lindaa

Hi, Quick trip to Minneapolis. Took Cora to the "Dora" park. Had a blast--she even saw the "Dora" character and got her pic taken! I so love the world through the eyes of a well-loved 2-year old. She's so happy! I'm officially enrolled in one of Luke's research projects having to do with radiation therapy and the rate of bone loss in post-menaposual women. I'll get some kind of bone preserving drug injection. He'll do CTs of my femurs (thigh bones) in January 2011 and 2012 and compare me to women who have radiation therapy and recieve the same drug, and thoes who have radiation therapy without the drug. Funeral today was different. For one thing they delayed it so that the younger daughter who is a senior could participate in Homecomming events last weekend. Don't know how I feel about that? (doesn't matter, I guess) Then, as the family was receiving visitors in the church sancturary before the service, someone was playing show tunes on the piano--you know, like "Hello Dolly." Yeah, the guy and his family were big into musicals and theater, but in church? Then, at the end, as they wheeled the casket out of the chruch we sang "Happy Trails to You." Maybe I'm just a traditionalist, but I would have found the Gospel message a lot more comforting. Then after the committal, everyone gathered at a park for a Brat fry. Now to be fair, two weeks ago my friend attended her grandmother's funeral and as they drove home, my friend and her husband talked about what they would want. My friend said, "Who would have thought that a week later, I'd be carying out his wishes?" So, I guess that's what he wanted, but the whole thing just left me feeling sadder than I did before. Carla--sorry for Alexa. So hard when you've given everything and then are rejected. Why can't they just listen to us???? Candice--back yet? Did you celebrate Thanksgiving with Meghan at all? Guess Luke and Nicole are celebrating with a Canadian couple ijn Minneapolis today (Nicole was born raised in London) she was impressed that I remembered that it was Thanksgiving. Thanks :laugh: Phyl--Maybe your puppy needs a doggie shrink. Sure is some odd behavior. Hope Earl gets better soon! And what's up with the hip? Is this just since the accident? I thought it was more your back? Janet--Me thinks Andrew'll be back. He had a good thing going. Just be darn sure he agrees to your ground rules! And what's up with Kerri? I read on FB that she's in a doctoral program. Good for her! Is she taking care of her health? Steph--Not forgetting you. Prayers every day

Hi, Mel' free and clear--YAY. He just doesn't need a halloween costume--he has enough cuts and bruises on his arms and chest to pass for any monster. 4 1/2 inches on the chest and brusied 6 inches in all directions! But nothing--including the prostate--was cancer. Thank you Lord! I had an embarrasing event today. I was lecturing in my 8:30 class, and got about 1/2 hour into it, and just could not continue. Got a massive "hot flash" but the room started getting darker and voices started sounding far away. I had to sit down, and by that time I was sweating profusley and cold as can be. When it didn't pass, the students went for the school nurse who wheeled me down to her office in a wheel chair. Everyone said I looked really pale, and my BP was quite low. Eventually it passed and Mel came to get me, but it was kinda scary at the time. I really think it might be stress related. Hopefully that is the end of it. Of course, all my classes were cancelled after that, so now I have to figure out how to make it all up, plus deal with my cowowrker's classes. The good news is that Mel, Mindy and I are going to Punta Cana for 5 days at the end of the month. I think 5 days on the beach is just what I need. Hopefully I'll make it till then. Candice--Happy Thanksgiving! I'll try to post more later--we're going to Minneapolis tomorrow, so who knows?

Carla--looking for news on #4? Janet and Phyl--looking for Vegas stories. Candice--looking for Peter update? Steph and Karri--looking? Melsky had his biopsy yesterday. Should get results tomorrow. Very sad day at work: My closest co-worker and friend's husband died unexpctedally--54 years old--heart attack--two late-teenaged daughters. We're all just reeling. My job to tell students and figure out how to cover her classes. This is the second friend who lost her husband in a month--the first was a car accident.

Arrrg, losing a paper will only happen once. Tim was in an earthquake in LA a year or so ago. He said that while everyone else was ducking under desks, he was running for his laptop--his dissertation was in there. He had it backed up on another computer in his apartment, but he was still paranoid about losing it! When I was in grad school was when Andy was crashing our one and only computer for fun. I used to get so mad when I'd get up in the morning to work on something and the computer didn't work. One day I made him come home from school and fix it so I could work on something. . .Oh the memories! Phyl's got some pics on facebook, but they're kinda hard to see. Inside the limo I think. Speaking of pics on facebook--Carla--did you see that fabulous quilt the Candice just finished? Breaking waves--I LOVE IT! The fabrics and colors are absolutely beautiful--batkis! How appropriate! What an amazing woman--she can sing and create these beautiful quilts and she knows how to have fun, and, best of all she's our friend!

Yeah, I'm feeling left out. Can't wait for the updates from Phyl and Janet! But Mindy's home this weekend (more or less) so maye I'll get to spend a little time with her. Carla--I'm so glad you're taking care of your band! I'm happy for your weight loss--now just focus on maintenance for awhile. Pissed at Peter? How can that be? :thumbup: Things better now? Yeah, Melsky knows to keep it down in the morning--but to be honest, he'd NEVER start up the dishwasher, morning or any other time, or unload it either for that matter. Hey Steph. Hope you're OK Karri--I apologize for not being sensitive to your feelings about your current situation. You are a passionate, intelligent and talented lady with a vision. Don't let temporary set backs derail you. There's always a lesson to be learned. I hope you're moving forward. So yup, it's just us. . .I'll check back later1

STEPHANIE! You get back here! Your SIL is an ungrateful oaf and I'm glad that I don't know her. You did the right thing--she should have been grateful. Instead, she disrespected you and of course, you are hurt. Who wouldn't be? We get that! We were just trying to help you see beyond that. We don't always get it right, but we do care about you and all the things that are going on in your life. Don't you dare stop posting. We need your support here too, and you give a lot to this fourm. You can take out your anger here, and it sounds like you're plenty angry right now--for good reason, but we're not the bad guys here. Take a few days if you need to and lurk, but don't you dare quit posting or I will haunt you. Love, Linda

Catching up and checking in: Janet's making me jealous with that weather report--40's here (well at night anyway). Daytime--60's. Actually, it's quite beautiful--trees starting to turn, and since we had such a wet summer everything that's not turning (grass, evergreens) is deep dark green green. We're going to drive to Minneapolis the weekend after next (9th). Hope the trees hold out--should be a georgous drive. Mel's biopsy is scheduled for the 7th. He's going to have about 15 lipomas removed at the same time. Going to be a challenge. . . Mindy's comming home Thursday--actually flying to MKE today or tomorrow for a conference, then staying here for the weekend. Sure am lookoing forward to having my shopping buddy back for a weekend! (Cora's a buddy in training). So a busier than normal couple of weeks for me. Looking for updates from Candice, Steph, and Karri. . . GO PACKERS!

Just a quick note, then headed for the couch. Had an intestinal bug which kept me near the bathroom for 24 hours. Exhausted after that. Just started eating again today--Soup mostly, rice to get me through my classes today. Candice--good advice. Karri just needs to suck it up this year and evaluate her options for next year. She's bringing in a paycheck, and whether she sees it or not, she is making a difference. There is a reason she has do do things she doesn't want to do. There is something to be learned. Life is just that way sometimes. You gotta do what you don't want to do to get where you want to go. Yeah, it's depressing when you know that things could/should be different and you feel powerless to bring about change. I know I sound a little harsh, and I'm sorry about that. Just some perspective from a well seasoned teacher. If Karri wants to make lasting changes she needs to position herself so that she can influence other people. In the world of teaching, that means you gotta to earn creditability, and you do that by "coming up" in the system. Steph--Oh Michael! You are going to learn the hard way. But Steph, it is his life. The thing that coulselors don't appreciate, but you mentioned, is the effect his behavior has on the other kids. They would be my concern now. I agree with whoever said that if he is allowed to disregard his hygiene, you should be able to refuse to go places with him or have to deal with negativity related to his choices. The other kids need to see that there are consequences to his behavior. I do think that Michael will give it up when it stops giving him the benefit of seing you go crazy, but it's going to take time--lots of time. Carla--are we talking about APA? A whole grade for font? Geez, that's rediculous. (yeah, I know, I'm not a speller, but my spell check on LBT doesn't work) Hey I did a lot of editing for my kids and I'm pretty good at being concise. If you want to send me a paper, I can give you some suggestions. Phyl--home, sweet home! Glad you made it. Howcome when the guys are sick/angry/etc., they get to act out, but if we do that we are called b___s. As sick as i was the other night, it was "Mel, dear, would you please get me the bucket when you have a minute?" and "Oh, Thank you so much for bringing me a glass of ice-Water." Geez! OK, that's all my brain can do. I am headed for the couch and eventually to bed not go get up until I want to. Janet--Love you too. How I wish I could be more like you.

OH HAPPY DAY! Submitted my official "Early Notification of Separation" today. Worth $5000 to let them know now that I intend to retire in May. So it's official!!!! I'm finally gunna have my own life. Cora and Levi will be here in a 1/2 hour. Mommy has a class and Daddy wants to practice with his new band (he plays bass--like Peter, but not as accomplished). One of them will pick Levi up around 9, but Cora gets to sleep over as tomorrow is Cora and Grama day anyway. OH HAPPY DAY!

Quick check in to let you know that I'm trying to keep up. Carla--so happy for you on your new weight, and actually on the surgery too. You are becomming a whole new woman--inside and out! I have a feeling that good things lie ahead just waiting for you. . . Janet--so does all this cleaning have anything to do with missing Andrew? Making a clean sweep? Don't mess with me, gf. . . It's a transition and you're dealing with it in a very healthy way. Now I want you to check on the price of a plane ticket from Palm Srpings to Detroit. I could meet you at the airport and we could drive over the border to see Candice perform. Think about it! Candice--that means that you guys need to book a gig in Sarnia. I'm serious! If you book a gig in Sarnia, I WILL COME! (and I'll lay a guilt trip on everyone else. . .) Steph--what's up? Karri--I heard that you got a teaching job--that's great! Even if it's not allowing you the opportunity to express your creativity--at this point something's better 'n nothin. You've got time. Maybe right now you jsut have to focus on other things--like your health? Please let me know how you are. Phly, oh, Phyl. I am amazed at how many friends you have all over the place. You are mightily loved for good reasons. I can't wait till next year when we all meet up again. Andy's doing pretty well. Back to work tomorrow. My next duty is to make sure that dh calls whoever he needs to call to get this damn bioposy scheduled.

Just a quick note. Child care duties the last two days. Andy's surgery went well; went home a couple hours post-op with a pump that delivers a steady dose of anesthesia to the incision--never saw that before! But he's still moving slowly, and NO LIFTING. How did I ever have 4 kids, work and go to school? A two-year-old and 4-month-old have worn me out! Not even time to eat! Back to work today and student issues to deal with. It'll be a long one

Oh, sorry if I was misleading. Mel hasn't had his biopsy yet. We're waiting to hear when it will be scheduled. If it were me, I'd be on their case to schedule it immediately, but Mel's a little more laid back. I'll keep you all posted. Karla--I did my Master's when I was in my 40's too, but lucky you to get it paid for! It was a lot of paper-writing, group projects, and jumping thorugh hoops, but worthwile in terms of movement on the pay scale. You'll enjoy parts of it, and other parts not so much! Janet--You exhaust me every time you post! You have certanily earned every inch of that fantastic body of yours. I wish there was a degree that we could give you--Ph.D in lapbandology? IDK, but I sure wish I had half of your discipline. Phyl. You are awarded the honorary degree in cross-country travel. Thanks for the updates. It's been fun following you on your adventure. The pics on facebook are great. How often have you had ppl tell you how good you look? It's true! Candice: I have an idea: How 'bout you guys booking a gig in Sarnia on a weekend? That would be a do-able dirve for us. . .I looked around and flights to Toronto from Milwaukee are still around $500 a person! But I bet that ppl could fly to Detroit (from, say, Montana or Palm Springs) for less than that and drive over the border with us to hear you guys perform. What do you think--everyone!!!? Imagine that! Steph--still haven't seen pics of the new bedroom. How are things going now that school has started? There was a time with Tim (DS#2) where we went thought a similar episode. He was home from college for a summer and was really rebellious--didn't shower, brush teeth, etc. It was horrible and I was mortified. He did everything possible to embarrass me. To this day, I still worry about him. Whe we go to visit him (he lives in LA) sometimes his clothes stink and his teeth look gross (I even bought him an electronic toothbursh) and his apartment is filthy. In fact, I fear that he may have lost out on an internship he desperately wanted because of his hygiene. I still struggle with the feeling that I let him down somehow. But he IS on his way to a Ph.D. IDK. God has a plan. . . WHERE IS KARRI? Doesn't she know that I'm worried about her? So Cora is fast asleep in her "Dora" bed (at grandma's house). Her daddy, Andy (ds#1) is having hernia surgery at 8:30 tomorrow morning. Please say a prayer for him. He's pretty nervous and it's going to be hard for him not do do any lifting post-op. He's a "hands-on" daddy of a 2-year-old and a 4-month-old. I have grandma duties for the next two days, but it's kind of hard as I want to be at the hospital (I am a nurse, after all, and he is my son). His wife is always an obstacle that I need to deal with, so pray for me too. Thanks--you guys are truly my "sisters!"

Hey--Hi! Same ole, Same ole! Cora and G-ma day yesterday--exhilarating but exhausting! I need a day to rest up after that, but unfortunately today was another long day at work. DH went to the urologist yesterday--probably prostate cancer--they're scheduling the biopsy. He's pretty angry now--his independant life style is threatened. Steph--a cruise! Wonderful!! When? I'm glad that some good things are happening. Looking forward to seing pics of the new bedroom all put back together. Sounds like a little girl's dream! Carla--I'm still thinking you need a little unfil? IDK, but this band is a finicky thing. It's wierd that some days I can eat anything and everything, and other days, I'm puking water. But the constant heart burn is worrying me. I take Nexium AND Pepsid every day, but I still need to eat a little icecream before I go to bed or I can't stand the pain. Phyl's on the road again! Oh the memories! Thank goodness she keeps connected! Janet--sounds like you and Andrew have a good relationship that will withstand this storm intact. You know how to keep the lines of communication open and show him that you love him while at the same time enforcing your boundaries. Not an easy dance, but you seem to do it well. Candice: I guess no election job? I'm sorry--kind of. Keep your options open! Maybe there's something better out there for you to do? Karri--hon, where are you? HOW are you? What's up?

Thanks so much for the quick response, Steph!

Would someone please send me the recipie for Karla/Steph's chicken salad? I can't believe I can't find it! I even looked in the recipie thread, but I didn't think it had cream cheese in it?

Happy Saturday Belize sounds like a good destination for the Lucky 7's fve year anniversary! THINK about it! Janet--Ain't nothing gunna come out if nothing gets put in, and I'm thinking that as tiny as you're getting you're not eating enough considering all the exercising. Just a thought. . . I understand the Andrew thing. It's time. In a way it was too easy to go to his mom's--he really needs to be on his own awhile so he can appreciate what you've given him. When he asks to come back is when you're going to have a tough decision to make. Holy Cow Carla--how much stuff do you have girl? I'm glad you're purging--it's just too bad you had to move it all! We all have way too much "stuff"--I think that's another characteristic we may all have in common. I see it, I want it, I buy it. What's missing? Oh yeah, the "need" and most of the time I don't need it! But at the time it feels so good to be able to obtain something that was previously denied. (oh yeah, now the "parent" issue. . .) I hope that your virus has left you, and that was all it was. When you wrote about not beling able to keep even liquids down and waking up choking, it sounded a lot like what I was going throught before I had hiatial hernia surgery. If things don't get better this week, get checked out. You don't want to risk developing esophageal lesions because they can be precancerous. I still worry about that sometimes. Steph--Can't remember an update to the Michael issues. Hopefully things have settled down and lessons were learned. As far as laundry goes (I know this was an topic a week or so ago), I do think that each family handles that differently. I didn't mind doing my kids laundry--with four kids, it was just more efficient. But they did other things--like make their own lunches for school. That's not to say that I didn't make sure they had food and stuff to put in the lunch, but by and large, when the back packs started comming home with rotten food in them, I left lunch making up to the kid. As for their rooms: They generally were a pig sty after the kid was about 12 years old. I hated it then, but looking back, now that they're gone, I miss the look of the rooms looking like someone lives there. After Cora leaves, I am not in a big hurry to pick up her toys or wash her little fingerprints off the windows. I actually like a little bit of "kid" mess. Honestly, Steph. I know like it seems like there'll be no end to this, but the fact is that they do grow up and move on (right Janet?) and as tough as Janet seems to be right now, she still misses having her little boy Andrew around the house. Phyl--I'm so jealous that you had coffee and dinner with Candice and Peter. But she did have to drive a lot farther than we did, so I guess I understand! Are you going right to Sun Valley now, or are you heading back to WA first? Candice--found a wine at Costco that tastes just like your Sangria--yummy! Can you tell that I'm into it? Hey, I got an email this week all about opportunities for teachers to tour Cuba. Don't think that I didn't take a long look at it, but with everything else that's going on, I don't think I can take anymore time off--especially for travel. "Next year, next year. . ." that's my new mantra! Karri--Keep posting, hon. We all care about you so much and want to hear about your adventure. It's a big step, but I know that good things will come of it. How is your health? Are you sleeping? Eating healthy? So my plans for the weekend are: We were invited to a birthday party for the daughter of the young man who helped build our house several years ago. He was going through a difficult time then and we chatted quite a bit during the construction phase. Since the we've seen him every summer at church in the park. Last year he got married and they had a little baby girl--Xavia. So tomorrow after church they're having a little party for Xavia and invited us. She's a doll, and since Penny doesn't like it when I buy clothes for Levi and Cora (imagine that!), I had plenty of money to buy the cutest little outfit for Xavia. Then, since I wasn't home on the fourth of July we didn't have our annual cul-de-sac party; we are having it Sunday evening instead. Mel and I are hosting a Door County fish boil in our backyard. Go to Traditional Door County Fish Boil with Photos to see what it is, but needless to say, it is absolutely delicious! Mel and I have done it before and since we have the kettle and the fire pit, we are in charge. Andy and Penny and the kids are comming along with a couple other grown-up neighboorhood kids. Should be a good time. Monday we're going to rest up, clean up and maybe go to the county fair. we'll see. . . So all in all, not a "good eating" weekend and although boiled fish is certanily an approved bandster food--it's the butter that I'll pour over it that could be a problem. . .

Oh Hi! Just want you to know that I'm keeping up--more or less. Interesting dialogue about doing things for "free." While philosophically I agree with Steph--we all need to "give back" at some point, I also see how Carla needs to re-assess her priorities (which Steph pointed out). I guess one question I ask myself a lot is "How much will this matter in the light of eternity?" The answer often puts things into perspective for me. Once you figure out what your mission in life is, (the "Why am I here?") then you can choose to invest in the things that most align with that, and say "NO" to the things that don't. Anyway, that's the short version. . . Yeah, I'm over the Penny thing. Had a little chat with Andy, and because I have Cora one day a week, Penny wants me to be more like a " (preschool) teacher" than a grandma. Sorry honey--I AM the grandma, not a "teacher." Penny and I have different parenting styles with mine being formed by raising 4 successful children, and Penny's being influenced by her training as a preschool teacher. I do discipline Cora when I have her (she had a time-out yesterday when she didn't come when I called her, she didn't get M&M's at the store, and she had to stay in bed for her nap until I came back into her room) but we also do a lot of fun things like go to the beachs and water parks, and have "tea" together. I'm not going to give that up. OK, gotta get back to checking the online discussion responses. 8 more months. . . Love,

Phyl--you look absolutely georgous! Even Earl cleans up pretty well. Beautiful bride and groom. Thanks for posting.

Karri--Good decision! I'm so proud of you. It sounds like a plan is coming together, and things will work out. The only thing that bothers me a little is your comment about not wanting to eat. Remember, the idea is to eat healthy, not starve yourself. You still have endocrine issues, and anorexia is hot going to help that. I have a feeling that the school is having other "issues," and letting you go is only the tip of the iceburg. The students just might be better served by cutting their losses now and moving on. You are right, this is an opportunity for you to explore other options. Doors will open, and you just might look back and see that this was the best thing that ever happened to you. I've seen it before and I'll see it again! Of course you have mixed emotions. You were heavily invested in that school, and now you're walking away. Your head knows it's the right thing to do, but your heart isn't on board yet. It's a loss, and it's going to take time. Try to keep looking ahead, and not back. Be carefull with all that driving, kiddo. I've lost one friend this week, and I don't want to lose anymore. That goes for you too Phyl. I'm glad that you and Earl aren't pushing it when you're on the road. I love you guys. Funeral was difficult today. Church was packed. It's amazing how interconnected we all are. Saw a friend from grade school that I haven't seen for about 30 years. Recognized her immediately! Why does it take a tragedy like this to bring people together? Why don't we Celebrate each other more when we're alive? I'm glad that Candice is doing just that today. I wish I had gone to Peter's party, but I guess that God knew that I needed to be here. Carla: Was Candice right? Does it feel good to have purged all that stuff from you life? Do you feel "cleansed?" Steph, oh Steph: Hoping things are settling down for you. I'll be looking for an update this week. So moving forward: Church in the park tomorrow--gunna be another hard day as Joe (our friend) was a regular there. The guy who runs the services also lost a son-in-law in a car accident on the same road a few years ago, and all that grief came tumbling back. Having a couple of friends over for lunch--about 8 in all plus kids--and then maybe some "down" time. Monday it starts all over again. Gotta run to the gorcery store now. Love you guys,

Yup, back to school, extra classes and babysitting. Difficult week: Husband of a friend (30+ years) was killed in traffic accident. Very sad--daughter is getting married in October. Karri--I think you're supposed to share your feelings--positive AND negative--with your support group. I hope you're talking to someone. . . Steph--I'm so sorry for all your drama. Hopefully Michael will start choosing better "friends." In the meantime, I don't see any more that you can do. Candice--How I wish we were comming! Sounds like a great party, and I would be a good buffer with your sister! Darn. Wish I had more $$$$ (or a more adventurosus husband). Janet--Not sure how you do it. You are probably busyer than me, but you still find time to check in and offer a word or two of encouragement. Maybe not having to deal with a man helps. I know that mine is getting more and more demanding. I'm starting to dread his retirement! Phyl--sounds like a wirlwind. Glad that Uncle Ed is still up to going out, although from what you're reporting is not encouraging. Carla--Wish I lived closer--sounds like a good garage sale. You might make enough money to buy a plane ticket to come for Christmas! Irritated with DIL today--she's driving me nuts--can't stick to a plan for child care; jerking me around. I agree to watch the kids and the next thing you know her mother's going to instead--but Penny won't tell me herself--she has to get Andy involved. Sometimes I think Cora is more mature than her mom is. Grrrr They weren't going to have a birthday party for Cora so I said "let's just invite a few friends over on Friday evening." Next thing you know Penny's inviting her whole family (5 bros and sisters + spouses +all their kids). All of a sudden I need to buy a cake for 25 people instead of 10! That's not so bad, but it just changes it from a little party to a big family affair, (of which Mel and I are not a part) Grrr. OK enough ranting. I need to email someone and tell them that Penny's changed her mind AGAIN!

msampson--I'm sorry, but the fact is that you know why you're having difficulty. The band is only a tool, not a cure-all. The band is only going to help you follow the plan, but it's not the plan. You have to do your part, and that is choosing the right foods. You were too tight, and that doesn't work. Now you probably have enough fill, so if you eat correctly, you will limit your intake and lose weight. But, after 18 months, you know that you can't eat a lot of solid proteins, so you are choosing what we call "Slider" foods--things that go down easily. So what happens? You can eat more--like you used to, and you are gaining weight. So what to do? You need to get back on the program. You need to get back to basics and eat your protein first. Once you feel full, STOP eating. You know what to do--you've been successful, now just do it! Your band is a life-style change that's hard to do. You can, and are, short-circuting your band. Oh, and the other part--exercise. Look at Janet--our inspiration--look at how much she exercises! But even she struggles with food deamons. We all do. But Janet'll be the first to tell you that the key to her success is the combination of making good choices and exercising. It's really that simple. Good luck, kiddo. You can keep posting here, but we don't pull any punches. We know that only we are responsible for what we put in our mouths. The lack of a proper amount of fill does not cause us to gain weight. WE cause ourselves to gain weight (or not to lose as we should). Yes it helps to have the proper fill, but ultimately, it's up to us! OK Janet--your turn! (Janet's nicer than I am!)

Me too, Steph. If I lived closer, I'd find a way. Don't mind housework--as long as it's not my own! First day wasn't so bad--only one class. Now tomorrow I go from 8-3:30 with only an hour between classes. Already getting email from students asking about this and that. Had to put a statement in my syllabus that I have 24 hours to respond to e mails. already one that emailed me this afternoon just emailed me back: "Did you get my message? I need. . ." Here we go! Uggh. I hope I can catch up with Phyl. She said something about being in Milwaukee today, but by the time I got the message, it was too late and I couldn't get ahold of her. Maybe she's getting antsy to get to Buffalo? Maybe we can connect on her way back???? (I hope)

Oh Stephanie. What a mess. Getting the run-around is so annoying! I'm glad you have a lawyer--at least the sheriff know that you mean business. Chin up, girl. Take one thing at a time. I'm glad that you are in therapy--someone objective to talk to and help you sort it all out. Sounds like you're doing all the right things--expcept for maybe being a bit overcommitted. Ditto Janet--Tough love is harder on the parent than the child. Andrew knows where your buttons are, and he's not afraid to push them. Don't let him send you on a guilt trip. He's making his own decisions--he needs to live with the consequences. I've got your back, gf. Be strong! Carla--well, I did something for me: I booked a trip to Punta Cana for my birthday in October. We have most of the week off that week for things like Teacher's Convention (which I never go to), and costco had a deal on an all inclusive there, so I talked Mel and Mindy into going for 5 nights. Not long enough, but it's something! Hey Candice--want to join us? I know it's not Cuba, but it's close. . .(and legal!) Got to tell you a cute story about Cora. You know that I didn't see her for over a week--well, it seems that she missed me too! Penny forgot that I wasn't able to watch Cora yesterday b/c of Inservice, and she told Cora in the morning that she was going to Grandma's house. When Penny realized that that was not happening, she was able to make arrangements to take Cora to child care instead. Cora was not happy and cried when they pulled up to child care instead of Grandma's house. Penny brought Cora in to her room, but Cora wasn't having any of it. She went into a corner alone and pouted for about 10 minutes after Penny left. The teacher just ignored her and sat down at the table with the other kids. Pretty soon, Cora came over to the table and sat down. She sighed and said sadly, "No grandma house" and then she got involved in whatever activity they had going on. How adorable was that? Remember, Cora's not even 2 yet! I picked her up today and took her to the park and then to McDonalds for a smoothie. She was really happy to see me--tight hugs and kisses. OMG--do I love that child! Tomorrow after class I get Levi for a few hours. I feel like I'm short changing him sometimes--he's a great baby, but Cora is just so engaging. Can't wait till I have more time for both of them!!!!! So Phyl--how's the back/leg? I know you're in MN, but haven't seem much on FB. Classes start tomorrow. I hope I can stay connected, but I'm afraid that once the treadmill begins, I won't be able to get off. Don't forget about me. I'll be back! Janet--say "HI" to Karri for me!

I HAVE to to to work this Tuesday--mandatory Inservice day. I'm hoping to negotiate another day with Cora, but classes start on Thursday and I have a ton of suff to do to get ready plus I totally forgot that I have to send the curriculum revisions that I've been working on all summer in to the accrediators (so that's another couple of hours looking up information and filling out forms). But, i did hear a good sermon today in church which reminded me to get the focus off of my selfish desires and on to my reason for being where I am, which is to help others in God's name. There I was sitting in my lawn chair in a beautiful state park on a perfect Sunday morning feeling all sad and depressed b/c I can't have the freedom to do what I want to do. I was getting all angry at Mel for "making" me work. When I heard that message it really struck a cord in me. So, OK, it's about the students who need me to help them build a better life for themselves and their family. It's not about me having to go to work. So I am changing my attitude. I went shopping and got a couple of new tops and some new skin care stuff, and I'm putting a smile on my face and in my soul. With God's help, I can do this. Candice--babe--where the heck are you? How are the party plans comming? I know Phyl's on the road and Janet is exercising. Carla? Steph? Steph--I think that you're on to something with the need to overachieve. We all probably tend to do that to deal with our lack of self esteem--(guilty here!!!) but if you don't deal with the issues, you only find yourself sinking deeper and deeper into the maladaptive behaviors. For me the tape went something like: "I'm fat and I'm ugly, but gosh darn it, I can hold down a full time job, volunteer, parent, keep up with the housework, go to grad school, and get a 4.0, so I must be OK." Sadly, I think I've passed it on to my kids--Steph--watch out for that. Carla? So much for insights.

Hi--trying to keep up! I was in Minneapolis surveying a school since Wendesday--got home last night. Laundry, grocery store, and catching up today. I'm tired and depressed. Kids all gone--who knows when they'll be back, back to work on Monday, no Cora and g-ma day to look forward to next week b/c inservice. One of thoes days. . . Hope yours are better!