Now I really did it :((

[mrs-b]

Tim is about 2.5 hours outside of Australia, but, sadly, his plane was diverted prior to boarding, so now he has to land in Brisbane, wait for 2 hours, then travel down to Sydney - ergo, adding another three hours. His trip will be 37 hours, door to door. And this, of course, is why I never go home. There is *no way* my back or my patience could handle that! Also, for some frugal reason that entirely escapes me, he's flying economy. Qantas Premium Economy is lovely and like a lot of airlines' business class, so I'm not sure why he didn't at least fly that! But - nope. Economy. I can only imagine how tired he's going to be when he finally lands! He left now 28.5 hours ago, and he still has another 8.5 hours till he walks through the door at my friend, Wendy's house. I really hope his family appreciates this - especially since he'll only be home for a week. <sigh>

@marcy - I Hope your supper with friends was lovely and that Marty enjoyed his cupcakes. As for not hearing from 'Dr Lame' - seriously?! It's like these people have no idea of the stress medical issues cause. I'm so sorry, and I hope you hear something soon - and all good news, at that!

@missy - I love your mum plant! I had a gorgeous rust one in my courtyard. I waited and waited a few weeks ago for the blossoms to come out - and when they did, they were prolific and beautiful! And delicious, apparently. I went out the next day and our resident chipmunk had eaten every single blossom, leaving us with a pot full of stalks and nothing else!! Hoping yours fairs better! And are you going through broken-bike grieving? I feel for you - I know how much you love it.

@canuk-gal - I love boots and coats - but perhaps not quite as much as what I suspect you have to wear them! Hoping you find something you love while shopping. What are your temps like there? We're still mostly in the 60's, tho we just had 2 days at 70 and 71, and we'll have a couple in the 50's later on this week. but mostly mid to low 60's, with bright blue skies and all the fall colors. Gorgeous.

David is here this time while Tim is away. He flew out on a red eye and arrived yesterday morning. He didn't sleep at all on the flight, so has as yet to get his bearings; it's currently 12.34pm and he's recently gone back to bed to try to catch a few zzzzzz's. Hopefully he'll be in the land of the living by tomorrow.

Hugs to you all and wishing you a happy Sunday!

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

@mrs-b b Oh your poor bubby will be exhausted. Glad he will be surrounded with love. Our temp today is 19C and tomorrow predicted to be 26C and clear blue skies. HOPE SO!!!!!!!!!! My pots and many other flowers in the hood are still gorgeous!

I did get one (cute) practical pair of booties (to replace the worn out ones...) and one super sweet leather paisley ones that I totally DID(N'T) NEED! Well that makes for about a dozen pair of boots around here...but in all fairness I did toss a pair of shoes. LOL

cheers--Sharon

 

[mrs-b]

Finally. He's just landed in Sydney. 2 hours now till he walks in the door at Wendy's.

 

[missy]

Yay so glad Tim has arrived safely @mrs-b

We had quite the day. I’m exhausted so will share tomorrow. And happy we saw my parents despite our very busy morning. I’ll share details tomorrow.

Sweet dreams girls

 

[missy]

GM girls, happy how did you get here so fast Monday.
So I just received some very bad lab results and am not in the mood to chat/post. But I also don't want to leave you hanging about yesterday. We took a big chance yesterday and hoping it paid off. As you know we may not get the part we need before next year and are still waiting to hear about that from the dealer and manufacturer. In the meantime Sunday morning I went onto FB marketplace (first time I ever went to FB marketplace) and saw a recumbent tandem (not the same model as ours but a lesser model) for sale. The price was crazy high (what it would almost cost new) but she was only 2 hours away from us. So I messaged her and she said come take a look.

I sent Greg and he went and met with her husband. (I was worried it was a scam and they could rob him especially since he went to the bank first to get cash...I was worried but told him to trust his gut and if anything didn't feel right to leave).

They met outside the entire visit as the owner had the bike on his front lawn. The bike chain was not right (it was slack and not put on correctly) but the bike looked to be in good shape and not really used. So Greg negotiated and they were tough. In the end we paid a bit more than what I felt was fair but if this gets us cycling while we wait for our bike to be fixed it's worth it. Greg had to take it apart to fit into our SUV and it is still in pieces because as soon as he got home yesterday we headed to my parents. Poor Greg drove for many many many hours yesterday. But he said he was not tired and it was fine. So today he will put it together and hopefully it will ride well and hold us til our better bike is fixed. Fingers crossed.

In the meantime I am losing bone again as evidenced by my bone markers. I am very concerned. And Greg is losing bone too. At a great rate. All these doctors and none of them really helpful. I am remaining calm and have emailed my physicians and we shall see what our next steps should be. First and foremost I would like to repeat but I am sure it is accurate. It just doesn't make sense as my CTX went over six times higher than it was in July. It's a head scratcher for sure.

Hope all is well with everyone and please forgive the all me post. I am feeling overwhelmed and a bit anxious with all we are dealing with and tomorrow I have the liver tests at the hospital. I want to get off this medical merry go round.

Some photos from yesterday. JJ our parents cat
That face



We spent the entire visit outdoors on their deck with the exception of using the restroom inside

Not a great pic but here you go.



Enjoy a marvelous Monday lovely ladies. Be well. Love and hugs

 

[missy]

Oops almost forgot. HPOTD

 

[Austina]

Hello lovelies

Oh no @missy, I’m so sorry it wasn’t good news for you or Greg. It’s certainly unsettling that things have changed so quickly. I really don’t know what to say, other than, I know you won’t stop until you find out what can be done. I’m so glad you got to see your parents, it’s been such a long time. I hope your visit found them well and safe.

I’m just that Tim managed the journey in economy @mrs-b. Thank goodness he’s now arrived safely. We’re visiting Broome, Perth, Bussleton, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney. Spending a few days in Sydney after the cruise before flying home.

Good score on the bargains @canuk-gal, I’ve got Ugg type boots but I doubt I’m ever going to need them here! We’re still in shorts and T-shirts here.

We finally had some much needed rain last night and in to this morning, hopefully it’ll ease the water shortage situation here. Not sure if the pool people will come today after all, as the next stage is the bond beam.

Going to sort out all my clothes today, get everything washed and ironed ready to pack.

Love and hugs to you all

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDI’s!

@canuk-gal thank you for healing vibes for Marty. Yes, we both know how that sting sticks with us. One day he told me he was really angry. I just said the stages of grief are spot on and they’ll repeat themselves frequently. I feel like sweater weather is all the time for me but like you it’s more of the year than not. I am in sweats today with a scarf around my neck. Nice of your pal to buy lunch. I need to reach out to some of my former co-workers for lunch soon. Nooooooooo! Christmas can’t be the soon. And yes many winter boots and coats are necessary.

@missy I am so sorry you got some unfavorable labs. And both you and Greg are losing bone. Big hugs to both of you. I am glad you enjoyed a visit with your lovely parents. Yes, my birthday isn’t that important to me these days either. I guess I’m old enough that now it’s a woo hoo and surprise - I lasted another year. Glad you had a lovely time shopping. Fun Halloween pictures too. Dinner with our friends was fun.

@mrs-b glad to hear Tim safely arrived. Those long flights are torture on us watching the flight status online. What a long flight for him. Marty had about a 45 hour day once getting back from San Paulo, Brazil. It was during their strike when the Olympics were coming and the local government raised prices on buses. There were riots and protests everywhere including shutting down the highway. He was setting on the highway in a cab that wasn’t moving. His driver didn’t speak English and Marty eventually decided since he could see the planes taking off he’d walk to the airport. Paid the cab, got out and pulled his luggage and back back through the protestors. Some of them had him “chant” whatever it was they were saying. You know there are videos out there of look at this stupid tourist . . . Luckily he’s big enough most people won’t pick a fight with him. I freak out at stuff like that. Our dinner was good Saturday night and I ate two cupcakes. That and some wine kept me awake for awhile but not too bad. I totally get what you mean that the doctors don’t seem to care how much stress we go through waiting and worrying. I am so glad David came to stay with you.

@Austina nice you got some much needed rain. I sure wish we would too. We are constantly under fire warnings here between wind and not humidity and what I call a “crunchy” prairie. Have fun packing.

I worked most of the day. Shocking, I know. I ordered us Door Dash from Applebees - both our meals were so bad we decided they are off our list. What a waste of money and DD really pads the bill too.

Think I’ll work on mini me #2 tonight. I’ve been ignoring recently. I want to knit myself a vest so maybe that will get me motivated to knit again.

Take care.
Marcy

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

NIRDI shout out!!!!!!!!!

25C glorious !!!!!!!!! SO warm, and bright blue sky! Needed suntan lotion today!!!! Had a lovely ride and I was definitely over dressed. Men had their shirts off!!! DH and both went for haircuts--easy when you go to the same place. LOL. Mine is much shorter and I like it,

I guess my barium swallow results are in and I will follow up with my GP.. Obviously, nothing serious, as I will see him in 2 weeks. I wore my new booties today and they were very comfy. And I might or might not have bought another pumpkin. LOL

@missy sorry for both your unhappy labs results. Phooey! Hard to believe, so I hope there is an error? Good news on the new bike tho--and hope you can get the other replaced soon. Happy riding! Glad the visit with your folks went well.

@marcy a vest would be cozy. Glad you enjoyed your weekend company.

@Austina happy rain day! Bet you never thought anyone would say that! LOL Has Adam said much about your last baby visit or has it just been "dropped"? Hope things turn over soon.

Stay safe and well folks.

cheers--Sharon

 

[Slickk]

@missy gosh I am so sorry to read this news. Thinking of you daily especially every morning when I read your updates and see your pics. You’re a ray of sunshine and I am praying (yup I said it) praying for your good health. ((Hugs ))

My goodness, I have a very needy group this year ladies, so please forgive my being absent here. I do read along and love knowing what my bling friends are up to. I hope you don’t mind.

Plus, I am trying to stay off of PS as I feel really happy with what I currently have. Yesterday, I jumped on for five minutes and bought mreaders paper clip necklace

Thought I’d share the other ‘little’ who takes a lot of my time but has my heart.

 

[canuk-gal]

@missy gosh I am so sorry to read this news. Thinking of you daily especially every morning when I read your updates and see your pics. You’re a ray of sunshine and I am praying (yup I said it) praying for your good health. ((Hugs ))

My goodness, I have a very needy group this year ladies, so please forgive my being absent here. I do read along and love knowing what my bling friends are up to. I hope you don’t mind.

Plus, I am trying to stay off of PS as I feel really happy with what I currently have. Yesterday, I jumped on for five minutes and bought mreaders paper clip necklace

Thought I’d share the other ‘little’ who takes a lot of my time but has my heart.

SO SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET! Stay well lady!!!!!

LOL about the paperclip necklace....I thought about it also!!!

 

[missy]

Good afternoon girls! Happy terrific Tuesday!

Whew, that was a workout. We just got back from our maiden voyage with the "new" trike. It's gearing is not sufficient (only 8 gears vs our 31 gears with our original trike) so hills are more than challenging lol since we don't have a low enough gear. But we kept to local trails and it was good. I always remember perfect is the enemy of good enough.

We won't have our original trike back anytime soon since the replacement part still hasn't been ordered. It's quite the ordeal. But this past weekend I didn't just buy this "used" (I put it in quotes because the couple who owned this never rode it) In also bought the floor model of our original trike the Pro. It's in California so it will take 8 days by freight to get here but soon enough we will have a back up to our original and we will have this one too. So we are now prepared for (almost) anything lol. When that one arrives it will take Greg some time to put together and make it IPS (independent pedaling system). It took Greg about 10 hours to get this one ready to ride. TG he is handy.

Photo of our latest addition to the family.




We are calling him Rover


This morning was exhausting. The tech was 40 minutes late (first appt of the day) and here I was without coffee as these tests had to be done on a totally empty stomach. No water even. I was not amused. But she was profusely apologetic and we did the tests and now I wait for the results. I wanted to walk out but Greg made me stay lol.

Got an RX from one of our bone specialists to repeat the CTX test so we have to do that within the next week. I don't think it was a mistake but the physician and Greg think it was so we shall see. One of my new meds can cause this so that is why I think it's real and then I have a huge conundrum. I need this med to absorb nutrients from food but I cannot have high bone markers since that will cause bone loss. So I guess one day at a time as always and we shall see if the repeat test is high for the both of us and if so it's going to be a hard decision. This is the definition of being between a rock and a hard place. That is for sure.

@Slickk haha I hear you. Cannot wait to see your new necklace and anytime you are here is good! We love you whether you post or not and I know you are here reading. Big hugs and lots of love and big hugs to sweet beautiful Bear. He's a darling and gorgeous!

@canuk-gal ooh I am glad you are enjoying good weather. It's been pretty sweet here too. I hope you get to enjoy cycling this week as much as you want to and have a wonderful week sweet lady. Big hugs and lots of love

@marcy haha shocking. There is nothing wrong with enjoying work. You go girl. Cannot wait to see your newest mini me and woohoo for door dash. Thank you for your well wishes and you are always in my thoughts and sending well wishes your way too. Any medical updates? Sending you well wishes and lots of love

@Austina woohoo for rain! And hope your sorting clothes went well. Thank you as always for your kindness and well wishes. Much appreciated. You are in my thoughts and I hope everything gets sorted out to your satisfaction. Big hugs and lots of love

@bling_dream19 Thank you sweet friend. You are very kind and I value our friendship. Much love big hugs

@mrs-b thank you for thinking of me. And you are on my mind too. Hope life is treating you kindly and Tim is enjoying his short visit with his parents. Sending you love and hugs and well wishes dear friend

Hi everyone else. Off to shower. It's been an exhausting but good day. Have a lovely rest of the day and enjoy. Be well.

HDOTD

 

[Austina]

Hello lovelies

Ugh to the tech being so late @missy, I’m not a patient patient, so I think I’d have walked. Colin is like Greg, and would’ve persuaded me to stay. Fingers crossed there’s a way around this, it’s a ridiculous situation that one drug can cause you to have such a drastic reaction with your bone density. I expect you found it quite a huge difference with the bike, and wow that it’s going to take Greg that long to get the new bike up and running. As you say, thank goodness he’s so practical and handy. Thanks for the kind words, we do appreciate it.

Your ‘new’ necklace is lovely @Slickk, I hope it arrives quickly so you start to enjoy wearing it. I think Bear must have the most expressive doggy face I’ve ever seen

I think this might be the only time when your weather is warmer than ours @canuk-gal. It’s a cool 65 degs here today, but it going to back in the 80’s the rest of the week.

I’m sorry @marcy, poor Marty and his family, such a difficult time for you all. When do you get the results, as you say, Dr’s don’t seem to understand how stressful it is when you’re waiting for news. We certainly had a few inches of rain, it’s amazing how quickly things perk up afterwards.

The pool people came today, and every time they plugged in the cable for their stone cutter, it popped the fuse! Unfortunately, they couldn’t understand us, and we don’t speak Spanish! One of them used a translation app, but it just churned out a lot of jibberish They’ve removed all the forms and have been smoothing out the plaster ready for the tiles and coping stones.

I’ve been busy cleaning and doing more washing, I took a chance on putting some of my ‘posh frocks’ on a cool, delicate wash, and they’ve come out perfectly. We also returned an air purifier, why is it that nothing ever works straight out of the box ? Fortunately, we have a UPS office here in Hicksville, so it was a quick and easy drop off.

Colin’s been busy putting together the million and one documents we need for the trip, they’ll weigh nearly as much as the luggage at this rate!

Can’t believe we’re almost half way through the week already, where on earth is the time going.

Big love and hugs to all the lovely NIRDIS

 

[missy]

GM girls! Happy wonderful Wednesday! Brrrrrr it's in the 30s F here.
Warming up to maybe 50F LOL


But we are going cycling today and then I have a zoom call with my girlfriends later.

I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful Wednesday.
Hugs and love to you.

 

[missy]

 

[mrs-b]

@canuk-gal - 25C!! Woohoo! I hope you manage to get out and about and enjoy the wonderful weather before winter closes in! The new clothes sound lovely. Hoping the Barium swallow results are an all clear - altho that then leaves you in the place of "what's going on??" So - hoping for easily fixable answers! And yay for haircuts!

@missy - I remember going to my gastroenterologist once in NY and being his first apt of the day. He was 1.25 hours late. The arrogance with other people's time is just off the charts. In general, I think they just over-schedule - so all patients have a sense of being rushed in and out, and not *quite* getting to say all they wanted to say - while also feeling like they're holding up proceedings for everyone else. I hate that feeling of having to cut my own care short so everyone else can get a turn. I know *somebody* out there is making big money out of all of this - I just know it's not me or the other people spending hours in the waiting room! Anyway, hoping the earlier tests were all wrong and that things are much better than they appear. And congrats on the new bike/s! I'm so pleased for you re this and was so sad at the idea of you and Greg not being able to cycle. Lots of back-ups sounds just right! And I love Rover.

@Austina - I feel for you re returning electronics! I do all the decorative wrapping, but Tim does ALL the packaging in this household. And I absolutely abhor going to UPS, Fedex and the post office. I do it - but I absolutely hate it. We have a completely provincial post office here - one guy. The lines at Christmas are just unreal. But - yay for rain! And double yay for pool progress! Are they going to keep going with it while you're away? ie is there any chance you might return to a finished pool?? Wouldn't *that* be awesome! I hope you enjoy the run up to your trip - anticipation is so much of the fun! Have you been to Australia before? And - how long are you going for? Your list of stops sounded fun - I hope it's wonderful.

@Slickk - well apparently it was a three way contest for the necklace, because I looked at it too! I'm glad you got it - a nice paperclip necklace is always a good thing. But I totally get it re staying off PS - it really can be a trap. Currently I'm buying ideal cut 27 pt diamonds like a mad thing, trying to turn my 7 stone ring into an eternity...so easy to say, so expensive to do....!! So I applaud your restraint. Bear is looking beautiful, as always - I love the light patches on his chest! Does he love the cooler weather? Mine LOVE the cool and all the leaves - they enjoy submerging themselves in every big pile they pass on their walks. It's such a happy thing.

@marcy - I came across some older photos of your rings the other day - pre re-set - and they really are so much nicer now! I love the substantial feel of them. I remember my original engagement ring - lightest, thinnest thing you've ever seen - and even then, I always wished the setting had been just a bit better quality. I liked the design, but the execution brief had clearly been "Use as little gold as possible!" I love a ring with heft! Anyway - all that to say - I was thinking of you and praying for peaceful times for both you and Marty. Your story about Marty getting stuck in the rioters in Brazil was both funny and horrifying! Reminds me of the time about 20 years ago in summer when we had HUGE blackouts in NY, and Tim, who worked on Wall St right down near Battery Point, decided he'd walk home to Westchester, as there were no trains at *all* and traffic was in grid lock. He was carrying his computer, and he got to one of the dodgier (Aussie slang for questionable, unreliable, off-putting) parts of Harlem when an older African American resident came up to him and said "Son - you need to get out of here. You're not safe and your computer definitely won't make it - even if you do - which is unlikely." Tim, who tends to think that, since he likes everybody, everybody will like him back, thankfully took his advice and got out of there pronto! To this day, I think of that gentleman gratefully. Please let us know when you hear from your dr - I know we all care about what you're going through.

Tim is having a good time in Australia, but it's whizzing by. He said it doesn't really feel like home any more - yet still does - a bit...sort of... Once you make that big move away from home, our experience has been that nothing feels truly like home ever again. He's enjoying seeing his parents, tho, and had a great time in the Blue Mountains with Wendy and various friends, and his 40 year high school reunion is on Saturday evening - so he's very glad he made the effort.

Here's one photo of a small section of his parent's garden; it's spring there and the gardens are lovely.



Sending hugs also to @MamaBee, @bling_dream19, @springerspaniel and @junebug17 - I hope each of you are well and enjoying this gorgeous time of year.

Love to you all!

PS. David hurt his back last night and is limping around. I've now got *him* booked in to see my physical therapist tomorrow. We are awash with general health dodgy-ness here!!

 

[Austina]

Hello lovelies

Oh my goodness, that’s cold @missy. We’ve had a couple of cool days, in the 60’s, which we love, but people here are acting like it’s the arctic Glad you’re able to get out and about riding, I know how cathartic you find it, and looks like there’s plenty of people embracing Halloween on your travels. It’s not something that was ever big in the UK, we had November 5th (Guy Fawkes) where people would let off fireworks and burn a ‘Guy’ (a vaguely human form made up of old clothes etc.).

Glad Tim is enjoying his time back in Oz @mrs-b, his parents place looks lovely. We’ve decided not to have the pool plastered till we’re back, if it gets plastered, it has to be filled and then we’ll need someone to check on the chemical balance etc., hence the wait. We’d rather not have people here while we’re away, we had another day yesterday of their dodgy extension cable tripping our fuse box. Poor David, I managed to pull a muscle in back recently from sleeping awkwardly! (I say sleep in the loosest term, tossing and turning is a more apt description)

Had a busy day yesterday getting all my clothes in piles, photographed and bagged. BA are a complete shambles and the number of complaints I’m reading about lost luggage, it’s a nightmare. We’ve invested in those Apple tags so we can at least see where our luggage is. It’s a good job we’re going a few days earlier than necessary, because if the cases don’t arrive at the same time as us, it’ll be horrendous. My biggest nightmare is going on a cruise with no luggage. I pack all my lovely dresses that I don’t usually get a chance to wear at home, so if they go missing they’re irreplaceable, as the companies I bought them from are no longer in business.

Been out to do the food shopping, a quick in and out and going early, it’s not very busy.

Big shout out to all the lovely NIRDIs

 

[MamaBee]

Oops almost forgot. HPOTD

I just noticed something “extra” @missy!

 

[MamaBee]

Hello girls..I’ve been reading but not posting because there’s no way I can catch up. It’s been literally crazy here..

@missy I’m so sorry the lab results showed you’re both losing more bone..I know these results compounded with other things you have going on must be so stressful.
It’s wonderful you got to see your mom and dad. I know you made them so happy..
That was a great idea to get a backup bike for your rides. You are very lucky Greg is handy. I love my husband..but I really wish he knew more about how to fix things. It’s usually me that has to do any fixing. I pretty much just call someone to come do things now. My back and neck can’t handle anything strenuous.
S, David, and I got our flu shots today. I read the flu vaccine only lasts fourteen weeks. I think masking will help though. I went to the grocery store yesterday with David. There was only one person wearing a mask….It’s almost like you have to apologize for asking someone to wear one in your house…We’ve been having things done to both houses..They look at you like you’re an alien when you ask them to wear one.
@canuk-gal It looks like your swallowing problem is nothing serious. One of the things I thought of was Gerd...when you mentioned your symptoms..My husband felt like there was something in his throat when he swallowed. That’s what it was..Did you get a diagnosis? There’s no need to mention what it is but as long as you’re okay.
@Austina My heart went out to you when you mentioned feeling unwelcome visiting your granddaughter. It may just have been the stress from Kim not sleeping, having her mom there, new motherhood, etc. I hope that once the baby lets her get more sleep..and her mom goes home..things will get better..
I think that was a great idea to hold off on the plastering for the pool until you get back.
I hope you have a wonderful trip to Australia! I’ll be crossing my fingers and toes that your luggage arrives with you..so you will be able to wear your pretty dresses..I wish we were brave enough to take a trip..I think we will for our 50th anniversary. That’s in two years…We should be moved into a new house in Virginia by then..We have lots to do before we get there. It’s pretty overwhelming..
@marcy I’ve been following your thyroid problem. Have you received your diagnosis yet?
I’m sorry Marty is having a rough time over the loss of his brother. I lost two brothers..It’s awful.…Time does smooth over the jagged edges..Give him lots of hugs..People would ask me if they could do anything for me. I told them hugs would be appreciated.
@mrs-b I’m so happy you and Tim are all better..TG he was able to be okay to see his parents. Their gardens are just beautiful! You mentioned you would like to see photos of my gardens. This is a pretty time in Pa..but the leaves are down and everywhere..There are no flowers left. I will take some photos of the front and back of the house..I’ll also take some photos of my meager fall and Halloween decorations in the house. I‘ll add more when November rolls around..
We just put a new roof on here In Pa..We’re going to keep this house while my mom is still here with us..It will be a place we can stay when we visit her.
There‘s been a wrench in our plan to buy a house soon in Va. We’re trying to find residential opportunities for David when the time comes. I’ve always said I want it to be a well oiled machine when my husband and I leave this earth. We thought it would be easier to find a good place for David. It will determine where we will buy the house. My son and DIL would like him to be close to them..so when we do go…wherever we go..they can be close enough to pop over..take him home for dinner, etc. I feel so lucky they are willing to do that. They will eventually become his guardians..This has been very stressful for me..because we have to make the right decisions. Although we planned his whole life for this time..the opportunities have to be there. Finding them has been hard...and stressful..
We are going to be going back and forth to Maryland for the next few weeks..We were invited to go trick or treating with my grandchildren for Halloween. I will go as a witch..I even bought temporary tattoos for the boys to stick on my face and hands..My husband, the party pooper, said he will just go as himself. I told him I will tell everyone he's a Party Pooper!
Hugs to everyone else!

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDI’s!

@canuk-gal glad you are enjoying some glorious weather. We were pretty warm by noon today. Chilly nights though. Yay for a new haircut. I hope your test results goes well.

@Slickk sorry you have a very needy group this year. Hi Bear!

@missy darn Rover is quite a workout. You can eat more ice cream that way, and leave it to me to think of that. I hope you get your original bike up and running soon. I hope the next CTX comes out better. Keeping you in my thoughts. Thank you for thinking of me. I appreciate it. Love all the Halloween decorations. I was looking at Christmas decorations this morning.

@Austina glad things perked up after it rained there. We have snow in parts of the state already. Not surprised either. Thanks for thinking of Marty. He is struggling. Oh no to the pool people popping the fuse. Sounds like the pool is coming along though. Good deal you have a UPS office nearby. One of the monitors we just bought quit already. Since we ordered two, I didn’t think about confirming which monitor I wanted to return to Amazon. After getting the directions, I decided to check and what luck - I picked the right one. I guess we can pack it up and return it to Kohl’s. Easy enough. Good idea to put some Apple tags in your bags. Let’s hope you don’t need to find them.

@mrs-b thank you - I really like the chunky, solid band. Sadly, I need to get it back to Whiteflash soon for sizing. I am worried the ring will fall off my finger. My first wedding ring was thin with a small diamond too. I honestly have changed my band and gem size preference as time went by - probably from PS influence. The story about Tim walking home in NY sounds pretty terrifying, and bless that nice man who suggested he get out of there. Glad it’s wasn’t these days - crime sounds even worse there now. Thank you for thinking of us. Marty is pretty frazzled. I am still worried about my thyroid but am trying not to bring it up around him because he already is overwhelmed. Also, I appreciate you thinking about me. I appreciate it. Glad Tim is having a good time is Australia. His parent’s garden is beautiful. Oh no, I hope David feels better. How are you doing?

@MamaBee no I don’t know a thing yet about my thyroid. I stopped by the doctor’s office today so see if they know when I can expect to hear about this second test and they were closed. I keep checking my insurance since once the test gets run, I am sure a bill will show up there. I made the mistake of reading more on Dr. Google which I know I shouldn’t be doing. I am so sorry to hear about your brothers. Losing our loved ones is never easy. Big hugs to you. Marty was the strong one while he was back east, so I think it is hitting him more now. Sounds like a good idea to keep the place in PA since it’s close to your mom. That is nice your son and DIL can keep David company in the future but hoping it is FAR in the future for all of you. It’s good to plan ahead though. Have fun trick-or-treating with the grandchildren and fun to have some tattoos to wear.

I had a dentist appointment at 9 this morning. Marty was still asleep when I woke up before 6 so I stayed in bet until about 7 because I didn’t want to wake him up. Finally decided I’d best get up and shower, etc. I FINALLY have a crown on my broken tooth. They X-rayed it before cementing the crown since I mentioned the tooth or gum kind of aches. The root was normal length but curved at the end so the dentist thought it was fine. Since the portion that broke was past the gum and I had the tooth lengthened I still think it’s more the gum than anything. We’ll see if it settles down now that it had a crown.

Next stop was the doctor’s office which was a waste of time. I ventured off to the county clerk’s office to vote. Followed up by spending money like a drunken sailor at Sam’s Club. Yes, I hoarded more paper products and got a work out carrying it all in the house and finding holes to stick it between the linen closet and spare bedroom closet. I got Marty a giant steak to grill this weekend.

I also ordered some meat from Omaha Steaks since they have 50% off everything right now. Like everywhere else, though their prices are higher than before.

Marty bought tickets for a flight to Oklahoma City in a few weeks; he is competing in a lifting competition. His sister is meeting him there with her RV so that will be nice for them to spend some more time together.

I didn’t work much today with all my running around and spending some time visiting with Marty. He is having trouble getting motivated to work. I totally get it.

Take care.
Marcy

 

[missy]

GM girls, happy FriYAY! We officially broke Rover in yesterday haha. We got our first flat on him. LOLOL.




Welcome to the cycling family Rover

And we headed out to Asbury and had ice cream first time since we got Rover. It was delicious and needless to say J and M were thrilled to see us. We had informed them about what happened last week so they didn't think we fell off the face of the earth lol. Anyway it was a good ride and a good day and the weather was gorgeous.




Hoping for more of the same today.




@MamaBee I hope you and D experience zero side effects from the flu vaccine. When I was working I got it in August and never had an issue. I know it supposedly only lasts 14 weeks but I wonder if it maintains some residual protection longer. But in any case we got it I think about two weeks ago? I just didn't want to wait longer and so we did it. Last year we got it in mid October as well. Fingers crossed none of us get the flu. That can be a miserable experience. I hear you on the dilemma you are dealing with and I know David will be in good hands with your son and DIL. My best friend Tom has a similar situation with one of his brothers and he will become the official guardian of Tim soon. It's not easy but thank goodness for family. And as for the masks 100% agree. It's too bad though if they don't like it. No one is coming into my house (besides Greg that is LOL) without a mask worn appropriately. Period. I am sorry we are all still dealing with this. The masses are a***ss. Enough said.


@Austina I actually find this weather invigorating but it is quite the change to get used to. It's warming up today and tomorrow but then rain comes. So enjoying it while we can. And thank you. I know you get how important cycling is to me. It is cathartic- you are so right. So much happening and I need to compartmentalize to manage the challenges. Good job on photographing and keeping records of everything and fingers crossed nothing gets lost. It's stressful traveling and you don't need any added stressors.

@mrs-b it's frustrating. The arrogance and disrespect for our time. I mean the tech was profusely apologetic but I am speaking about our gastros. Not acceptable but we have no other option. So uncool. I am sorry you are dealing with this too. Thank you for sharing my happiness at getting another bike to hold us over. Cycling provides me with some peace of mind and much joy and it is much needed especially now. Gorgeous photo of Tim's family's garden. And that he is enjoying himself visiting his parents. Thank you for sharing. Sending David lots of healing vibes. Hoping his back feels all better soon.

@marcy good job getting the crown completed woohoo. We order from Omaha steaks every occasion now for my parents. They have everything they need and they enjoy this. IIRC Omaha steaks always has 50% off or at least other miscellaneous deals so no worries if you miss a sale. Wait a moment and they'll have another lol. We will probably put up the tree the beginning of December. We just took it down a few months ago haha. Fun that Marty signed up for a lifting competition and that his sister will meet him there. That's nice.


@bling_dream19 happy FriYAY. Have a wonderful day and an even more wonderful weekend.

@Slickk yay the weekend is almost here. Even when one is retired the weekend feels different. LOL. Enjoy.

@canuk-gal hope you are enjoying cycling and more great weather.

Hi everyone else. We had a good few days of cycling and some more of that today and probably tomorrow before rain enters the picture. I finally got our bike company to acknowledge the warranty and start the process to replace the frame. And in the meantime we have a replacement bike coming Tuesday and of course Rover to ride and enjoy. Greg retrofitted Rover with IPS so now it's much easier and more fun. We are no longer linked pedaling and can pedal independently. It took Greg two minutes to do that retro fit. TG he is handy. And that's that.

Yesterday morning was a bit surreal even after I told the tech at LabCorp not to confuse the CTX with C peptide he had put in the wrong test for both of us. He thanked me for double checking and fixed it but I still feel uneasy and feel something will get messed up. The lab tech who took the blood seemed inexperienced and she had to put the vials on ice. I didn't see her do that. It's so easy to mess the results up and I am so tired of double and triple checking and micro managing. But everything (and i mean everything) gets messed up if I don't remain vigilant. It's exhausting. How many lab errors we have had this past year. Where the wrong tests were run. Where they left out tests. I could go on and on. I think much of this has to do with employee shortages so they hire inexperienced individuals and we all suffer. Sigh. One day at a time and we shall see.

Have a wonderful FriYAY girls. Big hugs. Much love.

 

[missy]

Almost forgot. HPOTD




This is how I feel at times. Hanging on the best I can
That's all any of us can do.
Hang in there girls.
We will be OK.
That's what I keep telling myself anyway.

((((((Hugs)))))))

 

[Jemi]

Shout out to all

Lots going on here aside from no Wi-Fi for six weeks.
But/And
I am working my way back to reentering NIRDIville.

Good golly it’s Friday.
Happy day!

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

NIRDI shout out!!!!!!!

Wow what a difference a day makes (weather wise)! 6C today. YELP! heeehhheee.. Looks like rain/snow is on the way. Oh well. I hope our cycling season isn't over yet. I have ridden in my parka. LOL. Busy work week--such heavy work. eyiyiyi. I wasn't the only one who noticed...anyway.

Spent way too much time on laundry today. Geez. Washing summer blankets and all: I guess I shouldn't leave it so long. Just another chore I neither want nor need! Good thing to come out of the laundry ordeal is that I took things out of drawers that I am going to donate. I have a nice bag full and I already donated last week as well. I think I might keep on doing with the donation stuff. I don't like stuff hanging around I don't use...I eschew 20 of the same thing. Someone else may have it and it is all good/nice stuff! We are going out tonight to a nice local celebrated bistro. Looking forward to it!

@missy cycle on!!!! I was hoping to hear that lab got it wrong. It isn't reliable if it ain't reliable!

@Jemi HELLLLOOOOOOO!

@marcy hang in there friend. Hug your sweet DH.

@Austina your packing sounds like an FBI investigation! But your trip sounds wonderful!

@mrs-b sorry David is temporarily unwell. Those photos of "home" look delightful!!! Hope your DH is enjoying every moment.

@MamaBee I'm sure you are glad your roof is finished. Onward and upward!

cheers--Sharon

 

[Austina]

Happy FriYay

@canuk-gal, honestly travelling these days is such a chore. We’re not too worried about the onward flight to Singapore, that’s on Emirates, but BA are a beyond a joke. After the debacle we had getting our money back for a cancelled flight, we’re taking no chances with our luggage, hence the photos and AirTags. Good work on clearing out unwanted stuff, I used to do it twice a year in the UK, but having had a huge clear out before we came, I don’t really have anything spare ATM.

Hi @Jemi, lovely to hear from you, but oy to no internet for 6 weeks

It’s a good job you’re on the ball @missy, I can’t believe how difficult getting anything done properly the first time is. What on earth do people who aren’t so vigilant do? Glad the bike company are coming through on a new frame, and woohoo for Greg sorting out Rover. Did anything take your fancy at the antique jewellery store the other day?

Good luck finding the perfect residential place for David, it’s so sweet your son and DIL are on board with him being close by for when the time comes (a looooooong time in the future). It’s never too soon to make arrangements and get things in place. Wow, I didn’t realise your home needed a new roof, but one more things that makes it more saleable. Thanks for the kind words, honestly, we’d noticed a shift in her attitude towards us, but you know, you don’t like to think the worst.

I’m sorry you’re still waiting for the results @marcy, don’t they realise how stressful it is not knowing? Glad you got your crown sorted out, hopefully no problems there. We’re lucky that the UPS shop here is very convenient, and not too busy. The lady in there is always very helpful and friendly. I’m so sorry that Marty is struggling, it’s not surprising because this is not how life should be. I hope his upcoming trip and meet up with his sister helps.

Had a busy and productive day, got the last of the holiday stuff sorted, bags sealed and put in the cases. Fortunately everything fitted All the toiletries sorted out too, and the trolley bags are also packed.

Big love and hugs to all the lovely NIRDI, have a great weekend.

 

[marcy]

Hi NIRDI’s!

@missy darn that Rover had a flat. As we all know, it’s a GOOD thing Greg is so handy. Plus, after fixing the flat you got to have some delicious ice cream. I like fall weather too but sure hate switching the thermostat back and forth between the AC and heat. Of course, you know me, I am always cold. Glad Omaha Steaks work well for you parents, you can order pretty much everything from them. Yes, they do have sales all the time. I like to get the tree up after Thanksgiving. I can’t believe it’s almost Halloween. I haven’t done a darn thing for Christmas yet. That’s great they are going to honor the warranty and replace the frame for you. Holy cow about the wrong test ordered. What is up with all these lame doctors and technicians?

Hi @Jemi I was wondering how you are doing. I hope all is well. No wi-fi? I’d get so much done around the house then.

@canuk-gal we have some of that white four letter stuff in our forecast too. It’s like winter is looming out there somewhere. I hope your work week isn’t too hectic for you. You had a busy day of laundry. Nice to donate some things. I should wash up some blankets and donate them; I have way too many shoved in here and there. A lot of them were in our RV and we sure don’t need that many in the house. Thank you, I am hanging in there and giving Marty some hugs.

@Austina yes waiting for results is kind of a pain. And I’m ignoring Marty and Dee Jay that I should stay off Dr. Google - last night I found a bit most insurance companies won’t pay for this second test so I was thrilled to find that out. I am noticing between talking, chewing and swallowing, my throat is pretty sore as the day goes by. I just want to get this thing removed, zapped or whatever. I’m thinking of finding a thyroid doctor now since it takes so long to get in to see someone. Thanks, my crown is doing pretty well today. That’s great the UPS store is close and the lady there is friendly. I am sure Marty will gradually get better, we all know it just takes time. Sounds like you are almost packed. Sweet.

I had a two plus hour insomnia session in the middle of the night. So I slept in until about 7 this morning. Luckily my do not disturb didn’t ding 43 times with all the messages I had from work. But I was busy even before I got out of my PJ’s. I still met Marty for breakfast, that seems to be a routine on Friday morning and I decided that was more important. I still got plenty accomplished today.

Have a great weekend.
Marcy

This morning’s sunrise with the little crescent moon.

 

[missy]

GM girls and happy Caturday Saturday!

@marcy thank you, and yes, what is going on? I am exasperated and feel like giving up. Truly. And on top of it all once again my endo is not replying to my messages and so I emailed my other bone specialist who did order the tests we requested. But I am exhausted with all this micro managing and trying to get to the bottom of it all. I know you get it all too well unfortunately. What's happening with your medical issues? I am frustrated for you too. The wait feels interminable I know. Wishing you so much good health and all things good. I have to believe it will all work out. But I had a very bad dream which I won't share here and it did scare me. Sorry about your insomnia. I now wake at 1:30 AM til about 4:30 AM and fall asleep for 30 minutes and then am up for the day. No wonder my tolerance for cra* is low. LOL. That sunrise is breathtaking. I will never get tired of seeing your gorgeous photos.

@Austina believe me I share your questions and have no answers. I saw a gorgeous three stone (main stone was an asscher) step cut and omg I was tempted. But she couldn't find the GIA cert and my unprofessional guess was L but she didn't agree lol. She said oh no, it's whiter. But I compared it to Bubbalah and she was definitely a few shades less white than Bubbalah. I loved the ring but I don't see my way to getting another big expensive ring. I rarely wear what I have as it is lol. But it is fun to dream Have a wonderful weekend sweet Austina and be well.

@canuk-gal thank you and yes we are cycling our hearts out and enjoying it while the mild weather lasts. Today is the last day of good weather and then rain all week is what is being predicted. Oh well. We will find other things to enjoy but hoping we get a lot more cycling in before 2023. Our new frame is due next week and our new tandem pro is also due next week. But in the meantime we are enjoying Rover. Greg already informed me he will have to take two of the bikes apart as we do not have room to store them. So he will take them apart and put them in pieces in our attic. I wish we had more storage space but this works. Have a wonderful weekend. And oh no to snow. No no no. And I feel the same about those stupid lab tests. But I worry they are right. Sigh. Hope you enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the bistro.

@Jemi hello there and I am excited for you to come back and start sharing again. Sending you big hugs across the miles. I hope your sweet granddaughter is well and your DD is doing well too. Happy weekend.

@mrs-b hope David is doing better and you enjoy a terrific weekend.

@bling_dream19 happy Caturday Saturday and hope whatever your plans are involve lots of fun

@Slickk how did your week go? How are your students doing? Hope you are looking forward to a good weekend filled with lots of fun activities and lots of rest and relaxation too.

@springerspaniel our tree is almost bare. Just like that. I also think we have reached our peak colors here. Probably you are already past that while some states are still reaching their peak. I don't think NYC has yet reached it but soon. Have a wonderful weekend. And hope all is going smoothly.


Hi everyone else. Sending big hugs and lots of love to you. Enjoy a super Caturday Saturday. XOXO




HPOTD



Enjoy a non spooky super Saturday girls.
Meowww from Zoe wishing you the happiest of Caturday Saturdays

 

[MamaBee]

Good morning girls! Another busy day. I have a Zoom meeting for David this morning..I’m hoping to get some good information for him about options in Virginia. Fingers crossed it’s information we can use. S is going to Maryland for a game with his brother and friend. So..I’ll be armed with pen and paper hoping to find out something useful by myself..
@mrs-b I took some quick photos yesterday of my yard. It’s so full of leaves..so no more flowers..I will take some in Maryland when we go on Sunday. They usually hang out more there..

 

[mrs-b]

@MamaBee -

Thank you so much for going to the effort of taking those photos - I love your house! So beautiful! I took some photos of my house for you, but it really doesn't compare to yours. I do like my house - I just don't love it. Going back and forth endlessly about renovating vs selling - ending in paralysis and doing nothing at all. : - //

Here's a few snaps - tho, as you said, everything is covered with leaves and things are starting to turn bare.











@missy - you have to tell me - what flavors were today's ice creams?? They look SO wonderful! And I have to say, I think people in your area have done way more for Halloween than they have here. Our house is probably the most decorated in the area - and that's not saying much! We *do* have orange and purple lights around both front doors and right around the roof of the house, tho, and we also have lights shining on our three oversized BOO signs with their respective pumpkins, so that part looks nice, too. And I always love our witches that fly in front of the garage gable. For some reason they seem cheery rather than spooky.

@canuk-gal - that temp swing is brutal! When does the snow normally start where you are? We often get an early snow drop here in MA, often in Late October of November, so I'm starting to brace myself. But for now, today is a high of 68, and it's clear as a bell - as you can see in my photos that I took this morning. So all good for now.

@marcy - I'm sorry about your insomnia - but your sunrise photo is amazing! How gorgeous! I have to say, tho, I'm utterly disgusted with how your medical providers (and I use the term loosely!) are handling getting you your test results! I'm thinking of you and hoping for results very soon. In the meantime - I'm commiserating with you, in that I need a new crown on one of my teeth. <sigh> It just never ends, does it? Hugs to you!

Greetings to everyone else and hoping you're all hanging in there.

As for me - I have the appt with the new surgeon on Monday, which I'm dreading. My back/hip/leg is always brutal in the morning, and my appt is in Boston central at 8.30am. The pain is going to be...significant...and I won't be able to walk properly etc. Getting in and out of the car is incredibly uncomfortable in the morning, so I'm just dreading the whole thing. And even after I see him, it still means there will be decisions to be made, and none of the options are fun. <second sigh> Really not looking forward to this. In the meantime - Tim is still in Australia - home on Monday - and David continues to hobble around. I'm so grateful to David for coming out to help out and feel very guilty that his visit here has broken him!

Hugs to all the NIRDIs! <3

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

NIRDI shout out!!!!!!!!!!!!

Woke up to app. 15 cms of heavy wet snow. YUP. Can't make this stuff up. I thought it was relegated to the mountains but nope. And the snowfall warning remains, so it ain't over yet. It is pretty wet, so hopefully it will melt. But that won't help the contruction folks doing work here.... OK I'll stop whining now...

not so cheery Sharon