by VIG
Josh Groban with the children choir from Africa, singing You Raise Me Up
My dear Owls, as you read this I am on a plane heading away from memories of this day last year. Many of you were there last November and December as I wrote about my brother’s illness and you prayed for him as he began to lose his fight with cancer. If you remember he went into hospice and came out a few days later and had three more weeks at home. I am still convinced that it was your prayers that gave him more time with his kids and brought him closer to Christmas. And you were so there for me when I wrote about being with him as he took his last breathe on December 20th, 2007.
This blog is partly a tribute to him, but even more it is a tribute to you, my dear Owl friends. You have been my shoulders to lean on over the past year as I worked through the grief process. You never complained as I wrote over and over again what I needed to write in order to make sense of the loss. You just listened and cried with me and let me talk about it whenever I needed to. And I know that this blog and the people who come here, are the reason that I have been able to come out the other side of grief. And for that I will be forever grateful.
You are my earth angels! You truly have raised me up and I am so thankful that you are all in my life.
Who has raised you up when you were down? Who is/are your earth angels? Maybe they reside in this very nest!
260 comments:
1 – 200 of 260 Newer› Newest»Morning All!
Off to read!
Good morning Scirish. I tried to beat you this morning, but you are too quick for me.
Off to read the blog.
SCIRISH - Congrats on first!!!
VIG - THANK YOU!!! It has been a pleasure getting to know you....and I value your friendship. I hope your trip to Mexico is everything you need it to be.
I value most people in the nest, and I am proud to say that I have made many friends in here over the past year. That is the part that I love.....that we are here for each other!! So THANK YOU to all my HOoters here in the nest!!
Sorry I've been MIA the last couple of days. I'm fighting the crud that is going around, and have been spending as much time as possible in bed.
We have our first Christmas get-together today with my Mom's side of the family.
I better get going...much to do...much to do!!!
I hope everyone has a peaceful Saturday!!!
Good morning SACBARB....you and I were typing at the same time!!!
dang it scrishy- my sister called and I couldn't beat you to the punch...LOL
Good morning Hooters! hi barb and Jodi. Hope you feel better Jodi and have fun today. We do our 1st one too with my sisters and her family today.
Great Blog Vig- I hope you vacation is everything you are hoping for.
Hope everyone has a great Saturday!!
Vig...I hope you only remember the happy times with your brother today and are creating new fun memories of this date.
I too am grateful for the owls for raising me up when I have been depressed or upset. It is wonderful to be able to come here and speak about whatever is going on in life and know that people will not only listen, but care about how we are doing.
Hey Jodi. Sorry you have been sick. This is the worst time to get sick when there is so much to do. Have fun at your family get-together today.
Drats that Scrishy got first again!
Morning Glories!
Vig what a beautiful blog. You so deserve the rest and fun laying on the beach in Mexico.
My earth Angels are by best friend and Mr. Lynn D and owls in the nest. I am so grateful that I found all of the people here. My best friend and Mr. Lynn D keep me grounded and sane every day and the owls help me get my day started and are there when I pop on to my computer.
Funny how I have never met any of you and yet I feel like I have known all of you forever. I cry with you and laugh like crazy with all of you! How wonderful is that? After catching up on the party I had to laugh about the comments on how people do not understand our nest. I say they are missing out big time!!!!
IBB HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! I hope you have a wonderful day.
Shirley, Whabbear and Carol thank you so much for the Christmas party! It was wonderful and really made my day!
Goldie I have stolen a few brownies I found left over (one has a small nibble out of it) and I am going to freeze them to get me through the holidays! LOL
It was wonderful to see Ronnie, Kgirl, Lois and others pop in and have fun!
Kgirl sending you a Kaohloe(sp?)mitten to keep it warm in the Chicago weather! LOL
Ok I am off to get more coffee. I am going to attempt getting to the food bank this morning as we have Christmas baskets to give out with toys for the kids.
IBB, I hope your birthday today is everything you want it to be.
who in the hell gets up this early if you don't have to go to a basketball game?????!!!!!!!! OMG~!
Happy Birthday, IBB~
bbl~
Morning Sacbarb and Goldie..I figured everyone would be sleeping in after the party. Heheheh
Jodie...Hope you feel better soon!
We also have a Christmas lunch with some friends today...The weather is not looking promising though..
Happy Birthday IBB!
Hi Lynn, be careful driving out there. Do you still have a standing mailbox? My son called me last night and he is worried that SeaTac will be snowed in and it will affect his Tuesday flight to Sac. CRAP!
Hi Goldie, Have a good day.
Congrats on 1st Scirish!
Good morning Sacbarb, Jodi, Goldie, Lynn D and Tina!
Almost forgot.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY IBB!!!
Good morning to GOLDIE, LYNN D (I'll be bringing my owl slippers today!!!), and TINA!!!
Really gotta go now.
SHIRLEY - You were typing when I was.....so sorry I missed the party yesterday. From the looks of it, you all had a great time!!!
Jodi you were missed yesterday, but talked about!
Tina a life time of getting up this early. Got in the habit when my kids were in school so I could have some me time. Never broke the habit. My internal alarm clock is firmly wired! LOL Right now I am the only one up in my house and I can have my coffee and read the blog. Heaven!
Sacbarb: Mailbox still standing!! Neighbors steel fence catty corner from us not so much. I swear that thing is magnetized every snow storm it gets hit! LOL
I hope the weather holds for your son but they weather people are really pushing for this freaking storm we are supposed to get! I swear news people pray for bad stuff to happen!
Waving at Goldie!
Jodi I am so sorry you are sick! Have some whiskey, honey and lemon! Everything will seem wonderful after that!
Hi Scrishy!
Shirley you're up already? Wow I thought you would still be sleeping it off in Whabby's room! LOL
More coffee for me!
VIG, Have a safe flight to fun and sun. I hope you will soon be sitting on the beach and have a hunky cabana boy at your beck and call. You certainly deserve it. I love Josh Groban and especially this song. I saw him sing it with the African children on Ellen and it brought tears to my eyes.
I love all you Hooters who have been there for me over the last year. I have been lucky enough to meet some of you and I count all of you as friends. Like some of you said yesterday, my family doesn't 'get it' either, and Sharon is the only friend I have told about the blog. Since she has also met some of you, she does 'get' it, even though she isn't a blogger.
Have a great day and weekend everyone.
Oh I forgot say I am Making Mr. Lynn D drive to the food bank! LOL
GM Shirley and Tina.
Shirley, You did a great job on the buffet yesterday. Sorry I missed most of it.
Lynn, I agree about the news people. I guess they think that the bad stuff makes for better, more exciting news.
I am off to do some laundry and finish wrapping gifts. BBL
Barb- I am worried about the the airports too! Although my son flys in on Monday from San Fran to Chicago to madison. However he is working this weekend, flying to JFK, then to LA then to Seattle then to dulles then home. YIKES- I am hoping he doesn't get stranded somewhere.
He called me early yesterday right before he left JFK and they had a crew still in New York that was originally supposed to leave on Tues for Vegas. They had to wait out the storm in Vegas, then give up seats to passengers for those who were dead-heading back, and they were just heading out on too. OY
I forgot to comment on the blog - I too am very gratefull for my Owl friends. I love you all, and feel such a connection. I know that when I come here I can say anything and if I'm having a bad day you will be for me.
I have only met one Owl in person, that is Jodi and I am eternally gratefull for her friendship. She is one good egg. A little cracked, but still a good egg! LOL
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GOLDIE - lol @ cracked!! You don't seem to mind when I make those eggs for the potato salad!!! :P
Vig that was a great video! I think I first saw him sing that song on Oprah a few years ago. He has such a great voice.
Unlike all or most of you I don't believe in angels. But like Scirish I am grateful for the owls who have made me feel better when I have been down and depressed. You are a great group of people, even if my friends and family don't "get it". Thank you.
Vig I hope while you are in Mexico you can do whatever it is that you need or want to do to make this holiday a little less painfull. Enjoy your vacation!
Lynn D it seems our internal alarm clocks are the only ones that don't loose time or stop working! Go figure!
Sacbarb we put all the leftovers in the frig for the stray owls that couldn't make it last night. However I'm not sure how much eggnog or "special" brownies are left. They seemed to be the first things people tried.
Scrishy:
Congrats on First! :O)
IBB:
Happy, Happy Birthday!
Hope you enjoy your special day!
SWAK...
:O)
I gotta run.. need to go to walmart which is 30min away...
I will comment on the blog later...
VIG...Thinking of ya...
See ya all later..
Jodi- I don't mind even when you are not making me potato salad!
IBB- HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok, now I really have to get moving - have lots to do today!
Happy Birthday IBB!!! Have a great day! Maybe we can share some cake later.
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Good Morning Owls.
I have a post from our friend Karen from Canada (KFC).
Merry Christmas to All my old Bloggin Pals.
The Gang At The Nest! You guys are sure missed.
I came to the Nest for the first time a couple of days
ago after you know who posted your link on our Blog.
It is lovely, and has a feeling of warmth and commradery.
Thank you Bear for the invitation to pop by and say hi.
Hope you All have a wonderful Christmas, and May God Bless.
Your Old Pal.
Karen From Canada and her Gang.
KFC. xoxoxoxoxooxoxox
I will be back in a few minutes to read the blog and comments.
Vig,So glad you posted before you left.I am glad you are going to such a warm & Sunny place. We will all be with you in spirit, as I am sure your precious brother will be too.
I too appreciate all my "nesters". I know they will be there whenever I need them. I firmly believe in the power of prayer too.Have a blast kiddo!!!
Morning to Carol,SacBarb,Jodi,Goldi,LynnD,Tina,
Tinka,Scirish & KFC!
Happy Birthday to IBB!!!
OOPS! Forgot Shirley, Good morning Shirley!!!
Good morning Mary, Tinka, Carol and KFC!
Thanks for stopping by KFC!
Tinka, thanks for forwarding KFC's post.
SacBarb & Goldie, I will keep everything crossed for you and hope you sons arrive safe & sound.
Scirish congrats on first you early owl you! I am wired for the night shift! That is really hard to break too!
LynnD~I hope they appreciate all the work you do at the food pantry! Good for you for doing it!
Tina-up-to-early, I hope they win their game!!
Jodi sweetie, get better! Take a lot of breaks and preserve some energy!
Good morning!
Happy, happy birthday to IBB! May you have a fabulous day today!
Hey Scirish, congrats on first again! I have no chance against you and Lynn D! I guess I should be glad I've been first 3 times (right Shirley)??
Good morning to Sac Barb, Shirley, Goldie, Jodi, Tinka, Tina, Carol, Lynn,
VIG I hope you have a wonderful, enjoyable trip. You deserve it for all you do. I have always thought of you as a special person, always has a kind thing to say and also for what you do in your work.
I love the owls, lucky to have met quite a few the last couple years.
MR. EBJ was skeptical when I was discussing the BABB with him, he was unsure of having people in our home who I'd met on the internet.
Luckily he had met SeaSideLady in person and know how awesome she is, so he was willing to meet my other blog friends too.
MEK stayed with us a few days during the BABB and he just adores her, and got to meet some of the others too. He was comfortable with everyone (he had to work and missed the BABB).
So he "gets it" and sometimes will laugh along when I read something funny to him that one of you have written.
A BIG hello to Karen in Canada. Come and join us! You can be a bi-blogger like Whabby and Joey!
(That somehow doesn't sound right).
Have a nice day today everyone! I will be back later!
Hi Mary! We were typing together.
Feel better Jodi!
Well Mr. Lynn D just went out to check the roads and said no go on the food bank. He watched another car slide into the ditch. It is worse this morning because all of the clearing from yesterday, we had a little sun. It is now sheet Ice! Yikes and it is 9 degrees on our porch.
Off to call food bank people and then hit the laundry and chores that I need to get done if the storm hits. When will this winter madness end?
Mary I am going to try to convince our other food bank people to hold off until Tuesday, we are supposed to get rain. I worry about our ladies in their 80's even trying to walk in this!
Good Morning Again. I posted for KFC and then crawled back into bed until the furnace warmed up the house. I have now put on the fire place but I must start the fire in the downstairs stove. I can hear the furnace gobbling up the oil. I will be back in 5 minutes.
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Back again. The house is warm but it is going to snow today and tomorrow. Right now I am dreaming of a Green Christmas.
Good Morning Scirish - you did it again.
Good Morning SacBarb, Jodi, Goldie, Lynn D, Tina, Shirley, Carol and KFC.
Hope you are all warm this morning.
IBB - Happy Birthday to you. Have a good one. Did people combine your birthday presents with your Christmas presents? My mom's birthday was Dec. 15 and she said that always happened to her.
VIG - What a beautiful blog. I remember last year this time feeling so helpless when you were going through such a sad ordeal. We prayed and prayed. As you said, I think the prayers did give him another couple of weeks. I will light a candle for him at the little shrine I have for my mom and Joan. I would go to the church to do it but the roads are terrible. You picked a great year to get out of town. There are little kids out playing in the snow who have never seen it before. I am worried that you might be stranded in Seattle. Planes aren't moving there at all. I hope your plane was able to go right through to L.A. last night as planned. I will continue to think of lying on the beach with a book. I miss you already.
Jodi - I am so sorry to hear you are sick. When I didn't see you on my blog Thursday and then not at the party, I knew something was wrong. You take care. Delegate, Delegate, Delegate.
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Happy Saturday!!!
VIG - tears rolled down my face before i even read your blog - Bless you!! My thoughts and prayers are with you!!(((HUGS)))
I hope you have the BEST time in Mexico and BE SAFE!!!
Thank you for your beautiful blog today!!
IBB - Happy birthday!!!
Lynn - Aren't you getting sick of this weather? I am so 'over a White Christmas'. I thought I would never say that.
VIG - I forgot to mention how much I love that song. It was one of my sister's favourites and we played it the night we had Prayers for her.
I am also very grateful for my blog buddies. They came along when I needed them the most. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have all of you. I have met VIG and KFC but feel like I have met the others too. Thank you all so much.
KFC - I hope you drop in. We would love you to become a little owl.
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Good Morning Mek - I was crying at the video and blog too. Since you admitted it then I will as well. It was beautiful.
I am going to have breakfast. Have a good day all owls every where.
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Tinka - my mother ALWAYS made IBB's b-day separate from Christmas..
We would decorate the tree "tonight" after her birthday celebration was over - as this date is also my parent's wedding anniversary.......
Tinka - when I hear Josh sing this - I always have tears - and add VIG's words - and, well, you know!!!
:-)
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Scirish - congrats on FIRST!! and yes, this is a wonderful place!!
SacBarb - I LOVE how you used your ironing board - heck, Mr. MEK asked me where ours was the other day - and I had NO IDEA!!! I also hope your son makes it home...
Jodi - sorry you aren't feeling well - hope you are better soon.
Goldie - I hope your son is safe in his travels!!
Lynn - I agree with the Mr. - please stay home and be safe..
Tina - ummm, that would be YOU!! That' what parents have to do!! Better you than me!!!
Shirley - good morning - thanks again for yesterday!!
cpgem - have fun at Walmart - I shiver to think how croweded it will be!! YIKES..
Tinka - thanks for posting KFC's message......
KFC - Merry Christmas to you
Mary in MI - are you still snowed in??
EBJ - we did invade your home, didn't we?!! and a good time was had by all....... in fact, Mr. EBJ was disappointed that he had to miss the BBQ.....
Ronnie - It was good to see you at the party last night!! we seemed to keep missing each other..
Joey - hope your ankle is better and I enjoyed your scrapbook - thank you..
and to all who land...
I hope everyone has an excellent day!!
:-)
I have had the pleasure of meeting SO many people that I have met thru the blog......I have established some great friendships.
There was a short time this summer when I was about ready to "throw in the towel" and be done with this whole thing. But so many of you reminded me of the relationships that I had formed and how important you all were in my life and some - how important I was to them.
I am VERY thankful that I listened to the majority.
Thank you for being my "angels"!!
(((GROUP HUG)))
Good morning (for a few more minutes!)! Scirish, first! Are you feeling any better? Hope so!
VIG, I hope you make wonderful memories on your vacation. You're a special person--it shines clearly right through the computer--and so you'll always have lots of friends to raise you up.
Thank you, owls, for all the kind words and friendship. It's not as easy for me to open up on the computer (not sure why) as face-to-face so if it ever seems as if I'm a little less forthcoming, I asure you I feel your pain and joys deeply. I believe, and have always told my kids, that everyone has a gift, some not as easy to see as others. Try to find that in each person and your life will be enriched. Thank you all for your gifts.
Shirley, Whabbear, Carol and Goldie, thank you so much for the lovely party yesterday. I didn't get to pop in as much as I wanted but it sure was fun reading the comments!
I hope you all have a wonderful day! Five more days til Christmas!!
Happy Birthday, IBB!!
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Good Morning Sandie - I appreciate your friendship very much. You are always there when I need "raising up". Thank you.
Mek - I have the same reaction to Josh's song. Linda Thompson wrote it about Elvis as she lived with him for a few years. My sister loved Josh and that song in particular.
I am so glad your parents made IBB's birthday separate. I always wish my grandparents had done the same for my mom. As adults, my sister and I always made mom's birthday special. Her 80th, 90th and 95th birthdays were wonderful for sure. I have a picture on her 95th posted on MS. She is wearing a tiara.
Thank you, dear Tinka, I feel the same about you!
I didn't know that song was written by Linda Thompson about Elvis!
Hi EastBay! I have been popping in & out between chores. I am
mentally" still in your huge pool lol!
MEK~The plows finally went by last night. You still have to be be careful as there is only one path!
We are expecting a storm tonight geesh! Enough already!!
Shirley~ Most of our food pantry ladies are sweet old ladies, but they do count on you youngster to do the heavy work! Don't over do! Remember, you want to live to be a "little old lady" some day too lol!!!
Mary you stumped me with your last comment. I think it should have been for Lynn D not me, right?
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Just because!
Well some of our brave volunteers made it in and they told me to stay home. They all have 4 wheel drive and are able to get around more than my stealth junker.
The crappy part is that now I feel guilty I can't make it in. Oy I tell you!
I will do penance next week when the roads clear and go organize the shelves that badly need it! LOL
Tinka I am so tired of this weather and it is supposed to be a doozy coming this way! I am really starting to loathe our winters here in the NW!
Hi MEK, EBJ, Sandie, Mary!
Joey I finally got a chance to look at your Owl on line book how sweet was that??? Just lovely and fun!
Shirley, you are right lol! Sorry!
OH LynnD!! Above post to Shirley was meant for you lol!!!
Am I the only one who types away, only to see you have "capitalized" everything in the wrong places, then have to re do!! We ought to have a day where we leave everything just as we type. It would be a blast! Some of my spelling comes out pretty risque` sometimes!
mARY jUST wHAT ArE YOu TALKIing aBoUt?
mORNING ALL~
Have a great trip VIG!
I think I have caught up on a sleep pattern finally. But it is still friggin cold.
Wanted to go visit with my brother's family today, but apparently they all have the flu....so not going there.
My nephew is officailly out of Iraq!!!! So so happy about that. Still don't know for sure if he will make it back here before I return to Honolulu.
Goldie: You can soon say that you have met two bloggers!!!
Ok gonna get some lunch. Have a great day all.
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Mary, I hope you will come for the next babb! Pool will be available for anyone who wants to come and hang out again.
Not sure where the next bbq will be yet.
I'm making breakfast for MR. EBJ, before he heads out to brave the crowds. He just has a couple errands, but one of them is a stop at Starbucks and that place is always packed.
OOH Goldie and Kgirl are going to meet! How fun! Is Jodi going to join you two??
Sandie - I must apologize. I was wrong when I said Linda Thompson wrote "You Raise Me Up". I remember seeing an interview with Linda and her husband David Foster and they talked about her writing that song. I thought I had better check my facts. Wiki says that Brendan Graham wrote the words. When I googled Linda T. all I could find was her saying "That song got me through some rough times. The first time I heard it I knew it was my song". Sorry, I should check facts before I write them.
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Hey Tinka I'll race you to 100!!
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Hello?!?!
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Well were did you go?
*sigh*
No one wants to race with me.
*sigh*
*sniff*
*sniffle*
*sniff*
Lynn - This next storm coming tonight is supposed to be a real doozy. I want our PNW weather back.
K-Girl - I am happy to hear your nephew is out of Iraq. I think of those young boys over there at Christmas. Remember all the Bob Hope specials?
I had better get something done. I keep worrying about VIG. She thought they may have to go down in Seattle. I hope that wasn't the case. We won't be hearing from her for quite a while. She may be able to e-mail when she is there but she won't be able to get on the blog. Stay safe my dear friend.
Shirley - I was going to race but by the time I finished typing you had run through the finish line. Boy you can really run fast. I was going to try for 100 too.
Shirley - Don't cry. I will race you at 150. I will probably be napping when 125 scrolls by. Now stop crying right now or I will come to Nova Scotia and give you something to cry about.
Ok Tinka, *wiping away tears*, I will try to be back for 150. Have a good nap.
Kgirl my brother has served in Iraq twice, so I know how you are feeling about your nephew getting the hell out of there.
Tinka, that's okay about the song. It sounded like good info to me! LOL
You're making me laugh--giving Shirley something to cry about. My parents used to say that. I was kind of a crybaby when I was little and my sister still enjoys reminding me of that.
KGirl, yes, I'm so happy to hear your nephew is out of Iraq, too. I hope everyone gets out of there before much longer. I hope your brother's family is well soon so you can spend some time with them.
Shirley,please wipe those dripping boogers too lol!!
KGirl, yup, that's what I do lol!!!
My son toured Iraq twice. I still can't talk about it without choking up. He is living safe with me now. Unfortunately there are no jobs out there especially for what he was trained for "NBC"( Nuclear Biological Chemical War-fare).
BBL, I have some (gasp) ironing to do!!
Good Morning Everyone!
VIG: What a wonderful heartfelt blog. I know how hard this last year has been for you and I hope you find peace and healing on that beach in Mexico.
I do have earth angels, many of them are on this blog. Friends that have held my hand and given me strength and encouragement, smacked me when I needed it...snapped me a lot too. I do believe there was even a kick in the ass delivered once or twice, but all done with love. I appreciate these angels more than I could ever say.
It's amazing how just having someone write "I hope you feel better" does seem to help. Or how seeing a simple "LOL" at something you've written, can put a smile on your face and change your day. This nest is truly a unique and wonderful place.
I'll be thinking of you Auntie Nort...stay safe and be good my friend.
Shirley - I am glad you have stopped crying. Now I have to give myself the same warning. I had to listen to Josh Groban again. Then I watched two that were featured below him. Connie Talbot and Paul Potts. Now I am a crying baby. I think I will have my Slim Fast and an early nap. See you all this afternoon. It's been fun this morning.
Sandie - If you were a cry baby when you were little, you probably were very sensitive and caring. That's the kind of child I loved teaching. See you later.
I have stopped crying Shirley.
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*wipes nose on shirt sleeve*
Well Tinka I hope you wiped you boogers like Mary told me to do! Lol!
Hi Zona and Sandie!
H*A*P*P*Y B*I*R*T*H*D*A*Y IBB!!!! May all your wishes come true!
SCIRISH: Congrats on FIRST!
JODI: I owe you a huge apology. I was out when I got your text and didn't get home til late. I'm sorry I didn't post for you!
I hope you are feeling better and that you are able to get the rest you need. NO SOAP OPERAS!! jus' sayin... ;)
GOLDIE: Have fun today! I'll say a prayer for all your son, as well as for all your family that is travelling!
SACBARB: I hope your son is able to make it! Prayers being said for him too!
TINA: I REALLY don't know how you got up so early!!! :D
btw: SWAK!
LYNND: We have worked the nightshift so long in this house, I don't know what part of the day it is. I guess it's cuz my house is kinda dark... ;)
SHIRLEY: Sorry I had to miss the party last night..thank you for all your hard work. Don't be crying now... ;)
ZONA - Just a protein shot!!! :P
Getting ready to go to our first Christmas celebration with my Mom's side of the family. We decided to do a "white elephant" gift exchange. All I had to do was go down to the basement and rummage thru the wedding gifts that we haven't used for the last 19 years!!! I found a hideous crystal candle holder complete with a lovely flower candle ring for the woman's gift, and a bar set, complete with an ice bucket, 4 old fashioned glasses, and a shot glass for the man's gift!!! Should be fun!!!
I hope everyone has a fun Saturday!!!
I'll try to drop back in later. We're going to have to watch the weather, suppose to have another 4-7 inches starting late this afternoon.
Good Morning, Owls!
How many hangovers do we have today after that splendid party? LOL As for people who don't get it; I had a better time, with more laughs, at our blog party than I've had at many a "real" party.
VIG That was a beautiful blog. I'm so glad the nest was here for you to gently hold you as you went through your grief. I hope you have a splendid and magical time Mexico, with warm sunshine kissing your skin.
This nest has been a lifesaver for me, too. First, I went to the other blog to watch the "talky" so I could have at least one laugh during the day. I was also grieving and sometimes felt like things would never get better. Those few minutes of respite were such a relief. As a little bit of time passed, I recognized a group of very caring, loving, and funny people who became more important to me than the entertainment and when Carol built a nest for them, I was lucky enough to be welcomed there, too. You all have helped me through a very rough time, more than you will know.
My good friend Lani has been such a source of strength and support to me, I don't know if I will ever be able to repay her. She is probably the most giving person I know and is always looking for the best in people. No matter how down I am, she can always make me laugh and I am forever grateful for that. She is an angel (except for when she's being a ssssslut). LMAO!!!!!
I am also very lucky and grateful to have my family who has always been so loving and supportive of me. And then we come to Custard, who came back into my life out of the blue like a wonderful bright star to bring light into my life. I am so lucky! I wish we had more years ahead than we do but I am so grateful for what we do have.
IBB Wishing you a splendid birthday!!
Tinka You made me LMAO @ giving Shirley something to cry about!
Joey I'm sorry to hear about your ankle but had to laugh at the lizard drama.
Kgrl So glad your nephew is out of Iraq, too. I hope you will get to see him while you are there.
Shirley How's your back today and, oh, what's that glistening on your sleeve? LOL
SacBarb I knew ironing boards had some useful purpose. I threw my iron out a couple of years ago but I still have the ironing board. Now I know why. :)
Mary I'm glad your son is home safe and sound, too. I guess his skills are not easily adaptable to civilian life. He's obviously smart, though. I hope the right thing will come along for him soon.
Crap! I so didn't mean to write such a long post, plus I"m not done! I forgot....
Jodi I'm so sorry you have the crud! I hope you are feeling much better today. :)
haha... hey..
it's sam huston.. jodi's daughter :]
my mom is on the phone right now.
haha,and i'm pretty bored xD
lawl.
so this is pretty.. neat?
Yes SAM.....we are the bombdiggity!!!
SAM: I have some wrapping you could finish up for me and then you wouldn't be so bored!
IBB: Happy Birthday. I hope you have a great day and year ahead.
I so glad to so many of you that your friends and family are home from Iraq. I hope more and more will be coming home daily. It is a wonderful service your family AND YOU do for us and our country...THANK YOU.
I have some earth angels too! I guess my best friend is my daughter although others come in close too. I have a great friends and family network. I try to be there for all of them as well. The nest has been a huge benefit in my life. I know some of you from the previous blog and then felt pleased to come over to the nest. I have been very fortunate to spend time with BEAR and MEK and wished they lived closer. I (like ZONA) can tell you how much a word during a down time and a happy time is so appreciated. When I had pneumonia in the hospital this year and when my daughter was going through unknown health issues this summer...you all made me feel so cared for and loved. Each and everyone of you have a special place in my heart and I can never thank you all enough. I too feel like the prayers helped heal my daughter (your mom too TINA) and there are no words for my gratitude. (now I am feeling weepy)
I also have people in my life the "don't get it" but my husband and daughter both seem too. I seldom get up in the AM before turning on my cell and reading the blog.
Party was great SHIRLEY AND BEAR. I drank a little too much but I did stay away from the pool...too cold. It was weird sleeping in the Manor last night. I kept thinking I heard a BEAR kind of growling and a HO HO HO like a SANTA laugh...oh well, must have been dreaming.
P.S. Ok, I even love knowing (gulp) RAIDER fans...(you know who you are0....now that is true friendship.
P.S.S. JODI, get shirt ready...Buffalo tomorrow and possible (and I use that term very losely)a playoff spot! I will be getting my orange pots and pans and knives from BONO tomorrow to whip up some chips and dip!
nah, i'd say...
that you guys are.. pretty much kick ass times a milli.
word.
Dear VIG, I haven't known you for as long as the other OWLS, but we have written back and forth quite a bit and I feel I have gotten to know you, and you feel like an old friend. I am grateful that you have trusted me with your feelings. If we can ever say or do something for someone else I see it as an honor. I can't think of anything more important.
It never ceases to amaze me how attached I have become to my fellow OWLS. The kindness and laughter is something one doesn't necessarily find among people one comes in contact with face to face in every day life.
My friend LINDA, aka J/L, and my daughter Jennifer, are my angels. I was absolutely 100% blessed with the most wonderful daughter in the world,both spiritually and on this earth plane.
LINDA has been here for me for many years. I remember when I first met her at the veterinary hospital before she came to work there. I was drawn to her like a sister. She always listens to me. She makes me laugh and at times needs to kindly tell me to snap out of it (not in those words). She always looks at all sides of an issue and is level headed and fair minded. When she moves to Idaho I will miss her terribly, but I wish for her all the happiness in the world.
Off to read comments.
LOL @ "word"!!!!
KFC I am so rude! I forgot to say it was good to see you here. I hope you stop in again, sometime. :)
TINKA: LOL..thinking of a green Christmas! I hope you know how special you are to me.
MEK: I do believe you got 69! Congrats to you! I'm glad you stayed. :)
KGRL: So glad your nephew is on his way home. :)
WAVING HI to: MARY with the errant CaPs..; CPGEM rushing through; KFC making a surprise flyby; SANDIE looking for the good; EBJ offering her pool(yay!) and anyone else who flys on through today!!
LEGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You posted! Get your skinny ass in here once and awhile.
Leaving for the gathering with my sis and family- see you all later.
K-girl, you think its cold now, just wait- you ain't seen nothing yet!! Can't wait to get together with you and Jodi.
Slani You made me all teary. (((HUGS)))
BBL I must get my act together today. :(
VIG: I wanted to tell you that the blog today is very touching. I am glad we have all been around this last year or so for you as you are for so many here and with your work.
I know how hard all this can be but I am so glad you are off to Mexico and in the warm sun and pool and drinking those little umbrella drinks. I really hope you have a wonderful trip and time with your family.
J/L .....when are you moving to Idaho?
HI J/LIN, LANI and SAM!
JODI: Step away from the AMP!! ;)
DIANNE: And I even love Bronco fans... :)
DIANNE: Well, a few anyway... ;P
SDIRISH, how are the bracelets going?
HODI, I hope you are feeling better. I am sorry your son's concert was cancelled.
LYNN, you are the Food Banks angel! I am glad your mailbox is still in tact.
GOLDIE, I hope your son makes all of his flights safely.
MARY, no you aren't the only one to capitalize in the wrong places. I am constantly leaving the cap key on and doing the very same thing. I used to do it at work all of the time also,and then swear after I had typed a bunch.
IBB, A very happy birthday to you.
MEK, still no sigh of plunger boy?
SHIRLEY, you must feel like H...after all that you consumed yesterday.
I pray that all who have a loved ones in Iraq, Afghanistan, or on the way home return safely, and know that they are loved for what they give for our country.
I will go back and re read the comments. I know I have left a bunch of you out, because there is so much to read and so many heartfelt comments. Just know that each and everyone of you matters to me.
Dianne That will be way in the future, providing things keep going the way they are. :)
Slani "...sigh of Plunger Boy"? LMAO!
Zona Waving a wing!!! Wish you were here to make cookies for me. :)
BBL
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IBB!!!
VIG~~"Forever Grateful" for YOU and all you do. As my card said, I hope while we're getting 'tannenbaumed', you're getting 'tan 'n bombed'! If it's possible, I hope your day brings you half the warmth that you bring us.
K'girl~~Stay warm, hug that nephew, and give him an extra to deliver to my SIL when he returns to Baghdad. (btw, I did get the full unit/address info for him at Camp Victory after we last talked about it).
Dianne~~You might ask Santa to check Rachael Ray's cookware website for all things orange. :~)
LynnD~~Still worrying about you, and all my friends in the Puget Sound area. Don't park under a tree!
Stay safe and warm, AngelOwls.
SLIN, Thank you. You don't owe me anything. I think it is an even exchange. Although.....a tuna casserole and apple crisp with a puzzle couldn't hurt. LOL You brought a tear to my eye. BTW where did you sleep last night, as I see you haven't changed out of your dress!!!!!
TINK, I am getting closer to my move to Victoria.
SAM, blog more often and we can talk viola.
SACBARB, how could we ever beat anyone to #1 out here on the West coast :).
TINA, are you back from the game yet for a nap?
CAROL, I don't think I have ever thanked you for this blog, so thank you.
SANDIE, sometimes I feel like I don't express what I am feeling enough either. I think in part, for me it is because so many on the blog have such serious events in their lives that my moans and groans are nothing.
Hi ZONA, I guess we are the very few who aren't snowed in.
Kgrl, Enjoy your visit here in "Iceland".
Slani Thanks for pointing that out, you ssssllllu...... Here's what I looked like when I woke up after that party. LOL
SSSSLIN, Now you are a tropical owl. I think that is a new species.
Well, here I am, at my computer instead of my vacuum cleaner.
In the spirit of opening up a bit more, I have a question!
Have any owls ever had to have an iron infusion? Know much about it?
I'm anemic (found out as I was being wheeled back to surgery) and have gotten worse since my surgery. I'm trying to ingest as much iron as I can (I ate a wrench this morning--just kidding) but since my body isn't able to absorb iron like it used to (due to the surgery), I have to have an iron infusion (iron IV) the day after Christmas (yippee) to try to get my levels up. The IV can take 4 to 8 hours, depending on how your body reacts to the infusion. Another yippee.
I've read about it online but was hoping I could find someone who has been through it (not that I hope anyone has had to do that!). I'm a bit nervous about it.
SANDIE, I am sorry you have that to look forward to at Christmas. My fil was anemic and had to go for infusion treatments a few times. It did take a few hours. I don't really know very much about it, but he didn't seem to have any adverse reaction to it. If anything, he felt better afterward. I hope that is what will happen for you.
P.S. You are always very thoughtful and kind Sandie.
Wow! Sorry I went MIA for the latter part of the party. I left to drive up to San Francisco, and Mr Whabbear still didn't have internet access last night.
But... but... he picked up his spiffy combo modem/router this morning, and we're off and running. He's on his computer at the moment, and I'm on mine.
So many thoughts... first, thanks to you all for supporting our virtual community in all its madness. Yes, I too don't advertise my blogging activities with friends and family very broadly... most have never heard of Ross, and even fewer have heard of a travel agent in New Jersey!
But I love this online community, and think it is just so NEAT that I've been able to meet and get to know so many great people that I otherwise would have no idea even existed!
Tink: Thanks for positing for KFC. Karen, we need more "cross-posters"... Joey and I are lonely!
Linda: Goes for you too!
VIG: not sure when you'll get to read this, but I keep thinking of why Andy Dufresne decided to settle on the shores of the Pacific after he escaped from Shawshank. Because the Pacific has no memory...
Have a great time, and try to follow Andy's example and live in the moment as much as you can on your vacation!
P.S. Carol, your optimism about using the contents of the bedside table wasn't misplaced.
I woke up in my Manor bedroom this morning with not one, but TWO people in bed with me.
One was Mary/MI. The other was Santa. Yes, Santa snuck back in to the Manor when no one was looking.
And Santa turned out to be enthusiastically bisexual!
Thank you, Lani! That helps. I am so looking forward to feeling better. I'm now thinking I've been anemic so long I don't know what it feels like to have energy. I can't wait to find out. Lately, I sleep way too much and have trouble getting through the day, I'm so bone tired.
And, I can say the same about you, sweet Lani!
Okay, this is it. I am going to go and get something done today. It is no wonder why I am getting more blind and fatter by the day, as I am at the computer most of it! What a loser!!!!!!
LOL Whabbear!! So, all those "ho ho ho's" were coming from YOUR room!!
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Shirley - Where are you? You were supposed to race with me. It was an easy win. I just turned on the computer and it was at 149 so in a way I guess I cheated. I had a good nap. Now I am waiting for the storm that is coming.
I just read all the comments and they are all warm and fuzzy today. They make me feel like Christmas is in the air. I would like to respond to all of them but I must get something done.
Bear - It was a pleasure posting for KFC. I hope she cross posts like you and Joey too. She is such a good friend.
Sandie - I have been anemic in the past but B12 shots did the trick. I haven't heard of an infusion but I will be thinking of you on Boxing Day.
The storm hasn't arrived yet but it's coming. I have lots of wood in to keep me warm. My house is so hot I am practically in a bikini. Now that's a sight. LOL
VIG - I hope you are on the sand reading those books you took with you. Can you text someone "I am here"? That's all I want to know then you don't have to contact us again.
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WOW VIG~ What a beautiful blog!~ I hope you find peace and your yellow in Mexico~ My earth angel is DeeDee. I had an incredibly difficult time in February and she was the person I turned to that really helped me thru it. I was also helped by some other owls, but most definitely, DeeDee and my hubby were my angels~ I will forever be grateful for them and all the owls~
I just stopped by to read the blog...haven't read the comments yet....have a busy rest of the day....will be back tonight or tomorrow~
Sandie: Yes! And growls, and cries, and giggles...
Hey gang! I am so loving the loving posts today. I don't know why but I am drinking it in.
It has been snowing for the last 2 hours so watch out Tinka and Bono I am sure things are headed your way. They were saying we might get 4 to 6 inches now it 6 inches to a foot.
Now normally I am not adverse to 6 inches or more but this is just to freaking much!
Jodi have fun today! You to Goldie!
Hi Justlin, Lani, and Whabby!
Waving at KFC and Linda come visit with us!
Ok going to go unbury the dogs and bring them in!
Lynn D I'm not adverse to 6 inches either, but prefer at least 7.
Oh! You're talking about snow!
oops
Lynn, It looks like the snow could start at any minute. It will be a stay at home Sunday I think. I am getting cabin fever and it isn't even January yet. I wish I had snuck into VIG's bag instead of asking. I know she would be happy once she opened her bag.
Well Tinka you beat me to it! When I got here the count was 153. Glad you had a good nap. Stay inside and be safe. There is a storm coming our way tomorrow. But it's only giving my end of the province 10-15cm which isn't too much. It's the flash freezing for Monday that I don't like.
Dianne-football-fanatic-in-Denver what kind of chips and dip do you eat that you need pots, pans and knives to prepare!?! I usually just pop open the bag of chip, flip off the top of the dip and I'm good to go. Just wondering. Lol!
I'm not sure who I have said "hi" to today and who I haven't so I will just say "HI!!!" to everyone!!
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Whabbear!! Well, so much for "I ain't gonna tell anyone" lol!! I should have known it was the wine making the promises! Now give me back the lottery money you took for ransom lol!!
btw, that was NOT me growling!!
Sandi,ROTH :ATE A WRENCH"!!
there I go leaving my "caps" on!!
Well no wonder I don't feel like cleaning. I just remembered I woke up from a dream that I was putting away dishes. If I am working all night while I am asleep, then of course I don't want to clean during the day, so I am off the hook. But shouldn't I be losing weight over night?
Really back to work.
Bon:
I am trying to stay warm, but it is supposed to be 10 degrees tomorrow with a wind chill of -16. This acclamated body of mine (to Hawaii) of course is struggling.
My nephew is not returning to the sand box. He has completed his 15 months and is on his way to Mannheim
Germany where he is stationed. I will keep your SIL in good thoughts.
I will give my nephew all of your wonderful support nesters. Thank you for that.
Kgirl my brother lives in Germany, too. Hopfully will not be going back to the sand.
Please give your nephew my best.
Wonderful, K'girl! That's where my g'daughter was born, while they were stationed at Hanau. If all goes as planned, Kyle leaves the sandbox (stint #3) in March. Next stop, Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center in Monterey, CA. Since his mom's in Half Moon Bay, CA and his dad's in Washington, maybe I'll get my gals back on the left coast someday! Well, there is that little detail about the beloved new SIL whose entire family is in N.C. Fortunately he loves it out here.
btw, I'm the uber-pacifist, but to any Owls spending holidays with military family members, or sending cyber-greetings, please add a HUGE thank you from Oregon!
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Shirley - You stay warm too.
K-Girl - Bundle up. You won't get used to the weather in the time you are there. When I had Asian girls in the summer, they would be cold in their beds and have heaters running in their rooms all night while the rest of us thought the temperature was just perfect for sleeping. When I had them in the winter they had a lot of difficulty getting used to our weather. My sister couldn't get used to the heat in Hawaii and they were there a month.
My Sister just left. I have missed out talks since she moved across the state. She brought fresh baked ginger bread men cookies,sugar Christmas frosted cookies,truffles,and lemon cookies with strawberry jam in the middle. I ate the head of the Gingerbread man first. We both looked at each other and roared with laughter, remembering a certain commercial!
She is a home care nurse to children that have catastrophic injuries. A lot of them die very young. I don't think I could do that. She has amazing patience and a lot of love to give.
Sandie I have never had an Iron transfusion. So I can't help you. They always just give me iron pills. I will be thinking about you.
Tinka I am starting to feel claustrophoic with all of this snow! Stay in it is cold out there.
Mary that is wonderful that you got to visit with your sister! I always bite the head off of the Gingerbread men first then the arms and legs, save the body for last! LOL
Jodi got your message! Love at you! Swaaak!
Ok I am going to go read. Started a new book by a new author I will let you guys know if it is any good.
EBJ Yep Snow! LOL
Lynn - Yes I am getting cabin fever too. I could bundle up and go out and walk but my daughter is a nurse and she says they have so many people, young and mostly old, coming in with broken bones. I don't want that so I will settle for 'cabin fever'.
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VIG - You must be there by now. Have a great day tomorrow at the beach. Thanks again for the great blog. Next to Carol, you must have close to the top number. We will have to get Shirley 'crunching the numbers' again.
Tinka, glad you are staying in. I took the dog out so she could run around and I froze my patootie!!
The ground, with all the snow is very uneven and slippery. I use an old walking stick, but it is still tricky out there!
Thanks, Tinka and LynnD. My stomach can't absorb the iron like it used to so that's why the pills aren't working to get me up to a good level. My doctor is hoping that once I get the infusion, it will get me to a level where my food and pills will keep me there. Here's hoping!
Thanks for thinking of me.
Hi to all!
I never made it to walmart, well actually I did go.. but it was way to crowded so I left.. We went to a different walmart than I normally do, as this one is closer. However this walmart was a mess. I have never seen things thrown all over the place as I did in this walmart.
Pushing, Shoving, and just plain rude..
From now on, I am sticking with the one that is further away, or I just don't go..
I just can't shop under those conditions, my stress level was beyond...
So I walked in and walked out..
So much for getting last minute things..
Mary, it's so nice that you were able to spend time with your sister.
Tinka, you're smart to stay inside. It's so easy to fall when it's snowy/icy. I've done that a few times myself.
Sandie:
I am sorry you are not feeling well.. Sending all good thoughts your way.. and of course smiles..
:O)
Vig:
I remember last year and the grief you went thru. I am so glad we were all here to help you get thru. I think it is a wonderful that you are in Mexico enjoying the sun and relaxing as a change of pace will do you good..
Your brother will be in your heart always, no matter where in the world you are... He is with you!
Safe Travels, and I look forward to your return...
Hope you are reading a good book.. ;O)
KFC:
Good to see ya, and thanks for the Holiday Greeting..
Hope you and your gang are doing well.
Happy Holidays!
:O)
Thanks, Carol. I'm actually feeling fine except for being extremely tired. It's like my get-up-and-go got-up-and-went.
Carol, I have been in Walmarts like the one you describe!! I can't stand that! Fortunately, our Walmart is very tidy and clean. And the southerners are real nice, bless their hearts.
I have a couple of earth angels...
My SSO def has given me what no other could have which is confidence in myself. Without him I don't think I would have had the courage to open my business.. He was there with me every step of the way. He has taught me to walk with my head up in any circumstance and to be proud of my accomplishments. He admires me as the woman I have become, and accepts no less from me. He is truly my Earth Angel.
Vincent my middle nephew, you all know him quite well. He is in several of my blogs.. He def completes me, I am so grateful for him.
My SIL who I now call my Sister. I have known her since my childhood and I cherish her more with each passing day. She is a amazing mother, friend, daughter. She loves my parents as they were are own. She has lifted me up so many times and in so many ways.
She is a true Gem..
Sandie:
I will never ever go to that walmart again. I am glad I am not the only one. What amazes me the most is all walmarts are owned by the same company,
So the employees/management training have to be the same, so why is that if a Walmart is in a different area, it is a mess..
I think I will send walmart a e-mail about this..
This has really upset me..
Our WalMart is huge and immaculate.
The employees are always friendly and helpful. In Lansing( our state Capital) the Walmart's are packed in tight (isles). I rarely see employees and the check out lines are long. The clientele are not the best either I'm afraid!
I try not to shop Walmart too much. I try to stick to the local stores like our "Meijers".
MARY, how great that your sister visited. I miss my sister, as she lives in Norway. My daughter is also a home care nurse for a boy who suffered a stroke when he was a baby. Too many of the other children don't make it to very many years, just like Vig's children.
TINK, I am enjoying my cup of tea with you.
Mary and Sandie - Thank you for helping me feel less like a wimp for staying in the house. I see others outside and I wonder why I am so chicken. I think having osteo is one reason. The pain of a broken bone is something I never want to feel again.
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Shirley - Where are you?
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