Black Dog 23

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Morning, just popped on as I spotted something that might be appropriate for Doodle and saw your post Wyllow so I’m posting something for you too. Please keep going, we all care, we really do ❤️. Back later.

Sorry haven’t uploaded photos before, apologies if they don’t appear! Xx

Hi all
HVDY- we did have a nice evening thank you. We are all getting on a bit now but as usual the Drama Group gave us all a good laugh- we have a couple of treasures in it!
Hope you have a good day today with Littlegirl at least you, e had a rest in between. She will always remember these lovely times with you both.
How have you escaped a Xmas Dinner for so long - is DH the Xmas Fairy?
SweetPeaSue- Ha ha - I could kneel on the floor to wrap but would never get up again!! It’s the Sellotape that winds me up - why does it love to stick to itself just to annoy you?
You,re another Movicol fan- it was wonderful after a spell in ITU a few years ago. It’s only this year I have managed without it but just knowing it’s there is peace of mind.
What a fiasco your poor DH and you are going through with his problems. It really is disgraceful. But please ,please keep coming in. That’s what we are here for so you can offload your thoughts and worries with no fear of judgement,criticism or unkindness. We are all friends aren’t we.
Candy- lovely post to all. You are right to do as much as you can with your DGS -as you say he is growing up fast. But this groundwork that you are putting in will ensure that he will always be your loving GS however big and busy he becomes.
Glad you gat some rest time- I love that too- iPad,papers photos a bit of tele. Never sleep in the day but enjoy all the ‘time wasters’ around me. Hope you had a good sleep.
Wyllow- lovely to see you considering a few foodie treats for your Xmas week shop. Whatever you loved when you were young or whatever takes your fancy eh! Ready meals are a good idea there are so many good ones about. Don’t forget the Movicol - as you remember it is a gentle reliable help. Also of course the more you are able to manage a walk it will help get things moving too.
It’s great you can say’ what’s the point’ here it’s something we all have battled with at some time. But as we all know there is a point- life can be good again. There are little seeds of hope appearing in your posts.
We all care for you and I don’t think I,m the only one who looks first thing for your post and can then get on with the day.
Yes contact is important- it’s here.
Candy - just seen your poem it’s so touching. Good info for Wyllow too. Green ribbons all round.
Doodle- you,ve had some busy days.
The tree festival sounds so lovely - it must look particularly beautiful at night.I hope lots of money is raised for charity.
It’s hard to shop and not be tempted - I quite enjoy it but not if it’s something I have to get as then there’s never anything.
I love the wide chunky sleeves and a bit of sparkle too.
The little star sounds very pretty and delicate- is it for the festival?
I hope whatever you are doing today brings moments of peace.

Thinking of you all and hope those who are struggling manage to have a better dayxxxx

Doodle You're keeping busy, which is good. The tree festival sounds lovely. I'm not fond of those big sleeves on blouses and jumpers, either.

SweetpeaSue We're all friends here, we share good and bad news. Keep posting how you are feeling.

Candy6 Your GS will always be pleased to see you, even when he's a bit older. My 13 year old GD messages me most days, posts photos of the cat and dog .

Wyllow3 I'm pleased you'll get a carer around Christmas time. She might not be perfect for you, but hopefully you'll get on well.

ScaredyCat My husband cooked every Christmas dinner until 2 years ago, when it became just the 2 of us (both sons finally left and settled down with their ladies) and since then we've had curry, naan breads and samosas, which suits us.

It's been a full-on day. I got up, showered, dressed, fed the cat - then saw that it was 1.57am!! I'd only been in bed 3 hours! I went back to bed until 6.50. Playgroup with LittleGirl for 2 hours, then lunch and play here. I made some "playdough" - flour, oil, water & food colouring, which she enjoyed playing with. Then a bowl of soapy water, small plastic jugs (she was soaked but loved it) before she went at 4. Hope ALL BDers have a relaxing evening x

Wyllow The way you described the 'breaking of contact' with us, being so hard at end of your last post was so sad. I'm glad you know that we're always here for you though. Hope you felt benefit of the carer today. Its good that you'll have a new carer pop in on or around Christmas- though you're bound to be a little nervous. I'm sure one day you'll see 'the point'. Hang on . Hope tum is starting to improve.
Candy Nice words to all and I thank you for my hugs too. Yes the blood test did seem final straw as it keeps track of inflammatory markers with DH on steroids. Good idea if you can go out for dinner one year. Son1s MIL did dinner for her wide family until one year she said -enough.
Scaredycat Thankyou so much for understanding and your encouragement. Everyone is so supportive here. Oh yes ,the sellotape! Then it runs out all of a sudden. Someone gave me a tip of using ironing board to wrap gifts on but it only works for small things. How nice to be entertained by a drama group. Some people are born entertainers aren't they.
HVDY You had an early start! Lol. Jaffa must have thought oooh breakfast early!
Just as well you got a few more hours with such a full day ahead. Aah I remember playing in the washing up bowl with DGS . They love it don't they and everything and themselves get sealed. He used to have his little lego men in 'boats'(those silicone egg poachers ) and they'd fall out and the little plastic dinosaurs would come and get them. You'll be ready for a rest tonight.
Doodle Did you say 70 lit trees inside church or have I mistaken that?
I've surely got it wrong , but wherever they are, what an amazing sight. Such a great idea. Hope you've been OK today. I've been thinking about how hard it must be for you. 2 ladies in the book group have lost their DHs a few mths ago and have mentioned how difficult it was writing the cards out. Hope you've had company today and managed to get plenty of rest last night.
EllieAnne I'm hoping you're OK and are feeling slightly better. Sending love and a hug. Wish I could think of something to help.x

Woke in early hrs and couldn't sleep for worry about DH -things going round in my head about Drs.Things always worse at night. DH got tree from loft while I was at book group yesterday (grrrr) and his arm and hand was so bad last night.

Not too bad a day though. We picked up a few gifts for grandchildren and found a box of Magic Tricks in charity shop to keep DGS amused when he's here. DH was going to go over some first in order to show him--he says they're complicated. 😫
Put tree lights on and will decorate tomorrow. I wasn't going to do it this year. Called in on son2 -he's going for a couple of nights away with other son and wife- then back to work Monday.

Take care all and wishing strength to those who are so low -those here or reading.

Sweetpeasue thanks. I’m only tired because I am doing a lot at the moment. Everything seems to be happening all at once.
Out today with art class for a lovely lunch we had a good time.
Had a cry today when the post came bearing Christmas cards with only my name on. I’ve opened them but put them out of sight.
The little star is to put on my husbands leaf on the memory tree at the hospice. My friend is going to do it for me.
Really dreadful about your DH’s blood test. Hope you get it done soon.
Willow hope you find you can get on with the new carer, Good you get a chance to meet her first,
Yes I am tired but it’s good to be busy, keeps me distracted.
Candy nice message to Ellie Anne.
Your village does sound nice. I’ve always fancied a house round the village green. I like my sleep stories too. I find they provide enough distraction to help me nod off,
Are you off to your caravan still at weekends or does the weather put you off.

Thanks Candy that’s a useful list of numbers.
Scaredycat yes the tree festival is very beautiful. It will be hard work though.
You write such lovely caring posts to all of us. You’re so kind.
I wrap my Christmas presents once ironing board. It means I don’t have to bend and I can reach round to cut the paper from either side.
HVDY 🤣 I don’t believe you got showered and dressed so early. Not surprised you went back to bed.
I used to love doing those things with our DGC too. Water fascinates little ones doesn’t it.
Sweetpeasue yes I did say 70. It’s amazing isn’t it. They’re not full size ones but about 5’ tall.
Yes I’ve been put today again for lunch. Kim putting on so much weight as I’m eating out so much.
Try and get your tree up. It will make things look more cheerful. I’ve got my Tree lit.
Going to bed soon. I’ve another full on day tomorrow
Sleep well all.

I’ve just re read your post Willow what do you mean about breaking the contact. Please don’t stop posting. Xx

Doodle I read Wyllow's words about breaking contact to mean for logging out last night , when she's with us, until tonight and her next post. Do hope that was right Wyllow xx

Doodle What a beautiful gesture to make the star yourself and have it put on your hospice tree leaf.
Glad you had lunch out with your art friends - you deserve any fun with new friends - you've made such an effort to do new things. Sorry about the cards though - it must be so difficult to see only your name.
What an amazing sight, 70 trees, thought I'd got it wrong.You must have a lovely church with a good congregation.
I have my tree up now Doodle and it's lit up with my lights. You're right it is more cheering. Only have to decorate it now. I really did want it up for my DGS.
Hope you sleep well, and all BDs.

Evening all
HVDY a busy but enjoyable day for you. I remember now I used to make playdough for my kids. Used to do rainbow colours. Fun times. Hope you’re having a nice rest this evening.
Doodle your days are busy which is probably good for you although tiring. Lovely gesture making the star. It will be make it extra special. I understand how the Christmas cards are upsetting you. Do what you think is best when they arrive - put them in a drawer until you feel strong enough to open them or completely ignore them, whatever is best for you. Don’t upset yourself unnecessarily. Enjoy your day tomorrow. Sounds like another busy one.
Sweetpeasue glad you had a nice day and have got your tree up. I have mine up too. Brightens everywhere up. Hope you get a decent sleep tonight.
Scaredycat the drama group sounds so much fun. You must look forward to it. Lovely post to everyone. Hope you’ve had a good day and enjoy a restful night.
Wyllow sending big hugs and lots of love.

I’ve been out with 2 friends this evening. Very pleasant. The DH of one of them has early onset Alzheimer’s, so sad for them both and their families but at least it was a nice break for her. It’s howling wind and rain outside so I’m going to get comfy in bed. Sleep story again for me I think. Night all and
love to all those not personally mentioned xxxx

Sweetpeasue

Doodle I read Wyllow's words about breaking contact to mean for logging out last night , when she's with us, until tonight and her next post. Do hope that was right Wyllow xx

yes, that xx

Yes - I meant after chatting on here late evening and being “in contact” its a sad moment to break it and be “left” for the night. Sounds silly but how it is.

I’m glad you had a nice evening, Scardeycat with laughs and “characters”.
Your posts have so much thought put into them for all and are most welcome.

HVDY you do right with Christmas dinner as in…..you eat just what you want!!!
What a busy day there. You do super stuff with LittleGirl home made play dough and all.

Sweetpeasue its a thing the Christmas trees in churches they had them locally too. I can understand things going round your head re DH, it’s both a puzzle and a worry! You did well to make today a positive one with little achievements.

Doodle The hospice have such kind ideas like the lttle star. Big Hugs for your tears. Yes, pop those cards away, have out what you can cope with.

Candy sad to read of friends DH, but you and your other friend gave her a good break. Have a good sleep with that howling wind outside. Thank you for the ribbon x

Cleaner early tomorrow (fortnightly) a strain but keeps the house decent.

Walk with carer before it rained. I did buy some movicol, really expensive but to try out, before getting a prescription.

What I want to know, is how and when people here take it, whats best? When in the day, before food after food etc etc

night night all.

just popping in with a quick reply to *Willow catch up later as I’ve got to be in the local park soon.
Willow i think it suggests you take it at night although DH and I have taken it at all times of day.
Make sure you mix it up well in a good size glass of water. It is not like senna or lactulose which can be a bit violent. You might need to take more than one depending on how it works with you.
Once it’s worked you could try taking one or more every day till you get into a regular habit if that makes sense.
Hope it helps.
Sorry I misunderstood your post. Glad you’re staying with us. We might not be here posting with you but we do think of you at different times of day too.

Sorry missed a point. I don’t think it matters if you take it before or after food. As I said DH and I always just took it whenever we felt the need, DH took one most days then sometimes another a few hours later if the first one didn’t help.
You can take up to 8 a day I think but I wouldn’t sugggest you do that to start with.

Wyllow If Ive been really bad I take about 3 one day then a day later 1 or 2 if not worked. The more painkillers I've needed the more moviciol I need but I usually have to take one a day or 2.
Don't think it matters about food.
Everyone's different but I believe it works as a softener not a stimulator on bowel. I don't like the taste but I couldn't do without it.

Hope everyone's day goes well.x

Candy Glad you had a nice time out with friends yesterday. Sad about your friends DH having Alzheimers -hope with it being caught early there might be some success with medication to slow symptoms.
Wyllow I hate early mornings - hope you managed with the movicol. It is expensive to buy OTC - I'm so relieved I can get it on prescription because of the painkillers. Crossed fingers it works well for you.

After a nasty 'Fibro' morning (woke feeling I'd been beaten up all over with a cricket bat) we got out this afternoon for some gift shopping. Hope everyone has had a decent day. Batten down the hatches everyone ,for storm Darragh. It's expected to reach us here by 12pm tomorrow. Hate strong winds.
Take care all.

Sorry all, I’ve had a long day. We had a tree planted for DH today and it’s been a beautiful day. Sunny and calm. I’m so tired now and I have a really sore throat so I’m just going to have a hot drink some paracetamol and bed. Catch up tomorrow.

Night Doodle So pleased it was calm and sunny for your special tree planting.
Hope you're feeling better tomorrow.x

Not had much luck with Movicol, two today and feel bloated so didnt eat much, will try one tonight too overnight. Fed up as my hair still coming out and not motivated whats the point. Had a WhatsApp from DiL about c mas so have to face it somehow tomorrow.

That was a really difficult morning Sweetpeasue so you did well to get out for shopping.

It’s lovely that you planted the tree and so glad it was a bright day, but very emotional for you Doodle so not surprised you’re off to bed early.

Big hugs to all BD’’s, waves to regulars, sometimes in and just reading

xx

Night night all.

Willow you need to drink water and keep going it will work.
I’ve got a full weekend and I feel pretty rough. Hope to get through it somehow

Hi all
HVDY- I had a bit of a giggle over your early morning antics!
Did Jaffa get 2 breakfasts?
You really do make fun for Little Girl- what a lovely Gran.
Our GDs used to like playing with plasticine with us and making little fruit and vegetables and plates of food.
Xmas day Curry sounds good. Whatever you like the best now you can please yourselves. DH has been a great Chef over the years hasn’t he.
SweetPeaSue- the drama group are our own members and it’s the sheer daftness of the performance that is always so funny.
Glad you,ve got your tree up- Xmas lights are just magical - it’s so sad when they have to come down. This year in particular people need a bit of cheering up.
Glad you felt well enough for some afternoon shopping- you have to strike when the iron is hot don’t you.
We went for a walk this morning- not the best idea we,ve ever had. We had so many clothes on and got battered by the wind and rain all the way round.
Feet up now.🙂
Doodle- it’s good you are putting a bot of weight on . It’s not the time to worry about that - enjoy your food it will help build you up for the coming months.
Your little star is such a lovely thing for the memory tree- a star for the star that was your DH.
Yes it’s a hard reality when the cards arrive isn’t it but it means you are loved and thought of by many.
I would love to see those 70 trees - it must look like fairyland. Such a lovely idea to have a tree planted for your DH - it will grow and be there for ever to remember him.
Hope you feel better soon- keep warm and cosy.
Candy- I,m sorry to hear about your friends DH- it must have been so good for her to get out and be with you both. She is facing a hard time ahead - such a cruel thing.
Hope you slept OK through the stormy weather. It’s still wet and windy isn’t it.
Wyllow- It sounded so sad when you said about being’left’ at night. Not silly at all but very understandable. Think of us as still there - in thought we are.
It’s good that the cleaner comes to you as it’s one thing you don’t have to worry about. I know it’s a bit of a strain for you but more the anticipation than when she is actually there I guess.
Glad you got the Movicol. When I took it I followed the instructions on the sachet and used a measuring jug. But it is important to drink water during the day as Doodle said. I used it every day for years gradually reducing it and it was Brilliant.
Hope you will be able to’talk’ to your DiL about Christmas. I,m sure she will be concerned for you and care for your feelings.
It’s upsetting for you about your hair - have you looked online as maybe there is a product that could help you.
Never forget there is a point- not always easy to believe.
You have a life to live and people to live for - the Old Wyllow is worth fighting for. Sending a hug.
EllieAnne- thinking of you as always at the weekend. Hope you have been able to talk to your GP or a friend who,ll listen - to help your so very low mood.

Thinking of all those who aren’t able to post at the moment and any not mentioned or just reading. Take care all

Candy6 What a shame about your friend's husband. She'll need the support of good friends.

Wyllow3 Have you been tested for thyroid trouble and/or anaemia? Both can cause hair loss. I hope you'll be able to talk to your DIL about Xmas.

SweetpeaSue You did well to get out after feeling so rough in the morning. Hope today has been better for you.

Doodle What a lovely idea to plane a tree for your DH. How's your throat today?

ScaredyCat Yes, Jaffa got 2 breakfasts that day . Glad you had an enjoyable evening. Your drama group sounds such fun. You braved the elements today - it's really bad here.

I finally got some boots yesterday - a very large Asda. £60 for leather, which is good. Had my nails done this morning (red and sparkly). Not done a lot else. Hope ALL BDers have a cosy evening x

Dear all really sorry but I’m not up to posting much these days. I feel bad in many ways, I have a really sore throat, bad cough, headache and now the Christmas festivities have knocked me sideways. I feel really low. I’m hoping if I start to feel better my spirits will lift so I’m heading off to bed soon with paracetamol and hot drink. Hopefully back in a better mood soon.

Oh doodle I’m so sorry.💐💐💐

Just a short one tonight.
Been busy and had good day .
HVDY Glad you've got your boots . They were waiting for you.
Doodle Hope the sore throat isn't the start of a virus. You are doing so much. Good luck for getting through what is necessary this weekend. Give yourself some slack if things get too much.
Scaredycat A walk today- I'm impressed. That would certainly blow any cobwebs away. We've hung some lights up in our back garden just on the trellis nr back door and on dwarf apple tree. Just a little but we've a bench there beneath the window- who knows we might sit out one early evening all wrapped up.
Wyllow The Movicol is quite gentle really and doesn't work straight away. Might be an idea to take a stimulant laxative aswell. (Glycerine suppositories are always a go to)
Losing hair is so very hard and soul destroying. Mine looks so quite bad so I understand how you feel about that. I get some hair powder colour to brush in my roots when the white starts to show as its so thin. I get it from Amazon so helps my embarrassment a little.
Big hug Wyllow. Keep going my friend.
EllieAnne Thinking about you and sending love.

Took aunt out this morning and back home before the strong winds. 70ml an hr by 2-00pm. Wrapped some gifts, wrote out cards and sewed together part of another Gromit.
Take care all and hope you have a peaceful night. x