Sunday, August 24, 2014

This is for Carol --New baby

People say that things happen for a reason and I truly believe that. I know a family very well that resides on a navajo Indian reservation in Many farms Arizona. They have a teenage daughter whom I know was expecting a baby this month on the 7 th. This young girl was not only a high school student but she also had a one year old son. My intent was to resign from my job in Louisiana and relocate to Texas. I left Texas to drive to Phoenix Arizona to pick up my little dog Roxie. As I drove I kept thinking about the little guy who would soon enter this world. When I reached my destination... I stayed and visited for a few days...within those few days, I got an apartment, and applied for the Sheriff's department here...I am on my way to becoming one of Arizona's finest...lol as I settled, I received a phone call 3 days before the baby was to be born...I kept talking to my friend Carol and a few other close friends telling myself all the while that this felt right...when the baby came...they sent me pics and of course...I fell in love! He was breeched and 5 lbs 2 ozs...I then arranged to meet them in Flagstaff Arizona. By then he was 5 days old...when they put him in my arms, I knew then that he would be my son...he's perfect, doesnt hardly cry and is very attentive to his surroundings. The parents then arranged expidiciously the signing of their daughter willingly relinquishing all parental rights and making me the sole parent of this beautiful baby boy. That day was yesterday at 12:00 noon Christian Mateo' is officially my son...! As he grows to understand...I will continue to let him know his birth mother and big brother and that god sent him to me to love and nurture him. I never thought I would ever have someone as precious as he is..someday soon will be calling me mommy! So this is the story of how in that short time between June and August I made the biggest decisions in my life and would not change anything...I have a son...!

147 comments:

jan said...

This is Carols friend's baby.

Carol said...

Thank you very much for putting up that post for me Jan.

I find it so interesting how peoples journrneys start out and then take detours that are so very different.

This uld have been so neat if it would have happened 30years ago.
Lisa will make a great mom.

Congratulations Lisa

Unknown said...

Carol and Jan,

Thanks for sharing this amazing story with us!

Hope Lisa and you guys will continue keeping us posted on how Lisa and her new baby are doing.

A beautiful baby and a wonderful life changing story.

RebelliousRenee said...

What a beautiful baby…

What a great heartwarming story. Jan, thanks for sharing this with us. I wish Lisa much love and luck with her new wee one.

jan said...

I would like to extend my good wishes to Lisa and Christian as well. He is a beautiful little boy. It is a lovely story. I think it is great that Lisa is moving to Arizona. It would be great if he grows up with identity with his cultural group. I don't know if I am saying that correctly. I just know this is important in the Navajo Nation.

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

I agree with what you said, Jan.

I've been thinking a lot about society, culture... expectations lately.

Emma started Kindergarten, and I'm feeling slightly overwhelmed by what these kids are expected to learn in a relatively short amount of time. When I was young, I took all this for granted. Now I guess I'm over-thinking things. Or maybe it's just that I am overly protective of Em. But I am worried about what she has to go through, from here on out. I wish I could just keep her under my protective wing, under the loving protective wing of the day care we were so lucky to have found.

Now (I feel like) she's out there, and it's sink or swim. She becomes one of many and set expectations are the same for all of them.

Right or wrong, Individualism has always been so important to me. Now I have to watch the school system try to mold Emma into what they want her to be. And, of course, I know that it is absolutely necessary.

Unknown said...

... yikes, my comment 'deleted' then came back.

Twilight Zone time again, Carol. ?:)

Carol said...

lis appreciated your comments but she isn't signed up to comment yet. I wrote this once but it didn't post.

Carol said...

Or it disappeared.

Carol said...

Blogger may be acting up

Carol said...

I wish so much to be comfortable living alone again. Having to depend on people depresses me even though I love the comp any I have. Greta and Karen have been saints watching over me. It can't be easy having company all the time.

jan said...

Carol, I think it is important to not expect too much of yourself. As I age I realize that old saying - John says it comes from AA- take it one day at a time. Don't try to compare yourself or your recovery to anyone or anything else. I am so happy that you have such wonderful friends. We are all human. Every day will not be perfect or wonderful.

I want to tell you about my sister. My sister's husband died 3 years ago. In his lifetime he made a lot of money, but he spent it all before his death. She had never lived alone. At 68 and 69 it was hard and she was lonely. Her daughter lived about 15 min away which was a blessing. Her daughter who is an RN has looked after her for years as my sis has a chronic disease. A year after her husband died, my sister's daughter was planning a move to TX. My niece invited my sis to move with them (niece, husband, 2 kids (16 & 5). So my sis moved with them. Everything was ok for about a year to 15 months then my niece's husband began to resent my sis living with them. All of this after my sis sold her condo and came into some money from the sale of property to me (a jointly owned piece left us by our dad. A few weeks ago, my sis accepted my invitation to come visit us. When she came, she cried because she feels very unhappy now because her son-in-law is not kind to her. She has known him for the past 22 years and they had gotten along well before. My sis gave them $100,000. to buy a new home. I don't know if she can get anything back- probably not. She would like to buy a little home now close to me. One of the things we have to do is to protect ourselves financially. I have invited her to live with us. If she wants I will help her buy a small home or condo. I feel so bad for her. All she has now is her SS. She does get medicare so her health care is there. I don't know why I am telling you all this but I need to share it.

jan said...

Chloe, I don't think you are overprotective or overthinking all that you said about little Em. There are so many expectations of children and young adults today and so many influences. You love her so much and have provided a wonderful early years of growing up. All you are doing for her and have done for her will help her to be the lovely person she is destined to be. I think the most important thing we can do for our children is love them and give them room to grow into the person they are meant to be.

Unknown said...

What wonderful advice you have given this morning, Jan... both to Carol, your empathy for your sisters feelings and problems, and some much needed advice to me. Thank goodness your sister has you to help her through a very difficult situation.

Carol, the advise and complete understanding that Jan gave you couldn't be more insightful and completely right. One day at a time... that's the best we can do, and the only way to get through some of the most challenging times we experience.

And, Jan, thanks so much for the kind word regarding Emma. I needed them, and like you said, we love her so much, unconditionally. I don't think that kind of love is possible, until you get older (or at least is more difficult).

I'm going to make an appointment for Emma for a behavioral evaluation. Some things I had hoped she would outgrow are still a problem. She has undoubtedly inherited some of her mother's problems, and I hope I can deal with them and direct her in a more productive way than things have gone with her mother.

I guess we all have a lot of challenges at the this point in our life, and luckily those of us here seem to be in a position to confront and deal with them.

Unknown said...

Forward and beyond!

... we can do it.

RebelliousRenee said...

Jan… money can be a very hard issue between families. I learned a long time ago that financially helping family members can be fine, but it sometimes leads to resentment. It depends on if the help is an on going expectation or a one time deal.

I wish your sister much luck with her relationship with her daughter.

Chloe… Emma is lucky to have you and your husband in her life.

Carol said...

Greta and Karen are having a hell of a time dealing with their 14 Year old aspbergers son. He screams and yells and throws fits. I don't think he is capable of phtsical violence but not sure. They are looking for some help. They really need some respite, time away from him. He is driving everyone nuts, including me. I see nothing else they can try. He needs to fear some repercutions but nothing works. He is fine when he is glued in front of the computer playing games. They have tried taking that away and he goes wild. Best thing would have been never allowing him to acquire that addiction but too late now.

My niece April doesn't allow her kids to play games on the computer. At first I thought that was mean but now I understand how it is a good thing. Once they get addicted, it's too late to change it. They are trying to get him into a program that specializes in aspbergers but they haven't been very cooperative in getting back to them. It's a education and training program. I never realized aspbergers had these terrible tantrums associated with it.

After seeing what that kid in Ct did, this kid scares me. They have a gun in the house but it is under lock and key and hidden

None of the computer games he like involve any violence. They are all strategy games.

It would be nice if he could go away to a boarding school but that is too expensive and Greta is on disability . Karen is going to grad school and will not be working much soon.

It sure makes me glad that I didn't have a kid. I hate to admit it but two women raising a teenage boy is a problem. He needs to fear some who is more powerful than he is. He is not a large kid but any boy is more powerful than older women. I couldn't over power a strong 4 year old

Anyone have any experience dealing with aspbergers kids.??

jan said...

Carol, Asbergers is on the autism spectrum disorder. The characteristics you are describing that the boy has are true for young people on the autism spectrum. He and his family definitely needs some help. A book you might want to read that has been made into a movie is Temple Grandin. Temple Grandin is an adult woman with autism, and she shares a lot of how she is. She and others do not feel this is a disability but merely another "way of being in the world." Those are my words.

Yes, probably some children not on the autism spectrum may be addicted to these computer games. For kids on the AS, the games function for them in a different way. I would not take the games away with nothing to replace them.

Here in ABQ the public school system has special classes in specific schools for kids on the AS. It is up to the parents for them to seek help for their child and I would strongly encourage them to do that. It will only help their family life to seek out this help. However, they have to want the help.

jan said...

If their primary care provider for the young man is not helping them fine the assistance they need, then they need to find another primary. Help is there. Another place to look is the public school system under special education.

jan said...

Renee, your words are so true. I know this first hand.

Chloe, you are a wise woman. It takes courage to seek help. All parents need the help (education, counseling, support, comfort) at some point in parenting. I know I have needed that help at different times. I had a lot of help and support (from family, friends and neighbors) when my children were growing up and I am grateful for all of it. A couple of times I sought out professional help. Like another wise woman has written, "it takes a village to raise a child."

jan said...

Every time I open the this blog I see the pictures of Christian. He is the most beautiful baby.

My sister is flying in tomorrow morning. I think she is staying at least a month this time, maybe longer.

Unknown said...

It is nice see that beautiful baby every time we open the blog in the morning, Jan.

Glad to hear your sister is on the way back. Enjoy!

Unknown said...

Renee,
Hope you've caught up on your rest (and everything else) since you've finished your fair. Are things back to normal?

Carol... let us know how you're doing. Good to know you are with friends and not lonely any more. Keep in touch.

RebelliousRenee said...

Chloe…
yes, I am well rested. I started slowly going back to work this week. It feels good. I'm designing a new line of scarves to add to my present line. It'll take awhile to iron out the bugs… but in the meantime, it's fun!

My niece is getting married at the family camp here in town this Saturday. Lots of family members arriving today. It'll be good to see everyone.

Carol said...

Jan, your DIL is ging ti finally having her surgery tomorrow? I'm sure she will be relieved. We'll say prayers for her speedy recovery.

jan said...

Carol, DIL had the breast lumpectomy first and it went well. Will know if there was any spread of the CA later. They found a stone in the liver during the gall bladder procedure. Tomorrow they will try to remove it under a microscope. If that does not work they will have to do surgery. Steve says they will know tomorrow.

Unknown said...

Best wishes for a positive outcome, Jan... hope for your DIL, your son and grand children, as well as you, John and the rest of your family.

Please let us know what happens.

jan said...

They got the stone out of DIL's liver. She is eating and may go home tonight or tomorrow. Thank you for all your kind words and thoughts and prayers. Much appreciated.

Carol said...

Great news About Nancy Jan!

Unknown said...

Hey, Carol,

- looks like we have a lot of rain coming our way for at least the next 10 day (makes me happy, can't remember if you like rain much (?).

It has (and is going to continue to) bring the temperature down to the low 90s... which is a good thing. Looks like we'll steadily cool down from here on out (until next summer).

It's all good!
Hope everyone is doing well.

Unknown said...

Hope DIL is continue to improve, Jan.

(... I'm really beginning to fully understand the expression, if it isn't one thing, it's another.

If it isn't one thing, it's one thing.

Have a good Sunday and Labor Day.
... will check back in to see if you all have plans and how things are going.

RebelliousRenee said...

Jan…
hurray for Nancy!

Chloe…
now that Rick is retired… a holiday Monday is just another Monday to us…

I do wish to all those people looking forward to that day off on Monday a good one.

Unknown said...

Ha, Renee,
We're the same way... holidays are usually just like any other day (except Emma is home).

Is Rick enjoying being retired?
(I can't imagine anyone not enjoying it, keeping in mind there is an adjustment period... more complicated for some than others)

Unknown said...

Have a great day, everyone!

(oh... and the light traffic yesterday... actually all weekend, for some reason... was/is nice. A benefit of certain holidays)

Unknown said...

Hey, Carol

... we haven't gotten most of that rain we were promised (at least on our end, here), but there seems to be lots more chances for rain predicted. I'm looking forward to it.

Carol said...

Chloe, I like rain but it's hard to get the dogs out to potty and I have to worry about the river rising. Other than that, it's ok. ALS it scattered the fire ants and Greta and I got covered in them the other night. They ate my legs up. I used hydrocortisone and meat tenderizer. The tenderizer helps keep the pustules fom forming. Don't know how??

Unknown said...

Carol,
I've used the meat tenderizer too, and have found that the hydrocortisone without the meat tenderizer doesn't help much.

I hear ya about the hardships the rain can cause. I don't like it to go on too long, because it can be difficult and stressful for all the animals. We haven't gotten the rain like you're getting it there. Thye keep predicting it, but we have had any that lasts over a short time (usually just minutes, or not at all).

The fire ant mounds here are terrible this year. Those granules that go after the queen are quick and some of it is stronger, so it only takes a very little bit for each mound. Then they stay gone (although I suspect they show up somewhere else).

Carol said...

I look like I hv th mles on my ankles and lower legs. Only one pustule due to the tenderizer helping

Carol said...

That was supposed to read measles on my ankles.

Carol said...

Everyone is in some sort of crisis here. Dawn aka Georgia called this morning and couldn't get out of bed due to pulling a muscle in her back. She's doing a little better now.

This kid is such a disaster that Karen is going to stay at my house to get enough pease to do her school work good thing we have three places. I can trembler seeing another kid who was this bad.

Unknown said...

Hope everyone's problems are getting solved, Carol.

... that's what seems to take a lot of our time: solving problems. Otherwise, they just pile up.

Carol said...

Everyone's problems wer a little better yesterday. shay boy woke up an angel and behaved for most of the day. That aspbergers is a bitch. And getting any help is even worse. Wish I knew the right formula to help them.

Oh where, oh where is our little Corine, oh where, oh wher Cana she be?

Check in Corine so we know youu and yours are ok.

RebelliousRenee said...

Chloe…
Rick is almost as busy with retirement as he was when working… only he's enjoying it a lot more.

He always told me he had a plan of what he wanted to do when retired… and he's doing most of it.

Carol said...

How wonderful for rick!

Carol said...

Ho I Emm doing with school Chloe? Is she in 1st grade?

Carol said...

Anyone home but me?

Carol said...

How. Is the ne line line of scarves coming Renee?

Carol said...

What is Rick doing Renee?

Unknown said...

Hi, Carol.
Emma just started Kindergarten. Lots of adjustments to make.

Good to hear that things are calming down on your end. Take care!

Unknown said...

It's also good to hear how much Rick is enjoying retirement, Renee... helpful that he looked forward to (and made plans) ahead of time. I think that's what a lot of people fail to do (think ahead).


Also, your happy marriage and home life has to be the huge factor. You two were so lucky to have found your soul mate when you were so young. Make's life easier and more enjoyable... fun!

Carol said...

Chloe, there wre lot of things I wanted to do when I retired but most of them wre usually why I enjoyed being too busy working to do them I really didn't have time to plan, my retirement was a little rushed.

Unknown said...

Carol,

It's wonderful that you enjoyed your work so much... meaningful work, helping and even nurturing others. You have a lot to be proud of.

I have always thought (and still do) that you have done everything 'just right'... and you still are. I hope your are happy.

The most important thing (imo) is to feel some sort of contentment... a sign that we're where we're supposed to be. Contentment is a very valued state of being, and I for one am always striving for it.

Just keep doing what you're doing. You have so much to be proud of and you're right where you're supposed to be... amongst good friends and a lot of love coming your way.

RebelliousRenee said...

Carol… I've only made a couple scarves and I'm not in love with them. It's been hot and humid this week… so no weaving. We leave for a beach vacation (southern Maine) on Sunday. So no weaving next week. I need to do a lot of experimenting… it will take time.

Rick is very involved with a hiking/trail maintenance group he's belonged to for about 25 yrs. He's now the president. The group is publishing a new guide book. And Rick is connecting with many other such groups throughout the state. Taking care of his crotchety old father takes up some time too.

Coreen said...

Not to worry Carol...still close by, still keeping tabs on you guys, even w/o saying anything...no complaints...life is pretty darn good in these parts...except for the start of September, which wants to give us a taste of the hazy, hot & humid days of August, but not for much longer...

As far as the ups & downs of everyday life, everyone goes through them, hopefully, with enough strength to make it through to better days...guess it depends on those we surround ourselves with to make it easier or more difficult...

Anyway, as always, glad you all made it through summer...

Jan, you are family strong no matter what comes your way...

Chloe, your devotion to Emma shines through all your words...

And Renee, you & Rick have something really special, that most don't ever find for even a short time...




Carol said...

Corine, good to hear from you. I like to know all you guys are oK.

Carol said...

Lisa is still enjoying her new baby. He's so cute.
Yep, we're closing in on the end of summer. Don't care for cold weather but I do like cold weather food. I'm still staying with my friends. I miss my days of independence.

jan said...

Carol, the fire ants sound horrible. I have heard about them for years but no experience with them - thankfully. You will have to send more pics of the baby as he grows so we can all see them here.

Chloe, Life must be different with little Emma in kindergarten.

Coreen, so good to have you back and know you are keeping up with the Swamp.

Renee, A beach vacation sounds so good. Maine is on my list of places I would love to visit.

RebelliousRenee said...

Hey guys… Rick and I are leaving early tomorrow morning. We're not taking an electronics. Just sand, water, sky, good books, good food, and one play. We will be seeing The Witches of Eastwick at the Ogunquit summer theater on Tuesday night. On Thursday… 9/11…. I turn 60. We'll be back late Friday night. I'll catch up on this blog next weekend.

Until then…. everyone take care.

Carol said...

My old almmatar played Nabraska today and scord fist, kept and in the last 20 seconds lost. My old school isa low level team playing way out of their league and came close to winning " guess we have a good team this year
Later LSU will be playing a team that msu would normally ply.

Anyone glad football season is finally hr? Maybe John is.

jan said...

Carol, There were several upsets in football today. Good to know McNeese has a good team this year. John is happy football season is here. John's alma mater, SMU lost to University of North Texas. My Alma Mater, UT lost to BYU. So not a good day for football for us. But hey, it was a beautiful day here in ABQ. So life is good.

jan said...

Renee, have a wonderful week. Sounds like so much fun. Hope you have a great birthday

Carol said...

Wishing Renee a restful and wonderful vacay!

Carol said...

Chloe, are you getting used to having Emma in school? Do you like your extra free time? Or are you lonely for her?

Carol said...

We are supposed to have a little cool front come thru next week. Not sure hoe happy I am about that??

Carol said...

It means that winter is near. Don't care for winter.

Lisa sends me pics everyday of little Christian. He's growing fast. He's a little doll.

Unknown said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RENEE!
... the big 6 0. Enjoy!

Unknown said...

Carol,
I wrote a very long response to your comments, then Emma walked in the room for a while. Long story, short... my computer shut down on me (after doing an update it decided couldn't wait) and I lost everything.

The jist of the part about Emma is that she's not away at school any longer than her hours have been the last 2 years or so. She misses some important friendships you had made, but they all went in different directions once they started K.

How cool that Lisa is updating you almost daily on that beautiful little baby. Your paths crossing was/is something to be so grateful for. You've made such good connections in your life. You've done so much good in your life... you still are.

Please let us know how you're doing... feeling. What you're thinking about.

Unknown said...

... hope you are 'all' doing well.

ps
Carol, just make sure you know where your heated throw and your personal heater is, so you'll be reading for that first cold front... that is bound to happen when we least accept it.

I always prepare for changing seasons before they get here... don't like feeling discomfort. (and life is harder in the winter, for those of us that don't tolerate cold well... love the lazy days of summer!)

Unknown said...

reading=ready... please de-transcribe my mucho errors. My thoughts are always log-jamming. Is that 'attention deficit', or just hyper-activity.

... which reminds me, Carol. I think Emma might be ADHD. Starting school has made me realize that. Have made an appointment for a 'Behavior Evaluation'... but they can't take us until the middle of October.

Unknown said...

... ha! Not even going the mention the Deviated Septum surgery I just had (out patient). I feel like hell (and have probably had the problem all my life, but no one ever noticed). The only upside of this will be if it helps my allergies and sinus problems. Will see.

jan said...

Chloe, I hope you feel better soon. Did not know you were having this procedure.

jan said...

Carol, Hope you coldfront is just a cool front and not anything that make the weather too uncomfortable.

Carol said...

Jan, it won't get that cold. I already wear a warmup jacket in the house cuz it's colder than I like it inside.
I's Renee home yet? Did you get someR and R on your vacay and sand in your twat? Never much cared for sand in my twat.

Carol said...

You should have told us about your surgery Chloe so we could have kept you in our healing thoughts.

Carol said...

Chloe, I still have ADD but since I got my thyroid fixed the HD is gone. I could use a little H these days.

What do y'all think of the verdict for Oscar? He did get lucky even though I don't think it was premeditated.

Carol said...

We'll, we have our first cool front. Nice except my gang keeps it so cool inside that I can't go outside anymore to wrm up when I gt too cool inside. When whinning about tht yesterday , my frien Karen skid hat I w going to do when it really gets cold. I guess she figot that I lived in long johns last winter.

Carol said...

OK, are you guys all on vacay? It lonely here

Unknown said...

Hey, Carol,
I'm the same way. Can't stand to have the air conditioning cold (am actually very comfortable setting it at about 80 degrees on the hottest days 'if' I'm being very in active. Once I start working and burning calories, though, I pump it down cooler.

I don't deep it on all that warm in the winter either. I prefer to dress for the weather, as you do... (don't really like the idea of wasting resources tat much... it's not so much the electric bill, as it is trying to do the best I can with what I've got... the body needs to adjust to different needs).

But I do like the warm throws and personable heaters if I'm inactive.

Unknown said...

I still feel terrible and very bad, but these tubes should come out tomorrow, and I hoping for some improvement then (a lot of improvement!).

The only thing is that I'm stressing about how much it will hurt when they remove these tubes... I'm always either worried or stressed about something, so it's my normal state. :)

I would never have had this done if I had any idea how miserable I'd be. But he felt I was getting no air up the right side of my nose, and I think that may explain the sinus infections I' get. Probably had this all my life, but didn't know it (?).

Hope to experience some benefit when it's over.

Unknown said...

We've put Emma into private Kindergarten... it's half day. The full day was just too much for her, and public school is so regimented and impersonal. I'd forgotten. That worked well for me as a kid, but at this young age, just isn't helping Emma at all... she's not quite ready.

If she does turn out to be ADHD, I've read that their brain developed on a little different schedule, but by about 8, they're all the same. I've read and heard many places that early developers, late developers, and everything in between all are about even by the time they're 8 (as long as they're normal to begin with). She's a 'very' smart little girl, but is immature.

Carol said...

Chloe, hope the tube removal isn't too uncomfortable.
My friend Greta has to have her rt wrist pinned Tuesday. Keep her in your prayers. She's been in a lot of pain which we hope will get better after it is pinned

Unknown said...

Yes, Carol... it can get lonely here. I like it when you, and the others, drop in long enough for a line about how you're doing, what's important to you and and what the future holds.

Hope all are well. Not everyone has that kind of outlet, and thanks to you, Carol, we have one here. It's imperative you're here as much as possible, if only a line or two.

Unknown said...

Carol,
I left my computer suddenly, and hadn't pushed publish on my last comment, so just now belatedly entered it.

Best wishes to Greta, and I will keep her in my thoughts. I just know she will be better after the put that pin in... please give her my love. You are so luck to have such good friends.

Unknown said...

Uncomfortable? Ha, that's what my doctor said to expect from the recuperation.

What people in the medical profession call 'being uncomfortable' is good, old fashioned pain to me, but then, I am a sissy (with a low-pain threshold). When I told the nurse at his office I had a low-pain threshold the other day, she just laughed... thinking I was kidding. Oh, well... I guess I just have an 'extreme' dislike of any pain whatsoever.

... like I said, a sissy.

Have a good day everyone.

ps Carol, Keep us informed on how Greta is doing... and everyone else too.

RebelliousRenee said...

I'm baaaaaaack.

Chloe…. thanks for the birthday wishes… I had a really great day. And I got my first senior discount. We went to an Andrew Wyeth exhibit at the American Museum of Art in Maine on my b-day. The lady at the ticket counter said 60+ for a discount. I said "I qualify today"… I got a whole dollar off.

I'll be praying for you tomorrow when you get the tubes out. Hopefully, you'll be glad to have had the surgery done.

RebelliousRenee said...

Carol…
it's a very simple solution to keep beach sand off of one's twat…. beach chairs. We actually have camping chairs… they sit a little higher. They have zipped up pockets on each arm… for sunglasses, books, sunscreen, etc…. and cup holders. They fold up nicely with a strap and can be carried over your shoulder. We take them to the beach, parades, and any other function where it's nice to have your own chair.

I will hold Greta in my prayers too.

jan said...

Chloe, hope you are feeling better or will soon.

Carol, prayers for Greta and her wrist pinning.

Renee, those chairs sound great. Wow, a whole buck discount.

jan said...

Chloe, Sounds like a wise idea to put Em in a private kindergarten and to recognize that a day is too long.

Carol said...

Our cooler mornings were a nice tease. Don't remember having this kind of weather so pearly in the year

Jan, did your sister get back to visit?

jan said...

Carol, yes - my sis got back over 2 weeks ago. We have been hitting the thrift stores searching for treasures. Also a couple of yard sales. All on weekends. I continue to work during the week. She likes to cook so we cook dinner together. I love having someone to cook with but hate cooking alone. We have been rearranging the house to accommodate 3 people instead of 2. It is a great time in our lives to be able to spend this kind of time together.

Carol said...

Did any of you guys get whipped with a belt or switches as a child?

I did and the belt left helps on wherever it struck us. I don't know if it's a southern thing but most of my friends were whipped also. I didn't care for it but daddy didn't take an opinion poll. First I hated spankings and at the time anyone giving one. I thought it was barbaric I kinda think my father got off to it. Hated that also. Mom just hit me with whatever she had in her hand or close by. Once it was an igglo ice cooler and I think I had a concussion

Greta just left for the hospital. Surgery is no scheduled until 2:30, long wait. Child hauler. He has a long list of where he has to go today. He starts his color guard performance at his school football game today. I.e. Marching with rifle and flags.
Today I'm acting

Carol said...

Chloe. You and Greta May hurt some today but get better shortly after. Hop it doesn't take long.

YesJan cooking and cleaning is moe fun if it's being shared with someone else.
I'm ready for a nap. I still don't sleep we'll. I was sleeping in a recliner but I think I was working on a pressure sore on my boney coccyx. I went to get a gel pad but that's not what they gave me. I think they gave me a memory foam pad and after one night it felt like I displaced mr left hip socket. Whine whine whine. That's all I do. Sorry. Old age ain't for sissies. Age 60 stemmed to be when it got worse. Sorry Renee. The cheap seats just don't make up for I getting old.

Unknown said...

I still love reading your comments, Carol... you're just as funny as you always were too.

Did I mention that I still agree with most every thing you say.

Hope Greta's surgery doesn't cause her too much pain. I still feel rotten, but I tend to complain a lot. The worst part is that I don't feel quite good enough to enjoy much of anything. Too many meds too... I hate taking anti-biotics and I've had to take prescribed Tylenol 3 with this too. The meds take their toll... I should be getting back to normal in about a week (whatever that is?).

Unknown said...

Jan, So good to hear that you and your sis are getting some quality time together. What an opportunity, and a good way to come in touch with not only each other, but also your past.

The important things in life really are the 'little things'... no doubt about it.

Unknown said...

Once I'm feeling better, I already know I want to focus on learning to ... go with the flow (some of us are a little slower than the rest... you'd think I would have that down by now!).

Thinking through all the intricacies of that one little thought will require me to be 'thinking straight' again (no drugs!).

The hard part for me will be, and always has been, letting go. Being a control freak is a miserable existence if it's over done.

Forward and beyond... coming up.

Carol said...

You had the tubes removed Chloe?

Greta did well in surgery and is home healing. Thanks for the prayers. They worked

jan said...

Chloe, we all have these control issues. To be a mother, we have to have some control or who knows what would happen to our kiddos.

jan said...

Glad to hear Greta is healing well.

Unknown said...

So good that Greta is through it and is on the mend. I hope it will be a great success, and once it completely heals the pain she has been suffering through is gone.

Unknown said...

Jan,
Thanks (as always)for the kind words... it's really amazing how much a few kind words can be so reassuring and comforting.

The problem I want to work on is always feeling like I'm 'married' to the outcome of every situation. It's like being on a roller coaster. So 'going with the flow', I guess, is more of an acceptance (since we can't control all circumstances). I guess it's sort of an acceptance that we can deal with whatever comes our way.

I heard someone say once that there seem to be two types of people... those who blame themselves for everything, and those who are the hero of their every story.

Unknown said...

Yes, Carol, I did have those tubes removed (ouch!)... thanks for asking. Now I feel like I'm really healing.

It's a lot like having a severe cold (add in a little more pain, and and uneasy feeling of not knowing what to expect)... and being very tired.

'Uncomfortable' was not a good description for the doctor to tell me to expect. But then, most people probably wouldn't do it if they knew the truth. I just didn't have enough to judge the benefits, and still don't until I see if more oxygen makes a different once I'm on the go again.

Have a great day, all! (... love hearing what's going on in your lives... then we can all benefit from one another's experiences... good and bad and everything in between).

Love you all.

Unknown said...

Hey, Carol,

You haven't mentioned in a long time how you're feeling. We need your words of wisdom!

Carol said...

I think my wisdom was in the part of my brain that shrunk!

Carol said...

Chloe, have you been getting a lot of rain? We have had more than our fair share. I'm feel like I'm getting mildewed

Unknown said...

We practically floated out of here this morning, Carol. I was wondering if you weren't have the same exact weather.

... don't like the feeling of winter being on it's way (well, a month or 2 out). Too close for comfort.

Carol said...

Well, it's finally not raining right now, it's an extra pain with dogs to take out.
I'm waiting to find a gator in the yard. Great is not on s body of water by y close to one. A gator could come up a ditch out here. Hope not.

Carol said...

This weather keeps me sleepy and I have to do all the kid shuttling while Greta is down. Chant wait for that to be over.

Unknown said...

Looks like one more day of rain, Carol, and then it's mostly over.

Will be slightly cooler at night too. Does the cooler weather slow down the gators?

I worry about the smaller critters harming my pets (including dogs, which I never see wondering out here any more, thank goodness)). I'd probably have a heart attack if I had to worry about gaters too. (Cats seem to eliminate the (poisonous) snakes before they have a chance to grow.)

I personally take care of controlling the insects. Fire ant control was a job this year. They like the low traffic area's of our land, and since it's 'low traffic', if often takes a long while before I notice how bad they can get.

Unknown said...

... the dark, rainy days make me tired too, Carol. It should be over about tomorrow.

Carol said...

Thank God for. Few dry dys befor w float off.

Carol said...

Fall is here with cool weather. I had my hoody up this morning. I some body fat . I cut my moo intake one dose and

Unknown said...

Carol, I think it was 65 this AM, but the house stays a lot warmer. You'd better prepare yourself for when the cold weather really does get here (make sure your electric throw is near by, so you'll be ready when cold weather 'really' gets here.

When you said you cut your 'moo' is that the ice cream you eat, and did you say you've put on some body fat (or lost more?).

Eat lots and keep warm!

Carol said...

Chloe, my moo is my ice cream. I had topped eatin so much. And I did lose more weight. Can't put it on or keep it on. I'm not getting much exercise. I nao every opportunity I can. That doesn't burn calories.

Carol said...

Renee, do you have any vacay pics to put up anew post or have you perfected your new weave you we're think inking about? Anybody have anything how about the fall colors Coreen?

Carol said...

Ourorts teams are not doing well. saints were supposed to have a great team this year and they can't win a game. Even LSU is a disappointment this season.

Carol said...

We have had some pleasant weather lately. Cool.

Carol said...

Thank you Mother Mary for keeping the hurricanes away!

Carol said...

How about some Emma pics Chloe.?

Unknown said...

Hey, Carol,

I'll take some this weekend (if she'll slow down long enough for me to catch her... hyper isn't the word for it).

Although, Emma's new school is working out a lot better. She told me after the first day of all day public school that 'It's too hard'. She wasn't talking academics, but the fact that they're so regimented and demand that everyone fit into a tight little box. I fully understand why they must do this, with so many kids to control and educate. It just doesn't work at this point in M's little, young, immature life.

She's doing well now (in no small way, the benefit of a half day for now has helped). I've seen a lot of pressure taken off her. She's happy.

Unknown said...

It's good to have you communicating with us more, Carol.

Hope you are doing well, and still surrounded by good friends.

Unknown said...

Hope you, John and your sister are having good times together, Jan.

Between work and everything else, you must have your hands full.

Carol said...

Coreen, are you sad about your Derek Jett retiring? He SMS to be the hot topic on sports radio this week. It's sad that he couldn't go out on a more successful season. Crap luck!

Carol said...

Coreen, are you sad about your Derek Jeter retiring? He SEems

to be the hot topic on sports radio this week. It's sad that he couldn't go out on a more successful season. Crap luck!

We are at my places this weekend. Miss being here.
We also get a break from the boy. Greta is trying to break him of his computer game addiction. It's best if they never acquire one. Last year I thought my niece was a little too strick not letting her two you guns have their own laptops. Now I realize how proactive that was. The boy does not play any violent games which is good but he can't handle not having his face stuck in front of the screen. I do have my own addiction but it doesn't keep me from doing work that I need to do and I don't have tantrums when I have to get off. In fact, I do many of the kids chores so I don't have to watch his melt downs.

Carol said...

Karen stays at my house to avoid them and I get to take her place dealing with them.

Carol said...

Chloe, I'm talking to myself here. I gt to do tht often enough not coming here.
I old like to se some current pics of Emma. Have any?

Unknown said...

You're not talking to yourself, Carol. I enjoy reading your comments, and have responded to you every day (with a few exceptions).

Weekends are rough with everyone home and we're often out and about (another huge change here is that Emma is now only at school until noon every weekday... that has put huge demands on my time, always having to think of her entertainment, well-being, and keeping her out of trouble). This will change when she starts First Grade (and most likely summer camp at her old pre-school).

Please don't stop talking to us. I, for one, will always respond, and always enjoy hearing from you.

Unknown said...

You haven't said much about life at your camp lately. If you have any of those beautiful morning pictures of the river, or any others, I will be glad to post the for you on a new thread.

Just leave it posted on your Facebook page, and then leave me a message here at the site, and I will copy it and bring it over here.

... (I noticed you are able to post your images on your Facebook page, and if I know it's there, I can go over there to see if I can copy it and bring it over here).

Don't give up, Carol. We'll work it out.

Unknown said...

... remember you're the important one here at The Swamp, Carol. The one we've always come to talk to.

Coreen said...

Hey, I still check in on you guys...as I mentioned way back, I can not for some reason post any pics, when I tried it just kept spinning & never completed the process...

Seems for the most part, all is well with everyone...

Fall is just starting here...it has still been great weather, as far as color changing, yes the leaves are starting to change I see the changes every day as I drive from home to the office...

As far as Derek, it is as it should be, he is the last of the 'dynasty'...On Thursday night, it was a magical
night to watch the dynasty come to a close with an ending that you would not believe if you didn't see it happen before your eyes...All day it was drizzly
rain that might have rained out Derek's final home game, but the gods of baseball would not allow it, a rainbow appeared over Yankee Stadium & then the final game...with an ending that was just perfect...

And that Derek decided not to play shortstop ever again after Thursday night was a fitting end to his career...

Hey Renee, not sure how Red Sox fans feel about him only being a DH in Boston, but I agree totally,
he needed to end playing shortstop in pinstripes!...



Carol said...

I started watching the Saints game last night and fell asleep in the recliner. I woke up to a nightmare and changed the channel to the murder network.. Discovery ID. About the same thing that was happening to the Daints. Greta thinks that the cowboys put sedatives in the saints Gatoraide. Maybe. She thought Drew looked

Maybe it's time for a new QB. Or me to find anew team to follow. Sad! I can't even listen to the sports channels this AM it I do want to know what they think happened.

RebelliousRenee said...

Coreen…. from listening to sports talk radio, it seems that Red Sox fans were fine with Jeter ending his shortstop career in NY. Personally, I've watched very little baseball since mid-August. Once the football pre-season started, I stopped paying attention to the miserable season the Sox were having. Next week… hockey season starts… YES!

Yeah… we're having a very nice (and early) fall this year.

RebelliousRenee said...

Carol… I watched the Saints/Cowboys game through the first 3 quarters last night. Unbelievably bad for the Saints… and unbelievably good for the Cowboys.
Sorry about that… I was rooting for your Saints.

Rick took some pictures of our vacation in Maine. I have a very busy week coming up. I need to deliver scarves to several galleries by Friday. We are leaving for another vacation to Cape Cod this coming weekend. I won't have time to put up a post until after we get home.

Jan and Chloe… just wanna say Hi.

Everyone take care.

RebelliousRenee said...

Coreen….
I forgot to tell you that I think Jeter is one class act!
I didn't watch yesterday's game…. but I hope Sox fans gave him a good sendoff.

Hopefully, both our teams will do better next year.

Carol said...

I was embarrassed fo the saint last night. Drew needed to put on a mask to hide his face. Maybe it time for a new QB?

I saw Sproles yesterday. The saints need him back. He plays for the Eagles. Mayb they will be my new team.

Yes, I'm a fair weather fan. I like winners.

jan said...

Carol, watched the Saints and Cowboys game. Sorry about the Saints. I was rootin for them.

jan said...

Hi Renee, Sounds like another great trip to Cape Cod.

RebelliousRenee said...

Carol….
my Patriots got their asses kicked by the Chiefs last night on Monday Night Football.

Oh well…. there's another game next week...

Unknown said...

Carol, I can't download a post now either. Can you send us (Coreen, if she wants, and me) another invitation to see if that straighten's it out?

jan said...

Hi folks, We have had a big turn in our weather. It is quite chilly out this morning. We are doing well here. Hope you all are doing well too. Balloon Fiesta begins Saturday. We probably won't go until a week from Friday. This weekend is the first one so it will be crowded. Weekdays will be best to go. This Sunday is St Francis' Day at church and the Blessing of the animals so we will take Ryley for her Blessing.

jan said...

Carol, I am having trouble uploading the new pic of Christian. I will keep trying.

Carol said...

Jan, I can't put up any pics.

I have many cute pics of the baby. But can't post them.

I'm sleepy this morning. The boy woke me up at 1 am because there was a severe weather alert. He was all perky. I guess we need to put up a weather alert every morning to get him up.

Greta woke me up from a dp nap yesterday evening because she saw a "S" on the back patio. I had 2 rude awakenings within a few short hours. Didn't get any good sleep.

Carol said...

Greta tried to kill the snake but couldn't catch it. It got away darn Makes me nervous. Don't se many or any at my places.

She sprinkled moth crystals out around the area. I don't think that really works. That's the 3rd snake we have seen out there.

Carol said...

She has a pic of that last snake on her Facebook

jan said...

Carol, I saw the pic of the snake on fb. Sounds like it is non poisonous. I don't like snakes either. Hope that is the last one for you all.

I have sleep problems too. I often wake up early in morn. usually due to allergies or small headache.

jan said...

When I wake up too early, I fix a cup of decaf tea and read for a short while and then can usually go back to sleep. This happens more often than I like.

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.