Clan Fiend Adult Conversation New Home 9

[Pickles]

Hey, I have landed here and will probably not get to spend much time for a few days. This is the silly season after all and life is very hectic.

Welcome to you all.

Pickles :heartbeat

[Apocalypse]

Hey pickles!

So Clan, what've we all been up to then?

I'm surrounded by piles of wrapped and unwrapped pressies for the kids... :roll:

[JayEgo]

Am undergoing w**k hell and although I'#m getting to enjoy the first day of the New KT, I will be absent for tomorrow and maybe the rest of the week whilst the rest of you's settle in. AlterEgo will try and poke his nose in, though how possible this is remains to be seen!

I shall however, look forward to ready family news and gossip as you all join up and spread your wise words some more :D

Ja¥son xx

[Sharon]

GreenDena(DragonLady) & Family, Purpura & Hubby and I were all at Dena's yesterday for dinner, Hannukah celebration & cookie baking. It was terrific fun, and all of you were in our thoughts.

We used Jeffery's German Butter Cookie Recipe, and the cookies were yummy, but we didn't use both batches of dough that I'd made ahead of time. So I've got more cooking baking to do this week. :D

[Apocalypse]

Oh Yummy! :D How fun, a little :fiend: gather!

Presents are wrapped, but my foot is still not working properly :(

And the kids are coming to live with us - that's my BIG news! :scared:

[Laurel]

:heartbeat :balloons:


:wave: Wheeee - thanks for the invite Caer! :typing:

[la sirena]

Oh Yummy! :D How fun, a little :fiend: gather!

Presents are wrapped, but my foot is still not working properly :(

And the kids are coming to live with us - that's my BIG news! :scared:

1) What's wrong with your foot?

2) You've got the kids permanently?

[Greenrider Tresa]

I'm taking a litlte break from working on my essays to post and have a look around the forum. Might even pop over to chat. <G>



Tresa

[j_mercuryuk]

*pants*
i made it. i got here.
*calpses in exhausted heap*
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[Mausey]

How many of the kids will be moving in with you Apocalypse and what did you do to your foot?

[Earthmother]

GreenDena(DragonLady) & Family, Purpura & Hubby and I were all at Dena's yesterday for dinner, Hannukah celebration & cookie baking. It was terrific fun, and all of you were in our thoughts.

We used Jeffery's German Butter Cookie Recipe, and the cookies were yummy, but we didn't use both batches of dough that I'd made ahead of time. So I've got more cooking baking to do this week. :D

My youngest wanted to eat German Butter Cookies and Gingerspice bread for breakfast. :roll: :faint: He loved helping aunt Sharon with the cookie cutters and looks forward to baking again.

As soon as I picked my oldest up from school, he said, "May I have two cookies for having a good day at school?" He received his cookies.

Sis Sharon left us with a pile of yummy cookies though with the boys, I do not know how long they will last. :laugh:

We still have a traditional quesadilla party to plan and a Anime night at MHB's. :heartbeat

[Dawn]

Ooooo, can I have the recipe for Gingerspice Bread? :bouncy: It sounds so good.

[la sirena]

to ruin the surprise in gift giving. :sad:

When wrapping a :gift: , make sure you don't leave the INSTRUCTION BOOKLET laying on the coffee table. :banghead: He didn't saying anything but I know he saw it. :sad:

Maybe I'll return it and get him something else.

[Apocalypse]

1) What's wrong with your foot?

2) You've got the kids permanently?

1) I don't know. I've pulled the muscle (?) in the arch.... :(

2) Yes.... god (or deity of choice) help me! :scared:

[Apocalypse]

How many of the kids will be moving in with you Apocalypse and what did you do to your foot?

Maus, possible all 3 - but definately the 2 youngest. 10 & 11 yr olds ;) Any advice?

Are there any physiotherapists on the board? I don't know what I've done to my foot, but I can't walk on it properly :cry:

[Apocalypse]

to ruin the surprise in gift giving. :sad:

When wrapping a :gift: , make sure you don't leave the INSTRUCTION BOOKLET laying on the coffee table. :banghead: He didn't saying anything but I know he saw it. :sad:

Maybe I'll return it and get him something else.

Oops :blush:

I think we've decided to have a weekend break - probably Paris - for our gift to eachother.... goodness knows we don't need more 'things' in the house :roll:

[Sharon]

My youngest wanted to eat German Butter Cookies and Gingerspice bread for breakfast. :roll: :faint: He loved helping aunt Sharon with the cookie cutters and looks forward to baking again.

As soon as I picked my oldest up from school, he said, "May I have two cookies for having a good day at school?" He received his cookies.

Sis Sharon left us with a pile of yummy cookies though with the boys, I do not know how long they will last. :laugh:

We still have a traditional quesadilla party to plan and a Anime night at MHB's. :heartbeat

Glad the boys enjoyed it as much as I did.

I just hope it's easier to find parking at MHB's. You live in a lovely area, but the parking is crazy!

[Sharon]

to ruin the surprise in gift giving. :sad:

When wrapping a :gift: , make sure you don't leave the INSTRUCTION BOOKLET laying on the coffee table. :banghead: He didn't saying anything but I know he saw it. :sad:

Maybe I'll return it and get him something else.

Oooops!

[la sirena]

- probably Paris -

Now you're just being MEAN!!!!! :irked:

[la sirena]

Maus, possible all 3 - but definately the 2 youngest. 10 & 11 yr olds ;) Any advice?

Isn't the oldest working now? He's not out on his own?

How big is your place?

[Apocalypse]

Isn't the oldest working now? He's not out on his own?

How big is your place?

The oldest did have a job, which he lost. He's now in the process of finding another job; a) before his mother kicks him out and b) before Feb (which is as much time as we given him to get his act together). If there's no job by Feb, then he's moving down here too :irked:

We're moving from a 1 1/2 bed apartment into a 4+ bed house, probably in Wales. OR has just has his contract extended, so it looks like we can stay in the area a while longer.

[Mausey]

Maus, possible all 3 - but definately the 2 youngest. 10 & 11 yr olds ;) Any advice? Besides praying? :laugh: With mine and all their friends I just made sure I was there to listen and feed them cookies. I don't know if it's the same for all kids, but with boys they seem more comfortable talking to you if you're both busy with something. We had our best chats when we were doing dishes, baking or walking.

Are there any physiotherapists on the board? I don't know what I've done to my foot, but I can't walk on it properly :cry: Ouch. Last time I had anything that sounded even close it was plantarfasitis. It's not the correct spelling but it's microscopic tears in the muscle in the arch of the foot. Hurt like mad first thing in the morning or after I'd been sitting for awhile and not using the foot. I went to the Dr. and then to physio, didn't take a long time to get it fixed. The reason it hurts first thing in the morning is because the muscle starts healing overnight and then when you hop out of bed and walk, you tear them open again. I'd say see a Dr.

[Silver]

hey all... well Jeffrey is leaving in the morning and it's been really fun with him here... so keep him in your thoughts please as he travels home that he stays in one piece physically and finds that other piece mentally that went missing on the way down.

ttyl all

[Apocalypse]

Ouch. Last time I had anything that sounded even close it was plantarfasitis. It's not the correct spelling but it's microscopic tears in the muscle in the arch of the foot. Hurt like mad first thing in the morning or after I'd been sitting for awhile and not using the foot. I went to the Dr. and then to physio, didn't take a long time to get it fixed. The reason it hurts first thing in the morning is because the muscle starts healing overnight and then when you hop out of bed and walk, you tear them open again. I'd say see a Dr.


Cookies - right. The middle one (they all have L names :roll: ) loves to cook already! :ok:

And I think you're right, off to the Dr with me - when I find one... I've been stretching it a lot, which seems to help :sigh:

[Carmal]

I've made it :wave:

I missed the opening of the NKT. :( Being so exhausted after the weekend we haven't even turned the computers on :faint:

Wow about the kids Apoc - I agree with Mausey that the most important thing is to listen to them. I had three step-sons in that age group and they used me as a sounding board (and a taxi service) . They are all grown up now and I hardly see them, but I'll always have a special spot for them. :heartbeat

[KJW]

Mwahaha found you :coffee: :fiend:

[Sharon]

Well, it wasn't like we were trying to hide. ;)

Good to see you made the crossover KJW! :D

[Yonuh Adisi Fiend Jedi]

Well, I found the New KT. That's good. For now this is a test post just to make sure My sig works as it should. I'll say something worthwhile later :bouncy: :bouncy: :fiend: :bouncy: :bouncy:

[Faren]

Apo, I agree with Mausey that the best way to talk to boys (at least mine) is for you both to be doing something. The eldest and I really cherish our time doing the dishes together (I wash...he dries). That's "our" time for talking.
Good luck to ya, hon. As Stepmom, you have a tough road. :group:

[Sharon]

Hello BroYonuh, I knew once SisSilverhawk got here you wouldn't be far behind! :D

[Mary]

Maus, possible all 3 - but definately the 2 youngest. 10 & 11 yr olds ;) Any advice?



Yes, sit down and have a family meeting the four or five of you and draw up some ground rules.

You are making a new family unit and you all should get some say in how it behaves. This way the kids will feel more cooperative if they help make the rules rather than having a new set of rules imposed on them.

Since I only have a 5 and 3 year old we only have one rule and that is

"No Hurting"

Which helps us a lot and for the 5 yr old I am getting her to understand slowly that it also means not just physical hurting but not hurting feelings as well.

[Apocalypse]

Mary, thanks for the advice :ok: We're having the kids down for Xmas too, so I'm sure there will be some discussion before we get around to having 'proper' ones ;)

Maus - I have what you said about my foot :cry: Now I just need to stay off it while I'm doing the housework, cooking, shopping, entertaining the kids, driving..... :roll:

[Nagetier]

Kids are scaaary. I don't, uh, have any? o_o And am glad I don't.

I wouldn't mind :fiend: kids entirely, but RL kids are the kind I'd probably be very likely to want to skin. 'cause they're creepy.

Props to those of you who CAN be parents.

[la sirena]

Mary, thanks for the advice :ok: We're having the kids down for Xmas too, so I'm sure there will be some discussion before we get around to having 'proper' ones ;)

Maus - I have what you said about my foot :cry: Now I just need to stay off it while I'm doing the housework, cooking, shopping, entertaining the kids, driving..... :roll:Once all the kids get there they can take over the chores. Can the oldest drive?

[Apocalypse]

Once the kids get there they can take over the chores, though having an older child be able to drive you around would be helpful. Is the oldest coming for the holiday also?

No, he's staying at home to continue sorting out a job - at least that's the theory ;)

The little ones are too little to cook without supervision, but they're pretty good at chores... when they want to be! :roll:

How're preparations going for Xmas with you guys?

[la sirena]

LOL! I was just switching windows to e-mail you!


Dave is leaving either tomorrow night or Satuday morn to pick up the kids. Its about a 25 hour drive, straight thru. He'll stop to rest if/when he gets tired but he's planning on pushing thru. They should be back by Monday night.

Still nervous, since this will be our first time together with me as "the girlfriend". They seemed okay with it over the phone, so we'll see what happens.

*Warning - sappy content*

Dave and I haven't been separated since I moved out here. I get teary eyed just thinking about him being gone for a whole week-end! :cry:

[Apocalypse]

LOL! I was just switching windows to e-mail you!


Dave is leaving either tomorrow night or Satuday morn to pick up the kids. Its about a 25 hour drive, straight thru. He'll stop to rest if/when he gets tired but he's planning on pushing thru. They should be back by Monday night.

Still nervous, since this will be our first time together with me as "the girlfriend". They seemed okay with it over the phone, so we'll see what happens.

*Warning - sappy content*

Dave and I haven't been separated since I moved out here. I get teary eyed just thinking about him being gone for a whole week-end! :cry:

:D Well, email any time!

I'm sure I'd be the same if Lance had to go away - I'm a total sap too! :heartbeat:

It's good to hear that you've spoken to the kids on the phone - it's always good to ease them into these sort of things. So long as you don't play 'jealous girlfriend' (and I hardly think you're like that anyway) you'll all have a brilliant Xmas! :group:

PS - Lance says to make sure Dave SLEEPS somewhere before the return journey, and to wash his face in COLD water when he gets tired - Lance says it's a miracle wake-up ;)

[la sirena]

Oh no, I haven't talked to them on the phone. Dave told them about me on the phone and they were okay with it. They vaguely remember me from Disneyland when I took my nieces. The boy (age 11) was more interested in how high the ceiling is so we can the biggest tree possible! :) My kinda guy!!

I'll be working for a few hours almost everyday so they'll have alone time with Dad which I think is important for them.

[Apocalypse]

Oh no, I haven't talked to them on the phone. Dave told them about me on the phone and they were okay with it. They vaguely remember me from Disneyland when I took my nieces. The boy (age 11) was more interested in how high the ceiling is so we can the biggest tree possible! :) My kinda guy!!

I'll be working for a few hours almost everyday so they'll have alone time with Dad which I think is important for them.



You couldn't be more right! I try to get Lance to spend some 'alone' time with the boys (I have them all day while he's at work), but we never seem to fit it in. They don't appear to have any problem with that either - they're seem quite happy to have either of us around... :Phew:

You've met them before then?

[maiken]

Hi Fiends! :wave: I finally got the chance to read all of this and post in it. :roll: Took forever! Well anybody know how to make Chalveni chocolate?????
<---has to make some for Christmas Eve dinner.... :banghead:
Never volunteer to make all the food for a dinner that 56 people will be at! :eek: You will go nutso! I'm only 15 and I have to. GRRR :banghead: :banghead:


Hiya:momsie Dragonlady and family! I made it!

mai :wave:

[la sirena]

Last December Dave was in California to visit family (that's when we met up for the second time and began to fall in love :heartbeat ). I was taking my two nieces to Disneyland for the oldest's b-day and invited Dave and his kids to join us. So we spent several hours together but they were more interested in the kids. The boy was out numbered and my oldest niece (age 7 at the time) decided that she was going to marry him!! ( Of course, she also predicted that Dave was going to marry Britney Spears, Hillary Duff or Christina Aguillera) :D

Needless to say, they don't remember much about me so this is a fresh start for us all.

[Apocalypse]

http://www.annemccaffreyfans.org/forum/images/smilies/biggrin2.gif Kids can be so cute!

I bet they'll spend the first day going... "We know you from somewhere!"

And I also bet that all of them will be really tired http://www.annemccaffreyfans.org/forum/images/smilies/noface.gif

[Apocalypse]

:D Kids can be so cute!
I bet they'll be tired, but they'll probably recognise you and ask where your nieces are!

[Mausey]

At least you know what's wrong with your foot Apo and if you do the exercises the Dr. gives you, you shouldn't have problems ever again. I find myself sitting at the computer doing the foot exercises :laugh:

I think one of the most important things about becoming a step-parent, especially with younger kids is to make sure they have time with the other parent without you interfering. No peeking in just to see what they're doing (unless you're bringing food :D ) no interupting with "oh honey, I just need a minute" sort of thing. The kids have to know that you aren't trying to take mom or dad away from them. At the same time they have to know that the two of you need time alone together. Mary's suggestion of a family meeting is a great one, that way everybody knows what the rules are and if they have a say in them they don't feel like they're being picked on.

[Apocalypse]

Actually, they didn't give me any exercises. :blush: Any suggestions?

[la sirena]

I almost got to test my snow driving skills on Wednesday.

While I was at work we had what the locals were referring to as "flurries". If it were water I would call it a very light sprinkle. Make that a very, very light sprinkle. The snow disappeared before hitting the ground. We'll have a cold clear week-end, then we might have either rain or snow on Monday. So they say. "They" have been wrong before.

[Apocalypse]

:D The first time I had to drive in snow, I managed to slide off the road and into a wheat field! :eek: The farm hand had to pull me out with a tractor :blush: Icy road + very light car = hello wheat! :laugh:

[Pickles]

Actually, they didn't give me any exercises. :blush: Any suggestions?
Hi Kas,

From experience you have to let your foot heel first, then start on exercises. If you start to soon you undo all the good work and end up having cortisone shots, inserted through the soles of your feet. Trust me this is waaayyyy more painful than bee stings in the foot. It is actually quite disgusting to say the least, so my advice is follow the doctors orders. They will recommend physio at the right time, eg: when your foot is ready. Good shoes are a must from now on and you can pretty much kiss heels goodbye. :sad:

Pickles

[Apocalypse]

Hi Kas,

From experience you have to let your foot heel first, then start on exercises. If you start to soon you undo all the good work and end up having cortisone shots, inserted through the soles of your feet. Trust me this is waaayyyy more painful than bee stings in the foot. It is actually quite disgusting to say the least, so my advice is follow the doctors orders. They will recommend physio at the right time, eg: when your foot is ready. Good shoes are a must from now on and you can pretty much kiss heels goodbye. :sad:

Pickles

I gave up heels (and sandals and thongs/flipflops) years ago - I already have inserts and 'sensible' shoes (visited the podiatrist ages ago)... :noface: It's actually feeling a lot better today, but I'm still staying off it. My MIL thinks it's a good excuse to get OR to carry me around! :laugh:

[Sharon]

La Sirena, I'm sure you will do just fine with Dave's kids. The advice the others have given sounds very solid to me, but since I've never had step-children there's nothing I can add to it. Be yourself, that's always the best under any circumstance. :D

[KJW]

I'm so glad I don't have kids yet. Although I love my niece, who sadly due to arguments between my brother and sister in law, I don't get to see. :sad:

[Mausey]

Actually, they didn't give me any exercises. :blush: Any suggestions?
What I was told to do was to put a towel on the rug. Now with bare feet put one foot on the very bottom edge of the towel and using your toes, pull the towel towards you, do the same thing with the other foot. I was told to do this several times a day. Now I just sit and putting some weight towards my toes curl them in like I'm pulling the towel. You can even do this with your shoes on if you have enough toe room. :D I haven't had a problem since and it's been several years. I can wear a modest heel, maybe couple inches but just for an evening out, not all day. Maybe check back with your Dr. or a physiotherapy dept. and see what they say. The exercises might depend on how bad your feet are and they might want you to hold off them for a bit.

[Apocalypse]

Thanks Maus :heartbeat I'll try that once I'm walking on it properly again. I don't want to strain it again :roll:

[Earthmother]

Ooooo, can I have the recipe for Gingerspice Bread? :bouncy: It sounds so good.

q-t, my :fiend: and "adoptive (with her parents permission)" daughter has the recipe. When she comes over to spend New Years weekend, I will have her pm it to you. It is very yummy.

Sis Sharon, after the boys ate the majority of the cookies, I finished the last "small" three this morning. :darkside: :faint:

la sirena, I just figured out who you were on the KT. :crazy: You will be wonderful. Relax and be yourself. :heartbeat

[la sirena]

Well, Dave left this evening. I sent him off with a kiss and a smile (and more than a few tears). Right now it just seems like he's at work. Tomorrow will be different when I wake up and he's not here. :sad:

[Apocalypse]

Well, Dave left this evening. I sent him off with a kiss and a smile (and more than a few tears). Right now it just seems like he's at work. Tomorrow will be different when I wake up and he's not here. :sad:

:group:

[KJW]

pop, does everyone have thier holiday shopping done? Mine's almost complete

[lisap]

pop, does everyone have thier holiday shopping done? Mine's almost complete

I hope to finish this afternoon. I still have no idea what to get my dad; he's the hardest to shop for!

[Gryphon]

Maus, possible all 3 - but definately the 2 youngest. 10 & 11 yr olds ;) Any advice?
Five words: Saran Wrap and Duct Tape.

Since you're on the other side of the pond, Saran Wrap is the clear plastic wrap on a roll.

Play a game. Have the two children stand with their backs to a post or pole, arms at their sides. Start with the Saran Wrap at the ankles and circle the victims, er, children, with the wrap from ankles to neck, not too tight, but not too loose, either. You do not have to go for a heavy overlap. The wrap is unbelievably strong; if done properly, you will have two children secured to an immovable object.

When they start to scream and holler, a strip of duct tape over the mouth will quiet them.

The plastic wrap will not leave any marks for evidence, either.

And you people thought YOU were fiends!

[Sharon]

Gryphon, that answer qualifies you as a Fiend! Welcome to Fienddom! :D :fiend:

[Gryphon]

Gryphon, that answer qualifies you as a Fiend! Welcome to Fienddom! :D :fiend: Why, thank you!

By the way, if you want, you can use this technique in the woods, using a tree. That way, if far enough from other people, the duct tape becomes unnecessary.

At that age (10 & 11) they won't believe you when you tell them that you can tie them up with Saran Wrap. Easy to sucker them into letting you wrap them to a tree.

[Mausey]

Five words: Saran Wrap and Duct Tape.

Since you're on the other side of the pond, Saran Wrap is the clear plastic wrap on a roll.

Play a game. Have the two children stand with their backs to a post or pole, arms at their sides. Start with the Saran Wrap at the ankles and circle the victims, er, children, with the wrap from ankles to neck, not too tight, but not too loose, either. You do not have to go for a heavy overlap. The wrap is unbelievably strong; if done properly, you will have two children secured to an immovable object.

When they start to scream and holler, a strip of duct tape over the mouth will quiet them.

The plastic wrap will not leave any marks for evidence, either.

And you people thought YOU were fiends!
We actually did that to the kids at a cub camp a couple years ago. :laugh: One of the kids just wouldn't behave and we told him be good or else, he didn't so he found out what "else" was. We picked him about foot off the ground and got busy. With-in 5 minutes the kids were all fighting over who got to be next. The parents came to get their kids and there they were, duct taped to trees. :D The only problem we had was getting the sticky gunk out of the clothes later. The parents thought it was a hoot.

[Gryphon]

We actually did that to the kids at a cub camp a couple years ago. :laugh: One of the kids just wouldn't behave and we told him be good or else, he didn't so he found out what "else" was. We picked him about foot off the ground and got busy. With-in 5 minutes the kids were all fighting over who got to be next. The parents came to get their kids and there they were, duct taped to trees. :D The only problem we had was getting the sticky gunk out of the clothes later. The parents thought it was a hoot.That's why you use Saran Wrap or some other plastic cling wrap for food. It clings to itself and doesn't leave any residue. Until you try it, you won't believe how strong the stuff is.

[Dawn]

q-t, my :fiend: and "adoptive (with her parents permission)" daughter has the recipe. When she comes over to spend New Years weekend, I will have her pm it to you. It is very yummy.


Thank you! :good: I'll be looking for it. :bouncy:

:group: La Sirena :group:

[la sirena]

Well, he's got the kids and they're on the way back. They were in Oklahoma when he called this afternoon so he should arrive sometime tomorrow evening. Naturally they're predicting snow for tomorrow morning. :roll:

I kept myself busy trying to finish up my shopping :banghead:, and now I'm waiting for the butter to soften so I can make cookies. I'm thinking chocolate chip cookies and snickerdoodles. :santahat:



He just called (9:45pm). They're in Arkansas, he hopes to be home by noonish- 1:00 tomorrow!! :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy:

[Laurel]

We actually did that to the kids at a cub camp a couple years ago. One of the kids just wouldn't behave and we told him be good or else, he didn't so he found out what "else" was. We picked him about foot off the ground and got busy. With-in 5 minutes the kids were all fighting over who got to be next. The parents came to get their kids and there they were, duct taped to trees. The only problem we had was getting the sticky gunk out of the clothes later. The parents thought it was a hoot.That's why you use Saran Wrap or some other plastic cling wrap for food. It clings to itself and doesn't leave any residue. Until you try it, you won't believe how strong the stuff is.
:applause:You folks are truly wicked! :fiend:

Ah, If I'd only known some of these things when my 'kids' were kids! I can imagine them now ... M:scared:M!!!

:hugs: Proud to be among you!

[Apocalypse]

Well, he's got the kids and they're on the way back. They were in Oklahoma when he called this afternoon so he should arrive sometime tomorrow evening. Naturally they're predicting snow for tomorrow morning. :roll:

I kept myself busy trying to finish up my shopping :banghead:, and now I'm waiting for the butter to soften so I can make cookies. I'm thinking chocolate chip cookies and snickerdoodles. :santahat:


He just called (9:45pm). They're in Arkansas, he hopes to be home by noonish- 1:00 tomorrow!! :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy:

:hopping: Yeah! Snickerdoodles are the best! :cookie:

[Faren]

Checking in...Gryphon, you are truly :fiend: ish! I must never let my kids hear about that one. :eek:

Made some cookies with Keio on Saturday...they are all gone. :roll:

I didn't report on this here, so to bring you up-to-date...My middle son, known to some of you as Scavy from Wolfegar's Board, broke his arm last Thursday. Apparently the "accident" was caused by a few boys when horseplay got a bit too rough. :crazy: He's fine, and there is an investigation underway at school. Anyway, I have to take him to get the actual cast on tomorrow. That won't be fun, I know. :sad:

On the up side, I do have all my shopping done, so that's a relief. I really don't know what to do with the kids though now that they are out of school. Maybe we'll go to the movies or something.

[KJW]

Don't forget about a good old fasion Snipe Hunt :fiend:

My Dad has aparrently decided to wait for almost the last moment before getting my gifts. He just remembered this morning to get the book list from me. :O

[Apocalypse]

I'm collecting the kids on Wednesday - and have a head full of ideas to keep them entertained :D

OR and I went to view a property in Tintern (where the abbey is) today. It was so cute we're seriously thinking of renting it, even though it has 1 bedroom to few (3, not 4). :good: It's about 300m from the Abbey and about 100m from the Wye River :D

We're off to see a farm house tomorrow. I do love looking at houses! :hopping:

[la sirena]

I think I'll give up cookie making altogether. :sad:

I decided to make oatmeal raisin cookies (my grandma's recipe). I followed the recipe, but something's not quite right. Ah well...

Guess baking just isn't my thing! :ugg:

[la sirena]

Oh! We got snow last night!! :cool: Not a whole bunch, but enough to cover the ground. I still have a pile of the stuff on my deck! :snowflake

:santahat:

[Mausey]

Apo, the kids can share a bedroom you know. All three of mine shared at one time or another and they're still alive. They might have to draw a line down the center of the room but they will survive. :laugh:

[Apocalypse]

Apo, the kids can share a bedroom you know. All three of mine shared at one time or another and they're still alive. They might have to draw a line down the center of the room but they will survive. :laugh:

:laugh: It's not for the kids, it's for the International Guests! ;) But we're not expecting the first lot until Sept (when we're likely to be in ANOTHER house), so we can take something smaller this time ;)

[Mausey]

:laugh: Apo, you and Oldrider are moving more than the revolving apartment building. :D

[Apocalypse]

:laugh: Apo, you and Oldrider are moving more than the revolving apartment building. :D

Helps keep the clutter low... :ok:

[leahiniowa]

:slop slop, splash:

:trudge, slop, drip drip:

Okay, I made it.

That was one HECK of a crossing storm.

Almost beached the boat.

So this is Fort, eh? I guess if this is crossing, there's no Benden for me?

---------------------

Sorry, had to do it.

Spent a week in Texas and didn't really find a good time to hit the AKT, then when I came back it took a couple of days to get registered for the NKT, especially since my email server seems to think you all belong in the "bulk" folder. Now why they let Victoria's Secret through and not the NKT, I can't figure.

[leahiniowa]

Hey, why am I an apprentice? I just became a singer!

[Gryphon]

Leah, email Tony and tell him what your post count was on the KT. He'll transfer it over to here.

[Apocalypse]

:wave: Hey Leah! Glad to see you made it over.

[leahiniowa]

Aha! so that's the ticket! I don't remember the exact number, but I'd just made crystal singer, so I'll be happy with that.

It's nice to be home!

[leahiniowa]

Hey Apo! I've been reading people's posts ;for the past couple of days even when I couldn't post myself!

[Apocalypse]

Hey Apo! I've been reading people's posts ;for the past couple of days even when I couldn't post myself!

Did you have a good Hannukah (can I make up the spelling? :roll: ) Or is it still going?

[leahiniowa]

I don't know if you read my thread in the AKT, but yes, it was basically a good Chanukah (spell however you want, it's transliterated anyway) except that my father passed away on the 5th day. So my husband and I had to fly to Texas during the last two days.

It was okay that he passed away for us, because he'd been in a blissful Alzheimer's dream world for the past 10 years, totally comfortable in a beautiful nursing home without a care in the world. And he'd been a type A personality, so for him to be worry free was a miracle. And he just went to sleep and didn't wake up, so there was not agonizing images of him in pain.

The interment ceremony (he is in a mausoleum) was very heartwarming, really almost a celebration of his life. It was small, my mother will have a larger memorial service later in the month. But the people who made huge efforts to be there, and those who spoke, well, it was just beautiful. Two of our childhood friends came, drove out of their way two hours each way, just to honor my father b/c they felt that my parents were like their second parents. And a friend who'd worked as my father's receptionist for the last 10 years of his practice (he was a pediatric dentist) sang, and had to stop singing at a couple of points b/c she was crying. Also, a woman who worked at the nursing home had been one of my father's patients (she's my age, so we're talking at least 25+ years ago) identified herself to us and spoke. It amazed me that a woman would think so much of her childhood dentist, even to remember things that he'd told her, that she'd want to speak at his funeral, I was so grateful to G-d. I told my mother that we'd had a great honor to be in my father's life and we'd been blessed. And also, I didn't think this would move me, but when they handed my mother an American Flag and said that it was given by a grateful country for his years of service in WWII, I was really proud. It wasn't easy for a young newlywed to go off and maybe never come back, and I was proud of my mother too, for having the fortitude to go through that.

So all in all, yes, it was a beautiful Chanukah.

[Apocalypse]

Leah, I did see your post about your father's passing. :group:
How wonderful that you have these splendid memories of the ceremony as well.
Do you have to wear black for 1 yr now, or just your mother?

[leahiniowa]

No, we don't observe mourning that way. Guess it's time to start Chassidic Judaism 103? Here goes.

[Sharon]

Leah, my condolenses on your fathers passing. He sounds like it must have been an extraordinary person. I'm glad that you will have the beautiful service as part of your memories of him. It says a lot for him that so many came to speak. :hugs:

[leahiniowa]

Thank you Sharon. You really are a sweetheart. I really need to come to CA and see my good friends sometime.

[Apocalypse]

Leah, thanks for starting the 103 thread :D

The kiddly-pips are here now after getting stuck in a traffic jam (some one ran into the central barrier :( )....

[Faren]

Leah, glad to see you made it, but so sorry to hear about your father:group:

Just posted some new photos at clanfiend.http://groups.msn.com/ClanFiend/_whatsnew.msnw

Scavy has a nice red cast now. Went to the doctor's yesterday (wow he was gorgeous!). And good news, the break is more like a bend in the bone as opposed to a complete fracture. So he will only need to wear the cast for 3 weeks! :bouncy: His appointment is a couple of days before we go skiing, so even though he'll still have to wear a removable splint, he won't have a cast on! :ok:

The eldest has a friend over and the kids have all been playing video games for hours. :roll: I'm going to go throw them outside and get back to my housework. :crazy:

[Mausey]

That's good news about Scavy's arm, he should be healed up fast. My youngest is bored already. All his buddies have left for assorted places and he's got nobody to hang around with. He's been playing a lot of computer games but that gets old after awhile. I don't know what he'll do at his grandparents for entertainment. :(

[Malvace]

Hey everyone! :wave:
I finally found you! I had a moment of panic when I thought I'd lost you all!

How are things with everyone?
What have I missed?

I'm not gunna bore/depress you all with my stuff but I would love to know what you are all up to this Christmas. I need something to give me some cheer!

hugs
Mal XX

[KJW]

Today, thursday, and friday I'll be bell ringing for Caring for Sharing. Very nice but VERY COLD! :cool: :cool: :cool:

Tonight I'll hopefully have my Dad's present wrapped. He's actually getting two things from me. I ordered the other one gift wrapped and when it was sent it was in a very cheap plastic bag wrapinng :irked:

Woohoo I got all my cards sent today!!!!! :heartbeat

[Pickles]

Well it's Thursday and I think I have most of the sillyness under control now. Mind you I still haven't done much of the shopping required (yes, I know, only 2 days to Christmas). Hardest thing is thinking what to get Jeff when I can't afford any of his suggestions. :roll:

Update on weather here. Well we're in for a hot one today. The sun is shining brightly, not a cloud in the sky. Today we are expecting a top of 35C (about mid 90's F) with a cool change tonight and Christmas day is expected to be a cool 22C. I got sunburnt on Sunday when mowing the lawns despite wearing 30+ and I still have the edges to do. Do I do them late this evening or do I leave it for tomorrow morning and risk showers and not being able to do them? Already too hot to do them now and I don't want to get burnt again.

Boxing Day weather is looking good for the cricket, so who knows if I'll go or not.

On Christmas Day we are heading further down the Peninsula to my parents for lunch and then in the evening the rest of my family decends. Only 2 will be missing. My eldest nephew is in Japan on scholarship and my eldest neice will be with her mother's family. I haven't seen her in a long time and it is disappointing that she really doesn't want to know her father's family. I have tried talking to her, but she is really off hand and for some reason we are not good enough for her. What is truly upsetting is her attitude to my brother (her father). She sees him as some sort of obligated financial institution and treats him as if he has no feelings. Sad thing is he has been hurt so much by her that now he says it doesn't hurt anymore (it does, but he denies it). The thing is she is doing exactly what her mother did and is wondering at the results. A person can only take so much indifference and rejection before they decide "stuff it, I'm not doing this anymore".

Anyway, it will be good to see my brother as he lives in QLD and I don't get to see him all that often.

Don't know how much time I will have to get in here, but I hope you have a most joyous festive season.

Pickles

[Earthmother]

Where to begin.... Life has kept me away from the internet and everyone has so much to share.

:heartbeat Leah... It is wonderful that you have those beautiful memories of your dad.

La Sirena, where did Dave have to drive to pick up the kids? Oklahoma is pretty far away. May you have a blessed Christmas. :bouncy:

Faren, I am glad you sons arm will heal quickly.

Pickles dear watch out for that sun. May your time with your family be blessed.

Happy Solstice and Merry Christmas to everyone who celebrates!

Malvace dear I am sending you tons of hugs and kisses. :heartbeat

Tomorrow (Dec 23) at 6:05 AM my oldest turns 7. It seems strange for me that 7 years ago, after 48 hrs of labor, he quietly came into the world and slept for the first 48 hrs of his life. We agonized over his refusing to wake up to nurse and went without sleep. :faint: :crazy: LOL We will drive out to Palm Springs for a small party with my mom, aunt, cousin and her son then drive home. On Friday, we will go to Legoland as a family for his b-day then have a quiet Shabbat.

BTW, when my youngest was born 18 months later, he came out screaming and refused to stop. :banghead: :roll:

[Mausey]

After we get thawed out tomorrow we're heading off to visit family. Right now it's -24.4C and it's getting colder. :D We'll plug the jeep in tomorrow morning and the kid's car as well. After the block heater runs for about an hour everything will start no problem.

Wishing everybody a wonderful holiday, whatever form it takes. :group:

[Miss K]

:bouncy:

Just thought i'd pop my head in and say hello. I've been a bit quiet on the boards lately but with good reason :D

I started my new job last Monday (13th December) :typing:
It is the most fabulous job i've ever had, and i've only just started!!
The people are really lovely, and have been very helpful and welcoming to me.
The best part about is that I have a regular income again, and i'm doing something I enjoy not something just to make money.

Must dash, leaving early today to go and do the Christmas Shopping ;)

[Apocalypse]

Miss K - :hopping: that's brilliant news!

[leahiniowa]

Malvace, maybe I should send you my email addy so you never lose us again? I'd hate for that to happen, especially right now, when things are so tough and it's the holiday season. How's your grammy? You MUST stick around for us to nurture! More than Malvace needing the nurturing are us NKT'ers who need to nurture you!

Faren, that must be one of your younger ones? That's bendy/breaky thing happened to three of my kids, two in one summer.

Miss K, it was so cool. When we were in TX my husband was watching TV and we saw the flood in OZ and I could brag that two of my internet friends were working with the sandbagging! (I can't remember, I know for sure Carmal was, but you were too? Whatever!)

Dena, how convenient to have Legoland so close. Our best is mall of America whiich is about 3 1/2 hours away. Although it IS good, with the indoor amusement park, and they have this great registered day care area where you can park the kids to play and you go shop (for $6/hour/kid, but it's worth it). And the kids like the day care place, it's got video games and one of those indoor playground centers, you know, with the tubes and slides and things.

[PsychDyke]

It's about bleedin' time!!!!

Hi all. I've been trying to get on the NKT for a week. Leah got it worked out for me with Tony's technical assistance.

I had just figured out the problem...I registered under another name and, sure enough, there was my registration email...in the bulk mail folder. I've actually been looking there for it for the last couple of days, but I didn't originally, so... *sigh*

Anyway...

I have been reading some stuff, including this thread, I just couldn't post. Now for the posting. :ok:

Except that now it's time for me to leave work, so I'll post another time.

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Pickles]

Great to see you here Momma Psy, I was beginning to think I had lost you. But you're here now, that's all that matters.

Christmas Eve here now.

Pickles :hugs: :xmas1: :xmas2: :skihat: :santa2: :snowman: :snowflake :stocking: :xmastree: :cane: :snowfall: :reindeer: :gifts:

[leahiniowa]

Meredith I'm so glad you're on now! Mine was also in the bulk file, for some reason, along with an email from my daughter. But macy's and Victoria's Secret go through to the regular in box. Go figure.

[Apocalypse]

Meredith I'm so glad you're on now! Mine was also in the bulk file, for some reason, along with an email from my daughter. But macy's and Victoria's Secret go through to the regular in box. Go figure.

:laugh: Bill Gates gets paid in Lingerie to make Microsoft think VS isn't junk? ;)

[la sirena]

Dena~ Happy Birthday to Oldest! I must remember to call my niece when I get off work tonight! Its her b-day also.

Dave had to drive to Texas to pick up the kids. A very long trip indeed, but they are here safe and sound. We're all having a grand time (even with the girl falling in the lake:roll: :D ).

We've got to finish (start) some shopping, so more later...

[Apocalypse]

Dena~ Happy Birthday to Oldest! I must remember to call my niece when I get off work tonight! Its her b-day also.

Dave had to drive to Texas to pick up the kids. A very long trip indeed, but they are here safe and sound. We're all having a grand time (even with the girl falling in the lake:roll: :D ).

We've got to finish (start) some shopping, so more later...

In the lake?! Chilly.... :brr:

[Gryphon]

Sure looks like more and more of the ole family from the KTBB is making the crossing. I'm really glad to see so many familiar personalities here. It's like we just started meeting in someone else's kitchen.

[leahiniowa]

Yes, it is like that, with a couple of weeks of meeting in the local diner (the AKT)!

[Silver]

okay, I've complained about my aunt before, but she is getting out of hand!!!

she sent me and my brother and e-mail and in it took potshots at Wicca and winter solstice. I called her on it and she apologized :faint: first time for that!

anyway, I started talking to her and she went off about Yonuh! Saying how everything is his fault. I'm Wiccan and it's his fault, I moved out and it's his fault, I married him without her knowledge or consent or presence and it's his fault, I moved 3000 miles away and it's his fault. And no matter what I say to her she doesn't believe me. Every step of the way Yonuh has let me make my own mind up. He has never influenced me in any way, yet she can't accept that things were my decision. I was Wiccan 6 months before I met Yonuh on the KT. I was Wiccan over a year before he got out there physically. I moved in with him because my paycheck was getting garnished and he hadn't found work yet. We got married without ANYONE there and she takes it personally. She never tried to get to know him, she never WANTED to know him because she figured I would "come to my senses and come home." Now I'm 3000 miles away and she can't handle it and has to do things to ruin my holiday. She sent me a Christmas card for goodness sake. I wouldn't send her a Yule or solstice card! She didn't even send him a stupid dollar present. She sent me a wonderful photo album of photos from when I was a kid, but the only time she mentioned Yonuh was on the card (which I threw away because it made me so mad.)

sometimes she just makes me feel like screaming. oh and btw, my standing up to her is his fault too! and I'm damning children around me to hell because I'm not being a good example for Christ!!!

sorry for venting, but I feel like I'm :banghead: :banghead: when dealing with her. I'll hop off my :box: now and let someone else vent about their idiot relatives.

[PsychDyke]

okay, I've complained about my aunt before, but she is getting out of hand!!!

she sent me and my brother and e-mail and in it took potshots at Wicca and winter solstice. I called her on it and she apologized :faint: first time for that!

anyway, I started talking to her and she went off about Yonuh! Saying how everything is his fault. I'm Wiccan and it's his fault, I moved out and it's his fault, I married him without her knowledge or consent or presence and it's his fault, I moved 3000 miles away and it's his fault. And no matter what I say to her she doesn't believe me. Every step of the way Yonuh has let me make my own mind up. He has never influenced me in any way, yet she can't accept that things were my decision. I was Wiccan 6 months before I met Yonuh on the KT. I was Wiccan over a year before he got out there physically. I moved in with him because my paycheck was getting garnished and he hadn't found work yet. We got married without ANYONE there and she takes it personally. She never tried to get to know him, she never WANTED to know him because she figured I would "come to my senses and come home." Now I'm 3000 miles away and she can't handle it and has to do things to ruin my holiday. She sent me a Christmas card for goodness sake. I wouldn't send her a Yule or solstice card! She didn't even send him a stupid dollar present. She sent me a wonderful photo album of photos from when I was a kid, but the only time she mentioned Yonuh was on the card (which I threw away because it made me so mad.)

sometimes she just makes me feel like screaming. oh and btw, my standing up to her is his fault too! and I'm damning children around me to hell because I'm not being a good example for Christ!!!

sorry for venting, but I feel like I'm :banghead: :banghead: when dealing with her. I'll hop off my :box: now and let someone else vent about their idiot relatives.

Does Christ need your example? Is he getting out of hand again? ;)

I'm a bit amazed that you, singlehandedly can damn children to hell...you are a powerful witch... :roll:


My best friend in high school and I used to get a big laugh about the fact that her mother blamed me for her being gay and my mother blamed her for me being gay... :eek: I wish they'd come to a decision, one of us could use the toaster oven. :roll: :banghead:

I get christmas cards, solstice cards, generic holiday cards...I may have gotten a hanukah card at some point, I'm not sure. We have holiday parties most years where the only decoration is a yule log in the middle of the coffee table and a flag that says 'bah humbug' over the door. :D

Next time she gets up on her high horse, you could remind her that her attitude is decidedly un-christian... Or you could just tell her to stuff it.

Either way, we love you, both of you, for who you are.

Happy December, however you spend it and whatever you celebrate.

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Apocalypse]

:group: for anyone who needs it ;)

OR's youngest is 10 today and his grandparents have given him a toy drum kit! :eek: It's really cool, but the middle child is getting a REAL drum kit from us for Xmas, so the house is about to get really noisy! :runaway:

[PsychDyke]

:group: for anyone who needs it ;)

OR's youngest is 10 today and his grandparents have given him a toy drum kit! :eek: It's really cool, but the middle child is getting a REAL drum kit from us for Xmas, so the house is about to get really noisy! :runaway:

My grandparents gave me a Muppet Show drum kit for xmas when I was 8 or 9...I think that by February, my mom hated her parents for that... :evil: :laugh:

I never give noisy presents to other people's kids...unless of course, I don't like their parents... :devil:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[leahiniowa]

Apo! Don't you and OR know that only GRANDPARENTS are able to give children drums, b/c grandparents don't have to live with them????!!!!!

Thus said by someone whose husband has two (yes 2, count them) drum sets in the basement. Think you the children play on those drums? Yes, think you correct, they do play upon the father's drums. So you can tell I am just being goofy.

And on another note, Silverhawk, you can tell your aunt that I blame HER for my children going to hell! Here they are, nice little jewish children who pray from 2-4 times a day (depending upon their ages) and she comes along with her hell and sends them to it! Gee whiz, what is this world coming to!

Has she blamed Yonuh for global warming yet? I TOLD him to close the door when he went in and out of the house, but no, he didn't listen to me.

See, you can always rely on your fiend family to make crazy zany jokes about your aunt, in a wicked attempt to make you feel better.

BTW, you are sane, Silver and so is Yonuh, and you are a wonderful couple, and if anything it appears that YOU influenced HIM to be more Wiccan, b/c I read on his website that mainly he was a shaman but now with you around, and knowing more about Wicca, he's into that too.

So we are on your side and we think you guys are wonderful, and so there!

:razz: :razz: :razz:

to auntie-poo.

[PsychDyke]

I hate insurance companies. My insurance company won't pay for my Nexium unless I go and have them stick a scope down my throat. The problem is, they already did that in 2001 and, I gagged WITH it in my throat, resulting in broken blood vessels throughout my face, turning my eye red as well as most of one side of my face. I looked like Jodi beat me. And this happened a week or so before we went to the festival, so lots of strangers got to see me looking like a battered woman. :banghead: :banghead: Not to mention it was painful. I've got a perfectly legitimate reason why I need the medicine...it hurts to breathe without it. :roll: :banghead:

I also got a bill from NKC hospital for almost $1200 and they say that's MY contribution... I hope that's wrong or they can wait a very long time for payment, because I don't have anywhere near that kind of money.

*sigh* I'm on the phone w/ the insurance company now...I really hate insurance companies. They're telling me that the original bill was $13,000.

Now they're telling me the bill is correct. I can't afford this garbage. Merry f-ing christmas to me. :roll:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[leahiniowa]

Just pay them $10/month.

Of course, you'll get letters. Maybe you could make a nice little bonfire?

When I was pregnant with child #2, she was breech, and I was in my 8th month she was a big baby, so my physician performed an external version on me, he turned her around, for a fee of $250. Which prevented me from having a cesarion section, and even back then in 1988 a section was probably a bill of about $10k when it's all said and done. It took until after I had child #3, spring of 1991, when the company finally paid up. I think it was a combination of my doc's bookkeeper bugging them added to my thread that I could get the organization C-SEC (an anti section organization) to help me start a letter writing campaign to the press, that finally pushed them over.

I mean, we saved them about $9,750, and they were balking at the $250!

[Jorine]

Been there done that BOTH with the crazy aunt AND the insurance companies. My auntie decided she's no longer related to me after I got pregnant at 17 and *gasp* decided to keep the baby and try my damndest to be a good mommy with *GASP* the baby's father as my husband! She said *ahem* "I give it six weeks then you'll come crawling back home expecting your mother to take care of you and the baby!"







- oh and congratulate me, please, my husband and I had our TWELFTH wedding anniversary last Sunday.


:hugs: :hugs: and more :hugs: to everybody who needs one

[leahiniowa]

What did auntie prefer? Adoption or abortion? Or just disappear off the face of the earth?

[Apocalypse]

Psy - take Kit's advice and beat them over the head with their own right leg! :evil:

Leah - the middle child is actually pretty good at the drums, so Dad is making good on his promise to buy the drum kit :roll:

Jorine - congrats on your anniversary! You're a fine example to the rest of us. :group:

We've just had the 10yr old's b/day dinner (full roast) and served up the cake. It was blue with blue marzipan icing and blue icing letters - he was very impressed! :good:

[Laurel]

I remember how lonely the two of you were before you met online, and time has proven how right you are for each other. Sometimes a relative is a friend and sometimes no matter how close the blood tie they are not. You are right to turn toward the love of your life, and away from her negativity.

Are you sure that 3000 miles is far enough away from her? :laugh:

PsyDtoBe is right. She is not supporting you and your life in a positive way. She is not making any sense. If this were my Aunt, I would release her from my life. I would do that with love, and while blessing her for whatever good she meant to give me with those hurtful words. And then I'd move on with my life.

You can do that, if you choose. You deserve better.

Maybe she will come to her senses someday, but right now she is way out :crazy: there, and neither of you need the pain she's inflicting on you.

:group:


okay, I've complained about my aunt before, but she is getting out of hand!!!

she sent me and my brother and e-mail and in it took potshots at Wicca and winter solstice. I called her on it and she apologized :faint: first time for that!

anyway, I started talking to her and she went off about Yonuh! Saying how everything is his fault. I'm Wiccan and it's his fault, I moved out and it's his fault, I married him without her knowledge or consent or presence and it's his fault, I moved 3000 miles away and it's his fault. And no matter what I say to her she doesn't believe me. Every step of the way Yonuh has let me make my own mind up. He has never influenced me in any way, yet she can't accept that things were my decision. I was Wiccan 6 months before I met Yonuh on the KT. I was Wiccan over a year before he got out there physically. I moved in with him because my paycheck was getting garnished and he hadn't found work yet. We got married without ANYONE there and she takes it personally. She never tried to get to know him, she never WANTED to know him because she figured I would "come to my senses and come home." Now I'm 3000 miles away and she can't handle it and has to do things to ruin my holiday. She sent me a Christmas card for goodness sake. I wouldn't send her a Yule or solstice card! She didn't even send him a stupid dollar present. She sent me a wonderful photo album of photos from when I was a kid, but the only time she mentioned Yonuh was on the card (which I threw away because it made me so mad.)

sometimes she just makes me feel like screaming. oh and btw, my standing up to her is his fault too! and I'm damning children around me to hell because I'm not being a good example for Christ!!!

sorry for venting, but I feel like I'm :banghead: :banghead: when dealing with her. I'll hop off my :box: now and let someone else vent about their idiot relatives.

[Pickles]

On Christmas Day we are heading further down the Peninsula to my parents for lunch and then in the evening the rest of my family decends. Only 2 will be missing. My eldest nephew is in Japan on scholarship and my eldest neice will be with her mother's family. I haven't seen her in a long time and it is disappointing that she really doesn't want to know her father's family. I have tried talking to her, but she is really off hand and for some reason we are not good enough for her. What is truly upsetting is her attitude to my brother (her father). She sees him as some sort of obligated financial institution and treats him as if he has no feelings. Sad thing is he has been hurt so much by her that now he says it doesn't hurt anymore (it does, but he denies it). The thing is she is doing exactly what her mother did and is wondering at the results. A person can only take so much indifference and rejection before they decide "stuff it, I'm not doing this anymore".

Anyway, it will be good to see my brother as he lives in QLD and I don't get to see him all that often.

Don't know how much time I will have to get in here, but I hope you have a most joyous festive season.

Pickles

What a difference a day makes. Late this afternoon my niece decided that she was going to spend christmas with our family, for the first time in SEVEN years. This is despite saying early this week that she wasn't. I will be picking her up either in the morning or evening (depending on when and how close she makes it to us). Everything has been thrown out of organisation, but we don't care as we would much rather have her with us. :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: and my brother be happy.

See sometimes miracles do happen.

Pickles

[Faren]

Congrats to those who deserve it and lots of :group: :group: :group: for the rest of you.

Right after my post on Wednesday (where I'm throwing the kids outside to play), my daughter comes running inside with blood everywhere...and when that was washed away you could see a hole in her upper lip. :eek: Seems the kids thought it would be fun to throw bamboo spears at each other. :banghead: :banghead:

So we spent Wednesday afternoon at the doctor's office. He did a great job stitching her up and hopefully there won't be a huge scar.

I was glad to get back to w**k. :crazy:

[j_mercuryuk]

*walks in*
Merry Christmas clan family!
May it be filled with love and peace (peace-not likely i know, but it has to be said)

[Apocalypse]

A warm an fuzzy (and totally unrelated to Xmas) :wekiss:

Last night my 10yr step son told Oldrider that his favourite part of his birthday was his blue cake! :heartbeat

Now considering that he was given a remote control car, a play drum kit and an X box - go me! :D

[PsychDyke]

Apo,

I agree, go you!!! :ok:

Faren....Bamboo spears??? ouch. I'm glad they're not permanently maimed.

Pickles,

I'm glad to hear that, I hope all goes well.

I'm a little less :irked: than I was earlier, but I still think it blows. I was born cesearean and I don't think that the total bill for my birth and several days in an incubator was as much as my contribution to this outpatient surgery. And that's just the hospital's bill. I've gotten a seperate bill from the anesthesiologist and I expect one from the doctor. :roll: I was there maybe 5 hours. There's no way the hospital provided anything worth remotely that amount of money. :banghead: Something has got to be done about healthcare in this country, it's out-of-hand.


In happier news, I just finished wrapping Jodi's presents, and a couple of my own b/c Jodi didn't feel like it. :roll: I do love her but she is exasperating at times. :) :heartbeat Anyway, we're spending Friday and possibly Saturday at the out-laws...

Peace all, and happy: christmas, saturday, kwanzaa, and/or I hope you enjoyed your hanukahh, yule, ramadan and that you all have a wonderful new year.

BTW, now that my post-count's been transferred, I noticed it says that I have about 194 posts a day... :eek: Pretty good since I couldn't get on the board for a week of the time I've been signed up for it. :good: :applause: :faint: :laugh:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Sharon]

Silverhawk, you know what I think about your aunt. It does not surprise me that she has acted as she always does. I swear, I'm tempted to send her an Award Certificate for being one of the Most Hypocritical Christians Ever. She preaches one thing, and acts completely contrary to Christian beliefs. Of course, your aunt probably already thinks I'm Satan's handmaiden or something. We know she doesn't understand the difference between Wicca & Satanism. It's her hell, let her burn in it. And ya know...It's all Yonuh's fault that he loves you so unconditionally, unlike your horrible aunt who tries to control you and withholds affection and approval unless you do what she wishes. Sis, perhaps it is time to give up on her. :hugs:

SisPsy...the hospital & doctor's bills do suck, big time. I agree with Leah, pay them $10.00 a month, for however long it takes. No sense making yourself nuts trying to take care of it at the expense of other things.

Pickles, I'm glad to see your niece had a change of heart and will be with her father and his family for Christmas. I hope they can try to rebuild a relationship.

Happy Holidays one and all!

[leahiniowa]

Silverhawk, I'm glad that the others here are better at expressing themselves than I am. I re read my post and although I do say that I care about you and that your aunt is an idiot to treat you that way, I just was in a zany mood.

You are living your life with integrity, morality and honesty. You are kind and giving. If that is not what religion is supposed to bring out in us, I don't know. It seems to me that you are making a valuable contribution to this planet just by being you and by loving Yonuh. I don't see any contributions by your aunt except for her constant sniping, which is something that is just creating pain for you. To me, that is religion gone wrong. It's just a few stepstones from this sadistic harassment to things like the Inquisition. OK, I know the Inquisition killed thousands of people in horrific ways, but morally, it doesn't take a whole lot to dump the scale over to that side. You have a long history of this kind of behavior from her. I have no idea how that woman can look at herself in the mirror at night and believe that she is doing the right thing.

You and Yonuh have handled these situations with tact and dignity. And grace. I know personally that the victim of these types of events finds it next to impossible to ignore the cruel words, you can't just "forget it." It's like having a spear in your ribs or something, just poking around. But we can try to pull out the spear, bandage you up, give you hugs and kisses and chocolate, and try to fashion some "body armor" for her next attack.

The first few years of marriage are the hardest and you and Yonuh are having a few first years like my husband and I had. My mother always told me that you can use these situations to make your marriage bond even stronger. Going through difficult things does create a bond that you two have with no one else.

[Faren]

A warm an fuzzy (and totally unrelated to Xmas) :wekiss:

Last night my 10yr step son told Oldrider that his favourite part of his birthday was his blue cake! :heartbeat

Now considering that he was given a remote control car, a play drum kit and an X box - go me! :D
Well, heck...how often DO you get a blue cake???
Go you!:group:

[Earthmother]

Dena, how convenient to have Legoland so close. Our best is mall of America whiich is about 3 1/2 hours away. Although it IS good, with the indoor amusement park, and they have this great registered day care area where you can park the kids to play and you go shop (for $6/hour/kid, but it's worth it). And the kids like the day care place, it's got video games and one of those indoor playground centers, you know, with the tubes and slides and things.

Legoland is 90 minutes away and great place because it is geared to the boys age group. :D

Sis Silver major hugs and kisses. To this day my mil blames me for Rod deserting the Lutheran faith... it doesn't matter that he was not practicing when we met. :banghead: :roll: My mom blames Rod for my setting boundaries with her... sometimes it seems like you cannot win. If you are able and ready, then drop you aunt... if not, then develop a way to protect yourself from her. I have told my mom what she can speak to me about... if she oversteps the line, I leave. When she told me I was "controlling her," I told her that I was protecting me because we will not agree on these subjects and her bereting me stress me. She accepted that and so far has respected my boundaries. Good luck sis. :group: :heart: :wekiss:

Pickles dear I am glad to hear about your nieces decision... may your families time, esp you brother, with her be a blessing. :heart:

Sis Psy, I agree with Leah on the $10/month. Many blessings to you and Jodi. :heart: and :wekiss:

Faren :eek: :faint: work is easier at times.... I do not look forward to those years with my boys.... I hope our trips to the ER are not often. Many blessings to you and your family.

la sirena, Texas.... :eek: He drove far.... I am glad that everyone is having fun. Happy b-day to your niece. Maybe you two should settle in CA... it is closer to Texas. :evil: ;)

huggles to the family.

[Faren]

And btw, no one was injured yesterday.:phewwhatareliefsmilie:

It's slow here at w**k, but we had a premature baby born yesterday that's causing me some anxiety. That's the one time I really dislike being the only pharmacist on duty...no one is here to check my math. :crazy:
Luckily there has been nothing too messy so far.

Hope you all have a Happy Holiday...whatever you celebrate. :group:

[Earthmother]

PS... Jorine, Mazel Tov on your anniversity and proving your aunt wrong! You and your hubby rock! :applause: :heartbeat

[Pickles]

Well, my niece reverted to form for Christmas and didn't show. Guess what, we enjoyed ourselves anyway. I got lots of lovely presents and hugs and love from the family and in return I did the same :D The family all loved their present of a DVD made from a collection of my grandfather's old home movies. We have gone through about 50% of them so far. it is so good looking at things from over 40 years ago. It is a pity we haven't got a commentary on it all. There are some pretty funny moments caught there as well as some historical stuff.

As it is past my bed time, I had better run, but I do hope you all had as fun a day as I did.

Pickles

[Silver]

thank you Leah, you were zany at just the right moment. I desperately needed someone to make me laugh that day. thank you for giving a lift that I really need, both then and now.

my aunt has many positive qualities, but being tolerant, accepting or tactful aren't any of the ones that would be on that list.

I try whenever possible just to keep my mouth shut and let what she says roll by, but it does hurt. It hurts that she cannot accept that I have my own mind and that I have used it to choose my own path. I think she feels that if I made my own decisions then that means she failed somewhere along the line to raise me as a christian woman. She would prefer to believe that I was seduced from my walk with "God" by Yonuh than to think she may have failed. When in reality I made all of my own decisions and no one "failed" or manipulated me into a decision I hadn't come up with myself or thought through thoroughly. Unfortunately, she has herself convinced that she is doing the right thing and thinks she has to try to "win me back to Christ."

I appreciate you guys listening and letting me cry on your shoulders. She is the very little of blood family I have left and I was brought up that blood family was everything. Adopted family can come and go, but blood is always there. (I don't believe that, but it was chanted at me from a very early age) I know sooner or later (I'm hoping later) I may have to cut her out of my life to get some peace, but the thought fills me with extreme sorrow. I've lost my parents and my grandparents, my brother and I are strangers and she basically is a stranger because she doesn't know me and won't accept me for who I am as an adult. Yonuh's family is wonderful to me, and they are the first people since my grandma died who has accepted me as I am.... yeah 9 people in the house sometimes people talk behind other's backs, but that I can handle.

I have come to a decision though. Most of you know what I went through as a child, but for those that don't I really don't want to repeat the tale. I have decided to try and get to know the woman who calls herself my grandmother as one adult to another and to try and put the past behind me. Life is too precious and too short to hold a grudge. I will never forget what she did, but I will no longer hold it against her.

Yonuh has put up with a lot from my family and I respect him a lot for it. With everything that has happened he has shrugged off the flaming arrows my family has thrown at him and protected me from them as well. It all illustrates vividly to me why I love him so much.

One among our number, who doesn't seem to be coming to the NKT has called me "Lady Silverhawk." I don't know why, even though he has tried to explain it several times. To me to live up to that name is to handle things with tact and dignity.... I rarely think maybe I have even come close to living up to how others see me. Maybe y'all see me more clearly than I see myself, but I don't believe I deserve the name I was given.

Maybe I'm just tired and worn out by everything going on right now, but thank you all for being here for me when my "blood" family either can't be bothered or are the ones causing the problems in the first place.

Yonuh is an amazing man to put up with the things he does and I will be forever grateful and proud to be married to him.

p.s. I'm sorry I prolly didn't make much sense in my rambling, I'm just ready to check myself into the psych ward at the moment.

[Lady Cin]

Silverhawk,

I'm a new :fiend: , so I have only just started reading the :fiend: related threads...but your posts jumped out at me.

Sweetie, you are NOT alone. I was once in your place myself...I am a reborn Druid who was raised in an xtian family. To this day, they refuse to accept me...and I say...too bad for them.

For years I tried to make them understand, but they just wouldn't listen. I finally gave up on them and put them out of my life. Like you, family is important to me...but family also means acceptance...and since there was no acceptance, I chose to be my own family and I have never regretted the choice. I am much happier now with just myself and my mate (he is Magi).

Don't give up on yourself no matter what anyone else tells you. Follow your heart and listen to what your consience tells you.

:hugs:

[Earthmother]

:heartbeat :wekiss: Sis Silver :hugs: Take your time and know that you have adopted family that care. It has been hard with my mom and taking time so I understand. :wekiss:

I wish you the best with your grandmother... may you find a positive relationship.

Niece Pickles dear, I am sorry to hear about your niece but I am glad that she did not ruin your families celebration. :hugs:

We had a quiet Shabbat.

[Pickles]

Thank you Aunty Dena.

We are quite a close family, even though we don't neccessarily live all that close together. More so than my husbands family, but they do keep in touch quite well too. I grew up with a very large extended family and some cousins were almost like brothers and sisters. When you grow up in a small town and are related to quite a percentage of them it is like that. Family funerals are a real celebration of life and we all cherish the opportunity to catch up.

We are already planning Christmas next year to be in Brisbane and we have my parents 50th wedding anniversary next Feb, so we have a few events we can look forward to all of us being together. In between these opportunities we chat frequently on the telephone and it is so odd that we are missing someone of our family who just doesn't think she belongs. Like any other family we have petty squabbles, but we also have a lot of love.

It was fun when we watched the old home movies last night and the 'newer' members of the family (spouses), were laughing at our reactions when we saw people on film we hadn't seen for a long time (like friends and family members who had passed away a long time ago). It has made us so aware that we need to not only capture the sights, but also the sounds of friends and family who are important to us. As a result Jeff and I have offered my parents that we will make a documentary for them of their 50 years together. I now have to take all the recording gear down to my parents and go through photos and memories with them. Not only will this be fun on their anniversary, but it will also be great to give to other members of the family. A bit like future genealogy on record.

I love family holidays and the 'festive' season, for all the love that people share.

Pickles

[Sharon]

Sis Silverhawk, please feel free to ramble away, we never demand that anyone makes sense. :hugs:

Pickles, that dvd idea sounds marvelous for both the old home movies, and a special one for the 50th anniversary. It will be something special for everyone to remember it by.

[Apocalypse]

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! :heartbeat
Christmas was a great success, the kids got lots of goodies and I got a new sewing machine! :hopping:
We got a real bargain on beds for when they move down too :good:
Of course, the clean up might continue into next year, but we're having a good time.

:group: to all!

[Yonuh Adisi Fiend Jedi]

snip

Yonuh has put up with a lot from my family and I respect him a lot for it. With everything that has happened he has shrugged off the flaming arrows my family has thrown at him and protected me from them as well. It all illustrates vividly to me why I love him so much.

Yonuh is an amazing man to put up with the things he does and I will be forever grateful and proud to be married to him.



You make me sound like some knight in shining armor Dear Heart. What you are saying I did make's it sound like I have been protecting you at great physical cost in some epic battle. I'm glad you appreciate me and love me so much but remember, I'm still just a poor ole back desert boony boy. I do what I do because it seems right to my simple way of thinking.

:bouncy: :bouncy: :fiend: :bouncy: :bouncy:

[Earthmother]

niece Pickles,
What an awesome family dear. You remind me of what I what to give my boys and why holidays can have so much meaning. Many blessings to you and your family esp. as you work on the dvd. :heartbeat & :hugs:

[Mausey]

The home movie/dvd is a great idea. We took all hubby's family 8mm movies and put them onto vhs tape years ago. The laughing that went on when they watched those old movies. :laugh: We put music on the tape as we made it and that really perks it up a bit.

We had everybody but my sister-in-law together for Christmas. She's got a bee in her bonnet about something and decided she was spending Christmas with her parents, again :roll: They've been married 10 years and they've only gone to my parents for Christmas once in all those years and that was only for the meal. We ate and she HAD to be somewhere before we even got the table cleared off. I often wonder what she tells her parents when they ask why she never goes to her in-laws for the holidays.

[la sirena]

We had a nice Christmas and enjoyed a day of snowfall the day after.

Kids had a decent haul, not including the bus load of gifts waiting for them back home in Texas.

I made out pretty well too - a crock pot, a rice cooker, a stove top popcorn popper and a stand mixer! Plus the tickets Dave bought last month for a Josh Groban concert in February. I told Dave how lucky he was to have a woman who wouldn't get upset about receiving kitchen appliances instead of romantic gifts! :D

As usual, all my fretting was for nothing. The kids and I got along fine. Though, I have realised how much time I spent home alone when Dave was working long hours and how I'd gotten used to it. There have been a few times when I just needed to shut myself in the bedroom for a bit of alone time. I've had four days off and I'm ready to spend a few hours back at work!

[Sharon]

Sanya, I'm glad that you and Dave's kids were able to get along well. It was probably a great relief to both of you. As for the kitchen appliances, well, there's something intrinsictly romantic about building a home together. :O

[PsychDyke]

You make me sound like some knight in shining armor Dear Heart. What you are saying I did make's it sound like I have been protecting you at great physical cost in some epic battle. I'm glad you appreciate me and love me so much but remember, I'm still just a poor ole back desert boony boy. I do what I do because it seems right to my simple way of thinking.

:bouncy: :bouncy: :fiend: :bouncy: :bouncy:


Brother dear, you are a knight...a jedi knight. :runaway: :redfruit:


OK, I looked up "family" on dictionary.com, here's what it says:

1.
a. A fundamental social group in society typically consisting of one or
two parents and their children.
b. Two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term
commitments to one another, and reside usually in the same dwelling
place.

2. All the members of a household under one roof.

3. A group of persons sharing common ancestry. See Usage Note at
collective noun.
4. Lineage, especially distinguished lineage.
5. A locally independent organized crime unit, as of the Cosa Nostra.



Personally, 1.b sounds way better than 3. and, by that definition, we're way more family to you than your aunt is. DNA sharing is just not that important, unless you're in need of donor organs. :D

You do deserve the title of Lady Silverhawk. Don't doubt that.

Speaking of...Jeff needs to get his rear end over here...


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Earthmother]

Sis Psy, I agree with you on family definitions. :hugs:

la Sirena, way to go on the kids... I knew you could do it. Many blessings to you and Dave. :wekiss:

[leahiniowa]

Has anyone heard from Jeffrey? I could try to email him but most of the times I do I get it back, it won't go through.

I agree about the title, Lady Silverhawk. I just don't use it due to laziness, but it's always in my mind when I type to you.

[Apocalypse]

The home movie/dvd is a great idea. We took all hubby's family 8mm movies and put them onto vhs tape years ago. The laughing that went on when they watched those old movies. :laugh: We put music on the tape as we made it and that really perks it up a bit.

We had everybody but my sister-in-law together for Christmas. She's got a bee in her bonnet about something and decided she was spending Christmas with her parents, again :roll: They've been married 10 years and they've only gone to my parents for Christmas once in all those years and that was only for the meal. We ate and she HAD to be somewhere before we even got the table cleared off. I often wonder what she tells her parents when they ask why she never goes to her in-laws for the holidays.

Maus, my SIL is like that too. They couldn't stay for dinner at one of my b'day parties because she was 'allergic' to the food :roll: Nevermind that she'd had the name, location and cuisine of the restaurant before they said they'd go.... :laugh:

[Apocalypse]

snp
I made out pretty well too - a crock pot, a rice cooker, a stove top popcorn popper and a stand mixer! Plus the tickets Dave bought last month for a Josh Groban concert in February. I told Dave how lucky he was to have a woman who wouldn't get upset about receiving kitchen appliances instead of romantic gifts! :D


:rofl: I'm the same! Practicality often outweighs what the 'neighbours' will think! :good:

[leahiniowa]

It's very kind of families to help the homemaker with their job. I have lots of friends who work with terrible equipment - little knives, not enough counter space, etc., and it makes the work so much harder. I was grateful to my husband b/c he's always trying to find better appliances to make my life easier, not harder.

[la sirena]

If I play my cards right, maybe I'll get a microwave and a toaster oven for my birthday! :D

[Mausey]

*snip*

I made out pretty well too - a crock pot, a rice cooker, a stove top popcorn popper and a stand mixer! Plus the tickets Dave bought last month for a Josh Groban concert in February. I told Dave how lucky he was to have a woman who wouldn't get upset about receiving kitchen appliances instead of romantic gifts! :D

*snip*
I have absolutely NO problem with getting new toys for the kitchen. :hopping: I'm looking for a stove top popcorn popper that I can use with a glass topped stove. Most of the ones I've seen have a bottom that's too thin. :( and they just don't work very well.

[Mausey]

Oh, congratulations devcca. It was a lovely ceremony. :married:

[Socrates]

Has anyone heard from Jeffrey? I could try to email him but most of the times I do I get it back, it won't go through.

I agree about the title, Lady Silverhawk. I just don't use it due to laziness, but it's always in my mind when I type to you.
He posted over at ClanFiend the other day!

[Socrates]

Congrats Devcca from your Uncle/Cousin Socrates! :applause:

[Earthmother]

Oh, congratulations devcca. It was a lovely ceremony. :married:

:O Did devcca and C ris really get married or is it a :fiend: thing? lost and :blush:

[Mausey]

:laugh: It was a :fiend: thing Dragonlady. :D

[Earthmother]

:laugh: It was a :fiend: thing Dragonlady. :D

:O I was gone for a few days due to my boys being out of school and you go and play jokes on me. :eek: :faint: :laugh:

[Madrigal]

How many :fiend:couples are there? I know of Tanje and Wolfegar... and now you too... Carmal and MissK, Yonuh and Silverhawk (ugh, keep your head up, the aunt sounds obnoxious and a bit misguided--besides, hey Faren, have there been any signs of those two leading Keio to hell lately?), and I think there are a few more...


Congrats, devcca & C_ris... erm... not sure how I'm related to you... although I think devcca might be part of the Bratpack and therefore my sister... gah. :roll:

[Faren]

What?? Who's leading Keio to hell? :eek: :confused:

[PsychDyke]

Well I just got the news...
Hey! I just got an update
:fiend: offspring: Ravien Coromana
:fiend: husband: C_ris

and the rest...
Mother: Paulita(wollymouse), Asya
Father: Syberdragon, ghyle
Children: SevillaLost, Ravien Coromana
Husband: C_ris
Siblings: Primecafell, GftedWldOne, BD, K'vet, onepony, Kater, Crysania, Eiliren, Madrigal, Quinari, Hermi, Crime Fell, Just Bob, Ishtars-child, Reb , onepony, lady wolf, leahiniowa, Nagetier, Alaya(Ishy), AnnMarie, Kath, Jesserli

Aunts and Uncle: Sharon CF, Greendena(Dragonlady), Yonuh Adisi, Silverhawk, Deirgrah, dkliz, Clamdiggr(Priscilla) , Dawn M, PsyDToBe, Aysa1, Safaryth, Mausey, Wolfegar, Songbreeze, Malphian Neuf, Emmy, Dolphineer, Hans, Birgit, Lady Holder Mara, Jessilea, White Rabbit, Neko, Nefret, Gi-Gi, Shalia, Cherlyn, Nanooka, Pam, Lily, Eva,Kat, Chris B, Prekharper, Jeffrey(Blue Topaz)

Cousins: Jayson/Alter Ego, Syberdragon, Moonfruit, Ryala, Lindsey, Zelan, Kyrriannon, Faizah(Lady Faziah), Zarkon, GarfieldKB, Plattic, Wiz, AliasKelly, Buffy, ElissaK.,Chris G, Salamadastron, PinkEllie, KarineS., Jesserli, O.S.N., Alara Dawn, Ch'ral, C_ris, Blue Eyed Dragon, leahiniowa

Nieces and Nephews: Dux, Lady Faizah, C_ris, Turner, kf4uzt, Silverfall_weyr, Lisa Lewis, Naiad, Elf Princess, The_Glowpoint, B'lanna, Jorine, The Lot, Sucker1, Huntress, Toni_Lovedragons, Superleebee, Greenrider_Tresa
Grandparents: Sharon CF, Greendena(Dragonlady) and DKLiz, Jeffrey(Blue Topaz), Driving Peggeth
I'm doing fine other wise


OK, let's see...hmmm, it's 'Diving Peggeth' although, she does seem to do a lot of driving as well. If I'm your aunt, then your cousins include: Pickles, QueenRiderStretch, Miss K, and Carmal. Miss K and Carmal may also be related to you some other way, I'm not clear on that, check w/ them about their other :fiend: parentage. Oh, and Syberdragon's now Malphain (sp?) Ummm, I hope that helps a little.

Now, MY head hurts. ;)

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Faren]

I stopped about half-way through, Meridith. My head was a bout to explode. :eek: :crazy:

[PsychDyke]

I stopped about half-way through, Meridith. My head was a bout to explode. :eek: :crazy:


Yeah, the Clan:fiend: stump/tanglevine/insanity is good for that.


;)


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[leahiniowa]

I only looked for my own name. Okay, so I'm an egotist.

[PsychDyke]

I only looked for my own name. Okay, so I'm an egotist.
:roll:

[KJW]

I'm not on the list of counsins :cry: I guess that'll teach me for not be on more often. :roll:

[leahiniowa]

That's one of the reasons I always check to see my own name, besides the vanity. Once someone forgot me. :cry:

[C_ris]

:O Did devcca and C ris really get married or is it a :fiend: thing? lost and :blush:

just a :fiend: thing :D :evil: :darkside: :fiend:

[Ravien Coromana]

yeah! :evil: :fiend: s 4E

[leahiniowa]

Nobody's congratulated me on my new (old) avatar! Just took a little persistence to get it on! he he :ok:

[Apocalypse]

Nobody's congratulated me on my new (old) avatar! Just took a little persistence to get it on! he he :ok:


Your ferret is very cute! :wekiss:

;)

[Mausey]

Siblings: Primecafell, GftedWldOne, BD, K'vet, onepony, Kater, Crysania, Eiliren, Madrigal,


:laugh: :laugh: Let the fun begin, Madrigal is also my daughter, so she must be a half sister to you. :evil: No way am I claiming the lot of you. :laugh:

Not to mention you also have c_ris as a husband, cousin and a nephew.:faint:

[leahiniowa]

Thank you. It's one I got off of a ferret website but it looks like my Slinky.

[PsychDyke]

Nobody's congratulated me on my new (old) avatar! Just took a little persistence to get it on! he he :ok:

I don't think that I noticed that you hadn't had it the whole time.

I was thinking of you when I got my cats a 'ferret' chew toy the other day. :evil: It's just catnip-stuffed burlap w/ a fuzzy ferret-like head and tail.

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Kathryn Draconna]

I've updated it umpteenth times yesterday.. let me loook. but thanks

Devcca, you have too much free time if you are trying to keep track of that!!!

[Mayhem]

Right, Is there any chance I could find out who at least some of my :fiend: relatives are here? I know I'm Shavarius/Arwenth's sister and I'm related to prekharper and Ch'ral. Any ideas anyone?

[Mausey]

Right, Is there any chance I could find out who at least some of my :fiend: relatives are here? I know I'm Shavarius/Arwenth's sister and I'm related to prekharper and Ch'ral. Any ideas anyone?
There are 2 threads in the Games and Silliness forum that can help you find your lost :fiend: family. :D

[Madrigal]

Siblings: Primecafell, GftedWldOne, BD, K'vet, onepony, Kater, Crysania, Eiliren, Madrigal,


:laugh: :laugh: Let the fun begin, Madrigal is also my daughter, so she must be a half sister to you. :evil: No way am I claiming the lot of you. :laugh:

Not to mention you also have c_ris as a husband, cousin and a nephew.:faint:

:) I'm also my own aunt, if that helps... I think onepony and K'vet are the same way.

Faren--it's who isn't leading Keio to hell...

Ooooh... can we force people into arranged marriages? :darkside:

[Madrigal]

I just got sisterified by Lady Cin... one more for the Bratpack, and Mausey... :fiend: :evil:

[pern_queen_rider]

I got motherized, sisterized, and jsut earlier I got a kid, os now Im a :fiend: mommy

[PsychDyke]

Never try to untangle the Clan:fiend: stump/tanglevine/insanity...for that way leads madness.


Well, after a month of telling everyone at Hope House that I couldn't get onto the DV database, the shelter director here got me on it. This is my last day working after working at least a day a week for 2 months. :roll: So now, I'm doing massive data entry. Hotline call sheets. There's only 200 or so to be entered by the end of the month. :roll: :banghead: I just entered in about 30, now I'm taking a break. I'm glad I'm not the only one to do this.

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[KJW]

Hey Pern Queen Rider did you get your avatar from neopets?

[Kathryn Draconna]

Hello, :fiend: s I got a :fiend: hubby now too, so it looks like I'm making the gene-pool a lil more diverse :evil: and I think it needs all the help it can get!!!

[Lady Cin]

sis Kathryn...i posted a complete (as I can make it) listing over in the G&S forum...

When we got :fiend: ized, we did it RIGHT...lol

:hugs: to all my :fiend: kin

[Mausey]

Winter is back. :snowflake :snowflake :snowflake :snowflake :snowflake :snowflake :snowflake

[Yonuh Adisi Fiend Jedi]

How many :fiend:couples are there? I know of Tanje and Wolfegar... and now you too... Carmal and MissK, Yonuh and Silverhawk (ugh, keep your head up, the aunt sounds obnoxious and a bit misguided--besides, hey Faren, have there been any signs of those two leading Keio to hell lately?), and I think there are a few more...


Congrats, devcca & C_ris... erm... not sure how I'm related to you... although I think devcca might be part of the Bratpack and therefore my sister... gah. :roll:


I've been out of it lately. Who's Keio and why would we be leading him/her to hell?

Lost and confused Jedi at the moment.

[leahiniowa]

We had some typical below zero last week, but this week has been pretty warm, in the 20's to 40's although we had flurries and freezing rain this morning. Now it's just foggy. I want some real snow. All we got so far is about one inch. But I don't live in the snow belt. Although we do get usually one good snow a year at least.

[Lady Cin]

The weather here in mid-Alabama is fluctuating drastically...recently we have had days in the 80's...some nites in the teens.

No snow at all yet...just some frost and occasional ice...rain once a week or so and lots of sunshine.

This is one of the weirdest winters I've ever seen...and I've lived here pretty much all my life.

:bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy:

[C_ris]

Hello, :fiend: s I got a :fiend: hubby now too, so it looks like I'm making the gene-pool a lil more diverse :evil: and I think it needs all the help it can get!!!

my little daughter has a hubby? shes all grown up! :heartbeat

[Mausey]

We're about -13C right now but we've also got a nasty wind so it feels a lot colder. I'll have to bundle up and go shovel sidewalks. burrrrrrr

[Ravien Coromana]

my little daughter has a hubby? shes all grown up! :heartbeat
My sis, got a hubby before me! aww man...

[leahiniowa]

We're supposed to get the nasty winds tomorrow. They are exciting, a couple of weeks ago the house was buffeted all day, it's a pretty solid house and it was groaning and creaking from the wind.

[Keruval]

Today is the 15 th wedding anniversary :married: for MBB and myself :heart: .

Instead of exchanging cards this year we went out and chose a bottle of champagne to go with our meal

:need-a-wine-glass-smiley:


signing out for the evening ;) and CHEERS to you all :D

[Apocalypse]

Today is the 15 th wedding anniversary :married: for MBB and myself :heart: .

Instead of exchanging cards this year we went out and chose a bottle of champagne to go with our meal

:need-a-wine-glass-smiley:


signing out for the evening ;) and CHEERS to you all :D

Congrats! :wekiss:

[leahiniowa]

Mazel Tov Keruval. Isn't it neat how your relationship gets more intense and deep through the years?

[Kathryn Draconna]

My sis, got a hubby before me! aww man...

I would hope that My brother doesn't get a hubby... :evil:

[leahiniowa]

Fiend hubby or RL hubby? There might be a difference. :fiend:

[Kathryn Draconna]

Fiend hubby or RL hubby? There might be a difference. :fiend:

:fiend: Hubby...

[Malvace]

Ok, Just sticking my head in to say Hi to you all and to also say, Hope you all had a good Christmas?
I'm still almost imobile! Back at the doc's on Tuesday for some more checks. The pain has dulled a little but I still can't bend, sitting for longer than 15 minutes becomes painful and standing for longer than 15 minutes and my legs go and the pain is practically unbareable!
The journey to my Aunts on Christmas day was agony and I spent most of the day wondering what planet I'd landed on! They were all real good to me though and made things as easy as possible! It was much the same on Boxing Day at my Dad's!
Still not totally over the two days, pain wise, but hey, both my dad and his wife, my step gramps and my step sis have now got nasty fluey type thing and we think that Nan has it too! So far, I'm the only one free of it but that could be due to all the meds I'm on! Oh, to be able to walk to the gas station for some smokes!!!! *deep longing*
Hope you all have a fab New Years Eve and have a party drink for me! :D

Hugs and love all
Mal XXX

[Mausey]

What did you do to yourself Malvace? Sounds like a very unpleasant way to spend a holiday. Can you at least lay down without pain?

Look on the bright side, maybe you'll give up smoking. :group:

[Apocalypse]

What did you do to yourself Malvace? Sounds like a very unpleasant way to spend a holiday. Can you at least lay down without pain?

Look on the bright side, maybe you'll give up smoking. :group:

Wot she said :hugs:

[Malvace]

Give up smoking!!!! Me!!!! :eek:
Never! It's the only luxury I have left! :evil: :fiend:

Seriously, I have a cracked disc in my lower spine! I've been banned from everything, like driving, cleaning, washing, in fact anything that would strain the back in any way! I'm on medication up to my ears and can't even have a drinkie! :(

Still, at least I get to avoid the worst night of the year and go to bed before midnight with a genuine excuse! :evil: :fiend: :bouncy:

[leahiniowa]

If the medications are not handling the pain then you need something stronger. What are you taking? Maybe you should call your doctor and tell him that you are still in great pain and ask him to give you some better pain meds.

[Madrigal]

I've been out of it lately. Who's Keio and why would we be leading him/her to hell?

Lost and confused Jedi at the moment.

Keio's Faren's kid. Nevermind.

[PsychDyke]

I would hope that My brother doesn't get a hubby... :evil:


every boy who wants one should be able to get a husband. Just as any girl who wants one should be able to get a wife. I've got one, and so does she. It works out pretty well. I may have a :fiend: wife too... :confused: I have a female :fiend: co-parent for at least 2 of my :fiend:kids...I don't know if that implies anything else. Maybe she's just my babies' mommy. :rolleyes: :laugh: Maybe I have to buy her a drink first. :evil: :laugh:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Kathryn Draconna]

every boy who wants one should be able to get a husband. Just as any girl who wants one should be able to get a wife. I've got one, and so does she. It works out pretty well. I may have a :fiend: wife too... :confused: I have a female :fiend: co-parent for at least 2 of my :fiend:kids...I don't know if that implies anything else. Maybe she's just my babies' mommy. :rolleyes: :laugh: Maybe I have to buy her a drink first. :evil: :laugh:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

Meant no offence... was just trying to pick on Ravien!... and if he wants a Hubby I wish him luck!!

[Ravien Coromana]

:fiend: s 4E. Thanks Kath.

[Earthmother]

every boy who wants one should be able to get a husband. Just as any girl who wants one should be able to get a wife. I've got one, and so does she. It works out pretty well. I may have a :fiend: wife too... :confused: I have a female :fiend: co-parent for at least 2 of my :fiend:kids...I don't know if that implies anything else. Maybe she's just my babies' mommy. :rolleyes: :laugh: Maybe I have to buy her a drink first. :evil: :laugh:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

Just don't have to much fun without me sis... :evil: :laugh:

Seriously, Malvace :hugs: & :wekiss: Rest, relax, take care and may your crack disk heal quickly... huggles

Mazel Tov Kuz Keruval on 15 years and may you be blessed with many more.

Rest and relax sis Psy while you can and may 2005 bring only blessings... 2004 has brought enough tsuris for the next 10 years. :hugs: to you and Jodi.

Happy 2005 to the family!

[Pickles]

every boy who wants one should be able to get a husband. Just as any girl who wants one should be able to get a wife. I've got one, and so does she. It works out pretty well. I may have a :fiend: wife too... :confused: I have a female :fiend: co-parent for at least 2 of my :fiend:kids...I don't know if that implies anything else. Maybe she's just my babies' mommy. :rolleyes: :laugh: Maybe I have to buy her a drink first. :evil: :laugh:

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

Not only do you have a co parenting situation with two, I think it is three. I think I was co opted in the parenting by Miss K's and Carmals :fiend: mom. Then you add the fact the Carmal and Miss K are both "wives". I think you are getting a good thing going.

:good:

Pickles.

PS. My avatar is now the real Pickles the Princess and you can see why I find her so adorable. :heartbeat

[pern_queen_rider]

Mummy,
those second generation bratpackers, are they me, Kathryn, and my other sisters and brothers?

[pern_queen_rider]

I wonder when wrere going to get a third-generation brat-pack(o_0)

[pern_queen_rider]

Actually, third generation is the second generatiosn kids right?

[Madrigal]

I wonder when wrere going to get a third-generation brat-pack(o_0)

You're it. Second-gen was Wolfegar's bunch that got absorbed.

[pern_queen_rider]

SO my kid would be the fourth generation pack? or fifth?

[Madrigal]

Fourth.

[pern_queen_rider]

Fourth.
Oaky. So then his kids wil lbe fifth, my great-grandkids sixth, etc etc...

[Madrigal]

Go adopt someone and we'll have those... :roll: :fiend:

[pern_queen_rider]

Go adopt someone and we'll have those... :roll: :fiend:
I do...bronze_rider(dragon?) is my son.

[Apocalypse]

Pickles the Princess is adorable! :heartbeat

[PsychDyke]

Not only do you have a co parenting situation with two, I think it is three. I think I was co opted in the parenting by Miss K's and Carmals :fiend: mom. Then you add the fact the Carmal and Miss K are both "wives". I think you are getting a good thing going.

:good:

Pickles.

PS. My avatar is now the real Pickles the Princess and you can see why I find her so adorable. :heartbeat


Definately princess material. She is gorgeous. :good:

I 'hosted' a New Year's Eve party for some of the kids last night. While we were waiting on a couple of kids, me, 2 boys and one girl(who is bisexual) got into listing celebrities' attractiveness. It started with Will Smith (we rented "I, Robot") moved onto Jada Pinkett Smith and wandered around, mostly women. I stepped out of the room to call to hurry up the other kids and, when I came back, the girl informs me that one of the boys wants to know if I "date chicks". :roll: I looked at him deadpan and said, "No, I don't date chicks. My wife won't let me." I think I saw grey matter leak out of his ears. :laugh: The kid has a very narrow world view that I think was rocked a bit last night...and not even mostly by me. :D


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Apocalypse]

Go Psy! :cheerleadersmilie:

We took the kids to the proper rink (ice skating) today and the middle child is dead-set on taking up icehockey! :eek: The youngest still has to let go of the edge ;)

My Stonehenge cross stitch/tapestry is finished! :hopping: It needs framing, of course, but I think it looks brilliant! :proud:

Now on to the next one..... :D

[C_ris]

My :fiend: family is spinning out of control :roll:

were now GRANDPARENTS!!!!!! :eek: :scared:

[Sharon]

OK, let's see...hmmm, it's 'Diving Peggeth' although, she does seem to do a lot of driving as well. If I'm your aunt, then your cousins include: Pickles, QueenRiderStretch, Miss K, and Carmal. Miss K and Carmal may also be related to you some other way, I'm not clear on that, check w/ them about their other :fiend: parentage. Oh, and Syberdragon's now Malphain (sp?) Ummm, I hope that helps a little.

Now, MY head hurts. ;)

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

Syberdragon is now Malvace.

Malphian is Yonuh's RL brother.

[Kathryn Draconna]

were now GRANDPARENTS!!!!!! :eek: :scared:

Just look at my siggy, C_ris, for you have a son-in-law and a granddaughter through me, :fiend: dad!

[Sharon]

My :fiend: family is spinning out of control :roll:

Devcca, ClanFiend has been out of control for years. :fiend:

[Sharon]

Malvace dearling, take good care of yourself. As Leah said, if the pain meds aren't doing the job, talk to your doctor. Demand stronger ones. :hugs:

SisPsy...So glad I can count on you to help open the eyes of narrow-minded yourh. :ok:

Pickles..Pickles the cat is lovely!

[PsychDyke]

Syberdragon is now Malvace.

Malphian is Yonuh's RL brother.

I just can't get that one right to save my life. On the AKT I said he was Maiken... :roll:

Syber, sweetie, can you do your poor doddering aunty-dyke a favor and just change your name back to Syberdragon? Please? ;)


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Lindsey]

*sneaks in and collapses onto a couch*

I'm back!! The last two weeks were a whirlwind of chaos. Justin flew back from VA on the 18th and we drove up to Boise the very next day. It was hectic (to say the least!) to try and manage all of our Christmas shopping last minute while staying with his parents and finishing up wedding plans. :sleep:

But we managed!

And Christmas was lovely and the wedding was beautiful!

I'll be posting a thread in the lounge with pics as soon as I get them up :heartbeat:

[Malvace]

I just can't get that one right to save my life. On the AKT I said he was Maiken... :roll:

Syber, sweetie, can you do your poor doddering aunty-dyke a favor and just change your name back to Syberdragon? Please? ;)


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

:evil: :fiend: If I dood that I wouldn't be a true :fiend: now would I!!! :D

Besides, and I've said this before, Syber was created specifically for KT and as that no longer exists, neither can Syber!
I'm sorry, dearest aunty Psy, I'm afraid Malvace is here to stay! :evil: :fiend: :bouncy:
Ps; please forgive me for not including the 'dyke' bit as I don't consider you to be one, I think of you as aunty Psy, a great lady :) and if my RL sis ever found out I'd used that word, she'd rip out my gizzards and use them as a dog leash! She has been with her wife for nearly ten years and is almost obsessive about not being labeled!!! :roll:

[Apocalypse]

Congrats Linds! :hopping: :heartbeat

[Sharon]

Congrats Lindsey & Justine!!! :hugs:

[leahiniowa]

Mazel tov, Lindsey! You don't have to answer my question now in the PCX! Unless you already did! Oops.

I prefer the name Malvace really to Syberdragon. It's got a nice elegance to it and seems to fit your personality really well. I also like the word "dyke." It's a nice friendly moniker, cheerful and upbeat.

Apo, too bad you can't bring your kids here. We've got about an inch of ice all over everything outside, except for the road in front of my house which has been inundated with tons of salt ever since this drizzle freeze started. The kids have a blast outside in it, sliding around and breaking up the ice on the driveway and sidewalk with shovels and ice breaking doodads.

It's ironic that not only is my city filled with a few hundred Mexicans, but there are contingents of people here from Israel, Florida, Texas and California. Lots and lots of people who did not grow up in snow/ice weather. It can be a bit scary at times, especially when you combine Israeli drivers with Iowa weather. And you always have to deal with young boys running into the streets and coming up close to the cars. But it IS gorgeous outside, especially yesterday when the sun came out for a couple hours (long enough to melt another layer of ice nice and smooth and slippery, I suppose).

[Mausey]

That's the same as Calgary and a lot of Canadian cities. :laugh: They're gettiing a lot of people moving in who have no idea how to deal with snow and ice. Some of them seem offended by the white stuff falling on them.

Apocalypse, I was so happy that none of my kids wanted to play hockey. That has to be one of the most expensive sports around. and the amount of travelling some of the teams around here do. :eek:

And wedding pics. :bouncy: Congratulations Lindsey.

[PsychDyke]

Congratulations Lindsey!!!!!! I wish you and Justin a long lifetime of happiness together.


Malvace...It was worth a try, I'll get it right eventually, I hope.


As for the dyke bit, well, I kinda like the word and, frankly, I don't mind the word, or labels in general for that matter. I don't much care for the word 'homosexual' but mostly because it sounds so clinical and there really isn't anything about my love life that has ever been clinical. However, I wouldn't want you to risk your sister's wrath... :D


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Kathryn Draconna]

Congrats on the wedding, Lindsey!

[leahiniowa]

Homosexual is a nerdy word. Reminds me of 6th grade when people would ask, "Do you drink HOMO milk?" yuk yuk :roll:

[Hermi]

Congratulations, Lindsey!! All the best. . ..


Happy New Year to all. ... .

[KJW]

Howdy!

[Laurel]

Give up smoking!!!! Me!!!! :eek:
Never! It's the only luxury I have left! :evil: :fiend:

Seriously, I have a cracked disc in my lower spine! I've been banned from everything, like driving, cleaning, washing, in fact anything that would strain the back in any way! I'm on medication up to my ears and can't even have a drinkie! :(

Still, at least I get to avoid the worst night of the year and go to bed before midnight with a genuine excuse! :evil: :fiend: :bouncy:

I'm so sorry you hurt yourself Malvace! :group:

Be sure to follow the Doctor's instructions! When you get to the point that you can do something more, be sure to ask the Doctor to prescribe physical therapy and massage. That will help finish your healing and ease you back into normal movement. You will be gratified at the help that movement therapy and relaxation will bring to you.

Just be sure to wait until your back is healed properly before you start. Starting too soon can actually hurt you more!

{{{{{{{Malvace}}}}}}}

BTW, whatever happened with the Assistant from Hell you mentioned before the Holidays? :angel:

[Apocalypse]

snp

Apocalypse, I was so happy that none of my kids wanted to play hockey. That has to be one of the most expensive sports around. and the amount of travelling some of the teams around here do. :eek:



They're only allowed to do 1 expensive sport each.... ice hockey depends on whether or not there's a rink within 15mins ;) I think the youngest one might take up archery - he's always pretending to be Legolas! :D

Kids went home today... now all we have to do is get organised for moving and Oldrider is getting a motorbike! :eek:

[la sirena]

The holidays are over, the kids are back home in Texas, Dave and I are back to work... life is back to normal. :sleep:

[PsychDyke]

They're only allowed to do 1 expensive sport each.... ice hockey depends on whether or not there's a rink within 15mins ;) I think the youngest one might take up archery - he's always pretending to be Legolas! :D

Kids went home today... now all we have to do is get organised for moving and Oldrider is getting a motorbike! :eek:

Motorbike's are :cool:!!!! My mom got me this little bell for xmas that's supposed to protect the bike and rider from 'evil road spirits'. It's a little pewter bell w/ a dragon on top. :cool: My mom's getting pretty hip in her old age.

Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[PsychDyke]

The holidays are over, the kids are back home in Texas, Dave and I are back to work... life is back to normal. :sleep:

Take a deep breath dear, you done good. :good:

[Malvace]

I'm so sorry you hurt yourself Malvace! :group:

Be sure to follow the Doctor's instructions! When you get to the point that you can do something more, be sure to ask the Doctor to prescribe physical therapy and massage. That will help finish your healing and ease you back into normal movement. You will be gratified at the help that movement therapy and relaxation will bring to you.

Just be sure to wait until your back is healed properly before you start. Starting too soon can actually hurt you more!

{{{{{{{Malvace}}}}}}}

BTW, whatever happened with the Assistant from Hell you mentioned before the Holidays? :angel:

Laurel, sweetie! {{hugs}}
I just got back from the doctors today! *meep*
He's refered me to a back surgeon! He's not sure but thinks surgery may be needed! I've now got to wait till I hear from an NHS department at our local General Hospital! I so don't wanna go there as it has the worst NHS rating in the UK! More cases of the nasty MRSA bug than any other! But my fathers Health cover wont cover me as I'm over 25! and I don't have the finances for my own private care! God, how I've come down in the world! :evil: Be assured, though, I'm doing everythig I can to make sure I don't make it all worse! :blush:
The assistant from hell is now running the store on her own as I'm not at work! She seems to be coping, with help from everyone else and the odd call to me for advice! :fiend: :evil: Oh the fun I can have as I'm not actually there so she can't blame me for anything I 'might' happen to 'accidentaly' mis-inform!!!!
:evil: :fiend: :bouncy: :evil: :fiend: :bouncy:

Huge hugs all
Mal XXXX

[Mausey]

I got a suprise today. :bouncy: A VERY cute christmas card from Malvace. :group: Thank you, thank you, thank you. :kiss: I didn't send you a card *sniff* Back surgery isn't fun so I really hope they can get you back on your feet without it. :wekiss:

[leahiniowa]

Malvace, maybe you should PM Auntie Meredith about the back surgery and get her take on the whole thing. Jodi had the same surgery last year.

[PsychDyke]

It didn't work very well. I'd see if they hold out any hope for physical therapy or some other less invasive method. My best friend was a massage therapist and said that she saw a lot of people who were told that they might need surgery but, after some regular massage, often they didn't have the pain anymore.

However, an actual crack in a disk is a different matter. Just remember to ask what exactly they intend to do with the surgery and what if any alternatives there might be.


Peace, Meredith Psy:fiend:

[Apocalypse]

The farm house that we wanted to rent is ours! :hopping: We won't be moving for about 6 wks, but the owner has agreed to rent it to us! :hopping:

[Mausey]

That's fantastic Apocalypse. :group: I'm sure you'll be comfortable there and the kids will love it..

[PsychDyke]

That's great Apo. I hope you'll all love it. :ok:

[Earthmother]

*panting* My life goes haywire and I come back to two pages. :redfruit:

Let's see if I can remember everything...

:group: Malvace dear... :kiss: go for a second opinion if you can, rest, check into massage and other alternatives... take care of yourself. :wekiss: and tons on huggles. :hugs:

sis Psy, you rock! I cannot wait til this summer when I will get to meet you and Jodi in person... As long as nothing happens, the boys and I with Rod for 2 weeks of it will be on a road trip back East to see :fiend: family and crash the Pennsylvania gather. :devil: :laugh:

Mazel Tov Lindsey and Justine! May blessings rain down on your marriage sweetie.

Sis Sharon, the boys are still talking about our cookie date... My youngest wants to do it again, but make lemon cake this time. :roll: :D

sis Apo, we are the same way... the boys can only do one thing at a time... right now they have gymnastics class which they love. Mazel Tov on the farm house... it sounds grand.

la Sirena, may you and Dave enjoy your time alone. you are missed but I am very happy for you. :heartbeat

If I missed anything, then I am sorry... Please slow down because it maybe another two days before I make it back. :darkside:

The boys have tomorrow off for the Orthodox Church's Christmas. It seems that over half of our school population is Armenian and last year on that day so few kids showed up that the teachers were unable to teach. :eek: So this year it is a pupil free day. :erm:

[Madrigal]

Hehehe... all that stuff about 'dyke' reminds me of this really nasty math teacher, Mr. Dyke...

There are some things you probably shouldn't call a straight (married with kids) guy.

I don't like the term, but I guess it would be OK with teasing between friends. It's just been a slur for too long for me to ever hear it otherwise.

[Laurel]

Laurel, sweetie! {{hugs}}
I just got back from the doctors today! *meep*
He's refered me to a back surgeon! He's not sure but thinks surgery may be needed! I've now got to wait till I hear from an NHS department at our local General Hospital! I so don't wanna go there as it has the worst NHS rating in the UK! More cases of the nasty MRSA bug than any other! But my fathers Health cover wont cover me as I'm over 25! and I don't have the finances for my own private care! God, how I've come down in the world! :evil: Be assured, though, I'm doing everythig I can to make sure I don't make it all worse! :blush:
The assistant from hell is now running the store on her own as I'm not at work! She seems to be coping, with help from everyone else and the odd call to me for advice! :fiend: :evil: Oh the fun I can have as I'm not actually there so she can't blame me for anything I 'might' happen to 'accidentaly' mis-inform!!!!
:evil: :fiend: :bouncy: :evil: :fiend: :bouncy:

Huge hugs all
Mal XXXX
All good advice from the :fiend: Clan and I agree, get a second opinion if at all possible.

True Story:
A good masseuse friend fell off a horse and cracked a vertebrae. Surgery was recommended but she chose to go the natural route. She used a very good chiropractor, and when it was time, massage. She went through pain while the back healed but the end result was very good. She has normal movement and no pain now, many years later.

Just be very very careful whatever you decide to do. Use only the best surgeon out there, if you decide to have surgery. The 'solution' can be worse than the problem if poorly done.