Hello, small update

Hello all, Here's hoping everyone had a nice new year and holiday. Things have been a bit on the rough side for us lately. My sister is no better, actually she is worse and out of the nursing home back to the hospital for a contagious pneumonia. She still has a trach and feeding tube in place. There is no hope for recovery and her husband and daughter have signed a DNR for her, now it's just a matter of time. I got hit from behind last night during the rain, poor kid who hit me was scared half to death.I had my youngest son with me and thankfully neither we or the girl were hurt. My van is drivable with what looks like will be fairly small repairs as she sustained most of the damage to her car. Just another stress I really didn't need. And to top it all off our cat of 16 years died today and Sam is burying him as we speak. About the only thing that has been going well is weight loss, I'm down 109 pounds as of this morning. It occured to me in the last months that when you're fat it's easy to blame everything on being fat. 109 pounds later and things can be just as bad, you just look better while stuff sucks. Hang in there everyone and here's hoping this finds you all well. Linda

Hey Linda! Congrats on the weight loss! Even through the trials, tribulations and stresses of everyday life, you have continued to hold true to your resolve to lose weight. Good for you. It means you are made of strong stuff. Keep up the good work. As to the rest of your life? WOW! Thank God no one was injured in the accident (always gotta look on the bright side!). Sorry about the cat..he had a good life, I'm sure. I still pray for you, your sister and family. I am so sorry to hear this news. You always hope for the best. It must be so difficult for all of you. The decision to sign a DNR is beyond difficult, I know this first hand. But, even more difficult when it is a younger person, who seemed in relatively good health. I will continue to send good thoughts your way. God Bless you all, Valerie

Linda, You have had such a good year overall personally. I am so sorry that your sister has had all these problems. It is so hard on the family. Will keep you all in my prayers. I know how attached a person can become to their animals. Right now I'm kid less & animal less. I love them all and want them in my life, but for now it's okay. I enjoy others pets and the love when the grandkids come and go home. I'm content with that. Too bad about the car. Leave it to you to feel sorry for the kid that hit you. You are so compassionate. Hope you get the car back as good as new without too much cost & hassle. Wow 109lbs. You are looking great. Keep it up. I upped my water and I've lost 10 lbs since Thanksgiving and survived Xmas and New Year's. The 1st time I ever kept a New Year's resolution was the one I made in 2003 to become healthier in 2004. I finally have succeeded. TT You soon friend. ((hugs)) Elissa

Linda, I'm so sorry about your sister. You are a fantastic, compassionate, and caring friend. You know that we are always here for you. Sounds like you are having my kind of luck (or lack of). I hope that if my sons (just starting to drive) get into an accident, it is with someone like you. I hope that you van is repaired quickly and with little inconvenience to you. 109 pounds!!! who was it that said that men lose more quickly and easily?????? I decided to take the same approach that Elissa is doing. I drank so much water yesterday that I seem to have spent more time going to the bathroom than sitting at my desk working!!! Here's to looking better while stuff still sucks!!!!!! Ken

Hi Linda, I am sorry to hear about your sister. I will keep her and your family in prayer. I know all about loosing a pet, it's very hard. And about your accident, I am glad no one was hurt. I have a daughter 17 who is on the roads and I worry about her all the time. I have a son who is 15 and wants his driver's permit, I can just feel the grey hairs coming in for that event. And way to go on your weight loss that is wonderful. I am glad your are looking good while stuff sucks. You take care, Dana

(((Linda))) - I am not on the boards much lately, but you have my number if you want/need to call. Please do not hesitate to let me know if there is anything I can do to help ease your way a bit. Hugs, Tammy

Linda, Im so sorry to hear about your sister. Your strength is just utterly amazing, it's such an inspiration. Its more than just the weight, 109 pounds later and you have accomplished so much in the face of adversity! Most people gain when faced with that kind of stress and sorrow and you have continued to fight, you stick to your guns and thats so admirable. May God's light and grace shine upon you and your family. (((hugs))) Elizabeth M

Linda I am at a loss for words right now... I am so sorry for your family. Again, all I can say is that I am in awe of you and your strength. Call if you want to talk. Dianne

Hi Linda I just wanted to let you know that I am really in awe of how you are handling all these challanges in your life right now. To continue with your quest for better health and not be turning to food to drown your feelings is truly awesome. My prayer for you is that God will continue to give you and your family the strength you need for each and every challenge brought before you and your family. May you rest comfortably in God's loving arms. If I can help in any way, just give me a call. 302-395-1533. Hugs. Rose