Chatting with Gundi

[GrandmaCrys]

Rene you thought right :)

It just amazes me Crys that at one time you and Sands and I were identical numbers! I guess this shows you who the real gabby gus is ;)

I am so sorry both of you are still in pain, Lisa and Rene, that is just the pits!

Maybe you guys just quietened up; ever think of that, Missy? :annoyed: :annoyed:

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:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[addielee]

Well, I am finally within an hour of DONE putting together the program for the Highland Games. It's my last one and I am sooo happy it's practically done. I'm tired of fighting and nagging to get the info I need to do a good job. Now I can get back to scrapping!

[Christine]

Maybe you guys just quietened up; ever think of that, Missy? :annoyed: :annoyed:

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:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

yeah uh huh!

[ReneT]

Mars made that for me, because I have such a high number. This is the first club I've ever been president of, and so far, it's a club of one! :D

Yeah, I don't think any of us can catch up with you! You're the master!

I'd vote for her :)

Me too!

Rene it's not raining here, send some my way... i only need 60,000 more posts.

It didn't rain very long, at least it rained some!

I am so sorry both of you are still in pain, Lisa and Rene, that is just the pits!

Thanks! After reading and researching, I have a strong feeling what is wrong with me, and also some family history of the problem, so after we get back from Vegas, I am going to see my regular doc, while waiting on the pain management appointment, about my suspicions and see what he thinks. I hope I'm wrong, but all I read on the Internet makes me and Gary to believe that I may be right.

I went to childbirth class with Drew & Amy today. Long day but interesting. I think it was good for both if them. They did some parenting of newborn lessons that I think they needed to hear, as well as the childbirth class. Just 7 weeks now approximately if they are close to being right with the due date. Crazy!

Well, I am finally within an hour of DONE putting together the program for the Highland Games. It's my last one and I am sooo happy it's practically done. I'm tired of fighting and nagging to get the info I need to do a good job. Now I can get back to scrapping!

Yes you can! You deserve it! :tup:

[debilou]

yeah uh huh!

Me quiet... who would ever think that...
:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[debilou]

Oh, Rene, the due date is getting so close.. seems like yesterday you posted the fact that they were even going to have a baby.. wow.. it's almost time..

[idtwinmom]

Yes, Rene, that date does seem to be looming. Especially since I missed most of it. :lol:

Well, I have really good news. Friday night I was exhausted. I had a bad night on Thursday and so I was really ready for sleep. With just a little Icy Hot for my back I actually slept comfortably until just after 6 AM (that is really late for me lately). I woke stiff and sore, but rested. Then last night I slept thru the night without anything for my back at all. I didn't get up until almost 7:30 and I was pain free when I did. I think the new mattress is finally working! :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

Rene - you don't say what you expect, but I sure hope whatever it is, is treatable. :pray::pray::pray:

Crys - you really have become chatty! I don't think a soul in the world will catch up unless you simply quit posting! :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[ReneT]

Oh, Rene, the due date is getting so close.. seems like yesterday you posted the fact that they were even going to have a baby.. wow.. it's almost time..

Yes, it's almost here! Well since we didn't find out until 22 weeks, it really hasn't been that long! It's been a whirlwind of a year, and it's not over yet! I absolutely can not wait to meet our little man! :)

[ReneT]

Yes, Rene, that date does seem to be looming. Especially since I missed most of it. :lol:

Well, I have really good news. Friday night I was exhausted. I had a bad night on Thursday and so I was really ready for sleep. With just a little Icy Hot for my back I actually slept comfortably until just after 6 AM (that is really late for me lately). I woke stiff and sore, but rested. Then last night I slept thru the night without anything for my back at all. I didn't get up until almost 7:30 and I was pain free when I did. I think the new mattress is finally working! :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

Rene - you don't say what you expect, but I sure hope whatever it is, is treatable. :pray::pray::pray:

Crys - you really have become chatty! I don't think a soul in the world will catch up unless you simply quit posting! :rofl::rofl::rofl:

Yay! Glad you finally got some rest! :tup::tup::yippee::yippee:

[GrandmaCrys]

Praise the Lord, Lisa! How wonderful that you finally awoke rested and painfree. Let's hope this starts a long and continued trend. :hug: :hug:

Rene, how do you keep a smile on your face with such continued and constant pain? :hug: :hug: :hug:

Those hugs for both of you are very gentle! :D

[debilou]

Hugs for both of you Lisa and Rene..!!

Waves to all...

I'll be gone most of the week... waves.... out the door..

[ReneT]

Rene, how do you keep a smile on your face with such continued and constant pain? :hug: :hug: :hug:

Those hugs for both of you are very gentle! :D

Some days I don't keep a smile on my face. I think the thing that may have helped is being so busy for so long. There just hasn't been time to throw myself a pity party because I've been too busy throwing weddings! :rofl::rofl::rofl: Amy was writing all her Thank You cards for the wedding gifts they got, and she brought us over one yesterday. It was the sweetest, most thankful note I may have ever gotten. She is just a blessing in our lives.

We leave for Vegas tomorrow. Whoo hoo!!!! I'm so looking forward to just me and Gary for a few days. Then shortly after that Drew & Amy move in, then her baby shower on July 9, then Baby Jace approx Aug 1!!!

Hugs for both of you Lisa and Rene..!!

Waves to all...

I'll be gone most of the week... waves.... out the door..

Thanks Debi! Where are you going?

[ReneT]

Oh, and Amy had another sonogram this morning. They say Baby Jace weighs 4 pounds 8 ounces with 7 weeks to go. I think he's gonna be 8 - 8 1/2 pounds.

[debilou]

Oh, and Amy had another sonogram this morning. They say Baby Jace weighs 4 pounds 8 ounces with 7 weeks to go. I think he's gonna be 8 - 8 1/2 pounds.

Poor Amy, a big baby.. but HEALTHY!!!


Rene, i'm going to visit daddy for 2 days..

and, on Friday - i'm driving about 50 miles to Cameron, TX to enjoy a Ladies lunch and photo shoot with a joy of a friend Joy..

we meet about twice a year in different rural towns to take photos, and swap tips..


And, remember what happens in vegas stays in vegas baby....

[debilou]

PQ, and I sure know that Vegas rule, I can't begin to tell what we did there.. wow. the stories..

but what happens in Vegas. stays there...
pinky swear stuff.

[addicted]

Lisa, YAHOO you got sleep. I hope it keeps coming your way.

Rene, did I miss where you said what you think your pain is? I hope you get it figured out soon. Pain is NO good!!

Debi, how is your DH doing?

[Maggie Macpaine]

I am still breathing!!! I spent 5 hours on one assignment last night. Three weeks left.....I can do it!!!!

Rene. You are having the shower on my DD and DH's birthday. Seems like DD was due in August, but she decided to come early.....just saying ;)

[debilou]

Oh, Amy can't come early if her shower is PLANNED, it can't happen....

Heather, thanks for asking - Keith is getting better every day - he was totally on the road to recovery and, then we had a bunch of guests for Memorial day weekend, and, that wore him out.. but, he's on the mend again..

He just tires easily - I think that would be true of anyone that was basically in bed for 3 solid weeks and maybe most of the 4th.. and, then spent 2 weeks going from dr. appt to dr. appt..

so, i think he doing great...

he even started a PT program yesterday... so, pretty good...thx, for asking.

[ReneT]

Rene, i'm going to visit daddy for 2 days..

and, on Friday - i'm driving about 50 miles to Cameron, TX to enjoy a Ladies lunch and photo shoot with a joy of a friend Joy..

we meet about twice a year in different rural towns to take photos, and swap tips..

That sounds like fun! Enjoy your time with your dad and friend!!!

Rene, did I miss where you said what you think your pain is? I hope you get it figured out soon. Pain is NO good!!

I am afraid I may have fibromyalgia. The constocondritis the 2 doctors think I have in my collarbone area is a symptom of fibromyalgia. I was Googling the constocondritis thing the other day to find out about it after my doc appointment and it said it is often one of the symptoms, as is the adhesive capsulitis the doctor found in my shoulder during my surgery. I have lots of the other symptoms as well. I am hoping that's not what it is because I don't want to feel this way all the time, but after reading a bunch on the subject, and with 2 other people in my immediate family having it, I am afraid that may be the problem. It would explain a lot of things I think.

Rene. You are having the shower on my DD and DH's birthday. Seems like DD was due in August, but she decided to come early.....just saying ;)

Oh, Amy can't come early if her shower is PLANNED, it can't happen....

No, I threatened her with her life! I said if you feel like this baby is going to come while we're in Vegas, you just SIT DOWN!!!!! :rofl::rofl::rofl: Actually our friends were expecting their 4th grandbaby on June 15th, and they went to Vegas last month thinking they had plenty of time. The second they got off the plane, they got a phone call and had to get right back on. The baby was born 5 weeks early, had to be in ICU for 6 days, but is fine now and home.

[debilou]

Oh, Rene, don't worry, we'll make sure Amy won't do anything like that.. you can trust us..

we'll just push her back in the chair ok.

[ReneT]

Oh, Rene, don't worry, we'll make sure Amy won't do anything like that.. you can trust us..

we'll just push her back in the chair ok.

:tup::tup::tup:

[Christine]

I hope not Rene, but even if it is at least then you will be able to know it and address it. I am still thinking of you!

Debi, so glad to hear that Keith is improving!

Heather it is so nice that you have been dropping in more. So when are you coming home for a visit?

Maggie, tell me again what sort of class it is that you are taking. I know you said but I forgot. :)

[Maggie Macpaine]

I hope not Rene....let's hope it is just a case of catching things off the internet.

I had stage four cancer once (not really) but I had a lump in my armpit characteristic of breast cancer that had advanced to stage 4. It turned out to be a swollen lymph node once I stopped obsessing about it and poking and prodding it, it went away.

I really just stopped in to say, I must hang out with my peeps way too much. I have been reading a book on testing and measurement (not thrilling, but it could be worse). I ran across this quote, "There are three measures of central tendency that you, as measurement specialists in training......" I kept thinking "specialists in training" who does that sound like. I finally hit upon it. (or her) DEBILOU.

Did you write my book Debi???

[GrandmaCrys]

Rene, my hugs just got even more gentle! :hug: :hug: :hug:

Pirate Girl, you're a hoot! (but perhaps right about the author.)

[Maggie Macpaine]

I have two classes. The first one is the History of American Music. The second one is Assesment in Music (or some title like that)

[ReneT]

I hope not Rene, but even if it is at least then you will be able to know it and address it. I am still thinking of you!

I hope not Rene....let's hope it is just a case of catching things off the internet.

I had stage four cancer once (not really) but I had a lump in my armpit characteristic of breast cancer that had advanced to stage 4. It turned out to be a swollen lymph node once I stopped obsessing about it and poking and prodding it, it went away.

Rene, my hugs just got even more gentle! :hug: :hug: :hug:

Thanks girls!!! I'm hoping I just got over-zealous in the whole Googling thing and am not right. Sometimes the internet is not a good thing. :rolleyes:

[idtwinmom]

Rene - first, there is no way we will let that baby come early! :no: We'll just tie her legs crossed! :yes: As for the fibromyalgia, I sure hope for your sake its not that. From what little I know about that, it would be a real bummer!

Debi - have fun (if you see this).

Maggie - what fun! :no::no::no:

Well, last night didn't go quite as well. I woke about 3AM a bit sore. By morning I really wished I could just stay in bed. Mostly it was a headache. Weather changes I think, but who knows. I felt almost like I had a hangover, except I don't drink. Guess it's back to icy hot at bed time and prayers the low moves over fast.

[debilou]

I hope not Rene....let's hope it is just a case of catching things off the internet.

I had stage four cancer once (not really) but I had a lump in my armpit characteristic of breast cancer that had advanced to stage 4. It turned out to be a swollen lymph node once I stopped obsessing about it and poking and prodding it, it went away.

I really just stopped in to say, I must hang out with my peeps way too much. I have been reading a book on testing and measurement (not thrilling, but it could be worse). I ran across this quote, "There are three measures of central tendency that you, as measurement specialists in training......" I kept thinking "specialists in training" who does that sound like. I finally hit upon it. (or her) DEBILOU.

Did you write my book Debi???

I know I took that class.. . and, then my work was so good.. i had to go back for the next 3 years to present my findings, it was horrible.. arrggh..

[addicted]

Rene, my prayers are with you. And I love big healthy babies. All mine were over 8 lbs.

Debi, so glad he is doing better.

Maggie, that was funny. Good luck with the classes.

Chris, we leave Saturday and I can't wait. I will be in SLC on the 22nd so lets get together! Wouldn't you know, when I move to the most mild climate then they have the coldest summer since 1933. I'm just hoping this summer is normal, but it's not looking like it. I was hoping it would be hot and great weather at home, but that's not looking so great right now either. :(

I'm sorry Lisa!

[Christine]

definitely let's do that, Heather :)

[GrandmaCrys]

WAIT JUST A COTTON-PICKIN' MINUTE!!!! I wanna come, too! :cry: :cry: :cry:

[addielee]

Hey Gundis!! Sorry I've been MIA. I've been so stressed over our highland games program that I put together every year that I haven't been very chatty. Mental shutdown. But it's done and I won't ever do another one, especially after this year, so I feel a little free-er. (How do you spell that???) Found out last night that Sebastian was accepted into the pre-kindergarten program here. It's 4 days a week, half days starting in the fall. It's very exciting for him as he is quite advanced academically, but struggles socially. I hope it will help him come out of his shell. I don't remember if I told you, but I'm confirmed to be back at my school in the fall too. :D

Rene, take care and don't listen too much to Dr. Google.

[Christine]

WAIT JUST A COTTON-PICKIN' MINUTE!!!! I wanna come, too! :cry: :cry: :cry:

get your buns in gear and get over those mountains :) I have a place for you!

[suvgal]

Just got back from a week in Maine and a photography workshop ....wildflowers and lighthouses....with Kathleen Clemons. What a wonderful experience. Met a couple of former DSPers ...CarolynD and SherryVA

Will try to read back and see what has been going on with you ladies.

[GrandmaCrys]

get your buns in gear and get over those mountains :) I have a place for you!

Don't I wish! ;)

Just got back from a week in Maine and a photography workshop ....wildflowers and lighthouses....with Kathleen Clemons. What a wonderful experience. Met a couple of former DSPers ...CarolynD and SherryVA

Will try to read back and see what has been going on with you ladies.

Oh, Barbara, you lucky gal; sounds wonderful.

[Maggie Macpaine]

Still breathing.......sorta

[suvgal]

Crys-
check out her web site and blog
she's a fantastic photographer and teacher

[Christine]

inhale......exhale.... ;)

[PQ]

For Father's Day I bought DH a pool table. I gave away the sofa, love seat, and piano in the living room to make room for it. (He has always wanted a pool table). Two guys came here yesterday with several HUGE boxes and they set about the task of putting the 9' pool table together. They did not toil long because after they opened the third massive box they realized that there was no hardware. (They left about a billion pieces of teeny tiny styrofoam all over the floor). As it turned out, the hardware is in Salt Lake City. So, I was thinking that Gundi could pick up the hardware and drive it to me in Billings, MT. We could meet, I could fix her a meal, she could spend the night, and then she could drive back to SLC. Doesn't that sound like THE BEST plan?

[PQ]

Hey Gundis!! Sorry I've been MIA. I've been so stressed over our highland games program that I put together every year that I haven't been very chatty. Mental shutdown. But it's done and I won't ever do another one, especially after this year, so I feel a little free-er. (How do you spell that???) Found out last night that Sebastian was accepted into the pre-kindergarten program here. It's 4 days a week, half days starting in the fall. It's very exciting for him as he is quite advanced academically, but struggles socially. I hope it will help him come out of his shell. I don't remember if I told you, but I'm confirmed to be back at my school in the fall too. :D

Rene, take care and don't listen too much to Dr. Google.

I will start praying for Sebastian pronto. I hope that he loves pre-kindergarden.

[debilou]

For Father's Day I bought DH a pool table. I gave away the sofa, love seat, and piano in the living room to make room for it. (He has always wanted a pool table). Two guys came here yesterday with several HUGE boxes and they set about the task of putting the 9' pool table together. They did not toil long because after they opened the third massive box they realized that there was no hardware. (They left about a billion pieces of teeny tiny styrofoam all over the floor). As it turned out, the hardware is in Salt Lake City. So, I was thinking that Gundi could pick up the hardware and drive it to me in Billings, MT. We could meet, I could fix her a meal, she could spend the night, and then she could drive back to SLC. Doesn't that sound like THE BEST plan?

Has Gundi shown up yet with the hardware for the pool table??? just asking?

And, oh, then Crys & Heather would be at Gundi's and, Gundi wouldn't be there?

Gosh I leave a day - I'm totally confused..

Addie, I hope Sebastian does well in Pre-K..

And, I hope Rene and Gary are having are Had a wonderful Vegas Trip...

Waves to everyone :wave::wave::wave::wave:

[PQ]

Has Gundi shown up yet with the hardware for the pool table??? just asking?

And, oh, then Crys & Heather would be at Gundi's and, Gundi wouldn't be there?

Gosh I leave a day - I'm totally confused..

Addie, I hope Sebastian does well in Pre-K..

And, I hope Rene and Gary are having are Had a wonderful Vegas Trip...

Waves to everyone :wave::wave::wave::wave:

When are Crys and Heather going to SLC and how come I was not invited?????

[debilou]

When are Crys and Heather going to SLC and how come I was not invited?????

They don't like you..

i got an evite.. :love3::love3:

[debilou]

wasn't i telling you about families PQ??? I love you!!

[PQ]

They don't like you..

i got an evite.. :love3::love3:

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k103/Askanipsion/CatTongue.jpg

[PQ]

wasn't i telling you about families PQ??? I love you!!

:yes:Sometimes families are evil.:hug:

[debilou]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k103/Askanipsion/CatTongue.jpg

That's the kind you got ok..

mine was a little more formal - with like a date, time and place..

hahah

[PQ]

http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j326/nillsgifs/GIFS/Mean-Bird.gif
Sometimes Debilou is like this bird....kinda mean.

[PQ]

Still breathing.......sorta

You know what you should do if you are BLUE?

[PQ]

You know what you should do if you are BLUE?

Breathe.

[addicted]

You ladies are killing!

NO WAY PQ, not a good plan. I'm going to see Gundi and she's not leaving to Billings! I'm sorry, but she was planned first with me. And Crys is going to get on a plane and come see us too. Aren't you Crys???

What if you got in your car and came and got them and saw all of us? Now that's a GREAT plan!

[debilou]

PQ, quit being mean to me.. enough people are already ok...

cry cry.

[GrandmaCrys]

Crys-
check out her web site and blog
she's a fantastic photographer and teacher

I will do that; thanks! :hug: :hug:

For Father's Day I bought DH a pool table. I gave away the sofa, love seat, and piano in the living room to make room for it. (He has always wanted a pool table). Two guys came here yesterday with several HUGE boxes and they set about the task of putting the 9' pool table together. They did not toil long because after they opened the third massive box they realized that there was no hardware. (They left about a billion pieces of teeny tiny styrofoam all over the floor). As it turned out, the hardware is in Salt Lake City. So, I was thinking that Gundi could pick up the hardware and drive it to me in Billings, MT. We could meet, I could fix her a meal, she could spend the night, and then she could drive back to SLC. Doesn't that sound like THE BEST plan?

Yeah, 'cause she really doesn't have anything else to do! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

And really................can't we all just get along? :confused: :confused:

[GrandmaCrys]

Oh, and I really do need to go somewhere. Our one bathroom home has neither a sink, nor a commode. And just coincidentally, there's no access to the shower, so peeing down that drain is NOT an option! :annoyed: :annoyed: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[debilou]

I will do that; thanks! :hug: :hug:



Yeah, 'cause she really doesn't have anything else to do! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

And really................can't we all just get along? :confused: :confused:

Yes mam...:love3:

[addielee]

Oh, and I really do need to go somewhere. Our one bathroom home has neither a sink, nor a commode. And just coincidentally, there's no access to the shower, so peeing down that drain is NOT an option! :annoyed: :annoyed: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

And yet you still call it a bathroom...

[PQ]

PQ, quit being mean to me.. enough people are already ok...

cry cry.

Ummmm......I think that you started it......:D

[PQ]

You ladies are killing!

NO WAY PQ, not a good plan. I'm going to see Gundi and she's not leaving to Billings! I'm sorry, but she was planned first with me. And Crys is going to get on a plane and come see us too. Aren't you Crys???

What if you got in your car and came and got them and saw all of us? Now that's a GREAT plan!

I think that would be marvelous......I am going to Durango, Colorado, in June; Denver, Colorado, in July; and Las Vegas, Nevada, in September......Let's see....when could I squeak in a trip to Salt Lake City.....

[Maggie Macpaine]

You could come see me PQ. I'll probably not be here, but maybe you'll get lucky.

[Christine]

hey all, looks like you have been getting into trouble w/o me :) I love the plan for PQ to come to SLC, she keeps saying she will but has she showed up yet? I don't think so!

Wow we took the kayaks out today and rowed clear out to this point then turned around to come back JUST as the wind swirled around and started blowing right in our faces. Should be interesting to see how sore we are tomorrow. Did I tell you all I have this diabetes certificate training thing coming up in a week-ish? I have to do all of this preparatory study for it and I was supposed to get it a week before I did, so I am trying to cram it all in. Really is poopy when I would rather be playing :)

[Maggie Macpaine]

hey all, looks like you have been getting into trouble w/o me :) I love the plan for PQ to come to SLC, she keeps saying she will but has she showed up yet? I don't think so!

Wow we took the kayaks out today and rowed clear out to this point then turned around to come back JUST as the wind swirled around and started blowing right in our faces. Should be interesting to see how sore we are tomorrow. Did I tell you all I have this diabetes certificate training thing coming up in a week-ish? I have to do all of this preparatory study for it and I was supposed to get it a week before I did, so I am trying to cram it all in. Really is poopy when I would rather be playing :)


I really don't think I'd want to take that training if they give you diabetes as part of the deal :eek:

Lots of luck. I should probably come take it with you. I currently have 4 students with type one.

[Christine]

lol Maggie, yeah I think I would opt out at that point :) ok let me clarify, I was supposed to get the study materials a week or two before I did. ;)

[Fade2Pink]

The kayak sounds like fun, and challenging. Hope your having fun...oh and studying! :)

[GrandmaCrys]

:yahoo: I was able to take a shower this morning. And the commode was also installed late last night. this morning the medicine cabinet went up and the lights are installed. Vanity is next, but CK ran into a plumbing snafu, so has gone to town to buy parts! We're getting there...

[>>aruaL<<]

Thank goodness, it was startin' to be alil stinky around this joint.... LOL! :-)

[bendipez]

Just popping in to say Hello!!! And to "borrow" Christine for a minute.....
Shawn is now doing dialysis and is making amazing progress, he is getting outta the house and using his power chair to catch the public transit bus to and from dialysis!!!
The diet is a pain though!!! Have a question about phosphate binders......
Are they just Tums or calcium carbonate types??? Are they all that important?? Can I just give Shawn a few a day and it be that simple???
And if y'all hear a loud popping sound it's just my brain exploding trying to get the hang of his diet....

[GrandmaCrys]

And yet you still call it a bathroom...

Well, I was using the term loosely! :D

Thank goodness, it was startin' to be alil stinky around this joint.... LOL! :-)

Not 'ny more! ;)

[Christine]

Just popping in to say Hello!!! And to "borrow" Christine for a minute.....
Shawn is now doing dialysis and is making amazing progress, he is getting outta the house and using his power chair to catch the public transit bus to and from dialysis!!!
The diet is a pain though!!! Have a question about phosphate binders......
Are they just Tums or calcium carbonate types??? Are they all that important?? Can I just give Shawn a few a day and it be that simple???
And if y'all hear a loud popping sound it's just my brain exploding trying to get the hang of his diet....

There are lots of different kinds of phosphate binders, some OTC and some prescription products. The reason they are important is if your phosphate gets too high, it can make it so your bones lose calcium and can become more porous, due to loss of bone etc. Tums (calcium carbonate) is one option. As far as dosing, timing etc, it is dependent on what your phosphate level is. It is important to take it WITH a meal because it works by binding the phosphate that you are consuming at that time and making it so it is insoluble and won't be absorbed.

[bendipez]

Thanks Christine!!!!
Now when Shawn talks to his dialysis coordinator Monday he will know what he's talking about...lololol..!!!

[addielee]

So cold and rainy here. We decided not to go camping after all and I'm so glad. It started raining last night and hasn't let up at all. It's currently only 10C (50F)! Brrrrr!

[Christine]

We made it safely back home. Had a wonderful time and big surprise.....we entered Utah and it wasn't long until it was RAINING!!! I hear there was lots of flooding here while we were gone, haven't heard specific details yet, but I am not surprised with all of the rain/snow/rain/rain/rain, we have had this year :)

[Maggie Macpaine]

Still breathing.....taking a break from reading the longest chapter in the history of all mankind.

I have two weeks left until the bitter end has arrived. I shall keep plugging away.

[Christine]

so where is everyone? I get home from Mexico and you all run and hide? :) What is up with that?!!

Crazy today as I try to get all caught up from being away, don't you love that part of vacation :D

[suvgal]

LOL Especially all of the laundry

[debilou]

Wave, hello everyone..

I agree Gundi.. that is the worst part of the trip...

[Christine]

normally I get right on unpacking and have it done the same day, but this time, my mom came to visit and so I am STILL not unpacked.... it is sooooo on the list for today!

[ReneT]

Hello girls!!! Man, I feel like it's been forever since I checked in here, although I know it's not really been that long.

Things are back to normal here. We got back from our really short trip to Vegas last Friday evening. It was a fun trip. Celine Dion's new show was AMAZING!!!!! I loved it even better than her first one. This one was all about the music, and not a Cirque du Soleil thing. Then I got to go onstage with Criss Angel at his show, so that was quite exciting, although I'm sure I was much more excited about it than Gary was for me. :rofl::rofl: I was so shocked and excited when I was on the stage, that I didn't even look around to see if I could see anything to figure out how he does some of the magic tricks. :D:D Then the rest of the time we just relaxed by the pool and did a bit of shopping. It was nice.

I'm back to working on the medical records scanning for the first time since my surgery. Not sure yet how much of it I will be able to do a day. I see my regular doc and the pain management doc next week, so I'm hoping I will get some answers and/or relief at that time. Crossing my fingers. :pray::pray:

Chris, glad you had a good trip, although I do wish your fellow Utah-ians would have shared some of that rain with us. It's still so dry here. There are wild fires every day. Our one little 10 minute shower didn't do us much good. :(

Maggie, hang in there!!!!

Addie, feel free to share some rain too! :)

Crys, glad your bathroom is fixed!

Hi Debi!!!!! And everyone else!!!! :wave::wave::wave:

[idtwinmom]

Waving from here too! It's been very quiet here lately. Even the Book Club isn't talking. Probably all the summer activities. I know it sure seems busy here and yet I don't seem to have much to show for it. I'm just totally stunned that it's almost the end of June.

Chris - just enjoy your Mom's visit. You work so hard, a few days aren't going to hurt.

[idtwinmom]

Rene - welcome home! Sounds like a wonderful little mini-trip. See - that baby stayed right where we told him to. :lol:

[ReneT]

Rene - welcome home! Sounds like a wonderful little mini-trip. See - that baby stayed right where we told him to. :lol:

Yay! Thanks for keeping the busy guy in line for me until I got home! :D

I had felt him kick 2 weeks ago, but it was just a real light kick. I could barely feel it, then a few days later I felt him kick and man, it was a big kick! I thought as well as I could feel it, no telling what it felt like to Amy. :)

[Christine]

that is awesome Rene!

[Christine]

Chris - just enjoy your Mom's visit. You work so hard, a few days aren't going to hurt.

thanks Lisa, that was sweet! I have gotten all the stacks of receipts and papers and ittby bitty 2 second projects done, that were being put off, now I am going right NOW to unpack. I only have an hour then we have a YW service project, so I better get busy. :)

[idtwinmom]

How fun! My poor DH never felt the kids kick. They would be going at it, and as soon as he touched me they would settle and go to sleep or something. Needless to say, I always hoped he could do that as I wanted to go to sleep. :lol:

[Christine]

Wahoooo guess who just got done visiting me! Anyone? Anyone? Anyone want to guess?!!

[Christine]

Wahoooo! Did you all see my stuff is on sale today?! :yahoo: :yahoo:

http://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=73

[Christine]

I FINALLY got week 21 and 22 done. Yay!

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_21.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390326&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-21&cat=all)
Life as we know it - week 21 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390326&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-21&cat=all)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_22.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390327&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-22&cat=all)
Life as we know it - week22 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390327&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-22&cat=all)

[idtwinmom]

In answer to who visited: Heather.
Sale? Did someone say sale? Ah, if only there were money in the bank.

Just flying thru. Been to learn all about bees with the kids. It was as much to go meet up with other home school families with younger kids as to learn about bees. But we all had fun and there are some great families in the group. I think we will be going to meet-ups more often.

[GrandmaCrys]

My guess was also Heather. All our plans got discombobulated. Daddy and 2 DGSs came Sat pm; another Daddy and 3 DGSs came Sat. almost midnight. One Daddy and 2 DGSs left Mon. later afternoon; another Daddy and 3 DGSs left right after breakfast Tues.

CK and I followed them right out the door and took him to his Dr., appt. Had lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings, came home and mowed.

Yesterday CK sharpened blades and went on a 6 hr. mowing project. I had nails done, did errands, had lunch. Met up with CK in the pm and we both mowed.

Today CK ran cars for Chrysler, came home at noon, ate, then both went and mowed 5 yards. While it sprinkled. :annoyed: Then we came home and after a shower (rain; not bath! ;)), CK went to weed eat a yard.

Tomorrow we are both running cars for Chrysler in the morning; he will come home and mow while I pack. We will go to Jackson's and Alex's for the night, then go on down south Sat. Two birthday parties. Sun we will pick up Tristan and Rutker and go back to Jackson's and Alex's to spend the night and all go together to the Childrens' Museum on Mon. We will come home after that. The boys get to stay with us till sometime midweek after July 4. :yahoo: :yahoo:

And, can anyone say "E-X-A-U-S-T-E-D*?

[idtwinmom]

Crys - I sure hope it's a riding mower.

[Christine]

My guess was also Heather. All our plans got discombobulated. Daddy and 2 DGSs came Sat pm; another Daddy and 3 DGSs came Sat. almost midnight. One Daddy and 2 DGSs left Mon. later afternoon; another Daddy and 3 DGSs left right after breakfast Tues.

CK and I followed them right out the door and took him to his Dr., appt. Had lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings, came home and mowed.

Yesterday CK sharpened blades and went on a 6 hr. mowing project. I had nails done, did errands, had lunch. Met up with CK in the pm and we both mowed.

Today CK ran cars for Chrysler, came home at noon, ate, then both went and mowed 5 yards. While it sprinkled. :annoyed: Then we came home and after a shower (rain; not bath! ;)), CK went to weed eat a yard.

Tomorrow we are both running cars for Chrysler in the morning; he will come home and mow while I pack. We will go to Jackson's and Alex's for the night, then go on down south Sat. Two birthday parties. Sun we will pick up Tristan and Rutker and go back to Jackson's and Alex's to spend the night and all go together to the Childrens' Museum on Mon. We will come home after that. The boys get to stay with us till sometime midweek after July 4. :yahoo: :yahoo:

And, can anyone say "E-X-A-U-S-T-E-D*?

no wonder you have been absent :) You deserve to be exhausted!

YES it was Heather! We had fun and she got a lesson on creating actions :)

[ReneT]

I shopped at the sale! :tup::tup:

Wow Crys, that's a crazy busy time! But I bet you enjoy every minute of it, well at least the time with the DGC!

Chris, so glad Heather came to visit! Fun!

Not much going on here today.

[scrapper09]

Hi Christine & Renee,

I joined in on the Featured Designer Challenge & wanted to share my last 3 layouts for Christine.... I've actually used ALL my QC's & Kits for ALL these layouts that I have in my stash of Christine's ~ next time I'll have to go shopping :popcorn: + ;)

I thoroughly enjoyed putting all these together using my combinations of kits & QC's :yahoo:

3.

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/4997/thumbs/Werribee-Mansion.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390362&title=werribee-mansion&cat=4997)
Werribee Mansion (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390362&title=werribee-mansion&cat=4997)

4.

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/4997/thumbs/Werribee-Zoo.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390363&title=werribee-zoo&cat=4997)
Werribee Zoo (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390363&title=werribee-zoo&cat=4997)

5.

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/4997/thumbs/Melbourne-by-Ferry.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390361&title=melbourne-by-ferry&cat=4997)
Melbourne by Ferry (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390361&title=melbourne-by-ferry&cat=4997)

[Christine]

Now is a good time to go shopping scrap as my stuff is on SALE! :D :yahoo:

[ReneT]

Hi Jemima! :wave::wave: Great layouts! Christine has some new Quick Clicks in the store that are on sale, and lots of other stuff too. Go check them out!

[Christine]

wahoo I am making progress :) Here's week 23 and week 24 is partway completed. :tup:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_23.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390439&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-23&cat=7040)
Life as we know it - week 23 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390439&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-23&cat=7040)

[debilou]

Great job Gundi...

Wave to everyone..

[Christine]

Great job Gundi...

Wave to everyone..

Thanks and wave back :)

[Christine]

and here's week 24! :D

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_24.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390456&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-24&cat=7040)
Life as we know it - week 24 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390456&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-24&cat=7040)

I am so close to being caught back up. yay!! Almost half way thru the year too :tup:

[ReneT]

and here's week 24! :D

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_24.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390456&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-24&cat=7040)
Life as we know it - week 24 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390456&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-24&cat=7040)

I am so close to being caught back up. yay!! Almost half way thru the year too :tup:

Yay!!!

[ReneT]

Anyone have big 4th of July plans? We will just do our usual - hot dogs and homemade ice cream. Fireworks have been banned here this year due to the fire hazard because it's so dry. Not that it matters to us. We don't shoot off fireworks, and we won't miss people in our neighborhood shooting them off for 2 weeks afterwards. :rolleyes:

[scrapper09]

Now is a good time to go shopping scrap as my stuff is on SALE! :D :yahoo:

Thanks very much Christine for your compliments & Renee :tup:

I will purchase some more items in July :applause:

[PQ]

Anyone have big 4th of July plans? We will just do our usual - hot dogs and homemade ice cream. Fireworks have been banned here this year due to the fire hazard because it's so dry. Not that it matters to us. We don't shoot off fireworks, and we won't miss people in our neighborhood shooting them off for 2 weeks afterwards. :rolleyes:

I have Fourth of July plans.....I am coming to your house. :D

[ReneT]

I have Fourth of July plans.....I am coming to your house. :D

Awesome! Hope you like homemade vanilla! :)

[idtwinmom]

Anyone have big 4th of July plans? We will just do our usual - hot dogs and homemade ice cream. Fireworks have been banned here this year due to the fire hazard because it's so dry. Not that it matters to us. We don't shoot off fireworks, and we won't miss people in our neighborhood shooting them off for 2 weeks afterwards. :rolleyes:

I'm currently warming hubby up to work on cleaning the garage. Problem is, when he hurt his back last week the yard project got delayed and I'm afraid it's not going to be done. May have to have him take another long weekend somewhere to get the garage done. Of course, it may all be done if the move comes thru. Is there a shrug the shoulders smiley somewhere?

[ReneT]

I'm currently warming hubby up to work on cleaning the garage. Problem is, when he hurt his back last week the yard project got delayed and I'm afraid it's not going to be done. May have to have him take another long weekend somewhere to get the garage done. Of course, it may all be done if the move comes thru. Is there a shrug the shoulders smiley somewhere?

I must have missed something. What move?

[idtwinmom]

We have talked to our landlords about a bigger place. They have a 4 bedroom that we might be able to swap with the current tenant (their son) since this one is only 3 and very tight living. It soooooo depends on: 1. can we afford it. 2. when it can be ready as they want to do some remodel. 3. if we can talk them out of a full remodel so that we can afford it, and on..... But I'm saying prayers because we really need more space.

[debilou]

Well, I can't catch up on 3 days worth of stuff - but i did see some are having 4th of July parties.. we don't have one planned - but I know we will do something in the neighborhood - we normally do...

We can't watch fireworks this year - except maybe TV - fire risk darn the luck

And, i've been away because my MAC's time machines decided to act up - and, with Laura's kind help and, her shoulder to lean on - I finally have 2 time machines in working order.. That's 2 days of my life I'll never get back.

I hate computer problems..

But, thank you Laura - you are officially off the hook for your homework assignment!!!

[PQ]

Well, I can't catch up on 3 days worth of stuff - but i did see some are having 4th of July parties.. we don't have one planned - but I know we will do something in the neighborhood - we normally do...

We can't watch fireworks this year - except maybe TV - fire risk darn the luck

And, i've been away because my MAC's time machines decided to act up - and, with Laura's kind help and, her shoulder to lean on - I finally have 2 time machines in working order.. That's 2 days of my life I'll never get back.

I hate computer problems..

But, thank you Laura - you are officially off the hook for your homework assignment!!!

Debilou I am so sorry you had computer woes.....glad they are resolved.

My house really needs to be cleaned....Laura could come over here and clean.

I am very busy packing for my trip to Rene's house. :D

[debilou]

Debilou I am so sorry you had computer woes.....glad they are resolved.

My house really needs to be cleaned....Laura could come over here and clean.

I am very busy packing for my trip to Rene's house. :D

Yeah, yippee, then you will be close to my house too... stop on by.. :love3::love3:

[ReneT]

Debilou I am so sorry you had computer woes.....glad they are resolved.

My house really needs to be cleaned....Laura could come over here and clean.

I am very busy packing for my trip to Rene's house. :D

And Laura, before you go clean PQ's house, could you come clean my house before she gets here? :D

[addicted]

Hey everyone! I'm back from UT and had a great time. Always too busy and I don't get to see everyone, BUT I loved seeing my favorite designer!!! Thanks Chris for the actions lesson. I have to give that a try tomorrow and see how good my notes are! :)

The drive home was really long because DH and oldest son were hacking in the car all the way to Vegas. So we stayed there and no one wanted to be anywhere near DH and son so they had a bed to themselves and me and the other 3 kids were all in the other bed. I didn't sleep at all. :(

[ReneT]

Hey everyone! I'm back from UT and had a great time. Always too busy and I don't get to see everyone, BUT I loved seeing my favorite designer!!! Thanks Chris for the actions lesson. I have to give that a try tomorrow and see how good my notes are! :)

The drive home was really long because DH and oldest son were hacking in the car all the way to Vegas. So we stayed there and no one wanted to be anywhere near DH and son so they had a bed to themselves and me and the other 3 kids were all in the other bed. I didn't sleep at all. :(

Glad you had a good time in UT Heather! But boo about DS & DH being sick and your lack of rest. :(

[ReneT]

Today I went to see the pain management doc that the orthopedic doc sent me to. As of today, I now have 4 different diagnosis from 4 different doctors regarding the pain in my chest (below collarbone), upper back by my shoulder, and the inside bend of my arm. 3 of the doctors are absolutely convinced they are right. The 4th one isn't sure, so he sent me to the pain mgmt guy.

The doctor who did the nerve conduction study that turned out negative for nerve damage, said it's costochondritis, inflammation where the cartilage and bone meet in the chest. My primary care doctor told me yesterday I have fibromyalgia, which both my birth mother and 1/2 sister have been diagnosed with. The orthopedic doctor thinks I have something called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, but is unsure. The pain management doctor said I had none of those, and thinks it's all inflammation and muscular spasm issues from overuse and repetitive motions from working with Gary all those years, which is what caused the labral tear in my shoulder. He said that, combined with lots of inflammation from the overuse, me carrying my stress around in my shoulders, neck and jaw, and having all the stress over the past year, had caused my body to say "no more" and now it's been in a perpetual state of inflammation and spasming for 2 1/2 years now. He gave me a prescription for an anti-inflammatory gel to put on all the spots that are hurting and some muscle relaxers. I was hoping that instead of medications, he was going to suggest putting some steroid or numbing injections in the spots, especially the worst one under my collarbone, but he said that wasn't the answer because it wouldn't be a long term fix. Medication is?

It's a bit frustrating and I don't know who to believe. Should I ask for a FIFTH opinion? :rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl: I guess the problem is that after reading about all of those things, they all make sense to me in one way or another. One of the things that is confusing about what the pain guy said is that if it's NOT a nerve issue, why can I feel a strange tingly pain exactly like the pain i always feel, just not as strong, in the area under my collarbone when I scratch the back of my arm? That doesn't sound like a muscular thing to me, but what do I know?

Ok, sorry to bore you with my medical talk, but I thought maybe Chris or someone might have some insight.

[idtwinmom]

Rene - I'm no expert, and Chris may correct me, but if all of the possibles seem plausible, the current meds are worth a try. If they work, your pain will go away or at least lesson. If the Doc is wrong, the two of you can move on to the other options. I know it's hard to continue being in pain, especially if you think the treatment is wrong, but if I were you I would try the anti-inflammatories with a positive attitude. I will say prayers that this is the right treatment and the pain will be gone soon.

[PQ]

Today I went to see the pain management doc that the orthopedic doc sent me to. .........................................Ok, sorry to bore you with my medical talk, but I thought maybe Chris or someone might have some insight.

I left you a very long-winded PM......:love1:

[PQ]

I consider myself to be tough as nails, but costochondritis, an ailment that I have had on numerous occasions, drops me to my knees. It is totally incapacitating.

[addicted]

Wow Rene, that's a bummer. That would be really frustrating!!! I hope you figure it out really soon! Being in pain is NO fun.

[addielee]

Oh Rene! I'm so sorry for your pain. I hope you can get an answer soon!

[Maggie Macpaine]

Hmmmm....logically. If it is an inflamation anti-inflammatory drugs and ice should fix it. Don't you hate it when no one agrees on the problem?

My classes are done!!!! (Well mostly) I took the final in American Music History today and aced it! I have an A in that class. The prof had grades posted before I got home. I must turn in a curriculum project for the other class before I can call it done, but a weekend of work should take care of that.

I will be making a flying leap to Bloomington to turn in my laptop to hopefully get my cracked screen fixed. Finally, I've been stuck on the desktop for a month, and I don't think it has the memory my laptop does. It sure doesn't like Photoshop.

I am so ready to go scrap crazy next week. Now to go clean my house........

[ReneT]

but if I were you I would try the anti-inflammatories with a positive attitude. I will say prayers that this is the right treatment and the pain will be gone soon.

I started the muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatory gel today. Crossing my fingers.

I left you a very long-winded PM......:love1:

I got it, and sent you an equally long-winded one back! :D

I consider myself to be tough as nails, but costochondritis, an ailment that I have had on numerous occasions, drops me to my knees.

Yep, the very first time I felt that pain, I would have thought I was having a heart attack if it had been on my right side.

Wow Rene, that's a bummer. That would be really frustrating!!! I hope you figure it out really soon! Being in pain is NO fun.

Oh Rene! I'm so sorry for your pain. I hope you can get an answer soon!

Hmmmm....logically. If it is an inflamation anti-inflammatory drugs and ice should fix it. Don't you hate it when no one agrees on the problem?

Thanks Addie, Heather & Maggie! :love3:

[GrandmaCrys]

Prayers, Rene! :pray: :pray: :pray:

[idtwinmom]

Rene - I sure hope this helps. I don't have the same pain as you, but I'm still having back pain, and really it's been about 5 years now, so I know what it's like to live with pain.

It's been a busy week here. The only person who didn't have some form of medical appointment was DD. I am now on my thyroid meds. I have been feeling so good I don't think it can make much difference. DH let the eye doctor talk him into a second appointment, not covered by insurance. That ticks me off because the Dr. knows our insurance won't pay for it. Tempted to tell him where he can put that second appointment. Boys had their yearly appointment which only showed what we knew, they are all leg. They have grown 3 inches and most of that in just the last month. :lol:

But the fun thing we did was a visit to the aviation museum yesterday with our new homeschool group. It has really grown since I went before and the kids and I had lots of fun. I'm sure we will go back in the future with Dad in tow, but probably not this year.

Still no big plans for the weekend. DH is still working on the front yard project, so we won't do much. I'm not even sure if we will go to the parade this year. We'll see.

[Christine]

Just got back from girls' camp! I still need to catch up on all you guys have been up to :) but wanted to drop in and wave! :wave:

[Christine]

Today I went to see the pain management doc that the orthopedic doc sent me to. As of today, I now have 4 different diagnosis from 4 different doctors regarding the pain in my chest (below collarbone), upper back by my shoulder, and the inside bend of my arm. 3 of the doctors are absolutely convinced they are right. The 4th one isn't sure, so he sent me to the pain mgmt guy.

The doctor who did the nerve conduction study that turned out negative for nerve damage, said it's costochondritis, inflammation where the cartilage and bone meet in the chest. My primary care doctor told me yesterday I have fibromyalgia, which both my birth mother and 1/2 sister have been diagnosed with. The orthopedic doctor thinks I have something called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, but is unsure. The pain management doctor said I had none of those, and thinks it's all inflammation and muscular spasm issues from overuse and repetitive motions from working with Gary all those years, which is what caused the labral tear in my shoulder. He said that, combined with lots of inflammation from the overuse, me carrying my stress around in my shoulders, neck and jaw, and having all the stress over the past year, had caused my body to say "no more" and now it's been in a perpetual state of inflammation ...

Those meds are not long term meds and if he is right, it won't hurt to try them for at least a bit. Even if it is not caused by inflammation, they will still help at least some for the pain. Has anyone asked about putting you on a low dose
TCA antidepressive like amitriptyline? Not for depression, but for the pain. Amitriptyline is dirt cheap and it is amazing how much it helps for nerve pain. The main side effect is drowsiness, but I doubt you would complain too much about that with the way you sleep, or maybe I should say don't sleep. LOL Lots of docs use it for this, but there are still quite a few that have never tried it. Someone I know was having terrible nerve type pain after having a face lift. The narcotics barely helped and she hated them cuz the drowsiness (which is much worse than the TCAs, since they are low dose. Anyway, so I recommended trying it. The doc did NOT want to but finally gave in since she was insistent AND the doses are LOW so not too much concern of side effects etc. Well it made a HUGE difference for her and he was so amazed that now he uses it in almost all of his patients for that. :rofl:


My classes are done!!!! (Well mostly) I took the final in American Music History today and aced it! I have an A in that class. The prof had grades posted before I got home. I must turn in a curriculum project for the other class before I can call it done, but a weekend of work should take care of that.

I will be making a flying leap to Bloomington to turn in my laptop to hopefully get my cracked screen fixed. Finally, I've been stuck on the desktop for a month, and I don't think it has the memory my laptop does. It sure doesn't like Photoshop.

I am so ready to go scrap crazy next week. Now to go clean my house........

:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

[QUOTE=ReneT;987184]I started the muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatory gel today. Crossing my fingers.

Hope it works. Love ya!

[Christine]

Girls' camp was just amazing! I love all of the young women and it is so awesome to see their faith and the way they come together. Would you believe that 14 young women could be together for 4 days and have no drama?! It was awesome! The weather was a bit sketchy (ie rainy/windy/even some lightening) but it all worked out.

[ReneT]

[QUOTE=Christine;987371]Has anyone asked about putting you on a low dose
TCA antidepressive like amitriptyline? Not for depression, but for the pain.

The doc did NOT want to but finally gave in since she was insistent AND the doses are LOW so not too much concern of side effects etc. Well it made a HUGE difference for her and he was so amazed that now he uses it in almost all of his patients for that.[ /QUOTE]

Why was the doctor so hesitant to use the med? No, no one has mentioned an anti-depressant at all, which I thought was a bit weird considering I told my PCP that I had really had a tough time a few months ago with everything that was going on with shoulder/arm and all the wedding and stepdaughter drama. He's usually very pro anti-deppressants.

[ReneT]

Girls' camp was just amazing! I love all of the young women and it is so awesome to see their faith and the way they come together. Would you believe that 14 young women could be together for 4 days and have no drama?! It was awesome! The weather was a bit sketchy (ie rainy/windy/even some lightening) but it all worked out.

Yay! That's awesome! So glad it went so well and that you are having so much fun doing what you love!

[Christine]

[QUOTE=Christine;987371]Has anyone asked about putting you on a low dose
TCA antidepressive like amitriptyline? Not for depression, but for the pain.

The doc did NOT want to but finally gave in since she was insistent AND the doses are LOW so not too much concern of side effects etc. Well it made a HUGE difference for her and he was so amazed that now he uses it in almost all of his patients for that.[ /QUOTE]

Why was the doctor so hesitant to use the med? No, no one has mentioned an anti-depressant at all, which I thought was a bit weird considering I told my PCP that I had really had a tough time a few months ago with everything that was going on with shoulder/arm and all the wedding and stepdaughter drama. He's usually very pro anti-deppressants.

Because he had never heard of such a thing. This was several years ago and it is becoming more and more common, but still not all docs have experience w/ it. They may want to go w/ something like neurontin which also works well for nerve pain. It is actually a seizure medication, but now it is used much more often for nerve pain than for seizures. I would still opt to try the amitryptiline first, for two reasons. One it is dirt cheap and two you have a history of depression. The low dose doesn't really TREAT depression, but could be enough to stave it off if that makes sense. The newer antidepressants, ie. Prozac, Celexa etc have less benefit for pain and are more expensive, so I would definitely try the antitriptyline first.

[debilou]

Rene hope you feel better!

Happy 4th to everyone - our DGS Branden - is over half way done with Boot Camp - we are so darn proud of him - only 27 days to Graduation.

[Christine]

wow that time is speeding by isn't it?

[debilou]

wow that time is speeding by isn't it?

Yes for us.. probably not for him...

he's not getting much sleep

but he's doing great - they keep giving him more responsibility

but every letter, he talks about coming to Texas - near G ma's house
so, he can eat G ma's food and cookies

and, hanging out with us - oh, is he the sweetest boy on the face of the earth..

how can you not just love him to death..

He will be stationed about a 1.5 hours from us and really close to daddy's... so, we'll make it a point to visit or bring him up to see us as much as we can...

[idtwinmom]

Rene, Chris - Many years ago, my ex-husband was on amitryptiline. Sometimes I think it must have been more for pain than depression as I never saw that man depressed a day in his life. The unfortunate thing was that he used so many drugs, it was hard to tell if any of them did more than give him a high. He suffered a lot of pain in his short life and died some years back from cancer due to asbestos exposure. (I'm having a real brain malfunction trying to remember what the cancer was called.) I sure was surprised when it was cancer and not the drugs that took his life.

Debi - so glad that DGS is doing so well.

[Christine]

Rene, Chris - Many years ago, my ex-husband was on amitryptiline. Sometimes I think it must have been more for pain than depression as I never saw that man depressed a day in his life. The unfortunate thing was that he used so many drugs, it was hard to tell if any of them did more than give him a high. He suffered a lot of pain in his short life and died some years back from cancer due to asbestos exposure. (I'm having a real brain malfunction trying to remember what the cancer was called.) I sure was surprised when it was cancer and not the drugs that took his life.

Debi - so glad that DGS is doing so well.

amitriptyline wouldn't give you a "high," it typically causes drowsiness

[debilou]

Rene, Chris - Many years ago, my ex-husband was on amitryptiline. Sometimes I think it must have been more for pain than depression as I never saw that man depressed a day in his life. The unfortunate thing was that he used so many drugs, it was hard to tell if any of them did more than give him a high. He suffered a lot of pain in his short life and died some years back from cancer due to asbestos exposure. (I'm having a real brain malfunction trying to remember what the cancer was called.) I sure was surprised when it was cancer and not the drugs that took his life.

Debi - so glad that DGS is doing so well.

Thanks Lisa...

[debilou]

Happy 3rd of July to everyone... wave!!

[idtwinmom]

amitriptyline wouldn't give you a "high," it typically causes drowsiness

Oh, sorry if it read that way. I know that one didn't, but all the others he "used for pain" did. Sad to say, he was an addict which is why we divorced. I was slowly watching him kill himself and it was just too hard. It was the right decision. But it was also a shock when it wasn't drugs that killed him, but the cancer.

[ReneT]

Hi girls!!!!

Debi, so glad your DGS is doing so well and that he is 1/2 done with boot camp.

Lisa, that is so sad about your ex-husband. I know several people who have struggled with drug addiction. It's very hard to watch, especially when you know you can't help them when they won't help themselves. :(

Chris, thanks for all the information. Yesterday I felt pretty good, today not as much. I'm sure it's going to be a process. I think the reason I feel worse today is because yesterday morning and yesterday evening I took some maternity photos for Amy and was crawling around on the floor and ground a lot. I hope at least a few of my photos turn out decently. I'm too scared to look at them yet. :rolleyes:

[ReneT]

HAPPY 4th OF JULY GUNDI GIRLS!!

http://sociallysuperlative.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/fourth.jpg

[idtwinmom]

Thanks Rene. I'm sure your photos will be gorgeous!!!!!

[debilou]

Hope everyone had a great 4th! Wave to all the GG's and one G guy!

What do you think it means when my Dh has sent me flowers and then turned on the bose Iphone dock - with our favorite song - and, asked me to dance to our favorite song - in the middle of the living room - and, it's not noon yet? hmm......

[idtwinmom]

Hope everyone had a great 4th! Wave to all the GG's and one G guy!

What do you think it means when my Dh has sent me flowers and then turned on the bose Iphone dock - with our favorite song - and, asked me to dance to our favorite song - in the middle of the living room - and, it's not noon yet? hmm......

My guess is he's feeling better. As I recall he was pretty sick and now that he has some energy his first thoughts were of you (and I think it's sweet!).

[ReneT]

Hope everyone had a great 4th! Wave to all the GG's and one G guy!

What do you think it means when my Dh has sent me flowers and then turned on the bose Iphone dock - with our favorite song - and, asked me to dance to our favorite song - in the middle of the living room - and, it's not noon yet? hmm......

Hmmmmm.....;)

[addielee]

Yes for us.. probably not for him...

he's not getting much sleep

but he's doing great - they keep giving him more responsibility

but every letter, he talks about coming to Texas - near G ma's house
so, he can eat G ma's food and cookies

and, hanging out with us - oh, is he the sweetest boy on the face of the earth..

how can you not just love him to death..

He will be stationed about a 1.5 hours from us and really close to daddy's... so, we'll make it a point to visit or bring him up to see us as much as we can...

How sweet! I hope my boys are like that when they're older.

Hi girls!!!!

Debi, so glad your DGS is doing so well and that he is 1/2 done with boot camp.

Lisa, that is so sad about your ex-husband. I know several people who have struggled with drug addiction. It's very hard to watch, especially when you know you can't help them when they won't help themselves. :(

Chris, thanks for all the information. Yesterday I felt pretty good, today not as much. I'm sure it's going to be a process. I think the reason I feel worse today is because yesterday morning and yesterday evening I took some maternity photos for Amy and was crawling around on the floor and ground a lot. I hope at least a few of my photos turn out decently. I'm too scared to look at them yet. :rolleyes:

The layout you did was gorgeous! I hope you get some relief soon!

Hope everyone had a great 4th! Wave to all the GG's and one G guy!

What do you think it means when my Dh has sent me flowers and then turned on the bose Iphone dock - with our favorite song - and, asked me to dance to our favorite song - in the middle of the living room - and, it's not noon yet? hmm......

I think you are one lucky woman!!

Hmmmmm.....;)

:rofl:

I decided to bring my laptop outside today. It's a perfect summer day here and the boys are in their rooms for naptime. AND we have power today so that's a bonus. yesterday, the power was out for 2 hours DURING NAPTIME!!! It so could have picked some other time when I didn't want to play. I'm so glad to finally have some down time. June is so crazy around here that when July hits we just don't want to do anything.

[ReneT]

The layout you did was gorgeous! I hope you get some relief soon!

Thanks! Enjoy your down time!

[Christine]

Hi everyone! We took the girls to one of the "mid-closeness" temples today, then had lunch. Then I have been running errands. Now I am home but not for long because I am going to do a family photo shoot tonight. I hope it goes well. I am sorta neurotic because I just want everything to be perfect! kwim?

[addielee]

It's a beautiful day here! It'll finally be hot enough to send the kids out in the sprinkler, after we get home from Cars2! For now, I'm just waiting for Jeremiah to wake up. He's sleeping an hour and a half longer than usual!

[Christine]

Yay I can be caught up for TWO days :)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_25.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390964&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-25&cat=7040)
Life as we know it - week 25 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=390964&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-25&cat=7040)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_26.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391061&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-26&cat=7040)
Life as we know it - week 26 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391061&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-26&cat=7040)

[ReneT]

Addie, did the boys enjoy Cars 2, Addie?

Chris, I saw the photos on FB. So cute!

The doctor told Amy today that if things continue to progress the way they are now, he will induce her on July 25th. We were surprised by that, since he had originally told us he would not induce. She was very excited when he told her that. She has said for 2 weeks now she didn't feel like she was going to make it until August 1st, but I think she may have been wishful thinking. :) Gary and I can't seem to wrap our heads around the fact that in less than 3 weeks, we will be grandparents. I'm still adjusting to hearing the words "this is my mother-in-law".:lol::lol:

[Christine]

Thanks Rene!

Wahoo about Jace's imminent arrival! So exciting!

[Christine]

Wahooo go look at my new photography blog! I spent hours working on it, but I think it turned out pretty good!

http://gundersenphotography.blogspot.com/

[Christine]

hellllooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Where did y'all go? :) I keep checking to see if anyone has come to play w/ me :)

[debilou]

Hi Gundi, popped in to say hi - having some computer issues

wave, wave.

[idtwinmom]

Your blog looks fantastic! Great job! If I only had something worthwhile to blog about.....

I went school shopping yesterday. Yep, that's right, it's really time for that. The kids and I are going to get an early start this year since we ended so early last time. Hopefully that means we can make it an easy push, but it still seems there is sooooooo much to cover. :lol: DD is over the moon with joy, as I finally have the funds to put her in Ballet. We got all signed up last week, I bought a couple of leotards to go with the one she has worn for the last year (it does still fit), and some tights. Need to find more tights, I'm sure, and shoes. The boys might take Aikido lessons. It's kind of like Tae Kwon Do or those, focused on self-defense. Our next door neighbors teach it and I think it will be a good fit. We just have to go visit and watch to get a better feel for whether the boys will like it or not. At any rate, I shopped so much that it was like a full day at the gym. Hurt so bad I was up well into the night and then landed on the couch so I wasn't waking DH.

[addielee]

Addie, did the boys enjoy Cars 2, Addie?

Chris, I saw the photos on FB. So cute!

The doctor told Amy today that if things continue to progress the way they are now, he will induce her on July 25th. We were surprised by that, since he had originally told us he would not induce. She was very excited when he told her that. She has said for 2 weeks now she didn't feel like she was going to make it until August 1st, but I think she may have been wishful thinking. :) Gary and I can't seem to wrap our heads around the fact that in less than 3 weeks, we will be grandparents. I'm still adjusting to hearing the words "this is my mother-in-law".:lol::lol:

Sebastian enjoyed the movie a lot! Jeremiah just can't sit still long enough yet. He lasted about an hour and that was it. Good thing Grandma was there to walk with him.

So exciting about Jace! I can't believe it's so soon already!

Wahooo go look at my new photography blog! I spent hours working on it, but I think it turned out pretty good!

http://gundersenphotography.blogspot.com/

Fantastic!

[debilou]

Lisa I'm sorry you were so sore - hope you feel better today. I'd really check out your neighbors program for the boys. Tae Kwon Do is not just about self defense. In fact that is low down the list of disciplines. The primarary forces are dusapline and respect. They have 10 specfic rules - I'm sure u can google them.

When my DGS started to take the lessons we found out that he thought great - I can beat up other kids! We told the master in charge. They modified the program for him making it harder for him to achieve each new level. Which in turn taught him discipline as he had to practice harder. It was a great program. Im glad he was in it as it taught Jim many skills. I would put self defense on the list but nit as valuable as discipline and respect.

[idtwinmom]

Lisa I'm sorry you were so sore - hope you feel better today. I'd really check out your neighbors program for the boys. Tae Kwon Do is not just about self defense. In fact that is low down the list of disciplines. The primarary forces are dusapline and respect. They have 10 specfic rules - I'm sure u can google them.

When my DGS started to take the lessons we found out that he thought great - I can beat up other kids! We told the master in charge. They modified the program for him making it harder for him to achieve each new level. Which in turn taught him discipline as he had to practice harder. It was a great program. Im glad he was in it as it taught Jim many skills. I would put self defense on the list but nit as valuable as discipline and respect.

I didn't mean that TKD is about self defense, I meant that Aikido is. I just compared the two as a reference point. The Aikido is very much about self-discipline and confidence with more focus on how to block and fall than punch and kick. If I could find a TKD in our price range that was approvable by the school funding, we would be there. Unfortunately they are very expensive or treat it as a membership which the state won't allow.

[debilou]

I didn't mean that TKD is about self defense, I meant that Aikido is. I just compared the two as a reference point. The Aikido is very much about self-discipline and confidence with more focus on how to block and fall than punch and kick. If I could find a TKD in our price range that was approvable by the school funding, we would be there. Unfortunately they are very expensive or treat it as a membership which the state won't allow.

I totally get what home school pays for and the problems parents have with getting funding - my DH teaches HS bowling individuals and teams - a lot of his time has to be volunteered.

Even tho, some of these kids can go on to win scholarship funding thru tournaments and actual full scholarships because of my DH's contacts - so far - 2 students have received full blown college scholarships - he is actively working on 2 more. so, it's a great program.

What I would just say about the Aikido - is if you boys start using it ONLY for self defense - is just to talk to your neighbor about it.. i'm sure he's been there before with boys - and, would have a plan to add more discipline to your sons program. Every kid needs some self defense moves - and all martial arts give them great exercise too. good luck with it.

I can't wait for the ballet photos tho - personally...

[Christine]

Hi everyone, so glad you all came back to play :) Debi sorry you are having puter issues. I HATE that! Sounds like you have exciting stuff in store Lisa!

Thanks everyone for the compliments on my blog. I have had 3 different people say they want me to do their photos etc, but lets see if it turns into more than just talk :)

[Maggie Macpaine]

OOOO...how exciting. Good luck Christine. I will have to check it out.

Golf is supposed to be a good scholarship activity. I know playing bassoon well can get you a full ride.

[Maggie Macpaine]

Oh, and Monmouth college in IL offers a full-ride to bagpipe players.

[idtwinmom]

Cool, Maggie! I'm off to sound proof the garage so the kids have a place to practice.

[idtwinmom]

Actually, Debbie, funding here isn't as bad as most places. Alaska's very nature means that support systems had to be set up. But there are some silly rules about it not being handled as a membership and there is a limit for PE/art/music. I wouldn't want to spend the full budget they allow on PE anyway, making sure I have what I want for the rest. I seem to spend a healthy portion just on science every year. :lol:

But I will talk with the instructor about making sure the boys don't see this as just about fighting. Thankfully, two of the three instructors live right next door, so we will have lots of opportunity to deal with it. (so long as we are here, we are trying to find a bigger place)

[addielee]

Oh, and Monmouth college in IL offers a full-ride to bagpipe players.

:rofl::rofl::rofl: Who knew!

[Christine]

wow! you guys should have seen the incredible rainbow we had outside tonight. It was just amazing!

[>>aruaL<<]

Honey I'm home! LOL!!

Phew I've been a busy bee lately! Normally my Summers are veryyyyyyyyyyyyy calm and relaxing, but not this Summer so far. Ugh!

We went to Vegas for a week. If you remember, I don't like Vegas much at all. However, the kids wanted to go again, so we went.... and we had a BLAST! We went to Criss Angel's 'Believe' show which is amazingggggggg, and I thought about Rene while I was there!, we also went to the exhibits Bodies and the Titantic, the dinner and show Tournament of Knights, Shark Reef at the Mandalay, M&M World, and the list goes on... the kids kept us so busy!! I have been to Vegas a bazillion times, but I think this was one of the best times I've had there, maybe because the kids are older now so we are able to do more, but getting back to our hotel at 2:30am was exhausting!

DD is getting braces next week, and she's totally excited about it. She didn't want them her senior year in high school, and I wasn't going to push the issue. I waited til she came to us and asked about it again. She's totally ready now and the ortho said she'll have them on for only 18 months or so. Her teeth are really straight, it's her over bite that is having to be corrected, because her bottom teeth are now gnawing at the roof of her mouth, ouch!! She's also having foot surgery. Her feet are so messed up. The doctors all across this country have said she was fine for the past 18 years... until now. Her bones have grown all wrong and she's lucky she can even get shoes on, and it's hurting real bad to walk now.

I have also been extremely busy running back and forth to where her school is, as we are looking to buy a townhouse for her. I figure she can live there while in school and then when she's done it will either be used for our son if he goes there as well (which I very much doubt he will... he has other plans, so far) or I will use it as a rental to students.

Thankfully all is calm with DS, he's the self proclaimed "calm and healthy child" in the family. LOL!! I can't imagine having two that would keep me as busy as DD does, I'd lose my legs I think!

DH has been on vacation from work for awhile now, and he's finally returned back today, so now maybe our house will resume to back to some sort of normalcy... whatever that may be.

Hope your all doing well and enjoying your Summers!

[Christine]

Laura so good to hear from you! Sounds like you had a great time in LV. Seems like around here "normal" IS crazy and abnormal. LOL

[Maggie Macpaine]

So, how do you get a decent photo of a rainbow anyway???

[debilou]

So, how do you get a decent photo of a rainbow anyway???

Well, pirate girl, if you used camera raw, you can enhance the shot, pretty easy..

you should try it.. hmm. :love3::love3:

[debilou]

Or, or, I have a brand new tutorial on how to make your own rainbow.. .hehehe


My puter is fixed.. now I'm fighting with the copyright office and the insurance companies

oh, what fun...

Laura, sounds like you had a great time!!!

And, only 15 days until we leave for Chicago, Chicago that toddling town... can't wait. My DGS graduates from boot camp..

[Christine]

I haven't looked at my rainbow pic on the computer yet, just on the back of my camera but it looked pretty good there :)

[debilou]

I bet it's even better on your monitor....

[debilou]

But, if not.. the trick is to go to the gradients - load in the special effect gradients - choose the russell gradient - Choose radial - and, watch the magic happen -

you have to place it on a photo that could use a rainbow.. and, in the right spot.. and, of course - lower the opacity.. - and, erase the parts of the rainbow that shouldn't be there
but, cool effect..

[addielee]

Have fun in Chicago! It's one of my favourite cities!

[debilou]

And, please does anyone know Harry at the copyright office - anyone ???

get him off my BACK! How many times do I have to talk to Harry? I just want to copyright my photos..

Harry, leave me alone, please... so, if anyone has pull there.. please let me know ok.

[debilou]

Have fun in Chicago! It's one of my favourite cities!

What's fun to do there - we listed off the top things to do there - but anything like the locals do that we wouldn't know about???

[Maggie Macpaine]

Visit my cousins??

[debilou]

Visit my cousins??

Do they have a golden donut??

[Maggie Macpaine]

There is a nice Lego place in Schaumburg if you are taking little ones (or if you are just enamoured with Legos)

If you like classical music, you should check out the outdoor concerts at Ravinia. The concerts aren't free, but I have no idea what the cost is. It's in Highland Park.

We, of course love the American Girl Doll store. It's worth a gawk if you are in the area.

I'm 2.5 hours South, so if you get real bored........

[addielee]

I did all of the touristy stuff...there's so much! I LOVE the art museum and wandering through Union Station. I haven't been tourist there for a long while.

[debilou]

There is a nice Lego place in Schaumburg if you are taking little ones (or if you are just enamoured with Legos)

If you like classical music, you should check out the outdoor concerts at Ravinia. The concerts aren't free, but I have no idea what the cost is. It's in Highland Park.

We, of course love the American Girl Doll store. It's worth a gawk if you are in the area.

I'm 2.5 hours South, so if you get real bored........

Somehow, I don't see much of that on my list Pirate Girl.. my DH was interested in talking to your cousins about you..

But remember we will be with a Sailor - just fresh out of boot camp - don't think lego land or American Girl Doll store will be on his list... just sayin'

[Maggie Macpaine]

Hmmm....I'm sure he would find AGD interesting. Since you are with a Sailor, I'm sure Navy Pier is on your list. I LOVE the SHEDD, and my daughter finds Sue the Dinosaur fascinating.

Sorry to disapoint with my cousins, but they don't usually see my pirate side. Amy has a brand new baby though, I'm sure she'd let you change a diaper or two......

I do believe you can find rentals to take out on Lake Michigan.

[debilou]

Hmmm....I'm sure he would find AGD interesting. Since you are with a Sailor, I'm sure Navy Pier is on your list. I LOVE the SHEDD, and my daughter finds Sue the Dinosaur fascinating.

Sorry to disapoint with my cousins, but they don't usually see my pirate side. Amy has a brand new baby though, I'm sure she'd let you change a diaper or two......

I do believe you can find rentals to take out on Lake Michigan.

Well, not a lot of help.. a guy leaving Navy boot camp has been dunked in the water until his fingers are all wrinkled - don't think water is the answer..

and, AGD - hmm, don't think so..

So, thanks pirate girl.. i think we'll head for the major attractions.. like say Wrigley field... or the Sears Tower, or the L... or stuff like that..

[Maggie Macpaine]

Be sure you stand out on the platform and take some pictures. It looks (and feels) like you are standing in mid-air.

[debilou]

Be sure you stand out on the platform and take some pictures. It looks (and feels) like you are standing in mid-air.

Ok little help here. Which platform??

[Maggie Macpaine]

At the top of the Sears tower, or whatever it's really called now. It's this huge glass cubical. It's pictured on this page http://www.theskydeck.com/
(http://www.theskydeck.com/) Oh, while I'm thinking about it, if you are planning on doing several museums, it is probably a good idea to get a city pass. It will save you lots of time standing in line. The line for entrance to the aquarium can be several hours if you don't have tickets.

That link is http://www.citypass.com/chicago?mv_source=partnerfusion&cmpid=google_Chicago%20city%20pass&mkwid=sQ4y5cqSU&pcrid=6103826669&gclid=CP2llrjhgKoCFRHGKgodrV0kzw

They also have a free day for the museums. Those are listed here http://www.chicagohotblog.com/chicago-museum-free-days

You probably want to use taxi or the bus system to get to most of the places. The parking deck is quite expensive. I think it was around $20.00 the last time we used it.

We also prefer to stay in the suburbs and drive in, but that is just cause we are cheap and the hotel prices drop dramatically as you leave Chicago.

[debilou]

http://img-s3-01.mytextgraphics.com/myrainbowtext/2011/07/14/7d47cfcd71af10cf6a9ee573fcde52a1.gif (http://www.myrainbowtext.com)

[PQ]

Wowsers! Thanks Debilou!

[debilou]

At the top of the Sears tower, or whatever it's really called now. It's this huge glass cubical. It's pictured on this page http://www.theskydeck.com/
(http://www.theskydeck.com/) Oh, while I'm thinking about it, if you are planning on doing several museums, it is probably a good idea to get a city pass. It will save you lots of time standing in line. The line for entrance to the aquarium can be several hours if you don't have tickets.

That link is http://www.citypass.com/chicago?mv_source=partnerfusion&cmpid=google_Chicago%20city%20pass&mkwid=sQ4y5cqSU&pcrid=6103826669&gclid=CP2llrjhgKoCFRHGKgodrV0kzw

They also have a free day for the museums. Those are listed here http://www.chicagohotblog.com/chicago-museum-free-days

You probably want to use taxi or the bus system to get to most of the places. The parking deck is quite expensive. I think it was around $20.00 the last time we used it.

We also prefer to stay in the suburbs and drive in, but that is just cause we are cheap and the hotel prices drop dramatically as you leave Chicago.
oh, we aren't staying in Chicago, we are staying hmm, don't know exactly where, but about 30 minutes away - right next to the Naval Training center..

So our room aren't that expensive... and, close to where we can visit our DGS and my Son and DIL will be staying close to there too.. but I really don't know how much time exactly we will get with DGS past Graduation day.. So, hence the need to visit Chicago.. we are staying a few extra days.

Thanks for your tips

I think i had most of them from the Chicago visitor's bureau... but thank you pirate girl...

[Christine]

wtg PQ! that is pretty amazing!

[Maggie Macpaine]

Slumber Party day today. I sincerely hope this is the last one for a long while. I like my sleep too much!

[addielee]

I like my sleep too Maggie! And summer is the only time I get to sleep in. The boys let me sleep until after 8 every day. It's lovely! We've been working on potty training with Jeremiah - the naked version. He's doing so well today! Choosing to use it on his own, for both ends! That makes one happy Mommy!! I don't think we're going to go anywhere today jsut so we can capitalize on that success.

Oh, and DH wants to buy me a new camera! Looking at a Canon 60D. I'm not saying no! :rofl:

[debilou]

I like my sleep too Maggie! And summer is the only time I get to sleep in. The boys let me sleep until after 8 every day. It's lovely! We've been working on potty training with Jeremiah - the naked version. He's doing so well today! Choosing to use it on his own, for both ends! That makes one happy Mommy!! I don't think we're going to go anywhere today jsut so we can capitalize on that success.

Oh, and DH wants to buy me a new camera! Looking at a Canon 60D. I'm not saying no! :rofl:

Hey that's what I have copy cat, copy cat!!

[addielee]

Hey that's what I have copy cat, copy cat!!

So...then, Miss Debilou... what lenses should I get? I'll probably get the 18-200mm IS lens, but is there another that you'd recommend for everyday photography?

[debilou]

I sent you an email, because I went on a little long ok

[Christine]

in Nikon the VR 18-200 IS my everyday lens
just because it is soooo versatile!

[addielee]

Thank you Christine and Debi! DH is on his way home and then we are off to the camera store when the boys wake up. He was going to stop on his own, but I'm raising Sebastian right and he REALLY wants to go too. So it'll be a family trip! I'm so excited!

[addielee]

Guess what my bedtime reading is???

[Christine]

a new user's manual perhaps?

[Christine]

oh I am up late because I am trying to get my new kits packaged up. I have been so busy I haven't had any time to design, so I was excited to be able to pick up my "pen" I may have to finish in the morning though because I am falling asleep at the keyboard.

[debilou]

oh I am up late because I am trying to get my new kits packaged up. I have been so busy I haven't had any time to design, so I was excited to be able to pick up my "pen" I may have to finish in the morning though because I am falling asleep at the keyboard.

Wow, you use one of those PEN things.. .maybe, just maybe if Rene had one she wouldn't have needed that surgery..

I love my pen.. One day i was fixing a photo without me pen.. it was like trying to do it with a rock in my hand..

Christine how do people work without a pen, can you tell me that???

[debilou]

Guess what my bedtime reading is???

Congrats on your new camera!! does that store offer free camera lessons, so do..

When I first set up my 60 d, I really screwed up some settings so that the shutter would take about oh, a minute or so to finish taking a shot any shot...

so, I had to do a complete reset of all the settings and start over.. that's in those creative custom settings... beware of those.. I was having fun setting those all up.. ha.. you get some pretty weird photo without a tripod, and, having your shutter open for a full minute...

And, it did take me a while to get used to the back dial, but now that's easy. I love it.

have fun:love3::love3:

[Christine]

Wow, you use one of those PEN things.. .maybe, just maybe if Rene had one she wouldn't have needed that surgery..

I love my pen.. One day i was fixing a photo without me pen.. it was like trying to do it with a rock in my hand..

Christine how do people work without a pen, can you tell me that???

No I canNOT, it is totally beyond me! A very sweet little birdie sent me her pen tablet that she was not using so now I have one for each of my puters :D I won't tell you who, so you won't be jealous or anything, unless the birdie wants to fess up. :lol: Yes I am spoiled and absolutely hate when someone forces me to use a mouse.

[Christine]

Wow! I just uploaded a few new products and one of them was product # 15,000!!! Isn't that amazing how long DSP has been cranking out awesome products.

[debilou]

Wow, 15000... Congrats Gundi.

and, i can pretty much guess the birdie... she doesn't have to fess up...

But, she will regret it someday....

[debilou]

oh 6 posts to 16,000 no where near, Crys or PQ - do they live here.. do they really have families at home,

or do they like live in like a barbie motel and have play houses to take care of..

how do they post so much - and, scrap so much... no clue..
this has taken me darn near 3 years..

[Christine]

wahoo getting close Deb! You know what is funny is Crys and Sands and I were at exactly the same spot, back before I became a designer and look at us now!

[Christine]

oh and look I have 50 more to get to 30,000. BTW, Debi your post to me says 15,927. hmmmm interesting

[Christine]

oh just remembered one more thing I was going to say. Have any of you read the Hourglass Door series by Lisa Mangum? I am just finishing the last one (trilogy) and they are great reads. Clean and interesting :)

[Christine]

Here's a link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=sr_tc_2_0?rh=i%3Astripbooks%2Ck%3ALisa+Mangum&keywords=Lisa+Mangum&ie=UTF8&qid=1310829772&sr=1-2-ent&field-contributor_id=B001K8HXV0

Hmmm I guess this is one way to get my 50 posts....just keep thinking of new things to say ;)

[Christine]

You may return to your business now cuz I am going to go exercise

[Christine]

Really I am :yes:

[Christine]

:rofl: :rofl:

[addielee]

:rofl:!!!

[debilou]

wahoo getting close Deb! You know what is funny is Crys and Sands and I were at exactly the same spot, back before I became a designer and look at us now!

what happened... oh BTW i was just chatting with Crys.. she is redoing her bath in beautiful colors...

[debilou]

oh just remembered one more thing I was going to say. Have any of you read the Hourglass Door series by Lisa Mangum? I am just finishing the last one (trilogy) and they are great reads. Clean and interesting :)

no

[PQ]

oh 6 posts to 16,000 no where near, Crys or PQ - do they live here.. do they really have families at home,

or do they like live in like a barbie motel and have play houses to take care of..

how do they post so much - and, scrap so much... no clue..
this has taken me darn near 3 years..

We post so much by commenting on so many layouts. That's the secret.:love1:

[Christine]

Well that is the difference between commenting on the LOs that use my stuff and ALL the LOs. :lol:

[addielee]

Loving my new camera!!! I'll upload a few pics in a moment,

[Maggie Macpaine]

Haha....Deb are you just copying your camera lens email you sent me to send to Addie?? I couldn't afford a 60D :( and I was tired of waiting on my friend to clear his pictures off a picture card to sell me a used 40D so I went with the Rebel. Still a huge step up from my point and shoot and I LOVE it! Now, I can get good at it and save up for my next, next, next generation of the Canon.

The difference in clarity of photos is just unreal!

[addielee]

Haha....Deb are you just copying your camera lens email you sent me to send to Addie?? I couldn't afford a 60D :( and I was tired of waiting on my friend to clear his pictures off a picture card to sell me a used 40D so I went with the Rebel. Still a huge step up from my point and shoot and I LOVE it! Now, I can get good at it and save up for my next, next, next generation of the Canon.

The difference in clarity of photos is just unreal!

For me, I had to decide between a RebelT3i or the 60D. We could afford the 60D and I figured it would serve me better for longer. Maybe forever with more lenses!

[addielee]

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/500/thumbs/20110716outside236.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391481&title=20110716outside236&cat=500)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/500/thumbs/20110716outside214.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391480&title=delphinium&cat=500)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/500/thumbs/20110716outside207.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391479&title=little-flowers&cat=500)

[Christine]

yay addie, already you are taking some awesome shots :D

[addielee]

Thanks Chris! It was a long read, but so much fun to figure it all out. There are features I never dreamed of!

[Christine]

and you prob ought to go back and read again in a bit to pick up all of the things you missed :) I know that is how it is with my camera. BTW here's a cool trick for anybody w/ a kindle or other ereader that will do pdf files. I dl'd my manual to each of my cameras plus my speedlight and put them all on my kindle to make it easy to have when I need them w/o the weight :tup:

[addielee]

Great idea!

[Christine]

Guess what I won!

We did a big health fair at the main corporate office today and I was doing blood pressure and BMI checks, then at one point they had a hula hoop contest and a jump rope contest. I figured sure I would give it a try. I won the first round on the hula hoop but only because the person I was going against had her hula hoop fall to the floor quicker than mine. It was pretty much a straight shot down for both of us. :) Lost horribly in the next round, but I ended up winning the whole thing in the jump rope! LOL They weren't big prizes or anything, but I got a basket w/ different kinds of granola, drinks, a t-shirt, other healthy snacks etc. I LOVE granola so I was all excited about that.

[suvgal]

Way to go Chris!!!!!!:tup::tup:

[Chellie]

Guess what I won!

We did a big health fair at the main corporate office today and I was doing blood pressure and BMI checks, then at one point they had a hula hoop contest and a jump rope contest. I figured sure I would give it a try. I won the first round on the hula hoop but only because the person I was going against had her hula hoop fall to the floor quicker than mine. It was pretty much a straight shot down for both of us. :) Lost horribly in the next round, but I ended up winning the whole thing in the jump rope! LOL They weren't big prizes or anything, but I got a basket w/ different kinds of granola, drinks, a t-shirt, other healthy snacks etc. I LOVE granola so I was all excited about that.
YAY!!! :yahoo: :yahoo:

[Christine]

oh my heck how stinkin' cute is this?!!

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/285402_255678847791164_203093393049710_1131129_439 1377_n.jpg

Her mom is a huge Utah fan too, so we just HAD to do it! :D

[debilou]

Guess what I won!

We did a big health fair at the main corporate office today and I was doing blood pressure and BMI checks, then at one point they had a hula hoop contest and a jump rope contest. I figured sure I would give it a try. I won the first round on the hula hoop but only because the person I was going against had her hula hoop fall to the floor quicker than mine. It was pretty much a straight shot down for both of us. :) Lost horribly in the next round, but I ended up winning the whole thing in the jump rope! LOL They weren't big prizes or anything, but I got a basket w/ different kinds of granola, drinks, a t-shirt, other healthy snacks etc. I LOVE granola so I was all excited about that.

WTG, Gundi... I wish I could get that hula hoop thing to work on my WII fit..

I can do it IRL - but not on the WII.. what am i doing wrong..

[Maggie Macpaine]

That is cute! Congrats on the contest. My hoola hoop would hit the floor in nothing flat too. I used to be able to do that, but no more.......

It is dog day today at the fair. 8:00 a.m. check-in. Going to be a long hot one (temps may hit 100 again) It's 76 at 6:30. I have a huge headache right now, I hope the excedrin sends it packing soon.

Hopefully Ransom will cooperate with Julia and it will be a good day. She's excited because the neighbor girl is coming to watch. MK has been very sweet this summer. She's been playing with Julia even though she is going into HS and Julia into 4th grade.

Have a good one!

[Maggie Macpaine]

WTG, Gundi... I wish I could get that hula hoop thing to work on my WII fit..

I can do it IRL - but not on the WII.. what am i doing wrong..

I can do it better on the WII than IRL. Gotta move those hips more ;)

[debilou]

I can do it better on the WII than IRL. Gotta move those hips more ;)

How, i do move them...

[debilou]

That is cute! Congrats on the contest. My hoola hoop would hit the floor in nothing flat too. I used to be able to do that, but no more.......

It is dog day today at the fair. 8:00 a.m. check-in. Going to be a long hot one (temps may hit 100 again) It's 76 at 6:30. I have a huge headache right now, I hope the excedrin sends it packing soon.

Hopefully Ransom will cooperate with Julia and it will be a good day. She's excited because the neighbor girl is coming to watch. MK has been very sweet this summer. She's been playing with Julia even though she is going into HS and Julia into 4th grade.

Have a good one!
Take a bunch of photos.

[Christine]

WTG, Gundi... I wish I could get that hula hoop thing to work on my WII fit..

I can do it IRL - but not on the WII.. what am i doing wrong..

From watching people who could actually do it yesterday, I think the difference is IRL their hips weren't actually moving in that big of circles, but on the wii you do. Who knows if I am right, just a theory :)

[Christine]

WTG, Gundi... I wish I could get that hula hoop thing to work on my WII fit..

I can do it IRL - but not on the WII.. what am i doing wrong..

How, i do move them...

in BIG circles

[Christine]

That is cute! Congrats on the contest. My hoola hoop would hit the floor in nothing flat too. I used to be able to do that, but no more.......

It is dog day today at the fair. 8:00 a.m. check-in. Going to be a long hot one (temps may hit 100 again) It's 76 at 6:30. I have a huge headache right now, I hope the excedrin sends it packing soon.

Hopefully Ransom will cooperate with Julia and it will be a good day. She's excited because the neighbor girl is coming to watch. MK has been very sweet this summer. She's been playing with Julia even though she is going into HS and Julia into 4th grade.

Have a good one!

Good luck!

[Christine]

We are so spoiled here w/ regard to humidity. It is 55% right now and we are all whining about it being muggy. lol

[PQ]

We are so spoiled here w/ regard to humidity. It is 55% right now and we are all whining about it being muggy. lol

We are, too! :rofl::lol::rofl: We are such wussies. I am so glad that I don't live in South Carolina anymore....I love whining over 55% humidity.

[idtwinmom]

Hi all! Been days and days... again! :lol: I haven't even sat at the computer since Sunday and chat. The kids and I have been really cleaning, and I'm redoing our school cabinet getting ready for our new year, which starts next week. And before you get all shocked, remember, they have been on break since the last of April, so they have had a solid 3 months off. Not me, tho, I've been sweating and planning almost that whole time trying to fit in things like, Ballet, Piano and German. :lol:

I feel sorry for all of you with not only the humidity, but also all that heat. I think we really picked the right time to live in Alaska. We have recently seen days go into the 70s, but then it rained buckets and dropped back to the lower 60s. Supposed to have one more day in the upper 60s then back to our normal average of lower to mid 60s again. Our rainy season is getting ready to start too, so we shall see. I do keep trying to blow some of our cool air in your direction, but it doesn't want to cooperate. Sorry! :no:

Rene - whats the word on the grandbaby? Did I miss it being born? If so, I want pictures dear! Babies are the very best in photo ops. :lol:

Hugs to all, and Congrats on that jump rope win Chris.

[Christine]

Here's my week 27 & 28 :)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_27.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391690&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-27&cat=all)
Life as we know it - week 27 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391690&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-27&cat=all)

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/7040/thumbs/LAWKI_28.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391691&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-28&cat=all)
Life as we know it - week 28 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=391691&title=life-as-we-know-itweek-28&cat=all)

[debilou]

in BIG circles

Ok, so i google Wii fit - hula hoop - watch a couple -

my problem - earth to DEBILOU - i'm going the wrong direction

IT works.. my wii fit isn't broken

hahahha

[Christine]

:rofl: :rofl:

[>>aruaL<<]

I can't seem to hula on my wii either! At least I'm not alone!

[Christine]

Lololol r u going backward too?

[>>aruaL<<]

I'm alittle bummed... we decided to take DD out of the dorms. We felt that we were paying a chunk of money for her dorms and the dorms were, in the end, an awful way of life for her, and her dorms weren't really all that nice at all. DH felt like it was a lot of money for half a bedroom, lol. So he decided to put out abit more than the dorms cost us, and put her into her very own apartment! She's excited to not have to share 1 shower with 16 girls, two toilets, etc... she will have her very own now! So I'm happy that she'll have a MUCH better quality of life than that which we felt she had at her dorm, but I'm sad cause I feel like it's another milestone... like it's more permanent than the dorms..... so like at winter, she won't be home for the 6 weeks, she'll be at her apartment and come home to 'visit'.....and same with Summer, Spring break, etc... sigh.

So today, we went and signed her up for her apartment. She moves into it in two weeks. :(
She's thrilled though as it's extremelyyyyyy nice, has lots of pools, waterfalls, streams, etc.. and it's within walking/biking distance to campus if she so chooses to not drive there.

I actually had tears down my face as I walked back to the car after signing the papers. Im a big ol' baby!

[>>aruaL<<]

Lololol r u going backward too?

Yep I think so! I'm gonna try it again... :doh:


:rofl:

[Christine]

Oh yeah that must be it cuz u r Laura backwards! :rofl:

[Christine]

Ahhhhhh be strong Laura I know I would be the same way

[debilou]

Lololol r u going backward too?

I won't even tell you how i was catching extra hoops... :rofl::rofl: