Kat817

Awww Terri, you will be excited, even if it is just by the idea that there are options available to you! However, I think all of us here understand the despair....the wondering WTH happened to me!!! You are not alone! I will probably be in denim capri's and lets see....I think my brown shirt is clean!!!! Suzie, I am so proud of you! You do so well, just dropping a pound here and there, and you just keep going. I went the other way! LOL---will fix it, but probably not til after this trip! Honestly..... I just made motel reservations in SA for Sun, Mon, & Tues. We will get into our little place on Friday. See the family that night, and Saturday. Then leave out Sunday morning, go to SA, and will be there for sure the 3 days, then depending, we might stay Wed. Then go back, spend another night, and head out again. We have a couple of stops we want to make on the way home. Will be short and sweet, but will be fun!!! We may stay an extra day or so at the place, we have favorite places we like to go....so we may hang around and hit those. But....we agreed, no days working all day! We will work OUR cattle, and help his Dad with something if need be....but no all dayers! I LOVE it! I am excited!! Tracy, now may be THE time to apply with BP. I have no doubt they want this spill stopped as much as anyone else. It is a disaster! My DD got a company email, that told them due to the issues with the oil spill, they would be pushing the Natural Gas side more, they are bringing back some rigs, and looks like it might actually boost business here. How wierd is that? It has always been kind of like the stocks and bonds thing. Stocks go up, bonds go down, bonds go up, stocks come down. Oil is high, gas (natural) is low, Gas is high, oil low.....go figure. Well I am going to go finish my book I guess, my DD is wanting it to read. See y'all tomorrow!

Hey y'all~ Just got home from taking Mom to town. We had a good time. My Dad has a school reunion coming up, so she was wanting something new to wear. We bought her a couple of cute things, and I bought her one of her outfits and a totally cool necklace and earring set to go with it for her birthday, which is the 12th. And I will be gone. Always works out that way---Rick said it won't next year, he can guarantee it! LOL I chatted with Terri, and we are getting together over lunch tomorrow. Sounds like it is gonna be fun! I am hoping her new found excitement can rub off and I can drop the last weight.....again!! Trying to decide what to take out for dinner. I have hamburger thawed....but we just grilled burgers----not sure what we will have. Suzannes spaghetti sounds kind of good, but I wanted to cook out, not in, it is hot enough!! Suzie, hope everything pans out for your surgery to be done so soon. I like hearing the only issue with your heart is electro stuff with the beat, that is pretty easy to adjust---usually with meds. Tracy, you are the Queen of multi posts---I am multi post challenged! I always want to delete parts, and screw it all up! Bought me a cute pair of capris in Target, light weight denim, which is what I was concerned with was the weight, it is going to be so hot in SA I want thin and lightweight. I like them.....but the other ones I tried on, 2 different pair the 10's fit....the ones I wanted....of course the 10's did not fit, so are a 12.....mind games! Didn't work! I bought them anyway!!! OK---gotta get some things done! Need to go get the insurance card on the van, we need to replace the windshield before we go. Whooppeee. ....lets spend more money!

Welcome Terri---I sent you a PM with contact info on myself. Look forward to hearing from you!!

Angela, feel free to unload all that here, it is one of the best things about this group! In all honesty our bands have little to do with it anymore! Your son will be on my prayer list for both the arm, and his math! One is an important as the other to him. My former MIL told me that one time, to always remember that kids problems to them were as big as ours. To them fighting with their friends was as devastating as us battling with a spouse. That always stuck with me. I can understand the guilt---you had no idea, but there is nothing anyone can say to alleve that! Time and his healing will help I hope. Hope all goes well for Haydee. She and Juan have lived together for ages, so it isn't like she has any adapting to married life so to speak. I had not heard. They all removed me from their friends lists....not sure what brought that on....but I am fine with it. Suzie---maybe the company helped occupy your mind for awhile today. I woul dhave come by begging pool time too!!! We have contemplated one, but I know nothing about above ground pools, and it would have to be one of those.....is yours in ground? Tracy---I know Frank is not thrilled with the idea of you working, but I think a job with the school district would be ideal. Macy would always have you around. When Frank has weekdays off would be the only issue. I was unsure of going back when I went to the eye Dr. (got gossip there!!!) but in the end I did it, because I was afraid Rick was getting laid off and wanted to stash some money, and pay off some bills, which we did. Was well worth it. And if I could work daily the mornings like I did for early voting, I would jump all over that! Looks like we will be in SA a week from tomorrow. Would LOVE to hook up with you! I will have my phone, and will call you! If nothing else, maybe we can swing part way and get together for dinner, or lunch or a beer, or something!!! When Rick got home, we tossed some burgers on the grill. Then my parents come by to check out what all will need to be watered while we are gone, so we tossed on a couple extra! Was nice, had 2 meals with them today!!! I have gained weight again....5 pounds up! I have to get walking again, or hit my elliptical, SOMETHING to get moving, that is my key. I KNOW it. I keep thinking if I get a dog, I would make myself walk it daily. I for some reason am not worth it to take myself, but would for a dog. Guess that says something...... Well I am going to read for awhile and head off to bed. Taking my Mom to town tomorrow, so will check in at some point, depending on if we go early or late!

Well here I sit---Rick is on another call out! Grrrrrr. But trying to remain as positive about it as I can, I know he hates it too, so doing my best not to make it worse for him. Went and had Chinese for lunch with my folks, Manda and Kinsey---was great! Ate too much, now trying to get liquid in, to work with my antibiotics, and gave myself hiccups!!! I have no doubt we will end up going to Texas. We WANT to go. We have family there we love. And we have our own responsibilities there----we do have cattle to see to, not pawn off on others, as it is done to us!!! So, before the plan was to go down quickly, so they would make their reunion. Then work through the weekend, then leave on Monday to go to San Antonio for a day or so. Then back work some more, and straight shot it home so Rick could go back to work Monday. Now the plan is to meander that way. Stop and see some friends in Lubbock, and an Uncle in a little town along the way. Hit our stops we like to make if there is time---we will now have the time! Then go to the farm, so we can be there for the family gathering on Saturday night--we are leaving here Thurs. btw. Then check our herd on Sunday, go to SA on Mon. and stay a couple of days, as opposed to one. Rick has never been to any of the Sea World exhibits, so maybe take him there. We want to do a river float, and the River Walk. Then when we are done, we might swing back by the farm, and we might not, we might just head back. He is not putting in fence post, he is not shredding, he is not spending hours getting equipment up and running..... We seriously thought about not going at all, but in my opinion that makes us as bad as those I get pissy with, not taking care of their own crap. We will go and see to our stuff and then go play. It will actually send a louder message with us being there and NOT working, than us simply not being there I think. We are without a doubt getting old!!! We are standing our ground and being grouchy as we want to be and to hell with it!!! LOL No, the other issue is the family we are anxious to see, many of them are quite elderly, and his parents are as well....so while we can get together with them we will, we will never be sorry we spent the time with them. But that will be the difference. Usually when they come out to the ranch to see us, Rick is off on a tractor or we are the other side of the creek mending fence and we miss them anyway. This trip, we will see people. If anyone is worried about fencing, they need to go pound a few posts of their own, and buy them as well. We spend hundred and hundreds of dollars every year....no one else does. I am so anxious to actually go and have fun!!! Tracy, I am so sorry you are in a funk. Wish I could share some of my good humor with you!!! I have been feeling so blessed. You are all a part of that. Having this outlet is such a blessing. I get feedback, and know you care about why I feel a certain way. Never worry about dumping on us!!! It is sometimes a relief to know we are not alone! I did not mean to rub in the CS being over, because believe me, I understand that, as well as anyone could! For years we paid while the kids lived with us----then the last fiasco. I know the kids have to be the #1 priority to a judge in a court, but there is simply no justice. Well off to finish my book, Manda is waiting to read it she said!! Did you all read the book "Like Water for Elephants"? They are making a movie!! Will check in later girls!

Picked Rick up at 8:30-----he got called in again at 9:30~~ he rode his bike in, and then didn't get home til 4:30 this morning. He had to drive 6 hours out to location to tell them the fan hub was broken, now is waiting for the home office to get a new one hot shotted in. When it gets here, they will do the repair. He is hoping they can limp the truck back in to do it in the shop, rather than having to drive 6 hours out in the field to do it......and will be working all night again. Kind of got a response from the family in us not going to TX---people are freaking out, because Rick does all the work. They are realizing that it will be a mess if he quits going.....finding it kinda funny to be honest! We went to a big craft sale/yard sale thing in town today, bought me a new purse---multi color leather with great storage, while being small---I hope it works as well as I think it will. When we come home, we finally hooked up the cooler, everyone was freaking out we had not needed it yet. It has been in the upper 90's brke a hundred yesterday and today both. Figured that is what would happen, finally hit summer, just skipped Spring!!! But we put in new pads, and it is ready to go when we need it. We cool with a swamp cooler, not refridgerated air. Normally does really well here, because we have such dry air. Just checking in....will be back later when I am alone!

We went with Becky & Gary to go to dinner, we were going to go to the Olive Garden, but the wait was forever, so we went next door to this little winery and bistro. Was ok food, nothing to write home about, unless you wanted to exclaim over the prices!!! I had tilapia, and it was excellent, but it should have been for what it cost! Then we went to get a couple of things for the house, and Rick got called out.....grrrrrr This new set up is not working in my opinion....but going to be quiet about it, I am sure he is not thrilled about it either so no sense in making him feel worse because I am mad too!!! Suzie, your nephews sound like my grandson, he expects Burger King----it is part of the Granny package he thinks!! Manda said she took Kinsey to see the new Shrek and they loved it. Well Rick just called, and no one showed so looks like I need to go pick him up, I just dropped him off at the yard. Figures, it is my fuel the company is burning. Paid the medical bills today, feel poorer, but just glad to get them all out of here, and it to be over for sure! Gotta go get the man.....cya!

Feeling human today!!! Peeing is no longer the dreaded thing it had turned into!!! LOL--sorry but it is true! Who would have ever thought such a normal thing could turn so disastrous??? I have had an occasional UTI before, I thought that was all I was going to deal with----wooooo glad it is behind me!!! Have to tell you what I have been doing. Do not laugh!!! Manda, my DD, as you know is doing the roller derby thing, well she was in 7th heaven over the butt it is giving her---she has always had my figure (or lack there of) and has no butt. Well skating has given her a round butt, she was soooo happy! So when I commented on my inability to skate, with the tumor and all, she bought me this slide thing. You put it on the floor, and slide back and forth. it is really fun. Kinsey and I play on it. And today I put on these knit stretchy capris, and looked in the mirror, and I HAVE AN ASS!!!!!!! I was so surprised!!! I looked to see if I looked lumpy and bumpy in them and was so impressed I had to laugh at myself! Here I am trying to lose weight and gain an ass!!! LOL I have not btw lost any weight doing the sliding. I have a teacher who lives across the street. She is apparantly teaching some sort of classes out of her house. There are cars coming and going all the time, dropping kids off, picking kids up, and doors slamming all day! Not distracting really, I just keep wondering if someone is here--and it is apparantly class change time over there! In the evening she is doing an adult class or an older group, because they all drive, and park all over the place. If I ever have company, it is going to be an issue, I expect to be able to have my own visitors park at my home, not down the block. But I do not want to cause problems. She is a really nice woman. I only bring it up, because I am expecting my Mom to come by and I keep hearing car doors....but no Mom! Well Rick told his Mom last night we were not going to TX. They made us rework our schedule several times to coordinate with their class reunion which the dates got changed on. So we worked it out, and planned to leave next Thursday when Rick gets off. Travel Thurs. & Fri. Then that puts us in during the daylight on Fri. early afternoon, and the reunion begins Sat. Then we planned on leaving on Mon. Rick and I and going to San Antonio, for a couple days. Well she tells him last night that his sister decided to go, so she is driving them down earlier in the week. So that means, the ONLY reason they want Rick, is so he can mend fences, and cull the herd, basic manual labor, free of charge. While his sister gets her fuel paid for, all her meals paid for, and does squat. So he told them he is not going. We have yet to hear from them again. I KNOW we will end up going. We have family we want to see etc. BUT....they need to think about it for awhile! They take him so for granted, it hurts me for him, he is seeing it more and more, and it sucks. He got that line from his son, about having to do everything, but they lived there free of charge, they had an exchange going on. Rick gets NOTHING. Even in the end, he gets equal with his siblings, even tho he does all the labor. I would support him if we didn't go at all. But, I do not want one of these health problems to be bad enough that he boycotted his last times with his parents...ya know what I mean? Well Mom is finally here, the one door I paid no attention to and I see her walking up!!!

Oh Suzie~ I cannot believe all you are going thru. I mean I am glad they are being careful, and taking your overall health into consideration, but what a horrible thing to go through. I am soo sorry. I agree that if it was extremely serious, they would have had you in the OR without any time delay, but I have doubt they know what emotional toll this is taking. Try your best to eat someting, and let your hubby hold you. He is scared too---draw on strength from one another. We have been in similar situations---they told us Rick needed immediate heart surgery, then they caused the blood clot, and we had to wait from May to August---and he was just getting worse and worse---it was so scary. Holding tight to one another, and sharing the fears is all that got us through it. My heart goes out to the both of you. ((((HUGS))))

What a miserable freaking night! I ended up in the ER. I was having bladder or kidney spasms earlier when I went to the Urgent Care---but (I will try not to be too gross!!!!) I had been to the bathroom, and the contraction feeling hit, and would not let up, and my legs would not function! I literally could not stand up! Scary, Wierd...and PAINFUL! Yelled at Rick, and he helped me up, and I could stand, but walking was difficult, I hurt so freaking bad. We left for the ER, and I was in kidney contracture or some such thing. They gave me an IV, hit me with muscle relaxers and pain meds, and life was good again. They also administered some antibiotics through the IV, and this morning, when I finally got up about 45 minutes ago---I am sore, but my belly is soft again, it was 'knock on wood' hard last night, and my back aches, but it is not painful. I am thinking I will live afterall! He told me to continue with the oral antibiotics, and gave me a Rx to use in place of the AZO, will fill it today.....the relief is enormous. I come home and wanted a shower---Rick insisted on being in the shower, not just in the bathroom--doofus! Then hit my bed with the electric blanket on high all night.....this morning is blessed relief! Rick said I about roasted him alive!!! LOL Should have known we would get a slew of last minute bills, when we sent off the last of the CS. There were 3 in todays mail. New glasses, new contact lens exam, and since her old one was less than a year old, insurance does not cover a dime....but the $300.00 is less than attorney fees to fight it.....which just boils my blood! Pisses me off so bad! Then one for her annual exam, and her Depo shot----most of that one was covered, we just owe a $50.00 co-pay, and $17.00 of the shot cost. Then a dental one for $282.00 and some odd cents. They are replacing fillings. I have no issue with her getting her health in order before insurance ends---she did not take us up on the offer to continue her insurance if she is attending college, so guess she is not going. I just feel like she is 19---actually today she is 19. She should pay her own birth control. And she should be like the rest of us and only one eye exam a year, unless SHE wants to pay the other. But......that will not happen, and like I say it is cheaper to pay it and move forward. Not let this ruin me, emotionally. It took me a long time to develop the outlook I now have. I went through the depression Tracy is experiencing, especially during the court packed years. Then my brother in law, lay in bed dying of a brain tumor and he and I were talking about it, and he told me to neverlet her see me sweat--like the old commercial! He was saying more than anything, she would love to see our marriage fail, and she would know Rick was unhappy--as I would be, and that would thrill her to pieces. He was right too----she would have loved to have broke us ---emotionally as well as financially. He told me to show her we had what she never did, and never would. I had heard it before, but something clicked, and it was "Game On". From that point we were a team to be reckoned with!! Not that we have not had hard times since, but we ARE a team! He has my back in all things....and I his. It was such a relief to let go of the anger at her, and use the energy to focus on making US happy instead. We would get a bad letter in the mail, a new lawsuit from her----and we would deal with it, but not focus on it, that was our attorneys job. Ours was to find something to bring pleasure to ourselves. Sounds silly---but when you change your focus----it helps. Suzie---prayers, and good thoughts, and tons and tons of love go with you today!! Someone PLEASE let me know what is going on. I am still using the old work phone (read FREE) so have no texting on it! Jenn, good to hear good things from you!!! So what would happen if word got out about you and George? Michelle, you can also keep some dramamine handy, and it helps with nausea---if you have a chance for it to settle. I will try to dig my stuff out, so you can have a name, and ask your Dr. for some. They dissolve under your tongue---cause less drowsiness than phenergan, and they WORK!!! Bethany---good luck "firefighting" if you run out I will send some!!! LOL Seems like it is always fire season doesn't it??? Maybe we should send them all to Michelles hubby!!! Nah that would be cruel!!! Off to prop up my feet......and read my new Nora Roberts book I guess....Lazy day, and not by choice---I wanted to play in my flowers.

If the sleeve had been available, and either affordable, or covered under my insurance, I would have considered it. Only because I have to travel 6 hours one way for fills and check ups. I liked the fact that my body was not altered with the band, it is reversable if I do not react favorably. When they cut away parts of your stomach, they are gone. That kind of freaks me out! BUT, not having to deal with fills would be nice too. One woman who used to be here that revised to the sleeve is freaking out at how bad her reflux is....and that scares me, because there is no loosening the band to help. I am going to ride this band wagon as long as I can....and hope and pray all goes well!!! I just got home from Urgent Care, I have a massive UTI. I knew I was getting symptoms, but then started bleeding pretty heavy---freaked me out, I had a hysterectomy years ago! So I am off to bed. See you all tomorrow. Check in Suzanne, I am worried!

Michelle the dry heaving before anything come up is pretty common I understand for a bandster who is literally throwing up from illness or whatever as opposed to PB'ing or emptying the pouch. Do you have meds for nausea, to avoid the throwing up? I have 2 different ones, one is pill form, but I also have one that disolves under your tongue---they both make me really sleepy. Sure hope you feel better!!!! Got my keys turned in to the Fire Station, pay voucher signed, and looks like I am done for a couple weeks anyway! They ask me to come back and do some data entry on the new registers, or info changes on registrations. She figured it would be 40-60 hours work, with all the detail they take to get ready for the Secretary of the State. I can do it anytime between June 15th, and August 15th. I can work a couple hours a day here and there, or go in and whip it all out, they don't care! I just have to have them all ready to go to Santa Fe by the end of August. She said it is something that will likely be extended as long as I am willing to do them through the General election in November. Several candidates have registration drives scheduled---so the work will be ongoing. I LOVE it! Then I will work as I did this last month come October....but hope to just work that election not presiding judge it! LOL Suzie---hope your test is all good news, echo's are fun to watch, I always get nervous with Rick's hoping they find nothing wrong. Let us know ASAP!!! I am SOOOO proud of you for saying that your sisters were on their own, and acknowledging how good it felt to say it! Many people do for others, and bemoan it, always in a doom and gloom mood, I know I have mentioned some I know that way, that are martyrs.....I love how you recognize the freedom in the sentence!!! Tracy & Angela have fun!!! I am jealous! Cindy---Rock summer school, and shock the sh*t out of those other teachers by what you do with your 12 kids!!!! I will be saying strong prayers for you and them both!! I would LOVE to party down, but will likely put it off for a day -- I think I am coming down with a UTI.....I am slamming the cranberry pills, and juice, and water, hoping, to catch it quick enough to avoid a Dr. Rick is off Fri. & Sat. but has to work for a friend on Sunday. So one of those nights is our party night!!! Well I am off to prop up my feet, see if I can feel better!

I BALANCED!!!! My numbers went in smoothly! What an amazing relief! I had no problems, no issues with irate voters. I answered the questions I was ask, helped voters who were in the wrong precinct find their right one....it was a SUCCESS!!! I am NOT going to be on the news!!! I even had a watcher/liason from the Secretary of States office---made me nervous as heck, but he said it looked like my precinct was up and running in classic style, he liked my lay out, and thought my clerks and judge were handling voters properly. WHEW!!!!!! Life goes back to normal tomorrow!!! Thank you God!!! Suzie, I am glad they are moving forward quickly, you will be better when it is behind you. And realistically, maybe your total inability to wait on your sisters is what they need to give them the push to do some for themselves. Maybe if it comes to it, you and DH need to "exagerate" your recovery some---let them see that they can be more self sufficient. It would be good for all of you. It feels good to know you can do things for yourself, they just have not been forced into action thus far. Your loves steps in and does it! I have never seen a polling place in a home! How wild! We use schools, churches, government buildings, fire stations, etc. I LOVE working early voting. And would love election day if I were not in charge of it all! That makes me nervous! I just feel such a huge sense of relief! We had a very low turnout. But the Sect. of State has made some changes that have our roster counts scewed.....no more purges.....so not real sure what the actual percentage could be. But it was low. Republican turnout was higher, there were several races, that there were no Democratic counter parts---so for instance this primary, will decide the Sheriff. Our law enforcement turn out was incredible! LOL And there were several other races that were uncontested, until General election in November. SO SO SO glad it is over!!! Tracy, have you thought about working in the school system? As a substitute teacher or cafeteria worker? If you do it as a sub, you have the option of not working it if Frank is off for instance. You would work only when Macy was in school that way. If you do go back to work, you can file your taxes, married filing separate, so she gets none of your return. Not to rub it in----we have put in our time----but our last payment is gone, in the mail, and on its way. Child Support is over for us. Another huge sigh of relief. We have paid her over $118,000.00. 15 years at $657.02 a month. And spent an additional $65,000.00 minimally on attorney fees fighting everything. Not to mention any of her medical we paid. It is long overdue being done. Justice was not served in this case, not at all, but it is over. I hope you get things straightened out with his ex.....I hate to say it, but I will never again suggest anyone go to court with this .... we just got buried deeper. I will think of you....I KNOW the turmoil and upset Ex's can cause. I am wound up so tight, I am sleepy, but unsure if I can sleep.....wierd!!! I will be back tomorrow, have some finishing up errands to run, then RELAX~ Yay!!! Thanks everyone for the well wishes today, they worked!!!

Hey y'all~ Been busy all day, doing this and that! Did my shopping for tomorrow. I am taking some snacking things for the election workers, we have to be there by 6AM, and cannot leave again until everything tallies---the polls close at 7PM, so that could take anywhere from an hour to several hours. Please pray that they go well for me, and that I do not end up on the evening news being the precinct in our county that trashed the election in NM!! I have lots to do still. I need to make me a sandwich, and decide once and for all what I am wearing. I have a brown and turquoise set I would like to wear for its comfort, and simplicity. BUT I want to wear my black sandals, because they are the most comfortable---and I am going to be on my feet ALL day. I have 2 workers who are older women who have already said they need jobs that allow them to sit. Well both of them belong to the same party, so that means the other worker has to work the desk with them, and that means I get to do the standing work.....doesn't feel quite right, but at this point I just want it over! I have gone over my guides, and read, and re read, and highlighted! My studying days are long gone, it is hard to remember those things! Tracy, I understand your reluctance to go to work "for" her. I agree, that you may end up going back to work, and opening a separate account, and use yours to pay household bills, buy things for Macy, buy groceries, etc. Not even put your money in to mingle in the account he uses to pay it out of. In our case, Rick has worked to pay the CS, but there have been many instances, that we did what we had to do to make it....we got massive medical bills on the child regularly, and there was a time, we had to break into a CD that was money left to me by my Grandparents, to pay a hospital bill of hers. It sucked~ in serious ways! BUT.....I also know Rick hated it as bad as I did, if not worse, because he carried guilt over it anyway! I had to look at it as tho, I was not paying her, but helping my DH---and I would do whatever I could to help him. I had the benefit of knowing, he helped Manda, in anyway, at any time.....so I knew he would do the same. You just have to remember, she is messing with you because as Angela said, she is unhappy, and wants you to be the same way, if you allow that to happen, she wins. If you persevere in spite of her, and go on to a happy life, you win. Cindy, glad you enjoyed your concert. I agree totally with Suzie, I would love to see Keith Urban, but would take a pass on Swift. I think her future is somewhere other than behind the microphone---she is talented---there is no doubt about that, but everytime I hear her sing live, it is always flat. And I have never heard anyone who was enamored with her shows. But she is so young-----she has tons of opportunities awaiting her! Hail like that is scary! They had HUGE hail at Sturgis last year, scares me about going!!! Anyway-----I need to get busy. It will be Wed. morning before I get back here. Everyone take care---and PLEASE wish me luck!

Good morning~ By the time Rick got home from his folks yesterday, we went on over to Riverfest, but it was closing down. They have things going on today too, so we will go over for that. The river is running full and fast, there is no way I would let my kids take a raft ride in it. They sell tickets, and run the trips, but actually had a raft flip and a man drown several years ago---I am shocked beynd belief they still allow it to go on after that! They have a trail of several miles, with bridges crossing back and forth over the river. There is a large war memorial, with all the flags, and bronze statues, and plaques detailing lives lost, and what the war was about etc. Pretty impressive to be honest. There are several "landings" and they have bands playing in them. There are tons of food vendors, and arts and crafts vendors etc. They have weenie dog races!!! One of the biggest around---but alas, I have no weenie dog!!! A BIG art & craft show, there is a guy who has amazing barb wire things, I want to check out! We will go about 11 we decided. We walked the 3 mile loop last night, just for the heck of it, I was in flip flops---I had such sore feet last night---the top part, just under my toes---the ball of my foot!! They felt like they had blisters, but today they are fine, not even sore---go figure! We just walked leisurely---enjoyed the nice weather, the river, watched the ducks play. Sat and watched some kayakers come through some serious white rapids...totally enjoyed it. Hope today is as enjoyable. I have most of my stuff gathered to take to Tuesday, need to read some more....then just DO IT! Eeeeek! Well I have to get dressed, and find something to call breakfast......everyone have a great day---enjoy----be safe-----hope my parents are safe on their way home today!!

If I make it through Tuesday, I will be finished with election. I am ready for it to be over. Not thrilled with any of our options in NM. It is sad, thinking who will be the lesser of the evils! Sad but way too true. The 2 candidates, one in each party I think would do the best job, don'thave a chance, one does not have the $$$ to compete with the big names running in the Rep. race, and the other is a Dem., and in this state, and election, that alone is enough to kill her chances. So.....now to see what awaits us!!! I just PRAY I make it through election day---I am so overwhelmed with some of this. I have a book with 6 small print pages detailing my responsibilities on that day, and that is without any problems----and then when you factor in possible problems, I feel like hyperventilating!!! Cindy, glad your DD made it home safe and sound. You both took big steps with the trip. Letting go when they grow up is so hard! Suzie, glad you got some good rest. I hope to sleep well tonight. Rick bought me this HUGE plant. It is in like a 12-14" planter---larger maybe, I have no idea, it is soooo covered! It is filled with beautiful wave petunias. It measures about 3 feet across with all the foliage and is trailing over the side, we have it on a stool, and it is all blooms. SOOOOOO pretty! I love it! Also bought a hanging plant with dahlias, and vinca, and I don't know what else, the dahlia is budded and ready to bloom, I am soooo curious to what color!! Yard looks great, hope to get some more work done, but I am happy with it! We had plans when I got off, but Ricks Dad needed help with a belt on his swather, irritates the Sam Hell out of me! His brother was here for 3 days---but oh hell no, he waits til he leaves, and calls Rick for the dirty work, then they tell EVERYONE, that Tom come in for FIL's Dr. appt. don't bother saying that yes Rick went too, then he spent his entire time off working for us, while Tom went to Rockies baseball games. Nope it is good son Tom, and plain ol' Good ol boy Rick.......grrrrrrrr. Then we have to hear about it from everyone. We used to TELL them when it was son being used this way what all he did, so they knew, with us, we don't brag ourselves up! DIL told DH that they found a house, only $900.00 a month. They had free rent here. So with free rent, he is going to have to work an additional 450 hours a month for that $2.00 an hour raise, to pay for his house.....and then Lord knows how many more hours to cover utilities he has never had to pay. They are in for such a fricken shock!!!! Of course you can make it work on paper----reality is a different story tho!! Especially the way one of them likes to spend money! Seriously 450 hours!!! It is a joke of course, but it put it in perspective for us....apparantly not for them. I am just glad we are paid for here. Any job will do us, now that the CS is almost over. It is 3 days away from that check leaving our hands, and it being OVER. I am so relieved, and proud of my husband, he knows it was wrong.....and he did not let the unfairness make it bitter, and resentful....I tried!!! LOL Well I guess I will call him, it is about time for me to go give his Mom her shot, I was avoiding spending the day out there. I am getting pissed now!!! Wish me luck, and hope Suzannes trick of muttering under her breath works for me............GRRRRRRRRRRR $%(@!!!!!!!!!

LOL Cindy--classic kid for you---their ability to be independent relates heavily on how much $$$ they have!!! It does not change for a few years yet!!! Well another day partly down. I am so overwhelmed with the amount of things I am in charge of with the precinct I am in, and the others I am supervising....I am a little crazy right now. I do NOT want to end up on the news as the one who screwed up NM's election!!!! There is no possibility of a hanging chad on our votes, but some things go to the County Clerk, others to the secretary of State, another to a judge......some get locked in the machine, others in a locked box. Memory cards go here, count this, keep all Dem's & Rep.'s stubs separate, and all #'s must add up. Provisional ballots....in lieu of absentee ballots....ai-yi-yi, what did I get myself into? I went and got the key to the firestations today---they are NO help! It is not the firestations themselves I saw, just the Op center, and they have been using the rooms I am scheduled for for storage, and it is a disaster! I am going to have an hour of rearranging before we can even start! Rick wanted to go to a rally---there is no way. I have bitten off way too much with this. On a positive note, it did lead to a job discussion---but right now the county is in a hiring freeze. BUT that works for me, I would rather wait til summer is over!!! Anyway....chaos ensues! LOL Suzie, I can understand why sleep would be hard right now, it is scary to think about this surgery! Sleep as you can, and if you can get a nap--take it! When do you plan on talking to your sister? Tracy, yep you are a thread oldtimer, hell you started it!!! LOL I had no idea there was a GS store either!! I would have looked on line, no idea about that stuff anymore!!! I did have a girl come in and vote who I had in brownies, and she said she still had an old pillow/sitting cushion we made, she uses it to kneel on in her garden!!! I had forgotten all about them!!! Cindy, I had no idea you only had 9 days to get through to the kids in summer school. When do you do it? Is it one subject or all? That amazes me! Angela, you and Tracy have fun, take some pics!!! Bethany---whats on the agenda for the long weekend? I wish I had one!!! Michelle---I figure with all the festivities this weekend, your DH probably has to work. Mine is on call tonight, then free til Monday. I work 4 hours tomorrow, last early voting day. Sorry you are losing your yarn store....I can feel your sadness over it..... Well my folks made it to Colorado---big sigh of relief! I better get busy, I have so much to read and plan! Be back sometime this weekend!

Oh my Suzie----2/3 of the spine is involved? Thank God it was found! I am so glad they are moving quickly on it! I think the unfill is a good plan---you will be on meds, and with anesthesia sometimes you get nauseated.....I agree with the band doc (like that matters!!!) Went to class, taught a class, worked my shift, went to dinner with the family, watered the garden, and now sitting back. DD brought over a local magazine with an article on the derby girls---our youngest is on the cover, and Manda is in the middle, arm in a sling and all. And get this----she is regaining movement---it appears the nerve is in tact!!! Yay for Macy!!! Happy belated for Teagan!! Happy school is out for a few days for Cindy---you will WOW them I am sure!!! Bethany, Angela, Jenn, everyone---I will be done with all this soon----and have time to "get to know" you new girls and catch up with you old timers!!! Take care!

Well I taught my jerk class at 10 this morning!!! OK was a clerk class.....teaching the election clerks what they are expected to do in the polling places come Tuesday. Now in a few minutes I get to go find out what all MY duties will be as presiding judge. Thought I would have time to post, but Megan just showed up--will do it tonight! Thinking of you Suzie!!!

Thx Suzie, I am putting in my Avon order tomorrow, will have to try that. Tho like you shaving is not frequent. Since chemo I shave once or twice a year and only in case I get a straggler or something! One good side effect!! Exhaustion has hit me again. I work all day tomorrow. Election 7-1, Precinct Judge class from 1-3, then teaching a clerk class from 3-5. I am tired already. I am not a teacher.......what got into my head to do this???? See you all tomorrow. cwtbt----we all say things that cause the rest of us to think----it is a good thing. When we examine what others think, of us, and about our lives, we learn to look inside ourselves in a new way. Where I figured everyone thought of me as a schmuck always doing things for my inlaws I didn't want to....I get total different feedback from y'all!!! Imagine that!!!! G'nite

NOTHING in your post offended me Suzie, except the feeling you had to aplogize to us! We are here to support one another through good and bad, and even when we are not perfect. On the old thread, sometimes it DID feel like I was being judged for having a crappy attitude, or not being grateful enough for what I DO have....but that is what I love about this thread, and you girls, I feel accepted. Period. I do not have to put on airs, or feel worried what might be thought if I say something about my family. I can complain and still know that everyone of you still realizes I love them wholeheartedly and want nothing bad to happen to them, but I can still resent, and complain...and be down right mad and at times. I feel like I can be honest with you about my son, and the ambivalence I am having with them moving. Loving him, and being so upset with him all at the same moment. The lack of judgement I have found here is rare to find. And Suzie, you DO deserve the praise we give you, I could care less if you did it because you were being highly paid, and mumbled under your breath all day long about it!!! The point is---no one is holding you at gunpoint to make you comply, and you DO IT. You are a normal, living, breathing human being....you are not a Saint. To think you should WANT to wait on people hand and foot is silly---of course you resent it....I do, and in your situation I would too, and I honestly would not probably do all you do! I too deal with a mentally challenged sibling, and I lose it frequently with him! And I have my parents to help with him still. So while we will give you the right to feel the way you do....we too have the right to feel like you ARE an amazing sister to them, and that whether you mutter obscenities or what, they are still so very lucky to have you. Hope your appointment today goes well.....report in soon! I see you on, maybe we are typing at the same time. Well MIL's biopsy come back --- cancer free.......so back to square one. The mass is growing, now there is talk of a fungus maybe.....they are doing a PET scan next week, and will possibly biopsy again, just to double check----this is so crazy. She seems again almost disappointed. I believe it is because her other 2 kids become VERY attentive when the news is not good. Sad they don't see the correllation. Work was steady---makes it go by quickly. I am quite tired of repeating the same thing over and over---I bet I say it in my sleep!!! We are having a mexican food fiesta at MIL's tonight, I am making pappas, mexican potato casserole stuff---and taking tortillas. They make the enchiladas---cheating ones, they are good, but I wish they had just had me make real ones! I will try to check in when I get home tonight---gotta go cook.

OK, quick post then off to bed! Spent the evening out at inlaws with BIL & SIL in. Both parents see Dr.'s in the next 2 days, so the Denver sister and brother come down for the appointments---glad they do, but the insinuation that no one here can get things done or understand irritates the hell out of me! Rick is feeling better, the cough syrup is what he needed. He is back to work today, but in the shop so it is all good. I am having hard time filling positions in my precinct for election day. I have to have equal numbers of people from both parties, and that is proving difficult. People just don't want involved..... Tracy--I am told the movie did not follow the book in detail, but whatever you do, you should read the book. I read it, did not see it....might decided to watch it. I had not watched the Boy In The Striped Pajamas until last week----have you all seen it? I know I am WAAAAYYY behind with it! LOL Angela, I love trips like that. Once many years ago, 2 friends and I took our combined 7 kids and went to Phoenix, on to California, to do the Disney, Sea World, beach thing, we took them into Mexico (mush safer than it is today) then home through Las Vegas, and by the Grand Canyon. We had a Blast!! Like you we had 2 vans---and CB radios---it was so much fun. We had stopped at a 7/11 to go to the bathroom, and it was taking too long for little 2 year old Jilly, and she couldn't hold it....trailing to the bathroom are little poop balls. My 15 year olds, (DD and friend) and the little ones siblings were crying they laughed so hard. The other Mom and I hid in the van!!! When what should catch my eye, but these vanity type license plates in the store....and naturally one says "Shit Happens". I had to. We bought it and had it sitting on her steering wheel when she come out very red faced!!! She did clean up after her DD!!! Vacations can be such fun. Rick is a GREAT vacationer---if I want to stop he has no issue. We have seen Gator farms, and curio shops all over!! Well I am going to bed----5 comes way too early. One more week, and my life will be my own again pretty much! Will tell you about my other work later. Everyone take care....stay cool, or warm, or dry.....at least stay safe!!!

I would have ranted too Angela--what a load! Sounds to me as tho he has someone who informed him, it just seems awful coincedental he just pulled up, and was not getting out asking who you were and what you were doing.....know what I mean?? We love to go to the local pond and see all the baby ducks---how fun! I also understand completely what you are saying about your DH and his health. My DH had sudden onset mitral valve failure several years ago. During his pre op work up they caused a serious blood clot in the ileac, so he had to resolve that prior to heart surgery. 3 months later he could not wait any longer and they operated, ended up actually having to reduce the size of his heart due to the extended wait for surgery. He had surgery, did wonderful. Was having regular PT checks, because he had been on coumadin as a blood thinner for all those months. 2 days before he was to return to work, he had a MAJOR upper GI bleed, he vomitted and tore the esophagus on both sides away from the stomach. Dr. told us he was dying, likely in the next few minutes----and 2 amazing Dr.'s, and some clever experimenting on their part they saved him. He is in good health again....BUT He had 120 hours in last week!!! He actually had 124.5, but 4.5 were this morning, so on a new pay period!!! NO ONE should work that way! So I stress! LOTS!! I hear you and am glad I am not alone in it!!! Just chatted for awhile with Tracy---on FB. So nice to be able to do that!! It is cold here today, barely made 60 if that. YUCK!!! Yesterday was upper 80's....tomorrow is supposed to be too. Damn weather!!! Michelle, I hope your friend knows how lucky she is to have you to help in her shop. And I am impressed and proud of you for resisting the urge to help physically!!! So Suzie, did you transfer the remaining frogs? I had no idea tree frogs were loud like that! Amazed me!!! We have toads and bull frogs, occasionally, but not lots. Time to go check on Rick, he is sleeping, he has a major cold......read above rant shared with Angela!!! See y'all in awhile!

I think in some ways our bands allowed us to slip into a complacent frame of mind. And it come off easier the first time around!! Well, some of these pounds have been lost many, many times!!! I don't feel like I or we failed, but I think we lost the "OMG it's working" excitement. As we levelled out, and we had to read of this not working for some of our friends, we hit a wall. I know we are not alone. A friend from our old Violets group invited me to join WW with them....they are I guess trying that as a group. I believe the book, or something like it is going to be key for all of us, as something we can use to break the evil cycle, and to heal our minds as well as our bodies. I grew up with a girl who was borderline anorexic, or is still actually. It was her parents 50th I just attended. Her Mom is very short---right at 5' tall, and weighs over 260 pounds. When she was younger, she was just terribly heavy, but she functioned. Now that she is pushing 70, she is almost an invalid. Her stomach hangs to her knees, and her legs are so big she cannot walk well. She is not in good enough health to consider surgery. Her sister had bypass and is doing great. But my friend lived with incredible guilt, she loved her Mom but was very embarrassed by her. She for all intents and purposes eats only enough to live in a semi healthy manner. She said she gets no enjoyment out of food. She is afraid of food. People think she is picky, but she is afraid someday she is going to find something she likes well enough she will not be able to stop----so she does not try new things. She lives on coffee---and bits of things here and there. Her husband said she does not eat full meals ever. I think he supports her because he does not want her being fat either. To me, I find this an unacceptable as where I am! Food---nutrition is a necessity. I should be able to eat without fear-----regardless of size. So that is why I say we have head work to do. Yes exercise is going to help, as is watching what we put in our mouths---but until we find out what has caused our own fears or what we want to hide from....I think it will always be a battle. I thought I had mine figured out. I honestly thought I could quit gaining when the "plan" succeeded---and I couldn't. Now I have no reason to want to be heavy, and no reason to hide behind the weight, and it is still an issue~! GAH!!!! Why couldn't we all be thin instead of so damn beautiful???? Well I am off to my inlaws, SIL is due in. Rick is going to be late----is anyone surprised??? He is out on the rez---so his cell reception is bad, which really sucks. I had one of the drivers wives/girlfriend/whatever call me this afternoon to see if Rick was working these hours or not. Guess she was feeling suspicious! Glad that is not an issue with us! I am so sleepy.......early bed for me tonight! Gonna water the front flowers and go. DIL went toher sisters so I didn't get to take Connor, so I took my Mom in for a tetanus shot. Check in after work tomorrow.

Good morning everyone. Doing my best to get motivated, but not having much success!!! Rick got home about midnight, got up and visited with him while he showered and unwound for a minute. Then got up with him this morning, he has a cold now, and feels crummy on top of all these hours! Will be back to normal soon. He left for work about 8, I was already gone, to give his Mom her shot. Then I thought about going into town and doing some things I need to get done, but just have no gumption to do anything!!! I AM doing laundry----speaking of which....brb Later I am hoping to take Connor to the carnival to ride a few things---I had so much fun with him last night---it is breaking my heart to see him leave. Not that I won't miss Garrick, but we have had less time to develop the relationship we have with Connor. Will do what we have to do tho. Tracy, I hear ya, I find myself making plans and having great resolve, only to walk in and grab something sweet to eat.....then I feel like such a dummy, because I am NOT hungry! Bored, is the usual culprit. We unplug a lot of things, all the bedroom TV's , and chargers etc, room deodorizers were got rid of---the ones that plug in---not good things!!! The biggest change we made to our electric bill tho, was we bought a new freezer, and got rid of the old one! Dropped my bill well over $20 a month just doing that! Now I keep jugs of water by the freezer and use them in the empty spots in the freezer---thye keep things at temperature, and make it run less. When I shop and need the room, I just remove them as needed! We also replaced our motion detector lights outside with solar powered lights. They are not as bright, but the work wonderfully---little LED lights, last forever, and once bought cost us nothing. The neighbors having all those cats, kept making our motion detector lights come on throughout the night. In the summer I hang out a lot of our clothes....little things, but it keeps my electric bill close to the same year round. It will jump---naturally with the AC---we go from about $120 to $150. Most people make it up with the heat bill going down, but we don't use our gas in the winter, we rely on woodstove....so it doesn't balance for us!! I have little chiles, tomatoes, and squash flowers....still awhile away from them being ready to do anything with!! The only thing ready to harvest is herbs!!! LOL Flowers look good tho! School is over here this week. They graduated this weekend. Now if summer would get here and stay! The wind blew so hard yesterday, I think half of Arizona is now in NM! From where my desk is I can look out the front door and big window, and see the little ones across the street running in the sprinkler! Better them than me, I am chilled still!!! Have my last load of laundry washing....so I DID get something accomplished!!! Think I will go sweep the patio, and blow off the cushions---gotta do something! LOL