Thread Drift

[indysteel]

((Indy))

Today is my last day in Ohio. I don't know how I feel about this.

Thanks Owlie. Hugs to you, too. Leaving what has been one's home--even if an imperfect one--is difficult. Good luck. I hope you settle into Arizona with relative ease. What did you decide to do about moving your bikes?

[OakLeaf]

Today is my last day in Ohio. I don't know how I feel about this.

<waving from across the state>

Hope your move is uneventful and you settle in quickly. And ya know, if you get as homesick as I do when I'm away from Ohio too long ... we'll still be here when you're Dr. Owlie. :D

[Crankin]

You will love Tucson.

[malkin]

Dr. Owlie has such a professional ring to it!!

[Crankin]

My DIL's father passed away this morning. I know this sounds strange, but I am really proud of my son, for taking on the lion's share of dealing with his short and terrible illness, as well as finding social services for his MIL. Such dysfunction there. They held their boundaries and this woman will not be moving in with them. We haven't seen them since Father's Day because of this, and are looking forward to seeing them this weekend. There isn't going to be any service, so I hope their life can get back to normal.

[indysteel]

Not strange it all, Crankin. I imagine it's very gratifying for a parent to see their adult child handling a difficult situation, well, like an adult. Frankly, I'm often saddened by the parents I know who are either seemingly unconcerned that their adult child are still looking to their parents to handle things for them or who are all too eager to step in and take charge. Maybe it's because my own parents didn't often parent me, but I've taken great pride in my own self-sufficiency and wherewithal.

I'm sorry for your son and DIL's loss though and that it's been a difficult period for them.

[Crankin]

We were asked for advice, mostly on where to look for help (the in laws had no money, etc) for the MIL. This woman did not know how to parent, due to her own horrible upbringing (she was in foster care) and it is amazing my DIL has achieved what she has. DS told me that when DIL was in 5th grade, she had to take a class on "hygiene skills," as no one ever told her she had to brush her teeth daily, among other things. He also once said, "Mom, can you believe a teacher had to tell her mom to read to her?" At that time, I didn't know the whole story, but now it makes sense. DS found a community service agency that is just for residents of Boston, that is going to provide lots of case work assistance. I hope she gets some clinical assistance, too; it's never too late.
We do get asked for advice by both of them, and we give it, but, it's up to them to take it!

[crazycanuckoz]

Owlie, hope your moved went well :)..We might be your way in December, more on that a bit later..

We moved countries last year...This is a rather long/odd story...We move to Oman late last year as Ian was transferred with his company. Cool idea as we don't have kids & want to see the Middle East etc. I'm still here in Perth during uni semesters finishing off my degree (thankfully finishing late 2014). I visit my dear as much as uni semester/his work schedule allows...Oman's a laid back place & as a student planner, I love it!

Anywho, for holidays at the end of the year, we've decide to drive as much of the old Route 66 as possible & some side trips(not the ones before the US & after). Any suggestions for things we must see....Urban Planning, History, Sport, Science & Nature are our thing...Not interested in the Grand Canyon as Jebel Shams in Oman will do just fine..)


San Fran-Alcatraz
Titan Missile Museum,
Sixth Floor Museum
Chicago...

Alabama, Mississippi & Georgia...

Will it be hard to eat healthily along the way?

Enjoy the weekend!

[Crankin]

Oy, two weird things on my mind.
Finally saw DS and DIL. Her mother is really worse than could ever be imagined. I am doubly proud of them for telling her she will never live with them. We gave them lots of ideas on how to set boundaries and get her on her own. Thankfully, others are giving some financial help.
Then, after listening to this all day, I got an email from my exDBF from my youth. He was asking for financial/job help, is in the midst of a very horrible divorce, sounds unreal. This email went out to everyone on our class reunion list, which I find creepy. I know he is really desperate, living in the basement of his home until it sells, wife took his phone, car keys, blah, blah. His kids, brother, and mom have been turned against him. He sold a successful business a few years ago and has been consulting, but all of his $ is gone. He lives near DC, so I don't see him, but I do feel badly. I told him to go to Jewish Family Services; hopefully, they can help.
It just feels weird. This is someone who had it all.

[lph]

This has been turning around in my mind recently: do we have different personas on the internet and IRL?

I realize many of you know each other, but I've only briefly met two TE'ers and it's not very likely that I'll meet others, so I'm curious. I'm inclined to think that many of us probably would be perceived differently in person than here on TE, for various reasons. There are very real differences between communicating in writing and in person, for one, we all get a say and we get to think things through, put an opinion into words and write it all down, no matter whether we're shy or assertive, or speak fast or slowly. But writing also means communicating in a series of monologues without all the verbal feedback and cues that drive a spoken conversation. We have to sort of imagine what kind of feedback we would be getting, if we're interested in a dialogue. And the feedback we do get on a written forum doesn't necessarily mean the same thing as it does IRL. Few (or many) replies doesn't necessarily correspond to a lack of (or a lot of interest), but to how many people are logged on and actually see your post.

And obviously a written forum favours those who enjoy writing, though I don't know that if that means anything vs personality type.

I don't mean to imply that an internet persona is any less real than the way we are perceived in real life, btw. But I think a written forum lets certain parts of a personality come through stronger than other parts. At least I feel that I express myself "for real" here, but IRL I might modify what I say and how I say it according to other people's reactions.
Any thoughts?

[Crankin]

I've met quite a few TE'rs and I must say they all ended up being like I thought they would be. I find it pretty easy to read personalities through people's writing. Sometimes, I get a feeling about a person and then something they wrote confirms it. This may be my "clinical" sense, which is hard to turn off when I'm not at work.

[Catrin]

I've been fortunate enough to meet 5-6 TE members and, like Crankin, they all were like what I thought they would be. The active members of this forum tend to be very active, so our personalities can't help but to come through in our posts in one way or another. We do miss that added dimension of immediate interaction, but enough shines through to give an idea of personality.

I am really stressed right now. My boss called me "testy" yesterday, and he is right - I need to stop that. My apartment is reaching the edge of organized chaos and threatens to cross over into just plain chaos. Piles of boxes are building in preparation for me to start packing next weekend (I move at the end of Sept.) Due to certain...constraints because of my upcoming move and needing to save for an expensive trip home to see my mom I am "stuck" at home when I am not at work or gym. Too much time playing Candy Crush on FB and reading science fiction :o I am far more an introvert than extrovert - so the very fact that staying at home becomes stressful points to my stress level. Possibly depressed - the only place I feel like myself is when I am doing my crazy workouts at the gym and when riding my bike (more rare than I would like). I feel very isolated, but I know all of this is related to my mom's situation and some intense work stress. Depressed, stress, or both, this seems situational and it will eventually pass.

[OakLeaf]

(((((Catrin))))) Wishing you serenity ...


I've only met I think four TE'rs, but I would agree that nothing about them surprised me. :) I think perhaps that has as much to do with the "feel" of this forum, as it does with anything. People seem pretty authentic, here. It reminds me of the old days on CompuServe, which is where I met my DH. We'd known each other for two years there before we got together as a couple, and we were both pretty prepared for the problems we'd have in our relationship as well as the joys.

[Crankin]

Catrin, can you go take a short ride or hike? Like 30 minutes? I have found short bouts of low intensity aerobic exercise helps a lot with stress. Sometimes you have to just drop everything and go.

[Blueberry]

(((((((Catrin)))))))

I find that long walks help me when I'm edgy. Or even just sitting outside on a nice day. I do not do well inside (particularly my home - though there is nothing wrong with it) for long periods of time. Chaos in my home (moving, etc.) makes it exponentially worse for me.

[snapdragen]

I'm much nicer in real life.

[shootingstar]

Hope you go for short rides Catrin. Enjoy the sunset or sunrise...

As for whether or not our personalities are what we are in person vs. Internet:

I know that for whatever reason some people here might respond in a way to me at times, that makes me really wonder..

My personal blog, Cycle Write reveals perhaps something more about who I am in spirit... what I value.

[indysteel]

I'm so sorry you're struggling, Catrin. Try a yoga class. Yoga has gotten me through some stressful times and helped me work through painful emotions.

[Catrin]

I just got in from an hour's ride where I was experimenting with a couple of things. I will post on it in the appropriate thread, but I do feel a bit better. The more stressed/depressed I get, the harder it gets for me to get my as* out the door - which makes me more stressed and it becomes just a self-propagating cycle. The chaotic surroundings from preparing to move just adds to it all. Today it was either Yoga or ride - and I rode since that was closer :) Next Saturday perhaps I can do both!

[redrhodie]

I'm much nicer in real life.

I'm nicer here. I could use a back space button irl.

[emily_in_nc]

I'm nicer here. I could use a back space button irl.

Bwah-ha-ha! :D

Catrin, I'm sorry you've been feeling down. Even though I am essentially introverted too, I get really down if I spend too much time inside, and a chaotic environment makes that worse. In addition to your work stress and the issue you mention with your mother, are you lonely? I know if I feel lonely, it's so much the worse. If that's the case, getting into a group setting (yoga class or whatever), or meeting a friend for lunch or something similar -- instead of just hanging out on the computer, which I do far too often -- really help me. Since you are single, there's not always someone around to talk to, so perhaps that is part of your malaise. (Not that those of us who live with SOs aren't sometimes lonely as well!)

Best wishes -- I hope things will get cheerier once your move is behind you!

Emily

[Catrin]

Emily - you have a good point - loneliness has been a constant companion for a long time, and usually I can deal with that. This is one of the reasons I've come to love my group training so much - fellow sufferers :) I really don't have the budget right now to meet anyone outside of the gym as there is pretty much a financial cost involved and moving is expensive. So add financial stress to my stressors...

I really appreciate the electronic shoulders and listening, and the feedback. It is so important - and hopefully once the move is behind me things will start looking up for me! I am talking with my sister about the advantages of getting my mom in home hospice care asap to give them both some relief. Regardless of MY stress, I know that of my sister and mom is far more.

LOL Red, love it :)

[indysteel]

Catrin, let's meet for lunch. My treat or we can just brown bag it. I'm free the Tuesday after Labor Day if you are.

[Catrin]

Catrin, let's meet for lunch. My treat or we can just brown bag it. I'm free the Tuesday after Labor Day if you are.

That would be very nice! That day should be fine with me, I will check my calendar tomorrow and shoot you an email.

[indysteel]

Sounds good, Catrin!

[malkin]

I'm nicer here. I could use a back space button irl.

I'm probably about the same here and irl. Maybe quieter here, because lately I don't bother to log in.

[indysteel]

Yay! I just bought two tickets to see David Sedaris in November. I've seen him multiple times, but this will be DH's first show. Plus, we're staying in Bloomington for the night (I went to schoold at I.U.), which means we'll get to eat some yummy food and enjoy the following day in one of my happy places. Even better, it's a long weekend thanks to Veteran's Day. So much win......

[Pax]

Indy - sweet! Always a huge bonus to have time away some place fun.

[Pax]

“The source of love is deep in us and we can help others realize a lot of happiness. One word, one action, one thought can reduce another person’s suffering and bring that person joy.”
― ThÃ*ch Nhất Hạnh

Been trying to work on this lately, seeing too much meanness in the wold, thought it might help if I didn't add to it.

[indysteel]

Wise words, Pax. I'm sure the people in your orbit appreciate your efforts to put them into action. Thanks for putting that out here on TE.

[Pax]

Feeling better today so I went to the garage to swap out the stock saddles for the new Terry's (Cite X for me, Liberator X for my honey), got them on and we went for a short spin... I just love Terry saddles!!!!

[indysteel]

Feeling better today so I went to the garage to swap out the stock saddles for the new Terry's (Cite X for me, Liberator X for my honey), got them on and we went for a short spin... I just love Terry saddles!!!!

Glad you got a nice ride in, Pax.

I have long used Terry's Butterfly Tri-Gel saddle, which they unfortunately stopped making. I wasn't totally thrilled with the looks (I know, I know; I shouldn't place form over substance.....) of the closest one to the Tri Gel in their current line, so I finally ventured to another brand. But I wasn't happy about it. I wish I thought to hoard the Tri-Gel when I had a chance. :(

[Pax]

Yeah, not digging the looks of the new CiteX either. Weird white/pink/red writing on it... but it rides great! :)

[lph]

Rode downhill today at the relatively new downhill park nearby. DANG, that's a lot of fun. Even though it costs an arm and a leg to rent bikes and gear and spend a day on the lifts. Everything from swooping, easy turns via jumps small, large and horrendous to gnarly, rocky, rooty awfulness.

[OakLeaf]

FIL passed away this morning. He would've been 96 in three weeks. He was reasonably healthy until this spring.

DH is already there, I'll be heading out soon. Sadly, DH is the only one in the immediate family who has the slightest coping skills or willingness to accept help, and he can only do so much without threatening his own mental health. It's been pretty surreal ever since FIL went into heart failure in May and then developed delirium in the hospital. I'm a bit removed from all of it, but if you can spare a few serene thoughts for DH, MIL and SIL, I'm sure anything will help.

[Fredwina]

Thoughts and prayer are with you.

[Crankin]

So sorry, Oak. Give our condolences to DH. Delirium just sucks. It was downhill from there when my FIL started with that.

[Catrin]

Sorry Oak, my prayers and thoughts are with you, your DH and family.

[jobob]

Oak, wishing you & DH serenity in this very trying time.

[Sky King]

I swear I am done, done, done organizing rides. I repeat - I am done, done, done organizing S24O's
Now I will go type this is bold letters, print out and paste on my wall next to my desk.

The straw the broke the camel's back. "Thanks so much for loaning us your Bob Trailer, can you bring it to the start of the ride (95 miles away) please" Uhhhh hello?

[marni]

sky king- since they are so keen on riding I would politely suggest that they ride the 95 miles to come get themselves. But then I am A GRUMPY OLD SKINNY WHITE WOMAN WHO RIDES A BIKE. All I can wish is good luck and hold fast to your resolution.

[Crankin]

My son is 31 today. I cannot really believe I have a child that old. I don't feel that old.

[AppleTree]

My son is 31 today. I cannot really believe I have a child that old. I don't feel that old.

I feel your pain. I think it's the hardest when they reach their thirties. That's when it hits you; how fast time is going by. Then the grand kids come along and, whew. It starts going even faster. My oldest son will be 35 in January.

I was telling a friend of mine that my DH and I were having an anniversary dinner that night and she asked me how many years. I had to stop and think....hmmmm.... I thought maybe 35 or 36??? Then I started counting on my fingers. Holy crap, it was 38 years. That's nearly 40!! How did that happen?? Especially since I can't be more than 42 years old or so..,. Wait... (Counts on fingers again). Never mind. :-)

[kajero]

Oak,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying time.

[kajero]

My son is 31 today. I cannot really believe I have a child that old. I don't feel that old.

My daughter will be 37 when her first child and my first grandchild is born. How did she ever get old enough to have a baby? :confused:

[Crankin]

I really am not looking forward to being called a grandmother. People constantly ask me if I "can't wait" or if I have any "news." I know my younger son will have kids, probably in 2 or 3 years, but I don't know if my older son will. We don't ask or talk about it.
I find these questions just as obnoxious as the mommy talk. It's just another way of bragging around here. The bragging has progressed from athletic or musical talent, AP classes, college acceptance, jobs, grad school, girlfriends, marriage. Thankfully, I on't see these people much anymore, but I do run into them when I am out shopping, etc.

[kajero]

Crankin,

I apologize if I you felt I was bragging. I was just trying to point out

. . . If I don't feel like I am old . . . let alone almost 62 . .. how could my daughter be 36? And to have a baby???? It just doesn't seem right/fair. I still feel like I am the 36 year old!

But I did get disgusted when people asked if I was ever going to be a grandma. It really wasn't any of their business. Besides, what was I supposed to do about it anyway?

[Dogmama]

I never had kids but DH has two and one of those kids has two kids.

I call myself a "grandmother by proxy."

[shootingstar]

I never had kids but DH has two and one of those kids has two kids.

I call myself a "grandmother by proxy."

Same here, partner is grandfather of 2. One of them finally learned to bike at 11 yrs. Parents just never got around to motivating kid.

However I don't see myself even grandmother by proxy. But most definitely I am a proud aunt of 7 nieces and nephews with the eldest niece @26 yrs. I don't talk much about them with friends.

[Crankin]

Kajero, I didn't mean *you* were bragging. I meant people I know around where I live. I sometimes see some of them when I occasionally get my nails done at one of those cheapo nail places, or in the grocery store. And, I agree, it's none of my business and I don't give advice unless asked. Younger son recently told me they would probably have kids when his wife graduates and starts working as an RN, and he is still in school, as it will help with child care. My DH was a stay at home dad (though not with him) and we discussed how this really affected his viewpoint on fathering and how I thought it was a great idea for my son. He will be a great parent. So would my other son, but his wife had a very dysfunctional upbringing and I think she is scared.

[OakLeaf]

Thanks for the good wishes, all. MIL and SIL are struggling so hard, each in their own way, it's just so incredibly sad that they can't be any support to each other. I'm honestly not sure how much DH is helping either ... it really seems to me that MIL needs space and privacy before she'll even allow herself to grieve, but if I ask DH to come home he'll think I'm just being selfish. SIL had a major meltdown after the funeral and he sat with her for a while ... niece thinks that helped, anyway. Maybe he'll be home before my birthday in November. But if I was running on empty after five days with his family, he's not going to have anything for me emotionally for months, anyway. I am so ready to see my therapist next week ...

The one thing about this funeral, after 19 years together I am finally starting to feel like part of his family.

[lph]

Aw, I'm sorry your dh and in-laws are struggling, Oak. It sounds like you are able to pull away a bit at least.

[Crankin]

One thing I've learned is that everyone grieves differently. I think giving space is a good idea. I had people thinking I didn't care when my mom died, but truthfully, I was just being pragmatic, which is the way I handle most of these events. What kept me level headed was thinking about how my mom would want me to act. My mom was sick for a very long time, with a failed liver transplant, etc. and I prepared myself mentally by sort of visualizing what I knew would happen, after a certain point.
It's good your DH can be of support to them now, but I hope he comes home to give you support!

[Pax]

Happy Birthday, Catrin!!

[emily_in_nc]

It's Catrin's birthday?

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y !


:)

[Crankin]

MY COUNSELING LICENSE WAS APPROVED!
Now I can put all of those letters after my name.

Crankin, MA, LMHC

[snapdragen]

Congratulations!

[Catrin]

Crankin - CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It has been a quiet birthday, I took the afternoon off work and started it with a workout. I had NO idea how long THAT would take :) My coach likes to challenge us on our birthdays, and our age always fits in there. I am 54 today...and I am not very good at rowing....so my "Birthday Metabolic Challenge" was to row 540 calories on the rower in 10 rounds with a 2-minute rest after each 54-calorie round. One can choose meters or calories as a metric - it isn't related to actual calories burned, unsure how it is calculated. The advantage of it is it does seem to be a bit better measure of energy rather than distance - obviously a taller person or someone with a very strong upper body will expend less effort in the same distance as a shorter/weaker rower.

Anyway, I DID my 540 calories and rowed 10,776 meters to meet that goal in 1:15 (counting all 2-minute rest periods) :) I had NO idea how long it would take or what I would feel like - so I did other things before hand - mainly deadlifting, KB swings and goblet squats. If I had realized I would have simply done my usual warmup, the deadlifting, and gone straight to the rower. Regardless, it was a great challenge for this 54-year old woman and I DID it :)

I don't normally get sore...I suspect that I might be for my usual group training tomorrow!

Yes, ice cream was part of my recovery - not much - but part of it ;) You can't tell I am a single woman, can you?

[OakLeaf]

Woot woot! Congratulations Crankin! And happy birthday Catrin!

[thekarens]

Congrats Crankin!!!!

Happy Birthday Catrin!!

[emily_in_nc]

MY COUNSELING LICENSE WAS APPROVED!
Now I can put all of those letters after my name.

Crankin, MA, LMHC

Congratulations, Crankin! Know you've worked hard for this. Thumbs up!

[emily_in_nc]

Anyway, I DID my 540 calories and rowed 10,776 meters to meet that goal in 1:15 (counting all 2-minute rest periods) :) I had NO idea how long it would take or what I would feel like - so I did other things before hand - mainly deadlifting, KB swings and goblet squats. If I had realized I would have simply done my usual warmup, the deadlifting, and gone straight to the rower. Regardless, it was a great challenge for this 54-year old woman and I DID it :)

That sounds tough! I am very sure I'd be sore. Good for you working so hard on your b-day! You definitely deserved that ice cream and more!

[Catrin]

That sounds tough! I am very sure I'd be sore. Good for you working so hard on your b-day! You definitely deserved that ice cream and more!

I really didn't realize what I was getting into, and it was indeed tough! Good though to have been able to accomplish it...and am already sore. My knee isn't happy and my hip flexors are tight so there will be much mobility work tomorrow morning before group training. I will take it easy if I need to but will go. We DO have a team rowing challenge at my gym between Thanksgiving and New Years, I think I am all ready to go!

Oh yes, I also made a batch of pumpkin-coconut-bacon biscuits (with coconut flour) as a second treat. Yummy! I certainly broke my calorie budget today but it IS my birthday - back on track tomorrow ;)

[kajero]

Happy Birthday, Crankin. And congratulations on the wonderful way you celebrated it!

[Catrin]

It was a nice way to mark my 54th year on this planet :) Even if riding wasn't a problem right now the weather was icky yesterday so I couldn't have ridden. We are having much colder temps than normal in Indiana for this time of year, and we even had a bit of SNOW yesterday :eek: :eek: I don't remember EVER having to wear my winter coat on my birthday before, but they do say our memory starts slipping the older we get ;)

I AM a bit sore this morning, especially really tight hips and of course my cranky knee. If I had known the level of effort required for that challenge I wouldn't have done much else but it was fun! Now I've a rather better feel for the rower and after rowing almost 7 miles on it I think, or at least I hope, my timing/technique is improving. I wasn't exhausted, I could have continued for a couple more rounds but thankful I didn't! Hopefully we won't be rowing today...

[Crankin]

Eh, Kajero *my* birthday isn't for another 10 days. Not really looking forward to this one. I am OLD. But, Catrin, your birthday sounds perfect! Happy, happy.
Thank you all for the wishes. Of course, I did an intake yesterday, and I was up late/got up early this morning to finish it. I didn't go to the gym, I have a little cold, AND my haircut was cancelled yesterday, as my stylist had a migraine.
Good thing I got that letter from the state. Otherwise, it would have been a suck-y day.

[Pax]

Congrats, Crankin!!!

[kajero]

Happy Birthday, Catrin! Apparently, just as I can't determine how steep a hill is (post on steep hills), I can't get similar names straight either!

oops, sorry, Crankin. :o Sometimes I just don't get the transition from post to post. Happy Pre-Birthday.
And I bet I am older than you are!!!!

[Crankin]

Not by much...

[marni]

congratulations to both of you. Way to go ladies

[crazycanuckoz]

Crankin, congrats!

Happy birthday to you & Catrin.

Was talkin w my man a wee bit ago (am so thankful for things like Skype & Yahoo chat :)) n we're in the midst of pondering where in the Southern US to spend christmas...

We're looking forward to doing stuff on our "always wanted to see x in the US" list....Alcatraz, Hoover Dam, Kennedy Space Centre, Daytona, sixth floor museum, national civil rights museum to name a few...

[malkin]

Happy Birthday to ALL the birthdays!

Aren't letters after your name a trip? They say you worked hard and you are QUALIFIED to do this thing!
It took me quite a while for that to sink in; in fact some days I still have to remind myself that I do really have skills and that I am not just doing what is obvious.

[shootingstar]

Hey crazycanuck: Ever considered New Mexico. I'm sure it's bright but cold. Oh heck, you're from Alberta.

We went at end of Oct. and loved it (that was few years ago). The Southwest Indian + Spanish influence is so unlike anywhere in Canada. Also some great rock mountain/cliff formations near Santa Fe..Ghost Ranch area where Georgia O'Keefe, the Painter got inspired.

(Reminds me that I ought to do a blog post about the area..)

[Pax]

Took a step today, a big one for me. Contacted a personal trainer and hope to start working out again very soon.

Just the bit of swimming and bike riding I'm able to do isn't satisfying the urge to work out. I've spent half my life in a gym and I miss it! Found a guy with a Masters in Exercise Phys. who specializes in working with people with injuries... wish me luck!!!

[Catrin]

Took a step today, a big one for me. Contacted a personal trainer and hope to start working out again very soon.

Just the bit of swimming and bike riding I'm able to do isn't satisfying the urge to work out. I've spent half my life in a gym and I miss it! Found a guy with a Masters in Exercise Phys. who specializes in working with people with injuries... wish me luck!!!

Yayyyy Pax, this is good to hear! It is good to be able to get back to something you know that you enjoy, and even better you found someone who can help you get there while decreasing your chances for injury!

[snapdragen]

Good for you Pax! I did the same thing a couple of months ago. I'm really liking getting back into a fitness routine.

[Pax]

I meet with him tomorrow after work. I so hope they can create a plan that will allow me to work out with aggravating the old injuries.

[OakLeaf]

Good luck, Pax! There's your mid-life indulgence. :)

[Pax]

Good luck, Pax! There's your mid-life indulgence. :)

Good point!! I was chatting with my honey yesterday and realized the change I'm wanting:

I'm really looking at the next couple of years as a segue from eating out/drinking a lot/spending money on tons of wine... to working out/eating right/spending some money on health and spa services.

[Crankin]

So excited, DS and DIL are arriving Sat. morning on the red eye (6AM) from CA.
3 days of family time. Other DS and DIL will be sleeping over Sat. night, too, after my birthday bash.

Pax, somehow I manage to spend lots on eating out and wine, as well as health/outdoor stuff :eek:. But somehow, I manage it all. I'm a firm believer you can do both, if the eating and wine is in moderation. I love going to restaurants and cooking and I certainly could never give up that. It's all balance.

[Crankin]

Getting ready to leave for the airport...
then we'll head to our fav breakfast place in Acton. One that DS introduced us to when he hung out there before high school

[Crankin]

From my birthday party weekend.
Rare to have them all together!

[Xrayted]

well, I had a great day. How about you ladies? Everyone doing well? I replaced my missing sleeping bag and air pads today. On Sale. I love On Sale. That brand seems to be everywhere I shop. Amazing really that they can cover so many products and places like that. :D:D:rolleyes:

[Pax]

I'm playing the return game with LL Bean this week... rather than the buy-on-sale game. Bought sleeping bags, didn't like them; bought a down comforter, didn't like it... back to Bean they go. It's like putting money into savings, sorta!

[Sky King]

How cool is that, Mine is Monday but we won't all be together until Wednesday


From my birthday party weekend.
Rare to have them all together!

[marni]

Getting ready to leave for the airport...
then we'll head to our fav breakfast place in Acton. One that DS introduced us to when he hung out there before high school

which breakfast place? I lived in Acton for 10 years and worked as manager for Philips Coffee for a lot of that time.

I miss Acton, such a lovely little town.

[chickwhorips]

I'm just dropping in to say X I remembered my password and HELLO to everyone! It's been a while. How is everyone?

[crazycanuckoz]

holy sheep catman..! Long time no see round here young lady!

[Crankin]

Yes, Marni, you should miss Acton! Remember, you worked with my son, Josh, at the coffee place. The skinny, dark haired kid who came in to work, when you were leaving for the day.
The breakfast place I was referring to was Julie's. By the Ace Hardware on rt. 27. It may not have been there when you lived here. I can't remember exactly when it opened.
We actually ended up going somewhere else, closer to our house, as the kids were exhausted from the red eye.

[Xrayted]

Well, it's about time you remembered it. Dang. :D:D

[Xrayted]

My bike trainer was sold last year. It wasn't really my idea. Sigh. Of course, now I need one since I'm a freezing cold rain weenie. I saw a great one on CL with the riser, mat and I hope this person gets back to me. I really like the one they have and I also get to go to Hood River, OR, which is one of my favorite places to visit. :cool:

[spokewench]

Yeah, I need to pull the trainer out of the basement and get it in the house. We're having a lovely snow storm with nice ice everywhere!

[chickwhorips]

CC - Occasionally I come out of the darkness to stalk you guys still. :p Or I have someone that's a pain in the arse that tells me I need to remember my password.

I'll try to do my best with checking in, but it's fatty season! I can't promise that I'll be near a computer when there are trails calling my name!

16811

[marni]

Yes, Marni, you should miss Acton! Remember, you worked with my son, Josh, at the coffee place. The skinny, dark haired kid who came in to work, when you were leaving for the day.
The breakfast place I was referring to was Julie's. By the Ace Hardware on rt. 27. It may not have been there when you lived here. I can't remember exactly when it opened.
We actually ended up going somewhere else, closer to our house, as the kids were exhausted from the red eye.

I do remember Josh. The breakfast place is new but then every thing changes with time.

[snapdragen]

Wow, it's like the band is getting back together! So great to see some of the old gang, you have been missed. X - I'm sorry to hear about your rough times. Chick - how's the great north treating you?

[Pax]

I want to be the Roadie!

[crazycanuckoz]

If you're the roadie pax, can we be this band http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3paf2TLrgsg

I'm slowly slowly packing my bags for my monday flight & am now remember...i'm heading to worldly parts that are in the midst of winter...not summer..I need something to wear besides shorts & leggings...:rolleyes: ...Top part, sorted..

I didn't put much thought into it until this week as my uni assignments were a bit more important...Marks are slowly trickling in & am passing :)..

[Crankin]

I am sure you are more than passing. Have a wonderful trip.

[Xrayted]

Happy Hanukkah and Thanksgiving everyone!!

Ah Snap, they are only rough times if you allow them to be. I got through the emotional rough part pretty quickly overall with the help of some wonderful friends, old and new. Life is actually really great these days. I haven't felt this alive in a long time. I'm getting the chance to explore and do a lot of the things that I moved out here for now. I've met some really fantastic people over the last few months that have allowed me to see how wonderful life really is and can continue to be. And being single is actually really liberating in many ways. I haven't done the single thing in a long time but there are many advantages to it. Like I have $$ left over at the end of the paycheck. Who knew? :D

Chick is probably up there in AK playing in the snow with her pup. Those two are crazy cute together. :D

How has the old gang been? I've missed you ladies. I'm back on the bike. And bought another trainer off of CL. The road bike is now ready to crank as I watch tv. I have to use up those old tires somehow. Lol.

[OakLeaf]

Unexpected benefit of cycling: reassembling the bike out of its shipping case is an unobtrusive way of showing the HVAC guys that I know my way around a toolbox. :cool:

Not that I expect these guys to cut any corners, this is the second major job they've done for us besides several visits for routine maintenance, and I trust them. But it just feels good to show that "woman home alone" does not mean "idiot."

[Pax]

Love that, Oak!

[Xrayted]

Hahaha Oak! Yes! Someday there will be no doubts or sideways glances when we do something like that. It will just be business as usual because we will achieve absolute equality in the world. :D

[Xrayted]

I am so loving my Lindsey Stirling CD. Wow that young woman can play. Beautiful music that makes my day better. :cool:

[lph]

Christmas party season: I guess it's a sign of adulthood when you can get seated next to someone you've had a bad falling out with, and haven't spoken to in three years, and pull off sitting there for over two hours without mudslinging, recriminations or resorting to banalities.

*sigh* Growing older has its perks. But it's still hard work.

[Pax]

Congratulations to New Mexico! Now the 17th state to approve Marriage Equality!

[marni]

having grown up there I can say that I am pleasantly surprised. Not ahead of time.

[crazycanuckoz]

Good evening from houston(ok,a campground in galveston bay actually). US trip going hunily dorily n heading to lafayette then new orleans tomorrow supposedly through a forecasted tornado or something similar in the houston region?..seems ok now. Christmas is in Mobile or Tallahassee...if you've been to one of them..let me know.thought about going to dauphin island before making the dash north...at least it's only -8c in chicago,not that cold!

[marni]

Dauphin island is lovely as s the ride from there to Pensacola. Don't know anything much about Tallahassee. St. Augustine is wonderful if you wanted to detour over to the coast. Of the two I would say that Mobile has better historic/tourist options, is a bit smaller and less commercial and you can find the start of the Underground Railroad Route there (check adventure cycling for maps).

I don't think tornados are much of an issue down on the coast but the winds can be pretty tricky wherever its flat as there is nothing to stop it Hoping that they die down by Sunday so I can ride in the flatlands/prairie to the west of us.

Just my two cents from the west suburbs of Houston.

[OakLeaf]

Hey CC! Glad you're enjoying your trip. Hope the weather cooperates!

[Trek420]

Congratulations to New Mexico! Now the 17th state to approve Marriage Equality!

I'm losing track. And when we count 17 is it 17 + District of Columbia or is DC included. And does 17 include Utah (Utah??? Utah!!!).

I want Oregon next so Knott and I can cycle down the coast and not have to bring a xerox copy of the license. Cause that one piece of paper would put me over the weight limit. Yeah, right, that's why I could not climb that hill. Yeah. :rolleyes:

Agreed with all the getting back in shape folks. I've been sick for a few weeks (upper respiratory bug) and have to get back in gear.

[thekarens]

I'm pretty sure hell will freeze over before marriage equality happens here in Texas. I don't need the piece of paper to validate my relationship, but it would be nice even it comes to medical, inheritance, etc.

And we've agreed we're getting serious about diet and exercise as soon as our eldest goes back to college in January.

[yellow]

And does 17 include Utah (Utah??? Utah!!!).

Trek, those of us Utahans who support marriage equality are surprised (shocked, even), elated, and hopeful. Friday night was a giant party in downtown SLC. The state is trying its hardest to stop what the Governor has called "a chaotic situation" but I am not sure their efforts will stop the marriages any time soon. A friend of mine said it's chaotic, but not for the reason's the Gov thinks. It's chaotic (at least in SLC) because so many people are absolutely elated.

I hope it comes to Oregon soon, too, and your wish comes true. We have some friends that moved to Oregon from Utah and they are thinking about coming back to get married (they still have a house here). Who'd a thunk Utah would be ahead or Oregon on this one?

[skhill]

Boy, was Utah a shock. It's given me hope for Kentucky. Does anyone know whether what the judge threw out was a state law or in the state constitution? Here in KY it was an amendment to the state constitution, back in 2004. There's been no move to even start the process to appeal it yet-- a repeal would almost certainly fail. But there's good news locally, we have a fairness ordinance and our mayor is gay and was out well before he ever served in elective office, and most encouraging the city council just approved domestic partner benefits unanimously. They tried to do it about 5 years ago and it got voted down.

It's amazing how fast things are changing!

[skhill]

A random marriage incident I heard about last week-- a couple of friends of mine at church had a commitment service a few years ago (we Episcopalians aren't doing proper weddings for same sex couples yet). One of their guests, an elderly widow, recently used the same commitment service recently with her boyfriend. They didn't want to get legally married for a variety of reasons, but they didn't feel comfortable "shacking up" without some kind of religious sanction. Pretty cool!

[Trek420]

A random marriage incident I heard about last week-- a couple of friends of mine at church had a commitment service a few years ago (we Episcopalians aren't doing proper weddings for same sex couples yet).

Surprising. Didn't you have a gay archbishop? Gene Robinson, now retired. :cool:


Does anyone know whether what the judge threw out was a state law or in the state constitution?

Not sure. There's a blog/forum I visit to keep track that's frequented by lawyers so it's good information. Sometimes hard to keep up.

[yellow]

Does anyone know whether what the judge threw out was a state law or in the state constitution?

It was a state law. The federal judge found that it violated the federal constitution. The state will appeal but thus far, the judge has refused to issue a stay. He said the state failed to show how Utah's law would adversely affect heterosexual couples.

Here's an article (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/entertainment2/57295035-223/news-gay-utah-friday.html.csp) from one of SLC's two papers. It pretty much sums up what I heard in my circles and when we were downtown on Friday night.

It makes me so happy when love prevails, and I'm not a very emotional person. It's kind of hard to hate love, unless you are the Grinch before his transformation.

[Xrayted]

I got invited to join some friends in Kona, HI in a few weeks. All I had to do was get the plane tickets. Everything else was already taken care of. OMG. I can't wait. I've never been to HI before, any of the islands. I had planned a Maui trip a few months ago but the ex leaving stalled that plan and I cancelled it. I can't wait. I'm so excited. I have to find new bikinis quick during the winter of all times. I've been checking out a couple on the TE site. If any of you know of any other good swimsuit sites, let me know. :D:D:D

[Pax]

I got invited to join some friends in Kona, HI in a few weeks. All I had to do was get the plane tickets. Everything else was already taken care of. OMG. I can't wait. I've never been to HI before, any of the islands. I had planned a Maui trip a few months ago but the ex leaving stalled that plan and I cancelled it. I can't wait. I'm so excited. I have to find new bikinis quick during the winter of all times. I've been checking out a couple on the TE site. If any of you know of any other good swimsuit sites, let me know. :D:D:D

Fun!!

The only swimsuit sites I use are to buy my frumpy lap suits. :p

[shootingstar]

I think our family has experienced our share of natural disasters this year: me and a major river flood which costed our city area several billion $$$ dollars this summer. A sister in Ontario was out of electricity for 4 days in summer due to Toronto's flood (not as damaging as Calgary's) and again now out of electricity at Christmas for several days for same sister during Toronto's ice storm which causes electrical blackout for over 80,000 residents. She has 2 young children.

[Crankin]

Why do I get sick on every holiday, vacation, etc?
I've been fighting my usual winter allergy/sinus/bronchial thing for about 10 days. My eyes were itching so much yesterday that I actually wore my glasses *outside of my home,* something rare, despite the fact I like my expensive progressives. Been taking Claritin for days, nasal rinse, eating extra citrus and ginger. Feel better this morning, but no great.
Going to the office to tell them I am resigning! Perfect day to do that.

[Dogmama]

Crankin - I'm with you. Have been sick for almost a week with a BAD cold. Actually stayed in recliner for five days. Last time I did that, I had just undergone a cervical fusion - eight years ago! This sux.

[lph]

Some people are more desperate for the snow to arrive than others :)

http://www.osloby.no/nyheter/Her-er-barnehagen-som-lager-sin-egen-kanonvinter-7434396.html#.UteoXtGA2cw

In Oslo it gets cold well before the snow arrives, and outdoor activities for kids can be a bit limited when the ground is rock-hard. So this kindergarten went and bought their own small snowmaker, like commercial ski resorts use. It's all in Norwegian, but the video clip is cute and self-explanatory. Those kids look fit to burst :-)

[malkin]

Brilliant!

[lph]

For anyone with teenagers - ouch, this is good:
http://nymag.com/news/features/adolescence-2014-1/

[OakLeaf]

My car's iPod input has been going intermittently haywire for a year and a half. Very often, like three to ten times an hour, it'll cut out momentarily and then resume playing. Four or five times, it's just plain refused to load the device, gotten stuck at some step of loading. Our small-town dealer has tried several times to run it down, but when it won't malfunction in their presence, it's been tough. They told us to just bring it in without an appointment ... but if we're in the car, we're going somewhere and don't have time to stop at the dealer! Last time, it quit working for days, then miraculously started working again ten miles from the dealership. :mad:

Today it quit again. The nearest Toyota dealer, a much bigger dealership than the one I usually work with, was just a mile from my destination, so I went there when I was finished with my appointment. Their electronics specialist was in the house, he knew exactly what the problem was, a known issue on some cars of that model year, and the part has been ordered under warranty.

With all the big things that have gone very badly over the past two years, it just makes me inordinately happy to have this little minor annoyance on the way to being resolved. I feel like celebrating! :p

[malkin]

For anyone with teenagers - ouch, this is good:
http://nymag.com/news/features/adolescence-2014-1/


I only read the first page...AND maybe this is something new, but only because these parents are paying attention to their teenaged kids.

When I was in high school in an affluent southern California suburb, the parents were involved in their own world of extra-marital affairs and drug experimentation and whatever else and only paid attention to the kids when absolutely necessary. Siblings and friends provided general support and took care of transportation--especially those late night too-drunk-to-drive rides. Parents were reserved for events involving tow trucks or law enforcement.

[Crankin]

I read the whole thing. I agree with all of it.
Basically, modern parents let too much of their self worth get tied up with their kids. Then, when the kids start to go through the normal separation stage in adolescence, they freak out.
I was very lucky. Both of my kids had their moments, but no one ever was brought home by the police. And hey, my older son's HS yearbook stated that their class favorite car was "the back of an Acton Police SUV."
I fully expected them to want more freedom as they got older, and used the model my parents used. As long as I see decent (not perfect) behavior, then I will give you the same privileges I had. Thus, my kids were going into the city on their own at age 14-15, and we let them stay by themselves at home for a weekend when we went to NYC when my older son was able to drive (the neighbors, though were put on watch for cars in front of the house). But, my kids both had jobs from age 14 on, after 2-3 years of babysitting. Horrors, they had to work! One had cycling to keep him out of trouble and the other had music. Like I said, it wasn't perfect, but the key was both DH and I had our own lives. Work, interests, and going out socially without the kids almost every week of our married life.

[marni]

totally agree with you. Fortunately none of mine ever saw the back of the Acton police cruiser. If they had they would have been grounded for life minus all privileges. As you say, all three of them worked from 14 on, first babysitting, gardening, snow shoveling, yard work, housework etc for me and for neighbors and then when they were old enough, as baggers at Roche brothers and or kitchen work at the Pizza hut. They were all in the Acton HS band and thus had a great adult support community, and all three were scouts. We were truly lucky to live where we lived, when we did. I have no idea how parents do it today between the internet and the drugs and the drink. But then my primary job was to raise them with the help and support of my husband. Their job was to go to school, get the grades and make a positive contribution to the family.

I figure the fact that we both worked and had our own solitary and group pursuits must have mad it easier for them to follow the same general route.

All that not withstanding we came on on the lucky side because just because you do everything right as you perceive it doesn't always mean that it works out that way.

[crazycanuckoz]

:eek:...i think the cold temps we experienced Chicago have affected my brain..i've signed up for an ultra in june...:o :cool: :eek: ....

My Canuck friends told me i'm a wimp as i found -15c a bit cold along with the #*#**# snow over two days..:o...Yup, give me +30C..

[shootingstar]

CCanuckoz, you must be gettin' "soft". :rolleyes: Weren't you originally an Albertan resident long ago before Aussieland?

We've had -5 degrees C to 8 degrees C lately. However yes, we've had some -25 to -31 degrees C in past few weeks with snow, etc.

[OakLeaf]

Ha, CC! What's the distance? Have fun with your training!

[skhill]

A sure sign of my neighborhood's ongoing hipsterfication: while standing in line at the neighborhood hip donut shop getting dragged in to a heated discussion of which of the 3 very local microbreweries is best.

(It depends on your taste in beer, of course. Extreme hops? Ale? Lager? Weird flavor combinations?)

[Crankin]

I am in a workshop and I cannot wait to get out of here. And, sorry to say, the topic is yoga and mindfulness in therapy. I use this stuff all of the time, but I am going on no sleep! I've had insomnia all related to my job change. Just going through that feel stupid stage. Not around the clients, just learning new procedures with paperwork and technology.
I need to lie down and I have a 50 minute drive home.

[Fredwina]

I got told on Friday that my services are no longer needed :(
Actually, I'm taking it fairly well. My Mother is getting to the point where she needs daily supervision, and I got my exercise today by walking a lease in the same building she's in down to the P.O. I do have a different apartment.
I'll be moving in a couple of weeks to Memphis and seeing what this Chica can do to earn herself an honest living - I've already joked that I'm going to a be a tour guide at Graceland(Actually, I'd rather do Sun records). Just turning Lemons into Lemonade.

[OakLeaf]

Aw, that stinks, Fredwina.

Best of luck with the move and the job search.

[Pax]

Sorry to hear Fredwina, hope the move drops you into a cool new job.

[Helene2013]

Best of luck in finding a new job....Graceland could be a happy job. Visited twice and being a tourist area, it should be interesting. People are on vacation so in generally good mood!

[Crankin]

Today I went and did an intake assessment on a client at my old school, where I taught. They have a brand new, gorgeous building. I was dazzled!
It was luckily, an early release day for the kids, so I got to talk to all of my former colleagues. They made me feel like a rock star. Seriously, I am on a high now, from so many hugs and kind words.
Won't last too long, I am sure. Back to reality.

[Pax]

Good morning everyone.

Moving ahead slow but sure, the things that stop me in my tracks and make me tear up keep surprising me; always bought mom flowers when I did her grocery shopping, at the store this morning I walked past the bouquets and started crying. My honey went though this four years ago so she just strokes my back and hands me kleenex. I have the best wife in the whole world.

[Trek420]

(((Pax))) Yes you do have the best wife in the whole world or maybe there's a tie with Knott.

[Pax]

I can agree with that! :D

[Xrayted]

Okay PNWers! ChickWhoRips is in town. :cool:
1704917050
1705117052
17053

She even woo'ed the horses. They both came over and laid down with her for a nap out in the back yard. We went to Pike's Place and tried on some hats... I bought the psychedelic one... had some brew at the Pike Brewery and generally had a fantastic visit in the Seattle area with my friend Jean at her ranch. Having a great time with a very wonderful person. :D

[Pax]

What a great time!!!!

[snapdragen]

Way cool X! Are you living in Seattle now?

[Trek420]

Way cool X! Are you living in Seattle now?

I think she's south of us, Oregon still. I would have joined in the fun but had to work. Also busy because of planning for my Mom's memorial :(

[OakLeaf]

Oh Trek, I'm so sorry. Hugs to you.

[Crankin]

Sorry, Trek.

[Catrin]

So sorry Trek, that is hard. Hugs and warm thoughts to you.

[Pax]

So sorry Trek. Hugs

[Trek420]

Thanks. I miss her so much. Mom was 91 years old, she was dressed and ready to go raise holy heck at a meeting with her progressive activist friends when she suddenly passed. When her friend arrived and Mom did not respond to the door, her friend called my brother who lives nearby. Since she had a heart aneurism it was instant. The day after, Knott and I jetted down to see my brother and SIL. The house was all in order and Mom had plants she'd got at the farm market and ready to go into the garden; mostly basil starts. I guess we all should be so lucky, active, independent and gardening right to the end.

[Pax]

Thanks. I miss her so much. Mom was 91 years old, she was dressed and ready to go raise holy heck at a meeting with her progressive activist friends when she suddenly passed. When her friend arrived and Mom did not respond to the door, her friend called my brother who lives nearby. Since she had a heart aneurism it was instant. The day after, Knott and I jetted down to see my brother and SIL. The house was all in order and Mom had plants she'd got at the farm market and ready to go into the garden; mostly basil starts. I guess we all should be so lucky, active, independent and gardening right to the end.

Wow, your mom sounds like such a cool lady. And you're right, we should all be so lucky; my mom was one of those who got sicker and sicker and ended up having a miserable last few years.

I wanna go out like your mom.

[Trek420]

Me too. We don't always get those choices. She was diagnosed with the aortic aneurism years back. The doc advised surgery. This would have her in rehab for a year. Close to 90 at the time she decided to just keep going, always with the specter that she could go at any moment rather than a year or more in rehab with no certainty that she'd be independent after. I think I'd choose the same.

I'll never be as sharp as her, my Mom was brilliant. But if you want to live like her start gardening, doing The Nation crossword puzzles to keep the body and brain sharp. Find causes you're passionate about and raise heck with your lefty friends. Maybe a demonstration every so often.

Other than that luck and genes I guess.

[emily_in_nc]

Trek, your mom sounds like a wonderful, intelligent woman who embraced life to the fullest. I hope to be just like her when I'm "old". And like others have said, we should all be so lucky to go quickly like that without years of misery and poor health as so many are faced with, or dying in the hospital.

Still, condolences are in order. I don't care how old she was or how she died, it HURTS to lose a parent. Hugs and warm thoughts coming your way...

[Pax]

Still, condolences are in order. I don't care how old she was or how she died, it HURTS to lose a parent. Hugs and warm thoughts coming your way...
Amen sister, the first dozen people who told me "your mom lived a long life" almost got whacked. Who are they to say how long a life should be, she wanted to stick around, she was not done yet. Those sorts of sentiments are diminishing.

[salsabike]

Trek, your mom does sound wonderful. You have all my sympathy for losing her. Mine went in 2006 and I miss both of my parents every day.

[Pax]

Had to meet my brother this evening at my moms place, theres a guy coming tomorrow to look over her belongings and make an offer to buy the lot. When I got there her stuff was laid out all over the place so it could be more easily viewed... that was so hard, I could look at a coffee mug and know I'd bought it for her for Mother's Day 10 years ago, a book we picked out at the local library book sale, and on and on. It was so hard.

I just want to leave for Florida and find a reset button some how, a break, a chance to heal and catch my breath.

[emily_in_nc]

Had to meet my brother this evening at my moms place, theres a guy coming tomorrow to look over her belongings and make an offer to buy the lot. When I got there her stuff was laid out all over the place so it could be more easily viewed... that was so hard, I could look at a coffee mug and know I'd bought it for her for Mother's Day 10 years ago, a book we picked out at the local library book sale, and on and on. It was so hard.

I just want to leave for Florida and find a reset button some how, a break, a chance to heal and catch my breath.

I can't even imagine that, Pax. I know someday that same time will come for me. Since I'm the oldest and the only daughter, I'll be the one in charge of "the sale". My younger brother is awesome, but he's not exactly Mr. Responsible. I dread it sooooo much. My mom was an only child, so she has so many things of my grandparents and even great-grandparents...and I can't begin to keep it all or even more than a tiny % of it. It is going to be SO hard, so emotional. Thinking of you as you go through this horrible rite of adulthood... :(

[Pax]

Thanks, Emily. It is such a strange place to be, to me mom is still alive in my head. A life seems to come done to "stuff"; stuff means little to me, I don't want her silver place settings, I want the fun pic of her goofing off at the beach or the pic of her smooching dad while he's messing around wearing a friends bikini after they've all had a little too much. Stuff means nothing, the memories are everything.

[Crankin]

Well, I was kind of the opposite. My mom died young (67), in a family where everyone lives to their 90s. I enjoyed picking out "stuff" to keep, and I love using it, too. In fact, the night after her funeral, my brother and I sat down with her jewelry box and laid it all out and divided it up. I really wanted certain pieces, because I knew he would probably end up selling it, but we were very even handed about it. We sat on my bedroom floor and laughed a lot. I wear her stuff all of the time. She gave me a lot of her big silver pieces and other things for the house many years ago, in the 80s. She wanted to see me using them, and she did. I am so glad when I take that stuff out on holidays, as it reminds me of happy childhood times. My dad sent me a huge box of some of her clothes, which I wore for years after. Of course, she was so petite, that a lot didn't fit me.
She would not want me (or anyone) to be sad. I have good memories and I leave it at that.

[emily_in_nc]

I can certainly see it both ways, Pax and Crankin. My practical side says "sell it all" because I am trying to live a very low-clutter existence and agree that stuff is just stuff and really shouldn't matter. But my sentimental side will certainly kick in when the time comes, and I am sure I will want more of the "stuff" of our family's history because of the memories attached to it. Also, some of it is truly beautiful - antiques and such, and some nice jewelry. Harder will be all the kitchen things I don't really need but love. Mexican glassware, delicate crystal...it's going to be hard. Fortunately, my mom wears a much larger size than me, so clothes will not be tempting. But it's not going to be easy, and I dread it so. My mom is 79 and in great health for her age, but no one lives forever.

[redrhodie]

My oldest brother died this week. I didn't know him very well. We were half siblings, and he was 20 years older than me. He had leukemia. He was a Vietnam Veteran, a career Marine, with all the baggage that goes with that.

My earliest memory of him is meeting him for the first time when I was a toddler and he was home on leave. I remember craning my neck all the way back to see him because he was so tall. He and I hit it off right away. He was handsome, charming and funny. He was a good brother to me. Just too many years between us, and too many miles.

He asked me if I would donate bone marrow, and I would have, but never received the kit from the hospital. I don't know if they just didn't bother testing me because we weren't full siblings, but I would have done it for him. In the end, it was a moot point since he ended up having other health issues that made him ineligible for transplant.

In his honor I will be donating blood regularly. I wish I could have helped him.

[OakLeaf]

(((((Red))))) I'm so sorry.

[Catrin]

{{{{{Red}}}} So sorry to read this and your first memory of him is so sweet! Sending warm thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

[malkin]

(((red)))

[shootingstar]

I'm sorry for the loss of your brother, red.

[Crankin]

I am sorry, Red. I am 11 years older than my brother, and while it's not that great of a difference, you do have to work at a relationship. We haven't lived in the same city, except for 3 years, since 1971. And during those 3 years he was in 6th, 8th and 9th grade and I was a young teacher, going to grad school at night, dating. But, to keep on the same theme, I've been talking to him a lot lately, as my dad is not doing well. My brother is the "saint" in the family, mostly by virtue of location. My dad lives with him, which while a recent development, maybe a year ago, he's been responsible for him for a long time. My brother never married, and never reached his potential for all sorts of reasons. Anyway, 2 weeks ago, my brother came home from work and my dad said he didn't feel well. They went to the hospital, saw something on his brain, and did an MRI the next day, given the fact he's 89 and has been smoking since age 16, I am assuming there was stuff in his lungs. They went to do a scope of his lungs, he began seizing, and it was off to the ICU. He was on a ventilator, we signed the DNR, when 1.5 days later, he woke up, screaming for a TV to see the "f*n Red Sox game." Oy. They shipped off to a sub acute rehab and he's much better, working on gaining mobility to walk with a cane. He will not be going home and after his rehab, will be going to assisted living. The oncologist says he has 6 months to a year to live and they are not going to do anything interventional at this point. Most likely lung cancer that went to his brain.
My dad was working until up to about 18 months ago, has an active social life, and still makes it clear that I am the "kid." We have plans to see him in August, already, but I am debating whether to go out there for a few days at the end of this month. He told me not to come and that I didn't need to call him every day! He didn't say this in a mean way, but, this is how our relationship is. My brother and I agree about everything, how this will proceed, so I shall see.
I am very good at compartmentalizing things and this is not the same as when my mom was sick. She was only 67. My dad has lived a long life, and while it didn't turn out as he thought it would, it's been good.

[OakLeaf]

Oh Crankin, I'm sorry. Hugs to you too, and warm thoughts to all your family.

[Catrin]

{{{{Crankin}}}} Hugs and prayers for you and all of your family.

[Helene2013]

My deepest sympathies to the loss of your brother.

And Crankin, hugs to you too.

[Crankin]

Thanks. After the initial shock of it, I think my dad is doing ok with what is happening. He's been a denier all of his life, and he can't deny this. My younger son and his wife went to see him Sunday, which was good. They used to live in San Diego, not too far from him, but now they live near LA, so my son just doesn't see him that often anymore.
Frankly, I am more worried that I will never see my brother again, once my dad is gone. We actually have a lot in common, despite the age difference and the fact that his life was vastly different than mine, and he did not get the better side of things. Nothing horrible, but my family's financial circumstances changed greatly while he was growing up. I ignored all of it, since I was already on my own, but it did affect him.

[Crankin]

Yes, I suppose you could call my dad a character. Both of my parents were slightly unconventional for their time, when I think of it. One of my dad's fondest dreams was to visit back in Boston, with a cowboy hat and bolo tie on, when he got off of the plane. He did get to do this one year, when he came to join my mom and brother, who went to the Cape every year with my mom's family, after they moved to Az, and later, California. Unfortunately, when the shoe manufacturing business went south (literally) and then overseas, our familys' business closed. My dad worked for several years in the wholesale food business in Phoenix, which was great fun, in that I often got to go to restaurant openings, at a time when I couldn't afford to eat in any of them! But, once they moved to San Diego, which they loved, things were really bad for them, with a few good years in between. Although it was awesome to have family in San Diego when I lived in AZ, so I could escape the heat, in retrospect, they picked up and moved really quickly, when my dad lost his job in Az. If they had waited a little bit, even, I think things may have been different.

[redrhodie]

Thank you all for the support. I really appreciate the kind words.

[SheFly]

Red - so sorry to read about the loss of your brother. Losing brothers is hard, regardless. Thinking of you.

Crankin - sorry to read about your dad. I do hope that you and your brother manage to maintain a relationship. You don't realize how important it is until, one day, it isn't there anymore.

Hugs to all.

SheFly

[snapdragen]

Oh my goodness. I just nuked a spammer that had 172 moderated threads on the forum! Have I told you how much Jeff and Susan rock, they added a really cool feature for the Mods called Spam O Matic. It's awesome, and stops sooooo many nasty spams from ever going public.

[emily_in_nc]

{{{{{Red}}}}}}} & {{{{{{Crankin}}}}}}}}

We just spent 10 days with DH's parents, who are, somewhat amazingly, both still alive in their mid-80s and married for 62 years. Dad is on 17 medications but is in remarkably good health, considering. He's frazzled, though, and tired a lot, because he's having to take care of Mom, who has dementia (they think vascular rather than Alzheimer's, but it's still bad). Glad we could be there and help them in their yard, on Dad's computer, and around the house, plus recycling load after load of junk mail and magazines that build up between our visits as Mom throws nothing away, and has no filter on what is important to save vs. not important. We found checks and cash mixed in with sweepstakes entries, charity appeals, and other junk.

Families are tough.

[Pax]

Hugs to all who are hurting.

Snap - that is a cool thing, I remember dealing with spammers when I admin'd and moderated on different forums, it was exhausting.

[Crankin]

I decided to go out to San Diego in a couple of weeks. Just a short visit, arrive Sat. night, coming back on a Wednesday. This way, my brother will have the days off so I can really get to see him and my dad. Things are moving along. My dad is still in the rehab, doing much better with mobility. His prognosis is about 6 months to a year. He had one day of being really upset, but more with medical staff that weren't being honest with him. My brother is working with Jewish Family Services, to help with hospice placement and he said they are wonderful. In the course of our conversations, I've found out a lot of other stuff (about my brother, not my dad), which is good. Hoping my son can come down for a couple of hours, too, but if it doesn't happen, it's ok, as we will be back in August for my DIL's graduation.
I know a lot of people think I'm way too pragmatic about this, but really, I didn't expect my dad to live forever, although I didn't expect this type of illness. His mom died at age 91, while playing Bingo in Florida. We kind of thought he would be the same. Moral of the story is, don't smoke, and if you do, try to quit!

[Catrin]

Snap - thanks for all that you do for us! You and your fellow administrators are SO efficient at what you do that the rest of us really don't have an idea just how much spam you have to deal with (sadly).

Crankin, sending good thoughts on your upcoming trip, very glad that you are able to go out for a few day. It is hard, regardless of the circumstances, and glad that you and your brother are getting closer - at least it sounds like it.

Red, still thinking about you, hope you are doing well!

[Crankin]

My son is going to be in San Diego Saturday, for his reserves duty, so he is going to pick me up at the airport. Very happy about that.

[Sky King]

The cobblers wife has no shoes syndrome is going on at my place. The DH raided my new Surly ECR as one of our customers needed a 12-36 cassette. Every one of our suppliers is out of stock...

While I like being busy, It isn't fun to not have my trail bike. I may have to lose my grannie gear for a bit and put a different cassette on her. :(

[Trek420]

Old news I guess but Knott and I had dinner the night before pride with Xrayted and her date. A fun time was had by all. It was great to have the TE gals around the the table. We tried to meet up the next day at the parade but traffic and logistics interfered. Maybe next year and perhaps some rides up here.

[Catrin]

Old news I guess but Knott and I had dinner the night before pride with Xrayted and her date. A fun time was had by all. It was great to have the TE gals around the the table. We tried to meet up the next day at the parade but traffic and logistics interfered. Maybe next year and perhaps some rides up here.

Sounds like a great time was had by all! Please pass greetings along to Knotted, she is missed around here :-)

[Trek420]

She just got another bike! We're up to 7 now, I think.

[OakLeaf]

Nice. :) Hi to Knott!

[Trek420]

Sounds like a great time was had by all! Please pass greetings along to Knotted, she is missed around here :-)

You could always click to shop above and read the reviews. Sometimes she writes one: http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodSB_3006P.html

[Crankin]

So, after 5 weeks of crap with the state of California, insurance, etc. last weekend, my brother took my dad home, since Medicare would no longer pay for the rehab he was in. He, of course, can't really be rehabbed, but we never got any final paperwork on his state benefits, although he was approved. Of course, he can't be at home. My brother took another 10 days off and was besides himself. He's a wreck to begin with, and then he gets pissed at people; not a good way to get what you want. So, fortunately, my older son went out there Saturday, first flew in to see my other son, and they drove down to San Diego and came upon the ugly mess (I had just found out). My younger son was a wreck about Grandpa's condition, so the next day, Monday, they took him to the VA hospital (where he had been receiving excellent primary care before all of this started) and he is now appropriately placed in the VA palliative care wing. My older son said my younger son was amazing (he gets his care at the VA) and my brother said that they are being treated so well, that he wishes he had been in the military.
My dad seems to be hanging in there, and hopefully will still be with it enough when we go out there in about a month.
Really, really proud of my kids.

[emily_in_nc]

Crankin, we don't have children so I can't totally relate, but I bet it feels really good to catch your "kids" being "adults" -- and good ones at that under difficult situations at any age.

I hope your dad will do okay in the VA facility and that you'll have a nice visit with him. It sure is tough when our folks get old.

[Xrayted]

Hey Trek, it was nice hanging out with you and Knot again after all of these years. I had been, lets say, cooped up and held back for way too long. So, after having lived in Portland for 7 years and wanted to go so many times, that was my first Pride Parade I've ever been to, so I took it all in. I waited for every last parade person and float. J was a gracious hostess and date and then we went to the concert after and danced our butts off. That was a wonderful weekend. Thanks for being a part of it. :cool:

Life moves along whether you are ready for it or not, I've discovered. One just never knows what's going to happen or what you can endure when it hits. My life has changed dramatically over the past 9 months for the better but the road was rough to get here. Things creep up on us and we don't see it until a big change happens and we think... how did I get there from where I was? Still, I'm so glad I'm here and moving forward and having a truly great time for once. It helped a lot to be with people who care and who kept moving me in the right direction and didn't allow me to wallow too long. I'm doing things that I thought I'd never get to do again and have actually gotten out more in the last 9 mo than I have in the 7 yrs since I moved here. I've met so many new friends and gotten back into some old hobbies and found new ones and my work life has gotten so much better as well. I get up to Seattle area about every other week or sometimes 3 weeks in a row so if anyone wants to hang out or go for lunch or anything, speak up. I'll try to be on here more but I'm so busy that I seem to not have the time lately. PM's are best to contact me if you don't already have my cell #.

I have to say, Pax has been an invaluable person to chat with and has put things into perspective and glued me together quite a few times and I can't thank her enough. Relationship stuff, dealing with my Mom's cancer stuff, starting over stuff, finding my happy again stuff... I've never had a mentor or another woman to chat with like that in my life. She's been incredible to me this whole time. I hope I get to meet her and her sweetie pie wife someday... some place sunny... like FL... or... ya know.... uh... :rolleyes: ;) Heeheehee. I'll have to bring chickwhorips along and create a TE ruckus.

Okay, I did an overnight 16 hr shift at the hospital lat night and only had a 3 hr nap today after being up for over 32 hrs. I'm a bit punchy. I think I need to go soak in a mineral tub and have a massage and warm wrap/nap in the Gorge and a visit/dinner with a friend in the Dalles. See ya, ladies!!!

[snapdragen]

X - your post makes me smile. Pax indeed does rock, I'm glad you've got a support system.

In other news, I had a scan on Monday - I'm cancer free. :D

[Crankin]

Congrats!

[Trek420]

In other news, I had a scan on Monday - I'm cancer free. :D

Happy dance!

[Xrayted]

You know, when I just sit down and have time to just mull things over, I find a pretty good solution on my own. I had no idea how much energy I was putting into someone else, them being so damn needy. How much I had ignored my own because I just didn't have enough energy for both of us. I've had some wonderful people recognize this and guide me to find myself again. That is a wonderful gift. Not leading someone but guiding them to find their own path and thereby helping them gain their freedom and power back. What wonderful people I've got in my life. Truly. X is flying again and in the right direction for once.

And now... I need to contact Mimi. I have an artistic project for her, if she'd like to accept it. MIMI!!!! Please PM me. You've changed your name on here since I used to be on. Can somebody help a girl out on this? :cool:

[Xrayted]

YAY SNAP!!! Woohoo!!! Happy Dance indeed. :):cool::D

[Xrayted]

Trek, you have a wonderful young man working at one of your stores that has helped me immensely lately. Every now and again, somebody gives enough of a **** to do it right. :D

[snapdragen]

YAY SNAP!!! Woohoo!!! Happy Dance indeed. :):cool::D

I'm pretty damn thrilled. :D

Oh...and mimi is now Biciclista.

[Trek420]

Trek, you have a wonderful young man working at one of your stores that has helped me immensely lately. Every now and again, somebody gives enough of a **** to do it right. :D

Glad you got great service. Not my store, I work for the other company.

[Xrayted]

Well, let's assume then that he does a better job because there is an ATT right outside his door (not kidding) and he's been shown the right way to treat people by watching them. :D

[Crankin]

My DS #2 called me and informed me that he donated blood the other day and the place called him and told him he has West Nile Virus! He is totally asymptomatic and was told only 25% of people get sick.
Only this child would get this. Of course, he is not a child, but still... he was laughing and I did not think it was funny!

[Trek420]

Well, let's assume then that he does a better job because there is an ATT right outside his door (not kidding) and he's been shown the right way to treat people by watching them. :D

Some people can just do that, others, not so much. Most in the stores are just great with people and the technology. We're rated on so many metrics; customer satisfaction of course, order quality. tickets, the number of times I actually fix the problem you called about in the first place :eek: :D and so on. Those ratings vary day to day and even minute to minute. But on most days I'm up close to the top, on several times I've actually been number 1 in the company. I should frame that memo. :cool:

But I could not do the work in the stores. I would not be able to keep from laughing at some of the sillier things people do to/with their devices.

But I was very happy to fix a gals phone recently. She'd gone riding, stuffed her iPhone into her bra not knowing where else to keep it, where it got wet and died. I got it running again. Of course told her to go and get a bento box or under seat bag, maybe from TE for next time. ;)

[malkin]

I'm pretty damn thrilled. :D

Oh...and mimi is now Biciclista.


If you get a hold of her, tell her we miss her around here!

[Trek420]

If you get a hold of her, tell her we miss her around here!

Sure will. Lunch with her, knott, my sister the duck_on_wheels and Mr duck tomorrow.

[lph]

Sure will. Lunch with her, knott, my sister the duck_on_wheels and Mr duck tomorrow.

Ooo-ee! *virtual wave* from Norway. Love to see a pic if possible.

[Sky King]

SO excited, the girl child is in my house! Heading to the market and a fun day of goofing off, tomorrow we drive 8 hours as she has an interview at 9am Monday for the nursing program she is hoping to be accepted into. Of course then we have to drive back 8 hours but hey, daughter time is the best.

[lph]

Note to self: do not go to a dr's appointment wearing bike gear, even if you're cycling to work afterwards. It's a well known fact that you can have no health concerns if you're wearing sports clothing and have tanned legs :rolleyes:

[lph]

I hear you. I realize I'm healthier than most of her other patients, but my goals are a bit more than just 'not being sick.' Since my close family has an alarming history of heart disease with very few symptoms
I like to keep on top of things.

[malkin]

Both my internist and my ob/gyn are cyclists!

[marni]

re looking tan and being healthy- right unless your doctor starts lecturing you about sun screen and skin cancer.

Whenever the nurse takes my pulse and bp she always has to do it twice to "make sure I'm alive."

One of the times I fell the ER doctor wanted to keep me in overnight and run all sorts of cardio tests becuse of my bp and heart rate. I finally convinced him to call my regular MD and talk to her . He ket going on about my "circle of willis being starved" and that I was obviously brachyocardic.

My regular Dr. is a sensible older Irish woman who says as long as I don't have to "shift the coffin lid in the morning to get out of bed" that I am doing well.

[Trek420]

Ooo-ee! *virtual wave* from Norway. Love to see a pic if possible.

I posted one to FB, it may be on duck on wheels page. :)

[Brina]

holy crap - i can't believe thread drift is still going.

[Trek420]

Nearly 1,750,00 views. Long live TE T D.

[Brina]

I had posts back on pages 6 and 9. Came back after years away and found this. It has got to be some kind of record.

[Xrayted]

Heeheehee. Sucked back into the Drift...

[Trek420]

Heeheehee. Sucked back into the Drift...

You will be assimilated.

[Pax]

It happens (how did I get here??). :D

[snapdragen]

I finally have hair again! I swear I can look in a mirror and see it growing, it's darker in the back and grey in front. Not sure if I'll keep it this way, but for now I'm just thrilled it's there! Oh....and it's curly as all get-out.

[salsabike]

Yayyy!! Go get 'em, girl.


I finally have hair again! I swear I can look in a mirror and see it growing, it's darker in the back and grey in front. Not sure if I'll keep it this way, but for now I'm just thrilled it's there! Oh....and it's curly as all get-out.

[ny biker]

I finally have hair again! I swear I can look in a mirror and see it growing, it's darker in the back and grey in front. Not sure if I'll keep it this way, but for now I'm just thrilled it's there! Oh....and it's curly as all get-out.

Yay!!!

[Pax]

I finally have hair again! I swear I can look in a mirror and see it growing, it's darker in the back and grey in front. Not sure if I'll keep it this way, but for now I'm just thrilled it's there! Oh....and it's curly as all get-out.
Fun!!!

[Crankin]

My dad passed away early this morning. It was a blessing, although he was cognitively fine until just a couple of days ago, according to my brother.
I want to put in a very good word for the VA Medical Center in La Jolla, CA. With all of the negative publicity the VA has received, this was the ONLY place that could help my brother get all the services, legal stuff, financial stuff, etc. done, and the nursing staff was outstanding. They all gave my dad his last salute as he was taken out.
I am fine, somewhat concerned about my brother, who has been dealing with this stuff for months. It's time for him to move on and have a real life. I can never repay him for all the stuff he did, and I want him to be happy.
Glad I was able to have 2 good visits with my dad this summer.

[Catrin]

I am very sorry to read of your loss, sending hugs and prayers. Very glad to hear of the good VA experience.

[SheFly]

Crankin so sorry to read about your dad. Glad that you got to get out for visits this summer.

SheFly

[Crankin]

Thanks.
Riding to work cleared my head. I'm fine. In Boston to see our first theatre of the season.

[emily_in_nc]

So sorry, Crankin. I am glad you got some good visits with your father before he passed.

My sympathies to you and your family.

Emily

[Crankin]

I am worried about my brother. I called him twice yesterday and texted once. He's doing everything right for himself, but still, I worry. I told DS #2 to please go down and visit him this weekend, but of course, not sure if he can.

[IBrakeforPastry]

My condolences, Crankin.

[OakLeaf]

Crankin, hugs to you and your family. Will you be able to spend some time with your brother soon?



Snap, yay!

[Sky King]

I am worried about my brother. I called him twice yesterday and texted once. He's doing everything right for himself, but still, I worry. I told DS #2 to please go down and visit him this weekend, but of course, not sure if he can.

I was the caregiving child for both of my folks. Some of the nicest things one of my siblings, who lives 500 miles away did. -
sent me flowers thanking me for being there
bought me a gift certificate for a massage
sent me cards telling me how much I was appreciated.

Sounds like you are there for him, which is great but for some reason getting something physical that was just for me meant alot, especially after my last parent passed away.

Thinking of you!

[Crankin]

Not really, Oak. I invited him to come for Thanksgiving, and he said he would look into getting the time off (he's a manager for Home Depot), which might be hard for him at that time of year. Plus, he took 2 "vacations" to deal with my dad in June and early July. We'll be gone for 2 weeks in October for our tour, so November seemed the next time. I spoke with him yesterday, he said he was fine and that work was good for him. He told DS that he didn't need anything, but I know DS will still try to visit him, despite his incredible busy schedule (did I mention my son is hosting a newly arrived Afghani man, who was his translator, his wife, and 4 year old ... in a 2 bedroom house, as well starting his jr. year in school, transferred to Army Reserves to keep his pension, and is doing ROTC?).
I will just keep calling my brother and texting him. It probably reminds him of my mom!

[Pax]

I was away for the computer for a stretch and missed this. Crankin, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. My condolences.

[Crankin]

Thanks
ETA:
Every conversation I have with my brother is different, which sort of models what his mood is like; of course he was like this before my dad's situation declined. If anything, we talk a lot more now. I told him I didn't want him to feel like I was being intrusive and he said of course not, I wasn't, but I am not calling everyday anymore. Only one conversation kind of raised my concern level, and I basically told him to get his azz into the shower and get dressed after he told me he hadn't bathed for his 2 days off, which is totally unlike him. He thanked me.
He can't come for Thanksgiving, as others have already put in for the time off. We decided he should come in the spring, when the weather gets nicer. Right now he's concentrating on doing things in his home, which he's been in for a couple of years, but he hasn't done much work on. He's also dealing with his beautiful garden, which has been destroyed by the drought in San Diego.
I'd love for him to find a partner, but I know that's not the answer for everything.

[chickwhorips]

Just stopping in to say hi! I just wanted to let you guys know I miss ya. Big hugs and loves!

[crazycanuckoz]

Me too..popping in to say YO!!

[shootingstar]

Hi chickiworps, crazycancuckoz!

Sorry to hear about our father's passing, Crankin. Brother sounds like a great person and hopefully encouraged he spend time with a friend or 2 now.

[Xrayted]

Sorry to hear about your Dad, Crankin. I'm glad you got to see him this summer.

Chickwhorips is in Seattle this week!! :cool: :cool: She has some appointments while there but I'm sure would love to see a few of you ladies while in town. She's staying with my partner at her ranch in Woodinville. I'm driving back up tonight after work and will be up there till Sat. We have stuff going on on Tues but at this point, are open through the week unless more appointments come up. So, if any of you would like to get together, go for dinner, do some sightseeing, come over and pet some horses or whatever, let us know. No biking right now, sorry. Don't plan any big adventure things either, I want her to take it easy and that's a challenge for her. ;) It would be a cool thing though, the PNW ladies getting together again with the AK connection. Send me a PM and I'll send you my phone #. Texting is best today yet because I'll still be at work.

Namaste.

[Trek420]

Crankin, sorry to hear about your dad

Crazycannukoz, down to 20 posts?

Chickwho, good to see ya!

Xrayted, keep me posted. Thursday a through Sat works best.

[Pax]

Popped something in my bad knee yesterday, am hobbling with a cane now. Seeing the ortho doc tomorrow morning... wish me luck that this won't be surgery number six on that knee!

[OakLeaf]

Ow ow ow Pax! :( Heal up fast, and good luck for no surgery.

[Pax]

Thanks, Oak. Pretty sure I screwed up my medial collateral ligament, this hurts!

[Catrin]

So sorry Pax, OW! Hang in there and keep us posted.

[emily_in_nc]

Oh, so sorry Pax! Hope surgery is not necessary!

[Pax]

Heading to the doctors office in a bit, I'll update after, thanks for the well wishes!

[Pax]

Just got done at the docs office, I have some tears in my MCL but it didn't rupture. So yay me, no surgery!! Got some PT scheduled and will be using a brace more often.

[Catrin]

So glad to hear you won't need surgery! Take care and feel better soon!

[Pax]

Thanks! I was really sweating it. I am so sick of having knee surgery I could scream. Now I just have to rehab it and be more gentle with it. He says I really need to stop lifting or carrying heavy objects because it just puts too much stress on the damaged joint, so if I'd like to avoid knee replacement surgery for a few more years I have to be more mindful.

[OakLeaf]

Phew! So glad you won't need surgery. Good luck with the PT!

[Catrin]

For some reason I scrolled down to the bottom of the main forum page this morning and actually read this (it isn't new, I just usually ignore it):

Spam-O-Matic StatisticsSpam-O-Matic Statistics
89985 Spammers Denied Registration :eek:
385 Spammers Permanently Banned
437 Spammers submitted to StopForumSpam
445 Spammers submitted to Akismet
5163 Spammy Posts Automatically Moderated

THANK YOU TE and the forum administrators for dealing with this. I know these statistics are from those things that get caught automatically, but it makes me wonder how many posts get past the spam software that the rest of us doesn't see...

[Pax]

For some reason I scrolled down to the bottom of the main forum page this morning and actually read this (it isn't new, I just usually ignore it):

Spam-O-Matic StatisticsSpam-O-Matic Statistics
89985 Spammers Denied Registration :eek:
385 Spammers Permanently Banned
437 Spammers submitted to StopForumSpam
445 Spammers submitted to Akismet
5163 Spammy Posts Automatically Moderated

THANK YOU TE and the forum administrators for dealing with this. I know these statistics are from those things that get caught automatically, but it makes me wonder how many posts get past the spam software that the rest of us doesn't see...

When I was in my insomniac phase I was constantly reporting scammers in the middle of the night, that ticker at the bottom has been fun to watch!

[snapdragen]

For some reason I scrolled down to the bottom of the main forum page this morning and actually read this (it isn't new, I just usually ignore it):

Spam-O-Matic StatisticsSpam-O-Matic Statistics
89985 Spammers Denied Registration :eek:
385 Spammers Permanently Banned
437 Spammers submitted to StopForumSpam
445 Spammers submitted to Akismet
5163 Spammy Posts Automatically Moderated

THANK YOU TE and the forum administrators for dealing with this. I know these statistics are from those things that get caught automatically, but it makes me wonder how many posts get past the spam software that the rest of us doesn't see...

Spam-O-Matic is the best thing since sliced bread, I kid you not! The largest number of spam posts by one person I've nuked was about 170. None of them made it past the moderation wall. And no, I didn't have to delete each post. The software manages to search and find all posts by person that is being nuked, and deletes them all. It's lovely. :D

[Pax]

Okay, tired of this game now. I want my knee to be all better so I can get back in the pool!

[Helene2013]

I hear you Pax on this knee issue.

Yesterday night I started again with a swollen knee (always the right one) and I could no longer bear weight on it. I'll have to get crutches this weekend. Luckily, I call my physiotherapist and she is also a kinesiologist and she can see me this coming Wednesday. I was 6 months out of sports because of this knee (which I had a torn ligament surgery on many many years ago). But MRI, xrays, etc...showed nothing unusual but some wear of cartilage (that was just about a year ago when my knee was in terrible shape). I overcam this and now back at it but we'll treat it quicker and hoping to be back to gym schedule soon.

But for now it is rest, ice, Aleve pills, she gave me a few things to do until I see her) and use crutches if I can get a pair. What a bummer. Luckily, this weekend it will be raining and blah. So perfect timing to do nothing but take care of that leg.