waterlilybarb

Great song, and very true.  Did you get to see that show Arielle, or do you just know the music?  There isn't much theater where I live, but I do love it.

waterlilybarb

So do I.  I noticed it last night, but was a little busy closing all the nomination threads.  Is it a snap you took, or one you found?  Either way, it's really pretty.

waterlilybarb

Good idea.  For me, once I found the image I now use, I decided to stick with it...at least on our forum.  It helps newbies recognize me when they're looking for a Super Mod to answer their questions.  Plus, I really like my pic...it's pretty.

waterlilybarb

Thank you Mel!

waterlilybarb

HAHAHA!  Too funny!  I never wanted to dye my hair.  I only started after being quite ill, and the colour ashed out.  I dyed it back to my natural colour though.  My brother laughed, and said I didn't look any different, but I told him that was the point. Now, I'll go a shade or two different, but just don't feel like me, if it's TOO different from my natural colour.  I have friends who go from blond to brunette to red...looking great in each...but that's just not me.  I will say, my natural colour is quite nice though...strawberry blonde, with it leaning more toward the strawberry...so I'm never in a room full of people who look the same as me.

waterlilybarb

Well, now I'm covering greys too.  My family actually greys prematurely, and I've had some in there since I was about 18, but with my hair being fair it didn't show.  It's greyed faster due to illness, but thank goodness for hair colour!  I can look and feel like me...and not have to look older than I am.  I definitely think looking good is a morale booster and is good for everyone.  No need to look as crappy as I feel...it might scare people.

waterlilybarb

It's actually a variety of illnesses.  I have a severe case of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in the UK).  For me it causes occasional paralysis, an unidentified movement disorder, a compromised immune system (which is why I have caught every single virus going, this winter), severe migraines, along with the other symptoms that most patients with this illness experience.  I just happen to be on the far end of the spectrum as to severity of this illness.  Some can function quite well with this, while others, like myself have found it to be a progressive and quite debilitating illness.  It's not something I talk about in great detail, because it's just part of my life now.  We all have something we're dealing with, be it sickness, family issues, financial difficulties or anything else.  Compared to many, my life is very good and I'm grateful for all the positive things in it.

waterlilybarb

That's wonderful he had such a good recovery after such a long time.  I'm heading into year 19 of this, and unfortunately for me, the past few years have seen me get even sicker.  It's always great to hear of those who saw improvement after a long time, because it's encouraging to know it can happen.

Reply 1672#1672 gypsiegirl66's post

I didn't plan it that way.   I just thought since studiojek asked, I might as well give a thorough answer, then be done with it.   You know how it is.  Easier to just put it out there, people will understand or they won't.  Happy to say that most I've come upon here have been very supportive.    

p.s. I see you got your Meez to work in your signature.  Looks like we're doing much the same today.

waterlilybarb

Thanks Arielle!  That is too cute!

Glad to hear you're settling in and are happy with your new digs.  Do you get a room to yourself or do you have to share?

waterlilybarb

It's one of the reasons I make sure to get my daily dose of laughter.  It's even been called internal jogging, it's so good for your heart, and for your well-being in general.   

waterlilybarb

That's an important thing in a roommate...someone who isn't too different from you in lifestyle, even if you have different tastes.  Sounds like the next few months will be good.

waterlilybarb

Too true Mel.  Considering I live in one of the wealthiest nations in the world, have a roof over my head, food to eat, clothes to wear and people I love, who love me, I am extremely grateful.  It helps that I was taught to count my blessings from a young age.  We all have something to be thankful for, and focusing on that rather than what we don't have makes life much easier and happier.  That cartoon speaks volumes.

waterlilybarb

I've found most of us don't know what we're capable of until we've been put to the test.  We're often made of stronger stuff than we imagine.  Reminds me of a song by Dolly Parton..."Eagle when She Flies".  Women truly are, pften like steel magnolias.   Soft on the outside but made of strong stuff.

waterlilybarb

That's funny Mel!   Though I'm sure a bit of study to refresh your mind won't hurt.

waterlilybarb

While I might not know the answers to most of those questions, I know for sure the ones given are hysterically funny.   Nice ones Arielle.

waterlilybarb

Sorry Shinny, yo probably caught it from me.   I hope you have a great time at the anniversary do.   If you're still feeling rough, forgo the alcohol so you can take some over the counter remedy that will get you through the evening (mixing alcohol & acetaminophen aka Tylenol, is VERY bad for your liver).  Tylenol Cold meds are good, but I find the generic brand just as effective if it has the same ingredients.  Just read the label or ask the pharmacist (chemist).

And you're right, as rotten as you feel you certainly wouldn't want a head cold on an airplane.  From everything I've read, that can be excruciatingly painful, and even cause inner ear damage.

waterlilybarb

Good-night and here's hoping tomorrow finds you feeling a bit better.   

waterlilybarb

I love when there are pictures from over the years.  I'm sure everyone will have a fantastic time, and I hope you feel well enough to completely enjoy yourself.  Forty years is quite an achievement.   

waterlilybarb

I felt better for a while today...I was able to go to a friend's house and get out of the chemicals (my landlord restained the stairs in the building yesterday).  I'm home again, and the stench hit me like a smack in the face as soon as I walked in the building, so my head is beginning to pound again.  What possesses people to do such idiotic things when it's too cold to open any windows is beyond me.  I'm ready to beat the man next time I see him for making me so sick.   Lucky for him I wouldn't REALLY do that.

waterlilybarb

Today is Meg & Matt's wedding day, so let's all wish them a hearty...






Enjoy your big day and your honeymoon!

p.s. I still have Sadie, Sadie Married Lady stuck in my head.  Thanks heaps.