Black Dog 18

Good evening all. How has everyone been today?
nadateturbe not to worry just good to hear from you. So pleased your son is visiting. Don’t do too much so that you are worn out. . I’m sure it’s you he’s come to see not a tidy house.
Good idea they get out and about during the day then you can have a nice catch up over dinner.
Hope the tablets help and you feel better soon.
Ellie Anne nice you get to see people out on your walks. Do you tend to see the same people. DH and I did when we used to go for our walks. Haven’t been for a walk for ages now. It’s really bad.
Hymnbook how lovely your DGD wants you to go to her graduation. Something nice to look forward to.
These dark evenings aren’t good are they,
Sorry you feel weary. I have very little energy these days.
4 granddaughters, that’s nice do you see them much?
Your little great nephew I bet is the centre of attention. Lovely age when they’re toddlers.
HVDY DHs leg is much better thanks. My wrist seems to have reached a plateau. I can use it reasonably well but it’s still very stiff. Sounds as though your family had a good time at the pool. I Hope thé baby didn’t go down the shute 😮 🤣
Is the aqua aerobics any better now? Don’t know how you have the energy. I couldn’t do any exercises if I tried now.
Well done you for sorting out the surgery. Shame they needed to be prompted about it. Hope the appointment goes well.
Scaredycat isn’t it funny how some views are good no matter what the weather. No we haven’t been for a walk for ages. It’s really bad. I was just thinking today how unfit I am. Put on so much weight it’s awful.
Sweetpeasue are you ok? Hope you’ve not had a bad weekend. Sending hugs and to you too Wyllow

Take care back all xx

Afternoon all, hope all ok.
Ellie Anne it must be lovely to live by two beaches. I would like that. I’m sorry about your friend, I hope the funeral won’t be too difficult for you.
Scaredycat thank you for your kind comments. I think my feelings for my son are caused by going through so much with him due to his illness. It’s a trauma response but one I’m dealing with better now thanks to the ADs. I love the light too, I find the dark so oppressive. Hope you managed a walk after the golf and were able to enjoy it. The place where you are sounds idyllic. One of the reasons I learned to swim was to be able to do cold water swimming but I haven’t ventured yet. It’s supposed to be so good for your well being. Maybe one day.
Doodle yes, I love all the colours of the leaves too. The wood where I walk is only small with open fields at both sides so I never feel threatened. I know things can happen anywhere but I do feel safe where I live and I like to take my dog out on dark nights so I don’t feel too enclosed. I don’t go to the wood when it’s dark though, I stick to the well lit main roads. I’m glad your DH’s leg is better and I hope your wrist loosens up soon.
Nadaterturbe I hope you are enjoying your son’s visit even though you’ve been feeling poorly. I hope you feel better now.
Hymnbook how nice to go to your GD’s graduation, you will feel very proud I’m sure. Do you like animals at all? Not everyone does I know but my dog has really been my lifeline over the past couple of years when my MH has been bad. He’s been my go to when I need some space just to get out and clear my head. MH issues can make you feel very alone, even if you’ve got family around and I really don’t know what I’d do without him. I think Pets give us a focus and are good company. Everyone is different though of course.
HVDY your family get together sounded nice, I’m sure they all enjoyed their swimming. I know I’ve just learned to swim but I have to say I’m not a fan of slides and flumes but the children love them don’t they. Your view sounds lovely too. I can see trees from the gardens at the back of us but some of them are becoming a nuisance but it’s nice we’re not overlooked. Well done for getting your husband sorted with an appointment. It’s a pity you had to fight so hard but at least you got there in the end.
Wyllow thinking of you and hoping you are getting the help you need.

I’ve been working from home today. Im not a fan of that as I like the social contact but there are advantages. I’ve been catching up during my lunch and short coffee breaks. Going to Pilates and swimming later but I do need a little nap straight after work so I have the energy to do it.
I hope everyone has had the best day possible. Hopefully pop back later.
Love to all xx

How's everyone been today? I've been busy - had my roots done at the hairdresser's, then went home, briefly. Visited SIL in hospital (she's been there almost 2wks, they don't yet know where to send her). She was very confused, thought she was at home, with "family" looking at her stuff and wanting to take it . Visited brother - he's very depressed and spends every bit of the day overthinking, stressing, etc. Picked up Son1 from work and took him home - his car failed the MOT and won't be ready until tomorrow. His 12yr old is very unhappy at home, with mum and troubled older sister both being nasty. Mum drinks a lot, most days Just got in, DH is making spag bol. He's been at Son2's, helping with some job there. Today's been miserable. Hope everyone's been ok today x

Nadateturbe Hope you're not feeling sick now and are able to enjoy your son's visit. You will want to enjoy your time with them so hoping your energy levels are not too low.
HVDY Thank goodness the surgery have responded to your letter. Its good you have F2F as when we have just telephone calls I don't get to be involved with DHs appts. Its so disappointing. Ive left messages again with secretaries of Drs in Pain Management. They didnt reply to those a week ago. One told me, about 4mths ago, I had appt on 30th November. Someone rang me this afternoon that I should have got confirmation of that appt which I never have had. Thankgoodness its been confirmed. Yet I feel so panicky about it.
Doodle I had a Urethral Dilatation op under GA 10 yrs ago when a woman Urologist thought I had Interstitial Cystitis. I matched all the symptoms, although there's still no universal agreement with Urologists. I kept having flares that lasted months then it would settle for a while. I had been in 'remission' from symptoms for a while and had no symptoms when I had that Investigative Hysteroscopy for some post - menopausal spotting. This bladder pain feels different and is much worse and no frequency of passing urine. I think it could be some nerve problem but just dont know. Thankyou for caring. I have felt so low again. Hoping you're ok today and DH too.
Scaredycat Hope you're having a lovely time. Nice of you to take time to come in on your hol.
Candy Hope you enjoy your swimming and Pilates. I'm sorry that the trauma about your son still tries to intervene. I think the Ads will have helped with that- I know theyve helped me though I have felt myself slipping back lately.
EllieAnne You do amazingly well with your walking and helping out your family You underestimate yourself and your courage to keep going.
Wyllow Thinking of you as always and sending you love and a hug.

Son and GF came back from hol engaged. So pleased for them though an invite to dinner at theirs on Sunday was cancelled as GF has Covid. Couldnt have gone anyway as DH has heavy cold n sore throat, plus my pain. Had flu jabs Sunday before so could be that.

Both pleased and terrified about PM appt. Hardly slept last 2 nights as woke thinking the lack of appt with PM could be to do with whats on my record about when pain started and cover up. I'm so scared of relating and referring to it and I want to run away from it. Ive had palpitations today, am just panicking about the whole thing. Suppose they dont have an answer to my pain? I might just get offered acupuncture, mindfulness. Ive been trying to put what happened behind me and now I feel that I might be judged again about what happened. I'm not ready for that. Thank goodness have DH with me but I couldn't bear it not to be believed. They have it all on my records anyway. Sorry for going on - Im in such a state.

Hello all
Candy I too would love to live by the sea. Always enjoy beach or coastal walks. There’s something different about the atmosphere at the seaside. I also love the sound of gulls.
So pleased the ADs are helping you. Some people find it hard to get started in them as they’re afraid of addiction but sometimes we need that help. Nice to feel safe where you live. A dog is a good companion too. Are you allowed to work from home if you want to? Both my sons have that option. I think it’s good although as you say the companionship is missing.
nadateturbe hope you’ve had a good day today with your DS and DIL are they staying long? Do they live far away?
HVDY sad day for you with the state of your brother and his wife. He obviously misses her being around. Your poor DGDs. Not good when a mum drinks to that extent. Thank goodness she’s got her dad to confide in. So many haven’t. I’ll pray for them, sounds like all three of those girls need some comfort.
Enjoy your spag bog.
Sweetpeasue why aren’t you involved with your DHs appointments? Is it because he wants to do things on his own?
Thanks for explaining. You certainly have been through the mill will your bladder problems. I read somewhere about someone called a gynae urologist. Have you heard of such a person, would it be an idea to try and see one? Thank goodness your appointment for the Pan clinic has been confirmed . You have waited far too long as it is.
Oh what lovely news about your son’s engagement. That should lift the spirits a bit. Is she nice?
If your PM appointment doesn’t go as you want it to then book a private one with someone else. My advice (not that you’ve asked for it 😊) would be to try going with a written list of when and how your pain occurs and anything you’re aware of that triggers it. Don’t mention the long background to your case unless they ask specific questions. You’re going because you have pain now, often, badly and it has affected your quality of life significantly. Tell them all this including the bit about quality of life. Let them do the talking and answer briefly their questions. Sorry if that sounds bossy. I don’t mean it to. I’ve just been to so many appointments with DH and I know clinicians are on short time so in the time available you need to get your point across. I’m here because……and I need help for it. The more you wander from the point the more they’ll forget why you’re there. Please start making notes now as you think of things and then re read them, refine them, cut them down to bullet points and…..don’t be bullied. You have a right to help. You have suffered so much for such a long time. I really hope and pray this meeting goes well for you and they don’t let your down.
Wyllow I wish you were getting some help too. I don’t like to think of you being on your own with your thoughts all the time. I hope you have some companionship and are still managing to get to Quakers. x
Scaredycat hope you’re having a good time. When do you move on to the next place (I think you said you were going to two places on the coast.)

Doodle Thankyou for those suggestions-they make absolute sense, especially considering the complicated background. I knew the background (complications of Hysteroscopy) was to blame /connected for/to uterus and bowel pain but that seems dealt with now and my bladder pain is most likely something unconnected. (though DH thinks could still be to do with back problem since that Hysteroscopy, which might be possible as nerves from low back nerve go through lower pelvis. I need to let them do the finding out. If we're not satisfied I'll certainly arrange a private appt. Ive had appt for back clinic (couple of weeks) and should be getting appt for knee in a month.
I like son's GF v much (they met last Christmas, llived tog 6mths). I gave her some flowers and chocolates (via son from a distance on Sunday) Son said she was 'made up' about it. 🙂
We can't pre-book F2F appts and they are 'rationed' ridiculously so DHs appt often on phone. He prefers me to go with him where possible.
Thankyou for your kind words and encouragement Doodle.
HVDY Sorry youve had a bad day. You must be so fed up about fighting for healthcare for DH and also worried about your GD and SIL. It is upsetting to see someone deteriorate and feel helpless about it. Youve still your own appt coming up too. So hope you get help for yourself too.

Good evening, sorry I'm not on much. Taking it easy. Feeling a little better, nausea not so bad.. Son is here Mon- Friday. They come for dinner and chat after, leave early. Coming for coffee in the morning then going out for the day. They are great company and it's not too tiring. It's working well. Of course we would love to spend the day out with them, but couldn't manage it. I'm content about it.
I've read your posts and thinking about you all, have just said my prayers for everyone.
Hoping for a peaceful night for everyone xx

SweetpeaSue The surgery have only offered a F2F for DH because I wrote to the Practice Manager, otherwise they'd have done sod-all again. You have suffered so much and for so long, but I'm glad you've got the PM clinic appointment, and hope someone gets you the pain management you need. As Doodle says, make notes and let these people know what's been happening, and for how long. Lovely news about your son and his GF. When our children are happy and settled, it makes all the difference, doesn't it?

Nadateturbe Glad you're enjoying spending time with your son and DIL. Do you have to cook for you all, or are you able to go out to eat?

Doodle Hope you and your husband are getting on alright. Did you go out today? It was pleasant weather here today, apart from a brief shower this afternoon.

Wyllow, ScaredyCat, Candy, EllieAnne, and all other BDers - hope you've all been ok today.

I spoke to my eldest GD earlier -her mum had taken the other 2 girls to Goose fair ( a big, yearly event, lasting 10 days, in Nottingham) but not her, so she's been home alone all evening. Her dad (Son1) is going to take her and GD2 (her sister) on Thursday, and they'll meet Son2 and his little family there.

Hope everyone has a restful night x

HVDY very simple meals. I feel more comfortable at home and can eat something plain. . I prepare veg husband cooks. We could have done with your assistance
😁.
Going out for dinner with other sons family as well Thursday evening . Hopefully won't feel sick.
Glad your surgery listened to you.
Glad you have appointment Sweetpeasue.
I do hope you get out for a walk soon Doodle.
Love to Wyllow wondering how you are.*
Scaredycat hope holiday is going well.
Hello to Candy EllieAnne Whiff Hymnbook Allsorts Nanny.

Nadateturbe Glad you are coping with your son's visit and they are so understanding of your condition. Pleased the nausea is settling and not so bad. Thankyou for your prayers. It's really good of you.
HVDY Oh yes, when our family are happy it means so much. My DH spoke to our GP surgery manager about the way my rash was handled. He received a decent apology. Those lesions were so bright red after being told to use steroid cream for so long. Was told to use more steroid by GP that sent me to wrong surgery. She reckoned it was most likely psoriasis, without even seeing it, despite my saying another GP thought he would send a photo to Dermatologist if his prescribed cream didnt work. I'm still using the Sudacrem.
.

Just caught up HVDY. Sorry, everything seems so hard for you atm, so many family problems. x
Thank you Sweetpeasue. Hope you get the rash sorted out. Treatment just not good enough.x

Sending love and hugs back xx. Not enough help but some.

nadateturbe Hope your meal with your other son goes well tomorrow. What do you usually choose when you're out? I like to have fish, as don't usually cook it at home - it's one of the many things DH doesn't like. There are a lot of problems, but none are mine, if you know what I mean.

SwetpeaSue The GP who said you might have Psoriasis without having seen the rash is an idiot. A diagnosis can't be made without you been seen or at least photos not being seen. The type on the chest/under breasts is called Inverse Psoriasis. Google it for images.

I'm meeting my friend soon, for lunch. Her adult children don't want anything to do with her and have told her that. She's seen her youngest GC twice in almost a year (they live 2 hours drive away but won't bring the baby to see her). I'll be hearing about all that. I know I'm extremely lucky. Hope ALL BDers manage to have a decent day x

HowVeryDareYou. Sorry about your friend being estranged from adult children and grandchildren is hard. There is a thread on the estrangement forum. Started by Smiless2012 it's the support thread. I don't know how I would have got through the last 3 years without the support,advice, understanding and most of all friendship. My son dumped me via email and follow up letter. I have a grandson who I don't even know his name or date of birth. But I got to know their eldest 2. For 7 months he came here with them every week. I had a kind and loving son for 32 years. Then I found out he is cruel and cowardly. But I don't hate him or my daughter in law. I still love my son and my grandson's even the one I have never met. But any love I had for my daughter in law died when she wrote on Reddit she had been writing vile things about me for over a year before I moved here. But it was one sentence that killed the love . FIL died to get away from MIL. I thought how can anyone who loves my son write something so wicked about a man she never knew.

The estrangement support thread might help your friend.

Hello all.
I,m so cross with myself !! I wrote a long post and reviewed then obvs forgot to post !! So just to send love to all and hope you all have a peaceful night. Will pop in tomorrow- the Internet here is pants so hope it is ok . Xxx

HVDY Googled inverse psoriasis and rash doesn't look anything like that. I'll give it another week with Sudacrem then contact GP if it doesn't go. I got a letter postponing my appt with psychiatrist next week for another 2 weeks. She prescribes the ADs and I'll have ran out of them next week. Had this carry on last time. Just as well I see MH nurse tomorrow. Not seen him for a month.
Everything seems chaotic. Hope youve had a better day today.
Doodle I woke in middle of night and couldnt sleep for worrying about everything. I know you get times like that too when the worries seem hard to put aside. I remember you mentioned a Gynae-Urologist. My pain is in bladder now so I don't think I need the Gynae part.Although Adenomyosis was seen I haven't bled for a long time and last Gynaecologist at RVI doesnt think anything else is necessary as everything has now settled and no uterus pain. Sorry your wrist is still stiff. It must be annoying as it will stop you doing things that you want to do. You will want the strength and mobity back.
Scaredycat Dont worry, we just want you to enjoy your holiday. Its really frustrating when you've made that effort to find the right words. Hope weather is good where you are.
Nadateturbe I hole your tummy and sickness is a little better. You will want to be right for tomorrow when you and family are out for a meal together.

I'm so v tired today. Have done too much, own fault. Son needed someone to take GS to school this morning as had to be somewhere. Have had morning pain all week so DH said hed do it in case. Had pain this morning so in bed when son dropped him off. Just had 4 hrs of 'play' with him and Ive overdone it and feel terrible. DH not happy so I'm in the 'doghouse!'
So tired with everything-cant please everyone. Only DH understands really. The steroids have helped his pain though his foot still hurts and swollen.

Take care all BDs. x

Whiff You know firsthand how upsetting estrangement is. It must be awful. Thanks for your suggestion, but my friend doesn't use Gransnet. She has tried to maintain contact with her children, but their resentment of her goes back a long way.

SweetpeaSue Will your MH nurse be able to prescribe the ADS? Hope you have a decent night's sleep tonight. Playing with children is knackering .

My SIL was seen by a Physio on the ward yesterday, when I was there. He asked me lots of questions about her mobility before she originally went into the care home, also about the falls, then he helped her (by putting his hand on her back) to walk 8ft, with a Zimmer frame. He's based an assessment on the 15 minutes he saw her, and has recommended that she go to a different hospital (near to me), for rehab, when a bed becomes available, to a stroke rehabilitation ward. What nonsense. She needs to be in a nursing home.

Hope ALL BDers have a restful night x

Whiff I can only imagine what you have been through and must still be going through with in estrangement with son. I would think it must be like a bereavement though much more complicated. I fully agree about how valuable these threads can be. It must be comforting to know others who have been through similar experiences and can fully understand. I'm so sorry youve had so much grief and pain. X

Been to church this morning. Had a nice time and chat after.
Sweetpeasue so pleased you like your son’s girlfriend. She sounds nice. Good you get on. I Hope your rash settles soon. I agree with HVDY the Gp shouldn’t have decided what it was without seeing it.
I think a lot of appointments are being cancelled because of the doctors strike. Doesn’t help if you run out of meds though. Hope the MH nurse can help.
Difficult not to play with your DGS. Times with them are so precious and it’s hard to explain to a youngster you’re not feeling well. Hope you recover quickly and have a restful peaceful night.
nadaterturbe nice to have your son with you for a few days, sounds like you’re all enjoying it. Hope you have a nice time out with your other son. Can you check the menu first and decide on an option you think you can cope with. Hope it goes well.
HVDY why on earth would your DGDs mum take two of her children and leave one out? Doesn’t seem fair at all. Isn’t she only 12. She can’t leave her alone at home that’s awful. I’m so glad she’s got you to talk to. I Hope she has a good time with her dad and enjoys her day out with him. I think from what you’ve said they get on well.
I’m sorry for your friend. Must be hard for her not being in contact with her family. Hope you have a nice lunch when you meet up.
Your poor SIL is being moved from pillar to post. I agree she certainly should be in a proper nursing home.
Whiff your post shocked me. Your DIL is cruel and wicked to say such awful things. Your love for your DH and the bond you had is evident for all to see. What she said must have been so hurtful to you. She must be a very unpleasant person to write such things.
Scaredycat I’ve done the same before. So annoying isn’t it. Thanks for popping in. Hope you’re having a good time.
Wyllow glad you are having some help. I Hope you get more. Take care.x

Absolutely shattered. Sorry can't answer everyone. Chatting every eveningis tiring. Sweetpeasue I'm sure your GP will give you ADS if you explain. Just to say thinking of everyone. xx

Night night and warmest wishes BD's. Just cant communicate xx

Sweetpeasue there is Psoriasis Association just Google it and it will appear. Full of helpful advice and you can talk to people who have it. My son in law has it very bad on both elbows and extends to part of his arms. Apparently your body produces to much skin that layers up and makes it itchy ,scaly and can bleed . It's something to do with your immune system. Might be worth a read. There are certain foods which can make it worse. Hopefully it will help you .

HVDY estrangement is a living grief. Smiles and Yogin on the support thread recommended a very good book it's only 101 pages and is easy to read and written by someone who is estranged from her children. I got my copy from Amazon it's by Sharon A Wildey and called Abandoned Parents: The Devil's Dilemma. She's American but she talks to other estranged parents. I don't normally like self help books but it helped me. It might help your friend if she reads it.

I will never understand why my son has done what he has and he called me vindictive and manipulative 2 things I have never been or ever will . But in the 3 years since his email I have only contacted him 3 times via text . When I had my diagnosis and told him I was sending a copy of the letter from my neurologist. He didn't reply,2nd time was when my best friends husband who died . He has know them both all his life and knows how important she is to me again silence . But 2 months ago I decided 1 final try . I text him and had abuse back. So I am done . I have allowed him to hurt me for 3 years no more. My husband dieing hurts me far more than what my son has done. But if they think they are the perfect parents they are in for a rude awakening as my grandson's get older. The oldest is 7 in a few days his brothers are 5 and 3. I know a lot of things I have seen with my own eyes things they have done wrong with the 2 grandson's I know but never said a word. I will never deny I have a son and 3 grandson's. As I love them. And because I can talk about it thanks to the support thread. People I have met have opened up and told me about their family. I have even given people a cuddle as they talk to me because they needed it. They thought they where on their own and felt it was shameful and people would blame them saying they must be bad parents. But it's not the parents fault it's our children who decide to dump us.

Luckily I have a wonderful daughter,son in law and 2 grandson's who I see weekly. My son in law said when the estrangement happened he knew something had been wrong for years but wouldn't say anything to hurt me. Thats the big difference between the to couples my daughter and son in law have always trusted me completely with with both my grandson's. When the oldest was born I still had the limb jerks and seizures but they trusted me to look after him on my own for 2-3 hours at a time . My daughter said you never hurt us growing up so why would you hurt him.

The limb jerks started in 1988. But I have had pains in my legs and fell a lot since a young child. My GP in 1988 told me I was disabled. It wasn't until my diagnosis last year I used the D word . But have to admit I have been disabled since birth. Since March 2020 been on Clonazepam and within 2 weeks my limbs where still after 32 years of not being able to control them. Not had a jerk or seizure since.

My son and daughter in law never trusted me in the same room alone with my grandsons and my son never came to any harm as he was 6 months when the limb jerks started.

Sorry have taken over to don't want HVDY's friend to think she's alone. She's not . You give your children unconditional love and support. Unfortunately once they are adults they choose to dump their parents . It's not just son's who do it but daughter's as well. But I have noticed a trend with sons it's down to who they love . Lot of daughter in law's are jealous of the mother and son love . But some son in laws what to come first in a marriage and distance their wives not only from their parents but siblings and friends. To me what daughter and son in laws do is not love. Also I never understand why they feel threatened by parents. We bring our children up to be adults with good values and then let them fly.

Even though widowed since 2004 I have never held on to my children. My husband and I decided how the children would be brought up before we had them. My husband said we are bringing them up the way you where. His own parents while they looked after him never gave him the love and attention he needed . But when we started courting he got what he always needed from my parents and extend family. Funny my dad never knew what a real family was until he met my mom and my husband was the same .

Sorry to monopolise the thread with estrangement when so many of you are suffering physical and mental health conditions. But I wanted to try and help HVDY'S friend.

Wyllow glad to see you letting us know you are still there. Hopefully you will improve soon. I do hope so. And hope the Quakers are still helping you.

Better stop my ramble . Take care everyone and take one day at a time and before you look around a week has gone by. 💐

Hi all.
Candy- thought of you this morning as I was watching the local ladies cold swimming.they sure are hardy types but I,m sure as you say it is very good for them.
My DD says the same as you about WFH - she misses her colleagues on those days.
Hope your MiL is getting on all right.
HVDY- it must be very distressing to see your poor SiL so confused and despite his shortcomings the distress of your Brother. You are right the physio seems to have made a ridiculous decision when what she needs is a kind nursing home.
Hope you enjoyed seeing your friend despite her unhappiness. You re a good kind friend to listen as you have worries of your own right now.
Hope baby is doing well.
SweetPeaSue- nice happy news about your Son and GF. A nice DiL is a lovely friend to have.Hope she recovers from Covid quickly so you can rearrange your dinner.Try not to worry about your PM meeting- Doodle has given you good advice. I hope it goes well me you get what you want and indeed need from it. It’s time you were listened to properly - you have suffered enough.
Nadateturbe- it’s a good way to mange your days with your Son- they sound very sensible and understanding. It’s better than trying to keep up with them on a day out and then feeling poorly.
Hope you all have a nice meal together tonight and you enjoy your food. Special times all together.
Doodle- we leave tomorrow for our next week but have an overnight stop as it is a long way to go. I always feel sad to leave here as it has such a special place in my heart.
Hope your wrist improves every day and that DH is feeling stronger. Have you been able to get out this week?
Just having little walks here - I know I will never be able to do what I could do just a short time ago.I have to keep giving myself talkings to and count my blessings.
Whiff- how anyone could be so unkind to you I don’t know.
Your DiL must be a very unhappy and cruel person.
Glad you have your lovely daughter and family and can see them often.
As always you have some helpful words for HVDYs friend.
Wyllow- thinking of you as always.
Love to all including those just reading or those who,post and I have missed out.
Now going out for last walk by the sea then packing. - take care all

Whiff Your son and his wife have behaved terribly towards you. Very cruel words indeed. I'm glad you've got a lovely daughter, SIL and grandchildren whom you see regularly. There is more to my friend's situation than I can say, but she hasn't been blameless in it all. Still, I feel sorry for her.

ScaredyCat Thank you. My brother is his own worst enemy (as was our dad). Over the years, he's offended so many people and alienated them. (same as our dad), and he's now got me, his wife's sister who lives 200 miles away, and 1 friend. He doesn't accept help or advice, never ever asks how anyone else is. He's never even met my GC (eldest is 12).

Day centre today, but I left at 12.30 (had long enough to eat spag bol but not pudding), went with DH to the doctor's. The GP examined him, asked the same old questions, prescribed an inhaler (not Ventolin but something else), and is referring him to a Pulmonologist (respiratory specialist). That could all have been done months ago, but hey ho. There's a long waiting list (unsurprisingly), so we'll see how he goes. At least someone is doing something.

Hope ALL BDers have managed to have a decent day x