Open Discussion Page

Most comment policies for the blog are in effect on this page as well. However, we will not monitor the length of comments (unless some wise guy plays a game), the direction of the discussions or the relevance of the discussions. The Deebs may or may not participate in the discussion, depending on busyness of the current posts. In other words, go for it. This page is subject to change as we work out the inevitable issues.

Please note that the usual restrictions on personal attacks and other rude behavior still apply here.

Update: 660 comments in 3 weeks. Not bad. Since infinite is a bad idea in how big a page can be on a web site I’m changing things so comments are split into pages of 500 per page. Nothing is gone. Just click on the link for older comments. (GBTC)

Comments

Open Discussion Page — 6,803 Comments

  1. @ Dale:

    Dear Dale:

    Catholics have not hidden Jesus. Au contraire…we affirm His Presence everywhere and, in a special way, in the Blessed Sacrament. If you live in Charlotte, you must know about Saint Gabriel’s. Have you ever been to the Adoration Chapel there? I have. The Presence of Jesus is so powerful and palpable there it just about flattens one against the wall.

    St Matthew’s is a wonderful parish. Our diocese is very blessed. I hope and pray you will come to see this — at least so far as to stop being prejudiced against us.

  2. Catholic Gate-Crasher wrote:

    @ Dale:
    Dear Dale:
    Catholics have not hidden Jesus. Au contraire…we affirm His Presence everywhere and, in a special way, in the Blessed Sacrament. If you live in Charlotte, you must know about Saint Gabriel’s. Have you ever been to the Adoration Chapel there? I have. The Presence of Jesus is so powerful and palpable there it just about flattens one against the wall.
    St Matthew’s is a wonderful parish. Our diocese is very blessed. I hope and pray you will come to see this — at least so far as to stop being prejudiced against us.

    Dale and others were supposed to stop the pro and con discussion about the Catholic Church, per Guy Behind the Curtain, Dee, and Deb.

    GBTC deleted many comments.

    I will notify GBTC that it’s still going on as when he says “stop” he means “stop”.

    Thanks.

  3. Catholic Gate-Crasher wrote:

    Our diocese is very blessed. I hope and pray you will come to see this — at least so far as to stop being prejudiced against us.

    Dale’s father died from an alcoholism when Dale was 21, according to one of his recent posts. He and his mother blame the Catholic Church for the father’s alcoholism. Denial at work.

    I recommended Al-Anon, Adult Children of Alcoholics, and good counseling to Dale to deal with these painful issues.

  4. @ Velour:
    kind of you to explain this to CGCrasher …. looking back on everything, I can only think that Dale must have loved his father very, very much

  5. Latest update – 3/26/17

    Well, rent is due again this week… $565 + the fees = $615.
    I have food to get through until Tuesday or so.

    Still tired and sore, but less so, so improvement is good.

    Continuing to look for a car and a couch. 🙂

    Funny, for a writer, I sometimes have trouble knowing what to say here…Thank you all so much. Thank you.

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  6. @ Jeannette Altes:

    Hi Jeannette,

    Good luck with everything.

    By the way, there is a good group called Debtors Anonymous that deals with debt, underearning, lack of revenue, etc. They offer an excellent form of support and pressure relief meetings, help with action plans, spending plans and the like.

    They have a phone in meeting for artists (which includes writers). They also have some other meetings for those with health-related issues. And then general meetings.

    It might give you support and ideas. Keep it in your tool box of things to know about.
    http://debtorsanonymous.org/getting_started/index.php/find/phone_meeting

  7. CHIPS wrote:

    Can you briefly explain the difference? What does the Greco-Roman version of God mean?

    In my earlier reply to you I promised some more thoughts. This is a very complicated philosophical discussion for which I am probably not qualified to participate. So I won’t dive too deeply right now.

    Here is a good discussion on God’s simplicity and indivisibility: http://www.iep.utm.edu/div-simp/. This idea of God began with the ancient Greeks and has prospered in the West. It posits a God of pure actuality with no potentiality, an unmoved mover, the first cause, completely set apart from creation. This makes a lot of logical sense to our Western minds, but it is not how God is described in the Bible (but it’s easy enough to project this onto him through our Western mindset). The concept of Trinity is difficult to bolt onto this view of God, but many have attempted to explain it.

    The Romans were practical, orderly, and respected hierarchy, power, and control. The Romans adopted Greek thought and culture and tied their Roman gods with Greek gods (Jupiter-Zeus, Juno-Hera, etc.). These gods were controlling, capricious, easily angered, and required sacrifice to appease their wrath. They were also subject to fate and justice. For the Romans, justice was focused on the consequences of breaking legal codes, and religious practices focused on practical means to keep the Gods on your side. It had a very utilitarian focus (the ancient Romans were very practical and efficient).

    When I say the Western mind is Greco-Roman I am saying that we view God through a lens shaped by this mythology and culture. In our Western mind, God’s holiness is all about his moral purity. So when we sin, the primary emphasis is on our guilt and the infinite offense of our sin to a morally perfect being, which places us under the wrath of this God. The guilt can only be resolved by a punishment to fit the crime. Since our guilt is infinite the punishment must be infinite, which means some kind of infinite sacrifice is required to satisfy the holy (legal) demands of this God.

    There is much to write about how God is revealed in the Bible that is very much different from what I wrote above. Last week I re-read “The Shack Revisited” by Baxter Kruger. That book is more about the theology of the Trinity than it is about “The Shack” (I felt like it was timely to re-read it based on all the re-kindled controversy about “The Shack”). I recommend reading it because Kruger explains the contrast between these two views better than I can. I hope this explanation is useful.

  8. Velour wrote:

    Catholic Gate-Crasher wrote:

    @ Dale:
    Dear Dale:
    Catholics have not hidden Jesus. Au contraire…we affirm His Presence everywhere and, in a special way, in the Blessed Sacrament. If you live in Charlotte, you must know about Saint Gabriel’s. Have you ever been to the Adoration Chapel there? I have. The Presence of Jesus is so powerful and palpable there it just about flattens one against the wall.
    St Matthew’s is a wonderful parish. Our diocese is very blessed. I hope and pray you will come to see this — at least so far as to stop being prejudiced against us.

    Dale and others were supposed to stop the pro and con discussion about the Catholic Church, per Guy Behind the Curtain, Dee, and Deb.

    GBTC deleted many comments.

    I will notify GBTC that it’s still going on as when he says “stop” he means “stop”.

    Thanks.

    Oops, sorry, I didn’t know that! I am just catching up on this thread. My apologies!

  9. Christiane wrote:

    @ Velour:
    kind of you to explain this to CGCrasher …. looking back on everything, I can only think that Dale must have loved his father very, very much

    Thank you, Velour and Christiane!!

  10. Update: sorry it’s taken awhile for me to update here. Most important please pray for billy and me as I made a tough decision in regards to a new friend of his. So a kid at school struck up a friendship with my son. In order to let up on the reigns and give billy some freedom I allowed him to ride home with this kid , go hang out and fish, and even hang out for spring break. All was going well until seven days later the day before spring break billy needed to ask for time off with his work. Long story short billy wasn’t getting that time off because he didn’t put in a request sooner. Billys friend was there he was very disrespectful to my sons bosses and billy was willing to quit his job to spend time with this kid. Fortunitely his boss didn’t let him quit and saw that his friend came across way to mature for billy. He showed a side of himself I didn’t see.
    So! Billy and I had a serious talk and he defended this kid tried to take all the blame for the kids behavior. I find out this kid has been juvenile hall for fighting, and when he finally comes around to talk to me about that situation he’s disrespectful to me by lying to my face three different times in that conversation and I could see he tried to put on the charm and work me. When he saw that didn’t work he looked bored as I was talking to him and kept looking at his watch.
    My son was willing to defend him at all cost. I realized this kid is bad news and has an agenda with my son. My son cried and said he has nobody , this was so hard to do in cutting off the relationship. I didn’t like seeing billy like that. I garnered the opinion three other adults all say the same, he seems to have an agenda with my son not sure what that is. This kid after being told I didn’t want to talk to him yet just showed up at my house. He lied several times to me in my home, and since my son knowing him changed my sons attitude where he was willing to drop everything just to hang out with this kid. I think this kid showered billly with attention and I found a text where he was trying to get billy to help him break up a relationship so he could go out with the girl. Billy was clear the boyfriend would hurt him. This guy was billys friend until I saw major red flags. He fights he started doing weed so I cut that off he and bully had gone to school together since 4th grade. Billy had a hard time with me cutting him off but now he sees why and agreed I was right about him. Anyway this kid said don’t worry I will protect you man I will go back to juvie for you. After I saw that and realized this other stuff about him I wigged out. I see a preditor honing in on my son. I can’t help it this kid wants in billys life and won’t stop so I made it clear to him directly I got his number and that billy will not be going anywhere with him. I get the sense he may try to get in billys ear and attempt to cause division between me and my son. He’s bad news and my heart can’t take someone hurting billy again I won’t survive it again. I don’t know what his intentions are and that scares me. Billy doesn’t see what I see and he just sees someone saying they want to be his friend and is love bombing him. He’s only known this kid a few weeks. Billy is respecting my decision to say no to the relationship but I think this kid is going to work my son he wanted to use billy to break up a relationship knowing that the other guy would hurt him. Billy even said no until he said I will protect you. That is what billy wanted when he was being raped was for someone to rescue him. He also told this kid what happened to him and I believe he’s using it to his advantage. This has created sleepless nights, ulcers flaring up as I a working through the night , and I have so much anxiety. My manager cut me down now to thirteen hours this week my paycheck will be around 100 how do I keep lights on pay rent buy food and gas pay phone bill on that? I can’t even prove that she’s retaliating against me by cutting my hours because I went in and talked to the store manager. She sabataged my transferring to another store. What do I do except leave but I need the money or we go downhill fast. I’m applying for city jobs this week. I’m barely hanging on to my sanity my heart. I need to be able to keep up with these weekly bills and needs. At the same time I’m fighting off someone willing to put my son in harms way. Please keep us in your prayers with this.
    http://www.gofundme.com/pdxs5
    Shauna and billy
    I hope that link is right

  11. Latest update – 3/27/17

    Rent is due again in 4 days… $565 + the gofundme fees = $615.
    I have food to get through the week.

    Still remain stable – no better, no worse – regarding tumor. I am grateful it is not spreading. I think some of the soreness and pain in places of old injuries (back, knee, foot, face) are due to the odd weather changes we’ve been having. You get used to a certain level of chronic pain through the years. But some days, it is a bit discouraging.

    Still looking for a car and a couch. I know this will sort out. 🙂

    I am continuing to work on my writing and have a class on that to finish.

    Thank you all so much.

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  12. Billy wanted me to say thank you for your praying for him and the gofundme. He would say it himself but we are down to one phone and no internet except my phone. He’s such a trooper he said he doesn’t need a phone that he can wait until we can afford another phone. What a great kid and attitude. Most kids would freak out over no phone. He says the girls are depressed and keep bugging him anyways lol. Without the phone they can’t text or call.
    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

  13. Shauna wrote:

    Billy wanted me to say thank you for your praying for him and the gofundme. He would say it himself but we are down to one phone and no internet except my phone.

    Awww. Give Billy our love, encouragement and strength. We love him. We are proud of him. It will get better.

    Hugs from California,

    Velour

  14. Thank you velour. I did! He’s getting there I’m working on getting him some more after care. I have been sleeping in his room lately. His nightmares have been intense lately. This weekend I had a friend stay with him since the manager put me on 3 nights in a row doing donuts. I can’t keep leaving him without someone here right now. Anyway I’m working through it and billy is okVelour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Billy wanted me to say thank you for your praying for him and the gofundme. He would say it himself but we are down to one phone and no internet except my phone.

    Awww. Give Billy our love, encouragement and strength. We love him. We are proud of him. It will get better.

    Hugs from California,

    Velour

  15. Thank you velour he just read your post. I showed him the gofundme, how amazing is that? We are going to be able to pay some bills. We have a ways to go my goal is to get our landlord paid down to zero balance but we also need utilities water trash food insurance and so on. What a blessing from what has been put there recently. I’m speechless and don’t have words. I feel bad for doubting the Lords provision. It always begins to come at the very last moment. I guess I’m so overwhelmed with leaving billy at night and so frustrated that I’m moved to nights and hours reduced to barely nothing when the others get hours and longer shifts. I guess I have take advantage of me written all over me. Anyway I’m trying my best to be a good worker in spite of being treated like this.

  16. Ken F wrote:

    morally perfect being, whi

    Thanks a lot. Yes I believe we tend to view God as an all powerful creator and all humans sin against him. While that is true, this isn’t everything. God is also our loving daddy. He is all powerful but he also wants to be at our level to understand us.

    I will read the two links you sent. =)

  17. CHIPS wrote:

    Yes I believe we tend to view God as an all powerful creator and all humans sin against him.

    I think there’s also a widely-held idea that, technically, all sin is against God (if I harm another person I harm someone made in God’s image, etc etc) and it therefore follows that God only really cares about sin committed against him, which then allows us to suppose that the only real sins are “ceremonial” ones that don’t harm people but, for one reason or another, offend God. Ergo, gay marriage and aWomanInThePulpit is a far more terrible thing than child abuse in the church.

  18. Latest update – 3/29/17

    Rent is due the end of the week… $565 + the gofundme fees = $615. I have some, so $520 still needed.
    I have food to get through Friday.

    Have been in some pain this week. It’s a little discouraging, but I know it will pass. I need to just keep moving.

    I am still watching for opportunities on the car and couch. I know this will sort out, but I’m hoping sooner than later.  🙂

    I have made a little progress on the writing. It’s amazing how much of it is just mental…thinking and plotting. 😉

    I am grateful to all for your support in prayer and thought, words and finances. It is often overwhelming. Thank you.

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  19. We are still having a fundraiser for Shauna and her son Billy in Texas. (Dee wrote about Billy’s being abused by a church member and their awful church turning their backs on them.)

    Shauna has a part-time job at a grocery store, but it is not enough to pay their bills and various living expenses.

    Their rent coming due for April is $700.

    Donations are appreciated. https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Thank you.

    ********

  20. Thank you velour I just broke down as soon as I saw your post. Velour Dee deb everyone here you have no idea what this means. I just got my schedule for next week and I won’t earn more than 120.00 after taxes. I tried to talk to my bosses above my manager and apparantly my situation means nothing. There are kids working in my department who live at home and it’s just a job for extra cash. This job means everything and I’m choking back tears right now. I have worked my butt off I have worked whatever hours and wherever they want me and I feel like I bring no value to my partners in this store and that my being there isn’t valued at all. The gofundme is the only thing aside from this job keeping me from going under. I feel like I’m in an ocean barely staying above water and I just feel like giving up. I don’t wan to because billy needs me to keep it together. God is sustaining us I know this but my heart is hurting. What more can I do? I called human resources but I don’t see this helping my case but I have to do something say sonething or walk out and to be honest I just want to walk out! I have never felt this way in a work place. Anyways I know you all are praying please don’t give up on praying for me and billy I’m trying really hard to stay positive and keep moving forward. I’m terrified next week as the hours are cut and my bills are stacked against us. I had a huge blow out with my son over a kid who is trying to get into my sons life. He’s bad news and billys maturity is not where this kid is and this kid knows it. He’s very manipulative and a narcissist he wants a sidekick. Billy is loyal to a fault and is wanting a friend. Billy doesn’t see what I have seen and this kid lied to me several times. He comes a cross charming but I got his number and he knows it. He got in billys ear after I said no to hanging out and tried to turn billly against me. He accomplished creating contention between us and we were able to work through it. Still this all is so overwhelming. Billys night terrors are difficult financially I’m a failure in being a good provider and I’m having to fend off kids who want to take billy down a negative road. I’m tired and as selfish as it may sound I really need prayer.
    This is the one place I have support and it’s ministered to me in more ways than you all know. Velour thank you thank you the Lord had to of heard my cry because I came here and then saw your post. I wish I could hug you all of you here and those who have prayed supported and given selflessly to us. I don’t know how I could ever repay that kindness.

    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

  21. Latest update – 3/41/17

    I have enough to cover rent. THANK YOU! 🙂
    Now I just need food.

    I have been in less pain the last couple of days. Grateful for that!
    Have been tired, though. Crazy weather here.

    I am still looking for ways to get a car and couch. Today, hope is higher than it’s been. I am grateful for this, as well.

    Thank you to all of you, whether it is prayer, encouragrment, financial….all helps more than I can express. You are all beautiful. 🙂

  22. Shauna wrote:

    I’m a failure in being a good provider and I’m having to fend off kids who want to take billy down a negative road. I’m tired and as selfish as it may sound I really need prayer.

    You are not a failure. Other people, so-called Christians, have failed you and Billy.
    You are not being selfish, either. I don’t think any of us on TWW would say that you are selfish. I am sorry that I’m not in a position to help you financially, but I can always pray.
    Oh, girl. I wish you two lived here, or I lived there. I can’t work right now because of physical problems, but I could provide Billy a safe place when you can’t be at home. I hope someone near you feels burdened to help you out!

  23. Shauna, sweetheart. I’m so sorry about all of this. I think you should start checking out other lines of work. Besides the county jobs, like hospitals, convenience stores, etc.

    Hugs to you and praying,

    Velour in California

  24. I did the convienence store route it was a disaster no hours and they put me on night third shift. The county offers mom-fri 8-5 2500 A month plus benefits vacation sickleave. If I can get into a county job this with me and I can be home in the evening with my son and I have to leave throughout the night it also means I come in and I do clerical work which I’m good at and my pay is based on my performance.Velour wrote:

    Shauna, sweetheart. I’m so sorry about all of this. I think you should start checking out other lines of work. Besides the county jobs, like hospitals, convenience stores, etc.

    Hugs to you and praying,

    Velour in California

  25. Shauna wrote:

    I did the convienence store route it was a disaster no hours and they put me on night third shift. The county offers mom-fri 8-5 2500 A month plus benefits vacation sickleave. If I can get into a county job this with me and I can be home in the evening with my son and I have to leave throughout the night it also means I come in and I do clerical work which I’m good at and my pay is based on my performance.Velour wrote:
    Shauna, sweetheart. I’m so sorry about all of this. I think you should start checking out other lines of work. Besides the county jobs, like hospitals, convenience stores, etc.
    Hugs to you and praying,
    Velour in California

    Got it.

  26. @ Shauna:
    Hi Shauna,

    This is not easy for you and your son.

    A couple of notes, which may or may not be helpful. Only you and our Lord truly know your situation.

    We have always, it seems, been seeking our Lord for guidance and creativity in providing for our family.

    When housing was too expensive in my city, as a single person, I took a position of living-in with an elderly lady, where not only did I get to live in a beautiful home but they paid me to do so, while I worked my 8-5 job during the day – also salaried. Plus, I was caring for an abandoned high school young lady at the time, and she was allowed to move in, too, so I brought a dependent with me.

    Later married with family, our family took in others to live with us, and they made payments – students and such. We set up rules, and they enjoyed our home and family; we enjoyed them, too.

    We have all worked various jobs, regular and odd jobs, at all hours, all different shifts. (My husband suffered a long chronic illness.) I think our children each started working at age 14.

    We made rules to help: no chips and no soda, use the library each week for free, no $$ for entertainment – it all had to be free. No xbox, etc. Go to a park, free days at the zoo or museums.

    And on Christmas, our own children, beginning at ages 5 & 7 came to me and said, “Mom, don’t do gifts and decorations, because we have each other, and that is more than enough. That’s why Jesus came.” So, ever since then, our family has honored their request, and they grew up without Christmas gifts and decorations – no tree, etc., but truly with hearts for Jesus.

    When their dad, my husband, passed away, there was no money for a funeral, etc. However, we found that our county has a $2100 death benefit. With it, we paid for cremation and the urns – one for each of us. A chapel and three, yes three, pastors all did the funeral FREE, and many friends did the music. Friends paid $200 for a reception lunch for all. It was beautiful.

    Finally, our children each worked hard to go to college and then grad school, and find good jobs. Ever grateful. A miracle. God rewarded the kids who decided they only needed Jesus Himself at Christmas.

    We all still do the no soda and no chips, and rarely pay for any entertainment. We all are regular library patrons. Everyone is healthy and active with no weight issues, trying to eat right and keep down the medical bills. We do the free marathons and other free sports. (We had lots of medical expense with my husband, their dad – a lesson in making good health decisions, since he did not have a choice – his medical situation was beyond his control.)

    An excellent book about a mom who managed with very little money and many children is, “The Color of Water” by James McBride. Her children have all, also, gone to college, most through grad school.

    Finally, at one point, one of our sons worked in Haiti for awhile. We never felt deprived. We felt safe and rich. If anyone critiqued our situation, I pointed out that there are those who are truly desperate, but we were merely inconvenienced.

    God bless you, and we’re praying.

  27. Shauna,

    Are there temp agencies you could sign up with? Could you find out who the county uses and maybe go through an agency to get experience with the county?

  28. Yes in applying everywhere this week including them. My manager gets back today from her vacation. She’s not going to be high fiving me after she hears I made a grievance with human resources. She has treated five others the way she’s been doing me yet she has gotten away with it. This is the last thing I wanted to deal with. I had hoped to grow in this company and this week I can’t even pay my rent because of what she did to my hours. I’m trying to find side work so I can at least keep the lights on and give something to my landlord. Please continue to pray that I can find a job this week to replace this one. If I stay she will find things to write me up on. It’s what she has done to other partners. So while I just had a good review I don’t want that tainted. Thank you for reposting the gofundme it helps tremendously and is encouraging that you are praying for us. Billy is affected by this issue with my work as he has watched me struggle through it. He’s scared and I’m trying to assure him it will be ok. It’s just a brief time in our life where we struggle and seek the Lords provision.
    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Velour wrote:

    Shauna,

    Have you also thought about applying for the U.S. Postal Service?

  29. @ JYJames

    What a beautiful post. I love it. We’re of the same mindset and have a lot in common. Hugs and God’s best to you!

  30. @ Shauna

    Hi Shauna-

    Is there a Home Depot near you? I’ve heard over the years that it’s a good place to work and that they encourage women to apply. Maybe that has all changed, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to pass that on to you. I know a fella who worked there on weekends around 2004 (yep, it was a while ago) mainly to get insurance and supplement his income – he said it was a good situation. Perhaps Lowe’s (the home improvement Lowe’s) would be a possibility too.

    Also: have you thought about FedEx and UPS? For the past several months, all my deliveries have been made by women drivers (and I’m loving it – I’ve been out of the workforce for many years due to health, but worked in male-dominated fields back when it was basically unthinkable). They seem to enjoy it, but I’m not sure about the pay these days. I knew several guys who worked for UPS 15-20 years ago and according to them, the pay was good at that time.

    Also, I think Velour was wise to steer you toward the US Postal Service. You may or may not know that the USPS delivers for Amazon now. I’ve even had them deliver to me on Sundays a couple of times, in those little trucks (I live in the country and my regular mail carriers drive their own vehicles).

    Speaking of Amazon, you might want to check and see if they’re hiring customer service reps now, or at least try to apply. I think you can work from home, using a landline phone.

    Another possibility is Alpine Access – I found them online about 10 years ago, and now I see that they’re now part of SYKES Enterprises. When I found them, they hired for customer service positions based from a person’s home – maybe you could check them out:

    https://www.alpineaccessjobs.com/recruiting/reg/login/

    Please keep us posted and hang onto the Lord and His promises, my dear sister – I am keeping you and Billy lifted to Him each day.

    Much love to you both!

  31. @ Talmidah:
    Thanks so much, Talmidah. I must say, the story of James McBride’s mom in “The Color of Water” really spoke to our family. His mom is a goddess.

  32. @ JYJames wrote:

    @ Talmidah:
    Thanks so much, Talmidah. I must say, the story of James McBride’s mom in “The Color of Water” really spoke to our family. His mom is a goddess.

    I just read the info on that book – wow! – and put it on my Amazon wish list. I hope to get it this coming weekend. Thank you *so* much for recommending it…and, your own story is a great inspiration to me. Do you have a blog? If not, I think it would greatly bless a lot of people. It sounds like you are a very kind person with a lot of wisdom, my friend! 🙂

  33. Thanks Talmadah I have been applying to non retail jobs as they do not accommodate billys special needs. I have tried them I’m doing one now and it’s not working out I’m being made to leave billy throughout the night. Billy has been suffering from horrible night terrors he’s waking up seeing his perpetrator and I’m not here. Billy was at one point after the assault contemplating taking his life and immediate counseling just for that happened swiftly. We were able to understand that billy didn’t want to die but that he didn’t know any other way to make it stop. If I’m not here to work him through this when its bad I’m terrified of what I will come home to. So, I’m trying to find something with gaurenteed day hours so that I can be here . Billy also stays after school everyday just to be able to keep up with the rest of the kids if he doesn’t get the one on one help his grades slip all the way down. Anyways all these jobs are great ideas good places but they can not accommodate billys needs especially if I do get a call I will encounter possibly losing that job because I have no choice but to be with my son during the evening hours. Also jobs that are not part time and most of the retail business is part time. There are a lot of day jobs with the county im qualified to work so I’m applying to those. The US postal service is one of them : ) thank you velour for that suggestion. Talmadah thank you your suggestions as well. In the mean time I’m just praying I can take care of our bills for this month. It doesn’t look so well because my hours were dropped to 13 this is the result of working retail as I’m finding out. I tried picking up extra but there is none apparently. Thank you to everyone keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.

    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk
    Velour wrote:

    Shauna,

    Have you also thought about applying for the U.S. Postal Service?

  34. Latest update – 4/3/17

    Rent is paid. 🙂
    Next up, April’s bills start coming due next week. Some bills have gone up (as they do sometimes every 12 months), so total (including gofundme fees) needed is $590.
    In addition to this, I am out of food.

    Thank you all for your continued support. It means more than you know. Much love to you. ♡

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  35. I am now 2 weeks post-op. Still in a lot of pain. I am getting a jaw tooth removed this afternoon. I broke it when I clinched my jaw to hard in the weeks before my surgery due to the severe amount of pain I was in. Like an idiot, I only took otc meds for my pain before the surgery. Now I have a badly broken, abscessed tooth because of my insistence I could do without the meds. Plus I have found out I have a few other health problems. I haven’t had a complete physical in several yrs. One of the health problems runs in my family. It’s not a matter of it, but when you become a diabetic. My dr and I are going round and round on this, as I am in a pre-diabetic stage. I have to watch my diet very carefully, go to a nutritionist soon, etc. Long long story here. But I caused my own health problems. Please don’t do what I have done. Get a physical and eat better. I on the road to eating better, except for a very sore mouth, which may get stitches in later today. Plus I am supposed to be getting 2 implants sometime in the near future. What fun. I’m not the first person to go thru this and I surely won’t be the last person.

  36. OCDan wrote:

    Has anyone here seen this article. Just another reason to be a done:

    https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2015/07/24/skipping-church-facial-recognition-software-could-be-tracking-you/?utm_term=.932312c77028#comments

    This is just getting ridiculous now. I don’t know what to say to anyone at a church that does this.

    Dee has written about this. Here are two posts – there may be others. Yes, it’s ridiculous:

    http://thewartburgwatch.com/2015/06/19/membership-covenant-abuse-a-rebuttal-to-leadership-journal-post-on-church-discipline-and/

    http://thewartburgwatch.com/2015/10/30/you-thought-skynet-was-bad-wait-until-you-see-what-is-coming-to-a-church-near-you/

  37. @ Shauna

    I hear you, dear sister. You and Billy remain in my heart, and I pray that God opens doors to a much better life soon. When you can do nothing else, simply rest in His presence and His love for you. That has personally gotten me through some very, very hard times. Hugs to you and Billy.

  38. @ Talmidah:
    Thanks, Talmidah. I’m still not out of the woods yet, so to speak, however, some day, and then I’ll testify at greater length.

    What has ministered to me, and to my family, are the testimonies of others like the mom of James McBride, and the stories of Gladys Aylward, the ten Boom family, Brother Andrew, George Müller, Eric Liddell, etc. They trusted God through all [difficulties] and God came through creatively for each one, in a unique way.

  39. @ JYJames

    I’m keeping you in prayer too and look forward to hearing more of your testimony. Yes, trust in God is the thing. I just don’t know how people who don’t know Him get through life in general. I know I couldn’t get through a regular day without Him.

  40. Talmidah wrote:

    I know I couldn’t get through a regular day without Him.

    Exactly. I cherish your prayers and will keep you in prayer, also. Again, God bless you and your family. Hugs.

  41. Off-topic announcement.

    Hi Folks,

    Just an updated note that someone made a $200 donation to the GoFundMe that Dee set up for Shuana and her son Billy in Texas. Thank you donors. And all those who pray for this little family.
    (Dee wrote about their story here on TWW.)

    Shauna and Billy are in a dire financial situation right now. Shauna’s part-time job at a grocery store was cut to 13 hours per week. And she doesn’t get paid a lot per hour.
    Right now there is $625 in the GoFundMe account for them, minus fees that are taken out.

    Rent is due $700 and Shauna doesn’t want them to become homeless.

    Would you kind folks please donate whatever you can to this campaign: $20, $25, $50,
    $75, $100 or more so that we can help them keep a roof over their head.
    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Thank you, friends!

  42. Latest update – 4/5/17

    April’s bills start coming due Monday. The total needed (including gofundme fees) is $590.
    I still also need food.

    The health issues are unchanged. I am just keeping focused on moving forward.

    Thank you all for your continued help – prayers, encouragement, generosity – words are inadequate. God grant you peace and wellness.

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  43. Jeannette,

    Would you please let me know the percentage of fees that GoFundMe takes out. I need to figure this out for the current fundraiser for Shauna and her son Billy in Texas.

    Thanks a bunch for your help/math advice.

  44. Jeannette Altes wrote:

    @ Velour:
    For the $725 that had come in over the last day, the formula puts it at $667 and change that they will get.

    Thanks for doing that math, Jeannette.

  45. Off-topic update.

    Hi Folks,

    Just an updated note that we have raised the $700 to pay for Shauna and Billy’s rent in Texas in the GoFundMe account.

    *We now need to raise the $60 in fees that GoFundMe charges (they charge about 8%).
    *Also we do need to raise some more funds to pay for food, household items, and gasoline for them.
    (I think for right now another $220 would be helpful for these expenses.)
    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Thank you to all of our donors!! Thank you to everyone who is praying for Shauna and Billy. (Shauna has a part-time job at a grocery store that was reduced to 13 hours per week.)

    (Dee previously wrote about Shauna and Billy here on TWW.)

    Love and thanks to all,

    Velour in California

  46. Ty velour calling that number todayVelour wrote:

    Off-topic update.

    Hi Folks,

    Just an updated note that we have raised the $700 to pay for Shauna and Billy’s rent in Texas in the GoFundMe account.

    *We now need to raise the $60 in fees that GoFundMe charges (they charge about 8%).
    *Also we do need to raise some more funds to pay for food, household items, and gasoline for them.
    (I think for right now another $220 would be helpful for these expenses.)
    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Thank you to all of our donors!! Thank you to everyone who is praying for Shauna and Billy. (Shauna has a part-time job at a grocery store that was reduced to 13 hours per week.)

    (Dee previously wrote about Shauna and Billy here on TWW.)

    Love and thanks to all,

    Velour in California

  47. Velour can you or someone answer this question . My sons perpetrator plead guilty took a deal. Can the church knowing this because they helped my sons perpetrator and received documentation from the court. Can they continue when asked to say allegation? Or say not true? Can they be held liable? Because what that does is accuse billy and me of making false allegations of rape!!! A lady who visited the church got a hold of me asked me about it I told her and directed her here. She called the church the receptionist said absolutely not true wanted her to speak to one of the pastors and kept saying she wasn’t there at the time billy was assaulted.

  48. Shauna wrote:

    Velour can you or someone answer this question . My sons perpetrator plead guilty took a deal. Can the church knowing this because they helped my sons perpetrator and received documentation from the court. Can they continue when asked to say allegation? Or say not true? Can they be held liable? Because what that does is accuse billy and me of making false allegations of rape!!! A lady who visited the church got a hold of me asked me about it I told her and directed her here. She called the church the receptionist said absolutely not true wanted her to speak to one of the pastors and kept saying she wasn’t there at the time billy was assaulted.

    That would be for a Texas attorney to advise you about the laws of your state.
    I’m in California.

    You could post a question on Avvo.com if an attorney hasn’t already advised you
    who handles sexual abuse cases.

  49. Welcome Shauna for the info regarding low-income housing.

    If you qualify, it seems like the best route to go at this time to provide a roof over your head and Billy’s without going into debt.

  50. There are deposits that need to be considered also breaking my lease.even in low income you need deposits plus rent and where we live im getting cheap rent. My landlady if I’m late doesn’t charge me fees and has not kicked us out she has worked with me more than anyone else would. Texas income limits are much lower than other places. Also we are not going to get any cheaper than where we live. I am getting the best rent. Then I need to consider that i will be pulling billy out of school with more accommodations than schools outside this area and removing him from the place he’s known since he was 8 yrs old. The other school district has a bad reputation educationally and environment. I don’t have the funds to move or any help to move our stuff. Just to move to this place took money plus help from a variety of people when we lived an hour away. I am working on another job and tomorrow I will be speaking with human resources. There is a no retaliation policy in place. In the meantime thank you to all of you. My landlord stated their company will look into possibly accepting section 8 if I qualify. Velour wrote:

    Welcome Shauna for the info regarding low-income housing.

    If you qualify, it seems like the best route to go at this time to provide a roof over your head and Billy’s without going into debt.

  51. @ Shauna

    @ Velour

    Shauna, I’m so glad that people have been helping and giving. Answered prayers!

    Velour, thanks again for giving such good advice and posting updates.

    Also, Velour, maybe I’m wrong, but don’t most attorneys give a free phone consultation? They have for me here in NC on several occasions. I spent about a half hour with one guy who had a good, solid practice and he said there was no need to mail him a check after I offered. A couple of others did basically the same. Maybe Shauna could call around and find someone willing to do that as well and at least point her in the right direction. Just a thought.

  52. Talmidah wrote:

    maybe I’m wrong, but don’t most attorneys give a free phone consultation?

    I don’t know what they do in Texas, as I am in California. Shauna should call her local bar association and ask for a referral. http://www.mcbatx.com/

    In my state, an attorney would send a cease and desist letter to the church advising them to stop saying what they are saying to people in such a case. Next up would be going to court and seeking an injunction, an order of the court/judge to order them to stop doing something (or to do something).

  53. @ Talmidah:

    Attorneys in my area of California charge a very reduced rate for a 30-minute in person meeting, that is arranged through the local attorneys’ Bar Association referral service.

  54. Talmidah wrote:

    Velour, thanks again for giving such good advice and posting updates.

    Most welcome.

    We have a nice group of folks here, some who have financial resources to contribute.
    Others who are prayer warriors!

    Thank you for caring about folks and for always praying for them!

  55. Yes everyone here has been amazing ty ty ty the prayers have lifted me up I took velours advice and filled out an application for reduced housing. Praying we qualify. I called an attorney waiting for a call back. I figured someone here might already know.

  56. I just saw this. I have sent a cease and desist to the church months ago. Today I called the church and politely asked them to stop saying allegations and stating the assault was false. The new youth pastor was polite and inquired whether I thought my going public harmed the church and if I was bitter. If I told ken my grievances ? I of course set him straight in regards to my being at peace with the Lord in my decision to go public and that at this point I have nothing further to say to the elders. He asked if I was forgiving and I asked him what do I need to forgive? I then went on to say that if according to the elders the rape never occurred we were never disciplined who and what is it I need to forgive? That unless the elders of LBC acknowledge these offenses to us and the church as my son and I have shared through Dee and Deb and ask for forgiveness then what is it I’m forgiving? Just as we need to ask for forgiveness to the Lord for our sins in order to be forgiven. Until we do that we are not going to receive forgiveness from Christ. He could not answer that question. So, I will be sending another certified letter. Velour wrote:

    Talmidah wrote:

    maybe I’m wrong, but don’t most attorneys give a free phone consultation?

    I don’t know what they do in Texas, as I am in California. Shauna should call her local bar association and ask for a referral. http://www.mcbatx.com/

    In my state, an attorney would send a cease and desist letter to the church advising them to stop saying what they are saying to people in such a case. Next up would be going to court and seeking an injunction, an order of the court/judge to order them to stop doing something (or to do something).

  57. Shauna wrote:

    So, I will be sending another certified letter.

    It would honestly be best if this came from a licensed Texas attorney to your former church, in my opinion. Please seek good legal advice.

  58. Hi Folks,

    Just a note to thank the donor who just donated $100 to the GoFundMe campaign that Dee set up for Shauna and Billy in Texas. (Dee wrote about their story here on TWW.)

    With this latest donation it will cover the 8% that GoFundme charges for a fundraiser.
    We have raised the $700 to pay for Shauna and Billy’s monthly rent.

    They have been in a tight financial situation. Shauna’s part-time job at a grocery store was reduced to 13 hours a week.

    I think that about $200 would help them in the interim with food, some household items, and gasoline for their car.

    Thank you!

    Please keep them in prayer. They have been discouraged of late.

    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Regards,

    Velour in California

  59. Velour I wish we could meet in person. You and the brothers and sisters here have prayed for us diligently and support us. It means everything to us. Billy saw the gofundme yesterday when I told him to look he said mom I can’t believe it they don’t know us when I can I’m out of college and have a good job I’m going to do this for kids here like me. I am so moved by his heart and I know he will do exactly what he just said.
    If I may ask for prayer specifically tonight I go into work for the first time in five days. After being treated badly by my manager I really don’t want to go but I am because it’s a commitment I made. Pray that I work so hard and so well that I leave no room for anyone to say I don’t do a good job. Also I speak to human resources today she is outside this store and therefore in a position to advocate fairly to employees. I have gathered information from others who have complained to management about the same things I’m going through with this manager. It’s already documented and all she needs to do is interview other employees and the truth will speak for itself. It’s unfortunate that the manager I work under has gotten away with doing these things to at least six others. However until now human resources hadn’t been involved which these managers won’t be high fiving me this weekend. Someone at some point has to say something. Whether I stay or go this will make it better for the next person who gets her crap! I’m hoping to stay but if I don’t I know the Lord is going to guide me through this onto something better. My meeting is at 9:30am this morning so please please if you all read this please pray for me especially before this time during and after. Pray she will judge rightly and fare. Pray that others will not fear telling the truth and that their honesty will be rewarded. These employees can benefit far more with the truth rather than silence. This is one thing I have learned from Dee and den here at TWW. I have learned this through all of you. Thank you for helping me and billy share his story with truth and boldness. I love all of you for all you do for us and I pray whole heartedly God will honor your giving in prayer, support, and the gofundme. I would hug every single one of you if I could. Thank you for loving my billy. I’m crazy in love with this sweet boy who has been an absolute treasure of my heart since the day I knew I was carrying such a gift. He has made life colorful, exciting, and filled with joy. I gush about billy but that’s because I wish all of you could know this kid personally. He’s not close to perfect no kid is but he is the joy God brought into my life. Velour wrote:

    Hi Folks,

    Just a note to thank the donor who just donated $100 to the GoFundMe campaign that Dee set up for Shauna and Billy in Texas. (Dee wrote about their story here on TWW.)

    With this latest donation it will cover the 8% that GoFundme charges for a fundraiser.
    We have raised the $700 to pay for Shauna and Billy’s monthly rent.

    They have been in a tight financial situation. Shauna’s part-time job at a grocery store was reduced to 13 hours a week.

    I think that about $200 would help them in the interim with food, some household items, and gasoline for their car.

    Thank you!

    Please keep them in prayer. They have been discouraged of late.

    https://www.gofundme.com/pxs5dk

    Regards,

    Velour in California

  60. Shauna wrote:

    Velour I wish we could meet in person. You and the brothers and sisters here have prayed for us diligently and support us. It means everything to us. Billy saw the gofundme yesterday when I told him to look he said mom I can’t believe it they don’t know us when I can I’m out of college and have a good job I’m going to do this for kids here like me. I am so moved by his heart and I know he will do exactly what he just said.
    If I may ask for prayer specifically tonight I go into work for the first time in five days.

    Good morning Shauna,

    I wish I could meet you and Billy too!

    I know you have a sweet son and he is a treasure.

    I am praying for you about human resources. Just be calm. Be clear. Sometimes human resources protects the company, so you have to test the waters. Be calm, just the same.

    People may not come forward if they want to hang on to their jobs. So be prepared for that possibility.

    There is a good website called Ask A Manager by Alison Green. I think Friday is Open Thread day and you can discuss anything work-related that you want. It’s a smart group over there. So you could also post your work-related issues over there and ask for advice, if you ever feel like it.

    http://www.askamanager.org/category/open-threads

  61. Shauna wrote:

    I’m going to do this for kids here like me. I am so moved by his heart and I know he will do exactly what he just said.

    Billy is awesome, with such strong spirit. For him to still have such a big, loving, open heart after all he’s been through is astounding, inspiring.
    Shauna wrote:

    Whether I stay or go this will make it better for the next person who gets her crap!

    Yes!
    It’s way past 9:30 CT, now. I do so hope things went well for you. Either way, you are doing the right thing.

  62. Velour Hank you so much. My meeting went good. The people I work with said if they are asked they will absolutely tell her their experience. There is a zero retaliation tolerance policy with the company. Also everything including my grievance is confidential. She will ask the other employees questions and investigate and at no time will their responses or names will be made known to management. I expect there to be retaliation against me but if that happens she said call her immediately.Velour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Velour I wish we could meet in person. You and the brothers and sisters here have prayed for us diligently and support us. It means everything to us. Billy saw the gofundme yesterday when I told him to look he said mom I can’t believe it they don’t know us when I can I’m out of college and have a good job I’m going to do this for kids here like me. I am so moved by his heart and I know he will do exactly what he just said.
    If I may ask for prayer specifically tonight I go into work for the first time in five days.

    Good morning Shauna,

    I wish I could meet you and Billy too!

    I know you have a sweet son and he is a treasure.

    I am praying for you about human resources. Just be calm. Be clear. Sometimes human resources protects the company, so you have to test the waters. Be calm, just the same.

    People may not come forward if they want to hang on to their jobs. So be prepared for that possibility.

    There is a good website called Ask A Manager by Alison Green. I think Friday is Open Thread day and you can discuss anything work-related that you want. It’s a smart group over there. So you could also post your work-related issues over there and ask for advice, if you ever feel like it.

    http://www.askamanager.org/category/open-threads

  63. Latest update – 4/7/17

    April’s bills are coming due Monday. The total needed (including gofundme fees) is $590.
    I am also still in need of food.

    The health issues are the same – pain is constant, but at normal levels. I seem to only he able to maintain a sort of balance, not continue in the improvement. It is like I have hit a sort of wall, or entered a long plateau. But I have faith this will change for the better soon.

    The writing is still moving, frustratingly slow, but not gone. I continue to keep my eyes open.

    Thank you for all you continue to do. I wish you all great peace and abundance of all good things.

    http://www.gofundme.com/ljahelp

  64. @ Jeannette Altes:

    Hi Jeannette,

    I really hope that you will see if you can qualify to Social Security disability benefits given your health problems. I know that it can be difficult to do at first, but I know people who have been successful at it. It would give you a monthly income if you became eligible for that benefit.

  65. @ Velour

    @ Shauna

    Shauna, I’m so glad that things went well this morning. I hope that you can get lots more hours or a better employment situation altogether.

    Velour is right about the cease and desist – let an attorney handle the correspondence. Actually, I’m not even sure why you’re talking to those people at the church. Maybe I missed something along the way – please feel free to correct me. If I were you, I think I’d wait to speak to an attorney and go from there.

    Shauna, after I post this note, I’ll post another with some resources I found for you and Billy this morning (so this one won’t be a mile long). I hope something in there will help.

    Speaking of which…you’re probably doing this already, but document *everything*: times, dates, notes on who said what, everything. Go to the Walmart or Dollar Store if you have to and get a spiral notebook or two and a cheapo folder to keep it all in – you won’t be sorry. I’ve had to do this a couple of times and I thank God I did. I avoided a lot of headache.

    Velour, thanks again for your kind words to Shauna and me, and your excellent advice. What a terrific friend you are.

    The next post contains lots of links so it may take some time to clear customs. Dee and Deb, if you read this and I’m creating a problem, or if this is not the appropriate place to put these resources, just let me know. The last thing I want to do is create a hassle for ya’ll. If you’d like to forward my email address to Shauna so I can send her these links privately that’s perfectly fine. Thanks for all you do for us here.

    Love to everyone from super-windy NC!

  66. @ Shauna

    Texas Crime Victim Legal Assistance Network – TCVLAN:

    https://www.texasvictimnetwork.org/

    https://www.texasvictimnetwork.org/find-help (advocacy groups)

    ====================

    Texas Legal Services Center:

    http://www.tlsc.org/index.asp

    Advocates for Victims of Crime (AVOICE):

    888-343-4414

    http://www.tlsc.org/programs/avoice.asp

    Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault (LASSA):

    844-303-SAFE (7233)

    http://www.tlsc.org/programs/lassa.asp

    ====================

    Attorney General of Texas:

    https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/

    Crime Victim Services – Assisting Victims of Violent Crime:

    https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/crime-victim-services-assisting-victims-of-violent-crime

    ====================

    Texas State Law Library – Free Legal Hotlines (a couple of these hotlines are listed above):

    https://www.sll.texas.gov/self-help/where-to-go-for-help/legal-hotlines/#violence-and-assault-hotlines

    From the link just above:

    Texas Advocacy Project

    “The Texas Advocacy Project offers two free legal hotlines: the Hope Line, which addresses a variety of legal concerns related to domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and the Pro-Bono Attorney Line, which is reserved for attorneys seeking legal assistance for pro bono domestic violence cases. These hotlines are staffed by attorneys Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Hope Line is available at (800) 374-4673. The Pro-Bono Attorney Line is available at (866) 598-4277.”

  67. @ Jeannette Altes

    Keeping you in prayer always, dear sister and friend. If I can help by looking up resources for you as I have Shauna, just let me know. I have free time throughout the day and check in here often.

  68. Jeannette,

    Might I suggest finding work as a caregiver? I did this years ago after cancer treatment. I was too sick and weak to work at a regular job so I became a caregiver to an elderly woman. Low stress and not too physically demanding. I’ll bet if you advertised your services you’d have at least several prospective clients bidding for your services.

  69. Going to work my 12 hours this weekend after being scheduled off all this week! Pft I’m going to do the best job possible and give no one any room to say anything negative about my work ethic. Please pray for me tonight

  70. Uppity Bimbo wrote:

    Jeannette,
    Might I suggest finding work as a caregiver? I did this years ago after cancer treatment. I was too sick and weak to work at a regular job so I became a caregiver to an elderly woman. Low stress and not too physically demanding. I’ll bet if you advertised your services you’d have at least several prospective clients bidding for your services.

    Excellent idea!

    I have done this before too when I was cash-strapped.

  71. Shauna wrote:

    Going to work my 12 hours this weekend after being scheduled off all this week! Pft I’m going to do the best job possible and give no one any room to say anything negative about my work ethic. Please pray for me tonight

    Praying.

  72. Jeannette Altes wrote:

    The health issues are the same – pain is constant, but at normal levels. I seem to only he able to maintain a sort of balance, not continue in the improvement. It is like I have hit a sort of wall, or entered a long plateau. But I have faith this will change for the better soon.

    I hope you will consider meeting with a social worker to discuss your options in your area.
    This is something that should qualify for disability, if a physician will certify you.

    Sometimes disability comes with paid help in some form, if you qualify, and assistance with food.

    While we’re a great community here at The Wartburg Watch, we’re not the answer to anyone’s long-term financial needs.

    Please call a social worker in your area. Catholic Charities in Grand Junction, CO
    has a number of services for people and you don’t even have to be a Catholic!

    Here’s the food pantry: http://www.catholicoutreach.org/our-programs/food-pantry/

  73. I am exploring the idea that people who have a tendency to bully others may be gravitating to certain kinds of communities where they can act out those bullying tendencies openly ….

    in reading out the harassment and persecution of women (and children) by some ‘churches’, I do think that many people in these communities ‘look away’ or are too frightened or cowed to act responsibly to try to stop the harassment, HOWEVER, I do think a certain portion of the membership must be aware of the harassment and egging it on in a kind of bullying-by-proxy where the ‘elders’ and ‘pastors’ speak and act for them in bringing torment to innocent victims …..

    and in the end, are there victims so tormented that they attempt suicide? if no comes to help them?

    I just saw a story about a mother and her disabled daughter who ended it after many years of abuse at the hand of neighborhood gangs, young people whose PARENTS egged them on to abuse the disabled child. The police and social services did nothing. And so the woman and her daughter died as the mother set fire to their car, no longer being able to handle the pain of the unrelenting abuse
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS6nWXrPDNk

  74. Ty velour unfortunately my managers blind sided me this morning. I’m livid I do have my job but the meeting which took place this morning was awful. I won’t go into detail just know I am going to stick it out for as long as possible until I secure another better job.?it was so bad I literally have anxiety but it will pas. Ty you all for your help it was an incredible encouragement. I can’t type. Anymore it’s all most 7 and I need. To sleepVelour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Going to work my 12 hours this weekend after being scheduled off all this week! Pft I’m going to do the best job possible and give no one any room to say anything negative about my work ethic. Please pray for me tonight

    Praying.

  75. Shauna wrote:

    Please pray for me tonight

    You are being prayed for during the night hours, my dear Shauna, you and Billy.

  76. @ Christiane:

    You should read Brad Sargent/FuturistGuy’s website. He’s done research about the church bullying issue. His link is also here on Dee and Deb’s Blogroll.

  77. Shauna wrote:

    Ty velour unfortunately my managers blind sided me this morning. I’m livid I do have my job but the meeting which took place this morning was awful. I won’t go into detail just know I am going to stick it out for as long as possible until I secure another better job.?it was so bad I literally have anxiety but it will pas. Ty you all for your help it was an incredible encouragement. I can’t type. Anymore it’s all most 7 and I need. To sleepVelour wrote:
    Shauna wrote:
    Going to work my 12 hours this weekend after being scheduled off all this week! Pft I’m going to do the best job possible and give no one any room to say anything negative about my work ethic. Please pray for me tonight
    Praying.

    I am sorry to hear about that Shuana, but I am not surprised.

    Get your sleep and we’ll keep praying for you.

    Also, check out the Ask A Manager website/Alison Green when you get a chance.
    Open Thread Fridays are awesome over there. You can ask for advice there too
    about the job situation and it’s a savvy crowd.

  78. Thanks velour. I’m calming down and at this point if I stay they are going to find anything to write me up on and fire me. To be honest this work environment has become more hostile and I need the job but the stress alone is going to land me in the hospital. I had an anxiety attack this morning I’ve only had that one time before eight years ago. The is the scariest thing to ever experience. I had to call a friend and when she got on the phone my speech slurred I felt like my heart was racing 100 miles a minute I felt so dizzy and my legs buckled. She was able to get to me fortunately billy was still sleeping. I’m ok now but I imagine my blood pressure is either to high. I went to sleep and woke up like this so I couldn’t even help that I had an anxiety attack. I need to regroup calm down pray while looking at my options. No job is worth my health and sanity. I did not go into this thinking I would be dealing with this. Never in my work experience and I have been working since I was a teenager have I dealt with such people who have no common decency much less professionalism. However I see it exists and now I have a decision to make. I’m not going back and if I need to go flip burgers then that’s what I need to do. It will be temporary until I get into a job with my skill set. I’m hoping to land a job with the county and that is my goal. In the next two and a half weeks billy and I need prayer because I need to figure out how to bring in enough income for these next two and a half to three weeks without going back. I’m feeling some peace about this decision but scared at the same time. However if they give me 12 hours a week then I’m paying for gas just to get out of the house and make 40 bucks after gas and taxes then I’m better off staying with billy since his night terrors are bad right now. I know you all are praying for us and thank you so much. Velour you are a rock to me here with advice support and what you all do with the gofundme. It’s way more than I could have asked and God is showing His faithfulness in it. It’s not just people that are putting it there it’s God moving His children to care for a widow and orphan. It’s Him providing for His daughter and son. It’s taking everything in me to not shed tears because I know what the support has done for us. I just don’t have words. My heart is to get settled into a job where my gifts and talents are and to become self sufficient financially again if it’s His will. I do realize though God may still want us totally dependent on Him so I’m going to work tirelessly this week to get what ever I can and there has to be something better than being treated this way. I know there is and I can’t spend my health over this nonsense and unprofessional section of the company I work for . My heart was to grow there but maybe the Lord is letting me see that this was temporary. He knows my heart and He knows my work ethic. I can work for anyone and there’s never been a job above me that I wouldn’t do if it’s an honest living. I can not change what is in my heart and both my heart and mind is screaming GET OUT NOW. Big hugs to all of you . You help me keep my sanity and I’m going to go apologize to billy for snapping at him. He is seeing my condition this morning and it scared him. I need to ease his heart and let him know God is in control He’s sustain us and we will be better off with me not going back. He’s been telling me for days “mom leave it’s not worth it” we will be ok” “look what Jesus did with the gofundme that was for me mom that was for you” ” mom look at these strangers who are praying for me ” he told me this morning ” mom just let go He will catch us” I’m so amazed by his maturity. You can see with his words what a wonderful kid he really is. Anyway I need to go apologize to my son and give him a big hug for being such a young man. I truly love all of you here. Please know that without Dee and Deb we would never know you my sweet brothers and sisters. These two ladies are truly my heros as they advocate for the tired the abused the hungry the hurting and all of you here are true to the scriptures because billy and I were hungry and you fed us we were naked you clothed us. Velour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Ty velour unfortunately my managers blind sided me this morning. I’m livid I do have my job but the meeting which took place this morning was awful. I won’t go into detail just know I am going to stick it out for as long as possible until I secure another better job.?it was so bad I literally have anxiety but it will pas. Ty you all for your help it was an incredible encouragement. I can’t type. Anymore it’s all most 7 and I need. To sleepVelour wrote:
    Shauna wrote:
    Going to work my 12 hours this weekend after being scheduled off all this week! Pft I’m going to do the best job possible and give no one any room to say anything negative about my work ethic. Please pray for me tonight
    Praying.

    I am sorry to hear about that Shuana, but I am not surprised.

    Get your sleep and we’ll keep praying for you.

    Also, check out the Ask A Manager website/Alison Green when you get a chance.
    Open Thread Fridays are awesome over there. You can ask for advice there too
    about the job situation and it’s a savvy crowd.

  79. I’m going to look into this as well. Thanks for the suggestionVelour wrote:

    Uppity Bimbo wrote:

    Jeannette,
    Might I suggest finding work as a caregiver? I did this years ago after cancer treatment. I was too sick and weak to work at a regular job so I became a caregiver to an elderly woman. Low stress and not too physically demanding. I’ll bet if you advertised your services you’d have at least several prospective clients bidding for your services.

    Excellent idea!

    I have done this before too when I was cash-strapped.

  80. I have on prayer request among my many. I clean for a couple who are homosexual. Very very nice men and have kept me for two years.
    They come on the weekends to their lake house and pay me 160 every time they come. They also pay me to shop if they don’t have time. That is 640 a month if they come every weekend this summer which is usually a regular thing for them. They pay me 50-100 to grocery shop. So with these guys alone I can sustain if I get five more cleaning jobs I can make more than enough to support us until I can get a county job or one in my skill set plus I can be there for billy. I’m grateful to these guys they have been more kind and generous than a lot of Christians. Unfortunately they have not been coming to the lake house during winter , spring and holidays. Summer is coming and this is when I get steady work twelve to 18 weeks

  81. @ Shauna

    Dearest Shauna, I’m very concerned about your health. Please try to stay calm and take care of yourself so you may also take care of Billy. Rest as much as you can and take breaks whenever possible. I know that’s easier said than done. My daughter has trouble with anxiety and it’s affecting her heart. I had trouble with it but as I’ve gotten older I’ve learned how to blow off a lot of stuff. Keep praying for strength and practice God’s presence each day. He is always with you.

    I do hope you can get into a better work situation quickly. Here in NC, caregiver positions can be found through county social services, I believe. You might want to check with your own county’s SS department. Also check with local companies which provide home health care and/or hospice services. When I was caring for my mom before she died, I recall one of her hospice nurses telling me that they were happy to talk to anyone interested in caregiving, and sometimes had leads for private situations. My sister-in-law was a private caregiver and she really enjoyed it.

    The fellas with the lake house sound wonderful. Stay in touch with them and let them know you’re eager to work. Maybe they know other people you could clean and shop for, or could give other direction.

    Many years ago, when I was much better off physically, I cleaned new construction. Do you know any builders/contractors?…or any real estate folks (I was a realtor too, lol…I’ve done a lot of stuff!)? The pay may not be as good as it was back then, and in a way it’s harder than cleaning homes people are already living in, but to me it was better and easier: get in, get out, and not worry about breaking something or whatever.

    Keep us posted and as always, I’m praying!

  82. @ Shauna:

    Praying for you Shauna. (And Billy too.)

    Thanks for sharing your situation with us and what’s going on. No, the abuse is not worth it.

    Maybe the men who employ you at the lake house could help put in a good word for your services. They sound like sweethearts and I’m glad that they employ you.

    Hugs,

    Velour

  83. They are and have been amazing velour. They pay me well when ever they come out. Lately they have been out of the country and not coming to the lake. However summers they come almost every week. They have given billy nice suits and clothes most don’t fit as billy is tall and they are shorter. However some stuff fits but they are so generous. I’m certain God brought us to them for this time. When ken had the church members drop my cleaning services these guys came along and saved us from totally going under. They gave me work that literally put food on billys table. What Jen tried to take away God gave it right back and he used unbelievers to carry out His purpose. Had I been with the church there is no way the elders would have wanted me cleaning for them. I find it a bit amusing that God used them in spite of the church taking food off our table to give me work..
    So just a small update. Billy and are not feeling well. I called in and I feel at peace not being in that cesspool of a store. Please keep praying I am going to job hunt like never before. I want a job before this new week is up. Let’s pray and see what God does. If he says we can ask then I’m asking for a job with a decent wage and a place where I can grow and show my skills actually use them. Love you all muah muah muahVelour wrote:

    @ Shauna:

    Praying for you Shauna. (And Billy too.)

    Thanks for sharing your situation with us and what’s going on. No, the abuse is not worth it.

    Maybe the men who employ you at the lake house could help put in a good word for your services. They sound like sweethearts and I’m glad that they employ you.

    Hugs,

    Velour

  84. Shauna wrote:

    I find it a bit amusing that God used them in spite of the church taking food off our table to give me work..

    Unbelievers frequently have the goodness of God written on their hearts and they know right from wrong.

    Elastigirl has made this point time and time again about all of her loving, unbelieving friends — far nicer than many church folks! Ain’t that the truth.

    By the way, you posted recently that Billy needed clothes. I will try to round up the troops and see what we can do.

    What are his specific needs and HIS SIZES!?

  85. Velour wrote:

    Jeannette Altes wrote:
    The health issues are the same – pain is constant, but at normal levels. I seem to only he able to maintain a sort of balance, not continue in the improvement. It is like I have hit a sort of wall, or entered a long plateau. But I have faith this will change for the better soon.
    I hope you will consider meeting with a social worker to discuss your options in your area.
    This is something that should qualify for disability, if a physician will certify you.
    Sometimes disability comes with paid help in some form, if you qualify, and assistance with food.
    While we’re a great community here at The Wartburg Watch, we’re not the answer to anyone’s long-term financial needs.
    Please call a social worker in your area. Catholic Charities in Grand Junction, CO
    has a number of services for people and you don’t even have to be a Catholic!
    Here’s the food pantry: http://www.catholicoutreach.org/our-programs/food-pantry/

    Hi Jeannette,

    The GoFundMe campaign has been running for you for 13 months, a little over 1 year for yo.
    It’s not the solution to a disability problem.

    Please see a social worker and discuss your situation and options. Disability insurance
    and sometimes Social Security disability are for situations like this.

    Take care.

  86. @ Velour:
    Velour, I hear you and have great respect for what you do here at TWW. And I am very aware of the situation as you have stated it.

    That said, I request to know whether you are speaking on behalf of Dee and Deb and/or the TWW community.

    Thank you.

  87. @ Jeannette Altes:

    Hmm…blog comments can be so difficult to communicate through. It is so easy to assume intent and attitude that is not present. It feels like my request for assistance had offended you. If so, I am sorry.
    If Dee or Deb would like me to stop posting these requests, I will certainly do so. I never expected or wanted this situation to go this long.

    Thank you for all the prayers and support you have given.

  88. Jeannette Altes wrote:

    @ Uppity Bimbo:
    Thank you for the suggestion. I will think about it. I’m not sure if I’d be up to it, though. I have to have someone come in once a month to clean for me as I can’t do it myself yet.

    Velour is right, Jeannette. According to your Go Fund Me page you’ve collected over $21,000 in 15 months. What started off as a request for temporary help has morphed into an expectation of indefinite financial support and that simply isn’t sustainable. If your physical condition is such that you can’t even clean your own home you’re not going to get a job anytime soon. You need government/charitable assistance.

  89. @Jeannette,

    My concern for you, and I hear that in other comments from other people here, is that you have declined suggestions from everyone in the TWW community about how to generate an income and pay your expenses.

    You said you have a long-term disability. If that is the case, a physician should be able to certify you for disability/monthly check and would know your medical history and condition.

    I was asked to formally take over some pages when TWW is released in a new format.

    The TWW community will have, and presently has, other emergency situations that people are facing and they will require our financial assistance to stabilize their situations.

    Please see a social worker about your situation, discuss what services are available for you, and come up with an action plan.

  90. Update I applied to some senior homes two in fact to do some caregiving there. The lady seemed nice who manages one. I’m still applying for a job with the county but at this point I will take whatever I can get and quickly. I’m excited and I’m going to go for the school district to. They have jobs open right now to work in the kitchen and serve kids. With my time in abakery I just might get it

  91. Shauna wrote:

    Update I applied to some senior homes two in fact to do some caregiving there. The lady seemed nice who manages one. I’m still applying for a job with the county but at this point I will take whatever I can get and quickly. I’m excited and I’m going to go for the school district to. They have jobs open right now to work in the kitchen and serve kids. With my time in abakery I just might get it

    Excellent, Shauna.

    We’re rooting for you and Billy and praying for you!

  92. @ Jeannette Altes:

    Jeannette,

    By the way, I have had to utilize services that I never thought I would have to following a major medical condition and surgery. I had to apply for disability and was medically certified by my physician. I received a monthly disability check which was a God send while I needed it.

    I have had to use food banks, and yes while it’s humbling it’s nice to know that good food is available at no charge (canned goods, produce, etc.).

    I have had to do elder care to generate income.

    I have had to go to support groups to help me with action plans. I’ve had to meet with social workers.

    So I’ve been there. But yes, we have to do these things to generate income and take care of ourselves.

  93. You are amazing I will get with him and go through his clothes and see what he absolutely needs. He’s really good with taking care of his things. He also works one to two days on the weekends he makes pocket money. He is trying to save to go to serve at a Christian camp in California. When my parents left me (and I mean no disrespect to my parents in saying this they are unbelievers and did the best they knew how) the director of this camp and the families who served there took me in and raised me from 11yrs old up until I went to college. They showed Christ all the way be never was given financial support to care for me. Anyways lassen pines Christian camp saved my life and my most sweetest years are with the loving Christians who loved and cared for me. Billy went to this camp for five weeks three weeks after he had been raped. It was the hardest thing to do was to let him go. My instincts were to keep him with me and not let him out of my site especially given the severe trauma he suffered. He was still taking a medication that had made him violently sick everyday( it was a HIV preventative) but we had planned this months before the assault and with the advice of the DA our court appointed advocate they believed it would be good for him to get away. He was terrified of his perpetrator and wasn’t sleeping he couldn’t even give the forensic interview at that time he was so scared. Anyways as hard as it was for me to let him go it turned out to be billys blessing. He needed to get away and be in a place where God could help him heal and these strangers to him became his family like they did for me. This camp is amazingly beautiful.
    It’s on 200 acres up near Mt Lassen about 12,000 feet up. Your surrounded by pine trees and mountains rivers with crooks and waterfalls if you venture out. There are two lakes one for fishing the other for swimming, bobbing, kayaking. There’s zip lines and a go kart track there use to be horses. Everything there was donated over years and materials donated to beautify the camps which the kids serving and volunteering would help with landscaping painting anything we got to make it better for the kids to come each week to hear the gospel. The kids there either worked on staff in the kitchen, dining room, dish room, grounds crew , cleaning crew, and so forth. Billy served in the dish room for those five weeks. The camps range anywhere from 0-600 each week. Kids come from all over with their churches , word of life , and other Christian groups. They would have camp and the gospel would be preached that week to them. The kids serving were helping plant seeds by serving these kids with a smile and no expectation of anything in return it’s not a paid job but a ministry.
    Because the director is invested in kids he helped a lot of us get scholarships to Christian colleges. He wanted to see us serve the Lord no matter where we were called. This camp gave me the foundation of a strong work ethic and the ability to take any job no matter how menial. I’m forever grateful to the Lord for these men and women who loved me and now get to love billy.
    Billy told me that he was ready now to go back to camp and serve the entire summer. I was so thrilled because I didn’t have to mention anything. He just wants to go and serve the Lord there. So we are trying to save up for his round trip plane ticket. There are plenty of good deals and We can do it so please pray for this that billy and I can save. We don’t have much time but if I transition into a new job with regular hours even at 9.00 an hour I can make enough to live without assistance. I think the Lord is pulling me out of my current work situation into something better. I’m a creature of habit so once I get situated I stick with it and hate change do I believe God is teaching me by letting me go through this and continue to be dependent on Him.
    Praying for a job this week. Can I ask all of you. to pray at the same time on Tuesday if we are in the same time zone? I will be taking a three part test at 8:00 Tuesday I need to pass all three parts with an 80% or better typing/math/ and word if you could say a prayer during that test I will be eternally grateful. I’m nervous but this could mean 3,000 a month income for me and bully plus benefits if I get the job.
    That is more than half of what I’m living on. Billy is excited about me going for another job. Velour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    I find it a bit amusing that God used them in spite of the church taking food off our table to give me work..

    Unbelievers frequently have the goodness of God written on their hearts and they know right from wrong.

    Elastigirl has made this point time and time again about all of her loving, unbelieving friends — far nicer than many church folks! Ain’t that the truth.

    By the way, you posted recently that Billy needed clothes. I will try to round up the troops and see what we can do.

    What are his specific needs and HIS SIZES!?

  94. Shauna wrote:

    Praying for a job this week. Can I ask all of you. to pray at the same time on Tuesday if we are in the same time zone? I will be taking a three part test at 8:00 Tuesday I need to pass all three parts with an 80% or better typing/math/ and word if you could say a prayer during that test I will be eternally grateful. I’m nervous but this could mean 3,000 a month income for me and bully plus benefits if I get the job.

    Will do, Shauna.

    That’s exciting about Billy wanting to come back to camp in California. It should be beautiful and fun.

  95. Yes velour!!!!!! I agree 100% if he’s supposed to go then I truly believe God will make it happen for him.,it’s still hard the thought of letting him go but billy needs to grow up and I need to let it happen. Besides with him gone I can work like a mad woman and save up before he gets back. Velour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Praying for a job this week. Can I ask all of you. to pray at the same time on Tuesday if we are in the same time zone? I will be taking a three part test at 8:00 Tuesday I need to pass all three parts with an 80% or better typing/math/ and word if you could say a prayer during that test I will be eternally grateful. I’m nervous but this could mean 3,000 a month income for me and bully plus benefits if I get the job.

    Will do, Shauna.

    That’s exciting about Billy wanting to come back to camp in California. It should be beautiful and fun.

  96. Hi I just saw this yes you are so right. I was furious when I was contacted and they are still calling it an allegation and lies. I let my temper get the best of me. I was polite but very firm when I told them stop calling it an allegation and lies. Bottom line is the youth pastor attempted to bait me into some type of Matthew 18 or Galations 6:1 it didn’t work. He remained polite not pushy but the way I responded he could not answer my clear cut questions in response to his. Bottom line his questioning the Calvinist can’t support their steps of confrontation / reconciliation without telling me what I would be forgiving. He wanted to know if I could forgive so I said forgive what? He had no answer. Because you can’t forgive if the person offending you doesn’t acknowledge the offense and says he did nothing. Then he tried saying Jesus while on the cross said “Father forgive them for they know not what they do”. I responded by saying ” yes! He did say that however a sinner will not receive His forgiveness if he refuses to acknowledge his offense to Christ and that would be our sin against Him” Forgiveness is there but the offender gas to acknowledge that he has offended. Needless to say he did not go any further just a polite thank you and he would inform the elders that I requested they stop denying my sons rape if people ask. I do not fear these men not in conversation over the phone or in person. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Velour

    @ Shauna

    Shauna, I’m so glad that things went well this morning. I hope that you can get lots more hours or a better employment situation altogether.

    Velour is right about the cease and desist – let an attorney handle the correspondence. Actually, I’m not even sure why you’re talking to those people at the church. Maybe I missed something along the way – please feel free to correct me. If I were you, I think I’d wait to speak to an attorney and go from there.

    Shauna, after I post this note, I’ll post another with some resources I found for you and Billy this morning (so this one won’t be a mile long). I hope something in there will help.

    Speaking of which…you’re probably doing this already, but document *everything*: times, dates, notes on who said what, everything. Go to the Walmart or Dollar Store if you have to and get a spiral notebook or two and a cheapo folder to keep it all in – you won’t be sorry. I’ve had to do this a couple of times and I thank God I did. I avoided a lot of headache.

    Velour, thanks again for your kind words to Shauna and me, and your excellent advice. What a terrific friend you are.

    The next post contains lots of links so it may take some time to clear customs. Dee and Deb, if you read this and I’m creating a problem, or if this is not the appropriate place to put these resources, just let me know. The last thing I want to do is create a hassle for ya’ll. If you’d like to forward my email address to Shauna so I can send her these links privately that’s perfectly fine. Thanks for all you do for us here.

    Love to everyone from super-windy NC!

  97. Also Talmadah forgiveness is there as I should be willing to forgive however if that person doesn’t acknowledge their offense against me or billy well then we go on with our life we also stand on the truth and shoot back if anyone tries to down play the seriousness of this crime or says it didn’t happen at all. What they then do is continue to offend and at that point God deals with their actions and heart while billy and I find our peace in the truth and standing firm in the Lord because He is Truth! When these people are ready to make it right then I will be tested to see if my actions match these words. This doesn’t mean we become doormats and they continue to slander bully with no consequence legally. I will Persue legal remedy if it doesn’t stop and no I will not feel bad for doing it. Thank you for your incredible support velour your the most resourceful woman I have met, I love it!

  98. By the way I wanted to share that billy told me a few days ago when he turns 18 he wants to Persue suing his perpetrator. I’m going to support him in that.

  99. Yep I’m going there this week to. Ty for all the info.as I scroll back and read I see I missed some of these. Velour wrote:

    Shauna,

    Are there temp agencies you could sign up with? Could you find out who the county uses and maybe go through an agency to get experience with the county?

  100. You are right on all of what you said. I don’t buy chips,soda , or any processed foods. I buy all whole foods, fresh veggies and fruit commodities such as beans rice , flour and ect…. I cook everything fresh billy has rarely ever gone a night where I don’t cook. I’m an excellent cook and can make meals that cost 6.00 for two. Billy can attest to this he will wait for my food. Because billy is accustomed to whole foods and me our stomaches can’t handle fast food or junk food. My food bill is low week to week.. We drink bottled water. I don’t have cable or internet. I have no car payment just the most basic bills one can have. As long as I can pay the bills we have everything we need. I’m content with where we are in life thank your the advice and input it’s appreciated. JYJames wrote:

    @ Shauna:
    Hi Shauna,

    This is not easy for you and your son.

    A couple of notes, which may or may not be helpful. Only you and our Lord truly know your situation.

    We have always, it seems, been seeking our Lord for guidance and creativity in providing for our family.

    When housing was too expensive in my city, as a single person, I took a position of living-in with an elderly lady, where not only did I get to live in a beautiful home but they paid me to do so, while I worked my 8-5 job during the day – also salaried. Plus, I was caring for an abandoned high school young lady at the time, and she was allowed to move in, too, so I brought a dependent with me.

    Later married with family, our family took in others to live with us, and they made payments – students and such. We set up rules, and they enjoyed our home and family; we enjoyed them, too.

    We have all worked various jobs, regular and odd jobs, at all hours, all different shifts. (My husband suffered a long chronic illness.) I think our children each started working at age 14.

    We made rules to help: no chips and no soda, use the library each week for free, no $$ for entertainment – it all had to be free. No xbox, etc. Go to a park, free days at the zoo or museums.

    And on Christmas, our own children, beginning at ages 5 & 7 came to me and said, “Mom, don’t do gifts and decorations, because we have each other, and that is more than enough. That’s why Jesus came.” So, ever since then, our family has honored their request, and they grew up without Christmas gifts and decorations – no tree, etc., but truly with hearts for Jesus.

    When their dad, my husband, passed away, there was no money for a funeral, etc. However, we found that our county has a $2100 death benefit. With it, we paid for cremation and the urns – one for each of us. A chapel and three, yes three, pastors all did the funeral FREE, and many friends did the music. Friends paid $200 for a reception lunch for all. It was beautiful.

    Finally, our children each worked hard to go to college and then grad school, and find good jobs. Ever grateful. A miracle. God rewarded the kids who decided they only needed Jesus Himself at Christmas.

    We all still do the no soda and no chips, and rarely pay for any entertainment. We all are regular library patrons. Everyone is healthy and active with no weight issues, trying to eat right and keep down the medical bills. We do the free marathons and other free sports. (We had lots of medical expense with my husband, their dad – a lesson in making good health decisions, since he did not have a choice – his medical situation was beyond his control.)

    An excellent book about a mom who managed with very little money and many children is, “The Color of Water” by James McBride. Her children have all, also, gone to college, most through grad school.

    Finally, at one point, one of our sons worked in Haiti for awhile. We never felt deprived. We felt safe and rich. If anyone critiqued our situation, I pointed out that there are those who are truly desperate, but we were merely inconvenienced.

    God bless you, and we’re praying.

  101. Shauna wrote:

    Yep I’m going there this week to. Ty for all the info.as I scroll back and read I see I missed some of these. Velour wrote:
    Shauna,
    Are there temp agencies you could sign up with? Could you find out who the county uses and maybe go through an agency to get experience with the county?

    One of my professors had a good tip for us if we were asked on paper or in person about a software program, but we didn’t know it. She told us to look at it being demonstrated on youtube and then we could say on paper and in person that we were “familiar” with it.
    I have used that smart piece of advice several times!

  102. Yes I found one that I’m going to this week. It never crossed my mind to do temp again until it was mentioned here. So this is an avenue I’m taking as well. I’m so desperate to leave this toxic work environment. I believe the longer I stay they will find things to write me up on. Right now they are strategically messing with hours to get me to quit. When I resign it will be on my own terms not theirs. So this week is crucial I will be applying everywhere. Velour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Yep I’m going there this week to. Ty for all the info.as I scroll back and read I see I missed some of these. Velour wrote:
    Shauna,
    Are there temp agencies you could sign up with? Could you find out who the county uses and maybe go through an agency to get experience with the county?

    One of my professors had a good tip for us if we were asked on paper or in person about a software program, but we didn’t know it. She told us to look at it being demonstrated on youtube and then we could say on paper and in person that we were “familiar” with it.
    I have used that smart piece of advice several times!

  103. Shauna wrote:

    Yes I found one that I’m going to this week. It never crossed my mind to do temp again until it was mentioned here. So this is an avenue I’m taking as well. I’m so desperate to leave this toxic work environment. I believe the longer I stay they will find things to write me up on. Right now they are strategically messing with hours to get me to quit. When I resign it will be on my own terms not theirs. So this week is crucial I will be applying everywhere. Velour wrote:
    Shauna wrote:
    Yep I’m going there this week to. Ty for all the info.as I scroll back and read I see I missed some of these. Velour wrote:
    Shauna,
    Are there temp agencies you could sign up with? Could you find out who the county uses and maybe go through an agency to get experience with the county?
    One of my professors had a good tip for us if we were asked on paper or in person about a software program, but we didn’t know it. She told us to look at it being demonstrated on youtube and then we could say on paper and in person that we were “familiar” with it.
    I have used that smart piece of advice several times!

    Yes, trying to temp with the county is a good way to get your foot in the door with them.

    Here is Alison Green’s free interview guide (she’s got the Ask A Manager blog that I told you about that is helpful): http://www.askamanager.org/how-to-guide

  104. Jeannette hi I’m sorry your having health issues I can’t imagine the difficulty. My brother and mother both live in Grand Junction as well. I don’t have much of a relationship with my mother but my younger brother I do. I haven’t been able to speak to him in a few months their bills are pretty tight to. They both get a wealth of help there in Grand Junction. My brother says there are all kinds of services for disabled and people with health issues from the government. His pills alone he could come close to affording them if he wasn’t on ssdi they get food stamps and he received 1080 a month. My mother has her social security and gets benefits as well health and food. They put their income together and live in a tiny house that my grandmother left my mother. My younger brother is scitzophrinic and he says he wouldn’t be normal without his medicine and therapist the government pays for. I could try to get a hold of him and see what services he knows you can get. I’m trying here myself to get anything. So I will find out soon. Hopefully that helps you.Velour wrote:

    Jeannette Altes wrote:

    The health issues are the same – pain is constant, but at normal levels. I seem to only he able to maintain a sort of balance, not continue in the improvement. It is like I have hit a sort of wall, or entered a long plateau. But I have faith this will change for the better soon.

    I hope you will consider meeting with a social worker to discuss your options in your area.
    This is something that should qualify for disability, if a physician will certify you.

    Sometimes disability comes with paid help in some form, if you qualify, and assistance with food.

    While we’re a great community here at The Wartburg Watch, we’re not the answer to anyone’s long-term financial needs.

    Please call a social worker in your area. Catholic Charities in Grand Junction, CO
    has a number of services for people and you don’t even have to be a Catholic!

    Here’s the food pantry: http://www.catholicoutreach.org/our-programs/food-pantry/

  105. Velour wrote:

    I have had to use food banks, and yes while it’s humbling it’s nice to know that good food is available at no charge (canned goods, produce, etc.)

    @Jeannette,

    By the way, these food items are donated by local grocery stores and chains.
    The same things you’d buy in the stores. Ditto for the bread (including gourmet
    breads) and bakery items (cakes, pies, etc.).

  106. I have urltilized st marys church for canned goods and another church close to us. I go nuts when I get commodities there’s a lot you can do with beans rice flour sugar . I then take the little money for food I have and buy cooking oils/ butter milk heavy cream cheese I buy fresh veggies and fruits and then spend about 60.00 on meats hamburger chicken breast pot roast whole chickens which I can get for less than five bucks. I have noodles and use all those ingredients such to make homemade chicken soup, chicken tacos, chicken pot pie, chicken casserole and so on. I can make food stretch if I have certain main ingredients. Trust me billy would die if I didn’t cook whole meals like this for him. I have had the same food habits for years. No processed no junk and no frozen meals they don’t taste as good as whole foods and it gets expebsive. I use my flour eggs and other ingriedents to make cookies cakes frosting and do fourth if he wants sweets. I make muffins using real fruits. It can all be done with food banks and minimal funds. Just a thought. Big hugs to you

  107. Shauna wrote:

    I have urltilized st marys church for canned goods and another church close to us. I go nuts when I get commodities there’s a lot you can do with beans rice flour sugar . I then take the little money for food I have and buy cooking oils/ butter milk heavy cream cheese I buy fresh veggies and fruits and then spend about 60.00 on meats hamburger chicken breast pot roast whole chickens which I can get for less than five bucks. I have noodles and use all those ingredients such to make homemade chicken soup, chicken tacos, chicken pot pie, chicken casserole and so on. I can make food stretch if I have certain main ingredients. Trust me billy would die if I didn’t cook whole meals like this for him. I have had the same food habits for years. No processed no junk and no frozen meals they don’t taste as good as whole foods and it gets expebsive. I use my flour eggs and other ingriedents to make cookies cakes frosting and do fourth if he wants sweets. I make muffins using real fruits. It can all be done with food banks and minimal funds. Just a thought. Big hugs to you

    Shauna wrote:

    I have urltilized st marys church for canned goods and another church close to us. I go nuts when I get commodities there’s a lot you can do with beans rice flour sugar . I then take the little money for food I have and buy cooking oils/ butter milk heavy cream cheese I buy fresh veggies and fruits and then spend about 60.00 on meats hamburger chicken breast pot roast whole chickens which I can get for less than five bucks. I have noodles and use all those ingredients such to make homemade chicken soup, chicken tacos, chicken pot pie, chicken casserole and so on. I can make food stretch if I have certain main ingredients. Trust me billy would die if I didn’t cook whole meals like this for him. I have had the same food habits for years. No processed no junk and no frozen meals they don’t taste as good as whole foods and it gets expebsive. I use my flour eggs and other ingriedents to make cookies cakes frosting and do fourth if he wants sweets. I make muffins using real fruits. It can all be done with food banks and minimal funds. Just a thought. Big hugs to you

    That’s great, Shauna.

    Sometime you should post some of your recipes at the top of the page under the Interesting tab, the Cooking tab. Nancy2 just posted some roll recipes and some biscuit recipes.
    We hide some nice recipes at the top of the page!

  108. Hey velour ya I can post some recipes I don’t usually do measurements because I cook by sight and taste. I even use to make billys baby food when I was married

  109. I’ve added a forum to my blog space. I ran a Christian womens’ forum for over 10 years, and that group moved to Facebook, but I really dislike Facebook’s group format. This group is not specifically for women, but it does have a private chat for women. It has space for discussions about faith/Bible discussions, Christian singles, home, garden, books/media, journaling, and prayer requests. I surely will add more as I think of things. Everyone is welcome.

    http://seventimesbrighter.com/forum/index.php

  110. @ Shauna:

    Shauna, I’m sorry to hear of your brother’s illness but glad he’s able to get meds. I have a niece who’s schizophrenic, a beautiful girl who is often very unstable. It’s so sad.

    Could you please post Billy’s clothing needs and sizes?

    Much love to you and Billy!

  111. @ Jeannette Altes:

    Hi Jeannette – have you thought about perhaps contacting Amazon (customer service rep or other)?

    https://www.amazon.jobs/

    Also, there are some great suggestions for employment here, but are you still without transportation? Do you have anyone who’s helping you with that, and willing to take you around to places to get help? I sure hope so. I’m very isolated and had to quit driving about 12 years ago. It stinks sometimes.

    Please stay in touch – love, hugs and prayers from NC!

  112. I just tried Amazon no jobs anywhere near me. Found one in Dallas 4 hours away. Come on Amazon…. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Jeannette Altes:

    Hi Jeannette – have you thought about perhaps contacting Amazon (customer service rep or other)?

    https://www.amazon.jobs/

    Also, there are some great suggestions for employment here, but are you still without transportation? Do you have anyone who’s helping you with that, and willing to take you around to places to get help? I sure hope so. I’m very isolated and had to quit driving about 12 years ago. It stinks sometimes.

    Please stay in touch – love, hugs and prayers from NC!

  113. Billys sizes
    Jeans / pants
    30/32 he also fits 30/34 he’s 6ft talk now

    Shirts
    Medium
    He likes the in style T’s but will be fine with anything you know how teens are.
    Gym Shorts
    Medium – Large
    He likes Nike – keep in mind we are not requesting any name brands just letting you know what he wears. I always find killer deals at Ross on those clearance racks are the best.
    Shoes
    Size 11
    Boxer briefs
    Size 30-32
    Socks men’s 9-11 he likes short and long
    Sweat pants / work out pants
    Medium and large

    Anything is a blessing to billy and I know he will wear what he gets with pride like the last time.

  114. ishy wrote:

    I’ve added a forum to my blog space.

    Found it. I’m in. I had to see your kitty cats. My daughter had a Maine Coon when she was a teenager. His name was Russell, and he slept in the kitchen sink!

  115. Hi Shauna,

    Could you please email Deb here at deb@thewartburgwatch.com
    your and Billy’s mailing address for anyone who would like to send Billy clothing
    and shoes.

    That way Deb can provide it to Wartburgers.

    Thanks.

  116. Shauna wrote:

    60.00 on meats hamburger chicken breast pot roast whole chickens which I can get for less than five bucks.

    Sounds like you may have already found a good place to buy meats ….. but I’ll tell ya anyway……. We buy most of our meat (minus venison ; ^ ) , at a meet processing plant in a neighboring county. Chicken, pork, and beef is much cheaper there than at a grocery store! The plant has a little side room where they sell on the grounds, precut or cut to order.

  117. Absolutely ty velour. Velour wrote:

    Hi Shauna,

    Could you please email Deb here at deb@thewartburgwatch.com
    your and Billy’s mailing address for anyone who would like to send Billy clothing
    and shoes.

    That way Deb can provide it to Wartburgers.

    Thanks.

  118. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Velour:
    @ Uppity Bimbo:
    Many thanks for the excellent suggestions here – blessings and better health to you both!

    Thank you, Talmidah!

    Blessings and better health to you. And for a better financial situation for your family members.

  119. We’re already praying for you this morning, Shauna.

    Deb in North Carolina, Christiane (I think she’s back East), me in California, and others.

    Good luck with the tests!

    Hugs.

  120. (Also posted on the recent Driscoll thread)

    @ Velour and Catholic Gate-Crasher:

    Velour, thanks a ton for posting Billy’s sizes, and thanks to you, CG-C and anyone else for the willingness to pitch in.

    I’m always on the lookout for deals on super-inexpensive clothing. Right now, Michaels craft stores have Gildan T-shirts for $2 each, in a wide range of colors. I bought my younger grandson a stack of these the last time they were this price, which was just a few weeks ago. Michaels prices are always pretty good but you may have to pay a few dollars to ship, even when you do ship-to-store. I hope they change that.

    http://www.michaels.com/gildan-short-sleeve-adult-tshirt/M10093625.html?dwvar_M10093625_color=Heliconia#q=shirt&start=1

    They also have youth sizes and women’s shirts, if anyone’s interested. I’ve bought both on sale. The Gildan quality is fine.

    My husband is a Goodwill lurker on weekends and he already looks for young men’s stuff for our grandsons. He’s a very good shopper, so I’ll give him Billy’s sizes.

    Walmart always has great prices on Hanes and Fruit of the Loom, and they recently changed their shipping policy (to compete with Amazon, of course). It’s much better now.

    I do all my shopping online and hunt deals all the time. Whenever I see especially good ones I’ll post them on Open Discussion.

    BTW, I’m wondering what Shauna needs…?

    I’ll also post this over on OD now.

  121. ^ Shoe size singular or plural, lol…that looks strange. To clarify, I wear a range of sizes depending upon the type of shoe.

  122. Talmidah wrote:

    ^ Shoe size singular or plural, lol…that looks strange. To clarify, I wear a range of sizes depending upon the type of shoe.

    And her pant sizes.

  123. Does anyone here use Hewlett-Packard HP60-Black and colored ink cartridges.

    I had to buy a small new printer because my well-used printer broke. I now have extra ink cartridges that don’t fit the new device. I can mail them to anybody that uses that type.

  124. Nancy2 wrote:

    Found it. I’m in. I had to see your kitty cats. My daughter had a Maine Coon when she was a teenager. His name was Russell, and he slept in the kitchen sink!

    Maines are so goofy! My Maine Coon has decided to guard the bird’s nest on our patio. If I take her outside, she sits in front of it like a guard dog. She likes all other animals, so she doesn’t quite get that cats are supposed to chase birds. I’m not convinced she knows she’s a cat, though.

  125. ishy wrote:

    I’m not convinced she knows she’s a cat, though.

    Yeah, Russell played with the dogs we had at the time – 110 lb. Buck and 103 lb. Rebel.

  126. Shauna wrote:

    I wear medium – Large sometimes xlg because of upper body I’m a 7 1/2 in shoe size@ Velour:

    And what are your favorite colors?

  127. You guys don’t have to send me anything my first concern is billy first. I manage to take care of my stuff well I think.
    Please pray for my work environment it went from bad to worse extremely hostile. I’m to tired to fight a company with complaints I just want to work and earn a living. I have enough on my plate with billly and supporting the both of us. Anyway they will not steal my joy. Billy has been sleeping through the night with me being around last week when my boss didn’t schedule me mon-fri he said he feels safer with someone here with him. I imagine he does since he’s been sleeping through the night with me home. This woman I work under is a liar along with the managers in this particular store. I have never seen such blatant lying and deceptive behavior. Makes me so mad to think about it and I dread going to this store even to shop I won’t do it! Praying to work at a place where I can be part of a team and support my boss or bosses. God is so good to us, thank you all for your constant praying I need it.

  128. I have a hp photo printer scanner fax all in one from 2008. It works good but the ink cartridges expired and therefore I can’t use it without spending 70 bucks to replace the cartridges. So it’s been sitting. If anyone needs them more dismiss this posted commentVelour wrote:

    Does anyone here use Hewlett-Packard HP60-Black and colored ink cartridges.

    I had to buy a small new printer because my well-used printer broke. I now have extra ink cartridges that don’t fit the new device. I can mail them to anybody that uses that type.

  129. Thank you all. Now I know why I have been experiencing peace in my heart with my work situation. It’s been hard to even be there they are looking for reasons to write me up. That is very difficult to remain in an environment where I already can’t support us on the hours she gives me. She’s fading me out and I’m afraid it’s working. I’m barely hanging on emotionally it’s causing my ulcers to flare up. I cried the other night from the stress of this job the ulcers were so painful. After awhile I still hurt but not as bad and I experienced a peace. Thank you for praying.Velour wrote:

    We’re already praying for you this morning, Shauna.

    Deb in North Carolina, Christiane (I think she’s back East), me in California, and others.

    Good luck with the tests!

    Hugs.

  130. Shauna wrote:

    Please pray for my work environment it went from bad to worse extremely hostile. I’m to tired to fight a company with complaints I just want to work and earn a living.

    If you don’t already have one, buy a spiral notebook at the dollar store. Make it an Action Items notebook.

    Take action steps on your job search several times a week, and then take a little break.
    You’re a hard worker and an intelligent woman. There are other jobs out there.

  131. Ty velour. I hate it when I can’t sleep. Anyway I don’t want to fight these managers they are dishonest and know how to retaliate without getting caught. It’s not worth my health or my sanity to be I. A dispute? Ty you for praying I appreciate it more Thani knowVelour wrote:

    Shauna wrote:

    Please pray for my work environment it went from bad to worse extremely hostile. I’m to tired to fight a company with complaints I just want to work and earn a living.

    If you don’t already have one, buy a spiral notebook at the dollar store. Make it an Action Items notebook.

    Take action steps on your job search several times a week, and then take a little break.
    You’re a hard worker and an intelligent woman. There are other jobs out there.

  132. @ Shauna:

    (also @Velour and others)

    Shauna, I hope you can use Velour’s ink cartridges. I was finally able to get a really inexpensive Canon printer a few months ago so I can’t use them. Ink is so pricey – thanks for offering them, Velour.

    Also, I hope you can get out of that place you work, and soon. It’s just not healthy. Rest assured my prayers for you and Billy will continue every day.

    And dang…I was hoping to send you some shoes that I can’t wear, but they’re too big. I’ll be on the lookout for your sizes in shoes and clothes.

    So, if anyone wants them they’re size 8-1/2 – 9 flip flops/thong sandals. I have several pairs; some never worn and some gently worn. Some came from Walmart (OP brand) and at least one pair from Amazon (they’re cute and not cheapo but the massage-type sole bothers me – other than that they’re quite comfy). I can give more details to anyone interested.

    I hope Dee and Deb don’t mind that I’ve posted this about the shoes…?

    Thanks and hugs to all from NC!

  133. Thank you Talmidah your so sweet. I am dying to get out of there and I’m so close to walking out. They are trying to find anything to write me up and fire me because I made a grievance with the main managers ( which by the way they say open door policy which is a big fat lie) I was warned by another employee that the managers are all friends and it’s not really an open door. I gave them the benefit of the doubt and she was right it backfired. I tried to do the right thing. Maybe I’m not meant to stay here and God wants me somewhere better utilizing my talent and skills.

  134. @ Shauna:

    Thanks, dear sister. Hold your head up at all times and try to keep the mental upper hand, especially while at work. Rest in the fact that you’re a daughter of the Most High, and that He will open the right doors for you at just the right time.

    Read Psalm 91 often – it’s the Psalm of refuge – and let it sink into your spirit. Know that you are loved not only by the Lord but by those of us here as well. We care so much for you and Billy. 🙂

    https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+91

  135. This is true. The grocery store I work for I do the pulls every shift meaning I pull the items that will expire that day scan them in and box them up to be put in the freezer for the food banks. Every department does this and there are pallets of food ready to be picked up from bakery to meats to veggies to dairy and deli. We have been utilizing the food bank. Velour wrote:

    Velour wrote:

    I have had to use food banks, and yes while it’s humbling it’s nice to know that good food is available at no charge (canned goods, produce, etc.)

    @Jeannette,

    By the way, these food items are donated by local grocery stores and chains.
    The same things you’d buy in the stores. Ditto for the bread (including gourmet
    breads) and bakery items (cakes, pies, etc.).

  136. Hi Shauna,

    Thanks for listing Billy’s sizes for clothing and shoes.

    For us ladies who’d like to get a few things for you that we come across can we have a clear picture of your sizes?

    *tops – XL (because of bust)
    *bra size ?
    *pant size? (you said medium I think. But is that a 10, 12, 14?)
    *underwear size
    *shoes 7 1/2
    *colors that you like

    *******
    Thanks,
    Velour

  137. Talmidah wrote:

    Shauna, I hope you can use Velour’s ink cartridges. I was finally able to get a really inexpensive Canon printer a few months ago so I can’t use them. Ink is so pricey – thanks for offering them, Velour.

    It’s how the companies make their money…on the ink!

  138. Talmidah wrote:

    So, if anyone wants them they’re size 8-1/2 – 9 flip flops/thong sandals. I have several pairs; some never worn and some gently worn. Some came from Walmart (OP brand) and at least one pair from Amazon (they’re cute and not cheapo but the massage-type sole bothers me – other than that they’re quite comfy). I can give more details to anyone interested.

    Oh I wish…

    Sigh. I’m a 9 Wide an usually have to wear a 10.

    Thank you though, friend!

  139. @ Velour:

    Yep, true…but I did find a decent-sounding ink workaround on Amazon when I bought this $30 Canon – not sure I’d ever try it, though. I can do without an ink disaster!

  140. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Velour:
    Yep, true…but I did find a decent-sounding ink workaround on Amazon when I bought this $30 Canon – not sure I’d ever try it, though. I can do without an ink disaster!

    I hear ‘ya. I too can’t do without an ink disaster and I always have backup cartridges.

  141. Velour wrote:

    Oh I wish…

    Sigh. I’m a 9 Wide an usually have to wear a 10.

    Thank you though, friend!

    Actually my daughter wears a 10 and most of them fit her fine. She already has plenty (and she’s pickier than I am, lol). I’ll be happy to send them to you, and if you can’t wear them or don’t like them, just pass them on to someone else. I’ll also re-wash the gently worn pairs.

    Just let me know! 🙂

  142. @ Talmidah:

    PS: I’m not trying to twist your arm – I just want them to go to a good home. If it’s too much hassle, no problem. I’ll hang on to them for awhile.

  143. I’m good on pants I bought three pair from Walmart right before the cut my hours. They wet clearanced and only paid 18.00 they are very nice comfortable and go with pretty much anything. I can do dressy or casual. I have not bought myself much of anything in a long time so these are perfect. I’m a simple person I go with the basic interchangeable wear. When finances change for us I can go back to buying the clothes I really love. Billy first so far the clothes from Christmas , velour, and what I have bought have lasted. He just keeps growing lol.
    I amazingly got denied food stamps. I made 10 over what the income limit for two is. Can someone please tell me why anyone working there would say ” well if you had another baby you could qualify for a lot more “? Even with my hours cut they go based on my paystubs prior to the cut. This is crazy I literally got one day this week and I’m betting I won’t get one day for the next. Staying positive though in spite of work ugliness and figuring out what to do for next week. Not letting anyone steal my joy. Thank you everyone for praying for us.

  144. Update for 4/13/17

    April’s bills are due and some late fees are kicking in, which makes the total needed up to $630 (which also includes gofundme fees).

    Talmidah, I did check the Amazon link and they are not hiring in my area. Thanks for the lead. As to transportation, I still do not have a working car. I have people who will give me rides, but their schedules are such that thay is limited to mostly evenings and werkends.

    I can work, just not at anything that requires standing or kneeling. The job I had for years was a back office desk job. The company downsized from nearly 1000 employees to just over 400.

    Thank you all for the generosity you have shown and the prayers and concern.

  145. Shauna wrote:

    Can someone please tell me why anyone working there would say ” well if you had another baby you could qualify for a lot more “?

    What a crazy thing for them to say. Nothing surprises me any longer. Nothing.

    Hang in there, Shauna.

  146. “NAMB posted at its Welcome Desk at its offices in Alpharetta, Georgia a photo of McRaney listed as allegedly someone “not to be trusted and Public Enemy No. 1 of NAMB,” according to the lawsuit.”
    Read more at http://capstonereport.com/2017/04/12/explosive-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-power-ezell-namb/31773/#pjwfWTo0ohhP7BWX.99

    MAMB is getting sued for bullying a state convention chair. I am hoping this will rouse more Southern Baptists to stand up against the Calvinistas. Comment, tweet, share, etc…

  147. @ Jeannette Altes:

    I just posted something to you and Shauna that may take a bit to clear. I mistakenly replied to myself instead of you – sorry! It’s one of those days.

  148. Talmidah wrote:

    Velour wrote:

    Oh I wish…

    Sigh. I’m a 9 Wide an usually have to wear a 10.

    Thank you though, friend!

    Actually my daughter wears a 10 and most of them fit her fine. She already has plenty (and she’s pickier than I am, lol). I’ll be happy to send them to you, and if you can’t wear them or don’t like them, just pass them on to someone else. I’ll also re-wash the gently worn pairs.

    Just let me know!

    Oh that would be wonderful! I’ll accept.

    I’ll send Deb my mailing address. Please get it from her.

  149. Jeannette Altes wrote:

    Update for 4/13/17

    April’s bills are due and some late fees are kicking in, which makes the total needed up to $630 (which also includes gofundme fees).

    Talmidah, I did check the Amazon link and they are not hiring in my area. Thanks for the lead. As to transportation, I still do not have a working car. I have people who will give me rides, but their schedules are such that thay is limited to mostly evenings and werkends.

    I can work, just not at anything that requires standing or kneeling. The job I had for years was a back office desk job. The company downsized from nearly 1000 employees to just over 400.

    Thank you all for the generosity you have shown and the prayers and concern.

    Dee and Deb have announced a new policy for fundraisers here. They will only permit
    2-months of fundraising. It will be on the new version of The Wartburg Watch website being released. They have asked me to supervise fundraisers.

    Please see a social worker and apply for services that fit your situation.

    Your fundraising has gone on for more than 1 year here, 15 months.

    We wish you well. There are many services in your community. Please avail yourself of them.

  150. Thanks Talmidah I’m looking now as I’m sitting in my car waiting for bulky to get out of school.
    If you could pray for his studies he is falling behind due to not sleeping and his learning issues. He is trying and working really hard by staying after school each day to get one on one help. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Jeannette Altes:

    I just posted something to you and Shauna that may take a bit to clear. I mistakenly replied to myself instead of you – sorry! It’s one of those days.

  151. @ Velour:

    Oh that’s great! I’ll go through my closet again this weekend – there may be another pair or two.

    Also…I need to know how you want it sent (USPS…UPS?). All the carriers just leave boxes under my carport but I don’t know your situation. I’ll ask Deb to give you my email so we can communicate, if that’s OK.

  152. @ Shauna:

    PS: Have you tried giving Billy melatonin at night for sleep? I have to take it and it works great. Valerian is good too, but it gave me heartburn.

    Of course, check with his doctor before trying anything, even though this is over the counter stuff. 🙂

  153. We have tried different stuff but the end result isn’t falling back to sleep its night terrors and going back to sleep for him his nightmares seem to be back to back. He seems to be more secure when daylight comes. Talmidah wrote:

    @ Shauna:

    PS: Have you tried giving Billy melatonin at night for sleep? I have to take it and it works great. Valerian is good too, but it gave me heartburn.

    Of course, check with his doctor before trying anything, even though this is over the counter stuff.

  154. @ Jeannette Altes:
    I wanted to give you a head up that we are going tone putting some new rules in place for fundraising. This will be posted on Monday on a new page about Go Fund Me and fundraising. We will be putting a 2 month limit since it is impossible for us to financially care for all those who have needs over a long period of time.We are going. to be putting this policy into place next week.

    The purpose of TWW fundraising is to meet temporary and emergency needs. This is. difficult decision for us but it is necessary.

    I am grateful for all the support that our readers have shown you in the last number of months and we will keep praying for you.

  155. We are temporarily closing down comments on this page while we make changes on the blog. If you need to comment, please use a recent post. It should be up and running in the next week or so. We are sorry for the inconvenience.