Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support

Subject: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:04 AM

As I have mentioned on a couple of other threads, I have been having big flatmate problems lately. These are two brothers who think they can bully me because they are two young men against one middle aged woman. One of them wrote me a nasty note a few weeks ago, DEMANDING that I put my computer in my bedroom, instead of the living room. The note sounded so threatening that I did it, because I was afraid they would move it for me and do some damage. Then they refused to pay phone bills or share out the other bills fairly. It's too long to go into here but lots of other things have happened or are not acceptable, so that I don't feel at home any more. I feel like I am under siege. This may well be their intention to make me feel this way and make me leave, and at first, I wanted to dig in and refuse to let them win.

However, I have not been happy lately. I like the house - it will be hard to leave it, but at just the right time I have had an offer too good to refuse, from a lovely person in the Sydney folk scene, to share his house. This is a person that I think of very highly, and I can afford it. I think I would be silly not to grab the chance while I can, so with lots of misgivings about moving - I have so much stuff and I HATE MOVING! - I have given my notice at the agent, and will be moving on the weekend of the 23rd & 24th this month.

I will be telling the "brothers grim" about my intentions this Sunday, and I am expecting fireworks, when they realize that when I leave I will be taking MY frig, MY washing machine, MY microwave, toaster oven, jug, toaster, saucepans etc etc, which they have been taking for granted and using.

They will then have to decide whether they want to stay or go, and if they want to stay, they will have to sign another lease and commit to staying at least another six months. The real troublemaker, the more recently arrived brother, is not on the lease at the moment. I have had to do it this way in order to get my bond back. It may not suit them to have to decide in 2 weeks, and this might make them angry, too.

Because they have got angry, shouted and waved their fists around in the past when I have tried to talk to them, I am concerned that they might get angry or spiteful enough to damage some of my belongings,(hopefully not me too). I will probably inform the local police in advance too, just in case.

So I am smuggling out some important things like musical instruments, CDs, photos, important papers and other nik naks that I value. This has not proved easy, as there is nearly always someone home, so it is very cloak and dagger, and very stressful. The adrenalin is running so high, I can feel my blood pressure rising, my stomach churning and my nerves fraying. I have major problems getting to sleep most nights, being always on edge and hyper-vigilant.

Apart from myself, the most valuable thing I own is my computer, so this Saturday, when I go and visit my son and daughter-in-law and new grandson Max, I will be taking it up there to Gosford for him to mind. Once I have moved, he can bring it back down and re-connect it. But I will be offline for 2 to 3 weeks.

So this thread is partly to let you all know why I will not be on Mudcat for a while after this Friday, but also because I feel like I need all the support I can get in the next few days. Any thoughts and good vibes and virtual hugs will be very gratefully received, and will help a lot.

While I am out of touch, I am hoping Sandra or Jennie G can post here and let you know how it is going. Once it is over, I will be able to relax for the first time in a very long time, and be able to concentrate on the important things in life, like music, and fun and gardening and festivals and music and knitting and music and poetry and friends and music and food and music and music............

Jenny (nervous but hopeful)

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sorcha
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:17 AM

Jenny, will the police in Oz do what we call a Civil Stand-by? You get an officer to go with you and stand by to prevent mayhem while you get your things. You might need this if the option is available. Good Luck and keep your chin up.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: greg stephens
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:20 AM

Well. i dont know your circumstances Jenny, but it sounds to me as if the guy you're going to move in with could be yer man for a bit of help in this case.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:25 AM

Jenny, if you have any friends who'd be willing to help you, too, besides having police there, which I think is a VERY good idea, it would be a good idea, even just for moral support. Also, do you have to tell them in advance? If it were me and possible, I don't think I'd tell them anything until the day of with the moving van there and being loaded. Best to do it all in one fell swoop rather thwn be in such a state of nerves and concern not only for your stuff but yourself and their possible retaliations.

I am really glad that you are getting out of such a horrible situation and will be sending you lots of good thoughts, virtual hugs and thanks givings that it goes well.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Micca
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:29 AM

Jenny, go to your local Folk (or Rugby) club, ask the 3 Biggest Hairiest guys there to call in " for coffee" on the day you make the announcement and to help you move... and let the Freak brothers know you have friends, you probably wont have to say anything else.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Deckman
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:42 AM

It sounds to me like you would be very wise to not be alone there, especially when you give them the news. Could your son arrange to be there and to hang around a lot until you move? Also, could your "agent" be of assistance? Good luck, Bob(deckman)Nelson

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: kendall
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:52 AM

Keep in mind the fact that only a coward intimidates women. If you show some backbone, they may back off. But, there are two of them, so you may need help from a male friend. I wish I were there; this kind of thing brings out the "Don Quixote" in me.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:07 PM

I wish you were too, Cap'n!! Just show 'em yer heat and tell 'em to back off!

JennyO -- find one or more largish male friends, as mentioned above, to help with the transition.

A

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Jeri
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:11 PM

I'd talk to the cops. As Sorcha said, they may be able to offer some assistance before, during, and after the move. They may also have some very good advice on how to handle the situation.

If it were me, I'd ask the friend I'm moving in with if I could move in as soon as I told my flatmates. I'd ask my friends if they could be there for support and to help me move my stuff out of the house right before/during/after I'd told the guys. I would not give them a chance to plan anything. The official notice means you'll still pay rent for a bit, but you don't have to be physically present.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,Take action!
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:23 PM

I understand that things/distances/number of mudcatters/etc etc etc are different in Australia than in the UK or USA, but come on OZ guys! (Male AND female) Where the hell are you? If this was happening in the UK there would be a queue of big brothers AND sisters at your door, and I cant think it would be any different in the US. Ok, so the fridge might be in Yorkshire for a couple of weeks and the toaster in Cheshire and you in Oxfordshire, but you would be OUT of that hell hole and looking forward to your new life!! (And probbably in a tent in a field somewhere in the English countryside attending a festival!!). JennyO, may be they are just shy and your friends,(Catters and non Catters) just need asking? Its only for a couple of weeks after all!!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:30 PM

This belongs above the line with a HELP prefix, not much BS about this. IMHO.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:34 PM

Thankyou for all your suggestions and good thoughts. I am thinking all the time about the best things to do. I am planning for someone to be there when I tell them, and there will be quite a lot of people helping me on the day I move. It's the in between times I am concerned about. I still have to go to work, and I don't get home until a couple of hours after they do.

There is actually a fourth person living there too. When the worst brother (Eddie) moved in, he asked if his girlfriend from Indonesia could live there too. She doesn't speak English, and is just basically his slave. Now they are married. You'd think they'd want to be on their own, but I guess he thinks he is on a good thing, bludging off me. She is pretty much always there, so I can't get anything done without someone hanging around.

This is why it is no good suddenly leaving the day I tell them. I have a lot of small stuff that needs to be packed up, in the main part of the house and in the garage (we are talking about a lifetime's collection of household effects and memorabilia) and there is no way I can do that without them noticing. They'd notice stuff was disappearing straight away. It's going to be quite a challenge to get it all packed up in 2 weeks as it is. I will have to do it under their noses. There is no way out of that. So I am going to try to get friends to "drop in" as much as possible, and of course, help me pack.

Unfortunately the friends who would be most willing don't have cars and my place isn't easy to get to by public transport. They have to work during the day anyway. I only have a foam mattress to put on the floor if anyone wants to stay, but I will certainly be exploring all the possibilities. My daughter can possibly stay some nights. I feel like I need as many people around me as much as possible.

The guy I will be sharing with will be very helpful whenever he can, I am sure, but he has to work, too.

My son lives on the Central Coast, a good hour's drive away, and with the new baby, I can't be expecting him to drop in too often, but I am hoping that between them all, I won't have to spend a lot of time alone. But that still leaves some of the nights. That's when I get spooked and can't sleep. I should be sleeping now, but if I get tired enough, maybe I will get to sleep quickly before my mind starts racing.

Jenny

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: SINSULL
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:40 PM

JennyO,
I wish I were there to help you. Meantime, get yourself and your most prized possessions out of there safely. I would not stick around after giving them the news. But I would not give them the courtesy of notice either.
If something should "happen" to your frig or dishwasher or whatever, remember they can be replaced. The loss is well worth the cost of replacing them if it means you can live safely and happily.
PM an address. A housewarming gift is in order.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 12:44 PM

I think the reason the Oz catters are not diving in yet, is that it is 2.45 am here. As I said, I should be in bed now, but I am having trouble sleeping. I'm usually a pretty late bird anyway.

I do have a lot of folkie friends in Sydney who I think will help. I have already started to ask them this week. There aren't many mudcatters, though. Sandra is already offering, and I'm sure there will be others. If a Sydney catter sees this and can help in any way, let me know.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 01:18 PM

Sorry, JennyO, forgot about the time difference, I am SURE they will come through for you in one way or annother. Good luck and sleep safe.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: *daylia*
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 01:19 PM

Jenny, I am so sorry to hear about this. You have some wonderful practical advice above which I don't think I can add to except to say DON'T HESITATE to call the police if they threaten either you or your belongings in any way. And don't be afraid to ask for physical help and support. Most people -- even relative strangers -- are only too happy to be of service to a deserving person who is really in need. What goes around comes around. Just trust your instincts and use your good judgement.

It's easier to handle situations like this with a clear head. A clear head is one effect of getting enough sleep. I just recieved my Mastery in two forms of Reiki natural healing.   Reiki always puts me right to sleep when I practice on myself, if I am really tired. I am offering to send you some Reiki energy right now if you'd like. But you need to give permission first, so let me know ok?

I've also got a couple other new and easy little "tricks" which might help you to relax, empower that strong and dynamic woman that you are, and manifest your prayers/intentions for a better place to live. If you want, I'll PM you with the links and the info.

I only wish I lived closer so I could give you some physical, instead of just "moral" support! Hang in there, and know that everything will work out in "divine right order" as long as you keep acting with integrity and stay true to yourself.

Love and blessings -- daylia

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 01:34 PM

If they ask why boxes of stuff are going out of the house tell em its going to the OP shop.   My guess is they aren't the sharpest tacks in the box oh and I'd do a moonlight flit.

Good luck

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: NicoleC
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 01:46 PM

Jenny, I second (or 4th or 5th) the motion not to tell them ahead of time. They have shown you no courtesy, so there is no reason to show them any. Cancel the lease and on the day you are going to move out have your friends show up and help you pack -- stick it all on a rental truck and LEAVE. And as the truck is leaving, mention to them that the lease expires in 3 days and they had better find another place to live. If the utilities are in your name cancel them, too, for the Day After. If you've got a cell phone, cancel the telephone service.

If you can pick a day or time when as few as possible of them will be home, so much the better. Bullies like to run in packs, and if they aren't all there is may temper their behavior. If that's not possible, I advocate an early start (like 7am) so everything gets packed up and nothing gets left behind, because you aren't going to want to go back for any reason.

There is absolutely NO reason to risk yourself, your property or your mental health doing anything for these moochers!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: catspaw49
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:07 PM

Nicole summed it up.....All I'd add is , Do It Now or ASAP. Like Sinsull said, if you lose a bit in the process, it's okay. Just go do it, with a lot of folks helping, and do it all at once.....In other words, Get the hell out as soon as you can!

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:16 PM

This will be my last post before I go to bed, and thankyou all for your thoughts and helpful suggestions.

I wish I could do it all on one day, but the amount of little fiddly stuff that has to be packed makes it physically impossible, even for an army of people. I am not giving them 2 weeks notice out of consideration for them, but because I have to start making stuff disappear some time, and I need the 2 weeks to do it in. They certainly are not very bright, but when all the books disappear off the bookshelves and most of the crockery and cookware disappears out of the kitchen, even they will realize something is up, and if I am obviously packing up and haven't told them, it might make them angrier. These are my thoughts, anyway.

I will have somebody there when I tell them, and when I see how they react, it will give me a better idea of how much I need to worry. As for the police, I could make a lot of trouble for these guys if I wanted to, but I don't see any need to resort to that at this point. If I did it now, I would really have more to worry about, and if I waited till after I was gone, it wouldn't really be necessary - it would just be revenge, and I'm not into that sort of thing. I believe people have their own karma, and they will get what they deserve, without any help from me.

Off to bed now to sleep, perchance to dream.........

Jenny

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Bill D
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:18 PM

Nicole makes very good sense if that is at all possible. Do as much 'preliminary' packing as possible INSIDE your bedroom quietly, and move small valubles to a safe place.

One thing you 'might' do is get a camera and take snapshots of the areas of house and garage where your stuff is stored...just in case you need to remember/document what is there....sometimes YOU don't miss things until much later. (I lost some valuble books in a similar circumstance once)

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:19 PM

Exactly, Nicole and Spaw!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Janie
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:23 PM

Nothing to add to the good advice all ready given. But here is a
(((((((((((((((((((((((hug))))))))))))))))))))!

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: SINSULL
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:32 PM

Good for you, J. It would be easy at this point to sink to their level. Do what you know is fair and right. You will have to live with yourself later. Keep us posted. Meanwhile you will be kept in a safe place in my prayers and thoughts.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Alba
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 02:46 PM

Hi Jenny. My thoughts are with you.
Best of wishes and {{{{empowering Hugs}}}}} coming your way.
May this all be in the past for you soon.
JD

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,heric
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 03:13 PM

To summarize what I have gleaned above, not to claim originality:

You and sinsull are on to something here, to be taken into consideration with previous observations about bullies. You have to let them know how it is, so do it with quiet dignity. Not wanting to live there in their presence does not need to feel like cowardice or flight. Make adequate preparations for protection of property and person, knowing that property is at risk and but that only threats against person are likely. Let the cops (and leasing agent) know in advance of disclosure what your situation is, and perhaps let them know about the disclosure date. (Is it possible to have an off duty cop on stand by for disclosure evening, to make a polite appearance only if necessary? Perhaps that note about the computer will serve as independent evidence of your true situation.) Then hopefully leave the possessions there even though you are gone? Photographed, catalogued, and spirited out as feasible.

If these guys know that the cops and the leasing agent are expecting trouble from them, and your small army takes out the most prized possessions on disclosure day, you should be entirely safe and your possessions should be reasonably safe.

So sorry about scum. Good times are coming. (In my opinion you should impose on your son as much as possible here, btw.)

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 03:24 PM

Sorry to hear about your situtation Jenny. Sending you lots of hugs and love and positive energy from over here in London.

Take care

Blessings

Khatt

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: NicoleC
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 03:27 PM

Jenny, you must do what you think is right at this point, but I don't see it as revenge. They are clearly taking advantage of the idea that they are expecting you to be so much politer than they. Typical of bullies. When it comes to the utilities and such -- if they are in your name you are going to be responsible for the bills. Do you honestly expect them to suddenly start paying them?

All I am saying is don't let your desire and inclination to be a responsible and fair person allow them to make you more of a victim by using it against you. They are using you to the point you are being chased out of your home; there is no need to make it easier for them. Protect yourself so this nightmare goes away and you can make a clean break and get it all behind you.

I had to move out of one place under similar circumstances -- my housemates always had "friends" over who stole anything that wasn't nailed down. You'd be surprised how quickly a motivated crew can get a place packed up! In this case, my housemates really weren't the issue, so I left rent to the end of the month.

Whatever you decide to do, be happy about it -- you are going to go to a much better situation very soon!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amergin
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 03:29 PM

I'm with Spaw and Nicole...these wankers do not deserve that much notice...Jenny, if I were there now I'd go help you out...but as I'm still here...I'll give you what support I can give you....

On a side note I cannot wait to meet you when I go down under...

take care.

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Cattail
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 03:32 PM

I can't add anything to what others here have already said.

I am happy though that you are making the move, hard though it is
for you, to a much better life and environment.

Many, many, many, best wishes to you, I hope all goes well.

Cattail 0~

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 06:11 PM

Hi Jenny,

I don't know what I can do from here in Newcastle. I work on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays this week and next week, and the week after that I work on Mondays as well - although only in the early morning.

I'll PM you with my phone number and e-mail (in case you can access a computer). I wish my tough-looking, clever-talking male friend with lots of (good) motorcyclist friends still lived in Sydney but he moved to Quirindi. He is good value just on looks alone in these circumstances.

I strongly emphasis what NicoleC has said: "don't let your desire and inclination to be a responsible and fair person allow them to make you more of a victim by using it against you". Having been viciously bullied by my boss a couple of years ago and only just starting to feel back to normal again emotionally and physically I know that the hardest thing for a genuinely nice person to do is to admit that some people don't deserve common respect. Work out the timing and logistics for maximum benefit to you and to safeguard yourself and your property.

You may find that they will react differently to the news of you moving out. They may be celebrating their victory and not thinking about the loss of access to your freebie appliances. If that is the case, do the deed during their euphoric stage, as far as possible.

I'll think about who I know down there and how I can help.

{{{{{Hugs}}}}}
Helen

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Deckman
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 06:21 PM

Jenny ... Upon reflection I realized that I do know one fellow down in your neck of the woods, as we say up here. But upon further reflection, I also realize that he would rather help the two brothers than any woman! (actually, that's why he left America 20 years ago and is still down there). So, no help from me but I am thinking about you! CHEERS, Bob

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 06:24 PM

Best of luck to ya Jenny!

Would that me and my mates were close enough to help... we've made difficult moves in record time before... all we need is a big enough truck, and enough cardboard boxes, and ZOOM!

We once got a woman friend out of a hostile home while he was at work one day... and I mean, we cleaned the place OUT! Washer, dryer, dishwasher, plus a ton of baby stuff and half the food... Mind you there were probably 6 or 8 of us...

I hope it goes as well as it can!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: *daylia*
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 07:03 PM

Clinton -- so you ARE a knight in shining armour after all! My heart be still!

What you described sounds like a great idea for all strong young male enterpreneurs -- "Who ya gonna call? Jerk-BUSTERS!"

Unfortunately, you'd probably find you had very few days off though ...

daylia

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 07:09 PM

I'm no knight...

I -wanted- to take the light bulbs...

And then when Herself talked me out of that ("It was petty", she said...) I wanted to superglue the lightbulbs in...

I'm too ventictive to be a knight...

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 07:15 PM

I'd also like to side with whoever it was above that suggested that the BS prefix be removed from this thread and replaced with a "help" prefix...

It might not be music, but it certainly is NOT bs!

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: *daylia*
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 07:15 PM

Oh well. Superglueing the lights in sounds a lot better than pounding his lights out. I still say you're a knight!

So, how many knights does it take to steal a lightbulb anyway? (Jenny's asleep, so she won't mind the drift I hope ...)

Subject: RE: BS: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: kendall
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 07:59 PM

I dont know what the rules are there, but in many US states, if they have created a hostile environment where you dont feel safe, they can not hold you to a lease. In effect, they are forcing you to move. By all means, get the police in on this.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 08:29 PM

I think it is a different "they", in this case. Love Clintons plan -- a new use for Superglue. You could superglue all the toilet seats in the up position while you're at it!! :>)


A

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: MAG
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 10:29 PM

I know it's a joke, but vandalism doesn't help. It makes you look like the jerk.

I can only second/thrid/fourth what NocoleC and others   have said. A dozen friends can move a LOTTA stuff in one day, and a Uhaul, medium size, holds a LOTTA stacked boxes. It's worth buying the professional ones as they will then be all the same size and shape, stacking more neatly. You are collecting boxes, yes?

I see no reason you couldn't haul everything out of the garage and say you are freeing up the space.

By all means have more than one witness whenever you have to interact with these people. For moral support, for documenting purposes.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: MAG
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 10:31 PM

PS: I'm reading between the lines here and guessing these wankers get high. I assure you, people on coke or meth can get extremely violent. Take no chances.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:13 PM

Prawn heads in hollow curtain rods!! Yes!! Aussie revenge at its finest.

Helen

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:36 PM

Hi I'm back. I managed to get 5 hours sleep - not quite enough but not too bad. I actually fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow, partly due to the late hour, but also due, I'm sure, to some help from Daylia. Whatever you did, it worked a treat, Daylia. I even woke up this morning having a pleasant dream about the house I grew up in, only it was in present time. The new people in it were very welcoming and said I could stay in it any time. Significant, eh?

I now have all my drums and instruments, photos, special objects and a few other things smuggled out to my car (locked) and covered over. Only Riana (the little Indonesian wife) is here, and she went up the road to the shops on foot, so I got the last of those things in the car just now. After I finish work this afternoon, I will be taking these things to my new place, where I've been invited for dinner and a bouzouki lesson. Does that give any of you OZ catters a clue who he is? He's very well known in the Sydney folk scene and he used to sing in a duo (so did I not long ago, but that's another long dreary story). Naemanson and Charley Noble would definitely know him too.

My folk club is on tomorrow night, and some of the people coming are willing to help me. I will find out then how many of their friends they have managed to round up. It's possible I might have a posse of the Sydney Morris Men on moving day - a sight to make even the biggest bully quail :-)

BTW, Sydney cats, I need lots of smallish cardboard boxes!

To answer some of your posts, the agent knows all the gory details, and has been very helpful. I even showed her the nasty notes, which I have kept. I will show them to the police too. When the bond comes back, I can have it all put in my account and just give them what I think is their share of it, less their share of the bills. I will be cancelling the phone and my name on the electricity and gas accounts just after I move out. I already have call control on the phone, so they have only been able to make local calls ever since we had the blow-up about the phone. I have my mobile phone, so I will always be contactable.

Helen, thanks for the PM. What you said here about the possibility that they might initially be happy I am going - that has crossed my mind. I agree that it would be good to do a lot while they are in a euphoric state, if that is the case. Unfortunately most of the activity will have to be on weekends, due to that little thing called work. Most of my friends suffer from that affliction, too. I have made a note of your numbers. I am actually printing out some of the info I need 'cos I realize after Friday I won't be able to access anything on the computer. I'm not sure how you can help either from up there, but I will keep in contact. I'll PM you my numbers.

Amergin, I hope I get a chance to meet you one day too when you come to Oz. Keep in contact.

Daylia, thanks for what you have done for me. I have also bookmarked those websites and printed out the relevant stuff.

In fact, on Friday, I think I will print out this whole thread. It makes me feel so much better just reading it. After that Sandra can tell me about it.

Clinton, I like the way you think. I still think you're a knight... Actually you hit on one of the many gross things I've had to live with. Trouble is, if I superglued the toilet seat up, it would take them a few days to discover it. Its normal state seems to be up here. Down might be better (grin). Either way I pity poor Riana, having to use it too. Maybe another tried and true method, like prawns in the curtain rods? Nah, that's no good - I need to get my bond back. Well it's fun thinking about it, anyway.

I keep thinking of a saying I heard once - "The best revenge is to survive". I don't know who said it, but it's what I'm focussing on.

Now I'm off to get a money order to send Nicole for the Mudcat Cookbook, to be sent to my new address, of course. Sorry it's taken so long to send it, Nicole, but it's hard to keep everything humming along in this kind of situation. I am looking forward to it very much.

I'll come back to this thread in about 10 hours, just before I go to bed. Thank you very much everybody. As I said to Sinsull, I'm so glad I started this thread. I knew I came to the right place for support.

Love, Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:42 PM

" most of the activity will have to be on weekends, due to that little thing called work"

Any boss worth his salt would empathise and grant a day off I'm sure...

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: bbc
Date: 05 Aug 03 - 11:54 PM

Hi, Jenny,

This whole things stinks; I'm so sorry you need to go through it! It sounds as if you are thinking, though, & getting some good advice. Even if most of us can't be there in person to help you out, you know that your Mudcat family cares. Those who are clear-headed enough can even think of some things that we, the embroiled ones, aren't up to. Breathe deeply during that time when you're away from the Internet &, if possible, check in from a library or a friend's house. The 2 weeks I was off the Internet was hard for me. You'll be in my thoughts & prayers, dear. And it sounds as if things can only improve!

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 05:27 AM

Jenny,

That's the beauty of prawns in the curtain rods. It takes a few days for the smell to truly set in, so you would probably get the bond back before then.

Just joking!!

Prawns in the hubcaps of their cars might work better?

Then again, the invasion of the Morris Dancers could be the best revenge of all. Scary! *g*

Helen

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Hrothgar
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 05:33 AM

You're a week too early for me, Jen. I'll be coming down to Maitland for the Ball on 30 August, and I could really ruin that weekend helping you.

Peace.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: gnu
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 05:55 AM

Add me to the "wish I was there" list. My thoughts and prayers will be.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 08:54 AM

So Hrothgar, you are travelling to the place of my birth. A pilgrimage, perhaps?? *g*

Helen

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 09:39 AM

This is what I love about Mudcat - it's a community of folks who care & have so many useful ideas.

I'll be helping Jenny as much as I can, but I'm one of the workers without a car, tho I will be taking a day off the Friday before the big move. I can't give her any help on the Saturday as my folk club meets that night.

For some time we have been planning & trying to work out a likely crew (the Morris men was an inspired idea). I hate confronting anyone & admire Jenny's strength & the way she has stayed in such an uncomfortable situation.
   

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 09:46 AM

Actually Sandra, Friday will be a big help, because a lot of the moving will be happening on that day, although not the really big furniture. You're not the only one with a day off. I'll send you an email and tell you more.

These guys are wonderful aren't they! I wish some of them were closer!

Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 09:51 AM

How about mobilzing "The Roarin' Forites"? I would think that Sydney's best loved shanty crew of big bruisers would be intimidating to the brothers, and, who knows, even useful for helping move bulky objects.

Naemanson and I will be flying in to Sydney, from Guam and Maine respectively, but unfortunately not until late November so I doubt if we'd be of any help. But maybe we can help cheer you up in your new digs.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 10:47 AM

Well, Charley's post has given me an idea. What we need for moving day is a House Moving Shanty, led by the Roaring Forties. What with them and the Morris Men, we'll be lucky if we don't all get thrown in the Loonie Bin!

Today has been a mixed bag. On one hand I have taken over some of my most valued possessions to my new home, I have sent a money order to Nicole for the Mudcat cookbook, and I am reading this heartwarming thread.

On the downside, the agent rang me today, and told me that the original third person on the lease, who left over two years ago, is not on the lease any more. The person who came after her is. The original three names still appear on the receipts, so I didn't realize. All three leaseholders have to sign a form in order for me to get the bond back from the Rental Bond Board. The only trouble is, this person left last year - in fact was asked to leave by me. It was after that that Eddie the wanker moved in. This person who I now have to ask to sign the form was my former partner with whom I had a very nasty breakup. It's not insurmountable, but I'm severely pissed off at having to ask anything of this person. I think I will get the agent to contact them, and hope they don't make things difficult. Just one more complication and indignity I need like a hole in the head. I'm afraid my tolerance level for this sort of thing is at a very low ebb at the moment.

Now I must make myself concentrate on the positive things, and there are plenty. So any ideas for a House Moving Shanty?

Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: jeffp
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 03:26 PM

Sounds like a time for a little discreet forgery.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,ClaireBear
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 03:49 PM

I just LOVE a challenge. So here's a chanty for you. The tune is "Sugar in the Hold." Feel free to change any details that don't quite fit -- the rhyme scheme and meter are both pretty relaxed for this one.

Apologies for any linguistic differences between California and the land of Oz -- and good luck with the move, dearie! My best to you. Wish I could help...


BOXES IN THE VAN

I wish that I was far away
Hearin' that old bouzouki play
But before I can go I gotta spend all day,
Stackin' boxes in the van outside

Ch: All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside
All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside

Well I'm packin' all my knicks and knacks
Sort them, pile them, wrap them in sacks
Pack 'em in a box, then tape up the cracks,
And stack it in the van outside

Ch: All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside
All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside

The roommates shout and the roommates moan
The roommates just won't leave me alone
So I'm taking every single thing I own
And I'll stack it in the van outside

Ch: All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside
All day , I gotta stay
Stackin' boxes in the van outside

When this day's done and I've paid my dues
I'll dance a jig, I'll kick off my shoes
I'll bid a fond farewell to my roommate blues
And stack 'em in the van outside

Ch: Woo hoo, I'm through I'm through
Stackin' boxes in the van outside
Woo hoo, I'm through I'm through
Stackin' boxes in the van outside

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Shelley C
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 04:15 PM

'Right Said Fred', popularised by Bernard Cribbens, has appeared on the Music Threads recently. That might raise a smile while you're trying to shift the fridge.

On a more serious note..
Your situation sounds a nightmare, but you haven't allowed yourself to become a victim, you have gone out and done something positive to help yourself. Even if there are some last minute hitches - you are nearly there, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck with it all.

Shelley

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 06:32 PM

"My Old Man Said, `Follow the Van'" Marie Lloyd

We had to move away
'Cos the rent we couldn't pay
The movin' van came round just after dark;
There was me and my old man
Shoving things inside the van,
Which we'd often done before, let me remark...

My old man said, "Follow the van,
And don't dilly-dally on the way!"
Off went the cart with the home packed in it,
I walked behind with my old cock linnet.

But I dillied and dallied, dallied and dillied,
Lost the van and don't know where to roam.
I stopped on the way to have the old half-quartern,
And I can't find the way home.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: *daylia*
Date: 06 Aug 03 - 11:45 PM

Jenny, that's a very positive-sounding dream you reported! I think you "called" it too -- remember you said "Ah to sleep, perchance to dream ..." See how creative and powerful your thoughts are? Just keep 'em positive ...

I'm really tired myself right now -- I've been dealing with some difficult issues of my own today re the house I'm living in. Painful old "stuff" needing to be finally cleared away. (In a way, it's the best thing that could have happened though.) That's why I haven't checked in till now, but I do want you to know you've been in my thoughts. Sent you a little Hawaiian energetic "gift" this morning too ...

Love and blessings,

daylia

PS I love how great lyrics get posted on threads like this! Thanks!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 12:52 AM

Oh ClaireBear, I love your shanty! Keep 'em coming folks!

Daylia, thankyou for thinking of me again. I will try to send you some positive energy tonight, too.

Gotta run - work calls, then my folk club. Thankyou all you lovely people.

Back in about 9 hours for my mudcat fix.

Love, Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 12:26 PM

Phew! Mudcat was down for a while, just as I was about to print out this thread. I will be disconnecting my computer in less than 24 hours, so I'm glad I can get back on.

There were a lot of lovely helpful people down at my folk club tonight. Some brought boxes, and some are going to help me pack and some are going to help me move on the 23rd.

I stood up to sing "Here is my home" by Si Kahn, and couldn't do it. I had to let others go on instead. Right at the end, someone said "Why don't you do your song now?", and before I had too much time to get all emotional again, I sang it - not very well mind you - I forgot the second verse entirely, and fumbled a bit - but at least I did it. Things are all getting a bit overwhelming at the moment.

Thank you all for your lovely thoughts. I will be checking this thread tomorrow, but I'm now going to print out what is here, so I can have it to look at. Who knows, I might have a chance to get on someone else's computer at some stage to have another look and post as GUEST,JennyO, and Sandra will help keep the thread alive and report on any new developments.

I'm going to have another go at sleeping now. Last night was only so-so.

Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 12:40 PM

jenny - if you get on someone else's computer and they don't MIND you accepting a cookie from mudcat you can login as yourself - just remember to logout again when you are done!!!!

That way you would be able to get your PM'S*

*please note there *is* an apotrophe in there!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 12:44 PM

LOL MMario. PMS I don't need!

Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Hollowfox
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 12:50 PM

One more thing..see how fast you can get your mailing address changed to the new house. The post offices here in the USA have forms for such a thing, and I'd bet the rent Oz does as well.
If you haven't mentioned that the appliances ae leaving with you, I wouldn't tell them.
As for other sources of altruistic bodies, there's the Boy Scouts and church youth groups.
Of course when I get home tonight I'll fire up a gen-u-ine purebred midwest USA @$#%-reduction candle for you. *g*

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 01:10 PM

In the US, you can now do your address change with the Post Office online! That may be possible in Oz as well, so might be something to do before you pack up the computer. Same is true for the utilities. Many of the disconnect and address changes can be done online also.

It sounds as if Jenny O has the right, most positive mindset she could have. I'm sure she will not only be fine, but just great!

Wee bit of reinforcement for some advice already given--doing the garage in advance of moving day, as someone above suggested, seems like an excellent plan. I'm sure it could be boxed up in a weekend with enough helping hands. Then you'll only have the house left come moving day. It will give a great sense of accomplishment, keep you busy, and out of the house and the way of the bad roomies. Also, packing anything possible in your bedroom or the garage sounds good too.

As to having to get the ex to sign for a return of the bond, your idea of having the agent contact him seems sensible, if they'll do it. If not, have you another third party whom the ex is amenable to, who might be able to act as a go-between? If not, is it possible to get two thirds of the bond back without his signature (ie is the agent willing to negotiate this with you?)? I know that rarely seems possible, but unless you ask...

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: bbc
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 01:50 PM

Thinking of you, dear; keep up the good work! You can do it!

bbc

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 02:05 PM

GUEST, thank you for your confidence in me. I am going to have a sort of working bee of friends next weekend to help me pack up a lot of boxes, and the more of that we can do ahead of time, the better I will feel. A lot of the stuff in the garage can be boxed, but there are also some big things.

I am doing as much as I can now behind closed doors, but I have to bear in mind that they are quite capable of coming into my room when I am gone, and I know they have in the past. So until Sunday, I have to keep the room looking reasonably normal, just in case. After then it won't matter.

In regard to the change of address, that is simple. A redirection notice can be got on the spot at the Post Office. All my mail is redirected for 3 months for a small fee, then I can get the period extended for longer if I want to. I might actually do that in the next few days. That will be one less thing to worry about at the last minute. I don't know about doing it online. I have so much else to do tomorrow I don't think I'll have time anyway. I have to write an article about my folk club night for our Folk Magazine, Cornstalk, and email it tomorrow, amongst other things.

About getting my ex's signature on the form, I will have to get it somehow, because it's not up to the agent - the money is lodged with the Rental Bond Board, and requires the signatures of all the lessees to release it in one lump. It can't be divided up.

Now on to something lighter. In a PM, Hollowfox made a suggestion about a group who might like to help. Adding these people to the already growing list of the Sydney Morris Men, the Wheeze'n'Suck Band and the Roaring Forties, I had a vision of them all swordfighting, jingling, playing and singing moving shanties on my front lawn, and it made me think of a very funny 12 days of Christmas send-up I have on a CD by Frank Kelly, called "Christmas Countdown". It is spoken with a very Irish accent with the music playing in the background for those who haven't heard it - I love it. I find there is nothing like a good laugh - it has helped me get through some tight spots.
So I googled and found it, and here it is:

Day One
Dear Nuala,
Thank you very much for your lovely present of a partridge in a pear-tree. We're getting the hang of feeding the partridge now, although it was difficult at first to win its confidence. It bit the mother rather badly on the hand but they're good friends now and we're keeping the pear-tree indoors in a bucket. Thank you again.
Yours affectionately,
Gobnait O'Lúnasa

Day Two
Dear Nuala,
I cannot tell you how surprised we were to hear from you so soon again and to receive your lovely present of two turtle doves. You really are too kind. At first the partridge was very jealous and suspicious of the doves and they had a terrible row the night the doves arrived. We had to send for the vet but the birds are okay again and the stitches are due to some out in a week or two. The vet's bill was £8 but the mother is over her annoyance now and the doves and the partridge are watching the telly from the pear-tree as I write.
Yours ever,
Gobnait

Day Three
Dear Nuala,
We must be foremost in your thoughts. I had only posted my letter when the three French hens arrived. There was another sort-out between the hens and the doves, who sided with the partridge, and the vet had to be sent for again. The mother was raging because the bill was £16 this time but she has almost cooled down. However, the fact that the birds' droppings keep falling down on her hair whilen she's watching the telly, doesn't help matters. Thanking you for your kindness.
I remain,
Your Gobnait

Day Four
Dear Nuala,
You mustn't have received my last letter when you were sending us the four calling birds. There was pandemonium in the pear-tree again last night and the vet's bill was £32. The mother is on sedation as I write. I know you meant no harm and remain your close friend.
Gobnauit

Day Five
Nuala,
Your generosity knows no bounds. Five gold rings ! When the parcel arrived I was scared stiff that it might be more birds, because the smell in the living-room is atrocious. However, I don't want to seem ungrateful for the beautiful rings.
Your affectionate friend,
Gobnait

Day Six
Nuala,
What are you trying to do to us ? It isn't that we don't appreciate your generosity but the six geese have not alone nearly murdered the calling birds but they laid their eggs on top of the vet's head from the pear-tree and his bill was £68 in cash ! My mother is munching 60 grains of Valium a day and talking to herself in a most alarming way. You must keep your feelings for me in check.
Gobnait

Day Seven
Nuala,
W e are not amused by your little joke. Seven swans-a-swimming is a most romantic idea but not in the bath of a private house. We cannot use the bathroom now because they've gone completely savage and rush the door every time we try to enter. If things go on this way, the mother and I will smell as bad as the living-room carpet. Please lay off. It is not fair.
Gobnait

Day Eight
Nuala,
Who the hell do you think gave you the right to send eight, hefty maids-a-milking here, to eat us out of house and home ? Their cattle are all over the front lawn and have trampled the hell out of the mother's rose-beds. The swans invaded the living-room in a sneak attack and the ensuing battle between them and the calling birds, turtle doves, French hens and partridge make the Battle of the Somme seem like Wanderly Wagon. The mother is on a bottle of whiskey a day, as well as the sixty grains of Valium. I'm very annoyed with you.
Gobnait

Day Nine
Listen you louser !
There's enough pandemonium in this place night and day without nine drummers drumming, while the eight flaming maids-a-milking are beating my poor, old alcoholic mother out of her own kitchen and gobbling everything in sight. I'm warning you, you're making an enemy of me.
Gobnait

Day Ten
Listen manure-face,
I hope you'll be haunted by the strains of ten pipers piping which you sent to torment us last night. They were aided in their evil work by those maniac drummers and it wasn't a pleasant sight to look out the window and see eight hefty maids-a-milking pogo-ing around with the ensuing punk-rock uproar. My mother has just finished her third bottle of whiskey, on top of a hundred and twenty four grains of Valium. You'll get yours !
Gobnait O'Lúnasa

Day Eleven
You have scandalised my mother, you dirty Jezebel,
It was bad enough to have eight maids-a-milking dancing to punk music on the front lawn but they've now been joined by your friends ~ the eleven Lords-a-leaping and the antics of the whole lot of them would leave the most decadent days of the Roman Empire looking like "Outlook". I'll get you yet, you ould bag !

Day Twelve
Listen slurry head,
You have ruined our lives. The twelve maidens dancing turned up last night and beat the living daylights out of the eight maids-a-milking, 'cos they found them carrying on with the eleven Lords-a-leaping. Meanwhile, the swans got out of the living-room, where they'd been hiding since the big battle, and savaged hell out of the Lords and all the Maids. There were eight ambulances here last night, and the local Civil Defence as well. The mother is in a home for the bewildered and I'm sitting here, up to my neck in birds' droppings, empty whiskey and Valium bottles, birds' blood and feathers, while the flaming cows eat the leaves off the pear-tree. I'm a broken man.
Gobnait O'Lúnasa



Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 06:19 PM

A splendid 12 days! I've been wracking my brains for an appropriate moving songs. Thought about "Moving Day" but you're probably familar with that. "The LA Freeway" might work with some rearrangement to fit into Sydney. "Across the Western Suburbs/Concrete & Glass", Denis Kevans fine song from the 1970's might be adapted. I'll see what I can work up when I'm in Sydney in late November. Meanwhile I'd love to have the verses to the Si Kahn song you mentioned above.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 07 Aug 03 - 11:01 PM

Hi Charley, gonna be some good times coming in November, eh?

Meanwhile here are the words you wanted for "Here is my Home". It's a beautiful song! Guess where I found it :-)

It was right here on Mudcat!

Love, Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Hrothgar
Date: 08 Aug 03 - 07:23 AM

Charley, you can be the one to tell Margaret Walters and Jennifer Lees that they are "big bruisers". Let me know when you're going to do it - I want to watch.

:-)

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 08 Aug 03 - 10:37 AM

lots of laughter on this thread (Hrothgar, I'm watching with you)- & if anyone wants to see a pic of the Roaring Forties tyr my folk club website - www.loadeddog.live.com.au

The other suggestion for helpers on the day was the SCR (Society for Creative Anachronism) & the only SCR member I know well carries a 12' pike. Maybe we'll invite her.

Charley - the last time I saw her was at the Maritime Museum when the 40's & John & Margaret were singing on the Batavia (wrecked on WA coast 1629??) with further entertainment provided by a troop of 17th Century Dutch pikemen (2 of whom were women).
I assume you've been to the Maritime Museum?

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 08 Aug 03 - 11:33 AM

Wot's a pike? It sounds dangerous! Goody!

Well, I told Dodgy brothers that I am taking the computer up to my son's for him to work on some problems, since he is the one who set it up. They bought it. In fact, I am quite sure they suspect nothing, even though different size and shape doona-covered lumps keep appearing and disappearing in the car. I always keep it locked now. Because it is a station wagon, there is no hidden away space, so I have to be very careful. Someone on this thread commented that they didn't think these guys are the "sharpest tacks in the box", and I think they are right, but I am certainly not getting complacent.

Tonight I put all my important papers in the car and covered them over. Tomorrow before going to Gosford, I will be paying the rent. They gave me that tonight, so it will be paid up to the day I move out. They are acting fairly friendly lately - why wouldn't they be when they think they have everything their way. What I tell them on Sunday will be a complete surprise to them I think.

Tomorrow should be a nice day if I can put this stuff aside in my mind for a while. I get another chance to visit my little grandson Max, and I'm going to a folkie party up there tomorrow night.

Thankyou to all you wonderful people who have given me your thoughts and your caring. I really value them. Now if I don't get another chance to log on and check messages, Sandra will keep you up to date and if anyone wants to know anything specific or pass anything on, I'm sure she wouldn't mind a PM.

I love you all, Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 04:01 PM

Good luck with the flit - and as for keeping in touch with the computer down, you can log in from any computer with internet access, and in England that'd means just about any public library. I can't imagine Australia would be behind on that sort of thing.

I'd suspect that Helen's point about the cuckoos being likely to see your departure as a victory. If the penny drops, and they rumble the fact that you are leaving, you could convince them it's good news, and with any luck they might not start thinking too much about the down side. Perhaps you had best leave the fridge and the cooker until the last thing to go, when it'll hit them it's warm beer and cold food from now on.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 04:02 PM

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 04:11 PM

It's nerve-wracking, reading this step-by-step stealthy exit from a house you're in legally, having to escape the stupidity of these co-renters. Good luck. Can you conveniently have two spare tickets to some all-day event that will take them out of the house while you moving everything in one fell-swoop? Might be worth the price!

SRS

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 08:03 PM

I'd imagine that if there are ructions afterwards Jenny would want to make sure that Eddie's Indonesian wife doesn't get blamed for colluding in something he and his mate get pissed off about.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 09 Aug 03 - 11:54 PM

Well, I just found this thread. I wish Jenny all the luck in the world with this move. And I join the rather long list of those-who-wish-they-could-be-there. I hope she can get clear of these jerks with minimal pain. It's tough enough to move under an emotional cloud. Good luck to you Jenny.

I'm afraid I would have no idea who your friend is. I didn't make it to Oz llast year with Charley. But, I will be there this fall and I'm looking forward to meeting you Jenny and the whole crew who helps you.

And I can help to this extent. When I get to OZ I will personally buy a beer (or other drink) for each person who pitches in to help Jenny make her move. I will be at the Loaded Dog at the end of November to make good on my promise.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 02:48 AM

Leave em Jenny    Leave em!!!

You would be surprised how much better they will be without you.

Most guys only need an ice-chest to cool beer....and a corner chip-shop for food....tellys are cheap and they won't miss the books.

We'll both live a lot longer without you/them/us

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 06:31 AM

Manly, Brett, manly!! :>)

A

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 10:10 AM

Brett - what a lovely offer - make mine water (with bubbles in it)

Today we had a small session, sang a song or 2, chatted & ate nibbly stuff. The party was full of good advice for Jenny, tho as I said the Dodgy brothers don't have the script so they might not know their lines.

Jenny was feeling apprehensive so John her new almost-flatmate went with her as moral support & the Dodgy bros. certainly didn't (know their lines, that is).

They were ok with her leaving, tho when she used our best line "There will be lots of folks in & out of the house & the garage" (emphasis on the last word) the dopiest just said "Are they cool?" Looks like "cool" is the latest euphemism for "Will they tell the coppers when they see our dope plants?" duh. Definitely not the sharpest tacks in the box, but John definitely did not warm to Eddie, nor does he underestimate him.

By-the-by, the Real Estate agent called them earlier in the week asking if they would like to take over the lease, so they has some kind of warning. Another sharp tack!

Next instalment tomorrow & I'll suggest Jenny tries a public computer. Neither of us would have ever thought of them. On Friday my colleagues were testing our Client Services address & asked several of us to log on to our ISPs so we could send a message from outside the office network - eh?, I said, dunno how, so they showed me & it's easy.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: bbc
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 10:21 AM

Thanks for the update, Sandra. Give Jenny our love!

bbc

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 11:03 AM

Reminds me of the process I was going through as I tried to buy myself a new house that I could move into once I was divorced--until then, we were in the same house and it felt like an armed truce with a DMZ. I would sign the papers as soon as the divorce went through, so I could sign them by myself. My soon-to-be ex knew I was doing this, but I was trying to not make a difficult situation worse by waving it in his face. The realtor knew to leave messages on my cel phone, etc. So we had the offer accepted, everything was ready to go as we awaited the closing which would follow the divorce, and some Coldwell Bankder "Concierge" called and left a bright as sparkly message on the home answering machine saying "Congratualations on buying the new house at XXXX Big Dipper and I want you to know that we're here to help you with all of your closing and moving needs. . ." I was livid that this twit, some woman unknown to me, called and broadcast my personal business (which of course the ex heard before I did). He dug his heels in and life was hell after that, and I called and left a message for the concierge that let her know in no uncertain terms how damaging and unwelcome her call had been. I got an email the next day with a tiny little "sorry." The house fell through after that, because his attorney wouldn't get the papers to me in time. Coincidence?

SRS

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 04:01 PM

I'm good for the second round, when we've tossed off what Brett is buying. It really ought to be two rounds each, given the relative value of the Australian/U.S. dollars, but not to worry!

Brett and I will be starting a new thread soon with regard to our joint OZ Foray in late November.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 10 Aug 03 - 07:47 PM

Belly up to the bar, boys and girls. The Yanks are buying!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: old git
Date: 11 Aug 03 - 06:29 AM

Oh I thought I heard the Old Man say
Leave 'em Jenny leave 'em
One more box and we're away
It's time for us to leave 'em

With the Morris men and the Shanty crew
Leave 'em Jenny leave 'em
They're the boys to see it through
It's time for us to leave 'em

It's warm warm beer and ice cold food
Leave 'em Jenny leave 'em
Now the fridge is gone and the cooker's stowed
It's time for us to leave 'em


Good luck!!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 11 Aug 03 - 10:27 AM

Nothing to report today cos I got home too late. I forgot to call Jenny during the day so she left a message on my machine but I got home about 11pm after a committee meeting. Her message said she had called another close friend who wasn't home either - she was at the same meeting - & would have got home long before me, so I'll call them both tomorrow (later today - it's 12.25am, I must get to bed sometime this morning).

old git - thanks for the song - I'll pass it to Jenny tomorrow!! In fact I'll make copies for the move. Nah, maybe not, the Dodgy bros. might get annoyed. But we can sing it in her new place.

I bought Jenny the most fantastic new home card - wot a shame I can't tell you all as it is very appropriate (but she will be reading this thread sometime soon).

Thanks to all for the good wishes.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Wesley S
Date: 11 Aug 03 - 02:04 PM

Keep us posted. My thoughts are with her too. Here's hoping for a good outcome.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: alison
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 07:54 AM

sorry been away for a while.. and only just got my computer working again.....

you know my number...... you can fit a good few boxes in the back of my campervan.... let me know

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 10:51 AM

Jenny was sounding rather stressed when I spoke to her this afternoon, however she sounded more relaxed when we spoke tonight as she as at a friend's place. I reminded her of several things she can do for her emotional safety & peace of mind - which showed how upset she was as she hadn't thought of 'em.

She found out why the agent called the Dodgy bros - her boss said they act for the owner, not the tenant & she was to find out if the other tenants were staying or if the owner needed to advertise for new tenants). Understandable, but the agent could have warned Jenny she had spoken to them. Some of the advice the agent gave Jenny esarlier in the week is wrong, but she has worked out how she can gt around that situaton AND she does not underestimate the Bros. in the least.

Jenny is feeling very apprehensive about spending time at her current house (I wonder why!!) but has most of her valuable/irreplacable stuff safely away, apart from her camping gear which will go tomorrow. Stuff is being scattered around Sydney, into 4 households so far. Her instruments have gone to John's place, except for Grandmother's piano which is being moved by a specialist removalist on Saturday.

Oops, I forgot to tell her about the Shanty which would have given her a good laugh, so I'll call her early tomorrow. Waking up to a shanty is a Good Thing.

thanks for your support, Jenny appreciates it.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 02:11 PM

I rather thought the prospect of keeping this under wraps was pretty slim.

In the circumstances I'd have thought she'd be better to stay away herself from now on, crashing on friends' floors if need be, except maybe for a final accompanied visit on the moving day itself.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Bill D
Date: 12 Aug 03 - 02:33 PM

she seems to have done very well at moving the important things when the coast was clear and packing when they were 'out'.... I sure hope the final bits go as well...It will be good to hear it is over.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 13 Aug 03 - 05:04 PM

I am going to be off line for a while. I am moving to my house today and will have no access to the Mudcat until they hook up my phone. That is, no access from home. I will check in from work occasionally.

Good luck to Jenny. I hope everything works out well in this move. I expect to read of her being happily settled into her new digs when I get back on line.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 14 Aug 03 - 10:18 AM

I had a crazy day at work today & forgot to call Jenny & got home very late from another committee meeting. I've written myself a note to ring her, now all I gotta do is read it when I get to work

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Aug 03 - 09:45 PM

Keep this up and we will have to appoint another go-between. Honest - thanks for keeping us in the loop.
Mary

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: lady penelope
Date: 15 Aug 03 - 05:14 PM

I'm another newbie to the thread,but I'm keeping me fingers crossed and thinking good thoughts.

Good luck and keep singing the shanties ( they're blinding ) rythmic singing generates power.

I used to work with people like that, I found a new job and I was very dissapointed with my boss when he insisted that they new I was going to leave if only a week and a half before the fact. It made the last days very strained, but in a weird way they were more unnerved than I was. Mind you, the "safety net" of being at work may have had an effect.

Big hugs and I hope some one takes pictures cos a crowd of shanty singers and Australian morris men has just got my mind a-worling!

TTFN Lady P.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 15 Aug 03 - 06:03 PM

WHere do things really stand now?

A

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 03:43 AM

Sorry I've been so slack (but Jenny is still talking to me!!)

She is on her way to friends & relatives & her computer which she will be accessing tomorrow - she won;t be "home" this weekend, whrich means only 7 more days till she has a real home with good company.

Her piano was moved today by another dodgy lot who tried to charge her more than they quoted! But John was there with her & they couldn't get away with after Jenny made several calls to their boss.

The packing is going slowly, I think she has more stuff than I have & that's saying something & she does need more helpers during the week, bit difficult as most folks work. But she has been able to avoid the Dodgy brothers who are or are not staying in the house (poor owner!) - well David seems to be & his bludging brother appears to be leaving him in the lurch (maybe). Happy families - but David does know what his brother is like.

thats all for the moment

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 05:12 AM

Are there spirits inhabiting her new house?

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 07:56 AM

"Her piano was moved today " - that confirms my feelimg that the idea of being able to slip away unnoticed was a bit improbable...

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 10:19 AM

Why doesn't she buy her own house and avoid all of this having to dodge the tenents routine? If one has this much stuff, it's a good idea to support it in the style to which it is accustomed (we say this about our cats, so why wouldn't it work for furniture?) I don't know your real estate or employment situation, but when one has that much stuff (and it sounds like you're in the big leagues--which was my situation also, with storage lockers in a couple of different states!) eventual home ownership is a really good project to work on.

SRS

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 10:32 AM

Feel free to contribute more moving verses:

HEAVE AWAY, ME JENNY-O

Parody of "Mexico"
(Charley Noble-2003)

Chorus:

Heave 'er up and away we go,
Heave away, me Jenny-o!
Heave 'er up and away we go,
Across the western suburbs-o!

Them Dodgy Brothers sure are scum,
Heave away, me Jenny-o!
We'll leave 'em there to suck their thumbs,
Across the western suburbs-o!

The piano's moving down the hall,
Heave away, me Jenny-o!
Look out, boys, she's through the wall,
Across the western suburbs-o!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 11:19 AM

SRS - I'm sure Jenny would love to be a home owner, but ya need lots of money for that, megabucks in fact in Sydney. Young couples on 2 salaries can't make it - so 1 person with part-time work has even less chance.

Charley - another shanty, ta, much appreciated by me. I'll let Jenny speak for herself when she logs on.

Today when I called her she was very pleased to hear that Old Git had written one (hint). With an evil chuckle she demanded I sing it, knowing I can't hold a tune so I READ it to her & she loved it. I also e-mailed it to her host so I assume they all sang it tonight.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 11:38 AM

The timbers creak, she starts to luff,
Heave away me Jenny-O
'Cause Jenny-O has a lot of stuff
Across the western suburbs!

LOL!

Great song, Charley!


A

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,JennyO
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 10:24 PM

Well I am at my son's place at Gosford, on his computer. Sandra has been keeping you up to date on most of the basics. I have been staying away from home as much as possible, so as not to have to confront them, and doing that pretty well - packing during the day, then finding reasons not to be at home till late at night when they are in bed. So no confrontations, so far. But still lots of bad-sleep nights.

There has been a lot of doubt and nailbiting about whether they are leaving or not, but it appears they are, which is better for me, because the agent will do the inspection on the Monday after I leave, and I will only really have to clean my bit, which is my bedroom and most of the living room. It will mean the bond will be easier to get, and I will get it sooner. There has been lots of hassle about the bond, but I think it is sorted.

The piano movers yesterday were a couple of idiots, but John was there to back me up, and when they tried to charge me more after breaking a piece off the piano, and taking most of the day to get it there, they finally relented with much grumbling.

Thanks for the shanties. We sang Old Git's one at Frank and Marilyn's session last night. I am going to print out the last part of this thread that I don't have yet, so I will have them all - yours too, Charley. I'm sure everyone will appreciate the free drinks in November, Charley and Brett!

I have a lot to do still, so can't stay here much longer, but it is so great to feel that I have this support from all over the world. This is the sort of thing that keeps me going. So onward and upward! A week from now on can't come too soon for me!

Love, Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sleepless Dad
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 10:30 PM

Best of luck - we're rootin' for you.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 16 Aug 03 - 11:04 PM

Sleepless Dad - that's not exactly a polite thing to say, here in Oz! But it always raises a laugh when someone says it so....

Helen

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: hesperis
Date: 17 Aug 03 - 02:58 AM

Well, best of luck with the rest of things! I've just moved myself, and have the fun task of beginning to get my stuff back from various friends in various cities. Hopefully my roommates will be ok.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 17 Aug 03 - 12:33 PM

Nice verse, Amos!

Glad to hear things are moving along, Jenny.

She's out the door to the great beyond,
Heave away, me Jenny-o!
But will her landlord rip off her bond?
Across the western suburbs-o!

Hmmm! Wonder what "rip off" means Downunder?

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: bbc
Date: 17 Aug 03 - 08:16 PM

You're making progress, Jenny, & it won't be much longer till things get better. Keep up the good work! My kids are in Oregon for the weekend at their dad's wedding & I just spent my 1st night alone in the new house. No problem!

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 18 Aug 03 - 02:37 AM

Ah yes, first night alone in a new house. I slept like the dead on my first night last week. Of course, I was dead tired. There is a sliding glass door leading out on to the balcony and across the street the neighbor's house is a one story ranch style but it sits on top of a small hill to their front windows look down into my bedroom. It was like sleeping on stage until I got the curtains up.

But I am there in spirit and parallelling you in reality. I have been unpacking boxes for the last three days. Fortunately I had others to do the packing and carrying or I wouldn't be here in Guam. Still can't find my pots and pans and my flatware. I'm getting tired of plastic spoons, knives, and forks.

Hang in there, Jenny, better days are coming. Two free drinks for you in November! Hope there is someone there to drive you home.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 18 Aug 03 - 08:52 AM

Charlie - "rip off" means the same here, but landlords don't hold bonds - they are lodged with the Rental Bond Board, a government agency.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: LadyJean
Date: 18 Aug 03 - 10:12 PM

Try this one:
Those bullying brothers aren't much for looks.
Heave away haula away
That's why we're boxing Jennie's books.
Haul away to Australia.

The creehead brothers have brains in their pants.
Heave away, haul away
So we're packing Jennie's plants.
Haul away to Australia.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Aug 03 - 08:58 AM

Sandra-

What an incredible country, a Rental Bond Board holding a "damage deposit" instead of the landlord! Here in the states we used to sing a parody of "Fiddlers Green" the chorus of which runs:

Give me hundreds of damage deposits,
No more on your streets I'll be seen;
Just tell all my tenants,
I'm takin' the rent-ants,
And it's off to Bermuda with lots of long green!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Aug 03 - 10:34 AM

more verses!! I'll pass them on

Packing is proceeding, tho it is getting difficult to find places to put stuff at her new home.

The human brother is back to his usual self, (the other's usual self is Male Chauvinist Pig as his brother called him once) & Jenny is feeling relatively comfortable. They are staying in the house & Jenny has been leaving little things that she doesn't need for them - the spare kettle, the toaster oven picked up on a council clean up, the new package of clothes pegs to replace the some of theirs in her peg basket.

An assortment of us will help with the packing during the week then a cast of thousands will descend on Sat & move what is left & Jenny will return Sun to clean up & Monday when the agent inspects it, then she's free - to unpack & arrange her new home.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Aug 03 - 09:04 PM

As long as we are in interlude mode, here's a song about alternative housing, and the hassles that can get you into:

By Charlie Ipcar © 1992
Tune: theme song from Beverly Hillbillies'

Key: F (C/5)
Treehouse

C---------------G
Ben built a house, high up in a tree,
--------------------C
Ben built a house for everyone to see;
-----------------------F
It had cedar shingles and a plywood floor,
G------------------------G7---- C
Three small windows and a big front door.


Ben built a house for all his friends to share,
They'd play all day, high up in the air;
The birds and squirrels were very surprised to see
Three little kids hanging out in a tree.

But the next door neighbor shook his head and swore,
"The City's gonna hear about this big eyesore!"
Inspector Rowe came by, and a letter soon was sent;
You know, Ben hadn't filed for a building permit.

"You can't build a treehouse without central heat,
A bathroom, a kitchen, or a bedroom suite;
The codes are quite specific," said Inspector Rowe;
"A building is a building, and this one's got to go!"

Now Ben and his family don't know what to do,
Some friends urge compliance, some urge them to sue;
When you're only seven it's so hard to understand,
Why a treehouse in everyone's front yard isn't part of the City's master plan!

I'm happy to report that Ben won his battle with the City and the neighbor, and his treehouse still graces the family lot.

Happy trails,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Aug 03 - 10:00 AM

Charley - Jenny has appreciated your songs - unfortunately I forgot to print this off, so she hasn't seen it yet. John liked them too & has a high opinion of Mudcat. When Jenny is back on line, maybe he might post, too.

Looking back I see I said the Dodgy Bros were relatively ok & Jenny was feeling relatively comfortable.

Well, they decided in a very hostile fashion that their mate would move in Sat while Jenny & the cast of 1000's were moving out & David would move straight into Jenny's room (it's bigger). Neither Jenny or John appreciated their attitude - John found it very aggressive, so off he & Jenny went in their usual fashion with cars full of goodies & Jenny spent her first night in her new home. Tonight John is staying at Jenny's old home.

When I said that Jenny had more stuff than me, I hadn't realised the full extent. Even tho a lot has gone, the garage is still full of stuff & we moved 3 car loads today - 2 of plants! Then there are still things like the lawn mower, TWO!! wheelbarrows, picnic chairs & tables and of course lots of stuff in the kitchen & the bigger pieces of furniture.

The Real Estate agent will visit Sat afternoon to make her examination.

Too much time was spent waiting for call centres to answer (Your call is valuable to us ...) to see that the utilities had followed instructions. Phone - yes, gas - yes, electricity - eventually yes, Post Office - no. A (folk) club is a business & there was no way Jenny could explain the concept of a non-profit hobby club of music lovers sitting in a cafe. Business re-directions cost $198 & the re-direction 3 years ago was a mistake on their part as business re-directions cost $198 etc etc etc. So I have been contacting Folk Clubs & Festival organisers tonight to get her address changed.

It's midnight, gotta get to bed

bye for now
sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 22 Aug 03 - 04:26 PM

As my brother used to quip "Things is moving along with the speed of the digestive track, and with similar results." And the response? "This too will pass!"

My best to John. I've enjoyed the off-beat children's songs that he recorded, as well as his finely crafted historical ballads. I look forward to meeting him again, and Jenny, when I return to Sydney in November. Hopefully, the moving will be over, except for the songs!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,CarolC
Date: 22 Aug 03 - 05:05 PM

Coming late to this thread, but good luck with it, JennyO. Flatmate problems can be a real drag. Hope you find yourself in a better situation soon.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amos
Date: 22 Aug 03 - 05:09 PM

Gee -- I wonder how they would handle a request from a prayer group, a Great Books social reading group, or a Socks for Soldiers knitting club that changed its address? The idea that you are eithe rprivate individual or business is really an awful reflection on the MBA influence, isn't it??

A

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Alba
Date: 23 Aug 03 - 10:10 AM

Well I am assuming that Jenny is OUT of the old House.
Good riddance to it Jenny.
Wishing you nothing but Positive Energy and Happy Times in your new Home.
Don't ask me what I wish for the sludge brothers. All I can say is, I hope David feels exactly as Jenny did over these last few weeks now that he is in her old room. Nothing like picking up the energy left behind:>)
Good Luck to you Jenny. May you go from strength to strength and may you feel nothing but contentment in your new Home.
Love
JD

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 23 Aug 03 - 11:48 AM

Thanks, charley - but I don't think the moving (of boxes) will be done by the time you arrive - there are zillions! Then John has grand rebuilding plans - the railay model takes up too much room in the iving rom ... Then there is a huge back yard, just awiting a vegetable patch, then the shed needs sorting out ...

Dunno when it will be presentable, but the Friday night singing session has been lacking for a few weeks & they say that they won't be having one next week as I suggested (meanies), I'm getting all twitchy & withdrawing badly. Singing along at the Dog tonight wasn't enough, I want a real singing session.

Amos - as a public servant recently escaped (last Thursday, hooray!!!) from a call centre I see the truth in what you say. Things started changing when we became Human Resources rather than personnel, or even staff.

thanks for all the good wishes (& the observation about the new occupant of Jenny's room, I like it), I'll try to pass them on tomowrrow, well later today as it's 1.45am Sunday here

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Aug 03 - 09:03 AM

Jenny is finally in her new home after a brief but nasty encounter with 3 raging men (Bros & new tenant) when she & John arrived Sunday morning to collect the last items. John was concerned with their safety so they called the Police. As the Police hadn't arrived before they left they called in to the Station on their way home & reported ok for the moment.

They went back in the afternoon for a final clean up & met David, in a reasonable mood as he always is without provocation.

Jenny's last concern is getting the money for the final utility bills from the bond as David hasn't signed yet. She has a suspicion that they are leaving the house & will therefore not pay rent for the last few weeks to use up the bond.

On a good note, Onyx the beautiful black cat who owns Jenny seems to like his new home.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Cattail
Date: 24 Aug 03 - 09:37 AM

Jenny


Glad you're finally out of there, just the "mopping up" to do now
and it's all over.

HOORAY. You've done it.

All best wishes to you. (and all who helped you)

Cattail 0~

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: bbc
Date: 24 Aug 03 - 09:42 AM

Great to hear the news! Things should get better & better now!

love,

bbc

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 25 Aug 03 - 10:31 PM

Congrats to Jenny on the succesful completion of her move.

So, she has a cat and a piano and plants and boxes, and...

Sounds like her helpers earned their drinks. See you all in November.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 08:36 AM

& a large fishtank, which I forgot to mention.

and the previously mentioned enormous mass of boxes & bags & stuff & the sooner she gets it unpacked, the sooner we can have a session there!!

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 08:44 AM

very good to hear move is complete. (well - you know what I mean - despite there still being all the *un*packing to do)

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 12:30 PM

Good to hear you have moved safely and you are in your new place. Best wishes for the future in your new home.

Love from this side of the pond.

Khatt

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amergin
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 12:34 PM

or Khatt's side of the world.... ;)

I'm glad things went down great...save for this bond thing...doesn't sound like you'll get it back...I'm sure you'll enjoy your new place alot better. Take care.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Hrothgar
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 05:47 AM

Why do you need Jenny to unpack junk so you can have a singing session?

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 08:58 AM

there's no where to sit!!

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 10:35 AM

Sit on the boxes! Not all boxed household goods would be suitable, of course, but if her move was anything like my last one, a lot of those boxes were filled with books. A few cushions on top, or a throw to give a row of boxes a more "furniture" look, and there you go!

SRS (who still has plenty of boxes to unpack 18 months after the move)

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: C-flat
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 11:18 AM

Like a lot of others here, I've been keeping an eye on this thread while feeling frustrated by being on the other side of the world and unable to be of any practical help.
I'm very pleased that the move has been successful and that you can get on with your life in peace.
Best wishes from here too!
C-flat.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: old git
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 05:09 PM

and from here!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 06:36 PM

Of course! Book box furniture! Here I am thinking I needed a sofa and there was one in that extra bedroom all the time! Let's see, 4 rows of 2 boxes each for the foundation and boxes stacked up one on the other for arms and the back. That stores 26 boxes. And 4 of the record boxes could make up the coffee table. I think we have something here.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Aug 03 - 09:28 PM

You can write a book about it: Beyond Early Orange Crate.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Aug 03 - 09:38 AM

Jenny has abandoned her unpacking to visit friends in the country this weekend & what is even worse, the singer who was going to have a session tonight decided not to cos of that. What about the rest of us, I cried?

Jenny's defection also means that her son still has her computer - another week till she gets back on line (serves ya right, I said). She is getting twitchy over no Mudcat for so long (huh! I said), then I fed her a few Mudcat morsels.

But she is very happy, oops I almost forgot the Real Estate Agent's latest.

Jenny had filled in a Statutory Declaration for the Rental Bond Board asking that the entire bond be paid to her so she could take out utility payments, before giving them their balances. The Agent made a copy & gave the original to David after he had signed the authorisation! Jenny was rather pissed off as the agent only copied one side, so the Board will be getting an incomplete Declaration unless the agent gets it back, which she will probably be able to do.

Best of all the Bros had a raging fight when the agent was there culminating with Eddy telling David he owned him! And I thought my family had interesting dynamics.

Naturally David is no longer going to live with his brother & has asked the agent to find him another place. I hope he gets a very tiny bedsitter so his brother can never impose upon him again - tho maybe no contact would be best.

sandra

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 29 Aug 03 - 09:57 AM

I don't know why this particular chorus is ringing in my ears. It has nothing to do with rental hassles, or "passing the buck" as we say in the States, although it does have some reference to "passing" and "brothers."

Seems there were these two dairy farm brothers, and one of the cows that the were responsible for milking had 27 spigots. So the udderly reprehensible chorus runs:

Pass the other udder over to me other brother,
Pass the other udder over this-away;
Pass the other udder over to me other brother,
We certainly have our hands full every day!

You can sing it to the tune of "Tie Me Kangaroo Down."

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 11:02 AM

I'M BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The hard bit is over. I never have to go back there again! My computer is in the living room, right next to the model trains. John and I are getting along wonderfully well. We are also planning some other things, which include making music together - more on this later.

I seem to be coming down with something and I am feeling a bit ordinary today physically - I'm sure the let down after the drama is responsible. I have been keeping in mind some mudcat advice to be kind to myself. Even though the worst is over, I am physically and emotionally drained. My life has changed a lot, and with other changes over the last 2 years, it feels like almost too much to take in - my brain is still catching up.

Thank you all for your support - as I have said before, I may not have much money, but I am rich in friends. My helpers were fantastic. I could not have done this without them. As soon as we can carve out some sitting spaces - on the boxes if necessary, we are going to have a party for all the people who helped.

And yes Sandra, you won't have to wait 18 months before we have a session. We are aiming for the Friday night before the Dog, the 26th September. It will actually be a combined session and birthday party (my birthday is on the 28th.) I'm sure moving shanties will be on the agenda, as well as "Here is my Home" which I will be singing under much happier circumstances than when I last tried to sing it!

The matter of the bond still isn't settled. It seems David can't make up his mind whether to leave or not. The places the agent showed him are too expensive for him, so he is considering staying there after all. It seems Eddie DOES own him, basically. After what he did to me, I have no sympathy left for him. I'm just glad to be out of it.

So until that is settled, the bond is held up, but it can't go on much longer. The owner must be furious, not knowing whether to advertise the house for rent or not. I'm just anxious to get my bond back, so I can pay the bills and take their share out of their bond.

I'm finding I can sleep at night now. Even though the bond is a lot of money, it seems like a minor annoyance compared to the peace of mind I am feeling in other ways.

Charlie and Brett, we will endeavour to sing ALL the moving shanties when you come. What a party that will be! By the way, mine's a Guinness!

Jenny (feeling elated, emotional and exhausted)

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 11:25 AM

Welcome Home!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Wesley S
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 01:34 PM

I'm glad everything worked out for the best eventually. And take care of yourself. You're bound to be suffering from a post-moving stress disorder.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: hesperis
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 01:48 PM

That is great news to hear! Glad it's working out.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 05:39 PM

Jenny-

So glad to hear you're settling in, and only have the financial matters to sort out with your former housemates. When Judy and I arrive in November, we'll look forward to meeting you. And you certainly may redeem our pledge for your share of a round of Guinness.

Until then, here's another housing hymn for housewarming, from our unpublished Housing and Neighborhood Song Book:

Saints Delight

Notes: This graceful hymn dates back to 1709, being composed by Isaac Watts. Its original title was "The Hopes of Heaven Our Support Under Trials on Earth " which although to the point was quite a mouthful. Among the folk song community, the hymn is probably better known as "On My Journey Home." It was one of the most popular hymns sung by Negroes during the ante-bellum period. Congregations in Southern Appalachia have sung this song for well over 200 years, following the melody and harmony in their "shape-note" hymnals.


SAINT'S DELIGHT

(Words and music by Isaac Watts, 1709)

When I can read my title clear
To mansions in the skies,
I'll bid farewell to ev'ry fear
And wipe my weeping eyes.

Chorus:

I feel like, I feel like,
I'm on my journey home;
I feel like, I feel like,
I'm on my journey home.


Should earth against my soul engage,
And Hellish darts be hurled,
Then I can smile at Satan's rage
And face a frowning world. (CHO)

Let cares, like a wild deluge come,
And storms of sorrow fall;
May I but safely reach my home,
My God, my Heav'n, my all. (CHO)

There I shall bathe my weary soul,
In seas of heav'nly rest,
And not a wave of trouble roll,
Across my peaceful breast. (CHO)

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Helen
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 05:54 PM

That's beautiful, Charley.

Welcome to your new home of peace, happiness and tranquillity, (((((Jenny))))).

Helen

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Naemanson
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 07:38 PM

Welcome to your new home! Life is good.

Unfortunately you will get your free drinks last. You see, as the Guiness flows and the friends move through your perception you may forget exactly who it was that helped you and then Charley and I may end up paying for drinks for a room full of strangers.... *grin*

But then, what better way to meet people.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Amergin
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 07:56 PM

Hey, Jenny! I'm glad to see things are working out for you! and that the difficult time is over...just think soon you won't have to hear from those wankers ever again.

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: JennyO
Date: 03 Sep 03 - 10:40 PM

Charlie, those are beautiful words, but I don't know the tune. I'm not up on getting a tune via a computer. Do you know any books that would have it in? I would love to sing it.

I'm feeling much better today. I seemed to hit a wall yesterday, but after a good night's sleep, some TLC from John (he's very good at it), and a leisurely morning, I'm in pretty good shape and ready for my folk club tonight. John and I have a new song to sing there too!

One good bit of news I heard from the real estate agent - all the guys are moving out on Saturday. Eddie and the new guy were told they are not wanted as tenants, and given very short notice. Eddie even tried to bully the agent, and that went down like a lead balloon. And David and Eddie are not speaking.

I shared happily with David for years until that arsehole came along, but whenever I start to feel sorry for David, I remind myself that Eddie couldn't have done anything without David's permission, and when David let himself be used to do Eddie's dirty work and joined in on bullying me, he made his choices. Now he has to live with them.

As for myself, I see lots of good times ahead. It's definitely starting to feel like home!

Jenny

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: NicoleC
Date: 04 Sep 03 - 12:04 AM

Welcome home, Jenny, from one moving disaster to another!

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: Charley Noble
Date: 04 Sep 03 - 11:31 AM

Jenny-

I could e-mail you an MP3 file of "SAINT'S DELIGHT/On My Journey Home" if that would be helpful. Or I could fly 10,000 miles or so and sing it to you when we arrive in Sydney in mid-November. Send me a PM with your e-mail address if you'd like the MP3 file.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,bbc at work
Date: 04 Sep 03 - 12:10 PM

Ah, Jenny,

So good to hear directly that you are in & ok! Congratulations, your hard work paid off! I am still having some ups & downs w/ a doubled work load at my job, getting used to living alone since my son went to college, & the fact that my older son totalled his car yesterday! Thankfully, no one was hurt. There is still much for which to give thanks!!!

Best to you, dear. Keep in touch.

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Help: A difficult move-JennyO needs support
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 04 Sep 03 - 12:21 PM

X:2
T:Pisgah
C:J. C. Lowry
N:Scottish tune, arranged by J.C. Lowry in Ananias Davisson's The Kentucky Harmony, second edition, 1817.
I:abc2nwc
M:4/4
L:1/8
K:Ab
V:1
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[E2A2][E2A2][E2A]B[Ec][CA] |[D3F3][EG] [DF][CE] C2|
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[E2e2][E2e2][C2e2][Df][Ce] |[F2c2][F2c2][F2B2][F2A2]|
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V:2
K:Ab Bass
[A,,2A,2]|[A,,2C2][A,,2C2][A,,2C]B,[A,,2A,2]|
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[A,,2E,2][A,,2A,2][A,,2A,2][A,,2A,2]|
[E,6A,3/2]B,/2CA, G,2A,2|[A,2C2][A,2C2]A,2[A,,2A,2]|
[F,2A,2][F,2A,2][F,2D2][F,2C2]|[D,2D2][D,2A,2][E,2A,2][E,2A,]E,|
[A,,6E,6][A,,2A,2]|[A,,2C2][A,2C2][A,2C]B, A,2|
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