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Lightning-Strike Pet Loss Support Forum _ New Beginnings _ Welcome Tang

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 21 2011, 12:34 PM

I brought Tang home fom the vet today as a "trial" - I'm still confident it will work out. The nurse showed me how to clean his ears and gave me special q-tips and the solution at no charge. The plan is that being this works out, I will take him back next weekend to get him on a plan like Theresa and a comprehensive exam. So far it's been not too bad. He took to exploring and Theresa followed at a safe distance. He's proving to be an even better hider than Theresa. I lost track of him for a while only to discover he'd wriggled his way into the AC/furnace closet. I pulled him out and better secured the door. Theresa hissed at him once when he approached while on her side, tummy exposed. Not surprising I guess. What was surprising, is that this supposedly timid boy is losing that timidity. He did actually hiss at her as she tried following him into the bathroom. It's starting to look like neither will have clear dominace but competition for my attention seems in the offing. More from him that her oddly enough; he's been following me around everywhere. Now suddenly I'M the alpha cat? Huh? How did that happen? Oh, well, I imagine Tom is looking down and having a good laugh. I forgot what a wry sense of humor that boy had. But, aside from the stray hisses when one gets too much into the others' space, there haven't been any overtly agressive incidents. I'm hoping this will start to gel and all will be OK in our little home.

Posted by: Peggy's Human May 21 2011, 12:45 PM

Hi Tom's Dad and Welcome Home Tang!

Sounds like you're off to a good start. Since they haven't squared off with each other, chances are pretty high they'll accept each other. It's probably good that Tang hisses when Miss Theresa gets too close, he's showing her he's not a push over and she'll have to accept him as an equal. Congrats on your promotion to Alpha Cat of the household, sounds like they had a secret ballot and you won! smile.gif

Keeping my fingers crossed that the weekend goes smoothly for all of you!

Peggy

Posted by: moon_beam May 21 2011, 12:57 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so o o much for sharing with us that little Tang is home with you and your precious Theresa. From what you describe all sounds very normal. And yes, YOU, Tom, ARE the Alpha Cat. Each "pride" - - as cat families in the wild are called - - ALWAYS have an Alpha male - - a "pride leader" - - and so, Tom, you are the "pride leader" in your household. When Theresa shows her tummy it's a sign of confidence and security - - to YOU. She will be more cautious of Tang approaching her in this vulnerable position until she comes to trust him, feel comfortable with him. So, her "hisses" are her way of saying "back off, I don't trust you". And how precious that Tang is already feeling confident in his new home. Tom, I am keeping my fingers crossed that Tang is a permanent member of your household. Theresa needn't worry - - she will ALWAYS BE daddy's little girl. And I know you are reassuring her letting her know that.

Tom, this is wonderful news, and I thank you so much for letting us know how things are going. I look forward to sharing your "progress reports". Please know you, your precious Theresa, and your little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 21 2011, 03:27 PM

Thanks Peggy, moon_beam. As I write this they are each napping in there own "spaces" Theresa curled up against the vacuum in the spare bedroom (one her favorites, ironically, since she afraid of the vacuume) And Tang? Well he's experimented with a few spots and picked under the extra dining chair I don't use up against the wall in the dining area. I mention this because that was Tom's favorite hiding spot when he first came to be with me before he felt comfortable enough to roam freely. Earlier another "Tom channeling" moment came when he hopped on the back of the couch I was lying on and preceeded to lie down in a very Tom like fashion including the way he crossed his front paws. I'm not the sort of person who tries to imbue traits of a lost fur child into another, but rather take it as a sign from Tom that things will work out for all 3 of us; that he approves I think.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 21 2011, 05:50 PM

Hi Tom's Dad,

Congrats on the new addition to your furfamily. I hope it works out well for you all. I like the sound of "Tang and Theresa".

I also believe Tom is telling you he approves of Tang and he is happy to see you smile again. Now you will have two furbabies to "chill out" with on the balcony this Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting.

Keep us updated and again I hope it works out well for you, Theresa, and Tang.


LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 21 2011, 06:45 PM

Hi, Tom, oh h h I can say definitely it sounds like your precious Sir Thomas has orchestrated this union. And it's not uncommon for a new little furbaby to "assume" some of the traits of their angel sibling. Your precious Sir Thomas is "coaching" your little man Tang to let you know that he so o o approves of this new life coming into your heart and home. Let your heart be at peace that your precious Sir Thomas has a big broad smile on his face, saying "Yes, dad, it's okay, and I'll always be near you, too - - always."

I hope you, your precious Miss Theresa, and your little man Tang will have a peaceful and blissful evening, Tom, and will look forward to sharing your progress reports.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 21 2011, 08:05 PM

LovesMyMickey - moon_beam Thanks for the words of encouragement. It would seem Tang has a penchant to be a lap cat of sorts which did not go so very well with Theresa - but she looked more hurt than miffed. But I cleverly picked that moment to open the sliding doors after the rain stopped. About the rain (thunderstorm really) Tang was terrified about that. Not surprising considering he was left out in the rain by his so called family. But as I write this, he is taking his first baby steps out onto the balcony where Theresa already is. I told him that the rain can't hurt him anymore and that he has a place now to come in from out of it. Now he has stepped out completely onto the balcony! smile.gif I think he is seeing that outside in and of itself is not bad now that he has a "safe place" I'll keep you posted smile.gif

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 22 2011, 03:46 AM

Well, I had to break up what might have turned into a fight last night sad.gif Tang hopped up onto the pillow next to my head on the bed. (another Tom thing) Theresa was on the floor and he jumped down there to start something - This distressed me and I admonished him for it. He went off to hide. I swear that cat is double jointed. I saw him emerging this morning out from under the easy chair that is NOT designed for that sort of thing. I thought he might have hurt his eye as it was red/watering and was fussing at it - but it seems better now. Dust from under the chair I guess. Since the rain cooled things down last night I opened the doors to balcony and they are both out there now and seem to be behaving themselves. I'll keep you all posted.

Posted by: moon_beam May 22 2011, 10:11 AM

Hi, Tom, thank you for the updates on your precious Theresa and little man Tang. The spits and spats - - normal. There will be those from time to time. Even though Noah and Abbygayle were totally devoted to one another, Noah would "press his luck" from time to time, and Abbygayle was not about to take anything off her brother. Hence, Noah's nose usually got the brunt end of Abbygayle's rebuke - - but as you are seeing your precious girl and baby boy out on the deck in mutual peace, so it was with my Noah and Abbygayle. Neither one of them could stay fussed at each other for very long - - the next time I looked at them they were curled around one another reassuring each other that "love is eternal."

I am so o o glad that little Tang has you for his dad, and precious Theresa for his sister. Between the two you he will know love and safety and family. He's already learning about receiving unconditional love as well as giving it. As for the issue of "lap" - - your precious Theresa will come to learn that she will always be your little girl - - that Tang is not going to "compete" for your love. And you are doing a great job, Tom, in helping both your precious little girl and your little man know they are special to you in their own sweet ways.

Tom, I hope today will be a good day for you and your precious fur family. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 22 2011, 04:20 PM

I hope you're right moon_beam - because he's taken to getting under that chair alot. I though pushing the foot rest part all the way in would keep him out. But he must be getting in from behind and I can't block that. I'm going to pull it out and vacuume under so it's not so dusy, but I'm afraid he's going to hurt himself in the bars under there getting out from what I've seen when he does......

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 22 2011, 05:52 PM

Well, I pulled out that chair and vacuumed under it. Boy, was it dirty! I don't think I've moved that chair in the 6 years it's been there. But I got a closer look at it and figured he must be getting in from the back where the fabric expands with chair when it reclines like a sort of flap. So, when I pushed it up completely against the wall, it does not look like even he will be able to squeeze in there. Just have to remember to to do that before bed and going to work.

Posted by: moon_beam May 22 2011, 07:22 PM

Hi, Tom, sounds like you're trying to take normal precautions. I know your concern, and know you will do everything in your power to protect your little boy from hazards. Isn't it amazing how our furkids can stretch, fold, manipulate their bodies into the strangest positions and places? Tom, I hope you, your precious Theresa, and your little Tang will have a very peaceful evening, and I'll look forward to knowing how things go for you and your furkids.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 22 2011, 08:36 PM

Doing my best moon_beam. I'm a little wary about going off and leaving them (and him) for the first time to go off to work tomorrow being gone my usual 12-13 hours. I hope it works out. But I have a feeling Tom is looking over both of them and know just what you mean by his "coaching" Tang. Tonight he did 2 more things I'd only ever seen Tom do in all the years of having and being around cats. First he was rolling around on the floor, but not like Theresa does back and forth fron paws curled to her chest. This was more a serpentine pattern with outstretcheched left and right front paws alternating. Like Superman flying barrel rolls. And just a little while ago he got up not on my lap but onto the back of the chair. Yes, Theresa has done this some but not for a long time. Here's the kicker: he started petting my head with his tail. Tom is the only cat ever that has done that. It's kind of eerie.......

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 23 2011, 12:19 PM

Hi Tom's Dad.....That gave me goosebumps. Sounds like you have a little bit of Tom in Tang, or maybe Tom is telling him what to do so you will like him. lol...About the chair, if your plan doesn't work, maybe you could stuff something under it.

Have a good day, hopefully with no storms.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 23 2011, 03:47 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you for letting us know how things are going for you and your fur tribe. LoveMyMickey has made an excellent suggestion about the chair situation: ". . ., if your plan doesn't work, maybe you could stuff something under it." It can be a bit disconcerting when you go to sit in a recliner or rocking chair unaware that there is / might be a little furchild under it - - hiding - - blending in with the underneath of the chair and the floor / carpeting - -. I used to put my tiny little ones on a long tether so that I could keep watch of where they were, and which also enabled me to see where the tether led when they were out of sight so that I could trace it to the body it belonged to. When I shared this with some folks I got a lot of weird looks and "stern words" - - but it worked for me until my little tykes grew so that they couldn't fit so nicely "under" places where I couldn't see them. So, this is another suggestion -- it worked for me and my little tykes - - for whatever it may be worth to you.

I hope your day at work has been kind to you, Tom. I know you are looking forward to getting home to your precious Theresa and little Tang. Please know you and your precious fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad May 23 2011, 07:58 PM

Well, I failed to Tang proof the chair. I got home tonight and he was under it again. I was paniced at first thinking the maint. man coming to check the AC may have let him out. But, no. He could not have gotten in through the sides as it was right up against the wall. But upon closer inspection I saw that it's possible for him to have gotten if the bottom/back - he must have tried his darnedest to get under there too either when the man came to check the AC, or more likely the thunderstorms. He's really scared of those I guess since that's what he was abondoned in. Since it was up against the wall, I imagine he was in there for who know how long as the front was down tight sad.gif

I don't think I can get a pillow under there w/o tearing it up BUT it did give me an idea. I took one of my old cushions from a couch I no longer have and wedged it behind the chair and pushed the chair up against it and the wall as far as it would go. Gave it a good tug to make sure it won't come loose. So, unless he's stronger than me, I HOPE there's no way he can get under there again. I'll keep you all posted on the new adventures of Theresa and Tang.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 24 2011, 12:42 PM

Hi Tom's Dad....I'm sorry Tang is so scared of the thunderstorms. Looks like he will be scared the rest of the week.....I hope the chair problem works out okay.....I bet Tom is looking down on you all and having a good laugh.

Keep us updated. I looked forward to the adventures of Theresa and Tang. smile.gif

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 24 2011, 02:09 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us "the new adventures of Theresa and Tang." That is so o o special. There should be a TV series made just for you and your fur tribe. Poor little fella - - Noah sure does know how he feels. Noah does not like any "intruders" in his domain. He runs under whatever is closest if he hears the doorbell ring, if I need someone to come to do major house repairs, visitors - - he hides from anyone other than me. It's important though that the places your little Tang chooses to "hide" are safe, and I'm hoping that your efforts to "de-Tang" the recliner work. The best place to run and hide in is daddy's arms, but when that's not possible, a "daddy approved Plan B" is the next best thing. I'll be very interested in sharing your news.

Tom, I hope today is being kind to you and your precious furkids. Please know each of you are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 24 2011, 07:56 PM

Well, I think it worked. In addition to the cushion in the back, I wedged a hard platic cooler on the right side next to it that I suspect he was getting in from. Tonight I got home to both my lovely white AND orange faces to greet me smile.gif

I've been experimenting with "communal" nuzzles where I put one hand down and they both nuzzle from different sides. Meanwhile, the balcony seems to be a neutral zone for nada hostilities - I've even seen them literally side by side watching what ever it is that they see. Gotta watch Tang though. He gets right on the edge under the railing, and unlike Theresa he's thin enough to fall through it if he forgets himself. I think he'll be OK, but worried daddy still keeps his eye out on both while out there. I think he might have been abused where ever it is that he came from because he'll be laying relaxed as you please on the floor, but if I start walking near him he looks scared and bolts like the thinks he's done something wrong. But he'll come right back if I call. Of course it could just be kitty ADD wink.gif

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 25 2011, 12:07 PM

Hi Tom's Dad....Awwwww...that sounds so cute, Theresa and Tang there to greet you. That sounds like a good idea about the communal nuzzles and it sounds like they are getting along well together....Oh yes, keep a close eye on Tang and the balcony, as you know cats can squeeze into the skinnest places.

Sounds like everything will work out well for you and your furkids. I'm happy for you.


LoveMyMickey


Posted by: moon_beam May 25 2011, 04:31 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing. Isn't it great when a plan works - - like "Tang proofing" the recliner? When there is a little tyke in the household you do have to "furchild proof" to protect against potential hazards. You're doing a GREAT job, Tom!!!

And how precious that both your sweet precious Theresa and your precious little Tang were at the door greeting you. Communal nuzzles are wonderful, aren't they? I am so o o happy for you, Tom. Thank you so o o much for sharing your new family member with us.

Tom, I hope today is being kind to you and your precious furkids. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 25 2011, 08:01 PM

Thanks all for the well wishes. Day 2 with no Tang under chair, so I guess I'm onto a working plan for that. Right now they are at separate ends of the hall engaging in a staring contest and nodding off LOL biggrin.gif

Hoping for a peacful evening and counting the hours till the holiday weekend. Peace all smile.gif

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 26 2011, 12:00 PM

Hi Tom's Dad...I'm glad your "Theresa and Tang" day went well. That's funny about the staring contest. biggrin.gif .......Looks like you'll have good weather for the holiday weekend, well deseved after all these storms.

Have a good afternoon and evening.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 26 2011, 02:57 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing. Sounds like you are finding much joy in watching your precious Theresa's and Tang's antics, and I am SO O O O O happy for you. This is what your precious Sir Thomas wants for you, and I know he is grinning from ear to ear saying, "enjoy, dad - - I'm still with you, always and forever - - and thank you for giving Tang the gift of your heart, for he is a gift to you from me."

Tom, I do sincerely hope and pray that you, your precious Theresa, and your little tyke Tang will have a WONDERFUL holiday weekend. Perhaps sometime you will be able to share a picture of your furkids with us. Please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and will look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad May 26 2011, 07:48 PM

Yes, I am also starting to think this was all Tom's doing. I beleive he found this little waif and led him to that vet nurse's house to lead him to me. It's coming up on 6 months now that Sir Thomas has been gone, and it's a bittersweet feeling indeed. But he's not really gone is he? He's there everyday watching over me , Theresa, and Tang. I think Theresa is starting to "play" with him the way she did Tom - takes little playful bats at him as he passes while she's on her side. I guess the real test will be to see if she starts to play "hide and ambush, then run" like she did with her big brother. Peace out smile.gif

Posted by: Gretta's Mom May 27 2011, 06:38 AM

Hello Tom's dad

You are so right! Tom most definitely did send Tang-y to you. I think it's one way our spirit-animals take care of our hearts when they cross over. That they found us in the first place is nothign short of miraculous - and now they're somewhere - we don't know where but we know THAT - and still watching over our hearts just like they did when we could see them with our physical eyes. Thank you for sharing your wonderful saga with us. Hope you have some good times this long weekend.

Gretta's mom

Posted by: moon_beam May 27 2011, 10:35 AM

"It's coming up on 6 months now that Sir Thomas has been gone, and it's a bittersweet feeling indeed. But he's not really gone is he? He's there everyday watching over me , Theresa, and Tang."

Hi, Tom, I know what you mean about the angel-versaries being bittersweet. In the beginning of our deep grief, it truly feels as though we are disloyal to our beloved companions for "continuing on" - - how can we possibly go about our daily lives WITHOUT the physical presence of our beloved companions who brought meaning and purpose to our lives? It feels so cruel, because our hearts are filled with such pain - - both emotionally and physically. As we continue in our earthly journey we slowly begin to realize that this is what our beloved companions want for us - - to continue on - - but not as an empty shell filled with sorrow and grief and guilt - - but to continue to be able to feel them with us in our hearts and our memories - - and with us in our daily routines just as they always were and always will be.

AND so that they can bring to our hearts NEW joys - - as your precious Sir Thomas has brought little Tang into your and Theresa's heart. AND knowing that your hearts will ALWAYS have a special place for only Sir Thomas - - Tang is not a "replacement" - - he will have, and already has - - his own special place in your heart that only Tang can fill. This, dear Tom, is what your precious Sir Thomas wants for you, and I am SO O O OO O O HAPPY for you and your precious Theresa.

Tom, thank you so very much for sharing your precious Sir Thomas, Theresa, and Tang with us. I hope you and your fur family will have a WONDERFULLY long holiday weekend, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, and I will look forward to sharing how you and your fur tribe are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 27 2011, 07:50 PM

Well, tomorrow I go back to Banfield with Tang to get him on a wellness plan and a check up to "officially" become his dad. He and Theresa and behaved quite well, all considered. Wish us luck smile.gif

Posted by: kaylasmom May 28 2011, 11:43 AM

Hi Tom's Dad,

Congrats on your new addition to the family! I read what you said about Tang and the balcony and I wanted to tell you that there is a balcony mesh wrap you can get in most baby stores. I used it when my son was small and we were in a second story condo. I left it up even after my son was larger because Kayla was such a little girl that she would "twine" herself around the balusters. Scared me a few times!

Here's hoping you have good balcony sitting weather and enjoy your long weekend with Theresa and Tang.

Shelby (kaylasmom)

Posted by: moon_beam May 28 2011, 02:33 PM

Hi, Tom, congratulations on making your and Tang's adoption "official." This is such good news. I am so o o o very happy for you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang.

Hope each of you are having a good day, Tom. Please know you and your precious fur tribe are close in my thoughts and prayers and look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 28 2011, 04:49 PM

Thanks kaylasmoms, moon_beam. Well, he is doing just fine and is up to date on all his vaccinations. He won't need to be back until July, Theresa in December. They were kind enough to waive the registration fee as they had done with Theresa. Which is 54.00 I really didn't have extra to spend. I only had to pay the first months premeum on the wellness plan - 18.95 - I guess they just wanted to make sure he would get to stay in his new forever home, what ever it took. My thanks to them. He was hard to get in the carrier this morning. I think he thought I was "returning" him. Poor thing. I assured him that "You are not a defective toaster, little Tang, we are just going to make this official" He seemed to calm down after that, and the fact he already knew everybody at Banfield was good too. Both are safe and sound making Zs smile.gif

I thought about some kind of mesh for the balcony, but I'd need to check with the apartment manager first. Besides, he does not seem to be doing that anymore - just hangs is front paws out a little. Much safer for sure. Peace all.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 28 2011, 05:16 PM

Hi Tom's Dad....I am sooooo happy for you, Theresa, and Tang. I know Tom is up there somewhere smiling down on you all. I'm glad Tang checked out okay. That was nice of them to waive the reg. fee. We need all the savings we can get these days.

Thank you for sharing your little fur family with us and keep us updated. I hope you all have a safe and happy holiday weekend.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 28 2011, 06:25 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for letting us know how Tang's check up went today. I am so o o thrilled that they waived the registration fee for you. That truly was very thoughtful of them. Our furkids do understand what we say to them, and I'm glad little Tang understood that it was just a visit - - not a "return".

Glad to know little Tang is settling in better on the balcony. Since the mesh would not be a permanent addition to the structure of the building I don't think your landlord would have any problems. But still you may be wise in checking with the management first.

I sincerely hope you, your precious Theresa, and little tyke Tang will have a very peaceful and enjoyable evening. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad May 30 2011, 12:20 PM

Well, it looks like my plans didn't work out sad.gif It's just too hot, and I'm worried that would not be good for Tang. He's been sneezing off and on and watery eyes here and there. I do know heartworms can cause resperatory issues, and extreme heat does not help. Plus the central AC has been acting up. The on call maint. tech was here yesterday and it started working after he reset the breaker for the ubit. I've had to do it often myself to "jump start" it (sigh) at the moment it's working, and he brought a window unit for the bedroom that I have on energy saver stand by. He said he's put a ticket in for tomorrow. So much for our holiday plans....

Posted by: LoveMyMickey May 30 2011, 05:13 PM

Hi Tom's Dad....I thought about this heat that it might be too hot for your and furbabies' plans today.....I hope Tang gets better from the sneezing and watery eyes. Maybe he is allergic to something. Anyway I hope he is okay.....I also hope the AC problem gets fixed.

Thank you for sharing your adventures with your furbabies with us. You, Theresa, Tang, and Tom are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Have a cool evening.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam May 31 2011, 04:05 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and your little Tang are doing. The old saying goes, "The best laid plans of mice and men". Still, you and your fur tribe are together, and that's all that really counts.

I was thinking the same thing as our good friend LoveMyMickey -- that Tang may have allergies - - which are worse during hot weather, as well as other health issues like heartworms. So, the best thing is to stay inside and find "fun" stuff to do together. I hope your "super" is able to fix your AC so that it works properly without any "jump starting".

Tom, I hope today is being kind to you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang, and that each of you will have a peaceful and COOL evening. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing you're all doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 1 2011, 06:18 AM

We stayed inside and did our best to stay cool. They were here again yesterday and did some more work. AC seems to be working OK so far.

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 1 2011, 02:09 PM

Hi, Tom, glad to know you have cool air blowing to keep you and your fur tribe comfy. It is very hot - - unseasonably hot - - here in Virginia with temperatures in the 90's. I finally bit the bullet and turned on the AC to the upstairs unit on Monday, and am very glad I did. Little Noah is much more comfortable - - after all he is wearing a fur coat. The basement living quarters in naturally cooler, and since cold air sinks, the air from the upstairs AC unit helps to cool the basement as well. I use a fan to circulate the air. I do have a separate heat pump / AC unit for the downstairs but will only use it as an absolute last resort - - can't afford the extra electric cost unless it is an absolute necessity.

Hope today is being kind to you and your precious Theresa and your little Tang. Please know you and your fur kids are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing how things are going.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 2 2011, 10:56 AM

Hi Tom...I hope you and your sweet furbabies are still keeping cool, and that Tang is doing better with his sneezes.
It has been unseasonably hot here too, in the capital city. But today is a little better, getting in the lower 80s.

You and your furbabies are always in my thoughts and prayers. Keep us updated when you can.

God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 2 2011, 07:54 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LovesMyMickey

AC has been working better than ever so far. They are leaving the window unit foir a while just in case. Good thing too because Saturday is supposed to heat index of 100 - Tang and Theresa are starting to get used to each other. Tang is starting to "talk" more (poor pitiful meow, but God love him he tries) He continues to keep me company getting out of the shower and chatting with me. Theresa quit sleeping in the bed for a while and was holed up in the spare bedroom at night. I've been keeping that door closed now, and low and behold both my babies were in the bed on either side of me this morning! I guess I no longer have a side of the bed and and am relegated to the middle wink.gif

Tom's 6 month angelversary is coming up next week. More on that later, I'm trying not to think about it sad.gif

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 4 2011, 11:38 AM

Hi Tom....I'm glad the AC is working. After all you want to have "cool cats". That is so sweet, Tang and Theresa wanting to be close to dad, but not too close to each other.

Yes, the angelversaries are the saddest times. I glance at the clock every afternoon at the time Mickey passed at 4:45. I was posting it in my Bible the other day and saw that Annie, our last dog passed at the same time, 4:45. I didn't remember that until I saw it.

I hope you and your furbabies have a good day and keep cool. You all are in my thoughts and prayers always...God Bless...

LoveMyMickey


Posted by: moon_beam Jun 4 2011, 02:37 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing. So glad to know that the AC is back up and running, and hope that it stays that way.

So o ooo o very glad you have two kitty kids sleeping with you now. What a WONDERFUL joy that is!!!! This is such good news, Tom, and I know you are enjoying this immensely. Our furkids do have a way of seeking out their "space". And I'm so o o o happy that your little Tang is becoming more confident in knowing that he has a FOREVER HOME with his FOREVER DAD and FOREVER SISTER. And your sweet precious Theresa will ALWAYS have her daddy's heart, and she knows this.

I know your precious Sir Thomas' 6 month angelversary is coming up, and I know this will be one of many mixed emotions. I hope you will know that your Sir Thomas is VERY PROUD of you, Tom, and is so o o o very thrilled that you have given little Tang a happy, loving home. But you will ALWAYS have your sweet Sir Thomas' precious Living Spirit with you in your heart and your memories, and a place in your heart that belongs only to him.

Thank you again, Tom, for sharing how things are going for you and your sweet Theresa and little Tang, and for sharing your preious Sir Thomas with us. I hope today is treating you and your fur tribe kindly, and that you and your fur kids will have a wonderful weekend. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 4 2011, 06:13 PM

Thanks for the well wishes. I had to go by the vet today when I was out doing grocery to get some ointment for Tang's eye. Right eye, left ear - at least there is some symetry to that I told the nurse (sigh) But given all he's gone thru, I should thank my lucky stars he's in as good of health as he is. AC continues to hum along which is good considering they came for the window unit yesterday. Theresa is accepting that her daddy still loves her and Tang continues to be my orange shadow LOL. Have a pleaseant weekend all.

Posted by: Gretta's Mom Jun 5 2011, 08:56 AM

Hi Tom

Thank you so much for sharing the step by step story about Tang-y coming into your family. Watching someone who's farther along on the journey is inpiring and hopeful for those of us who are still toward the beginning. Working out the "who's who" and "do we (still) love each other" was a great and educating saga. I adopted a new dog, Rufus (another story), about a month after my beautiful Gretta girl passed. Guilt about disloyalty struck like a brickbat! Following your story about Tang helped guide me along the newness path. I'll add Rufus's story to my original Gretta thread soon.

Thank you for showing the way, my friend.

Gretta's mom

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 5 2011, 09:42 AM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for letting us know how you and your fur tribe are doing. I'm sorry that your little Tang is having challenges with his eye and ear. But he is blessed to have you for his FOREVER DAD because he knows he is loved and will be taken care of at all times and in all circumstances.

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and your little Tang will have a very peaceful day and a blissful evening. Please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 5 2011, 05:59 PM

QUOTE (Gretta's Mom @ Jun 5 2011, 09:56 AM) *
Hi Tom

Thank you so much for sharing the step by step story about Tang-y coming into your family. Watching someone who's farther along on the journey is inpiring and hopeful for those of us who are still toward the beginning. Working out the "who's who" and "do we (still) love each other" was a great and educating saga. I adopted a new dog, Rufus (another story), about a month after my beautiful Gretta girl passed. Guilt about disloyalty struck like a brickbat! Following your story about Tang helped guide me along the newness path. I'll add Rufus's story to my original Gretta thread soon.

Thank you for showing the way, my friend.

Gretta's mom


Gretta's Mom - I'm happy our story helped. I feel like Tang was indeed brought my way by Sir Thomas as you may come to feel Rufus was led your way by Gretta. Yes, there is a certain amount of guilt, but I think the joy that I have felt in caring for this little guy has made it worth the journey. I hope you will have similar feelings, and look forward to hearing about Rufus.

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 7 2011, 08:04 PM

Well, I made a huge blunder last night. I was playing with Theresa in the bedroom with an old boot lace she likes to play with. Tang came along and decided he wanted to go a few rounds too. I tried to get them both engaged, but Theresa would have none, and skulked away. Later I was in the living room and noticed the laser pen on the coffee table (Theresa's absolute favorite game) and wanted to see if he would like it too (Tom had no interest) Sure enough, he attacked the dot with gusto. Suddenly, Theresa came bounding from behind the blinds to the balcony sliding door and walloped him as if to say "HEY THAT'S MINE!" He looked horrified trying to figure out what he'd done wrong and Theresa ran off looking hurt. I settled him down and went to find Theresa, I assured her it was not Tang's fault, but mine, and that I was sorry forgetting that was her favorite game which we had not played in a long while. I promised to buy another one so they could each have their own. Somrtimes I forget how much like human children they can be (sigh)

Posted by: Gretta's Mom Jun 8 2011, 06:46 AM

Hi Tom's dad

Oh my yes, they ARE like human children! The new baby syndrome! Looks like Theresa needs some extra TLC - poor girl - her best friend disappears and now this little interloper gets all the attention and JUST WON'T GO AWAY! Tom, time to send down some extra love-beams to your sis, Theresa. Let her know that love is infinite and indivisible - and if she doesn't get those high falutin' words just tell her that there's millions of love in the world and that her da - and your dad - has SOOOOOOOOOOOOO much that it will never go down no matter how much he gives away - to her or anyone else. Tell Ms. Theresa that love is NOT a zero-sum game (huh?) or that it's like a bucket with a hole in it that keeps getting refilled faster than it drains out.

Have a good day with the 'kids' and thanks so much for sharing this continuing saga.

Gretta's mom

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 8 2011, 06:31 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. Please don't fret about playing with Tang. Your precious Theresa knows you love her, and Theresa and Tang are still figuring out the boundaries. I must confessed I smiled when you wrote about Tang's reaction to Theresa's reaction about his playing with the laser light: "He looked horrified trying to figure out what he'd done wrong . . " My Noah would get this very sorrowful look on his face and look at me as if to say "I only wanted to play." It was usually Abbygayle who had unleashed the insult and injury - - a scratch on Noah's nose - - to emphasize the point that she was NOT in the mood to rough house. I know your precious little Tang surely appreciated your comfort that everything is okay, and your precious Theresa appreciated your reassurance as well.

I hope today has been a good one for you and your precoius fur tribe. It's been a hot one here today in the upper 90's with a 102 heat index. UGH. I hope your A/C is working as well as the one here is. I hope you and your precious fur family will have a very peaceful evening, and look forward to knowing how things are going.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 8 2011, 07:25 PM

Thanks all for the well wishes. Well, here it is 06/08/2011 - exactly 6 months to the day Sir Thomas crossed the Rainbow Bridge. It's also a Wednesday sad.gif the same day of the week as 12/08/2010 - I have thought of Tom today, but not in the obsessive sadness that was the norm up until about a few weeks ago. Yes, I realize that's about when little Tang found his way into my life. As much as I feel Tom is responsible for this, I think I may be beginning to understand his motive. I think he wants me to stop being sad all the time and remember him in all the loving good times we had in those all to brief 5 1/2 years. And, I have started doing that. In bringing Tang into my family and working with Theresa to assure her that she is still loved very much, I have been able to focus on Tom in more positive memories. Part of me feels guilty for not thinking of him all the time with tears - but perhaps this is not what he wants for me or for himself in his new existance.

Rest in Peace my dearest Thomas. Thank you for the happy times and for the gift of a new family member. You were a good boy :'(

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 8 2011, 09:07 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing your and your precious Sir Thomas' "angel-versary" with us. Your precious Sir Thomas is SOO OO O VERY HAPPY that you are now able to think of him with a happy heart, Tom, for this is indeed what he wants for you. And I, too, am so very glad that you are able to embrace one of the greatest gifts your precious Sir Thomas can bring to you - - the gift of a new little fur child for you and your precious Theresa to love and enjoy. And believe me - - even though your precious Theresa "protests" about Tang's presence sometimes she would sorely miss him now if he were not there.

Tom, a part of you will always miss your precious Sir Thomas - - it's a part of your heart that he took with him when he joined the angels. And there is ALWAYS a part of your heart that only belongs to him and can only be filled with him. I assure you, Tom, you will NEVER FORGET your precious Sir Thomas - - NOT EVER. So it's okay to smile again, Tom - - because when you smile, your precious Sir Thomas is smiling, too. And hopefully you can feel the warmth of his sweet Living Spirit continuing to share your earthly journey just as he always has and always will.

Tom, thank you again so very much for sharing with us your precious Sir Thomas, Theresa, and little Tang. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and look forward to knowing how you and your fur family are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 12 2011, 12:17 PM

Hi Tom...Just stopping by to say hello and to see how you and your furbabies are doing. That was a cute story about the laser pen. I'm sure Tom is looking down on you, Tang, and Theresa and having a good laugh. He is happy that you have found some happiness with your new furbaby.

Angel-versaries are especially hard and I hope you are feeling better today. It is a little cooler, so maybe you and furbabies can hang out on the balcony.

Tom, I hope you have a blessed Sunday and a good week ahead. You, Tang, Theresa, and Tom, are in my thoughts and prayers.


LoveMyMickey


Posted by: moon_beam Jun 12 2011, 12:29 PM

Hi, Tom, just adding my "hello" to LoveMyMickey's and hope this finds you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang thriving. Hope life is treating each of you kindly, Tom. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 12 2011, 01:16 PM

Thank you LovesMyMickey, moon_beam. Yes, it is cooler so it will definately be cool tonight enough to let them out while watching DVD. I got some more cat nip at the Kroger yesterday while doing grocery - made a new sock which Tang not only plays with but sleeps with like a child with a teddy bear smile.gif Theresa also plays with it when he's not looking LOL - I think I will make a few more and spread them around the apartment as unexpected treats....

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 13 2011, 06:08 PM

Hi Tom....Stopping by again to say hello and to see how the furbabies are doing. Yes, you had better make plenty catnip socks so Tang and Theresa don't fight over them. smile.gif I bet they are enjoying them.

Take care and enjoy the cool weather with your precious furbabies....God Bless...

LoveMyMickey


Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 14 2011, 08:23 PM

Yes, they are enjoying them - Tang still sleeps with the one I made - it's kind of cute. Also enjoying the cool nights to go outsite smile.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 15 2011, 04:37 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. Sounds like Theresa and Tang are becoming more used to each other one day at a time. Anymore competitions for daddy's attention? How about the laser light toy - - are Theresa and Tang playing together yet. If not, that's okay - - it just gives each of them - - and you - quality time together - - individually. Does that make sense? I think you get my drift.

I hope today is treating you and your fur tribe kindly, Tom. We are enjoying a bit of a cool down here in Virginia as well, so Noah and I are enjoying having the big basement door open and gated off to enjoy the woodland critters. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going with you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 15 2011, 08:02 PM

Thanks moon_beam - The competition is ongoing. Theresa ia aserting herself more (although still shuns daddy hugs) She is sleeping in the bed again even when Tang is there. I'm not ready to open the can of worms that is the laser pen just yet. Yes more "me" time would be nice but taking care of them is a labor of love - and a fitting memorial for Tom. They are starting to play "chase me" games. It's funny to see Tang pounce Theresa much the same way she did Tom (now she knows how he must have felt LOL) I've had to break up a few minor spats when it gets too rough. Another cool night to let them out on the balcony again. Funny thing is while Theresa stays out there the whole time, Tang has seen it as an opportunity to get some extra time with his new dad. I'll keep you all posted....

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 16 2011, 04:32 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you and your fur babies are doing. Sounds like life is settling into a "new normal" for you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang. I'm smiling at the "chase me" games - - I can just picture them, and my little kitty kids used to play them as well. And yeah there were times when I had to say in a very authoritative voice, "hey, knock it off - - enough of that. You guys don't do that sort of stuff to each other" when the play got a bit rough and ears were laying flat against the back of the head. That usually got them to stop for a few moments to realize that what mommy was saying was right, and a few moments later they would be wound around each other grooming and licking and nuzzling each other - - everything was right with their "pride" again.

Hope life treating you and your fur tribe kindly today, Tom. Just one more day to go - - and then another wonderful weekend home with your fur babies. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 16 2011, 07:50 PM

The "chase me" games continue with a twist (for Theresa, anyway) She's used to Tom who was older than her and by that time the diabetes was starting to affect his speed and agilty. Tang is younger, quicker, and amazingly agile. He does this sideways walk almost on his tip toes - almost looks like a boxer sparring. I told poor Theresa the shoe is on the other paw now, huh?. She looked at me as if to say "it stinks getting older, daddy" But, unlike Tom, Tang backs off pretty quickly. Even now they are resting laying not more than about a foot apart from each other on the living room floor. Waiting for me to shower and change into night clothes - becuase they know this means after is treats and the hopes of outside.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 17 2011, 12:46 PM

Hi Tom...Just want to say hello and I see that you, Tang, and Theresa are having fun. I bet Tom is looking down on you all with a "pudding smile". Your chase stories brought a smile to my face. I need that today.

You and furbabies have a great weekend. Looks like it is heating up again.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 17 2011, 05:17 PM

Hi, Tom, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. It's always a joy to read your updates. Your precious Theresa is a "lady" now, and there are some things that just aren't "dignified" to do anymore, as your rumbunctious laddie boy Tang is discovering. Theresa is teaching him the "finer points" of behaviors - - which he will understand as he gets "older." It's quite similar to what we used to hear our parents say to us "You'll understand this better when you get older." Didn't that used to infuriate you???? It did me. And so it is with our beloved companions - - especially when they have a more "seasoned" sibling in the household to show them the difference.

I hope you and your precious fur tribe will have a very peaceful and enjoyable evening, Tom, and a wonderful weekend. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and I will look forward to sharing how things are going for you and your fur tribe.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 17 2011, 08:05 PM

Yes, Theresa is definately learning what Tom went through - almost like a passing of the torch. But the fact that they will lay down fairly near each other after the "rough housing" is a good sign I think. I think I dare not hope to see them actually snuggled up together someday - that would probably be too much to hope for. Tang has to go to the vet tomorrow for a distemper booster (hard to believe he's been with us 4 weeks now) And Father's Day Sunday (sigh) That will be a mixed bag indeed....

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 18 2011, 02:09 PM

Hi, Tom, hope your and Tang's trip to the vet today went okay, and that your precious little son went with confidence knowing that he was coming back home with you. Having you there to reassure him I know was comforting for him.

Tom, I hope you and your precious fur tribe will have a very peaceful weekend. Tomorrow will be okay, for you will ALWAYS be your precious Tom's dad. Celebrate the day, Tom, with confidence that your precious Sir Thomas is forever grateful for you for being his FOREVER DAD.

Thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I will look forward to knowing how Tang fared today for his booster. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, Tom.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 18 2011, 08:56 PM

Tang's trip to the vet was pretty uneventful, which is good. He paniced a bit going into the carrier. I assured him he was coming back home with me. Theresa paniced a bit too looking into the carrier. My concern now is that when he is relaxing on the living room floor and I get up to do something, he pops up and prances around and follows me - almost like he thinks I expect him to perform, to "sing for his supper" as the saying goes. I hope he starts to realize that I am here for him and not the other way around. I can't even imagine what his former owners(s) ( yes, I said owners, NOT parents - parents would not have abandoned him out in the rain) did to him - I mean, was he physically abused? Is that how he got the tumor that Dr. Mills removed? If he was he is more trusting than I would be under those circumstances. But he is still afraid of being abondoned sad.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 19 2011, 10:22 AM

Hi, Tom, thank you so much for sharing with us how your and Tang's trip to the vet went. Ah, so little Theresa showed some "fear" that maybe her pesky little brother was going to leave her alone again? This is a little signal to you, Tom, that she really is getting used to little Tang and wants him around for company. Bless her sweet little heart. I know you also reassured her that Tang would be coming home again.

It's going to be awhile before Tang's fear of abandonment eases, which is a lingering side-effect of the emotional, and physical torment he went through BEFORE he was blessed with you for his FOREVER DAD. And, yeah, I would say being abandoned out in the rain is physical torment and abuse. It's one thing for a kitty, who is an outside kitty by nature or heart, to be caught out in the rain while he / she is making his / her way back home. It's quite another thing for a human caregiver to deliberately abandon a helpless companion animal in rain or snow or sleet or frigid or horrendous heat or other form of weather conditions they themselves would NOT subject themselves to.

The good news is that your precious little Tang is so very devoted to you that he wants to be with you - - he WANTS to be WITH YOU and his big sister Theresa. Life can't get much better for him, Tom - - he's in earthly heaven now. Yes, you're here for him, but a relationship is always a two way street - - and your little Tang wants you to know that he's here for you, too.

Tom, you are so very blessed today to celebrate the gifts of your precious Sir Thomas, your sweet little girl Theresa, and your new little joy Tang. Please know that Sir Thomas IS with you - - and is ever so happy to see your heart happy with Theresa and Tang to love and nurture. So, I hope you and your fur tribe are having a very wonderful day. Please know you and your fur kids are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 20 2011, 06:17 AM

Well, I was robbed of my Fathers's Day with fur kids when storms ripped through the area leaving 38,000 w/o power - I spent 12 hours taking calls from ticked off customers who felt we were not working hard enough to get their power back on with oh so swealtering temps of 82. If I had a shred of faith in so called "human kind" it was destroyed yesterday - I will take my fur babies over ANY hairless (or not so hairless in parts of KY) apes any day (sigh) 4 hours of sleep and I get to go back and do it all again - poor Theresa and Tang are so sad they didn't have daddy yesterday sad.gif

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 20 2011, 12:19 PM

Hi Tom...I'm so sorry about the storm problems and the nasty people. I agree, I would rather deal with furbabies than with some people. We try to be kind about things like that because I know the utility people are doing their best......I'm sure little Tang and Theresa will understand and forgive dad for not being there yesterday........Try to get some extra sleep with your furbabies.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 20 2011, 08:16 PM

As it turns out lack of sleep makes me tired enough to be nice to the customers LOL - I hope today's calls get monitored. The kittles are doing better - last night Theresa was so upset she was running arouund the tub yowling - something she has not done since Tom passed. I'm guessing she was pretty upset about the change in the Sunday routine. She is sitting on the desk as I type this. With 15 hours of OT on this check, maybe I'll finally get ahead. Well, tthe kittles await.......

Posted by: Gretta's Mom Jun 21 2011, 07:25 AM

Hello Tom

My dad was a utility employee, too, so I know, though second-hand, how wonderfully NICE people can be! The other 37,999 people can wait - but MY power needs to come on NOW!! Cosmic justice, though, about all the overtime - you go guy!

Tang sounds like he's working as hard as he can at opening his little heart and letting his daddy in. What a miracle after all he's been through. Animals are miracles - even apes - as long as they don't speak in sentences! I agree, Tang is showing you how much she loves and needs you (what a brave thing for him to do) and Theresa is showing how much she misses he new little brother. You've done it! Your love, your courage, your heroism (yup, that's what it is) in wrenching open your shattered heart and again creating a family - love has triumphed. You're definitely in the group when we go over the wall!!

Thanks so much for sharing your saga with us. It's given us hope and courage to open our own hearts no matter how much they hurt.

Gretta's mom

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 21 2011, 02:09 PM

Hi, Tom, what a bummer about Sunday, but I know your precious Theresa and little Tang do understand that daddy has to work to get the funds for, among other things, furchild rations. Sounds like your little girl was letting you know she was very glad you are home - - and to have some quality time with her daddy. (Perhaps there was also a bit of scolding "where were you yesterday, daddy? Me and Tang had a whole day planned for you - - gee whiskers. We can see just fine in the dark - - what is it with humans, anyway???"

One of the many nice things about our fur kids is that - - they love us anyway and always. There is a saying that goes something like "Today is to be lived, yesterday is but a memory, and tomorrow is but a dream" - - or something like that. Our beloved companions are very much into the "here and now".

I hope today is treating you and your fur tribe kindly, Tom. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and your sweet little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 21 2011, 07:45 PM

Thank you all for the kind words - I don't know that I'd consider myself "heroic" I just felt it was the right thing for all of us to adopt Tang. I don't know how I know this, but I'm sure it's what Tom wanted. There was a new round of "chase me" tonight with ZERO fights! And I got caught in the crossfire a few times, a victim of mistaken identity LOL (it was like Oh, I thought you were Tang/Theresa) They are taking their evening baths on the living room floor less than a foot apart. All is well for the moment.....

Posted by: Gretta's Mom Jun 22 2011, 07:52 PM

And all is well with the world, Tom's dad. Thanks for sharing your continuing story of your new family.

Gretta's mom

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 23 2011, 12:47 PM

Hi Tom.....Well, I guess you're busy again with all those weird storms you had last night. I hope you and furbabies were safe......They didn't get to our neighborhood, but our TV night was watching "what does Jay say."

Thank you for sharing your cute stories starring "Tang and Theresa". You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 23 2011, 08:05 PM

Thankfully, I did not have to go in as I was not on call. Nor did they page tertiary which is what I sign up for to avoid getting drafted for primay and secondary. I am this weekend though and hoping for good (enough) weather - The tornado actually ripped thru U of L not 15 minutes after my bus passed thru there (whew) No outside for the gang last night - but otherwise peaceful....Tail hugs to all

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 24 2011, 12:23 PM

Hi Tom....Oh my goodness, that was a close call. Let's just say that Sir Tom and his angels were looking out for you...I'm so glad the horses were safe after Churchill Downs was hit, and of course the people.

Hopefully this weekend will be better. Give Tang and Thersea a pat on the head for me and tell them to be good.

God Bless.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 24 2011, 07:54 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey - I had that thought myself - that Tom's been looking out for us lately. Tertiary on call this weekend, hoping for mild weather.

Posted by: JoanneL Jun 24 2011, 10:22 PM

Hi Tom's Dad

I haven't been online much lately and did not know you have a new fur child. Congratulations. Sounds like things are as they should be with Tang and Theresa trying to get used to each other. Same kinds of things going on in my house with Zack and kasper. It has been 5 1/2 months since we lost Zoe and I am glad we got a new furchild. I also believe Zoe sent Kasper to us but that is another story.

I know how hard it was for you when Sir Thomas died and it sounds like Tang is bringing some spark back into your life. Take care and have a good weekend with the fur kids.

Joanne

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 24 2011, 11:01 PM

Thank you JoanneL - I know it was hard for you too when you lost Zoe. It's funny how when we lose a fur child that they look out for us more than we did them here on Earth. A roll reversal not unlike the bit from Superman about how the son becomes the father, and the father becomes the son. I look forward to hearing about your adventures with Kasper smile.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 25 2011, 03:46 PM

Hi, Tom, just being able to get caught up on your news. I have been dealing with new computer "issues" and it has not been a fun time. But here I am, and it is nice to be able to actually do something POSITIVE with this new gizmo for a change.

As others here I am so very thankful for your Guardian Angel Sir Thomas looking after you during Wednesday's weather rampage. I was totally shocked to read the news about a twister going through Churchill Downs, and am so very thankful no one - - of any life form - - was hurt.

Sorry that you're looking at another weekend of "on call" - - especially after having to work last weekend. Still, your precious Theresa and little sprite Tang are just very glad for every moment you are with them. And it sounds like they are becoming more accustomed to one another -- one day at a time. I'm laughing at your account of "mistaken identity" - - oh yeah, I know that, too. OOoopppps - - precious moments each and every one.

I hope you and your precious fur tribe are having a good day, Tom, and that you will be spared of having to "deal with" obnoxious human behaviors. Even though I have not been able to be here for a few days, please know you and your fur family are always close in my thoughts and prayers, Tom, and always look forward to knowing each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 25 2011, 05:42 PM

Thanks moon_beam. Sorry to hear you had computer problems. Today was nice so no worries for being called in. Tomorrow could be another story. Hopefully not - even at the height of the tornado, they only paged primary and secondary, and I hear they had to take calls fom the basement training rooms because of the storm going thru downtown. (I wonder if people would be nicer if they knew the risks we take to take their calls. Doubt it) I was smart next week and signed up for Friday and Saturday (no Sunday) tertiary becuase IT rarely gets paged. My points accrued should hopefully keep me from being drafted. Today, I used the good weather/low chance of being paged to get many things done. Not the least of which was taking poor Tang back to the vet. He's been sneezing more than normal the past few days, and yellowish discharge in the eyes. The vet felt the ointment alone was not going to do it so I brought him in for a shot and they sent us home with an oral antibiotic. I hope it's just a cold and not the heart worms sad.gif

Peace and Blessings,

Tom's Dad - Tracy

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 26 2011, 09:43 AM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing. I'm so sorry that little Tang is having some health challenges. It could just be allergies that have taken a temporary toll on his immune system - - hence the need for some reinforcement with medication. Please et us know how he's doing.

I hope your good luck continues today without having to be called in for emergency services. I admire you and the work you do, Tracy. I have the highest respect for the emergency crews that go out in the fiercest of weather situations so that others who are unable to take care of themselves will be provided for. Power outages are inconvenient, as when the power goes off we are instantly reminded as to how dependent we have become on it. But for some the outages are more serious, dangerous, life threatening, particularly if the outages are long term and wide spread, and it is these people that need your immediate attention. I do sincerely applaude you and all the emergency responders who put aside your personal lives - - sometimes at great risk to your own lives - - to help others who are in need.

I hope your precious Theresa and little Tang are enjoying having their dad home with them today. And thank you for your condolences on my computer issues - - slowly I'm getting used to the new contraption and getting it set up so that I can use it effectively.

Tracy, thank you again for sharing with us how you and your fur family are doing. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to knowing how things are going, and how little Tang is doing on his meds.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 26 2011, 10:33 AM

moon_beam, thanks for your kind words. To be honest I only took this job becuase I needed the steadier work and money over that fiasco I was forced to take after losing my "good job" last April. I swore I'd never do call center work again, and yet here I am (sigh) While it's pain to listen to people complain about the power being out either by nature or design (didn't pay their bill, and felt it incumbent upon US rather than THEM to make any kind of arrangement) It does feel good to know I may have saved a life in properly reporting a gas leak or downed line. Or to know that I gave them breathing room when I give them an extra day or so than I am supposed to to pay their bill (but am at liberty to if need be even though that's more check work down the line for me) Tang was not thrilled about taklig the yucky pink medicine, but was a trooper none the less; has not sneezed today. Theresa is a TAZ when it comes to that stuff, and I usually end up wearing as much as I get in her. PEace and Blessings...

Tom's Dad Tracy

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 26 2011, 12:27 PM

Hi Tracy....I do hope we have better weather today, at least it's cooler. I'm so sorry about Tang's little eyes. I hope the antibiotics takes care of it. I'm sure your furbabies are enjoying you being home this weekend. Like moon_beam said, I also admire the work you and the emergency crews do. I remember the horrible ice storm we had a few years ago and they got things up and running as soon as possible here.......Enjoy your day and evening with Tang and Theresa....


Moon_Beam....I really missed you and was hopeing you and Noah were okay. I've been having old computer problems for 2 days, mostly from AOL software.

God Bless..
LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 26 2011, 09:01 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey- 10:00 PM and no pages at all. I feel at least I had my weekend with the kittles. The 15 hours of OT last week as well as the average 3-5 per week going forward is going a long way toward getting back on my feet after the lousy year I had in 2010. Theresa is napping in the coffee table cubby where Tom used to like so much and Tang is on the back of the chair petting my head with his tail like Tom did - it's lmost like I have all 3 of them here. Peace, blessings, and tail huigs

Tom's Dad Tracy

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 27 2011, 09:46 AM

Hi Tracy.....Thank you for sharing your adventures with Tang and Theresa. Yes, it would seem like you have Tom there too...maybe he is....

I know you enjoyed your weekend with your furbabies, although I know the OT helped last weekend....Lots of rain here today, hopefully no storms.......Take care and enjoy your evening with your furbabies........God Bless you all..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 27 2011, 04:01 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur family are doing. Yeah, I do understand what you're saying about the job bit. The good news is that you are finding some financial solvency again - - hopefully - - and that goes a long way to providing stability in other areas of our lives.

Sounds like your precious Theresa and your little sprite Tang are enjoying their life together and finding a "peace" in sharing you as their dad. I'm so very glad the med is helping little Tang with his sneezes. It's great that you took him to the vet early on because upper respiratory issues can become a problem quickly.

Tracy, thank you again so much for sharing your precious furkids with us. It is always a pleasure sharing your news. Please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how life is treating each of you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 27 2011, 07:50 PM

Always happy to oblige with updates on the kittles. They are doing well this evening. Today felt a little different. I found myself on the verge of tears every time I looked at Tom's picture on my desk at work. It's not even an aniverssary or anything like that. I keep getting this vision, that with Theresa and I learning to cope, and Tang being "guided" our way and starting to meld into our new normal, Tom is saying "My work here is done" That he's ready to truly say goodbye and move on to the next stage of his journey and I won't "feel" him anymore. Not that I want to deny him his much deserved final reward, but I am devestated at the loss of his spirit in my everyday life. Almost as devastaed as the day he left this physical world. It feels like the end of Ghost when Patrick Swayze had to finally be on his way and say goodbye sad.gif

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 28 2011, 01:02 PM

Hi Tracy.....I understand exactly what you mean, but Tom's Sweet Living Spirit and love will never leave you because it is in your heart to stay. We get caught up in our work and everyday routine that briefly causes us to have less pain, but then something will remind us like your pic of Tom did. Then we are brought to tears again....................(I think Moon_Beam can explain it better than I can.)

I went grocery shopping this morning and of course had that on my mind until I passed the Pupperoni, Mickey's favorite treat. I briefly touched a bag and told Mickey I love him. I had to fight back the tears.

Have a good evening my friend, and remember Tom loves you and wants you to be happy...God Bless you and your sweet furbabies..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 28 2011, 02:47 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your fur famliy are doing. I'm sorry yesterday was a challenge. Tracy, I promise you Sir Thomas' sweet Living Spirit is forever with you. You will ALWAYS be connected to him for the love bond we share with our beloved companions is ETERNAL. LoveMyMickey has said it very well - - even though we continue on with our earthly journey tending to the "immediate" things before us - - job, home, etc., - - as our precious beloved angels want us to do - - our beloved companions are always a heartbeat close to us. I guarantee you, Tracy, that your precious Sir Thomas is always close to you continuing to share your earthly journey just as he always has and always will.

So, please try to find some peace in your heart about not always "feeling" Sir Thomas' presence with you. I promise you with all my heart that your precious Sir Thomas is forever with you in your heart and your memories. Nothing and no one can ever take this away from you, Tracy - - regardless of how much time may pass - - your precious Sir Thomas will ALWAYS and FOREVER be close to you.

I hope today is being kind to you, Tracy, and that your precious Theresa and little sprite Tang are doing well. I know it's just Tuesday but I hope you can look forward to a well-deserved "time off" weekend coming up - - especially since it will be a long holiday weekend.

Tracy, please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 28 2011, 08:10 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey ~

It didn't help in that I made the Ghost &%^ogy, that as I finished posting, my digital cable radio was playing the instrumental version of Unchained Melody. Last night I had a dream right out of the movie. Tom appeared to me looking, well, ghostly. He told me he'd always love me but that he'd come to say goodbye. Then he started to fade like star dust into a bright light. My over active imagination, or a sign from Tom. I just don't know....(sigh)

Posted by: leejaye Jun 28 2011, 08:33 PM

Hey Tom's Dad, I've been following your Tang story with joy in my heart - I lost my Mischief cat 6 wks ago, I really don't know if I did the right thing but I welcomed a new furry son on the weekend, I sensed Mischief so strongly in the days before Purszi arrived and think she has been guiding him in the short time he has been with me, your post yesterday about Tom moving on when you guys were settled was just what i had been wondering, I asked her to stay with me til I could cope and then to help Purszi - like you I know it's not fair to keep her with me but I just want her to stay a little longer...hope you and the furkids are having fun!

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 28 2011, 09:53 PM

Thank you Leejaye. I also followed your posts about Mischief and meant to comment earlier, but wasn't sure I could offer anything of value. I am sorry about your loss of course. Yes, I think our fur kids have lead new ones into our lives that needed it. Tang has many of Tom's traits, and yet is still uniquely Tang. And of course, I am trying to make sure Theresa does not get lost in the shuffle and feel left our as well. I know Tom (and Mischief) must move on to the next leg of their journey at some point, but it's so very hard to let go. I guess that's why I'm glad for all the people here on LS.....

Posted by: leejaye Jun 28 2011, 10:05 PM

Thanks Tom's Dad, It is so hard to let go isn't it, I hope Mischief knows I'm not quite ready yet, I love little Purszi a bit more everyday (and he is nothing like Missy so far, apart from afew of her favourite tricks she must have whispered in his ear) but i miss my girl. I hope Theresa is finding her new place in your world and that's Tang's Tom-likeness comforts you both.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 29 2011, 05:33 PM

Hi Tracy....I hope you and furbabies had a good day......This is my opinion about your dream of Tom's spirit leaving you. I believe scenes from the movie GHOST were embedded in your mind and also the fear of losing Tom's spirit caused you to have that dream........Like I mentioned before, I believe our soul-mates' Sweet Living Spirit and Love never leave us. Always talk to Tom and I think you will feel that he is still there.......Again, just my opinion.

Tracy, I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have a good and playful evening and I'm sure Tom will be smiling......God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 29 2011, 08:12 PM

It's only the fact I was having this feeling I thought of the movie at all (I could have just as easily said the Heavenly Kid) I do hope it's just all in my mind and just anxiety. Anyway, thanks for the thoughts LoveMyMickey. I hope you're right. Time to settle in with the kittles....

Posted by: moon_beam Jun 30 2011, 03:52 PM

Hi, Tracy, stopping by to say hello and to get caught up on your news. I so agree with LoveMyMickey - - love is eternal. Therefore, your precious Sir Thomas' sweet Living Spirit is forever with you. He may not always be forefront in your thoughts, but I guarantee you, Tracy that he is forever close to you - - he is always a heartbeat close to you. I hope in time you will come to feel confident in this, too.

Hope life is treating you, your precious Theresa, and your little sprite Tang kindly today. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how you and your fur family are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jun 30 2011, 05:48 PM

Hi Tracy......I hope you and furbabies had a good day and I hope you can feel little Tom's Spirit close to you. I can understand how that dream would be very upsetting, but like you said it might just have been anxiety.

I feel Mickey's Spirit in the late afternoon and evening when I am in the kitchen/dining room combo. When I talk to him I get goose bumps. It doesn't happen any other time of the day or night so far. I can see his litttle gravesite out the kitchen window and patio doors. We always had some good times in the kitchen with me cooking his favorite foods, giving him treats, and brushing him at night before we went to bed. He always enjoyed laying and looking out the patio door.

Tracy I hope you, Tang, and Theresa can get some relaxing balcony time if the furbabies aren't afraid of the firecracker noise. We have been heaing it here for several nights.....God Bless you all...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: elphiecat Jun 30 2011, 06:59 PM

Hi Tracy,

I'm new here and have been reading through this thread, and just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. Like Gretta's Mom said, it is a great source of hope that a new love may come along, and that Elphie's tiny paws will guide me when the time comes.

I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have some wonderful family time together this weekend.

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jun 30 2011, 07:49 PM

Thank you all for the encouragement. I guess in getting Tang settled, and making sure Theresa doesn't feel left out in the "new baby" syndrome, I have really been focused. Now that it's starting to come together, I guess I realized I had some anxiety left over about Tom. I just need to have faith his loving spirit will be around as long I need. On a good note, the vet's office called to check on Tang, and I was happy to report I don't think I would need to bring him in as his eyes and ears have never looked better, and he has not sneezed in days.

Peace and Blessings to all

Tom's Dad, Tracy.

Posted by: Gretta's Mom Jul 1 2011, 04:38 PM

Dear Traci

Please fear not. You are one of those rare and truly blessed people whose spirit animal found them, put himself into your path so you would notice him, had the rush of instant, infinite love, were guided by and watched over and most of all loved by the one (or maybe one of several??) being who has carried a piece of your soul with him since time began and of whose soul you have carried a piece since then, too. Love is eternal. Feelings are pretty ephemeral (just ask a divorced person!). I know, I KNOW Sir Thomas was most definitely NOT bidding you goodbye forever during that anxiety-produced dream. How could he? He has a Traci-shaped hole in his soul just like you have a Tom-shaped hole in yours that can only be filled by each other. That's been so since the beginning of time and will be so until time ends.

Yes, we don't always have the soul mate at the front of our minds all the time. Our minds don't work like that (but i think aminals' minds might). I have a sister who has had C-o-c-k-er spaniels for almost 30 years. She says she still misses the first dog she ever had, Crocker, and sometimes cries for him or talks to him and tells him how much she misses him. I felt a little "cheated" when people here talked about their spiril animals coming to them in dreams, or appearing during waking time. That only happened to me once, and it ws a Golden Retriever, not my beautiful, kind cholcate lab Gretta. I was probably clutching at straws but I interpreted that to mean that Gretta had reached the Perfect World and was sending me a message in code that she was OK.

Traci, Tom is in your body's cells now and in your soul as well. He'll be there forever whether you're thinking about him or not. Animals aren't like people. They KNOW when they're loved - every moment of the time. Don't worry ... Sir Thomas is still taking good care of you. Animals have first order minds and hearts. It's only us messed up humans that put seven layers of meaning (most of them bad or sad) on everything.

Oh ... newsflash ... S.T.L.T.

Take care,

Gretta's mom

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 1 2011, 11:35 PM

Thank you Gretta's Mom

Tom did indeed put himself in my path in the form of his abusive former owner when I insisted she bring him here for her next visit rather than leave him in that hot apartment all alone. Even when he was just a visitor, I somehow knew he and I would be together (without that psycho) someday. On the day she came to collect her things on court order and police presense, he hid until she was gone. I undersatnd about animal spirit guides. I only became aware of them due to being a Star Trek fan. On Voyager, the first officer was of South American Indian roots; this is where I learned of that. I am starting to think that Tom has moved from being my Earthly companion to my spirit guide. I now look forward to falling asleep at night and learning what new lessons he has to teach me.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 2 2011, 12:22 PM

Hi Tracy...Just stopping by to say hello and to see how you and furbabies are doing........I like what you said about animal spirit guides..........I was thinking about that last night, that Annie our little Maltipoo who passed in 2001, led us to Mickey 5 months later. He was so much like her in some ways and different in others............I know Annie's spirit was around because shortly after she passed, I felt something gently touch my arm as I sat in my chair in the living room. There was nothing else around, no fan, no breeze, etc. Also something showed up in some pics I took, looked like the top of her back, could have been a glare on the lens, but I like to believe........As I began to love and take care of Mickey her spirit seemed to fade somewhat, but was and is always in my heart......I know Mickey's spirit is right beside us. Not sure if I ever want a new beginning.

Tracy, it seems you have found some peace about Tom and I am happy for you. I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have some fun adventures this holiday weekend.

Peace and Blessings,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 2 2011, 05:14 PM

Thanks, LoveMyMickey. It does help to think of and feel Tom in this way. If your Mickey wants to guide a new soul your way, I think you'll just know. On call yesterday, today, and the 4th (tertiary, of course) Pager went off today, but I called and it was a malfunction (whew) As you probably know they relaxed the rules for fireworks here in KY - I'm not sure I or the fur babies want to deal with the consequenses of that...

Tail Hugs to all....

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 3 2011, 11:23 AM

Hi Tracy....Oh yeah, I know about the fireworks. They have been going off somewhere down the road for several nights and of course they are louder this year. I hope nobody gets hurt.........Fireworks or thunder never did scare Mickey, he was a laid back kind of boy....Poor little Annie, she would be shaking all over the place. I felt so sorry for her.

I had a strange thing to happen yesterday afternoon. I woke up from my nap, looked at the clock, then closed my eyes again to go back to sleep. When I closed my eyes, I briefly saw Mickey's face.
I opened and closed them again and he was gone. Don't know what it meant.

I agree, we will know when Mickey guides us to another dog. Right now we feed some stray cats on the carport every night. Don't know if they are really stray or just like the cat food.

Tracy I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have a happy fourth and you not get called into work.

Peace and Blessings,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 3 2011, 11:30 AM

Hi, Tracy, just stopping by to say hello and to let you know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers. I see you're on call this weekend but as of yesterday things seem to be holding steady for you. I hope this continues through the rest of the weekend. After all you did have to work on Father's Day - - you deserve this weekend to be with your fur family.

It is very warm here in the Blue Ridge / Piedmont Mountain area of Virginia. Noah and I are keeping a low profile this weekend and are enjoying it very much. I'm slowly getting acclimated to this new gizmo. I had to call Dell for technical help on Friday when I got home from work becuase the mouse pad / curser would not work. The rep in India remoted into my computer and installed a new driver. Seems to be working better now. I have figured out a way to change the background colors so that I'm not staring into a bright white background which hurts my eyes. So, slowly but surely I seem to be getting the hang of this contraption. My e-mail seems to be working properly, and I can access Lightning Strike. Those are my priorities.

I'm so glad to know that little Tang is recovering from his upper respiratory infection. I am so glad that his eyes are clear and bright now. How wonderful that you got him to the vet so quickly. It could have started with allergies, but with his immune system still developing and with his bout with heartworms it may take his immune system awhile to get stronger. What a WONDERFUL dad you are.

Tracy, I hope you and your fur tribe will have a very pleasant and peaceful day and weekend. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 3 2011, 03:14 PM

Thanks moon_bam -

Yeah I signed up tertiary for Friday/Saturday, leaving mysef free for Sunday in case I did get paged (which I have not knock wood) I only signed up for tomorrow because they kept threatening draft, so I managed to snag the last tertiary spot. Hopefully nothing will happen that requires going that far in the pages. I had a bit of a scare with Tang. He was acting lethargic, not himself, and stumbled getting off the back of the couch (very not like him considering his grace) So being that I wasn't on call, I took him to the vet. He checked out OK, thank goodness. Cab fare both ways was about the same as an office if visit if I din't have a plan. Worth it in the better safe than sorry category. Thersa was doing her trying not act worried that would not bring him back thing (but I can tell she was) Hopefully all will be uneventful from here on....

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 3 2011, 04:24 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you for sharing with us how you and your fur family are doing. I can well understand your concern about little Tang's unusual behavior and am glad you took him in for a check up. I hope the rest of the weekend, and forthcoming days, will be uneventful for you and your fur tribe. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going for each of you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 3 2011, 04:43 PM

Tracy....I am so sorry about little Tang, and glad he checked out okay. I hope and pray he will continue to be okay.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your sweet little furbabies......God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: JoanneL Jul 3 2011, 05:55 PM

Just stopping by to say hello. Glad Tang is OK. When we take Kasper to the vet or training class, I know Zack is hoping he won't come back but I hope after some time Theresa and Zack will accept their new siblings.
Have a quiet 4th.

Joanne

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 4 2011, 08:02 AM

Thanks all for words of support. Looks like Tang is trying to pick up a habit from Tom that is not so good; a penchant for people food. This is one I do not intend to encourage. I'm not going down that road again. So far the 4th is calm and quiet. Just vegging on the soafa in front of the TV with kitties alternating visits. Some rain, but hopefully no storms/high winds. Peace all and happy 4th

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 4 2011, 11:36 AM

Hi Tracy....I was kind of afraid to come here today because I thought maybe Tang got sick. Glad all is well....

Last night the fireworks had competition. I heard fireworks in the distance, but all of a sudden I heard a big boom and a big flash of light in front of the house. I thought some fireworks had landed in the front yard, but it was a thunderstorm. It was right over us. Didn't last long and we got some good rain.

Have a good rest of the 4th and hopefully everything will stay peaceful......Pet the furbabies for me.

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 4 2011, 03:41 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing. So glad you have been able to get some "veg" time together, and hope that this has been the case all day. Yeah, people food in general is not really good for our furkids' tummies. But I think it depends on what we share with them and how it is fixed rather than an "across the board" rule. I hope you are able to encourage little Tang that his food is really the best for him.

It's always to good to share your news, Tracy. I hope you and your fur family will have a peaceful evening and the forthcoming week will be kind to you. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going for you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 4 2011, 07:21 PM

Thanks moon_beam. Yeah I guess it depends on the food. But if I give him a little he'll want more and I'm not adding diabetes to his maladies. I still have my guilt for Tom about that. Today has been relaxing up until a few hours ago. The idiots below me (yes, the ones who used to complain I'M too loud) are letting their kids (one of whom looks no more than 2-3) shoot off fireworks not far from my balcony. We are not supposed to have grills (they're doing that too, and A LOT of drinking) because of the fire hazard, I would think fireworks qualifies too. I called the police, but I don't think they ever came. I see so many wonderful fur kids on the rescue sites on Facebook being put down, and these idiots get to walk around free breathing air. There just seems like no justice in the world sad.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 5 2011, 05:14 PM

"I see so many wonderful fur kids on the rescue sites on Facebook being put down, and these idiots get to walk around free breathing air. There just seems like no justice in the world"

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. Yeah, I do so o o know what you mean about the idiots taking up space while the innocent creatures are sacrificed because of human's inhumanity to other living beings. I also know what it's like to call the "authorities" only to receive "no response." Perhaps you may want to mention this to your super and / or landlord? These are legal violations of their contract and place YOU, YOUR FUR TRIBE, and all the other residents at risk of losing their homes because of their carelessness. And if you don't get any satsifcation there, then there is always the fire department to go to - - fire inspector - - Public Safety department - - each and all depending on what is in your local jurisdiction. If you do pursue it, Tracy, just be careful how you do it because folks like the residents below you usually "retaliate" in some form or fashion. Usually one "violation" doesn't provoke much of a legal response - - just a warning, but if this is a repetitive problem then fines are imposed, and sometimes eviction. Perhaps the next time something like this happens you need to call the super / landlord and let him / her / them handle the situation. I've been where you are now, so I do so understand your concerns.

Tracy, I hope today is being kind to you and your fur family. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 5 2011, 05:32 PM

Hi Tracy....I do hope you are okay. About the news, I didn't know if that was where you work or not.

I know that was a bad experience last night with the fireworks, etc. Been there, done that, in other places we've lived.

I hope you and your precious furbabies have a good evening. God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 5 2011, 08:24 PM

Thanks moon_beam. I thought about calling management, but am leary. Last year in the same week I lost my job, the manager almost kicked me out for my "attitude" and only didn't because she felt sorry for me for losing my job. Plus a few years ago when I tried to warn her about some teenagers scaling the glass housing to jump in the pool from the skylite after hours, she pretty much told me to shut up and mind my own business. Then the pool was closed for 2 yars while they tore down the glass house and put up a concrete/cast iron wall. I'm guessing one of the idiots got hurt and sued. But bottom line, I'm scared to rock the boat for fear being 'invited to leave' again. And I'm nowhere near in a position to move anytime in the forseeable future.

Thanks LoveMy Mickey - the incident occured at a dispatch center on the other side of town. Some whack job shot his supervisor, then himself. LG&E/KU is not releasing any names. But given the ugly things I myself have heard customers say, combined with the downtown office/call center security being a joke, it does make me a little more paranoid now.

But, the holiday, and that ugly business is behind me and am hoping me and the kittles can get some quality time. Hugs all.....

T

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 6 2011, 12:07 PM

Hi Tracy.....I'm glad that you are okay.....

Yes, it's time to look ahead and have some fun with Theresa and Tang. I hope they are doing well and beginning to accept each other......

Have a good day and evening....God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 6 2011, 08:13 PM

All's well here so far. I got a note that they are redoing the roof on my building for the next few days or so, so no balcony time for kittles for safety reasons sad.gif too hot anyway

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 7 2011, 10:50 AM

Hi Tracy.....If it's not one thing, it's another. lol......I agree it's too hot to be outside especially in this summertime humidity.

Anyway enjoy your furbabies in the cool indoors. You, Theresa, and Tang are always in my thoughts and prayers......God Bless....

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 7 2011, 03:34 PM

Hi, Tracy, thanks so much for keeping us updated on how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. You are very wise to "lay low" about reporting events to the management. You have had enough to contend with over the course of recent years without having to endure the ire of people who do not care about what happens to others around them. My concern is always first and foremost for you and your precious fur family.

I hope the roof work doesn't take too long. It's very warm here too, and humid as well. I hope today is treating you and your fur family kindly, Tracy. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to knowing how things are going for you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 7 2011, 08:10 PM

Thanks moon_beam - they were finishing up the building next to me as I came in tonight , so I'm hoping they'll have the better part of mine done tomorrow while I'm at work. I SO would not look forward to the noise on my Saturday, er Caturday wink.gif

I got my shift bid choice as work so starting 25th I get off a 1/2 hour earlier and no longer have to close worrying if I'll get out of there on time because of the queue smile.gif

The kittles are doing well, although I had to break up a spat his morning because Tang, very much out of character, was NOT backing down when Miss Theresa hissed "ENOUGH!" I sense the paw of Sir Thomas at work on that one (sigh) Oh well, however he chooses to make himself known should be considered a blessing, I guess.

Posted by: Kristina Jul 23 2011, 11:09 AM

Hi Tracy

I wanted to jump in your thread here. I just read through the whole thing, and I really enjoyed getting to meet your babies. I also am another KY person so it seemed fitting to be here!

I look forward to reading more about the antics of your babies, and after reading I hope that when the time comes for me to add a new dog to our family Dixie will guide me to the one that belongs with us.

Much love.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 23 2011, 11:51 AM

Hi Tracy.....I see 2 weeks of posts are missing here too, like LS Support said......I hope you, Teresa, and Sgt. Tang biggrin.gif are doing okay......No storms yesterday, but as you know it is very hot.....I hope you and furbabies stay cool.

God Bless....
LoveMyMickey

Kristina, it's good to see another Kentuckian. I hope you are doing better.


Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 23 2011, 05:02 PM

Kristina, always nice to know another Kentuckian is around (although even after 22 years here, my heart still belongs to Texas and Arizona) LoveMyMickey, thanks for checking in also.

Yes very hot today, but no storms. I got a little paniced when my Insight (CATV, phone, interenet went out) Thinking that if it was out so could power be somehwere in LG&E/KU territory. But my pager never went off (knock wood) and I got thru to Insight fairly quick on my cell, and the services were up shortly after that. Hoping nothing else happens at least for the next 14 hours while I'm still tertiary on-call.

I created a new account, but am glad I didn't have to use it for long as my old one is still in tact. "Sgt" Tang, and Lady Theresa are doing well (Tom watching over us as always) No outside for then due to the heat, for which they are bummed but dealing. Maybe early tomorrow morning I can do like last week and let them out for that hour my clothes are drying and I can watch them while I'm on the 'puter -

Tail Hugs from T T & T


Posted by: Kristina Jul 23 2011, 06:04 PM

We also have Insight. It went out the other night for about 2 hours. I wasn't sure if it was from the heat or something else. It rained for about 2 seconds up here today, then turned back into soup. Yuck.

I bet the cats are bummed because of the heat. One of our cats goes out all the time and refuses to stay in unless it is freezing. What a weirdo.

I am glad I was able to keep my account and initial post about Dixie. I lost a bunch of stuff from two weeks after her death but that is ok, they can be recreated.

I hope the day is good to you and the babies. And to Tom who is always watching over all of you. Much love to you and the furbabies.

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 24 2011, 09:57 AM

Hi, Tracy, just being able to get caught up on your news from yesterday. Had a family gathering to participate in. I'm glad to know your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing well, and that you don't have another "high wire" act with circus dare devil Tang today.

Yesterday was incredibly hot - - again - - heat index a minimum of 102 degrees. The AC has been running very steadily - - so I'm getting a bit anxious about how this going to be reflected on my electric bill over the next 6 months. My "anniversary" pay up bill is in February - - a couple of years ago my "pay up" balance was $400. That was a moment of some serious hyperventilation.

I'm glad today is just Sunday so that I can spend some very serious quality time with my little Noah. I hope today will be kind to you "on call" - wise, Tracy, so that you and your fur family can enjoy being home without any interruptions. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and always look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 24 2011, 03:15 PM

Kristina, Thank you. it was hot and muggy here too, but no storms or pages. I did let them out for the hour my clothes were drying this morning.

moon_beam, thank you. Tang did get outside the railing once this morning, but my "dad voice" got him back on this side in a hurry. From what you describe on your power bill, it sounds like you are on what we call budget billing. Not something I recommend unless one's consumption is quite high. And the settle up month is a bear and why I'm glad I don't have the billing skill when those folks call in. "Sorry but budget IS a payment arrangement, I'll have to transfer you to billing."

The only "cuteness" to report today is when I woke up from my nap on the sofa, walking by the bedroom to the bathrrom, they were both on the bed. Not cuddling but pretty close together. Theresa was fast asleep, and Tang looked at me as if to say "I'm just watching out for her dad"

Peace and Tail Hugs ->

TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 24 2011, 05:08 PM

Hi Tracy.....Awwwww..that is so cute. I keep saying they will end up cuddling each other, maybe when the cold winds start blowing this winter. Brrrrr....I was hoping there would be no circus acts for you and Tang this morning.

We are on the budget plan for utilities too and also for Columbia Gas. They put ours high enough that sometimes we have a credit. But this season for electricity might be different story.

Tracy I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have a cool evening and I look forward to your next post of cat-tails......

God Bless

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 24 2011, 08:04 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey


Not much to report tonight. Just a usual mellow Sunday, albeit a HOT one. Rain cooled things down some but not enough w/ the humidy.
Tomorrow I have to get up 1/2 hour (counting the mandetory OT) earlier than usual. But I also get to leave work that much earlier and NO MORE waiting on the email that says I can go home smile.gif

Kittles are chillin'

TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 25 2011, 05:02 PM

Hi Tracy....It's good just to have a mellow Sunday and the extra half hour tonight.....We didn't get any rain yesterday afternoon although it was all around us. It did get cooler and the heat advisory is gone.

I believe I read in one of your posts that you are originally from Texas? We lived in San Antonio for a little while many years ago. I liked the dry heat there.

Tracy give Theresa and Tang a pet for me and "Tang, NO circus acts for you young man!".

God Bless....

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 25 2011, 06:14 PM

Hi, Tracy, stopping by to say hello and to see how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. So, little Tang has become the "courageous lion" (as opposed to the "cowardly lion" in Wizard of Oz). I'm so glad he came back to you without you having to do any "high wire" act yesterday.

The only way I can afford to pay the electric bill - - which includes EVERYTHING in the house - - is by a monthly budget. I conserve as much as I can. Last year I was pleasantly surprised that my year end settlement was half of what it was the year before. Still, Appalachian Power continues to request and continues to get granted continuous rate increases - - which is worrisome because that is the source of the ongoing increases in the monthly, and year end, payments. I really am not looking forward to having to work until the moment I take my last breath just to pay the electric bill.

I'm so glad you're going to be able to get home 30 minutes earlier today, and perhaps you are already home. I hope you and your precious Theresa and little Tang have a very peaceful evening, and will look forward to knowing how each of you are doing. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 25 2011, 07:23 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

It was SO gratifying to walk out of there at 6:30 with 35 calls in queue and not have to care. I know they won't get out of there at 7:00, and It could not have been timed better for me smile.gif

About the Texas post, I spent 7 years (1982-1989) in Dallas, and the summer of 1986 in Houston (I liked Houston way better) and neither were what I'd call "dry" but no worse than here. And certainly BIGGER cities with more to do. Which does not mean much to a shut in ironically. Before that, I grew up in Phoenix, AZ 1969-1982 - That WAS dry but HOT.

The rates will go up as long as the local PSCs allow it. There is talk here of making them elected posts rather than appointed. People don't realize that if that happens it will be more political and the PACs (yes, the power companies) will have MORE influence, not less. But people just don't see the big picture. They just like to call me names as if I'm personally responsible for their irresponsibility sad.gif

Tang has me a little worried. Last night he was fussing with that left ear a little more than I thought normal. I went to check it out, and sure enough it was pretty dirty. But worse than that, in addition to the usual brown gunk, I got some yellow, which made me think infection. I cleaned it out and started back on the antibiotic drops. It was better tonight, but I'm going to check it everyday. I will also call the vet and take him in this weekend if need be. Thankfully he's not showing any other signs if distress, and is his usual puckish self.


Both he and Theresa are enjoying the extra time (although it's really not since I leave 30 minutes earlier, but shh don't tell them)


Tail hugs from the Tripple T


Posted by: moon_beam Jul 25 2011, 09:34 PM

Hi, Tracy, as always it is a blessing to log on to see how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. It's always nice to get home earlier - - I'm so happy for you.

Yes, yellowish gunk usually does mean infection - - the ear c&%^ is moist so when there is a chronic problem already established it doesn't take much for it to blow up into an irritation and / or infection. Going on the ear drops is a good thing, and talking to your vet. I'm so glad the ear drops seem to show improvement, and hope that continues.

Hope you and your fur family have been enjoying a very pleasant evening. It's getting time for me to call it a day. My little Noah is patiently waiting for me to come snuggle with him. So, please know you and your precious fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how you and your fur tribe are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 26 2011, 05:48 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope you and furbabies had a peaceful and pleasant day. I hope Tang's ear gets better. It does sound like an infection. Pets can get ear mites too.

Shhh....I won't tell them that daddy leaves a half hour early. They're probably too sleepy to notice anyway. smile.gif

About Texas, I think San Antonio is farther south and maybe drier. I heard San Antonio got snow one Christmas a long time ago. I was born and raised (maybe half-raised) smile.gif in Ky, although we lived in different places in the military.

Tracy I hope you and furbabies have a peaceful and cool night. You all are always in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 26 2011, 07:31 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Tang's ear seems to be doing a little better still tonight; sticking with the drops for now. I have not had a chance to call the vet yet. Yesterday was 1/2 lunch for OT, and today was a working lunch for training. They fed us, but our time was not our own. Oh well, an additional hour of OT. I will try to call them tomorrow and get some guidance.

Dallas, used to get snow regularly, as did Arizona if you go up north enough, believe it nor not. Had to fuss at Theresa a bit for throwing up in the food bowl (I swear I think she does it to "spoil" it for anybody else) But she's doing better now, as is "Sgt" Tang. All food/water bowls clean and refilled.

Well, to the chores and settle in..

Tail Hugs


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 26 2011, 08:46 PM

Hi, Tracy, its always good logging in to see how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. So glad to know that Tang's ear is continuing to do well with the ear drops. Do you by any chance give Theresa anything to help with tummy furballs? If not you might want to consider giving her a dose of Laxatone, or whatever your vet may recommend.

Noah is doing well, thank you so much for asking. I am looking forward to getting settled down with him for the night.

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a very pleasant evening, Tracy, and that you will have a good day tomorrow. Please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 26 2011, 09:41 PM

Thanks moon_beam

It's not like she throws up alot, and I do try to brush her often. Also, the Iams I feed them is specially formulated for hairball control. I guess that except for the trouble I had with her early on, she's always been my healthy one, my "rock" as it were. With Tom it was the diabetes, and now Tang with the ear tumor (removed) and heart worms. I sometimes fall into a pattern of expecting her to be OK. But, I guess tape worms are no small matter. I guess being a pet parent really IS like being a "real" parent - you get so caught up in the ones with the larger more immediate issues, you can forget about the others w/ issues that are just as important. I'll make a point of asking about Theresa when I call about Tang. Sometimes I wonder if I'm very good cat dad after all (sigh)

Posted by: kaylasmom Jul 26 2011, 10:17 PM

Hi Tracy,

I think you are a fantastic cat dad. Your love and concern for your babies shows in every post. I'm sure that Theresa, Tang and Tom would agree with me.

Shelby

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 27 2011, 05:06 PM

"Sometimes I wonder if I'm very good cat dad after all (sigh)"

Hi, Tracy, ABSOLUTELY DITTO SHELBY'S REPLY - - YOU ARE THE BEST DAD TO YOUR PRECIOUS THERESA, LITTLE TANG, - - AND YOUR BELOVED SIR THOMAS. Yes, little Tang may require more focus because of his health issues, and his high wire ambitions, but there is NO WAY you can ever think of yourself as neglecting your precious Theresa. So please do NOT ever doubt yourself about your being a good dad to your furkids, Tracy. NOT EVER!!!!

I hope today is being kind to you and your fur kids, Tracy. It has been "cooler" here the last couple of days - - around 95 degrees - - as opposed to 99, 100, with 115 degree heat indices. It's short-lived though as tomorrow the temperatures are supposed to climb back up to the upper 90's. Not particularly something to look forward to.

Thank you always for sharing with us how you and your fur tribe are doing, Tracy. I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 27 2011, 05:35 PM

Hi Tracy....I "Double Ditto" what Shelby and moon_beam said. You are a great cat-dad and your posts prove it!

I'm glad the ear drops are helping little Tang. I always had to keep an eye on our doggie's ears. They were hard to keep clean and easy to get infected with bacteria or fungus. Drops and ointment always did the job.......I hope little Theresa gets better too.

Tracy I hope you and precious furbabies have a good evening and keep cool. I look forward to more cat-tails. smile.gif ......You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 27 2011, 07:12 PM

Thank you all for the encouragment. I called the vet's office today and was told it does not sound that bad, but to be safe continue the drops and bring him in Saturday, which I will. I'll ask about Theresa while I'm at it.

Today was very slow at work (not in queue once all day) and it was very welcome. The time may pass slower, but I'll take it any day.

I'm very blessed to have such good friends here at LS. As well, as Theresa, Tang, and the ever present spirit of Sir Thomas. Speaking of which, I think he paid another visit last night. Not only did I feel his presense, but Tang and Theresa were both mesmerized by the furnace closet in the hallway for several minute at around the same time; this was one of Tom's favorite past times - stalking the "closet monsters"


Tail Hugs ~

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 27 2011, 07:24 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. So glad today was a good day for you at work.

How special that your beloved Sir Thomas came for a visit last night - - to let you know that he is still - - and forever - - with you. I'm so very happy for you and your furkids, Tracy.

I hope your travels with little Tang to the vet on Saturday will be uneventful, and that his doctor will give you an "A OK" on how his ear is doing. Just keep doing what you're doing, Tracy - - you are THE BEST kitty dad!!!

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy. Please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 28 2011, 06:37 PM

Hi Tracy....I hope you and furbabies had a good day and stayed cool.......I hope too, that Tang gets a good report at the vets Sat. and I hope little Theresa is doing well too...Oh yeah, Sir Thomas is around looking out for you all.

Tracy I hope you and furbabies have a peaceful and fun night. Looking forward to hearing from you again.

God Bless...

LoveMYMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 28 2011, 07:25 PM

Thanks all.

Tang's ear seems better, but still retaining dirtiness with more frequency. Hopefully all will turn out well with the vet. Today was even slower than yesterday. Our coach has been out for almost a month, 2 weeks vacation, 2 weeks sick, although nobody will tell us what's wrong. So our monitor sessions amounted to another coach just dropping them off for us to sign. Nice (sigh)

Both were there to greet me upon walking through the door smile.gif Just 2 more days to another Caturday!

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 28 2011, 09:29 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you and your furkids are doing today. I do hope little Tang's ear situation may be due to allergies or the heat - - and that your vet will be able to offer you guidance and reassurance that everything is okay. I'll be very interested in knowing how things go on Saturday.

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a very pleasant and blissful evening, Tracy. I hope tomorrow goes well for you at work, too. Please know you and your fur family are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 29 2011, 06:20 PM

Hi Tracy...Just stopping by to say hello and hope you had another good day at work. With this heat, I sure hate to see our next electric bill. The budget payment will probably go up this year.

The vet will probably clean Tang's ear out and it will get well quicker. I hope everything turns out okay for you and furbabies this weekend.......No circus tricks for you Mr. Tang.

Tracy I hope you and furbabies have a cool and fun evening. Looking forward to your next post.

God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 29 2011, 07:19 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

I made sure I stopped at the ATM on the way home to have cash for the cab since I'll need it both ways not just one in taking Tang to the vet tomorrow (funny how much quicker they show up when you have cash, I'll be glad when my regular guy gets back) But it'll be nice not to have to walk to the bus stop in that heat. Hoping all will turn out well; he just had a little brown stuff to clean out tonight. OC tertiary again tonight and tomorow. They finally did away with the darn pagers and have a system that calls our cell, home or any other number we want. Hoping the only time my cell rings is the cabbie. But I figured out it's about every 10,000 customers out that progresses thru the levels. So, here's hoping for us all in KY we don't have 30,000 + out facillitating my having to go in....

Chores, and kittle cuddles await......Tang is longingly looking out at the balcony wink.gif (thru the glass, thank you)


Hugs - TTT

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 30 2011, 12:48 PM

Tang's vet visit went well enough. They said his tumor looked like it may be trying to come back, but is still benign; just need to work around it cleaning and let them know if gets bigger. Back to daily cleanings and once a week on the drops for preventative. All things considered, he's doing well. They also said since Theresa is only throwing up every once in a while, not to worry too much and recommended some OTC remedies which I picked up. My cell has only rung today to alert me to my cabs, let's hope it stays that way.

Tail Hugs ~

TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Jul 30 2011, 05:31 PM

Hi Tracy...Another Caturday has arrived. The time sure flies by fast.....I'm glad the vet visit went well with little Tang, but I do hope that the tumor doesn't get any bigger and his little ear clears up. I hope the OTC meds help little Theresa with the vomiting too.

Tracy always remember you, Tang, and Theresa are always in my thoughts and prayers. I always think of Sir Tom too...

Here's wishing you a silent cellphone evening and no circus acts tomorrow morning. smile.gif

God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 30 2011, 05:53 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey

When I was there I asked to be shown exactly where it is and how best to clean to be on the safe side. The nurse that found him and brought him there for treatment (Nicole) was the one who did this. She was NOT what I was expecting as his rescuer. I was worried about not living up to the standard, but she was a bit more rough and nonchalant in handling him, then I cared for. And here I was worried, I was not being gentle enough with him. But, he's back home and resting comfortably with his sister. Speaking of whom, Theresa decided to have a freak out session in the tub earlier chasing her own tail LOL. She too is resting comfortably. Hoping for a quiet Caturday until my OC is over 8:00 AM tomorrow.

Tail Hugs ~

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 30 2011, 06:53 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I'm glad all went well with the vet visit today, although I'm sorry the news is that the tumor - - although benign -- may be coming back. That's always a concern. It sounds like your little boy has found gentle hands to take care of him on a daily basis. I'm sure he much prefers daddy's hands. I'm glad you were able to get some guidance for Miss Theresa's occasional upset tummies, too.

All in all it sounds like you and your fur tribe have had a good Caturday (I love it!!!), and I hope your cell remains quiet for the rest of the evening.

Thank you again so much for sharing your precious Theresa and little Tang with us, Tracy. I hope you and your fur kids will have a very pleasant evening. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 30 2011, 08:08 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey.

I just really didn't care for the way the nurse handled Tang, especially being his rescuer. I told her the story about the balcony, and she didn't seem the least bit interested. Plus when she said, it's normal to get a little blood, I really didn't care for that. I could see getting blood when it's infected, but not at this stage. I never got any blood. I really feel she was being too rough. It made me flash on the so called vet that killed Tom. I'm even angrier, now that I think back on it. I got some fine point precision Q-Tips while at the Kroger and hoping that makes it a little easier. I'm starting to think Tom brought Tang to me not just because he needed a home, but perhaps was not getting the best of over all treatment living at the vet. Anyway, he IS with me now in what I try to make gentle hands. He came over to play with a catnip sock earlier that was less than an inch away from Theresa. Neither moved or fussed. I wished I had a camera for that...


Tail Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Jul 31 2011, 12:34 PM

"I'm starting to think Tom brought Tang to me not just because he needed a home, but perhaps was not getting the best of over all treatment living at the vet. Anyway, he IS with me now in what I try to make gentle hands."


Hi, Tracy, as I read your account of the nurse's interaction with your precious Tang this thought comes to mind: she does this on a routine basis day in day out - - so it's a CLINICAL routine to her -- but for YOU this is your LITTLE BOY. There's a HUGE difference in approach and mind set. Since I work in a clinical setting (home health office) I see and hear this ALL THE TIME. The sad thing is the clinical staff complain about the caregivers of the patients who complain about THEIR insensitivity - - the clinical staff have the attitude that THEY are always right, and the caregivers and patients are there to serve THEM. Which is one of many reasons why I so desperately want to find another job OUT of the healthcare field. Unfortunately for me I'm too old to be considered a viable candidate for the very few positions that are advertised. So - - that keeps me where I am to have "a paycheck."

So, my friend, it does not surprise me one little bit that your beloved Sir Thomas guided you and little Tang toward one another so that this sweet little boy could know what tender love REALLY is through your gentle hands.

Sounds like you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang had a very peaceful evening. I hope today is being kind to you and your precious fur tribe. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 31 2011, 05:46 PM

Thanks, moon_beam

I could easily tell from Tang's demeanor and body language, that he did NOT like her. She literally drug him out of the carrier by the side, ignoring me comepletely when I said I have better luck going in from the top. She was going to do it HER way, and I may as well have not been there. Thankfully, Dr. Mills and the other nurses don't act that way. The irony of reporting her is not lost on me, and I probably won't. But I was just so angry my little boy was being treated like a sack of meat. Well, he knows who loves him, and where his home is....


Posted by: moon_beam Jul 31 2011, 08:31 PM

Hi, Tracy, I'm wondering when you make an appointment to take your fur kids in if you could find a way to ask if this particular nurse is going to be there, and if possible try to make an appointment when she is NOT there. It's just a thought. Some of the home health repeat patients ask for a specific nurse or physical therapist - - because they have had a bad experience on previous occasions with a particular employee. Sometimes it works, sometimes the supervisor refuses and refers the patient to another agency. Just remember, Tracy - - you are a PAYING customer and you and your furkids are entitled to both professional and COMPASSIONATE attention.

I hope you and your furkids are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing how things are going for each of you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Jul 31 2011, 08:52 PM

Thanks moon_beam. It's just that if I do that, I will be drawing attention to the fact that I don't care for his rescuer, and that would make me sound ungrateful for getting him somehow. Plus, I already make sure I only take him in when Dr. Mills is there. Hopefully I won't need to worry about that until his and Theresa's next scheduled check up (knock wood) I know I am a paying customer, even if it is just the 18.95/mo plan premeum I pay for each of them. The last time I mentioned hoping I would be able to leave there w/o having pay anything other than that because of my budget, I got a snarky comment about how at least last time I walked out with a cat. I sometimes wonder why some people get into that kind of field to begin with (sigh)

Kittles are resting comfortably on what's left of my weekend w/ them. Tang in the bedroom window, and Theresa on top of my bag I tote back and forth to work. Mayge she's trying to hitch a ride wink.gif


TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 1 2011, 01:02 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope you are having a good day at work, also hope Little Theresa and Tang are staying out of mischief at home.

That is so sad about how Tang was treated. Hopefully that nurse won't be there next time. I've never had that problem, but 3 years ago Mickey's vet we had for years, retired and a young one took her place. She was very nice, but I didn't have as much confidence in her.

Tracy I hope you and furbabies have a fun and peaceful evening and night. Keep that bag closed because somebody might hitch a ride. smile.gif

God Bless....

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 1 2011, 04:11 PM

"I sometimes wonder why some people get into that kind of field to begin with (sigh)."

Hi, Tracy, just stopping by to say hello. I know what you mean. One thing I have learned in my many years of travels in this life - - no place is "perfect" - - employment, places to live, places to shop, - - and - - veterinary offices. It sounds like you have a very good relationship with everyone else, and hopefully this nurse's physical contact with your precious furkids will be a rare occasion - - for your peace of mind.

I hope today is being kind to you, your precious Miss Theresa, and little Tang, and that you will have a very peaceful and blissful evening together. Please know you and your fur family are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing how you and your precious furkids are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 1 2011, 07:39 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey, moon_beam. No, no place is perfect. And I invested 6 years of time between 4 cats there, and would hate all that money for the wellness plans, and the time to be for naught. I know if I raise heck I'll get my issues promptly dealt with, from experience. But, I'm getting to a point where I try to be more choosy about my battles. Both greeted me at the door which was nice after a long day of non-stop queue right till I left sad.gif I stopped at McDs on the way home for a "comfort" food fix because I'm too hot and tried to make anything - even simple stuff. I'm sure Tang will want a bite wink.gif His ear was the usual dirty, but no sign of infection. Picked what appeared to be a dead tick or flea off Theresa, but could not find any more; she's due for her last dose of Front Line in about 2 weeks. The last dose on hand. I'll see how she does after that. Theresa did her chase her own tail bit in the tub, and Tang is doing barrel rolls like he's flying on the living room floor (Tom used to do that) Just glad Monday is over (whew)

Tail Hugs


TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 2 2011, 11:23 AM

Hi Tracy....I hope your work day is easier than yesterday. That's so nice, Theresa and Tang both meeting you at the door. Did they get a bite of McD? wink.gif

That is so interesting how Tang has habits like Tom. Sounds like Theresa and Tang are doing some circus acts, sounds cute.....About fleas, I don't know if they like to be brushed or combed, but a fine tooth flea comb will catch fleas or anything and remove old hair on pets. I used one on Mickey (he loved it) and I didn't have to use as much Frontline. I hated putting chemicals on him.

Tracy I hope you, Theresa, Tang, and Spirit Dog Tom have a happy evening and keep cool.

God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 2 2011, 05:11 PM

"Theresa did her chase her own tail bit in the tub, and Tang is doing barrel rolls like he's flying on the living room floor"


Hi, Tracy, just getting caught up on your news from last night. One thing about being "busy" (if not overwhelmed) at work - - the time has a tendency to go by quickly. I know what you mean about being too hot and tired to bother with fixing anything. That is one "benefit" of being the only "human" in the household.

I am so smiling about the antics of your precious Theresa and little Tang. I am so very glad you have the joy of your precious furkids in your heart and life, Tracy.

I hope today is being kind to you and your fur family, my friend. Pretty soon you should be home, and your precious Theresa and little Tang are there to bring comfort and joy to your heart. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 2 2011, 07:25 PM

Thanks LoveMyMickey, moon_beam

Tang did indeed get some bites wink.gif I did the 2 for 4 quarter pounders knowing it's more than I would eat. Theresa still has no interest in people food. Picked something off Tang's paw that looked similar to what Theresa had; still nothing more than that on him either. Since they are almost exclusively inside these days, I'm betting one of my neighbors is not so careful when it comes to their pets. I'll pick something up at the vet if this continues. I do indeed brush Theresa about every other day more for hairball prevention since her coat is so full; Tang as much as he will let me. Antic of the Day:

Tang came ripping down the hall into the living room with Theresa hot on his tail. To which I said "Just who is chasing/bullying who, dear?" She looked up at me as if to say "Shucks, daddy you weren't 'posed to see dat" Like I didn't know the rough housing was a 50/50 proposition LOL

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 2 2011, 08:37 PM

Hi, Tracy, so good to share your daily reports of how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. What a joy they bring to you, and sharing in your joy is a blessing.

Yeah, we can bring in critters on our clothes that make their way onto our furkids through contact. I have to do the same thing with my Noah - - give him a good inspection - - because sometimes I see him scratching a little too much for being an inside kitty. Brushing him does seem to help him feel better.

Hope you and your fur family are having a peaceful evening, Tracy, and thank you so much for sharing with us how today has been for each of you. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to sharing your news and how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 3 2011, 12:26 PM

Hi Tracy...When I first read "Tang did indeed get some bites", I was thinking of flea bites. biggrin.gif ....I'm glad it was burger bites.....I agree, those critters can come from anywhere, even at the vets.

I laughed when I read your "Antic of the Day"......So cute....Tracy thank you for the smiles and sharing with us. I hope you're having an easy day at work and have a fun time with furbabies tonight.

God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 3 2011, 07:33 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

No "critters" to report tonight. Today at work started slow, but as a cruel joke, proceeded to be in queue off and on the rest of the day. After a week and a half of no disconnects due to the heat, should have been expected (sigh) and got fussed at for 2 customer complaints (double sigh)

No antics to report tonight outside the norm. Getting less and less crud out of Tang's ear as time goes on, so hoping for the best. Theresa is also doing well. Hope all is well with you folks...

Tail Hugs ~

TTT


Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 4 2011, 11:30 AM

Hi Tracy...YAY!! No critters. I'm glad little Tang's ear is doing better and little Theresa is doing well.
All is well here, gotta' hit the Kroger store tomorrow. We had rain yesterday, but it's hot again today.

TracyI hope you have a better work day today. Remember you and your precious furbabies are always in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for being my friend...

God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 4 2011, 01:38 PM

Hi, Tracy, getting caught up on your news. Sorry I didn't write last night. I was very tired and both Noah and I crashed really early.

So sorry that you got complaints from customers. I know it is your nature to be as helpful as possible, there's just so much you can do. I took a call from an elderly lady last week who was inquiring about receiving services. She is not a current patient, so I explained to her that she needed to have her doctor contact the company for a referrral. This did not set well with her. The bottom line was - - she didn't want to call her doctor - - she was under the impression that the company is supposed to provide any service she needs that she herself tells us she needs. She didn't want to hear anything else. I tried to be very polite to her and supportive of her needs, and tried to encourage her to call her doctor and have her doctor call the company. She finally said that she will just have to do without and hung up. This still makes me feel sad - - but there isn't anything anyone can do for her - - until SHE decides to have her doctor make a formal referral. I thought for sure I would get called into the "principal's office" for that call - - but haven't yet. I might not hear anything about it until my evaluation - - which would be typical.

Like LoveMyMickey I, too, am so glad little Tang's ear is doing better. It's always nice when the ear gunk is not as much. My Oslo's ears needed frequent cleaning as they were prone to infections, and they would get so o o o gunky - -particularly in the spring and autumn with all the pollens and allergens about. His ears were like gunk breeders - - like something out of a sci fi flick - - some of the stuff I cleaned out looked like little aliens.

I hope today is being kind to you and your fur kids, my friend, and I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam






Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 4 2011, 07:35 PM

Thank you as always LoveMyMickey, moon_beam -

Today was a mixed bag of busy and slow. But I got through it just the same. One more day until Caturday smile.gif I feel blessed to be able to post daily about trivial mundane things when so many people on here are going through such recent and difficult losses. I do sometimes wonder if I truly have made peace with Tom's passing, or if it's just lying dormant to rear it's ugly head when I am least prepared for it.

Anyway, nothing new to report in the antics. Theresa and Tang continue to both sleep with me at night, which is comforting. Both seem to be doing well.

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 4 2011, 10:40 PM

"I do sometimes wonder if I truly have made peace with Tom's passing, or if it's just lying dormant to rear it's ugly head when I am least prepared for it."

Hi, Tracy, it's always a joy comnig to your topic to get caught on your news. "Peace" comes in different ways, and memories at any one particular moment can always evoke emotions we thought were long "resolved." There are many different dimensions to how we "react" to things. For instance, when our stress levels are nominal, what someone else may perceive as an annoyance we may find to be indifferent. When our stress levels are high, however, our reactions can be more emotional - - including to a memory that is particularly sad and heartbreaking.

It's a part of the unpredictability of this life journey, Tracy, and a reminder that there are some things we have no control over. The good news is that the love bond you share with your beloved Sir Thomas is eternal, and while there may be moments now and then of sadness when you think of your beloved Sir Thomas, your Sir Thomas will always be saying to you, "It's alright, dad - - I know you love me and always did the very best you could for me. Now - - let me see you smile - - come on, dad - - give me your special smile - - yes, that's better. Now, my sister and little brother need you. I love you too, dad, and I'm always close ot you."

I guess I need to get this to you and shut down this gizmo and get some zzzz's as the alarm clock goes off really early for another day in the pit. I'm so glad tomorrow is F R I D A Y!!!!

Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy. I hope each of you will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, and I look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 5 2011, 06:00 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope you had a pleasant work day. It's hard to believe another week has gone by and tomorrow is "Caturday"......It's a pleasure to come here and read your posts about your furbabies, work, or whatever you want to talk about.

About finding peace, I doubt if anyone finds true peace with losing their pet that they were really close to. I find myself going around doing things and all of a sudden I think of Mickey and I get that empty feeling in my stomach. The grocery store is always a reminder when I pass by the Pupperoni treats and then he's not here to greet me at the door.

Okay, Theresa and Tang, you treat your dad kindly this weekend and stay out of mischief. No circus tricks or playing too rough with each other. smile.gif

Hugs to all,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 5 2011, 07:50 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

It's just that when I think about Tom, and missing him, it seems in the abstract; like intellectually I know I miss him, but I don't "feel" that pain from missing him like I once did. I don't know if that's normal or if something is wrong with me.

Work started out slow, but by late morning we were slammed the rest of the day (worse than a Monday) Then a KU area wide outage from an isolated storm didn't help that. When I left at 6:30 there were almost 50 calls in the credit queue alone. I was never so glad for my new shift and no longer closing. I doubt they got out of there much before 7:30.

Tang's ear continues to improve slowly; guess I'll just have to keep checking it daily. It's certainly no worse than the daily insulin injections I had to do for Tom. Theresa continues her freak outs in the tub. I think she's jockying for attention wink.gif And, apparently, Tom has somehow imparted that the vacuum is a big red Tang eater LOL Both are resting comfortably at the moment. Hoping no storms bad enough to page tertiary this weekend.

Hugs ~

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 5 2011, 08:38 PM

"It's just that when I think about Tom, and missing him, it seems in the abstract; like intellectually I know I miss him, but I don't "feel" that pain from missing him like I once did. I don't know if that's normal or if something is wrong with me."

Hi, Tracy, so good to log on and get caught up with your news. What you are feeling - - or not feeling - - about missing your beloved Sir Thomas is perfectly normal. This simply means that you are in a new and healthy phase of your adjustment journey. Your beloved Sir Thomas wants you to be able to think of him with a peaceful, happy heart - - and to be able to look happily at your precious Theresa and little Tang and not only enjoy them for the precious little lives they are, but also to fondly think, "Sir Thomas used to do that, too" - - which you are being able to do. This is a GOOD THING, Tracy. You are not "missing him" less - - you are remembering him MORE - - holding him close to your heart where he will always and forever be.

So glad to know your new work schedule is better for you, and that your little Tang's ear contniues to improve. I'm chuckling about your precious Theresa's bath tub ritual - - watching them is more entertaining than what is on the TV.

I hope you and your fur kids will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy, and that you will have a very quiet uneventual weekend. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 5 2011, 10:10 PM

Thank you moon_beam

Someimes I just need someone to check my grief journey pulse, so to speak, to make sure I'm not going off into a tangent that's not right.
I do miss Sir Thomas, but he has moved on to the next leg of his journey. I suppse I can do no less for not just myself, but for the little sister he left behind. And the little brother he brought my way. Some times I can almost hear him saying "I know I'm not there for you physically anymore dad, but this little waif needs some love. I'd consider it no small favor if you'd take him into your heart for me"

Thanks again for the "pep"


T

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 6 2011, 12:12 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you for so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and your little Tang are doing.

Tracy, I could not have said it any better than what you wrote: "I do miss Sir Thomas, but he has moved on to the next leg of his journey. I suppse I can do no less for not just myself, but for the little sister he left behind. And the little brother he brought my way. Some times I can almost hear him saying "I know I'm not there for you physically anymore dad, but this little waif needs some love. I'd consider it no small favor if you'd take him into your heart for me"

Your beloved Sir Thomas is VERY PROUD of you - - his FOREVER DAD - - and is truly forever with you in your heart and memories - - and will continue to make his "visits" - - through your precious Theresa and little Tang and in your heart - - to reassure you that he is forever with each of you.

I hope today is being kind to you and your precious fur tribe, Tracy. It is cloudy here and only in the mid-70's, but it is VERY humid. Noah and I are getting lots of snuggle time today - - just being lazy today. Please know you, your precoius Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 6 2011, 05:53 PM

Thank you moon_beam

I had a dream about Tom during my nap today (one of the most restful ones to date) and just after I woke up, Theresa leaped off my chest at the exact same time Tang ripped out from behind the sliding door blinds. At first I thought them playing. But they both stopped dead with in 2 feet of each other and fixated on the hallway. Then sat down and continued to stare in that direction. Another visit from Tom perhaps; knowing that I'd been feeling this way. Thus far it's been a pretty quiet "Caturday" I'm glad you and your precious Noah are getting some much deserved rest and cuddle time.

Tail Hugs ~

TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 6 2011, 06:18 PM

Hi Tracy.....OH MY!!! I'm getting goose bumps here....You know what Sir Tom is saying, he's saying, "Dad, I think it's time for a visit to show you, Theresa, and Tang that I'm still here."

Tracy I'm glad you had a peaceful "Caturday". And I hope tonight and tomorrow will be peaceful also. I'm looking forward to hearing from you again to see how things are going. Give the furbabies a pet for me.

My thoughts and prayers are with you...God Bless..

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 6 2011, 08:32 PM

Hi, Tracy, it's always a blessing to log into your topic to share your news. I'm so glad you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang had a very pleasant visit with your beloved Sir Thomas. And I'm so glad to know that you and your furkids were able to have a very peaceful "Caturday."

I hope you and your fur family will have a very peaceful evening blessed with your beloved Sir Thomas' sweet Living Spirit to comfort and cheer you. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing with you how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 7 2011, 04:31 AM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

This mornong started out with a nice thunder storm, so got a little wet going to the laundry room. It seems to have stopped for now. Recording says about 8500 people out. They may have paged primary, but I won't know since they went to our cells instead of pagers. 2.5 hours it won't matter. Thought about letting kittles out but it could start to rain again, so I nixed that. Both are resting comfortably. Looking forward to a nice day off, but will be able to relax better after 8:00 (not OC anymore)

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 7 2011, 08:29 AM

Hi, Tracy, it's getting close to 9:30 now and hopefully you have been spared any calls for active duty. I agree with you about not letting your furkids out on the balcony yet. Whenever I saw the sky getting dark and / or heard the rumbling of thunder I promptly brought my furkids inside if they were out on their tethers. I know sometimes we can feel like we are "cheating" our furkids out having some fun, but in reality we are doing the very best we can for them by keeping them SAFE. Your precious Theresa and little Tang have the very best dad!!!!

I hope you and your precious Theresa and little Tang will have a very good day, my friend. Please know you and your precious furkids are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 7 2011, 12:40 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope by now you and furbabies are having a peaceful day without any calls.....That thunderstorm woke us up this morning around 4 something. I grabbed the remote to check our local weather channel to check the radar. The worse part looked south of us, but after I turned it off, big thunder and lightning was close. Don't know if any power went off anywhere or not.

Tracy, as Moon_Beam said you are the very best dad to your precious furbabies by keeping them safe. Looking forward to your next posting. Give little Theresa and Tang a pet for me.....God Bless...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 7 2011, 05:21 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

I suppose I could have let them out later as the rain kept the temps coolish for a while. But I just wasn't up to watching them (well, Tang really) like a hawk. As I mentioned before, Tang has a penchant for people food not unlike Tom did. But Tang will actually get right up in my face to try to steal my food. It's annoying, but I gotta live him anyway. I had a brief sense of "family" taking my nap after the early morning laundry; Theresa on my chest, Tang on the arm of the couch perched betweem the pillows and my head. It was nice. I was not paged, but when I checked the recording after about an hour they were down from 8500 to 600. I'd say that's pretty good turn around for an hour. But I'm sure people carped about it anyway. Tomorrow back to the salt mines, 5.5 hours OT, but this time I volunteered for 3 of those. Need the money to keep up with those 22.00/week health insurance premiums (another bad part about being a contractor) Now that I am on my own 'wellness plan', maybe I'll finally get myself checked out by the people vet. Just need to find a 1/2 day somewhere I can take off. That's all for now I guess. Unless one of them does something "antic" worthy tonight.

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 7 2011, 07:28 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you always for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I love the afternoon naps, too. There's just nothing better than having your precious furkid(s) snuggled close to you. So glad you were able to spend the entire day with your precious Theresa and little Tang.

With the exception of a very brief spritz earlier this morning, all the storms that were crossing over the mountains from West Virginia broke up before they reached our area here in Virginia. The sun broke through the morning clouds resulting in another hot and humid day here - -which is the forecast for the rest of the week.

I hope you and your precious furkids will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy, and hope that your day in the trenches tomorrow will be decent. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and always look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 8 2011, 05:05 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope you had a good work day. I don't know if you had storms today or not, but one came through here around 3 this afternoon. Wind, hail, and torrential rain, blew into the carport. No power outages in our neighborhood....Soooooo there went my nap today....That was so cute the way Theresa and Tang were napping with you....When we first got them, Annie and Mickey both would nap on my stomach until they found out there were more comfortable places to sleep.

Tracy, I hope you have an enjoyable evening with your furbabies. My thoughts and prayers are always with you all.

God Bless....

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 8 2011, 07:26 PM

Thank you moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Today was a typical Monday at work - queue start to finish - some outages from storms, not too bad. I'm a little worried about Tang. Last night when cleaning his ears, I noticed a mass at the base of the left ear, NOT where the original tumor was. I don't know if it's another tumor, but it doesn't look right, and nothing like it in the right ear. I get a little yellow out of the crevice by it, but it could just be where it's been draining. I called the vet today, and they said to keep up the cleanings and bring him in as soon as I am able which will be Saturday. I do hope it's not too serious. He's not showing any signs of distress, but I just can't go through it again so soon after losing Tom sad.gif

Thoughts and prayers appreciated.

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: leejaye Aug 8 2011, 08:50 PM

Dear Tracy, Sending Tang some good energy to clean up that ear, Sir Thomas is watching over him - I am confident he will be ok! Give the kids a pat for me Leejaye

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 8 2011, 09:13 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you as always for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. Your little boy is so fortunate to have you as his dad, for your diligence and attentiveness to his needs. I do so hope and pray that Tang's doctor will be able to set your mind at ease about what is happening with Tang's ear. I know how quickly lumps and bumps can appear - - one day they aren't there and the next day they are, so I know how concerned you are, and you are doing the absolute best thing by having your precious Tang see his doctor. Please find comfort in what the doctor has instructed you to do, and the good news that apparently it is not causing your precious Tang any pain or discomfort.

I do know how upset you are, my friend, and I am so very sorry you have this concern on your heart. Please know you are not alone - - we are here for you in every way we can be to help you through this.

I'm glad today was apparently a decent day for you at work - - Monday's done with. Now you are home with your precious furkids, and I know they are so very happy to have their dad with them. I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend, please know each of you are close in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 8 2011, 09:19 PM

Thank you leejaye, moon_beam

I appreciate the support. I'm hoping for the best and that Sir Thomas is pulling strings in heaven for Tang. I promised Tom he'd be OK, and I obviously failed at that. I'm hoping my promisies to Tang are not as empty.

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 8 2011, 09:35 PM

Hi, Tracy, oh my friend, you didn't fail your beloved Sir Thomas. I know this still tugs at your heart - - there are things that tug at mine, too, about each of my furkids. It's part of the "reality" of being mere "humans" - - and the helplessness we feel when our precious furkids are having medical issues. Since we do not have the medical skill to perform the tests, make the diagnosis, provide the treatment, etc., we are at the "mercy" of others who have obtained the medical degree - - and that leaves us feeling totally "out of control" of what is happening. Please know that your precious Tang knows beyond all shadow of a doubt that you are doing everything in your power to give him a happy, healthy, safe, and LONG earthly journey with you and his big sister, Miss Theresa. I know it's hard not to panic, so I offer you my sincerest reassurance once again - - you are NOT alone, Tracy, - - we are here for you and your precious little Tang.

I hope you and your precious fur tribe will have a peaceful and blissful evening. Please try to let your mind, and heart, be at peace, Tracy. You are THE BEST DAD - - and if you need to make a sign of that and pin it up on your refrigerator or a mirror or frame it and hang it on every wall in your apartment then do so - - because it's absolutely true.

Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and am looking forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: leejaye Aug 8 2011, 09:40 PM

Dear Tracy, Please please don't be so hard on yourself - you made no empty promises to Tom, and you didn't fail him in any way - you are a fantastic Cat Dad, you do all that you can for your little ones, I just know that Tom is sitting up there nodding his head wisely as i type these words, "yes yes I agree" he'd say...take care my friend Leejaye

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 8 2011, 09:48 PM

Thank you leejaye, moon_beam

I've been told I'm a good kitty dad from folks on here, to the vet and nurses, aquaintances, heck even a few exes who can't stand me. Old saying says if allies and enemies are telling you the same thing, it must be true. I just don't know that I'm feeling it right now. I thank you for the kind words though. We will have to see what the days ahead bring....

Posted by: leejaye Aug 8 2011, 10:04 PM

Dear Tracy, Purszi and I will keep our respective fingers and tail crossed for you and Tang until you can get to the vet- I just can't believe Sir Thomas would have sent you Tang if something bad was on the cards, I have this much faith in our departed souls and the way they continue to look out for us, have a good night Leejaye

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 9 2011, 01:00 PM

Hi Tracy...I am so sorry about Tang's ear. Maybe that is just a pimple like thingy that got infected or was caused by the infection. Anyway like everybody has said, you are a great dad. Sir Tom is looking out for Tang and I told Mickey to send his guardian Angels to watch over Tang.

Try not to worry Tracy, (easier said than done I know)....You, Theresa, and especially Tang are in my thoughts and prayers....God Bless...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 9 2011, 07:36 PM

Thank you leejaye, LoveMyMickey, moon_beam

I had also thought it might be a pimple or possibly a cyst. The latter of which is easy enough to remove usually. I do hope it's something more or less benign. I also had the thought that Tom would not send me Tang if something bad was in the cards. But I can also hear him saying "He was alone outside in the elements, ear untreated. What kind of life would that have been? At least you are giving him a better chance" It looks about the same tonight (at least it's not bigger, that I can tell) and about the same pinkish color as the "healthy" tissue. So, right now, all I can do is wait it out for Saturday and hope for the best. Not easy for me. Work was OK, busier than a usual Tuesday. The fire alarm went off about 9:30, so we all stood around in the parking lot for about 45 minutes; over heard a customer on cell "So, that's why they aren't answering the phone, they're having a pic nic" as if. I hate people (LS folks excepted, of course)

I went in search of Tang's new favorite ball, didn't find it but found some lost catnip mice. So they are having fun with those.

Thanks for the prayers and well wishes

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 9 2011, 10:07 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I, too, was thinking today that the "growth" could be an abscess or a fluid filled sack that just needs a good sterile draining and then excellent Tracy dad tender loving care follow up. Just keep on doing what you're doing, my friend - - your sweet little boy has every faith and confidence in you, as your beloved Sir Thomas knows the depth of your loving care, and as we know you are doing - - and will always do - - everything in your power to take care of your little Tang.

Some folks are truly amazing in their assessment of situations which they know nothing about: "over heard a customer on cell "So, that's why they aren't answering the phone, they're having a pic nic". I hope you weren't standng out in a rain storm for 45 minutes!!

Life here is okay. Noah is still sound asleep on the bed, and I am looking forward to joining him in a few minutes. Just wanted to stop by to say hello and to get caught up on your news. I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a very enjoyable evening, and that tomorrow will be a good day for you. Please know you and your fur tribe are close in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to knowing how you and precious fur family are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 10 2011, 05:56 PM

Hi Tracy....I hope your day went well with no "picnics".....Some people are simply terrible...

I hope little Tang's ear is improving. It might be a cyst. At Mickey's last wellness exam last Oct. the vet found a cyst on his tail. She said we would keep an eye on it. It looked like a lump under the skin. Of course he had bigger problems than that.

Tracy, I hope you, Theresa, and Tang have a fun filled evening. Maybe Tang will find his favorite ball...You all are in my thoughts and prayers....God Bless...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 10 2011, 07:40 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Tang's ear seems OK, the "tissue" seems to either be getting smaller, or maybe it's just changing shape. Pimples, cysts, etc., do that. I'm thinking (hoping) tumors do not. We'll see Saturday. Cleaning his ear, as well as typing this are a bit hard right now as my left front paw is dealing with a nasty flair up of gouty arthritis. Since I've not been insured for about a year up til now, I've no alopurinol, and 4 cholchicine pills including the one I took tonight; which are expired so probably not very potent. I've got to get back to the doctor now that I have insurance again (sigh) Being in such pain has caused me to be a bit short with the kittles tonight sad.gif but they seem to understand it's not personal, God love 'em

Hopefully the med and extra strengh Tylonol will kick in so we can all relax....


Hugs


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 10 2011, 08:07 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I'm so glad the "swelling" on little Tang's ear seems to be diminishing. This is good news. Tumors have a tendency to grow, so the diminishing of this "swelling" is a very good sign. It's just two more days until you can get him back to see his doctor, and I hope you will receive this same confirmation from Tang's physician.

I'm so very sorry you are struggling with a very uncomfortable "left front paw." I have not suffered with gout, but I do have arthritis in my hands and fingers, along with other parts of the body, so I can relate to the pain you're having. I do understand the lack of enthusiasm for going to see a doctor, BUT - - in this case it would be beneficial so that you could get your prescriptions renewed. I hope the cholchicine will give you some relief. I know what it's like to be cranky with furkids because of being in pain. The good news as you already have said is that your beloved Theresa and little Tang know you are not feeling chipper. Your precious furkids always love you, Tracy - - for better and the not so good, in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer.

I hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy, and again I hope the medicine gives you some relief. Please know you and your precious fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and always look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 11 2011, 12:53 PM

Hi Tracy....I'm glad little Tang's ear is a little better, maybe that thing will go away completely....I'm sorry about your left paw. I hope the meds helped.......Your furbabies understand and love you just the same...When I got cranky with Mickey, he would look at me as if to say, "what's the matter with you?"...Then I would give him a hug.

I went to the people vet yesterday and a young lady who was studying to be a dr. from University of Ky. was going around with my dr. She questioned and examined me and then he came in and did the same, took a long time, plus they were busy. He probably thinks I am weird, I am never satisfied with the arthritis meds he prescribes. I asked for Celebrex this time, hope it works.

Tracy I hope your pain is better today and hope you can get more meds.....Pet the sweet furbabies for me. You all are in my thoughts and prayers always....God Bless..

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 11 2011, 03:06 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

this post will me more about my visit to the people vet today. As much as I hated to call off work (to say nothing of the income loss) the pain was just to great this morning. My doctor's office was able to get me in at 10:30. My new insurance apparently has no co-pay, which was nice. My dr. wrote me scripts for the alopurinol, cardivol (blood pressure; it was up big surprise) and something called colocrys which is just like colchacine, but with less GI distress effects (we'll see) my insurance covered the first 2 w/ co-pay, and the latter she gave me a 7 day free trial and a follow up 30 day RX w/ coupon for assistance (should be about a 20.00 co-pay if I need to use it. Otherwise I can go back to generic cholchacine. And the good news is I can call for refills w/o having to go back before my next 6 month appointment. Per her instructions, I took 2 colocrys right away with lunch and another just a little while go. It's starting to feel better. Then I can take as needed twice a day. She gave me a note and I signed a DX release wiaver in case FMLA is needed; I had it before for this condition. I'm hoping that will mitigate my absense from work today, especially since it has not been that long ago since the verbal from Today's. I'm hoping some of those have fallen off by now. Taking off work was a risk, but I just felt I could not leave myself vunerable to another attack, since I now have insurance. I hope I'm not in trouble; my understanding is you have to have some kind of written on record before being dismissed for attandance, which I do not have.

Since the weather is nice, and I'm home, I let the kids out on the balcony. Both jumped at the chance. But since fussing at Tang for hanging too far over the ledge, he has not gone any further than the door and is at this moment sitting by my feet watching me. Go figure. Theresa is still enjoying herself out there though. Hoping this last colocrys will keep up the pain releif. It's still pretty stiff, but hurts less now. Gout is like no other arthritis out there. The pain is indescribable.


Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 11 2011, 06:30 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I am so very glad that you were able to get an appointment with your "human vet" (I love it), and got your meds that you need. I know gout is caused by insufficient kidney function, and I have a BIG history of that - - just not to the gout level. I do hope and pray that the meds will help you get to feeling better quickly.

Sounds like your little Tang was "pushing his luck" again on the balcony, and you had every right to fuss at him. He knows you're not feeling well, and are not up to another high wire rescue, so his sitting at your feet is a part of his way of letting you know that he really is trying to be a good boy. He really is a very sweet natured little fella, and a very curious one about heights and agility abilities, too.

I don't think you can "plan" on health issues keeping you from work, my friend, so your doctor's certificate should be sufficient for your supervisor or HR department. In my company if we're out of work for health issues for more than 3 days we have to have a doctor's certificate or clearance from employee health to return to work. I'll be very eagerly awaiting to know how things go for you tomorrow.

Tracy, I do hope you will be feeling much better as you and your precoius fur tribe share this evening together. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to knowing how each of you doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam



Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 11 2011, 07:08 PM

Thanks moon_beam

All those meds made me kind of sleepy, so had a nap. Theresa on chest, Tang at my head on the arm of the couch. Hand still hurting, but I think it's improving. This was a bad attack, so it could take another day or so. Plus being back on the daily alopurinol will help alot. Just knowing I have the meds w/ refills and the script to get more of the colcrys makes me feel better able to get back into my routine.

Just cleaned Tang's ear, about usual. The mass is about the same as yesterday. He's now "cleaning" it himself. Good thing there's is nothing harmful in the cleaning solution. Theresa is curled up under the coffe table cubby; has not done that for a while. Maybe my being home most of the day threw her off her "schedule".

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 12 2011, 05:42 PM

Hi Tracy....Just dropping by to say hello and to see how you and furbabies are doing. I'm glad you got your meds and I hope they get rid of the pain......It's almost Caturday again, hard to believe....I hope Tang gets a good report at the vet.

Tracy, you take care and remember you, Theresa, and Tang are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 12 2011, 05:48 PM

Hi, Tracy, so glad you and your furkids had a nice nap yesterday evening, and I hope today went okay for you at work. There's just something about kitty spit that seems to help soothe booboos. And there must a special "bleach" included to help them keep their white's white. Adding my best wishes to LoveMyMickey's that his trip to his PCP tomorrow will be reassuring to YOU, my friend. I will look forward to knowing how things go tomorrow.

Tracy, hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, and please know each of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: kaylasmom Aug 12 2011, 06:22 PM

Hi Tracy,

Glad to hear you're feeling better. You may need to call several pharmacies to find generic colchicine. The only brand currently being produced is Colcrys and it is a lot more $$$$ than colchicine. Good luck and thank God for prescription plans!

Please let us know how it goes tomorrow for Tang.

Shelby

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 12 2011, 07:57 PM

Thanks everyone for the kind words.

Hand was getting better, but now seems worse sad.gif took 2 colcrys and extra strength Tylanol. I may have to have the Dr. put me back on colchicine (if I can find it) because I KNOW it works. Ended up having to stay past 7:00 because a call center was down and they needed people to stay. Since nobody volunteered? They opened storm boards and made EVERYONE on call stay. How sleazy is that? At least I'll get an extra 35.00 out of it. And hope I don't get paged tomorrow. At least not until Tang and grocery is done with. Hoping the storms hold off that long; they're supposed to anyway.

I am hoping for a good report on Tang tomorrow. Thank you all for the well wishes smile.gif

TTT

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 13 2011, 11:07 AM

Just got back with Tang from the vet. Dr. said that it's not not a cyst or anything along those lines. May need to be operated on 6-12 months. I'm just supposed to keep cleaning and using drops once a day and keep an eye on it. As I said before it looks a little smaller than it did before. Hoping I don't get paged with the storms later. I didn't last week when we had the bad ones early sunday morning. Storm board email said 5 agents present that day, so just primary paged likely. Hoping no worse than that again today/tonight.

Time to put the groceries up and settle in with the kittles.

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 13 2011, 05:26 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you're doing and how your little Tang's check up went. Sounds like "good news / bad news" - - just keep a check on it, may need surgery down the line. I'm hoping and praying for it to disappear. Please keep us informed as to how your little Tang is doing.

I'm so very sorry that your hand is hurting - - painfully so. I hope the combination of the meds and Tylenol will help to get you through until you can talk to your "vet" about changing back to colchicine. Please do let us know how you're doing with this.

Well, the way your employer went about having you stay overtime was definitely crappy. However, the $35 overtime will come in handy, I'm sure. Like you, I'm hoping you don't get paged at all this weekend so that you can stay home and enjoy some rest and relaxation with your fur kids.

I have been working on finances for most of the day - - reconciling the checkbook with the bank statement, matching checks to receipts, getting my tax information updated - - can't believe it's only 4.5 months left in 2011. Noah has been keeping me company through this "finance-a-thon" but now he's letting me know very clearly that it's time for his dinner.

I hope you and your precious Miss Theresa and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 14 2011, 12:51 AM

Thanks moon_beam

Well, they DID call us all in - I got there at 7:00 and they let some of us go at 12:30 AM and said to be back @ 8:00 AM for a 12 hour shift - even though I'm not on call after 8:00. The technicality is I was called originally when I was. Jerks! So smug with their "WE can make you do anything we want you cheap contract labor" attitudes. Poor kitties are scared to death from my rushing around to make the most of what little time I have - especially Tang sad.gif

Feel free to post and I will try to read at work if/when it's slow

Hugs


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 14 2011, 09:58 AM

Hi, Tracy, oh - - I am SO SORRY you are having to work this weekend. Yes, I know so very well how you feel - - slave labor. I can so imagine how your precious Theresa and little Tang are totally confused. I hope and pray you are given an "early release" so that you can be home with your furkids and get some much needed rest.

All that has happened at the homestead here was a single rumble of thunder early yesterday evening, and then this morning when I got up there was some evidence that we had gotten a little bit of rain overnight, but we have mostly had just cloudly skies and humidity. Am I to presume that the storms have been more destructive in your area?

Tracy, please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to sharing your news. And again, I hope and pray that you are given an early release home.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 14 2011, 11:58 AM

Hi Tracy....I had a feeling you would be called in after what I saw about the storm. I hope you got to go home early today......Just as I was about to log on here last evening, it got really dark. I turned the TV on and there was the "severe thunderstorm warning" for our area. We didn't even have time to go to the basement before it hit with strong winds and hard rain....No damage right here, but I read in today's paper the other side of town got it bad, power outages, trees down, and 2 houses caught on fire.

Tracy, I hope your pain is better and you can get some rest with the furbabies....I hope and pray that little Tang won't have to have surgery later on. Hopefully that thing will disappear.....Take care and hopefully this evening will be better.

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 14 2011, 05:37 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Thanks for the wish of "early release" - it worked. I was supposed to be there until 8:00, but they let me and a few others go at 5:30 with a free dinner to go (meat loaf, mashed taters, and green beans) which I'm sure Tang will share with me later wink.gif It was steady today but not slammed like last night (200 in queue when I got there, staying at about 100 for a few hours more) We went from 100,000 out to 55,000 in less than 24 hours, but I still got called every dirty word in the book sad.gif Still, makes it 52 hours for the week, and I was worried about the lost income from Thursday. Tomorrow we have to work 7-7 but may get another early release when the non responders from the all call start coming in (wish me luck) But I'll still have much more time with the kittles than last night. Hand is doing OK, but it only gets better to a point and stops. I don't know if the new med is not effective or if it's because I'm back on the alopurinol and that's making it take longer w/ regulating the acids. I'll ask the doctor tomorrow assuming I get a chance.

Tang's ear remains stable, keeping up the cleanings. Next week, I am NOT on call at all as I forgot to early sign up and no more tertiaries were available. I must have enough points to not get drafted. I don't care if there is an all call, I am NOT going. They can only ask, but not MAKE if you are not on call. I'm taking that time to make it up to the fur kids. Speaking of which, time I got setteled in and saw to that for the night.

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 14 2011, 08:24 PM

Hi, Tracy, so glad to sign in and find that you are home with your precious Theresa and little Tang. And am ever so glad to know that you did indeed get an early release - - with dinner to go!!! I'm so o o o o o glad, and I know your fur kids are THRILLED to have daddy home.

Sounds like your hand is a "good news / could be better news" situation. It's good that you'll check with your "vet" as soon as you can about the meds. Please do let us know how things are going for you on this.

I'm glad your little Tang's ear is holding steady. Under the circumstances of the concern you have been through, this is indeed good news. Still hoping and praying that the "growth" will disappear on its own.

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a wonderful evening together. Please know each of you are close in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how things are going with you and your precious furkids.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 14 2011, 09:03 PM

Thanks moon_beam

The kids were indeed glad to see daddy smile.gif Even Tang was more himself after the rush of last night. They both did tend to be my shadow for the better part of the evening though. Since it's such a nice night, I let them out on the balcony. Tang came in after a bit but Theresa is still chasing bugs her hearts content. Not looking forward to tomorrow. Not just the typical monday with everybody trying to make last minute payment arrangements, but the on going outage to boot. Oh well. This too shall pass, right? SO looking forward to a NO on call Caturday/weekend.


Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 15 2011, 04:39 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. Your reports of what they do bring a smile to my heart and face, and I thank you so much for sharing your precious furkids with us.

I know today is a long day for you after a very challenging weekend. I hope you are able to have an "early release" again today so that you can get home to your fur tribe and enjoy some rest and relaxation with them.

So, Tang was a good boy last night on the balcony - - what a precious sweetheart he is. I can just see Theresa leaping and skulking the night creatures honing her hunting skills - - which in the wild it is the ladies in the "pride" who do the hunting. My beautiful Abbygayle was quite a little huntress too when she would be outside on her tether with Noah and Eli.

I hope you and your fur family will have a very peaceful evening, my friend. Please know each of you are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 15 2011, 05:39 PM

Hi Tracy....I hope your work day wasn't too unpleasant. According to the news there are still power outages, lines down.

Sounds like Theresa and Tang had fun on the balcony last evening. This is nice weather, in the 70s.
Tracy I hope you and furbabies have another pleasant evening on the balcony. No funny stuff, Mr. Tang!

You all are in my thoughts and prayers..God Bless...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 15 2011, 08:03 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

No early release today and 7-7 again tomorrow, but at least they'll feed us. Next 2 checks will be sweet. Got a threat call where the guy said better bring the state police if a tech comes to diconnect because he's "gonna plug him" I submitted the form, and an ops. mgr. had the gall to spin it as to say it was my fault because I provoked him. Doesn't that make me feel valued and safe? I mean under what circumstanses can a rep be at fault for a threat like that? Call centers. Estrogen factories with high school click mentalities and glass ceilings. They don't have the nerve to stand up to the high mucky muck men who hold them back, so they pick on me. Oh well, rant over.

Tang and Theresa are doing well smile.gif Tang's ear about the same, and gave Theresa her last dose of First Sheild, Looks like the weather will permit some balcony time tonight. Well, off to enjoy what little time I have with the kittles.

Hugs

TTTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 16 2011, 01:18 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I am so very sorry that yesterday was so unpleasant for you at work. Is there some way you can record the calls - - perhaps for your own safety in case there is any backlash? This way you would have solid proof of what you said, what the customer said. And save that feedback - - perhaps by e-mail? - - you got from your supervisor putting the blame on you. I am just so very sorry you did not receive the support of your supervisor. I do empathize with you because I have a similar situation where I work.

I'm glad your precious furkids were able to enjoy some time out on the balcony last night. It's still pretty warm here so Noah remains content to look out the windows with the AC running. The good news is that the temperatures have moderated a bit into the mid to upper 80's, so the AC is not running continually as it has. Perhaps this will begin to increase the credit amount on my monthly budget bill. Can't believe it's only 6 months until February - which is my "pay up" bill for all charges due.

I'm sorry you're having to pull extra duty again today, and I hope today will be a better one for you in the trenches. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how you and your precious furkids are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 16 2011, 06:53 PM

Thank you moon_beam

All calls are recored and she made this rude comment to me AFTER listening to it. But she is typical of call center managent. Monday morning arm chair quarterbacks who either don't know/care or have forgotten what it's like to be in the trenches day after day. That one has also had it in for me since my quarterly where she felt I wasn't "enthusiastic" enough. I doubt I'll ever get hired there. Probably just string me along for another year or so and let me go. I guess I need to start keeping up with the job search emails I get each day. But at my age, it's so depressing to know this is all my life has amounted to. Especially since my being so mediocre ended up costing Tom his life sad.gif

There was indeed and early reslease (just an hour and a half @ 5:30) But it means I'm home earlier and can sleep an extra hour and a half tonight. Not to mention time with my kids. If it gets down to the 70s again, I'll allow balcony time; always too cute for words. Both seem fine tonight. They truly are blessings.

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 17 2011, 04:32 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. I'm so glad you received an early release last night to get home to your precious furkids, and again, am very sorry that your supervisor is so hateful toward you. I know firsthand what that is like, and it weighs heavily on the mind and the spirit when you have to go into that atmosphere every day.

Tracy, once again - - not once did you ever fail your beloved Sir Thomas in his care. What you experienced as his caregiver are normal anticipatory grief feelings. If you had all the gold in China - - or Fort Knox - - you still would not have been able to change the course of your beloved Sir Thomas' illness. What happened with him is NOT your fault, although I know what it is like to live with the memories of things that you wish you could change and do better. You will NEVER be a "mediocre" furchild dad, Tracy. Your beloved Sir Thomas, and your precious Theresa and little Tang are a testimony to your loving heart. As long as there is the capacity for you to love, Tracy, there is no way you can ever be "mediocre." Your supervisor, as mine, on the other hand, needs to have some lessons on how to be decent human beings.

Last year I put a comment on my evaluation that I gave to my supervisor, and I believe it is one you need to remember: "This above all: to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night of the day, thou canst not then be false to any man." (William Shakespeare) Just be yourself, Tracy. Speaking for myself, it is an HONOR to know you, Tracy, and to have your friendship.

Hope your precious Theresa and little Tang were able to get some quality balcony time last night, and I hope today has been a decent one for you. Please know you and your precious furkids are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 17 2011, 06:11 PM

Hi Tracy...Just stopping by to see how things are going. I'm so sorry about what you have to put up with at work......Don't ever, ever think that anything you did or didn't do failed your Sir Tom. I go through the "what ifs" and should "we have done that" etc. every day. Then I tell myself to stop thinking like that because we did our best.

Tracy, you are a very valuable person, in your work, to other people, and especially to sweet little Theresa and Tang, also to Sir Tom...Like Moon_Beam, it is an HONOR to be your friend!

Tracy, you and your sweet furbabies are always in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you all have a peaceful and fun evening....God Bless..

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: kaylasmom Aug 17 2011, 06:40 PM

Hi Tracy,

Stop beating up on my friend! The very fact that you have doubts about fatherhood shows that you care deeply about your furkids. I'm 100% positive you did everything possible for Thomas and also for Theresa and Tang. So go look in the mirror, smile at yourself and repeat "I am a GREAT dad" until you're ready to believe in yourself.

Your friend,
Shelby

Ps-sorry for the lecture but I truly wish every pet had as caring a parent as the people I meet on this site.

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 17 2011, 07:53 PM

Thank you moon_beam, LoveMyMickey, and Kayasmom

But it was never a what if. I knew what needed to be done. The vet said the next step was lab work and follow up meds for the thyroid for the pronounced weight loss. I would not have batted an eye at the 80 odd dollars and other fees if I'd had my old job. Just the December before I'd spent over 500.00 even with his wellness plan with not a thought. But I wasn't thinking about him when I shot my mouth off at work once too often. Yes, I was miserable there, but it paid more than enough to give him what he needed. By the time he started to really go down hill, I was making more than 60% less and no benefits. (that's not counting the 6 weeks I had NO income at all) I didn't have the money for what I knew he needed, I hoped he'd get better, but he didn't. So, there is no guessing about what I should have done. I knew. But because I could not keep my big mouth shut, I lost the resources to do what he needed. I appreciate the kindness, but that IS my fault, and I have to live with it for the rest of my life. The way things are going I just may go down that road again with Tang. I was content to be content and off the radar. But this particular "manager" thinks I should have jumped up and done the happy dance to the "honor" of being a 45 year old cubilcle rat. I tried for the brass ring, and I lost. I decided to settle and be content and that's apparently frowned on too. I can't win. My "superiors" think I'm crap, the customers the same. I have to go through that every day and try to come home to the babies pretending I'm happy and worth while, when I am not.

Anyway, I'm going to try to enjoy what little time God will give me with my babies. I'm sorry, but I just can't pretend to fool myself into thinking I'm a good parent, when I am not. A good parent thinks about the kids before risking it all and shooting off his/her mouth. Or in the most recent case, at least trying to fake gratitude.

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 17 2011, 08:44 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you for sharing what is in your heart with us. Every day I go into my current job I feel like I am selling my soul to the devil for a paycheck. Yes, I need the paycheck - - but I don't keep my mouth shut either. As I have told my supervisor many times -- I am my own advocate there, and if I don't speak up for myself then no one else will. As an "older" employee in an office that is of much younger employees they are given preferential treatment and I am non-existent. The time when a supervisor "sticks up for" its employees when a customer is out of line is long gone. Employers, supervisors, have a narcissitic view of themselves. The days of me bowing down and paying homage to an employer / supervisor are long gone. I, too, keep my options opened for another employer, but I am much older now which makes me an "undesirable" applicant. You, on the other hand, are still in the "prime time" applicant range. So, keep those options opened, my friend.

The most wonderful part of my life is coming home to my precious little Noah. He is my world and my treasure. He is what keeps me grounded and focused on what is REALLY important.

Tracy, your precious Theresa and little Tang are YOUR life. Your beloved Sir Thomas knows you did the very best for him that you could at any given time under the circumstances of the time. And your precious Theresa and little Tang know this as well. Tracy, this all we mere mortals can do. In spite of all of our mistakes our precious and beloved companions somehow manage to look beyond our humanness and love us in spite of ourselves. This is a precious gift, Tracy. Accepting this gift is humbling, and confronts us with feelings of being "unworthy" of it. But if we weren't worthy of it, Tracy, we would not be the recipients of their undivided attention and unconditional eternal love.

The good news is that you are home now with your precious furkids, and all they want is to be with YOU. So, I hope you and your little furkids are enjoying this evening together. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 17 2011, 09:26 PM

moon_beam

I appreciate what you are saying. I'll be OK eventually. Being scolded for a call being escalated is one thing. But to be told that's it's my fault a man threatened physical violence, in essence saying I created an environment where that's acceptable, is beyond irresponsible. This woman should be reported to security as a safety risk at the very least. What is sad, is that I know if I do this, nothing would happen. He could just as easily have threatened me insted of a random tech. This not only makes me feel devalued but unsafe. What she said is no better than telling a rape or violent crime victim they brought it on themselves. This action alone blaringly demonstrates she does not belong in a position of authority. It's hard to "get over" I have heard many "I can't beleive she said that" comments. But she knows nobody will make a move against her for reasons I can't mention in an open forum. But you are right in that Theresa and Tang want their daddy. And it's not fair that I let her take that away from us. I'll have to think on this all for a while. Thanks for your encouragement.


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 18 2011, 04:53 PM

Hi, Tracy, you have done your job by reporting the threat to your supervisor. It is there in the records - - which I hope your supervisor cannot manipulate or erase. If possible, you may want to print out a copy of it and keep it in a safe place so that you will have proof should you need it. If anything happens between a company rep and the customer it will not be your fault. I truly am sorry that you have this degrading experience to deal with on top of the stress of your job. Receiving a threat is very unsettling, to say the least. One would think in this time where people go on shooting rampages that security of the employees would be a logical response in this case. However, I long ago came to the conclusion that supervisors / management leave their logic behind when they get the promotion. You know what the circumstances are at work, and only you can determine what the best course of action is for YOU - - to keep YOU safe and protected from any backlash from your supervisor. Whatever you decide, Tracy, you have my total support.

I hope today is being kind to you and your precious furkids, my friend. Just one more day to go and then it's weekend time with your precious Theresa and little Tang. I hope his ear is doing okay - - holding it's own - - and that the "growth" is getting a little smaller each day. I'm hoping to share wonderful news eventually that it has DISAPPEARED.

Tracy, please know you and your precious furkids are in my thought and prayers. I hope you will have a very peaceful and blissful evening together, and I look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 18 2011, 07:42 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Too many people have had their hands on that account for anything to "disappear" But neither do I think anything will be done about it. It's possible, however, she may not have gotten off as easy as imagined since every time she walked by my work area today she was glaring at me. I can't imagine why unless someone said something to her about blowing off the threat. But I'm not letting her or anyone else take away my focus on what is good in my life. I still have a job (for now, albeit contract) with plenty of OT on the horizon. I'm NOT on call this weekend, and I have my precious fur kids.

I didn't stop to think of the effect on them my being away so much on top of being so stressed/depressed that even when I was home, I wasn't really "there" They have been fighting a lot more than usual the past few days. I have broken up some real doozys last couple of mornings. I can't help but think that's because of what's been going on with me regarding work. Well, no more I promised them tonight when I got home. I guess they understood me, because they both perked right up and have slowly started to play again. Better than fighting. TGIF and then Caturday. I have nothing but grocery shopping to do then, and I am SO sleeping in with the kittles.

Hugs


TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 19 2011, 01:03 PM

Hi Tracy....Stopping by to say hello and that I'm sorry you're having a bad time at work. I have no advice like moon_beam because as an artist, I always worked at home. Of course I always had to please the customer.

Try to relax this weekend and enjoy those sweet furbabies. I hope little Tang's ear is doing better....Tracy, you are always in my thoughts and prayers for things to get better for you....God Bless..

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 19 2011, 06:30 PM

Hi, Tracy, just getting caught up with your news, and am chuckling about your supervisor. Sounds like she's got a burr in her skivvies for sure. Hope you're being able to stay out of her "line of fire". As my mom always used to say, "eventually the chickens will come home to roost." - - Perhaps your supervisor is having some accounting to do to HER supervisor. Perhaps.

The good news is that today is FRIDAY, you are NOT on call this weekend - - which means that once you leave the grounds of your employer and hit the public pavement it is YOUR time - - to do errands for you and your precious Theresa and little Tang. AND - - no vet visits tomorrow. SO o o o o o - - ENJOY this wonderful weekend with your precious furkids, my friend, as they will indeed totally enjoy having you home with them.

"I didn't stop to think of the effect on them my being away so much on top of being so stressed/depressed that even when I was home, I wasn't really "there" They have been fighting a lot more than usual the past few days. I have broken up some real doozys last couple of mornings. I can't help but think that's because of what's been going on with me regarding work. Well, no more I promised them tonight when I got home. "

Yes, our furkids DO pick up on our emotions, and your precious Theresa and little Tang could possibly have been "acting out" your frustration. Tracy, you can't turn your emotions on and off like a light switch. And there really isn't any way you can disguise your feelings to your little furkids. Our precious furkids are just too perceptive and very smart - - they can see right through all the facades into our very hearts and souls. The good news is that your precious Theresa and little Tang are there for you to help you remember what is REALLY important - - like balcony time, and cleaning little Tang's ears, and feeding them, and snuggling with them, making sure they have the proper medical attention you can provide for them - - RESCUING your little Tang from his "high wire" ambitions, AND - - just BEING THEIR DADDY!!! This above all is THE MOST IMPORTANT JOB you will ever have and are eternally blessed with the privilege of their undivided attention and unconditional love. THIS IS YOUR LIFE, Tracy - - your employment is just what you do to cover the expenses. It has NOTHING to do with who you are, for you are MORE IMPORTANT AND MORE VALUED THAN what your employer "allows" you to be during your work schedules. - - Oh my - - another "pep talk", but I hope that somehow it offers you some encouragement and support - - and affirmation that the truth is the problem is NOT with you, Tracy - - it is strictly with your supervisor and employer.

So, my friend, I hope today has been a decent one for you in the slave pit. I hope that you, your precious Theresa and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, and a WONDERFUL Caterday and weekend. Please know you and your precious furkids are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 19 2011, 07:55 PM

Thank you so much LoveMyMickey and moon_beam for the encouragement.

Today started out slow but got slammed the rest of the day, especially the last hour I was there. 50 calls in queue at 6:30 when I left, SO glad for my new shift once again. Thankfully my last call was an outage that I milked to the end. I did NOT want an ugly credit or reconnect call to delay me (whew) Buses were on time, so I decided to stop at the store by my bus stop to pick up stuff to make a BIG salad; was getting tired of the take out grind.

I only saw this "manager" once today at the water/ice dispenser. She glared and said nothing, not even 'hi' like she used to. Since I haven't seen the hatchet man from Today's Staffing, you may be right moon_beam about her having had a talking to about the incident.

The mass in Tang's ear looks about the same. I don't THINK it's getting any bigger, but hard to tell. The vet seemed reluctant to take any action at this time, so I guess I just continue the cleanings and drops and hope for the best. I need to pick more of drops tomorrow as they were out last week, and I'm out now.

I know my job does not define me. I gave up long ago trying to get fulfillment from that. A "career" just isn't in the cards for me I guess. I just hope I keep having a job that either pays well enough and/or has some OT ans health insurance. My most important job now is being a cat dad for Theresa and Tang. And keeping the flame of Tom's memory alive in our hearts. I know Tang never met Tom in this world, but I continue to think that Tom led him to me and whispers in his ear from time to time.

TGIF! and almost Caturday! 79 outside right now, so balcony time would seem in the cards for tonight. Tang was a perfect gentleman out there last night. Didn't so much as poke his head under the railing once. Just basked in the fresh evening air.

TTFN from

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 20 2011, 10:30 AM

Hi, Tracy, so glad to log in this morning to get caught up on your news. It is CATURDAY - - HURRAY!!! And I'm SO GLAD to know that you were able to leave your employment on time last night. That is always helpful. I'm chuckling at your last call - - so glad your work week and day ended on a more positive note.

Hope you're able to get more drops for your little Tang's ear, and glad to know that the "growth" seems to at least be remaining stable. An e-mail friend of mine has a mixed Spaniel who has a history of very serious ear infections, and then growths began in both ears. One ear was so bad that the poor little girl's ear c&%^ had to be removed - - which made her deaf in that ear. But through the perseverence of my friend, she diligently kept cleaning both ears, and eventually - - miraculously - - the growth in the other ear completely disappeared. So, I am hoping and praying for this same miracle for your precious little Tang. But please know that whatever happens we are with you and your precious little boy to both help comfort you through your concerns and to celebrate your joys.

"My most important job now is being a cat dad for Theresa and Tang. And keeping the flame of Tom's memory alive in our hearts. I know Tang never met Tom in this world, but I continue to think that Tom led him to me and whispers in his ear from time to time."

Indeed your beloved Sir Thomas is forever with you, and there is NO DOUBT in my mind that your beloved son led little Tang to you and your precious Theresa. Your beloved Sir Thomas is very, very proud of you, Tracy, and is smiling with the greatest of approval as he watches you and his fur family members in your daily activities. And he is very much a part of them.

I hope today is being kind to you and your fur tribe. LOTS of quality time together. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam




Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 20 2011, 05:14 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I had more to do today than I thought. I woke up this morning to discover the nylon line that holds the left lense of my glasses had snapped. So I had to go to Dr. Bizers to have that fixed (I hate wearing my spares becsue they're out of alignment and can't be adjusted any more) With that done, I walked the rest of the way to the Kroger/PetSmart shopping center and remembered I had 2 RX to pick up. My Dr. gave me a supliment for the colcrys that was slow in healing my hand and wanted me back on the cholesterol med as well. But first had to pick up the drops for Tang at the vet a few doors down, where Dr. Mills wanted to make sure he got with me as he was too busy last weekend. The mark of a good vet I think. He'd said Tangs' original tumor was almost the size of a quarter and looked like chewed up bubble gum sad.gif So this was was nothing in comparison. Just to keep cleaning, drops and keep an eye on it. It may need surgery in 6 months or so he said. (sigh)

The rest of Caturday has been uneventful with naps all around. I have my cell on vibrate, but land line rang around 3:00; I ignored it. Wrong number anyway per the voice mail. I'm not on call and I'm not going in there. I just worked 8 days in a row and I'm beat. No, time for just me and the kittles this weekend smile.gif

Hugs

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 20 2011, 05:43 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing today. So glad you were able to do your errands, get your glasses fixed, get prescriptions refilled, and talk with your little Tang's doctor. The tumor that Dr. Mills removed sounds absolutely horrible. I am so hoping and praying that this new growth will resolve on its own. Yet I know that if little Tang ends up needing surgery to remove it, that you will be there to comfort him and provide him excellent care in his recovery.

Isn't having quality nap time with your precious Theresa and little Tang one of the many wonderful activities to have with them??!!!?? It has become progressively hot here today. We are now at about 95 degrees, - - so wish the temperatures would start backing off a bit. I hope the weather is pleasant at your homestead so that perhaps your precious Theresa and little Tang may be able to get some balcony time - - if daddy okays it.

Tracy, it is always a blessing logging in to get caught up on your news of how you and your furkids are doing. I hope you and your furkids will have a very pleasant and blissful evening. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 20 2011, 06:10 PM

Hi Tracy...I can see that you had a busy Caturday...Seems like there is always something to do, especially when you have furbabies. But they are worth it....Bringing in food and feeding our strays on the carport and wildlife in the back yard is extra work for us, but we love animals.

Tracy, I hope you and furbabies get some balcony time if it isn't too warm AND "no circus acts for you Mr. Tang"..........I hope little Tang's ear problem heals without any surgery.

Have a great evening and day tomorrow and remember Tracy, you and furbabies are always in my thoughts and prayers...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 20 2011, 07:40 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Don't think there will be any balcony time tonight as it's still 88 out. Have to come down about 10 more degrees which I doubt will happen before I retire to bed. I get up at 4 AM on Sundays to do laundry. I sounds extreme I know, but it's the only way I can get the laundry room to myself; sometimes not even then. I love to watch the drunken drug addled "partiers" stumbling in at that time. I probably will let them have some time for that hour my clothes are drying though, as I can watch Tang better. But, he's been bahaving himslef the last few nights, however.

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 21 2011, 12:38 PM

Just an FYI. My internet is off and on. It's back up for now (possibly part of the knwon outage) But the phone tech thinks there may be something wrong with my modem too. No appointments that I can be home for until Saturday. So, if you don't see me post for a while, that's probably why sad.gif Last time it stayed up for a long time (until now actually) So I hope it stays up again, and I will keep the appointment to be on the safe side (I canceled it last time)

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 21 2011, 01:47 PM

Hi, Tracy, just getting caught up with your news. High technology is great - - when it works - - but oh such a headache when it doesn't. It's always good to get a "tech check up" if you think there might be a problem. And I hope there won't be a charge for the check up.

Hope you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are enjoying this Cater-Sunday. I try to keep life here very low key on Sundays for Noah and me. Hope you got your laundry done, and perhaps your furkids enjoyed some balcony time early this morning, too.

Just wanted to stop by to say "hello" to you and your precious fur tribe, and hope that all of you will have a very peaceful and blissful afternoon and evening. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 21 2011, 02:55 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Internet is up at the moment. No charge for the appointment, it's part of my cable/phone service. In fact, I should be getting a credit from when it was down. Temps were fine for balconey time this morning, but unfortunately, it picked that hour that my clothes were drying to rain sad.gif So they missed out, and I know they were disappointed. Otherwise, it's been a lazy Sunday. Back to the salt mines tomorrow (sigh)

TTFN


TTT

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 21 2011, 05:49 PM

Hi Tracy...Grrrr..I just got knock off the internet. Couldn't get connected back until I restarted my computer.....I had just written a post to my thread to Mickey and was adding some pictures. So I lost the post.....I guess it will get done tomorrow. I'm finished for tonight.

I'm sorry little Tang and Theresa didn't get their balcony time this morning. I don't think the rain got here. I'm glad you all had a nice lazy Sunday anyway......I hope you have a better work week than last week.......Give the furbabies a pet for me.....You all are always in my thoughts and prayers.

TTFN

LoveMYMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 21 2011, 05:59 PM

"Temps were fine for balconey time this morning, but unfortunately, it picked that hour that my clothes were drying to rain So they missed out, and I know they were disappointed."

Hi, Tracy, just getting caught up with your news for the day. Oh - - I can just see the disappointment on the faces of your precious Theresa and little Tang: "Gee whiskers, dad, do you see what it's doing out there? Why does it have to rain NOW, daddy? Can't you make it stop, daddy?" And I can hear your tender response to them, "My children, I am so sorry, but I don't have any control over the weather. Let's see - - what can we do to bring a smile back? How about . . . . ."

I'm glad today has been a lazy Sunday for you - - a BIG improvement over last weekend thank goodness. One thing for sure -- I know your furkids are ever so glad to have daddy home regardless of what the weather is like outside. Having balcony time would have been a bonus, yes, - - but the BIG BONUS is having daddy HOME!!!

I'm glad there won't be any charge for your tech check up next Saturday - - that's always good news. I hope you and your fukids will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend, and that you will be able to get through your day back in the trenches tomorrow with as little hassle from your supervisor as possible. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 21 2011, 06:19 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Net still up so taking time to post (remember, if I don't for a while, you know why) Just woke up from a nap and Tang came sit by me and get some love which he got. He also got his ear cleaned since I had him right there and scooped him up into the bathroom for that. He looked at me as if to say "That was a dirty trick, dad *harumph*" Hoping my connection stays up, but still planning on having it checked out Saturday between 8-10 which is when I'm stiring to go grocery shopping anyway. Well, the end of the weekend is here, and my time with the kittles grows short. Going to try to enjoy that while I can....


TTFN


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 22 2011, 03:40 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I know your little boy does not hold a grudge about getting suckered into having his ears cleaned. I have to "make the best" of opportunities to corral my little Noah when it's time to take him to see his doctor. Whatever works, my friend.

I hope your work day has been decent and that you and your furkids will have a very peaceful and blissful evening. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going for you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 22 2011, 07:06 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I don't know what Tang thinks about the ear cleanings after tonight. He immediately picked a fight with Theresa afterward. Last night he did the same when I scolded him for getting under foot and almost tripping me on my way to the bathroom. He scurried out with a pitiful meow and picked the fight. I had to holler at him 3 times before he backed down BOTH TIMES! Last night he laid down and glared at me for a good 10 minutes sad.gif I suppose though, I can take that as a good sign he's starting to get comfortable and acting like a normal "child" who's been scolded (sigh) I hope tonight it wasn't because I'd hurt him doing the cleaning.....

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 23 2011, 04:04 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I'm chuckling about little Tang. You need to remember that our furkids have a language all of their own, and as such, we don't always know exactly what they are communicating between one another. Perhaps Theresa could be laughing at Tang and teasing him for needing his ears cleaned, and so - - - - the normal reaction would be for Tang to let his sister know that he doesn't appreciate her sense of humor.

Tracy, my Oslo was the most patient, tolerant soul when it came to my nursing care of him. He, too, frequently needed his ears cleaned as they were prone to infections. As gentle as I would try to be there were times - - regrettably - - when he would give a yelp - - letting me know that I had gotten into something very sensitive. Still, I needed to clean his ears and get the ugly gunk out, and sometimes there would be some bleeding. Each and every time my Oslo forgave me for my clumsiness, and every time when it was ear care time he would turn his head for me so that I could get into his ears to clean away the gunk.

I know beyond all shadow of a doubt that your precious Tang KNOWS you love him and would NEVER hurt him deliberately. So, please let your heart and mind be at peace about this, my friend. Not even a vet or vet tech could do what you do any better. I would share some of the things that would happen with Oslo with my vet, and she would very comfortingly reassure me that even the "pros" encounter similar experiences.

Apparently from what I have heard on the news this area had a bit of a shake, rattle, and roll (earthquake) this afternoon. It's not the first time this has happened in the area. Perhaps I should look into earthquake insurance??

I hope today is being kind to you in the trenches, and that you and your precious fur tribe will have a very peaceful and blissful evening together. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 23 2011, 07:40 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Yeah, it occured to me Theresa could have been instigating. She sure did with Tom. I guess it was the timing. That, and I've been a little more protective of her since Tom passed. Both are doing well tonight. I'm getting more gunk from the outer ear and less from the inner on Tang's cleanings. I'm hoping that's a good sign. The mass is about the same. Work was a mixed bag. Mostly reconnects from the people that either "forgot" yesterday to call or didn't want to wait on hold (20 minutes tops at the height of the rush) being nasty about next day service because they waited so long to call. Oh well, it's almost the middle of the week now. Time for quality time with the kids.



TTFN


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 23 2011, 09:50 PM

Hi, Tracy, just checking in to see how things are going before I shut down this gizmo for the evening. I hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are enjoying this time together, and that you will have peaceful slumbers tonight. Hope your day tomorrow is a bit easier. Yep - - tomorrow is Wednesday - - one day closer to the end of Friday and the lead in to Caturday.

Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are close in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 24 2011, 07:38 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Well, another day over. Two more to Caturday. On call tertiary just Sunday, and supposed to be clear skies. I signed up next Sunday tertiary as well, just to keep the points going. I figure, worst case, at least I'll still have Friday night and Caturday free and clear smile.gif

Hoping not to get called for either as Labor Day is coming up, and I get paid for holidays now. More time with the kittles. The babies are well, if hiding. It was a vacuum night or the "Big Red Tang Eater" as my boy refers to it wink.gif Hope you and all our LS friends are well tonight. Especially after that earthquake sad.gif


TTFN

TTT


Posted by: moon_beam Aug 24 2011, 09:18 PM

Hi, Tracy, just stopping in to say "hello" and "good night" before I shut down and sign off for the evening. It's always good to log in to get caught up with your news.

I hope you are spared any weekend work, Tracy. After working in the pit all week you need the physical and emotional break from the stress of work, even though the overtime funds do come in handy, I know. I hope everything works out for you in your favor.

I'm smiling at your little Tang's reaction to the vacuum cleaner. Seeing the world through our furkids eyes is always awesome and can be amusing. I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that your day tomorrow at work will be decent. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 24 2011, 09:48 PM

Thank you moon_beam

I took next Sunday on call because holidays and their weekends tend to get the most drafts. And I'd rather be tertiary OC then have to actually work Labor Day for real. Earlier Theresa and Tang were sitting in the living room just as mellow as can be. I just love the way Tang sits with one paw crossed over the other, just the way Tom used to - the perfect gentleman. It was a "Kodak" moment. No balcony time tonight as we had 95 high w/ index of 100. But the AC hums away w/o a flaw.

Hugs from the fur Tribe

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 25 2011, 06:25 PM

Hi, Tracy, always good to log in to get caught up on your news. I hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang have had a good day. I know this day has greatly improved for you getting home to your precious furkids, and your furkids are ever so glad to have daddy home. And I'm glad to know the AC continues to work - - that is a blessing in this very hot and humid weather.

I'm smiling at your "Kodak" moment with your furkids last night. These moments make everything else just seem so unimportant, don't they?

We have had some typical thunder showers this evening, which is nice since we have been quite dry over recent weeks. I hope if you get any storms in your neighborhood that they will not constitute your having to be called to "active duty".

I hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend, and look forward to knowing how things are going for each of you.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 25 2011, 07:37 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Yes, those momemts just make all the stress melt away smile.gif There was another skirmish tonight after Tang's ear cleaning. This time I "talked" to both of them "Theresa stop teasing - Tang, it's not worth fighting over" His ear is looking better. Mass is about the same but not nearly as discolored as it was, and less over all 'gunk' this may be due to the daily drops. It's a good thing, I think.

There was a nice breeze coming home tonight, so maybe some balcony time for the kittles.....


TTFN


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 25 2011, 09:16 PM

Hi, Tracy, as always it is a blessing to log in to find out how your day along with your precious Theresa and little Tang has been. I'm chuckling over Theresa and Tang post-ear cleaning session. I can just hear Tang saying, "but daddy, it's no fun being made fun of - - - - ." So glad to know that his ear with the growth is looking good, and that the growth itself is remaining the same. This is good news. Now, if it could just start shrinking to nothingness - - that would be GREAT!!! I'm keeping this in my thoughts and prayers for your little Tang and you.

We had a brief thunder shower this afternoon but nothing out of the ordinary. I hope your precious furkids were able to get some balcony time this evening. And I hope you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that your day tomorrow at the salt mines will be a decent one. The good news is that tomorrow is Friday. YEA!!!!

Tracy, please know you and your precious fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 26 2011, 06:13 PM

Hi Tracy...I thought I had better catch up on things so you wouldn't think I had deserted you and furbabies....That was funny about the big red vacuum cleaner, and cute about the Kodak moment.......I hope your work is less stressful. All next week is supposed to be sunny here......I feel almost guilty about our good weather because what people are going through with Hurricane Irene....We didn't feel the earthquake here, but on the news they said a courthouse in one Ky. town was damaged a little.

Well Tracy, I hope you, little Theresa and Tang have a good Caturday and weekend. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. I always think of Angel Tom too......Take care...

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 26 2011, 07:39 PM

Thanks moon_bean, LoveMyMickey

Today's work was another one where I'm glad I no longer stay until close. 61 in queue when I left at 6:30! Glad that's over. Just a little more time to Caturday smile.gif weather should be nice all weekend, so hoping the Sunday tertiary OC does not come into play. Hopefully cool enough tonight for the kittles to have balcony time. Tang keeps attacking Theresa after ear cleanings sad.gif I don't think she's instigating because tonight he hopped down from the bathroom sink where I do it and made a beeline for the living room to find her. Right now they are both rolling around on the living room floor each with their own catnip sock - uber cuteness!


TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 26 2011, 08:59 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for your most welcome news sharing with us how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. So the after ear cleaning "challenge" has become a "ritual" between the furkids? Sounds like this is now a "phase" and will hopefully burn itself out. Sometimes the best thing to do is to not acknowledge it but rather just keep an eye on how things go and only intervene if it looks like it's getting into something serious, or calmly asking something like "are you two done yet?" Isn't it amazing though that they can chasing one another one minute and the next rolling around on the floor playing? What a joy your precious furkids are!!!

I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how your Caturday goes.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam


Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 26 2011, 10:15 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I just can't help but step in when there is a fight. I'm afraid someone will get hurt and the vet bills are high enough as is. On the other hand if it's just rough housing, I don't want to discourage them from "playing" (sigh) what to do - Well, I guess it's time for a late supper and bed with kittles.

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 27 2011, 10:11 AM

Hi, Tracy, oh yes - - I do understand your concern about the roughhousing - - and the tightrope balancing act (as you literally well know from your rescue exercise with Tang) of when to intervene, how much, and on and on and on. It's part of the "parenthood" - - sigh. I remember some spats between Noah and Abbygayle and my having to firmly and authoritatively say, "hey, you guys, knock it off. You don't treat each other like that." And a few minutes later they would be curled around one another as if nothing had happened a few minutes earlier. So, you do what is in your heart, my friend, because your precious Theresa's and little Tang's daddy knows best. It is ALWAYS WISE to intervene before someone ends up with a "battle wound."

I hope today is being kind to you and your precious furkids, my friend. It's a bit breezy here and cloudy but every once in awhile the sun makes an appearance. I checked the radar on the status of Irene, and my heart is with the folks living on the eastern shore, and in New England.

Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, Tracy, and I look forward to sharing your news of how things are going.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 27 2011, 06:38 PM

Thanks moon_beam

This Caturday didn't start out so well. My internet is still up, but no show from the Insight tech. Or, rarher, he did show but didn't knock or ring the bell. I was told he called at 8:45 and was at my door at 9:17. Call came in under private caller (I never answer those) w/ no message. At 9ish I remember hearing the metal fire doors in the hallway open and 10 seconds later close again. There was a door hanger 5 feet from my door as if it had been thrown there. Get the picture? No knock, bell ring, or a number I could call back. I complained to a supervisor who was clueless to the point I had to hang up on her. I still think I was part of the area wide outage and the phone techs were too lazy to look into it. Let's see how they feel during the next power outage. Aaaaanyway....(rant over)

It was a typical lazy afternoon Caturday. This morning while I waited for the tech it was still cool enough for some rare daylight balcony time which they enjoyed. Well, Theresa did until I had to drag her back in. Tang prefered to be at my feet by the computer. His ear is looking better over all. I think the drops are signifigantly decreasing the "gunk" No fight after as Theresa was already in the bathroom. It was funny though to watch him scamper to the living room only not to find her wink.gif Both are resting comfortably at the moment. Tomorrow OC, but it's suppoed to be a nice day across the region, so let's hope. I read in a news article that part of Virginia was hit by the hurricane. I hope you and Noah are not affected by that.

TTFN

TTT


Posted by: moon_beam Aug 27 2011, 09:38 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. So sorry that the tech rep didn't keep the scheduled appointment. Showing up and leaving a door hanger in the middle of the hallway is a sure sign of "I don't give a darn." So sorry that you had to go through that. Have you re-scheduled a visit or are you just going to give yourself some "distance" from this experience and try again at a later time - - hopefully with better results?

Even though the day started out disappointingly because of your internet provider's rudeness, sounds like it greatly improved once you were able to focus on your furkids. I can just hear your Theresa's protest: "But daddy, I don't want to come in - - I'm not ready to come in - - daddyyyyyyy - - why do I have to - - oh gee whiskers!!!"

I'm chuckling at little Tang post-ear cleaning scampering to find his sister only to - - hey - - where is she???? (Was this by chance daddy's way of distracting the kids from their latest evening ritual? - - whatever works, daddy!!!)

The day started off breezy with occasional sunshine but the weather progressively changed to full clouds and steady breezy conditions - - no rain. I have checked the radar from time to time and the east coast has certainly been under the gun all day with New England looking now as the bull's eye. Every living being that is in the path of this fierce storm are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tracy, I hope you and your fur tribe are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that you will be able to have a wonderful day tomorrow - - all day -- with your precious furkids. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 28 2011, 04:23 AM

Thanks moon_beam

I didn't reschedule. The supervisor was so dense in that she didn't get that my service was not out (I told her 3 times) I finally hung up on her. I called later that evening and spoke with someone in the internet department, and he filled out a compaint form, and told me exactly what he was doing and what to expect. I just didn't want this jerk getting away with it.

Your assessment of Theresa's feelings about coming in are about right wink.gif And the look on Tang's face when he could not find her in the living room later was priceless. They are both enjoying time on the balcony while my clothes dry. Hopefully it will be a peacful, no call day. The weather is supposed to bear that out anyway.


TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 28 2011, 10:19 AM

Hi, Tracy, so good logging in this morning to share with you how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. They must be in seventh heaven having balcony time this morning. I do so hope that you and your furbabies are able to share a wonderful Sunday together - - all day - - no interruptions of any kind.

I'm glad you were able to make a reasonable contact at your internet provider to place a complaint. I hope your internet service does not encounter any further interruptions.

It is sunny here this morning but still quite breezy from the tail of Irene's influence. The breeziness should subside later today, by tomorrow definitely. I read on the internet about the storm's effects with an estimated 4 million people without power at this time. The radar shows that the upper New England areas are now being impacted. I continue to keep the folks in Irene's path in my thoughts and prayers as she is still providing quite a wallop.

Tracy, I hope you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will be able to enjoy a well deserved peaceful and pleasant Sunday. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 28 2011, 04:43 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I'm glad I was able to make the report, but hope it does not result in bad karma. For example, I had the most horrible and vivid dream this afternoon about being evicted. It was so bad I woke up sweating sad.gif I hope I wasn't having a premonition. Or if it's just a fear of what I would do, and where I would go and how I would take care of Theresa and Tang unsure.gif

Speaking of whom they seem fine, if not aprehensive. Are they just picking up on my fear, or was I really having a premonition? My lease is up in October I think. But I've been keeping as low a profile as I can. I guess all I can do is keep them close and hope for the best. But that was really a vivid dream...


Posted by: moon_beam Aug 28 2011, 08:38 PM

Hi, Tracy, some dreams can seem very real, and leave us with a "haunting" feeling for awhile when we awake. I've known a few dreams like that in my lifetime. If I may try to offer you some comfort I think the dream was a reflection of the way things turned out and how upsetting it became when you tried to talk to the internet provider rep the first time. I really don't think the apartment manager can evict you for trying to get a tech check on your computer from the internet provider. Have you had any problems before renewing your lease? Have you been thinking, however remotely, about looking for another apartment? Also, the tenuous position you feel at work can be a factor in your dream.

Dreams are basically recognized as our mind's way of trying to reconcile the "data" that it absorbs on a daily basis. While some dreams can be premonitions, other dreams that leave us feeling unsettled are just "bad dreams." I would not be surprised if your precious Theresa and little Tang were reacting to your restlessness - - for they are more intuitive than we are. They will settle down when they sense you are feeling more settled.

Of course my solution is always to focus on that which is positive: and for you this is your precious Theresa and little Tang. Immerse yourself in their needs and their presence with you, and try to let your mind be at peace.

I hope your evening with your precious Theresa and little Tang has been a very peaceful and blissful one. Hope little Tang's ear cleaning session went okay, and that he is behaving himself afterwards by not engaging his sister in a "duel." I hope your day tomorrow back in the salt mines will be a decent one for you, my friend. Please know you and your precious furkids are in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 28 2011, 09:04 PM

Thank you moon_beam

No they can't evict me for complaining to the cable company. What I meat was, if getting this guy in trouble would lead to bad fortune for me Karma. This was a very vivid dream. I was being given very specific reasons of offences I would never, could never commit. Each time I asked for specifics the woman would not elaborate. I have both a fear of being unemployed and being homeless. This almost happened in the same week in April of last year. The only thing that saved me was that the property manager (now off on maternaty leave) felt sorry for me losing my job. Now that she's away, I guess, I feel vulnerable. Like the substitute will have no problem kicking me out. Which sucks considering the KNOWN drug dealers that live here. I think they would rather have them here for their cash than people like me that "might" complain. I am grateful to God for giving me a better job, Theresa and Tang. But I am not so confidant about the future sad.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 29 2011, 04:08 PM

Hi, Tracy, I hope this finds you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang doing well today. I think you can put your mind at rest about placing a complaint about the internet tech. I hate to say this but complaint lines are set up for the benefit of the customer - - to have someone to complain to - - so that the internet folks can go on with their jobs without any accountability. So, for whatever it's worth - - please don't worry about placing a complaint with your internet provider. It was a justifiable complaint, and you have every right to expect service for which you are PAYING for - - and provided to you in a respectful manner. The tech was totally out of line, and you have a right to state this.

"I have both a fear of being unemployed and being homeless. I am grateful to God for giving me a better job, Theresa and Tang. But I am not so confidant about the future"

Your fears of unemployment and being homeless are justifiable in this day of high unemployment. My mom always used to say, "But for the grace of God there would go I." I know what it's like to not be able to work at all while still having bills to pay and furkids to provide for. So, I do understand your fears. It was, and is, the grace of God that prevented us from becoming a homeless statistic 26 years ago. I wish I could give you a guarantee that you will never be faced with this event, but I do not have that power. What I CAN guarantee you is that you and your precious Theresa and little Tang will ALWAYS have my friendship, support, and encouragement. I promise you, my friend, that whatever the future may hold, you are NOT alone, Tracy, and neither are your precious Theresa and little Tang.

I hope today has been a decent one for you at work, and I know your precious Theresa and little Tang are anxiously waiting for you to get home. I can just hear them, "Daddy's home - - daddy's home - - YIPPEE!!!" I hope you and your furkids will have a very peaceful and blissful evening, my friend, and am looking forward to knowing how all of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 29 2011, 07:50 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I got a nail in the coffin of the dream today in the form of a written warning in my email about my last absense from the staffing agency. The usual threats of the assignment ending if I don't shape up, etc. On the other hand it wasn't all that busy, for a Monday anyway.

"YAY Daddy's home" got cut short when Theresa threw up in one of the food bowls again - after I'd just filled it from almost empty. So I had to throw it out and wash it up. And Iams Procative is not cheap. I had to chase her all around the apartment to put the medicine on her paws (as directed) for hairballs. I guess I should have expected it when I fussed at her when she did it (sigh) I finally got the stuff on her paws and she retired to the foyer to lick it off. She calmed down some when I brushed her to get the excess fur off. Tang's ear continues to be less and less dirty; mass about the same. No fights afterward. But the afore mentioned drama was enough for one night, I guess.

My apartment lease is up in October as is the the company's contract with the staffing agency (per the internal web site) IF I can manage to remain employed and still have a home after that, I'll consider myself lucky unsure.gif

Oh well, at least Monday is over and I'll have the next one off. Hoping for kitty quality time then.

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 29 2011, 10:29 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you and your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. So sorry you got that threatening e-mail. I guess I'm a little confused - - what absence is it referring to - - when you were home ill a few weeks ago? You have your doctor's scrpt for that absence, and that should suffice. Tracy, sounds like the staffing agency is feeling threatened in losing a contract, so they are passing along the heat. I'm wondering if anyone else who is also a contractor with this staffing agency received a similar e-mail. I am so sorry you received this threatening e-mail, and I hope and pray that nothing more will come of it.

Tracy, another saying my mom had was "don't cross your bridges until you come to them." This doesn't mean we ignore what is going on around us and happening, but rather that we try not to panic when we are faced with "overwhelming odds" that appear to be against us. Just keep doing what you're doing to the best of your ability, my friend, and remember you and your furkids are NOT alone.

Sorry about your Theresa's upset tummy. I hope you and your furkids are now enjoying a more peaceful and blissful evening. Thank you so much for sharing with us how your day has been, and I hope tomorrow will be a decent day for you at the pit. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how you and your precious fur tribe are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 30 2011, 05:05 AM

Thanks moon_beam

This one was for the day I had to go to the Dr. The manager that blew off my threat call also blew off my note. Bsaically saying "So what, it's still unexcused" It's a total of 33 hours since February. All I can do is try not to miss anymore for a while. More later....

Posted by: kaylasmom Aug 30 2011, 06:30 AM

Hi Tracy,
Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you and the babies. Hope today treats you well.
Shelby
Ps was that a Verizon internet tech? They pulled that same move on me except I didn't even get the door hanger. I screen my calls and when I couldn't pick up the phone during the garbled 5 second message they left my appointment was cancelled. 3 hours on the phone going up the food chain I ended up cancelling my service with them and going back to my old provider. Grrr.

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 30 2011, 06:52 PM

Thanks Shelby

My internet (and phone) is through the cable company Insight. My only other high speed alternative is AT&T whom I loath even more.

Kitties are doing well enough. Tang came to greet me, while Thersea waits on the sofa for me to come to her to tell her she's my little princess. She then proceeds to jump down and stretch in her ever so pretty girl cat way wink.gif Tang's ear over all continues to improve, but I'm still keeping an eye on that mass. That's where the most yellow stuff comes from and where I concentrate the drops. Work was OK, steady but not in queue.

Looks like more good weather and balcony time tonight. Theresa loves it of course, but I think Tang and his kitty ADD is growing bored with it. Especially since he knows I'm watching, on guard against more aerial acts. So he just comes in and watches TV with me smile.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 30 2011, 08:47 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I was thinking about the "situation" you are in today, and wondered if your supervisor was behind your latest employment threat. And now that I have read your response about that, I see I was on target. Tracy, I am so very sorry. Is there a way that you could hand in a copy of your doctor's script to the employment folks so that THEY would know your excuse IS LEGITIMATE instead of taking the word of your supervisor - - who apparently seems to have a real problem. It is just a thought - - sort of covering your tracks - - if possible. It's just a thought. Not trying to be a butt-in-ski - - just trying to think of a way you could protect yourself from someone who is in a place of authority and is blatantly abusing it.

So glad your little furkids are enjoying some quality balcony time tonight, and that little Tang's ear continues to look decent. I'm chuckling at his preference to hang out with dad. Oh h h h that is SO O O O O cute. Girls are okay - -but there's NOTHING like hangin' out with daddy. So, does Tang have any preferences - - does he like classic movies, the Animal Planet, westerns - - ????

Tracy, just three more days and then you're home with your precious furkids for the Labor Day weekend -- and hopefully NO calls for "active duty" to contend with. Again, I truly am very sorry you are being harrassed at work, Tracy - - because that's what it is. I hope you and your precious furkids are having a very peaceful and blissful evening together and that your day tomorrow at work will be decent. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 30 2011, 09:05 PM

Thanks moon_beam

But they can pretty much make a case. The number of hours I have missed are pretty well spelled out in the rules. As to making this last one excused? Yeah, I guess they could have done that. And with their "pets" I'm sure they do. However, keep in mind that was before the threat call fiasco. "Course all that proves is that she's a jerk all the way around. But she's not the only authority in the place, and a lot of contractors are quitting with no notice. Before long, they may find treating me like dirt is cutting off their nose to spite their face. But who knows. If nothing else, they don't fight unemployment claims, and I know from experience I should qualify for the maximum benifits. Which, by the way, works out to be a little more than week's pay there just w/o OT. How sad is that?

Anyway, it's cooled down enough for balcony time. I'm going to pull up this week's Eureka on on-demand cable. Tang pretty much like to watch what ever I'm watching. Same as he likes what ever food I'm eating as was evident in the nearly 1/2 my other quater pounder I shared with him last night wink.gif

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 31 2011, 11:45 AM

Hi, Tracy, one with any half ounce of intelligence would take an assessment of what is happening - - like "a lot of contractors are quitting with no notice" - - and try to address the reason for this - - like a jerk supervisor. The turn-over in my office of nursing staff is like a revolving door. When I first started in that office 11 years ago the office was the PREMIER of all the company's home health offices. But over the last 6 years or so the morale in the office has deterioriated in large part because of the supervisor and the nursing staff usually go back to working in the hospital. Upper management works from the standpoint that it's easier to hire new "unsuspecting victims" at the "worker level" than it is worth replacing supervisors. It doesn't help morale at all to know that one is "expendable".

Hope your precious Theresa enjoyed her balcony time, and that your little Tang enjoyed his quality time with daddy last night. I hope today is being kind to you at the pit, Tracy, and know that your day will significantly improve when it's time for you to hit the trail homeward bound. Please know you and your precious fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Aug 31 2011, 06:36 PM

Hi Tracy....Just stopping by to say hello and to let you know I am always thinking of you and furbabies. I'm sorry about the work related stress. I hope it all gets better for you. I hope little Tang's ear gets better and isn't anything real serious.

The weather has been so nice and now it is getting hot again as you know. I hope you, Theresa, and Tang can get some balcony time before it gets too hot......About watching TV, I bet Tang would like Animal Planet. smile.gif

Tracy, I hope you and furbabies have a good evening and you all are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 31 2011, 07:52 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Last year at this time I was working part time hours and 2.00/hr less. I was barely getting by to say nothing of being able to do anything to help Tom sad.gif It was so hard to watch him go slowly downhill; knowing I could not even begin to afford to help him. On every break, or lunch period I'd walk way out behind the building and just weep. I begged God to throw me a bone just 2.00 an hour more and full time, PLEASE. It would make all the difference. Well, I got that call from trhe staffing agency providing me with EXACTLY what I was asking for. So, I'm grateful, though sadly it came too late for Tom. But I also just wanted to go in, do my job, and keep a low profile. Apparently this has been interpreted as unenthusiastic and/or stand offish. Other people in my training class are getting trained in new skills, I am not. I'm guessing they are getting ready to be hired, while I am not. I've been working call center/data center/help desk/customer service longer than some of those kids have been alive. That used to count for something. I promised I would be grateful and not take what I had for granted. Now, I'm wondering if God feels I have not kept up my end of the bargain, or was this just a "flotation device" to get me back on my feet. And, if so, does He have something better in store for me? (sigh)

Right now my most important job is being Theresa and Tang's dad. But that's hard to do if you don't know where the money will be coming from. I don't think there will be balcony time tonight as it's still 93 out there. Supposed to be that way thru Friday. But Labor Day is supposed to be beautiful: sunny and 79 for a high. Maybe what I'd planned for us Memorial Day will be doable. Well, time to settle in with the kittles. Thanks for "listening"


TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Aug 31 2011, 08:26 PM

Hi, Tracy, if you have an interest in learning these other skills, can you go to your employment agency and tell them so - - and ask for the training? I know how you feel about seeing the younger employees being treated as the "golden kids" while you're cubbyholed with no offers extended to you to increase your skills for your employment benefit. At my job I frequently wonder when it will be my turn to wear the "glass slipper," and the answer beyond all doubt is "not with this employer." There is no training for office slugs for advancement - - unless we want to train to be a nurse or nurse's assistant - - which I am not interested in.

I do not believe you have let God down, Tracy. The employment atmosphere in this country has grossly changed from being "people oriented" to being "technology oriented." Studies have been done on this and every single result of the studies proves that, when a company is focused on "technology" it loses the vital skills of interpersonal communication. This is exactly what is happening with my company - - with the health provider field overall - - and in many other companies. You have no control over this, Tracy.

People will "interpret" what they want, Tracy. Management in particular thrives on "labeling" employees - - which is often misguided and for some managers deliberately inaccurate. God answered your prayer, I do believe, knowing that you would do the job to the very best of your ability - - which you are. This is what you have control over, Tracy - - you have no control over what other people may "think" or "interpret".

I wish I had some answers for you that would be of some help to you, Tracy. All I have to offer you is my friendship, and all the support and encouragement that goes along with it. I hope you can keep your options opened, Tracy, and perhaps find a position that will let you do your job to the best of your ability without being made to feel "inferior" because of someone else's "interpretation".

I know this is weighing heavily on your mind, Tracy, and I do so understand. Now that you are home, your precious Theresa and little Tang need YOU. Try to let your mind be at peace so that you can enjoy this time with your precious furkids. Just two more days, Tracy, and then you will have a long weekend with your precious Theresa and little Tang.

I hope you and your fur tribe are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that tomorrow will be a decent day for you in the pit. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Aug 31 2011, 09:14 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Ironically it's technology I used to excel at, but I'm just too far behind anymore. I appreciate you sharing your experiences with me. I will certainly think on it. Right now the kittles have my attention, as it should be.



TTFN

TTT

Posted by: leejaye Aug 31 2011, 09:35 PM

Hey Tracy, I'm sorry you are having such a hard time with work - it's bad enough that we have to go to work without it being somewhere we actively dislike, with people who have little regard for the basic tenets of humanity. Great to hear that Tang's ear hasn't got any worse - give them both a pat for me! Leejaye

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 1 2011, 05:52 PM

Hi, Tracy, just stopping by to say "hello" and to wish you, your precious Theresa and little Tang a very peaceful and blissful evening.

"Ironically it's technology I used to excel at, but I'm just too far behind anymore." Tracy, I admire you and others who are "technology" gifted. "Technology" has changed so drastically in the last 15 years, and is continually changing with all the gadgets on the market. It is a marvel to me to watch our tech rep at work investigate the technical glitches that happen with our equipment - - and fix them. He is a delightful young man to talk to, as well. He is an employee with an independent company that is contracted to maintain and upgrade the technical equipment as needed. I do not know the "politics" of this company toward its employees, but I do know that if he were an employee of the health provider I work for he would not be as respected by the management. And, in the course of our opportunities to talk, he is aware of this.

Unfortunately most employers are only interested in what an employee can do for it - - not what the company can do for the employee. When an employer / supervisor determines that an employee no longer "meets its need" - - whatever that may be at any given moment - - the employee becomes "excess baggage" and / or "expendable." I wish you could find an employer who would recognize your talent - - and respect YOU the person. I would be so happy for you if this were to happen for you.

Soon you will be home with your precious Theresa and little Tang, and they will be so o o o oo glad to have daddy home. I hope today has been a decent one for you, my friend. Just one more day to get through and then it will be a wonderful three day weekend with your furkids. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 1 2011, 08:03 PM

Thanks leejaye, moon_beam

I just take one day at a time. With physical pain though. Just as my hand has started to feel better, I slept HARD on my left shoulder Sunday afternoon and it's hurt like a dickens since then sad.gif The last time I did that, it took a good 7-10 days before it started feeling better. I'm on day 4 (sigh) But I muddle through each day somehow. I was a 1/2 hour late getting home tonight as ALL the #18 buses were running late. So, the kittles were none too pleased. Between my lateness and physical discomfort, I have had to struggle just to get through my nightly tasks. Tang's ear cleaning being the hardest. The little bugger picked the worst fight yet with Theresa long after it was over. Neither appears injured, but Tang's tail was fluffed out triple its normal size. I had to holler at him twice to get him to back down. Siblings (double sigh)

One more day to work which I'm not looking forward to as it's a Friday going into a holiday. I'm sure it will be crazy, but not as crazy as Tuesday's likely to be. But, if I don't get called Sunday (there is a 50% chance of thunder storms) I'll have 3 whole days off! Well, off to finish up and settle in.

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 2 2011, 06:04 PM

Hi, Tracy, it's F R I D A Y!!! YEA!!! Soon you will be home with your precious Theresa and little Tang, and all will be right with your world.

So last night you had the role of being "umpire" for your little Tang. By the way, has he had his "manhood" surgery yet? If not, this may be why he is becoming a bit more rambunctious.

I hope you and your fur tribe have a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy, and that you are spared any "on call" this weekend. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Sep 2 2011, 06:40 PM

Hi Tracy...I hope you and furbabies are keeping cool in this heat. It was in the high 90s here today and probably higher in your area. Storms predicted for Sunday night, hopfully not bad ones and then very cool.....I hope your shoulder and hand are feeling better. Changeable weather doesn't help any....Anyway I hope you, Tang, and Theresa have a peaceful Caturday and holiday weekend.
I always think of Angel Tom too.

Hugs,

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 2 2011, 09:31 PM

Thanks moon_beam, LoveMyMickey

Late getting in tonight. Went to the urgent care across the street from work. Not another soul in the place which was nice. The Dr. asked me if I fell or injured myself. Telling him, no just the nap thing, and a cursory exam, he decided against x-rays and RX muscle relaxant and pain med. Those took forever to get filled at Walgreens downtown. Took them with some granola bars while waiting for a bus; unholy late again. But I should have known that from the outage calls due to traffic accident in the part of town that's the other end of the line. Getting home late and in pain (it's in my neck now too, but I think the meds are starting to kick in to the point of at least managability) The chores were definately "Readers Digest" version bare minumum (kittle food, water, litter boxes, etc) Tang is off the hook on ear cleaning tonight due to pain and that he's been doing well. Yes, moon_beam Tang is neutered and was when I got him (he is about 2-3 years old) But with orange Tabbys some of the wildness always stays. I don't think it's an accident they look like little tigers wink.gif

Well, on to a nice hot shower and settle in with the kids. Inside, too hot for balcony. But hoping for no call Sunday and great weather Labor Day. smile.gif

TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 3 2011, 10:26 AM

"I don't think it's an accident they look like little tigers"

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I'm so chuckling about your observation about "orange tabby's looking like tigers." Ah yes. When I would look at my baby girl Abbygayle, how she moved, etc., I truly saw her as a lioness on the African plain - - only the smaller version. The Animal Planet channel used to show a series called "Big Cat Diary" where biologists would go and study the habits of the lions, cheetahs, and leopards in Africa. Oslo, Noah, Abbygayle, and I would gather around the TV together to watch this WONDERFUL program, and both Noah and Abbygayle, along with me, were fascinated by it (Oslo usually slept through it). I would tell them they were watching their big cousins.

I am so, so sorry you are in pain, but am so very glad the doctor you saw yesterday evening was able to give you some medicinal assistance. Being another customer of muscle spasms and three years in physical therapy from severe injuries, may I offer you a suggestion about also trying a cold pack, if you are not already familiar with this. It does help to reduce the swelling around the nerves and tendons and ligaments, etc.. There are times when I literally would not be able to walk if I did not sleep on a cold pack on my back. And the hot showers also are of tremendous comfort.

I hope you and your furkids are enjoying this Caturday, and that you will be feeling MUCH BETTER as the medicine takes effect, along with the tremendous comfort of just being home with your precious Theresa and little Tang. Please know you and your precious fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 3 2011, 05:43 PM

Thanks moon_beam

I love Big Cat Diary, it still comes on Animal planet sometimes. I am posting this as fast as I can. Long story short, my internet has been out since I got back from Kroger this morning until now. After fighting up TWO levels of supervisors, I have an all day tech appt. for tomorrow. Unfortunately, I am also tertiary OC with 60 % chance of storms tomorrow sad.gif In addition to my internet, my cable and phone services have been going in and out. The second level supervisor I spoke with seems to think the overall signal coming to my apartment (not my building, just MY apartment) is weak. He said it can affect cable and phone, but more often internet because of the necessary band width it needs. Having worked in and around data centers and putting in plenty of communication tickets it sounded like it made sense. I'm praying to the heavens just one thing: NO getting called to work. Any prayers in that arena appreciated. hoping this for my pain, time with the kids, and being able to finally get a tech out here to fix my problems. My own little "Tripple Play" (What Insight calls my cable, phone and internet bundle) A good suggestion about the cold packs. I have 2 in the freezer. But the urgent care doctor said heat. I have no heating pads, but have been using heat rub lotion at night which seems to help. This morning I was in total agony. I sucked up the pain as best I could and took what meds it was time for, and the muscle relaxant when I got back in. Since then it's been at least managable. Odd coincidence: I was awakened by the door bell (nobody ever uses it, obviously) it was a couple guys soliciting for a church. I politely said thank you, no thank you. But it was righ after that I dscovered my internt was back. Maybe God was trying to tell me something? Maybe I should have at least taken a pamplet unsure.gif I hope I didn't make the big guy mad.

Well, if I don't post for a while, you'll know why (sigh) Feeling good enogh to clean Tang's ear, which I'm sure he'll hate. Hoping for a peacful night and no calls tomorrow. TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 3 2011, 09:32 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so very much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are doing. I am so sorry you were in much discomfort and pain this morning. If you have a microwave you can get heat packs that you can place in the microwave to warm and then put them where you need them. I use a heating pad because I do not have, and will not have, a microwave oven. I do hope the pain meds, relaxants, and the soothing comfort of a hot shower begin to bring you some relief.

I'm chuckling at your "thanks but no thanks" response to the doorbell ringers. No, I don't believe you made "the big guy mad." You did better than I - - I don't answer the door when I see them. I don't even ask what they want through the intercom.

Sorry you're having technical issues again, but at least you know now that there does appear to be a technical issue and it's not just the fluctuations in electricity because of storms. Your internet provider may also be having transmission challenges -- because they run on electrical power, too, - - so if their system is affected - - so yours will be as well. I am DEFINITELY keeping my fingers and toes crossed for you that you will not have to be called into service tomorrow. And I hope the tech is truly able to fix the problem for you.

So little Tang's ear cleaning reprieve was short lived. I hope little Tang is cooperative, and lets you know that he truly appreciates everything you do for him.

Tracy, it's always a blessing logging in and sharing your news, my friend. I hope you and your precious fur tribe are having a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that you will be able to rest comfortably tonight. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and am looking forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 4 2011, 05:55 AM

Thanks moon_beam

This morning I was up early as usual (4:00) in pain but not agony; just in time for both my meds. It hurts but not like yesterday which I will take as a sign of progress. Now if I can just have the next 2 days of peace and rest, perhaps by Tuesday I'll at least be functional. No balcony time this morning. Temps were borderline, but it was more that I am not up to "watching" Tang. Kids are both doing OK. Hoping for a peacful day, and a kept tech appt. **


TTFN

TTT

** Update - after hearing nothing by 11:30, I called Insight and was advised my appt was kicked up to yesterday. The problem was outside and repaired by 6:29 - about the time all my services came back up. Would have been nice if someone called to tell me ..mad.gif

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 4 2011, 04:25 PM

Hi, Tracy, just checking in to see how you and your fur tribe are doing this Sunday. I hope you have been fortunate to avoid any on call duties. I can so relate to your frustration about not being informed when an appointment is not kept as scheduled. I do so understand how frustrating that is. The good news is that the repairs have been completed and your "Trifecta" is back up and working - - and hopefully the way it is supposed to be.

I hope your little Tang was cooperative last night for his ear cleaning ritual, and that he and Theresa are enjoying each other's company - - rather than raising their daddy's blood pressure with roughhousing.

Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and I hope you and your precious fur kids will have a very peaceful and delightful evening.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 4 2011, 05:36 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Tang was OK with his ear cleaning and no fight to ref. I've avoided being called so far. The skies are dark but no rain so far. I'm hoping all we get is a little rain sans any real damage. I've prayed for this to allow me some signifigant time to recooperate. A little over 13 hours until I'm off the hook. If the rain holds off and the temps stay low, may be some balcony time tonight. ***


*** Update. Just scattered showers, and NO calls! I awoke this morning right at 8:00 as my OC was ending to Theresa and Tang in the bed. Shoulder is a bit better. Picked up a hot/cold bed buddy at Walgreens when I was there for an RX refill. Coudy skies but no rain. 64 out. I let the kittles out but they got bored. Now I just have the windows open and we are all realxing this lazy Labor Day....

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 5 2011, 02:39 PM

Hi, Tracy, so good to log in to get caught up on your news. Am THRILLED that you avoided any on call this weekend, and I know your precious Theresa and little Tang are TOTALLY THRILLED!!!

It's a bit drippy here now, too, and we're under a flash flood watch until Wednesday morning. I am thankful I do not live in a flood area.

Noah and I are also enjoying a lazy day watching various programs. I hope you and your precious fur tribe continue to have a wonderful afternoon and evening, and that your day tomorrow back at the salt mines will be decent for you. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 5 2011, 04:53 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Just a lazty day here watching TV. For the last couple of hours just been listening to relaxation music chanel on cable as I dozed with the neck support of the bed buddy; Theresa at my feet on the sofa, Tang on the floor just a few feet away hugging a catnip sock. Awoke from weird dreams as usual when afternoon napping on the sofa. We have had gray skies but no rain. The temp has not been above 66. I just left the windows open and the AC off the whole day. Almost feels like fall. Each time I wake up I hurt, but a little less than the last; a 10 day supply of the meds starting from Friday. I hope it will be mostly cleared up by then. It has not quite been the holiday weekend I'd been hoping for becuase of this pain (sigh) But I got to spend it with the kittles, and they with me. So, that part was nice.


TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 5 2011, 06:45 PM

Hi, Tracy, so glad to know you have been able to spend this day napping and lazying with your precious Theresa and little Tang. I know they are so o o o o o glad to have daddy home. I'm glad to know you were able to pick up a bed buddy for your neck, and hope that is providing you some comfort to the sore places.

We are under a tornado watch for the evening and through the night. For some folks this could be quite an unsettling situation, and hope this night passes uneventfully.

I hope you and your precious fur tribe have a very peaceful and blissful evening, Tracy, and that your day tomorrow will be a decent one back at work. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 5 2011, 07:02 PM

Thanks moon_beam

The temps stay in the 60s here and the clouds are clearing for a remarkable sunset. Like I said, it seems like Fall. The kiddles are chomping at the bit to get back out on the balcony. So I will take my shower and let them get at that. Hope the tornado passes you and your precious Noah by....



TTT.

Posted by: LoveMyMickey Sep 6 2011, 12:40 PM

Hi Tracy....My goodness, it is only in the 50s today, rainy and cold. We have the furnace on, I can't stand the cold and dampness.......Wasn't that a beautiful sunset last evening, a dark orange glow all around....Kind of spooky because it was a similiar color right before that '74 tornado came through here.

Tracy, I hope your work day is going well and I hope your pain is better. Give the furbabies a pat for me and I hope they are doing well.....You all are always in my thoughts and prayers.....Always thinking of Angel Tom.....God Bless...

LoveMyMickey

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 6 2011, 04:14 PM

Hi, Tracy, Noah and I send you and your fur family our soggy evening greetings. Last night's boisterous weather did affect some folks in the region with some power outages and trees down, and there some tornado warnings in the far southern part of the region this morning, but schools were opened and buses running as usual to pick up the students, and this is an area that cancels schools when the "snow" word is whispered in the forecast. All Noah and I got here at the homestead was steady rain which is great for the well.

I hope today is being kind to you at work, and that you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang will have a very peaceful and blissful evening tonight. Please know you and your fur tribe are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 6 2011, 07:15 PM

Thank you LoveMyMickey, moon_beam

Goodness, what happened to summer? We went from sunny and 100 Saturday to gray skies and highs in the low/mid 60s by today. Work was about as busy as expected for a day after a holiday. The usual complaining "But I couldn't set an arrangement yesterday, you were closed" It slowed down after 3:00. Home now with the kittles. Tang's ears are much cleaner, but he looks like he may be getting another tiny nodule. I'll need to ask the vet about it. Otherwise, he and Theresa are both doing quite well. It's "misting" out and 66 right now. Letting the cool air in thru the sliding door with screen closed. Both are expressing interest in "out-tide!" We will see how they feel if the misting does not let up. I swear they look at me as If I did that do them - as if I control the weather. I keep telling them if that were true I could quit working and stay with them ALL the time wink.gif Well, onward and so forth.....


TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 6 2011, 09:36 PM

Hi, Tracy, so glad to share your news that you are home with your precious Theresa and little Tang safe and sound. Oh - - I do hope Tang is not growing another nodule in his ear. You are such a great daddy noticing this new change, and getting on top of it with his doctor.

Yeah, - I know the "guilt trip" look - - how I do remember telling my little ones when they also enjoyed "outside time" that the weather is beyond my control. I remember one time when my Eli had wriggled out of his harness and gone exploring in the far back woods where he knew I could not follow him. A summer storm was coming up and I went out and called for him to encourage him to please come home where it was safe. I kept the basement door opened just a bit so that he could come in. It did start raining with a bit of booming overhead - - and shortly after that my Eli came racing inside from wherever he had been, and looked at me as if to say "You did that on purpose!!!"

So glad today was decent for you - - hopefully more than less - - and that tomorrow will also be kind to you in the trenches. I hope you and your furkids are having a very peaceful and blissful evening. Please know you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend, and look forward to knowing how each of you are doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 7 2011, 07:08 PM

Thank you moon_beam

Tonight on the way home from the bus stop, I stopped at Indi's for some fried chicken (a rare treat) Of course, Tang smelled it the moment I stepped in the door. I told him I'd share later IF he was a good boy. Meaning, NO fighting with Theresa. I swear those two understand what I'm saying. He is doing his best "angel" routine with all his might while Theresa seems to be deliberately trying to provoke him. I can see it in his "twitching" "Hmmm fight with sis or chhhhhicken? DAAAADDY, NO FAIR!" We will see. Another gray drizzly night. Iffy on balcony time blink.gif


TTFN

TTT

Posted by: moon_beam Sep 7 2011, 08:29 PM

Hi, Tracy, thank you so much for sharing with us how you, your precious Theresa and little Tang are doing. I agree with Tang - - "gee whiskers, dad - - what does one (my being the sweet furchild I am) have to do with the other (being my typical pesky little brother to my pesky big sister)?" I hope he's enjoying a "very good boy treat" sharing daddy's chicken.

Of course they understand what you're saying, dad. They don't always agree with it - - but they understand every word you say.

I hope you and your fur tribe are enjoying a very peaceful and blissful evening, and that your day tomorrow will be a decent one in the trenches. It's always a blessing logging on and sharing your news, Tracy. Please know you, your precious Theresa, and little Tang are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to sharing your news.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Posted by: Tom's Dad Sep 7 2011, 09:05 PM

Thanks moon_beam

Tang will get his chicken, although he's working hard to talk his way out of it. He's followed me and chattered more than ever as if to say "See dad, I'm being good" It was cute up to the point when I walked away from the bed and he batted and my bare leg with claws NOT sheathed (drew blood) Time for some time out before repast (sigh)

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