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I too was forced to retire at the end of this school year, much earlier than I expected to. Hopefully I will be able to regain my health. I don't know the rules at your location, but in my state I am not allowed to work in an education facility for 6 months after retirement, but after that, I could go work at a school and draw that pay and my retirement pay. So hang in there, options will pop up that you never though about.
11860Dear Toogie. Didn't know if you would see my reply to you in my message, but I just wanted to say that I'm sorry to hear about your cousin. I will keep the family in my prayers. Mechille :)
by toogie
30 Jun 2016
Thank you Mechille- the funeral is Saturday and our big BBQ with Hubby's family we organized is too.
7844Dear Toogie, I understand the changes you are dealing with can be a bit daunting, especially when they are not part of your plan A, or, for that matter, plan B or plan C, and it can be a bit worrying about coping without what you were aiming to have; but just step back for a moment and take in all that is special that you do have and know that you have, indeed touched many hearts; when you are ready, you will have some fun making a new plan for the days ahead; you will no doubt become a wizard at watching out for shopping specials and balancing budgets, but most importantly, you will have time to heal as much as possible, time to adjust to challenges and time to enjoy what you do have; remember the movie about Pollyanna and her mottos on life; be glad that you won't have to struggle with the bus steps and be glad that you can have some health insurance; is there a local easily accessible Sunday School where you could offer occasional assistance? or maybe a girl guides where you could occasionally informally teach a little of your creativity; or maybe hold or join a monthly informal local sewers gathering; the possibilities are endless; this is just the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Remember to be kind to yourself while you are adapting to the changes in your life and try to enjoy it as much as possible.
by toogie
30 Jun 2016
Thank you for all your words of encouragement. I will adjust now that I have finally made the decision, there is no turning back. Looking forward, and I remember and I have the Pollyanna movie. That is what she said.
3568Toogie, can you go swimming - or pool therapy??
I did hydro therapy last year. It was the middle of winter so I was happy to be in a heated pool - bath tub hot too!
DH is doing hydrotherapy and physio and Diversional Therapy (DT) too since his stroke and knee replacement last month. The walking in water really makes a difference.
by toogie
30 Jun 2016
My pool is gone and to go to a public facility its about 20 miles away.....Thanks for the advice and glad you both are improved.
1941Dear Toogie, You already know this but just remind yourself, "God may close one door but he always opens another.". You seem to be a very positive lady so I'm sure you will make the most of this difficult decision.
My husband took an early retirement and within a year felt better than he had in several years--and, we discovered that we could get along fine--hopefully this will happen for you, too.
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
I'm sure we will be fine. I keep telling myself that (yes, I talk to myself....someone has to scold me!-lol). I don't mind getting old....I just don't wanna feel old!!!!
by rachap
30 Jun 2016
ps If you haven't checked you might be eligible
for disability, sometimes they even go back to when you were first injured.
Also, we aren't old unless we decide to be!!
by toogie
01 Jul 2016
I did ask about disability retirement and they said because I was eligible for regular retirement, I have to take that instead.
8227So sorry you were forced into retirement but I think that happens to alot of us. I had a job with a Dr. that I still go to but I had a problem with my back and couldn't continue with the work I had to do. Have had 2 back surgeries since then and now am feeling really good. It takes time and prayers. Do what the Dr. says and I'm sure you'll be dancing around.
All kidding aside I'm sure with rest and the care you get from your family you will be on the mend in no time. Enjoy being home and do a a lot of embroidery. Arlene
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
Thank you Arlene, I plan on doing my crafts, as life would be very dull without them. I have taken care and my husband is a good watch dog over me-It just seems to me that recovery is slow. When I had my accident my daughter and doctor both, said I wouldn't be back this school year, to work. I just thought, no way it would be that long. Boy, was I wrong!
I'm so happy to hear you're feeling good, often times back injuries require surgery after surgery after surgery. Take care and God bless-Toogie
31366Toogie, so sorry to hear of your early retirement. I know it will make things harder on y'all, but you will make it. I'm a true believer that God never gives us more than we can handle..... we just might not think we can. I will keep y'all in my prayers and hope that you will soon be feeling better. Try and enjoy your retirement. Mechille :)
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
I have told (scolded) myself that, what's done is done, now make the best of it. I'm depending on Him (God) to carry me through this transition stage, with the peace and ease I need. Thank you for the prayers and whatever His will for me be done. If its not complete recovery, at least make the pain something I can live with, so I can enjoy my retirement.
7844My dear Toogie I am sorry this was not what you wanted. Were it not for my problems I even though I am almost 78 would still be working. God's plan for us is not always what we want but He knows what is best.. Went to bed the other night feeling really sorry for myself. At 2 in the morning this came to me. ". Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content", Philippians 4;11, Paul's writing. . I was really down, Ron had a particular bad day that day.. I have no retirement, he has no retirement, S.S. only, this is what we live on but we want for nothing. Daughter came in that morning asking how was I and my reply was "happy" and then I explained what transpired in the middle of the night. I know God is watching over us and he will you.. I truly pray your health will continue to get better . much love/Lillian
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
Lillian I know you are not normally prone to self pity. The human side in all of us does question why it has to seem so hard sometimes. ...Thank God, He has given us scripture to recall and strengthen, uplift us.
Thank you for reminding me I need to be content, even in this transition state. The human side of me makes me concerned about the future finances/medical bills. Shame on me. Why, should I worry? Scripture tell us He takes care of the birds in the field, surely He will take care of our needs. Thank you dear friend and sister in Christ-Love Toogie
145789I am sorry to hear about your early retirement. My husband and I were both forced into early retirement, we are never bored and our lives are busier than ever. Enjoy what you have and look after your health.
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
I'm sure I can stay busy. I have never understood when someone has stated they are bored. There is always something to busy yourself with. I love & enjoy crafts. I like sewing, embroidery (hand or machine), crochet, hand cross stitching, quilting, reading,etc.
I also like to clean house. I really do. It gives me a sense of satisfaction. Nothing feels better than walking barefoot on a freshly mopped floor!-lol- I have often thought before, maybe no one else notices I cleaned but I KNOW and it feels good. Since my accident I haven't been able to do what I need to do though, in my house keeping. Like I can't climb and clean those spider webs Nora (my almost 3 year old grand daughter) just saw in my recessed light.
I also enjoy working my flower beds but to see them today, you would think otherwise. Hopefully, I can recover enough to enjoy doing most, if not all, those things again. I surely will have TIME to do it-lol
4443Sorry to learn that retirement was forced on you. Take care.
I had some health problems last year and this year I noticed that I can now walk without pain. So there is a good chance you will too. Do you exercise and REST. Both are important. Have someone take a photo of the 2 of you in the same spot in 6 months time and compare them.
You do look tired here, but I bet you won't in six months!!
Your hubbie looks healthy, not younger. :-)
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
I am stressed here and it shows!!! Hubby does look great (to me anyway!) though healthy is questionable. He has high blood pressure and 2 disc gone in his back. Wanna give me a makeover? I have time!-lol
1941Sorry you had the Retirement forced on you but it is probably for the best for your health. Not that it makes it feel any better. My Husband had to retire early due to ill health and I had to go part time to care for him before retiring completely myself to be at home with him. So I know how scary it feels at the beginning. First thing I did was look at our finances. The House was paid off so no problem there. Credit card small balance paid that out and pay out totally each month now.
We owe no one anything just have daily living expenses. It is surprising how you save money by not going to work. Car uses less fuel don't need to glam up with the latest clothes or buy quick to heat and eat food because you have forgotten to get stuff out of the freezer and had a hard day.
I was surprised as I thought having less money would make us miserable but it hasn't.
I still do a bit of sewing mending for the Ladies at the College where I worked this is my pin money.
You will be OK you have a good man by your side.
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
Everything you have said is true. We will be okay after we adjust. Uncertainty is always scary though. Glad you adjusted well. We are in good shape as far as debt goes. Just medical bills and it seems we will always have those.
29723Hi, May God bless you in all that you are going through. Thinking of you!
7627I too retired from teaching a few years earlier than planned but, my life has since been filled with volunteer work in serving others. You will find the time filled with so many opportunities you could have never enjoyed because you were working full time. The finances can be supplemented in different ways. Get some retirement counseling from your school system, you might find some part time work doing something you really enjoy. Congratulations and enjoy some time for you and your honey
19439Toogie have a very happy and long retirement. Life doesn't always go according to our individual plans. I am yet another Cutie who is retired and my leaving work was not as I had anticipated BUT retirement is brilliant. So have fun and keep sewing. Just love your bag
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thanks, but when I saw this photo, I thought I should have changed my bag, its so old now.
I do hope I adjust as well as those of you that have gone through retirement already. I just can't imagine life without a job. Oh, I know I still have work to do, but I mean a paying job.
114287I, too was forced to retire due to being physically unable to do my job resulting from a car accident. I know it's hard, but just try this.
Look at your picture. See someone with their hand of love and support on your shoulder? You and he must have gone through some difficult times in your long relationship as we all do, but you two are still standing together. You are going to be O.K.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Jerrilyn for your encouraging words and support.
Yes, I see the picture. I have expressed to him and others, how well he has taken care of me. I could not have made it though this time alone.
It won't be but a couple more years, we will celebrate 50 years together.....I tell everyone, we still don't know if it will work out, but we're too close to the end to quit now!-lol
Bless you-Toogie
158552Cuties, before I try to reply to each individual post, I have to say this to all of you.
Cuties are the best! One of the best support systems, for encouraging and uplifting a person who doesn't like change. (I sound like my students-lol)
I know we'll be fine, God will and has always, provided. We may just have to make adjustments, on our part.
I guess part of me too, is not being there to see about Avery. I transported her to and from, for school, and would know how she did each day. It seems all our life we are having to 'let go'. I know she will be fine without me, after all she was with others for the past 5 months going to school.
I will miss the other students as well. I just saw one's g-mother a couple weeks ago. She said her grandson keeps asking about me and when will I be back. It's nice to feel loved and I was planning on going back............
It is official now, so no going back. I just have to accept it and chin up!
Thank you ALL, each one of you, for the love I feel that is so much a part of being a great Cutie. Love, Toogie
by chenille
28 Jun 2016
I believe that things happen for a reason. Take the time to "smell the roses" as they say. Enjoy every minute of time with your husband and family. One never know what the future holds. ENJOY retirement!!
Hugs, Nadyne
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
I have always took the time to APPRECIATE what God has blessed me with.....now I guess HE wants me to ENJOY it! Thanks Nadyne
109038Congratulations! You will have more time to stitch! and of course be with your grandchildren. Best wishes for this new chapter in your life.
173580As you are probably aware, Pat Summit (former UT coach) died this morning. She had said "God doesn't take anything away to be cruel. He takes things away to make room for other things. He takes things away to lighten us. He takes things away so we can fly." In her case it was something else...but you can apply this to you today. Thinking of you, dear one, and know you will be so busy you won't miss the job!!
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you, I suppose its the families/kids I will miss most and the feeling of being an employee. I have plenty of non-paying jobs to keep busy-lol
35675Oh Toogie - how does the saying go.... when one door closes another opens!!! We recently retired and yes finances can be tight - but you are so busy anyway - I don't think you will realize right away, but you will love being at home more ... things will work out - I just know it!! Hugs and love, Laura*
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Laura, yes, if we just didn't have to pay insurances life would be grand!-lol- I don't know why I'm worried with all the encouragement everyone has given.
95239God has a plan for us and we have to trust Him. I was forced out of a job that I had worked at for over 30 years because my boss had a bug in her nether regions. She was making things so difficult for me that I finally decided the money wasn't worth the stress. Now I have a job where my efforts are appreciated, (and I am well past "retirement age"). If you don't find retirement to your liking you may find another job where your limitations are not a problem. Or you may be so busy that you wonder how you ever had time to hold down a job. Whatever the future holds just enjoy it! Blessings to you, Teresa
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Teresa. I'm sorry you had to leave a job you worked for so long but glad it's all worked now for the better. If I could have worked 4 more years, I too would have worked well past retirement age. I have been eligible for retirement for some time, just not at full pay.
22590Lovely picture of you to Congrats on retirement:):)Now off u go to sew*****lol hugs
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Sew I will, till I can't or machines won't!-lol- He does look good, doesn't he-Toogie
360365Beautiful photos of you and your husband...Cheer up...you will have so many more opportunities available to you...Chris said it beautifully...God does not close one door without opening another with bigger and better things...the world is your oyster and you it's pearl...I have been retired for 11 years and honestly, don't know how I had the time to work...life is good..embrace each day!
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Kim, I can always count on you. Eleven years! oh my, I've always thought of you as being real young! Not that I think you're old-lol...I think I'm digging myself deeper or really stepped in it!
by dragonflyer
29 Jun 2016
Hee Hee....Me thinks that thou are digging yourself in deeper my dear....I retired very early...my husband encouraged me to so that I could be relieved of the stress of my job and enjoy life more! Lucky lady I am!
by toogie
29 Jun 2016
Yes, very lucky like me, you have a man to support you and I don't mean just financially.
313674Hey Mrs. T., cheer up now. I understand that you wanted to soldier on for a few more years and equally understand the various concerns that an imposed early retirement can bring with it. Although the situation is not what you wanted, the decision is in your best interests since to carry on doing the work required of you would undoubtedly extend the time it may have taken in the healing process and may even have made things much worse and more quickly. Despite appealing against the decision (itself a stressful experience) I had early retirement imposed upon me. To suddenly find yourself out of a job that you loved together with all the attendant worries,is difficult to bear but I promise you that you will adjust given time and will come to enjoy your new found freedom. Retirement is not the end of life but the opportunity for the start of a new career in what you may want out of life. As others have already said, they now wonder how they found the time to go to work. And of course, this doesn't mean that you cannot work if that is what you want, just that you will need to seek out work more suited to your circumstances.
Your DH is right though. It is time for you to think about yourself and the risks to your health of trying to soldier on. You have the opportunity for some 'me time' and you should grasp that with both hands. Take care and I hope that everything turns out well for you. I just know that it will.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Oh Dennis, you have a good head on your shoulders and can relate to my 'need' to work. I know it's not been easy for you and some others. That is what makes the Cuties all a good support system. Been there, done that, survived!
Take care of yourself and that lovely wife you have-Toogie
11929Oh, Toogie, I retired twenty yrs ago at 53. Then worked 10 yrs. in a jewelry/gift store mainly as a bridal consultant. From the time I left my main job, I have been strapped for cash but I would do it again to be out of the stress. Just take it easy and concentrate on getting better. Everything will fall in place. Perhaps you can start stitching items to sell. You do such good work. Kay
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
My daughter and others have suggested this, if need be. They all say the same thing about my work. It is something I do enjoy doing, too. We will see......
My sister has commented on my management skills with how little or how much, I did well so I hope I still can. This old noggin will be stretched to its limits-lol
85867So sorry that you have had such health problems, and forced to retire. It is so hard to let go of goals and dreams. I found that forced retirement, allowed me to seek other dreams. My motto now, with all my health issues, is "Each day is a gift", and I look for the happiness in each day.
I hope you find joy in your retirement, and peace in your decision.
hugs and prayers
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you so much for your words of wisdom. You sound like you've found that peace.
309I know exactly how you feel dear friend! One of my favorite sayings is "Leave it in God's hands, He hasn't let us down yet & there is no reason he will start now" I think you look wonderful & I have a feeling you will be very busy, there is so much to do for your family. Enjoy it, & take care of yourself so that you can. ~hugs & Blessings~
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you so much, Loralye. Last Sunday, my son and one of my daughters were here, along with my married grandson and his wife. They took a vote for me retiring and gave reasons why, so I guess you could say it was a slam dunk. I went the next day and signed. I said I compared it to when we used to go swimming in a spring creek. You wanted to jump in, but when you thought about how COLD the spring water was, you held back. When you finally took the plunge, you enjoyed and got use to it....Well, I've took the plunge!
299557Congratulations. I have been retired for 22years and I don't regret one day. Take time to heal and then enjoy every day. Have a bucket list? I haven't done everything on my list. Damaris
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Damaris, does anyone ever do it all?
I actually have been offered a trip, that if you want to call my bucket list. It will be in about 4 months time, if I'm better with my foot/leg for walking.
29242Toogie,
The cuties are all behind you. I am sure you will be sorely missed by all those you worked with. Take the time to mend yourself and do something with your sewing/emb machine. You need time to heal physically and emotionally-tears do help. Praying for you!
Tonya
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Yes, tears help to make my sinuses stop up-lol
Tonya, you and Cuties have been so sweet, I feel like you've given me a retirement party!
I can only hope for complete healing. You're right about emotionally. Someone close to me said they notice a change in me, since the accident. It is depressing and you long for your life back, without the pain and limits. Keep praying please-Toogie
20075Hello Toogie,
I agree with other cuties: you will quickly appreciate your retirement. An accident forced me to retire earlier. You learn to live differently. We have more time to enjoy life and we can do so many activities. I agree with Michelle: your body tells you it's time to take care of you: LISTEN.
Have a nice day dear Toogie
Hugs, Céline
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Celine. I would be glad to do the activities I need to do...like climbing on the step stool to clean the ceiling fans, bending/kneeling to clean under the beds, etc.
I am hoping I will get better enough to do all that again but it sure seems like its taking so long! My patience are running thin.
Next year at this time I am hoping to have all this way behind me.
3942After the first shock, you will be excited to retire. I always thought I would work until my last day, but health issues made me retire in 2011.
God bless you and he will help you through this.
Kathy
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Kathy, it seems that health is the reason a lot of people have had to retire. Its sad when we can't do the things we always liked to do. My flower beds have suffered and my housekeeping..................
6257Hope you enjoy your retirement. Nice pictures of you and hubby. You will get to spend more time with the kids and your hubby ..God will take care of you and yours. Hope your leg is doing better too. RELAX now.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
That is something I will have to 'work' hard on, relaxing. I hope my leg and foot gets lots better, too, thank you. Today the foot is the worse.........
My husband has been retired, so now we will see if this marriage is gonna work!-lol
111084Enjoy your retirement, you and your hubby will have some free time now. Take care, Hugs to both of you. Love the pictures. Wishing you all the best,
Love and Hugs
Lynn
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Lyn. I couldn't see which of the photos were best of the two of us, so I sent both. After all these years we still love each other..........most days-lol
Thank you for the warm wishes-Toogie
by designgirl
29 Jun 2016
Yes we are all the same. After 50 years together we here still love each other........ most days too, lol Take care and enjoy your retirement. Hugs Lynn
51302Congrats on your retirement even though it is not the way you wanted it. Working for schools requires more from our bodies than some people can imagine. There is no need to continue to destroy your body. Now you have more tie for your grand children. Enjoy.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
lol-My husband says I didn't retire, to babysit! I do enough of that already. I love them dearly, but one day at a time is plenty-lol
10990i feel you for you having gone through this recently. All I can say is that all the money in the world cannot buy you good health. We adjust, we compromise, we coop and most importantly we take time to enjoy and love those around us. Your body is telling you it is time and LISTEN because knows what it needs.
take care and trust in god, things will go well
hugs
Michelle
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
I know all this in my heart. It's my head that doesn't want to 'let go'. I love all my students and I know for them, change is a big deal too. Even though the last 5 months of school I've had a substitute replacement, the kids still asked when I was coming back.
Life does go on and so will we. Sounds like you made the adjustment alright.Toogie
64451So sorry that you are feeling down Toogie. I know that you are a strong woman and that you will find masses to do. It will not be long before you wonder how you ever managed to find the time to work. I am sure that there are many of us here on Cute that are retired and fill our days with many of the talents we all have. We are all here for you - just remember that. Hugs Sarah
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Oh Sarah, I know I sound whinny and I feel some shame about that. I've always adjusted and managed with what I had, so I hope to be able to still, its just the uncertainty until exact figures are in.
I will have plenty to keep me busy and may even like retirement, in the end.
by airyfairy
29 Jun 2016
It does take a while. I retired early (my choice) and I should have perhaps stayed longer. I am just so busy these days and I throughly enjoy the time to myself. Love to you and Ava
253102I know your pain to well from when I was let go from my job due to workplace medical reasons, but you will find a niche` for yourself. The flowers in the garden behind you look very nice and so does your bag.. Chin up you have all of us here to talk to when ever you need your spirits lifted. Marian
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
You all have done a great job of lifting me (and that's not easy, with this extra weight!). We will be fine, but its not easy letting go of the past. I have enjoyed so many little lives and hopefully have touched a few hearts along the way.
45917Toogie, the photo of you both is wonderful, even though this was not planned i am sure you shall make the most of it. You do such beautiful work for your family, and although it takes some time to adjust, that you will. Enjoy your retirement and all the pleasures it will bring, more time with hubby and family. Keep on creating we love to see your work. Sandra.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Sandra, when I 'let go' of the disappointment of not having a job, I will enjoy it, I'm sure. I know I will keep busy, as long as I am able. I appreciate you like what I make.Thank you
24329A special hug for you, your health is the most important now.
740057Hi Toogie, I too retired about 6-7 years ago and absolutely love it. I'm actually busier than ever nowadays and keep active as I know you do too. I hope your health improves mightily, because as you know it takes our bodies longer to heal the older we get. I think you've done the right thing even though you are going to be missing out on your retirement pay/health insurance. What with all of the great things you sew I'm sure you will go really well. I will pray that mighty things will open up for you. Love Chris
by Zinobia
28 Jun 2016
Chris has said it all. Only thing I like to add is that in the pic we didn't notice your weight as much as your bag in your lovely hands and your loving husband. We look forward to more of your creations and tips. Love
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Chris thank you. I/we will be fine, I know, but the uncertain things are still scary. Until all the paperwork is done and the figures are finalized, its just an estimate of income. I like knowing.
Yes, I will sew. There is plenty to keep busy.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Zinobia, you're so sweet! I don't know how I would have made out, if I had been alone after my accident. My husband has really been there for me. I do get aggravated at times with him, and be honest Cuties, who doesn't when they've been married this long (lol), but when times are tough I know he's there and visa versa.
234253I understand your feelings. I too retired earlier with a cut in pay. It was very hard, but looking back, we've been okay money wise. And, I've kept my health. Once you retire you can work on your health. Having your health is everything.
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Good health, physical and mental, is so important. I know even if I was completely well, I started having anxiety about falling, and I'm not sure I could have gotten back on the bus. I would dream about my fall and wake up smothering, and sometimes do it awake when I thought about returning. Someone told me it sounds like PTSD. I don't know, but maybe now I know I won't have to get back on the job, the anxiety will stop, although I am still fearful of any fall.
10494Hi
I had to make the same decision 5 years ago. It was so scary but my wonderful husband stood by my side and we have made it work. In the long run it was the best decision for us because it allowed me to spend quality time with the family and family is what matters. Work is important but not valuable. Good Luck
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
It sounds liked it turned out well, for you. It is scary.....but I too have a great guy beside me. We'll be okay, thank you
482Retirement not planned the way you had wished but your health must come first. Wishing you all the best for the years ahead of you. You deserve to relax and enjoy whatever you choose to do. Hugs Marg
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
Thank you Marg. My husband reminds me of some that kept working and as soon as they finally retired, they died. He said he wanted me to enjoy some retirement, not work to the end.
24824not the best news but hopefully you will re-adjust, keep sewing and make it to the end of the tunnel.
16529Forced Retirement is not what I wanted either. But, you do adapt. You are so creative I know you will not waste your "extra" time.You both look fantastic. From one Grandmother to another. Hugs and Blessings The Piggie
by toogie
28 Jun 2016
I think my husband still looks good, but I feel old! It would be nice to have a make over, to lift me up, but there are some things that can't be made over-lol
18102
