The New Lizard Lounge

[TammiMcMan]

Ah Angel, my kindred spirit. I will definitely keep you informed on any information that I find out. One of the woman that I work with swears by the progesteron cream. I just want to run it by my nurse practitioner and see what she says. I'm still as regular as clockwork, but certainly don't feel like my old self. I've read that the progesteron hormone has a calming effect. I haven't felt sad so much as nervous and anxious. Usually I'm very bright and cheerful, so this is something that I want to change ASAP. I know it's a fact of life, but it seems like we should be able to take control and do something about it. I miss caffeine. I had to take that out of my diet a few years ago because I've developed some heart palpitations (another hormone related side effect). Nothing serious, but caffeine and stress can set it off. It was hard at the beginning and some decaf coffees are just gross. I just keep a closer eye on my intake now and it really's not too bad.

What a wonderful surprise you have set up for your DD and DSIL. We've stayed in a king executive suite at the Hyatt and it's just beautiful. The staff was wonderful also.

Welcome home Elizabeth. I agree, a dreary day in Disney beats being anywhere else.

Nancy, don't feel bad about the emotions. Sometimes we just can't help it and it's especially common to feel extra emotional around the holidays. I'll post when I get more information on the cream.

Best wishes to everyone else in the lounge.

 

[MinnieSummer]

Angel -- What an incredible gift you haved received. I will continue to keep you in my prayers until he is safely with you.

Everyone, My father is still in the hospital -- actually back in the hospital. His infection had improved and eveyone thought he would make it but then he got dehydrated and had to go back in. We are all waiting to see what will happen next. We know it is only a matter of time but he is still lucid and doesn't like the idea of waiting to die so he is trying to convince his oncologist to try chemo again with the thought that if it kills him it will only be sooner and he won't be laying around waiting. I'm very confused about how to advise him but the bottom line is that it is his choice. He knows the consequences either way. I just don't wont the suffering to continue and my mom is a mess. The stress has her diabetes and blood pressure all out of whack and I'm trying to keep her calm but we all know it's just a matter of time.

On a positive note. My boss paid for a nurse to stay with my parents so I could spend Christmas Day with my DH and DD. I flew down on Saturday and Flew Back early monday. But had a wonderful stay with them. My DD had no idea I was coming and I surprised her in line at Space Mountain. It was so incredible to see her face light up when she realized I was there.

We had two great meals. Dinner at Flying Fish and at Coral Reef. Enjoyed the Candlelight Processional with John Stamos (a little different take than what we have seen in the past but still enjoyable) and my DH even got to go swimming in the BWI pool. It was a nice break from the pressures and stress here and I actually came back rested and ready to take on the battle again.

Angel: Keep your focus on your DH getting better. Your time will come and everything will work out. The two of you seem to be very happy, in love and content with each other. Keep sight of that and nothing else will really matter.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE.

 

[ead79]

MinnieSummer, I'm so glad you got to be with your DH and DD on Christmas. I know that meant so much to you and lifted your spirits. I'm sorry that your dad is back in the hospital--I know that is difficult on him and on your whole family. It sounds like your boss is truly understanding sending a nurse to look after them. and prayers continue for you.

 

[Nancyg56]

Minniesummer: What a wonderful CHristmas gift your boss gave to your family. Having someone to look after your Dad so that you could spent the Holiday with your DH and DD was a gift to all of you. I know that your Mom and Dad were happy for you, as it must have been hard for them to see split your heart in two. I continue to pray for your family, and know that He has a way of making things work out the way they are meant to be if you leave it in His Hands. I can tell you that both my first DH Dad fought it all the way, as did my DH Dad, until they decided not to fight. I really think both of these strong devout men wanted to control the way that they lived. Tough for the rest of us, because it is a heartbreak to watch a strong, good man suffer, but truely a personal decision. I hope that both you and your Mom take some time to take care of yourselves a little bit, I know that you are taking care of your Mom. Again, my prayers are with your family,

Nancy

 

[Angel16]

Happy Healthy 2006 !

Minniesummar- What a wonderful boss you have. And what a kind thoughtful gift to give you. Having your parents cared for by a professional so you can spend some quality time with your husband and daughter. Just what you needed! You and your family is in my prayers and I pray that your DD's treatment will be successful in removing the cancer.

Nancy - You are in WDW and I hope having a super wonderful time together. I know you will love AKL aw:

Well, Lizards....my wonderful son-in-law returns from Iraq tomorrow.

Our surprise is complete! We have made arrangements for our DD and DSIL to go over to Animal Kingdom Lodge during his two week R & R. They will be informed by hand delivered Fed Ex overnight envelope telling them they have reservations for two days one night concierge level. They are to arrive around noon on their check-in day so they can look around and enjoy the resort. The CM's in concierge are going to "guide" them through this experience, as they have never stayed at concierge level yet alone at an on property resort. They will escort them to their room which I have requested a king bed on the main savannah. There will be surprises waiting in their room. When they arrive in their suite they will find an invitation to the Wanyama Safari for that afternoon. I know they will be so excited. I have been told by IPO that they will treat him so very well to honor his service to our country. I only wish we could be there to see their reaction.

Due to the marathon and high occupancy rate I could not get the reservation until the exact date that my DH is having his open-heart surgery. I know they will have us in their thoughts and prayers, but we hope they have the time of their lifes and not worry about us. We want this to be a special gift to them from us. It has been a lot of fun planning as well as getting their packages done and shipped to their condo for their first night.

Angel 16

 

[Steph H]

Hi, lizards! Remember me?

I've missed you all and thought about you lots this last month or so, but between my computer at work crashing, the flu running rampant in our house, Christmas...oh, and that little pregnancy thing I have going on ...it's been rather hectic here. But I think I'm back to (somewhat) normal now!

I've missed out on a lot, I see:

Pamela: My heart goes out to you. I lost my dad at the end of January last year after a LONG battle with alzheimers, so I do empathize. It's so tough to watch someone that you knew to be so strong stuggling. Please know I'm here if you need someone to talk to. I'm glad you got to visit Disney and your family for Christmas. What a wonderful boss you have!

Angel: I'm so glad you were able to arrange such a special trip for your daughter and son-in-law. And of course, I'll keep Tim in my prayers for a successful surgery.

Tammi: Sorry to hear of your troubles. I wish I could offer assistance, but I don't have any experience (kind of on the other end of the hormonal spectrum right now! ). I do hear that menopause and pregnancy are actually similar in their hormonal fluctations. Lord help us both. But happy belated birthday!!

Nancy: Stay positive! Your trip will be wonderful!!

Angel: Congrats on the new . I'm sure Riley is a handful, but what a joy for your kids.

Hugs to anyone I've missed. I'm in the home stretch now, I guess. Six weeks from tomorrow is my due date. Now if DH and I could just agree on a name for this baby boy... But he seems to be doing just fine and I'm getting excited. I pulled out all the baby clothes from my first DS over the holiday and got them washed, folded, and put in drawers. DH is SUPPOSED to be making me a changing table, which will be the ultimate home for all these onesies, bodysuits, snap-shirts, sleepers, creepers, etc. (He was supposed to have made it for the first baby, but he barely got the crib done in time, so the changing table had to be put on hold.) Wish me luck that he gets the thing done before the baby comes. Since he hasn't even started it yet, I may be in trouble...

I'll be around and check in when I can. Hugs to everyone!! Oh, and for the heck of it, I'll set out some breakfast breads, fruit, cereal, and even some REGULAR coffee--I feel like splurging this morning!

 

[TammiMcMan]

Minniesummer, what a wonderful boss you have. I can imagine how excited your DD was to have you just show up at the MK. My prayers continue that your family can hold onto their faith and find strength for the road ahead.

Angel, a warm welcome home to your DD and DSIL. Please keep us posted on their reaction to all your wonderful surprises. I agree that part of the fun is actually seeing their faces, but I'm sure you'll hear the joy in their hearts. Hope you and your DH are doing well.

Steph, hi Steph. I can't believe that you are just 6 weeks away from baby day. I remember being very anxious in the final month. Couldn't wait to see both the baby and my feet again . We only had baby naming issues with our first one. We had two names picked out, but the moment we saw her, we knew which one fit her best. With my son, I was certain that he was going to be a boy (even though it hadn't been confirmed). When I packed for the hospital, I only included a blue one-sie with the letter "C" monogramed on the chest. He was a "Colin" right from the beginning. I know you'll find a perfect name for your little bundle. Take care of yourself and try to get some rest.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. The Holiday Pops show was everything I imagined it to be. We are already making plans to go back again next year. We had a great New Years eve in Boston, even with the snow that was falling. For the first time, we actually stayed all the way through midnight, so we got to see two sets of fireworks.

Everyone stay well.

 

[ead79]

Angel, your big surprise sounds WONDERFUL! I know they will absolutely love it and truly enjoy the pampering. I’m sure the AKL CL will take wonderful care of them. I’m sure that planning this surprise has been so much fun for you as well.

Steph, glad to see you again! I can’t believe it’s only 6 weeks ‘till baby day! I know you’re getting excited now!

Tammi, how funny, my DH’s name is Colin too! It’s not too common, and I love the name.

 

[Angel16]

Hi Everyone I have an update on our DSIL and DD. He has arrived from Iraq. Thank you Lord! They are in Orlando together. They are both safe and having a great time. They recieved their AKL information and called us before they opened it. So WE WERE ABLE TO HEAR THEIR VOICES while they read all about the plans. They are so excited. DSIL just kept saying geez, we're staying concierge, then he would read a little more then his voice would go up and geez, look at all the food offerings.

We had put together a whole notice complete with pictures from AKL concierge lounge, the food offerings, animals, views of the lobby, pool and such. So as they read they could see all the pictures. As they got down further, we stated "now for the biggie" AKL Wanyama Safari and a complete discription of the safari and dinner after at Jiko's with wine pairings. I thought our hearing would never be the same. Both DSIL and DD screamed with joy. Then, "Motthher, Fathherr you should not have done all this" They never call us Mother or Father unless we are doing something they don't think we should. It was so funny and so wonderful to hear they reactions.

Just a little while ago DSIL called to say they were in their condo and had recieved the packages. He went through each room discribing the condo and how nice it was. He was excited as they were not to be into the condo until 4:00 PM, but when they arrived at 10:00 AM and saw DSIL in uniform the manager let them have their keys early. They had unpacked the boxes and were in the process of putting up the tree. They have had some pd already as the car rental company upgraded their standard car to a Firebird when they saw he was on R&R, then the attendent who brings the car to the client was a Viet Nam veteran and drove up with a red convertable "saying I think you will enjoy this a little more. There will be no charge and have a wonderful vacation."

Planning this and sending everything has been so much fun. Both Tim and myself have enjoyed doing it. It has enriched our last few days, it has been so good for both of us. It is always more of a blessing to give.

Tammi - Have you gotten any information on the progesteron cream? Also, do you have a trip in the planning stages yet? I am thinking about going November/December. I think it might be good for both of us if we have a trip planned and to look forward to during the surgery and recoup. Tammi your New Years Eve in Boston sounded wonderful. You painted a beautiful picture in your discription. Wish we lived closer, it sounds like something DH and I would enjoy.

Elizabeth- Looks like you are thinking of going back to the world during that timeframe too. How are you and your DH doing?

Steph- So good to see back in the lounge. And thank you for the wonderful breakfast items, just what I needed. Goodness, only 6 weeks until your little boy is due. That certainly went by fast...for me that is. I am sure it seemed longer to you. I hope your DH gets the changing table done in time. He must do wonderful wood work. Maybe you can send us a picture when he finishes or send one of the crib. Take care and remember to spoil yourself a little. Once the new baby gets here time will be harder to find.

Nancyg56- You should be coming home soon. Hope you had a wonderful trip. We are all waiting to hear all about your vacation.

Minniesummer- You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I hope things are looking better for your dad and mom.

Sending pd and prayers to everyone in need. For those planning trips. How about sharing. I need a Disney planning fix.

Angel

 

[ead79]

Angel, the story of all the pixie dust that has come your DD and DSIL’s way has me welling up a bit. How wonderful that so many people are recognizing your DSIL for his service! Tell him that even though we don’t know him personally, we are all proud of him here at the Lizard Lounge! I’m sure they are going to have such a wonderful time together on this much-deserved trip.

We are tentatively planning on Nov. 26 – Dec. 2. We like going when the Christmas decorations are up and they are hosting Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It’s just extra festive at that time of year! However, due to DH’s school schedule we went later than usual this past December (the 15-21) and the crowds were really starting to build near the end of our trip. Plus, his work really likes to have him there during the month of December. Moving the trip up a bit will help with the crowds (at least we hope so), and he’ll only miss one day of work in December. Now we just have to hope his professors won’t mind him missing some class. They are typically very flexible (the college DH attends has many working adults) as long as they know about things from the beginning of the semester. If not, we’ll just have to go a bit later again. Have you been during the holidays before? It’s really a great time to go to the World.

 

[TammiMcMan]

Angel, I read your post with a big smile on my face. There is nothing that I like better than surprising people. It sounds like yours was perfect. It also warms my heart to hear about the special things being done by strangers for your DSIL. I hope they both have a wonderfully relaxing vacation.

I'll let you know about the progesteron cream. I have an ultrasound scheduled for the 18th of January to recheck the fibroids and then a follow up with my doctor the next week. I don't want to start anything without talking to her first, but so far, I've only heard good feedback from those who are taking it now.

Elisabeth, I absolutely love the name Colin and it fits him perfectly. Do you pronounce it like Colon or Cawhlin? I don't know if it's a New England accent thing, but we pronounce it Cawhlin. I'm envious that you have a trip planned . We just can't seem to get everyones schedule to match up. I am not giving up though and hope to be in the planning process soon myself.

 

[Steph H]

Angel, your post just brought tears to my eyes. The PD is sure flowing for them--as it should be!!!!

Thanks for the welcome back, too. DH and I bought a carseat for the new baby last weekend (the one we used for the first son was just awful and I was happy to let my FIL sell it at his garage sale to a teenaged couple with a new baby that desperately needed a cheap, fairly new car seat/stroller combo), and a booster seat for DS3 (almost 4) because he's getting a bit "husky." We also drew out plans for the changing table--yay! The nice thing about having someone make it for you is that you can custom-design it. The bad thing...waiting for them to get it finished!!

I have several pictures of the crib he made at home. I'll post them when I get a chance.

to all!

 

[ead79]

Tammi, we pronounce it the same way you do. Colin says that people never used to pronounce it “Colon” until Colin Powell became famous. Now he often has to correct people.

Steph, you really must post pictures when you get the chance. As neither DH nor I are handy people, it always amazes me when people can make things.

 

[MinnieSummer]

Hi everyone/ I'm back in FL again. My Dad is still in the hospital but I needed to get back to my daughter and my boss (even though I thought I had quit) wanted me to come back so he's paying for a nurse to stay with my mom this week and my mom and dad next week when he gets home. Then I'll probably have to go back up for a week or two. We'll see. He's fought off the second infection (that he got after we took him in for the dehydration) and will remain on IV antibiotics until this Friday. Then they will send him home. He still wants to try chemo again, in the lowest form, just to see if it will work and I can't say no to him on this -- he is still completely lucid and understands the risks. As he said, It's my life and my body and I can still make the decisions about what to do with my life and my body.

On another note:

I promised my DD I would take her to WDW for the weekend -- just her and I -- when I got back so I'm looking at going up for the Passholder preview of Everest. In your humble opinions which hotel has the most kid friendly concierge? I'm going for broke on this trip because she deserves it. Since we are probably going to be spending most of our time at AK I thought of just staynig at AKL, which my DD loves, but I also thought trying a different hotel might also be fun. Any suggestions?

Angel, please tell your DSIL how proud I am of his service to our country, and how happy I am that he is home. I hope they had a truly magical time at WDW and that the magic continues in their lives. I know they deserve it as do all the military families on these boards. I've spent so many hours in airports over the last few months and I have seen so many of our young military personnel walking around. They all look a little lost and shell shocked but they also look proud of their uniforms and what they represent. It seems a little at odds, shell shocked yet proud, but under the circumstances it is so understandable. My heart goes out to them as do my prayers.

To everyone else, a belated Happy New Year. May this year be better than last year and may all your wishes come true.

Pamela

 

[Steph H]

Pamela: Your dad and your whole family remain in my prayers. Can't give advice on where to stay, as I only have one Resort under my belt, but I know it will be a fun trip no matter what you choose! Enjoy that time with DD.

 

[ead79]

Pamela, your family remains in my prayers. I know this is a tough time for all of you.

I have stayed at many of the concierge levels, and for me the winner of most kid-friendly would be either AKL or Poly. Since you mentioned that your DD loves AKL, I think you should go for that one. You could possibly even participate in the Sunrise Safari—it is really an amazing experience. If you do want to try a different resort, the Poly and WL are also quite kid-friendly.

 

[Angel16]

Hello everyone,

Our DD and DSIL have been having a wonderful vacation in Orlando. They have called us almost everyday. Of course part of the reason for that is my DH's open-heart surgery which was scheduled for yesterday

I am sorry that I have not been around, but things have been pretty busy for us. Tim did not have his aortic valve replacement open-heart surgery yesterday! We were at the hospital at 5:30 AM as requested. They got him completely ready; IV’s inserted, all forms signed, all boxes checked and lines underlined. We were just waiting for his surgeon to come in before they took him into the O.R.

Well, my DH has O negative blood. When the surgeon came in he told us that they did not have enough O negative blood in the valley for him to have surgery. We are now in a waiting stage. They need 6-10 units of blood for his surgery and at least two units of packed platelets. Our surgeon was very, very upset.

We have been told that the people who normally donate are not doing so right now due to the holidays and it being flu and cold season. I am trying to check everything out with blood services, but they have not returned a phone call to me. We would like to look into direct donations as we have a couple of people who have the same blood type and are willing to donate.

Back to our one DD and DSIl. They have been at AKL CL for the last two days. They are having a wonderful visit and the CM in conciege have been taking VERY good care of them. They loved the Wanyama Safari and dinner at Jiko's after. They spent the day at AKP today and then went back to the lounge for drinks and before dinner goodies.

Our other DD is in from the East and trying to help us with everything for her Dad's surgery or should I say upcoming surgery.

I only hope we get Tim scheduled and dsurgery done before he has any serious issues with his heart.

Hope everyone is doing well. Sending hugs,

Angel

 

[MinnieSummer]

ANGEL: I know the feeling of being at the hospital and waiting for surgery only to have it cancelled due to an issue with blood although my situation didn't involve a rare blood type it did involve a necessary transfusion before they would even take him in for surgery. Check with the hospital itself for direct donations as they are usually able to coordinate it -- my father's hospital has a blood department. Don't worry too much about something happening before surgery, I'm sure he's being monitored very closely. I will keep you in my prayers.

 

[TammiMcMan]

Pamela, I'm sure you must be feeling so torn between work and family right now. It's good that your dad has gotten over the infection and you can only support whatever decisions he makes. You hate to think of these things, but does he have a living will setup and assigned someone to follow through with his wishes? That was very tough to do with my mom, but it's really necessary that they have the final say.

A mother/daughter trip to WDW sounds like good medicine to me. I agree with Elisabeth on the most kid friendly CL's being the Poly and AKL. Maybe you could involve your DD in a planning day? I love doing this with my kids. We go to the local Barnes & Noble, which coincidentally has a Starbucks Cafe. We grab some of the Disney travel guide books, buy hot chocolates and plan away.

Angel, I'm so happy to hear that your DD and DSIL have been enjoying their R & R. In the same breath, I feel terrible for you and Tim. To get yourself all prepared emotionally and then it doesn't happen. You guys are very strong though and we're all keeping positive thoughts for you both.

StephH, hope you are feeling well and having fun preparing for the newest arrival.

 

[MinnieSummer]

TAMMY: Yes, my father does have a living will and I'm the person designated to make decisions when he no longer can. I also have Health Care Power of Attorney. Thankfully, his doctors all have my phone numbers and have been very good about calling me to keep me posted on his status and any changes that have occurred. In that sense I am very blessed. I spoke with him this morning and he sounds good -- weak but good. He is so strong mentally and so determined that I can't help but think positively when I speak with him. I think he knows that and tries to be upbeat for me and my mom but I'm not sure.

STEPH: Please post updates when you can. Your experiences right now are a confirmation of life -- a much needed reminder in trying times. I hope things are going well and wish you all the best. Just a month to go right?