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Desperate MouseWives
AKA
HarmyBoard LifeStyles

AKA Lifestyles of the Bitchy Mavens

This is the place where all HarmyBoarders can go to discuss or have fun with life issues ranging from diet to recipies to exercise to household tips to kid problems to love isssues.

This board is moderated the same as the HarmyBoard.

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• Weekly Fitness Check-In (redux). Is anyone interested in starting the weekly fitness check-in again? If so, I'm willing to start off the posts every Saturday. (inside.) -- Cece, 17:17:41 11/21/09 Sat [7]
  
  
  In 2005, I needed to lose around 40lbs, so I joined Weight Watchers (and I still go to the weekly weigh-ins and stay for the meetings every week unless I'm away.)
  
  It took me a year to reach my goal, and I lost 42lbs. I attribute my success in part, to the support from this board and the inspiration I took from other posters who were following their own fitness plans and checking in here every week.
  
  But now I find that I'm losing some control, and though I never miss a WW meeting if I can help it, I'm falling down on other important components of fitness, like exercising etc. I have gained 14 lbs since my lowest weight loss, though this week has been a peak week. For the most part, I've been hovering around 3lbs over my new goal weight.
  
  It may not seem like a lot, but all weight gains go up in small increments until the weight gets out of hand. I MUST lose 8lbs in the next few months. That may not seem like a lot, but I'm finding it darn near impossible. It was much easier to lose the original weight. So I'm starting again, as if I were a new WW member. I refuse to let this get the better of me.
  
  If any of you ARE interested in joining me here weekly, here's the deal:
  
  We do not dispense health and fitness advice. For any change in diet or excercise, please see your fitness and health professionals first. The purpose of this post will be to provide support and tips on keeping to our dietary plans and or fitness workouts etc, and to cheer each other on on the way to reaching our personal goals. Your goal may only be to maintain your health and fitness at your present level. Our goals will all be different.
  
  The focus is on personal FITNESS, whether that means losing or gaining weight, going to the gym, walking more, and or making healthier food choices. You can tell us as much or as little as you want. We won't preach or scold each other.
  
  My personal goal is to get my portions under control again, and to lose 8lbs. I hope to lose up to 2 lbs a week. I want to get fit as I head into my mid 60s (I'm 62 now.) I also want to add more frequent walks, and regular attendance atvfitness classes, (I'm already paying for Fitness World and I'm not using it. How daft is that?)
  
  So are you in?
  

  
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  • I've finally found an exercise regimen that I can do, that doesnt compromise my bones, gets me good cardio and doesnt expose me unnessessarily to any of the influenza's floating around out there. (No gyms or pools for me, my meds have affected my immune system so I have to be careful) I bought an AeroPilates machine and, for me, it really works. It reminds me of a Total Gym. I control my movements with a type of pulley system and the resistance is only as much as I can do without pain. INSIDE: -- mkim, 19:04:10 11/21/09 Sat
    • I'm so glad that machine is working well for you mkim. I'm not the brave one around here. You are. I do know that the fitter we are, the more chances of a successful operation. As you know, we are all pulling for you. As for my timing, what better time to get a start --before the temptations take us by surprise. Forewarned is forearmed. (NT) -- Cece...feeling that day one for me went pretty well., 23:36:09 11/21/09 Sat
  • I'll be ready to join come January. I'm pretty much within my preferred 5 lb range now but it is a sure bet that after this coming week at home (I leave tomorrow) and then another two at Christmas I will have plenty to lose come January. Yes, it is worth it to me. (NT) -- Carrotts, 23:59:56 11/21/09 Sat
  • I'm having a flux in my weight again up rather than down of course. So I'm in...goal is to walk more, watch portions and see pounds fall. I'll take all the support I can get. (NT) -- Christa, 05:49:00 11/22/09 Sun
  • I'm in. I might not always feel inclined to post but these threads in the past have given me encouragement to watch what I neat and exercise more. Maybe this is what I need to get back on the treadmill and stop drinking sodas again. (NT) -- usmgrad, 06:46:09 11/22/09 Sun
  • Well - I'm allergic to exercise - : ) - so that's out - LOL - but I have managed to lose 35 pounds since my highest weight after breaking my leg a few years ago. I have found the secret to maintaining my weight is weighing myself EVERY day- This will go long so I'll go inside with my monologue- : ) -- chris k, 06:48:18 11/22/09 Sun

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• Flat Stanley Project -- shippermom, 18:38:29 11/18/09 Wed [13]
  Can someone tell me where Flat Stanley is? I have lost track of him and my son has told me that he hasn't seen any postcards at school yet. I am just hoping that he hasn't gone rogue and fled the mailing list. lol Please let me know if you have him. Thank you
  

  
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  • Hasn't headed this way yet (NT) -- Katiegirl, 22:09:05 11/18/09 Wed
  • He hasn't been to south Mississippi yet (NT) -- usmgrad, 04:56:47 11/19/09 Thu
  • He's not been delivered to San Diego yet! (NT) -- jan, 05:30:52 11/19/09 Thu
  • Oh poor flat Stanley.....Hey you guys...dont let my nephew down!!!! : ) (NT) -- jagglebelle, 09:09:29 11/19/09 Thu
  • Stanley hasn't made it to Mars yet, either/ (NT) -- Martian Barb, 09:40:45 11/19/09 Thu
  • Not good news. I think I know who had him last and I will have to see where she mailed him. (NT) -- shippermom, 10:02:14 11/19/09 Thu
  • I'm not sure what you are talking about, but I have the sinking feeling that I have what you are looking for. Going now to check my email. (NT) -- Cece, 12:59:53 11/20/09 Fri
    • Nope I checked. I have some woman running around, (don't know why), but no Flat Stanley. (NT) -- Cece, 13:05:22 11/20/09 Fri
  • He was with me; I have just sent him off. I'm sorry I haven't replied sooner; I've been really swamped at work and haven't checked back here in a long time. I've dropped you an email. (NT) -- Colie, 01:55:15 11/21/09 Sat
  • Does your son need some postcards "up front" in advance of Flat Stanley's continued travels?? If you'll send the required address I'll send cards now and again with Stanley. (NT) -- jan, 10:21:17 11/21/09 Sat
  • AN IDEA: fun for us as well as letting shippermom and son track FS's journey: as it arrives to you, indicate FS has arrived in xxx. As you send him off, post that FS is on his way to xxx! Use one thread to track his journey around the world. ALSO = if anyone wants a San Diego postcard when FS's go with him, just email me your address. (NT) -- jan, 17:12:59 11/21/09 Sat
  • Ok, I have gotten a response and he is on his way to Valerie in New Jersey. If you just send the postcard and or pictures when you send him on to the next person that would work just fine. (NT) -- shippermom, 18:05:06 11/21/09 Sat

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• Put this on your Christmas list.... -- The Chief, 10:58:29 11/18/09 Wed [2]
  Remember when our old Buddy LU used to watch JAG eps while ironing, especially "Webb of Lies" because she could blame the steam on the iron?
  
  Here's another alternative....
  http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-Sexy-Handsome-Hunk-Ironing-Board-Clothes-Cover_W0QQitemZ200406638128QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2ea92a9e30
  

  
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  • This is a riot. NOW - who does the picture remind you of? smirk. (NT) -- jan, 19:18:51 11/21/09 Sat

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• I'm looking for advice on a travel destination. -- shygirl, 19:58:11 11/17/09 Tue [8]
  Hubby and I are thinking about a mid-winter get-away in early 2010. We're thinking warm and tropical -- Mexico or the Caribbean, perhaps. We took a cruise to the Bahamas for our honeymoon (Freeport, Nassau), so don't really look to repeat that. A beach locale would be nice, but we don't seek to spend entire days on the beach, so we're looking for other attractions, as well -- scenery, local history, etc. Suggestions?
  

  
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  • If you're willing to shell out a little, try places like Rarotonga, Samoa, American Samoa, or even the northern states of Australia. (NT) -- Katiegirl - I'd say New Zealand, but the weather probably wouldn't be much different., 20:28:46 11/17/09 Tue
  • First -how is hubby? I've been praying. Second- How about Costa Rica? Beaches, volcanoes, rain forest. I've only been to San jose but had a nice time and the beach shouldn't be too far a drive. Cartegena Colombia - Beaches, Old spanish walled city, old spanish fort - and it's never really suffered the political problems the rest of the country has in the past. Perhaps a cruise that hits several islands like barbados and curacao would be fun - St. maartens has two sides - dutch and french. I've done the bahamas thing for three days- the seven day five island cruise is much more interesting. (NT) -- chris k, 07:23:29 11/18/09 Wed
  • Why spend the $$ someplace outside of the US. Try Hawaii. Flights are cheap now and so are the hotel rooms. AND you don't need a passport!!! (NT) -- Dorothy in Houston, 07:25:37 11/18/09 Wed
  • There's a website called Cheap Caribbean -- they might be able to give you some help. My husband and daughter wnet to Costa Rica a couple years ago and loved it. inside -- mj, 07:31:46 11/18/09 Wed
  • still thinking - how about San Juan? big island - lots of history - shopping - sightseeing and beaches. (NT) -- chris k, 07:35:03 11/18/09 Wed
    • but don't make the mistake paul and I made - when I went with my mom decades ago we stayed at a hotel on the beach in town - when paul and I went we stayed at the conquistador resort - out in the bloody boondocks- didn't do any of the sightseeing I had thought we would - so If you pick a big island city like San Juan- stay at a hotel close to the old city- (NT) -- chris k, 07:36:28 11/18/09 Wed
      • let us know where you decide to go - (NT) -- chris k, 05:46:48 11/19/09 Thu

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• If you're feeling down, check out this cool, original artist -- Melissa Polinar. My husband, who has been so grumpy and pre-occupied lately, just sent me this -- see inside: -- mj, 08:58:42 11/17/09 Tue [1]
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIUX2OS2fY0&NR=1
  

  
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• Update on my Dad and a Question -- Valerie, 16:19:47 11/14/09 Sat [7]
  First of all my Dad saw the heart surgeon and was told he was a candidate for a new procedure for replacing his aortic valve. So we were encouraged. On further testing he can't have that procedure done after all. The doctor was going to discuss other options and get back to Daddy in the next week. Right now all of that is on the back burner.
  
  Last night we took Daddy to the hospital with a temp of 101.5. He'd been running a low grade fever off and on for a few days. My Mom called the doctor when Daddy told her that supper was ready and to come eat. It was 3:00 in the afternoon and he was in bed because he said he felt tired. He was also slurring his words. By the time we got to the ER his temp was 103. They admitted him to find out what was causing it. It turns out he has a blood infection. While they were doing tests to find out why, his blood pressure dropped and now he's in the ICU to monitor it. When we left tonight his temp was down and his bp was up. Not normal but getting better. The doctor said he will probably go back to a regular room Monday.
  
  My question is this; When he leaves the ICU and then the Hospital is it still ok to give the nurses something? Just to say thank you. I was thinking of baking cookies.
  

  
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  • Oh dear! I don't know about your etiquette question, but I'll certainly keep him and your family in my prayers! (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 16:41:09 11/14/09 Sat
  • Oh yes, it is ok to give the nurses something. They do get a lot of flowers and chocolates, so when my dh was in the cardiac ward last year, I asked the nurse what they liked getting. She said they love little teas, coffees, and hot chocolate packages. I went to an upscale tea and coffee merchant, and put together a basket of specialty teas, coffees, etc. However, you can't beat home made cookies, particularly chocolate chip. They would go well with the tea basket. (NT) -- Cece, 00:23:52 11/15/09 Sun
  • I worked 19 years in hospitals. Homemade goodies are like gold to the nurses and doctors and all of the hard-working staff. They really appreciate it. I will keep your father in my prayers -- sounds like he's rebounding well from a nasty infection. A loving family around him makes all the difference. (NT) -- mj, 01:17:24 11/15/09 Sun
  • Valerie, I will keep you in my prayers. And yes, I think something tasty for the nurses would be perfect! (NT) -- Jen, 15:03:46 11/15/09 Sun
  • As a nurse, we always get cookies or candy from patient's or their families. It really isn't necessary, but it it very much appreciated. It is nice to know that your patients and families appreciate what you are doing for their loved ones. (NT) -- Martian Barb who will keep your Dad in my prayers., 17:17:11 11/15/09 Sun
  • Homemade goodies and candy grams are great thank you gifts. We used to call it nurse bait. LOL When you set fresh cookies on the nurses station..all the nurses come running. (NT) -- TF, 12:40:34 11/17/09 Tue

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• My beautiful Mid-Atlantic coast.... -- mkim, 08:55:59 11/14/09 Sat [5]
  I guess the beaches from Virginia Beach, Va. to Nags Head, N.C. have really taken a pounding during the past week. I know there are other places that have really taken a hit too, but that whole area is precious to me.
  
  I saw a live report on the Weather Channel from Norfolk and I saw the Medical Tower, right across from Norfolk General, that I spent 2 years working in....about a hundred years ago.
  
  I'm a Hoosier by birth, but a big part of my heart belongs to Virginia.
  
  Hope all the Harmies out that way are faring well.
  

  
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  • We got 5+" of rain up here in the Piedmont, but then, everything runs downhill from here so we're good. Have we heard from Sunny?... she's in VA Beach. (NT) -- The Chief, 11:02:18 11/18/09 Wed
  • Hello from Virginia Beach, VA. Survived the Nov. Nor'easter -- thought the storm would never end! Wed - Sat yielded 8 to 12 ins. of rain around the city. My backyard looked like a lake! Today, I got the debris bagged and chopped up -- so far just from my yard: 19 yard bags. (And, I only have about 1/4 acre.) I don't envy the garbage men. We did loose power for about 30 hrs Thurs-Fri, however, with natural gas installed, I at least could cook and shower. We really lucked out this summer with no Hurricanes, so guess this was pay back compliments of Mother Nature. (NT) -- carramor, 17:47:23 11/18/09 Wed
    • I'm so glad you got through this storm ok and that the Hurricanes have given you a break this year. I remember that for so many years in a row, we taped the windows and hunkered down for the duration.(smile) (NT) -- mkim, 13:03:04 11/19/09 Thu
    • OMGosh! I lived in VA Beach and tehn Norfolk when I was stationed in Norfolk. What a deluge/flood! Glad you're okay. (NT) -- jan, 19:20:58 11/21/09 Sat

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• Bah, humbug -- I'm so MAD! I just got a 50 pound parking ticket (that's like $80) for being 4 minutes over my limit!!! I was rushing back to my car with all my grocery bags and the REASON I was late is because two cashiers at the tills were blabbing away to each other while checking their customers out, which, naturally, could easily slow them down by 5 or more minutes. inside for s'thing funny about it -- mj, 01:14:21 11/14/09 Sat [3]
  Anyway, I caught the meter man who had slapped the 'penalty charge' -- that's what it's called here -- on my windshiled to beg him to retract it! He was tall, dark, and handsome (and young, btw)and very very sweet and understanding and guess what his name was?! -- James David Elliott!!! LOL! That took the sting out A BIT! (only a very little bit as he didn't retract it because the 'pc' is immediately sent in to the police station by his blackberry and he would get caught 'fixing it', he said).
  

  
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  • Aww what a bummer MJ cool name though lol. (NT) -- Bev uk, 05:35:11 11/14/09 Sat
  • Maybe its just because I'm a Harmy girl...but 50 pounds made me think of 500 pound gorilla. LOL! Sorry about your bad day though. Parking tickets stink, no matter where you are. (NT) -- mkim, 08:45:46 11/14/09 Sat

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• Hello...just popping in to say hi ...Im back at home after some recovery at my parents house. Im doing pretty well...still some "plumbing" issues (lol) but I can live with it. Dont miss those monthly blues....yeah! -- jagglebelle, 10:50:16 11/08/09 Sun [11]
  
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  • Glad you're back!! (NT) -- Buckiles, 12:00:12 11/08/09 Sun
  • Welcome home, jagglebelle! We'll be looking for your posts now! Glad things are looking up. (NT) -- Lee, 13:48:50 11/08/09 Sun
  • So good to hear you're recovering! Feel better/fully recovered, soon. (NT) -- jan, 17:09:11 11/08/09 Sun
  • So you are still a "pain" in the butt? LOL Love ya Sis. (NT) -- shippermom, 08:34:21 11/09/09 Mon
    • Hey! you brat....lol (NT) -- JB, 10:32:38 11/09/09 Mon
  • lovely to hear you are feeling much better! (NT) -- mj, 11:58:12 11/09/09 Mon
  • Good to see you back JB! Don't forget to scroll down and check out your birthday post on the HB. (NT) -- Cece, 08:54:03 11/10/09 Tue
  • Glad to hear youre doing better, jb. (NT) -- mkim, 11:02:14 11/10/09 Tue
  • Thanks for the update. Good to hear you're doing well. (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 20:40:06 11/11/09 Wed
  • Glad to know you're back and doing well, jabblebelle. (NT) -- Cookie, 18:20:53 11/13/09 Fri

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• Random question -- Theresa, 09:50:06 11/03/09 Tue [43]
  What did you want to be when you grew up?
  

  
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  • I grew up in a small town in pre-liberation times when women had traditional occupations. What I wanted to be - incredibly - was a minister, but women ministers as I was growing up were a novelty & discounted. Bobby Kennedy's campaign & death made me politically active & started me on jobs in government & the nonprofit world. I then wanted to go to law school, but never had confidence in my ability to do that. Today my daughter is minoring in women's studies & knows she can follow any career path (though she still may not receive equal pay for equal work). (NT) -- Araninda. . .on her soapbox, 11:29:46 11/03/09 Tue
  • I wanted to be a kindergarten teacher, but ended up being a labor and delivery nurse! Not sure how that changed, but lots of times wish I had gone to school for elementary education. (NT) -- Martian Barb...excited because I DID deliver a baby today. Sometimes there are some feel good perks to this job., 14:21:45 11/03/09 Tue
  • I'm one of those lucky folks who is doing exasctly what I wanted to do when I was a child. I have been teaching elementary music for the past 26 yrs, and loving (just about) every minute of it! (NT) -- Greta, 15:08:07 11/03/09 Tue
  • I wanted to be an actress, to travel around the world, to be someone's Mummy, and to marry someone who was either a field geologist, archeologist, or animal biologist on African safaries. (NT) -- Cece, 15:11:03 11/03/09 Tue
  • Hmm - while reading Nancy Drew, I wanted to be a "sleuth." When I read "Sue Barton" I wanted to be a nurse. Then I discovered languages and wanted to be a foreign correspondent or a diplomat. Then I actually became an international banker - and ran straight back to school to become the one thing I always swore I'd never do - become a teacher. (NT) -- Ann, 17:41:59 11/03/09 Tue
  • I, like Mac, wanted a good man, a great career and lots of comfortable shoes. I thought about being a detective or an attorney. I wound up in accounting. I needed action like Harm and Mac, so I taught 5th & 6th graders for 3 years, hated the principal, so now I do Human Resources in a small business with 160 people! I have delivered pizzas, delivered papers, delivered the mail. I work until 4:30 so I can go running or cycling, I lost my good man, the love of my life after 21 years and I have lots and lots of comfortable shoes! (NT) -- Jen, 17:49:13 11/03/09 Tue
  • A music teacher, I was influenced by a very special junior high music teacher. Unfortunately by the time I went to college there were so many other choices I ended up with a business degree. Now instead of a classroom, I work in the school district finance office. I have two daughters that teach, guess they are fulfilling Mom’s dream! (NT) -- usmgrad, 18:59:48 11/03/09 Tue
  • Like Greta, I too knew exactly what I wanted to be when I grew-up...married to a wonderful man (27 yrs.+), 3 kids, 3 dogs, 2 cats, and a career as a Medical Technologist; working in a large hospital in the Blood Bank Dept crossmatching blood for patients in surgery, L&D, and Oncology. I guess you could say I got it all !!! (NT) -- Cokie, 19:23:44 11/03/09 Tue
  • Well, like so many little girls at one point or another, I wanted to be a teacher. Now that's the LAST thing I'd want to do! LOL I actually wanted to be a lot of different things, but the two that came up the most were beautician and architect. Talk about two totally different professions! LOL (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda)--who ended up an accountant., 19:41:48 11/03/09 Tue
  • First...I wanted the heck out of my house!!! LOL! It wasnt terrible, dont get me wrong but I was just bustin' to get the heck out of my little town. I wanted to be married, I was a dreamy eyed romantic, but as far as career ambitions, I just didnt get them until I had already gotten married and found out what it was like to work your a** off for minimum wage. That will sent you off to college, in a heartbeat. (NT) -- mkim Who woulda thunk it...I ended up a Harmygirl.(smile), 22:05:35 11/03/09 Tue
  • I wanted to become a nun. (NT) -- mj, 01:40:03 11/04/09 Wed
    • ooh - I'd forgotten around fifth grade I thought of becoming a nun too - don't think it lasted long though. (NT) -- chris k, 06:32:48 11/06/09 Fri
  • I always wanted to be a doctor. I remember when I was very young watching the TV shows 'Marcus Welby, M.D.' and 'Medical Center' with Dr. Joe Ganon. I turned around & asked my mother if girls could be doctors too. She answered, "Yes, of course, you can be anything you want to be," and that was that! The funny thing is, when I was a pediatric resident, several of my 'female' colleagues had kids. Someone asked one of the 'sons' if he wanted to be a doctor like his mom. His response was, "Nooo! Boys can't be doctors, only girls can!" LOL, his pediatrician was... -- doc, 06:22:45 11/04/09 Wed
    • my daughter has been thinking of being a doctor for years - pediatrician but it's only taken less than one semester of chemistry and caluclus at Texas A&M and bunch of premed meetings to convince her she doesn't want to struggle through 7 1/2 more years of school and apparently the thought of being on call 24/y7 didn't sit well with her - i guess she thought pediatricians were a 9-5 deal - shrug. I know she wants a family of her own- I think that's the conflict. (NT) -- chris k, 06:35:15 11/06/09 Fri
      • sad thing is I think she'd be really really good at it - but she inherited just a bit too much of her mother's social butterfly genetics. : ) - She's also never had a C in her life and I think it's scaring her that hard as she tries, she can't get the grades up. (NT) -- chris k, 06:36:54 11/06/09 Fri
  • An actress. A favored, talented, admired, stunning actress. Then I grew up, realized I wasn't stunning, and pursued other things. But a part of me will always want to be an actress. Stand on a stage, in bright lights, in front of an audience held captive by the power of my words and my play, taken away from their everyday hassles for a few magical hours... *sigh* :-) (NT) -- Colie, 07:39:52 11/04/09 Wed
    • Oddly enough, I remember you doing just that on stage last year at a work extravaganza! You are an actress in your heart. People in show business asked if you had been in show business, and I seem to remember you being complimented about being "stunning" from the woman that all the guys were staring at. You lived the dream, at least for a little while. (NT) -- Theresa, 18:46:33 11/04/09 Wed
      • *blush* Thank you. (NT) -- Colie, 01:07:56 11/05/09 Thu
    • You could be talking about me, Colie. I'd be quite happy if it were All About Me, Me, Me standing in the spotlight after making an audience of thousands, sob with emotion at my brilliant performance. (NT) -- Frustrated, wannabe thespian, Cece, 18:48:02 11/04/09 Wed
  • A doctor. That was the thing to say when I was a child. You like science? You must want to be a doctor. Oh, okay. (NT) -- Carrotts, 10:18:46 11/04/09 Wed
  • I never could decide. I started college as a "fashion design" major, switched to Elem. Ed. after one year, and was cured of those notions by my student teaching. ::shudder:: Now that I'm older, if I could go back, I'd pick either law or archaeology. (or "Harm's official shirt-tucker-inner") (NT) -- The Chief, 18:54:13 11/04/09 Wed
    • I vote for Harm's shirt tucker inner - hmm inner shirt tucker - lol (NT) -- chris k, 06:29:32 11/06/09 Fri
  • Despite my love of Dr. Kildare and Marcus Welby MD, I was never seriously deterred from my childhood choice of law. I grew up on Nancy Drew, Perry Mason, every series police and legal procedural, who-dun-it, etc. I've been so lucky ...I wanted to be a criminal trial lawyer and the Navy made me one. No regrets. (NT) -- jan, 20:13:36 11/04/09 Wed
  • I decided while I was in high school that I wanted to teach kindergarten, and that's what I've been doing for 24 years now. I really feel like this is "where I belong", but some days, like today, I certainly wish I had chosen a different career. I think every year there has to be that one student that seems to be put on earth just to see how much he/she can fustrate the teacher. This has been a rough week! The rest of my students are great. (NT) -- Lanet, 16:36:48 11/05/09 Thu
    • Lanet: That is LOL funny, because this week has made me wonder why I teach elem. Muisc! I think the full moon has been a factor... (NT) -- Greta, 04:07:35 11/07/09 Sat
  • I'm having way too much fun now. I don't into to grow up, just grow older. (NT) -- Katiegirl, 01:22:44 11/06/09 Fri
    • Seriously. I always wanted to be a lawyer, but that didn't happen and I find myself happy as a mum and a part time swim teacher for under 5's (serious business when no matter where you live, you are only 90 mins from a beach), and board member for our Kindergarten Association. Guess in the end it was all about the kids. (NT) -- Katiegirl, 01:28:46 11/06/09 Fri
  • A lawyer - but by the time I graduated college the last thing I ever wanted to see again was another classroom - never mind three years of law school- Probably the first key mistake I ever made. If it's an option when we get to heaven, I'd like to know what my life would have been like had I made two different choices: 1. gone to law school 2. not dated my husband (NT) -- chris k, 06:27:45 11/06/09 Fri
    • Instead my economics degree and I went to work on fifth avenue in NY for a British Home furnishsing designer then drove cross country only never made it passed Dallas - Managed an Art Gallery - Got married, had babies became a full time mom who managed her husbands window cleaning business on the side and ten years ago I wound up owning an Industrial window cleaning supply company and just this week I got my real estate license - (NT) -- chris k, 06:43:38 11/06/09 Fri
  • I thought I wanted to be a veterinarian living in Colorado with my own horses. As it turned out, I'm squeamish about blood, hate the cold and snow, and am not much of a "pet person." Go figure! (NT) -- shygirl, 19:52:23 11/06/09 Fri
    • Oh yeah. I wanted to be a veterinarian at one point too. But I know I wouldn't be able to put animals to sleep unless it were medically necessary. My mom knows a man who said he and his wife always put their dogs to sleep when they turn 12, regardless of whether they are healthy or not. I couldn't be a vet with customers like that. No way. (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 22:45:07 11/06/09 Fri
      • That's awful. I'm surprised they can find a vet to do it. The only time I've ever heard a vet suggest putting a dog to sleep it was because the dog was extremely old and in horrific pain. (NT) -- Ann, 08:15:54 11/07/09 Sat
        • That I can understand. It gets to a point where it is just better to put them to sleep to stop the suffering. But anything less than that and I couldn't do it. (NT) -- JJ (Ronda), 11:46:05 11/07/09 Sat
  • I wanted to be the greatest lover of all time! No kidding! Totally wanted to be Don Juanita! Go figure I'm now single. My ambitions are slipping away!!! LOL! ;-) (NT) -- Theresa, 22:10:26 11/06/09 Fri
    • Oh and for an occupation, I wanted to be a freelance photo journalist and sell my photos to National Geographic and Time and Life Magazines. (NT) -- Theresa, 22:31:56 11/06/09 Fri
    • Don't they say women hit their sexual peak in the 40s? You still have time to meet your goal. LOL I'm sure you'll have no trouble finding men who will help you determine if you can claim that title. Haha! (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 22:42:52 11/06/09 Fri
    • Oh, no doubt -- with the whole emphasis, on 'cougars' today, you could probably 'practice' quite alot, with young, virile, studly subjects before you fulfill a very do-able life ambition! But be very picky -- very very picky!! (NT) -- mj, 02:38:02 11/07/09 Sat
      • Can I be qualified as a Cougar at 33? If so, that's scary!!! Not too huge on playing the field because I am very very very picky! Rule 1, no mindless idiots who can't think for themselves! (NT) -- Theresa, 11:12:01 11/07/09 Sat
        • You are NOT a cougar -- you're just getting started! You probably know now what you really want in a relationship, even if, and especially perhaps, after coming out of one that didn't work. I married for the first and only time when I was 31 y.o. and the only reason I didn't marry the guy who I gave 5 years of my life to, prior to meeting my husband, is because he dilly-dallied around and left me hanging all the time. In my utter stupidity, I would have married him weeks after we met if he would have asked me. inside -- mj, 12:57:05 11/07/09 Sat
  • When I was little I wanted to be like my mom. She has been a homemaker all her life, except for one year when my big sister was little. And then only because of money issues. When I was a teenager I wanted to become either a police officer or helicopter pilot. Now I'm a stay-at-home mom of 3, jewelry designer - if you want to call it that ( I was the first person - as far as I know - that makes hand stamped jewelry in Germany) - and sometimes translate for a sewing pattern company and a machine embroidery design company. No big advantures, but not a boring life either ;O) (NT) -- Chris (Germany), 00:23:11 11/08/09 Sun
  • At 62, I've realised that life takes you to places you never thought of, whether you like it or not. I stopped planning many years ago, and now just try to be as decent a person as I can. I can't change the past, and I don't waste my life waiting for what the future will bring. As for marriage, I've been married to one man for 33 yrs, and we've been together since we met 41 yrs ago (Dec. 68.) (insde) -- Cece...trying to think of life as an adventure, though it's hard at times., 00:52:33 11/15/09 Sun
    • Excellent outlook Cece! I completely agree! (NT) -- Theresa, 18:42:23 11/16/09 Mon

  ---

• Can meopause affect your creativeness? -- usmgrad, creatively stuck in neutral, 08:44:41 11/01/09 Sun [12]
  I have all the usual symptons irratability (okay bitchy - this one has actually come in handy at work lately, however my co-workers would disagree), hot flashes (and I wasn't even looking at Harm), mood swings (like a pendulum) but I also am suffering from writers block. Can I blame this on menopause? And is there a cure? (for the writers block). Is there hope for me?
  
  Maybe I have to wait until I come out on the other side. What's on the other side? Is it fun? Will I care? Sometimes I think this is worse than being a teenager with zits. Maybe I need an intervention. Ten hours of Harm, maybe that will do the trick. The Saints don't play until tomorrow night so I have all afternoon with nothing to do.
  
  Is rambling a sympton of menopuase? If not I think I'm in real trouble.
  

  
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  • From your very witty post, I'd say that your creative juices are still flowing...pun intended. LOL However, to look on the bright side, those other juices will stop flowing, and you'll think that you're in heaven! Welcome to the trouble free world of no more tampons and no more pads. As far as I'm concerned, life doesn't get any better than that! (NT) -- Lee, 16:12:54 11/01/09 Sun
    • See that's what has me in a quandry - that flow stopped a few years ago when I had the my "innards" removed (eggs were left in place). So I really don't know if I am or not. Can only go by the symptons. It's like I'm going through life blind at the moment. (NT) -- usmgrad, 17:31:13 11/01/09 Sun
  • I think I have officially now entered 'post-menopause' PHYSICALLY as 'it' has stopped for about 1 11/2 years, although, in medical circles, they tell me it should be 2 years. Anyhow, usmgrad, I think there's also a whole lot of EMOTIONAL and, perhaps, psychological effects with the hormonal changes that can take years before they settle down -- much like when menses first starts and regardless of whether you've had surgical removal of reproductive organs. In fact, IMO, those women that have had partial or total removals have even MORE funky things happening (inside) -- mj, 02:40:28 11/02/09 Mon
    • okay you had me going for a minute with the "more funky things happenings" but what you've said has made sense. -- usmgrad, 04:59:41 11/02/09 Mon
  • I had one extreemly bitchy sister (55) who has come out on the other side. She's tolerable now. The second sister (53) just looks up from time to time and asks in a woeful voice "is it hot in here?" Mom didn't know when she crossed over (crossed over? LOL!), when she had her innards removed her doctor told her that because she exercises she wouldn't have any symptoms... so she didn't. I have told myself that I shall take after my mother. I'll turn 49 in December. Hold on world! (NT) -- Carrotts, who was never creative so I can't help ya there, 10:47:14 11/03/09 Tue
    • Carrotts....YOU not creative??? Yagottabekiddingme! Yes, I know you are a scientist, but as a materials engineer, you have got to think creatively. Also, you are a very creative and funny poster, particularly in the longer posts I've read. (Inside on the Big M.) -- Cece, 12:44:03 11/03/09 Tue
      • There are times that I don't have much interest in doing anything. But then there are times like this last weekend that really scare me, all I wanted to do was clean! I mean am I sick or what? But my house is clean! I am hoping it is a temporary thing because I was really enjoying being creative. But I'll watch it. (NT) -- usmgrad, 18:29:23 11/03/09 Tue
    • So Carrotts what your saying is if I exercise I might avoid all this? Gee that's a tough one, exercise or be bitchy. If there was a vote I'd be at the gym at least an hour a day if not longer. I think I might have to dust off the ole treadmill and give it a go. I do like to watch Harm as I walk away the pounds! (unfortunately those pounds just come back later) (NT) -- usmgrad, 18:32:57 11/03/09 Tue
      • Well mom was/is an uber-ererciser. I just work out. She used to run marathons and crap. Now her knees are bad and she can't run but she still walks 8 - 10 miles a day. Usually, if my destination is over a city block away I'm taking the car. (NT) -- Carrotts, but everyone can write their thoughts - Cece, 09:49:23 11/05/09 Thu
  • Mine just crept up on me. I had to have a… (inside) -- doc, 07:01:09 11/04/09 Wed
  • Life after menopause sets in -- highplainswoman, 01:11:53 11/06/09 Fri

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• Kidneys -- Theresa, 00:47:56 10/28/09 Wed [19]
  Anyone here ever given or recieved a kidney in transplant? I may need to donate to my mother sometime soon. She's got Lupus that has given her kidney failure. Any advice or experiences to share? This comes at a very difficult time in my life as I'm in the midst of divorcing. Any tips on keeping up my health and reducing stress to stay healthy for this?
  

  
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  • Oh, Theresa, I don't know anything about that, but I will definitely keep you and your mother in my thoughts and prayers! (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda)--Do you know if you're a match?, 03:43:51 10/28/09 Wed
  • I know nothing about kidney transplants, other than my niece has been on the waiting list for a long time, (she had early onset type 1 diabetes which has taken its toll over the years.) I believe that you can live a healthy life with one kidney. But it is my personal belief that a young mother, with dependent children, should not take that risk , particularly when she has had other health risk factors in the past. They need you more than an adult parent.. (inside) -- Cece, 09:46:45 10/28/09 Wed
    • My mom would fight me on this yes Cece, as much as I know she would hav saved her own mother that way, or any way she could. Would I allow my kids to give me a kidney? Depends on the options, and what would hurt them more. Giving me a kidney, or standing and watching me die when they know they could have saved me bcause I refused to accept their gift. Hmmmm... (NT) -- Theresa, 23:05:45 10/28/09 Wed
  • Theresa sorry I don't have any advice but my thoughts arer with you and your mother. I'm here if you need anything. (NT) -- Hope, 13:01:47 10/28/09 Wed
  • You must truly be suffering right now, Theresa, and I will lift your worries up to THAT which transcends pain and what you can't bear. You MUST get professional advice re: your suitability as a kidney donor. Normally, there is a team in place at the hospital who can do the physiological testing (match, etc), but also counsel you on whether this is the right, overall, decision, for you and your Mom. Meanwhile, you must stay healthy -- eat a nutrionally balanced diet -- you might need a basic good multi vitamin/mineral supplement, cont'd -- inside -- mj, 15:12:41 10/28/09 Wed
  • Theresa, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s situation as well as what you are going through. I echo the advice given by others, and add a bit of insight from my family’s experience. I have a sister and a brother who each has had a kidney transplant. First of all, is your mom already on dialysis? While dialysis is certainly not fun to go through, it does typically give a person time – and gives you time to think about possibly being a donor. (Inside) -- lisa, 18:32:13 10/28/09 Wed
  • Dear Theresa- I am so sorry to hear about your mom & the divorce- I have no first hand knowledge on transplants but will keep her and your family in my prayers. (NT) -- kleigh, 19:59:19 10/28/09 Wed
    • Theresa, I'm sorry to hear of all this. I didn't realize you were going through divorce proceedings, or how ill your Mom is. I wish I could offer info on the kidney issue, but I only know what's been said here- and that's how you must be a match and go through testing to see how many "markers" you have that would match up. Kidney surgery is is major, and would not be fun to recover from-especially while raising young children. Do you have siblings? If so, are they willing to be donors if they match? (NT) -- Matou/Carol, 07:06:25 10/29/09 Thu
      • (cont'd) Lots I don't know, obviously, but there is lots to consider & think about, so don't rush into anything until you find out if there is another viable solution out there first. I'm not saying you wouldn't hesitate to be there for your Mom, but it's also possible a better match is available from another person- it's been known to happen. Take care- I'll be praying for all of you. (NT) -- Matou/Carol, 07:07:32 10/29/09 Thu
        • Thank you Matou. I have 5 siblings, all of which have children, all of which are willing to do what I'm willing to do for Mama. She gave us life, there's no way we won't return the favor if we possibly can. I have her blood type, that's the first step. Don't know how many of my siblings have it too. (NT) -- Theresa, 08:22:32 10/29/09 Thu
          • Five siblings sounds like an excellent support group- that's important - as for keeping stress down - Reading helped me with my ulcers - getting lost in a good book makes me forget everything including the thigns that stress me - Don't know how much help that will be- but I'll be praying for you (NT) -- chris k, 20:13:35 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa Sorry I can't give you any advice but I will be praying for you and your mom. (NT) -- Valerie, 09:13:08 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa- I'm so sorry for all you are going through right now. I don't have any advice to offer-- but you have all my support. (NT) -- love-manette, 09:25:08 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa, I will add you to my prayers, sending hugs your way (NT) -- Jen, 11:15:02 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa, I'm sorry to know your family is dealing with so much. My BIL had a kidney transplant last year. He was on dialysis for some time prior to finding a donor. Like lisa's family, this person, no relation to him felt spititually led to help and was a 100% match. ...Inside: -- mkim, 17:57:31 10/29/09 Thu
    • Interesting! Okay thank you Mkim! (NT) -- Theresa, 18:13:44 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa, my heart goes out to you and the family. I know absolutely nothing about transplants, but I do know how to send up prayers for others. I sincerely wish you success with the decision making -- do think of your children, especially now that your home has been split..... (NT) -- carramor, 19:43:22 10/29/09 Thu
  • Theresa, you and your mom are in my thoughts. Just want to let you know that my brother-in-law got a kidney from a deceased stranger. The kidney is functioning fine after 20+ years. Take care of yourself! (NT) -- Sunset, 18:42:28 11/02/09 Mon

  ---

• I Need My Friends Now, Please.... -- Matou/Carol, 17:19:44 10/24/09 Sat [27]
  Dear God, I don't know how much more my heart can take. This morning I had to make the decision to have my beloved cat,Beau,(the original Matou) put to sleep. He was 18 and in seemingly good health until Thursday evening. While posting to my beautiful birthday post that night , I observed he was having some trouble (litterbox) and rushed him to the Vet hospital. He would not let them examine him (combative) and they had to sedate him. the next day he had two seizures- one while I was holding him in my arms. It's possible he may have suffered a stroke or had a tumor, we'll never know for sure. I just know that after the sedation, things went downhill from there. I feel like *I* killed him. First my Mom, and now this. Thank God she wasn't here to see the loss of her "boy". My other cat (10 years old) doesn't understand what's happened to his "brudder". It's breaking my heart. I don't mean to push down Valerie's post, and Valerie you certainly have my deepest sympathies- I certainly have an inkling as to what you are feeling/going through. I've cried a river, and feel so overwhelmed- please- can anyone help me make sense of this? I'm so tired of losing everone....
  

  
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  • Matou I am so sorry to hear about your cat. I am new to the HB but no stranger to losing beloved critters and loved ones. I am sending a hug your way and a hug from The Schucrew! (NT) -- Jen, 18:11:56 10/24/09 Sat
  • OH Matou! I feel your pain, and we're all right there with you. You didn't do anything but love Beau. Don't beat yourself up, sometimes there are things we just can't control. (NT) -- Theresa, 18:12:56 10/24/09 Sat
  • I'm so sorry Matou. It seems sometimes that bad times in our lives come in waves, never really one thing at a time with recovery time in between. Its wonderful that you had your Beau for 18 years and its also wonderful that he had you. I have never met you but from your posts and what others know of you, you are a kind and loving person, that kept a keen eye on your pets. Please dont blame yourself. I think animals by their natures conceal pain and discomfort and there is no way you could have known.....Inside: -- mkim, 18:26:42 10/24/09 Sat
    • They're right, Matou. It's so hard to lose them, but you did what you needed to do. It's small consolation, but it is a nice long life for a kitty. And I know he was very loved. Hugs. (NT) -- CM>^.,.^<, 06:38:47 10/27/09 Tue
  • Awwwww, Matou --- I'm so sorry. It's so hard to lose our furbabies. You r cat was clearly much loved and though it's small consolation, 18 years is a nice long life. I'm sure your vet told you taht there was nothing either of you could have done. Hug your other cat .... cry into his fur (I've been there/done that) . Let yourself grieve .... but don't do the self-recrimination thing. You have nothing to beat yourself up over. Remember the love. Take care. {{{{{hugs}}}}} (NT) -- MichelleB, 19:01:08 10/24/09 Sat
  • Matou my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know it feels like your world will end when you lose loved ones. I don't want to sound flippant but would it help to think of your Beau and my Johnnie together at the Rainsbow Bridge. (NT) -- Valerie, 19:17:02 10/24/09 Sat
  • So sorry to hear about that! Such bad timing! I guess the old saying is true - when it rains, it pours. 18 yrs is a nice long life. Many animals never make it that long, even the well cared for ones. It doesn't sound like there was anything you could have done, so Theresa is right, don't beat yourself up over this. Count it as a blessing that this happened fairly quickly. If you hadn't put him down, you would have had to watch him suffer even longer, and then you would have been guilty about that. It's a tough call, but I think you made the right choice. (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 20:24:02 10/24/09 Sat
  • I am SO sorry to hear your sad news, Matou, and I know your pain. I want you to know that my vet always tells me that when an animal lives longer than ten years, it is a testament to our loving, caring ways and each year is a true extra blessing. The hardest part for all of us is to say good bye, but just accept that he gave all he could give and he is now at rest. Cherish the other "brudder" and keep the memories of Beau in your heart. (NT) -- jenks-sending lots of hugs your way, 20:47:41 10/24/09 Sat
  • oh sweetie - 18 is a rich ripe old age for a cat - and to have been in good health up to the end meant you took darn good care of him - don't be fooled into blaming yourself. You can't stop the cycle of life - when you've calmed down I suggest you go with the younger kitty to the animal shelters and find a sweet dispositioned cat to keep him company and ease his loss and confusion. It will make you feel just a little better if you're not worrying about the younger kitty - (NT) -- chris k - who wishes she could do more for you, 20:52:18 10/24/09 Sat
  • Oh Matou, I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty. I know how devestating it is to lose a beloved pet. My favorite, Felicia, died at 20. My thoughts are with you. (NT) -- love judi, 00:55:03 10/25/09 Sun
  • Matou, my heart goes out to you. Losing a family member (either human or non), is (NT) -- Greta, 11:43:23 10/25/09 Sun
  • Sending a BIG hug your way. (NT) -- Buckiles, 12:41:50 10/25/09 Sun
  • I'm sending warm and sympathetic thoughts your way on the loss of your beloved family member...because they really are family members, in every way. We may be in a similar situation soon with our dog, also 18. It's a tough decision, but pain and fear are impossible to explain to an animal--we can only help them past it when it won't get any better. (NT) -- Deemus, 13:56:26 10/25/09 Sun
  • Aw my sympathy to both Carol and Valerie for yor losses (NT) -- Bev uk, 15:12:09 10/25/09 Sun
  • Oh Carol, I feel so bad for you. Everyone is right. You gave your little guy a wonderful life and it is so much better that he didn't suffer long. I, like so many others here, have lost beloved pets, and it's always so painful. Ever since I've known you, I've heard about Beau. Take care sweetie, and remember, you have us here at the HB. (NT) -- Cece, 17:51:40 10/25/09 Sun
  • I'm so sorry for you . Sending you warmest hugs to you. (NT) -- Laurence, 04:16:25 10/26/09 Mon
  • So sorry you are suffering so much! Hope time can ease your pain somewhat. Remember all the joy and fun your little furry friend gave you and take care. (NT) -- mj, 12:23:25 10/26/09 Mon
  • I'm so sorry to hear about your loss, Matou. I know how hard it is to lose someone you love, and to those of us with no "2-legged" children, these 4-leggers are our children. I'll be sure to send special thoughts so my Maddie-girl meets him on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. (NT) -- doc, Lizzie & Frances sending hugs, 16:07:01 10/26/09 Mon
  • Matou-- I've been gone so I'm just now reading this- and I want to say how sorry I am that you lost your kitty. We lost our 18 year old cat last year and it is an awful thing to go through. But I also know any kitty of yours would know how much you loved him. (NT) -- He was lucky to have you! All my love--manette, 13:37:19 10/28/09 Wed
  • My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you. Having gone through a similar situation, I know how much it hurts and how deeply you miss your beloved pet. It sounds like you did everything you could for him and that he had a long life in a caring home. Even though you may not think so now, but time does heal. May your found memories of him help you through this difficult time. (NT) -- ED, 14:53:52 10/28/09 Wed
    • I just wanted to stop in a moment and say "Thank-You" to all of you here that took the time to post your thoughts, prayers, and condolences on the loss of my beloved "baby" Beau. I brought his cremains home this week, and feel like he's at least "here" with me in some way. I can't tell you what your support has meant to me- it has truly helped. To those of you who have lost pets recently- my sincerest sympathies. I guess the best thing to do is celebrate how lucky we were to have them in our lives, and not dwell on what may have happened to them had we not adopted them. Again- Bless you all. (NT) -- Matou/Carol, 06:54:55 10/29/09 Thu
      • Matou, I didnt mean to draw your focus away from what Beau was to you. I only meant to allieviate your concern that you'd done anything wrong and that, in fact, you'd been good to your pet. I'm sorry. (NT) -- mkim I hope things get better for you and yours., 18:15:37 10/29/09 Thu
        • mkim- please don't apologize! You have *nothing* to be sorry for! I honestly never took your original post for anything but what you intended. So please, don't worry. I really did *appreciate* all that you posted. (NT) -- Matou/Carol, 18:14:48 10/30/09 Fri
      • Matou, I have the cremains of four of my babies here. I'm sure there will be at least three others. My plan is to have them buried with me and the funeral director has already been advised, accepted my request and that's that. We'll always be together. (NT) -- jenks, 20:20:42 10/29/09 Thu
        • Hey, jenks- You and I have the same plans. Beau and my parents. (NT) -- Matou/Carol, 18:19:45 10/30/09 Fri
  • Matou, my heart goes out to you. I cannot imagine the impact of loosing two very important yet very different entities -- especially so close together. I am adding my condolences to all these thoughts and prayers and hope they will help you find some comfort. Chris K's suggestion is a great idea -- but at your pace. (NT) -- Carramor, 20:27:25 10/29/09 Thu

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• I have (or should I say had) two cats. My beloved Johnnie passed away in her sleep last night. She wasn't that old, almost 5. We knew she had feline leukemia, but this was unexpected. Frankie keeps going to where her box was and has been clingy. Part of me wants to run out and get another cat right away. Another part says wait. I've never had two animals at the same time before, so we haven't dealt with this. Do you think Frankie would resent another cat? If I do get another cat, should it be older or a kitten? Frankie is two but very usually very playful. I need some opinions. -- Valerie, 14:15:07 10/23/09 Fri [15]
  
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  • First, I'm so sorry for your loss. We have a similar situation, now. We had two schnauzers until last December when we lost our Oscar to cancer. Bunny, (Yes...we named our dog Bunny) had a very hard time, it took months, really, for her to get back to being her old fiesty self, but she is back. She got lots of long walks and extra cuddling.. The funny thing was.......Inside: -- mkim, 15:13:03 10/23/09 Fri
  • I too am so sorry for your loss Valerie. Inside -- Laurence ( it's 01:04 a.m here ), 16:06:15 10/23/09 Fri
  • So sorry you have lost a pet. That's always hard! Give everyone (including Frankie) time to heal. I say get a kitten when you're ready. Frankie is still pretty young. And if he's playful like you say, he will enjoy having someone to play with. If you get an older cat, he might feel threatened. Cats can be territorial when you introduce newcomers. But he would probably accept a kitten oretty quickly. (NT) -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 17:28:31 10/23/09 Fri
  • I'm so sorry Valerie. The loss of a little pet is so painful. Some people want to get another pet right away, but we are all different. As for your other cat, I've read that it helps if the remaining animal sees the body of their pal. That way they understand and it helps them. Check out the internet to see what you can find out about what's best for the kitty. (NT) -- Cece, 18:20:59 10/23/09 Fri
  • We lost a cat recently too (very unexpected) -leaving a 3 year old cat behind. They were extremely close. About the same time, a stray cat we'd been feeding had kittens. We ended up keeping 3 of them, and now Wally is getting used to them. It 's taking time, but I think he'll adjust. He liked to take care of the other cat, so I think that's what he'll end up doing. (NT) -- Lanet, 15:44:33 10/24/09 Sat
  • So sorry to hear about your critter. When I lost my husband and best friend of 21 years, I soon lost my cat of 16 years, and my other cat lost his best friend of 12 years. He was lost and soon came to snuggle with me, and that is how it has been for almost 3 years and he is now 14. Just follow your heart and your cat. I know you will do the right thing. Do you know the Rainbow Bridge poem? It is awesome! Link at the end of my post. My new favorite saying to all who travel to the Rainbow Bridge, is "Fair Winds and Following Seas", as it just seems to fit. http://rainbowsbridge.com/Poem.htm (NT) -- Jen, 16:53:07 10/24/09 Sat
  • My heart is with you Valerie! Hang in there! (NT) -- Theresa, 18:13:56 10/24/09 Sat
  • I'm so sorry for your loss. I've been there. You'll know when it's ther right time to adopt another cat into your household. I did that last year and my vet suggested I get a kitten ... or, at least a rather young cat who would be smaller than the older cat I still had --- this would make it more likely that the new baby cat would accept the older one as the "top cat" in the house. I got a kitten and it has worked out very well. My older cat adores him. She (older cat) was alone for a while --- but took to having a pl;aymate again very nicely. Take your time. {{{hugs}}} (NT) -- MichelleB, 19:05:54 10/24/09 Sat
  • I give you the same advice I gave carol - take the surviving kitty to a shelter and find your family a pet that chooses you and the kitty - If you pick a cat it will eventually get used to the other kitty - but it helps to pick one that gets along from the get go- (NT) -- chris k, 20:55:36 10/24/09 Sat
    • First, so sorry about your kitty. It's so hard when our furry kids leave us. I second the shelter idea.++ -- CM>^.,.^<, 06:35:57 10/27/09 Tue
  • I'm so sorry about your kitty, Valerie. I can't give you any advice, just my sympathies. (NT) -- judi, 17:43:49 10/25/09 Sun
  • Very sorry to hear about your loss. I never had a pet, so no advice -- just lots and lots of hugs and sympathy! (NT) -- mj, 12:24:59 10/26/09 Mon
  • I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sure you'll know when the time is right for a new kitty, somehow the heart just knows when there's more room to love. Give yourself time to grieve before hurrying on. That said, there's no set schedule for the "right time" to bring home a new furry-child, each of us grieves differently. (NT) -- doc, Lizzie & Frances sending along a hug, 16:10:36 10/26/09 Mon
  • Valerie, the heart will heal with the good, funny, and other special traits that you remember. My help came in the form of a photo of my 14yo "son". I talked to it! Losing a fur-ball hurts, but know that we are sometimes more humane to our pets than we are to humans -- there's a very thin line between 'quality of life' and 'quantity of life'...... (NT) -- carramor, 20:03:57 10/29/09 Thu

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• Happy 'Diwali' to any Indian posters. I was invited yesterday to an Indian New Year party and it was amazing! The host had all flowers and trinkets to decorate his home flown in from Bombay and the food was authentic Indian -- so wonderful. The women were dressed in their finest saris and looked beautiful. I will never forget to recognize this extraordinary celebration for the Indians. -- mj, 12:05:58 10/19/09 Mon [2]
  
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  • We have a large, established South Asian population in Vancouver, predominantly Sikh. Diwali is celebrated every year. However, I don't think it is Indian New Year. Divali is the Festival of Lights, and has a different meaning to Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, but I'd have to look it that up. I love the idea of a festival of lights particularly as the days get shorter. (NT) -- Cece (your party sounds awesome.), 08:27:38 10/22/09 Thu

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• CELEBRATION, Today is Mother's Day in Argentina so I like to share with all of you because it's good to be a mother and celebrated it more than day at the year. I think we think sometimes if I lived again I could change this or that but I never heared a mother to feel sorry to be a mother, although you want to kill them sometimes, hahahah. OK so HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY From Argentina. -- GRa waving from Argentina, 07:54:23 10/18/09 Sun [6]
  
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  • Sorry I have to say "heard" (NT) -- GRa waving from Argentina, 07:55:27 10/18/09 Sun
  • Hope you had a great day, GRa!! (NT) -- mkim, 16:57:51 10/18/09 Sun
  • chris k waving back (NT) -- chris k, 17:57:55 10/18/09 Sun
  • Happy 'belated' Mothers Day, Argentina! We cry happy tears for you, Argenatina! (NT) -- mj, 07:29:13 10/19/09 Mon
  • Thank you Ladies, we have a good day yesterday, we have pork barbaque, salads and varieties of desserts. We were at my brother's house until six chit chatting, joking and celebrating, it was a wonderful sunny day. (NT) -- GRa waving from Argentina, 09:28:31 10/19/09 Mon

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• When is a dog too old? -- Deemus, 17:56:44 09/20/09 Sun [14]
  I need some advice from board friends here. We have a very elderly (18!) Jack Russell terrier who has been a wonderful family member since he was a puppy. He is nearly blind (but not completely), nearly deaf (but not completely), and has some trouble getting around. He rarely does even a few steps any more, and we carry him in and out of the house. He lost all house training for peeing several years ago, but we have been able to deal with it through a system that is basically a doggie diaper. He tries not to leave piles in the house, but as we're away at work quite a few hours in the day, that sometimes happens. We don't punish him, of course, since I know he can't help it. He used to be very playful, but he never plays any more. Nor does he come looking for cuddles and affection, although he's happy to accept any that comes his way.
  
  So far, it sounds all bad, doesn't it? There are good parts, though. He does enjoy cuddling and loving when someone picks him up, and he is still good-natured and doesn't growl or fuss. The biggest thing that makes me think he's still got some quality of life is mealtime--he loves to eat, and inhales breakfast and dinner.
  
  I know there are a number of pet lovers out there, and I'm sure some of you have wrestled with this problem. How long is it right to keep an elderly pet going? I know I'll miss him terribly when he's gone, but I also find myself rather looking forward to no more lingering pee smell in the house (and rugs and chairs and...etc.) and the to the ability to just take off and not worry about having to get home for the dog, or leave him in the kennel. Then I feel guilty about that, too! Complicating the issue more is the fact that my daughter-in-law has allergies, and she can't stay in our house while the dog is living here. She's pregnant now, so the usual allergy meds she was taking are not good for her. She has finished the first part of an allergy regimen (the once a week for six months ordeal), so things may be better.
  
  Does anyone have any thoughts for me? I appreciate any feedback and help that anyone has!
  

  
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  • That's a tough call. The only dog I ever had to make a decision on was our dog who died about 4 years ago. It wasn't a tough call - he couldn't walk and was in agonizing pain. Have you talked to your vet? Because they deal with this sort of decision fairly frequently, and they probably have a better idea of what is reasonable. I'd talk to the vet. (NT) -- Ann, 18:30:01 09/20/09 Sun
  • Jack Russells live long lives. Inside..... -- TF, 20:31:41 09/20/09 Sun
  • Deemus, I'd agree with Ann, but my policy is that if they are still eating and drinking and have a resonable sense of what is part of their lifestyle, they stay. We recently had to have our last dog euthanized and he was beginning to teeter, had very cloudy eyes and was very weak. He had no desire to eat or drink and to me that's the signal. I carried in and out, also, but only for his safety. It's just hard to say good-bye. BTW, we always stay with our animals when they go to sleep. It's a calming effect for us. (NT) -- jenks-hoping this helps and waving to you, Deemus from upstate in the Adirondacks that are now beginning to look very Fallish., 05:27:34 09/21/09 Mon
  • If he is eating & drinking with gusto, and isn't in pain, let him stay. Give him lots of loving attention, as this is one of his pleasures and adds to the quality of his life. If he is suffering, that's a different matter. He is a member of your family and has given you love and loyalty. I'm sure your DIL won't mind not staying over for the rest of his short life, and she'd feel guilty being the reason he had to die. He'll be gone soon enough, and convenience is never a good reason to have a beloved pet put down. (NT) -- Cece, 08:35:37 09/21/09 Mon
    • Cece you said it all : ) (NT) -- jagglebelle, 07:37:03 09/22/09 Tue
      • Totally with Cec and Jaggle. If he still is enjoying a limited life, and is not in pain (which often can be managed with drugs) he's entitled to live out his days. One of my kitties has litterbox issues. He's old, he's a little neurotic, but what the heck, we love him anyway. (NT) -- CM>^.,.^<, 08:31:29 09/27/09 Sun
  • I'm not a dog person, but I've had lots of cats through the years. Inside -- JAG Junkie (Ronda), 08:37:43 09/21/09 Mon
  • Thanks for your input. We're still hanging in there, with doggie diapers and occasional cleanups. His hind legs are stiff--he kind of swings them, and scrapes the front of his toes on most steps, but I have no idea if he's in pain. How do you tell? He doesn't walk around much (unless there's food involved), but he doesn't whine or fuss unless he's left by himself. Well, thanks again for ideas to think about. (NT) -- Deemus, 15:58:54 09/22/09 Tue
    • My niece gives her dog over the counter Glucosamine for his arthritis and joint problems. She just breaks them into 4ths. (NT) -- TF, 16:18:31 09/22/09 Tue
      • I stick mine in a chunk of cheese- but I also have a german shepherd - and yes - his breeder said at six its time to give him glucosomine so i buy over the counter stuff at walmart (NT) -- chris k, 11:24:23 09/23/09 Wed
    • In my experience, dogs who are in pain wimper almost constantly, yelp if something happens to jar the aching joint, try to keep you from touching the sore spot, etc. (NT) -- Ann, 17:07:26 09/23/09 Wed
  • I would still keep him. I'm with CeCe. If he's in pain he will cry. My Sammy does when his hips hurt. I have pain medicine for him that he gets 2x a day. Other than that he's good to go. I'd give him a kidney if he needed it so I'm not a good one to give advice. (NT) -- Cathy F., 20:31:50 09/25/09 Fri
  • I am facing a similar situation these days. My dog of 11 years had problems breathing. Now his lungs filled with wather and he had to keep the head high just to breath. Now he is on meds to drain the fluids. Tomorow I have an appointment with the cardiologist and will see if there is still hope. It's hard to stear at him the whole day to see if he is still breathing :( (NT) -- Maja, 11:56:43 10/20/09 Tue

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