December Determinators - Week 1

[Rusty]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good Morning December Determined Friends,

Dewdrop-nice to see you. I, too, liked your imagery of the snowman. Last year I made snow angels with my friends' two kids. I felt 5-years-old again. Regarding the non-alcoholic wine, when my drinking was at its worst (January, 2009), my addiction therapist did not recommend non-AL wine because she felt it would trigger my drinking....I would get all those happy drinking thoughts in my head because I told her I had several sets of really beautiful wine glasses. Your friends were being thoughtful, and the alcohol content is so low in no-AL wine that I don't think that would be problematic....but I do agree with therapist that for right now, you might be playing with fire. You were wise to think about it, though. Besides, non-AL wine tastes absolutely disgusting! Scotland...now there is one place I'd like to visit as I haven't been there.

Good Morning Dear Dill! Yes, I'm feeling MUCH better today and I am furiously running around, trying to get my house all decorated for Christmas. We had just a light dusting of snow here so it looks very festive.

Star-your story about how your family struggled and how you had to file bankruptcy a while back just showed me what I strong person you are. You went back to school, earned a degree and went to work full-time. You are obviously a very strong woman and I admire that so much in you.

Lav-I hope YB is on his best behavior if he comes around today.

Sped-safe journey to Indiana. Please be careful. You have more guts than I do, girl, traveling all those miles by yourself. And you must be terribly patient. I am NOT.

A cheery and healthy hello to Chill (hope you get to spend the day with McLibra ), Sooty, Rustop, G, SD, LBH, Raven, Cyn, Rebirth, and anyone I may have missed...have a wonderful AF Sunday!

[Lavande]

December Determinators - Week 1

I AM YB FREE TODAY :H:H

TODAY WILL BE A BETTER DAY & MY DOG WILL NOT EAT MY DINNER :H

I couldn't put up with another day like yesterday without turning into a homocidal manic!
I didn't even think to fire up my smudge stick..........I will do that tonight for sure.

No snow here, that's OK with me. I'm getting pretty good at visualizing things.
The Daily OM course I'm taking right now has me visualizing that I am much bigger than any problem or hurtful person. Yes, that was a good lesson for me this past week.

Well, I hope all you kids have fun in the snow today

Lav

[cyntree]

December Determinators - Week 1

Dear Determinators -

Big Big Hugs all around - Chill, SD, Lav, all all everyone. Stay safe and warm and AF. Thank you all for the beautiful posts...

Safe traveling, LBH, and Sped...

Tons of work ahead of me today, but I will check in later --

[sdlovespackers]

December Determinators - Week 1

HI Friends!!

Thank you all for your kind and encouraging words...a very special thank you, LAV:l for the PM, that was very nice! I want you all to know how much I truly love my job!! It's just so hard (and horribly sad) to hear the things the kids tell me and know there isn't much I can do...and what I can do (report to DSS---our system here is worthless---the State is currently investigating them...so hopefully maybe things there will change)...I always try to pretend it doesn't bother me and I usually NEVER talk about it...but Friday was 2 kids I'm very close to..just hit me hard! Just so you don't worry...no, I'm not on the verge of a breakdown no I'm not on the verge of falling off the wagon no I did not use AL to "cope" on Friday night...I made "wise" decisions when it came to consumption, so that I'm proud of...I'm didn't jump into a bottle to drown myself or to numb myself, so to speak. Actually, after I got off here I did some Lav--online shopping--and went to bed. Got up on Saturday...with actually a headache but I think thats because I still take Topa daily and I'm guessing even a small amount of AL might have caused that???? I dunno??? But went outside and shoveled like a mad-women....and now I'm horribly sore!!:H
As for counseling..I used to see an amazing women here...but see moved a year ago....now I just see the guy who prescribes my meds...I see him again in 2 weeks...he knows all about this place and was actually the one that got me to come back. As far as job change...Thank goodness for the 10 days off at Christmas is all I can say...and the 3 months off in the summer!!! But seriously...I think that too is why I'm leaning more towards Administration...not that it would be easier...but emotionally, for me I think it might. 10 years of hearing some of the saddest things that have happened to kids....has taken it's toll I think....I tend to get pretty emotionally attached to "my" kids.:h

Sorry, I'm going to get off now and quick call my ex...I have to meet him and go pick up my son...I'll jump back on later and address all of you then!!! You guys are the best!!! ANd are so busy...man I always have so much reading to catch up on on here!
SD

[sooty]

December Determinators - Week 1

Hello all - good to see you SD - its obvious that you love your job and it sounds like you're incredibly good at it or the kids wouldn't feel that they could confide in you.

It is still SO cold here - didn't get above freezing today. I am going to buy some salt and grit tomorrow to put on our drive which slopes. Today I was clinging to the car when I went out, I was so scared of falling. The council put bins of salt in odd places so I helped myself to some earlier but this grit is really for people to put on pavements and roads so I didn't take very much, just enough to make the front of the house safe for us old codgers!

I hope that Sunday has been relaxing and pleasant for us all. I'm going to decorate the bus ready for Christmas - and we'll be singing carols from now on. I wonder do you sing the same carols as us in the UK? Silent night, Away in a Manger, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Once in Royal Davids City? We can have a transatlantic carol concert!

See you all on Monday, take care of yourselves
love Sooty

[Lavande]

December Determinators - Week 1

Old codgers Sooty?

Are you talking about me? :H:H
I feel like I qualify these days.....and I'm scared to death of falling. Don't think the osteoporetic bones would hold up!!!!
I love Christmas carols but I'm not much of a singer - I'll just listen

SD, glad you are OK. Listen to the old codgers here........don't let any job eat you alive, I nearly did!!

OK - has anyone ever seen or heard of a diaper cake?
Being the cheapskate that I need to be these days I've decided I will make one for my daughter's baby shower next month instead of dropping $100 to buy one. I've printed instructions, I don't think you need to be a rocket scientist to pull this off.........
If anyone has advice or opinions I will gladly listen

I have a cozy fire in the fireplace tonight & a pot of warm tea ready so all I need to do is find something good on TV
Wishing everyone a cozy night!

Lav

[papmom3]

December Determinators - Week 1

I've heard of them Lav but never made one. Looks pretty easy and fun tho!!

SD-so glad to see you back and super glad to hear that your little slip was pretty controlled. good for you!! I know you'll figure our what is best for you. :goodjob:

Rusty-Well, the term teacup in the dog world is kind of an unflattering description of dogs that are bred intentionally to be teeny tiny(can fit in a teacup so to speak) but in the agility world it means agility for dogs under 17" in height and because the dogs are small the course is tiny and the obstacles are smaller than in regular agility. A lot of dogs compete in regular agility but some just do teacup. It was quite fun to watch today and it was really nice to catch up with friends and to meet new dogs and handlers.

Sooty-you be careful out there-old codger or not!! Ice is what caused me to break both wrists (a year apart). Believe me, you don't want that to happen!!

It's bitter cold here in NE today and I didn't take anyone out for a walk. Heck, they don't even want to do their business out there (we'll just go in the house mom thank you!)! But tomorrow out they go and we are walking!! No snow predicted thank god. I am NEVER ready for that!!

Still got tons of laundry to do and computer work to so I'll shout out to everyone else for now: Star, Sped, Cyn, Chill, Dewdrop, LBH.
Will check in again tomorrow!

:l

[rustop61]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good morning everyone

It has stopped snowing here but now we have a big freeze. Sooty - joining you as another old codger slipping and sliding around the place. Be careful driving the bus, that's my biggest fear these days. Today school is back but starting at 10 am! Really, really looking forward to things getting back to normal.

Oh well, at least AF and getting up with a clear head to face whatever the day brings. Going to have a mega long coffee break this morning and try and catch up on everyone's news.

Take care everyone and have a great week.

Rustop

[rebirth]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good morning folks.
A quick drop in. I pigged out all weekend sigh...I am also concerned about my 6 year old playing on the wii too much. I wanted him to pick out the christmas tree yesterday but he wanted to stay at home to play his game on the wii. Gonna have to put some restirictions on that.

Have a good monday all. I expect to be very busy this week.xx

[Stargazerlily]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good morning Determinators,

Monday morning, a tough day usually, and lots of snow this morning. It makes it easier to go to work, that is for sure. I was able to complete a little Christmas shopping, and will have to get tape and go to the post office, what a hassle. I am not sending many cards this year, it is just so much to do on top of all the normal things that have to get done. Stress. Not fun. I guess I resent having it be my job. That is why I like Thanksgiving better, just a big meal and company. Oh, well. My goal is to downsize the gift thing yearly.

I am on a new kick for weight loss. I recently gained back about eight pounds, and feel so uncomfortable. So, I am going to really work on portion control and healthy foods, in addition to exercise. Wish me luck. I agree with papmom that this time of year, the darkness and cold, makes me want to eat and sleep more.

I am avoiding the AF topic as I had four drinks and feel disappointed and ill. I am taking it one day at a time and hope to make 2011 totally AF. I guess my mindset that I can moderate from time to time is a fantasy, as it is just not worth it, at all. So, forgive me and know that I am having to start with a new resolution, a very humbling experience. It is not that anything big or horrible happened, just between me and myself, I want and need a different life. Most of the time I have that life, but then then the wrong thinking gets going that leads to thinking maybe this time it will be different. And it isn't. So, back to focusing on what I need to focus on.

Have a great day.

[Rusty]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good Morning Determinators,

Dear Star:l I am sorry you feel ill. Was there something that triggered your drinking? Maybe the holidays....as I've said before, with all the media and Hallmark hype we're supposed to be the happiest we've been all year, right? WRONG. The holidays bring on a boatload of stress. You have been AF for a while, Star, and you are so committed....I would never dream of admonishing you for that and you don't need our forgiveness. You're an intelligent, caring, unselfish and lovely person. Having those drinks didn't change any of that.:h I am with you on the fitness goals.....ugh, it is soooo hard to lose weight now. Why does food taste so good?

Papmom-ok, I get the teacup competition. Duh. I should know better. I watch the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show every year. I love watching the teacup division. It always falls on my birthday, February 10. EEEEEKKKKK....I'll be 50 next year. Now I'll be looking for the papillons.

SD-glad you're with us....sounds like you have everything under control, but I can't imagine what you see every day in your job.

Lav-no, I have never heard of a diaper cake-do you get your choice on which type to order-muddy, wet or dry?:H I would pick the dry one myself.

Rebirth-nice to see you. Kids get addicted to Wii....don't they?

Sooty and Rustop-you guys in the EU really suffer when it's icy and snowing, don't you? I hope it hasn't curtailed any of your holiday fun.

Hello to PAGUY-John, I'm going to PM you because I need your advice on a dinner party I'm having in less than 2 weeks. I don't know what to make for the main course, and as our resident chef, I so need you.

Chill-where are you and how are you? Check in, please. It's not like you to not post and I am wondering if I hurt your feelings. I did not mean to do so. We all love you here.

A happy hello to Dill, Sped, G, Cyn, LBH, Raven, Bear, and everyone I may have missed...have a wonderful Monday!

[paguy]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good Morning Fellow Determinators:

Just a quick check in for me this morning. My apologies, I have not been able to contribute much lately but I have been lurking around. My re-entry to a fully mobilized life has me going in quite a few different directions! All is well and I am on track with my determination to get through this holiday season AF.

I know there is lots going on and several of you are having a tough time. Major hugs to all of you.. :l:l:l:l

I'll try to have a more thoughtful post later this week...

[spedteach]

December Determinators - Week 1

Morning all,
Made it to Indiana on Saturday although the drive itself was a little harrowing. 8 inches of snow on the ground and snowing hard along the way. It has since stopped but now it's really cold. It's 6 degrees. My bed is next to a window. I cracked the window a tad last night as I like fresh air when I sleep. My glass of water on the window ledge was frozen this morning!! I'm about to go out to buy a newspaper, excited to brave the cold. I told you guys I love winter, of course as someone pointed out it is not even winter yet. Ran yesterday morning for the first time in 6 weeks (because of a stress fracture in my foot). For me it is wonderful to run in the cold. Yesterday it was 20 though.

Rusty, hope you're feeling better. Would love to hook up some time.

SD, you seem better too, like you regrouped over the weekend. I know how attached one can get to some of those kids. Wouldn't you miss them in administration?

Chill, stay determined and motivated. Mr. McScorp seems like a very pragmatic guy, good to have around in a crisis. Any chance of your going to stay with family for awhile? Is unemployment in Portugal as dismal as the States?

Lav, take care sweetie. I remember being newly married, pregnant, planning a surprise dinner for my husband and walking into the kitchen to find my 2 cats playing tug of war with my salmon filet. I burst into tears; it had been one of those days. Sounds like you've been having your fair share of those days.
Does a diaper cake look like a giant diaper??

Star, all I can say is forgive yourself. I had my own terrible drinking binge in NM over Thanksgiving. Made myself sick. I've been this way for so long, don't know if I'll ever truly kick it. Know I will never quit trying though. Never even think of drinking in IN. Why is that? My love affair with the midwest? The fact that my husband's in NM? All I know is I'm sober and hangover free this morning and so happy about it.

Hey, Dewdrop, welcome.

Rebirth, as the mother of 3 sons and the teacher of countless others, I say nip it in the bud. It is unbelievable the number of little boys out there interacting with video games instead of one another. Who sit inside on beautiful days mindlessly punching buttons, glazed eyes glued to the TV. I know Wii is more interactive but it is still a video game.
Okay, off my soap box now.

John, where are you, and Cyn. Everyone imagine LBH gliding down the Panama Canal.
Have a good day at work Dill. Careful on those cliffs Sooty.

Love to all. Shelley

[Lavande]

December Determinators - Week 1

Good morning kids!
I hope everyone is bundled up warmly - Brrrr!!!!

rebirth - back when my son was 6 years old the big thing to have was Nintendo. He wanted one badly but because of his ADD problems we decided to hold off buying one. Guess what? YB went out & bought him one anyway (could have killed him). I ended up having to put it away because it became such a HUGE distraction - something the kid certainly didn't need!!! Take control now

Star, sorry about your news. You nailed the problem right on the head though when you mentioned the 'wrong thinking'!!!!! I haven't had a drop since I quit BUT I did have a few minutes of thinking about wanting a drink Saturday afternoon after YB left!!!!! I was stressed & actually thought I wanted to drink. Thank God I got control of my thinking back before doing something stupid because one drink was never enough for me. 100 drinks wouldn't have been enough to make me feel better Saturday. We need to remember to put US first & protect ourselves from the bad thinking.:l

Rusty, you're turning 50 next year? That's a shame because I'm only 29:H:H
My diaper cake will be fabulous......I hope!

Greetings to my PA neighbor John!

Shelley, the travelling woman - glad you arrived safely! Be careful running on ice & snow friend!

I really need to get moving......my teenage chickens are probably starving!!!
Wishing everyone a wonderful AF Monday.

Lav

[sooty]

December Determinators - Week 1

hey Lav if you're 29 that makes me 31 :H - no old codgers on here today then!!!

I'm not venturing out on any cliffs and have got the grit all over the front drive of the house. This morning the ice was so thick on the car I couldn't scrape it off and the de-icer stuff was freezing on the car windows! Brrrr not used to this sort of weather and don't like it. I know that lots of you have it much more severely than we do and I don't know how you cope.

I've been and done my monday morning exercise classes so am exhausted now, going to spend the rest of the afternoon making a necklace to give to Mr S's first wife for Christmas - hows that for civilised? Actually we get on very well, I think it helped that their divorce took place a long time before I arrived on the scene

What the heck is a diaper cake???????????????

Have a good day Dill, Sped, Star, Rusty, Rustop, Chill, Rebirth and anyone I've missed, keep tough and determined.

love Sooty