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plainjane425

Belated Merry Christmas To All.

plainjane425
13 years ago

I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to wish you all

a Merry Christmas before this...

I will get an early 'jump start' and

Wish You All A Happy New Year...

Things have been very hectic here..since DF had his accident. I've been running daily back and forth to the Center to check on him and bring whatever personal items he needs or wants.

We had more sad news a few days before Christmas..

My DSIL who lost her DD on Mother's Day...lost her Nephew (her brother's son) a few days before Christmas (on his birthday). He was a year younger than her daughter.

It's been a rough year for this family, and I'm looking forward to the New Year..and happier times ahead.

I will try to read through the posts I missed and comment.

Once again..

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas....

jane

Comments (35)

  • jeannespines
    13 years ago

    Hugs & warm wishes to you & yours, jane...yes, here's to the New Year & happier times ahead. Hope DF is adjusting when & where he is able to do so. Jeanne S.

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Jane,
    My thoughts are with you and your family. This is our third year after a loss, (my 17 year old niece on 12/18/07) and I did shut down for a while. And, even though I did decorate this year for the first time, much in part because of this forum, I do love to look toward New Year's Day. I even love all the January magazines. While November and December magazines were beautiful with their busy covers, there is a peaceful feeling I get looking at the clean, white nature of all January's covers. I make sure I have a pile here for my sister (it was her daughter.) She got snowed out yesterday, but they'll be here soon.

  • lynninnewmexico
    13 years ago

    I came back here this morning specifically to find out how your father and Karen's dad are doing . . . and how you both are holding up, Jane. I'm so sorry to hear about another passing in your family. I agree, it's been a tough year for you all and pray that 2011 brings a respite and good health all around.
    Lynn

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Thank you Jeanne...Nancy and Lynne for your kind words and well wishes.
    Nancy..that's exactly how I felt this year about decorating..I just didn't have my heart in it as usual.
    However, I am looking forward to the New Year and yes, clean, white and peaceful brings good and soothing feelings.

    Lynn..you are so sweet for checking in, and appreciate your concerns. Dad is coming along..it's been a hard adjustment..
    but he's luckier than most his age to be doing so well. They are giving him 3 hrs of PT a day. He comes back tired, but all in all, in good shape.

    Jeanne...I had to laugh, right before Christmas, I had cut a bunch of vines from my property, with the intent on making that vine tree. I just looked out on my side porch this morning where they are still sitting, now covered in snow. They probably will be all dried up by the time I get to them.

    Thanks again everyone - I'm looking forward to some fun
    scapes to come.

    jane

  • luvstocraft
    13 years ago

    So glad to hear from you Jane, we had been concerned but knew you had allot on your plate this year and were probably just busy. So glad your DF is doing okay, and know the gkids had a wonderful Christmas no matter what! ;o)

    This year I am ready to put the decorations away early--lost a really good friend to cancer on the 23rd. And we were all missing my DIL's Dad who we lost the end of June. This was a sad Christmas for his wife and all of us. Thank heavens for our little GD, she sure did a great job of making us smile! ;o)

    Wish I could say I'm looking forward to the New Year, but my DH has been diagnosed with Dementia probably caused by his Diabetes--so know this year will be challenging in so many ways. I plan to try to enjoy each day with him and try to work with the doctors to get him as much help as I can. Prayer and patience is my new "motto". ;o)

    Luvs

  • kathleen_li
    13 years ago

    Jane, I had a feeling something was wrong. It has been a terrible year for you! My prayers that 2011 will be much kinder and happier, and healthier. My deepest sympathy on your loss, just awful!

  • oldalgebra
    13 years ago

    Oh, Jane. I can't imagine how one family can be hit with so much.

    You know, long ago when I was in my 40s, I said "Why me?" A friend of mine, older and wiser, replied, "You don't know how much sadness each person is carrying around." Then she proceeded to tell me about a few people we knew in common and the troubles they were bearing at the moment. I had no idea - and of course, was so focused on myself, wouldn't have noticed if they'd written me a letter about it.

    Here it is, years later, and life has thrown me some REAL curves since then. And even still, I see that I am lucky compared to so many.

    Isn't it nice to be able to type about some grief you are holding inside and get just a little relief. I am a pretty private person and I don't like to carry on to our social friends too much. What good will it do? Still, I need to unburden myself once in a while. Here is where you can come to do just that. When I first came here, I realized this was a place where strangers DO REALLY CARE. (Hey, Lynn pops in just to check up on a couple of the gals!) Luvs said to me the last time we "Craft-Faired" together, "You know, the people on the forum really are friends. Hey! We talk to each other everyday. That's often more than we talk to our real-life friends." I hadn't thought of that, but it's so true.

    Well, I am rambling, I know. But we all think of each other and worry and wonder and pray. (That's why I like the Faces Scrapbook Karen made for us. It helps me focus on the person when I'm mentally sending them good thoughts.)

    So continue to keep us up to date on your Dad's health. I wish you strength.

    P.S. To heck with the vines. There will be more to cut down and shape next year. Hang in there.

  • nana2010_gw
    13 years ago

    Jane I am so sorry for the rough year you've had. Some how The good Lord gives us the strength we need to cope with life.
    Luvs, I am so very sorry about your husband. I read your post several times to be sure I read it correctly. I don't have the words to express what I want to say. I wish I could reach out and give you a hug,
    NanaK

  • lynnencfan
    13 years ago

    ((hugs)) and prayers to you Jane and to all who have had sadness this holiday season. I lost my mother who lived with me the past 7years in February and Christmas was different for us too but we sisters did do a lot of reminiscing as we divided up some of her Christmas decoration based on siblings attachment and memories. While it was bittersweet it also left us with great memories and smiles - ((hugs)) again to everyone .....

    Lynne

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Luvs..I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. Please accept my sincere sympathy. As for your DH's diagnosis, I know it must be frightening not knowing what to expect. Have faith in knowing that there are so many new studies and information coming out each day, as well as new medications that can help slow down the disease and improve people's lives. My prayers are with you both, to help face this challange.

    Kathleen..Thank you...I guess you know by now I'm usually chattering about CTS or something.. so when I'm quiet, you're sweet to notice something's amiss.
    Thanks for noticing and caring.

    OA..I can relate to everything you say about bringing your feelings here rather than a 'Social Friend', and how much more easier it is to do so. I'm usually a very private person too. In fact, in the past, I've had friends say they never knew that anything was wrong (on my end) and even envied me for what seemed a 'perfect life'. It was so much easier when I worked, to escape from any troubles by just working harder. Being home..you're kind of faced with it every day and there's no place to 'hide'! So yes, every once in a while, I find it's a great escape to, 'unburden' yourself. Everyone here is always so supportive, so non judgemental, and most of all so Caring! Just like you now, offering your concern. Thank you... I loved all you had to say..

    jane

  • phonegirl
    13 years ago

    Jane, So sorry you have had so much to deal with lately. We do need to remember that God needs all stages of the rose with him in heaven. The garden wouldn't be complete w/o some buds. Hard to accept but the open rose doesn't last long.

    I didn't know your DF had an accident. Hope he is doing better and can return home soon. How is your DD doing now?

    Happy belated Christmas and A Happy New Year to You and Yours and Everyone on here!

    Punk

  • yachter123
    13 years ago

    Jane, thinking of you & your dad thru this holiday season, hospitals are not places you want to visit loved ones, but it happens & we somehow get thru.
    I know, was there with my mom when she didn't even know we were there some years ago. Very sad & very difficult.

    It is very good to have so many friends here who really do care.

  • janet1_2007
    13 years ago

    Luvs, I am so sorry to hear of all that you are facing and realize that when we are in "uncharted waters" it can be so scary. Please know that you have all our prayers and support. I am also adding my sympathies on the loss of your friends. Hoidays are so hard on people who have had recent losses.
    Jane and Karen, my prayers are with you both. I certainly know how stressfull and tiresome the days are for both of you. It has been 3 yrs since I lost my DM and 12 since my DD passed away after a long struggle with lung cancer, but I haven't forgotten how hard that was.I haven't posted much durung the holidays, have just had too much going on. I have became a Great Grand Mother this past week, a beautiful little girl, and with that and getting ready for family to come, which the weather prevented, anyway, and an optomitrist appointment in another town, I just havent had time, but I have been thinking of you all. I hope everybody had a great Christmas--we haven't had ours yet the kids are hoping that the weather will improve and they can all get home Sat. , so I am thankful that I was so late getting my tree up; maybe it won't start shedding all it's needles before next weekend.My optomitrist .told me that he once worked with a man that always said "If you want to hear God laugh, just tell Him your plans" I guess He must have had a good laugh at me ; seems like all my plans got bashed by the weather this Christmas, but nevertheless, we are all well so we can still give thanks. Happy holidays to all my special friends, Janet

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Ahhh...one of my favorite Yiddish expressions: "Mentsch tracht, Gott lacht." "Man plans, God laughs."

  • luvstocraft
    13 years ago

    Nana, Jane, and Janet, thanks for your prayers and words of comfort. Yep, it's been a hard year and a half of noticing changes in DH and trying again and again to get our doctor to realize something was going on.

    Didn't mean to hijack your post Jane. I hope your SIL is doing okay, really hard to lose two loved one in one year. And I'm really glad your Dad has such a strong will to get better--that's half the battle I think.

    Luvs

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Now isn't this what makes this forum so special??
    So many of us dealing with some difficult situation, yet we take the time to reach out to offer Prayers, Support and Caring Words to one another...and it truly helps.

    Nana...thank you for caring..and your support.
    Lynnnc..I think holidays get harder as we get older..missing those who are no longer with us...Good you have your sisters to share such happy memories.
    Punk...such lovely words about 'The Rose' to think about.
    It's been a rough year for DD..for her too, we encourage -one step at a time.
    Yachter...yes, seems Holidays bring up both good and sad memories of loved we've lost at this time. I agree it's nice having caring friends here to help ALL of us get through it.
    janet..Thank You, and congratulations on your new GGdtr.
    I remember you had concerns about her delivery. Glad all is well and you will get to enjoy happy times with her.
    Have Faith that the weather clears for you and your family,
    so you all can have that Christmas gathering together.
    I also hope YOU get to have the last laugh on making those plans happen!!
    Nancy...I guess that expression can fit many of us here. Maybe we should make those plans 'quietly'!! lol

    jane

  • Purplemoon
    13 years ago

    Jane, I don't know what I can add that hasn't already been said...and said so well. This post has me feeling very emotional. My heart just breaks for all the sadness and pain so many here are dealing with. I've cried reading it.

    I am glad over the bits of good news, your Dad doing well after his fall. I hope after the PT he will be his independent self again.
    Janet, that little angel girl who's just graced your family sure came at a good time. What a Christmas present she is for all of you! You must be so happy having a great grand-daughter! I hope your kids arrive soon and all of you have wonderful Christmas this week.

    Luvs, what can I say? I know things have been really difficult on you, not knowing what was wrong. And now to have this diagnosis...I am praying for strength for you as you deal with this horrible disease your DH has. And praying that it can be controlled for as long as possible and this coming year will give you both many more good times. (my oldest friend's widowed MIL has had it for several years and she lived alone up until a few months ago.)

    OA, what you said about the folks here..and what Luvs said to you..is so well put. There aren't strangers here, we're as real a friends as anywhere. Seems we all have so much in common, good and bad. The support and caring is just amazing, and yet I'd expect nothing less from this bunch I've come to know so well.

    For those of you who wondered about my Dad since he came home from the hospital a week ago, its been rough, he's totally bedridden. He can't even turn over in bed by himself. I don't know how much longer I can take care of him at home, but am taking it one day at a time. (all this because the fool doctor gave him pills he NEVER should have without consulting with Dad's kidney specialist! I'm very angry to say the least!!) On Christmas Eve, my oldest son got Dad to my daughter's house for the big family get-together for us. Michael is so strong, and he had to pick Dad up like he was child, SIX times from bed to wheelchair and car and back again. Dad had no trouble sitting in the wheelchair and really enjoyed the evening. This was my best gift this year! Here he is with my daughter on the left and my beloved DDIL (Jason's wife) on the right. A memory I will cherish.
    {{gwi:1457140}}

    hugs from my heart to all of you,
    Karen

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Karen...this made me choke up reading about your Dad.
    I'm so sorry that this terrible mistake was made
    on his medication. It's also so frightening to know that this was done w/o consulting anyone first and now the terrible consequences for your Dad.
    How heartwarming to read about your Son carrying your Dad in his arms..isn't it amazing how the roles reverse. The picture of your daughter and DIL with your Dad is just prescious. You have a lovely family.
    Enjoy the good moments each day you have him with you..they will become the wonderful memories in the future.

    jane

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    I agree, Jane. Picturing a son carrying a father ... says a lot about how he was raised.
    And that picture is beautiful.

  • excessfroufrou
    13 years ago

    Jane, Luvs, and Karen I'm adding all of you to my prayers. Every day on my way to work I pray, it used to take me 5 minutes to get to work, but we moved to a new building last week and now it takes me 10 minutes, God knew I needed that extra 5 minutes so I can get all my forum friends in too. It's so nice that this forum is such a nice cozy place to retreat to for us when were are feeling down. I wish y'all a super wonderful New Year over flowing with much inspiration and cheer.
    Frou

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Frou,
    You sound like the personification of "In all things, give thanks."
    Nancy

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Frou... May Blessings Be With You Always.

    I believe there's a 'Reason For Everything'...
    Thank you for extending your prayers to all of us here.

    jane

  • luvstocraft
    13 years ago

    Appreciate the prayers Frou, thank you. I used to use my commute time the same way, now it's usually when I take my walks. I suppose anyone who sees me either thinks I'm singing or talking to myself! LOL

    Sure hate it that so many of us are going through difficult times, but the good part is that coming here and seeing some pretty pics gets our minds off our troubles for awhile and gives us a few minutes of R&R that we all need.

    Love you all,

    Luvs

  • nana2010_gw
    13 years ago

    There seem to be so much heartache on this little forum right now. I think that we all draw strength from each other. I feel truly blessed to have found such a wonderful group of caring people. You are right Luvs coming here a looking at all the pretty pictures is the best medicine.
    Has anyone heard from Milosmom? She hasn't posted in a while.
    NanaK

  • jeannespines
    13 years ago

    Karen...that pic is more precious than gold! Thank you for sharing it with us! Your words brought to mind a favorite children's pic bk that I gifted to my 3 adult children for Christmas the yr I was so deathly sick. It's called "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch... Your Michael & DD reminded me of this book.

    Amazon.com Review
    The mother sings to her sleeping baby: "I'll love you forever / I'll love you for always / As long as I'm living / My baby you'll be." She still sings the same song when her baby has turned into a fractious 2-year-old, a slovenly 9-year-old, and then a raucous teen. So far so ordinary--but this is one persistent lady. When her son grows up and leaves home, she takes to driving across town with a ladder on the car roof, climbing through her grown son's window, and rocking the sleeping man in the same way. Then, inevitably, the day comes when she's too old and sick to hold him, and the roles are at last reversed. Each stage is illustrated by one of Sheila McGraw's comic and yet poignant pastels. (Ages 4 to 8(

    Good thoughts & prayer ... & a hug to those of you in need. So often, I wish it could come from me in person...but am grateful for this forum as a way of sending caring words. Jeanne S.

    {{gwi:127946}}

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Each of my children has that book in their "special box." At 17 and 20, they still have it memorized. The title chokes me up; as often as we read it, I never made it through without tears. Not really sad tears; overwhelmed with love tears.

  • Purplemoon
    13 years ago

    Jeanne, when Jason was in the burn center, my wonderful SIL sent me that book. So I have it too. It makes me teary, but I LOVE it. Especially that last picture. I figure that will be Jas and I someday...

  • luvstocraft
    13 years ago

    It's a very moving story Jeanne, I don't have the book but I know the story. Of course it doesn't take much to bring tears to my eyes--I've always been sentimental "mush". LOL

    That must have been a really difficult year for you. I'm so glad you got through it and are here sharing with us now. Times like that really make us realize what's important and what's not, don't they?

    Blessings to all,
    Luvs

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Luvs,
    Yes.
    Nancy

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Jeanne..my daughter was given that book when she was little and passed it down to her first born.
    I took him to school with me when he was 4 and he read it to my class (through memory)..the kids all loved it..
    Since then, it's been passed down to each of his 3 siblings who love it as well.

    jane

  • phonegirl
    13 years ago

    After reading all of your posts here tonight, I wish I had more time to spend with all of you on here. I loved reading each post and loved seeing the picture of DD with DDad and DIL, Karen. Your all so Special and it's hard knowing your going through tough times. I will head to bed with all of you in my heart and keep all of you in my prayers. Here's a poem for all of you.

    Why GOD Gave Us Friends

    GOD knew that everyone needs
    Companionship and cheer,
    He knew that people need someone
    Whose thoughts are always near.

    He knew they need someone kind
    To lend a helping hand.
    Someone to gladly take the time
    To care and understand.

    GOD knew that we all need someone
    To share each happy day,
    To be a source of courage
    When troubles come our way.

    Someone to be true to us,
    Whether near or far apart.
    Someone whose love we'll always
    Hold and treasure in our hearts.

    That's Why GOD Gave Us Friends!

    Take Care My Dear Friends,

    Punk

  • luvstocraft
    13 years ago

    That's lovely Punk, thank you for sharing. We sure enjoy it when you can find time to come here and we understand that you are a super busy gal. Happy New Year. Luvs

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    I agree with Luvs - Punk, that's lovely and
    you're so sweet to take the time from your busy schedule, to visit and share all that you do with us.
    All the Best to You and YOur Family, In The New Year...

    jane

  • nancyjeanmc
    13 years ago

    Jane, Karen and Luvs (And everyone else here with a heavy heart),
    This is a unique family, and I pray God gives comfort to each one during this season, when so many seem to "celebrate" blindly. I am grateful for His mercies each morning. I trust Him for even more New Year's Morn.
    So glad to "know" each and every one of you.
    Nancy

  • plainjane425
    Original Author
    13 years ago

    Thank you for such touching words Nancy...
    I'm so glad you found 'our family' and
    we'll be looking forward to having you here with us now
    too.

    jane

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