Would you except a kiss from me?? Did I just write that.

Not that I am asking. Okay Kiss on the cheek. (;

I am the Joker. Lol

KP. Goodnight kiss? Please? Just asking.

Big smootches your way darlin.

You guys are all just so sweet! BIG BIG HUGS to my kiddo's! I will get back on again ASAP for sure! That us waaaaayyyyyyy toooooo long not to talk to you Starty girl. Big Snugwy KP and... well you guys know who loves you! I will keep u updated, and try and fill you all in next time, and I hope it's not rushed. Lub Lub Lub u guys big time! Got to go... time is up! :( Ttys Be good!

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/lounge/our-poor-starby-343423-7.html

STARTY!!!! How are yu sweets?? I missed all of you soooooo much! I don't have too long on here, but it was very nice for the nurse to let me do this!!

WHAT?????? Who kicked my husband off....lemmme at em!!!! Fightin wordsI tell ya!!lisses and hugs to you starby I missed you

Awwww, I missed Starby :(
I hope she can come back soon :(

STARBY!!

Come back!

Hugs and hopes and wishes for a FAST and satisfactory resolution.

You guys are all just so sweet!! BIG BIG HUGS to my kiddo's!! I will get back on again ASAP for sure! That us waaaaayyyyyyy toooooo long not to talk to you Starty girl. Big Snugwy KP and...well you guys know who loves ya!! I will keep u updated, and try and fill ya all in next time, and I hope it's not rushed. Lub Lub Lub u guys big time!! Gotta go....time is up! :( Ttys Be good!!

Aw Hon,I am so sorry I missed you.You are in my prayers sweetie,get better soon and get back to us ,we all miss you so much! Hope you got my card ! Will write to you soon when I get your new addy.Be good now and huggs back at cha'! :D

Aww.. I missed Starby too :( Glad that you are feeling good Starby, just don't overdo yourself, k? :)

Starby starby starby... I didn't realize, and I hope Alty hasn't sent you all our words yet and I missed the boat.

Get well soon and if you need my help let me know.

Tick

Well!. Starby has returned I see...

What the h3ll ! Look at this place !!! Now I have to get a crew to clean up all these firecrackers, balloons and spilled cake and ice cream... geeeze Starby... next time don't stay away for so long would you??

She only had a few minutes, goodness knows when she'll be back.

But yes, we should clean it up a bit Stinger.

:: Alyt passes stringer an apron, gloves, cleaning supplies and a maids uniform::

Now get to it young man. :)

She only had a few minutes, goodness knows when she'll be back.

But yes, we should clean it up a bit Stinger.

:: Alyt passes stringer an apron, gloves, cleaning supplies and a maids uniform::

Now get to it young man. :)

Ha!. I have people you know.:rolleyes::eek::D

Ha!....I have people ya know.:rolleyes::eek::D

Get your people over here! On the way here can you have them stop at my place? :D

Get your people over here! On the way here can you have them stop at my place? :D

Aaah haaa.. from what you have been telling me recently about that... you will have to provide sleeping quarters for 6 people for three nights and dinner... :)

Aaah haaa..from what you have been telling me recently about that...you will have to provide sleeping quarters fo r6 people for three night and dinner....:)

I have a tent trailer, a fold out couch, a hideabed and a tent. Bring it on! ;)

Do they like nachos? :D

I have a tent trailer, a fold out couch, a hideabed and a tent. Bring it on! ;)

Do they like nachos? :D

This crew will eat anything... hide the rabbits!! :eek::eek::eek::D

This crew will eat anything...hide the rabbits !!!!! :eek::eek::eek::D

Rabbits are not food, I repeat, NOT FOOD! :eek:

Rabbits are not food, I repeat, NOT FOOD! :eek:

I know, I know... but hide them! The kids too! These guys can eat!! :D

I know, I know....but hide them! The kids too! These guys can eat !!!! :D

The kids? Say it isn't so. OMG! Cannibals! :eek:

Hahah alty and stringer. Good laughs :)


I'm glad your back starbs. I don't know you yet, but I hope to know you soon. And I'm glad your feeling OK :) *hugs*

Alty, there are always consequences... you run out of food, we could be facing a disaster... Oh, and we will need lots of Corona too.

hahah alty and stringer. good laughs :)


im glad your back starbs. i dont know you yet, but i hope to know you soon. and im glad your feeling ok :) *hugs*

Naaaaw, I only type the truth... hee he. :rolleyes:

OOOH now it is all clear to me! :P

Starby.....did you know that a DUCK's QUACK has no echo? AND that scientist's do not know why....

I guess this presents additional questions; Does a duck really quack? Does a duck pretend to quack? Do duck's really even exist?

Just asking... :)

Starby.....did you know that a DUCK's QUACK has no echo? AND that scientist's do not know why....

I guess this presents additional questions; Does a duck really quack? Does a duck pretend to quack? Do duck's really even exist?

Just asking.....:)

If a duck quacks in the forest does anybody hear? :confused:

Have you ever stepped on a duck? ;)

If a duck quacks in the forest, does it make a sound?

GMTA, Alty.

GMTA, Alty.

Now you're scaring me. Do we share a brain? If so, whose turn is it to use it today? ;)

I'm not cataloging stuff at the library today, am home and vegging. You may use the brain today.

Ok... I know that I am old but... "GMTA"? What..

I should know this right.. Or, is it a private thingy?

I'm not cataloging stuff at the library today, am home and vegging. You may use the brain today.

Now you tell me. I've been feeling a bit brainless today, yup, the brain is on slow mode. Poo. :(

Gmta -- first computer acronym I learned after lol (back in 1998) -- "great minds think alike"

Poo

Poo

I agree! ;)

gmta -- first computer acronym I learned after lol (back in 1998) -- "great minds think alike"

"Great minds think alike"... Well, Wonder, I guess that is why... sad isn't it... Got a 'good' one but... :(

Poo

Hey Joseph... wanted to say hi... but have to get back to saving the world... or at least... mine. (sigh... again.) Later. :)

Ah, turtles turtles, turtles. Such hateful creatures.

Had to get an alligator snapping turtle out of the back yard this morning. A young one, only about a foot in diameter. Now that was a pain. Trying to move the thing without touching it, ugh.

So we finally get the darn demon spawn in a bucket and there's a red ear slider in the drive way. No big deal, just a slider, try and move it so we can relocate the alligator snapper and the darn thing tries to attack me. So here I am, being chased in circles by a red ear slider. Suckers can move pretty fast I'll tell you.

Who ever said turtles were slow and peaceful has never met these turtles.

Wow, evil turtles, whodda thunk?

You okay Silver?

Yeah, O', fine. According to my husband that darn red ear almost got the heel of my foot a few times though. I certainly was not expecting the thing to lunge at me and give chase when I went to move it out of the way.

Yeah, O', fine. According to my husband that darn red ear almost got the heel of my foot a few times though. I certainly was not expecting the the thing to lunge at me and give chase when I went to move it out of the way.

Sounds more furious than a duck.

Yes, that creature was much scarier then a duck.

Duck's really aren't that bad anyway, it's the geese you really have to watch out for. There are some geese on the river bank that would hold you at gunpoint for a some pieces of bread... and your wallet, maybe even your car keys.

Yet again if you ask my husband turkeys are the worse birds in the world. He's terrified of the gobblers.

Yes, that creature was much scarier then a duck.

Duck's really aren't that bad anyways, its the geese you really have to watch out for. There are some geese on the river bank that would hold you at gunpoint for a some pieces of bread...and your wallet, maybe even your car keys.

Yet again if you ask my husband turkeys are the worse birds in the world. He's terrified of the gobblers.

I agree with your husband. Turkeys are mean! I got bitten by a turkey once, nasty little bugger. I really hope he was the one on my plate come Christmas. Revenge is sweet!

I agree with your husband. Turkeys are mean! I got bitten by a turkey once, nasty little bugger. I really hope he was the one on my plate come Christmas. Revenge is sweet!
Turkeys don't bite. They have no real teeth. They peck.

I agree with your husband. Turkeys are mean! I got bitten by a turkey once, nasty little bugger. I really hope he was the one on my plate come Christmas. Revenge is sweet!

Did you ever read the worse sexual experiences post?
In the woods ,doing the deed ,Mama turkeys had a big nest.I didn't know what the heap was until they came attacking us!
I mean the Mama and the Papa and they were huge :eek:
How many times in this life must I run while pulling up my pants?

Did you ever read the worse sexual experiences post?
In the woods ,doing the deed ,Mama turkeys had a big nest.I didn't know what the heap was until they came attacking us!
I mean the Mama and the Papa and they were huge :eek:
How many times in this life must I run while pulling up my pants?

LMAO! I'm picturing it, OMG, I think I just peed my pants. Sigh. :p

You and me both:)

Did you ever read the worse sexual experiences post?
In the woods ,doing the deed ,Mama turkeys had a big nest.I didn't know what the heap was until they came attacking us!
I mean the Mama and the Papa and they were huge
How many times in this life must I run while pulling up my pants?

LMAO. Wow, that's pretty hilarious.

did you ever read the worse sexual experiences post?
In the woods ,doing the deed ,mama turkeys had a big nest.i didn't know what the heap was until they came attacking us!
I mean the mama and the papa and they were huge :eek:
How many times in this life must i run while pulling up my pants?

I want pictures!! :d

i want pictures !!!!!! :d

Don't we all? ;)

Don't we all? ;)

Yes... LMAO!! NM, you have to describe this further... I want to laugh some more hon K? :p

Hahah I can already picture it.

Hey!

I found the pictures!

Image Search Results (http://www.goodsearch.com/SearchImage.aspx?Keywords=turkeys)

Just thought that you found the pics of Arty, LOL!

Get better soon! Hope you'll be okay! Good luck :)

Hope you get better soon! Good luck! =]

If you read all the previous posts Tinkerz... you'll see how weird the situation seems :(

Tinkerz,

We're trying to give Starby funnies while she's laid up

Turkeys catsmine??

I think I need to go back and read some of the previous posts! :D

Hey Shazzy! A page is enough for that. You'll get all the story at once... especially if you're still on the 40 posts per page..

Hi starby,

My thoughts are with you, keep your chin up.

Love and huggs to you xxxxxxxxxx

I haven't updated in a long time. I probably shouldn't be updating now, but all of you have a right to know, all of you care about Starby, so here it goes.

Starby hasn't had an easy time of it. I won't go into details but there's more wrong then just her broken leg. Her liver is toxic, it's failing.

Again, no details, but she's in hospital right now and the doctors don't think she'll make it.

They can't operate, she wouldn't survive the surgery. The liver is too far gone, her only hope would be a transplant. No can do.

The doctors are thinking she only has a few days left. They've induced a coma so she's not in pain.

Her family is by her side, trying, hoping, praying for a miracle. I hope there is one, but it doesn't look good.

All your prayers, whatever you believe in, whatever you have to give, let's give it to Starby.

I'm hoping for a miracle, I'm sure we all are.

That's all. I'll keep you all posted. :(

OMG!

I'm sorry for you, too, Alty. I think I'll add you in a postscript to God.

OMG!

I'm sorry for you, too, Alty. I think I'll add you in a postscript to God.

Thanks Cats.

I'm sorry for all of us. We all love Starby, our Ducky. I'm not alone in feeling sad, feeling grief. There are so many of us, so many that love her. I just get to be the messenger, but I'm not alone in my grief.

I forgot that for a moment. I was thinking "poor me". Sorry, had a moment, a bad one. Poor us. All of us.

We're all hurting. We're all sad. We'll all be there for each other. Like I said, I just get to be the messenger, but I'm no where near the only one that cares for her.

Damn. Still have a lot of tears. Thank God for tylenol or my head would explode.

Thanks again Cats. :)

I just get to be the messenger

That's why you need some love too. Messenger is a b**ch job in this situation.

I'm just lost for words on this one again Alty and feel helpless that I can't do anything to help , my prayers are with starby and lets just hope for that MIRACLE :(

Dear Alty,

Thank you so much for keeping us informed about the situation! It's so sad for all of us! My prayers go out to every one involved with Starby and I am also praying for a miracle!

Thanks!

Maybe with all of us hoping, praying, there will be a miracle.

Surely God can't deny so many requests.

Never more then now do I realize that we are indeed a family. Much more then just people on the internet. We all care about each other.

This group, this family, AMHD, well, we all mean so much to Starby. We really were there through her darkest hours. She relied so much on the friendship, the human contact that she got here. We are her family. We're all family. We'll get through this, we have no choice.

Prayers, no matter who you pray to. Hope, no matter how small, that's all we have left.

Where there's a will there's a way. I hope someone finds the way. I hope that Ducky comes back to us.

Darn that girl. I hope she pulls through just so I can yell at her. She sure will get an earful for all this worry. ;)

I double dog dare you Jo. I double dog dare you! Damn, stupid tears. They don't help at all.

Just hold hands, we can you know, we have that power. Just hold hands and pray.

Alty, I think you've done as much as you could given the circumstances. I wish we could all do more but we just have to pray for her and let God take over.

I will pray for her

You know she - and you - are in my prayers.

My wife saw this (and the look on my face) and wanted to add her sympathy and prayers as well.

You know she - and you - are in my prayers.

You're in mine too Judy. I know how much you care about Jo. This is hurting you too. It's hurting all of us.

Wish I could hug you in person. Hugging you via AMHD right now.

You're in mine too Judy. I know how much you care about Jo. This is hurting you too. It's hurting all of us.

Wish I could hug you in person. Hugging you via AMHD right now.


{{{ FELT AND RETURNED }}}

And all of you - stay healthy and safe. I can't lose anybody else, not for a long, long time.

And, yes, she was probably my first friend here and I am in pain, as we all are.

she was probably my first friend here and I am in pain, as we all are.

She gave me my first rep

As most of you know, I am not much of a joiner, yet Starby pulled me in, hook line and sinker and made me feel an integral part of this family. Thank you Starby! She likes to try to talk like me to Alty... soon, Alty we will visit on the phone and see how close Starby came to nailing it. LOL

My heart hurts for every one of you as we wait, and pray. Loving sometimes hurts really bad but Starby would tell us, it is worth all the hurt because when we love it also feels so good.

Love to you Starby and to each of you! I realize we do not all share the same faith beliefs but I just share this with you. Prayers are going up from so many people... sometimes God says YES, sometimes, He says NO and sometimes, He says WAIT but my faith says I am to tell God the desires of my heart and then pray that God's divine will be done. I want Starby back here 'giving us what for'. I am praying for that.

I sent out requests to friends and family for prayer for Starby, for the doctors, for her family and for friends, all of us, hurting for Starby. I have copied and pasted an e-mail I received back from one I requested prayer from. It blessed me and I hope it blesses you to read it. Most of all, I pray in Jesus Name, that it brings God's best to Starby. I am sharing part of the prayer:

Message:
Heavenly FATHER.. reach down and guide this lady. Reach down and touch this lady. They put her in a coma to help her... but YOU are the healer. Reach down and heal this person. Jo is loved.. other wise others wouldn't have been asked to pray for her. Help those that know and love her to continue to believe in YOU and in all YOU do!! Whether the answer is to our liking or not, we still believe in YOUR wisdom. JESUS CHRIST.. reach out to Jo and those around her... now and forever. Amen

Alty, thank you for posting for Starby! Love to each of you, my family... my friends!

Love to all of you.

It's amazing how much we all have become a family. We share our ups, our downs, our good times, our bad. Our laughter, our tears.

Starby means so much to us all. She never failed to make me laugh with her stories, her silliness, her joy.

We used to talk for hours a few times a week. She told me all about herself, but she failed to leave out the worst of it, her health.

She loves everyone so much. AMHD is a big part of her life. That one night that she got onto the computer for a while, well, you could hear how much she had missed us, how badly she wanted to be back.

It wasn't enough though.

We all love AMHD, heck, it's an addiction, I can't fight it. But we all have our lives, our day to day, our families. Starby didn't have that.

She has isolated herself from all her friends and family in the last year. She's become a hermit, never leaving her house. We are (damn, I keep writing in the past tense and correcting myself) her lifeline, her family.

I knew that. I knew she needed help getting her life back on track. I didn't know how bad it actually was. I didn't realize that it was so much worse then I thought. I don't think anyone did, even her family.

She is in all of our prayers, all of our hearts. Miracles happen everyday, right? Well, we need one, we truly do. I want to see the ducky come back here. I want to read her funny posts. I want to hear her voice. I want her back. We all do.

It's out of our hands. It's up to God, or whoever you believe in. It's up to Jo. It's not up to us.

Love to all of you. Hugs to all of you. We'll all get through this together. We all love her. Maybe love can pull her through.

Message:
Heavenly FATHER.. reach down and guide this lady. Reach down and touch this lady. They put her in a coma to help her... but YOU are the healer. Reach down and heal this person. Jo is loved.. other wise others wouldn't have been asked to pray for her. Help those that know and love her to continue to believe in YOU and in all YOU do!! Whether the answer is to our liking or not, we still believe in YOUR wisdom. JESUS CHRIST.. reach out to Jo and those around her... now and forever. Amen

Amen.

Hugs to all of you... Starby, I will be thinking of you as hard as I can think of anyone till this is over... you get better babe... love and lots of hugs to my Ducky... get better Starbs...

Alty... we are all lucky to have a friend like you... but Starbs is the luckiest to be closest to your heart... if you need to talk... you know what to do love.

Starby is in my prayers. Everybody is in my prayers. Starby for getting fixed all up. For the family to have strength at this time for Starby. It is good to know her family is by her side.

Thank you so much for the update. I will absolutely keep her in my prayers. She is a wonderful woman, and strong willed. I'm praying she will pull through.

I am not a religious person. I am a spiritual person. I believe no prayers go unanswered. Sometimes the answer is yes; other times it is no.

I had a terrible time sleeping last night - read this just before I went to bed - and I started thinking that maybe Jo needs to find peace and began to pray for whatever is best for her.

I am sad beyond words.

This thread is not about me and I don't mean to turn it in that direction but during that terrible time when my husband was dying, following his death, until this day the people on AMHD have held my head above water when I literally thought I was going to drown. Jo answered me in the wee hours of the morning when I was distraught, when I couldn't sleep, when I probably made little sense, when I truly didn't know how I was going to go on. For that matter, sometimes I didn't want to go on and she (because she was on line so much) was always kind and reassuring and suffered with me.

Oh, Jo -

It is unfortunate Jo is going through all of this. I don't mean to sound uncaring, but as a nurse, knowing what these people go through, it may be her time. The suffering is horrendous for both her and her family. Letting go, while easier said than done, may be the best thing that could happen.

There is no cure for a toxic liver, only torture. She most likely will not be a candidate for a transplant considering her past and the fight she put up for treatment.

Sometimes we know when it's time to give up the fight. Jo has been through so much in her life that there is a possibility she just wants peace. I dealt with this with my father.

I will keep her and her family, including her internet family in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that in one way or another she finds the healing that she so desperately needs.

Thanks to everyone who posted. To all the kind words.

Judy, I like that you shared a personal story about Starby. I think that's a great idea.

Instead of being sad, angry, hurt, let's remember all the good things.

Anyone have any favorite posts of our Starby? A favorite moment you shared? A story?

Starby and I formed a quick friendship. She posted on my "Truth about me" thread and said that she too was going through a hard time. I decided to go look at her thread.

It was about the court date for Nigel, the man that beat her to a pulp. She was afraid that he'd try again, she was afraid that justice wouldn't be served.

We talked a bit on her thread and realized that we're both in Alberta, albeit 5 hours apart, but still, the same province.

I PM'd her my email address, told her to write me if she ever just wanted to talk.

We emailed back and forth a bit and exchanged numbers. We've been talking ever since.

Our first conversation was 4 hours long. Thank God Starby had free long distance, I didn't have my magic jack then, not that it ever works anyway. ;)

We talked almost every day, for hours on end. We talked about fun stuff, sad stuff, everything and anything. My kids started calling her Auntie Jo.

We had made plans to meet in person this summer. I was trying to convince her to come camping with us as we would be going to Drumheller and it would only be an extra 2 hour drive to pick her up. She was thinking about it.

I invited her for Christmas (this past Christmas) but she kept making excuses why she couldn't come. Perhaps it was because she knew I'd see that something was wrong.

We've laughed together, we've cried together. The way this is ending does not define who she is. She has a good heart, a good soul, she's a good person. So let's celebrate that. Let's make the ducky smile.

I agree Alty... there are some here that we all adore and Starbs was one of those!
She always makes me smile... she isn't afraid to say what she wants and I like it...
HUGS Starbs... I wish I could lay right next to you and make you feel loved and special so we could work this out together. Lots n lots of hugs

Love your way alty. Sorry this has been so hard on you. Sorry I've been absent for you. Pretty distracted at the moment.

Love to starby too... there's a lot of ways to measure a person, but one of the best, I think, is when you can answer "yes" to the question "am i in any way a better person for having known them?"

Not matter how "virtual" the relationships we have here at AMHD, id say "yes" to just about everyone... and starby's a shining star here.

And I agree with J_9... if this is where its at, I'm glad, at least, that they have her in a more peaceful state. Wish I could hold her hand.

Funny you said that Alty, my first phone conversation with her was about 3 hours. So yes, thank God she had free long distance. We talked about everything like we were old friends. We shared so much and seemed to have so much in common. Just felt... familiar and comfortable. We've since burned up many more hours of long distance calls. What a sweetheart!

She explained a lot to me about the Board, Canadians, her past, and life in general. Even though different ages, different lives... we'd been through similar things. We especially bonded over our mutual love for American Idol contestant Danny Gokey. :)

What really weirds me out was that we'd just chatted via email the day of her accident. I was actually out running errands and responding to her emails via my blackberry. So I was really shocked to hear all this had happened to her.

But she's going through a lot right now and the most I can do is pray. For comfort for her. Strength for her family. And Solace for everyone whose life she's touched. God hears me.

there's a lot of ways to measure a person, but one of the best, I think, is when you can answer "yes" to the question "am i in any way a better person for having known them?"

Love this KP! Love it. Yes to all of you.


She explained a lot to me about the Board, Canadians,

:eek: What did she say? :eek:

That actually reminds me of a story.

One night I get a call from Sneezy. He's upset. I ask what's wrong.

Sneezy: I just talked to Starby, she says there are no polar bears in Canada. Is that true?

Me: There are polar bears in some parts of Canada, but not in Alberta, well, unless you go to the zoo.

Sneezy: But you can't look outside your window and see polar bears?

Me: No, no polar bears in my yard.

Sneezy: What about penguins? She said there aren't any penguins either.

Me: There are penguins in West Edmonton Mall, but not wild ones. Sorry Sneezy, no penguins in Alberta.

Sneezy: But, but, you do live in igloos, right? You do know Eskimos, right? Tell me you do, please.

Me: Do you want me to lie to you?

Sneezy: Ahhhhhh! All my childhood dreams are crushed. Well, at least you have the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police). Is it neat to have police on horseback?

Me: Um, Sneezy, you may want to sit down for this. :rolleyes:

Afterwards I called Starby to tell her that we had completely destroyed Sneezy and his beliefs about Canada. Poor boy. Sure gave Starby and I a laugh though.

Next I'm going to tell him that we actually have summer here, it doesn't snow every day of the year. :p

I still don't know if I believe Canada has seasons...

I still don't know if I belive Canada has seasons...

It does, but it's usually all 4 in one day. ;)

Do you think I should tell Sneezy there's no Santa or is that pushing it? :D

Don't push it... I still believe!

I am not a religious person. I am a spiritual person. I believe no prayers go unanswered. Sometimes the answer is yes; other times it is no.

I had a terrible time sleeping last night - read this just before I went to bed - and I started thinking that maybe Jo needs to find peace and began to pray for whatever is best for her.

I am sad beyond words.

This thread is not about me and I don't mean to turn it in that direction but during that terrible time when my husband was dying, following his death, until this day the people on AMHD have held my head above water when I literally thought I was going to drown. Jo answered me in the wee hours of the morning when I was distraught, when I couldn't sleep, when I probably made little sense, when I truly didn't know how I was going to go on. For that matter, sometimes I didn't want to go on and she (because she was on line so much) was always kind and reassuring and suffered with me.

Oh, Jo -

I think you sort of put in a nutshell, what Starby has offered to all of us... Availability! In our late night talks on the phone, we shared lots of laughs, love her laugh, she has such a cute chuckle when she gets tickled. It was usually over her not being able to understand certain words I say, being from another area. I long to hear that laugh again. I lost my 37 year old nephew due to liver failure and as I think back now to times she and I visited about that, I wonder, why did she not share more of herself in that respect. I shared with her that Chris was one of the sweetest, kindest, most giving people I knew and I use those same words to describe Starby. Starby is all about bringing joy to all of us. She is a good listener. I hope someway, she can hear our thoughts about her as we share here and that she is remembering fun times with each of us and feeling all the love coming her way. Jo is a fighter, but sadly, she fights for us, those she loves, but not so much for herself. We all fight our private battles and I guess we should be more open and not try to fight them alone. Tears come and I can barely type so will close for now. Jo is such a giver of herself. Love you Jo, Starby, the Duckster!! Rebbie!

She is a giver Rebbie. So many times she would listen to me vent about all my little everyday irks. Love her for that and so many other things.

She would fight for us, for Niki, but not for herself. I think she gave up a long time ago, it just took her body a longer time to catch up with what her heart had decided.

She's been existing, not living. I don't think she has any fight left in her.

I hope she finds peace, no matter what the outcome. From the conversation with her Aunt yesterday and the email I received today, Starby is not long for this world, probably won't survive the weekend.

Peace is waiting, I truly believe that. I believe that there is a better place, a place where she'll finally find what she's been looking for.

Sneezy: But, but, you do live in igloos, right? You do know Eskimos, right? Tell me you do, please.

Me: Do you want me to lie to you?

Sneezy: Ahhhhhh! All my childhood dreams are crushed. Well, at least you have the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police). Is it neat to have police on horseback?

Me: Um, Sneezy, you may want to sit down for this. :rolleyes:

Sneezy should know that you'd melt any igloo you slept in... silly boy.. great story

Next I'm going to tell him that we actually have summer here, it doesn't snow every day of the year. :p

Don't you lie, it does too always snow there I've seen the holiday brochures :D

Sneezy: But, but, you do live in igloos, right? You do know Eskimos, right? Tell me you do, please.

Me: Do you want me to lie to you?

Sneezy: Ahhhhhh! All my childhood dreams are crushed. Well, at least you have the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police). Is it neat to have police on horseback?

Me: Um, Sneezy, you may want to sit down for this. :rolleyes:

sneezy should know that you'd melt any igloo you slept in... silly boy.. great story

It was so funny KP. You should have heard his voice. He sounded like a 5 year old who just lost his favorite toy. Starby was laughing her a$$ off.

I can melt ice? Gosh, there I go again, blushing. :o

dont you lie, it does too always snow there ive seen the holiday brochures :D

LOL! Do I have to squish your dreams too Bear? ;)

Another story involving Sneezy and Starby.

I don't remember how it all came about, but Sneezy and I made a bet.

Sneezy thought that he could embarrass me, I said no, but I can embarrass you. We decided on Facebook as our playground. Whoever said Uncle first, lost.

So of course I decided to enlist Starby to help me.

I don't remember the exact words but I posted on Sneezy's Facebook wall, something along the lines of;

"You said you'd call. Why didn't you call? Did last night mean nothing to you? Oh, I still have your pants, are you going to stop by and get them?"

Apparently Sneezy started getting dozens of text messages from his friends asking who this Alty person was and what was going on.

Well, just as it was starting to die down, Starby decided to post.

"Who is this Alty person? Are you cheating on me? You said you love me. What about our baby? I can't go through this pregnancy alone. You jerk!"

Once again, Sneezy's phone went wild. Poor boy couldn't keep up with all the calls he was getting.

Needless to say, he cried Uncle.

Two posts, that's all it took.

Let that be a lesson to you boys. ;)

Another story involving Sneezy and Starby.

I don't remember how it all came about, but Sneezy and I made a bet.

Sneezy thought that he could embarrass me, I said no, but I can embarrass you. We decided on facebook as our playground. Whoever said Uncle first, lost.

So of course I decided to enlist Starby to help me.

I don't remember the exact words but I posted on Sneezy's facebook wall, something along the lines of;

"You said you'd call. Why didn't you call? Did last night mean nothing to you? Oh, I still have your pants, are you going to stop by and get them?"

Apparently Sneezy started getting dozens of text messages from his friends asking who this Alty person was and what was going on.

Well, just as it was starting to die down, Starby decided to post.

"Who is this Alty person? Are you cheating on me? You said you love me. What about our baby? I can't go through this pregnancy alone. You jerk!"

Once again, Sneezy's phone went wild. Poor boy couldn't keep up with all the calls he was getting.

Needless to say, he cried Uncle.

Two posts, that's all it took.

Let that be a lesson to you boys. ;)

Remind me never to piss you off :D

And you can't crush my dreams, because that's all I have :(

Let that be a lesson to you boys. ;)

*sigh*

My naughty grandfather's advice... "love'm all"

My grandmother's advice... "girls are mean, boys are stupid"

...

*sigh*

my naughty grandfather's advice... "love'm all"

my grandmother's advice... "girls are mean, boys are stupid"

...

He started it KP. He double dog dared me. Twas his own fault.

Don't race with the greyhounds if you pi$$ like a puppy. :D

remind me never to piss you off :d

and you can't crush my dreams, because thats all i have :(

LOL! I only hurt the ones I love. That sounds wrong. :(

It was all in fun. I went on his Facebook afterwards and explained that it was all a joke. No worries. :)

LOL! I only hurt the ones I love. That sounds wrong. :(

It was all in fun. I went on his facebook afterwards and explained that it was all a joke. No worries. :)

Yea I know :), those are some good memories you have there :)

yea i know :), those are some good memories you have there :)

So many. I'm going to go back, find some of my favorite Starby posts and fav Starby moments. There are so many.

Love the Duck. Even with only 2 tail feathers she still always makes me smile.

Oh I came in earlier but hadn't have time to see any new posts... and now I learn that Starby has a liver failure!! :(

She was the first one to welcome me in the castle of doom by warning me of ghosts... she was the one that was here late at night, when I was online from the library... she sent me a christmas card in a red envelope, that my mom thought it was a valentine's card for the card was late and arrived at valentine's day... and helped me out when I was bored, desperated. My deepest prayers are to you Starby and everyone else on here... Alty; Rebbie; Bear; KP; J_9; Judy; NM; Joe; Justy; Shazzy; Sneezy. My heart just badly hurts at the sight of all of your posts :( But if God wanted it that way, then let it be. I'm sure that God knows what's best for her.

Big hug Unky. She really adores you. I hope you know that. :)

Thanks for your kind words Alty. I just don't know what to think :(

Hi Unky! Good to see you here. I know we have to face some facts but I still am hoping to be back at the Castle with everyone, including the Duckster!! Starby and Alty pulled me in to the family before I even knew there was a family such as this. Love you and love you all!

I was wondering if I would ever be seeing you online again Rebbie! Glad to see you! :) Yep, that'd be great if we were again in the castle like in the ol' days :rolleyes:

The next thread will be a castle. I promise Unky and Rebbie. You both have to promise to join, even if it is without the duck.

It will be in her honor, okay? She'll like that.

At a time like this this is relatively important, but where is Nikki?

I don't know if it's legal on this board, but just posting so I can keep up with the intel. Starby is definitely in our prayers

I guess that she's with Starby's brother.

Oh, Alty, but let both the camping trip cancelled and the just for fun threads close. Two chatting threads are difficult to keep updated. Then, I'll promise!

At a time like this this is relatively important, but where is Nikki?

Niki is with Starby's mom and dad. In fact, they mentioned Niki in their email to me a while back. They love her.

Starby's mom and sister are the ones that got Niki for her. The whole family loves animals, Niki will remain with Starby's parents, she's being well cared for. :)

Around 6 months ago Starby mentioned to me that she would want me to take Niki if anything every happened to her. I said "don't talk like that, what would happen to you?" Another thing I missed, perhaps another way that she tried to tell me she wasn't well.

I would take Niki but there's the 2 dog rule that I'm already breaking, also, there's not enough room for another big dog in my home.

No worries though. Just from the way Starby's mom wrote about Niki in the email, I think she's in good hands. :)

I don't know if it's legal on this board, but just posting so I can keep up with the intel. Starby is definitely in our prayers

Well, I'm the law here, so you're fine. ;)

I didn't mean it Ben, really. I know I'm not the law. Put the whip down! Put it down! :eek:

the next thread will be a castle. I promise unky and rebbie. You both have to promise to join, even if it is without the duck.

It will be in her honor, okay? She'll like that.

I promise!

The next thread will be a castle. I promise Unky and Rebbie. You both have to promise to join, even if it is without the duck.

It will be in her honor, okay? She'll like that.

That's a really great idea Alty, a testiment to starby :)

thats a really great idea Alty, a testiment to starby :)

I like it too Bear.

I'll wait, like Unky said, until the camping trip, fun thread etc are done. It does get too confusing.

It will be the last "Starby's and Alty's castle of doom". We'll do it up like we used to. All the original peeps and the new ones.

We'll make it happen! :)

Well... let's spam the crap out of that other thread and get it started.

I'm glad her parents love Niki :)

Well... let's spam the crap out of that other thread and get it started.

I'm glad her parents love Niki :)

Spam! Shh, you'll get us in trouble. :eek:

Psst, meet you there. ;)

Hey Starby... we miss you, hope you are feeling better soon.
I just heard from Bear about it.Thanks Bear for letting me know.

Thanks Alty for keeping us updated.

Edit:... Was just reading the previous posts,
I am sorry to hear about Starby.
I am finally getting the details straight.

Hugs to all...

Keep praying... keep thinking of Jo...

Any news?

Any news?

I sent you an email, forgot that it's your work email. Oops.

Starby is conscious, breathing on her own.

I got two messages from her Aunt today. I'll post them here.

First one;

We arrived in MH last evening and went directly to the hospital to see Jo. She is going in and out of consciousness now - so is not in a coma any more. This is good! She IS still on life support.

She opened her eyes when I said a was there... but I don't know if there was any recognition.

This morning I spoke with the Dr - whom I know personally - she is in the best hands with him. He wants to take her off life support today and see if she can breathe on her own. He said her heart is strong, her kidneys are okay, they have drained her lungs and all the fluid that was gathering inside her causing internal bleeding.

JO MAY GET ANOTHER CHANCE AT LIFE - IF she wants to take it. The Dr's idea is that Jo will not survive long, but she could live another week or month. IF she could survive 6 months - without one drop of alcohol - she could become a recipient for a liver transplant. These are all speculations - but at least the Dr. is allowing some hope - and I'll take that.

I don't want to be premature in my hopes, but I'd rather be hopeful than not. Today will be a turning point - I will let you know how it goes.

Thank you for your prayers and your kind, kind words of hope and encouragement! God Bless...

Second one;

Hi. Just a quick note. I'm on my blackberry. I'm presently sitting with Jo. They removed the breathing tube and she is beathing on her own! They are taking her off pain meds so she wakes up completely. She has a bit of pneumonia so needs to start coughing. She knows who I am. Smiled at me. I told her I had a mesage from you - she opened her eyes and looked at me. I told her that you love her and are praying for her to get well. She nodded and smiled !! This is good news Andrea! I will keep you posted. Hugs to you.

That's it for now. I'll keep you all posted. Guess I should do it here because I don't have everyone's email and I know that everyone is concerned.

Hope I'm doing the right thing posting it here.

Thanks Alty... you're right I won't get the email you sent until Monday. We'll just keep praying and leave God in control.

Just fine Alty..

You're doing good, Alty. If you're keeping count add my hopes in there too.

It seems that our prayers are working so far.

How can God say no with all of AMHD sending prayers? ;)

Thank you so much Alty for the update!

Gosh!! Things are finally turning to a good turn. I know it's a little to early but things are getting getting better! :) Will continue in prayers! :) Thanks for the update Alty!!

I'm not good at knowing what to say except that at least there is hope for a second chance at life. Addictions of any kind are tough to beat and even tougher than other's.

I know what addictions are without actually being "addicted".
Sugar was an addiction. Had to have it in everything before by teen years. I slowly cut down and for th most part it's eliminated. Pepsi, I nned to find a way to limit. I cannot drik diet because it gives me a headache.

I screwed up once and took a drug containing a barbituate sedative for a sinus headache instead of my normal trigger. Those 3 or 4 weeks were brutal detoxing myself from the drug. I've been on the drug for nearly 30 years with no other episodes.

It's a tough battle, but it can be won.

I hope Starby wins it.

Still pulling for you Starby.. she broke me in... gave me my first reddie I miss her.

Update, not a good one. Sorry guys, I had a feeling it would come to this;

I just received this message from Starby's Aunt;

Just a quick update. Talked to my sister tonight. They are having a meeting with the Dr. tomorrow and I will know more then... but they were called in today and told that Jo's organs are shutting down. It does not look like she will make it after all.
I feel a little stunned - even though I knew this was a strong possibility.
I'm feeling pretty low right now.
I'm so sorry to be the bearer of this news for you.
I will email you after I talk to Dona tomorrow.

I expected it, I'm sure a lot of you did too, but it doesn't make it any easier.

As soon as I know, you'll know.

I'm so sorry...

I'm so sorry Alty
Whoops, pushed it twice!:)

I'm so sorry to hear about this, Alty!

Bless you Jo.

The best I can for you Jo.

Fly away to the angels,
Fly away and be free.
Let your soul be at peace now;
Will you look down on me?

Are you numb or alone,
Can you hear when I speak?
Are you happy or sad,
Do you feel, do you see?

I can't understand
How it was for you.
Were you scared, did you cry?
Now I'm crying, too.

It was just yesterday-
You entered my mind.
I wondered how you were,
I remembered our times...

You could have come to me,
Though I'm sure you didn't know.
I would have been there,
Tried to soften the blow.

I can't believe that you're gone,
I read all your old letters.
You were sweet, loving, and kind,
And that's what I'll remember.

So fly away to the angels,
Fly with them and be free.
Let your soul be at peace now,
Don't forget about me.

I'm really sorry for your loss, Alty. I know it's so much larger than mine, you've known Jo longer. Chin up, girl, she's better... not here, but better

For our Jo... We love you...

YouTube - On The Wings of a Butterfly (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULyQ-lqP4pU)

I am so sorry, alty. I must have missed something within all of these posts because I thought she had just broken her leg, and then I read that she was on support and had liver damage. Can you please take the time to explain this to me when you get a chance. I would really like to know.

tickle

It's quite a touchy subject Ms. Tick. It appears that Starby needed some help with her drinking as it had gotten way out of hand. Apparently she hid it well for us, but her family knew better. They tried to help, but they were a little too late.

Oh gosh... I don't know what to say :( We love you...

Sorry to hear this. Starby and I was never close but the update brought tears to my eyes and your poem was beautiful. I hope she doesn't suffer much and she'll be heading to a better place.

She will be in a better place with no more pain lots of love to starby

Sometimes it's a blessing for the suffering to end.

If this is the end, God speed, Jo.

Jo,
I just wanted to tell you, I can't count the times I smile because of you... there are too many. YOu have never let me down, through conversations on the phone, here and on messenger... always as sweet as ever and inviting. You have been a great listener. Not only have you given me great advice, you have helped many here see the light to get back on track! Jo, you have been a wonderful friend and in my dreams I wish you can fight all this and come out on top! Lot's of love and hugs... I am with you in spirit...

Friends, think of her with good thoughts, let her stay or leave in good spirit. Hugs to all of you.

My condolanaces go out to Starby's family and Starby's extended AMHD family and especially for Alty.

Thanks for all the kind words everyone.

I expect an update from her Aunt soon.

As the email said her organs have shut down, it's usually only a matter of time after that happens.

My prayer for her is to go peacefully, pain free, knowing how much she's loved.

It's a blessing that she came out of coma, that she got to reconcile with her family. I hope she found peace with them.

I'll keep you all posted.

I'm just the messenger, we all love her, we'll all miss her, she will never be forgotten, ever.

Keep her in our prayers, in our hearts, always.

We are her family too.

Thank you God for Jo. We put this situation in Your most capable hands. We accept what you allow even when we don't always understand it. This is all a part of Your master plan and Your way is perfect. This trial is but a stepping stone and we turn our troubles and cast our cares upon You.

In dedication to Starby:

"I will not die an unlived life. I will not live in fear of falling or
catching fire. I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me, to make me less afraid, more accessible, to loosen my heart until it becomes a wing, a torch, a promise. I choose to risk my significance; to live so that which comes to me as seed goes to the next as blossom and that which comes to me as blossom, goes on as fruit."


She truly lived a fulfilled life... if this is her moment to go on into the great unknown, we shall remember her, keep her alive in our hearts, and cherish the moments we shared. She will not die for us, but will continue to thrive in the minds of those who loved her.

She was and always shall be my friend.

You're loved Starby.

Hey HC! You've got 2009 posts... lol.

Hey, how was your trip to Beijing?

In dedication to Starby:

"I will not die an unlived life. I will not live in fear of falling or
catching fire. I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me, to make me less afraid, more accessible, to loosen my heart until it becomes a wing, a torch, a promise. I choose to risk my significance; to live so that which comes to me as seed goes to the next as blossom and that which comes to me as blossom, goes on as fruit."


She truly lived a fulfilled life... if this is her moment to go on into the great unknown, we shall remember her, keep her alive in our hearts, and cherish the moments we shared. She will not die for us, but will continue to thrive in the minds of those who loved her.

She was and always shall be my friend.

You're loved Starby.

That's beautiful HC, brought tears to my eyes.

She is a friend, family, to all of us.

That's beautiful HC, brought tears to my eyes.

She is a friend, family, to all of us.

I put it on one of my china pictures this morning and was reminded of Starby... It's on a shot of the Great Wall...

Her life always sounded/sounds like an uphill battle; but, in my experience, the Great Wall is more beautiful from the top... When she looks back on her life, she'll see that all that climbing, all that struggle, all that hardship only brought her to the beautiful sunset of life, overlooking an exquisite sky of purple rain and pink clouds.

Keep us posted...

Wow! That's beautiful Chicky.

Her struggles will soon be over. That's the best any of us can hope for. Peace.

Love you Chicky.

I'll keep you posted.

It's a blessing that she came out of coma, that she got to reconcile with her family. I hope she found peace with them.


Thanks for all your time and work alty.

Everybody has interests and loves and facts and tidbits that might tell you something about them, but I think you really get to know a person best in two ways... 1) what pi$$es them off on a fundamental, moral/right/wrong level and 2) what are their deeds and actions. Your frustration and concern for her and her welfare, and the "work" you did to care for her and try to do right by her show your heart is as good as it gets.

Its easy to do things that you love. But I think its another thing to do the hard work that you wish you didn't have to do, because you know its right, needed, and you can make a difference right now.

Yeah, I didn't say anything when it was mentioned that shed had a turn for the better because I was honestly scared it might be that "temporarily better" that some gravely sick people experience before the final hard turn to the end... seen it twice with loved ones, and was grateful for the peace that came with it, even if the time was fleeting.

Then again, when isn't time "fleeting"?

thanks for all your time and work alty.

Made me blush. I didn't really do that much, in the end nothing I did really made a difference, but thank you for saying that KP, it means a lot to me.

I have to say that I initially didn't even want to post the emails that said there was hope because I also didn't think it would end well.

I am grateful that she came out of her coma, had the opportunity to patch things up with her family and say good bye, and that they too had that chance.

I actually had a pretty bad moment earlier today, didn't really want to share it, but I guess I should.

I was going through my phone messages. I'm really bad at deleting old messages and sooner or later I have to go through and listen, delete the ones I no longer need. There was a message from Starby, the day she was released from the hospital and placed into the woman's shelter. It was so hard to hear her voice knowing that I'll likely never hear it again.

I can't get myself to delete it, but I don't know if I'll ever be able to listen to it again.

The end of a life is such a difficult thing, mostly for those of us left behind.

My wife has the answering machine from her fathers home. Doesn't use it, doesn't play it, the machine is in a box in storage... but it has the last recording of his voice.

When my grandfather died (he was my father figure, the guy who raised me and taught me what real, boundless love was) I wound his watch everyday for two years. Couldn't wear it. But somehow keeping it and keeping it running helped. Eventually I stopped.

Keep it. Delete it. Do whatever you need to do.

I think I'll keep it for now. Once I delete it it's gone, not ready for that yet.

Right now it's the waiting game and it's killing me. I'm expecting the email or phone call soon. It's inevitable, but still shocking.

You'd think I'd be accustomed to this by now. I guess no matter how many times you've been through it, losing a loved one never gets easier.

I'm distracting myself on the forum, it helps. Besides, Starby would get a kick out of it. If she could she would join in, or slap me on the wrist and tell me to behave. Of course I did the same for her many times, that's what friends are for. :)

I see death far to often, alty, in my profession. Jus this next day I will be doing an overnight for a palliative client and staying to 0700 Friday morning. I approach death a lot different since my mom died and probably is why I chose to do this type of work because my mom was so far gone when I finally realized she was dying, all the love and caring we shared over the years I felt was lost.

Until my mom visited me in a dream a few years ago and I heard her say, love you, care for you and yes, I actually knew you were there. In my dream we hugged and parted and I had closure.

I hope you have closure with starby this way. It is the most peaceful loving way to say goodbye... in a dream.

Tick

I'm simply at a loss for words. You are an amazing group of strong wonderful people. Starby is blessed to have you for friends. I'm deeply touched by your love for one another. I'm moved by your kind words and warm memories. I don't know any of you this way and it is so amazing. It's no wonder when I look back at the beginning some of the first posts and first posts of other people. There is geniune love here. GOD BLESS YOU STARBY.

That was touching Ms. It's like being a part of a family and we've all built relationships here based on what's important; no pretenses. I never thought I'd find myself leaning on a group of "virtual" friends. We laugh, cry, straighten each other out, and share our lives; like a real family.

Starby has touched a lot of us here. A magnificent warmth and ability to make a person feel so welcome and included. Kindness. She's been a great friend to us but at the same time none of us want to think of her suffering. So we have to come to terms with the inevitable and just be glad that God chose to share her with us for the time that He did.

That was touching Ms. It's like being a part of a family and we've all built relationships here based on what's important; no pretenses. I never thought I'd find myself leaning on a group of "virtual" friends. We laugh, cry, straighten each other out, and share our lives; like a real family.

Starby has touched a lot of us here. A magnificent warmth and ability to make a person feel so welcome and included. Kindness. She's been a great friend to us but at the same time none of us want to think of her suffering. So we have to come to terms with the inevitable and just be glad that God chose to share her with us for the time that He did.I agree with you a thousand percent

That was touching Ms. It's like being a part of a family and we've all built relationships here based on what's important; no pretenses. I never thought I'd find myself leaning on a group of "virtual" friends. We laugh, cry, straighten each other out, and share our lives; like a real family.

Starby has touched a lot of us here. A magnificent warmth and ability to make a person feel so welcome and included. Kindness. She's been a great friend to us but at the same time none of us want to think of her suffering. So we have to come to terms with the inevitable and just be glad that God chose to share her with us for the time that He did.

NM, I couldn't have said it any better. I couldn't find the words. You said it.

We are all blessed to have known her, to have had her in our lives. She will remain, a part of us, always.

I put it on one of my china pictures this morning and was reminded of Starby... It's on a shot of the Great Wall....

Her life always sounded/sounds like an uphill battle; but, in my experience, the Great Wall is more beautiful from the top.... When she looks back on her life, she'll see that all that climbing, all that struggle, all that hardship only brought her to the beautiful sunset of life, overlooking an exquisite sky of purple rain and pink clouds.

Keep us posted...

That was beautiful HC, as was yours NM.

Sorry I haven't been to this thread much lately... I usually have no idea what to say in situations like this.
I couldn't even bring myself to go to my own grandfathers funeral.
I am an eternal chicken, and I don't handle grief very well...

If anyone needs a hug though, I'm always here for those :)

Thanks Nily, Alty, and Shazzy. Just speaking from the heart.

Update. Today's email from Starby's Aunt.

I spoke with Jo's mom late last night. Things are pretty much the same. The doctors have said there is no hope for Jo - her organs are shutting down. They have signed an "end of life" agreement. she may live a week or 4 but not much more.
I have appointments today but will try to call you when I get back.
Hang in there. sorry this is so brief.

It's the waiting game. That's all we have left now.

I just do not know what to say. Except I just pray that Starby finds peace that she has been seeking all these years and that it is good that her family came together and are there with her.

Thanks Alty for all the updates... I am still thinking of her... and will forever... sheesh, how many smiles did she put on our faces during all this AMHD time? Even off the site she was a jewel of light and funnies! I miss her...

She has always been the light for everyone. She is very much missed and was so delighted to hear from her when she was able to get on the internet.

She will be missed, always. She touched so many people here, I hope she knows that, I'm sure she does.

Apparently she's very delusional right now, doesn't know what's going on, what day it is, is going in and out of reality. The doctors don't think it will be long.

At this time the most we can pray for is a quick end, a peaceful death, everlasting life in a much better place.

I'm sure she'll keep an eye out for us, give us a sign that she's okay, that she made it, that she's finally at peace.

I'm still so shocked. How could we not have know how far gone she was? How? Especially me, I talked to her almost every day. How did I not realize?

I'm kicking myself. I'm mad at myself. I'm mad at her, for not telling me the truth so I could help, maybe prevent this.

Darnit. I'm just a jumble of emotions, thank God for all of you. I'm playing on the other boards, distracting myself, forgetting about this for a time. It keeps coming back with a fresh onslaught of tears.

I don't cry!

I guess I do. :(

Alty... that's the thingwith "not in-person relationships" we don't really know what the hell is the real story. We wouldn't unless we were face to face. I know all of you think we are all real and reliable. Most of us are, most of us are who we say we are... some of us are but try and live in a happier world through sites like this. Some of us act like different people... some of us don't. The problem is visible and we all need to realize that you could be talking to just anyone out there! So, no need to blame yourself for anything really... just remember you were and are a great friend to all of us. Hugs and Alty... lots of love through this hard time...

Thanks Startykins. :)

I realize that, I really do, doesn't make it easier though.

I know she's a good person, has a good heart, she just didn't share this one part of her life, the most important part, the part that will kill her.

I'm mainly kicking myself because there were signs, I didn't see them until now. I wasn't looking until now.

There were things she said that now that I know, well, clear as day.

I just keep hearing her voice, she stuck to her story to the end, told me she thought her family was punishing her, that she didn't have a problem, that she was okay, just liked a drink once in a while, but other then that, okay.

I wonder, how much of it was actually her lying, how much did she truly believe was true, couldn't see, wouldn't accept?

I keep going over this in my head, disecting what I did, what I didn't do, what I could have done.

Too late now.

I know, nothing I can do, nothing I could have done, I know that in my head, my heart still hasn't caught up. Darn heart.

I'll get there, honestly I will, but right now I'm stuck here, with all these stupid thoughts.

Love you Starty.

Big hugs. :)

I know Alty... as with every passing soul this happens to the best of us. In the end, you can't change anything you did or didn't do and what you did... well, it meant the most to her for you to be there and to be there for you. It is normal what you are doing, I just know you will be OK, and stronger than ever through this. I am here for you! It is going to be all right love.

Alty
You did everything you could possibly do... and more.

Head up Hon x

You know, initially I was so sure that she would recover and come back here and read all this that was written about her that I was even somewhat careful what I wrote and said. I didn't ever want to even think about my hurting her feelings in any way. I wanted her to come back and just get a big laugh at all of us for being so... well... concerned, when in reality she was OK. But now,.

I don't like this reality.

Alty....that's the thing with "not in-person relationships" we don't really know what the hell is the real story. We wouldn't unless we were face to face.

Even face to face, there's a lot we don't know. It's OK though, we love as best we can, and have to trust it's good enough.

Starby.

Hang in there.

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:kguMXZ7-POW9TM:http://commontragedies.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/polar-bear-funny-dog-death-hug.jpg


Missing you,

Sarah

Reality does suck Stringer, couldn't agree more.

I promised Rebbie that I'd start a new castle thread, once my other thread is done. We're doing it up like we did back in the day, it was Starby's favorite thread theme.

All us original players, all our alter egos, we'll do Starby proud.

One thing I know for sure, she'd want us to go on, think about her once in a while, smile, laugh, because she brought a lot of happiness into our lives.

I did speak to her Aunt on the phone this afternoon. The family is pretty much keeping everyone out of the hospital. I was making arrangements to go this weekend, to see Jo, to say my good byes, but apparently even Jo's really close friends, people the family knows, aren't being allowed to see Jo.

Jo's Aunt lives in Edmonton, actually only around 10 minutes away from me, we still plan to get together for coffee. She's a lot like Jo, a lovely lady, wonderful person. She's opened herself up to me just like Jo did, even though we have yet to meet.

She did ask me to tell everyone here how very much we all mean to Jo, that she spoke of all of us very often, that we brought a lot of happiness and peace into her life. She loved us all very much.

Who would have thought that losing someone that you've never met could be so very hard. We are friends in the most real sense of the word, family because we choose to be, we are all loved, we are blessed and we were blessed to have Starby in our family, in our circle, a part of our lives.

Yes it hurts, but I'll never regret opening my heart to her, because it was worth the pain I'm feeling now.

Love you all, my family, my friends.

Reality does suck Stringer, couldn't agree more.

I promised Rebbie that I'd start a new castle thread, once my other thread is done. We're doing it up like we did back in the day, it was Starby's favorite thread theme.

All us original players, all our alter egos, we'll do Starby proud.

One thing I know for sure, she'd want us to go on, think about her once in a while, smile, laugh, because she brought alot of happiness into our lives.

I did speak to her Aunt on the phone this afternoon. The family is pretty much keeping everyone out of the hospital. I was making arrangements to go this weekend, to see Jo, to say my good byes, but apparently even Jo's really close friends, people the family knows, aren't being allowed to see Jo.

Jo's Aunt lives in Edmonton, actually only around 10 minutes away from me, we still plan to get together for coffee. She's alot like Jo, a lovely lady, wonderful person. She's opened herself up to me just like Jo did, even though we have yet to meet.

She did ask me to tell everyone here how very much we all mean to Jo, that she spoke of all of us very often, that we brought alot of happiness and peace into her life. She loved us all very much.

Who would have thought that losing someone that you've never met could be so very hard. We are friends in the most real sense of the word, family because we choose to be, we are all loved, we are blessed and we were blessed to have Starby in our family, in our circle, a part of our lives.

Yes it hurts, but I'll never regret opening my heart to her, because it was worth the pain I'm feeling now.

Love you all, my family, my friends.

Not as religious as I guess I should be but... amen Alty.

Not as religious as I guess I should be but...amen Alty.

I'm not religious in the way most people are Stringer, but I agree... Amen.

Love you Stringer, stay strong, big hugs to you dear.

I'm not religious in the way most people are Stringer, but I agree... Amen.

Love you Stringer, stay strong, big hugs to you dear.

Scary isn't it... it brings our own mortality into view...

Alty
You did everything you could possibly do..........and more.

Head up Hon x

Thanks M.

I'll get there, eventually, just having a hard time with it right now.

Distraction is good, been doing a lot of that, the rest will follow.

Right now the waiting game is driving me batty. I hate "death watch" that's what my mom called it. It's the worst, absolute worst, because you know the outcome, but you don't know when, you just have to sit and wait, all the while still hanging on to the tiny hope that the doctors will find a way or there will be a miracle.

It sucks!

Thanks M.

I'll get there, eventually, just having a hard time with it right now.

Distraction is good, been doing alot of that, the rest will follow.

Right now the waiting game is driving me batty. I hate "death watch" that's what my mom called it. It's the worst, absolute worst, because you know the outcome, but you don't know when, you just have to sit and wait, all the while still hanging on to the tiny hope that the doctors will find a way or there will be a miracle.

It sucks!


I know Alty... been there done that :(

Everyone's here together so that's good!!

I know Alty................been there done that :(

Everyones here together so thats good!!!

As one of my sisters says and is famous for: group hugs. I understand.

Scary isn't it...it brings our own mortality into view.....

It certainly does.

A lesson we can all take away from this. Live each day as if it's your last, because one day it will be. Love the ones your with, be with the ones you love. Never part with angry words on your lips, part with a kiss, a hug, words of love.

I know, sappy, silly, but that's how I try to live my life. This just brings all that closer to home.

That darn duck. I wish she was here right now quacking about her tail feathers, swooping over our heads dropping things because we tried to set a trap for her. Skinny dipping in the pond.

I wish she was complaining to MommaC because mean Stringer ripped her dollies head off because she put glue in his underwear drawer.

I just wish she was here period.

If I had known that the last time I talked to her was the last time I ever would... well, I did tell her I loved her, but I wish I had said more.

Darnit.

Darn duck.

I know Alty................been there done that :(

Everyones here together so thats good!!!

It doesn't get any easier does it? No matter how many times you're been there before.

This should be old school by now, piece of cake, no problem, but it never is.

If it ever gets to be easy, that's when you have to worry.

Glad we're all here together, all supporting each other. I feel like you all are holding me up more then I'm holding you up though. That's usually my job. Feels strange.

As one of my sisters says and is famous for: group hugs. I understand.

Group hugs.

Stringer, did you just pinch my bum?

Humor works dear. Did I make you smile?

It certainly does.

A lesson we can all take away from this. Live each day as if it's your last, because one day it will be. Love the ones your with, be with the ones you love. Never part with angry words on your lips, part with a kiss, a hug, words of love.

I know, sappy, silly, but that's how I try to live my life. This just brings all that closer to home.

That darn duck. I wish she was here right now quacking about her tail feathers, swooping over our heads dropping things because we tried to set a trap for her. Skinny dipping in the pond.

I wish she was complaining to MommaC because mean Stringer ripped her dollies head off because she put glue in his underwear drawer.

I just wish she was here period.

If I had known that the last time I talked to her was the last time I ever would..... well, I did tell her I loved her, but I wish I had said more.

Darnit.

Darn duck.

I was raised the same way Alty... my mom always said the same thing... when someone that you love is leaving or even going to bed... ALWAYS tell them that you love them, and never be ashamed, it may be the last chance that you have. I probably tell Marta, my two kids and my grand kids that I love them at least 3 times a day... It is almost like saying see you later but with flavor.

I was raised the same way Alty...my mom always said the same thing...when someone that you love is leaving or even going to bed...ALWAYS tell them that you love them, and never be ashamed, it may be the last chance that you have. I probably tell Marta, my two kids and my grand kids that I love them at least 3 times a day...It is almost like saying see ya later but with flavor.

Flavor. I like that.

My mom was raised in a home where the words "I love you" were never uttered. My dads home was the exact opposite.

For a long time my mom was very uncomfortable with anyone using those words too often, it was almost like they should be saved for a special occasion.

My dad didn't let that stop him, and either did I.

At the end of her life we had a long talk about it. When my dad was dying she spent all day and night at the hospital. She was undergoing chemo at that time as well, so she'd go downstairs for her Chemo, then come back up to be with my dad. She would just sit and hold his hand, tell him over and over again that she loved him.

She told me she felt she needed to get out all the "I love yous" she had held back all those years. She said that she realized that you should never pass up the opportunity to tell someone that you love them. You can never say it too much, never.

So I'll say it again, and again, and again. I love you guys.

Flavor. I like that.

My mom was raised in a home where the words "I love you" were never uttered. My dads home was the exact opposite.

For a long time my mom was very uncomfortable with anyone using those words too often, it was almost like they should be saved for a special occassion.

My dad didn't let that stop him, and either did I.

At the end of her life we had a long talk about it. When my dad was dying she spent all day and night at the hospital. She was undergoing chemo at that time as well, so she'd go downstairs for her Chemo, then come back up to be with my dad. She would just sit and hold his hand, tell him over and over again that she loved him.

She told me she felt she needed to get out all the "I love yous" she had held back all those years. She said that she realized that you should never pass up the opportunity to tell someone that you love them. You can never say it too much, never.

So I'll say it again, and again, and again. I love you guys.

Night guys, meeting tomorrow morning... with flavor......love ya...

Stringer

I'm going to bed. It's been another long day, tomorrow will likely be the same.

Good night my dear friends. Sleep tight. Dream sweet dreams, smile, love your families, love yourselves, just love.

I love all of you.

Good night.

Reality does suck Stringer, couldn't agree more.

I promised Rebbie that I'd start a new castle thread, once my other thread is done. We're doing it up like we did back in the day, it was Starby's favorite thread theme.

All us original players, all our alter egos, we'll do Starby proud.

One thing I know for sure, she'd want us to go on, think about her once in a while, smile, laugh, because she brought alot of happiness into our lives.

I did speak to her Aunt on the phone this afternoon. The family is pretty much keeping everyone out of the hospital. I was making arrangements to go this weekend, to see Jo, to say my good byes, but apparently even Jo's really close friends, people the family knows, aren't being allowed to see Jo.

Jo's Aunt lives in Edmonton, actually only around 10 minutes away from me, we still plan to get together for coffee. She's alot like Jo, a lovely lady, wonderful person. She's opened herself up to me just like Jo did, even though we have yet to meet.

She did ask me to tell everyone here how very much we all mean to Jo, that she spoke of all of us very often, that we brought alot of happiness and peace into her life. She loved us all very much.

Who would have thought that losing someone that you've never met could be so very hard. We are friends in the most real sense of the word, family because we choose to be, we are all loved, we are blessed and we were blessed to have Starby in our family, in our circle, a part of our lives.

Yes it hurts, but I'll never regret opening my heart to her, because it was worth the pain I'm feeling now.

Love you all, my family, my friends.

I'll be watching for the new thread Alty! Jo would be proud of your plan! One of her friends called me tonight and shared that she was able to go visit Jo this evening and when she mentioned that her friends at AMHD all loved her and were praying for her, she looked straight into her eyes and gave a huge smile so said she knew, she realized what was being said to her. I wanted to share that so all would see how very much the love felt here, means to Jo, to me and to all of us. Jo is being kept comfortable and is not feeling pain. I am thankful for that. It is as you say though, few people are being allowed in to visit but Jo does knows how much we love her. I think she may know in even a deeper way than we realize. I love and appreciate all of you. You know I am not much of a joiner and had it not been for you Alty, Jo, Stringer, M, Starty and many others, I would have stayed in the background and never really become a part of this wonderful family. Love to each of you and thank you from my heart.

I'll be watching for the new thread Alty! Jo would be proud of your plan! One of her friends called me tonight and shared that she was able to go visit Jo this evening and when she mentioned that her friends at AMHD all loved her and were praying for her, she looked straight into her eyes and gave a huge smile so said she knew, she realized what was being said to her. I wanted to share that so all would see how very much the love felt here, means to Jo, to me and to all of us. Jo is being kept comfortable and is not feeling pain. I am thankful for that. It is as you say though, few people are being allowed in to visit but Jo does knows how much we love her. I think she may know in even a deeper way than we realize. I love and appreciate all of you. You know I am not much of a joiner and had it not been for you Alty, Jo, Stringer, M, Starty and many others, I would have stayed in the background and never really become a part of this wonderful family. Love to each of you and thank you from my heart.

HI Rebbie, miss you being here.

Thank you for the information concerning Jo. Nice to think that we made her smile.

Well gas up the hog girl... Alty's getting ready for a about with the castle again... crocks and all... love you. :)

Stringer

Alty... Your heart is just too big for one person to handle. We love you. I love you - more than I can say. You're a real gem... and Starby was lucky to have you there for her.

We'll all miss her, dreadfully, but we can continue doing what she did for so many people... continue the work.

You're loved.

Even face to face, there's a lot we don't know. It's OK though, we love as best we can, and have to trust it's good enough.

That is so true. I did not mean to leave that part out.

To allof you, all we can do is live with a happy heart, and discover all we can about our friends and family, love them, be patient with them, show kindness, help them and say sorry when we need to. There are so many things we do everyday that we all take for granted, like logging in and expect to see Starbs logged in. One step at a time and make every part of what you do a little more significant in your life, even if its just stretching to get out of bed, or calling someone special. Choose yer words and your tone... smiling at a stranger...





:cool::D(kids put the faces in there for me)

Hi all, I know that I haven't been here very long and not spoken to most of you before, I have spoken to Alty a few times when I first joined.

And although I never had the pleasure in meeting Starby,I've heard a lot of love and kindness about her and I would just like to offer my thoughts and prayers to Jo and her family and of course all of you here. Xxxx

If it's OK, I would like to share a site that I found which I feel may help some of you at this very difficult time.

Light a Candle - Show you Care! (http://www.lightacandle.co.uk/index.php)

Love,Peace and Light x

Claire x

Big hugs everyone. Huge hugs. :)

I want you all to know I sit here at work in tears over this thread. I have read every single post just now and I have to tell you I am soooo sorry to hear about Starby. I came across the thread before but being new to the site I didn't want to really post I guess because your all such good friends and I was an outsider. But I followed it for a bit. Then I stopped until today. I can't believe I didn't give her my best wishes when I came across the post. I feel so much pain for you all and its so amazing the friendships you have all formed from this site. My mother in law passed from a failing liver, not from drinking. Its so hard to watch. Worse since it's a waiting game never with a good out come. I have a tear on my cheek for each of you that loved her and know I am now thinking of her and praying.
Bless you Alty for all the updates.

Thanks so much for the kind words Sunflower. Fitting, your name, sunflower, Jo was a florist a long time ago. She loved flowers, talked about them a lot.

SC, I also want to thank you for your kind words. It means a lot.

It is amazing the bond that we form here. It's not easily explained, but maybe not that difficult to understand.

Jo (Starby) and I formed a pretty quick friendship, probably because we live in the same Country and province, albeit 5 hours apart, still, there was a bond.

We started talking on the phone shortly after we started talking here. We formed a friendship. We all did.

We've had so much fun with each other, we've also shed tears for and with each other, we've had arguments, made up, you name it, everything that friends and family do.

I don't know what I'd do without the people on this site. They are truly such a big part of my life.

I love them all.

Blessings your way 88...

Had a family member pass several years ago. He lived in the deep south. Bible belt. I've never been a bible thumper. More on the "sinner" side than "saved" most of the time...

But one of the most moving moments of my life was attending his funeral. The funeral itself wasn't particularly unique. Baptist land, so there was a little more "are you saved" talk and "fire and brimstone" talk, but still... another service for another loved one...

But what was striking was the procession to the cemetery. We all know about needing to stop when a funeral procession comes by... but there, it was different.

All traffic, in all directions, completely stopped. Whether it was one lane over or three lanes over, it stopped. Cars off. Heads bowed.

Most of the people in the cars were praying. Heads down. Sending prayers and good wishes to the family and friends of the deceased. In car after car after car. Every stranger was focused on the needs of the living family and friends and the loved one we were missing.

Id already shed tears for the good man who had passed... but I shed many more tears along the drive, seeing the real, honest good that exists in people... not a single soul tried to get around the traffic. Not a single car inched forward. Each person in every car paid a loving tribute to the family as they passed. I had never experienced such spontaneous public unity.

I don't think it matters if you were here earlier or later... your tribute is just as moving. Smiles your way.

Wow KP, that sent shivers down my spine. What a wonderful thing to have witnessed, to experience.

I remember when my dad died. On the way to the funeral home I kept thinking "look at all those people driving to work, to the gym, going about their daily lives. Don't they realize that the most wonderful man just died, is no longer here? Don't they realize the effect it will have, does have?"

To have everyone stop, pray, that must have been so moving, so touching.

And I agree with you KP, doesn't matter if you've been here for a long time or a short time, or this is your first post on the board, your tribute is just as welcome, just as moving, and we all thank you for it. :)

That's what Southern Hospitality means, KP. It isn't how we say "Hi" or how much we force feed you at the town picnic, it's how we have to pull together in the REAL hard times. That's why I have to give the little bit of love Jo gave me back as much bigger as I can. You guys that knew her better were blessed more than I. I'm still grateful for my little bit, and sharing the pain, even a little one, helps.

That's what Southern Hospitality means, KP. It isn't how we say "Hi" or how much we force feed you at the town picnic, it's how we have to pull together in the REAL hard times. That's why I have to give the little bit of love Jo gave me back as much bigger as I can. You guys that knew her better were blessed more than I. I'm still grateful for my little bit, and sharing the pain, even a little one, helps.

Thanks Cats. That's all I can say to that. Thanks. :)

Force feed at the town picnic? I may have to move South.

Force feed at the town picnic? I may have to move South.

Come on down! Spring and fall you get the best picnics.

I've regularly travelled to the deep south in the late fall (thanksgiving in the US, late nov)... as in any further south and you are wading in the gulf... not a bad time to go. The smell of the pine trees, the clay, and the ocean are permantly embedded in my brain.

Then again... the lyrics to "fish heads" and "whip it" are also permanently occupying neural cells... so jus' cause I remember it doesn't mean its worth the cranial storage.

The small town festivals are just awesome. Tilt-a-whirls, Funnel cakes, deep fried vidalias, arts and crafts vendors with the weirdest stuff you ever saw.

Gimme a "c"

Gimmie an "a"

Gimmie a "r"

Gimmie an "n"

Gimmie an "i"

Gimmie an "e"

What's that spell?

"need a dental plan!"

Sorry... off topic. Tired of the death talk. Done my share of it. I laughed out loud at my grandfathers funeral... there are times when all hell is breaking loose, that I just have to smile and laugh out loud... nothing else I can do. It's a complete resignation to all things being bigger than my little old self.

Sometimes you smile when you have no other ridiculous option.

Anybody want half my funnel cake?

Too bad.

Its mine.

Don't disparage humor as stress relief/ grief reduction. That TV show "M.A.S.H."? That was what could get past the censors. I spent a hitch as a medical corpsman with the USMC. The humor was inappropriate, gross, insensitive, and the only way we could survive.

Don't disparage humor as stress relief/ grief reduction. That TV show "M.A.S.H."? That was what could get past the censors. I spent a hitch as a medical corpsman with the USMC. The humor was inappropriate, gross, insensitive, and the only way we could survive.

Right there with you.

I know many have been in worse situations than I've been in, but there are times when all you can do it all let go... release... and sometimes ridiculous situations provide ridiculous responses.

There have been just a few times in my life when I've had no other place to go than to smile, close my eyes, and wait for whatever comes next...

I spent a hitch as a medical corpsman with the USMC.


By the way... thank you for your service.

Ordinary people doing extraordinary things is worth, at least, a thank you.

yes thank you

anybody want half my funnel cake?

too bad.

its mine.

Did you eat it already? Can I have a bite?

Mean boy. Tempt me and then walk away. :(

right there with you.

i know many have been in worse situations than ive been in, but there are times when all you can do it all let go... release... and sometimes ridiculous situations provide ridiculous responses.

there have been just a few times in my life when ive had no other place to go than to smile, close my eyes, and wait for whatever comes next...

I agree.

Humor is important, it's a great stress reliever and makes you feel stronger, better, just more grounded.

When my dad was dying I started telling him jokes. Yes, he was in a coma, otherwise I'm sure he would have laughed. I was in fine form that day.

My Grandmother got angry. Asked how I could make jokes and laugh at a time like that. I turned to her, said "Don't you think we've all cried enough? Where has it gotten us? Nowhere. I figure this is worth a shot."

People always expect tears, but I prefer laughter.

Hi all, I know that i haven't been here very long and not spoken to most of you before, I have spoken to Alty a few times when I first joined.

And although i never had the pleasure in meeting Starby,ive heard alot of love and kindness about her and i would just like to offer my thoughts and prayers to Jo and her family and of course all of you here. xxxx

If it's ok, I would like to share a site that i found which i feel may help some of you at this very difficult time.

Light a Candle - Show you Care! (http://www.lightacandle.co.uk/index.php)

Love,Peace and Light x

Claire x

Thank you Claire,

It is very thoughtful. Very generous.

Lighting candles is very symbolic.

I am sure everybody here appreciates your kind words.

Joe

People always expect tears, but I prefer laughter.

Sometimes I feel guilty saying my grandfather taught me what real love was... my mother was, and is, a kind woman who is good beyond good... but his love was all permeating... in a way that sometimes only grandparents love can be... not to diminish her love... his was just All Encompassing...

Anyway... last time I see my grandfather alive... he has been gradually going "downhill" for about ten years... diabetes, heart attacks, "normal" age issues with eyesight, coordination, etc... so he was in the hospital, I was in college, and it isn't looking good. I'm driving four hours every other day to see him (which means I'm failing classes)... so I show up and I've been told this is the last stretch... that, chances are, there isn't much more time.

I'm all in bits and pieces. I'm 20. I barely know how to tie my own shoelaces and keep my fly zippered.

So I go to see him and he asks in a weak voice for some water. He's on a limited water "diet" so he gets a sponge "lollypop" to moisten his mouth. I do this, he takes it, and then it pops out all of a sudden.

I pick it up, soak it again, help wet his mouth and again, *pop*...

On the third time I finally saw that infamous, naughty smile... yes, he wanted a drink desperately... but the chance to make me laugh at his naughtiness... at his deliberately popping that sponge-on-a-stick out onto his gown... it was priceless. I'm proud that ornery sob's blood flows in my veins... and I didn't get it at the time... but the humor in his last moments... it comforted me... even when I didn't get it right away...

And that's the thought that remains KP, the sponge popping out, your Grandfathers attempt to make you smile. That's what remains. That's the greatest gift he could have given you, the gift of laughter.

My mother died in Germany. When she found out she was terminal she decided we were going to go see her family, that was her final wish. Sadly she only survived for 3 days after we got there, but we made it.

My mom had lost all her hair due to chemo and radiation treatment, so she had purchased a wig some time back. It was summer though so she usually left the wig off, she thought the sun would help her hair grow back. Makes me smile.

Anyway, when we decided to go to Germany she wanted to take her wig, but we couldn't find it anywhere. She was living with us at that time. I checked everywhere, it was nowhere to be seen.

So we're in Germany, the night before she died we went out to dinner, we're sitting on the balcony of the restaurant. My son was only 3, we had him in a stroller, it had side pouches for storage.

We're talking, a few people she knew came up to say hello, shocked to see her. Jared starts getting fussy so I reach into one of the side pockets to get a toy and touch something that feels furry.

I pulled my hand out right away, looked at Rod, whispered "I think there's a dead animal in the side pocket of Jared's stroller". Hubby, such a man, says "Well take it out!".

So I reach in, grab hold, pull it out. Sure enough, it's my moms wig.

She was so happy to see it, and the look on her face when I whipped it out was hilarious. She started laughing at me, I started laughing, Jared just pointed and said "My puppy!" Apparently the little stinker had put it in there for safe keeping.

I guess you had to be there. ;)

I'm new, and don't "know" you , but GOD bless you, and have a speedy recovery. You obviously are well loved, I'm #468 ! Watch out for the garden tools!

I'm new, and don't "know" you , but GOD bless you, and have a speedy recovery. You obviously are well loved, I'm #468 ! Watch out for the garden tools!

Thanks for offering your prayers and well wishes.

Sadly our Starby has taken a turn for the worse and is now terminal. Her organs are shutting down and she's not expected to survive for much longer.

I'm sure she'll be tripping over garden tools in heaven. She really is a clutz. ;)

I'm sorry to hear that. May GOD bless and keep her.

That was such a sweet story Alty :)

Sometimes a little time spent thinking about our lives is nice...

Finding Joy Movie (http://www.findingjoymovie.com/)

Beautiful... still going... but its beautiful! Thanks Stringer

It was great Stringer... I love those things at the perfect moments;)

My favorite picture was the daisy growing on the road.

"If you don't stand for something you'll fall for everything"

Love it Stringer.

Beautiful...still going...but its beautiful! Thanks Stringer

You are welcome hon... sometimes you have to see it to believe it... I like these types of movies, seems to always 'wake' me up.

Well, we have about 30 to 35 indoors plants that haven't been repotted with new soil for about two years... It looks like rain today so I am going to the garage to do some 'dirty' work. It seems that when I do a little something with my hands (no comment Alty... he hee) it makes me feel better than sitting here at my desk...

Hope to get at least 5 to 10 of them done today and then Marta and I are going to go see 'UP' the new movie...

Love you all... :)

Stringer

Love you back Stringer.

Have fun getting down and dirty. Keep you nose clean. ;)

I'm going to the Gym today then I'm doing yard work, if the weather stays nice.

LOVED that one too...
The perfect quote to live by...

Also, Daisy's were my moms favorite flower, so they're really special to me.

When she died, at her funeral in Germany, we had a casket spray of all daisy's. It was beautiful.

She always had daisy's in her garden, tons and tons of them. I'd play the "he loves me, he loves me not" game all the time. :)

Now now... you said the name of my little sis three times in that post :p

Daisies are magnificent, yer mama had good taste.
You know I remember Jo saying something when I got some flowers, daisies were in there and she didn't like them (her being a florist) cause they were just a "filler" flower... she made fun of me... hahahahahah

Now now... you said the name of my little sis three times in that post :p

Daisy is your sisters name Unky? That's a beautiful name.

Daisies are magnificent, yer mama had good taste.
You know I remember Jo saying something when I got some flowers, daisies were in there and she didn't like em (her being a florist) cause they were just a "filler" flower...she made fun of me...hahahahahah

She made fun of me too, for the same thing.

I like daisy's, I think they're pretty. A lot of people consider them weeds, a nuisances, not me.

They do smell funny though. ;)

Awww, see, story after story connects us all to something that seems to make us all a little closer... Jo is so silly!!
Daisies are pretty, they are feminine, and they hold meaning to many!

Yup Alty, got it! :p

She is a sweety pie too!

She may be the next ducky... Daisy duck... lol! :p Her MSN avi is some fat duck... I don't know why she chose it, seems weird to me.

How old is she Unky?

Can she join us? We could use a fat duck. I'm sure Stringer and I could make a duck trap that works. We're hungry. ;)

blessings your way 88...

i dont think it matters if you were here earlier or later... your tribute is just as moving. smiles your way.

Thank you kindly KP

Hey Alty I was just checking in today to see if there was an update. I thought of this post all night. I can't believe I missed the chance to get to know Jo. I love love love gardening and every year put more flowers out. I am new at it. But each year I learn more and I know she would have filled me in on many tips. A florist... god bless her. Nothing more prettier then nature and what you can create with it. I have a wild flower box with whatever seeds I come across I throw them in. For Jo I will buy a packet of daisy seeds. What could be a better reminder of a friendship that could have been. I will watch them grow and think what she could have taught me. I mean I have planted my cucumbers three times in 2 weeks and they are so dead its not funny. Maybe she can help me out with my new cuke plantings. Somehow she can just blow me some magical dust and I can get a green thumb.

She would have loved that Sunflower. Heck, your username alone would have made her smile.

I wish you could have gotten to know her too. She's a wonderful person, has a great heart, sadly she just had a problem that no one knew about, and by the time anyone did, it was too late.

She often talked about her work as a florist. She'd talk about all the different flowers, it was all over my head. Gerber daisies, millions of different types of roses, I don't know one from the other. Heck, if it smells nice and isn't too expensive, I like it.

She made fun of me because I like carnations. She called them "the poor mans rose". Sigh, I like them! ;)

No updates for a few days. I'm last on the list for updates, so I don't expect to know as soon as it happens, but probably a day or two afterwards. Her Aunt has been wonderful keeping me posted, especially since she really doesn't know me. She's reached out to me, such a wonderful woman, she reminds me of Starby.

I hope to meet her for coffee, talk with her, share stories with her about Jo and hopefully hear stories that I didn't know. I hope to laugh with her, I'm sure we'll cry together too, but my main wish is to share with her a part of Jo she may not have known, and also to let her know how much Jo did for people here.

Another book by Alty, sorry, I have the gift for gab. ;)

Wow, Sunflower, you're good. You asked for an update, I said I haven't gotten one, then 5 minutes later, I did.

I've removed the families names.

This is the message from Jo's Aunt;

Hi Andrea,

Jo is about the same. In and out of reality, but is able to talk rationally at times. She is also eating a little (jello, ensure) which is good.

If there is anything you would like to say to Jo you can send it by email to me and I will send it to Jo's dad... He is printing all messages and putting them up on the bulletin board in Jo's room.
Had a pretty normal day today - starting to feel like myself again!

How are you? I hope you are able to function without worrying about Jo too much. Because of her mental state, I've asked Jo's mom to remind Jo every day how much each of us love her!

ttys
hugs,

So that's the update.

If anyone else wants a message sent post it here and I'll see that Jo's Aunt gets it.

Love you all.

Thanks Alty... appreciate the update love!

I miss her.

She is a special part of our 'group' here and though we are all friends she is a vital part of that friendship. She could take everything we threw at that duck! And then she would pick it up and throw it back at us, all in so much fun. And Starby, you kept me on my toes trying to stay one step ahead you and that one feather you have left.

I sent you some pictures that were of mountains that showed great height and you emailed me back with a 'growwwwllll...I do not like looking at pictures that make me dizzy in my stomach!!!'

So, naturally I sent you about 15 more... and you responded with a threat to my life after each one... ha ha.

Starby, I miss you much my friend and my heart is heavy with worry about you. You belong here with us hon. If I had one wish, it would be that I could send you another picture and you would yell at me... again. Don't forget Starby, we still have to all get together for that coffee, I'll be waiting for you.

Love you much sweet,

Stringer

That's beautiful Stringer.

I love the fact that the duck always evaded our traps. We planned a duck dinner so many times, had the table set, all the fixings, but she escaped every time.

The nude ducky dipping in the pond. Flying overhead with the bunny (me) to save me because you had all decided on hassenpfeffer instead of duck.

Our antics, our pranks on the Sheriff and the Deputy. Rebbie and her motorbike, all of us sneaking out of the castle for a night on the town.

So many good times. I wish there were more to come.

I'll see that she gets the message Stringer. :)

That's beautiful Stringer.

I love the fact that the duck always evaded our traps. We planned a duck dinner so many times, had the table set, all the fixings, but she escaped every time.

The nude ducky dipping in the pond. Flying overhead with the bunny (me) to save me because you had all decided on hassenpfeffer instead of duck.

Our antics, our pranks on the Sheriff and the Deputy. Rebbie and her motorbike, all of us sneaking out of the castle for a night on the town.

So many good times. I wish there were more to come.

I'll see that she gets the message Stringer. :)

Thank you Alty, somehow it doesn't seem enough...

http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=4038064

Stringer... that was wonderful, thanks again.
YouTube - " Thank You " (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqansTRDFlU)
My fave Friendship song... Jo... well, she deserves this song... cause I just want to thank her for being so kind and generous to me... lots of hugs friends... she is so funny and willing, I can't say enough about how she touched me in so many ways:) Lots of love Jo!

Stringer....that was wonderful, thanks again.
YouTube - " Thank You " (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqansTRDFlU)
My fave Friendship song...Jo...well, she deserves this song...cause I just wanna thank her for being so kind and generous to me...lots of hugs friends...she is so funny and willing, I can't say enough about how she touched me in so many ways:) Lots of love Jo!

I am not convinced that Starby will not make it, I still feel that she will somehow pull through this and be back. I know that it is bad but she has been a fighter for so long. If there is a way, she will.

If the offer for messages still stands Alty I'll write/prepare something.

How old is she Unky?

Can she join us? We could use a fat duck. I'm sure Stringer and I could make a duck trap that works. We're hungry. ;)

Yes, she could but won't.

She's always saying: " Sigh... again that AskMeHelpDesk... when you finished you tell me. I'll play."

She's 13... perhaps later she'll join. I've already tried to make an account for her, but she did not want to do it. Sigh, little sisters!!

Sigh, little sisters!!!

Got to love 'em.