am looking at the local news websites for jobs too, because they have a job listing page on their websites. I am confident I will find something before the money runs out. So far, so good, is all I can say.
I am not upset anymore about Christmas. If I see Richard, I do, if I don't, well, then I don't. I don't know where he is planning to go for Christmas but I will be fine with whatever he decides. Christmas is going to be hard anyways with the little lady not here with me. Life was definitely a lot easier with her here with me than with her gone. Maybe not physically easier, as she needed help with a lot of things, but definitely mentally. I knew the bills would be paid and that we would be alright together. I often wonder how women do this when they lose their husbands. Losing someone you love is hard I think on everyone.
Kathy will be here in a couple of weeks. We are going to go see harry potter and we are going to fix up the china cabinet. I am planning to make a nice dinner for us on Saturday so that we can use the good dishes. I just have to find the dinner plates. They are in the bottom of the cabinet somewhere, just not sure where yet. I know they are though because they haven't been moved in years.
I hope your day is good too! So far, a nice day. I think I will get some chicken for dinner. Sounds yummy. I have some in the fridge along with some nice rice and broccoli. I also bought some of the fudge covered oreos. I need those like I need a hole in my head. They only come out at Christmas time.
Here is a couple of pictures of Me and Mom! I hope you like them.
The quilt is green and will go nicely either in the living room or my bedroom. It is beautifully made. I think Julie would love it. I think it is wonderful and I am so thankful that they made it. It is a prayer quilt. I have lots of prayers these days, part time job, more students, etc. So far though, I am doing alright. I am making ends meet and have enough to make ends meet for a few months and then I will be in a bind. I am praying by then that I will either have a part time job or more students to fill in the gap. I gave that worry all up to God a few weeks ago because I was getting major headaches with it.
It is a quiet day here with not much going on now that the minister has left. I am just relaxing and surfing the web for jobs. I have to reactivate my Monster.com account and update the resume. I also am looking at the local news websites for jobs too, because they have a job listing page on their websites. I am confident I will find something before the money runs out. So far, so good, is all I can say.
I am not upset anymore about Christmas. If I see Richard, I do, if I don't, well, then I don't. I don't know where he is planning to go for Christmas but I will be fine with whatever he decides. Christmas is going to be hard anyways with the little lady not here with me. Life was definitely a lot easier with her here with me than with her gone. Maybe not physically easier, as she needed help with a lot of things, but definitely mentally. I knew the bills would be paid and that we would be alright together. I often wonder how women do this when they lose their husbands. Losing someone you love is hard I think on everyone.
Kathy will be here in a couple of weeks. We are going to go see harry potter and we are going to fix up the china cabinet. I am planning to make a nice dinner for us on Saturday so that we can use the good dishes. I just have to find the dinner plates. They are in the bottom of the cabinet somewhere, just not sure where yet. I know they are though because they haven't been moved in years.
I hope your day is good too! So far, a nice day. I think I will get some chicken for dinner. Sounds yummy. I have some in the fridge along with some nice rice and broccoli. I also bought some of the fudge covered oreos. I need those like I need a hole in my head. They only come out at Christmas time.
Here is a couple of pictures of Me and Mom! I hope you like them.
The first one I was about 5 or 6 in and I don't know where we were. The Christmas one I was 19 in. don't Mom and I have the same smile??
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