mousecrazy

That picture tells the story! Thank you so much for taking the time to write to us, and light the way! Congratulations!

Thank you, Leatha. I do pray for your family, and all families who are given the situation of addiction to face. We have faced alcohol addiction in our family, and thank God that we have been sober almost 5 years now. I also have family members who continue to drink and abuse prescription medication, and, of course, family members who enable that abuse. Rest assured that prayers are continuous and fervent. Blessings to all, Cindy

I pray for each request, that God hold you in His merciful hands. May He provide exactly what you need. May He give you strength to do what has to be done, and wisdom to see your path. May you be a blessing to others. You have asked for God's grace in Jesus' name, and it will be given. Praise Jesus' name, Amen I haven't posted on this thread, but I read it and pray for all concerns. I just want to thank all of you for the inspiration you have given me to continue with the challenges in my life. It is always inspiring to see that everyone has blessings and challenges, and you never know what a person is facing in his or her life, regardless of their smile on the outside. I hope to remember to be more compassionate and understanding. I am asking for prayers of comfort and healing as I face the first Mother's Day without my mom and grandma. I know it is fast-approaching, and even when I realize that they are with Him now, it does not help me miss them less. I know that your prayers will help me. I thank you so much. Hugs, Cindy

Congratulations, Donna, on the big 50 lb milestone!~~ I KNOW this is not the easy way, LOL! You are going fast and furious, and making fantastic progress! Thank you all for the hugs and concern about my stupid, dumb headaches. Sherry, I'm interested in what your chiro says about reiki...and Kat, I suspect hormonal changes, since I am 50 and menopausal. The problem is, I can't really track my periods, since I am without uterus myself! LOL! I do have the ovaries, so that's why I am suspecting hormonal influence, but am not overly crazy about any HRT. Once upon a time I took Depo-Provera birth control shots, and let's just say my body did NOT like those. It does not like progesterone cream, either. I will talk to my dr. about these things, and she's an internist, so we will continue tweaking the plan, and come up with something. Sorry to say, I do have a headache again today. Woke up with it, as usual, had vomiting (this isn't severe), then just took it one step at a time and made it to work (I don't have any leave left). It is better now, and I'll make it through...Ya'll are so sweet to care. Kat, you're doing good on your weight loss! Eileen, good to see you, even if you are trying to scare us by saying Boo! LOL! I've got the regular Friday meeting thing this afternoon, then tomorrow it's taking DD to theatre class and to a Kite Festival at her school. On Sunday DH is taking her to Horsmanship Camp with her Girl Scout troop, so I'll have part of that day for me-time. Then that afternoon we have a church event, DD sings in that, and we register for Vacation Bible School. Oh, the month of May...that's why I never associate it with the same thing as that song Eileen sings! Hahahaha! Love you all, Cindy

Hi there! Glad to see you around here, again! I've always believed that a vacation is a good thing. Glad you took one!

Sherry, that's one darn cute poem! Hugs! You're so sweet! Kat, you've got a charming little granddaughter...and beautiful tulips! Becky, where in Kansas is your grandson? My grandma lived there until she died last November. Beanie - I actually have a great Faire costume that I've never worn...one of my students and her mom made it for me, so if you run out of time to make yours, call me up and you can borrow it! I have my DD with me up here at school today...she loves to come to school and teach with me. She mainly just plays, and the students enjoy her being here. I woke up with a bad migraine today, vomiting and all...but pulled it together to come to work. I go back to the dr on the 15th, so we'll do some adjusting. I bet ya'll are as tired of hearing about the dumb things as I am at having them. Wish I could figure out the "trigger" for them; I'd avoid it, whatever it is. But, is it stress, food, weather? WHO KNOWS? DH thinks I get a headache whenever I'm about to do something fun!!!! But, that's a guy for you. I have headaches when I'm about to do something yucky, too....or if I'm asleep. I'm staying pretty steady on weight loss, just thought I'd mention it...that means I'm not losing, and haven't in a while, but I am still losing in inches, so I'm just going with it. Love you all, hugs, Cindy

I only saw the last half of the show...and I am not sure that the acctual performance of any night from here on out is going to make a big difference in the outcome, except highlight little flaws in very talented individuals. I believe that the three guys will be the last 3 remaining, with Paris and Katharine leaving this week or next. They are all very talented, but that's how the game is played. I personally pick Chris as #1, and Taylor as #2.

Everything sounds perfectly normal, if not pleasant...sorry about that part. Many bandsters feel the same way you do, but after a few weeks, they are singing the band's praises! Be patient. Take good care of yourself. One of the most important lessons the band can teach you is to have patience, and to look at the big picture. Take a long-term view. Not everything can fixed "right now." Surgery takes time to heal; then it will take time to learn to work with your band and not against it. Thanks for asking for help. You'll get plenty of good advice here! Get better, and take care, Cindy

Yea, what Becky said. Really, Eileen! It happened to me, too, and I think 4-6 months after surgery...but it's over now, and it's all just fine. Well, I'm still gray, and I still have to color it, so I guess that's fine....my hair isn't very long, about chin length, so I imagine with your long hair, it does look like a lot! Any time your body undergoes a big shock, or lots of stress, which I suppose surgery would qualify, you'll lose hair. It's gonna be okay, okay?

Patty, so sorry you all had food poisoning! I've had it a couple of times, and I swear, it is about as sick as you can get! Fortunately, it doesn't last long, but it's bad while it lasts! Sorry you lost your long post, Eileen...I hate that! Donna, congrats on all your binge buying at Chico's! One time a bought a way too expensive stereo, all because I was high on chocolate! LOL! It's storming today, but I like that kind of weather! Today is GS day... It's May, and around here at school, that's the official beginning of PANIC TIME! Where did the time go? Who knew 9 months could flash by like that! Sometimes it makes me laugh, well, most of the time...silly kids. Sometimes it's just weird! Everyone, have a good day! Hugs, Cindy

Hello, everyone! Pat, I'm so glad you reminded us to move over here to the May chat...I swear I have lost most of my brain somewhere...anyone seen it? Love the picture of your gbaby. Both of you are adorable! Darcy, the hyacinths are gorgeous. Great photgraphy, too! Eileen, how's it shakin? I don't think we say that about May, even in East Texas! But it's funny....I don't even like to EAT outside.... Okay, ya'll know about my speeding ticket in Oklahoma...well, I paid it, but apparently I was supposed to pay it in March, not April...so Friday I got a letter saying thank you for the check for your fine, but you didn't appear in court in March, so we have a warrant for you and that'll be $530, bend over and say thank you. I've made calls, and that's the way it is. No leeway for honest mistakes in N. Enid, OK. I have kids that break into houses and pay less than that. This rant could continue for many more sentences, but I think you get the idea. Oh, the original fine was $150, so all in all, it cost me $680 dollars to go 15 miles over the 35 mph speed limit for that one block. OH, HI, Becky! Wanna make sure to welcome you here! (there is no connection between the above paragraph and this greeting!) Got to buy a few new clothes yesterday...that was pretty fun. Otherwise, busy with DD and not even home most of this weekend, so that's why I didn't stop by. Hope everyone is doing well, and getting along. Hugs to everyone, Cindy

Good for you, Donna! Just coast right along behind! I think you're onto something about the mothering thing. As a teacher, I am blessed with many (way too many?!) opportunities for that, so maybe you can find a little volunteer opportunity for mentoring? But, I'd pick a doggie anyday! I have three! I'll be with you on the beach, even if just in spirit! Eileen, so happy you are free, at least today...it's slow around here because one of the high schools has prom tomorrow, so they are all getting their nails done, and tanning, and God only knows what else to get ready! My nephew's 21st birthday is later in May...I am making him a present of stuff from 1985...I got him a t-shirt of Transformers, and then I'm going to get him some movies from that time, and maybe a couple of other things from 85. I'm also putting together a folder of info from that year. I think he'll like it. I'm going to wallieworld tonight to look for the cheap movies! Tomorrow is theatre class for DH, then Sunday is church and a birthday part at Chuckie Cheese....where are those ear plugs? LOL! It's a simple life. So far FIL is tolerating the meds for his cancer treatments, and goes back to the dr. on Monday. I haven't received any word from the estate attorney from an email I sent on Monday, so no news there. I am going to consider all of this a blessing, and enjoy the weekend! Love to all, a special hug to Donna for hanging in there, and I'll be back later, Cindy

Actually, I kinda feel about food the same way I felt about cigarettes when I quit them. After you are free, you realize how limited you were...I always had to make sure I had enough cigarettes, I always made sure I had them with me. I had to find places to smoke. When I quit, I had more time and more money. I decided to live. I think food is like that, too. Remember you are in a transition period, and don't expect it to be cut and dried and perfect. Find something new to enjoy at the mall...maybe smells or people-watching?

Okay, let's see...lots of headaches around here. Lots of crazy family also. Food addiction? Check! Okay, guess I'm in the right place! Thank you for being here, all of you! Do you know the story of the flying geese? They take turns leading, so they can fly further....one leads, then drops back, while another leads...it reminds me of us. It's okay if we're the leader for a while, then need to follow for a while. Donna, this story is especially for you, but it fits for all of us. Pat, is your son basically "you know what" with that crazy girl? She must have "some" skill! Sorry...you raised a good son, he chose the idiot part. LOL! Forgive me if I am over-stepping. Hey, I gotta go, but I wanted to share the story of the geese...whoever is stronger, leads. Then we'll switch. Hugs, Cindy

Darcy, I think it took pretty much of a full year to really not think about having a cigarette once in a while...and there are STILL times that it crosses my mind, but briefly. As I become more and more sane (quit lauaghing!), I realize that inhaling smoke into my lungs or having alcohol for that matter, is not going to change whatever situation is causing me stress. So, I have been learning other ways to deal. I'm not going to blow *smoke* and tell you it's easy. It's not. I just know I am not going to smoke or drink. Maybe I'll just cuss more...LOL! Donna, stop it right now! All of us get busy, come and go, and we know who is missing, but we know they will come back, so no sweat. You are fine. Eating some bad stuff is not really a secret around here, sweetie! Just start your new day, every minute if you have to! Hugs, and remember we are SUPPORTING each other, not showing off how perfect we are. How can we help? HUGS! Betty, dang it, girl! All these sweet aunts having all these problems...I will pray for your family and hope they all regain their health and quality of life. I can so relate to the feeling that you are afraid you are losing all of the family at the same time...I have that feeling too at times. You are a strong lady, and we are here to help you if you need anything. Pat, I can picture you spinning around in your office chair, answering phones, typing, and signing papers, with about six hands going in all directions, foot tapping, waiting for your seafood alfredo! Hope you have a good day anyway! Eileen, have fun with the PRe-K and kindie kids! It can be fun, but oh is it ever loud, right? I'm just better with the incorrigible teens myself! That's about all the time I have now...I'll check in later... Hugs to all, Cindy

First, thank you everyone for your prayers and good wishes for my FIL...he goes back to the oncologist a week from today and has some labs done to see if the meds are having the effect they are supposed to have. Any and all prayers and positive thoughts are more than welcome! Darcy, I quit smoking 6 years ago in 2000. I understand. Don't give in to the cravings...you should probably talk to your dr.? Pat, what kind of fish did you catch? Hope they were delicious! Betty, what lake? Those slips are expensive aren't they? How's it going at work? Eileen, so you had your 3 day weekend, now it's really busy at work, huh? Beanie, congrats on losing the rest of the trip weight! Forgive if I have overlooked a personal...I'll catch ya next time! Hugs, Cindy

Eileen, sorry it's cold and rainy and it makes you hurt. That's a bummer, and as usual, you have the sunny attitude which causes all of us to love you! My FIL came for dinner last night...had some bad news. He has had "smoldering" multiple myeloma for 10 years. Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer of the bone marrow; smoldering means it is not "active." Well, it's active now. He has chosen to use the thalidomide + other stuff treatment plan...is not strong enough for chemo. So, he'll take thalidomide, a steroid, and a blood thinner, and then injections to increase red blood cells. He does have at least two lesions on his skull. Sooooo...we'll be finding out more as we go along; I spent quite a while researching it and learning about it. He's about to turn 74, I think. Betty, sorry about the busy, busy day...you've really had to make some big adjustments! Pat, I haven't forgotten about the picture. PM me your email, and I'll email the picture to you, and if you think it is postable on this thread, maybe you would be kind enough to photoshop it or whatever you do? So sorry about your son's injury...that just adds insult to injury, doesn't it? Beanie, well a Chilada platter just sounds so tasty! And Jordan almonds? I'm there! We're not on summer break yet...that starts May 25, I believe. Nothing much else going on...I actually laid out in the sun on the trampoline for 40 minutes this afternoon...I'm the whitest white woman out there, I promise! So, 20 minutes on the front, 20 min. on the back, and maybe that's a start to a little bit of color...not so foolish as I was back in my 20s when nothing but a hawaiian tropic tan would do! Love you guys, Cindy

Hey, everyone! Pat, so glad your DS was able to see his little boy! Tell him to keep his guard up, though. I haven't earned any new badges lately, though... Kelly, good luck to you and your family. It is certainly your right to do what you think is best. Well, gotta go...FIL is here for dinner! Hugs, Cindy

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Here it is: Come See the Softer Side of Cindy That's just sooooooo funny! And better than being "Job #1", NJChick!!!!

It's definitely ice cream for me...but I was successful in giving it up for Lent, which is a big deal for me! Next, chocolate.

Great question. Right in the middle of my life, I see the same young woman I was, AND I see a mature woman in the making. What I always wonder is what other people see? Young or old? Wise or just a smarty pants? (I do hope it is one of those two and not just stupid!) I guess I'll go stare at myself some more!

I'm not lost...just emerging from state testing h-e-double hockey sticks. In case you can't figure that out, down here in Texas we call that "hell." So, we're done for this school year, yippee! Then parent conference with DH's teacher this afternoon...she made all A's on her report card, and the teacher had nice compliments on her behavior and manners, so we are quite the proud parents right now! I've been reading (although some of you call it lurking), I just seriously haven't had anything to write about! Haven't really lost any weight, just going up and down the same 2 pounds. Plans for this weekend: run away and join Patty at the Disney nerd meeting...okay, just kidding. Run away and join Pat on the jet skis...kidding again! Really, driving Miss Haven to theatre lessons, then to DH's dad to go to the movies with him. In between, taking my car for alignment and other tire stuff and sis is picking me up and we're going to breakfast. So, relative calm prevails this week it looks like, except for our friends with PIs and lawyers and psych evals, and crazy in laws! Our ears and shoulders are still available for vents and tears! Luv ya, Cindy

I'm always worried about who will be voted off; it's always someone I like, so that would indicate it will be Paris or Elliott, NOT Kellie or Ace! LOL! We'll see...

I love Zone Perfect bars, especially the Fudge Graham flavor. Other flavors I like are Chocolate Almond Raisin, Chocolate Mint, and Chocolate Peanut Butter...they have lots of other flavors, but as you can see, I like chocolate!

A quick Yello from me, too! We're doing the state tests (yes, again...can't have enuf tests!). Betty, we didn't lose electricity up in Sanger...maybe not enough people actually HAVE electricity, I don't know...LOL! (just kidding). I believe we're going to 101 again today, so is it warm enough for ya, Betty? Got Girl Scouts tonight, then rush home to my addiction: American Idol! Hope everyone's doing well, hugs, Cindy