KrazyKats Bangkok Journal 2007

[KrazyKat]

Hello from Thailand!! As many know, Karen and I are here for SRS surgery on Saturday. I thought I would post in the open forum a journal of our adventures. You all know how I feel about "Sharing and Caring!!''

We are conserving our purchased internet minutes, so , sorry if for 3 weeks I don't answer all your replies ahead, but I will be sure to read them all!! Thanks for being such a wonderful family!!
Day 1 Travel day+
Whew!! Here we are, halfway around the world in Bankok, Thailand. I think I can understand why many people don’t like being away from home, it’s the smells. They are so different, continually reminding me that I’m in an entirely different environment. OR is it so different? HMMM, something to ponder.

We left Chicago, Monday 45 minutes late, but landed in Tokoyo 4 min early. This cut our flight time to only 12 hours, a wonderful thing. I’ve flown domestic short flights, never so long. I didn’t realize I could spend that much time with someone in my lap and on my back,lol, the whole time!! They certainly don’t waste any space on those flights!! I couldn’t get comfy to sleep, so read and watched movies. Karen got some short sleep, her cold was still bothering her some, but she was a trouper, keeping her mouth shut when grumpy. I have learned to pick up on those moods better, and when to just stuff it, so to speak.
When we got to Tokoyo, we had to drag everything back out to go throught the scanners again, even though we barely left our international arrival area. That was a lot of work, after no sleep. My body was having a tough time responding to my brains messages, or, as I like to say, Spaghetti Limbs!! But we managed.
Purchasing water at the closest airport shop, I ran into a student who was on our flight and seated across the aisle. I started to talk with him, to find out he was going on to Korea, but was going to school at SIU, Carbondale, Flight School, no less. The same flight school I went to about 22 years ago!! What a small world it can be in Japan!!
This was the toughest time, 2 hours to wait, Karen was so tired and couldn’t think and nowhere to rest comfortably. When we got onto the plane, we had another half hour wait on the tarmac, could’ve been worse. This flight to Bankok was 5.5 hours, and was tough. This is past my normal 4 am bedtime!!By now, I was so tired, but couldn’t get comfy to sleep. I felt like I would pass out until my heavy head fell forward and strained my neck muscles, bringing me back to conciousness with the pain. After a dozen times or so, I wasn’t sleepy anymore and could function again.
It was Karen’s turn to bring me back to my “happy place” as the confines of my tiny purchased space began to work on my generous nature.
Finally, we made it!! We’re in Thailand!! Yeah!! We are in the last row of the plane, so we rest until the aisles are clear. When we exit the plane, it’s to stairs directly down onto the tarmac, geez, I’m thinking United Airlines must not have much clout here!! Busses take us to the airport, Wow, it’s big and concrete and lots of guards at the entrance to greet us. Reminds me of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, except they don’t have oozies, thank goodness. We follow the pack past duty free shops in the middle of great halls(thanks for the BVLGARIA perfume spritz, covers the major sweaty stinkies).
Passport control, oh boy, it’s just like grocery store roulette, are we going to be lucky and pick the fastest moving line?! Bingo, despite appearances, our lane finished 3 ahead of the ones next to us!! What seemed like an eternity, but was only about 20 minutes, and we have our luggage, which had been taking on ride on the baggage carousel and we are heading for exits and the little man standing behind the counter waves us on!! Whew, no more delays!! So happy. The driver sent by Dr. Chetts office is waiting with a sign with Karen Jameson on it, just like in the movies! Wish I had enough energy to dig out the camera, as if I could remember which bag it’s in, HA!!
Ok, not knowing how long our car ride to the hotel is, I am trying to tell the driver I need to use the toilets before we leave the airport. HMM, should’ve listened to Mae and made some cards, lol. AWW, I spot an airport directory sign in both languages, and point to the toilet sign. Whew, no problem.
We are treated like royality, doors held open, the hotel clerk knows who we are and has the papers ready for us, a maid takes our luggage and takes us to the room with smiles and urgency. It would be nice to find this kind of service and respect on our last stay in Chicago, lol!!

Karen is over the moon!! She’s so excited. I think it’s catching, as I take a long hot shower, I have trouble sleeping on my twin bed, is it “The Dick Van Dyke Show”?? LOL


I’ll post about todays acivities later, time for a break. We had a great day,however.

Keep the love and the candles burning!! We can feel the love over here!!

[Kieron Andrew]

YAY!!! Shes here.....*goes back to read*

[Julie York]

Good luck.:thumbsup:

[Sally24]

Thanks for keeping us all up to date! Try to get rest when you can. That jet lag works in both directions.

Our prayers are with both of you that everything goes beautifully smooth.

[SirTrey]

OMG....How exciting!!! I can't wait for the next installment!! :) So great that they are there!!

[Kieron Andrew]

Wonderful first installment to the journey of a lifetime Kat :), told you that you would be treated like Royalty didnt i? :D...cant wait to hear more...love to you both :love:

[Teresa Amina]

Yay! Safe and sound; time to be tourists for a day? Maybe too excited...

[Wendy me]

Kat hope you got some rest..wow long trip ... thinking of you two ..... in my thoughts........

[BrendaB GG]

Hey Kat, good luck on this journey. We are not too far behind you I guess, but I'm kind of hoping to go no further than Montreal. Looking forward to the rest of the travelogue!
Brenda

[Siobhan Marie]

Hi honey, I'm so pleased that you both have arrived in Bangkok and everything's ok. Make sure you both get some rest. Conserve what minutes you have and post when you can.

Don't forget what I said to you both before you left.

Love you both loads

loads of :hugs: and cuddles

Siobhán x

[Sharon]

I'm so glad that things are off to such a good start for you and Karen, Kat. :hugs:

[Kerry Owens]

Good luck, Kat; I've been overseas myself and it was always more fun to go where there were fewer "tourist" traps. However....those gem markets....oh drool!
Heck, y'all hang in there and have a good time, and a swift recuperation for Karen!

[Di]

So happy to read this...it makes me feel I really are with you both...I am in spirit....:hugs::hugs::hugs::hugs:

[CharleneCD]

Thanks Kat. I knew it was about time but hadnt seen anything posted yet. Well now I know and will watch for your updates.

[dancinginthedark]

Hi Hi Hi to my two favorite blonds. Ok so you don't so much like a blond these days but you know what I mean. :p

Been thinking of you two nearly non stop since ..... well since late last week when the time really started getting close. So glad you guys got there all safe and sound.

Hope the jet lag lets up soon babe. Were you able to take any tea or essential oils? Probably not. Maybe you'll get lucky and find someone to translate or hit the shops and find something to help you relax a bit.

Sending lots of love and positive thoughts your direction. Prayers are just a given.

:love:

:Pray:

:hugs:

Love ya,
Mae

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[Missy Anne's GG]

Thanks for the wonderful update, Kat.

Thinking of you two, and praying for success...

Hugs, :hugs:

Missy Anne's GG

[Samantha B L]

Hi Kat, I was on an international flight just once. I got airsick over Chicago and then again over Toronto. And I didn't sleep the whole time. Thanks for all the neat info. I send my hopes and prayers to you both. Much Love and hugs,Samantha

[uknowhoo]

Hiya Kat!! :wave: Thanx for the update, it's great to hear from you. You two will be in our thoughts and prayers.xoxo Tammi

[MJ]

thank you for the update , you know you both are in my prayers

[melissaK]

Been wondering; glad to hear from you!
hugs,
'lissa

[Jenna1561]

Hi Kat, thank you for the update. I'm happy :) to hear that the flights went reasonably smooth and you made it to the hotel. The both of you get some rest. Your journey is now in high gear, God bless.


Jenna

[DianaGomez]

Wow! Congrats. Chin up, best of luck!

[kerrianna]

:hugs::love:

Glad you two made it safely. Hope you do get some rest.

Thanks for taking to time to post Kat. Look after yourselves. :hugs::love:

[Sandra]

Thanks for keeping us up to date Kat, thinking of you both take care :hugs:

[Lora Olivia]

All the love and good vibes to you both Kat and Karen, a bunch of :hugs: to you both

[Tamara Croft]

Glad to hear you both are doing good :D Will be looking forward to your next update :D now you both take care, get some rest :hugs:

[Kieron Andrew]

Hoping you read this soon Kat, ive just had a thought....if you havent done so already have a look round or ask someone who is english speaking if there is somewhere you can buy a simple phrase book, it may just help aid the trip :)

[GypsyKaren]

Mind if I crash Kat's thread? We are well and getting caught up on our rest. I saw the Dr. Wednesday,all is well, and I'm set for 2PM Saturday here, which is 3AM on the East Coast, though he's going to try and move it up. We bought a cell phone and I already bugged Sharon, I'm going to start making crank calls soon. I'm so excited, I can't even think straight, Kat is awesome, and we both thank you for all of the love and support, we carry it in our hearts at all times.

Karen Starlene







.

[MoonBaby GG]

I'm glad you two arrived safely and hopefully you're getting some rest and relaxation. :hugs:

[Maggie Kay]

I am so happy for you both to share in this incredible adventure! I am on the edge of my seat to hear what happens next. All the best to you both.

[Siobhan Marie]

Mind if I crash Kat's thread? We are well and getting caught up on our rest. I saw the Dr. Wednesday,all is well, and I'm set for 2PM Saturday here, which is 3AM on the East Coast, though he's going to try and move it up. We bought a cell phone and I already bugged Sharon, I'm going to start making crank calls soon. I'm so excited, I can't even think straight, Kat is awesome, and we both thank you for all of the love and support, we carry it in our hearts at all times.

Karen Starlene.


honey, I don't think she'd mind at all. it's lovely to hear from you. if you want to make crank calls, you can bug me anytime. as for the love and support, you're both so more than welcome, you both are loved more than you both realise.

:hugs: Siobhán x

[KarenSusan]

Hi Kat, thank you for the update and best of luck to you, Karen.

[dancinginthedark]

Hi Hi Hi Karen. :wave:

Kat hope that nasty cold turned tail and ran because of your "refuse to be sick right now" attitude. :bs:

We're all right here Sis. And we're gonna be here holding your hand while you are waiting for Karen. And Ms Karen you know you're in our hearts too babe.


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[KrazyKat]

Day 3-Wed, Oct 24,2007

We were so tired last night from traveling, but after some unpacking and shower(aww that felt so good), we both only slept for 4 hours. Full of energy, excitement or something!!
We went to 7-11 for internet card and supplies. Hmm, dried seaweed wafers and peeled roasted chestnuts, interesting combo for breakfast, LOL!! Of course we bought the wrong card and didn’t find out until we got back to the hotel. So, we walked the 2 blocks, very steamy, about 8:30 now, street is very busy. There doesn’t seem to be any speed limit signs, some drive very fast!!
We stopped in front of hotel to look at the shrine, the cats are drinking the milk out of the glass the leave for the golden statue along with incense burning. The cats are everywhere, and aren’t afraid of anything.
Doc’s driver picks us up at 9:30 for 15 min drive to Dr. Chett’s office. It is very small and serene with large jug water fountains in front.
We fill out the paperwork, I have to sign a paper that I’m giving permission, or I’m aware of the surgery or something since I’m the spouse. Wow, I feel so important. Doc examines Karen, take pictures and explains the procedure clearly while drawing diagrams on his notepad. We are given all the final instructions orally and in written paper form. That’s it, the driver takes us back to the hotel. Whew, Karen is up over the moon!!

We get back to the hotel and nap and lunch. I talk Karen into going for a Thai massage. There is a wellness center right on the hotel’s property. So, we go to the center. Everyone’s sandals are at the door, so we leave ours too. We are greeted instantly(everywhere this happens, it wonderful!), given some warm, honey sweetened tea. They lead us back outside, give us cloth slippers, and lead us down a cinder block trail between the bungalows that are part of the property. We go inside and are given plastic wrapped oriental type cotton or bamboo, not sure, traditional shirt and like Capri pants to put on in our little massage cubicles, with curtains drawn. There is only a 3 inch thick mattress in each cubicle. After we change, Karen and I are still talking to each other, loudly, of course. WE are motioned to the end of the cubicle and each girl has a basin of water, and using liquid soap, begins to wash our feet. We are still talking. Then I begin to notice that there are other cubicles, and the curtains are closed, and slight
movement can be heard. Oops, we are disturbing everyone’s relaxing massage, lol. Karen is still talking, we’re all excited, of course, and I gave her the finger to the lips and the SSShhhh!! Ok, for an hour, we are kneaded like bread dough. Wow, what a wonderful feeling, I’ve never felt so good. It got the kink out of my lower left hip 2 trips to the Chiropracter last week couldn’t do, lol!! At one point, I start to uncontrollably laugh, and cry, like my hormones were affected or something!! Whew!! I could do this everyday!!
So, we get dressed, go back to the office to pay. I know I had set aside 4 100 bahts and a 500 baht, because the price was 450 bahts for each. So, I give the girl 900 bahts(around $30 US dollars) and she gives me one back, telling me I gave her too much. I was like, are you sure, so she gives me 2 50 baht bills back and motions to our massage girls behind us, like we can tip them. Aww, pretty slick way to tell “bloody tourists” they are to tip for a massage, don’t you think!!
We just relax the rest of the day, take a walk, order room service.
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[Sandra]

That massage sounds so good Kat , I can just imagine the two of you chatting away while everyone else is quiet but hey why not.

You're both in our thoughts :hugs:

[Shelly Preston]

Well that massage sounds wonderful

Its even better when they fix something without trying

The place looks delightful and sunny as well :)

[Teresa Amina]

7-11? Same as here?:eek: Those pesky global corporations...

[Kate Simmons]

Wow Kat, sounds like things have changed a little since I was in SE Asia, but not too much. Thanks for the update. I'll be looking for your further adventures.:happy:

[dancinginthedark]

Hey glad they could fix what needed fixing with the massage Kat. I've heard that as they loosen those knots caused by stress that the emotions are released as well. Maybe this has a bit of truth to it and that's what happened when you got your massage...all those emotions were released. No wonder you felt so wonderful afterwards. :)


I'm glad you put up some pix. It's wonderful to see your smiling faces. :hugs: We all miss you guys bunches. And I can see you two chatting away waiting for your massages....especially Karen, the little chatter box. :D

[KrazyKat]

yeah, 7-11, can you believe it? they have quite a different selection of foods, however, lol!

Mae, you would've loved it!! ok, I'm gonna work on day 4, I'm still waiting on my little Angel(:heehee:)to get out of surgery, about another hour or so.

[Wendy me]

wow thanks Kat for the updates and not just the surgery as the whole story and the full experience the way you tell it..........you two are in my thoughts.........

[KrazyKat]

Ok, getting caught up waiting for Karen to get out of surgery, so here's :

Day 4 Thursday, Oct 25, 2007

You would think after all that relaxing from a massage, and all the sleep we’ve missed, well, I think I can understand a little more about jet lag, LOL. We slept last night from 6PM to midnight. We both woke up, and wide awake all night, lol. I napped a little in the morning.
So, today’s mission is to go to this huge mall called Seacon, and get a Thai cell phone. Karen wants to hear live voices, lol. Not the usual ones in her sweet little head, but real ones, Ok?!
Anyway, this Mall is not so far, we take a cab, it’s about 100 baht($3.30US) and we didn’t have any change, so we tipped the cabby a 100 baht. Must get change today, geez!! Don’t want the locals to think we are loaded or anything, lol. Ok, so, Karen didn’t get so much sleep after midnight, I think none. She’s already a little crabby, jet lag and all. Maybe a wee bit of stress, too, ya think? We find the section of the mall that is all mobile phones. This mall groups like stores together so you can comparison shop, how cool!! They wouldn’t do that in the US, they count on you walking from one end of a mall to the other and being too tired to walk back, so you spend more money, lol. So, as we are walking through the mall, we notice that usually guys are together and women are together. I’ve noticed women will talk to me and men won’t. I guess it’s some kind of custom. The funny thing is, this mall has big ads for clothing and things with very American looking people , especially for the teens clothing. Yet, when all the teens come to the mall later in the day, they all look alike, and the kids are all wearing uniforms, no individuality.I couldn’t believe how women would stare at us , I mean keep staring when I would turn around and stare back and smile. Kind of funny, really. I’m not sure what was going through their heads, but it was rather rude.
Anyway, booth after booth of mobile phone dealers. Which to pick from? So, we go to the one young lady who totally looks out of place, tall, thick, kind of stocky. She looks a little out of place next to the rest around here. She doesn’t speak much English, but directs us to the larger carrier store, Dtac. The sales reps have the cutest hippest uniforms, but all in black, with teal blue top-stitching and white shirts, rather new wave military. They hook us up with a rep who handles English clients. She doesn’t speak very well, and it’s hard to understand her. I have to use my “Kat” ears, meaning cup my hand behind my ear to listen to her. After a couple of times I can understand what she’s saying. Karen is pretty lost, lol. Until we started figuring everything out, then she’s getting it!! We get a decent phone for $40 with prepaid cards. So we go for a coffee, looking at the phone, and Karen asks, how do we check our minutes? I couldn’t remember, dang it, lol!!
So, back to the phone store. We are inside the door for like 2 minutes and our same sales clerk is right there in front of us to helpus. Wow, the service around here is like unreal. These people take it as a personal pride. There is a lot of bowing with your hands in steeple fashion, not sure what that’s about, but it makes them happy, happy. That’s what our maid always says, lol.
Anyway, the number we were given, and regiven, turns up Thai language only. So, our rep goes and finds out the right number, and we are all hooked up.
We wander for awhile, Karen is getting tired, until, what is that on the horizon??
Could it be, yes, oh yes!! It’s a “Hello Kitty” tricket store, like with all kinds of cutesy teens type stuff. Karen was in Heaven, for sure!! We got a lot of stuff, and stuff for presents, a cool big purse(I’ll have to photograph later), stuffed kitty, of course, watches, etc all for $40. US. Can you believe it!!!

Ok, we were going to get some supplies, but too tired, tough time finding our way out of the Mall Maze!! We go down the line of waiting taxi’s, and of course , the next one in line is the oldest, bet up one with a total rooky driver, lol. It gagged me all the way home, I think it was burning oil and blowing it inside, lol.
Anyway, Karen is on a clear liquid diet only tomorrow, so we head to the 7-11 for some supplies. Chicken broth, yogurt for tonight(no meat for last 2 days) and bottled water. You can’t drink the tap water here, it even has a sign in our bathroom over the sink, lol.
Tonight Karen took the Doc’s laxative, and I guess I don’t have to tell you how the rest of the night went!!
Poor little DEAR!!
I did get to try out my new swimsuit. Did some laps and stretching in the pool, that felt really good!!

[Kate Simmons]

It's a different culture for sure Kat. I loved being among the people though when I was in Nam. I loved the simplicity of the lifestyle but the people mostly.:happy:

[Kieron Andrew]

yay! it WAS secon mall you went to, i soooo wanna go!!! thanks for keeping us to speed kat :)

[MJ]

Thank you for the update i hope Karen is fine.. and you are also well


Tonight Karen took the Doc’s laxative, and I guess I don’t have to tell you how the rest of the night went!!
Poor little DEAR!!

i remember what that was like faster than a Japanese bullet train .. but not for srs .. tell Karen i am having sympathy pains over here ... but don't make her laugh ...
hugs mj

[Julie York]

Can you bring me back some morphine?

:bs:

[Sharon]

I'll let Kat give all the details, but Karen is out of surgery and back in her room. As a matter of fact, we even managed to chat for a couple minutes, even though she thinks she's in Wonderland at the moment. Meanwhile, Kat herself sounded great and very relieved that the waiting is over.

[Kieron Andrew]

I'll let Kat give all the details, but Karen is out of surgery and back in her room. As a matter of fact, we even managed to chat for a couple minutes, even though she thinks she's in Wonderland at the moment. Meanwhile, Kat herself sounded great and very relieved that the waiting is over.

YAY!!! congratulation Karen and Kat

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But we knew that anyway lol

Heres to a speedy recovery and a great new life ahead

[SirTrey]

<<<Breaking open the champagne>>> I am SO happy to hear that...whew, what a relief....Kat, when you read this, you give Karen our love....we are ALL so happy for both of you...:) CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!! :) Love, **Trey**

[Jenna1561]

Congratulations to both of you and I'm happy to hear that all went smoothly. I love Kieron's post by the way. :) I hope Kat gets back on her feet quickly. Keep us updated. These are really great posts and will make quite a journal of this journey. I love that you both are doing this.


Jenna

[Kieron Andrew]

I love Kieron's post by the way. :)
Thanks :blushing:

ok lets get this party started!

Kat has requested some cognac and some cognac she shall have, and champagne cognac at that, we must have the champagne

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[loriannetucson]

So happy the waiting is over for both of you too! What a thrill ride and hopefully a bright future is ahead. Many blessings to you!

[dancinginthedark]

Thanks for the update Sharon.

I'm happy for you both Kat. :hugs:


Yippie :jumping: Gimme' a glass of that bubbly will you Trey?

[KrazyKat]

Yup, my Babe` is nestled in her bed in her room, and I can futz over her all I want, lol. I think she just finally warmed up, she's coming out from under the blankets. I'm on icepak duty, so only one cognac tonight, and I'll just pretend to smoke the cigar, unless it's one of those candy kind, pink of course!!

Whew, what a relief, to be through the tunnel and on the other side!! YeaH!! oK, got some family emails and phone calls. Talk with you all later, party on!!:hugs::hugs::hugs::hugs:

[christid66]

Kat/Karen,
This is the best news.......Congrats to you both:yahoo:

[Holly]

:cheer:Yea!:cheer: Happy for both of you.

[Sarahgurl371]

I am very happy to hear that things went well, and that you are both doing okay.

[Samantha B L]

Conratulations to you both! Sincerly,Samantha

[Tracy Lynn]

Congratulations Kat and Karen :)

:cheer:

[MJ]

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!! to both of you :love: :balloons:

[KrazyKat]

:hugs:Thanks so much, everyone!! You all mean so much to us!! How blessed we are to have such loving and truly caring friends who are family not because you have to be, because you choose to be!!:hugs: It doesn't get better than that!!

Karen had a wonderfully restful morning and is in and out, but always with a smile on her face. Like, a really big goofy smile!! I went to the flower shop here and had them make a special pink bouquet for our GIRL!!

I'm so proud of my Babe`, she is doing what she needs to do to heal as quickly as possible, and I can already see the changes happening, it's awesome!! :hugs:
Going to catch a nap myself, post later. Love and hugs to all, Kat

[kerrianna]

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Hope the healing goes well. :hugs::love:

[Lora Olivia]

How totally awesome. Congrats to both of you fine ladies. So here we go. HIP HIP HOORAY!! etc etc. lol :hugs: :love: :drink:

[CaptLex]

Congac? No, no . . . this calls for the real stuff . . . RUM for everyone! :drink:

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:Party2:

[Siobhan Marie]

I'm so pleased that Karen's surgery went well. I went to my friend, Lisa's birthday party last night, I've told her about you and Karen, Kat and the trip to Thailand. I roughly worked out the time difference between Southampton and Bangkok and toasted you and Karen with my glass of Diet Coke (I don't drink). It was an amazing night and loads of fun. You were both never far away in my thoughts.

I'm sending you both loads of :hugs: and cuddles and all my love.

Give Karen a big :hugs: and a kiss for me. This is truly wonderful news, it really is.

Love you both loads

:love: and :hugs: Siobhán x

[janelle]

I am so happy for you both. Please give Karen a big hug from me & here is one for you too. Congrates.
:hugs::hugs::love:,
Janelle

[Sharona GG]

Hi Krazykat, Congratulations..... :cheers::cheer:
So glad to hear that everything has gone accordingly......thats just fantastic!

Love to Karen :love: and yourself of course :love:

Waiting for the next update...............:hugs:

Sharona :love:

[Roberta Lynn]

Just found your journal here Kat. GREAT THREAD!!
I'm so happy for you and Karen.

Thank you so very much for taking the time and effort to share your story with us.

:hugs::hugs: and :love: to both of you

[Kieron Andrew]

Just spoke to Kat, and i offered to give a little update as she hasnt found time to get on the fourm yet, she was hiding on the PC with headphones on cos Karen has bad gas and it was annoying the heck outta Kat :heehee: (sorry Karen just had to tell everyone lol)......

So Karen has a special air mattress at the hospital to keep her comfy that is inflated, but half of the vertical pillow like things didn't inflate, mostly probably a leak somewhere....so, it let her lower back sink down too low, Kat called the station nurse about 2or 3am last nite, they kept trying to put her off, she told them it's broke, and that they need to sort a new one, The nurse was like, 'oh, we can't change the bed' :rolleyes:.....she was just getting ready to storm the nurse's stand, and they came in, 4 nurses and a new bed, lol

no pain really, Karen says just discomfort, she can feel the ice packs now, so she's getting sensation, not too much swelling, some but not bad, she did get rid of the IV drip, but the shunt is still in her hand......she still has a small tube in her back, Kat thinks where the epidural went in......

Packing comes out Wednesday, Kat says Doctor said she would have to stay until Friday, usually they let you go home on 5th day, he said 6th this is probably due to just in case he needs to do a touch up and he won't know until packing comes out, she thinks catheter removal is on Wednesday too...

Kat is going to over to the hotel after lunch and "negotiate" a new room, as their room smells so bad from the air conditioner, mold and cig smells which she thinks helped me get a sinus infection, or cold.......

[Sarah Rabbit]

Hi Kat
Who's the new girl hangin' around you. Hey, since Karen has a new start with everything, I think her post count should be zeroed:lol::lol2:

Sorry it took me so long to find this journal. I don't usually come in here.

Hugs, Sarah R. :bunny:

[Lovely Rita]

Thailand, yes I was just there. I wish you and Karen the best.
Enjoy the food!!! Thai food at unbelievable prices.

I just hope you like spicey.

[Cara Allen]

Thanks for giving us such a wonderful description of Tahiland... I wish you the very best, and you are in my thoughts!

[dancinginthedark]

Thanks for the update kieron.

[Kieron Andrew]

Thanks for the update kieron.

you are very welcome Mae

[Vaerise]

Wow congrats! Cheers to a new chapter :)

[Siobhan Marie]

Kieron, thank you so much for the update hun. If you do get to speak to Kat, would you give her and Karen my love and tell them that they're in my thoughts and that I'm right there with them in spirit.

:hugs: Siobh&#225;n x

[Kris]

Hi just wanted to add that I got a PM from Karen this morning.. and it's short but she said, ".i'm dying for a cheeseburger"

It proves that she is still a comic at heart....... no matter how many drugs she is on... sweet girl.

Just wanted to share because it made me smile.

:hugs: Kris

[Kieron Andrew]

Hi just wanted to add that I got a PM from Karen this morning.. and it's short but she said, ".i'm dying for a cheeseburger"

It proves that she is still a comic at heart....... no matter how many drugs she is on... sweet girl.

Just wanted to share because it made me smile.

:hugs: Kris

I had a very short conversation with Karen that stated more than once she wanted a pizza! and i was to bring her a pizza lol, then it was cheesecake, shes sick of not being on solids lol!

oh and she said dont forget to tell everyone hi :wave:

[KrazyKat]

:hugs:Thanks so much, K, for the updates for me!! Love and hugs to everyone for your warm wishes and love, it is so helpful to know we have friends and family thinking of us and caring!!

I didn't get out on Monday, as all HECK broke loose, Karen had a really rough day. That's all in the past, and we are moving along nicely. I finally caught up on some sleep and have made two more outings for food and water. The refrigerator in the room is a roomy compact size. I checked out the cafeteria, but nothing looked good there, plus I love to eat in front of Karen and make her drool!! :heehee: Yes, she's feeling that good now!!
Yesterday, Tuesday, I headed out to our hotel for a swim and to repack our clothes to be moved. The front desk personnel speak English very well. She was very nice, and had a maid take me to a bungalow to check it out and see if I liked it. It's really nice, and a front porch with a bench, shade all around from lush tropical vegetation. It's about 20 feet to the swimming pool, and there is a like a beautiful grassy park like area next to the pool, with a roundtable covered setting area in all four corners. It was a beautiful daly yesterday, not humid for once, and nice little breeze. Yeah, when we get back, it could almost be like a little vacation of relaxing. So looking forward to this!!
I swam a few laps and did some in pool stretching(really helps), went back to my room and packed. Said goodbye to our sweet little maid, Puza, and gave her a ty gift, a "Hello Kitty" 5"x5" canvas drawstring pouch with Jolly Rancher's hard candy inside. She loved it!! She helped me move my suitcases downstairs, and the gaurd loaded them up on the double seater "golf cart" to take to our bungalow. I caught a taxi to the grocery store down the street, Jusco, which is next to a McDonald's. I wanted to check out a Thai Mcicky Dee's , but no time yesterday.
Wow, this is a real grocery store!! Still small compared to our neighborhood store, but the foods that are premade look awesome!! I finally found a wine store here, too!! Yeah, red wine sunsets on our little front porch!! They have like a precooked "deli" like large area in the front, with lots of cooked foods ready to be packaged, some look very good!! I was having a hard time finding food that looked and smelled good to eat. Many meats look freeze dried or something.Anyway, I pack up my "Dale Jr." backpack on wheels, mostly with large bottled waters, as we go through alot, and they are 8 bahts each in a 6 pak, and half the size bottle at the hospital is 15 bahts.
So, I go outside of the store, so many food vendors here, and they all smell very good, and look for taxi. I had trouble finding one 2 days ago when I left the grocery store, but I head to the street and see 2 green taxis, a lady is trying to get into the 2nd one, and the driver sends her to the one in front of him. I get my 2 heavy backpacks into the older stinky taxi, find the hospital address card and give it to the driver, who says something and hands it back to me. He gets out of the taxi, comes around to my door and opens it. He motions me out, I realize he doesn't want the fare, he didn't look like he liked the address when he read it, maybe too far for him, or he doesn't know it. He motions to a taxi pulling up behind us. Geez. Karen later tells me she's read this can happen, dont' worry about it. Which I didn't, of course. What a blessing!! The car behind I pile into, is a brand new Chevy taxi, and the driver is such a sweety, Sam is his nickname. He asks me if it's okay if we stop for gas first, which is cool, as there is a 7-11 next door and I needed to get more international calling cards for our phones!! I'm back in the taxi, and we are still waiting behind many taxi's to get filled up. The taxi's here all have to use CNG natural gas, and have to be filled my an attendant. We have a nice conversation, he is about 40 to 50 age and a very smart and caring person, something the men taxi driver's don't usually show. He tells me he is single, I told him he's a "Hotty", which he says, ok, but later asks me what that means!! LOL
Anyway, it's rush hour, too, so it takes us awhile to get back to the hospital, and geez, I feel like a rock star everytime I get back, Karen is sooo happy to see me!!:p

More later, we are looking forward to getting out of the hospital in about 2 days, I hope!!:thumbsup:

[Wendy me]

you make my day with your up dates ...... so happy for you two.....

[Kieron Andrew]

:hugs:Thanks so much, K, for the updates for me!!
you are welcome :)...hope i got it all?

[dancinginthedark]

Sounding like the adventure it is Kat. :bs: Glad you are using all those all girl scout skills to find your way around and keep your bearings woman.

The new bungalow sounds awesome and yup I can see the two of you enjoying the sunsets on the bench with a small glass of wine. You'll have to pick up a "Hello Kitty" beach towel for Karen to lounge on while you swim so she doesn't feel so bad not being able to just yet. :)

Hugs to you both.

love you two~
Mae

[uknowhoo]

Thanx for the updates, Kat :hugs: Glad to hear Karen's made it through that rough patch. Give her a bug hug when it's safe to do so, and give yourself one too. xoxo T

[Sheila]

Kat am reading and laughing at your descriptions. Glad to here our Karen is doing well. Tree sends her love to you both and:hugs:

jess

[Sarah Rabbit]

Hey Kat,

Thank you for the update. Give Karen a:kissing: or was that a :slap: hmm. I'm not sure yet:undecided

Sarah R. :bunny:

[Missy Anne's GG]

Hi Kat,

Thanks for taking the time to keep us up-to-date on your adventure. I think of you and Karen often throughout the day, and hope things continue to go well.

Enjoy your precious time together.

Hugs, :hugs:

Missy Anne's GG

[loriannetucson]

The jealousy is killing me! I can only look forward and hold on to the hope, but I know there is always hope for that day to come! The happiness continues from me to you two!

Lori

[Samantha B L]

Thanks for the updates,Kat. I'm real glad for you both.

Hugs,All The Best,Samantha

[Di]

Love reading the updates:hugs:....miss and love ya both:love:

[Cara Allen]

What an adventure! I would love to be there. If not for surgery, just to look around!

Please give Karen our love, and wishes for a speedy and happy recovery. How long will you two be there yet? I am anxious for all the details of the surgery, too!

[GypsyKaren]

Kat has been under the weather lately, but she does feel better today and wanted me to say hi to everyone.

Karen Starlene

[Sandra]

Aww Kat hope you're ok sending you lots of :hugs: Thanks for all the updates

[Kerry Owens]

Good to hear you both are on the mend, take it easy and have fun there!

[Siobhan Marie]

Kat has been under the weather lately, but she does feel better today and wanted me to say hi to everyone.

Karen Starlene

Karen, hope she's feeling better, give her my love and a big hug. How's you? You ok?

love and loads of :hugs: to you and Kat

Siobhán x

[Sharon]

I'm so sorry to see Kat isn't feeling well. LOL -- I would make the wiseass suggestion that it was sympathetic illness, but that would be mean. Anyway, I know from you what it is, so it would be impossible to pretend ignorance..., well, beyond the normal standard anyway. :p

I just hope you manage to feel better real soon, Kat. :hugs:

[Missy Anne's GG]

Hi Karen,

Please tell Kat we hope she feels better soon.

Hope your recovery is coming along well.

Hugs to both of you! :hugs: :hugs:

Missy Anne's GG

[MarieTS]

May you feel more at ease with yourself now (both of you) while progressing through this adjustment phase.
Thinking and praying for you both! :hugs:

[Sarah Rabbit]

Oh Karen....Oh Kaaaaarrreeennnnn...

Where are you...?

Yooooo...Hoooooo..


Hi Kat, I hope you are all doin' fine

Hugs, from Sharona GG and the Rabbit