Thanks to some awesome, loving MeFites February 19, 2008 5:13 PM Subscribe
My heartfelt thanks to loving MeFites: Brandon Blatcher, hadjiboy, Grammar Moses, madamjujujive, vronsky, hortense, It's Raining Florence Henderson, rtha and Hildegarde.
Over the last several months I've been distressed dealing with possible metastases, biopsies, possible upcoming surgeries, finding new doctors, coping with surviving late stage cancer, while living alone and having no family or practically helpful friends near at hand.
These 9 MeFites have been consistently caring, giving, loving, kind, patient, helpful and just sheer amazing. I wanted to publicly thank them, as well as let others know how wonderful they've been, that MetaFilter has certainly been a real community of loving support.
Brandon Blatcher has gently, steadily encouraged me as I faced needing to deal with additional tests and fears about the scariness of managing all this stuff for 3 months now, truly like a loving brother. He has been an extraordinary friend.
A few minutes ago I received a beautiful bouquet of roses from hadjiboy, who lives in Hyderabad, India and 2 round the world telephone calls from him before and after, on the day I had my last biopsy and felt very nervous about the procedure. Grammar Moses, herself a survivor, just sent me a link to a patient advocacy service. hortense sent jade pebbles from the West Coast, a thoughtful touch of Nature to hang onto; madamjujujive spent a dozen hours on the phone with me over several months and sent a cheerful, lovely bouquet of tulips a week ago; Hildegarde has given me reassurances and shared her journey of similar biopsies; rtha has been warmly friendly, IRFH called and offered his intelligent positivity and vronsky has been caring and supportive.
All these people know how profoundly grateful I am to them but I wanted to share this in MetaTalk and say how exceptionally kind these particular MeFites have been.
Listed under "etiquette" as awesome.
Over the last several months I've been distressed dealing with possible metastases, biopsies, possible upcoming surgeries, finding new doctors, coping with surviving late stage cancer, while living alone and having no family or practically helpful friends near at hand.
These 9 MeFites have been consistently caring, giving, loving, kind, patient, helpful and just sheer amazing. I wanted to publicly thank them, as well as let others know how wonderful they've been, that MetaFilter has certainly been a real community of loving support.
Brandon Blatcher has gently, steadily encouraged me as I faced needing to deal with additional tests and fears about the scariness of managing all this stuff for 3 months now, truly like a loving brother. He has been an extraordinary friend.
A few minutes ago I received a beautiful bouquet of roses from hadjiboy, who lives in Hyderabad, India and 2 round the world telephone calls from him before and after, on the day I had my last biopsy and felt very nervous about the procedure. Grammar Moses, herself a survivor, just sent me a link to a patient advocacy service. hortense sent jade pebbles from the West Coast, a thoughtful touch of Nature to hang onto; madamjujujive spent a dozen hours on the phone with me over several months and sent a cheerful, lovely bouquet of tulips a week ago; Hildegarde has given me reassurances and shared her journey of similar biopsies; rtha has been warmly friendly, IRFH called and offered his intelligent positivity and vronsky has been caring and supportive.
All these people know how profoundly grateful I am to them but I wanted to share this in MetaTalk and say how exceptionally kind these particular MeFites have been.
Listed under "etiquette" as awesome.
Wow. That's coming through. Good on all of them. I'm sure you must have mentioned this in my online presence, but I don't remember. My apologies for that and continued best wishes.
posted by jonmc at 5:26 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by jonmc at 5:26 PM on February 19, 2008
what? that's no tear. my eyes are sweating.
posted by dawson at 5:27 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by dawson at 5:27 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
Hey, nickyskye, like jonmc, I had no idea about your condition. Sending you my best wishes, hopes for recovery and, well, prayers, for lack of a better word.
posted by flapjax at midnite at 5:32 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by flapjax at midnite at 5:32 PM on February 19, 2008
Yay! Claps for everyone!
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:51 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:51 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
I had no idea either, but here are more wishes for the best recovery. And kudos to those 9. Receive a hug from afar, nickyskye.
posted by micayetoca at 5:54 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by micayetoca at 5:54 PM on February 19, 2008
Nicky, I was thinking of you today, trying to remember to thank you for something you posted last year that made me see things in a new light. So thank you - you were very helpful to me in a way that is still resonating with me.
Now I will keep thinking of you with a new focus - wishing you the best - and another thank you from me to those that are providing you such beautiful support.
posted by readery at 5:55 PM on February 19, 2008
Now I will keep thinking of you with a new focus - wishing you the best - and another thank you from me to those that are providing you such beautiful support.
posted by readery at 5:55 PM on February 19, 2008
This really choked me up. I've typed and re-typed a bunch of things, but all I can say is best to you, and sending hugs, and to both you and the people you mentioned: You guys are awesome.
posted by ugf at 6:04 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by ugf at 6:04 PM on February 19, 2008
Nicky, you really shine that light back out too. You sent me some very sweet and much needed email when I mentioned briefly in a MeFi comment some troubles I was going through at home. I'm so happy that whatever that energy is has been able to aid you in your time of need as well.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 6:05 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 6:05 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
This makes me really really really happy.
posted by Stewriffic at 6:08 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Stewriffic at 6:08 PM on February 19, 2008
Nicky, you are a wonder, be well Lady, all my love.
posted by Divine_Wino at 6:08 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Divine_Wino at 6:08 PM on February 19, 2008
Nicky, hope all is well; that's a heck of a thing to be dealing with. And it's wonderful to read such a warm and fuzzy story!
posted by lleachie at 6:13 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by lleachie at 6:13 PM on February 19, 2008
thanks Brandon Blatcher, hadjiboy, Grammar Moses, madamjujujive, vronsky, hortense, It's Raining Florence Henderson, rtha and Hildegarde. nickyskye reckons you've been consistently caring, giving, loving, kind, patient, helpful and just sheer amazing...
i told her she wasn't alone.
cheers nickyskye
posted by de at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
i told her she wasn't alone.
cheers nickyskye
posted by de at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
Thanks for reminding me why this community is so wonderful that I've been coming back here for seven years. My faith in mankind is restored for another day.
posted by ColdChef at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
posted by ColdChef at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
Another comment in praise of Nicky from me too, even though I know that's not what she was looking for. I didn't know that you'd been sick, but I also hope fervently that all is well, and soon!
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 6:14 PM on February 19, 2008
That's great stuff. Best wishes, prayers and thoughts to you, nickyskye.
posted by malocchio at 6:15 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by malocchio at 6:15 PM on February 19, 2008
Good for them, and best wishes to you. You deserve nothing but good.
posted by languagehat at 6:17 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by languagehat at 6:17 PM on February 19, 2008
What a wonderful thing to hear. What lovely people you are. All the best to you, nickyskye.
posted by gaspode at 6:18 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by gaspode at 6:18 PM on February 19, 2008
I heart mefites (or rather mefites warm my heart)
posted by special-k at 6:27 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by special-k at 6:27 PM on February 19, 2008
Thank you for sharing. It's wonderful to hear about the good stuff. Best. <3
posted by SassHat at 6:29 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by SassHat at 6:29 PM on February 19, 2008
Best wishes. I remember after Katrina, I got a lot of worried emails from MeFites. It meant a lot.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:35 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:35 PM on February 19, 2008
I kind of want to start referring to MetaFilter as "our thing," like we're all part of an organized crime family. "This thing of ours," you know. And in this thing of ours, nickyskye's a wonderful exemplar, a model of the way I wish we all behaved. Thanks for the good news, and here's another hopeful voice wishing you well.
posted by cgc373 at 6:47 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by cgc373 at 6:47 PM on February 19, 2008
La cosa nostra. The firm, la familia, my people. Yeah, this thing of ours.
posted by Divine_Wino at 6:53 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Divine_Wino at 6:53 PM on February 19, 2008
Thanks for sharing this note with us nickyskye, and thanks to the 9!
posted by onalark at 6:55 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by onalark at 6:55 PM on February 19, 2008
You deserve nothing but good, Nicky.
And good on those who've gone above and beyond.
posted by Joseph Gurl at 6:57 PM on February 19, 2008
And good on those who've gone above and beyond.
posted by Joseph Gurl at 6:57 PM on February 19, 2008
I'm blushing so hard right now.
I'm trying to think of a way to show how remarkable I think nicky is.
Except I can't. You just have to take my word for it.
Thank you, nickyskye, for your friendship.
Thank you, MetaFilter, for being a place where I can find folk like nicky.
(Nicky, I'm totally buying you a metaphorical beer at the San Francisco meet-up on Thursday. Or whatever you like - what would you like?)
posted by rtha at 6:59 PM on February 19, 2008
I'm trying to think of a way to show how remarkable I think nicky is.
Except I can't. You just have to take my word for it.
Thank you, nickyskye, for your friendship.
Thank you, MetaFilter, for being a place where I can find folk like nicky.
(Nicky, I'm totally buying you a metaphorical beer at the San Francisco meet-up on Thursday. Or whatever you like - what would you like?)
posted by rtha at 6:59 PM on February 19, 2008
Nicky,
I've enjoyed reading many of your posts and I appreciate the openness and care you've put into your participation. You have my best wishes for a successful recovery. That you have seen some MeFi members step forward to respond during a difficult time brightens my own day.
Again, be well. I think you're wonderful.
posted by BigSky at 7:03 PM on February 19, 2008
I've enjoyed reading many of your posts and I appreciate the openness and care you've put into your participation. You have my best wishes for a successful recovery. That you have seen some MeFi members step forward to respond during a difficult time brightens my own day.
Again, be well. I think you're wonderful.
posted by BigSky at 7:03 PM on February 19, 2008
I have warm fuzzies from reading this. Thanks for sharing with us, nickyskye.
posted by iconomy at 7:08 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by iconomy at 7:08 PM on February 19, 2008
Ten! Ten beautiful people! Ah, ah, ah! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo!!!
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 7:10 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 7:10 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
I'm sorry to hear about your troubles, nickyskye. You are a warm and wonderful person, and I wish you the best. Kudos to everyone who has provided you with friendship and comfort.
posted by amyms at 7:13 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by amyms at 7:13 PM on February 19, 2008
this is good.
posted by localhuman at 7:18 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by localhuman at 7:18 PM on February 19, 2008
Best wishes for a complete recovery, nickyskye, and thanks for gracing us with your presence.
posted by Quietgal at 7:25 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Quietgal at 7:25 PM on February 19, 2008
Hats off and a cheer for the people who have given you such valuable support. Wishing you all the best, nickyskye.
posted by TrolleyOffTheTracks at 7:33 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by TrolleyOffTheTracks at 7:33 PM on February 19, 2008
Man:
Just when I was sick of humans in general, you mooks come along and have to be all showing your good sides and stuff.
Oddly enough, picking up my fifth grader kid from after-school band practice today, I grabbed one of the other trumpeters and said "Hey Kev...you need a ride home squirt?"
Two blocks later his mom answered the door, in sweats, looking pale, completely bald, and mouthed the words thank you as I drove off.
Don't know you from Adam NickySkye, but I'll keep a good thought in my heart and a big fat doob for you if and when necessary.
best
Tim
posted by timsteil at 7:38 PM on February 19, 2008
Just when I was sick of humans in general, you mooks come along and have to be all showing your good sides and stuff.
Oddly enough, picking up my fifth grader kid from after-school band practice today, I grabbed one of the other trumpeters and said "Hey Kev...you need a ride home squirt?"
Two blocks later his mom answered the door, in sweats, looking pale, completely bald, and mouthed the words thank you as I drove off.
Don't know you from Adam NickySkye, but I'll keep a good thought in my heart and a big fat doob for you if and when necessary.
best
Tim
posted by timsteil at 7:38 PM on February 19, 2008
You are well loved here Nicky. You're an inspiration and someone many of us look up to. Godspeed to you. Kudos as well to those who have stepped out from the ethospehere to befriend and assist you.
Oh, and you have been the most interesting poster on the front page for months and months. How you find this stuff just amazes me.
posted by caddis at 7:41 PM on February 19, 2008
Oh, and you have been the most interesting poster on the front page for months and months. How you find this stuff just amazes me.
posted by caddis at 7:41 PM on February 19, 2008
Love and praises all around. nicky, I'm putting in a good word for you with my invisible supernatural friends.
posted by ottereroticist at 8:09 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by ottereroticist at 8:09 PM on February 19, 2008
I kind of want to start referring to MetaFilter as "our thing," like we're all part of an organized crime family.
The Mefiosi. Featuring Don Matteo and his late Quonsigliere.
posted by jonmc at 8:13 PM on February 19, 2008 [9 favorites]
The Mefiosi. Featuring Don Matteo and his late Quonsigliere.
posted by jonmc at 8:13 PM on February 19, 2008 [9 favorites]
Nicky, I didn't realize either, and I am staggered by the news (I had the big C myself about 10 years ago, and I just found out a few days ago that my dad's facing the possibility as well) -- but more than that, I am staggered by your extraordinary grace and courage and wit (not to mention the reliably smart, fascinating threads and comments you've made in your tenure here). You are truly a muse to me (and plenty of others around these parts), and you have the deepest, warmest good wishes I can possibly muster. I'm so glad to hear that Mefi has been such a good source of support and comfort to you.
Be well, and know you are loved.
posted by scody at 8:15 PM on February 19, 2008
Be well, and know you are loved.
posted by scody at 8:15 PM on February 19, 2008
Thank you for sharing this, Nicky, and my thoughts and hopes are with you. Best wishes and kudos to The Nine, too.
I'm continually amazed at how full of lovely MetaFilter is, and I'm grateful to be a part, however peripherally.
posted by Metroid Baby at 8:28 PM on February 19, 2008
I'm continually amazed at how full of lovely MetaFilter is, and I'm grateful to be a part, however peripherally.
posted by Metroid Baby at 8:28 PM on February 19, 2008
Namaste, nicky.
It's folks like you and posts like this that make this place so much more than the sum of its parts.
posted by gompa at 8:37 PM on February 19, 2008
It's folks like you and posts like this that make this place so much more than the sum of its parts.
posted by gompa at 8:37 PM on February 19, 2008
Dastardly news has such a sweetly horrible way of galvanising the positive energies of wonderful people. Add my humble hooray to the pile for the Mefi-9. Mefiosi for life.
And dear nickyskye, you quite simply make this site a better place to hang out. Thank you. And the best of luck with that whole bastard health challenge. *hugs*
posted by peacay at 8:54 PM on February 19, 2008
And dear nickyskye, you quite simply make this site a better place to hang out. Thank you. And the best of luck with that whole bastard health challenge. *hugs*
posted by peacay at 8:54 PM on February 19, 2008
I wish you well, nickyskye. You're one of those MeFites whose personality I've known for roughly as long as I've been following the site. Keep being a great MeFite.
And hadjiboy, It's Raining Florence Henderson, Brandon Blatcher, madamjujujive, hortense, Hildegarde, vronsky, rtha and Grammar Moses, thank you for increasing my estimation of humanity.
posted by Kattullus at 9:02 PM on February 19, 2008
And hadjiboy, It's Raining Florence Henderson, Brandon Blatcher, madamjujujive, hortense, Hildegarde, vronsky, rtha and Grammar Moses, thank you for increasing my estimation of humanity.
posted by Kattullus at 9:02 PM on February 19, 2008
I'm glad there really is a cabal.
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 9:10 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 9:10 PM on February 19, 2008 [3 favorites]
Thanks for reminding all of us of the good that is in each of us. You're all marvelous!
posted by Lynsey at 9:11 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Lynsey at 9:11 PM on February 19, 2008
Right on!
(this thread is truly a breath of fresh air!)
posted by iamkimiam at 9:16 PM on February 19, 2008
(this thread is truly a breath of fresh air!)
posted by iamkimiam at 9:16 PM on February 19, 2008
I've read nothing but things about you nickyskye. Its obvious you are loved here on the blue.
posted by Sailormom at 9:22 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Sailormom at 9:22 PM on February 19, 2008
nickysyke,
I had no idea. I always read everything I come across that has your name attached to it. You are a warm, wonderful, insightful, and open person. That certainly has been apparent simply based on your comments and posts. It's good to know that someone with those traits attracts like. Kudos to the outstanding people here; I'm sending lots of positive thoughts and wishes to you.
posted by stagewhisper at 9:24 PM on February 19, 2008
I had no idea. I always read everything I come across that has your name attached to it. You are a warm, wonderful, insightful, and open person. That certainly has been apparent simply based on your comments and posts. It's good to know that someone with those traits attracts like. Kudos to the outstanding people here; I'm sending lots of positive thoughts and wishes to you.
posted by stagewhisper at 9:24 PM on February 19, 2008
If you didn't know about nickyskye's cancer, you haven't read the amazing and difficult how to talk to a dying friend thread. Also if you need to be reminded about how graceful and compassionate nickyskye can be, go look in there as well.
nickyskye, you are using your time here better than a lot of us are. I'm so glad that you're getting at least a fraction of the friendship you deserve from this place after all the good energy you have put in here on all parts of the site.
Big cheers to the 9 as well -- comfort food and expensive drinks all around, for being lights in a dark time.
posted by LobsterMitten at 9:25 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
nickyskye, you are using your time here better than a lot of us are. I'm so glad that you're getting at least a fraction of the friendship you deserve from this place after all the good energy you have put in here on all parts of the site.
Big cheers to the 9 as well -- comfort food and expensive drinks all around, for being lights in a dark time.
posted by LobsterMitten at 9:25 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
oh! i didn't know anything about this!
*sends hooked light rays in nicky's direction*
posted by UbuRoivas at 9:39 PM on February 19, 2008
*sends hooked light rays in nicky's direction*
posted by UbuRoivas at 9:39 PM on February 19, 2008
I've read nothing but things about you nickyskye.
watch out - we've got a crazy in our midst!
posted by UbuRoivas at 9:43 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
watch out - we've got a crazy in our midst!
posted by UbuRoivas at 9:43 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
Best wishes to you, nickyskye. You're a valuable member of the community, and I always look forward to reading your comments.
posted by Afroblanco at 10:12 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Afroblanco at 10:12 PM on February 19, 2008
Props to all of you! *sends nickyskye healing thoughts*
posted by brujita at 10:14 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by brujita at 10:14 PM on February 19, 2008
nickyskye, your warm and generous heart never seizes to amaze me.
Much love as always.
posted by hadjiboy at 10:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
Much love as always.
posted by hadjiboy at 10:14 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
This is swell, best MeTa in a long time. All the best to nickyskye, and kudos to the 9!
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 10:19 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 10:19 PM on February 19, 2008
That is the warmest shout out which warmed the cockles of my heart.
I didn't know you were going through hell, but it's nice to hear that so many helped you through.
Sending warm thoughts out to you, tout de suite.
posted by alicesshoe at 10:29 PM on February 19, 2008
I didn't know you were going through hell, but it's nice to hear that so many helped you through.
Sending warm thoughts out to you, tout de suite.
posted by alicesshoe at 10:29 PM on February 19, 2008
I somehow missed reference to this before. I'm so glad you were able to find such amazing support through metafilter. You're in my thoughts, and I hope this thread keeps you spirits high.
posted by piratebowling at 10:31 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by piratebowling at 10:31 PM on February 19, 2008
Wow, Nicky, thank you so much for sharing that - it really is a gift to all of us, and at a time we need it, I think. You are a peach! Hugs and kisses to you, and to the Nickyskye Nine. You guys are an inspiration.
also, because it must be said: Bucket of warm Cockles!
posted by taz at 11:21 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
also, because it must be said: Bucket of warm Cockles!
posted by taz at 11:21 PM on February 19, 2008 [1 favorite]
Beautiful. My thoughts are with you nickyskye.
posted by felix betachat at 11:30 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by felix betachat at 11:30 PM on February 19, 2008
I don't comment much, but nickyskye, you are one of the people that always stand out to me - I was stunned and saddened and amazed when I read the "How to talk to a dying friend" thread. And not surprisingly, the people you've mentioned stand out in similar ways. You're all awesome thinkers, and I wish you all nothing but the best.
Ah, I didn't start to tear up until I read upthread. Internet people are good cookies.
posted by saturnine at 11:30 PM on February 19, 2008
Ah, I didn't start to tear up until I read upthread. Internet people are good cookies.
posted by saturnine at 11:30 PM on February 19, 2008
I've only been registered a year now (lurked a year or so before), but you're definitely one of my favorites around here (it's partly the kitty posts ;)). This is an incredibly sweet post, and I'd like to toss some warm wishes and thoughts onto the pile all these big-hearted fellow MeFites have shown, and continue to sdemonstrate.
posted by cmgonzalez at 11:32 PM on February 19, 2008
posted by cmgonzalez at 11:32 PM on February 19, 2008
Nickyskye things like this, your example and that of the nickyskye nine, I tuck away in my breast pocket for quick, repeated reference. Thank-you.
posted by From Bklyn at 12:52 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by From Bklyn at 12:52 AM on February 20, 2008
(like a Bible in one's pocket on the Western front)
posted by UbuRoivas at 1:20 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by UbuRoivas at 1:20 AM on February 20, 2008
as Taz says, just when we needed it, as well. Typical Nickyskye, making us feel better!
Huge positive thoughts winging their way to you from all over the globe. You rock!
posted by Wilder at 1:46 AM on February 20, 2008 [2 favorites]
Huge positive thoughts winging their way to you from all over the globe. You rock!
posted by Wilder at 1:46 AM on February 20, 2008 [2 favorites]
Woah. I had no idea. All best wishes, nickyskye - you're one of the commenters who always catches my eye, and I notice when you're not around for a little while (and now I know why). Lots of good vibes and intercessory prayers your way.
posted by goo at 2:51 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by goo at 2:51 AM on February 20, 2008
Nicky is also my all time favorite MeFi. She makes this often dark, dark place just a tiny bit sunnier. Thank you NickySkye! Xoxo,
posted by psmealey at 4:01 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by psmealey at 4:01 AM on February 20, 2008
this is why i want to be a part of meta.
go, nickyskye; go! and thanks to those named for setting the bar for the rest of us.
posted by msconduct at 4:11 AM on February 20, 2008
go, nickyskye; go! and thanks to those named for setting the bar for the rest of us.
posted by msconduct at 4:11 AM on February 20, 2008
damn you nickyskye for reminding me there are reasons not to hate this place!
you rock, and you are in my thoughts.
posted by terrapin at 4:17 AM on February 20, 2008
you rock, and you are in my thoughts.
posted by terrapin at 4:17 AM on February 20, 2008
What a lovely callout! Best wishes, nickyskye. And good on the 9.
This is probably going to sound a bit weird and stalkery, but I was arguing recently with someone who doesn't hang about on the web at all, about how 'real' online interactions are, and used you as Exhibit A for the defense, nickyskye - just showing this person something kindly you said to me on MetaFilter, and explaining how the comment had made me think about some trouble I was having at the time in a new, better way, immediately made them understand that encounters with folk on the web, however fleeting, can have real meaning, are worth something.
posted by jack_mo at 5:05 AM on February 20, 2008 [1 favorite]
This is probably going to sound a bit weird and stalkery, but I was arguing recently with someone who doesn't hang about on the web at all, about how 'real' online interactions are, and used you as Exhibit A for the defense, nickyskye - just showing this person something kindly you said to me on MetaFilter, and explaining how the comment had made me think about some trouble I was having at the time in a new, better way, immediately made them understand that encounters with folk on the web, however fleeting, can have real meaning, are worth something.
posted by jack_mo at 5:05 AM on February 20, 2008 [1 favorite]
Two, four, six, nine --
We think Nicky's quite sublime!
Nicky, Nicky, yay Nicky!
*does silly cheerleading jump*
*lands wrong, twists ankle*
*hobbles over to Nicky to give her big hug*
posted by GrammarMoses at 6:25 AM on February 20, 2008
We think Nicky's quite sublime!
Nicky, Nicky, yay Nicky!
*does silly cheerleading jump*
*lands wrong, twists ankle*
*hobbles over to Nicky to give her big hug*
posted by GrammarMoses at 6:25 AM on February 20, 2008
The reason Metafilter survives: it's the people.
As I type this, the note below the Live Preview says "Everyone needs a hug." And they do. But none more than nicky and those who have helped her. Hugs to all of you.
posted by tommasz at 6:45 AM on February 20, 2008
As I type this, the note below the Live Preview says "Everyone needs a hug." And they do. But none more than nicky and those who have helped her. Hugs to all of you.
posted by tommasz at 6:45 AM on February 20, 2008
Oh nicky, you're so fine
You're so fine you blow my mind
That's the best I can do. You deserve better.
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 7:04 AM on February 20, 2008
You're so fine you blow my mind
That's the best I can do. You deserve better.
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 7:04 AM on February 20, 2008
Wow, this thread actually made me cry. Best wishes, Nicky. Thanks, Mefites.
posted by lunit at 8:12 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by lunit at 8:12 AM on February 20, 2008
I read the "how to talk to a dying friend" thread, but before nickyskye posted to it, so I had no idea.
My best wishes to Nicky, and a heartfelt huzzah to the Mefites she listed.
posted by cerebus19 at 8:40 AM on February 20, 2008
My best wishes to Nicky, and a heartfelt huzzah to the Mefites she listed.
posted by cerebus19 at 8:40 AM on February 20, 2008
nickyskye and the mefi nine - thank you and hugs. Then another big hug for everyone in the thread. Gather round, guys, I think our big long dangly meta arms are just long enough.
posted by penguin pie at 9:21 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by penguin pie at 9:21 AM on February 20, 2008
awww - nickyskye just exudes love, there is no one sweeter. she's mefi's love teacher. and if she's feeling it back, well that's just the "what goes around comes around" principle in action.
posted by madamjujujive at 9:28 AM on February 20, 2008 [5 favorites]
posted by madamjujujive at 9:28 AM on February 20, 2008 [5 favorites]
Just when I'm becoming convinced this place is infested with the highest per capita percentage of assholes on earth (including me) something shows up to remind me that at the center of the Meta world are a load of kind hearted people.
Best wishes to you, nickyskye
posted by Carbolic at 10:01 AM on February 20, 2008
Best wishes to you, nickyskye
posted by Carbolic at 10:01 AM on February 20, 2008
Oh YAY happy love fest in MetaTalk!
Thanks so much for the kind, warm and positive things you all said! Been all tenderly teary reading this thread. I want to give a special additional love and thanks shout out to de, dog food sugar (both warm-hearted oncology nurses) and Melissa May.
It was and is my intention to put the spotlight of admiration on Brandon Blatcher, hadjiboy, Grammar Moses, madamjujujive, vronsky, hortense, It's Raining Florence Henderson, rtha and Hildegarde. They have been brave in *consistently* investing their time, effort, gifts, energy and communication with somebody, me, who may cause them to feel loss due to my illness. That kind of generosity takes a particular kind of heart and courage. It's not out of any blood tie, work, financial or offline social connection, which is to say I think their giving has been pure hearted and selfless. This has been profoundly inspiring to me, heartening. It's hard, in my experience, to deal with loss, it brings up ancient grieving. In knowing me, they have coped with both my feelings and their feelings of loss. I admire that in them more than I can express.
How I came to know Brandon Blatcher was in commenting to him by memail after he made an AskMetaFilter post about the practical aspects of somebody who has died. I then went to read his blog, in which he shared about the recent death of his aunt due to cancer.
So while coping with his own significant loss, he reached out to be kind to me, not just in one or two emails but with weekly phone calls, regular email check ups, actually being there in real, practical ways that I could count on. In the real sense of the word, a friend. And I needed that. This is, imo, dazzling. What an unexpected and wonderful gift!
Now, I need to leave for work and cannot reply to all the lovely thoughts.
But I wanted to say also to you jack_mo, that words typed online, in posts, comments, emails do impact offline life, certainly my offline life, just as much as any writing in books, in newspapers, poetry, lyrics or visual art forms like paintings. Why wouldn't they?
If books and newspapers aren't trivialized as meaningful forms of communication, then why would internet communication, which has both the aspects of the written and conversational word, be less meaningful? If anything it has shown itself socially, politically and in every physical way to be as least as meaningful and more than any one of the forms of human communication that has ever existed.
The written word impacts me as much here on Metafilter as the spoken word, either in person or on the phone, or as much as music for that matter. It has astounded me when some people attempt to diminish the significance of comments shared on a group such as this online, as if the words wouldn't or didn't have an offline impact.
How nice of you to say anything I said was helpful to you. Since I've had quite a cyber crush on you for a while, it's delightful to think you liked anything I said (and I say that in a non-stalkery kind of way, lol).
Time to leave for work. Many hugs, thanks and my love.
posted by nickyskye at 10:30 AM on February 20, 2008 [7 favorites]
Thanks so much for the kind, warm and positive things you all said! Been all tenderly teary reading this thread. I want to give a special additional love and thanks shout out to de, dog food sugar (both warm-hearted oncology nurses) and Melissa May.
It was and is my intention to put the spotlight of admiration on Brandon Blatcher, hadjiboy, Grammar Moses, madamjujujive, vronsky, hortense, It's Raining Florence Henderson, rtha and Hildegarde. They have been brave in *consistently* investing their time, effort, gifts, energy and communication with somebody, me, who may cause them to feel loss due to my illness. That kind of generosity takes a particular kind of heart and courage. It's not out of any blood tie, work, financial or offline social connection, which is to say I think their giving has been pure hearted and selfless. This has been profoundly inspiring to me, heartening. It's hard, in my experience, to deal with loss, it brings up ancient grieving. In knowing me, they have coped with both my feelings and their feelings of loss. I admire that in them more than I can express.
How I came to know Brandon Blatcher was in commenting to him by memail after he made an AskMetaFilter post about the practical aspects of somebody who has died. I then went to read his blog, in which he shared about the recent death of his aunt due to cancer.
So while coping with his own significant loss, he reached out to be kind to me, not just in one or two emails but with weekly phone calls, regular email check ups, actually being there in real, practical ways that I could count on. In the real sense of the word, a friend. And I needed that. This is, imo, dazzling. What an unexpected and wonderful gift!
Now, I need to leave for work and cannot reply to all the lovely thoughts.
But I wanted to say also to you jack_mo, that words typed online, in posts, comments, emails do impact offline life, certainly my offline life, just as much as any writing in books, in newspapers, poetry, lyrics or visual art forms like paintings. Why wouldn't they?
If books and newspapers aren't trivialized as meaningful forms of communication, then why would internet communication, which has both the aspects of the written and conversational word, be less meaningful? If anything it has shown itself socially, politically and in every physical way to be as least as meaningful and more than any one of the forms of human communication that has ever existed.
The written word impacts me as much here on Metafilter as the spoken word, either in person or on the phone, or as much as music for that matter. It has astounded me when some people attempt to diminish the significance of comments shared on a group such as this online, as if the words wouldn't or didn't have an offline impact.
How nice of you to say anything I said was helpful to you. Since I've had quite a cyber crush on you for a while, it's delightful to think you liked anything I said (and I say that in a non-stalkery kind of way, lol).
Time to leave for work. Many hugs, thanks and my love.
posted by nickyskye at 10:30 AM on February 20, 2008 [7 favorites]
Best wishes, Nicky. You all restore my wobbly faith in humanity.
posted by francesca too at 10:52 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by francesca too at 10:52 AM on February 20, 2008
Add my name to the list of those who admired you much, knew little about your current travails and who will always wish you the best and only the best.
posted by y2karl at 11:24 AM on February 20, 2008
posted by y2karl at 11:24 AM on February 20, 2008
What y2karl said. And big props to the nine who you called out. Sending positive vibes through the ether to you. And the rest of you, too.
posted by not_on_display at 12:24 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by not_on_display at 12:24 PM on February 20, 2008
Nicky, I first remember being struck by an intricate and fascinating comment of yours. I've watched for your name since. I always will. Thank you.
posted by xod at 12:33 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by xod at 12:33 PM on February 20, 2008
Sweet.
posted by LordSludge at 12:39 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by LordSludge at 12:39 PM on February 20, 2008
But I wanted to say also to you jack_mo, that words typed online, in posts, comments, emails do impact offline life, certainly my offline life, just as much as any writing in books, in newspapers, poetry, lyrics or visual art forms like paintings. Why wouldn't they?
And mine. The person I was arguing with has never been online (to send an email to friends overseas, she hand-writes a letter and gives it to her husband, who types it up and sends it, then reads the replies he prints out for her!), so all she knows is occasional scare stories that make the papers. It's hard to imagine - especially in this thread! - how some people see the web is some nefarious unreal zone.
Since I've had quite a cyber crush on you for a while, it's delightful to think you liked anything I said (and I say that in a non-stalkery kind of way, lol).
*blushes*
posted by jack_mo at 1:04 PM on February 20, 2008
And mine. The person I was arguing with has never been online (to send an email to friends overseas, she hand-writes a letter and gives it to her husband, who types it up and sends it, then reads the replies he prints out for her!), so all she knows is occasional scare stories that make the papers. It's hard to imagine - especially in this thread! - how some people see the web is some nefarious unreal zone.
Since I've had quite a cyber crush on you for a while, it's delightful to think you liked anything I said (and I say that in a non-stalkery kind of way, lol).
*blushes*
posted by jack_mo at 1:04 PM on February 20, 2008
I'm speechless. But somehow this all rings true with everything I know about the MeFi community. I am happy (and not surprised) you have been comforted by the people here.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 2:11 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 2:11 PM on February 20, 2008
Oh I didn't know about this either - sending virtual hugs to you, nickyskye. And thank you for reminding me why I read MetaTalk - because there's something like this here every now and then. Take care of yourself, and speedy recovery. I've had friends and family make it though cancers - it can be done, though it's a hard road. I'm glad you've had people to support you, and I certainly hope you feel better soon!
posted by batgrlHG at 3:00 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by batgrlHG at 3:00 PM on February 20, 2008
You're in my thoughts too, nickyskye. Nice to be reminded that there's a real caring community here, living and thriving amidst all the snark.
posted by jasper411 at 3:19 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by jasper411 at 3:19 PM on February 20, 2008
I had no idea, nickyskye....
How awesome that it is these folks stepped up to the plate for you. I am proud to be in a community with such as these.
posted by konolia at 3:30 PM on February 20, 2008
How awesome that it is these folks stepped up to the plate for you. I am proud to be in a community with such as these.
posted by konolia at 3:30 PM on February 20, 2008
Oh for christ's sake, get a chat room you two.
Favorite nickyskye moment: her yelling at me for messing with the local fire ants and their ant mounds; paraphrasing from memory: "How can you destroy the homes of 10,000 sentient beings, they work so hard?!" and then later sent this cool video about ant mounds. How can you not love that?
She has mad Google skillz and will look for and find links on just about anything you mention offhand that strikes her fancy. She is TEH AWESOME.
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 3:53 PM on February 20, 2008 [1 favorite]
Favorite nickyskye moment: her yelling at me for messing with the local fire ants and their ant mounds; paraphrasing from memory: "How can you destroy the homes of 10,000 sentient beings, they work so hard?!" and then later sent this cool video about ant mounds. How can you not love that?
She has mad Google skillz and will look for and find links on just about anything you mention offhand that strikes her fancy. She is TEH AWESOME.
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 3:53 PM on February 20, 2008 [1 favorite]
Get well soon, Nicky! Hope you're doing better now. :-) [Like others out here, I had no idea you had a biopsy]
Mad props to all the fine folk mentioned ["Nickyskye's Nine" as From Bklyn calls it] here! You guys rock. B-)
posted by the cydonian at 5:03 PM on February 20, 2008
Mad props to all the fine folk mentioned ["Nickyskye's Nine" as From Bklyn calls it] here! You guys rock. B-)
posted by the cydonian at 5:03 PM on February 20, 2008
indeed, get well soon nicky : )
posted by sgt.serenity at 5:05 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by sgt.serenity at 5:05 PM on February 20, 2008
I'm extremely sorry to hear that you're going through such a rough patch at the moment Nicky. My thoughts are with you.
posted by tellurian at 7:08 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by tellurian at 7:08 PM on February 20, 2008
good grief I love this place sometimes.
posted by deadmessenger at 7:40 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by deadmessenger at 7:40 PM on February 20, 2008
The Nine really are exemplars of all that is good here...and Nicky...well, Nicky...Nicky rocks. Big hugs, girl.
posted by dejah420 at 8:10 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by dejah420 at 8:10 PM on February 20, 2008
gods, but this place humbles me sometimes. Be well everyone - especially nicky and the nine.
posted by Space Kitty at 8:22 PM on February 20, 2008
posted by Space Kitty at 8:22 PM on February 20, 2008
...especially nicky and the nine.
Baseball team? (Nicky's the coach, of course!)
posted by flapjax at midnite at 8:37 PM on February 20, 2008
Baseball team? (Nicky's the coach, of course!)
posted by flapjax at midnite at 8:37 PM on February 20, 2008
I've got this weird warm and fuzzy feeling from reading this thread, which is completely at odds with my crotchety nature. I think it's called 'joy' or 'happiness' or something.
It's really strange, but boy does it please me.
*hugs all around*
posted by quin at 7:37 AM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
It's really strange, but boy does it please me.
*hugs all around*
posted by quin at 7:37 AM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
nickyskye is a sweetheart and has often sent me cute and heartwarming links to start my day!
posted by quonsar at 9:29 AM on February 21, 2008 [4 favorites]
posted by quonsar at 9:29 AM on February 21, 2008 [4 favorites]
quonsar!!!
*does happy dance, falls over into pool of elephant urine*
posted by languagehat at 10:02 AM on February 21, 2008
*does happy dance, falls over into pool of elephant urine*
posted by languagehat at 10:02 AM on February 21, 2008
It's time to celebrate. Bring forth the tapdancing monkeys, the goblets made from sunshine and angeldust, the mimes and mime-torturers, the singing weevils and the crackers of jokes! Garland yourselves with piss and vinegar! Make yourselves ill with gambols and prance! The inestimable quonsar is back from his time in the wilderness!
posted by Kattullus at 10:14 AM on February 21, 2008
posted by Kattullus at 10:14 AM on February 21, 2008
So, what was needed to bring quonsar back was.... one thread of pure love?
posted by LobsterMitten at 10:28 AM on February 21, 2008
posted by LobsterMitten at 10:28 AM on February 21, 2008
*hands the 'hat a towel*
Nice to see you back, quonsar. How're the fish?
posted by rtha at 11:37 AM on February 21, 2008
Nice to see you back, quonsar. How're the fish?
posted by rtha at 11:37 AM on February 21, 2008
Oh yeah - and if we're going to be a baseball team, please put me in the outfield. I can catch and throw and chase down those long hits, but I'm not speedy or acrobatic enough to play infield. Also, I can't hit. Sorry.
posted by rtha at 11:39 AM on February 21, 2008
posted by rtha at 11:39 AM on February 21, 2008
It's time to celebrate. Bring forth the tapdancing monkeys, the goblets made from sunshine and angeldust, the mimes and mime-torturers, the singing weevils and the crackers of jokes! Garland yourselves with piss and vinegar! Make yourselves ill with gambols and prance!
I always maintain that Icelandic customs rule!
posted by UbuRoivas at 12:47 PM on February 21, 2008
I always maintain that Icelandic customs rule!
posted by UbuRoivas at 12:47 PM on February 21, 2008
omg, what a great thread. The renowned quonsar stopped by. *MetaFilter throws a confetti parade. You have been so missed, you of the gentle, tenderhearted and good soul behind that mischievous MeFite exterior.
The emails and memails have been wonderful. wow. I did not expect that and just assumed my MeFite buds already knew about the cancer thing. Really. I thought this would be a simple callout of appreciation for those wonderful MeFites who, behind the scenes, stepped forward to be kind.
posted by nickyskye at 1:12 PM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
The emails and memails have been wonderful. wow. I did not expect that and just assumed my MeFite buds already knew about the cancer thing. Really. I thought this would be a simple callout of appreciation for those wonderful MeFites who, behind the scenes, stepped forward to be kind.
posted by nickyskye at 1:12 PM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
I was here, and witnessed the RETURN OF QUONSAR.
posted by flapjax at midnite at 6:05 PM on February 21, 2008
posted by flapjax at midnite at 6:05 PM on February 21, 2008
nickyskye is of such warm heart and charm that she brings quonsar in from the cold. pretty neat.
I thought this would be a simple callout ...
you have touched so many hearts here. we are all pulling for you, and many since your first announcement of your situation. I will never forget that. I would wish that I had but a fraction of your grace. whatever else you have accomplished in your life, please don't diminish the courage and grace you have shown, and more importantly taught, to your friends on metafilter. I know you have helped make me a better person, and I am sure that I am not alone. may your positive spirit and the love of your many, many friends help you fight this affliction. Godspeed nickyskye.
posted by caddis at 7:02 PM on February 21, 2008
I thought this would be a simple callout ...
you have touched so many hearts here. we are all pulling for you, and many since your first announcement of your situation. I will never forget that. I would wish that I had but a fraction of your grace. whatever else you have accomplished in your life, please don't diminish the courage and grace you have shown, and more importantly taught, to your friends on metafilter. I know you have helped make me a better person, and I am sure that I am not alone. may your positive spirit and the love of your many, many friends help you fight this affliction. Godspeed nickyskye.
posted by caddis at 7:02 PM on February 21, 2008
yes, nickyskye, you don't get the last word here.
a toast
if i had a dollar for everytime i've said to people there are worse things than death i'd be travelling the world instead of surfing it.
how do we talk to a dying friend, nickyskye? first and foremost we simply don't if he or she doesn't declare his or her hand (first). by disclosing your circumstances to us nickyskye you do us justice. we get to celebrate your life with you.
there's no greater way to depart this life - i imagine - than with friends celebrating a life well lived.
you are very loved, very enjoyed, that's obvious. it's wonderful for me to read in others similar experiences of joy directly attributable to your existence. you have certainly added to life's pleasures - across the globe. you incite goodwill and the return of quonsar.
you have a uniqueness. don't you see nickyskye? it's you who has been consistently caring, giving, loving, kind, patient, helpful and just sheer amazing. it's you who steps forward to be kind. you do not go unnoticed.
it's hardly surprising that you meet your match, at the very least, 9-fold.
revel in you. enjoy!
posted by de at 7:13 PM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
a toast
if i had a dollar for everytime i've said to people there are worse things than death i'd be travelling the world instead of surfing it.
how do we talk to a dying friend, nickyskye? first and foremost we simply don't if he or she doesn't declare his or her hand (first). by disclosing your circumstances to us nickyskye you do us justice. we get to celebrate your life with you.
there's no greater way to depart this life - i imagine - than with friends celebrating a life well lived.
you are very loved, very enjoyed, that's obvious. it's wonderful for me to read in others similar experiences of joy directly attributable to your existence. you have certainly added to life's pleasures - across the globe. you incite goodwill and the return of quonsar.
you have a uniqueness. don't you see nickyskye? it's you who has been consistently caring, giving, loving, kind, patient, helpful and just sheer amazing. it's you who steps forward to be kind. you do not go unnoticed.
it's hardly surprising that you meet your match, at the very least, 9-fold.
revel in you. enjoy!
posted by de at 7:13 PM on February 21, 2008 [1 favorite]
Who's quonsar?
posted by Joseph Gurl at 12:42 AM on February 22, 2008 [2 favorites]
posted by Joseph Gurl at 12:42 AM on February 22, 2008 [2 favorites]
I'm pretty much a nobody on here also but I've clicked on just about every nickyskye link I've seen from the time that I was a mere lurker until now (still mostly a lurker) and I was aware of yer health problems and I'm so happy to think that people are coming out all over the place to tell you how much you are appreciated, and to also thank those wonderful people who've transcended the keyboard to help and support you, not because you're sick but because you're awesome.
posted by h00py at 3:27 AM on February 22, 2008
posted by h00py at 3:27 AM on February 22, 2008
Much love to nicky skye and a hearty "Hi quonsar! I missed you!"
posted by Lynsey at 8:50 AM on February 22, 2008
posted by Lynsey at 8:50 AM on February 22, 2008
And much love to the Fellowship of the NickySkye as well - the Nine.
posted by Lynsey at 8:51 AM on February 22, 2008
posted by Lynsey at 8:51 AM on February 22, 2008
(((nickyskye)))
I really needed a thread like this today. Thank you for posting it.
posted by deborah at 12:27 PM on February 22, 2008
I really needed a thread like this today. Thank you for posting it.
posted by deborah at 12:27 PM on February 22, 2008
What a delightful community and a special poster like NickySkye.
May all good and powerful healing mantras come your way, bathe you in their blessings, and envelop you with their unimaginable loving healing.
posted by ~Sushma~ at 5:27 PM on February 23, 2008
May all good and powerful healing mantras come your way, bathe you in their blessings, and envelop you with their unimaginable loving healing.
posted by ~Sushma~ at 5:27 PM on February 23, 2008
Thanks Sushma and the same to you. I know you're dealing with similar cancer issues that I am, hope you're doing okay these days.
posted by nickyskye at 9:27 PM on February 23, 2008
posted by nickyskye at 9:27 PM on February 23, 2008
Indeed, nickyskye, though I come to this thread a bit late (dratted mids), I want to echo what everyone's mentioned (but which should definitely be mentioned again!): you're a wonderful person (with mad Google skillz) who deserves every bit of the wonderful things that come your way and as few bad things as possible. Much thanks for what you've contributed here.
As for the Nine, props for having the good sense to give back to the wonderful nicky, and thanks, too!
best wishes, nicky and your Nine!
posted by librarylis at 2:40 PM on February 26, 2008
As for the Nine, props for having the good sense to give back to the wonderful nicky, and thanks, too!
best wishes, nicky and your Nine!
posted by librarylis at 2:40 PM on February 26, 2008
Oh damnit, I so didn't see this til now. Sending good thoughts and energies your way. Please keep us updated.
posted by symbioid at 10:55 PM on March 5, 2008
posted by symbioid at 10:55 PM on March 5, 2008
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posted by casarkos at 5:22 PM on February 19, 2008