Christmas Day was unusual this year. Ed's son had invited us for breakfast and then they would come over to see our RV. I was really looking forward to it - got up early and got my hair washed. We left about 9 - drove about 100 feet and Ed stopped abruptly, got out and started moaning. The rear passenger's side tire was flatter than a pancake. So, we got "ye ole guidebook" and commenced to try to change it. Things were soon complicated by the fact that the tailgate doesn't go down, thanks to my wreck.
Ed remembered that we have Roadcare Service. He went in to call the 800 number and had me call Steve to postpone our breakfast till another day. I thought it would be a long wait....who would come out on Christmas morning? Within 45 minutes the young man was there and found what we had - the tailgate won't go down. He discovered a screw in the tire so fixed that and we were good to go. I called Steve but they were taking the breakfast over to his mom's house.
Maybe that was just as well......when we went inside, Ed reclined in his chair and asked me to bring me an anti-nausea pill. He took that and slept. The rest of the day he napped and rested, so it was probably better that things worked out to postpone breakfast. This was the only reaction that he had from his chemo on Tuesday.
We went to Lorraine and Ray Barkett's (Ed's sis) at 5 pm. I'm starting to feel more comfortable as I get to know his family members and they get to know me. Ray has 3 brothers and they celebrate all the holidays together. Several people had colds and, even though they stayed away from us, we woke up the next morning and both of us felt bad. Nyquil is a wondeful invention.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
We've figured out that people retire so they have time to make all their medical appointments! Ed is having chemo right now. He sent me to his sister's house so I can get on the internet and pay some bills. He'll have chemo again next Wednesday, then a Cat scan to see if there's improvement.
The Yacht Haven RV Resort, where we are, has no internet access and the roads are awful. We're pretty far into the park with docks on both sides - it's nice to watch the boats but that doesn't replace the internet. On Jan. 1 we're moving to Paradise Island Resort, which is north of us but still near I95. Two of our dive buddies, Chris and are there for the winter and they run the place several days a week in exchange for their RV space. We're booked in there till Jan. 30th - will have to move several times because they don't have any one space open. The fellow on duty today worked quite a while to squeeze us in - we're hoping for some cancellations. Moving will be a pain but Ed says it'll give him a chance to practice parking the rig.
We'll plan to be with Ed's son on Christmas and at his sister's on Christmas Day. His brother will come down from Pt. St. Lucie for Christmas Day, too. Ed's loving the warm weather but it's too hot for me - since I'm "at that age" so am a hot-flasher!! Our cat, Pepper, loves it here! She's a Cornish rex so basks in the sun any time she can.
We just got approval to get the Ford Explorer fixed so will go rent a car and hope they fix it quickly. The insurance company has agreed to wait until we move to the west coast of Florida, where there are many more RV "fixers". Ed wants to get out of this city traffic in February, if possible.
Merry Christmas and please do keep in touch. We cherish our family and friends more each day.
The Yacht Haven RV Resort, where we are, has no internet access and the roads are awful. We're pretty far into the park with docks on both sides - it's nice to watch the boats but that doesn't replace the internet. On Jan. 1 we're moving to Paradise Island Resort, which is north of us but still near I95. Two of our dive buddies, Chris and are there for the winter and they run the place several days a week in exchange for their RV space. We're booked in there till Jan. 30th - will have to move several times because they don't have any one space open. The fellow on duty today worked quite a while to squeeze us in - we're hoping for some cancellations. Moving will be a pain but Ed says it'll give him a chance to practice parking the rig.
We'll plan to be with Ed's son on Christmas and at his sister's on Christmas Day. His brother will come down from Pt. St. Lucie for Christmas Day, too. Ed's loving the warm weather but it's too hot for me - since I'm "at that age" so am a hot-flasher!! Our cat, Pepper, loves it here! She's a Cornish rex so basks in the sun any time she can.
We just got approval to get the Ford Explorer fixed so will go rent a car and hope they fix it quickly. The insurance company has agreed to wait until we move to the west coast of Florida, where there are many more RV "fixers". Ed wants to get out of this city traffic in February, if possible.
Merry Christmas and please do keep in touch. We cherish our family and friends more each day.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Mary Wrecked
Yes, I haven't had a wreck since I was 22 years old! While loading those final things on Sunday morning, I was gently backing up the Ford Explorer. Out of nowhere, it lurched - slamming into the front of the RV - lots of damage to both RV and car but they are still usable. I sobbed, cried, blubbered, wailed, and wept the rest of the morning. Now we have all the details deal with for the insurance company.
We're in Ft. Lauderdale - things are hectic getting Ed into an oncologist and all the paperwork involved. His sister got her doctor friend to recommend someone and Ed just got an appointment for Tuesday morning. Please pray that the chemo already completed in Virginia has shrunk the tumors and more treatments will "kill" the lung cancer. Ed is feeling fine - no symptoms except for some fatigue.
I love the location of our campground - I 95 & State Road 84 BUT there's no internet access at all. Instead of the $800 a month, since we arrived in the middle of the month we have to pay $1,000.00 for 2 weeks!! We're going to see Paradise Island RV Resort the place that my dive buddies, Jim and Chris Guld, run in the winter and hope they might have a spot. If not, we'll have to shop around.
On the bright side:
We stopped in Jacksonville and visited my wonderful (step) grandchildren. Jon is almost 22, Samantha is 17, and Daniel is 13. They are delightful kids and it was great to see them. We stopped in Port St. Lucie and spent the night in the driveway across the street (no one lives there) from Ed's brother, George. We went out to eat with George and Kay and took showers at their house. Ah..... the beauty of RV life - we got to sleep in our own bed. Last evening, we met Ed's son, Steve, for dinner. We enjoyed seeing Lorraine (Ed's daughter-in-law) and his grandson, Sean, who is now 4 1/2 years old. He's such a beautiful child and behaved very nicely as he sat by Grandpa Ed.
Ed's sister, Lorraine Barkett, lives about 5 miles from our RV resort so we come here to get internet access. My time on email is sporadic but I still like keeping up with you, so keep those messages coming, OK?
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
With love,
Edmond, MaryMay,
and Pepper (our Cornish rex kitty, who is loving her big RV adventure!)
We're in Ft. Lauderdale - things are hectic getting Ed into an oncologist and all the paperwork involved. His sister got her doctor friend to recommend someone and Ed just got an appointment for Tuesday morning. Please pray that the chemo already completed in Virginia has shrunk the tumors and more treatments will "kill" the lung cancer. Ed is feeling fine - no symptoms except for some fatigue.
I love the location of our campground - I 95 & State Road 84 BUT there's no internet access at all. Instead of the $800 a month, since we arrived in the middle of the month we have to pay $1,000.00 for 2 weeks!! We're going to see Paradise Island RV Resort the place that my dive buddies, Jim and Chris Guld, run in the winter and hope they might have a spot. If not, we'll have to shop around.
On the bright side:
We stopped in Jacksonville and visited my wonderful (step) grandchildren. Jon is almost 22, Samantha is 17, and Daniel is 13. They are delightful kids and it was great to see them. We stopped in Port St. Lucie and spent the night in the driveway across the street (no one lives there) from Ed's brother, George. We went out to eat with George and Kay and took showers at their house. Ah..... the beauty of RV life - we got to sleep in our own bed. Last evening, we met Ed's son, Steve, for dinner. We enjoyed seeing Lorraine (Ed's daughter-in-law) and his grandson, Sean, who is now 4 1/2 years old. He's such a beautiful child and behaved very nicely as he sat by Grandpa Ed.
Ed's sister, Lorraine Barkett, lives about 5 miles from our RV resort so we come here to get internet access. My time on email is sporadic but I still like keeping up with you, so keep those messages coming, OK?
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
With love,
Edmond, MaryMay,
and Pepper (our Cornish rex kitty, who is loving her big RV adventure!)
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Murphy's Law
MURPHY'S LAW STRIKES AGAIN:
Ed and I are frantically trying to get ready to leave for Florida on Sunday morning. Between trying to get our house and Mother’s set with light timers that work, canceling cable, putting phone “on vacation”, and other such things, we’re scrambling.
Murphy’s Law in playing right in here. For example, to cancel cable for Mother, Ed went in to Comcast's office (Trip 1) but they had to see my Power of Attorney. He went back in with the Power of Attorney (Trip 2). They said he doesn't look like a Mary and that Mary has to come in. Mary went in with the %^#&!! Power of Attorney papers (Trip 3). They have to have the cable box, remote, and cord (Trip 4). Then they have to have Phil’s address to send the refund check (5th trip - by phone). Each item on our check-off list seems to have complications like this. Keeps life interesting, doesn't it?
Ed and I are frantically trying to get ready to leave for Florida on Sunday morning. Between trying to get our house and Mother’s set with light timers that work, canceling cable, putting phone “on vacation”, and other such things, we’re scrambling.
Murphy’s Law in playing right in here. For example, to cancel cable for Mother, Ed went in to Comcast's office (Trip 1) but they had to see my Power of Attorney. He went back in with the Power of Attorney (Trip 2). They said he doesn't look like a Mary and that Mary has to come in. Mary went in with the %^#&!! Power of Attorney papers (Trip 3). They have to have the cable box, remote, and cord (Trip 4). Then they have to have Phil’s address to send the refund check (5th trip - by phone). Each item on our check-off list seems to have complications like this. Keeps life interesting, doesn't it?
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ed Might Catch More ZZZzz's!
Yeah, he should sleep better because I won't be snoring erratically; he'll just have the consistant white noise from my machine. Today was the day - I got my CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. I have severe sleep apnea when I am on my back and my oxygen level drops a lot.
My second night at the sleep center I slept with a CPAP machine to be sure it's the best choice for me. To make it slightly more complicated, after I was halfway asleep, the technician came in and said that every time I started to doze, my mouth dropped open. So, he put a chin strap that goes up over my head to hold my trap shut.
I had no idea what I was getting in for. Assembling the machine, filling the built in humidifier with distilled water nightly, and washing parts of the machine daily, etc,etc. seem overwhelming at this point. It took the American HomePatient Medical Supply Company (the Sleep Center sent me to a national company so I can do my follow-ups in Florida) 2 hours to teach me what to do and another half hour to sign, sign, sign, and sign more papers for insurance.
Here's the tricky part - I heard people at the Sleep Center talk about "downloading" and had no idea what that meant. Ah, ha, someone stayed up late at night to design this system! There is a little card that you put into the machine periodically and you have to go to American HomePatient for them to download it into their system. There is no fudging on this - it will tell them every minute, day, and setting that I used the machine. If you don't go for your downloads and/or don't use the machine faithfully, the coverage will end. What pressure!! I hope I can figure all this out! Nighty, night!
Two weeks later:
This is how I look at night but Ed doesn't see me in the dark and he's sleeping well. I have gotten used to it and am sleeping better. This is so embarrassing but you need a laugh for the today so here goes nothing......
My second night at the sleep center I slept with a CPAP machine to be sure it's the best choice for me. To make it slightly more complicated, after I was halfway asleep, the technician came in and said that every time I started to doze, my mouth dropped open. So, he put a chin strap that goes up over my head to hold my trap shut.
I had no idea what I was getting in for. Assembling the machine, filling the built in humidifier with distilled water nightly, and washing parts of the machine daily, etc,etc. seem overwhelming at this point. It took the American HomePatient Medical Supply Company (the Sleep Center sent me to a national company so I can do my follow-ups in Florida) 2 hours to teach me what to do and another half hour to sign, sign, sign, and sign more papers for insurance.
Here's the tricky part - I heard people at the Sleep Center talk about "downloading" and had no idea what that meant. Ah, ha, someone stayed up late at night to design this system! There is a little card that you put into the machine periodically and you have to go to American HomePatient for them to download it into their system. There is no fudging on this - it will tell them every minute, day, and setting that I used the machine. If you don't go for your downloads and/or don't use the machine faithfully, the coverage will end. What pressure!! I hope I can figure all this out! Nighty, night!
Two weeks later:
This is how I look at night but Ed doesn't see me in the dark and he's sleeping well. I have gotten used to it and am sleeping better. This is so embarrassing but you need a laugh for the today so here goes nothing......
Sunday, December 7, 2008
She's in Texas - with Dedicated Effort
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Maribeth's Help with Moving Mom
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Monday, December 1, 2008
Mom Adjusting in Texas - Slowly
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Saturday, November 29, 2008
Sleep Center Report
Someone asked me what happened at the Sleep Center. I reported to the doctor a week after my "sleepover". He had a one page printout that showed everything imaginable, including when I fell asleep, when I slept on my side or back, and what depth sleep I was in. I seemed to breath OK on my sides but on my back I have severe apnea. I only got about an hour of REM sleep. We had to fill out various questionnaires before and after. It seemed to me it took about an hour to fall asleep - it only took me 7 minutes!
I forgot to ask the most important question, which was why I'm doing this to begin with: "Did I snore?" I'll be sure to ask this time.
This Wednesday I go back for another PJ party and will sleep with a CPAP machine. I know what to expect this time but bet I won't get my two cute technicians. In general discussions with various friends, it's surprising how many of them use a CPAP and how much it helps them. More later!
I forgot to ask the most important question, which was why I'm doing this to begin with: "Did I snore?" I'll be sure to ask this time.
This Wednesday I go back for another PJ party and will sleep with a CPAP machine. I know what to expect this time but bet I won't get my two cute technicians. In general discussions with various friends, it's surprising how many of them use a CPAP and how much it helps them. More later!
Thanksgiving Day 2008
Ed and I ate lunch at Harrisonburg Health and Rehab Center with Mother. They had turkey, dressing, and the other typical Thanksgiving foods. Ed was pleasantly surprised at how tasty the food was.
Mother had fallen out of bed on Tuesday evening and must have fallen right on her face. She has a big bruise on her forehead and two black eyes, caused by her glasses hitting her nose. She told the nurse she had to get up to feed the cows. When Ed asked her what happened she told him she fell out of a tree. Now when she goes to bed for the night, they put her bed all the way down and put rubber mats on both sides of the bed.
We went for Thanksgiving Supper with our friends, Beth and Robert Foester. They had Beth's mom and dad, aunt, and cousin, along with their lovely girls, Claire and Emma.....enough people for some interesting discussions. Robert made most of the meal and it was delish! Then we had to try each dessert - there were 6 kinds and I foolishly took a second helping of the 2 cakes and the chocolate pie. That's when I crossed the line to feel beyond full. Oh, well, Thanksgiving comes but once a year!
Mother had fallen out of bed on Tuesday evening and must have fallen right on her face. She has a big bruise on her forehead and two black eyes, caused by her glasses hitting her nose. She told the nurse she had to get up to feed the cows. When Ed asked her what happened she told him she fell out of a tree. Now when she goes to bed for the night, they put her bed all the way down and put rubber mats on both sides of the bed.
We went for Thanksgiving Supper with our friends, Beth and Robert Foester. They had Beth's mom and dad, aunt, and cousin, along with their lovely girls, Claire and Emma.....enough people for some interesting discussions. Robert made most of the meal and it was delish! Then we had to try each dessert - there were 6 kinds and I foolishly took a second helping of the 2 cakes and the chocolate pie. That's when I crossed the line to feel beyond full. Oh, well, Thanksgiving comes but once a year!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thanksgiving Greetings
Happy Thanksgiving!
We are especially thankful for our friends and family.
May God bless you all!
With love,
Ed and MaryMay
We are especially thankful for our friends and family.
May God bless you all!
With love,
Ed and MaryMay
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Preparing to Move Mother to Texas
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A Day Makes a Difference
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Every Day is Different for Mother
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Thursday, November 13, 2008
PJ Party for Mary
Thanks to my dear husband, Ed, I had a wonderful pajama party at the Sleep Center last night. He told his doctor that he's having trouble sleeping due to snoring and pointed at me.
In preparation for this fun event, I had to shower and the only thing I could put on was deodorant....not even creme rinse on my hair!! I realized how attached I am to my powders, gels, "mousses", perfumes, lotions and other magic potions. I soon came to realize why -- It was amazing how many electrodes they glued onto my face, my head, and lots of other places. On the bright side, I had two really CUTE male technicians - one was in training. It took them over an hour to get everything set.
They came in once during the night and asked me to sleep on my back for a while. They woke me up just like they said they would at the ungodly hour of 6:00 A.M.!! I asked for a later wake-up time but learned they use the 6 sleep rooms (with Murphy beds) for doctors to see patients during the day.
I have my follow-up visit next week and suspect a CPAP machine might be in my future. If I could sleep better, it might help my fibromyalgia pain and brain fog.
In preparation for this fun event, I had to shower and the only thing I could put on was deodorant....not even creme rinse on my hair!! I realized how attached I am to my powders, gels, "mousses", perfumes, lotions and other magic potions. I soon came to realize why -- It was amazing how many electrodes they glued onto my face, my head, and lots of other places. On the bright side, I had two really CUTE male technicians - one was in training. It took them over an hour to get everything set.
They came in once during the night and asked me to sleep on my back for a while. They woke me up just like they said they would at the ungodly hour of 6:00 A.M.!! I asked for a later wake-up time but learned they use the 6 sleep rooms (with Murphy beds) for doctors to see patients during the day.
I have my follow-up visit next week and suspect a CPAP machine might be in my future. If I could sleep better, it might help my fibromyalgia pain and brain fog.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Follow-up Visit with Mother's Surgeon
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Friday, October 31, 2008
Some Progress in Therapy
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Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Obama Visits Little Ole' Harrisonburg!
If you watched the national news tonight, you saw reporters in Harrisonburg, Virginia - our town! Barack Obama visited JMU (James Madison University - my alma marta). My nephew, Levi May, is a freshman and was planning to go hear Obama. I'm looking forward to hearing Levi's report!
No matter who you're for, when you live in a rural area like the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a visit like this is exciting. The last Democratic presidential candidate who stopped here was nearly 150 years ago when Stephen Douglas came to town. In 1968, Republican Richard Nixon stopped on his campaign trail.
No matter who you're for, when you live in a rural area like the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a visit like this is exciting. The last Democratic presidential candidate who stopped here was nearly 150 years ago when Stephen Douglas came to town. In 1968, Republican Richard Nixon stopped on his campaign trail.
A Help To Republicans?
Bob Roberts, a political science professor at James Madison University, says visits like Obama's can help boost turnout and mobilize supporters. In this case, Roberts said, it could also serve to demoralize Republicans.
But Meredith thinks Obama is doing the GOP a favor.
"He's coming to the most conservative area of the state - arguably one of the most conservative areas of the country," Meredith said Monday. "When he comes here, that's just going to energize Republicans and increase that turnout. I really think it's going to help us." Daily News Record
Friday, October 24, 2008
Free Wi-Fi Directory
I just read about this site in my Kim Komando E-zine and think it will be helpful as we head South in November. Hope it will be helpful for you, too!
The Wi-Fi-FreeSpot™ Directory is a listing of locations that offer Free Wi-Fi. USA State-by-State listings. http://www.wififreespot.com/
The Wi-Fi-FreeSpot™ Directory is a listing of locations that offer Free Wi-Fi. USA State-by-State listings. http://www.wififreespot.com/
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Maybe Moving Tomorrow & Uncle Bob
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
It appears that Mother will be transferred back to Harrisonburg Health and Rehab in Harrisonburg tomorrow. I do hope it's not too soon! Ed and I came home today and were planning to take a break while Phil and Maribeth were here this week to visit Mother. This will work out well because we'll have a chance to be with them after all.
My Uncle Bob May was diagnosed with cancer less than 2 weeks ago. He had decided to have radiation treatments and was to start this coming week. Thursday, he was put back into the hospital and died on Friday night. The visitation will be Monday evening and the funeral Tuesday morning.
It will be strange because for my whole life, he's just always been there. He loved to take pictures of people and always got duplicates to give to them. He was amazing with numbers - could add a column of numbers faster than one could put them into a calculator. Who is going to keep us updated on exactly how much rain or snow we got? His testimony at church several months ago was very touching to the congregation and gives me comfort because we KNOW where he is right now.
I'm still trying to digest this news. Mother is very upset that she won't be able to go to the funeral but there are some circumstances where things, such as major back surgery, prevent us from doing all we'd prefer to do.
It appears that Mother will be transferred back to Harrisonburg Health and Rehab in Harrisonburg tomorrow. I do hope it's not too soon! Ed and I came home today and were planning to take a break while Phil and Maribeth were here this week to visit Mother. This will work out well because we'll have a chance to be with them after all.
My Uncle Bob May was diagnosed with cancer less than 2 weeks ago. He had decided to have radiation treatments and was to start this coming week. Thursday, he was put back into the hospital and died on Friday night. The visitation will be Monday evening and the funeral Tuesday morning.
It will be strange because for my whole life, he's just always been there. He loved to take pictures of people and always got duplicates to give to them. He was amazing with numbers - could add a column of numbers faster than one could put them into a calculator. Who is going to keep us updated on exactly how much rain or snow we got? His testimony at church several months ago was very touching to the congregation and gives me comfort because we KNOW where he is right now.
I'm still trying to digest this news. Mother is very upset that she won't be able to go to the funeral but there are some circumstances where things, such as major back surgery, prevent us from doing all we'd prefer to do.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
A Better Day
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Thursday, October 2, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Mother is in a "step-down" room...
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Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Mother is Resting
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Monday, September 29, 2008
Prayers Helped with Surgery
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Sunday, September 28, 2008
Mom moving to private room
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Saturday, September 27, 2008
Surgery postponed
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Friday, September 26, 2008
Mother will be having back surgery tomorrow...
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Thursday, September 25, 2008
Surgery on Saturday for Mother
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Wednesday, September 24, 2008
The Mays' Medical Maladies
Mother (83) has continued to struggle with pain and inability to move her left leg. The doctor at the rehab center sent her for an MRI yesterday. That showed several things wrong in her lower back, the most important to address first being a suspected infection. She was sent to our local hospital but there are only 2 specialists - one was out of town and the other couldn't come to the ER. So, she was sent by ground ambulance to the University of Virginia Medical Center Friday evening.
My fibromyalgia kicked in and I feel exhausted so Ed and I decided there was nothing we could do last night and I'd come home, rest, get my meds, etc. to go in the morning.
The doctor called about 4 a.m. There are several problems and they feel surgery is necessary. I had him call my brother, Phil, who is a nurse anesthetist in Texas. As I suggested, they have Phil talk to Mother as she is hesitant, which he did.
Meanwhile, my Uncle Bob (87) was admitted to the hospital last Friday with what they thought was a major stroke. That has turned out to be cancer with tumors on the brain and lungs. They are testing other areas to see if it has spread and to pinpoint what kind of cancer it is. The family met with the doctors yesterday and Uncle Bob wants to do the radiation treatments which may give him 6 months instead of 2. Meanwhile, Aunt Ginny has Alzheimer's and needs to have someone with her. They live just over the hill from me and the one time I might have been able to help is the time Mother is also down.
Meanwhile, yesterday my nephew, Levi, who's a freshman at JMU called. He'd been to the infirmary with a sore throat and pain and had gotten a prescription. I had just returned from Mother's MRI to the rehab center so was able to go get him and go to a pharmacy. He goes back to the infirmary tomorrow and if he's not better, they'll test him for mono.
Ed had bloodwork yesterday and a CAT scan today. The shingles aren't gone and his latest X-ray shows something still on his lung from the pneumonia. He still feels lethargic and had said that tomorrow he was going to stay in bed all day. Looks like he might be going to Charlottesville instead - IF he feels he can handle it.
Sounds like the Mays and Angelils are falling apart up here, huh? I can't write a lot now but will update this blog if possible.
Please pray for us, especially Mother.
My fibromyalgia kicked in and I feel exhausted so Ed and I decided there was nothing we could do last night and I'd come home, rest, get my meds, etc. to go in the morning.
The doctor called about 4 a.m. There are several problems and they feel surgery is necessary. I had him call my brother, Phil, who is a nurse anesthetist in Texas. As I suggested, they have Phil talk to Mother as she is hesitant, which he did.
Meanwhile, my Uncle Bob (87) was admitted to the hospital last Friday with what they thought was a major stroke. That has turned out to be cancer with tumors on the brain and lungs. They are testing other areas to see if it has spread and to pinpoint what kind of cancer it is. The family met with the doctors yesterday and Uncle Bob wants to do the radiation treatments which may give him 6 months instead of 2. Meanwhile, Aunt Ginny has Alzheimer's and needs to have someone with her. They live just over the hill from me and the one time I might have been able to help is the time Mother is also down.
Meanwhile, yesterday my nephew, Levi, who's a freshman at JMU called. He'd been to the infirmary with a sore throat and pain and had gotten a prescription. I had just returned from Mother's MRI to the rehab center so was able to go get him and go to a pharmacy. He goes back to the infirmary tomorrow and if he's not better, they'll test him for mono.
Ed had bloodwork yesterday and a CAT scan today. The shingles aren't gone and his latest X-ray shows something still on his lung from the pneumonia. He still feels lethargic and had said that tomorrow he was going to stay in bed all day. Looks like he might be going to Charlottesville instead - IF he feels he can handle it.
Sounds like the Mays and Angelils are falling apart up here, huh? I can't write a lot now but will update this blog if possible.
Please pray for us, especially Mother.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Need roofing? Call Ed.....
Need roofing? Call Ed......he's got shingles! Aww, that's mean, isn't it?
He's had them several weeks is coming along fairly well. I think the Valtrex and Lyrica got in his system soon enough to help. He doesn't have that searing pain that often goes with shingles but the lumps on the side of his head, neck and down his shoulder and arm are extremely tender. The most annoying symptom is that he has felt so lethargic. Can you imagine - he was in his bathrobe and in the house for over a week - didn't even go shopping!! He went to the RV for about 15 minutes one afternoon and was exhausted. I think the sleep, rest, and naps are giving his body a chance to fight and heal.
Oh, I forgot to mention he first had walking pneumonia and an earache. His last X-ray wasn't totally clear so he'll be going for a CAT scan this week.
He's had them several weeks is coming along fairly well. I think the Valtrex and Lyrica got in his system soon enough to help. He doesn't have that searing pain that often goes with shingles but the lumps on the side of his head, neck and down his shoulder and arm are extremely tender. The most annoying symptom is that he has felt so lethargic. Can you imagine - he was in his bathrobe and in the house for over a week - didn't even go shopping!! He went to the RV for about 15 minutes one afternoon and was exhausted. I think the sleep, rest, and naps are giving his body a chance to fight and heal.
Oh, I forgot to mention he first had walking pneumonia and an earache. His last X-ray wasn't totally clear so he'll be going for a CAT scan this week.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
RV Plans on Hold
This blog started out to be "Angelil Adventures in Their RV" but, for now, the "RV" part will be put aside. We both agree that as sure as we'd start out on a trip, something would happen with Mother and we'd have to fly home. One of Ed's main reasons for wanting the motor home was so we could get away from the cold weather during the winter. Plus, I've traveled around the world and had purposely saved the USA for my retirement. So, we've got the whole West to explore, as well as Alaska and Canada. Life has taught me that "Patience Pays" and I'm sure this will be the case here.
By the way, if you ever forget where to find our blog:
1. Open Google
2. Type in Angelil Adventures
3. Hit your enter key
4. Our site should be the first to appear on the list of links given.
5. Click on that link, which will read, "Angelil Adventures"
By the way, if you ever forget where to find our blog:
1. Open Google
2. Type in Angelil Adventures
3. Hit your enter key
4. Our site should be the first to appear on the list of links given.
5. Click on that link, which will read, "Angelil Adventures"
Monday, August 25, 2008
Mother meets her new doctor....
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Mother's Move to Rehab
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Mother's Move But Not to VMRC
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Update on Mom & Levi May Hits JMU!
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
My sister-in-law, Maribeth, is here from Texas - helped move Levi Walker May into his freshman dorm at J.M.U. (my old stomping grounds) yesterday. She's going to spend 2 days with Mother - to try to motivate her to exercise more.......and to give me a break. I've been at this daily visit routine since March.
p.s. I thought it would be nice to have my nephew nearby but have been advised that the only drawing card will be a home-cooked meal!
My sister-in-law, Maribeth, is here from Texas - helped move Levi Walker May into his freshman dorm at J.M.U. (my old stomping grounds) yesterday. She's going to spend 2 days with Mother - to try to motivate her to exercise more.......and to give me a break. I've been at this daily visit routine since March.
p.s. I thought it would be nice to have my nephew nearby but have been advised that the only drawing card will be a home-cooked meal!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Mother in Hospital for 35 Days
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Better But Some Strange Dreams
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Friday, August 8, 2008
Anita and Phil Had to Go Home
You may now find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
We hear stories about people who were as bad off as Mother who regained strength and got better. This is like a roller coaster - every day, as soon as one problem gets successfully treated, it seems another one shows up. Both her arms and feet/legs have blown IV's so, at Phil's gentle insistence, they're putting in a picc line today. Then they can get her potassium and calcium balanced.
I took Anita to the train station for her return to Ohio and our cousin, Jim Bowman, took Maribeth and Phil to Dulles for their return to Texas. I'm a bit concerned that there might be a backslide because Mother had family hovering over her from early morning till late at night for 11 days.
We hear stories about people who were as bad off as Mother who regained strength and got better. This is like a roller coaster - every day, as soon as one problem gets successfully treated, it seems another one shows up. Both her arms and feet/legs have blown IV's so, at Phil's gentle insistence, they're putting in a picc line today. Then they can get her potassium and calcium balanced.
I took Anita to the train station for her return to Ohio and our cousin, Jim Bowman, took Maribeth and Phil to Dulles for their return to Texas. I'm a bit concerned that there might be a backslide because Mother had family hovering over her from early morning till late at night for 11 days.
Friday, August 1, 2008
"Turn Around" Day
You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Friday, August 1, 2008 was an indescribable day. None of us slept Thursday night. Phil and Maribeth (his wife) went in at
Mother opened her eyes and asked him how he was. He said, “Not so good.” She asked what hurt and he told her his heart hurt. She asked why and he said, “Because you’ve chosen not to live when it doesn’t have to be this way……”
There was a pause and she said, “I’ve changed my mind.”
Maribeth said she wouldn’t have believed it if she hadn’t been there!!!!!!!! They asked if she was willing to take her meds, eat, drink and do her physical therapy. She agreed and drank some ginger ale right away. She was lucid and the change was amazing.
We “pushed” liquids and food (Ensure and pudding) all day. She actually drank 2/3 of a bottle of Ensure – more than she drank all week put together. We got about 8 bites of cream soup in her and more ginger ale.
It’s almost like the dead has risen……..I’m still in shock!!!
Right now I'm afraid to tell people because I don't want to jinx anything. Phil plans to stay another week and that'll make a difference for Mother. Anita and Phil are beat from just a couple of days - gives them a clue what I've been trying to do since April when this all started. Then again, yesterday was the day she had chosen to die and that wiped us all out.
It’s a MIRACLE …what else could it be? Prayer works!!!!!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
A SAD, SAD Day
You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Thursday, July 31, 2008
We met as a family and decided to stop all the meds and IV’s, except for her pain patch. The plan was to move her to the skilled nursing section of VMRC (Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community) the next morning and Hospice would be involved with her care there.
BUT……the puzzling and frustrating thing for her doctor was that her vitals were all good, her back Kyphoplasty worked and her back pain is gone, her kidneys are fine, etc. so physically, there was no reason for her to die. He attributed it to a deep depression and tried his best to encourage and motivate her, telling her that if she would try, she could be walking out of there one of these days. She didn’t respond. (Yes, he had put her on an anti-depressant.)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
RV Shelter Coming Along
I realize I forgot to give an update from starting the RV Shelter in April.Ed, Mike Stroop (his faithful helper - teacher) working on the "knee wall."
The sides are up!
The finished product picture coming soon.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Hospital Stay for Mother
You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Our First Trip - Part 2
We had a good day with Barbara Elliot and left on Wednesday to visit our dear friends, Jan and David Clements, who live near The Villages (near Ocala) in the Stonecrest development. They surprised us, showing up at our rig as soon as we pulled into the Southern Oaks RV Resort. We spent the evening with them - life is so convenient as they can use their golf cart to get to most any shopping or eating place.
On July 4th, we went to Jan and David's for a cook-out, along with Diane (a sister), Roger, Matt, Anita (her other sister), her finance Ron, and Sierra (Jan's Weimaraner). Ron presented a drama he had written in 1976 where he "became" Thomas 
Jefferson - it was very interesting. A thunderstorm prevented the golf cart parade and contest. Later I helped Jan with her computer and Ed helped Dave with his TV. We had a wonderful time with lots of laughter and good conversation.
We then started North for a night in Savannah , one
of the largest ports in the U.S. We drove into town and had fun walking along the old Riverfront area. We had $1 beers and some fantastic nachos at one of the many neat restaurants there.
Sunday night we stayed in Hillsville, VA, which is just over the NC border and were overjoyed at the cool weather.......we love sleeping with the windows open. It was frustrating that they had WiFi but we couldn't get on the internet.
We got home on July 7th and yes, the RV did fit into the shelter that Ed built. Now I'm eager to get all our "stuff" into the coach and put away. It was hard not to buy various things but we already have 2 mustards, ketchups, etc. from our stay in Florida last winter. We only bought a small mustard, bread, bologna, milk, and cereal.
Today I'm off to spend some time with Mother. She's still in Assisted Living and dealing with terrible pain. Tomorrow I'm going with her to the hospital for an epidural steroid injection to her lower back. Oh, how I hope she can get some relief.
On July 4th, we went to Jan and David's for a cook-out, along with Diane (a sister), Roger, Matt, Anita (her other sister), her finance Ron, and Sierra (Jan's Weimaraner). Ron presented a drama he had written in 1976 where he "became" Thomas 
Jefferson - it was very interesting. A thunderstorm prevented the golf cart parade and contest. Later I helped Jan with her computer and Ed helped Dave with his TV. We had a wonderful time with lots of laughter and good conversation.
We then started North for a night in Savannah , one
of the largest ports in the U.S. We drove into town and had fun walking along the old Riverfront area. We had $1 beers and some fantastic nachos at one of the many neat restaurants there.
We got home on July 7th and yes, the RV did fit into the shelter that Ed built. Now I'm eager to get all our "stuff" into the coach and put away. It was hard not to buy various things but we already have 2 mustards, ketchups, etc. from our stay in Florida last winter. We only bought a small mustard, bread, bologna, milk, and cereal.
Today I'm off to spend some time with Mother. She's still in Assisted Living and dealing with terrible pain. Tomorrow I'm going with her to the hospital for an epidural steroid injection to her lower back. Oh, how I hope she can get some relief.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Nice Nest - 1st Trip Part 1
Here we are, at last in our nest on wheels! We flew into Orlando yesterday and Barbara Elliot (the dive buddy we housesat for January - March) met us and took us to the RV repair place where we had it stored.
We're checked into a county park called Manatee Hammock on US1 in Cocoa. There are many little glitches and a gazillion things to learn how to do but we're getting there. In fact, Paul, the technician from Coastal RV, stopped by on his way home from work and helped Ed figure out a few things.
The RV has been parked at Coastal RV on US1 in Cocoa since March. 12 RVs were broken into -- flat screen TVs and other electronic equipment were the target. They broke the passenger window in our coach which will be covered by our insurance and they put a temporary plexiglass window in until we can get it fixed...............we thought nothing was taken.
During the time we were carrying our things in, I noticed the bedspread was missing but thought to myself how smart it was to put the new bedspread away so it wouldn't get dirty when they were working in there.
As we're getting ready for bed, Ed opened the space underneath to get the blanket and bedspread out. After searching every nook and cranny, we realized they weren't there. Ed, the optimist, said maybe they got it dirty and were having it cleaned. A call this morning confirmed what we really thought - they were stolen. Paul said they took the mattresses from 2 units and several other bedspreads........obviously to use for packing around all their TVs and other goodies.
Insurance will cover it but I doubt we'll find the same one - and I really liked it.......oh, well, it could be worse.
We're off to spend the day - what's left of it (It's already 11 am......retirees don't "do mornings" well) with Barbara. I'm "aquiver" with excitement because I'm going to Bonworth's, my favorite clothing store and Beall's, the place for deals.
We're checked into a county park called Manatee Hammock on US1 in Cocoa. There are many little glitches and a gazillion things to learn how to do but we're getting there. In fact, Paul, the technician from Coastal RV, stopped by on his way home from work and helped Ed figure out a few things.
The RV has been parked at Coastal RV on US1 in Cocoa since March. 12 RVs were broken into -- flat screen TVs and other electronic equipment were the target. They broke the passenger window in our coach which will be covered by our insurance and they put a temporary plexiglass window in until we can get it fixed...............we thought nothing was taken.
During the time we were carrying our things in, I noticed the bedspread was missing but thought to myself how smart it was to put the new bedspread away so it wouldn't get dirty when they were working in there.
As we're getting ready for bed, Ed opened the space underneath to get the blanket and bedspread out. After searching every nook and cranny, we realized they weren't there. Ed, the optimist, said maybe they got it dirty and were having it cleaned. A call this morning confirmed what we really thought - they were stolen. Paul said they took the mattresses from 2 units and several other bedspreads........obviously to use for packing around all their TVs and other goodies.
Insurance will cover it but I doubt we'll find the same one - and I really liked it.......oh, well, it could be worse.
We're off to spend the day - what's left of it (It's already 11 am......retirees don't "do mornings" well) with Barbara. I'm "aquiver" with excitement because I'm going to Bonworth's, my favorite clothing store and Beall's, the place for deals.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Do you "Bling"?
Step right up, folks, here's your BIG chance for the buy of a lifetime!!
In one of the shops at Dulles Airport, I saw blue bottles and white frosted bottles that looked like wine bottles for sale. They had the word "Bling" on them in shiny, glittery letters. And, what a total bargain - the large ones were only $49.94 and the small ones were only $29.95.
I sort of rubbed my eyes like they do in cartoons and had to verify with the clerk that I was seeing what I thought I was seeing and sure enough, the contents of the bottles were plain, ole water - as in drinking water!!!
Young people have been brainwashed to think that they must have the fancy Starbuck's coffee for $4 or more and that there is something wrong if you drink tap water.......you must pay money and get tap water in plastic bottles. Guess this Bling H2O is the next step in brainwashing!
In one of the shops at Dulles Airport, I saw blue bottles and white frosted bottles that looked like wine bottles for sale. They had the word "Bling" on them in shiny, glittery letters. And, what a total bargain - the large ones were only $49.94 and the small ones were only $29.95.
I sort of rubbed my eyes like they do in cartoons and had to verify with the clerk that I was seeing what I thought I was seeing and sure enough, the contents of the bottles were plain, ole water - as in drinking water!!!
Young people have been brainwashed to think that they must have the fancy Starbuck's coffee for $4 or more and that there is something wrong if you drink tap water.......you must pay money and get tap water in plastic bottles. Guess this Bling H2O is the next step in brainwashing!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Assisted Living for Mother
You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Bringing Our Baby Home
The time has finally arrived......Ed and I are flying out of Dulles on July 1st. We'll land in Orlando and our friend, Barbara Elliot is picking us up. We plan to go right to the place we have the coach stored and start RVing! We'll take about a week to return to Virginia.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Taking A Breather....
Things are progressing slowly for Mother. She has started her therapy and hopefully, by next Friday will be able to move into assisted living on a month by month basis for rehab. She is still having a lot of pain and it hurts to see her suffer so much. I think that being right there for her therapy instead of painfully having to get down her steps at home and into a car will be wonderful. Also, she won't have to worry about what to eat.
Several people have said she's going to be surprised how many people she already knows, plus she'll make some new friends. Our cousin (and dear friend), Jim Bowman, volunteers there as a driver a LOT. We know he'll be checking on her, especially when we travel.
The RV shelter is finished but we need to get Mother settled before we go to Florida to get our motor home. I won't be posting for a while but hope to start again when we hit the road!
Several people have said she's going to be surprised how many people she already knows, plus she'll make some new friends. Our cousin (and dear friend), Jim Bowman, volunteers there as a driver a LOT. We know he'll be checking on her, especially when we travel.
The RV shelter is finished but we need to get Mother settled before we go to Florida to get our motor home. I won't be posting for a while but hope to start again when we hit the road!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Mom's diagnosis
You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Friends from Albuquerque
Jerry and Kathy Millspaugh and I have been friends since about 1980 when I joined the Undersea Adventurers Scuba Club, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The club had about 200 people in it and we used to observe that it was half diving and half social. The friends I made there will always have a special place in my heart.Kathy had bad arthritis and noticed when they vacationed in dry climates, she felt much better. IBM worked out something so Jerry could complete his work from Albuquerque until he retired. They bought a fifth wheel RV, which they call their Roadhouse, and have traveled all over!! They usually spend the spring in Florida to be with their two children and their grandchildren.
This year, they're on a long planned trip to Canada and stopped here in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia for a visit to the Angelil homestead called Blueberry Hill. I took them to see cows being milked in a dairy barn, a house of 30,000 young chicks, and an egg operation. I think Kathy was especially pleased with the flat of eggs given to her.
Janet sorts eggs coming down the conveyor belt. Notice the chicken looking through the window.
Jerry and Ed watch............it's tedious work!
Janet sorts eggs coming down the conveyor belt. Notice the chicken looking through the window.
Jerry and Ed watch............it's tedious work!
Flat-out Like a Lizard Drinking Caring for Mom
(You may also find this post on Frances May's blog at http://howisfranmay.blogspot.com/ )
.......that's what they say in Australia when someone's super busy! In this case, I'm referring me being busy and to Mother (age 82) being flat-out.
.......that's what they say in Australia when someone's super busy! In this case, I'm referring me being busy and to Mother (age 82) being flat-out.
(I'm prejudiced because she's MY mom but, isn't she pretty?)
But, last Saturday this pain started in her lower back. Her doctor sent her for bloodwork and an MRI. He says it's not sciatica. He mentioned a pinched nerve but I am wondering if it could be a hernitated disc......this is her 9th day in pain. If she stays still, flat in bed, she feels OK but the slighted movement brings on such pain and those type spasms that "grab" you and are so strong they take your breath away.
We'll call the doctor first thing tomorrow and hopefully the MRI will show something! She can't keep on this way.
Anyway, one of the purposes of this post is to explain why I've gotten behind on my email responses. Ed's making some progress on the RV shelter.....got siding on the large wall and a small section of roof installed yesterday. I'm busy with Mother's care and sneaking out to garden as much as possible!
More later.....
Monday, May 19, 2008
Think before you shoot....
Put yourself in your photos!
I would like to make a suggestion that I think is very important. I lived in Australia for a year in 1974 and made a scrapbook when I got back. Now, all these years later, the only photos that really matter are the ones with me in them.
I used to think it seemed conceited to ask people to snap my picture but have gotten over it. One example is the grandmother or grandfather who takes pictures at all family gatherings but never puts herself/himself in them....PLEASE do yourself and your heirs a favor and get yourself into those pictures!
My dear aunt died 3 years ago and she was a world traveler. She had thousands of pictures in a gazillion albums, plus, thousands of photos in boxes everywhere. Out of a thousand, we might find one photo with her in it. We could care less about seeing a picture of a tree or a rock or a mountain.....we want to see Aunt Mary in those places! She could have just bought postcards and left her camera at home.
Please consider taking pictures that will mean something to you and your children in the future. People are always happy to snap a picture of you (they won't think you're vain and if they do, who cares?)....and there's always the self-timer feature on cameras these days. I rest my case.
p.s. Oops, "gotta" unrest my case to mention......
1. TRY your best to label the photos the moment you get them. Many people, like me, plan to do it later, then years later you find this sleeve of pictures and you have no idea where or when they were taken. The same goes for digital pictures......put a caption on them when you download them into your computer.
2. I've also learned that putting a caption below a photo in an album is great. But, most albums fall apart after 10-20 years and labels fall out. Do label your albums for enjoyable viewing, but also (They have acid free pencils made just for this.) label every photo on the back of the photo itself. (They have acid free pencils made just for this purpose.)
OK, now I really rest my case. 
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Lunch with Leslee (from Alaska)
May 1, 2008 - This is Part #2 from Email Mistake Yields New Friend
Mary May Angelil, Leslee Orebaugh from Alaska, Lois Brown Horne
TA DA! Email pals meet in person in Harrisonburg, VA.
Mary May Angelil, Leslee Orebaugh from Alaska, Lois Brown HorneI was not disappointed at all.........quite the contrary, Leslee was absolutely delightful! She's lively, self-confident, open and has had a fascinating life. We all have so much in common and talked over lunch for more than three hours! Lois went to the Iditarod Dog Sled races in February so they had lots to discuss.
I look forward to spending more time with Leslee, keeping touch through email, and maybe visiting her some day but I have NO thoughts of moving to Alaska (BRRrrr...
)
I look forward to spending more time with Leslee, keeping touch through email, and maybe visiting her some day but I have NO thoughts of moving to Alaska (BRRrrr...
) Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Roots in Singers Glen
This was the mother church for our church and several others. I am especially fond of this project because my great great grandfather, Levi May, was the assistant builder back in the early 1800's.
Old Salem has been re-established as a chapel that will serve as a memorial to the Christian congregations that shaped the character and culture of northwestern Rockingham County, Virginia.
Old Salem has been re-established as a chapel that will serve as a memorial to the Christian congregations that shaped the character and culture of northwestern Rockingham County, Virginia.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Email Mistake Yields New Friend
It never ceases to amaze me what a small world it is. Email has opened a whole new world of possibilities, as illustrated by the emails below.....
November 18, 2007 - I replied, "Wow, I've never known anyone who actually lives in Alaska
.......And that's how it all got began....... a series of emails as I got to "know" Leslee and her fascinating life story.
”Subject: we are closer than you think
She’s visiting Carolyn (her cousin and best friend). On Thursday, Leslee, Lois (my friend since first grade), Phyllis (her cousin, my good friend since high school) and I are going to have lunch together. (Carolyn has to work :( , poor dear.)
As I told Leslee on the phone, I feel like I'm going to meet a movie star and should ask for her autograph! Who would guess a mistaken email message reply from Leslee to me on
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May 1, 2008 - Click here for: LUNCH WITH LESLEE, My Email Pal!