the biggest adjustment-to-MS struggle for me has been that very thing.

finding something meaningful, affordable, and satisfying that I could still do, that's flexible, forgiving, and makes my heart sing.

Vonn, that search took me 15 years, since my "forced retirement"

and yes, I REALLY had to "relocate" in order to be able to AFFORD to follow my dream... and yeah, I miss my kids, a lot.

but then again, they're so busy nowadays, with college and jobs, that I'd hardly ever see them anyway, so I couldn't base my choices on them.

I had to think outside the box, and... work *constantly* on acceptance.

I could go around angry, or resentful all day ("Why ME ?? This is UNFAIR !!")

but like you, I just knuckled down, and did what had to be done.

you're a survivor Vonn, like me... you'll bounce back, and find things to do, and friends, to fill your heart and soul...

besides, you've got all of us in your corner, rootin' for ya, and cheerin' ya on !!

Mornin' all. Well I managed to get a few things done yesterday so I'm feeling better about today's to do list.

Took DS to his group golf lesson last night and he made me proud. Every week the head pro singles out a kid or two during the lessons to show the whole group (20-22 last night) something. Last night DS got hauled up in front of everyone for consistent proper swing from pre to post. That's my boy! This is his second summer for lessons and first time as example dude.

Hope everyone stays cool and has a great day.

Hey all didn't sleep much here last night...weather change...need I say more. Plus the raccoons were on a tear the past two nights they have been desperately trying to get into the feed bins for the cats and the birds. We have about 12 hummers at our feeders that hang about all day, they are so cute and not at all afraid if you go stand beside them! We have new baby deer too, they are sooo cute, we were watching one romp around last night and Olivia was excited. Dunno what today holds but a lazy start so far......

Vonn - I know it what you mean. It is really difficult. I've been there and I have 2 girls to support too. We had some really tough times. Things got better once I got my SSDI. You will make it through this and things will be fine. Give yourself the time to adjust and accept. Definitely, without a doubt, buy yourself the flowers. They will brighten up the place and help make you feel better. Hang in there Vonn! We are all here for you.

Fin - Don't you hate that? There are times I just want to sleep in but for some reason I always wake up between 5:30 and 6. Post your new paintings when you get a chance. I'd love to see them, especially if they are your favorites.

Sandy - Wishing Jim the best of luck today at his appointment with the urologist.

Good morning everyone else, who must be lucky to sleep in.

Hope you all have a great day!

I'm back ... and people were still coming out to set up .. BUT, I found the lady with the 'glads' (purple, coral, pink, yellow, and lilac).. and picked up 2 ears of corn and red taters! (only spent $6)

thanks, Tricia, Kay, Jenn ... and everyone ... it's so frustrating explaining why I can or can't do something ... and when my doctor says 'NOT' to return to work ... I'm listening ... although .. .I "LOOK" okay on the outside!

now I understand why people 'go into hibernation-mode' ...

I'm writing a paper for my negotiation course on 'dealing with government programs and how does one even start with them when they don't (like myself) even know what questions to ask'! ... my goal: to write a 'how-to' guidebook for physicians and clinics to give to people with a new diagnosis or a sudden illness. this will help them from needing anti-depressent meds - because they will get some sort of answer and at least get them in the right direction on who to deal with.

yep - been thinking about this ALOT!

have a great day ... will stop by later!!

Well, here's a good one for you. I called the hospital where I took DD16 and spoke to their finance/collection department. I explained to the guy about the state program that I thought DD16 was on. I told him I called the state and they referred me to my local office who really couldn't figure out what happened and why DD18 is on it and DD16 is not. The local office then referred me to the Kids Care program. Well the guy at the hospital told me that in their experience, if the state made a mistake they would never admit it. Therefore, he was sending me paperwork to fill out for another program that will help me pay for her bill.

I called Kids Care and the lady I spoke was stumped. She told me to hold on and that she was going to get her supervisor. She came back on and said that I should have gotten a letter from Kids Care about my premium. I knew nothing about that. So she said since they didn't get anything back, they canceled the insurance. That is not correct as DD18 is still on it!!! She said that my local office could have different requirements and that is why DD18 is still on it. Huh? It's all the state health care system. It's the same freaking thing. The only difference is SOME of the funding. Go figure on daughter is on it and the other isn't.

My local DES office submitted the paperwork for the Kids Care program again. She did say they received it and to check on it in a few days.

It is frustrating to me as DD16 needs some follow up and we planned to discuss that at her physical next week. Which I had to cancel as I don't have $120 to pay for it. We are now going to go to our local Walgreens that is offering school/sports physicals for $25.

I did tell the lady at the state health office about this and wanted to see how long it will take to get re-instated. 6-8 weeks!!! Thank goodness DD16 is doing better now but I am still concerned about some possible neurological issues. Well, quite frankly, MS.

She has some nerve thing in her eye which we have been keeping our eye on. The ophthalmologist is not quite sure what it is. He is thinking possible glaucoma. She had that vertigo which was bad enough I brought her to the ER. She has all sorts of strange pains on and off in her hip and neck that need checking in to. All of which we were going to talk to her dr about next week.

Does this help your paper, Vonn? lol

good morning everyone ...

it's been awhile since ive been on but frank has tried to keep me updated on everyone ... problem is i dont remember what all he said lol

anyway ... i hope this post finds everyone doing well ...

There you are Deb! Hey, Jim and I were talking about you guys yesterday wondering when your coming to fish. lol

thanks, Tricia ... that's in the state of AZ??? or OZ??? LOL

YES - talk about having to negotiate what we need and they don't even know which direction to send us ... like WE are suppose to know!

as I work on the paper ... feel free to PM me with 'negotiating' situations ... and I'll quote you with only first name and city/state .. I need documentation ... thanks!!

going over to the postcard thread to start pm-ing my new addy!

I think it's the Land of OZ. lol

Don't forget to PM me your addy.