Now I really did it :((

[marcy]

Hi NIRDIs!

CJ2008, I can’t stand nature documentaries either - they just upset me. They had a nice series called the Earth or something like that and I’d watch it until they got to those segments I didn’t like to watch and I’d fast forward through me. Please to watch out for yourself when you are helping those furry critters.

LLJsmom, being a supervisor is trying and I do keep trying but it sure eats at me. You do have a busy month. When is school over for your kids?

Jimmianne, thank you for the book recommendations.

Missy, maybe the Soda Gang has given your kitty dinner a great review on yelp. Yea for feeding more kitties. The roads were just wet this morning so Marty made it to the airport without any problems. He did land at Newark at 5 so hit rush hour getting to Times Square. He is within walking distance of a gym he found and the symposium so he is all set. Your kitty dinner is sure busy at night. Glad to see Tommy inspected your earrings for you. They looks fabulous on you. Very pretty.

Rainwood, thank you for the compliments on my sapphires. My rings do help calm me down at work. I am easily distracted by “ooh shiny”. Good luck with the architect.

Sharon, is that fire still growing? I haven’t heard much about it recently.

Ksmom, thank you for the recommendation of Adam. He sounds like a fabulous jeweler to deal with.

It’s bone chilling here today - only in the 30’s but it is so wet it just goes right through you. I think my fireplace is calling my name.

Have a great evening.

Take care.
Marcy

 

[junebug17]

Hi everyone!

Missy, I'm sorry trapping Doctor Pepper and Fresca didn't work out, I know it was important to you but try not to be too discouraged - you and Ann tried really hard and you did succeed in getting some of them. It's wonderful of Ann to do this, she has taken on a lot of responsibility and has her hands full right now with all these kitties. Big hugs to you, you are helping these ferals so much and I really admire you for that. You mentioned not being strong enough - you know what, you are strong - you are caring for these kitties and trying your very best to keep the feral population down in spite of it being hard for you emotionally sometimes. It takes strength to do that! You are making a difference with your efforts, please remember that! I am proud of you for all you're doing - and Greg too!

And I'm happy to hear all the kitties seem to be doing well and are showing up at the feeding station the party crasher - Mr. Raccoon - thankfully doesn't seem to be causing any trouble. You're right, word is getting around that there's food at Missy's house

Thanks for your words of support missy, you're a great comfort to me and I too am hoping life will be easier for me in the sense that I won't be doing all this traveling every week. Yes, I've been talking to her doctor about this extreme tiredness for a while now and there just doesn't seem to be a specific reason for it. A nurse comes every month for a wellness check and I'm going describe my mother's behavior to her, the fatigue just seems extreme to me lately.

And seriously, your new earrings look soooo amazing on you! I love every single thing about them You mentioned changing them to have more movement, are you still considering that?

Marcy, I'm hoping you can whip your team into shape, I know it's far from easy, so hard to change peoples' behavior and motivate them to make more of an effort - so frustrating! My husband deals with the same thing at work, and it's making him want to retire!!! I think putting your foot down is a good idea - it can't hurt and it just might help. Ugh, your car vibrating really stinks and I hope it's nothing serious and not too terribly expensive to fix. Thank goodness you have your new sapphires to distract you and cheer you up ha! Sorry Marty is out of town but at least it's just for a few days, he'll be back before you know it. And boo to 30 degree weather! I don't blame you for lighting a fire, I would too.

LLJsmom, thanks for the good thoughts! Sorry you've been under the weather, it can take a while to bounce back from a bad flu. Don't put too much pressure on yourself with regard to the race and just go with how you're feeling. Wow, you do have a busy May, I hope everything goes smoothly and you enjoy the family wedding!

Rainwood, I hope you had a good day and managed to get some things accomplished. I'm excited about your project, I hope the architect can come up with a good plan for your office/studio! And thank you for your encouragement - and yes, the "little things" usually end up being the most time-consuming tasks!

Hi Ksmom! Thanks for sharing your experience with Adam! Unfortunately I don't think there are any more large diamonds in my future - poor little junebug haha! - but he sounds great and I'm not "too" far from NYC, I just might travel in one day to visit him and his diamonds - although I don't know why I want to torture myself like that

CJ, I'm the same way, I can't watch animal documentaries - I know the whole predator/prey thing is a part of nature but I don't need to see it! It's really kind of you to stop to help animals, you have such a good heart.

Sharon, lol to Club Fed! Love it!!!

Thinking of you all and wishing everyone a good night!

 

[Scandinavian]

Hello from Scandinavia!

Buzzy day but just have to comment that Missy a new cat and new earrings! You will love both of them I'm sure

Will keep you all posted re Edinburgh - we leave Thursday.

No development on the logs yet - but you will be the first to know, lol

 

[missy]

Good morning girls!

Junie! Thank you for being so enthusiastic about my new earrings. I have only tried them on once for pics for you girls haha so not sure if I need to alter them in any way. I think I will wear them today and see how they lay on my ears. Things are coming together for you in preparation for your mom and I know there will be challenges ahead but I also know you and your family are well equipped to take care of anything that comes your way.

I am always here for you Junie. And also whenever you want to come to NYC we will visit Adam together. I am always open to the possibility of new bling. Always.

I am glad your mom checked out health wise re her fatigue. Is she drinking enough water? I know when I get dehydrated I become exhausted. And I am sure the doctor checked out the obvious-her thyroid. But just throwing it out there. Does she sleep well? Does she snore? Just thinking aloud.


Rainwood, thanks, and I know you are right. Working on being calmer and more zen like. Thank you for the Tommy love and earring love. I am excited for you and your new studio in the attic. I bet the architect has some wonderful ideas re stairs to the office/studio and how to maximize its potential. Looking forward to hearing more. Interesting about the word soda vs pop. Ha I always thought pop was the word for soda in the 50s/60s. I cannot drink the stuff no matter what it is called though. Gives me such a bad tummy ache. I used to be able to when I was an adolescent though. My favorite pop flavor was Sarsaparilla. Do you remember that flavor? It was a mix between cream soda and root beer. Yumm. I named my first bike (a Princess purple bike with flowers painted on it haha) Sarsaparilla. That's how much I loved that soda. LOL I just realized I am still using soda names but this time for cats vs bikes.
Hope your long day at work went well yesterday and that the rest of the week is smooth sailing.

Sharon, thank you for the earring compliments. I wasn't in the market for any bling with no special occasions coming up however when I saw them it was love at first sight. So Greg said Happy Cinco de Mayo even though we are a week or 2 late. It's always the right occasion for bling. Though I really have to stop buying earrings. I seem to remember you had some bling in the works. Did I miss you sharing anything new? Please share with us if you haven't already.

Haha Club Fed. LOVE it.


ksmom, I am glad you had as wonderful an experience as I had with Adam and his amazing old cut diamonds. If you are ever in the NYC area again and want to make a trip to OWD count me in. Thank you for sharing and posting here. I love all your jewels and always enjoy reading your posts. Wish you would visit us more here. We are a warm bunch so please don't hesitate. (((Hugs))).

Marcy, thank you for the compliments on my new earrings and also all your advice beforehand. I am so glad your snow stopped yesterday and that Marty arrived here safely. Great that there's a gym near his hotel. Times Square during rush hour is not fun but glad he arrived at his destination without too much ado. Hope his conference/meetings go well today and then he is back to you tomorrow. Easy peasy. All business trips should be this fast.
Glad you have the fireplace to keep you warm in the meantime and I hope the teddy bears and killer bunnies are behaving and perhaps even cooking for you while Marty is away. Tell them to shape up or they will ship out to Aunt Missy's. And I am (contrary to what some might think) NOT a pushover. I will whip them into shape if need be.


Scandi, I am sure you cannot wait to get away to Edinburgh and get away from all this for a while. Sending you more good luck re straightening out this log fiasco and more (((hugs))). Hope work goes well today.


Update re the cats. Ann emailed me after 11PM last night so just got it this morning. One of Sprite's kittens is having some difficulty and she wanted my advice and if she should take them to a veterinarian or if I could just ask my sister. I told her take them to the vet and I will cover all costs. I don't think my sister will be comfortable diagnosing over the phone without examining the kitten. What do you girls think. Here is her email to me:

one of the kittens is having a slight digestive issue. smelly stool and some mild spitting up, he also sometimes mews when having a bowel movement. would you like to consult with your sister and get back to me or shall i make an appt at the vet. I did dose the kittens with pyrantel (wormer) just in case mom has passed roundworm. This is a common ailment in kits and pups it is passed by the mother.

Of course I am concerned and want her to take the kitten to the doctor but I am not sure of her timeline because I know this week is crazy busy for her. I will call my sister as soon as the hour becomes respectable but my sister is not so easy to get a hold of anyway so just sharing this here to see if anyone has insight. I will keep you posted. I am sad that there might be something wrong with the Sprite's kitten(s) and hoping it is nothing serious and that it will resolve easily.

That's it for me today. Off to work and nothing exciting on the schedule this week. Greg has a conference on Friday so we are probably not heading to the beach this weekend. The weather will not be cooperating anyway this weekend as I see there is once again rain in our forecast. Hope everyone has a good Wednesday!

 

[MarionC]

Missy, congratulations on your new earrings. You have the best earrings! I'm glad it worked out that the vendor was a good one and that the earrings turned out to be beautiful IRL. They are just perfect.
I was thinking of you and your pride of kitties this week when I purchased an automatic waterer for my chickens. It hooks to an outdoor spigot and so far has been trouble-free. I see you have gravity waterers, but am passing this along in case the idea might be of use.


Please put me on the list of people who cannot watch animal documentaries. Nature can be so cruel, yet it's a normal part of life...why does it make us so sad?!?!

June, I'm with you. I would absolutely love to go to Adam's even though, like you, I don't foresee another diamond. I think it might be too tempting though for us and we would come home with "souveniers". This sounds like a good excuse for a GTG.

Rainwood, sounds as though we are going to have another NIRDI construction project to supervise It would be great for you to have an office on the island.

Sharon. I read yesterday that the fire was still going! What are they saying about it in Canada?

Bon voyage to Scandi : )

Hi to LLjsmom and AZ and Marcy

 

[missy]

Hi Jimmianne.

Just spoke with my sister who said the kitten needs to be seen by a veterinarian and the med Ann gave is useless in kittens who are already a few weeks old. I hope Ann can arrange the vet visit for this sick kitten soon because she has so much on her plate already. And we are here and cannot get to the beach house anytime this week. Arghh.

And it's definite. We have at least one new addition. This white cat showed up again last night. Remaining zen. We can only do the best we can and we will feed them as best we can. Should it become unmanageable we will deal with that too when/if that should occur. One day at a time...

 

[Scandinavian]

Missy, maybe the new white cat is a runaway and not a feral? Then you can adopt him/her. Name: snow: don't you agree Marcy, lol? You all love snow
Sorry, bad joke, but hang in there Missy, sometimes things work out well.
Hugs!

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDIs!

Junebug, good idea to talk to the nurse about the changes in your mom’s sleeping habits. I don’t know how my summer training / refresher meeting will go but I’ve tried everything else I can think of up till now. I hope they can fix my car on Friday but we’ll see. At least I’ll know what is causing it to vibrate. It could be one of the many potholes around town from all of our snow this winter. I hope you do get to go visit Adam sometime. You never know what diamonds may be in your future.

Scandinavian, have a safe and fun trip.

Missy, your new earrings look perfect on you. They are very pretty. A sarsaparilla sounds really good. The bears and rabbits are behaving but I told them they could be in a Fedex box to see you and your kitties will straighten them out quickly. I hope that kitty gets better.

Jimmianne, that is exactly what I hear from Marty when I get upset at animal documentaries - it’s a natural part of life for animals. When do you take off for your trip?

Uneventful day for me. Work was busy but I spent a lot of time playing with crystal reports. I know as much about them as I do how to fly the space shuttle but I am trying to figure it out.

We have company coming this weekend so I made a batch of chocolate chip cookies tonight. I only ate one of them.

Have a great evening and day tomorrow.
Marcy

 

[missy]

Good morning girls!

Marcy, Marty is coming home today right? Yay, not too long a time away. Good for you only eating a bit of what you baked. I would not have the same self control. Your weekend plans with friends are something to look forward to and I hope you will all enjoy.
This crystal reports at work sound interesting...anything to do with bling?
Good luck getting your car fixed on Friday. Yes potholes really do a number on our cars.
I am ready and waiting for the killer bunnies and teddy bears. I think if they misbehave out with the ferals they will go till they realize how good they have it!

Scandi, have a wonderful and safe trip. Looking forward to hearing (and seeing) all about it.

Cat update: The veterinarian checked out all 3 kittens but she couldn't find what was wrong and now needs a stool sample. Yeah, just like my sister told me to tell Ann before she went. Oh well. So now Ann has to try collecting that and bringing it back and today and tomorrow she is busy with the neutering/spay/vaccination appointments at the other clinic further away. So goes it.

And unfortunately we have another feral I think. An orange sweetie. Not too happy but what can we do. We cannot turn our backs on them and let them starve. I bought a trap online yesterday from TruCatch and not sure when it will arrive but I think we may make good use of this. We are building expenses from all the cat stuff and the costs are adding up and this is just the beginning. Girls I will be relying on you for all future bling fixes because I think all my bling money is going to the ferals who keep multiplying in number. Please don't disappoint.

So while I couldn't sleep last night a few names came to me. Seven Up for the newest white addition and Ginger Ale for this orange sweetie. I might need help if we get many more ferals because I am running out of soda pop names.

Ann and I think that Sammy has spread the word about the 4 star accommodations and free health care benefits with walk in service no waiting.

Have a good Thursday girls.

 

[Scandinavian]

Good morning girls

Not a lot happening here, the house and work takes all my time. Update on the logs: we have "hijacked" a dr.med toxicologist who specialise in this kind of stuff (normally work related for workers with spills/long term exposure etc) and he has advised us to get samples and readings to find out *exactly* what we are dealing with, and to demand for a zero reading after clean-up. So that is what we will do today, contact the lab that he recommended.

Leaving for Edinburgh (without the children) tonight after work! Hope for OK weather, but the reports are not so good, so this morning I bought a few new cashmere sweaters, LOL.

Missy, your new ferals are very pretty!! And you are so kind and kind and kind!!! You really are a true sweetheart! You are making their world a much nicer place, and I hope faith will reward you for it with a finders fee to use on some bling Thinking of the little ones and hope they are better soon! Will keep you posted with pics from Edinburgh! Can't wait to see the castle

Marcy, how is work? Kicked anyone in the knee yet? I always love reading your work report, always good for a laugh and often worse than my day which can also be a comfort sometimes, lol, sorry, I hope you know I wish you all the best in the world! I could never bake cookies and only eat one - probably more the other way around...

Jimmianne, so happy that Gypsy is better, I have been thinking of her. To bad about the other one being sick. Hope he is better now. You take such good care of your farm animals, you might get strays just like Missy when the word starts to spread around in the horse world

June, you are taking soooo good care of your mother! I hope she appreciates you!

Rainwood, all my best for a good and wonderful weekend!

Hugs to you all and very sorry for all the missing comments!

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDIs!

Missy, Marty got home safe and sound. He enjoyed his brief trip to Manhattan. The Soda Gang might like snuggling up to a teddy bear or killer rabbit. You may have taken on an ever growing project with your Soda Gang. Orange Sweetie is a cutie.

Scandinavian, I am glad you got some helpful recommendations for testing the logs and what to ask for after cleanup. What a pain but it will be well worth it. I am glad you are off to Edinburgh. I don’t know I want to kick anyone in the knee at work but I’d like to smack them in the head (a Gibbs slap ala NCIS).

I had my work mostly done by lunch so I reviewed my procedure manual this afternoon. It’s a little booklet with most things my team needs to know. I update it and print it out about twice a year but it’s a real snoozer to proof in an afternoon. I would say I am half through it. I update it as changes happen so it’s more tweaking than anything.

I thawed chicken and hamburger for supper but Marty thought the chicken was from Monday so he threw it away before I got home. We headed off to Old Chicago for supper.

I have tomorrow off but will be hanging around the car dealer for hours. I did request a car so hopefully I can go goof off for a while. There is a nice jewelry store there with lots of designer rings so I might go see what they have.

Have a great Friday.

Marcy

 

[MarionC]

Missy, Orange sweetie is adorable. Orange cats have a reputation for being the best kitties, laid back and friendly. Maybe even adoptable???

Funny about Marty tossing the chicken. er...not funny. I did that once to my parents - cleaned out their fridge when I visited their house while they were away. Turns out they had stocked the fridge for my visit, but usually at their house if I saw a May date in May I could assume it was from a year ago! : (
Has Marty been forgiven? : )
Isn't taking your car in all about getting a loaner and going shopping?

The happy-plot goes on for my trip. I went to my conversational group on Tuesday and an old friend was there because she is going to France same time as me.
I have been laying low, working on building up energy and slowly changing to French time. I still feel as though I could happily cancel the trip and stay home : P
But then I think how I would feel in 5 or ten years if I failed to keep adventuring now! Inspired by the movie "Gotta Dance", story of the NJ Nets Senior Dance Team. That movie brought tears to my eyes. So cool. One of the dancers was 80! http://www.gottadancethemovie.com/

Yesterday I broke my "no sugar" diet and bought a Sara Lee cheesecake. Got it home and although the box was sealed, there was no inner lid and there was a big bite out of the cake. I came so close to eating it anyway. haha. But the universe helped me stick to my diet! Unfortunately, Sara Lee is sending me coupons for more.

 

[missy]

Good morning girls!

Scandi, hope you're having a terrific vacation in Edinburgh without the kids and that the weather is better than expected. Cannot wait to see your vacation pics and hear all about it. And glad you have the experts on the oil splatter/spill issue. Looking forward to that being resolved for you.

Marcy, glad Marty is home safely and that NYC was a good if short trip for him. Sorry he threw out the chicken. LOL Greg knows better as I have trained him well in that department. He would never throw anything out of the fridge without checking with me first due to some poor judgment on his part in the past in that area. So hopefully this was the last mistake Marty makes re throwing out good food. But since it resulted in you going out to dinner I would say it was a good ending to that mistake so no harm done! The chicken was dead anyway.

Good for you getting work done so early yesterday and then reviewing and editing the procedure manual. Sounds like a productive day yesterday and I am glad you are off today even though you have to take your car in...I hope you get to enjoy some bling shopping!

Jimmianne, glad you are getting your body ready for France time. How fortuitous that your friend is visiting there the same time you are. And OMG on the Sara Lee cheesecake. That is disturbing. Not the sugar part (lol) but the fact that it looked sealed but obviously wasn't. That is worrisome but the universe was giving you a sign so someone is looking out for you. On the sugar department at least haha. Speaking of which we have our annual physicals Monday and also I have my annual GYN appointment. Not ready at all. But then again I never feel ready for these annual visits. So definitely going to try being good this weekend re what I eat. How did the year go so fast? Feels like we just had our annual physicals.

Weekend weather is forecast to be wet and cool and just plain crappy so not heading to the beach. Not sure what we will do yet. I am bummed I'm not gonna lie. Today a beautiful weather day is a wasted day for us re cycling because Greg has his annual environmental conference and they changed the date just for him since last year it was during our June vacation and he didn't attend. So he is not going to miss it this year despite the weather being a perfect cycling day.
I might head to the Botannical Gardens which is a short walk away since it will be such a beautiful day. Though you know I'd rather be cycling with my dh!


Have a good Friday girls and hoping you have some fun plans for the weekend.

 

[CJ2008]

OMG missy Orange Sweetie is the cutest thing I've ever seen.

missy - I *know* you didn't say it for this reason. But can I send you some $? I can't send much at all but I'd like to send you something to help you with these kitties. Please let me know.

june thank you for the kind words and Jimmyanne consider yourself added! Do any of you have husbands who can't watch those nature shows either? I know of ONE guy through DH's work who's like that. And even though he's kind of a butthead in every other way just because of that one thing (which obviously is related to his love for animals, he's always rescuing one thing or another) I can't help but have a soft spot for him.

 

[missy]

OMG missy Orange Sweetie is the cutest thing I've ever seen.

missy - I *know* you didn't say it for this reason. But can I send you some $? I can't send much at all but I'd like to send you something to help you with these kitties. Please let me know.


june thank you for the kind words and Jimmyanne consider yourself added! Do any of you have husbands who can't watch those nature shows either? I know of ONE guy through DH's work who's like that. And even though he's kind of a butthead in every other way just because of that one thing (which obviously is related to his love for animals, he's always rescuing one thing or another) I can't help but have a soft spot for him.

OMG CJ2008, you are just too generous and kind and while I appreciate and thank you for your sweet and warm offer thank you but no, we are OK. Thank you though sweetheart. Wish I could give you a hug in person. ((((HUGS)))).
And you know what? I love the Orange Sweetie name you gave this kitty. Hmmm...

I have been working on not crying here as much about the cats because well I am sick of hearing me go on and on about it too. But I am just broken hearted and in such a bad mood and I am having trouble shaking it. Though your sweet selfless offer just made me well up with happy tears. Just the fact that you are thinking of the kitties and want to help means more to me than I could ever really say in words.

I haven't been sleeping more than a few hours per night since the newest cats showed up and I keep thinking how quickly this is all getting out of control despite our best efforts. I am overwhelmed and scared. What if we cannot control the population? What if the numbers keep growing? This is a residential area and our neighbors are going to complain if this gets out of hand. Plus we are not there full time and as it is even with us going as much as possible during the winter it won't be enough if the population keeps increasing. I could go on and on about my worries but I have to stop.

And I know Rainwood warned me and did her best to get me to stop feeding them before it got to this point but I just couldn't let them possibly die of starvation. It really is a dire situation and I did what I thought was for the best. The original soda gang kitties were babies when I started feeding them and if I didn't I was sure they would die horrible deaths of starvation. I just could bear the thought not when we could do something about it. They are living beings and helpless and innocent and just babies. These poor kitties are here because of inconsiderate, rude, selfish, unthinking and ignorant people and they don't deserve to suffer because of thoughtless uncaring humans.

Another worry is g-d forbid what if this is not our eventual forever home and we have to move at some point? What will happen to the cats? And how would we ever sell the house with the huge feeding station on the porch? I know that worrying about the future is not helpful and not smart but just sharing some thoughts that have been keeping me awake at night.

Sorry girls! I did it again. You know, the title of this thread. Yup I really did.

Adding the latest daylight pic of GingerAle...around 7:30PM last night.

 

[MarionC]

Missy, just a thought before I head out.

Let's have faith and think positive thoughts about the kitties situation. [My DD & I have been turning to the book The Power of Positive Thought [Norman Vincent Peale] and it has been a lifesaver for inspiration & rising above the scary thoughts].

On my farm so many crazy things have happened with animals over the years that made me a basket case. I do now try to remain philosophical when things "go South" - not that it's totally possible. Your situation is complex and probably ongoing, so please do not fret too much now! Losing sleep will only make it seem worse.
So...vent away and let's keep on good solid ground with intellect over emotion, where we do what we can, then consider that we have done our best. Every day we do what can be done that day and that is all.
It is not our job to carry the whole weight of the world. BIG [[[hugs]]]!

 

[CJ2008]

missy

OMG I am so sorry.

Your concerns are valid. They are realistic. Anyone would be overwhelmed and scared.

Have you tried asking for help. I'm thinking what you need to do is brainstorm as many different solutions and avenues to address each of those worries. Try not to let overwhelm paralyze you. I also realize you have probably done so much of what anyone could suggest as an idea so I'm sorry if this feels like "been there done that" and you're already at the point where it's truly hopeless.

I want to think that it's not and that we need to keep brainstorming ways you can get help for these cats and for yourself.

One thing I've thought about is participating/asking for help in FB groups. Some are dedicated to TNR, like this one (Community Cat Rescue Network). https://www.facebook.com/groups/386975661485715/

Let me see if I come up with others (or feel free to stop me - like I said I don't want to throw things at you you have already done.)

Just let us know here how we can help.

 

[missy]

Thank you Jimmianne for your positive thoughts and yes I must get a grip if only to not have a breakdown and then I won't be able to help any of the cats. And while you are quite right about not carrying the weight of the world I just cannot help thinking these cats have NOBODY if not for Greg and me. And that is a heavy responsibility and weighs on me greatly. But yes we can only do the best we can and hope for a good outcome and just take it one day at a time. Trying not to think too far ahead as it serves no real purpose unless I can figure it out re what to do to stop it from getting out of control.

CJ, thank you so much for your offer to help in any way you can...and I so appreciate your brainstorming believe me. We have a TNR woman (Ann) helping us but she is just one person and if you ask me has too many cats she is dealing with as it is. She was reluctant to take us on and when she started helping right before the winter we were unsuccessful because she was covering too many areas. There are so many homeless cats in NJ and in our area and everywhere of course. It is a terrible problem. I tried for months to find rescue people to help us but to no avail till Ann said OK finally. But again she is one person and Greg and I are doing what we can but we cannot take her role over of trapping and keeping the cats before and after the surgeries so here we are. And the longer we wait between trapping the higher probability of more babies. One day at a time I guess and just sharing here with you girls helps in that I am not keeping it inside allowing it to eat away at me even more if that makes sense.

I welcome any and all thoughts because you just never know when someone will share a thought that might make all the difference. Thank you and (((hugs))).

(And I sincerely hope anyone who is turned off by all my crying about the cats has stopped reading long before now because I feel it is safe and OK to share here thinking those who are reading care about these animals and aren't rolling their eyes about how I go on and on about them ).

 

[CJ2008]

No.

Nobody is rolling their eyes at you.

I know I'm not. I didn't have any reaction even remotely close to rolling my eyes or being tired of hearing you.

And when you want to just vent and don't want any solutions just say so, too. Sometimes we just need to talk.

And any other solutions I can think about I will definitely post.

How does Greg feel about this - does he feel it's gotten (or getting) out of hand? What's his take on it? Does he feel like you, overwhelmed, and scared, or he feels differently?

 

[missy]

Greg feels we will do the best we can and take it one day at a time. He is not like me in that he is not a worrier. Thank goodness. I will say there have been times in my life when I truly had nothing to worry about and I didn't worry. This is in response to something Rainwood wrote a while back. Yes I am a worrier in general but I don't come up with things to worry about. No it is just that these past few years I have had plenty of negative experiences and worry has been front and center in my life. But it has not always been like this and I hope it won't always be like this. Deep down I am a positive person but I know at times it can be tricky to find that part of me especially these past few years.

Of course when I am stressed and in a bad mood it affects Greg and I am working on that. But I feel things very strongly. Too strongly. Did you see my HSP thread? I am a very HSP (and I suspect you are too-I don't remember who posted what in that thread) and at least I am aware of it but it is hard to turn off my emotions/feelings. I am working on trying to turn off the negative thoughts as they are not helpful.

Greg is the one who wanted to order a trap of our own (which we did and is being delivered to our Brooklyn home tomorrow evening) so we could do some of this ourselves though we cannot keep the cats before and after the surgeries so it is a problem as Ann is full and cannot house any more ferals for now. He is very supportive and loving and there for me no matter what and loves all animals too. He really does love them and it makes me love him even more knowing he cares so much. He listens to my concerns and then he does what he can to allay them. But as we all know this is a real problem and there is no real fix. Deep in my heart I feel we will manage and make it OK for the cats but I do have a nagging fear we might not be able to.

CJ I appreciate all your thoughts and yes please keep them coming. As I wrote I am grateful for any and all thoughts and ideas as you never know when someone will come up with something that will be a huge help and make a great difference for these cats and their lives.

 

[azstonie]

Missy, nobody is rolling their eyes. I'd be in the same boat if we had stray cats here at my place. I'd be setting out food, Bob would be making feeding stations a la Greg/you, and instead of raccoons we'd have SKUNK visitors. We'd be trying to make vet appointments, etc. I completely understand what you're going through. Do what you have to do to get through this but I think if you know you need not apologize for or explain yourself, that you're among friends and similar peeps, maybe some of that burden would be lifted?

I can't watch animal documentaries either. I get either very upset or very sad or very angry or all three. The canine dermatologist/allergist who treats the Westies, his office used to have the Animal Planet on in the waiting area and I asked them to turn it off because I couldn't stand sitting there watching mistreated and abused animals while trying to manage two anxious dogs. You'd think the office staff would 'get it.' Play something calming and zen!!!!

 

[junebug17]

Missy, I had typed something out but after re-reading it it sounded like it was all about me so I deleted it lol - but I will say quickly that I understand how you're feeling, I'm going through a stressful time too and I also feel scared and overwhelmed sometimes. I don't know, I just wanted you to know I get it. Right now just try to take one day at a time and handle things as they come up. The feeding station still seems manageable even though a few more kitties have shown up so try not to stress about that right now. I know it's impossible to stop worrying completely, but at least maybe you can keep it under control somehow by focusing on the present and not looking too far ahead, and by realizing there's no perfect answer and you can just do your best in a very tough situation. I'm trying to follow my own advice and it's very difficult but I'm trying.

I wish I had some more practical advice, the only thing I can think of is if there are people in the area who are willing to house the kitties while they recover from the procedure if you and Greg want to try to do the TNR yourselves. Maybe Ann knows although I guess she'd be using them herself. It really does sound like it would be really difficult to do the TNR yourselves though, especially since you're not at the beach house much. The trap you ordered will be helpful for the next time Ann has some openings. Don't be hard on yourself, this is a big problem and you're doing what you can (((hugs))))

I wonder if there are feral cat forums online, might be a good resource.

And I completely agree with Kristie, do NOT worry about sharing your thoughts and feelings about the feral kitty situation, we are all animal lovers here we completely understand the concern you have for these helpless creatures. I couldn't have turned my back on those kitties either and we're here for you as you make your way through this - you are among friends!

Thanks for the suggestions re my mother -yes, been trying very hard to keep her hydrated and the nurse seems to think she's ok on that front - my mother actually takes synthroid and has been for many years, doctor says her levels are normal. Hard to pinpoint the cause I guess, could be a combination of different things.

Sorry about the lousy weather putting a damper on your weekend, I hope you find something fun to do in the city.

Scandinavian, hope you're having a great time! I'm glad you're getting a chance to get away and enjoy a break from everything. Hoping you make progress with the oil issue and can come to a resolution soon.

Marcy, glad to hear Marty is back, yay to short business trips. I hope you enjoy your day off, even though you have to deal with your car. Hope that went smoothly and they figured out the problem. Glad to hear you're having company, sounds like fun. I'm sure your cookies will be a hit.

Jimmianne, it's great you're going on this trip and I'm sure once you're on your way you will enjoy yourself. You mentioned you're not going to be as worried about sight-seeing so I think you'll have more of a chance to relax this time around. Oh my gosh, so strange about the cake! Who does that lol? Similar thing happened to me - received a carton of protein cookies, and my son noticed the tape on the box was cut and the box was held shut by the label, and one of the individual boxes of cookies inside was ripped opened and one package of cookies was missing! The outer box had "cookies" on it, I told my son someone must have been really hungry at UPS lol. So weird.

I know I've missed some stuff but I just wanted to check in - have a good day everyone!

 

[CJ2008]

I agree missy, it's good that Greg has the same heart as you but that he doesn't worry so that it helps keep things a little bit more balanced and probably many times helped you come out of your own worry, even for just a little while.

I think I may have seen that HSP thread, like a long, long time ago right? (that's highly sensitive person if I remember correctly. And yes, I think when I read about what that was I did identify. I don't know how "strong" on the scale I am, but yes, I think I am.)

Anyway - I hope this is a wonderful Friday night for you (and for everyone!)

Sending you hugs.

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDIs!

Jimmianne, too funny your parents had stocked up on new food and you threw it out. Not funny but understandable. My in-laws used to replace all the food at Marty’s grandmothers house when they came to visit. They’d make a list what was in the frig / freezer, go buy it and replace it while she was out walking the mall. Grandma would keep food way past reasonable and safe. I did get a loaner and went to look at pretty jewelry. I am sure you’ll enjoy your trip to France once it gets underway. How awful and strange about the SL cheesecake. That would definitely stop one from eating it.

Missy, at least Marty only threw out one piece of chicken. I’d rather do that than eat something that makes someone sick. Rats for a bad weather weekend. Did you go to the Botanic Gardens? I bet the spring flowers look great. I know this is easier said that done but don’t beat yourself up worrying about things your can’t control. You are doing everything you possible can to help the Soda gang and you made a difference in their lives.

CJ2008, my DH can watch the nature shows except for spiders.

Kristie, I agree Animal planet probably isn’t good programming to be airing at a vets. I guess some people don’t think things through.

Junebug, good advice to Missy and I know you are going through a very stressful time as well. I think focusing on just today or on single tasks makes it easier to deal with. I am glad we all have this forum to talk about our problems. I know it helps me. I am sure my company won’t turn down cookies tomorrow.

I was at the car dealership by 8:45. The called me about an hour later saying they had to order parts and would see if they could get some today from Denver.

I didn’t hear back from them so I went back to see what they said.

What they found was “environmental” issues with my from brakes - rotors and brake pads were abnormal, looked rusty and distorted. It’s not normal wear and tear nor a defect so it’s definitely not covered under warranty. I keep my car in a garage and only drive it to work, around town and to Denver and back. He suggested the ice melt they use on the roads can do something like this. I believe it was the best story they could come up with to avoid listing it as warranty repairs. I was massively relieved to know it wasn’t caused by a curbing incident.

They are getting in the parts tomorrow so I am going back Tuesday morning to get the brakes done. Our back brakes are worn but don’t need replaced.

They had a Q5 for me to drive which made we realize I no longer want one of those because I am so short the side view mirror is in my way and I can’t see to the left very well.

I went to a Hallmark store to pick up a birthday gift then went to that jewelry store. They have CZ’s in all of the semi mounts but I played with all sorts of styles of rings. I tried on my solitaires with 4 and 5 carat CZ’s in them; both RB and PC. That is some serious finger coverage. It was fun to just play.

I had lunch before I came home.

Marty had work to do today but took off for the golf range already.

Have a great weekend.
Marcy

 

[missy]

Good morning everyone. Thanks for all your support and encouragement here and behind the scenes. Last night the baby raccoon knocked over both feeders so now we have to head to the beach and figure out how to secure them. We were not planning on going there today as it is the half marathon in Brooklyn and tons of traffic. It is taking place right where we live but after seeing the feeders knocked down overnight when going through the security pics we have no choice. Just when you think it might calm down another new potentially awful situation arrives. The cats cannot eat from the feeders if this baby raccoon keeps knocking it down. Geez they are aggressive buggers aren't they?









Girls it's as if I am being tested by the universe because this is just such a huge obstacle and a really big and new potential issue. And the last thing we need to do today is still in awful traffic. I mean the Brooklyn half marathon happening right now unbelievable right?


We had a nice day yesterday my parents and I. We went to the Botanical Gardens and it was very warm and sunny. I took some pics to share with you. Greg had a good environmental conference and he was glad he attended. So it worked out OK. I had to use my Coolibar parasol yesterday because it was just too sunny. It's funny how as we get older I just don't care how stupid I look. I will do what I need to for health reasons.

OK I will be back later. Greg just informed me the car is ready so off to the beach house now. Wish us luck. I don't do well in horrible traffic but doing what we need to for the kitties. I will respond to everyone's posts as soon as we get there. (((Hugs))).

 

[missy]

At beach house now and Greg's working on figuring out how to secure the feeders from those darn raccoons. Trying to not worry and working out as I type and writing here to take my mind off this problem. Fingers crossed he comes up with a solution. If we were full time here it wouldn't be a problem but as you know we aren't. Though lately it feels like we are lol.


Kristie, thanks honey. Yes I know you'd be right there doing the same thing. Bob and Greg are similar as are we in many ways. Thanks for that and hugs. Hugs to Finn and Maggie too.

Junie, thank you sweetheart. For once I'd like someone else to make it all about them so please feel free to share as much as you are comfortable and make it more about you than me for once. I beg you lol. Tired of it being all about me! Thank you for your empathy as always. I know you get it and that's why I feel good about sharing what I do. I know you girls are on my side. No question. Hope you have a good weekend.

Marcy, oh no, I'm sorry about the car repairs not being under warranty but glad you are on top of it. Safety first above all else. Glad you got to enjoy some bling shopping yesterday while you waited. Haha glad Marty is not wasting any time getting to the golf course.

CJ hugs back and thanks again,

Going to share some cool Bea pics I took at the gardens yesterday. My parents think I'm nuts snapping pics of my ring especially in public but doesn't phase me in the least.
Posting from my phone and I apologize in advance as my phone pics may be a bit blurry but I still had fun taking them. It sure is challenging taking pics of one hand holding my big phone with the other and managing my parasol. Plus it was getting warm in the sun so my hands were getting red and swollen. Should have worn only 1 band with the ER yesterday instead of both. They were fitting too snugly. What I do for you girls
Bea is under the green trees in a few pics and the open blue sky in another. She likes showing off her colors chameleon that she is.

 

[missy]

Word.

 

[MarionC]

Missy, your Dad is great. Please give him a hug from me!

Very unhappy about my new ring. I visited Tony yesterday since my massage therapist is across the street.
He has not even started on my ring!
So I won't get it until July?!?!
I am hoping a get a nice surprise, but I doubt it.
Apparently 10 days is not enough time to make it and make it perfect
So much for having my travel talisman for my trip.
boo hoo!

LOVE the quote.

 

[missy]

Aww, I'm sorry Jimmianne. It's all about expectations and I'm guessing Tony didn't tell you beforehand he wouldn't be able to work on it before your trip. That is upsetting because you were hoping/thinking you would have it in hand or rather on hand. I'm sorry sweetie. I'm sure Tony will make a beautiful setting however and please don't stress about that. It will be waiting for you upon your return so you have something happy to look forward to even after your adventure in France is over this summer. Hugs! And I will hug my dad from you thanks!

 

[missy]

Yay Greg made what is hopefully a permanent solution to this problem. He drilled holes into the feede p and secured it with a nylon cord attached to back of feeding station. Fingers crossed it holds! Attaching pics.