Everything Else and then some more - life in general thread

[molly muffin]

Hi everyone. I've been thinking of starting this thread for awhile, since I lost Molly in fact, which was 5 months ago yesterday. So this is a place to share those things that are going on in our lives, good, bad, ugly and happy that doesn't always have anything to do with our dogs, but we do want to share with our k9 family.

As most of you know I've been a sporadic since September on the forum. That is because right after losing our muffin, our daughter, her husband and baby moved in with us while they renovated a new home for themselves. Then my MIL moved her to our city from out west.
With work and all that going on, finding time to be online has been almost nonexistent. The good news is the kids have just moved into their house, so whoo hoo, but not my MIL wants to move in here with us until she can find an apartment. Needless to say I am searching high and low for an apartment for her. She has a lot of wants for a place though, primarily that it be within walking distance of our house. So, tough job but on thursday hopefully we'll go see a place that i'm crossing fingers will work for her and then she'd only need to move in with us until May 1. After having the kids here for 4 months, I'd really like a start and end date to family being here.

Our other daughter and grandson will be here in march for spring break, so it's rather nonstop.

In the midst of all of this we have decided to do an escape to the Caribbean for a week to chill out and relax. Much needed I guarantee.

I'm also in the middle of putting last touches on the Toronto winter office party and that goes off on the evening of the 24th. Cross fingers as a lot of stuff had to be pulled together at the last minute and I'm still a bundle of nerves over it all.

So there you have it, my crazy, crazy life.

I hope others will jump on this thread and join in the party. whine, celebrate, whatever suits your needs of the moment.

Welcome all.

[Harley PoMMom]

Awwww, thanks Sharlene, what a wonderful idea!

I just uploaded 2 pics of Marvin, one before brush time and the other during, there is a big difference in his attitude which shows in his face!

Some background about my sweet boy: my Marvin is a rescue that came into a shelter from a breeder, the breeder kept the poor boy outside the entire time and without the love from a human:(:mad: He has been living with me for almost a year now. The rescue had to shave all his fur off as it was matted so bad that his skin underneath had sores. Marvin is now sporting such a handsome coat. He's approximately 10 - 11 years old and is pretty smart, it didn't take him long to learn to be house broken. He is such a good boy!

http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/album.php?albumid=1159

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh. He looks great now. What a change during brush time. Loves it. I bet he realizes he hit the lottery of good homes when he met you. Prince Marvin. Lol. Love it!!!!

[mcdavis]

Wow. I looked at the pictures then read his history. What a gorgeous chap, and yes, lovely coat.

[mcdavis]

Oh Sharlene, I read that and it made me tired so have to say I have massive respect for you. I'm quite an introvert and have traumatic memories of a 5 week visit from the in-laws a number of years ago. Not sure I could cope with a repeat!!

[DoxieMama]

What a fantastic idea! I've found myself over the past few months wanting to share things, but not quite certain of where to do so. Or if I "should". I have friends and coworkers to talk about some things but they're not always available.

Sharlene, you have certainly had a busy life lately! Busy-ness can be good sometimes, but too much is stressful. When is your vacation? I hope you will share pictures. :)

The most pertinent topic for me right now is that my (step)dad had what my mom described as a mini seizure on Friday night. They suspect he locked his knees and fainted... one moment standing and then the next on his butt on the floor. The worrisome part of it is that mom said his eyes were looking in opposite directions immediately afterward, and then he had the seizure. It was very short lived, over as soon as it began. And dad's "fine" and was quite vehemently against going to see the doctor as he had just been on Thursday. He has been "fine" since but it still worries me.

[spdd]

Good idea Sharlene.... so..... just wanted you to know that I haven't started grief counselling yet, but start on the 22nd of this month. As if I'm not already an emotional wreck, biopsy came back confirmed as squamous cell carcinoma and I have a 2nd biopsy scheduled for tomorrow, different area, same leg. I have to say the last almost 3 years has been nothing but a b&%+* and the older you get the harder it is to cope with this stuff. They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.. but that isn't true. To top it all off, just moved into this apartment and going to have to move out. People upstairs babysit their grandchildren (I think great grandchildren) 4 of them. Sometimes they are there a day, other times 3-4 days straight and are totally out of control. Everybody has complained about them, but the landlord said I could move at anytime.... so they must be related to someone. If you are in Ontario, do NOT ever rent from Drewlo.... they are the most ridiculous landlord ever, and won't even allow visiting dogs. As if this place was the Taj Mahal, and it's totally against the law here to even put a no pet policy in place. Ok, so that is my b+*#^% and ranting for one day.

[Squirt's Mom]

aww Judi, that's the same cancer I have just in a different area. I pray all goes as well for you as it has for me so far!

Shana, I hope your dad continues to do well but certainly understand your concern. Men can be so frustrating when it comes to their health sometimes!

[molly muffin]

Wow Shana, I'd be a bit freaked if that came out of nowhere and happened to my dad too. No idea what caused it? Just a seizure? Is he willing to have any testing done to try to figure out an underlying cause?

Judi, super big hugs! I can't believe you have to move again!!!!! and on top of everything else now cancer too. Girl you are sooooo due for a break from all this nonsense. Just awful. What about some place in Oakville or somewhere?
In my neighborhood my MIL is currently trying to rent a one bedroom apartment and the rate was 1335. since they are renovating it. I found another for around 1110. on 11th floor right near Sheridan nursery, called the woman and she said it looks out over the sheridan nursery and ravine and park. Its available 1 april I think and animals are allowed definitely. This is in Mississauga by Etobicoke creek and also near my house. Walking distance. Maybe something to think about??????

[spdd]

Thanks Sharlene, they sound wonderful, but I only have the one income now, so if you add hydro (cough) internet, cable, phone, car payment and insurance... I can't eat LOL. Looking to buy on the east coast somewhere. Even though you have more money then most in your bank account they won't lend you a dime for a mortgage as it's all based on monthly income. They'd sooner you be destitute in 4 years paying exorbitant rent then paying almost 1/3 what rent would be, paying a mortgage. You have to fit into their little slots or you don't qualify. I can pay cash for a house down east and have plenty left over to fix it up, and then the monthly income... will certainly pay for lots of extras. I think they need to revamp big time the seniors and what they face in Ontario. It is a 5 - 10 yr wait for subsidized housing... and from what I've seen, the boxes they want to put seniors in well...... disgusting. I bought a house in Exeter, was to close Sept 30th last year.... I pulled the plug on the 29th due to my lawyer having conflict of interest and being out and out lied to about the property. That will be a long drawn out law suit, but until then, I'm out the inspection fee, lawyers fees and down payment. I will have to initiate the lawsuit. I should write a friggin book, but I'd have to file it under fiction. Nobody would believe my life is actually a true story - LOL

[labblab]

Hey Sharlene and everybody <waving!!!> :) :)

What a great idea for a thread ;), and I'll be stopping back again later on. Knock on wood, everything is pretty stable around our house at the moment, but as you all know that can change on a dime. So I'm really appreciating the calm in the storm and anxious to read about what's going on with everybody else.

See you all again a little later on...

Marianne

[molly muffin]

Well drat Judi. Bummer that the rental places around here won't work for you. i did find out that the apartments hydro runs around 50. a month. Not sure about phone/tv.

uh, you aren't looking out east at the moment are you. I hear they are swamped with blizzards right now. *shiver*

Hi Marianne!!! Yay for calm in the midst of storms. It's a good place to be. Cherish it while it lasts. LOL

Shana we fly out on vacation on the 25th Feb. Have to be at the airport at 4am!!!!!! After being out at the winter dinner the night before. I plan to pack this weekend and get anything and everything that has to be done before we leave done. (it's a plan, now lets see if the worlds best procrastinator can actually follow the plan hahahahaa)

[spdd]

The trouble with the hydro is, that the landlords can charge what they want. Every senior in Ontario is entitled to a credit on their hydro if they are living on their pension. I got $45.00 per month off when I lived in London. I phoned hydro and said do the landlords have to pass the credit onto their tenants... a bit fat "NOPE"- the only person that qualifies for the credit is-get this-is the name that the hydro bill is made out to. Some landlords are making a profit off the hydro and saving OEB money by not having to issue a credit... Oh... if I only was in parliament. The only way to get around it, is if the apartment has it's own meter, and there aren't too many that do.

[mcdavis]

Well drat Judi. Bummer that the rental places around here won't work for you. i did find out that the apartments hydro runs around 50. a month. Not sure about phone/tv.

uh, you aren't looking out east at the moment are you. I hear they are swamped with blizzards right now. *shiver*

Hi Marianne!!! Yay for calm in the midst of storms. It's a good place to be. Cherish it while it lasts. LOL

Shana we fly out on vacation on the 25th Feb. Have to be at the airport at 4am!!!!!! After being out at the winter dinner the night before. I plan to pack this weekend and get anything and everything that has to be done before we leave done. (it's a plan, now lets see if the worlds best procrastinator can actually follow the plan hahahahaa)

Ain't that the truth. Over 2 feet on Monday and marginally less yesterday. Currently have over 5 feet sitting on the deck thanks to drifting. Henry is complaining that he can't see anything when he looks out of the windows :D

[labblab]

So Sharlene, I want to hear more about the winter party!! :) :)

Do we have a theme? What shall we wear?? What will we be eating???

;) ;) ;)

[Whiskey's Mom]

Yes I'm curious too! Are you making centerpieces? Having any flowers?

[Budsters Mom]

I think it should be a pajama party!!!!:D

[molly muffin]

LOL You guys are great.

Ugh though. I had a fantastic party planned, golf course, dj, photo booth and james bond themed with martini glasses blue stemmed for everyone. James Bond music playing as the CEO entered and then went up to speak and throughout the night. Prizes hidden under a seat for each table, yadda yadda. Except, that I asked the team to confirm the date before it was planned, they told me they had. Then I sent the VP into the CEO for approval and wala, they hadn't confirmed it on his calendar at all and he is away that weekend. The weekend he is available, the golf course isn't, so had to scrap the whole thing! SOB!!!!

So I was told, find something trendy downtown. So I ended up with a restaurant in the financial district, but in a dining room so not available for themes, and can't have a dj. grrrrr

So instead I opted to take the money and get a gift for everyone that works out of the Toronto office. I ordered soft shell, fleece lined midnight blue jackets with company logo for everyone and cross fingers I can go pick it up on friday before the party and distribute to employees on the day of. Then at the restaurant we've gone with really good food menu, canapes upon arrival of black angus sliders, lobster, etc and then a good selection of main courses, etc.

So I didn't get to do what I want but I'm rather happy to be able to get a nice gift for all the employees.

Montreal we did at a wax museum. Very cool and the Ottawa one was at a museum with a casino theme, dj and all brought it. So you played for chits and the winner of the highest amount at the various tables won prizes.
And Edmonton did an escape room party.

I did find a cool black dress today, so that's taken care of.

So glad this is my last committee party of the season. Now I can pass it on to the next team. LOL

Still it's all good. Tomorrow night is hockey night, we're going to see the Maple Leafs play, still taking salsa lessons on thursday nights, friday night winter party and saturday we fly. So all good.

https://www.barcelo.com/en-gb/hotels/dominican-republic/punta-cana-beach-bavaro/barcelo-bavaro-beach/?a=1391790200870

This is what I'm holding onto. :) well worth it, just have to get through friday night!!

Boy did I need to get that off my chest or what. I rather like the idea of a pj party. LOL

[spdd]

You make me tired just thinking about all you do. Glad you are busy though , it sometimes keeps the mind from wondering.

[labblab]

Oh Sharlene, how annoying your original party plans had to be scrapped -- they sounded fab. But the new plans sound great, as well, and I'm certain everybody will enjoy themselves as well as their new jackets. ;)

From here on out, your week sounds incredibly hectic. So I'll wish you well today -- hope the party goes off without a hitch and that you and hubby have a grand vacation!! That resort looks to die for, and boy, do you guys ever deserve to be pampered in the sun and sand. What a winter...:o

So Bon Voyage, have a great week, and know that we'll miss you while you're away and we'll be anxious for a full report when you get back. :)

Luvya, Girl!

[molly muffin]

Thanks Marianne. It's definitely hectic this week. Doesn't help that it is a short week after a holiday monday and that my tuesday at work was nonstop busy. On the other hand, hockey last night was great! I'm learning to embrace my Canadian sport. LOL Daniel said he was proud of me and had a tear in his eye as a guy passing in front of us, stepped on my toe, and I said, ouch, oh, sorry. He said i apologized like a true canadian. hahahahahah
But how cool, over time and our team won! Pretty exciting stuff.

I have realized that today is my day to pack for vacation as no time tomorrow or friday. (panic attack sets in!!!)

It'll be good just to get away for a bit. Things are still not settled for MIL living arrangements. She might now wait for an apartment at the senior residence she is currently at. She found that after all, she does enjoy the social aspects of living there and has made friends. So I'm glad that we waited it out her moving in here, as that wouldn't have happened if she hadn't been forced to be there and we sure feel better knowing she would be somewhere within a call of help if needed and still right up the road and walking distance from us. whew. cross fingers she goes with that and apartment comes available sooner than later.

Okay must run, will try to check in as I can. Cause you know, it's hard not to. Too many things going on here on the forum too. Just worry about you all if not able to see whats happening. LOL OCD much?

[DoxieMama]

Enjoy your vacation, Sharlene! As Marianne said, that resorts looks wonderful. I'm almost jealous... but you deserve it, and I'll have my vacation soon enough (ok maybe not soon enough, but eventually!).

As most (all?) of you know, my oldest is in college though close enough that he often comes home on the weekend, and sometimes during the week to visit with his girlfriend also. He is almost always here Tuesday nights, so no surprise when I came in and my husband said he was home and I heard "Hi Mom!". But then there was an echo... "Hi Mom!" And my husband said the other one's here too! Our younger son is in the Army stationed on the other side of the states from us, and he is here on leave for the next two weeks!

YAY! :D :D :D :D

My husband went out to pick up dinner, as we hadn't planned to feed more than just the two of us. On his way home, he hit a pothole. He now has a flat on his car, and who knows what else damage. Luckily he could take the day off today to deal with that, as we're supposed to be driving to the Seattle area this weekend for a wedding.

Unfortunately, I'm way too busy at work to take the day off too. I'm hoping maybe I can take a day or two while our son is on leave but there's no guarantees. Speaking of which, I need to get moving or I'll be late!

[molly muffin]

Oh! How wonderful Shana! I'm so glad they are both home. It's always good when they can get leave and get home isn't it.

Have a blast at the wedding in Seattle. Love Seattle. I always have to go to the pier when I'm in either Seattle or San Fran. Are you in Eastern or Western Washington? I never liked the drive over snoqualmie in the winter.

Dang those pot holes. Hate them. One of them did a number on our daughters tire too last year. I see a big one starting at the top of the ramp I go up on the way to work, so far I've missed it but if there is a car in the next lane, not sure i'll be able to. Might have to change routes until they get that one fixed.

I totally sympathize. Our oldest daughter and grandson are coming for spring break and I can't take any time off work while they are here. Bummer.

[DoxieMama]

Yep it's nice to have him here. Of course, I rushed home after work only to find he was out with friends. He came back for a few minutes and then was back out again for dinner and a movie. I'll see him eventually. ;)

I'm not sure if we'll make it to Seattle after all. The car needs a new wheel and they told my husband it would be 3-4 days before they'd have it. We're in Eastern Washington and I wasn't looking forward to that drive. If we take the truck, we can't all go... and whoever is left home would be without transportation, which isn't ideal. So we'll see.

I told my boss my son is home on leave and he said we'll figure it out. Might get to take a day or two off. Of course, that'll depend on the kid's schedule too. LOL

[spdd]

Have a blast Sharlene.... you certainly deserve it.

[molly muffin]

Annnnnnd I'm back. :) as most of you can tell from my frantic catch up on the forum posts. hahahaha It's like going into over drive and I spent hours on here yesterday just trying to get a handle on whats going on with who this past week.
Sheeezzz you guys have been busy.

Well, sun, sand and surf and oh yea, alchohol and food was definitely what was needed. Yay! Now how do I get to go back soon???? LOL I wish but alas not to be for a bit anyhow.

Work was super hectic today but at least I had the energy to be there which I was sorely lacking prior to the vacation.

Oh yea, we didn't end up keeping the cat, they are doing fine together now at the kids house. I don't think they cared at all for being here and out of their element so to speak. So that is very good news.

Our grandson got cuter while we where away!!! How does That happen? LOL you'd think it would be impossible but nope, I swear he did.

Oh Shana, i do hope you can all get to go together. yea that drive over the pass can be a doozy. I've done it many times and I think my heart was in my throat more than once. LOL Especially in the pickup. I like an SUV better on that road.

[molly muffin]

Oh gosh, I didn't even get a chance to say because we left right after the party for the airport but the whole thing was a huge hit! Everyone loved the jackets we got for them and the VP of marketing said I'm officially a member of their team now too. LOL We sent jackets to all the Executives in all the cities we have offices in. (yea we know how to kiss up right!!)

The restaurant was wonderful and everyone had a good time and enjoyed themselves, so I consider that a plus. Now the problem is finding someone to pass this all on to as my year is over. See I can totally go around and get people to join in, but then if they find out I am leaving the SC team, suddenly they don't seem as interested. sigh

I'm kind of the cheerleader of the office when it comes to motivating people and even won an award for it this year that was given to me at the Ottawa party. (along with a nice check to go with) You are nominated by your co-workers from all offices across Canada, so as the CEO said, I should be very proud and I am.

Then I found out I got a nice bonus at work, so my manager was laughing and said the company is just throwing money at you. LOL Bonus's are based on meeting smart goals that are set throughout the year. The higher of a percentage you meet in your goals the bigger the bonus. So I admit that I felt pretty good about that considering how chaotic my life was last year with molly and the kids and everything.

Oh yea, another thing. I have been looking at petfinder and adoptapet and oh my god, how does anyone look at those dogs and not end up with at least 10.
Strays and abandoned seem to really draw me to them. I think Daniel is living in fear of what the house is going to become at some point. hahahahaha

[DoxieMama]

Sharlene I missed you. lol

None of us made it to the wedding. Car wasn't ready and I was sicky! I'm sure we shall pay for it but it is what it is.

Congrats on the accolades!! That's awesome. You should be proud!!

[labblab]

You should be proud, for sure!!!! :) :) :) :)

You've always been the chief cheerleader for us here, too, Sharlene. So there's no reason why I'd have thought it would be any different at your office...:o ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)

[Squirt's Mom]

Sounds like you had fun and that your to-do was a big hit...tho I had not doubt it would be with you at the helm! I'm glad your company recognizes what a prize they have in you just as we do!

[molly muffin]

Whew, just back from salsa lessons and catching up on here. I'm pooped. Anyone want exercise can just take dance lessons. Tonight we reviewed the titanic move and started work on the coco cola. Funny the names they come up with eh. Susie Q is quite fun too. You can google salsa and any of those names and see the moves were are doing.
I kind of like them, as they are a lot of fun. Daniel loves to spin me or send me spinning I should say. So still a bit dizzy from tonights class. LOL

Unfortunately I have to work 8 -11pm next thursday night so won't make that class. yep, work continues to be a doozy and a half. I'm so busy I might be spinning from that. LOL

I had a bad day 2 days ago and went into over dirve looking for a dog and wanted a special needs that I found at a shelter and well it just wasn't good. Daniel put the stop on it for the day as i was darn near panicky it felt like. Just a really missing molly day is what it was. The next day it was like I was fine and back to my normal self. I guess those days happen sometimes.

[mcdavis]

I've just been checking those dance moves out Sharlene :D They look like fun. We don't tend to have anything like that out this way. :(

[spdd]

Heading out this morning for my 2nd grief counselling session. Only had the one so far due to therapists illness, so we will see what the coping methods are that he is to give me today. Must admit though I am feeling a little better. Think I've gone several days now without tears, however it doesn't take much though to get me started. Moving out of apt. on March 31st, storing all my belongings and heading to parts unknown right now. It is eastward bound. Never though I'd actually be a vagabond at this stage of my life, but the money I'm saving is fabulous.

Update:
Great session, however leaving hospital parking lot, guy rear ends me. Hits me so hard he knocked my glasses off and onto my lap. I jump out of car not paying attention glasses are on my lap and of course completely smash them when I step on them. Just had my eyes tested less then a month ago and glasses are 2 weeks old. Guy rolls down window and says "hmmm-guess my rear view camera wasn't working- don't how that happened" then drives off. - e
This is a leased car and I've been trying to get rid of it for months... get estimate easy $3000.00 or more. Totally forgot what 2 of my coping mechanisms are now.... get home and my best friend left message to tell me our other friend died and they just found her today..... sometimes you wonder why you even get up in the morning. I have sore neck, headache and for whatever reason my left leg is killing me..don't need this trying to pack and oh yeah.... thought apartment was rented but super left message people changed their mind, so now it's constant influx of people anywhere from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m until this place goes. I don't know why people have to pay lasts months rent.... landlords make it hell for them. It's suppertime and I'm going to bed. How was your day???

[labblab]

Gosh, Judi, I'm so sorry! What a miserable day for you. :( :( :(

So the creep just drove off and left you to foot the bill? :mad: :mad:

All I can say is, "Karma is a you-know-what!" and I hope his Karma meets back up with him very, very, very soon.

Hang in there, girl. Things have simply GOT to start turning around for you!

[Joan2517]

Jeez, Judi...what a shitty day! Your leg probably hurts from the jolt you got. Sometimes with back or neck injuries, it doesn't hurt where you think it will. See if the eye doctor will replace your glasses for free, or even at a reduced cost. I fell on my face one time, broke my glasses and my eye place fixed them for free...

[mcdavis]

Oh Judi, sorry to read about your day. I hope that today is better. Any chance the store had CCTV and could give you the car's license plate details plus footage so you could contact the police? It's definitely worth getting yourself checked out too as a nasty jolt like that could cause whiplash.
Take care

[spdd]

GOOD NEWS!!! - A bright spot in a horrible day. I've never seen glasses so badly wrecked (obviously need to lose weight) after stepping on them. Lenses were both out of the frame, wires hanging down that held the lenses and arms were facing north and south... just toast.. or so I thought. Take them to Walmart optician to order new lenses and frames. Low and behold I gave them 3 separate pieces of what was left of my broken glasses including a chipped lens. They took them, wired the lenses back in, straightened the frame, fixed the chip and voila looked as good as new. I then said "how much" they said.... "have a good weekend." They have no idea how they successfully made me feel a whole lot better. And I was just going to throw them out....moral of story.... buy wire frames and shop Walmart - LOL
I didn't even buy the frames at Walmart..... that was extra bonus for them to do that.

Feeling ok today, thought shoulder may have been injured.. but physically back to normal. Can't get a hold of security guy at hospital to see if camera caught the action, will keep trying. I would have made a police report, even though it's private property but I was running late and expecting long distance company within 20 minutes and I was 15 minutes away. Timing is certainly everything.

[DoxieMama]

Judi - so sorry about your day yesterday.. Yikes. I would have wanted to just crawl under the covers and hide for the rest of the day. But you did what you had to do to get through the day, and then got those glasses fixed for free! WOOT! How wonderful that they could fix them - and then didn't charge you!! WOW! I do hope you can find that hit and run driver who is responsible.

I hope your day today is filled with wonder and beauty.

[spdd]

Thank you for your kindness guys. Just got off the phone with the hospital... of course they have cameras in the parking lot, but NONE that scanned the area I was in..... :confused:

[mcdavis]

Well a big yay for Walmart, but :( for lack of camera footage. Is it worth going by the area, just to be sure there couldn't be any cameras, just in case?

Please do get your shoulder checked out, and also check for whiplash, just in case there's any later effects.

[molly muffin]

Can you file a late police report? Would you need that for insurance purposes?
How is your shoulder feeling now? So what is going on with you? Are you moving East?
I did look at some mls listings in Halifax area and you sure can get better options than here for the same price. It's quite lovely there from what I've seen but dang those winters!!!

[molly muffin]

I'm back and have survived a 5 year old little boy in the house for the past week. Whew I need a nap!!!! LOL
I took a half day off on tuesday and we took the subway downtown to the aquarium. Fun! He loves the subway! We also went to a japanese grill, where they do the cooking in front of you and all sorts of tricks. Which was also a blast.
On the 19th we had a birthday party for the grandson who turned 1 year old at Bounce and Play. Now that was an interesting experience. I climbed a rock wall, climbed up an obstacle course that you then had to go down through a blind slide, twisting and turning till you hit the bottom, at a pretty high rate of speed I must say. I screamed the entire way down but what are you to do when a 5 year old is yelling "nana, catch me, nana catch me" You go try to catch "up" with them, knowing you are doomed to fail. ROFL! But what a blast it was.

All told we have been very on the go for the last week and now hubby and I just got home from salsa lessons. (McDavis, look for a dance studio, they will have all sorts of lessons, we go to BlueNote studio in Port Credit)
I think Daniel already crashed on the couch and I'm in the kitchen typing away. I had to do some work when I came home that had to be done by 9:30 in the morning, so was best to get it over with.

I officially passed on my Social Committee hat today but told them I'd be their biggest cheerleader if they needed any motivational help with the staff. I'm good at going around the office urging people to do stuff. For instance, we received one application to join the social committee when the VP in Ottawa sent out an email to all the cities. Now that won't do, Toronto, one person, doubt that's going to work, so we took it upon ourselves to find our replacements. We now have the most members of any social committee in any of our offices in Canada and we still had one we couldn't place, because we were fully staffed. I think my job here is done!!!! LOL

Now we are going through a redesign of office space in Toronto as we are becoming too big for what we have and keep hiring more people! I told the CEO the other day that I was going to have someone sitting on my lap while we both tried to type at the rate we're moving. So this is going to be interesting. We need a new design that will allow everyone a place to sit and work while another group keeps looking for building space that will accommodate our growth rate.

That's my update. We're all good here. Hubby is in a provincial racquetball tournament this weekend and I am doing a birthday party on Saturday night.
OH btw, hubby won a beer fridge in the shape of a Guinness can!!! Holy Cow! We're going to have to re-figure out basement design if this keeps up. I have concerns about what that zen, spa like basement I've been dreaming of is going to look like in the end!!! hahahaha (maybe a dart board by the sauna would work?) :) :) :)

[spdd]

Geez Sharlene, you make me tired just reading what you have been up to. Cherish the times with the grandkids... it flies by so quickly. Used to take the 2 boys traipsing around the CNE from early morning till after dark. They'd pass out on the way home and I had the hours drive ahead of me. Would love to be able to do that again, but they are older now and grandma isn't so much fun anymore, they'd rather be doing other things. A trip to the dollar store was a highlight for them at one time, now they just want to be with friends. Guess we were all like that a little when we were younger.
Glad you are keeping busy. Yes, I'm officially a vagabond at the end of the month. Putting things in storage and heading east to look for a home. I want to take the landlord to court, I am justified and everyone agrees, but being out of province, not sure how that's going to work. I will find wifi spots on my travels and touch base here. If I don't find something in my budget, not sure what I'll do.

[molly muffin]

You be careful out there on the road Judi. Still some bad weather out east.

We are back from dance lessons and tonight we did the Rumba. Not too bad. We're even going to go to a studio dance party tomorrow night. Turns out they have them every friday night and (this is for you Marianne) once a month is a theme dance night. This month on the 21st it is Mad Hatter, but sometimes it is disco or some other theme. Sounds like fun eh! Plus you get a chance to see the other students and professionals that compete regularly dance, do line dances from every sort of dance style, etc.
Hubby says we are going to start attending more of these, so looking forward to that.
Rainy and cold here now, but better weather coming for the weekend! We had our first 2017 walking group walk last Sunday, so getting back into that too.
And I've booked flights for a girls trip to Jamaica in August. 8 of us girls have booked a villa at a private resort (who knew you could even do that!) and are having our fantastic 50's trip. We went to the Bahamas for our Fabulous 40's trip. This will be fun too I'm sure.
Lots of things to be excited about. :) At work, we are doing a complete revamp of space, so have been engaged in that this week. I'm being moved to what they are calling the high energy area. It's an area where those of us who enjoy exchanging ideas and collaborations will be all together in a working space. Should be interesting.
That's about it for moi. :) Hope everyone is enjoying some spring time weather, good health and happiness.

[molly muffin]

Well I've moved into the new space in our office. It's all good. A bit more distracting somewhat as I have more ppl around me and with lower wall there is more noise and distractions. The lean over seems to be the preferred method of communication now. Lean over and have a chat. I've become good at the talk to the hand motion.
I've been doing a bit of over time that is making for some long days. 9am - 11:30pm yesterday, with a couple hours in the evening to pop to the dentist. Still was a bit exhausted today.

Rumba is coming along fine and I'm having a lot of fun at it. Daniel and I are both having a lot of laughs.

Next up in events is the west vs east kickboxing that is being company sponsored (Canada vs China) Should be different. Don't think I've ever been to a kickboxing event.

[molly muffin]

Not having a great day. My sister told me last night that she is having a lung biopsy today. A spot found on her lung has increased since it was initially discovered on an xray in December and they suspect cancer. So they are doing the biopsy today to send to Stanford to determine, what kind, how aggressive and what stage.
I'm trying to be the positive one, as I do have a friend who beat lung cancer and is doing fine now. Still it's hard when we are all scared to death for her. And I for one am just so darn far away.
Just had a note from family saying procedure went well, they will do a xray and then she can go home. Maybe a week for results back.
She didn't let any of us know before hand.
Just whatever it is you believe or do, pray, ring bells, anything, do it now for her please.
She's all I have left of my immediate family, my mom, dad and brother all having passed.

[DoxieMama]

You got it, Sharlene.

[labblab]

Me, too! Gosh, I'm so sorry there's anything to be worried about. Thank goodness the biopsy went smoothly, and now we'll just have to sit tight until the results are back. But we're right here beside you, Sharlene, hoping so much for good news.

[Joan2517]

Doing it all, Sharlene~

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Sharlene, I am so sorry and I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers, I wish there was more I could do for you.

(((Hugs))) Lori

[Budsters Mom]

Okay, consider it as done. ;) We'll just wait along with you.

She probably didn't want to worry you until she knew more.

Big hugs,
Kathy

[molly muffin]

Thanks all. Just hoping hasnt spread and isn't overly aggressive and they can operate and get it all. all depends on the test results now.
Then see what the plan is.

[DoxieMama]

Extended family just found out this evening that one of my aunts (Q) went into the hospital on Sunday. She was septic, and if her husband (L) hadn't been there, she would have died. She fell and hit her head three times, bloodwork all out of whack. No idea the cause. She is in ICU now but still expected to go home tomorrow.

She's in Minnesota (as is most of the rest of my extended family), but they didn't tell anyone what happened at all. One of my cousins posted on Facebook "I love my mom", someone else replied "sorry for your loss" and another aunt immediately called (L) to find out what was going on. Many of them are quite upset that he didn't tell anyone. Lovely drama... and avoidance thereof... just causing more drama.

ANYway. If you can spare a few more of those prayers and good thoughts for her healing too, I'm sure she'd appreciate them.

[labblab]

Omigosh Shana! Definitely sending well wishes to your aunt, too. Thank goodness your uncle was right there with her!

Marianne

[Joan2517]

Me too, Shana~

[Budsters Mom]

Of course Shana. There are plenty to go around.

Hugs,
Kathy

[Squirt's Mom]

Sharlene and Shanna - prayers along with healing energies for all! Please keep us updated as you can.

[molly muffin]

Shana sending all things good right back atcha.
Hopefully your aunt will be okay and make a full recovery

[Whiskey's Mom]

Sending prayers, healing vibes & comforting thoughts to you both and your families. Been thru these things with my family too, its so so hard, especially when they're far away.

[Harley PoMMom]

Tons of prayers being said and sent, hoping your Aunt will be feeling much better soon.

Love and hugs, Lori

[DoxieMama]

Thanks everyone. She is home recovering as of last night.

[molly muffin]

Well it is cancer in the lung, there are a few mysteries, such as receptors coming back as negative that was unexpected. They think it was caught very, very early and chemo may not be needed. She will be going to see a specialist next and they will decide I guess.

[molly muffin]

Thanks to a lovely loose board on a walkway, I spent the evening at ER having xrays of my foot. The ER doctor said he doesn't think it's a break, but the radiologist would review tomorrow and call if he thinks differently. The ER doctor thinks soft tissue damage is causing the pain. Joy joy. I had to hurry them up, as told them I had to be back at work at 7pm so no more dilly dallying around or I was just leaving. Never smart to try to fit an ER visit in between work schedules. Made friends with a nurse though, bonded over Guardians of the Galaxy vol 2, and she gave the doctor a push to talk to me before I walked out. (that was kind of funny actually) Amazing the amount of kids that come in right after school time with ankle injuries. I bet I saw 4 or 5 just while I was there. I felt like the biggest kid of them all with my foot in the same position as the kids.

We had a heck of a long weekend, with hubby birthday celebrations ongoing every day since Friday. Lots of fun though. I sort of just hobbled through it all as my ankle thing happened on friday night. I wouldn't have gone to the ER at all except when I got up from my desk at work today, there was a pain that was so sharp and acute it made me nauseous, so thought I better rule out a hairline fracture or something.

Well got to boogie, I'm actually working tonight, joy joy. Lucky though, as it's OT and never complain about that when the pay check comes in. And it wasn't worse, a guy last week at the office picked up a 11pm - 2am job that I was very thankful to not have gotten. Even the ones that end at 11:30pm usually have me nodding my head by the time they are over and then pooped the next morning still when the alarm goes off. No later starts when you work late unfortunately, so the dratted alarm rings no mater what. (i've thought seriously about throwing it more than once when I didn't want to get up after a late night!!!) LOL

[DoxieMama]

Sending up more thoughts and prayers for your sister. Great that they caught it early! When is the specialist appointment?

Whoa - hope your foot isn't broken, though soft tissue injuries always seem to take forever to heal too. Do you have crutches or are you just hobbling around? Keeping it elevated and all that good stuff... ice? You probably know better about what should be done so I'm just throwing out ideas.

[Joan2517]

Ouch! My son had something like that last April and it took weeks and a soft shoe before it was found out to be broken. ER said no, a couple of weeks later, a foot doctor said yes. Big boot and crutches after that.

Make sure they rule out a break!

Prayers for your sister....

[molly muffin]

They said it was soft tissue and not broke and the radiologist would review today. Since I didn't hear anything different, I'm guessing it isn't broke, just painful as all get out. I'll have to take it easy and we'll see how it goes. I am not good at doing nothing and staying off my feet. I did find that boots with a tad of heel (not much) hurts way less than flats, so wore boots to work today. Stairs are my biggest problem I think, as have 2 sets in the house and then stairs at work. joy joy.

Thanks you guys!!

[Joan2517]

They told my son it was soft tissue to, Sharlene...if it doesn't stop hurting, go to a foot doctor.

[lulusmom]

If you strained tendons and ligaments, that is much more painful than a fracture. Stay off of it, keep it elevated, apply ice, wrap with ace bandage and pay attention to where you are walking. :p:p:p

[Budsters Mom]

So glad they caught it early! There is so much they can do now and the earlier the better! Keep us posted as to how your sister is doing.

RICE!!! Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation- Stay off that foot woman!!!

Hugs,
Kathy

[Squirt's Mom]

I just flat missed the foot issue! Hope you are back to normal by now, Sharlene.

[DoxieMama]

Happy news I want to share!

Our youngest son is in the military, stationed on the other side of the country from us. He came home for the weekend :D and is leaving today :( to drive across the country with his girlfriend. :eek::) She transferred to a new position in her company and will be staying with friends of my son in their guest room, as he is living in the barracks. They're taking her dog, an ~18 month old blue heeler, which will only add to the excitement of the trip. :D

I have requested they send me regular updates --- every time they stop for fuel, food, tourist activities (or any other time if they wish :)). Of course, I'm going to be anxious but am trying to keep myself busy, and ever so hopeful they don't linger TOO long and get to their destination before my husband and I leave for our vacation next week.

They haven't actually left the house yet, but I'm at work so unless they stop by on their way out of town, they might as well have left already. :p ;)

What an adventure they shall have!!! I'm SO excited for them and am looking forward to the updates!

[Harley PoMMom]

First, let me thank your son for his military service, God bless Him!

OMGoodness, sounds like they are embarking on a great adventure! Would love to see pictures and hear about their escapade if possible! I'm so excited for them too!

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh what fun! Prayers for a safe trip and continuous protection while serving our country.

[DoxieMama]

The kids have had quite the adventure already. Pass was closed due to a semi jackknife, so they took an alternate route. Spun 720 on the highway but were fine. :eek: Some time later, warning light came on and the car started smoking and revving really high. Got towed, car at the dealership and kids in a hotel for the night. Will find out tomorrow what's wrong. Hoping it can be fixed and get them back on the road quickly!!

[molly muffin]

Holy Cow. What a way to start a trip. And it will be a wonderful trip once they get the car sorted out.
Hopefully it isn't anything too dire and will be easily fixed.
Keep us updated!!!!

[DoxieMama]

Next adventure for the kids will be renting a U-Haul with a tow dolly and towing the car the rest of the way. (Need to rebuild/buy new transmission but have neither the time to get that done nor trust in the car afterwards if they did!)

What a ride!!!

[Joan2517]

Yes, we've had trips like that! Those are the ones you never forget!

[molly muffin]

I had a long email from my nephews wife, who went to the doctors appointments with my sister. Sobering to say the least. I think I am still processing everything. There are a few things that have to be determined first but the surgery for the lung cancer is scheduled for 19 June. Dependent upon everything else coming back clearing her for that surgery, mainly a heart issue (aortic stenosis), that if isn't signed off on, then they will need to do the heart (surgery?) or whatever they have to do to take care of that, prior to the lung surgery, so much is dependent on the tests scheduled between now and the 19th.

Once both those issues are addressed, then they have to look at whether there is a problem on her neck or if that is inflammation. Inflammation and Infection, both show up on PET scans.

My hubby had a kidney stone this weekend, which has made things a bit um..well not good around here. Men are not good with pain, not at all. Sorry guys but seriously something happens when men get pain that just doesn't seem to happen as much with women. He had one in August last year, which required emergency and morphine, so that one was worst than this experience has been for him. Thank god. Not sure he or I would survive that again.
Strange thing too is that our neighbor and friend, has kidney stones too right now and so he and my hubby were on the phone Friday night comparing their pain. Really. I wanted to pour them both chocolate martinis and suggest bubble baths. LOL

Okay so my sense of humor hasn't totally abandoned me, but it is definitely feeling like a house within a pressure cooker right now.

[Joan2517]

Lol! My husband has had them too...Jesus!! What babies! Try pushing out an 8.5 baby!!

[Squirt's Mom]

Amazing isn't it?! And they call US the weaker sex. LOL I know those stones hurt tho.... I saw my dad twist a pine ball off the solid post on their bed with his. He was holding on for dear life, too! :( I hope he is better soon and the tension passes quickly.

Prayers for your family as your nephew begins this journey. I hope all turns out the very best possible.

[molly muffin]

Sorry, I should have been clearer. It is my sister who has lung cancer, heart problem. My nephews wife is an RN so went to the doctors appt with her, recorded the entire conversation and then sent it to the immediate family, which is just me and my sisters kids now, with bullentin point highlights.

We are all a wreck I think.

Hubby is better, thinks the stone is now passed. Thank god!!!
yea they hurt like the dickens, but whew. Hurts everyone else too. LOL

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Sharlene, I'm so sorry to hear this news about your sister and will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. I know how very worried you must be, cancer sucks.

Love and hugs, Lori

[DoxieMama]

Just a quick update to tell you my son and his girlfriend made it to their destination safely yesterday. :)

[Harley PoMMom]

Just a quick update to tell you my son and his girlfriend made it to their destination safely yesterday. :)

Oh Shana, that is great! What a relief, huh!!

[molly muffin]

That is great news! Glad they had a safe journey, and still got in an adventure. :)

[molly muffin]

This has been a tough weekend. As some of you will remember, our daughter had 2 cats that where with us when they lived here during home renovations, and the cats fought like crazy with one getting beat on pretty good. That cat was Giselle. This past week, after a period of not wanting to eat, vomiting and a huge amount of weight loss, it was discovered that Giselle had a mass in her intestine, that was kitty lymphoma. She was so frail that the vets didn't think she would survive either surgery or chemo/radiation treatments. We said good bye to our precious Giselle this morning.
It was the right thing to do but it has hit our daughter very hard, our whole family actually and the same vets who helped us to say goodby to molly, helped Giselle cross over.
We went to their house, said our goodbyes and gave giselle tons of kisses, then babysat our grandson while our daughter and SIL took Giselle to the vets.

It's been a long day.

Now we go right into moving my MIL into her suite and getting her stuff delivered from storage this week, furniture delivered and I've said she should stay with us till the place is ready for her to be living there . So, another long week.
Along with a charity dinner on monday night, hubby flying back and forth to Ottawa this week and a host of other things going on. I might need to have some tequila sunrise therapy along the way. :) :)

[labblab]

Oh Sharlene, when it rains it sometimes pours! I am so sorry about Giselle, and also all the scary medical challenges facing your sister. And what with all the flurry of other activity, you barely have time to think let alone process anything :o. You are such a wonderful person and such a huge support to everybody else -- I hope you know that we are always here to support YOU, too. All this stress and worry takes a toll, so please take as good care of your own self as you can. We love you, girl!

[Joan2517]

Oh, your poor daughter....poor you! I had a lilac point Siamese named Ahmoon who had the same thing as Giselle. Where Lena was my heart dog, Moo was my heart cat. He was only 7 when I had to let him go. Losing them is one of the hardest things life throws at us.

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Sharlene, I am so sorry about Giselle, please extend my condolences to your daughter and family. Man, girl, you have a lot on your plate and I wish there were something I could do to help. Do remember as Marianne said, we are here for you.

Sending tons of loving hugs, Lori

[Budsters Mom]

I am so very sorry Sharlene. I remember Giselle. She is at peace now. No more fighting or being picked on. I think the animals know that something is off, long before we do. Very sad indeed. :o

Please keep us posted on your sister. Wellness thoughts continue to flow her way.

On the upside....Your MIL will be moving out eventually!! ;)
Hang in there. In the case if emergency, it is okay to start, " Tequilla Sunrise Therapy", first thing in the morning.;)

[molly muffin]

My sister is probably going to have to have surgery on her heart before they can do the lung cancer surgery.
The surgeon said he can do both, so that is good. He will be very familiar with what is going on with her.
The electrocardiogram came back as sever aorta stenosis
Also they are going to be biopsing another area on her neck that lit up during the PET scan to see if it is cancer or not. Waiting on appt for that now.
So a lot going on there.

Giselle was definitely sweet kitty and I am wondering now, if like we have seen in other situations if the illness wasn't detected by Bella and if that was why she was attacking her.

And on to MIL's stuff at the end of the week.

[Budsters Mom]

Not such great news for your sister, but she does appear to be in excellent hands.

I have been wondering the same thing about Giselle. Yes, Bella may have been attacking for that reason. :o


Giselle was definitely sweet kitty and I am wondering now, if like we have seen in other situations if the illness wasn't detected by Bella and if that was why she was attacking her.

[molly muffin]

Dang but when it rains it pours.
I'm sick, hubby is going to be out of town, furniture being delivered tomorrow night after I get off work to my MIL's house. She'll be staying here until we get her sorted out.
Hubby back around midnight friday. This blows.
My eyes water so much every time I look at the screen that it is hard to see, so touch typing and hoping it isn't too many errors.

[Budsters Mom]

Aw Sharlene, you don't have time to be sick.:o Isn't that often the way it goes when we are overwhelmed and rundown? Our bodies call a time out. I am so sorry.:o

You'll get through it. Try to rest when you can. You can always touch and infect everyone who gives you are hard time. That always make me feel better. ;)

Time to close the Sharlene and Daniel Manor for refurbishing, until further notice. Re-opening some time next year should suffice!:D

Take care sweetie.

Kathy

[molly muffin]

Well I'm still congested, but over the worst of the sickness I think. Not sure I knew the body could produce that much mucus. UGH

Good news on the sister front, in that the area on her neck is deemed benign for now and no further intervention needed right now.

We had thought as of a week ago that she would need two major surgerys, one to replace a valve in her heart, then a 4 week recovery and the cancer surgery. However, the cardiologist that did her angiogram to check for any blockages, said her veins all look good and that the valve doesn't look bad enough to prevent the cancer surgery or to need to be replaced right now Maybe in a year or two and they can monitor it. So we are back to one major surgery and hoping for a good outcome when that pathology comes back. So some good news in the midst of all of this.

I'm sorry i haven't been around. I 'm working a super early start time and sometimes nights too in a split shift. We had one day to ourselves and hubby and I just looked at each other and wondered how on earth our lives have reached such a point that having a day together alone, became such a rarity.

We are leaving next week for NYC for a much needed break and will be back the following week on the 28th.

One thing I am super excited about is Barbara (Trixie's mom) and I plan to get together while I'm in NYC. whooo hoooo. After all these years on the forum and facebook group. I'm thrilled.

[Whiskey's Mom]

So happy to hear the good news about your sister & also that you're feeling better.
NYC! I was just there with my daughters on Saturday. We saw A Bronx Tale- it was fabulous, worth every penny. Boozy Brunch at Bocca di Bacco ($20 pitcher of mimosas-& they were strong too!)
Have a blast!

[DoxieMama]

Glad you're on the mend, Sharlene - and great news for your sister!

Have so much fun in NYC! Rest, too. ;)

[Squirt's Mom]

What great news on your sister, Sharlene! :cool::cool::cool: Sounds like maybe the tides are turning and things will turn out brighter than first led to believe all the way around.

Meeting members of the forum is so cool! I hope you and Barbara have a great time...and give her a hug from me, please!

[Harley PoMMom]

That is great news about your sister, so happy that it turned out to be benign! I've just got over a cold myself, I think I went through 3 boxes of tissues :eek: glad you're feeling better as it sucks to be sick :(

NYC!! Have a great time! You and hubby definitely need to get away, and I think it's just thrilling that you are getting to meet Barbara!!

[molly muffin]

Well poop. The surgeon said he wants the heart surgery done first. That he feels the risk from the lung surgery could cause that valve to go and a heart attack or even death risk is too great. So we are back to heart surgery this coming Monday. Then in 3-4 weeks if a good recovery the lung surgery.
So talk about a roller coaster of emotions this week. Plus I've been working very long days 10 hours or so and that doesnt put me in a good frame of mind to handle the stress and be positive and cheery. Too tired to put it all together.
Really looking forward to getting away.
Hopefully everything goes okay. Cross fingers for Monday.

[Joan2517]

So sorry, Sharlene....hope it all goes well. How nerve-wracking for all of you.

[DoxieMama]

Will be keeping you all in my thoughts tomorrow.
Hugs!!!

[Harley PoMMom]

You and your sister are in my thoughts and prayers, also sending tons of positive energy.

Love and hugs, Lori

[Squirt's Mom]

Well for cryin' out loud. At least they are moving on the heart and not making her wait for anything else. I can't imagine how stressful this all is for you all. Prayers rising, healing and strengthening energies flying your way!

[Budsters Mom]

Okay, enough is enough!! :o One step at a time. Pencil in BREATHING into your overloaded planner!!

I am so very sorry.
Big hugs Sweetie,

Kathy

[DoxieMama]

Your sister (and family) are in my mind, thoughts and prayers today.
Hugs.

Shana

[labblab]

Me, too, Sharlene!! Surely hoping all is going well!

[molly muffin]

Quick update. I've been working split shifts, all day and nights into early morning, so totally pooped.

However, my sister came through surgery late yesterday afternoon just fine, with an aorta valve replacement. Went to ICU and was up and walking laps in the hallway this morning. She's my wonder woman. (had her hair done on Saturday so she'd look fine while in hospital) :)
If recovery goes as well as expected, she is tentatively scheduled for lung surgery, late July. Figure 3 - 4 weeks recovery. So YAY! I'm happy. This valve should last another 20 years at least, probably more.

Now to bed for me. I just got off work. We're going to be leaving for NY soon. Hubby is out of here in the morning for an off site for work so won't see him till it's time to fly to NY.

[DoxieMama]

YAY! I'm so happy to read your update, Sharlene. SO glad the surgery went well, and it sounds like recovery has started. Good for your sister!!

I hope you got some much needed rest last night, and ENJOY your vacation in NYC!

[Squirt's Mom]

WONDERFUL!!!! So glad to hear her surgery #1 is done and she is doing so well! :cool::cool::cool:

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Sharlene, that is GREAT news!!!! What a relief this must be that this surgery is done and that is went so well. Hugs to you and your sister.

[Budsters Mom]

AWESOME NEWS! :) So glad she's doing so well.

[molly muffin]

Back from NYC. Have a meeting tonight and dance class tomorrow, so expect to be back online the weekend if I can't swing it before.

NYC was great, Barbara and Trixie are AWESOME! and we had so much fun meeting them and walking in Central Park. Trixie is just the cutest doll ever and so is Barbara.

I think we ate our way through NYC. If you ever get a chance to do the New York food tours, they are great and we had a fantastic time.

Ciao for now

[molly muffin]

Well tomorrow morning I'm dog sitting for a couple days for a friend. This will be the first time we've had a dog in the house over night since molly.
we love Coco, she is just sweet and adorable cockapoo.

Maybe this will give us some hint as to what is best for us at this point also. If it is right for us to have another dog or not just yet. We flip flop rather badly it seems on the idea.

[molly muffin]

Quick update. My sister had lung surgery and is now home. We're hoping the recovery goes well but won't know more until some time the first part of August what the pathology showed.

I'm getting ready to leave for my girls trip to Jamaica and really, really need the break. I've been working Tons of overtime the past few weeks, where i work all day come home, sleep and then work until early in the morning, 2 or 3am sometimes, only to sleep 3 hours, get up and do it all over again. Kill me!!!! I'm exhausted and burnt out right now so a vacation is exactly what I need.

I don't know when this schedule will end. I guess when we get through this project, but we've been informed there is yet another project heading our way sometime soon, and i only hope it isn't going to mean such crazy hours. Sometimes I literally almost faceplant into my keyboard. Or drink so much coffee to stay awake at 2 am that I can't get to sleep when I do go up to bed. arrgghh I go to dance classes as much as possible, sometimes only to come home and go back to work. Still it's a break from the norm and frees the mind and body.

Got to run, you guessed it. Going back to work in a few hours and need some sleep first

[Budsters Mom]

How did the dog sitting with Coco go?

[molly muffin]

Dog sitting coco was such fun. She is adorable. Boundless energy though these youngsters. I felt quite old trying to keep up with her. She active during the day but not a peep at night. She sleeps in her crate and goes right in and not a word till morning. You might wake up to see her watching you, at which point her tail goes 90 miles an hour but it's all good. She particularly loves Daniel and those two had a blast together.

Some VERY good news. My sister got her results back from her lung surgery and no cancer in any nodes. No chemo or radiation therapy recommended and just a recheck in January but she looks to be good to go and has her heart fixed for another 20 years they say. So we are all extremely happy with this news.

I'm off to Jamaica this week with the girls. Hubby went to Budapest rather than stay home without me. hahahha I thought that was kind of funny.
Can't wait, as during the summer no one wants to work the night time OT, so I've been picking up the majority of those plus working days. Not happy but someone has to do it.

So, off we go. We started early last night with all the girls at my house and a bottle of rum and 3 bottles of champagne later, we think we are ready to take on the island!

[Budsters Mom]

Such great news about your sister! :)

Have a blast in Jamaica!! :cool:

[Joan2517]

Excellent news, Sharlene! Have a great time!

[labblab]

Sharlene, what a huge relief about your sister!!!!! I'm guessing your heart will feel 100% lighter now so you can really enjoy your trip. ;)

Hope you have a fabulous time -- you surely deserve it! :) :D :) :D

[DoxieMama]

Oh what wonderful news!

Have more bottles of rum and champagne, and have FUN!!

[spdd]

So glad to hear the wonderful news about your sister.... you can now really enjoy your girls holiday. Sounds like your dog sitting was a dream, I often wonder if I could handle a puppy now. My daughter got a new chocolate lab puppy a few weeks ago, she's finding it challenging, however she works full time, two teenage boys and 2 cats, including my Simba who doesn't care about the dog one way or the other. Probably because he spent so much time waiting to be adopted.
Have a wonderful, wonderful time.... stay safe.

[Harley PoMMom]

That is such wonderful news about your sister!!!!! You go have yourself a fantastic time!!!!!

[mcdavis]

So pleased to read the news about your sister. Definitely calls for a celebration!! Enjoy your trip (although have to say I'd prefer Budapest as I'd love to go there, and also Prague - hopefully one day).

OH is off to London for a family visit so Henry and I are "borrowing" his Mustang for a few day trips :p:p

[molly muffin]

Oh fun, trips in the mustang! How is Henry doing with the summer cars and his anxiety? Is that totally gone now?

I would have loved Budapest too and hubby said it was wonderful, he just loved it. Another friend of mine just got back from 3 weeks in Prague and he loved it there too.

Jamaica was lovely though and Round Hill was just fabulous. It was like living like a princess. In fact, Prince Harry was just at Round Hill in March. His friend got married at the little town down the street and the reception was at Round Hill, so he stayed there while he was in Jamaica.
We also lounged over by Ralph Laurens villa that is on the beach (he has 2 villas!) (I'd be happy with 1/2 of one hahahaha), and got spa treatments.
Definitely different for me anyway and fun to experience.

Oh the stories I could tell now. hahahahaha

Now I'm moving on to my next event, which is we have decided to have a End of Summer Pool Party. I have catering lined up and a band. Sending out invites soon. Might see if my friends husband who owns a brewery wants to contribute beer to the event and another friends friend owns a vineyard, so possible wine. I'm in organize mode. :)

I'm sure I'll have more adventures to line up in the future too. :)

So how is everyone else doing?!

[molly muffin]

Holy moly, This party is turning into some humdinger. We have people driving down from Ottawa for it, some celeb types even, and just a slew of people that are saying yes they will attend.

And Kids! I told Daniel we have to tell people this year to bring their kids and people are loving it, and now we have a whole slew of kids from toddler through teenager coming. I just got two pool blow up logs, with jousting logs for an overturn game, pool basketball, all kinds of stuff. It's going to be a blast. Fixing up the spare rooms for those who don't have a place to stay and can't afford hotels. I might be in heaven, planning this. hahahaha can you tell.

My personality dictates that I love to have people enjoy themselves and laugh. So that is what I'm trying to make happen.

You know, if anyone is in the Toronto area.... there is a party on 16 September at my house. Just saying. :)

Anyway, when I'm not working I'm answering invites and questions, and getting the house ready, we are building a huge play, and movie area for the kids when they get tired of pool time and food, still working on catering menu and band playlist, etc. Which happens faster than one would think. I've taken off a couple days after labor day to get it together

I'm soooo excited!!!!

[Budsters Mom]

How about big kids like me?? Sounds like a blast! :D:D

[labblab]

It sure does!!!! We all need a "Sharlene" in our life to cheer us up and spur us on...your family and friends are so lucky to have you in their lives. Truly! ;) :)

I love reading about your party even if I can't really attend. You go, Girl!! :D :D

[molly muffin]

I wish you could all be here with us. I'm sure it would be a blast and a half. Big kids have the most fun!

Tomorrow night is a dessert party. That sounds like fun right! After our respective dinners, we all head to one persons house for various desserts, wines, coffees, cheese and fruit usually. Everyone contributes and it's a blast.

I'm excited, it's TIFF time in Toronto. Always a fun time of the year in the city.

We are into our cat sitting adventure. Bella is not quite sure that she likes being here, actually I'm fairly sure she isn't impressed at all. It's hard to impress a cat. She only comes out in the evening and early morning, yowls like a banshee sometimes at night, and hides behind the tv armour in the bedroom during the day. I'm hoping she'll come around and join us more often.

[spdd]

Just a thought... have you warned your neighbours about the party or are they coming too?- LOL

[molly muffin]

Some will be coming.

We hand deliver notice plus invites.

[spdd]

I didn't get mine - LOL;)

[molly muffin]

What! How can that be!

[molly muffin]

Okay we are in party mode gang. Over 100 ppl, so it's going to be a doozy and then we have another party on sunday. So it's a crazy busy weekend, with ppl coming from out of town and staying with us too. I'm leaving work early today to try and get some last minute items taken care of. Catering where here at 8:30am this morning already setting up things for tomorrow. YIKES Panic!

[DoxieMama]

Party weekend!

[molly muffin]

Wow, that was exhausting. Fun, but exhausting. I came home yesterday from work and went to bed, got up and did dinner, then back to bed. We had a birthday party on Sunday, so was a really busy weekend and the house is still not put back together.

Everyone had a blast so I call that a success. Kids had a great time and adults too.

[spdd]

I saw your pics.... man first class all the way. Must say your yard is beautiful. Live band and all is really something. Hope everyone had a good time.

[molly muffin]

I think they did! I hope so anyhow. We've had positive feedback, which is always nice.

[molly muffin]

Well we got through thanksgiving this past weekend. Our Thanksgiving is the 2nd Monday in October, so felt early this year being the 9th. We had dinner on one day and then apple farm on another day and it just felt like the entire holiday was going from one thing to another. I was ready for a nap by the time the weekend and monday where over with!!!

Then on Tuesday I got word that my aunt in the states had passed away. As my sister said, dang I hate these life changing events. There won't be a funeral, as she didn't want one, nor her picture in the paper. She always was a private person. So that wasn't a good day. Rather glad that I could go into the office and have a cry though as my cousin got hold of me at work in the morning.

And the announcement was made today, the company I work for has acquired another company, so for the 2nd time in less than a year we are busy with integration planning and implementation and as of today I'm lead on a project canada wide, so damn sam. Coming off of our busiest September ever and our second busiest month ever, this is just exhausting.

In the midst of all that, we might or might not be going to china in November. Just do not know yet, but it's in play as a possibility. On one hand i'm like, wow, never been there and on the other hand I'm like, oh man, do I want to do this now. It's a crazy, interesting, fun, exasperating life we lead sometimes.

So that is my news for now! The journey continues and the adventures keep coming.

[Joan2517]

Crap, Sharlene...sending you tons and tons of hugs!

Love,
Joan

[labblab]

Wow, double crap for sure! How exhausting and also how exciting, all at the same time. Lots of changes, that's for sure :eek:. In the midst of everything else that's going on, thanks so much for still finding the time to check in on all of us here, as well.

We love you, Sharlene! :)

[Squirt's Mom]

Sorry to hear about your aunt, Sharlene! News of family passing is never easy to hear. I hope you have had time to process this a bit. My sympathies to you and your family.

My day ahead is busy....I'm deconstructing my house. But goodness! I get exhausted just reading about your activities, woman! :D Sounds like loads of fun tho...especially the chance to go to China! Cool!

[molly muffin]

Deconstructing your house???? Whatever are you up to???

First part of project complete, sent to legal, waiting on them, then onward. I don't have time to mess around, goal is implementation 1 December and... tada..

it's official, we are going to China. An upgrade to business class verified by the company we both work for (actually a sister company) didn't hurt. It's a long flight, comfort is key. And the next tada! We'll be having dinner at the Canadian Embassy in Beijing the day after we arrive in China, due to our companies participation in sponsoring the east/west kick boxing fight between Canada and the US. The Canadian Ambassador is hosting a dinner, to which we will break away from a tour, to go to. We're being cleared for that now. Lots of security pre trip for that. Then we'll rejoin the tour and go to the forbidden city, seeing the terracotta army and a couple other cities, ending in Zhengzhou and attending the kick boxing event. So it's going to be jam packed from the sounds of it.

We get back on dec 3 and on dec 6, hubby is going to be diving in the shark habitat at the Toronto Aquarium, so another adventure. I'm going, but not diving. I'm not certified to dive and I'm not crazy enough. Hubby is though, both of the above. hahahahaha

Then back for another week and off to British Columbia for grandsons birthday. Back for Christmas and then off to somewhere until New Years, so December will be busy too.

Not to mention working on the project from now till I leave, getting someone to take on the project and keep an eye on things while I'm away. And we are moving offices probably while we are away if everything goes according to plan on that project too. Designers, construction, all have to come together, but that goal is to move end of november.

The fun never stops!!

[Joan2517]

Jeez, Sharlene....I just want to go back to bed after reading all of that!

[spdd]

LOL Joan.... me too. What an adventure for you Sharlene. Post pics on your FB so we can see what it's like. Have a safe and wonderful fun filled trip.

[Squirt's Mom]

I know! I just gotta quit reading these posts of Sharlene's in the mornings! I get so exhausted I can barely get out of the chair much less face the day! :p

As for deconstructing the house - it seems allergies are a whole lot of trouble! It started with my grandson who is apparently allergic to everything that lives, then my diagnosis of unknown allergies, then Fox's, and now Bud apparently has an allergies. So I started taking Que's room apart to deep clean it and it has spread to the rest of the house. I decided while I'm at it to do away with a home office and make that a space devoted to creative activities. So now books, bookcases, plant stands and plants, cardboard boxes of stuff to get rid off, and various other piles extend from Que's room 80' down to my room. yay :D I'm wishing I had rearranged his room and may go back and see if that is possible when the piles are gone.

[molly muffin]

Your project sounds as busy as mine Leslie. Actually worse, I hate cleaning out the house.

You guys crack me up! It's not so bad, just crazy. I was rolling with laughter.
yes I'll take pictures. Addy has already given me picture orders of things she wants to see.

I'm just really, really excited. First trip to China, first embassy dinner, first a lot of things it seems. All stuff I've never experienced before, so that's a big hoot and a half.

oh my god and I''m shopping on ebay. Just ordered some delicious prada shoes for the dinner and a handbag. whoot whoot don't stop me now I'm on a roll.

Off to go find a birthday gift for a guy (why are guys so blasted hard to buy for)
I need by tonight when we are going to the bday dinner/party. Almost tasked hubby to go shop for him, but he tells me this morning that he'll be at the racquetball club all day working on the walls of the courts in prep for a tournament next weekend. So shoot!! Off I go again.

Ta for now peeps.

[DoxieMama]

I'm on my phone so this will be brief.

Our youngest son was married on the 6th. He is across the country from us so... we didn't get to be there. It will be months before he is home from the army. I can't wait. His wife is from here... Love her. They attended high school together and dated... then she moved out there earlier this year. Could not be happier.

My father in law failed a stress test yesterday. He will be having open heart surgery within the next week, so my husband is driving out tomorrow to be there for his mom.

Otherwise all is well here. Visuddha's birthday is coming up. Kira is relaxing more each day, and Jackson.... Jackson is the best dog ever.

Love to All.
Shana

[molly muffin]

Well congratulations Shana on your newest member of the family. So sorry you couldn't be there for the wedding, but boy do we all understand how that goes sometimes. oh gee I do hope your FIL is going to be okay. One of our friends went through a heart surgery and of course my sister, the biggest difference I could tell is my sister pushed herself to get up and walk, walk, walk, even when she felt like crap and her recovery went much better and was tons faster than our friend who did not get up as much and had a longer time in hospital and recovery in general. So wishing him all the best.

Aww, so glad that Kira is coming along so well too. Are her and Jackson now best buds?

[Joan2517]

Hope all goes well, Shana~ Congrats on the marriage...and so happy the the dogs are getting along so well.

[DoxieMama]

FIL has what they call a "widowmaker". Bypass scheduled for Wednesday-ish. He hasn't been very active the past couple of years, so getting him going will be a trial for my hubby. In-laws are all doing well so far, considering. Thanks for the well wishes.

Kira and Jackson have an on-again-off-again relationship. They play together daily, though she wants to play more frequently. Two herding dogs are... interesting together. ;)

[Harley PoMMom]

Hoping your FIL surgery goes well, I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. And congratulations on your son's marriage!!!!

[molly muffin]

Ugh. Dont like that widowmaker label thing. Hope the surgery and recovery goes well.

Hehehe i wonder. Do kira and jackson try to herd each other? Or everything around them?

[Squirt's Mom]

Praying all goes well for your father-in-law, Shana. That is a horrid heart attack and he is very lucky to have survived! Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers!

[DoxieMama]

Thanks all. Leslie he didn't actually have a heart attack. Just a failed stress test on Friday, so they discovered this BEFORE that could happen. A GOOD thing.

He just had his 77th birthday yesterday, in the hospital. Ugh.

Triple bypass is scheduled for tomorrow now. Praying all goes well.

[molly muffin]

Oh I do hope it goes well too!!!

[Squirt's Mom]

Thank goodness I misread and they caught this early!! So hope things go very well tomorrow. Let us know!

[molly muffin]

Shana how did your father in law do in surgery? Hopefully came through it okay and is now on the road to recovery.

My BIL has been in the hospital again, he fell out of wheel chair, fractured his hip (no surgery needed), went to rehab hospital to recover, got pneumonia, they moved him back to hospital, think he had a stroke, then he got CDIFF infection, now barely eating, can't get from bed to wheelchair, can't really put his thoughts to words, make sentences, the hospital says he can be released, no idea where they are going to take him to. One place suggested is a long ways from my sister and her kids home, about an hour drive each way and she wouldn't be able to go every day as she doesn't like driving far on highways/traffic at night any more. Sometimes he will only eat if she is there and feeds him. So, that is a mess.

My thought - It sucks getting older. :(

[DoxieMama]

Ooh sorry for not updating you all. The surgery went very well and my MIL said the incision looks perfect. He was walking around the nurse's station yesterday. My hubby is home for the weekend, returning in time for his expected release on Monday.

Sorry to hear about your brother in law.

[molly muffin]

That's fabulous Shana. I'm glad he is up and walking around. That makes all the difference in the recovery!!! yay

[Squirt's Mom]

Glad things went well, Shana! Hope his recovery is great.

Sharlene that is horrible about your BIL! I hope they find a solution that works for all.

[molly muffin]

My brother in law was moved to a rehab hospital about an hour from my sister. His mind has been affected by the stroke to some degree and he still can't get out of bed by himself and there is some issue with his swallowing, but he is hanging in there. Unfortunately he can only be there till 7 December, so not sure what will happen after that. He can't go home if he can't get in and out of bed and he forgets that he can't get out of bed and walk, so they said he can't be alone either. This is a real problem. He is a big guy and my sister isn't not a very big woman, so she can't really help him to get up. He can't even stand.

We are off to china, and I'm in the last stages of packing now, so I won't be around and since we are basically going to be away for the most part till the new year I'm hoping that everything remains stable with the family.

[Squirt's Mom]

I'm so sorry things have not progressed better for your BIL and I hope a solution can be found that fits his needs soon.

Enjoy your time away and try not to worry too much about things at home.
Hugs,
Leslie

[molly muffin]

Back from China but not back to welcome news. My BIL passed away while we were in China. We are leaving for the funeral/memorial to be held this weekend. :(

Then straight into another flight to British Columbia when we return from California. My gawd, I need a nap!

[Budsters Mom]

I'm so sorry to hear about your BIL's passing. Your poor sister has been through so much as it is.

((((((hugs))))))

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Sharlene, I am so sorry to read that you BIL has passed. Sending hugs to you and your family.

[Joan2517]

I'm so sorry for your loss, Sharlene.

[DoxieMama]

Oh, Sharlene. Sending you many hugs and condolences.

[spdd]

Geez Sharlene, so sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. My condolences to the whole family.

[mcdavis]

Sorry that I haven't been around for a while, thanks to a lingering flu thing and life being a bit busy, but have thought of you all often.
Sharlene, I know it's late, my condolences to you and your family. I'm so sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. I hope 2018 gives you the chance to relax a bit.

[Squirt's Mom]

Mc I'm just getting over the flu, too! It's a booger for sure! I hope you stay well and that your family doesn't get it.

[mcdavis]

I hope you're fully recovered soon Leslie. This year's flu does seem to be a particularly nasty one.

[molly muffin]

Flus, head colds, bronchitis, pneaumonia, this season just seems to be running through them all with ppl I know. I hope all of you are on the road to recovery and that is it for the rest of this year. We're going with positive reinforcement here.

Thanks Mc I worry for my sister but she seems to be handling things pretty well.

We're heading to ottawa this weekend for the winter party (cirque du soleil theme marianne) I have to go figure out what to wear from whatever is in my closet as no time to shop now.

[mcdavis]

Well I have to say that I'm pleased to see the end of January. It wasn't the best start to the year, so I'm currently taking the "things can only get better approach". Or I will be once I get rid of this flu thing :(

Keep an eye on your sister. I was always told that it was the third / fourth months after a death when reality really strikes, as immediately afterwards you have so many things to do, and it's around that time that people's help starts to dwindle.

You've just reminded me that we went to see the Cirque du Soleil ice show (Crystal) over Christmas and really enjoyed it. It was our first Cirque show so we had no idea what to expect, but after seeing it I'm not sure I'd want to see another one, although I would like to see that one again because there was so much going on that I'm sure we missed a lot of it.

[DoxieMama]

I hope you all recover from the flu! A coworker of mine passed away last month; she was sent home from work with the flu on Tuesday and Thursday we got the news she had died in her sleep. :( :(

Take care of yourselves!

[Squirt's Mom]

I am much better and thanks to you all for the well wishes! I finished the antibiotics (for a secondary infection in my lungs not the flu) day before yesterday and so far so good. When I have to go out I am wearing a mask and surgical gloves....and I'm not the only one in my town dressing so! ;) When I bring groceries home I take a Lysol wipe and wipe everything down before putting it away. I use hand sanitizer by the gallons, too! LOL I'm doing all I can to prevent a recurrence which seems to happen to a lot of folk this season.

Shana, I am so sorry about your co-worker! :( So many have lost the battle with these strains going around. In my home state, ARK, around 70 people have died and several children among that number.

I have to share my morning....I let the dogs out as usual and gave them time to do their business. My little Fox has dementia now and is mostly deaf and blind but she knows her way around her home really well in spite of that...tho she does get stuck behind things as typical with dementia. When she is finished doing her thang, she will come to the door and scream to come in. She never barked, she literally screams! :rolleyes::D It took me a few minutes to get to the door and let them in. Bud and Soph came romping in but no Fox. I looked thru the house in all Fox's hiding places in case she snuck by me but I didn't find her anywhere So I gave bites to the other two, put on my robe and went out in the yard to look for Fox, expecting to find her "trapped" somewhere. But no sign of her anywhere. So I dressed and went out looking more carefully and longer, in the fenced back yard and the front just in case she got out, which would be almost impossible but... - no sign. I walked the field looking for her thinking maybe a hawk picked her up tho it would take a big hawk to carry her AND there is a very small space where a bird would have access to my yard due to tree limb coverage. Not to mention Bud would have gone ballistic had a bird come down in the yard while he was out and he hadn't done that. But the thought was still there and I looked and looked for some sign of her. After about an hour I came back in and prepared to get in the car and go looking, thinking if a bird did get her it would have dropped her somewhere nearby. When I came out of my bedroom there she stood in the hall! I have no idea where she had been because I tore this house up looking for her but obviously missed her hidey-hole! SO I have been thoroughly awakened early and my heart has had a good workout already between panic and grief thinking of a bird having her. :) Little turd! :D

[labblab]

We're heading to ottawa this weekend for the winter party (cirque du soleil theme marianne) I have to go figure out what to wear from whatever is in my closet as no time to shop now.
Oooooooh, I’m dying to know what you and Daniel will end up wearing!!!! We went to the first few Cirque shows years ago and they were truly amazing. I’m sure they still are, but I got anxious about the “attack” clowns that started moving through the crowd and stealing things like glasses or hats or pushing people forward to be part of the show. I know that’s dumb and they probably don’t do that anymore anyway but it freaked me out! Anyway, hoping you’re having a great time and I can hardly wait to hear how you dressed up...:-)))))))

Marianne

[molly muffin]

Okay those kind of clowns would freak me out too!!! No thanks!
Went with black and bright sparkly cape over black dress and sparkle shoes. I was flashy for sure. Daniel did flashy in a black suit.
There was acrobatics, magicians, palm reader, different things. It was a lot of fun. There was a dress up photo booth too.

[Squirt's Mom]

Sounds like a blast, Sharlene!

[molly muffin]

So Daniel told me last night that we are going to a Disco Gala and I need a 70's disco outfit. I think that means sparkles and crazy colors?

I've been absent a bit from the forum, as I'm lead on a project that has me literally working night and day and operating on minimal sleep sometimes. Like 7 hours sleep in 72 hours earlier this week. Yowser. At one point at the office I said, that's it, I've fallen asleep in my cheerios and now my coffee mug. I have to go home and get some sleep before I work tonight. hahahahah Zombie sharlene is Not a pretty sight let me tell you.
This should be over around April, fingers crossed that it all goes okay and no more delays. Course I only found out about it about mid/end January so it's been a rush. I'm just basically venting at this point.
Heading upstairs to a bath, then cook dinner, then run some more work.

love you all!