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6/18/13 4:20 P

I'm doing fine and I was wondering where everyone was too. It's a beautiful day here on the west coast of Canada -- sunny but not too hot.

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6/18/13 11:00 A

It's pretty quiet in here.
How is everyone doing?

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5/28/13 5:44 P

I hope you find what you are looking for. Keep us posted.

Edited by: GRINGUITA at: 5/28/2013 (17:45)

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5/28/13 4:51 P

No....I'm much TOO independent to have a motorized wheel chair and the insurance companies will go with the cheapest way!

After accomplishing the task of paying off my house 4 years early - the thought of moving into an apartment just makes me sick! Well...that and the thought of paying rent! lol

Am looking for a one-level townhouse and willing to make a few modifications to fit my needs.

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5/28/13 4:14 P

Great to see you posting Annie. Will your new wheel chair be electric? I hope you have better luck with finding a place to live -- have you considered apartments -- we can get into our apartment without using any stairs at all because the front entrance is level and there is an elevator.

I don't know why no one is posting here -- I get notices of new people signing up for this group but then they don't post. I do most of my "chatting" on another team but I'm quite willing to chat with anyone who wants to chat in here.

My life is going fairly well -- just starting to lose again and get my blood sugar under control.

Tonight I am giving a short presentation to my photo club with pictures from my trip to New York last year and Friday I am giving a presentation on Cuba at our seniors centre. My next big project of a photo album of my daughter's life -- I did one for my son a few years back and now it's my daughter's turn. Most of my older pictures are on slides so that means a lot of scanning to start with.

I hope we hear from some of the others who are lurking in this group and if people don't want to be here I wish they would take their names off the list. There are supposed to be 2,764 members on this team but we never, ever hear from them.

Bev Anne

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5/28/13 12:12 P

This team was on my "to do list" today....I thought perhaps I wasn't getting my notices, but now I see that nobody has posted. What's up with that?

Finding wheel chair accessible housing is proving to be VERY challenging. One-level living is not the same as wheel chair accessible...people forget about steps on the outside of the building or that laundry is in the basement. Very frustrating - wish I had the money to just "build to my needs". Guess I will have to win the lottery!

Today I got several "future" appointments scheduled - one being Wheel Chair Seat Mapping. Courage Center will be handling this and getting a custom wheel chair. Unfortunately, they are booked out until mid-July. The chair I'm in creates too many sore spots on my butt and they won't heal until I can get a chair that "fits my body".

When I found out that I would be stuck in this chair forever....I let my leg exercises take a break. This past weekend I started that up again. Just because I can't stand up doesn't mean I should quit trying to exercise - so that is back in my life. Gotta trim down what I've gained over the past 3-4 months...I was doing SO great and the smaller the wheelchair, the easier it will be for transporting.

Who knows - if I get my legs strengthened more...perhaps I can figure out how to transfer into a REAL car instead of transport vehicles. Transport vehicles are expensive, but thinking (right now) they are probably cheaper than owning and maintaining a vehicle. The conversion alone is mind-blowing.

Hope everyone had a great long weekend!

Edited by: QUILTINGB52 at: 5/28/2013 (12:13)

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5/13/13 1:52 A

Sorry to hear about your pain Bobbi -- is there a diagnosis and a prognosis. What can be done to alleviate it? I pray that you will find the answers.

Bev Anne

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5/12/13 7:20 P

Sorry for missing team...but I am very much in pain ugh...(R) Hip and Back and Leg and I,
cannot seem to tolerate the pain ugh...I need prayers please:(

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5/9/13 12:59 A

We are finally having a gorgeous Spring here in Victoria. Our winters aren't bad here and we rarely get snow but it does get gloomy and rainy for the winter months so we welcome the sunshine and the flowers.

We have had a few new people sign in to this group but there hasn't been much activity here in our main chat room. We are happy to support you on this journey towards health but we need to hear from you. Please come and tell us why you want to lose weight.

My main reason is that I want to have more energy to do the things I enjoy doing. I will be 70 in a few months and I want to enjoy the rest of my life to the fullest extent. I love to travel but I don't like having my butt pinched in an airplane seat -- I do it anyway but I don't like it. I love to sing but when I stand in a choir my back starts to really hurt before the concert is over. I love to take photos and experiment with my camera but I can't get down on the ground or climb up on a rock to get a better viewpoint. I love to play with my grandkids but I am uncomfortable sitting on the floor with them and then it is difficult to get back up. There are many more reasons I would like to get rid of this fat but these are a few that come to mind right now.

What are your reasons? What do you like to do that is difficult or impossible right now?

Bev Anne

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5/6/13 12:21 A

We keep having a "winter that won't end".....a couple days ago, it was raining, sleeting and snowing. Sounds like we are going to skip Spring and head right into summer...

Really not having any luck finding a one-level townhouse. Not even certain where I want to live anymore. Arizona still intrigues me...but not excited to head that direction alone, not quite THAT confident yet!

Was thinking that perhaps it's time to talk myself into trying an apartment...just until I can find something more permanent. Then on Friday....my GF informs me that she will NOT be helping me "pack up my house". She is willing to fetch anything I want from the house, but won't help me move? I'm thinking what's the difference? LOL

Cross that bridge when I get to it. Still feel numb....like I'm living in a fog....

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5/5/13 7:45 P

We're having a beautiful day here in Victoria! Pretty soon you are going to hear people complaining about the heat . When it comes to weather people are hard to please. Hope you are having a great weekend.

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5/2/13 11:49 A

JLee welcome back -- we haven't seen you in a while. Your mention of your kayak reminded me of a photo presentation I saw last night by a friend who is a nature photographer and has taken several kayak trips around the islands north of Vancouver Island and taken some great shots of bears including a spirit bear and salmon jumping upstream as well as some beautiful landscape shots. It was a great way to enjoy that area up close and personal while sitting in a warm dry room!

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5/2/13 5:35 A

Oh Annie, My thoughts are with you as you face this and all your battles. And so hope that things get lighter for you.

We have spring sprung. Posies are out, leaves budding, grass already mowed. And two bit bike rides, the first of the season. Did get a copy of the ride calendar this last weekend. And soon to be taking my boat out for it's inaugural kayak paddle. How to get more time to play?

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4/27/13 11:26 P

Twas a warm & sunny day, for Wayne's Memorial service. About 200 people walked through the doors....old Prudential co-workers, boy scout guys that hiked the Wind River Range, thrusday night 'Dungeons & Dragons' gaming group, friends, neighbors and family.

We laughed, we cried, we hugged and we comforted each other! Am just starting to come out of my numbing fog...denial is so much easier to handle. But the reality certainly hit me full in the face today!

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4/24/13 8:55 P

Weight loss is frustrating. Not being able to walk is frustrating. I am so frustrated in general but I am grateful for the journey and am going to stay the course.

Bright blessings to you all. You are in my prayers dear friends.

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4/24/13 4:20 P

Annie ~They will not do the fake knees for me right now either. I have lost 40 pounds since the end of October. But coming back home my eating habits are slipping back into the bad ones. I have to do it. I have thought about weight loss surgery but the idea scares me.

The therapist just left too - the knees will be sore later!

Edited by: JUST_KAREN at: 4/24/2013 (16:22)

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4/24/13 4:00 P

I totally understand your frustration, Karen......I will not be able to get "bionic" knees and will be in a wheel chair from now on. Just puts a bit of challenge into each day...(*sigh)...

But I have been able to lose 100# since Nov 2012...so anything is possible!

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4/24/13 2:23 P

Hi - it has been a long time since I last posted. Since the end of October I have been in and out of the hospital then nursing home for therapy. I am home now. I had a staph infection, I see some similarities in our stories Annie. The infection is gone but I an not able to walk just yet. I am trying but the knees are too weak, I am so afraid that I will never walk again, And I am getting frustrated that progress is going so slow,

Karen

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4/20/13 4:11 P

Glad to see everyone posting. I hope that you are doing well. Can you believe that we're in the last stretch of the month? It won't be long & we'll be having to post our weights again. I have been out of the pool for almost 10 days now due to illness and am stressing the weight slow down. I'm hoping to be able to get back in the pool on Wednesday. Crossing my fingers.

I hope that everyone is doing well. Spring seems to finally be "springing" for many of us. I feel so badly for all the folks getting all that SNOW.. and the floods that are plaguing so many. It really seems as if things are rocking & rolling around the world as far as weather goes...

If you get a chance.... read this awesome blog... It is really good & much needed by me today.

www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal.
asp?id=SHARON10002

Annie, I am so sorry that you're going through so much. You remain in my prayers as always. Love to all... Dawn

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4/17/13 9:54 P

The whole grieving process has me exhausted....this morning I laid down for a nap before lunch and felt Wayne's presence engulfing me with a hug and I quickly drifted off to sleep...

I suggested to Wayne's siblings that whatever they bought for Wayne should be the items they take home. They thought that was a great idea. For the items that I purchased I have asked specific persons if they would like it...as much of the things would burden me with duplicates (small kitchen appliances, tools, aquarium, books, gardening supplies, etc).

I asked Shery (his sister) to take Wayne home with her - because her home was located in a "dark site". Then said that the metal swing, shephards hooks, bird houses and bird feeders should all be taken up to the Memorial Park they have on their land. I think he would be pleased that I would want him so close to Shery....

As for a will....Wayne's best friend said he wrote one. So, Shery has the task of going through all his paperwork trying to find one. We are hoping that he has one in a lockbox at the bank...but can't obtain that until his personal belongings and death certificate arrive.

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4/17/13 6:17 A

Annie, I think going through personal effects are the hardest part of all, sol I'm truly glad to hear that his brothers and sisters will be there with you-- and for you-- when you have to do that, Annie.
Also, I think it's really wonderful that you're going to have some of his ashes sent into space as a tribute to something he loved. His nephews being there will make it really special--and I know Wayne will be looking down from heaven, smiling.

In my opinion, your 36 years together makes you his wife. And what a kind, good, loving one you were! God bless and keep you, Annie dear.

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4/14/13 11:10 A

They all had me laughing on the phone last night....they put me on speaker and ALL his siblings asked me why we never got married. It certainly would have made their lives LOTS easier ~ especially since Wayne never bothered to create a will.

It will take us at least a year to get through his house...but we will work on it together!

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4/14/13 9:04 A

Annie, I'm so glad that Wayne's family is a comfort to you. Sometimes people surprise us and shine brightly when you least expect it--and just exactly when light is needed most.

God bless and keep you, Annie dear.

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4/14/13 3:21 A

They sound like a wonderful family -- I'm glad they are including you the way they are.

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4/14/13 3:03 A

Saturday was better than Friday....

I asked Wayne's sister to fly to AZ...that I would pay for the trip, I needed some answers! She said, "no need...we also wanted answers & they called the County Sheriff to find out details. Wayne died in his sleep, the coroner confirmed it and then called Wayne's Minnesota doctor. It was the MN doctor that told them to not bother with an autopsy...Wayne had many health issues."

His family is keeping me in the center of all plans and told me tonight that they were going to rent a medi-van to make certain I had no problems getting to the Memorial service. They told me that I will continue to be a big part of everyone's life - that although Wayne & I were never married...that is how they think of me, as Wayne's wife.

I had no idea they felt this strongly....I just know that they have always been there for both Wayne & myself. Whenever I've been in the hospital or been sick...they always came to visit, call or send cards. Hmmm...maybe my siblings could take some lessons from them?

And Wayne's sister told me she was having Wayne's ashes be divided among us all. Each of us will have the choice of what to do with Wayne's ashes...me, Shery, George, and Tim.

I told her that part of his ashes need to be shot into Space and his nephews need to be present. They will be put into a rocket and shot off...."to the final frontier" and Wayne will have a Nerd Uber Sendoff!!!!!!!!!

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4/14/13 2:38 A

Thanks for the heads up Georgia -- I am stunned and saddened by the news.

My heart goes out to you Annie .....

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4/13/13 9:57 P

I just read Annie's blog. Please, friends, do read it. She is need of our love and support right now. She has just lost the love of her life. I am stunned. Life is so fragile, and our poor Annie has already been through so much.

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 4/13/2013 (21:59)

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4/13/13 9:45 P

That's what makes people so interesting. They're all so wonderfully different! My DH has been away from his hometown in Mexico for 35 years now, with only two visits back in all that time. He feels somewhat like you in that he doesn't mourn the loss of the past, and can live comfortably in the present always looking forward to new places, people and things. I've never liked Change very much. I prefer things to be as they always were. I know Life is all about change though, which creates problems for me sometimes. The older I get, the less risks I feel like taking. I was far more daring in my youth...which is how I ended up in Florida in the first place! lol

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4/13/13 8:36 P

My brother still lives in the same town where we grew up - a couple of thousand miles from here -- but both our parents are dead. My daughter and her partner live about 500 miles from us and our son and his family are over a thousand miles away. The 2 kids are about 900 miles from each other. This is actually a big improvement since 8 years ago we were on three different continents -- our daughter in Europe, son in the US, my husband and I in South America. I have some relatives back in the area where my brother lives but none that I stay in touch with besides him. I guess I am a bit of a nomad. What I miss about the past is no longer the same so there is no going back. But I'm ok with that.

Edited by: GRINGUITA at: 4/13/2013 (20:38)

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4/13/13 8:06 P

I was too, Bev Anne. I lived in Florida from 1980 to 2000. I was homesick the entire time. It got to the point that I was actually feeling physically sick, and knew I had to go home. Jesse said what the heck---let's go for it...we can be just as poor in PA as we are in FL, so we sold our home and moved back here to PA. I've never regretted it. I'm one of those people who just need to be around family. I'm so lucky that I have all of three of my kids living here close to me, as well as my extended family too. I'm blessed and I know it, and boy oh boy am I ever grateful for it.

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4/13/13 6:57 P

I am far away from my roots.

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4/13/13 6:19 P

We live on the property where my grandparent's house once stood. The house is no longer there--it was torn down about 20 years ago. When we bought the land from my Uncle, all that remained of the old homestead was the old fieldstone foundation, and lots and lots of flowering bushes and plants that my grandmother loved so much. When we put our doublewide on the property. we were careful to place it in almost the same position and space that the house once occupied. We've been here almost 13 years now, and in that time have added many other flowers, bushes, trees and plants to those already here. I get such a wonderful feeling looking out of my window knowing that I'm seeing much the same vista that my grandmother once saw. The connection to the people of my past--and especially to my grandmother-- is precious to me, and I'm so grateful to be here--and so thankful that so many of her beloved plants remained here to remind me of her, and all the wonderful memories of my childhood.

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 4/13/2013 (18:22)

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4/8/13 11:44 P

The Purple Iris went from grandma's garden to my mom's garden and then when I bought my house in 1984, they were transplanted the next summer. But the original plants were probably from a generation further back....my ancestors were well known for their gardens!!

My grandpa and his brothers owned a fruit and veggie stand. I worked at it when I was just a youngster...helping gather strawberries every morning to sell at market. Grandma even sold cut flowers....

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4/8/13 12:47 P

Georgia,
Just add some green leaves and/or green powder to the drink you have now -- you won't even taste it with the cocoa powder in there. The smoothie I make in the morning is more like chocolate pudding than chocolate milk and it satisfies me for a long time.

BA

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4/8/13 11:39 A

Wow Annie -- 40 years ago -- you have lived in that place a long time. I hope you will soon find a place where you can make yourself a new haven for both you and the birds.

BA

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4/8/13 10:06 A

Wayne loves to garden and I'm hoping that I will be able to transplant some of the things from my yard, into his. I have Purple (sweet smelling) Iris that were transplanted from my grandmothers garden 40 years ago. Tiger lillies that have taken over the backyard raised bed. And then there are other things that will have to remain - but have fond memories attached to them, like my Blue Spruce - bought by my folks in 1985 and nutured back to health when the flat line winds almost flattened it in 1997 - but I staked it and pulled it back into the ground and it grew strong once again!

So many of the trees and bushes were planted to attract birds and wildlife into my yard. Although many thought it as a "jungle"...it was my haven to sit under the trees and listen to my birds sing. My little piece of heaven...(sigh).....

And now they will just be fond memories, etched in my mind...

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4/8/13 6:52 A

Good morning folks. I had another nice weekend with the granddkids here for most of it, and also had their parents over for Sunday dinner after church yesterday. Made meatloaf, mashed potatoes, gravy, peas, salad, and rolls. I ate everything,but l stayed within my calorie range. I'm eating my meals off of a smaller salad plate, and that truly helps me feel as if I'm having more than I actually am. Sometimes the plate looks absolutely heaping--especially when I have low cal green veggies. I really load that baby up then!

Annie, I was so glad to read that the antibiotics worked and your leg is on the mend, and I hope you can find a new nest of your own to feather very soon. I think the uncertainty of things up in the air like that would be hard to deal with. It would for me. I'll be praying extra hard that you find the perfect place ASAP. That's really good to know that you have a potential buyer for your house once you're ready to sell. That will be one less headache anyway. I know how much you'll miss your yard...maybe you get Wayne to get you clippings from your favorite bushes and plants to re-plant in your new place when you get one. I've done that every time we've moved. I even brought tons of plants up from our place in Florida when we moved from there to here in Pennsylvania 13 years ago. I figured I had a lot of love, sweat and time invested in those plants and I couldn't bear to part with them. Most of them have thrived and done very well up here.

Speaking of plants, we ordered some giant strawberry plants form a nursery catalog and they arrived the other day. It's still too cold to plant them, so we put them down in the basement near a southern-facing window as the nursery suggested to do. This should keep them in a dormant state for awhile and hopefully they'll be ok until the ground thaws out and we can plant them. DH doesn't have the garden tilled yet but we're hoping he can get to it this weekend.

Bev Anne, we do a lot of juicing too. Mostly in the mornings. My favorite is a smoothie made with whey protein, low fat cottage cheese, stevia, cocoa powder, natural peanut butter and almond milk. I want to get more into making the green drinks for cleansing too. I'd love to have a really good juicer, but for now I'm just blending the drinks with my 1950 Oesterizer blender. It works pretty well though.

Dawn, I read in your blog about your allergies. I feel for you, cause I sure have them too. I take a clariton everyday and it does help, but even then I still sometimes have to take benydril--which puts me to sleep. Allergies are the worst!!

I have a sore throat and ear ache on one side of my head. I've had it for a few days now. Seems to be getting better though, thank goodness.

Hope you all have a lovely day!

hugs--Georgia



Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 4/8/2013 (06:53)

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4/7/13 11:49 P

I am about 15 miles away from my house.

When the transport van brought me to this Assisted Living...they were within a mile from my house. It was hard to not tear up knowing I was that close and wasn't going home...(sigh).

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4/7/13 6:40 P

Annie -- how far are you now from your house in Albertville?

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4/7/13 6:35 P

The newer buses can be lowered when they are sitting at a bus stop to allow passengers easier access. It is a wonderful innovation. I stopped using the buses in Ecuador because they were to difficult to climb into. There is now a new modern light rail system going into the city I lived in down there -- I can hardly wait to see how it changes things.

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4/7/13 6:24 P

Trust me...it was disappointing to find out that their weight restriction was so low as most of the transport vans have a 600# limit. Right now, the combo weight is about 30# too much. And it's all about controlling the disease in my legs to get the weight down.

There is a local bus - called the River Rider - they charge $2.50 round trip from curb-to-curb. But they have very limited hours....1 hour in the morning & 2 in the afternoon. They also bus school kids, so I often get to the clinic then have to wait 1-1/2 hours before they can come back.

The majority of all my stuff is still at my house!! I would be ideal if I could find a townhouse to buy, then only ONE move would be required. I could move just what I wanted, donate or sell the rest and then put the house up for sale. There is a potential buyer that I have in mind...they own the other half and would like to own both halves.

I have one of my sewing machines, a few projects, my desk & computer and a few clothes with me. Just a few comforts of home....and although I don't care if I ever live in Albertville again...I do miss not being able to be in my house and am missing the activity in my backyard. The Forsythia bush should be popping with color, the Cardinals have been back since March, curious if the bunnies made it through winter, my violets should be starting to pop, etc. Too bad I can't just level my house and start over.....LOL

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4/7/13 5:33 P

Never heard of a bus kneeling. Of course, we don't even have buses in our town

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4/7/13 2:18 P

Annie,
I'm glad to hear that your infection has gone down and I hope you find a new home soon. Is all your stuff still in your old place or is it in storage?

That's an awfully low age restriction for the lift in the van -- especially since it includes wheel chairs etc. The handibus here (which is part of the city bus service) takes people and their electric scooters and the scooters must weigh nearly that alone. The regular buses will also take scooters but they don't have a lift. The buses "kneel" and a ramp unfolds for wheel chairs, scooters, etc.

I hope you get everything sorted out soon so you can be organizing your own place and not someone else's.

I am having a relaxing, productive day!! Hope everyone else is having the kind of day they want to have.

BA

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4/7/13 9:38 A

Geez Annie. I hate that you're going through all this. You're in my thoughts and prayers dear friend.

I hope that everyone has a pleasant Sunday. Bright blessings to all.

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4/7/13 2:13 A

The anti-biotics have done their job - took the last one tonight! Thankfully it was a low-grade infection and my legs have stopped weaping. They are to the itchy, scaley, dry stage - so I'm moisturizing as aften as I can. And now that the tenderness is gone - the wrapping will resume.

Still have a sore spot on the bottom of my left foot - but try to elevate it often thru the day and that seems to help. Haven't a clue what it is, but this is about the 3rd time in a year that I've had "it". lol

I contacted the State Aging Specialist about finding wheel chair accessible housing and she has referred me to several websites. Was hoping for a list of places that I could call...but that wasn't the case. Perhaps the disability hotline would be a better place to start?

I have been going through the internet looking for places - but the one's I've called are all booked solid. So, I'm just hanging out with the morons...

Thursday I help plan what will be planted under the pine trees, in the whiskey barrels and the raised veggies bed. Not certain that I will be here to help with the festivities....but I seem to be the only one that knows HOW to do it! LOL

If I'm not here...I can always come back and visit!

Asked the activity director on Thursday if they had a lift in the bus they own. They do, but (of course) it has a weight restriction....me & my chair can't weigh more than 380# and that's what's keeping me from participating in outside activities.

So, if I plan any shopping trips - it won't be with the rest of the gang. I will have to make arrangements and pay for my transportation. Just another reason to not live here....LOL

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4/6/13 10:14 P

Good to see you posting BevAnne. I hope that the lowcarb helps you. I recently found that I was gluten intolerant and going low carb has really helped that AND my weight loss.

Annie, I'd like to hear how your leg is doing as well. I hope that it's healing well & that you've found a much better place to live.

"Georgia" glad that you had a good time with your grandchildren. I LOVE being with mine. I crochet & do crafts with 2 of the granddaughters, but only the 11 year old really has a knack for it so far. I hope that you continue to do well. I'm cheering for you....

I'm cheering for the entire group of us. It's good to see newcomers joining us. I hope that they'll jump in & get active. I know that this group of folks has definitely helped me because we are all in the boat together and I am GRATEFUL.

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4/6/13 9:45 P

Annie -- how is your leg doing? Has anything come up on the new home front?

I am eating lowcarb and dairy free which eliminates everything except nuts, seeds and veggies. I have been having blood sugar problems so I am trying to be very careful on the nutrition front. My breakfast usually consists of a smoothie that contains chia seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, cocoa powder, stevia, some greens and almond milk. It's very nutritious and keeps me going until my next meal which is either a green drink or steamed veggies (broccoli and brussels sprouts are my favourites). I don't count calories and right now I am more concerned with getting my blood sugar under control. I figure getting healthy will include losing weight as a side effect.

Hope you are all having a great weekend.

Bev Anne

Edited by: GRINGUITA at: 4/6/2013 (21:46)

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4/3/13 10:06 A

The other day, during our 3pm Social hour - one of the residents granddaughters came over with her violin and performed for us. She played minuets, childrens songs, and many variations of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. Amelia has been playing for 3-1/2 years and she is 7 years old.

She was a delightful person!! Her mom says that she will often perform at church services. I was amazed because I NEVER enjoyed the "performing in front of others bit".

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4/3/13 5:51 A

Annie, I'm sorry to hear about the infection in your leg. That's not something you need right now. Well, at any time, really--I mean who does? But seems to me you've been through enough already. That silly nurse sure isn't helping matters any either. I do hope the antibiotics work, and your leg heals up ASAP. You know you have my prayers too.

Dawn, I know what you mean about the ham. It's soo good, and so hard to resist. I've eaten above my calorie limits all week, and have a gain today. I'm not happy about that at all, but know why it happened and what to do about it. Getting back on track will be my main goal this week.

I really enjoyed having my grandkids all week, and the house is so quiet now that they've gone back home. The only upside about them not being here is that I no longer have to watch reruns of Spiderman umpteen times a day now. My 7 year old grandson is probably the biggest Spiderman fan in the history of the entire world. He's loved him for about 4 years now and has never wavered....although I have noticed he does play with Batman toys from time to time as well. My 13 year old granddaughter brought her knitting over (she crochets too) and we spent some time together working on that. I hope to interest her in embroidery as well. She told me she wants to be either a Vet when she grows up, or work in the field of training service dogs. She's always loved animals, so that doesn't surprise me a bit.

Hope you all have a wonderful day--love to all--Georgia

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 4/3/2013 (15:09)

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4/1/13 11:47 P

I did get to the ER on Tuesday - they kept me for 8 hours and then I was returned to Assisted Living. I'm on anti-biotics for 10 days and hoping it will help clear it up. So far, my leg is still brilliant red from ankle to knee and still leaking fluids. But at least some of the sensitive places aren't as painful. Am just trying to nap often, so they stay elevated more than usual.

Luckily(?) I wasn't feeling up to par on Easter - so I managed to skip the ham and had beef with barley soup and some toast. Then for dinner had Chicken & wild rice soup with toast. I made it through another Easter - Ham Free!

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4/1/13 11:27 P

I'm really worried about that infection Annie. I hope that they are able to get it taken care of for you. You're in my prayers. Love ya...

I hope that everyone else is doing well. I had another good day. Just need to stop eating this HAM... I love it but the sodium is just too high. My calories are fine but my legs are swelling from all the salt. I'm going to have to drink LOTS of water for the rest of the week.

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4/1/13 10:22 P

I have a staph infection in my leg and she is asking these stupid questions, wasting time. I believe these questions are supposed to be asked only if you fall & hit your head. Duhhh...

Then she tells me to make an appointment with my doctor. NO - I'm not waiting 3 weeks for this to be looked at. I will be heading to ER. Of course, she didn't believe me...so she called the clinic and they told her the same thing. For a staph infection she needs to go to ER.

I thought today was supposed to be warmer than Easter - guess Mother Nature pulled an April 1st joke on us!!! Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr............

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4/1/13 11:45 A

Good for you having a comeback for that pompous & rude nurse Annie. I sure hope that your needs for a new home are soon met.

Can you believe that it's April 1st? Where is time going? I really am amazed. I remember hearing people older than I saying that the older you get, the faster time seems to go. The older I get the more I believe them. Let's make April our fittest month yet! Are you with me?

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3/30/13 12:30 A

Georgia - I love your description of this place. On Tuesday morning when the nurse came in to check my leg, she had a battery of questions to ask me - the usual drill: what day is it, what's the date, who is the President, what is the name of this place....

The name of this place? It's that very warm place that is the opposite of heaven! lol

When she asked me who was our last President? I said, Obama...she claimed I was wrong. And I said - NO, a President is elected every four years. And the previous 4 years before 2012 WAS Obama!

It certainly made her think! hahahaha

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3/28/13 5:59 P

I recently was diagnosed "gluten intolerant" and have just about given up trying anything per-made that is gluten free, affordable & tastes good. Make it yourself or just eat fruits, veggies & fruit. LOL

Annie, I am outraged at how you are being treated. I continue to pray for your escape.

Hope everyone has a good Easter holiday weekend.

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3/28/13 9:25 A

Annie, that must be hard for someone as independent as you've always been to be under the thumb of a nursing home that wants to reduce it's inmates (yes, I used that word on purpose) to schoolchildren status! I can't WAIT till I've heard you've found an apartment and have gotten the heck out of that crummy place!

Bev Anne, back when I was doing exclusively low carb for my meal plan, I experimented with making breads and crackers from almond flour, coconut flour and flaxseed. From time to time I still make tortillas for DH (who is diabetic) that way. You're right about them being so expensive to buy--if you can even find any to buy at all. They never have anything like that available around our local stores. I used to have order them online.

It's still snowing here. Nothing sticking to the ground, thank goodness, but OH BOY am I ever sick of that white stuff. I just want to see some flowers and grass again.

Hope you all have a fabulous Thursday. Hugs to all-------- Georgia

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3/27/13 11:46 P

I tried to get an electric scooter/power chair. A physical therapist and the wheel chair people both showed up....asked me tons of questions and it was determined that I was too independent with what I already have!

Insurance wants to take the cheapest route.......and in order to get something with "power", I would have to purchase it. Since they consider it a "convenience tool" for me. So unless my shoulder becomes weaker or I have more problems, they won't let me have one.

This place is really getting bad...one of the kitchen staff over-heard part of a conversation in the dinning room between me and one of the new guys. He was throwing his weight around and I don't usually take crap from anyone...the kitchen staff wrote us up and said we were having a fight! Geez....can't even have a conversation without everybody blowing everything we say...WAY out of proportion.

I was told that if I feel threatened in any way I should get a staff member and let them handle it. I told her that I wasn't threatened....I told him that if he wanted to "rumble"...I can't walk or stand, but I bet I could hold my own. To which he said, he would behave himself! LOL

I fight my own battles....the staff people can take a flying leap off a tall building.

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3/27/13 10:57 P

Annie, you're in my thoughts and prayers. I really think that it's a shame how you are being treated. I hope that they'll get your cellulitis under control and take better care of you.

Bev Anne, sounds like your grandchildren are blessed. I'll bet that once they are able to visit, they are going to love it!

Georgia, glad that you got to enjoy a great day with your grandchildren. They are such a blessing. I remember my dad making stilts for my brother & I when we were little. We sure had fun with them.

Bright blessings to all. I hope that you're all doing well. You're always in my thoughts, even if I don't get to post as often as I wish that I could. Love ya

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3/27/13 8:58 P

I had a great day with my grandkids, and didn't over indulge either. Grandpa made stilts for both of them, and we had a lot fun playing on them (well, them playing, me watching). They got the hang of it right away and it wasn't long until they were taking big strides all over the place. They are two fearless kids, I'll say that for them!

When I use the word "diet" I don't use it to mean a temporary thing that I'm either on or off of to lose weight. No, I'm using it to refer to whatever foodstuffs I'm consuming---like in the dictionary sense of the word. When I am on a more structured, specific way of eating, (to lose weight) I generally call it "my meal plan". Just thought I'd clear that up.

I almost never have trigger foods like cookies or candy in my house anymore, but the exception I do make is when the grandkids come over. They eat a lot of healthy snacks too, but I do indulge them in cookies and candy as well from time to time. Never a lot, and it's always looked upon as a special treat. Which to me, it is.
I'll always love cookies and candy. I don't think that will ever change, however I do know I can't have them very often and expect to lose weight. I still eat them from time to time, and probably always will. Deprivation has never worked very well for me.
The good news is that i did NOT eat more than 1 pancake :)

Hugs and love to all---Georgia

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 3/28/2013 (09:13)

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3/27/13 5:34 P

I have not had the luxury of having my grandkids to myself -- they live too far away and are not old enough to travel by themselves. However when they are old enough to come they will only find foods in the house that I can eat. I don't bake because I can't eat sugar, flour or dairy products. However, I do plan to learn to make crackers from nuts, seeds and gluten free grains because I miss the texture of breads and crackers and they are so expensive to buy. When my kids were little I use to make them popsicles from concentrated orange juice and yogurt -- although I wouldn't eat them now because I eat mainly dairy-free I could have them in the house and if I did eat one it wouldn't do as much damage as chocolate chip cookies or brownies. I feel my home should be a safe place for me and as long as I have healthy food for my grandkids or other young visitors I don't have to apologize for not having any sugar or gluten flour in my home.

Annie I sure hope you find a good apartment soon. Have you ever considered getting an electric scooter for transportation? There are a lot of people who ride them here in our area where there is a high senior demographic.

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3/27/13 8:22 A

I think the reasoning behind the ER doctor not keeping me was because I'm allergic to the IV meds that they normally use for Cellulitis/staph infections. At least I had ONE dose in the hospital...it just might take awhile to receive my next dosage, as I don't think the pharmacy delivers until late afternoon.

From now on, if someone here in Assisted Living wants medical information from me, it will be priveleged information that they will have to pay for. Since they receive state funding, perhaps the state would be interested in their lack of compliance when someone needs assistance?

Georgia - hope you are able to make healthy choices, even in the presence of your grand kids. And perhaps someday you can stop thinking of this as a diet and more as a healthy lifestyle, that will you can carry with you for the rest of your life.

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3/27/13 6:21 A

Geez, Annie, that's awful! I had cellulitis on my right thigh a few years back, and I remember the Doc telling me that it was crucial to take antibiotics for it--what in the heck is wrong with those people in that nursing home?

Prayers for you, dear Annie. I hope with all my heart that you can find a nice place very soon. AND easier transportation!

I haven't been feeling too well lately myself. I use a CPap machine at night, and I don't know if it's the dryness of the heated bedroom, or something else, but my nose keeps drying out so badly that I find myself waking up because I'm not able to breathe through the tube of the CPap machine---so consequently I never get more than about 2 hours sleep each night. This is sure taking a toll on me--especially this week with my little ones here for Spring Break. I feel so tired and just plain old worn out. I think I'm going to buy a small humidifier and see if that helps.

My eating is going ok, but it's a little harder because I handle food a lot more with my grandkids here. You know how kids always want to eat--and although I try to keep healthy snacks for them in the house, sometimes they just want cookies..and I'm not the kind of grandmother that can say no very often. Bad combo for my diet. lol They've asked for pancakes this morning. Ohh I'm hoping I don't dive head first in the batter--cause pancakes are another great weakness of mine! Cross your fingers for me and pray my resolve to eat ONLY ONE holds strong.

love to all---Georgia

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 3/27/2013 (06:21)

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3/27/13 1:22 A

Nothing like an 8 hour trip to ER to screw up my day! I have Cellulitis in my right leg....they wouldn't keep me overnight...so now I need to try to make an appointment with the clinic in the morning, try to find transportation ---oh and try to get the medication from the pharmacy. The drug store was closed by the time I returned to assisted living and since I administer my own medication, the nurses here refused to assist me. Basically...it's NOT THEIR PROBLEM that I can't get my anti-biotics.

Can't get them, can't take them....how do I get better? Finding an apartment cannot happen soon enough! But I also need to work on my own transportation...that might be harder than finding an accessible apartment.

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3/26/13 6:05 A

Good morning folks.

Annie, thanks for the info on the diabetes management program that SparkPeople has. I'll check it out.

Bev Anne, your days sound like mine. Sometimes I've got so much going on in one day that I hardly know if I'm coming or going. I think I mentioned that I have my 2 grandkids all week as school is out for Spring Break. Yesterday, my daughter picked up my granddaughter after she got off of work, but my grandson decided to spend the night. He loves doing that as Grandpa always sets up an old army cot in our bedroom for him, and he thinks that's a high old treat for some reason. When both the kids stay, we just make up a big pallet on our bedroom floor out of old quilts. I really enjoy having them here. We always have so much fun together! Anyway, the little guy will be waking up any moment. He's such an early riser. That's ok though as his sister will be getting dropped off here in about a half hour anyway. I just wish I had some of their energy! I'm on my second cup of tea, and hope it kicks in soon.


Hope you all have a wonderful day---hugs--Georgia

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3/26/13 3:08 A

Just popping in to say "Hi" -- I'm glad to see some posting here and I'm sorry I have been MIA -- been really busy the past few days and I'll be busy tomorrow but I see some light at the end of the tunnel.

Blessings to you all.

BA

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3/26/13 12:03 A

For anyone with diabetes.....SP has a new thing that will help.....

www.sparkpeople.com/myspark/insider.asp?sp
iid=114

Wayne used SP in the past and am hoping that this new option will help intrigue him to come back. He needs to get his diabetes under control before he can have his Spinal Chord Stimulator implanted into his back., And if he continues to lose weight in the process, the surgeon would like that as well.

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3/25/13 4:41 P

I love using The Nutrition Tracker we have here--I think it's the best one out there. Period. However, I did find a site that I use along with the tracker to help me find out more nutrition info on the foods I eat. What I especially like about this site is that is shows the glycemic load info for each food as well, and with DH being diabetic, and me watching carbs, really helps a lot. I thought I'd post it here in case any of you might like to take a look at it.

nutritiondata.self.com/

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3/25/13 7:48 A

Annie--wow, I always knew that Assisted Living was pricey, but never dreamt they cost that much. I truly hope that you can find something better suited to your needs--and sooner rather than later!
Congrats again on the 100 pound loss. That has to feel spectacular...no matter how you lost it. I'm also glad that you want to continue your weight loss efforts. So do I. I'm hoping that i can get off at least 100 pounds as well. I know I would be more mobile and comfortable as well. I'm adjusting pretty well to this carb and calorie cycle I'm doing. I can get through a couple of days of lower calories as long as I know I'll have a day coming up soon that I get to eat more. I can do anything for a few days at a time. It's a much more flexible diet plan than either just plain old low cal all the time or plain old low carb all the time. It mixes things up and keep the body from going into starvation mode too. I like that a lot, although I have to admit it's a little hard to wrap my mind around the fact that I can truly have a high calorie day and eat the foods I love so much---my mindset is so used to trying for total abstinence from my old trigger foods--which is something you must not do on this kind of diet plan. This plan allows you to have a day of eating whatever you want --in moderation of course--it's a not an excuse to go hog-wild or anything like that. Still, it gives me something to look forward to, and also makes it easier for me to say no to myself on those lower calorie/carb days. I just tell myself I can have it in a few days or so. That usually works. Anyway, I'm giving this a shot for a few months and see how it goes. So far, so good!

We had about 5 inches of snow last night, and expect another few inches today. My grandkids are on their way over here. They're so excited about the snow. Grandma...not so much. I just want it to be Spring already!

Have a wonderful day--to all,

hugs--Georgia

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3/24/13 6:12 P

The only thing keeping me upright were my crutches and when I damaged my shoulder and armpit, the only thing left to do was to re-learn to stand and walk. A feat, I soon learned was a painful and difficult task.

Nursing home / transitional care continued from Nov 8th through to Jan 23. Insurance would no longer pay because there was no longer an progress to report. There was NO consistency in my efforts...standing was anywhere from 20 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on how easily they could distract me. Walking was at the parralel bars and only a few steps.

I've been in assisted living ever since and still waiting for a list of nursing care fees, which I'm not benefiting from. The only things they provide is a daily supply of ice water and weekly assistance with bathing - certainly NOT worth $17 a day!!

The Assisted care center that I chose is only 2 miles from my clinic, hospital and friends house. Finding transportation has been costly, although as the weather improves I will definitely take more advantage of a cheaper option. The local River Rider transportation only handles curb to curb, but is on $2.50 for a round trip - opposed to $58 for other transportation companies.

I have continued with my arm and shoulder exercises (am up to a 3# weight), my seated leg exercises and my laying down leg exercises. Sometimes when I'm really tired, I will do a partial workout and I perk right up! Who knew......LOL

Being stubborn and independent is not a bad thing. But it's also proving that I really don't need the care at Assisted Living. Why should I live in just a room with a toilet and sink, when I could have a house or apartment? Granted I got them to reduce the cost from over $5,000 to $99 daily...but even that is TOO much per month!

There will be no surgery done on my knees - no bi-lateral knee replacements. So, I will continue to make the effort to lose my weight from a seated position. Continue to use those muscles, toning and stretching.

Since I've managed to reduce my body by one hundred pounds...I should be able to continue the journey, just from a shorter position. Who knows what the future may hold?

And now...I must head to the dinning room. When you don't show up for a meal, they hunt you down and yell at you! LOL

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3/24/13 6:00 A

Hi Annie! (HUGGGGGGGGGGZZZZZZZ) It's so good to hear from you!

You're looking for a place to live, which means you're ready to get out of the nursing home, right? if so, I think that's the best news I've heard in awhile! I know how much you want to be "home" again. I think Wayne's idea of an apartment with wheelchair accessibility is a sound one. Assisted living would be ideal, but as you pointed out, an apartment would be cheaper. I can see how having a washer and dryer hook up right there in the apartment would sure be a big factor in deciding which one to get. I'd hate to think of you struggling with a basket of clothes, soap, purse, AND a wheelchair if you had to go out of the apartment to do laundry. Does your town have any kind of Senior Citizen apartments? We have several here where I live, and they're not just for older people, but for people with disabilities as well. The apartment complexes are really pretty and (best of all) practical too. Plus you have the extra benefit of having neighbors near if you really need help for something. Good luck in your quest for the right place--I'll be praying for you.

We're supposed to get 5-7 inches of snow tonight. And, wouldn't you know it, I have an early doctor appointment. I'm sure the roads won't even be cleared off by then. I may just call in and reschedule if it's too bad, but I really hate to do that as it's not only a doctor visit, but the tech from the pacemaker company is also driving up from Pittsburgh (30 miles away) to check my device, and I sure hate to make her have a wasted trip in that kind of weather. Trouble is, my appointment is so early that there's no time to cancel. Note to self: NEVER again be the first appointment of the day on a Monday morning. My biggest fear--even more than the icy roads--is of me falling. I shudder to think of it. Ah well, keep your fingers crossed for me--maybe the whole mess will blow over us and move straight on over into the other end of Pennsylvania.

I've been doing chair zumba for a while which was ok, but yesterday I tried a few different types of exercises I haven't done in a long time, and I'll tell you what, my whole body feels like it's been in a car wreck this morning! I have aches, pains, stiffness and just plain feel worn out. That's what happens to an old, fat body when you try to make it move again after so many months of inactivity. I'm taking it slow, but it's still painful. But I know I have to make myself move more. I had gotten so big that all I was mostly doing was going from room to room--chair to chair....what a terrible way to live. So, I'm just going to keep pushing myself to do more everyday, a little at a time. That, along with my carb/calorie cycling will hopefully bring me back into the world of the Living again. I'm going to do everything in my power to stop this madness of yo yo dieting I've done for the past few years.

Ok, guess I better go fix breakfast and coffee for Himself. I hear him stirring around in the bedroom, and he'll be off to Mass early this morning. It's Palm Sunday. Almost Easter already!


love to all---Georgia




Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 3/24/2013 (06:01)

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3/23/13 11:29 P

Georgia!!!!!!! Glad you poked your head in....enjoy those grandkids this week!!

Briefly saw something on FB about an elephant that was getting a prosthetic foot and thought, they have that but can't seem to find a wheel chair to fit my long legs? What's wrong with this picture? lol

Have been frustrated with not finding housing with wheel chair accessibility. Wayne suggested that a "baby step" could be moving into an accessible apartment. It would certainly be cheaper than assisted living. So I'm looking for something with wheel-in access for showering and washer/dryer in unit would be a huge plus!

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3/23/13 10:44 A

Hey JLee--you've got a good case of Spring Fever is all! WOO HOOO! It hits me every Spring round bout this time too. I get the urge to clean stuff I mostly ignore the rest of the year ..hehehe.

Nice seeing you here--and love that you're kayaking now! Are you still riding as well?

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3/23/13 8:52 A

Came home from a 3 day kayaking trip. Highly recommend ! Full of energy and have managed, after many many months of procrastination, to finish washing the dinning room ceiling prep for painting. Everything shifted here and back. But done. Today patching plaster cracks. It's textured so no sanding. Have started peeling the wall paper. Would love to know from where or how this burst comes. Just hit the point of do something! J

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3/23/13 6:53 A

Bev Ann--meant to tell you that that table silencer over the puzzle is a very good idea! DH and I do puzzles all the time in the winter months. He had made a very light movable surface to put the puzzle on out of a big piece of old wall panelling we had--it's easy to move, but does take up space--plus you risk someone bumping it and dislodging the pieces if you're not careful while moving it from the dining room table--which we have to do for every meal. The idea of the table pad/silencer plus the tablecloth is so much more practical. Thanks for the tip!

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 3/23/2013 (06:53)

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3/23/13 6:45 A

I'm here, and thoroughly ashamed of myself for not checking in here like I should. I really have thought of you all everyday, all of you are more family than friends to me This team is my real "online home" here, but I've struggled with motivation and depression lately, and just didn't have the OOMPH that was needed to spur me into posting as I should. I always get a bit introverted and withdrawn when I'm struggling with these kind of things, but am working on it.

I've been trying a new routine in my eating regime. I'm now carb and calorie cycling. I've only been doing it for a few weeks, but have seen some progress so far. Hope it works, because I think I really need something to shake up my metabolism--which has really taken a plunge from all my yo yo dieting and inactivity. Speaking of which, I'm back to my chair Zumba too. I really do enjoy that. I love the music, and the workout really is a good one.

I have my grandkids all of next week. School is out for Spring Break. (Although it sure doesn't feel like Spring with all the bitter cold western Pa has been having lately!) I'm really looking forward to having the kids here as I don't get to see them as often as I'd like to during the school year. We'll color Easter Eggs like we do every year, and plan on having a high old time all week. I think I'm going to go buy the first part of the movie 'The Hobbit" and watch it with them--I know I'd love to see it, and am pretty sure they will too.

I hope everyone here has a wonderful weekend, and please do drop by and post how you are. doing. Love to all- Georgia

Edited by: GEORGIA_KAY at: 3/23/2013 (06:47)

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3/16/13 8:03 P

Where did everybody disappear to? I know that a lot of us are busy on the Sapphire biggest loser team but that is no excuse. If you need help let us know -- you will only get out of SparkPeople what you put into it. I hope to hear from you all soon.

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3/8/13 12:41 P

No I have never had the opportunity to visit Ireland. My daughter lived in Edinburgh for 10 years but I only got over there once -- for her graduation from the University of Edinburgh -- and she moved back to Canada right after that. We took a quick trip down to London but didn't have time to hop over to Ireland. My ancestors came from Cork. A few years ago when we were living in Ecuador I actually did some research on retiring in Ireland but it turned out that coming back to Canada was a better option for us.

Sounds like we have quite an Irish contingency in this group!

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3/8/13 10:21 A

I've always wanted to travel to Ireland!!! My ancestors were from Grannard....

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3/8/13 9:21 A

Hi Gringuita, well you're more than welcome to be my Irish buddy :) - I live on the east coast of Ireland. Have you ever visited? All the best Marian x

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3/8/13 3:11 A

I'm sure genealogy is a fascinating hobby -- I wish I had more time to pursue it. I did do a bit one day when I did some research on my Great-Grandfather because I found a picture of him. I had always been told that my father was Irish and that all his ancestors were Irish. So I was quite surprised when I found some old records online that revealed that my Great-Grandmother was German. Their children were listed by their father's ancestry but in fact my grandfather was half German. Now I wonder whether his wife was all Irish too. Oh well,next weekend (on the 17th) everyone is Irish anyway!!

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3/7/13 10:55 A

Figured out why my Ducky blanket didn't have enough yarn....they sent 6 skeins with the yarn and it needs 7. Now I'll have to order more yarn in the other colors, as I'm going to make more than one of this design.

There is an excursion "out" for Chinese at lunch, for those that want to participate. Otherwise, it looks to be a quiet day here.

Thought I'd work on genealogy today...expanding the old family tree.

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