A little explanation about the missing Mod.

Now I'm not looking for sympathy or the like, I just want to take a moment to explain something. Some may wonder at my scarcity (and see that as a good thing lol) so I will explain a little, in case someone may feel that I have dropped out or lost interest or neglected them. A large part of the mods job is to watch for trouble, maybe reading every post, usually, welcome new friends, console those with not so good news, congratulate those with good and serve as a source for further info for those asking for it. In other words, be a daily presence and helpful person to all. You may be a new friend and noticed I didn't welcome you, or an old friend who I didn't congratulate their good news, or just haven't joined in the banter, like I used to.

The reason for that is I am now having to spend much more time caring for my Dad, who is Stage 4 Lung Cancer, and has maybe 3 months left, and my blind, diabetic and renal failing Mother. My brother, sister and I are sharing time and responsibilities, but anyone who has been there can tell you that you can never have enough help or time for yourself. I try to keep up with the Forum, what time I have at home, and on my phone when caring for them. Coming here is a needed change of pace, even if I don't spend a lot of time now replying to you folks. So if I miss a congrats, or a welcome, or don't respond to questions or such, it isn't that I've lost interest, or don't care about you or anything, it's I am conserving what time I do have. I don't want anyone to feel that I have slighted them, if they have read in the past when I welcomed almost everyone here, or shared in the joys of zero's or shared in the let downs of other not so good news.

Now, you spammers and troublemakers, don't take this admission as an opportunity, as I will still be watching for that, along with doting daughter and TonyC, so there's still sheriffs in town.

You got plenty on your plate right now, a man has to do what he has to do, family takes presidence. Best to you, others can help with the welcome wagon effect.

James,

Thanks for donating your time to make this forum work as well as it does. We all appreciate what you have done.

JohnT

James, I know you have your hands full, what a burden with both your mother and father that the same time. I will have to remember what you are dealing with, the next time my 83 year old mother is driving me crazy being a pain in the A*. At least she takes care of herself, still lives alone on her own property, etc. I wish you all the best as you continue with your own family's needs.

David in SC

Hi James..about 16 years ago, my father was at Stage 4 lung cancer and failing fast. My mother was a basket case emotionally, and had recurring brain tumors (non-malignant) that affected her ability to do a lot of things. I was blessed with robust health at that time (age 42) and it drained me to no end. Hospice was called in, and I had to bring my father to my house to die because my mother couldn't cope--------------so I understand completely what that looks like, even when you have sibling assistance. Do what you have to do, and we'll be pulling for you to deal with things the best you can. It's a very critical time to be paying attention spiritually as well-------peace!

Arnie in DE

Thanks for sharing. I know you are a great care giver.

My thoughts are with you James as it is difficult but rewarding caring for our aging parents. We are at the age when we can be ill and caring for the ill at the very same time. My best to you and take care of yourself thru all of this.

Michael

 

James:
We wish you and your family peace and contentment in this time of turmoil and thank you most sincerely for your hard work, kindness and support we have received as members of the HW family.
hugs,
BRONSON

James,

You are a rock to many on this site. And, I am sure, you are a rock for your family. May God send you strength and peace. Thank you for all you do here.

James ~ Thank you for sharing with all of us.   Keeping you and your loved ones… extra close in our thoughts and prayers.   Here’s a little HUG from the 3 of us.   *bluebird  Lee, Buddy, and Murphy!   “GOD Bless You”   It's a little prayer "God Bless You" but it means so much each day, It means may angels guard you and guide you on your way.

Thank you so much for the work you do here, you are in our thoughts and prayers.