CanyonBaby

@@Daveo So here's an idea about that...church stuff...maybe research the churches in your area. Some are very open, freer-thinking than churches of the past. If you find one that is interesting, but doesn't require much, if any, commitment, it may be an idea to go and visit (and check out the sweeties). A lot of them now have singles activities, and age-focused groups. I've always had the philosophy of "what can it hurt? At least I would make new friends". And if you don't like it, don't go back. ANd most of the time the activities are very inexpensive, if not free. Worth a try!

My week has been exhausting, just a preview of what's to come this week. Hubs is having his cancerous tumor removed this coming Friday, and we have a very challenging week ahead of us, not to mention the weeks and months to come. SOOOOOO....please give me some outside joy, and tell me your NSV's, funny stories, uplifting tales....to help me through my days of waiting. Get my mind off the negatives, and onto life-lifting thoughts.... I always look forward to reading what you all like to share, so keep 'em coming... for those of us in the waiting rooms....A burst of laughter is sometimes all we need to get through the tougher moments..... BTW, I am sorry I can't respond like I used to, or want to, there just isn't time. But I am still here, still supporting you in my thoughts and prayers... Thank you.....

To all....THANK YOU, it is so endearing to read your words, I just cannot express it enough... Dave went back to work today, wants to try some sense of "normality", if there is such a word. As you know, he is a law enforcement officer, and even though he will be primarily doing desk work (ever hear of paperwork?!), and the occasional patrol, it gives him something else to focus on. He is not one to sit and stare at the four-walls. It is hard with him being away, even though he has cut down his hours to 8 a day. The scenario: if he does nothing to treat his, he has 6-8 months. Best case is a cure with the chemo/surgery. That is almost impossible, but it is what we are going for. He has a 5 percent chance, with all above treatments, of living 5 years. I don't know about you, but I'm for the cure! Right now I'm in the "I can't stop crying" phase. What a way to lose weight...lost almost 5 in 2 days! I'd rather be fat. He will get a port put in hopefully by the end of this coming week, with chemo to soon follow. 4 treatments in the next 8 weeks, is the plan. As the tumor is shrunk down, hopefully they will remove it, then more chemo. A terrible trip for anyone, but it's all we have. Thanks for being there, folks, it means the world to me. If it is true that God counts tears, I am right up there near the top, I'm sure. Have a Blessed Memorial Day.

@@Nikasio Glad to help. Enjoy!

So I go for my stress test for my heart issues today, and man, did I regret doing it. Not because of the test, but for the incredibly uncomfortable situation I was put in while undergoing the test. Many of you know I have so many scars, from SO many surgeries over the years, I make frankenbride look like Heidi Klum! I always try to warn people who need to see me in a state of undress what they are about to see, because it IS quite shocking to someone unfamiliar with my situation. And most folks handle it accordingly. Today was just unbelievable. I put on the ever-cute hospital gown, and as the gal who took the readings removed the part to expose my torso for the pads they must place for the test, her face told it all. Not sadness or pity like a lot show, but repulsiveness. She would slap that gown over me again every time she had open it like it was on fire. Huff and puff with disgust, like it was all she could do to be there and do her job. It was bad enough I had been without food for almost 5 hours (you can't eat for 4 hours prior to the test), and I normally eat every 3 hours. So I was feeling pretty faint, and tried to explain to her I needed to speed this whole thing up. I told her about having the sleeve surgery, and she told me how she knew about that surgery and "all the repercussions" that followed it. IF I had been in my right mind at the time, I would have laid it on the line for her, and called her out on it. But I wasn't up to par with my queasiness. She acted so disgusted, and repulsed, and all I wanted to do was.....cry. I didn't, but it's like, hey - I have been through HELL over the years, more times than anyone should ever have to go through. When I look at someone who has the physical evidence of horrific things that has happened to them, I feel compassion. Empathy. Sympathy. Love. This gal was young, probably 30 or so. I am not. But considering what I have been through, I look pretty good, if I do say so myself! As I am lying on this table, with my torso exposed for all to see, I have 2 women and one man hovering over me like I am something from a freak museum. WHEN will hospital staff act like they are mature, adult, compassionate HUMAN BEINGS instead of moronic morons (like that term???!!!) who feel they are superior to us lowly patients who shouldn't even soil their floors with our footsteps?????? Yes, I am venting, and I apologize. I cannot tell what occurred to my husband, who would go in there like the thundering cop he can be, and DEAL with them. So I thank you for listening (or reading!!!), and letting me vent. Tonight I am greatly saddened. I do not even know what the results of my test are, but I'm not sure I care at this point. I know one thing. I WILL NOT be using this hospital again for ANYTHING. I am at this point, after so many surgeries, where I think I have just had too much, and cannot do anymore. I just can't right now. I can't see those people standing over me, looking at me like that. No more. I am sooo tired. No more. Thanks for letting me vent.

Thanks, we are on our way as of 1pm our time. Dave said to thank you for your kind words, and he said to tell you bout Mt. Charleston, northwest of Vegas. It is Forest Service land, and there used to be lots of trails/campgrounds to enjoy! AND a bonus...since the altitude is so much higher there, it is so much COOLER! Lovely place to go when it gets hot! Enjoy, and write anytime!

Consider me packed into your suitcase!!!! Keep us posted as to your travels, I'll be there in my MIND! Great job on all your successes, you have a lot to be proud of!

@@Nikasio Thanks! This might be just what he needs!

@@Nikasio HA! I've been thinking about getting that for my hubs, saw it advertised in Duluth Trading Co. Is it good stuff?

Henderson is a really nice area! We lived at Lake Mead National Recreation Area, as we both worked there. I also used to work at Hoover Dam. I sure miss the southwest, but not the summer heat. I would go up and work the Coconino National Forest in the summers, where it was a little cooler. How long have you lived there? It has been a long time since we have visited that area. I think everyone we knew has moved on, typical in our line of work. Or maybe they retired. The recreation area has ALOT of great hiking trails, from short to long, and they used to offer guided hikes. It used to be free to go on them, so might be worth you while to look into that, if you like hiking. And they vary in degrees of difficulty, as well. I do believe they have implemented a entrance fee for the recreation area, but the may have an annual pass. Things probably have changed a lot since I worked there, almost 20 years ago now, but it still is a beautiful area with a lot to offer. Have you had a chance to visit it? And Hoover Dam' s "new" visitor center is awesome, as well. When I worked there it hadn't been built yet! I love that place! I have a friend who worked on the A1 generator, it was "his" generator! I was allowed to operate the bridge crane a few times, and that was such fun! Time to stop babbling, need to get to work!

@@Nikasio Bravo! And Bravado! Try using a little talcum powder under the shirt for chafing....

Church is also a great place to meet people...

Sorry I haven't been around for awhile, we're getting my husband prepped for surgery tomorrow. He has colon cancer and they are going to rescind the cancerous part. His name is Dave, too. I usually check the site a couple of times a day, but it will be hit and miss for awhile, until we get him home, anyways. It might seem like there is no one around, but usually there is someone who wants to visit. I think because the weather is getting so much nicer out, people are getting out to enjoy it. Time zones differ, also. We are up in Washington state, Pacific time zone, so we are up later than most in the country. Where in Nevada are you? We used to live at Lake Mead. Loved it, but the jobs moved us around a bit. Need to get things ready for tomorrow, have a great evening!

I realized today, that being summer and being more active has presented quite a challenge leading to improper eating: the "grab and go" syndrome. So I decided instead of just grabbing something "forbidden" in my rush out the door, to make up several "Snack Bags" just for this purpose. I will keep one in the car, and several at the ready in the house. I'm figuring to put in small, divided containers of nuts, dried fruit, an empty space in which to put meat and cheese cubes. Pre-made shakes, Protein bars, and other "allowed" goodies will also go in. What would YOU guys put in? Please give us some ideas, to help relieve monotony and revive interest! Thanks!!!

@@LSF The question is...are YOU happy with your success? If so, BEAM with PRIDE, SMILE with JOY, and be on you MERRY way!!! You don't answer to anyone BUT YOU. Sometimes, when you just walk away with that SMUG, SELF-SATISFIED way about you, it is MORE THAN ENOUGH, because it leaves them wondering....."HEY! Maybe she IS happy with who she is, and doesn't NEED my input". Maybe not, but worth a try....

It IS so easy to get caught in the "wrong" forum, I've entered the Guy's room a few times unknowingly, until AFTER I responded. There's been a few times I've caught fellas in the ladies' powder room, and called them on it - hopefully in a nice way - I think maybe a re-structuring of the site might be called for. Just an idea....

A couple of things I have found out while dating: 1. When you look, you rarely find. Let IT find you! 2. Weight (as other physical features) shouldn't play a role in your relationship, other than from a health standpoint. They either love you, or they don't. I was ALOT heavier than I am now when I met my husband. It had no impact on him. He loves ME. If you would like, read my story on this forum (How to successfully find....), it tells all, and it WORKS. It's all about faith. Good luck to you, sir, and best wishes....

My prayers are with you...have peace about this. You are doing a great thing for yourself, and with diligence it will pay off!

I wasn't allowed any pills for 8 weeks. Check with your surgical team! Everyone's is different!

Another idea might be a body suit, with bra built in. Then you don't have to worry about rise-up. Having the snaps/hook-and-eye crotch is nice for convenience. Again, check Amazon, and also QVC. Let us know how you fare!

Your surgeon is a professional, and is basing their decision on facts, not opinions. If you need the surgery, they will qualify you on your need (BMI, co-morbidities....). My BMI was lower than yours, no problem. But I had many co-morbidities, surgery was essential for me. Good luck to you, and try not to worry so much!

Fitting into sizes that I haven't been able to fit in, IN YEARS!! Also, room between me and the table at restaurants....one of the first things I noticed. Not worrying about if my weight exceeds the step ladder's instructions. WELCOME NV'S!!!!! And great news! I am so glad for you!

I would suggest asking your dietician for alternatives, such as liquid or dissolvables. I get mine off of Amazon.com There are lots of options for brands. Maybe try taking them with your Protein shakes, Vitamin D is notorious for making one nauseous, especially if you don't take calcium with it. Good luck to you.

Yay! Welcome to the Loser's Bench! Remember where to come for help, and read the posts....lots of newbies on here now, asking all kinds of questions...this may help you on your journey! Good luck to you!

Here you go: try using tepid water, with the water-enhancer drops. Changing the surface tension of the water by using the drops helps a lot. Good luck to you!