Small Talk: The Prayer Closet

[SunnyBeBe]

Happy Belated Birthday Scarlett!!!  I’m glad you had such nice celebrations with friends and family.  🎂🥳🎃🌞🌻

[ChiCricket]

@Scarlett45

 

[Porkchop]

Thanks for your comments on my low-dose-aspirin/bruising problem. Believe me, I ask every medical person I contact, including my cardiologist, who said "That is not recommended." And I do value my health more than my appearance, so I continue to do as I am told! But being a complete optimist, I had to ask! There is so much knowledge here ... you all are a wonderful resource, and I do appreciate your backing up my doctors! But maybe there could be some way to strengthen my skin with a topical treatment?

 

[CalicoKitty]

Be sure to keep your arms covered in the sun.  You can get SPF blouses and jackets, and many of them are quite nice.  I wear a SPF "jacket" which is mainly just sleeves when I drive to protect my arms. ( I, also, bruise easily.)  

[lookeyloo]

2 hours ago, Porkchop said:

Thanks for your comments on my low-dose-aspirin/bruising problem. Believe me, I ask every medical person I contact, including my cardiologist, who said "That is not recommended." And I do value my health more than my appearance, so I continue to do as I am told! But being a complete optimist, I had to ask! There is so much knowledge here ... you all are a wonderful resource, and I do appreciate your backing up my doctors! But maybe there could be some way to strengthen my skin with a topical treatment?

 

I don't know if it is related, because I don't take low dose aspirin, but, if I so much as bump my arms mostly I get what seems like a blood blister.  If by some chance the bump is really a scrape, it heals faster because the blood doesn't get trapped under the skin.  If it doesn't, it is an ugly bruise looking thing that eventually fades and Mr lookeyloo always says "someone is going to think I did that to you"  I know mine is because as I've gotten older my skin is very thin.  Several of my girlfriends have the same issue.  We whine to each other.

[awaken]

Venting. 
today I had my first experience with a patient refusing to wear a mask. I know it’s easy to say “they weren’t following rules, so refuse to see them,”. In practice, it’s very difficult to confront someone face to face and refuse care outright and kick them out. I’m angry about the disrespect towards my and my family’s health and safety, our local laws, our practice’s policies (which were clearly communicated prior to the appointment) and our other clients.  Why come for care if you’re going to blatantly disrespect the staff caring for you?

we live in a densely populated area, with  an indoor mask mandate, and high compliance. No one doesn’t wear a mask indoors, and certainly not in a healthcare setting. It was jarring and unsettling.  In 1.5 yrs of the pandemic it’s the first time I’ve dealt with this and was kind of frozen. 

 

[Suzn]

19 minutes ago, awaken said:

Venting. 
today I had my first experience with a patient refusing to wear a mask. I know it’s easy to say “they weren’t following rules, so refuse to see them,”. In practice, it’s very difficult to confront someone face to face and refuse care outright and kick them out. I’m angry about the disrespect towards my and my family’s health and safety, our local laws, our practice’s policies (which were clearly communicated prior to the appointment) and our other clients.  Why come for care if you’re going to blatantly disrespect the staff caring for you?

we live in a densely populated area, with  an indoor mask mandate, and high compliance. No one doesn’t wear a mask indoors, and certainly not in a healthcare setting. It was jarring and unsettling.  In 1.5 yrs of the pandemic it’s the first time I’ve dealt with this and was kind of frozen. 

 

Why couldn't you have said, "I see you've forgotten your mask" and offered them a mask.  If they refused, you wouldn't need to get real confrontational, just say you were sorry, but you wouldn't  be able to treat them.

[frenchtoast]

1 hour ago, awaken said:

I know it’s easy to say “they weren’t following rules, so refuse to see them,”. In practice, it’s very difficult to confront someone face to face and refuse care outright and kick them out.

We were refused care because we were five minutes later for check-in. Not the appt, but for the check-in. We had waited 2 months for a doctor to see the rash on my daughter's hand and were five minutes late. (Mistimed how long it would take to pick her up from school). And we were refused service and turned away, told to go see Urgent Care. It kind of pisses me off that someone who was defiantly not following procedure was given care and my daughter wasn't. 

[SunnyBeBe]

2 hours ago, awaken said:

Venting. 
today I had my first experience with a patient refusing to wear a mask. I know it’s easy to say “they weren’t following rules, so refuse to see them,”. In practice, it’s very difficult to confront someone face to face and refuse care outright and kick them out. I’m angry about the disrespect towards my and my family’s health and safety, our local laws, our practice’s policies (which were clearly communicated prior to the appointment) and our other clients.  Why come for care if you’re going to blatantly disrespect the staff caring for you?

we live in a densely populated area, with  an indoor mask mandate, and high compliance. No one doesn’t wear a mask indoors, and certainly not in a healthcare setting. It was jarring and unsettling.  In 1.5 yrs of the pandemic it’s the first time I’ve dealt with this and was kind of frozen. 

 

That’s really unfortunate.  You try to help people and they treat you so disrespectfully and endanger you and your staff’s life.  Inexcusable.   I have no problem telling people straight out that they may not enter my office without a mask. I personally stress it in advance, like your office did.  If they still refused….I suppose I would fake getting sick and run into the bathroom and text them to leave.  The only reason I wouldn’t tell them in person to leave, is fear. I fear they might shoot, stab or punch me or my staff with a direct confrontation. So, I’d pretend to be sick and not reschedule them again.    If not for that, I’d be blunt with what is acceptable.   I believe people who refuse to protect others by forcing their breath on them is evil.  To me, it’s attempted felony asssult.  
I’ve considered telling anyone who refused to wear a mask that there is a $10,000. Fee for no mask compliance.  🤣

[Rootbeer]

13 hours ago, awaken said:

Venting. 
today I had my first experience with a patient refusing to wear a mask. I know it’s easy to say “they weren’t following rules, so refuse to see them,”. In practice, it’s very difficult to confront someone face to face and refuse care outright and kick them out. I’m angry about the disrespect towards my and my family’s health and safety, our local laws, our practice’s policies (which were clearly communicated prior to the appointment) and our other clients.  Why come for care if you’re going to blatantly disrespect the staff caring for you?

we live in a densely populated area, with  an indoor mask mandate, and high compliance. No one doesn’t wear a mask indoors, and certainly not in a healthcare setting. It was jarring and unsettling.  In 1.5 yrs of the pandemic it’s the first time I’ve dealt with this and was kind of frozen. 

 

I've been lucky this past year and a half as my employer, a major hospital system, has required masks since the start and hasn't backed down.  However, our instructions are to offer all unmasked patients a mask, but, if they refuse, see them anyway.  I've only had a handful of unmasked patients turn up, but every one has put on a mask when offered.  

We also have a rule against anyone under 18 accompanying a patient for any visit, but not so lucky there.  We are seeing a lot fewer patients bringing their kids, but it still happens.  We don't say much, we understand that a lot of people have childcare issues.  I must day things run more smoothly when the patient doesn't have a small child with her, though.

As for running late, we have been issued an edict stating that a patient who arrives late MUST be seen, no matter how late they are.  Obviously, these rules are being made by people who do not actually see patients themselves.  We have had people turn up an hour and a half late or on the wrong day and the supervisors claim they should not be turned away.  Realistically, I think 15 minutes or so is a reasonable amount to allow, just like with restaurant reservations.  We also don't mind seeing people if they call and let us know that they got a flat tire or got lost or had a sick kid or something and we are aware of a general time frame for their arrival.

The problem with the open-ended arrival rule is this:  most of my coworkers are paid hourly and overtime is strictly prohibited.  We see patients from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and they must punch out on the clock by 4:35 or get penalized.  So, say someone has a 1 PM appointment for a 30 minute procedure and shows up at 4:25 PM.  Then, what?  If she's 3 hours late, odds are we have put away anything that was ready at 1PM so the medical assistant has to pull out all the instruments and equipment all over again.  All patients who've had a menstrual period within the last 2 years must have a pregnancy test, no exceptions.  More than a few patients have shy bladders and it takes them a while to produce the specimen.  So, we-re looking 15-30 minutes pre-procedure time, a 30 minute procedure and then probably 15 minutes to get the patient out of there and clean up the room, label any specimens, put away equipment, etc.  So the 4:25 appointment isn't complete until 5:30 or so and practitioners, who are salaried, may not see patients when alone in the office for safety reasons (I absolutely agree).  So, the medical personnel and receptionist are apparently expected to donate an hour of time because someone was inconsiderate enough to show up just before we leave.  Nope.  Not happening.

Edited October 6, 2021 by Rootbeer

[SunnyBeBe]

Well, this is lovely. If you recall, I posted about my recent Endocrinologist appointment. I forgot to ask her about the covid booster, so I called and sent 2 PMs to their department, even though I know she’s out on leave.  She said someone would cover for her.  Someone, not a doctor told me he didn’t know and a nurse sent me a link for CDC recommendations.  Really?   So….I found an article written by Dr. Steven Edelman (We’ve met several times when the conferences were in person.). He is a long time, Type One diabetic and Endocrinologist in CA.  He has a site and seminars on Diabetes.  He and Dr. Jeremy Pettus, also an Endocrinologist and Type One diabetic, agree that Tyoe One diabetics should get Moderna booster now.    I’m not sure what to think.  I want to do the right thing.

https://tcoyd.org/2021/09/should-people-with-diabetes-get-the-covid-19-booster-shot/

 

 

[Jynnan tonnix]

Had to share this little story that my daughter just posted. I think my granddaughter is just getting way too smart!

Facebook story: Granddaughter clutching some kind of chocolate-covered treat (doughnut hole on a stick?) with a big smile on her face. Daughter's question: Can I have a taste? Granddaughter: No. Babies can't have treats, so when you don't have a baby in your belly anymore you can have some.

That seems like pretty sophisticated reasoning for 3 1/2! LOL

Only about four more weeks to go until grandbaby #2!

[ChiCricket]

5 hours ago, SunnyBeBe said:

Well, this is lovely. If you recall, I posted about my recent Endocrinologist appointment. I forgot to ask her about the covid booster, so I called and sent 2 PMs to their department, even though I know she’s out on leave.  She said someone would cover for her.  Someone, not a doctor told me he didn’t know and a nurse sent me a link for CDC recommendations.  Really?   So….I found an article written by Dr. Steven Edelman (We’ve met several times when the conferences were in person.). He is a long time, Type One diabetic and Endocrinologist in CA.  He has a site and seminars on Diabetes.  He and Dr. Jeremy Pettus, also an Endocrinologist and Type One diabetic, agree that Tyoe One diabetics should get Moderna booster now.    I’m not sure what to think.  I want to do the right thing.

https://tcoyd.org/2021/09/should-people-with-diabetes-get-the-covid-19-booster-shot/

 

 

Maybe @Rootbeer could (informally) tell you what she would recommend?

[SunnyBeBe]

I just realized from further reading that I’m looking at a third dose rather than a booster.  There is a difference.  Hmmmm……

[Liddy52]

3 hours ago, SunnyBeBe said:

I just realized from further reading that I’m looking at a third dose rather than a booster.  There is a difference.  Hmmmm……

Yes, I just this week read an article from a local hospital that explained the difference in a third dose and booster. I had assumed before that they were one and the same . I think a third dose of Moderna for those who have certain medical issues is already approved or recommended (not sure about the exact terminology).

[Rootbeer]

8 hours ago, ChiCricket said:

Maybe @Rootbeer could (informally) tell you what she would recommend?

I’m not an infectious disease specialist, but I use the CDC guidelines which are available on their public website.  There’s a huge amount of information there.

I got Moderna, too. My employer is currently giving boosters to all providers who got Pfizer and they say approval for Moderna boosters will probably come in the next couple weeks. I will be in line the moment it is my turn.

There are a couple of big studies coming out soon that look at mixing vaccines and giving boosters from a different manufacturer than the initial dose(s) and, word is, the results are very good and will probably lead to mixing brands based on availability.

BTW, it’s time for flu vaccines and I definitely recommend them.  Got mine a couple weeks ago.

The CDC has come out with a strong recommendation that all women of childbearing age get COVID vac as the rate of hospitalization and death is high during pregnancy. My practice lost a 22 year old and her baby last winter. A few weeks ago, I ran into a friend who is a nurse anesthetist at a big hospital in another city. He told me that 3 pregnant women had died of COVID there in less than a week. He was near tears just talking about it. Those of us who are watching this happen are heartbroken and we’ll never get over it.

Edited October 7, 2021 by Rootbeer

[Madtown]

About the Moderna booster. My parents(as my husband and I)got Moderna. My dad was confused the whole booster thing. While at the hospital for an appointment, he went to the pharmacy there and asked the pharmicist about the third dose and booster shots.

Pharmacist said that the Moderna vaccine had more in it than Pfizer(which my husband and I knew). He said that this is why Pfizer had to get a booster made because the Covid shot was wearing off. He told my Dad that those with the Moderna probably have anywhere from 3-5% of the vaccine worn off at this time. Another reason why Moderna doesn't have their booster out, but are working on it.

The pharmacist said that my dad he didn't need to worry about getting a third dose right now, unless he really really wanted one. My dad doesn't have any underlying conditions, just is over 65. My husband had a third dose because he has Crohn's disease. The only reason he technically qualified for one and his doctor recommended it to him. When the Moderna booster comes out, I'll get one.

[SunnyBeBe]

My dad is 84 and scheduled with his primary tomorrow for booster, but I don’t think they’ll give it because he’s not immunocompromised.  I suspect they’ll just give him his flu shot.  

[BetyBee]

Has The Way Down documentary on HBO been discussed here? We've been watching it and that church is so bizarre! As was Gwen Shamblin's hair! Anyway, even though I had a brief experience with the Weigh Down Workshop around 2001, I had no idea how focused the Remnant church is about obedience for kids - very Pearl like! It's a very interesting documentary.

[BitterApple]

21 minutes ago, BetyBee said:

Has The Way Down documentary on HBO been discussed here? We've been watching it and that church is so bizarre! As was Gwen Shamblin's hair! Anyway, even though I had a brief experience with the Weigh Down Workshop around 2001, I had no idea how focused the Remnant church is about obedience for kids - very Pearl like! It's a very interesting documentary.

I just saw the trailer the other day, and it's in my lineup. I'm hoping to watch either tonight or tomorrow. It looks positively whackadoodles, and I can't wait.

[iwantcookies]

55 minutes ago, BetyBee said:

Has The Way Down documentary on HBO been discussed here? We've been watching it and that church is so bizarre! As was Gwen Shamblin's hair! Anyway, even though I had a brief experience with the Weigh Down Workshop around 2001, I had no idea how focused the Remnant church is about obedience for kids - very Pearl like! It's a very interesting documentary.

Put it on my list. Thanks!

 

 

[Turquoise]

@BetyBee There is a discussion for The Way Down under HBO Documentaries, but only a few comments.
I watched it this past weekend. I lived in Nashville for several years, so I knew a small bit about her church. I had no idea how cultish they are. Her plane went down maybe 10ish miles from where I used to live.

[BetyBee]

1 hour ago, Turquoise said:

@BetyBee There is a discussion for The Way Down under HBO Documentaries, but only a few comments.
I watched it this past weekend. I lived in Nashville for several years, so I knew a small bit about her church. I had no idea how cultish they are. Her plane went down maybe 10ish miles from where I used to live.

Thank you @Turquoise! I tried to find a discussion and I apparently stink at searching. Now I'm following it. It's still pretty new, so there will likely be more comments!

[andromeda331]

Happy Belated Birthday @Scarlett45.

[zoomama]

so i am unclear about the vaccine booster/3rd shot conversation above. my doctor just told me wednesday to be sure to get it. i had moderna. i was told where to go and had considered doing it today to get it over with (and any fallout from it) before my next trip to see grandkids.  are you in-the-know folks saying that there is no 3rd dose (booster, shot , whatever it is called) at this time for moderna? if that is the case, then i wont even go down to that location and check it out. 

[lookeyloo]

12 minutes ago, zoomama said:

so i am unclear about the vaccine booster/3rd shot conversation above. my doctor just told me wednesday to be sure to get it. i had moderna. i was told where to go and had considered doing it today to get it over with (and any fallout from it) before my next trip to see grandkids.  are you in-the-know folks saying that there is no 3rd dose (booster, shot , whatever it is called) at this time for moderna? if that is the case, then i wont even go down to that location and check it out. 

We are holding off on the Moderna third shot because the way I understand it is the Moderna holds its strength pretty well, and we are gong to wait for a booster or some other indication to get it.  We are both over 65 but with no underlying conditions and still keep ourselves pretty safe as possible with masking, etc.  

[SMama]

This is really embarrassing and difficult for me to ask. Next Saturday SGirl will attend her first homecoming dance. I never attended one. I was raised by my grandparents, Mami was a very strict SDA, and friends and normal social interactions were not part of her absolute adherence to the cult side of that religion.   I was 16 when she passed away and by then I had no desire, and no skills to be a normal teenager. However, she loved me and was devoted to my upbringing.  Oh crud, I’m rambling, sorry. Just trying to explain why I’m so hopelessly lost. As a bonus on the clueless scale, SBaba was too shy to participate, and our son was never interested. 

SGirl is an ambivert, and of course this is the situation when she is shy as heck. The theme for the HC dance is Broadway, dress is semi formal. What can we get her to wear? Sorry for rambling. We know this is important to SGirl and want her to have a positive experience. She’ll be the first person in our nuclear family to enjoy a normal teenage event and we want her to succeed. 

[Ijustwantsomechips]

19 minutes ago, SMama said:

This is really embarrassing and difficult for me to ask. Next Saturday SGirl will attend her first homecoming dance. I never attended one. I was raised by my grandparents, Mami was a very strict SDA, and friends and normal social interactions were not part of her absolute adherence to the cult side of that religion.   I was 16 when she passed away and by then I had no desire, and no skills to be a normal teenager. However, she loved me and was devoted to my upbringing.  Oh crud, I’m rambling, sorry. Just trying to explain why I’m so hopelessly lost. As a bonus on the clueless scale, SBaba was too shy to participate, and our son was never interested. 

SGirl is an ambivert, and of course this is the situation when she is shy as heck. The theme for the HC dance is Broadway, dress is semi formal. What can we get her to wear? Sorry for rambling. We know this is important to SGirl and want her to have a positive experience. She’ll be the first person in our nuclear family to enjoy a normal teenage event and we want her to succeed. 

Congrats SGirl! This is a big step. I’m not too sure how to pull off Broadway. Are there any shows in particular that she likes? Hamilton? Phantom? Wicked? Hairspray? Newsies? The Lion King?  Perhaps she can wear a hairstyle, makeup or accessories that emulate a character. Is she going with a date or friends? Maybe they could do a theme together. Yeah, I’m not helping at all am I? 

As for the dress, and large department store like Macy’s or Dillard’s will have nice party dresses. Macy’s used to gave really cute homecoming dresses since they gave a nice juniors department. Of course you may have a favorite local boutique as well.  I think makeup and/accessories will be her best bet to capture the theme if that’s what she’s going for.  She doesn’t have to dress for the theme at all though. 

Edited October 8, 2021 by Ijustwantsomechips

[SunnyBeBe]

54 minutes ago, zoomama said:

so i am unclear about the vaccine booster/3rd shot conversation above. my doctor just told me wednesday to be sure to get it. i had moderna. i was told where to go and had considered doing it today to get it over with (and any fallout from it) before my next trip to see grandkids.  are you in-the-know folks saying that there is no 3rd dose (booster, shot , whatever it is called) at this time for moderna? if that is the case, then i wont even go down to that location and check it out. 

Ok.  My dad’s doctor said he should get …..I guess it’s called the Third dose of Moderna.  He’s 84…. he’s not immunocompromised, but he is a heart patient, has hypothyroidism, etc.  I specifically asked that his primary approve a third dose BEFORE he got it.  He got it today in the doctor’s  office. I was going to take him, but had a work matter arise and couldn’t go.  His primary doctor used to be my primary.  I had to switch for insurance.  Next week, I’m going to ask him to approve me due to my Type I diabetes. I think it’s free wherever you get it.   I would prefer the proposed half dose of Moderna, but…..don’t want to wait.  Moderna half dose needs to be approved NOW. I’m really annoyed with the hold up.  

Edited October 8, 2021 by SunnyBeBe

[SMama]

51 minutes ago, Ijustwantsomechips said:

Congrats SGirl! This is a big step. I’m not too sure how to pull off Broadway. Are there any shows in particular that she likes? Hamilton? Phantom? Wicked? Newsies? The Lion King?  Perhaps she can wear a hairstyle, makeup or accessories that emulate a character. Is she going with a date or friends? Maybe they could do a theme together. Yeah, I’m not helping at all am I? 

As for the dress, and large department store like Macy’s or Dillard’s will have nice party dresses. Macy’s used to gave really cute homecoming dresses since they gave a nice juniors department. Of course you may have a favorite local boutique as well.  I think makeup and/accessories will be her best bet to capture the theme if that’s what she’s going for.  She doesn’t have to dress for the theme at all though. 

You have already helped, thank you. At this time SGirl doesn’t seem interested in dates, but I don’t know is she has a group of girls. Returning to school after a pandemic is disorienting. A lot of her classmates have returned to Online learning due to anxiety. We want SGirl to have as normal a freshman year as possible.  
 

ETA: I know there are bigger concerns happening IRL. For those of you who have available bandwidth like @Ijustwantsomechips, please share your thoughts. 

Edited October 8, 2021 by SMama

[Ijustwantsomechips]

34 minutes ago, SMama said:

You have already helped, thank you. At this time SGirl doesn’t seem interested in dates, but I don’t know is she has a group of girls. Returning to school after a pandemic is disorienting. A lot of her classmates have returned to Online learning due to anxiety. We want SGirl to have as normal a freshman year as possible.  

I hope she has a wonderful time and gets lots of cute pictures.  

[Liddy52]

1 hour ago, SMama said:

This is really embarrassing and difficult for me to ask. Next Saturday SGirl will attend her first homecoming dance. I never attended one. I was raised by my grandparents, Mami was a very strict SDA, and friends and normal social interactions were not part of her absolute adherence to the cult side of that religion.   I was 16 when she passed away and by then I had no desire, and no skills to be a normal teenager. However, she loved me and was devoted to my upbringing.  Oh crud, I’m rambling, sorry. Just trying to explain why I’m so hopelessly lost. As a bonus on the clueless scale, SBaba was too shy to participate, and our son was never interested. 

SGirl is an ambivert, and of course this is the situation when she is shy as heck. The theme for the HC dance is Broadway, dress is semi formal. What can we get her to wear? Sorry for rambling. We know this is important to SGirl and want her to have a positive experience. She’ll be the first person in our nuclear family to enjoy a normal teenage event and we want her to succeed. 

Does her school have a Facebook page? Even if you don't have a FB Account, they are usually public. You might look on it and see if they have pictures from previous Homecomings to kind of guage how dressy the other kids usually go. You could call the school counselor or social worker and just explain that you need some guidance on what type dress would help SGirl be her most comfortable.  Also, don't stress too much, like weddings and other events nowadays,  I think the formality of dress varies wildly at high school events.  Maybe aim for middle of the road, not too too formal, not too casual. Most of all, just be sure she is comfortable both physically ( nothing pokes, pinches) and emotionally so she can enjoy herself!

[ginger90]

1 hour ago, Ijustwantsomechips said:

Congrats SGirl! This is a big step. I’m not too sure how to pull off Broadway. Are there any shows in particular that she likes? Hamilton? Phantom? Wicked? Hairspray? Newsies? The Lion King?  Perhaps she can wear a hairstyle, makeup or accessories that emulate a character. Is she going with a date or friends? Maybe they could do a theme together. Yeah, I’m not helping at all am I? 

As for the dress, and large department store like Macy’s or Dillard’s will have nice party dresses. Macy’s used to gave really cute homecoming dresses since they gave a nice juniors department. Of course you may have a favorite local boutique as well.  I think makeup and/accessories will be her best bet to capture the theme if that’s what she’s going for.  She doesn’t have to dress for the theme at all though. 

In my non fashionable opinion, a black dress always works. 😁

[Cinnabon]

1 hour ago, SMama said:

You have already helped, thank you. At this time SGirl doesn’t seem interested in dates, but I don’t know is she has a group of girls. Returning to school after a pandemic is disorienting. A lot of her classmates have returned to Online learning due to anxiety. We want SGirl to have as normal a freshman year as possible.  
 

ETA: I know there are bigger concerns happening IRL. For those of you who have available bandwidth like @Ijustwantsomechips, please share your thoughts. 

The pandemic is still raging. You said “after a pandemic” and I just couldn’t help but point that out. Too many are acting like it’s over.

[SMama]

1 hour ago, Cinnabon said:

The pandemic is still raging. You said “after a pandemic” and I just couldn’t help but point that out. Too many are acting like it’s over.

Words matter and I was not as mindful as I’m usually, perhaps due to worrying about my baby. We are well aware it’s not over. We are fully vaccinated and still wear masks outdoors. We like this being alive thing. 
 

I should have stated that after a full school year and half a semester out of school returning is difficult. SGirl’s school only allows students out of the car. We have yet to meet her teachers in person and we are OK with that. I was allowed into the nurse’s office when SGirl vomited and had to come home.

The HC dance will be held outdoors (TY So Cal weather), masks and social distancing rules apply. 

I’m sorry if I gave the impression of not taking this one (hopefully) in a lifetime pandemic seriously. 

Edited October 8, 2021 by SMama

[Absolom]

2 hours ago, zoomama said:

so i am unclear about the vaccine booster/3rd shot conversation above. my doctor just told me wednesday to be sure to get it. i had moderna. i was told where to go and had considered doing it today to get it over with (and any fallout from it) before my next trip to see grandkids.  are you in-the-know folks saying that there is no 3rd dose (booster, shot , whatever it is called) at this time for moderna? if that is the case, then i wont even go down to that location and check it out. 

For people who are immunocompromised there is a third dose of Moderna.  They don't consider that a booster.  The actual booster for people over 65, etc, for Moderna hasn't been approved.  

The immunocompromised people include people on high dose steroids, active cancer patients, untreated HIV patients, transplant recipients, and such.  The county health department should have a list of who is eligible or go to the CDC website.

[Absolom]

1 hour ago, Liddy52 said:

Also, don't stress too much, like weddings and other events nowadays,  I think the formality of dress varies wildly at high school events.  Maybe aim for middle of the road, not too too formal, not too casual. Most of all, just be sure she is comfortable both physically ( nothing pokes, pinches) and emotionally so she can enjoy herself!

I would re-emphasize this.  Don't spend a fortune on it.  Likely the dress will be worn once more if that.  Usually we went for simple and more timeless over flashy so they could be worn a time or two more.  Make sure the dress is modest enough.  I wouldn't go strapless or with slits for a freshman.  Some schools have dance dress codes.   I'm looking at a photo of a nice dark blue velvet fit and flare dress my oldest wore to her first homecoming dance.  

[Bewitched]

2 hours ago, SMama said:

SGirl is an ambivert, and of course this is the situation when she is shy as heck. The theme for the HC dance is Broadway, dress is semi formal. What can we get her to wear? Sorry for rambling. We know this is important to SGirl and want her to have a positive experience. She’ll be the first person in our nuclear family to enjoy a normal teenage event and we want her to succeed. 

We are on different coasts so dresses may be different but most of the girls at my daughters' HS wore short dresses, lots of sequins and sparkle this year.  This site is popular as is this one.  I agree with the advice not to spend too much.  

I admit I did some "pearl clutching" when my older daughter was a freshman.  It is a lot different than what we wore back in the day!  

[Absolom]

The dresses at the first site are not what I see going to homecoming in SoCal.  Perhaps Prom they'd be appropriate.  The ones at the second site are more in line with what I've seen going to homecoming here.  I keep forgetting that I was looking for a size 0 or 00 to fit someone 5 feet tall and not look like she was playing dress up.  Thankfully she kept growing.  

[Cinnabon]

2 hours ago, SMama said:

Words matter and I was not as mindful as I’m usually, perhaps due to worrying about my baby. We are well aware it’s not over. We are fully vaccinated and still wear masks outdoors. We like this being alive thing. 
 

I should have stated that after a full school year and half a semester out of school returning is difficult. SGirl’s school only allows students out of the car. We have yet to meet her teachers in person and we are OK with that. I was allowed into the nurse’s office when SGirl vomited and had to come home.

The HC dance will be held outdoors (TY So Cal weather), masks and social distancing rules apply. 

I’m sorry if I gave the impression of not taking this one (hopefully) in a lifetime pandemic seriously. 

I’m sorry if I sounded obnoxious. I just get so frustrated when people act like it’s all behind us. I hope your daughter has a great time at the dance!

[Love2dance]

5 hours ago, zoomama said:

so i am unclear about the vaccine booster/3rd shot conversation above. my doctor just told me wednesday to be sure to get it. i had moderna. i was told where to go and had considered doing it today to get it over with (and any fallout from it) before my next trip to see grandkids.  are you in-the-know folks saying that there is no 3rd dose (booster, shot , whatever it is called) at this time for moderna? if that is the case, then i wont even go down to that location and check it out. 

My husband and I each have health issues and we got the third shot/booster a few weeks ago. We just went to our local rite aid and had no problem or questions asked. It does make us feel safer.

[SunnyBeBe]

44 minutes ago, Love2dance said:

My husband and I each have health issues and we got the third shot/booster a few weeks ago. We just went to our local rite aid and had no problem or questions asked. It does make us feel safer.

Did you get Pfizer or Moderna?

[Scarlett45]

@SMama so exciting that your daughter is going to the dance! I am sure she will have a wonderful time. Since Broadway is the theme- what are her favorite plays? Has she talked to her friends about what they will wear? Do they have a pintrest board? Oh HS dances, such fun!

[Love2dance]

33 minutes ago, SunnyBeBe said:

Did you get Pfizer or Moderna?

Sorry….I meant to include Moderna in my reply. We both had sore arms and were very tired the evening of the vaccine. We went to sleep really early and slept about 10 hours. When we woke up, we were fine. No other side effects.

[thehorseofpower]

@SMama, I was in high school back in the late 90s so things may have changed since then, but for us the theme of the dance never had any bearing on what we wore; it only mattered for the dance committee doing the decorations. Unless her friends are planning to dress according to the Broadway theme, I wouldn't give it another thought. My daughters are in elementary school so we haven't had to deal with dances yet, but I have seen social media photos from friends who have high schoolers, and all of the girls I've seen this year are wearing short dresses. The general rule around here seems to be short for homecoming, and longer/fancier/more formal for prom. If it were my daughter, I'd look for a knee length dress with spaghetti straps in her favorite color, some cute heels and maybe some sparkly earrings, and that would blend in with everything I have seen around here.

[SunnyBeBe]

Update on my friend who suffered severe heart attack on July 23 and was in an extended coma.  His heart situation became stable, but the brain trauma was a real concern.   He finally woke up and has undergone PT in the hospital.  He went home last week to live with his mom for now. He still has memory issues and still has a long way back to full recovery, but we are all so grateful.  

Edited October 9, 2021 by SunnyBeBe

[louannems]

I know I don't often post in this thread but I do read it.  And now I need information!

Last night, around 3 am, evidently my cell phone called my sister in law.  The phone was on my bedside table with the volume turned off.  I use the phone for the time.

I did not call her!  I was sound asleep when I was awakened to my phone vibrating.  It was my sister in law, saying that I had called her three times.  I assured her I did not call and all was well.

The next morning, I checked the call log and it showed that I did call her three times, then she called me.  But I know I didn't!  And DH was sound asleep.

Is this spoofing?  I thought spoofing didn't show on the call logs.  I don't know what to think.

This came shortly after I apparently was one of those old ladies who fall for the Apple gift card scam.  I did, I'm embarrassed to say and am out $400!

[Mindthinkr]

27 minutes ago, louannems said:

This came shortly after I apparently was one of those old ladies who fall for the Apple gift card scam.  I did, I'm embarrassed to say and am out $400!

I’m sorry to hear that, but to be honest I’ve never even heard of the Apple gift card scam. 
Is it possible that you sleep dialed her? 

[Rootbeer]

On 10/8/2021 at 4:54 PM, Liddy52 said:

Does her school have a Facebook page? Even if you don't have a FB Account, they are usually public. You might look on it and see if they have pictures from previous Homecomings to kind of guage how dressy the other kids usually go. You could call the school counselor or social worker and just explain that you need some guidance on what type dress would help SGirl be her most comfortable.  Also, don't stress too much, like weddings and other events nowadays,  I think the formality of dress varies wildly at high school events.  Maybe aim for middle of the road, not too too formal, not too casual. Most of all, just be sure she is comfortable both physically ( nothing pokes, pinches) and emotionally so she can enjoy herself!

I concur with this.  I can only speak from recent experience with a friend whose 2 sons attended Homecoming and posted some pics.  The girls were wearing cute above-the-knee party dresses; the sort kids wear to weddings and other nice dressy events.  They had strappy metallic sandals They'd both obviously gone to the salon and had their hair done, too, not put up, but down and styled nicely.  They looked adorable.  The boys wore suits and ties.

I know all these dances have themes, but I am not sure that dressing for it is the way to go.  Most likely, the 'Broadway' theme will mean the gym or party center will have a red carpet and spotlights and maybe a marquee over the entrance.  There may also be a photo booth with Broadway-type props.  If she really wants to dress as a theatrical character, I'd be really careful and conservative in case other kids don't do it.  Kids that age are funny about stuff and, if she shows up in costume and no one else does, it will be a huge deal for her.  If she does something she can ditch if no one else is dressing for the theme, that would probably be smart.  Of course, if she conducts a survey and finds at least a few girls are going to go with the theme, she won't have to worry about being alone if she does it, too.

Is she going with friends?   If so, she can ask the other girls where they are getting their dresses or what they're wearing to get some idea of what is current   Or, if there is a store where a lot of teen girls like to shop, you could just stop in there and chat up a salesperson.  They know what the kids are wearing to various events, will often have photos or outfits put together,  You don't have to buy, just take a look to get the picture.

If she is not comfortable asking her friends, do you know other moms who have kids her age who've done Homecoming?  They could probably give you some information, too.

Edited October 10, 2021 by Rootbeer
edited to add a pic of a dress similar to one of the girls at homecoming

[Rootbeer]

1 hour ago, louannems said:

I know I don't often post in this thread but I do read it.  And now I need information!

Last night, around 3 am, evidently my cell phone called my sister in law.  The phone was on my bedside table with the volume turned off.  I use the phone for the time.

I did not call her!  I was sound asleep when I was awakened to my phone vibrating.  It was my sister in law, saying that I had called her three times.  I assured her I did not call and all was well.

The next morning, I checked the call log and it showed that I did call her three times, then she called me.  But I know I didn't!  And DH was sound asleep.

Is this spoofing?  I thought spoofing didn't show on the call logs.  I don't know what to think.

This came shortly after I apparently was one of those old ladies who fall for the Apple gift card scam.  I did, I'm embarrassed to say and am out $400!

As far as I know, spoofing is when someone trying to scam you disguises their actual phone number with one with an area code and exchange near the recipient in order to get the recipient to think its a local call and pick up.  It would be an amazing coincidence if a scammer actually used a number that your SIL knew but the calls would not have shown up on your phone at all since you didn't make them.  Spoofers also mainly call during regular business hours since they're usually trying to sell something and people who are awakened in the middle of the night are not in a buying mood usually.

I think you maybe sleep-dialed or maybe accidentally bumped the phone or something and, if your SIL was one of your speed-dials; it wouldn't take much to make the call.

Edited October 10, 2021 by Rootbeer