Just need to talk to my friends (150)

Lorita

Morning,

 Thought I'd start another segment of our thread to get out of that whatever it is.  I can't read the last couple of words in a line on my laptop but can on my tablet.  Can you all believe we're up to 150 - can't remember when we started the 150 - but, guess we're a talkative bunch. 

 It's already hot here or it is when you're outside doing something.  I watched the girls come to the barn - always do - but wanted to put some feed in the creepfeeder after they went in the barn.   I took a pan of feed out to Rose Bud (she was still out) for her to eat while I put the feed in.  She inhaled it and wanted more so had to give her a little creep every once in a while to keep her at bay.  Only put in 100 lb. because they still had a little bit - so, still have 100 more pounds before I quit for the summer.  After that I drove up to the south pasture and around the MH yard because I thought I came up short - probably went in before I got out there.  When I got home I could hear Stormy screaming so got him and we went to the mailbox and drove around a little bit.  Really hot when I got back in the house but cooling off now.  I know it's 20-30 degrees cooler in the yard, out of the sun.

 Did get in touch with Sarah.  She said she couldn't stay awake yesterday so that's why she didn't answer.  She did talk with the doctor and he said the case worker had to make the request for the special therapist because ostomy nurses don't have privileges in Valir - have to have permission from the powers that be, I guess. 

 Iris, the gauze pants are cool and comfortable in the summer - I've worn them for years - all I wear in the summer and the French terry are great in the winter or cooler weather. 

 Zetta, best-laid plans always seem to go awry.  I know what you mean about cats or kittens being underfoot and possibly causing a fall.  Sammy runs in front of me and lays down and stretches out - I know he's at least a yard long - so I have to be careful not to stumble over him.  Maybe an older or mature cat would  be better for you.  I know how you miss Rascal - I still miss Mr. Barclee.  In fact, he's buried under the holly in front of the porch so I sometimes tell him good morning when I go outside.  I know it's silly, so guess I am.

 Rescue Mom - that would scare me - being unable to get out if I needed to.  We've been snowed in a few times and probably the same with water.  Years ago we were snowed in and I was afraid I might have to get out with Charles so our good neighbor broke out the road with his big John Deere.  One time when we lived in the MH we were snowed in for several days.  We could get down to the farm house but neither family could get out to a road.   Has all of the wind diminished by now?  I heard about it last night - 70 mph winds and I guess they blow for hours.  We've had 70 mph winds for 10-20 minutes at a time and I really worried in even that length of time.  Just be very careful.

 Sara - I bet those little cantaloupes will be so cute - hope they're good.  I've never heard of that kind.  When we raised melons I liked to put a dip, or two, of ice cream or some cottage cheese in the middle.  I'd take half of one for lunch and buy some ice cream - really good.

 Zetta - I know you're so thankful for the window AC.  That's what we have; one in the utility room (very noisy), one in the bedroom, both 120 and a big 220 or whatever it is in the LR.  Hardly ever use it.  Our house is over 100 years old so it would be cost prohibitive to be in central air.  There's usually a breeze because of our elevation so it's all right.    Hope you get your new phone soon.  I'm still working on figuring out how to do things on mine, even the little things I want to do.

 Beth, the pictures of your garden are beautiful.  I just can't imagine having such a lovely place to walk and sit.  Those petunias are beautiful.  I think Sara said she got some of that kind.  Those would be so pretty in our pink bathtub.  There's weeds in it now - didn't get into town in time to get bedding plants - maybe next year.

 Ron, glad your pain has subsided some.  I can just visualize that calculus swimming around in your bladder but sorry about it.  Hope it will pass soon.   I know there must be some kind of help you can get from the VA or some other agency.  I'm not in the loop now so have no idea and it probably varies from state to state.  Keep calling the patient advocate and you might want to get in touch with the outpatient social worker, too.  I know the VA has changed a lot since I retired 26 years ago.  When I was working there they gave good care (not saying they don't now) and everything was for the veteran.  The VA has so many programs now that they didn't have when I was there so there must be some help for you. The VA provided a good living for Charles and I for over 33 years and provided for us after our retirement and they and Charles are still taking care of me now.

I can't remember  anything else I wanted to say at the moment but I'll be back.  Hope everyone's well and can enjoy the day.   Getting ready to watch Roger Federer play tennis.

Jo C.

Hi jfkoc - to answer your question.  The link you gave re the QVC pants was a very looooong link address.  It did not fold around into multiple lines - instead it kept going loooooong across the screen, actuallly hyperextending entirely off the screen thereby rendering ALL subsequent Posts to be hyperextended across the entire screen which cuts off the ends of the sentences.
 

 When this happens, to correct it, use the prompts at the top of the screen; "Contact Us," or "Help."  The Admin folks or techs will correct your link and return the screen to its regular size.  I did notice that your device does that hyperextension from time to time; so it is probably something to do with a technical application of one sort or another.

  J.

jfkoc

thanks now how would one shorten one contacting solution could take days

Jo C.

Lorita, the fact that the RN Enterostomal Therapist does not have privileges at their facility is a minor matter.  All they need do is verify her license, certification and place of employment and can authorize privileges OR give her privileges for the one patient.  Happens all the time in hospitals.

  It is best that Sarah does not try to call the old enterostomal therapist to find out how to care for her new stoma.  It is an entirely different ballgame.  It makes a huge difference - new stoma with a different placement; folds of skin, skin integrity, any breakdown, actual fit of applance items for size of stoma, and best items specific for new stoma, and so much more.  She needs to be seen.

  Ron:  There is so much on your plate and you have so much to deal with.  I can understand you are burning out, exhausted and near being overwhelmed.  This at a time when you need peace, calm and rest to do best with your intensive therapy and healing. I can imagine, based on the history and management of helper aides, you may be burned out re that even though you need that help, but are not wanting to deal with it all.

 However; there is help to be had.   Like so much else - if you have some assets, there are professionals that can do all of this for you while working with you to ensure it is a good fit.   These professionals are called, Certified Geriatric Care Managers.  They most often are RNs or Social Workers.   These people can do as much or as little as you wish them to.  In fact, this is a good choice to get aligned with if one has no family or support system or who is overwhelmed with so much.

 This professional will become a strong advocate for you and Lou.  They will, with your input, hire and oversee care help in the home; they have in-depth knowledge of community resources.  If it is ever needed, they can also find appropriate care facilities, help make arrangements and can oversee the care and evolvng needs.  If an unforeseen emergency arises, they can step in and make arrangements for what is necessary.  They also interface with Hospice.  For some people, they even pay bills, ensure housekeeping and shopping, can interact with physicians if that is needed and even attend doctor's appts.  There is SO much more they can do, but it is up to the family how much to have done.

The intake is very lengthy, detailed and is a bit  more expensive due to time involved as well as putting together an appropriate plan of care.   If I did this, I would want someone with a minimum of two years experience, to be Certified, have references, to work in my geographic area so they know the services; I would want their fee structure on writing in advance; and I would also want there to be 24 hour access should an emergency arise. They can screen billings and insurances to ensure things are being managed accurately in your favor.

 If there is a problem with anything - you do not have to handle it - simply call your Geriatric Case Manager; she will take care of it for you. It is your advocate for comfort and quality of life.

 If you cannot afford this yourself, perhaps your adult children could assist a bit to make it affordable  Just an idea; you cannot continue the way you have been.  Change is needed and is long overdue.  You both deserve and need the relief.

  Joan, I am delighted to hear that the prednisone weaning is going well; hurray for you!  Must be nice to feel that you are regaining yourself again, that has been a long haul and not pleasant.  Always so nice to see you here on the front porch.  Thank you for being with me the day of my OR visit.  I really appreaciate everyone coming with me.  Nervous me.

  Zetta, did you actually get a new fur friend?  I was not certain.  If any find their way to your home, they will be so well cared for and loved. Heck, I would like to curl up in your living room!   Wish you were here too.

  And Beth; that garden and the property; it makes me feel wonderful to see those photos.  It is truly beautiful and the grounds are sweetly serene.  Maybe Zetta and I and the rest of the bunch will come for a visit and curl up in our chairs and just breath softly while feeling the serenity of it all.  I think God must smile when he sees the results of your and Sarah's endeavors. Planting in the ground, making something beautiful and useful of the earth.  Lovely.

 If Beth and Sayra ever got together; WOW!  Flowers and Veggies everywhere!!!

  Found out the date of my OR procedure. It will be on Monday, July 26.  I must be there very early - procedure planned for 11:00 am IF it goes on time.  They will try to do both kidneys with laser instead of just one which makes me a bit concerned to have both involved.  Then supposed to go home after recovery from general anesthesia, etc.  Traffic will be hellish and more than a two hour trip.  SO glad you will be there with me, it does make me feel better and I will have you all on my mind as they wheel me into "the room." EEK!

  Big glitch.  UCLA requires me to have a "rt pcr" nasal COVID screening exactly, specifically two days prior to my procedure.  That means getting it on a Saturday, but it takes time to get it back and labs often are not open on Saturday and for sure not on Sunday.  Have to have that result by early Monday am when admitted.  I tried to see if they would let me get the test on Friday, but nope - if I do not have it in my hand from Saturday, they will cancel my procedure!   It took so long to get  the OR date, I cannot imagine it. I have tried labs, pharmacy centers, urgent care centers, etc.; but none of them can get the test back in time.  Often take 48 to 72 hours.  So I am trying creative ways to deal with this.  Gosh; it is always something.

 Got some more yummy cherries; the strawberry fields are all done now. it was a very good season.   Yesterday, we got a huge box from our Louisiana granddaughter and family.  It was filled with all sorts and sundries of stuff. Puzzle books, Burts Bees hand lotion and flavored chapstick, back scratchers, water bottles, children's drawings, candies, modeling clay (?), and much, much more. What a sweet surprise.   Lots of love in that box and I love them right back.

  Son and DILs rescue dog (one of four), is an elderly fur lady. She began whimpering and could not stand being touched on her back or tummy.  They spent eight hours at the vets; nothing fractured, and xrays and labs showed nothing else going on. She is on pain pills and a steroid, so hope she is doing better. Poor thing was so skinny when son found her under a truck; she had big patches of fur missing and was listless and so weak. Well; he took her to the vets on his own dime, and they had to do some fixing and meds.  She is now chubby, with a sleek coat, happy as can be and very loving. Lucky dog; she landed in a very good place. She was chipped, but it was far out of date and despite computer and neighborhood search could not find any other owner; so son kept her as the no-kill shelters had no room.  So hope she does well.

  Got our five new 30 plus gallon potable water barrels filled and at the side of the house.  They are for earthquake preparedness and are good for five years.  We have a Tuf Shed in the back yard that looks like a cute little playhouse; put some stuff in there for preparedness too.  Was happy with small tent DH found; it is for potty time.  One can stand up in it, it has two net windows one can open if one wishes and the door closes with a zipper or velcro and ties.  My step-dad had a bedside commode he never, ever used.  I took it and it will be in that tent and be our toilet if power goes out and no water and sewera are not working.  It has some purpose made disposable plastic bags that fit in the underneath bucket, so that will work well for serious things.  Sure will come in handy if necessary.  The Tuff Shed has been insulated and has dry wall, two side windows.   We could sleep in the Shed if necessary, but DH being a man, decided to store all the boxes of Christmas ornaments and decorations in there as well as some other stuff and nonsense. We would have to empty out all that stuff in order to do what needed doing if a disaster hit. Ah well.

 Take good care, and we must all stay as cool as our dear Zetta.  Mid-week, what will the end of the week bring I wonder - it is time for good things to begin happening; we have certainly had enough of "the other."

 Hugs,

 J.

  

Jo C.

We have all been deeply connected to what has been happening with the building collapse in Florida.  Here is a little known story:

 Heroes come in all ages, sizes, shapes and when least expected:

 https://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2021/07/03/surfside-condo-collapse-escape-reunion-kaye-ac360-pkg-vpx.cnn

Jo C.

Judith, a couple of times I had a long link that hyperextended all Posts - I did use the "Contact Us" prompt above, I used the technical category to write to and it got corrected very nicely . . . . I have also used the category for the admin oversight team and they were even faster in correcting it. Have not had that issue for quite some time, but now that I have said that, it will probably pop up . . . . Ha!

 J.

Lorita

Hi,

 Well, Federer lost in straight sets so guess I won't be watching the rest of Wimbledon.  Charles and I really enjoyed watching tennis but it's just not the same anymore without him.

 I made the yellow squash casserole.  Found a couple of recipes on the internet so kind of combined the two.  Basically both were about the same except one called for two eggs and mayonnaise.  I used some sour cream (called for) and a big spoonful of mayonnaise.  I used Hellman's and could taste so may not use it if I make it again.  Also going to partially peel the squash - the skin was a little bit tough - otherwise pretty good. 

 Looks like the hurricane or tropical storm has left Florida.  Rescue Mom - hope you all are able to get out of your house now and that you didn't have any damage. 

 And, Shirley, hope you and Bill are okay.  Let us know, please.

 Jo - hopefully they can work it out so the therapist can see Sarah.  A friend, Todd's partner, came by to see her this evening and they were able to go outside.  I think that helped her spirits. 

 Do any of you all drink protein shakes?  Two or three years ago I bought a canister of chocolate protein powder and used it a couple of times.  Last night I mixed a scoop of it with some milk, a scoop of cappuccino chocolate chunk frozen yogurt and about 3/4ths of a frozen banana.  It was delicious - made too much so had the rest tonight.  I have one of those cups you put in the freezer, then add a cold liquid, stir it and it freezes.  I will do that again.

 So, I do not like my new phone.  I so wish I could have kept the old one but couldn't.  I was able to send a couple of pictures to Sarah - don't know how but now I can't receive calls.  I can call out, which is good, but no incoming.  Sarah kept telling me she'd tried to call and it never rang.  She says it says the voice mail is full or it can't take calls now.  I'll call them tomorrow.  Tried this evening and the wait time was about 30 minutes so could not handle that.  The phone also gets hot when charging or just using it so it must be defective - or maybe it's me who's defective!  Who knows. 

 I was watching LocknLock on QVC today and a woman called in who has the same birthday as I and is the same age.  Can't believe I'm 79 until I try to get up out of the recliner without using the arms to push up. 

 I guess I'll go up to the convenience store in the morning while it's a bit cooler and get Gator gas and gas in the car.  Still have some but it looks like it's going to get hotter.

 Stormy just went outside.  Both of them had been asleep in the bedroom and came out all excited.  He went out but Sheena declined.  They stayed in all night last night.

 Hope all of you are well.  Jo, meant to tell you that July 26 is my mother's birthday so maybe that's a good omen.  Wish you didn't have that long, two-hour trip home after the procedure.  I've seen pictures of the traffic out there.  I would go stark-raving mad if I had to drive in that one hour, or less. 

 It's been a pretty warm and humid day with little wind.  Did get in touch with the guy who's going to clean out the barn.  He has a construction company and they're building a house this week.  Also said his skid loader or Bob Cat is out of commission so they're going to work on that this weekend. 

 Well, Stormy's barking to come in so I'll stop and let him in.  Guess they'll be in tonight.  I'm about ready to go to bed - I watch Gunsmoke at 9:30, Zetta.

 See you all tomorrow.

Mint

Good morning everyone

We had one quick storm yesterday that dumped .3 in of rain in about 15 minutes or so.  Giving rain today so we will see.  Going to get out when done writing this and pick anything that is ready before it starts hopefully.

Guess I can relax and enjoy my shopping trip today, won’t have to worry about watering.

Got a watermelon yesterday.  It is sweet, doesn’t have the intense watermelon flavor though that makes them really good.

Got to meet my sisters new dog, Conner.  He is super friendly, his tail wags all the time.  He needs groomed but there is some kind of shot he needs from the vet first and is taking a bit for him to get into the vet.  Then think you have to wait a couple of weeks after the shot. He is very shaggy.

Take care

VetEly

Hello all,

We are safe, will be heading back to Fla today, stopping overnight in GA.

Resort had high winds and a tornado warnings. Loads of rain with retention ponds filling up.

Had someone check on our place and it was okay. Before we left I took down all feeders and plants to secure area.

Will be glad to get back. Bill is a little ansty.

Shirley

Lorita

Morning,

 Shirley, so glad to see your post and to know that you and Bill are safe and sound and headed back home.  I know both of you will be glad to get back.  I think all of our dementia patients are kind of uncomfortable being away from familiar surroundings.  The last time Charles and I went to Eureka Springs we were planning on staying two or three nights but he was ready to get back home after the first night.  But, I feel the same way - when I'm away for three hours I'm ready to get back.  Becoming a recluse or hermit.

 Sara - glad you got a little bit of rain - every drop counts when it's dry.  Hope you enjoy your shopping trip.  Don't you hate it when you get a watermelon and it just isn't quite up to your expectations?  If they're not farm raised and picked when ripe the sweetness just isn't there because they have to be picked just before they're really good and ripe so they can be shipped.

 I had planned on going up to the convenience store to get gas this morning but it's hot and humid so I won't go.  I'm not out and I don't drive the Gator that much.  I was able to see the girls as they went into the barn this morning - no count but everyone I saw was okay.  They went in at 7 this morning.  Started to open up the cowshed but I stepped on the place (all across the door and back into the barn) where it had been so muddy and it still went down. The ground is cracked so it's slowly drying out. The mud was so deep and I'm still afraid a baby will get stuck in there - I think I would.

 When I woke up I touched my left temple area and there's a welt there and it kind of hurts and is red.  I can't imagine what it is.  The first thing that came to mind was shingles.  Gosh, sure hope that's not it.  It seems like when I touched it there was something on it but not sure - was half asleep.  I put Neosporin ointment on it and I'll take a pain pill in a little while.  Just having muffins and hot tea for breakfast.

 Did I mention my new cell phone wouldn't accept incoming calls - didn't ring, just left a message that a call had come in?  So, called Consumer Cellular and they called me back.  I called on the landline - she told me to not hang up so didn't  but the call cut off so I called again.  Got a return call and she sent new whatever and it rang when she called.  Just wish I had could have kept my Doro - it may not have done as much but I kind of knew what I was doing.  So, this will be trial and error.  She said if I get bogged down to turn it off and back on.  When we first got computers at work I remember that's what Karen said she'd do when she got into something and couldn't get out.  I think she shut down the whole system at least once or twice.  Sure do miss her - guess Carol and I always will.  We grew up together and went through all kind of things with each other.

 Supposed to be in the low to mid 90s today with a high heat index and a chance of showers late tonight and tomorrow.  Guess summer's here for sure.

 Got my gun-cleaning kit and gun oil so I guess the next thing will be to clean the rifle and revolvers.  I watched Charles do this dozens of times but never really took note so guess I'll see what Mr. Google says.

 Hope all of you are well this morning.

  

jfkoc

Jo...thanks again. If it were me I would go over to LA and have the test done at the hospital Saturday

Ron...you might give these people a call and see how they might help you https://www.seniorcitizensinc.org/

Beth...I love how your bed meander through your back yard

Yea...Trader Joe's had small zucchini this morning

jfkoc

Lorita...everything new has a learning curve. I stick with products my children and grandchildren have...lol

Lorita

Hi,

 Jo - what about contacting the place where you're going to have the procedure and see what they say about not being able to get the results in time.  Sure don't want to make the trip up there and not be able to get it done.

 Judith - glad you found some small zucchini.  They grow so fast it's hard to keep up with them.  I have a really big one that Mike brought.  Still will be good if I seed and peel it.  I need to check on mine to see how they're growing.

 Is Trader Joe's an upscale grocery store and something else, too?  Sounds like you can get almost anything there.

 What about that sink hole?  The learning curve on things is the reason I don't like change - too old for that.  Great option to be able to get kids and grandkids to help with technology.  Not like when we were young.

 Just talked with Sarah.  She said she'd been trying to call me for an hour and it kept going to voice mail or saying I wasn't available.  So --- I checked again and lo and behold I had her number blocked!  No wonder!  A couple of days ago I got one of those calls from a 918-351 number and I tried to block it.  The select button on this phone is very sensitive so it probably jumped to the next number which was hers.  Now the phone rings when she calls.

 Still have a left-sided headache.  Can't figure out what happened. The reddish place is not worse, thank goodness.  When I woke up this morning I was getting an ocular migraine - so might be connected somehow. I think the migraine was in that eye - the best I could tell.

 I'm thinking about a short nap.  It doesn't look like a leaf is moving outside.  I hate days like this when it's so hot and no wind.   The people I talked to this morning on Consumer Cellular are located in Bend, Oregon.  She said it was a bit cooler yesterday but still way too hot for her.  Zetta, hope you're staying in and staying cool.

 Lost control yesterday and ordered some more LocknLock (ten, one cup, square containers).  I think that will be good because I'm always needing little containers.  Also ordered a new brick-red Dynatrap.  Mine finally gave up the ghost.

  

Lorita

Hi,

 Guess what happens when you put half a dozen eggs to boil and then decide to take a nap. I can tell you.

 I had some more of the squash casserole for supper.  It's much better the second day.  If I make it again I think I might add a can of green chilis and brown the bread crumbs a little bit that I mixed with parmesan and put on top.  It's really good and I bet it would be just as good with zucchini.

 I did take a nap - about an hour.  I might even make a habit of doing that every day.  All the cats and GPs enjoyed it, too.

 Girls came out of the barn about 3 p.m.  I just went out to make sure if someone was in there, they were okay.  I think there were three cows, two yearlings and Billy the Bull.  The rest have, and are, in the pond.

 I think my headache may have been from the ocular migraine.  I very seldom have a headache with them but this might have been the time I did. 

 Hope you've enjoyed the afternoon.  Weather says we may have severe weather Saturday night - winds up to 6o or 70 mph - hope that misses us but I'd like some cooler weather.

ladyzetta

Hello All,

I have been with out internet for 2 days. A big truck crashed into a big cable thing and about 75 miles of people had no cable or internet. My internet is up right now but I don't know for how long. It still has been hot in my area so I really am enjoying the AC. I went out and mowed part of the lawn at 6:30am and just did a little more. This way it will probably take me a week to get the front and back done. I enjoy mowing it is about the only thing I do outside. I love sitting on my porch in the morning with my coffee and in the evening with my glass of wine, while Molly does her things. 

 Lorita,   I am sorry you don't like your phone. You can't give up on it and you will be telling me the same thing when I get my new phone. I  hope your getting the help you need to learn your new phone. I am not looking forward to getting a new phone. But at least my son and daughter will be able to help me. At least you know now how to block calls. I want to learn how to do that also. I hate telemarketer  calls. You are lucky you did not have a fire taking a nap when boiling eggs. What was the out come of that?  You are so right how fur babies  get under your feet and can cause a person to fall. I have had Molly and Rascal so long they know my every move and are real good about not getting in my way. I really miss Rascal but I don't think I want a older cat. I am afraid it would upset Molly and its her turn to be Boss. 

 Jo,    No I did not keep the kitten she sure was a sweetie but I really don't think I need the extra work of taking care of a baby kitten she was only 8 weeks old.  My daughter had fallen in love with it so she took her home, and I am getting lots of updates.  It is a real nice thing that your son and his wife take in rescue dogs. Especially ones that really need the extra care. I put 7/26 on my calendar so I will be with you. I hope you are not driving yourself.  I am sorry you are having to deal with that Glitch, you would think with a procedure on a Monday there would be a way to not make things so hard. 

Shirley,  Please have a save trip home, I bet you and Bill are very happy to have a home too go to. The news showed a lot of damage in Florida. Prayers were answered for your safety.  

Rescue Mom,  Please give us a update on how things are going for you. 

 Lorita,  I am hoping your headache has gone and you will be able to get a good nights sleep.

Sleep Well All, Hugs Zetta 

McCott

Can anyone tell me what Lorita's posts have to do with ALZ?  Her husband died years ago and she posts about totally unrelated things, including cows (whom she calls 'girls' which took me months to figure out and still drives me around the bend) and her basket case relatives.  

If everyone posted about stuff the way she does, where would this list be?  Did she get like a pass somewhere along the line? Want to hear about my psychotic relatives?  I don't think so.

Any thoughts, Lorita?

ronald71111

McCott, YOU SHOULD BE ASSHAMED OF YOURSELF! 

Lorita's thread is just like the subject matter says; friends that are caregivers of this terrible disease talking to each other trying to have some relief of the daily caregivers routine. We enjoy Lorita's daily post but also share our experiences; cooking, gardening, weather, music are anything else to take our minds off of our caregiver duties. For me its therapy to have friends like Lorita and all the others that post here.

Please look at all the other threads on this site and your welcome to stay off of Lorita's porch. There are many other threads on this site for you.

Ron

ronald71111

Lorita, dont be discouraged about any negative comments about your daily post. Friends that join you on your front porch, enjoy listening to you and talking about our experiences with you. We love you and thank you for staying with us even after the passing of your loved one. 

Ron

Mint

Good morning

Shirley and Rescue Mom hope things are going ok.  Hope both of your husbands get past the upset of all the changes you went through this week.  Glad you set on the porch with us and help each of us get through our daily struggles with dementia. 

My mom is back to having some more very expensive work done on the house.  Will put it this way it is costing more than what she gave the LMG.  The first guy put her off after I talked to him.  The guy she asked to marry her, that she doesn’t even know, she had him out, and was complaining of a roof leak that they can’t find.  Apparently she had called them three different times.  So they suggested someone else to come do what she wants done.  I was blessed that I recognized that I knew this guys brother.   I worked with him and he was one of my students too.  So was able to contact him, which I am very thankful for, and then his brother contacted me back.  He told me the same thing the other guy told me.  It will look better aesthetically but will not increase the value of the house.  Want to thank each and everyone of you here on this thread who have been such a help to me on this journey I am traveling.  Some disappear,  but others stay here with us for which I am grateful.   You answer my questions, give me your opinions to consider and provide respite to me with your animals, garden and recipes.  Know you have been there, done that.   Helps me to relax and recharge a little for whatever I face next.

Ron hope you and Lou are hanging in there and that you are blessed to find Plan B.  Dementia is such a heavy burden, then when you add your own health issues, such a heavy weight.  Glad you find comfort by coming and sitting with us.  It is my pleasure to try and comfort you any little way I am able and sure others feel blessed to be here for you too.

Judith appreciate how you try to help us by providing links for education on dementia and for relaxation.  Jo you do too, thank you.  Grateful for the one  who keeps things going here, gives me and others, who find comfort through this, a place to come.

 Sadly it looks like my uncle is probably not going to make it.  He took a turn for the worse yesterday and is on a ventilator and dialysis.  He is it not responsive and was not improving with dialysis.  Have called him every Saturday morning since 2003.  He is my dad’s last living sibling.  Was able to talk with him about my mom more freely than with others except for this thread.  This thread will now be the only place I will be free to talk about mom now.  Thank you for being here for me.

Did get to the farmers market yesterday.  It was small but got some very nice fresh veggies-green beans, beets, lettuce, zucchini, yellow squash and patty pan squash.  

We got .6 rain yesterday so we had our inch this week.  Won’t need to water for a day or two.

Take care everyone,  will visit again later

7:23 Just received a call that my uncle died during the night.  If it wasn’t for God I would feel more like an orphan every day.  I will so miss talking with him, but God will provide.

ronald71111

Sayra, sorry to hear about your uncle. My prayers are with you!

Ron

VetEly

Ron 

Hope are feeling better. The VA has a care service if you are 100% disable that will help with care of your wife.

You are so right Lorita does give us comfort when we are having bad days with our love one. just listening to things that are going on not connected with Alz.

Will be glad when we get back to Florida Saturday. Bill says I'm not going anywhere for 3 weeks. He has no idea what day it is. He just wants to be alone with me.

Did I mention that my SIL has moved to the resort also! So I can take care of her also!! She will be 78 in November and a widow. Her problem is she has no idea how to do anything!! To me this is unbelievable.  I don't think there is anything I can't do or find out how to do it.

When she comes over Bill can talk about when they were kids, since he can only remember past things and not know his kids or grandkids names.

Shirley

Mint

Thank you Ron.  

Shirley wish I was as confident as you are about doing things.  I do figure out a lot of things from you tube but lack the physical strength to tackle a lot of things.  

BethL

Sara, I am sorry for your loss. I pray that God will give you comfort and peace.

Rescue mom

Sayra, I am so sorry about your loss. It’s hard even when we know it’s coming. Hoping for peace and comfort for you, maybe time in garden will help.

McCott, I think it’s kind of understood this thread is a little break from all the problems and issues of dementia. There are plenty other threads for that. This one is more about daily life and sharing  news and non-dementia experiences among friends. It’s a nice distraction for many of us, and for those who are not interested, it’s easy to skip over .

I wrote a little about our storm experience at the end of the last thread, but some maybe missed it. We did not lose power (amazing, my biggest worry by far) and had no damage.  Now lots of food left over, for next time, lol. We had some wind 60 mph and incredible rain, between 10 and 12 inches in just a few hours overnight. Many roads were flooded, and we were”trapped” by that for a day, but it gradually went away. DH was mostly oblivious, remarked about hard rain a few times. Some places, though, still have lots of standing water. Land is perfectly flat here, no natural drainage, and drainage structures get overwhelmed. 

Lorita, you asked about cellars/basements. Nobody has those down here, the water table is too high. Plus a storm can sit on you a couple days. Bad enough being closed up with hurricane shutters! 

Also, Trader Joe’s is really nice grocery. They are not as expensive as our “regular” chain grocery, but pretty much everything is organic. What makes them special to me is that they have so many unusual items, produce, cheeses, snacks, bakery, nut mixes, frozen foods, cereals and grains, condiments, under their own label. 

They sell a lot of foodstuffs that are not available anywhere else. Plus a lot of gluten-free and dairy-free, for people who need that. I love them! Eat so much from there.

Glad there was apparently no serious damage from eggs left on. That could have been bad.

Ron and Jo, thinking of you and hoping for best. Kidney stone stuff is awful, I’ve had two that required litho. Jos is worse I know. 

Mint

Thank you Beth and Rescue Mom.

They didn’t give rain today and so far it has rained all morning.  Dark and very wet.  Not complaining, know a lot if you need this desperately and hope you are blessed with rain soon.

Have been to Trader Joe’s in Columbus.  I liked it but we don’t have one here where I live.

jfkoc

I do not know what Lorita's thoughts are but I know she is hurt by McCort's post. 

Obviously the AA has understood the benefit of  "sitting on the porch" and sharing about things that are not day to day caregiver related. Additionally thousands see the benefit too. The last thread was read 6473 times and over 600 have looked at the current thread which is number 150,. 

Lorita and I went through the care and then the dying of our husbands five years ago. That is a bond I can never put aside. Others who post have had a loved one die...others are still taking care of their loved ones.

The porch is a place where we can get a moment to share and support each other as well as to focus on something totally unrelated to dementia.

This is not the only thread where that happens...it is just the longest lived and most read.

It seems not to be a place for you right now but we always have an empty rocker if you want to visit.

ladyzetta

Dear Lorita,    I am so sorry if you saw McCotts post it was a very hurtful post but I guess if you look at her other post you would see she is a hurtful person. And hopefully she sees it that way I see her hurtful post has been deleted. I feel she owes you and us a apology. Excuse me but I get right to the point. Lorita we love you and appreciate all the time you spend making sure your friends are doing well. 

As you know my DH passed away 3 years ago and all the emotional support I have received here has been a blessing. People with hearts understand what I am saying. 

Sara,    I am sorry your Uncle passed away please be kind to yourself and as you said you have family here. Your Mother is lucky to have you in her life you are a good daughter.

Ron,   I am thinking of you and hoping you are feeling better. It sounds like you are working on a plan B. 

(((((((Lorita))))))

Hugs to all, Zetta 

Lorita

  Morning,

 You guys are the greatest!  Thanks for the comments.  Judith, I feel the same as you. You've been a friend from the beginning and have helped Sarah and my sister so much when I couldn't be there.    I'll continue the thread as long as you all want to visit on the porch or until I'm told to stop by the Adm.  Some people have commented that it's a safe place to visit where we can talk about any and everything.  We do talk about dementia when the subject comes up or someone has a question.   I'm okay - she does this every so often, then deletes her post.  Maybe if she joined us on the porch, she'd feel differently - seems like she does read it.

 It's hot here today.  Was a bit cooler this morning so I went out and sat on the front steps while the girls were coming up (by the way, many ranchers in Oklahoma call their cattle "girls" - even Ladd Drummond who has the biggest ranch around).  I think Charles got us started calling them girls.  They were slow in coming up so fed Tom and Jerry, then  decided I'd open up the cowshed (smaller part of the barn).  So opened that  inside gate and came back and stood and watched as they came up.  I didn't chain the gate open so then walked back and wired it open - also moved a couple of mineral tubs that were empty and some boards. inside.  Almost got bogged down - thought I might have to spend the rest of the day in there.

 Sara, my zucchini are getting ready to bloom and two or three of them are laying over so pulled dirt up around them and watered them.  Then walked out to the creepfeeder to see if the last of the 45 was in there - he was.  I almost got too hot so I've been inside getting cooled off and getting my temperature down.  It got up to 98.8 which is very unusual for me - usually it's in the 97s.  It's down to 98.3 now.  The GPs, cats and I have been in the bedroom watching Gunsmoke, Zetta.

 Ron, you are a sweetie - caring about other people when you have so much going on in your life.  Again, wish we were close so I could help you.  Hopefully, you'll be able to get some help with Lou as Shirley suggested.

 Rescue Mom - I read your post about being flooded in.  So glad the water has gone down.  When we got the 12" of rain the ground was flooded but had mostly soaked in within two or three hours.  We have a big cellar and when I was growing up we used it often.  My grandma and mother were afraid of storms and the neighbors would come up with all their kids when the weather was bad.  Daddy even made benches so everyone could sit down.  Some people have small cellars that are made of either metal or concrete.  They dig a big hole and put it down in the hole.  I'd be afraid to go into one of them - kind of claustrophobic.  Denny, my neighbor to the SW has one. Some people have safe rooms - Darwin has one and they've told me to come over when it's stormy. I couldn't because I couldn't get all the dogs and cats to go.  Our weatherman says we'll have severe storm Saturday night - hail and winds up to 70 mph with rain.

 Zetta and Rescue Mom - I  put six eggs in to boil and when I went into the kitchen and found them, there were only about three halves in the pan.  Never did find the egg yolks.  The rest had popped out and were all over the kitchen floor.  I had them in an all-glass pan and it came clean.  The last time I did this several years ago the metal pan was ruined.  I should have set my alarm.  The burner (electric) was on medium - glad there wasn't a flame.

 Sara - I'm sorry about your uncle - I kind of know you feel - I've lost all of my relatives except Sarah and her brother.  Lost my last uncle probably 40 years ago.  I do feel like an orphan.   You'll miss those calls to him.  Is he your last uncle?   It'll take some time for you to get over his loss.  Was he your mother's brother?  Think about it this way, Sara, he's well now and doesn't have to be on a ventilator or feel bad.

   I'm glad you were able to get in touch with the guy your mom talked to about her roof.  Seems like every so often she gets the urge to get something done and luckily you've been able to take care of getting it stopped.

 Shirley, you're a strong and determined lady - being able to drive that motor home.  I drove ours once and it was kind of scary.  It's nice that Bill wants it to just be the two of you.  You're right - I think women can do anything they set their minds to except some of the heavy lifting.  Just takes some figuring out sometimes.

 I'm watching a little bit of tennis until the news comes on.  Djokovic is playing and I never really liked him much.

Bryon hasn't called back about mowing so I bet they went on vacation this week - but, the grass will still be there.  Still thinking about having Ricky mow - the quarter mile drive way has grown up with grass on each side of the road - doesn't look like anyone lives up here.  I know he's baling hay though so it will wait.  I went out on the porch yesterday and smelled something and said to myself "someone's spraying", looked east and saw a big spraying rig spraying cockleburs on the place east of us.  Did I mention he's auctioning his land this month?

 Zetta, just read your last post.  I'm okay - we're all friends here.  I think all of us have found support and understanding here when we need it.  I know this thread and all the others have been so helpful to me over the years.  Thanks for the hugs.

 I'll be back.  Enjoy the day and stay cool.  Sara - enjoy the rain and cooler air.  Glad you found some good vegetables at the farmer's market.

dayn2nite2

Lorita, you keep on posting.  I reported that person’s post 3 times myself.  This thread is an oasis in a sea of misery.

Sayra I’m sorry for the loss of your uncle.

ronald71111

Lorita, I'm glad your ok from the hateful comments. I care for my front porch friends and it makes my blood boil when any of you are attacked. 

A lot has been said over the years about how young the majority of us Vietnam veterans were when we went to Vietnam. One thing that we did learn at a young age was to cover the back of our buddies and they also watch after you. I will always be there for all of you and do wish we had a real front porch with all of us sitting. It would be non stop talking!

Ron

ladyzetta

Ron,     Your so sweet, and Yes it would take us a long time to say all the things we want to say to each other.