Oh, Snap!A Recession!Going anyway...May 09! **5/19-TR LINK!!!

[scooby9932]

Enjoy your rest weekend! You sure sound like you deserve it.

Lots of prayers for your mom. I hope she's home soon!

I love the bathing suit you picked out, especially the skirt bottom. It looks like it's cut really nicely. And the black shirt with the embroidery is absolutely gorgeous. You're going to look GREAT in it!!

Your Epcot day looks great. I really want to see the manatees at the Seas, we've never really explored much before but it's on our list for this trip.

Sorry for being so behind on your updates... I don't know how I've missed them!! I am getting so excited for you! 25 days is nothing. We are getting so close.

Thanks for the prayers. Mom is home, but she sounds awful. I'm thinking they might put her back in if she doesn't improve. I'm pretty sure the weather (changing temps, pollen, etc.) is making her COPD worse.

Oh, you should definitely go see the manatees! They are precious. I heard that they recently released one of them back in the wild as he had recuperated enough from his injuries.

Yep, we're now just 22 days away! Your's is just around the corner, too. Are you starting to get nervous/excited? I sure am!

Definetly get some rest the weekend, and maybe even go get pampered at the spa... I think rest is the best medicine and the last thing you want to do is be run down when you go to disney and sleep all week... take care

Thanks! I did need the rest. Unfortunately, I didn't get much of it. My lupus will flare something awful without adequate rest & that's what I'm hoping to avoid. There's just nothing worse than being sick on vacation. A little pampering would be great! I plan to get more rest this weekend - especially as it's a holiday weekend - 3 whole days off!

 

[scooby9932]

Only 20 More Days!

So, I've managed to pull a few things together for our trip. Our Disney binder is filled out & ready to go. SP still has to look over the Pressed Penny section & highlight which ones she wants to find.

I also got in my new clothes! They all fit and are folded & stacked on top of my suitcase. It will feel great to actually put them IN the suitcase.

I've been picking up a few small things at the store. I have sunscreen SPF 70+, a small powder, a new box of band-aids, 2 new pillows (our pillowcases look so nice on them!) and some ziplock bags for packing our outfits in. The only thing left to buy are some snacks & drinks for the road.

I went yesterday to WalMart just to pick up hot dog buns & chili, but bought some stuff for SP for Easter. Is it weird that I still get her an Easter basket?

I found a really cute brown basket lined in linen that she can use later in her place once she moves out. I also bought the cutest, softest little lamb plushie! I love it so much, I'm debating whether to give to her or keep it myself! I also picked up some of her favorite Easter candy, some gum she likes, and a couple of lip glosses. A grown-up Easter basket, I guess you'd say.

I also picked up some Swarovski crystals because SP told me this weekend that she wants me to give her a pedicure with sparkly Mickey ears! They sure do sparkle! I hope they don't blind anyone in the Florida sun.

After dinner last night, I didn't feel like watching the movie (John Adams series from HBO - I've seen it 2x now), so I worked on our binder & then made SP an anklet for the trip. It turned out really cute - silver, pink, and clear beads with a silver heart dangle. It's a tradition that I make her a new anklet before every vacation. I'll try to get a picture & post it.

I'm going by Walgreens after work today to pick up a chocolate Easter bunny for everyone. Mom & Dad get sugar free ones, SP likes small solid ones, and her new BF, Steven will get one, too. That should complete my Easter shopping.

Now I just need to contain myself as I'm getting so antsy waiting for our trip! It's getting so close!

 

[Lady Lallie]

20 Days!! How exciting!

I love the idea of Crystal Mickey's on the toesies! I really may have to go with that idea! I love anything that sparkles.

I don't think it's weird at all that you got her an Easter Basket, it sounds very nice.

 

[autumnpalm]

I just wanted to pop in and say 2 things:

#1. WOO HOOOOOOO for 20 more days! Isn't time flying?!

#2. We started our pillowcases!! They're taking a little longer than I expected but I'll post pictures once we're done. Thanks for sharing such a great idea, they are so much fun to do!!

 

[scooby9932]

20 Days!! How exciting!

I know, I can't believe how time flies!

I love the idea of Crystal Mickey's on the toesies! I really may have to go with that idea! I love anything that sparkles.

You should definitely do the Crystal Mickey Toes! I think it's going to be so cute. You sound just like SP. I bought SP a t-shirt that says, "I'm not ADD, oh look - Something Sparkly!" And, of course, the lettering is all in sparkly crystals!

I don't think it's weird at all that you got her an Easter Basket, it sounds very nice.

Aw, thanks. I just can't see NOT getting her one.

I just wanted to pop in and say 2 things:

#1. WOO HOOOOOOO for 20 more days! Isn't time flying?!

Yeah, baby! You're not far behind us, either!

#2. We started our pillowcases!! They're taking a little longer than I expected but I'll post pictures once we're done. Thanks for sharing such a great idea, they are so much fun to do!!

Oh, that's great! You should definitely post pictures of the finished product!

 

[Nuwanda9]

<<And, now, I have a confession. Ahem............


I



am





a







Twilight fan!

I bought the 1st book for SP when it first came out. She's slow to read books normally, but she went through it in 1 night! So, of course, being a book lover, I had to see what the fuss was all about! Well, color me impressed! We were both fans right from the start.

Each year, we had to wait for the next installment...it was torture! Then while reading the final book, we find out they're making the movie of the 1st book! Of course, I was on chemo & restricted from movie theaters when it comes out. But SP saw it & kept telling me how great it was.

So, when Amazon started pre-selling the 2 disc special edition, I had to buy it. The worst thing is, we bought another copy at Wal Mart the day it came out b/c we couldn't wait for our movie to get here! Anyhoo, guess what came in the mail yesterday?

You guessed it. Our Special Edition Twilight Movie!

I watched the special features disc last night. It was great! I think I'll rewatch the movie this weekend. Hmmm...And maybe reread the books. Yep, I'm a TwiHard. >>

I am coming out of lurkdom to tell you how much I am enjoying your PTR! I had to laugh when I read this because I did the same thing! I hadn't read the books but the girls in my Girl Scout troop talked about the books a lot. When I saw that the movie was coming out I decided to read them beforehand. I loved the movie (one of my nieces, who is a huge Twilight fan, hated it. She is a purist, through and through!) and I will admit--it was because Robert Pattinson is so HOT!! (Yes, old enough to be his mother here! But who can resist this...) I pre-ordered the DVD from Amazon. When they sent an email saying the release date was 3/21 I didn't put 2 + 2 together (UPS doesn't deliver on Saturdays!) until a couple days before. So, I ended up buying a copy on that Saturday and watched it 3 times before my 2-DVD set arrived on that Monday!

I have a trip tot WDW planned for the end of December and, of course, I am freaking about about finances! I work for a non-profit so I am not making beaucoup bucks! And we were just told of a cut back in salaries! I think that is why I keep reading trip reports. They keep me motivated to make my trip happen!!

You're almost on your way! Have a GREAT time! (PS: I LOVE your new hair cut! And your daughter reminds me of Natalie Portman! They have the same smile!)

 

[scooby9932]

I am coming out of lurkdom to tell you how much I am enjoying your PTR! I had to laugh when I read this because I did the same thing! I hadn't read the books but the girls in my Girl Scout troop talked about the books a lot. When I saw that the movie was coming out I decided to read them beforehand. I loved the movie (one of my nieces, who is a huge Twilight fan, hated it. She is a purist, through and through!) and I will admit--it was because Robert Pattinson is so HOT!! (Yes, old enough to be his mother here! But who can resist this...) I pre-ordered the DVD from Amazon. When they sent an email saying the release date was 3/21 I didn't put 2 + 2 together (UPS doesn't deliver on Saturdays!) until a couple days before. So, I ended up buying a copy on that Saturday and watched it 3 times before my 2-DVD set arrived on that Monday!

I have a trip tot WDW planned for the end of December and, of course, I am freaking about about finances! I work for a non-profit so I am not making beaucoup bucks! And we were just told of a cut back in salaries! I think that is why I keep reading trip reports. They keep me motivated to make my trip happen!!

You're almost on your way! Have a GREAT time! (PS: I LOVE your new hair cut! And your daughter reminds me of Natalie Portman! They have the same smile!)[/COLOR]

Yeah, another Twilight fan! It's good to know I'm not the only one too impatient to wait for my Amazon DVD!

Sorry to hear about your financial worries. These are hard times, but you're right, reading trip reports does somehow brighten the outlook. I hope you are able to make your December trip. I'll be sending lots of pixie dust your way!

 

[scooby9932]

Disclaimer: Depressing Post Ahead.

My life has been in an uproar over the last few days. I'm still a bit in shock & when not, am crying or nearly crying.

Here's the story:

Thursday, April 9:

I was scheduled for my PET scan to find out the status on my cancer at 12:30 p.m. It had been "arrested" up to this point. It's Stage 4 metastatic, so I'll never be "cured".

Anyhoo, I was a bit nervous that morning, but nothing too bad. Then at 11 a.m. SP calls me & says, "Mom, I have bad news. I want you to promise you won't get upset." Of course, I immediately feel my heart beat kick up & start to get upset & ask what's happened.

SP: Well, you know that big oak tree that you've been worried about?

Me (heart in throat): Gulp. Yy..esss?

SP: Um. It fell on your house a few minutes ago. It's not completely crushed, but it's bad. (This is the cottage "mother-in-law" house I've been renovating for a few years & storing all my furniture, appliances, everything in.)

Me:

SP: Mom? Are you okay? I'm so sorry! I know this is a bad time, but I wanted to catch you before your appointment.

Me: Oh, my God. How..How bad is bad,exactly?

SP: Well, the front room is gone and the roof over the kitchen & living room is crushed in, but it's hard to see how bad with the tree still on it. I went in & could see the ceiling caving in, but the workmen told me to get out as the tree hadn't finished falling & I could get hurt.

Me: Oh, stay out! I don't want you hurt. Is everything gone? Wait, what work men?

SP: Not everything...yet. The bathroom & bedroom aren't in bad shape. (These rooms were relatively empty, btw, still waiting for the final renovations before I moved stuff in there). The highway had some tree people cutting back limbs down the road & they saw what happened & came to look at it & told us they'd cut the tree out of the way of the driveway so we could get in & out & Paw Paw is getting an estimate for them to cut the tree out & off the house.

Me: I am out of words. Just totally shocked.

At this point, I'm starting to really get upset & can't catch my breath, so I tell SP I'm going to hang up & call back after my appointment.

I make it to my appointment somehow (I honestly don't remember leaving work & driving to the hospital). The whole time they're fitting me with the IV and running the tests, tears are just silently falling down my face. The technicians think it's because I'm worried. I tell them no, it's because everything I own is now crushed under a tree. And keep leaking tears.

Later, after the scan, the doctor comes in to go over the results. They're not good. The cancer has spread to my left hip bone, both leg bones above the knees, and my right shoulder blade. The tumors in my lungs & ribcage are still there, but smaller than before the last round of radiation/chemo.

Dr: So, you know the next steps. What do you want to do?

Me: And the tears just keep on coming, rolling down my cheeks & soaking my gown.

Dr: Tell you what. Take the weekend. Think about it. And try to remain calm. You know stress is the worst thing for you. I'm so sorry.

And he leaves.

Somehow, I manage to get dressed, drive my car home. When I get a 1/2 mile from my house, I can see the *#*&!#@ tree on my house. I park my car in the drive, get out, and I just lose it. I cry hard for about 30 minutes, cursing the tree, nature, God, whoever. Then I calm down & just sit on the ground & stare at what used to me my little cottage & cry some more.

I finally pull myself together, walk in the house (parent's house where we stay), and spend the rest of the evening & night with my thoughts colliding. Do I go for more treatment? 8 years is a long time & I'm tired. How can I start over? Oh, God, all my books? What will I do to get the mess cleaned up? What ...what....what....

Friday, April 10

I wake up & try to focus on the good things in life. I try. I don't think I do so well. I'm kind of in a zombie state. I finally tell SP about the test results. She gives me a hug & goes on to work. She never talks about how she feels with me about my cancer. She talks to others. I let her have her space to work through it. This works for her. I do whatever I can to ease the stress from her.

The tree people can't come until Saturday to get the rest of the tree cut off the house. There are storms coming. I sit & worry.

Then around 6 p.m. the phone rings. It's my Aunt Nadine. My uncle just had a heart attack & has died. Very sudden. She doesn't know what to do. She can't think. She doesn't think she can go on without him. They have been together since she was 16 & he 18. They've been married for 54 years. He doted on her. There are no words, but we all try. She's incoherent & has to call back later, the paramedics tell her they're ready for transport. There was nothing they could do. It was almost instantaneous.

My whole family is in shock. We're so sad for Aunt Nadine. So sorry to lose Uncle Duane. So sad.

But I start to see that I'm lucky. No one died or was hurt when the tree fell. I'm still alive & can get treatment. I start to feel a bit guilty for overindulging in self pity. Even as I listen to the sounds of rafters cracking & bricks falling. And my heart breaking.

Saturday, April 11:

The tree people show up at 7 a.m. & start removing the tree from the house. They also take down 2 more trees that my father found worrisome. No sense having more fall.

I finally tell my mom & dad about the test results. They don't know what to say. I don't know what I'm going to do yet.

Monday, April 12:

I have my standing Dr. appointment for blood work, etc. I talk to my Dr. about what's been going on. I tell him about the trees, the death, my fears. He listens patiently. He asks what do I want to do. We discuss options, timing, outcomes. He suggests I see a grief counselor or social worker. I tell him I'll think about it.

Now:
I have decided to wait on a decision until after my Disney trip. I need this trip now more than ever. I just hope I can get my nerves & mind under control enough to enjoy it. The financial loss is huge. But Disney is paid for, so I'm trying not to feel guilty about that. I have enough worries. Going to Disney World & leaving reality is just what I need.

And I'm not going to let my tree fear worry me while I'm away. I hope. I pray. I'll do my best. I'm going to soak up as much Pixie Dust magic as I can. I plan to spoil myself a bit.

Well, that's it. That was my Easter weekend.


TREE STATS:

The total now stands:
Hurricane Katrina - August 2005: 3 large water oaks fall in the back yard. One falls along the length of my parents house - misses the house by 18". We watch it fall out the back (wall of glass) - I physically grab SP up & carry her running towards the front of the house when I see it coming down - still don't know how I did it.

To get these trees out, the crew has to take down 3 more to get their machines back there.

Hurricane Rita - August 2005: 3 more large oak trees down. None close to house. One barely misses my car.

I'm starting to fear falling trees.

March 19, 2008 - 2:30 a.m.: A small thunderstorm moves through the area. 45 mph winds knock a very large (several hundred years old) red oak tree down. It falls across the drive, onto my car, ands smashes into the roof of my parents house - on my bedroom just above my head. I'm traumatized by the experience, but otherwise ok. The car gets fixed. The roof gets fixed.

You can just make out part of my car. The rest was totally "encased" within the tree. The corner of the house that the tree hit is my bedroom. It was a wild wake-up call, I'll tell you.

A shot showing SP's car barely missing being crushed (the light blue car). My car in the background - see how the limbs hug my car? The top had been smushed when the tree bounced on it & the hood was smushed in from one of the limbs. Not too bad considering. It only took 3 weeks & $4500 to fix.

Another shot showing the roof above my room. My headboard is just under that window.

My fear of trees falling on me escalates. I have minor panic attacks when the wind kicks up.

August 2008: Hurricane Gustav - WORST hurricane to hit Louisiana in 100 years. News people act like it didn't happen because metro New Orleans wasn't hit. Our parish, however, had the most damage in the history of the state. On our lot alone, 15 very large oak trees fall. One smashes SP's car. Others break down out buildings, fences, parts of house. The area looks like one giant tornado ripped through thousands of trees. We're devastated. We get the trees cut up as we can afford it. (There are still 7 trees down on our property that have not been cleared to date.) There are many trees left damaged. During the whole hurricane, I'm in a panic. Every C-R-AAA-CCKK! of a tree has me breathing hard & feeling dizzy.

September 2008: Hurricane Ike: Strong winds from the opposite direction of Gustav knock down a few small trees. The top half of one that was damaged falls down - barely misses my car.

I go to work that morning. I don't leave when they tell us we can go home early to prepare for the hurricane. I tell them I'm going to stay there - away from trees. I park my car in the center of the large parking lot - far away from any structures, trees, etc. My car is the only one in the lot when I finally leave for the day at 9 p.m. Ike has since moved on.

A picture showing part of our backyard - pre-Hurricanes, etc. Not ONE of the trees in this picture is still standing. Not ONE! And that's just part of the yard. What was once a beautiful, oasis type property is now scarred & ugly. We have one tree left in the backyard. And it has to come down as it's leaning toward the house & pool.

Tree Fear - HUGE!

I worry more about trees falling. Everywhere I look a tree is leaning. I used to love the country. Loved trees. Now I hate them. I want to move to the desert.

April 9, 2009: No wind. No storm. Random tree just falls - ON MY HOUSE! Winds, rain, hail further the damage over the next 3 days.

TREE ON HOUSE:

Fear of trees falling - FIERCE!

Dr. says it's like post traumatic stress syndrome. Advises me to relax & try not to worry about what you can't control. I can't cut down every tree. I know this. It doesn't help. I think I might need therapy!

 

[Leleluvsdis]

Oh my word!!! Lots of for everything.
My mom's best friend had an oligodenroma (brain tumor) that was in operable. When she was first diagnosed they told her that the longest a patient had lived at that hospital (a research hospital and #1 cancer hospital in the state) after diagnosis was 9 months. She lived 22 months from diagnosis and is was stage 4 at diagnosis. The only explination that the doctors had for her life was her spirit. She always had high spirits and had the utmost faith that God would bring her through it.
In saying that, I don't know if you are a religious person or not, so if not I appologize, but one thing that I always remember most about her is when someone would ask her how can she be in such high spirits, she would always respond with "If God brought me too is, then I know he WILL bring me through it." Whenever I have a hard day, I always remember this and it's almost like the weight is lifted. Good luck and best wishes with everything right now and lots and lots of I'm thinking about ya

 

[autumnpalm]

I don't even know what to say. I am so sorry. Your update just broke my heart. I really hope you decide to talk to a grief counselor or social worker. I can't imagine the stress you are under right now.

Even just reading about the falling trees worried me, and experiencing the trauma in real life must be so, so much worse. Natural disasters are so scary because we have no control over them... and they are so unpredictable. When my residence caught fire this year and I didn't know if any of my things were salvageable, it was a terrible feeling. People kept saying "it's just stuff" but when you're in the situation, it is such an unsettling and upsetting situation. I am so glad that nobody was hurt, but I know sometimes that is hard to focus on when you're faced with something so awful.

Your aunt and family will be in my thoughts and prayers. It sounds like her and your uncle loved each other so much, how heartbreaking. I am so sorry.

Finally, I will keep you continually in my prayers for a miracle. When I read the update on your cancer, my heart sunk. I hate cancer so, so, so much. You are such a strong and beautiful person and you are handling such a difficult situation with so much grace. I really do admire you for it! My grandmother lived for almost 10 years after her cancer was diagnosed and pronounced "incurable" (and this was back in the early 80s). I'll be praying for you every night if that's okay with you, and will light a candle for you at church on Sunday. I am so happy you have the trip coming up to look forward to and bring some extra magic to your life, but remember no matter where you are, God is right there with you all the time and you are never, ever alone.

Lots and lots of love and hugs.

 

[Lady Lallie]

Oh my goodness. I can't even imagine all that you are going through. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

 

[scooby9932]

Oh my word!!! Lots of for everything.
My mom's best friend had an oligodenroma (brain tumor) that was in operable. When she was first diagnosed they told her that the longest a patient had lived at that hospital (a research hospital and #1 cancer hospital in the state) after diagnosis was 9 months. She lived 22 months from diagnosis and is was stage 4 at diagnosis. The only explination that the doctors had for her life was her spirit. She always had high spirits and had the utmost faith that God would bring her through it.
In saying that, I don't know if you are a religious person or not, so if not I appologize, but one thing that I always remember most about her is when someone would ask her how can she be in such high spirits, she would always respond with "If God brought me too is, then I know he WILL bring me through it." Whenever I have a hard day, I always remember this and it's almost like the weight is lifted. Good luck and best wishes with everything right now and lots and lots of I'm thinking about ya

Yes, I definitely believe in the power of faith, prayer, and a positive attitude. I don't believe I would still be here without all those things. In fact, at the end of May I turn 40. I've requested a huge blow-out party since 10 years ago I was told I wouldn't live to see 40. So, I know prayer & a positive attitude works! I'm living proof. When people ask what they can do, I always tell them that prayer is a wonderful blessing & very much appreciated. Thank you for yours!

I don't even know what to say. I am so sorry. Your update just broke my heart. I really hope you decide to talk to a grief counselor or social worker. I can't imagine the stress you are under right now.

Even just reading about the falling trees worried me, and experiencing the trauma in real life must be so, so much worse. Natural disasters are so scary because we have no control over them... and they are so unpredictable. When my residence caught fire this year and I didn't know if any of my things were salvageable, it was a terrible feeling. People kept saying "it's just stuff" but when you're in the situation, it is such an unsettling and upsetting situation. I am so glad that nobody was hurt, but I know sometimes that is hard to focus on when you're faced with something so awful.

Your aunt and family will be in my thoughts and prayers. It sounds like her and your uncle loved each other so much, how heartbreaking. I am so sorry.

Finally, I will keep you continually in my prayers for a miracle. When I read the update on your cancer, my heart sunk. I hate cancer so, so, so much. You are such a strong and beautiful person and you are handling such a difficult situation with so much grace. I really do admire you for it! My grandmother lived for almost 10 years after her cancer was diagnosed and pronounced "incurable" (and this was back in the early 80s). I'll be praying for you every night if that's okay with you, and will light a candle for you at church on Sunday. I am so happy you have the trip coming up to look forward to and bring some extra magic to your life, but remember no matter where you are, God is right there with you all the time and you are never, ever alone.

Lots and lots of love and hugs.

Your response brought tears to my eyes. You have such a gift for words. Thank you. I appreciate all the prayers, I really do.

Even though I break down now & again & feel helpless, I always manage to pull myself back up through faith & prayer. Hearing encouraging words helps so much - so thank you, again.

My aunt & cousins are all very close & have wonderful relationship to God, so I know that they'll get through this hard time. You're right, they were incredibly blessed in their marriage. It was the only example of what I call a fairytale romance I've ever seen. They were married when she was 16, he 18, and every day he has left her a love note to find...sometimes on her pillow, others tucked into her coffee cup, etc. They held hands & he sang love songs to her. Just really, really sweet to see 2 people so much in love after 54 years.

I spoke with a social worker yesterday & I believe I'll be back throughout this next course of treatment.

Oh my goodness. I can't even imagine all that you are going through. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks so much! I appreciate all the thoughts, prayers, and kind words.

I'm feeling a bit better today. I've made a semi-plan of action & that always makes me feel better. I like knowing next steps. It's a comfort. I'll begin treatment after my trip. The doctors think it won't make a difference if I delay a few weeks. Then I'll start radiation treatments daily for 6 weeks & more chemo. Since bone doesn't respond as well to chemo, I'm hoping to be on a lighter dose (maybe daily or weekly injection) than before.

Thanks again for all the warm wishes & prayers.

The insurance adjuster came yesterday afternoon & the news is so-so. My parents didn't have enough insurance on the house to cover the damages. But any help is better than none, right? So, tonight I have to go in with flashlights & boxes to pack up what is salvageable & also make a list of what has been lost. Then we'll be able to set a course of action for the house & clean-up.

In Disney news, I stopped by Walgreens for some prescriptions yesterday & asked behind the make-up counter for samples & they were able to give me some Loreal SPF 15 moisturizer samples so I don't have to take my large bottle along. I also picked up some other small items. I unloaded the Disney Box last night & begun making a list of what I need to replenish, etc. I'm hoping to get all my packing done by this weekend. With all the upheaval, though, this may just be wishful thinking!

 

[autumnpalm]

I'm glad you're feeling a little better.

I will be thinking of you and praying for both you and SP every night!

 

[scooby9932]

THE SINGLE DIGITS DANCE???!!!???
ONLY 9 MORE DAYS!!!!!!​

​

Ok, now that we've gotten that out of our systems...

On the Disney front, I have done absolutely nothing for the trip for a solid week! I know! I haven't even started packing yet.

I'm getting nervous! And excited. And more nervous. Please, just let some magic pixie dust descend so I can get it all done in time & not make myself sick just in time for our trip!

So, how have I been using my time lately? Packing! But not for Disney!

I've been working on salvaging what I can from my house. First came the clean-up of broken stuff. Then the packing. I must admit, I have too much stuff! I collect tea pots & tea ware & also have a large amount of crystal & ceramic stuff.

What wasn't smashed has to be wrapped in newspaper & boxed up & moved to the back of the house where there wasn't as much damage. We only stopped yesterday as I was too sore to go on & we were out of boxes & newspaper. We still have the dining room & all my kitchen dishes to pack up. I just hope I can get it all done.

SP has been working & hasn't been able to do 1 thing to help. So it's just me & my 75 yo Dad working to get the place ready. Not fun.

We have to empty the front rooms (kitchen, dining room, living room) for the construction workers who are coming in 1 week.

They'll start the demo & rebuild the day before we leave for Disney. The timing is just BAD. But I'm really going to try to just let it go while we're on vacation. I'm not used to that. I like to supervise! Not being able to watch over my stuff & make sure everything is handled properly turns me into this guy =>

That's it for now. Hopefully, I'll have more to report Disney-wise in the next few days.

Again ... ONLY 9 DAYS LEFT! ​

 

[scooby9932]

5 MORE DAYS!

Oh, boy, do I have some stuff to do! I've been doing a lot of this lately. SP is breaking in today to do her since she has the day off. I hope to be able to start packing this weekend - finally!

So, what's been happening at my house? Well...

I now have new contacts! SP & I went to the eye doctor on Tuesday & she renewed her prescription. I haven't worn contacts for a few years because it's one small way I can cut down on exposing myself to germs. But I got so tired of switching out my prescription sunglasses & regular glasses last year on our trip. I just want to be able to take my sunglasses off & on. I still have my regular glasses prescription, which I'll probably use most days after vacation. I do like the ease of contacts. I just have to get used to the feel of them. I find myself adjusting my glasses - even though I'm not wearing any! But I'm sure I'll get used to them.

I do like to play up my eyes now with makeup. I bought a new liquid liner - Urban Decay in Copper. I had a certificate for 15% off at Sephora, so I HAD to get something! It glides on so smoothly & stays put. Plus the copper color makes the blue in my eyes pop.

I also bought Shiseido's facial sunblock. It was expensive, but I saw a lot of good reviews for it's lasting power, so I hope it keeps my face protected. I don't need any more brown spots on my face! Radiation caused a few & I hate them!

Speaking of those brown spots, I also ordered the free sample kit from Everyday Minerals last week. The concealer I tried is PERFECT! Completely disguises my spots! So I immediately went to the computer & ordered the full size kit & I'm now in love with mineral makeup. I didn't like the price tag of Bare Escentuals & the drugstore brands made my face shiny. These are just amazing! And cheap - I got a full size concealer, full size blush, full size base, full size brush (oh, so soft), full size finishing powder - all for $34! The kit came in yesterday & surprise!...they threw in 3 eye shadows as a free gift. I highly recommend Everyday Minerals!

SP & her new boyfriend, Steven, went to the Nickleback concert in New Orleans. They had a blast. They went with Stephen's best friend Eric - visiting from California. Only issue was she had to get up after only 3 hours of sleep & work a full shift at the hospital. She was dragging!

Here's a pic of them at the concert:

Aren't they a cute couple? Here's a pic from Saturday night - they went dancing with a group of friends:

He's so good to her & a really nice guy. SP is so happy! It makes me happy to see her that way. She had such a bad time with her ex - I didn't think she'd ever move on. But God does listen to our prayers!

Let's see...what else?

Oh yeah, I bought a few more shorts for myself. And a pair of sandals. I decided to spoil myself a little. It feels goood!

As for Disney stuff, I got all my shopping done. We now have all the snacks for the trip down. Also bought a few last minute toiletry/first aid items. And some new socks for SP.

Oh, & I changed hotels again for the 1st night on the trip down. I read so many reports of the Ramada being dirty & moldy, that I figured it just wasn't worth the extra $50 savings for something filthy. Then I read a few reports of bugs in the rooms! Definitely NOT worth a bit of savings! So, we're now staying at the Comfort Inn in Lake City, FL. It's brand new & the beds looked SUPER comfy! After 10 hours on the road, I'll appreciate that!

That's pretty much it. Besides working 9-10 hour days, I also have been getting stuff packed up from the house. That's why I'm so behind on trip packing. But I hope to get that taken care of by Sunday night. That way I can use Monday's vacation day to wash & vacuum my car & load it up. And get to bed early 'cause I really want to be on the road by 7 a.m. The challenge will be getting SP up & out. Since she's been getting up for her new job at 5 a.m. that should be smooth for a change!

Til next time...just doing the Woo Hoo Dance of anticipation!

 

[Lady Lallie]

5 Days!

SP looks so cute with her boyfriend! They make a nice pair.

Good for you, you deserved to be spoiled every once in awhile!

 

[Landry]

I hope you two arrived safely & are having a great time!

 

[scooby9932]

Ok, ok. I know you've been anxiously waiting, holding your breath, etc. etc.

Anyhoo, I've finally started our TR. If you're still hanging in there, here it is:
Froliking Pants & Chicken Necks!_How this Dorky Mom & Daughter Do DisneyWorld!