Daily Ponderings

Yesterday, I finally met Euan , after almost 2 years of talking to him through email and on the phone. Our New Year resolution for 2005 was to finally meet each other before the year was over. I remember joking that we shouldn't wait until December 31st, either. Well, yesterday was the 27th! So, we cut it pretty close. lol But after all the not knowings, hopings, and wondering if and when it would happen, I am so happy that we finally met! Euan came to my side of the border, and we met at Tim Horton's, a very popular place that started on his side. lol As soon as I walked in the door, I knew exactly who he was. I had seen pics of him, but he also had a gift for me sitting on the table! I thought, awww, he got me something?? So I went up to him, and we just gave each other a big hug. We chatted for a bit before going to get something to eat. And the rest of the time we spent together went so well! We talked pretty much nonstop the whole time, no awkward pauses, nothing like...

Friday evening, I had been trying to take a nap because I was so tired from being out shopping with my mom. I was half out of it when my house phone rang. I jumped out of bed, feeling weird, but I answer the phone. "Hello?" "Hi, is Colleen there?" the lady asked. "This is she," I answer. "Oh, hi, this is Lori, your neighbor from next door," she says. "Oh, hi! How are you?" I ask. "I'm ok, it doesn't sound like you," Lori answers. "Oh really? I was just resting, maybe that's why I sound funny" I say. "Oh, ok," Lori replies. "Well, I wanted to let you know that we're having a Christmas party, so feel free to come over and have some drinks and food." "Oh how nice!" I said. "Thank you, I'll try to make it over there soon!" "Ok great, I'll talk to you later!" Lori says, and we end the conversation. Still dazed, I wander into the bathroom thinking ...

I had a really nice Christmas with my family on Sunday. Lisa and I went over to my parents' house in the early afternoon, and we helped get food ready for dinner. Everyone else didn't get there until a bit later. We didn't even open gifts until after 4! I got some really nice things, though. I loved spending time with everyone, and it ended up being a fun time! Hailey was just too cute for words! She definitely had a good first Christmas! She was more interested in eating her gifts than anything, which was funny. She eventually got really tired and cranky, as babies are wont to do, so her parents took her home for bed. Lisa and I came back here a little after 9, and I just talked on the phone for almost 3 hours with a couple friends. Nice way to end the day! :) Today was resting day. I really wanted to venture out to Target to use my gift card from Joan, but I ended up just staying home. Probably a good thing, so I didn't have to go out there and fight the crowds...

My sister, Lisa, arrived here safely a couple hours ago. She went down to our parents' house first, so she didn't come to my house until a little after 11pm. I'm so happy she got here safe and sound! Her puppy, Lexie, has gotten so big!! She is a black lab, and she reminds us all of our first family dog, Lady. Lisa said she has even called her Lady a couple times. She is very cute, though! She knows tricks and everything! Well, except how to not jump on people. Lisa is still working on that. Mittens disappeared when Lisa got here. He's currently under my bed, and sadly, I'll have to just go to bed without trying to get him out from under there. I wonder if I'll ever see him again this week. lol Well, everyone here is sleeping, so I think I'll be on my way, too! The next couple of days will be busy, that's for sure! Merry Christmas to all!! :)

I have been meaning to post all week, but things keep happening, or I just don't feel like it! The week went by quickly, though. I can't believe tomorrow is already Friday again. Geesh, will time ever slow down?? I spent this past week still trying to rest, but doing things in the house, too. And doing a few things out and about. I finally got all my gifts wrapped between Monday and Tuesday. What fun that was. Trying to wrap gifts on the floor when you have a cat is quite entertaining and frustrating at the same time! Mittens kept laying down in the space where I wanted to roll out the wrapping paper, and refused to move. When he finally did move, he'd dive-bomb the paper, leaving claw marks in some areas. Or, he'd try to eat the paper. He also kept shoving his little head (the only little thing about him is his head!) into all the gift bags. Then there were the moments that he thought it would be the best time to bite mommy. When that happened, he got booted out of th...

I awoke this morning to a lot more snow on the ground than there was last night. It's actually very pretty! The snow stuck in the tree branches are a beautiful sight to see, I love that look. It's still snowing, a few specks here and there, but there have been a few times when I've glanced out my window and felt like I was watching snowglobe snow falling. It's supposed to snow most of today, so I'm staying inside again until tonight, when I'll go down the street to my parents' house for dinner. It's my dad's birthday today! We are just having pizza and wings, and maybe a cake (I haven't heard about one yet lol). It should be nice! My friends were supposed to go to NYC this morning. Because of the unknown with the snow and the ice we had last night, they cancelled their flights. I know all of them are bummed, but a couple of them were mad, and I felt stuck in the middle. I plead the fifth! They can complain to me if they want, but I'm not shar...

It is still cold up here in WNY, but not as bad as the past couple days. I still haven't gone outside, but I will be venturing out tomorrow. Hopefully. We are getting a lot of snow here, after an afternoon of rain/freezing rain/hail. I'm only going down the street to my parents' house, but still, that drive can be treacherous! But tomorrow is my dad's birthday, so we are having pizza and wings. Mmmmm, that can't keep me away! Today was another day of resting and taking it easy. I am still playing that game of Am I Getting Sick, Or Is It Just My Sinues Driving Me Insane? It's really not a fun game, and I'm tired of playing it! I woke up this morning feeling tired, so after my shower, I fell asleep again for an hour. I made some earrings for a friend of mine, and watched tv. It really wasn't an eventful day, but I need those kind of days when I'm not sure how I'm feeling. I talked with my friend, Tom, on the computer today, for quite a while. I had...

It's cold out. Veeeeeery cold. I think when I got up this morning it was 8 degrees, now it's 21. Yuck! I shouldn't be surprised by this. I've lived in WNY all my life, so I should be used to it, right? I wish!! I haven't gone out since Monday, like I said I wouldn't. I was a slacker yesterday, although I did get my dishes and my fish bowls clean. I also made the Italian wedding soup, and it is rather tasty! I have to put some in the freezer, though, since I can't eat the whole pot by myself. It gets boring after a while, eating the same thing for days! Today, I feel like I'm coming down with something. It's driving me nuts! I think the main reason is the heat that's been going on every 10 minutes, and wearing the oxygen. Both of these are very dry, and I feel dehydrated. It's making me quite tired. So I've been taking it easy. I am working on my friend's illusion necklace that she ordered from me when I had my jewelry party. It is goi...

I have been out of the house almost every day since last Wednesday or Thursday. I can't remember which, really! Christmas shopping for so many people is hard sometimes! I did pretty good being out on Saturday and then again yesterday, but today, I just wanted to stay home. However, I had to go to the post office to have some packages mailed, and to buy a lot of stamps for all my Christmas cards. And then I had to go to a couple other stores to get some more wrapping paper and cards. I told my mom when she dropped me off that I didn't want to go outside for a few days, because I'm so tired of being out! I also have some things to do around here, so I'll still be busy, but at least I won't have to bundle up and go anywhere. My best friend and I were looking for a dinnerware set for our best friend who is getting a divorce. She has to move out, and will not have a lot of things to bring with her. So my friend and I went to Bon Ton to look around, and found a 45-piec...

I got back home about 45 minutes ago from the U2 concert in Buffalo. It was awesome!! It was the first time I've ever seen them play, and I was so glad that I got the chance. Although we were sitting in the 300 level, way up in the last row, we could see the stage in front of us, and all the lights and everything fancy that went on during the show. The band played for almost 2 1/2 hours, and that included 3 encores! It was a great time!! :) :)

Well it took me forever, but I finally got all my AOL entries moved over here! I just did a little at a time, and it took me like a week and a half, I think. Feels like more. lol So, I'm all settled in my new home! I'd like to do a little more decorating, as soon as I figure out how to do some things. But, I do have to admit, that I'm happy here. I like the atmosphere more, and most of those who wrote on AOL have moved over here, too. Making it still feel like a happy blog community! So, I'm hoping to stick around here for quite some time! :) Now, if anyone can tell me how to get a little drop down menu like I've seen in some blogs for my older entries, I'd appreciate it! lol In the meantime, I might just investigate myself. :)

I felt like such a slug this weekend. I suppose that's alright, considering last weekend I was hardly sitting for more than 10 minutes. I watched a lot of movies, since I had free HBO and Showtime for the weekend. But it's no wonder I don't pay for these channels. The same thing comes on over and over, or I can never find anything I want to watch. lol It figures! Today, I had wanted to go out shopping, but I decided I'd better stay home to get some actual work done. And I certainly kept pretty busy! I finally put the plastic up on my bedroom windows. I rolled some pennies to put in the bank. My poor little bunny was filled to the top with pennies, so I had to empty it! I've had this bunny bank since I was really little. It used to be soft and fuzzy, but it's worn down now. But at least I still use it! I also washed all my dishes. I just hate that chore. (Wait, I hate any chores. lol) Then I spent quite a bit of time on the phone with Medicare, trying to ...

I had a great time last night at my friend's house! And, I sold quite a bit of jewelry! That's always a plus! There were nine of us there, and we laughed, gabbed and ate yummy snacks until quite late. I didn't get home until after midnight, and I went to bed after 1am. I just love gathering with my friends. I'm so glad we do a girls' night almost every month. It is definitely a great time! I'm not sure what I'm doing today. I'm still in pjs, and I almost don't want to get out of them. It's rather chilly outside, although the sun is shining brightly! I'm grateful for that. The sun perks me up, no matter what the temps are. It is welcoming! I suppose I should go! I know I have some chores to do around here, although they are not getting me motivated. lol Maybe today will just be a lazy day!! We shall see!

I received this cute little guy (trust me, he was tiny when I got him!) as a Christmas gift from one of my best friends!! Mittens is like my kid, and I just love him to death! He has gotten me through some rough times, by just making me laugh at things he does, or making me smile by cuddling on my lap. I hope to have many more years with him!! He loves to chill on top of the fridge!!

Well, I accomplished my goal of having 50 necklace sets for tomorrow!! There may not be too many people there, but that's ok. At least I have a lot to show them! The set above is an example of what I make, but I have so many kinds, it's hard to judge by just that pic. Plus, the quality of the photo stinks. lol I keep telling my sister I'd like the pics she took, but I don't know why she doesn't send them to me!! This is why I need a digital camera!! Maybe, just MAYBE, if I make a lot tomorrow night, I can use some of the money for camera. Guess I'll have to wait and see! It's the first of December. It's so hard to believe it's the last month of the year. The new year ahead of me is so full of unknowns, but I suppose that's true for anybody. I haven't decided on any resolutions for next year yet. Maybe by the end of the month, I'll have some! lol I'm off to take a nap. The necklace I worked on today is an illusion necklace, and it to...

I have been keeping myself busy, low-key style. If that makes any sense. I haven't been running around like a nut, like I had been over the weekend. I've been making jewelry, and getting ready for Friday night. I have 45 sets now, so only 5 more to go before reaching my goal! I'm looking forward to Friday, not only to hopefully sell lots of jewelry, but to also be with my friends. I've been slowly posting my old journal entries from AOL over to this new one. I still have quite a bit to go, but it's been interesting to see what I was doing, and how I was feeling over the past couple of years. I guess that is one of the great things about journaling. When you go back to read old entries, you can either laugh at how silly something was at the moment, or cry because you realize how important someone was to you at that time. I'm so glad I've decided to keep up with a journal, even online. Writing is a release for me, no matter how serious or how silly the entry....

I can't believe what a busy weekend I had! I felt like it was non-stop since Thanksgiving. My sister, Lisa, got in on Friday afternoon. We went to visit Mandy and Hailey, since Lisa hadn't seen her since August! After that, we ate at my parents' house, and it was turkey day all over again! Then Lisa, Joan and I went out for martinis. I did NOT drink as much as the last time I went to Shadow. lol It was fun, though! By the time we got home, it was 11:30pm. I felt old, I usually go out at that time, not come home by then!! Saturday was resting in the morning, and then a little shopping in the afternoon. We then went to my parents' again for dinner, and afterward, we went to see the new Harry Potter movie. It was very good! I still get hot and heavy over Alan Rickman as Prof. Snape. Yum, I say, yum! Sunday was Hailey's baptism. It was very nice. Every time the priest came over to bless her, she was awed by him, and just smiled away. She is too freakin' cute, I t...

I had a very nice day today, with my family. I'm so glad I did everything I did yesterday, so I could relax this morning before going to my parents' house. I almost didn't want to go, because it was so snowy, and it was cold. But of course, I did! How could I miss all the food?? And boy, did we have a lot of food! We are all going back over tomorrow night for dinner again. At least it's nice that my mom doesn't have to cook, we can just reheat and eat! Yay! It is now bitterly cold outside. It's only 17 degrees, and the winds are making it feel like -6. It's horrible! My sister arrives from North Carolina tomorrow afternoon, and I hope she's dressed warm when she gets here! The only reason she hates coming back to visit during the winter is because she freezes! Well, we all do get cold, but I think she's just gotten used to weather in the south. She really should prepare better when she comes back home. lol I'm going out tomorrow morning f...

Amazingly, I got almost everything done that I said I wanted to get done today. Yay! The only thing I really didn't get to was my jewelry, but I do feel happy that I did so much. I even vacuumed (oopsy, not supposed to do that!!). My mom yelled at me when I told her I did it, but I don't care. I don't remember the last time she vacuumed, and I couldn't take it anymore! I just took my time with it, as usual. And I was ok! :) My pie and strawberry banana bread made the house smell delicious! I just hope they taste as good. hehe Tomorrow will be the start to a really busy weekend for me. My sister, Lisa, is flying into town on Friday afternoon, and will be here until Monday evening. Our little niece will be baptized on Sunday afternoon, the reason she is coming back home. But before then, we have plans of seeing Harry Potter, going Christmas shopping, going out, putting up my Christmas tree, and whatever else we decide to do. It sure will be crazy and hectic, and I hope...

I have a lot planned to do today! However, none of it involves going outside, which is nice since it's not even 25 degrees out there!! IF I ever get off of the computer and out of my pjs, I plan on cleaning, making my pecan pie for tomorrow, making my strawberry banana bread for Sunday, and possibly make a necklace set or two in between. I'm not sure if I'll actually get it all done, but I'm sure going to try!! At least having the oven on will help keep the apartment warm! I cannot figure out why I can't make a second paragraph in the past couple days!!! I hit the return button to start a new paragraph, and it scrolls down to the bottom of the page. Is this happening to anyone else??? Help!! Ok, this is supposed to be another new paragraph, but it's just to say I'm off to accomplish my goals for the day! I hope!!

Got this from Lori who got it from Sassy - Join in! ;-) The goal is to have this in every single AOL Journal. (Well I'm not AOL anymore, so it can be in whatever journal you want it to be!!) What do you have in common with others? Do you like the same things? Post this and put the title of your entry "Survey Like None-Other!" This is a great way to introduce yourself to new readers! 1. What sign are you? Virgo 2. What is your favorite color? Red 3. How many waffles could you eat in one sitting? Probably just 2 4. Can you touch your tongue to your nose? No way, I have a feeling I might be more popular if I could. lol 5. If you had to choose between cats and dogs, which would it be? Cats! 6. What is something you have learned recently? I learned that someone I used to work with passed away. I was so shocked, it was really sad to find out. 7. What is your favorite quote? Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia ~C...

Today has been pretty good so far. It's a rather dismal day out there. I only saw the sun for about a minute, and I don't think there's a chance for it to come back. I spent a bit of time online earlier, then almost an hour on the phone with one of my sisters. She had a good weekend, and all I could hear in the background was my niece. She was babbling and laughing! I made the realization that today she is 5 months old! How time does fly! After chatting, I finally exercised. Only a half mile today, not bad. I didn't want to push it. I can get tired so easily, and I hate it! I want to be all rested up for this evening, for I am going to dinner with former co-workers at the Olive Garden. YUM!! It's my favorite restaurant, and I don't get to go there often since I have such limited funds. So I've been looking forward to this for quite some time. :) I'm getting used to this new home. I keep figuring things out, and then I'll see someone else'...

I am exhausted! I had a pretty good afternoon. I got my prescriptions, went to a dollar store, and then went to Target. As I was walking around the store, I slowly started to feel utterly tired, almost ready to drop. I don't know why, I really wasn't doing all that much. I'm thinking maybe it was the wind I had to fight with while I was out. Who knows? I had planned on stopping at a couple other stores, but when I left Target, I just went home. I almost fell asleep immediately when I went to go lay down. I didn't get a whole lof of sleep since my mom was working on the apartment upstairs, and she kept coming down here for something. I've been wanting to go to bed since 8pm. lol However, it is now after midnight, and I can no longer stand the fact that I'm awake. So, off to bed I go! :)

I'm doing a lot better today. I woke up, had breakfast, and went to church with my mom. And it's pretty nice outside! The sun is in full force, and it's near 50 degrees. I plan on going out in a bit again to run some errands. And to just enjoy the fresh air! Mainly because I hear the snow is coming. Again. Starting Tuesday. I'm not sure how much or anything, I just heard the rumor from a friend's wife. lol So, we might have a snowy Thanksgiving! I bought a recipe book from church today, all desserts! The parishioners (myself included) submitted dessert recipes over the summer, and they compiled them all into a cookbook. I was browsing through it earlier, and many desserts sound so yummy! I am going to have to attempt making something in the very near future. Off I go on, on my way to get my prescriptions, and maybe go to Target!

Well, I'm feeling better than I was the last time I posted today. I've been resting quite a bit. I took a rather long nap this afternoon, and I'm thinking that helped a little. I had a salad with tuna tonight for dinner, and didn't feel sick afterward, so I guess maybe it was just a short period of time that I had a stomach bug. Who knows. All I know is that I want to go outside tomorrow. I've been stuck in the house since Tuesday, mainly because of the freezing temps we had for a few days, and then because I wasn't feeling well. I'll probably go to church and then get the prescriptions I wanted to have filled today. That is the plan! I hope I will be able to make it. lol I made a beautiful necklace set tonight, and it took me almost 2 hours to do. It is a different style than I've been making, so it took a lot more time. It is a purple and pink 3 layer illusion necklace, and it turned out great! I almost don't want to sell it, but I go through that...

I'm not really feeling all that great today. My tummy has been upset since yesterday, and I'm not really sure why. Every time I eat, I feel like.....well, I think you get the idea. It's making me rather tired, too! I did manage to take a shower and make one necklace set so far today. And I had a nice conversation on the phone with my mom. However, right at this moment I feel like curling up into a ball and sleeping. Maybe that's what I'll do. I need to try eating some soup first, though. Despite the crapiness I'm feeling, the weather outside is nice and sunny! The temps are a bit warmer than the past few days, but the really really nice weather is far behind now. It's definitely fall/winter time here in WNY. Gotta love it! Or not! lol

November is Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness month. So, I'd like to take a moment to share with whoever is out there reading details about pulmonary hypertension (or PH for short). PH is a rare lung condition, where the pulmonary artery leading from the lungs to the heart is constricted. It is like high blood pressure, only it is in the lungs. Only about 2 out of every million people have this disease. However, the symptoms of PH are similar to many other health problems out there, such as asthma and other heart ailments. It is for this reason that it may take quite a bit of time, years even, to be correctly diagnosed with PH. So in all actuality, there could be many more people with PH who don't know it. Symptoms of PH include extreme shortness of breath with minimal exertion, fatigue, chest pain, dizziness, and even fainting. These symptoms can come on gradually, or start happening all of a sudden. PH doesn't discriminate. Anyone can get PH, men and women of all ages a...

I think I'm becoming a slacker. At least that's what I've felt like this past week! I stretch my mornings out as long as possible before I finally get dressed and exercise. I'm still in my pjs, and it's almost noon. I'm getting there. No really, I am. After reading Judi's journal this morning, I saw that she added other links to her blog. It took me several minutes to figure out how she did that, but behold, I did it too! I'm starting to like this place afterall. There are still a few things I wish it could do, like alert me when new posts are up. But, what can ya do? If every blog were like the one I came from, I'd be rather disappointed! Ok, I guess it's time I got my butt moving. I must exercise, so I can start more jewelry. I have a goal today of making at least 3 sets. Wish me lots of luck. lol

I wasn't ready for it, but tonight we got our first snow here. Not really much to talk about. It's more of a dusting on the grass, almost like the snow is reminding us of what it is. South of me, though, got a ton of it yesterday and today. THAT is something I'm thankful for not getting. I'm not ready to see that much snow! I exercised this morning, and walked a mile! Yay!! I just felt like I could walk that much, so I did. And I felt good about it. I hope I keep picking up the pace. I miss not walking the 2 miles I was able to get up to the summer before last. But I'm getting there, slowly! :) Other than exercising, I didn't really have a productive day. I made 2 necklace sets tonight, however. They are a pretty lightish green color. I wasn't sure if I wanted to make another set, so I just came online. lol Can't win them all, I guess! That's about it for now. I'll probably play around online until I go to bed. Tomorrow's another day to ta...

Today I woke up to the wonderful sun!! It made me happy! Until I saw how cold it was outside. Brrrr!! I guess I can't really complain, though. We had such good weather for so long, it was bound to get cold sooner or later! I'm still in my pjs, and it's now noon. I've been having slacking days for like a week now. Maybe it's just the weather change! I do plan on exercising today, and trying to make more jewelry. That's if I ever get motivated! Perhaps I shall try that now! :)

It's been a long day, although I don't feel too accomplished. I made 2 necklace sets, and they turned out nice. But I'm sure I could have made more! I've been pretty tired lately, though, so I just rested most of the day. The coldness that has seeped in today also makes me sad to finally realize that summer is definitely gone. How I can't wait for it to return already. lol My plans for tomorrow are much of the same for today. I don't think I'll go out, but that could always change. We'll see. But for now, I am ending my day! :)

Ok, for someone who just a minute ago said she didn't know how to do something, she went and figured it out! Go me!! lol Ok, now I'm off to do jewelry! Whooo hooo! :)

Today started out to be abnormally gorgeous for this time of year. Of course, if you were up at 6am, you would have felt the near 70 degrees it was outside. I have no reason for getting up that early, so I was not out there. By the time I did get up, though, the temp had dropped many degrees, and it's now in the low 40s. Ewww! I can't see out my windows because they got all fogged up. But that's ok, it's so dreary out anyway! It's been windy, rainy, cold, and just yucky. Although the sun popped out for like a minute, and then disappeared. That was one moment of happiness. lol I'm trying to get used to my new home here. I do admit it was a little easier to do things over at AOHell. Like adding pictures. I finally got a hold of how to do that, and now I have no clue how to do that here! Can anyone help me?? I also miss reading the journals of the people I got to know over at AOHell. Quite a few of them came over here, and that's great! But there are ...

I'm still pretty peeved at the "other" place. They sure know how to mess things up. This isn't the only thing they've done to make me mad, and I'm sure that goes for a lot of people. They had an awesome tutoring program going, which I was a part of for several years. Last year, they canned it. Why? Because they are stupid!! I loved volunteering for that program because I was actually helping students. So AOL decided that everyone who was a part of the program could have another year free, and then we'd have to start paying for their service again. Well guess what?? NOT GONNA HAPPEN!! lol I'm sick of the crap that AOL puts their customers through. I will be leaving them some time after the new year!

Well everyone, here's my new home, at least for now. I hope the mass exodus continues from AOL, I can't believe the crap they thing we'll tolerate!! Anyhow, I'm going to explore this place to see what else I can do. I hope I like it here! Seeing as the "other" place hasn't given me (or us) much of a choice, it'll do for now!

Well, AOL has done it! They have finally decided to invade our space by putting stupid ads in our journals. Did they ask us?? NOOO!! Do I want them?? NOOO!! Does anyone want them?? NOOOOO!!! Sooooo, for that reason, I'm not using this journal anymore!! I'm moving!! Here is my new address, please come and visit!! http://daily-ponderings.blogspot.com/2005/11/hopefully-my-new-home.html Bye AOL Journals, thanks for nothing!!!

Well, the huge tree branch that fell near my house earlier today from the winds is finally cleaned up. After many many hours, the Parks Dept. came to put the branch through the shredder. Just now. At 12am. It's a good thing I'm a late night person. I feel bad for the neighbors who were probably sleeping, and got to wake up to the sounds of a chainsaw and a huge tree shredder! lol

Today has been an extremely windy day. The temps outside were in the 60s when the day started, but now it's like low 50s. I went to church, but decided to just stay home for the rest of the day. Glad I did. There is a humungous tree branch that fell a couple doors down from me, and it just missed this guy's front bumper. The wires it knocked down are all over his car, though. I'm sure there have been many instances like this all over the area, but the news hasn't been on yet, so I won't know until later. Oh well, hopefully the winds won't be so bad tomorrow! I need groceries!! Friday night at happy hour was a lot of fun! We were happy, and it was for a lot of hours! I had 5 different martinis, quite a lot for such a tiny person. lol I don't drink like that often. In fact, the last time I drank was on my birthday in September, and even then I only had 2. Anyhow, I got to see my 2 bestest friends, and we just had a good time reminiscing. I'm...

I'm going out for happy hour tonight! I should be leaving in a little while. I'm sooooo excited. I haven't gone out since my birthday, and it wasn't really a big deal (my birthday party was better hehe). I'm going out with one of my best friends, and we haven't gone out for happy hour since I don't know when!! We're going to a place called Shadow, and they specialize in martinis. I want something fruity!! Maybe several of them! It's ok, I'm not driving!! Whooo hoooo!! Written by melonlady1724 . Link to this entry This entry has 2 comments: ( Add your own ) I'm jealous too! Hope you had fun!! Comment from fitzzer - 11/5/05 1:59 PM Colour me jealous! Comment from luvmort - 11/4/05 7:58 PM

Although it says Nov. 3rd on the calendar, and it is Fall, the weather outside right now screams Spring!! It's such a beautiful day today, and it's supposed to be tomorrow, too. In the 60s! I have even opened up a couple windows to let the fresh air in. I'm sure I'm confusing the cat, who loves to sit in the windows during the summer, and probably thinks we're back to that time of year again. I plain to enjoy it! I'd rake if I were allowed to rake. But, at least I can sit on my porch and enjoy it! Tomorrow night, I'm going out for happy hour with my 2 best friends. Nothing like drinks on a warm, spring/fall day! I just finished exercising. I know exactly how some people miss exercising when they haven't done it in quite a while (I feel your pain, Mort !). I didn't exercise at all this summer, and I actually gained weight. Now, some people are picking on me for that because I'm already a tiny person. But trust me, I'm not meant to w...

I had this picture on my computer for something I did a few years ago. I am assuming this was taken when I was maybe 8 or 9. I'm in the middle with my sisters surrounding me. Aren't we cute?? Written by melonlady1724 . Link to this entry This entry has 2 comments: ( Add your own ) Way too cute - and great costumes! Comment from fitzzer - 11/5/05 2:01 PM awwww! Such cuties. :) Thanks for sharing, my friend. Comment from anglswinks - 10/31/05 12:40 PM

Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays! When I was little, I just wanted all the candy and the party at school. When I got a little older, the candy was still nice to have, but then I wanted to have an awesome costume! That worked out for the most part. Sadly, though, in order to go trick-or-treating, I had to wear long underwear or a coat over my costume because it usually was so cold to go without. What a bummer, no one could see what I was! lol Nowadays, I love to see the kids coming around with their costumes, especially the little ones! They are soooo cute!! Speaking of little ones, my niece is going to be a yellow flower! I can't wait to see her! Mandy is going to take her around in a little while. And today, the weather is pretty nice for once. That probably means I'll get a lot of trick-or-treaters, and I'll run out of candy quick! lol Enjoy the day, all! Written by melonlady1724 . Link to this entry This entry has 1 comments: ( Add you...

It's been several months since I had to get a phone number for my house so I could use the internet. Ever since I've had the number I was given, I've gotten a ton of calls for the woman who must have had it before me. All I'd like to know is where in the world is Darlene Destino???????? You would think someone would give you their new number when they get it. Darlene either forgot to do so, or she has vanished from the planet. I get calls from telemarketers, and I have to tell them that she no longer uses the number. At least they don't try to sell me anything. Then I'd have to tell them that the number is on the Do Not Call Registry . At least I was smart to do that! I get reminder calls from the Catholic Charities WIC program. After the fourth call from them the other night, I finally called today to let them know that I got Darlene's number. The woman was very apologetic about it, but it's not her fault! It's Darlene's! Now tell me s...

So far today, I've gotten a lot accomplished. Mind you, my arms are still sore, but I'm trying to just shrug it off. And I guess it's working! I've washed the dishes. I've cleaned the entire bathroom. I've also done a big load of laundry AND hung all the clothes up to dry. I can't tell you the last time I hung up my undies because I didn't do it for years since my sister and her hubby were living upstairs. lol But that's all done! I even walked for 10 minutes. Perhaps that is why I had such an energy boost today. I was planning on just going back under the covers this morning, since it's so yucky, gloomy and rainy for the 4th day in a row. However, I've got a lot done! I think that's it for a while. I don't want to overdo it! I got an email from someone I love dearly this morning. And it has disappointed me so much. I can't go into details here, but I have to say that I never thought she'd risk losing something...

My arms still hurt, but after 2 Tylenol arthritis, it is starting to subside. I'm hoping they will be much better tomorrow! I told my doctor about my support group meeting today, and she told me she is so very proud of me. She said the support group gives me new purpose. She's so right. For the longest time, I've felt like, why am I here? I can't work, what am I supposed to be doing with my life? The support group is a new beginning for me, and it is so needed. The group is needed to bring people together. I need the group to know that I'm not so alone with PH, but to also give me the feeling that I'm accomplishing something. And so far, it's working. :) I think I need to go to bed. It's so early, though, I'll end up waking at like 7am. I'm trying to hold off until at least midnight. I think the shots have made me sleepy! I sure hope they hold back the flu and pneumonia for the pain they've caused me today. lol Oh well, g'ni...

I hurt. This entry will not be long because my upper forearms are killing me. I went to my doctor today for a checkup. Lo and behold, I needed both a flu shot AND a pneumonia vaccine. Lucky me!! Her nurse put one shot in each arm. I can barely move my right arm without complaining. So, this entry must end at this moment. Bring on the pain meds!!!

I had a very busy weekend, and although it was a lot of fun, I'm paying for it today. Friday was girls' night, and it was the best time! I had so much fun, and we laughed so hard that it bothered me the next day. Imagine that, even laughing can cause problems for me! But that sure doesn't mean I'm not going to laugh! Last night was my friend's wedding. And it was fun, too! The food was good, the music sucked (the DJ was awful, I must make a mental note never to hire him for anything!), but we did dance! However, that threw me for a loop, too. I was quite tired by the end of the night. And today, I woke up very exhausted. I even have a little chest pain, which I know is because I've overdone it. However, I see my doctor tomorrow, and if I still have it, I will tell her about it. I'd like to thank those who left such kind words in my last entry. My essay for the contest was a hard one to write, but the comments left make me realize that I do have m...

Our dearest Judi has asked us to write about what we would like someone to know about us. This is for the October Artsy Essay contest . I kept going back and forth on what I'd like people to know about me, and I finally have decided. I was born with congenital heart disease (I have 2 holes in my heart), and a rare lung condition called pulmonary hypertension. Since doctors had no good answers for my parents on how to treat my condition when I was a baby, they were told that I might survive a year, or I might survive 50. They had no idea, but told my parents to prepare for the worst. After reaching my 30th birthday last month, it is quite apparent to me that somehow I'm beating the odds. I grew up with a lot of limitations, and I still have many that I face as an adult. And while so many people have told me how strong I am, how unbelievable I am to brave everything I go to, my biggest secret is that I long terribly to have a normal life. I wish so much that I was a normal...

AWESOME!!! I had to admit I was so nervous yesterday morning trying to get ready to go to the hospital for my meeting. I was worried about getting there, I was worried about where to park, how to find the room, what the heck to say, etc, etc. But everything went smoothly! I didn't get lost going there (thanks to Mapquest, surprising, huh, Mort?? hehe). The lot where I parked was right across the doors from where the auditorium was located. What luck that was, since we had quit a bit of things to carry! And by the time the meeting started, I just told me story, and things flowed from there! Everyone told their story, and asked so many questions, that I didn't even have to direct the conversation! The 2 hours were gone so fast, I bet we could have been there for a longer time. I can't wait until I start planning for the next meeting, which might be late January or in February. I'm going to look for a guest speaker, as soon as I figure out a topic! By the way, t...

I received a call just about 20 minutes ago from a father who is bringing his daughter to the support group meeting tomorrow. He was trying to get the address of the hospital so he could look it up on Mapquest . He told me that this support group has come at the right time for his daughter, because she feels like giving up. She is 23. Her father told me he is so grateful that I'm having this, and that he looks forward to tomorrow. I immediately had tears in my eyes. I believe all of us PHers have felt that same way at some point, like giving up. I'd be lying if I said I haven't had that thought now and then. I am so glad I'm doing this. I feel so overwhelmed already with care for the people I'm about to meet tomorrow. I am glad God pointed me in the right direction when I was making a decision about whether to start this or not. This will be a good thing, a very good thing. Written by melonlady1724 . Link to this entry This entry has 2 comments: ( Add your o...

Wednesday was the last day to RSVP for my support group meeting on Saturday. I got 2 calls today, which was fine! So right now I have a total of 10 people listed as coming. This would include 7 PH patients, and 3 family members. This is not including my mom and I. A representative from Accredo is also coming. I have yet to hear from my PH specialist. I've emailed him twice, but no response. That's ok, though. I honestly never expected him to even suggest coming, and it's understandable if he doesn't want to drive the 3 hours to get here! So maybe next time! I'm so looking forward to this meeting. A part of me is very nervous. I'm not a person who likes to get up in front of a crowd and just talk away. So this is a different venue for me, but I think it will be good. I wanted to meet other people going through what I've experienced. And this is what is happening! It's exciting and nerve-wracking, all rolled into one. I'll be surprised if I...

I went to Cleveland Tuesday/Wednesday for a checkup with my PH specialist at the Cleveland Clinic. I mentioned before that I had been worried about going, and that I usually get that way before I go (see THIS if you want to catch up). I'm always worried about going to the doctors! Anyhow, I freaked out for nothing. Yet again! I actually had a pretty good walk, despite feeling like crap that morning. And it wasn't because of my cold. That has pretty much disappeared. But for some reason, I felt a little carsick on the way to the Clinic that morning. And then, the elevator to the 9th floor where the Pulmonolgy department is made me want to hurl. It always does. It's THE worst elevator I've ever been on!! Anyway, back to the walk. I didn't walk as far as the last time (1200 ft v. 1300 ft from May), but I felt a lot better than before. And my oxygen levels were better, too! Instead of dropping to 49% like last time, they dropped to 59%! That's an impro...

I just had an interesting conversation with Pat, the brother of Tom, who I surely thought I was in love with for years. And I told Tom how I felt last summer, and he basically shut me down. I've gotten over that, for the most part. I can't lie and say there aren't days when I don't miss him, because I do. It's just not as hard as it was before. Anyhow, while chatting with Pat, he brings up his brother, and he's saying some not-so-nice things about him. He starts telling me Tom's dating some chick who is a witch (substitute a certain letter), and another name which I shall not mention. Well, several names he called her, but they not publishable, so you get the drift. I wasn't too surprised by this, as he's said this about a couple other girls Tom's been with. However, I was very taken aback when Pat told me that this chick treats Tom like crap and IS STILL MARRIED!!! I can't believe Tom would stoop so low as to go out with a married wo...