Sharing progress after first treatment - moral support

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Sharing progress after first treatment - moral support

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kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Thu Aug 16 2012 20:43:06
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Hope everyone is doing well...I'm back at my apartment...Even thou PCO said things are great I still jump at every itch. I haven't been bitten in three weeks. I hate how this has made me so paranoid... I think it will be an ativan nite.
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Thu Aug 16 2012 20:49:35
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Hey Kini Girl!

For me It will be a 3 Lucky Lager Night and a Unisom, name your poison!

Try to sleep well!

Gosh, no wonder people develop addictions eh?
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Thu Aug 16 2012 21:22:48
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Kini and Blackheart - glass of wine + Unisom night for me!
The good news was I didn't see anything with my now twice daily bedframe checks. I also didn't get any bites, but this doesn't mean anything. I slept on the sofa last night - needed a break from the bed mentally!

Bugsinbrooklyn and feelinghelpless - I so relate. I'm staying at a hotel near my apartment on Saturday night (friends in town, social thing planned before this nightmare began) and it should be relaxing, but it's making me anxious just thinking of it. I'm going to consider everything contaminated when I get back! So glad you ladies will be going on vacation soon and hopefuly get to just relax and sleep a bit!

MNbugger - yay for having your first treatment tomorrow! It's a major step on the "road to recovery." That's so great your PCO has such an extended "warranty" on treatments.

buggyinsyracuse - in the end, I found it therapeutic to toss things out. Like clothes I haven't worn in a while, etc. Think of it as re-examining the stuff you have and de-cluttering!

lifekeepshappening - I'm sorry, I couldn't help laughing at your comment! Make sure airport security doesn't think you're there trying to kidnap someone with the trash bags and duct tape! Seriously though, hope you enjoy time with your fiancee and are able to get your mind off things!

Okay ladies, here's to a good night! One more night down!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Thu Aug 16 2012 22:06:44
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I still get nervous every night. I still wake up to check. I'm forever wrecked by this. Forever.............
bugsinbrooklyn13

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 10:27:01
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Kini and Blackheart: I know financially it's tough, but what helped me was a K9...a K9 that said they would come back and check for free whenever I got nervous after I wrote them a nice yelp review. And hugged the dog. I've met some really great and supportive people here in Brooklyn through this mess! I still get nervous, I'm checking my climbups and my bed is not touching the wall...have passive in place...nothing bed clothes wise touches the floor...I'll take a bit of OCD over going through this again.

Kass&Life: I'm treating everything as contaminated. I'm coming with big contractor bags and the moment I get out of the cab by my apartment, everything is going in. I'm off work Monday, so I'm going to treat everything. I'm purposely not bringing my computer (well. it is vacation. I shouldn't work)

Life, NYC isn't SO bad. My roommate and I were starting to live with fear, freaking out about our IKEA delivery etc...but we realized we just have to try to go about being as normal as possible...but our cleaning habits have totally changed. Like we sweep and mop every week, examine the sweep stuff, wash bedding every two weeks, I got rid of my deep purple sheets for light pink ones etc. My roomie didn't react to bites either. So frustrating when I got horrible welts that fade to bruise like things that I can still see. Ugh.

Everyone still fighting: FIGHT! It's going to be worth it! Don't give up!
MNbugger

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 10:29:58
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Guys are here setting up the heater. This guy is amazing. He is going to show me how to move it to another room and leave it here at least till Sunday so we can do our whole house. YAY!! DD had some more bites last night and I think the baby might have one on her cheek. And I found a fat and happy adult in our bedroom last night. I'm feeling better than I have since this started. I know not to count my chickens but I am feeling very optimistic. Maybe I'll be able to sleep tonight..maybe???
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 10:36:47
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likfekeepshappening - Try to enjoy your time with your fiancee. Like Kass said, hopefully it will take your mind off of things.

Kini, Blackheart and Kass - it's more like half a bottle of wine and a Lunesta for me!

Feelinghelpless - Breath! Seriously, we can all relate, and we all need to take a deep breath every once in a while. At the advice of someone on this forum, I took the "night off" last night. I refused to think about BBs and I would not let myself on this forum. It was only for the evening, but I found it very therapeutic.

I'm finding that this forum has almost replaced Facebook for me! LOL.

In case anyone is interested, I posted my story on the Introduction section, titled "How Bed Bugs Saved My Marriage."

I slept at my house vs. the apartment again last night. Found out that my first treatment is next Wednesday, which is good as it gives me a bit more time to prep. I took a vacation day today so that I can get a good bit prepped. I'd at least like to get all of my bedding and my one other dresser emptied and laundered.

Good thing I followed the advice on this forum and asked my PCO if I could put down some DE before the treatment. He said that while DE is a very good treatment I should absolutely NOT put any down before the chemical treatment as it could interfere with the chemicals. Thank you forum experts!

Hang in there everybody. Thank you SO much for all of your moral support. I don't know where I would be without you all!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 11:01:08
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Yeay everyone looks like we are making progress. One day at a time. One day I won't wake up to check. Until then I have a routine. It is what it is I'm not super depressed or feeling hopeless with 3 babies anymore. Lol. I feel better. Now I have to deal with my dads craps he left for me. Another chapter in this bed bug venture. I can't wait to put this completely behind me and I can say Yeay I've been bed bug free for a year. I feel bad for soñé of my neighbors living in these other buildings that are infested and ll won't do anything about it
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 11:24:39
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Another night...no bites, no bug sightings, no fecal matter..Ativan worked great. I feel so much better just like "feelinghelplesswith3 babies." of course my new OCD wll still have me checking.

bugsinbrooklyn13 - I hope you have a wonderful vacation! Love your quote "FIGHT! It's going to be worth it! Don't give up! "

buggyinsyracuse - glad you will be getting your treatment Weds

MNbugger - Glad your getting your treatment done today!

Blackheart and Kass2010 - 3 Lucky Lager & wine...were gonna have to do an online happy hour to celebrate our milestones on this battle

In case I missed anyone....praying daily we will win this war!

Wishing everyone a Happy Friday
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 12:01:05
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Just out of wanting to know where in the world are you located at. I'm in los Angeles. East Hollywood Korea town they call it. And my name is Angie. I'm thank full for you guys
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 15:24:19
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I'm in South Jersey near Cape May... Unemployed accountant...13 year Breast cancer survivor and now BB survivor...lol ..gotta have a sense of humor or I would snap...
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 17:54:32
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Yay Angie, so glad to know your real name! You still have 3 babies, but you're definitely not "helpless," and never have been!

buggyinsyracuse - thanks so much for posting your intro story. As horrible as BBs are, something good can always come out of adversity, and your story/realizations were awesome. I think (and pray) that we'll all come out of this stronger, and "lighter." I know the little things won't bother me as much anymore, and I appreciate so much more the things I took for granted before this happened.

Kini - you rock, period. A 13 year survivor of breast cancer - you have so much to be proud of, and it's obviously made you a stronger and very kind person!

No bites or bugs for me last night...I hope it lasts. The paranoia and hypervigilance is terrible. We need some type of bedbug post-traumatic stress disorder therapy group.

I'm actually near you Kini - in Philly (want to do my taxes this year, lol???) - bedbug capital of the US, woohoo!

Everyone, hope you have good weekends. One day, we'll look back on this and realize how far we've come!
MNbugger

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 18:03:54
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Just moved the heater. I'm afraid of my electric bill But one room down and 4 more to go, each one takes a good 5 hours...I'm in Minnesota.
Kini, that's awesome. Gratz.
I'm thankful for all of you...sharing your stories has helped me a great deal. Thanks Ladies
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 18:12:23
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 6 hours ago »
Just out of wanting to know where in the world are you located at. I'm in los Angeles. East Hollywood Korea town they call it. And my name is Angie. I'm thank full for you guys

FeelingHelpless: I'm a canuck here in Toronto,Ontario where they say we have one of the worst problems as far as bb's are concerned.... and I don't doubt that now!

How is everyone doing? I slept a little better last night and actually forced myself to turn out my light by my sofa, but left the TV on, one step at a time eh?
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 20:36:11
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My girls ! I've been close to minessota was in n. Dakota . Been to vancouver ca. Never been to Jersey. The little things that mean so much.now. I cherish those and again I'm glad for you all
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 20:49:47
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 6 minutes ago »
My girls ! I've been close to minessota was in n. Dakota . Been to vancouver ca. Never been to Jersey. The little things that mean so much.now. I cherish those and again I'm glad for you all

Hey Feeling!

You know, this situation has been a horrible experience, but I have learnt I think that some good comes outta bad stuff, at least I've met some people like you and the rest of the girls who are so amazing and kind!

Before this all began I was overdosing on silly things, I imagined I had a broken heart (and maybe I did) because I left a 9 year relationship with someone I THOUGHTes was my soulmate. But now I've realized it really is the small things in life that truly can make my life worthwhile, things like a safe, bb free house, and now I'm not mourning the loss of him so much, will just be happy with a simple life, so I guess I'm saying this whole thing has got me over him, silly but oh sooo true!

Also this has been the push I needed to get rid of all his things that do nothing but fill me with sadness and regrets, out with the old and in with the new right?

Probably not the best way to overcome heartbreak, but hey it worked for me, but don't try this as a remedy
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 21:18:52
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[Kini - My name is Anna and I'm have BB OCD disorder. LOL. Glad you had a good night. And so glad to hear about you beating breast cancer. If you can beat that, you can bet these pesky little things!

Angie, I live in Syracuse, NY, which is Central New York, and my name is Anna.

Kass - so great to hear! And thank you for reading my saga. Yes, we need to see the sunshine in the clouds.

MN - screw the electric bill. I've spent about $100 in the past two days in Space Bags and I don't give a sh*t. As long as these f*ckers are gone! From what I hear Heat treatment is great.

Blackheart - thanks for a beautiful post. Your story is so close to mine event though it is so differerent. And your posts alwayys have some humor that make me laugh. Thank you.

I got all of my second dresser done today, and all of the rest of my clothes bagged for tomorrow. OMG. There's like 12 garbage bags. But that includes all of my winter coats. Considering tomorrow is Saturday and a key day for the laundry matt, I guess I'll be showing up at 7am. Ugh. I still have to do all of the bedding, planning on just throwing out all of the throw pillows in the LR. Just feel overwhelmed right now.

On a nice note, I came "home" and made a delicious fresh tomato sauce with tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano from my garden. Gotta look at the good things in life.

All, thank you a million times over for being here for me. Sleep well. Can't bring myself to say "sleep tight" anymore. LOL.
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 21:26:00
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Hi Buggy, so it isn't just me, this whole thing has made me be glad for the simpler things in life, things like relaxing on your sofa or bed without feeling that dreadful thought something may be crawling on you. Yeccch.

The money thing is another bummer, God, I've spent so much money my rents going to be late, but at least they are ok with that!

Hang in, we will get through this, nice to have the moral support from you and all the great people here, and thank you all for that, and God Bless!
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 21:28:16
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Oh and maybe I shouldn't say this but yeah.... LOVE BITES ..... remember that song by Def Leopard?
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 22:23:12
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Yes this type of situation will make you forget all .....including a broken heart. Kini you are a trooper. You've gone through worse than bed bugs. You are a souljah!! I always feel like there are bugs crawling on my. My feet legs hands even face.......my 9 year old said yeah mom sometimes I think they're crawling in my socks. Lol. I even think I see them crawling and its nothing. Amazing how this bug makes us this cahrayzee! Anna pleased to meet you. Talk about all the money spent . We paid our upstairs neighbor 800 bux cuz my dad was the person bringing in the bbs. And she has no job and was borrowing money from all her friends. We felt bad. But now we are nearly broke and going on a trip......but it will all be well needed . Money isn't everything but it is everything. I am a bed bug survivor still battleling what I can now not see geesh. Good luck tonight all
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 22:29:40
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Good night everyone..just took my Ativan ..were expecting storms at the Jersey shore tonight...it's suppose to be a rainy day..hoping on catching up on old movies and much needed rest.

Keeping you all in my prayers! Hugs Kini
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Fri Aug 17 2012 22:31:36
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Yes, Kini I need to tell you are a real survivor, I've lost so many dear friends through this "C" thing and its really hard for me to even talk about, if you can beat this, you certainley can find your way throught this too!

(((((hugsss)))))))
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 12:28:46
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Another nite, no bites, bugs..slept til 9:30 am.. a first in a long time. (19 days) + and counting.
My sister is on her way to keep me company for a few days...Wishing everyone a great weekend!
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 13:10:58
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Yay Kini, so glad to hear! 9:30 AM sounds so awesome - I also slept until 9 AM, and wow, what a difference it makes! Hope you have a wonderful weekend with your sister!

Blackheart - oh, I'm so sorry about your breakup. But you're obviously better off without him, and it's his loss. Too bad he couldn't have taken the BBs with him, lol.

Angie - I love Seattle, it's a gorgeous city. I hope you and family have a wonderful time there!

MN - just think of it as heating your house for the Midwest winters and getting rid of some "friends" in the process. And so glad you joined our thread!

Anna - 12 garbage bags is amazing, yay for your productivity yesterday! And so glad to hear you had a lovely dinner...this situation has definitely taught me to appreciate the little joys in life! Good luck at the laundromat today!

Hope you all have wonderful weekends, and as others have said, I can't say enough how much I appreciate everyone's support and sharing on this thread. Want to know a secret? One thing that helps me force myself to sleep in my bed and turn off the lights (not the TV though!) is the knwoledge that all of you ladies are bravely facing this also each and every night. So thanks. So much.
MNbugger

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 13:26:12
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YAY for sleep last night. I see I wasn't the only one that got a halfway decent amount last night.
Heater is in the 3rd bedroom now and will be moved to the last room this afternoon. Living room, kitchen and such tonight and basement tomorrow.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 15:29:17
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Ok 9 days no bites for the boys and 6 for me. I still have a ways to go but I'm feeling good. Seattle is home to my husband . But looking forward to some normalcy . It's 101 here in LA whoo! Sa!. Enjoy your weekend guys
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 15:50:32
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Blackheart - 1 week ago »
Wanna hear something so totally stupid?
I was just doing dishes and saw something I thought was a bb from the corner of my eye, so as usual I run for my trusty bottle of alcohol (I always keep it handy, in case) and sprayed the hell outta the presumed bb, but it WASN'T a bb, it was a sunflower seed I realized upon closer inspection, I have a parrot and he spits his seeds all over the place.
Had to tell myself, "Get a grip Sam"

Wow, I can totally relate, I see dots everywhere and go to squish them and turns out nothing. But it's rough cause I had to deal with roaches too feels overwhelming.

That being said, I do hope all gets better soon for all
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 21:27:19
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Ha last night I was inspecting the kids room and there was a fruit fly which at the time I thought it was a bed bug and I yelled at my kid get the flashlight asap. When i looked at it it was a fly o my stars. I too had to get a grip.
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 21:43:24
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Pleasant Dreams Everyone.....I'm going to try not to sleep with the flashlight tonight...
Thanks for your kind comments on my 13 years in remission...8-)

Your all in my Prayers!'Hugs Kini
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 21:43:31
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Feeling glad to hear things are o,k, we all seem to be a bit stressed out, which is totally understandable,

I haven't seen anything alive, but I feel a hair on my arm or wherever and I'm ready to have a breakdown,

Looks like a 5 Lucky Lager Night, oh yeah and a Unisom!

I have third spray this coming Wednesday, Oh God,I wanna Swiffer my floors so badly, everything looks dusty and cruddy, such a bummer!
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 21:45:14
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kinihatesbedbugs - 39 seconds ago »
Pleasant Dreams Everyone.....I'm going to try not to sleep with the flashlight tonight...
Thanks for your kind comments on my 13 years in remission...8-)
Your all in my Prayers!'Hugs Kini

((((HUGS))))) Kini, you will be in my prayers and well as Feeling, Kass, and everyone else who have contributed to this thread (my favourite thread)
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 21:59:29
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Sweet dreams pals!!!!! Sweet dreams
BedBugly

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 22:48:47
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wait, wait, wait, backup....Caesars Palace?!? This is making sooo much sense now. I mean, I travel heaps and heaps around the world, but have never had a problem until now, and from what I can remember, it all began just after a quick trip to Vegas and staying at Ceasars Palace. Ugh. Guess my luck was down that weekend in all aspects. haha.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sat Aug 18 2012 23:14:50
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Ohh no bedbugly ! Before I had bbs I had no idea we stayed at planet Hollywood for a weekend with my husband who was working. Yikes !! They're also on the registry.
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 8:25:53
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Good Morning.....no bites..no bugs...no fecal matter.....used flashlight only 5 times.....8-)
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 10:57:17
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Kini, yay! We will definitely have to do a celebratory online toast at some point!

Rosie - welcome to our thread! As Blackheart said, there's strength in numbers.

Angie - I hear you. I killed a gnat yesterday and had a moment of panic, but then I was like, thank God it's flying, can't be a bedbug.

I'm hesitant to go back to my apartment, yikes. Slept in a hotel last night (staycation with friends planned way before this happened). It was so amazing to sleep in the bed and not have a bed that smells like rubbing alcohol, lol, or have that ever present fear that something's out to get me! The funny/sad thing - I was planning to get 8 hours of blissful sleep, then the hotel fire alarm went off at 4 in the morning. But fingers crossed things will quiet down!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 12:10:31
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Yes. They will. No bites for us no sightings but lots of dreams of me discovering them for the first time again. Yikes! Reliving that in my dreams and of course right before bed I start feeling like things are crawling on me and biting me and when I look there's nothing there. As I told my girlfriend I'm officially 5150. Lol
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 15:13:53
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 2 weeks ago »
Yes we will get through it........this too shall pass right?!

This is my wish for all here, my day today is not to bad..being careful, not to many bites. As someone else said, I want my bed back and my life. My prayers for all.
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 16:56:01
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Hi all, glad to here that most of you are doing o,k!

I've made an effort to stay away from here since yesterday so I can try to forget about these monsters for awhile. :twisted

Kept myself occupied (although alone all weekend) and have kinda enjoyed it actually!

I learned how to jailbreak and unlock my Iphone and I feel pretty accomplished! It worked! Feeling like a hacker now! Its amazing what you can do with some instruction from people on the net!

Rosie, good to here your o,k, and everyone else too!
theyareoutthere

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 17:34:51
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Hi, Blackheart: I take vacations from here, too. It's pretty to easy catch up. I'm one of those people who will overresearch...hate to think I would do with a real problem. You've been very brave and helpful to newbies and just wanted to give you a shout out...TAOT
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 17:47:40
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theyareoutthere - 8 minutes ago »
Hi, Blackheart: I take vacations from here, too. It's pretty to easy catch up. I'm one of those people who will overresearch...hate to think I would do with a real problem. You've been very brave and helpful to newbies and just wanted to give you a shout out...TAOT</blockquo

I tend to over analyze things myself Theyare!

Sometimes you need to distance yourself from things and come back with a clearer prospective I think?

You've made my day!

((((HUGS)))))

Sam

Thanks for saying the nice things, I was kinda cranky with some people in the beginning and I'm sorry for that, Its amazing how much empathy you gain from dealing with issues like bb's eh?
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 18:05:41
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Blackheart - you crack me up with the “Love Bites.” I think we should all come up with our own BB “theme song.” As paranoid as I am, mine is “Hitching a Ride” by Vanity Fair.

MN – so glad you got a good night sleep. Sounds like you are almost at the end of this nightmare.
Angie – have a great time away. We all need to recharge!

Rosie and Angie – my body is covered in birthmarks. Imagine how funny it is when I go to brush one off only to realize it’s part of my body. LOL. EVERY spec look like a BB to me!

Kass – my first treatment starts on Wednesday and I have to go back to my apartment. I can totally relate. I have been sleeping like a baby at my house and I dread not only being bug bait, but sleeping alone. Sigh…we can make it through this.

Well, all of my stuff has been laundered/dried. Now I only have to put the rest of my nick-nacks in cardboard boxes. Getting there before Wednesday. Felt so good to get rid of bags and bags of stuff. I put them in giant black contractor garbage bags, zipped tied them and put hazardous stickers on them. I surely hope that someone does not pick them up.

All, have a peaceful night and post your BB “theme” song. We have to keep it light somehow, don’t we?
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 18:27:51
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Buggly, Hitchin a ride

Thanks really cool and funny too!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 18:28:03
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Buggy oooh would you believe people are crazy when we put my dads stuff out on the curb with signs in English and Spanish people tore through the bags and took things including the infested metal bed frame I couldn't believe it and the city missed picking things up for a couple of days I had to call and call and everytime Wed rebag the stuff someone would come along and tear up into the bags yet again. It's was so awful of course we didn't know completely what we were doing and I hope I didn't help infest my neighborhood. It was unbelievable.
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 18:32:32
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I know thats a terrible feeling, my friend and I labelled my Rattan dining chairs with "BEDBUGS BEWARE"
and there is a retirement home next door, someone took them from the trash and set them up in front of the retirement home. I went over there when I found out the next morning, and told the old people sitting out there, that they had bb's, one woman threatened me with her cane!

I went to the Supervisor's office there, she told me to get off the property or she would call the police, UNBELIEVABLE!
theyareoutthere

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 19:15:55
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Blackheart: That is unbelievable! You are in Canada right? I don't know what we would do in the US. Dept of Health..although a lot of counties stay out of the BB issue here and have a housing department handle it for renters.

In the US, nursing homes are inspected regularly (I'm sure it's the same in Canada). I've seen writeups/fines for pests (mice, rats, etc). You would think that even if they didn't care about the people they would care about the fines!!!

TAOT
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 19:21:26
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Hi, well if you check out the bed bug registry and look up 500 Kingston Road, Toronto you will see what I mean, and I bet nobody hardly ever reports this place on there.

Its like people are in total denial?
theyareoutthere

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 19:28:31
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I did go out and read the registry...just the maintenance men spraying...for over a year..how horrible!!!!
Blackheart

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 19:32:55
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I even called the Toronto Health Department, and they didn't seem very concerned either?

My God, how could someone leave their parents there? I don't have parents anymore but if I did I'd be dragging them outta there in a hurry!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 20:05:57
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Yikes my point exactly that's how my dad acquired them picking up stuff from the curb............sigh!
theyareoutthere

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 20:06:34
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I understand, but some of it is education and some of it is ability. Here, there are waiting lists for the best homes and it takes effort. Unfortunately, a lot of parents outlive their children. Also, if I were a manager at another nursing home in town that knew about these issues, maybe there would be a little bit of fear in letting them move in.

Cilecto had a great story about how great his mother's senior living handled a BB issue, but not of all senior housing nor nursing homes are as advanced.
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 20:15:52
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Blackheart & Theyareoutthere - taking a break is such a relief sometimes. No matter how great this thread is. Sometimes you just have to remember to live your life before this battle. Still, it’s good to come back to “family.”
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 21:07:57
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Blackheart - OMG, your nursing home story is so horrifying and yet I couldn't help laugh (the old lady trying to attack you with a cane!).

Anna, the BB theme song idea is hilarious. Can I claim two? 1. Put Your Lights On," by Santana/Everlast (though in my case, it's more like "Put Your FLASHLIGHT On." and for bedbug killing mode, "Let the Bodies Hit the Floor," by Drowning Pool.

Goodnight ladies - hope you all had good weekends and were able to recharge, and have a restful night!
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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 22:25:51
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OMG Kass I can't get this now out of my head "Put Your FLASHLIGHT On." LOL I'll be humming this all nite...

Wishing everyone sweet dreams!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Sun Aug 19 2012 22:33:39
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I must say you ladies are funny glad there's a sense of humor through all this . My son showed me a bite didn't look the same as normal bb bites but one can never know just yet . We have been getting mosquitos as well it looked more like that. Keep me in your prayers please
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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 8:51:26
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Kass - you are too funny. Both songs are great!

Angie - keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

When I went back to the apartment this morning to get ready for work all of the garbage was still there. I felt relieved. Hoping that the garbage folks came by before anyone could get to it. Two more peaceful nights at home before having to return to the apartment after the treatment. Ugh. I have to keep telling myself that I can do this. Going to hopefully finish up the prep work after work today. Just have a few more items to put into cardboard boxes, and have to take the covers off of the electric and light sockets. Then will put on my sanitized clothes and head home to have takout with the hubby.

Hope that everyone had a peaceful and BB free night.
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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 9:42:51
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Another nite and no bites or bugs....checked around 4 am...should of took my Ativan...
Hope everyone is doing well!
MNbugger

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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 9:49:22
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Well last bites were Thursday night for the girls and Friday night for me but we did the heat treatments Friday through Saturday night. Got all of the upstairs done. PCO sprayed friday and is going to do a few more areas today when he comes to pick up the heater and put our fuse box back together.
Finally slept great and the baby slept till 5am this morning..YAY

I love the idea of a bug vacation. Wish I had the time and money but you gals enjoy your time.

I know the chance of having these little buggers gone after 1 treatment is slim but I can pray

Not ready to give up my watch yet, of course. I don't think that will ever happen after this.

Enjoy you day
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 17:08:03
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Hey does anyone know when you can consider yourself bug free after your treatments with PCO?

I saw some debate on the 55 day rule and then I saw this posted by oldtimer..I think

"Continue to inspect thoroughly and no longer see fresh signs of them, i.e., no bugs, eggs, nymphs, shells, new fecal traces. Some experts say that you can call "all clear" when about 2 months have passed."

I still have my clothes in containers ..including my sneakers and shoes.

I'm not re drying everything for a third time on high heat except for my sheets, comforter, pillow cases and mattress covers. I continue to wash these with hot water.

My clothes I washing as usual and putting them in a dryer for ten minutes ...then drying in the sunshine...
Kass2010

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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 17:58:35
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Hi ladies! Hope you're all doing well! Sadly, I woke up with a couple of bites on my R arm. Blah. I'm hoping these are "delayed" reactions or something, since I've only seen 1 dying and 3 dead nymphs since my 3rd treatment (last Friday). Also, I wake up like 2-3 times in the middle of the night (not on purpose - I think it's the caveman on the alert for predators response!) and check and haven't seen anything! No other signs either. Did a really thorough search of the bedframe like I do every day and found one dead nymph. So, hopefully this is the last - I know activity can pick up for a few days after treatment, but how discouraging! If I didn't have to work tomorrow, I seriously would consider just camping out on my bed from 3-6 AM and seeing if anything tries to attack me, lol!

Kini - I also read up on the 55 day rule here. I have a friend whose PCO said she could unbag her clothes 2 weeks after seeing nothing, but I think I would be too paranoid! I actually ordered a BB passive monitor from USbedbugs, got it today, and installed it just to give me peace of mind! Maybe it's something you should consider doing? I think on previous posts, something like 1-2 weeks without anything on it should be pretty reassuring!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 18:25:16
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Yeah that's what my pco said kass but my boy has been bit twice yesterday by something don't know what tho they seem diferent than bbs. But.it is discouraging. Hang on
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 9 months ago
Mon Aug 20 2012 22:16:42
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Thanks Kass...

Hope everyone sleeps well...Your all in my prayers †
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 21 2012 9:13:26
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Kini - I don't know if I will EVER take my stuff out of my space bags. LOL. Seriously, I've also heard the 55 day rule, but considering I'm planning on moving in November or December, I think I'll just keep everything bagged up until t hen.

Kas - sound like you are getting to the end of this journey. I sure hope so.

Angie - maybe they are mosquito or spider bites. It is summer after all. Then again, I guess in CA it's always summer.

Well, my PCO is coming by today to check our pre-treatment prep. I'm not concerned about my own prep, but I don't think my downstairs neighbor understands the gravity of the situation. My PCO said that even if he was not ready that they would still treat my apartment and come back to treat his when he is ready. I DREAD the thought of having to sleep in my apartment again after this one week blissful sleep away. But it is what it is and I will have to find the strength to do so. When I go to my apartment in the mornings to get ready for work I see those little vampires on the walls in my bedroom (where they immediately get sprayed with alcohol). They must be getting bored of my bed because I haven't been there in so long. Man, are they going to be hungry!

Anyhow, I've noticed that this thread has been kind of quiet lately. I hope that means good news and that you all are starting to feel better about your situations. You are all in my thoughts.
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 21 2012 10:24:48
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Anna, congrats on finishing the prep work! That's a huge milestone, as is the first treatment. I had a celebratory dinner/drinks after mine! And ugh...seeing them on the walls is the worst. Just be careful with the alcohol since obviously it's so highly flammable. And I promise that sleeping in the bed gets easier.

Angie - any more bites? Hopefully that last one was just a mosquito bite!!

Hoping that everyone is doing well, and things continue to improve. As for me, no bites last night hallelujah! Saw a dying one on the carpet (and screamed bloody murder) this morning so hoping that was the one that bit me two nights ago. Sigh...the constant waiting for the other shoe to drop is so tiring!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 21 2012 11:52:41
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Kass no more bb bites but there are mosquitoes I heard one last night. And they do transfer disease. But at least I can kill those with ease. I think he got bit by a spider or skeeto. I ordered a bed bug beacon for my dads empty part of the house. So when we are away we can see if there's anymore . Yes I feel we are embracing our situations. We are learning and battleling and winning. So we are quiet. But we are still here. For support of eachother through this hard ship.
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 21 2012 12:37:26
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Your so right the mosquitoes are so bad this year. They are spraying our towns one by one because of confirm cases of West Nile...like we don't have even to worry about.

Kass..I'm so glad you had no bites...

Wishing everyone a great day!
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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 21 2012 17:33:51
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 4 days ago »
I still get nervous every night. I still wake up to check. I'm forever wrecked by this. Forever.............

no one deserves this, no one, who on earth should be afraid to sleep at night, afraid of their bed, afraid, just afraid. So sorry what you are going through (((hugs)))
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 13:36:59
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Hope everyone's hanging in there! No bites for me last night, but saw a nymph while doing the bedframe check. My PCO's coming tomorrow for a fourth treatment (been having mine weekly - I seem to remember reading that eggs hatch more quickly in the summer months, yikes). I'll try not to complain since I know others have been dealing with this MUCH longer than my going on 4 weeks, but I cannot wait until this is over. I'm generally an impatient person (which I like to attribute to being a former New Yorker) but I know this is a slow war that requires loads of patience, so I guess that's one good thing I'll take away from this!

Hope everyone has a good day!
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 14:21:50
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Kass - you are right, one day at a time, we'll all get through this. And thank you for the words of encouragement regarding the part about sleep getting easier.

So, PC technicians stopped by today. Two really great and funny guys. My landlady was also there for support (I'm so lucky). Checked my apartment, yup, heavy infestation. Checked my neighbor's and holy sh*t. One of the technicians actually let out a whistle. They said that the infestation definitely started there, and moved up to my place. So the mystery of how I got them is solved.

I'm really confused as to how my neighbor could not have known. I know he's non reactive to the bites, but surely he must have seen an actual bug. His apartment is not cluttered and he keeps it very clean. Then again, he's not the brightest guy in the world, so maybe he did see them but didn't know what they were?

PC technicians were very positive and said they were sure they would rid us of the problem. They said one of the things they would do is a contact kill so it shouldn't be too terrible tonight, but they did say that I would probably still see some BBs. Sigh...

Hope everyone is doing well.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 15:55:52
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no one deserves this, no one, who on earth should be afraid to sleep at night, afraid of their bed, afraid, just afraid. So sorry what you are going through (((hugs)))

i know rosie its awfull !! i have not seen any activity in a while like going on 2 weeks. but im still waking up just to check .... not as many times as before when they were on a all out assult on my family. now we are worried about the mosquitoes and this west nike virus. i tell you these insects are coming to get us. i just received the bed bug beacon so when im gone on my holiday i can leave it working on the empty unit. that is really the unit where my bedroom is. but this too shall pass i know it will!!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 16:02:54
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aww buggy thats like my dads place where the infestation began in our building. when i inspected his bed and pillow it was crawling with them and his pillow was full of blood stains.....so sad for my pop his dementia is bad. but he did not react to bites as well. it will get better tho.
MNbugger

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 16:13:38
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Well, only one possible bite since friday night. However it was right on the baby's knee and shes starting to crawl so I'm leaning towards it not being a bb bite. Actually looks more like a skeeter bite. No sightings or evidence found so far.

The bites I got all over my right upper arm on Friday night are going to kill me though. Holy cow. Really itchy yesterday but when I did itch them a tiny bit they burned like crazy so, of course that was incentive to not itch it again. By last night my arm felt like it was on fire and I couldn't touch them or move them in any way or it made it worse. Wearing a tank top today because I can't wear anything that touches them but it is better. And here I told my PCO that I react strongly to any bites...what an understatement. Praying that we got them. I don't know if I could physically keep up if I keep getting bitten. It really hurt that bad by last night and I barely itched them to start with.

I'll keep praying for all of you as well.

Here's to an uninterrupted night of sleep for everyone.
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 16:45:01
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Angie - how horrible! I would have freaked out, and I feel so sorry for your dad. My PCO told me some pretty sad horror stories. When he came by yesterday he said he had just been in an apartment where these two women lived, and they were both mentally unstable. He said not only were they infested with BBs, but roaches too. So hey, it could be worse!

MN - I'm so sorry about how badly you react to the bites. Luckily all I get is welts, but they don't itch or hurt.

Well, tonight will be my first night back at the apartment. Scared stiff, but I'm going out for a few dozen drinks (JK, but then again, maybe not) with some friends after work, then probably dinner, and hopefully I will be exhausted enough to sleep when I get there.

Have a great day everyone. I really hope that the fact that this thread is getting less action means that people are finally in the clear.
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 18:19:31
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MN, sorry to hear about the bites! Does Benadryl or cortisone cream help? And many thanks for your prayers! You ladies are all in mine too!

Anna, the first night is the worst. But it gets better...and just know that many of us will probably be waking up in the middle of the night with you! Also, a drink (or more) always helps! I actually find that keeping the TV on is strangely soothing (I've been watching way too much Anderson Cooper/CNN since this started, lol). And ugh...sorry to hear about your neighbor. I would be more than furious. Maybe he was just in utter denial?

Angie, you and your family absolutely deserve a vacation! Last time I went, I stopped by San Juan Island and loved it! Ahhh...there should be some type of BB recovery vacation fund for all of us sufferers
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 18:44:43
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Hi Kass,Angie,Feeling, Rosie, Buggy, MN and all, if I haven't mentioned you I also address everyone here, so don't be mad at me!

Sounds like everyone is kinda chilling out a bit which is a good thing right? And did someone say a drink, bring me three

I just had third treatment today (I was at work) but my son called to tell me what the PC guy said. He said he thinks we are "in the clear" he didn't see any but a couple of dead ones.

Question for any of you who has an idea, I've been sleeping on my sofa bed in living room and no problems there at all, seems to have been my box spring and mattress that were most of the infestation.

I want to get life back to normal some day soon, so is it absolutely necessary to encase my bed? Right now I can't afford it and I have to concentrate on paying my rent. I was thinking of scrubbing the shit outta my box spring and mattress to rid them of the poop marks, and then covering with a regular and cheap mattress cover for the time being, Would that be o,k, for now? Not sure if I can safely move back into the bedroom after assembling the bed once again?

What do you think? Thanks guys!
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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 21:38:12
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"Rosie - welcome to our thread! As Blackheart said, there's strength in numbers. [:-)] "

Thanks! Long thread, sorry if I do not reply to all or if slow to reply, some days are rough. Deeling with anxiety and depression as we are. Rough day today. But yesterday saw doc, he said i lost 11 pounds, this is not how I want to lose weight. Depressed and not eating. Ok, hope you guys are doing ok, surviving. Take care,
Rosie
PS, I read that 2.7 percent of households in Montreal have bed bugs during a one year period. I think it must be more than that! But then again i may have misread?
MNbugger

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 21:42:24
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Blackheart, I would say definately the box spring needs to be encased. Unless your PCO has taken the fabric off of the bottom and inspected every corner of it. I got my encasements at Walmart. They aren't top of the line but they are rated to block bites and the zipper end is velcroed over. They were made by aller-ease (they make a line for bb). My PCO said they should work just fine. I paid around 40 for each one for my queen bed. I bought two (one for mattress and one for box spring because they were brand new). You can use the mattress encasement for the box spring as well. Other ones I found were 90-120 each. No way I could afford that. Once you put an encasement on..never take it off unless it rips. It basically becomes the new outer surface of your mattress/box spring.

Believe it or not the one for the baby's crib was the most expensive.

I did take benadryl last night and I will tonight as well. I don't think it helped the burning but it did knock me out Not looking forward to work tomorrow with my shirt rubbing the area all day but then I'm off for a few days.

Here's to everyone having a restful night
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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 21:48:56
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Rosie, I think I'm beginning to a have a major depression myself, things have being down hill for the past few months, ended relationship, bb problem (I think my ex might have caused) he brought a lot of junk into my place, he finally moved out a few months ago, and low and behold a bb problem, I could kill him (only kidding I think) :evil:and I can't prove it either, but very strong feeling that he had something to do with this.

I have also lost weight, only weight 111 lbs right now and its hard to even think about food, things seem to be going down hill, never been behind in my rent in my life, but have spent a fortune on plastic containers, bug sprays, etc, its never ending, so I do feel your pain,

Hang in, we can beat this Rosie, we are BIGGER than them, and we will be here for you!

((((HUGS))))))

Sam
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 22:19:55
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Blackheart - 23 minutes ago »
Rosie, I think I'm beginning to a have a major depression myself, things have being down hill for the past few months, ended relationship, bb problem (I think my ex might have caused) he brought a lot of junk into my place, he finally moved out a few months ago, and low and behold a bb problem, I could kill him (only kidding I think) :evil:and I can't prove it either, but very strong feeling that he had something to do with this.
I have also lost weight, only weight 111 lbs right now and its hard to even think about food, things seem to be going down hill, never been behind in my rent in my life, but have spent a fortune on plastic containers, bug sprays, etc, its never ending, so I do feel your pain,
Hang in, we can beat this Rosie, we are BIGGER than them, and we will be here for you!
((((HUGS))))))
Sam

Aww Sam so sorry. keeping you in my thoughts and prayers <3 Weird, did not find much new bites today but killed live ones, to many and saw during the day, not good. This is hell. (((hugs))) returned.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 23:06:27
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Ladies I know how you are feeling believe me when I found out about my bb situation July 12 th and saw my dads place and his mental condition and everything that happened after the first treatment I was pretty depressed I lost 10 lbs and couldn't sleep. Had all these responsibilities come at me because my dad needed the proper help. Now a month and a half later everything is falling into place slowly . I say this was the worst time in my adult life the other was being a teenager. This tops any and everything bad that has ever happened to me . So please know it will pass as soon as you start seeing less of them ie. bites sightings etc.... You will feel stronger and wiser. I never thought that I'd get out of the dark tunnel but I'm finally seeing the light. You will too. Some days are better than others. Today again I'm finding out my block has them all over. To the point that the local 99 cent discount store is buying to sell bed bug medicine what ever that is???!!! Lol hed do better selling bedlam for 25 bux a can . So it's on an poppin for the bbs. They are taking over and these landlords don't care thank god mine cares. So please hang in there please it will pass and then you will have your life back your sleep and if it should ever happen again god willing not you won't be soo freaked out😜
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Posted 8 months ago
Wed Aug 22 2012 23:21:16
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Hey Sam...I know your in a bind...I got my box spring covers from Amazon 2 @ 58.00 USD and I paid extra for shipping. 2 of Sleep Defense System - "Bed Bug Proof" Box Spring Encasement - Full I had to wait til I got an unemployment check so I slept on a air Mattress surrounded by DE...crazy "no way to live."

MN - My sister and I used lemon juice on the bites. We tried everything and that seemed to work. I was eating cinnamon because I saw somewhere bedbugs didn't like it...probably a wise tail.

buggyinsyracuse - I hope you get your rest too.

Rosie & Sam...same thing I lost so much weight and I still stress out..I hope I'm not on ativan forever... like Kass..I keep my TV on all night..too like feelinghelpless...I can't stop checking at night especially when I itch or feel anything..

Wishing everyone a good night and sorry if I missed anyone...
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 8:48:44
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Awww, Rosie and Sam - hugs to both of you. I've also lost weight since it's so hard to eat which totally sucks cause let me tell you, I LOVE food. It's kind of ironic that I've been spending the past few months trying to lose those stubborn last 5 pounds and nothing. And suddenly, BBs - instant weight loss. Hang in there ladies - we will make it through this.

Kini, your trying to eat cinnamon made me laugh. If it worked, I literally would be wiling to eat a tub of it. And thanks for making me feel less crazy about the TV thing - I have it on ALL night, every night.

Angie, thanks so much for your last post. It's so encouraging and gives me hope. I'll definitely be re-reading it many times!

I cannot wait until my PCO comes today. I always leave him a note since I'm away at work when he comes, and I realized now they probably make me look crazy. Like a daily log of what I've seen/bites, etc. Oh well. Anyways, I woke up at 4 this morning and couldn't get back to sleep, so sat on my bed with my alcohol spray and scotch tape. Nothing attacked me, thank God, and I watched the early morning news, prayed for all of us, and watched the sun rise over the city. I think for the first time in a while, I felt the tiniest sliver of hope.

Hope you all have good days and hang in there!
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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 9:19:43
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Hey Kass...I'm glad your PCO comes in today
Don't laugh too hard but I'm keeping a daily excel spreadsheet on my apartment..starting from the first day I saw the adults bugs 7-23-2012 to date...recording ,how many were found, which room, bites, treatment...LOL..the accountant in me...

Week 5....23 days of no bites 14 days since last PCO treatment.

I'm ordering the BB passive monitors for my other house for peace of mind. My aunt has seen no activity, no bites, bugs, fecal since this whole mess started...I'm so glad I kept my stuff in bags and washed them right away even thou I didn't know back then about the damm bugs!
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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 12:31:43
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Yeay! Kini its been about 14 days of no sights or bites from them lol the fleas and mosquitoes now ........
MNbugger

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 14:02:51
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Well, Ive got a little more hope myself. What I thought were bb bites that hurt so bad has actually turned out to be shingles. Sucks for me but it means there have been no bites since we started the heat treatments and spraying on Friday. And it means that we weren't actually getting bitten in our room. Go figure.

As uncomfortable as I am I choose shingles over bb anyday. At least I know how long the shingles are going to last...lol

Hope you ladies are having a great day
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 14:50:10
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Sam - not quite the diet plan you were hoping for, huh? I think it's the opposite for me. I try to spend as little time as possible at the apartment, so have been eating out much more than I should, or cooking nice dinners at home for the hubby. If I were at the apartment I'd probably just make a veggie burger or something much healthier.

I completely understand everyone on the depression, ocd, ptsd sides. I think next week I am going to start shopping around for a therapist.

Angie - great news! It's also so good to hear you sounding more positive.

Kass and Kini - you guys crack me up with your daily logs. I can completely understand though. I'm also purchasing a passive for my house (and apt) even though there have been no signs there at all.

Well, I was bad last night. I went out to HH with some friends, then had dinner with my husband, then met some friends out at my local watering hole. After all of those drinks they managed to convince me that one more night away from the apartment wouldn't hurt, and that's all I needed to run home to sleep. In some ways that may have been good, because when I got to the apartment this morning the place is a wreck and there's no way I would have had the wherewithal to vacuum the box spring, mattress, put the bed back together, vacuum the floor, etc. I think I would have gone to my car to sleep.

So, that's what I'll be doing today after work. Well, first I'm going to stop by my watering hole for a few stiff ones so that will give me the courage to start the dirty work. Once I'm done, ifmy neighbor is outside as he usually is on nice evenings I'll try to have a cold one with him. I'm trying really hard not to harbor hard feelings towards him.

Anyways, thanks a million everyone. And like Sam said, we are Bigger than them, we Will beat them, and in the meanwhile, we have each other.
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 15:32:48
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I don't get why mostly my left arm is targeted?? Yes, it is the main side I sleep on so they must be going under my arm or wait til I change sides. You know, it is so rough some times and to tell you I have had a lot of hard times (very hard times) for much of my life, this is one of the hardest. 1st was living with an abusive boyfriend. I feel like ok, this is enough, I am tired, very very tired. Thanks for listening guys Wishing you all well.
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 16:06:19
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Rosie - I find they tend to target the side that I sleep on too. It's weird. I, too, feel like this is the most difficult thing that I have ever been through, and i feel exhausted all of the time. But I have to remind myself that this too shall pass. Too many success stories for it not to. Hugs to you.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 16:13:25
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rosie when i found them there was a set on my husbands side one set on my side and baby had his own set as well ugh!!!! baby sleeps with us. they figure shoot im right here why do i need to go further. so they chomp away. i too have had some hard times in most of my 38 yearsalive and this too has been the hardest ever point blank! it is one of those situations that will be most memorable. even the abusive boyfriend i lived with is being erased from my memory after this. i know rosie!! i know youre at the end of your rope but hang tite dont let go cuz it will get better! peace and blessings. siSTAR!
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 20:36:38
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Hi Feeling, Kass, Kini, Buggy, Rosie, MN, and everyone else

From what I've read most of you seem to be doing o.k, and if not hang in there, I am trying to do that myself, but it seems bad things happen to me in two's or three's lately, just got a call about my Bell services being overdue, (hey just shoot me eh) kidding (I think) so much for buying encasement anytime soon, when one thing is fugged up, seems everything else follows right behind eh.... what a life :cry

Just thought I would check in an say hello, hang in everyone, hoping the storm is over soon
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 22:22:38
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 6 hours ago »
rosie when i found them there was a set on my husbands side one set on my side and baby had his own set as well ugh!!!! baby sleeps with us. they figure shoot im right here why do i need to go further. so they chomp away. i too have had some hard times in most of my 38 yearsalive and this too has been the hardest ever point blank! it is one of those situations that will be most memorable. even the abusive boyfriend i lived with is being erased from my memory after this. i know rosie!! i know youre at the end of your rope but hang tite dont let go cuz it will get better! peace and blessings. siSTAR!

much thanks, peace to you too. Sorry to hear of such hardships in your life. We gotta hang in there!
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 22:26:49
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buggyinsyracuse - 6 hours ago »
Rosie - I find they tend to target the side that I sleep on too. It's weird. I, too, feel like this is the most difficult thing that I have ever been through, and i feel exhausted all of the time. But I have to remind myself that this too shall pass. Too many success stories for it not to. Hugs to you.

It is weird...but, one thing is, for me, I do tend to sleep with the light out, cause quite frankly, I am exhausted and need my sleep to fight this, physically and mentally. Hugs to you also.
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Thu Aug 23 2012 23:27:38
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Hey everyone, I posted a thread telling my story, and feelinghelpless replied, then I found this thread and decided I'd post here for some more support. No one in my family or life in general can understand how I am feeling. I live with my mom, and I babysit most of the time for my sister. Her kids stay at least 3 nights a week at my house. No one else is being bitten it seems like. We had our 1st and second treatment about 2 months ago. I went a month and a half without being bit, and found alot of dead ones. Our inspector said we caught it quick. Butttt, 2 weeks ago. I couldn't fall asleep at all in my bed ( That I had been sleeping peacefully in) and I felt a tingling/itchy sensation on the back of my leg. Didn't feel a bite so, I didn't think much of it. I moved to the couch, fell asleep for like 15 minutes and then wake up with 2 bites, one on each arm. Got up, hit the light and found the bug on the arm rest trying to scurry away. Killed it with rubbing alcohol ( trusty spray bottle that stays right by my side)
So, we called out the inspector again and he gave us an "All Clear". Well a week later, I wake up with bites all over my arms, and found 4 generally small bed bugs! So, needless to stay, I called the inspector at 8am on the dot ( He wasn't even at the office yet haha). He came out around 3pm Tuesday afternoon. He found 2 dead ones in my box spring and also looked at the ones I put in a bag after killing them. So, we signed another contract for them to come and retreat because our 30 day contract was up...we also bought an encasement from them to replace mine so we could get the year long contract. That same day, I burned my boxsprings and now have plans to buy a new one, and maybe even a new mattress. So now we are going through the treatment preparation of taking everything out of the house and laundering all of the clothes and any kind of linen in general. We have yet to schedule the treatment exactly, we just know it is next week. This will be our 3rd treatment all together. I don't think I can do this much longer. My friend had brought bed bugs into my house in late October,2011. I remember waking up with the bites the morning after she stayed. Later we found out, she had moved into an infested home without knowing. She has since moved and doesn't seem to motivated to solve her own bug problem, so she is no longer allowed in my home. I feel like I have lost all my sanity and even a 10-11 year friendship with this whole situation. I was just getting back to being normal after the second treatment and then a month and a half later, my entire world comes crashing down. I just don't know what to do anymore. I have completely lost all hope. My friends sympathize but no one KNOWS what I am going through.

I just wanted to share my story, and get some advice and read all of your stories. Sorry for such a long post. I found this site, and signed up. I'm tired of feeling alone in this and feeling like I'm fighting a never ending battle.

I do have a question though, I know all about preparing for a treatments with linens and the washing and drying of everything but is there any way I can treat other belongings, such as electronics, books, toys and other things like that? We threw away alot when we first had treatments done but there is still some stuff I just don't know how to treeat, aside from spraying it all down alcohol.

Thank you so much in advance for whatever advice, or support you could give. I feel a little better after reading all these posts. I just need a light at the end of tunnel..
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 1:26:59
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Well there's DE. Also a packtite I hear works well. I've had 3 treatments. The last bug I saw was 14 days ago. And my upstairs neighbor has been bit last night. So not sure if were in the clear as of yet. I hear you. It seems never.ending. my dad brought them. I was sooo angry. But he has dementia. So I was sympathetic. My pco is doing a 4 th treatment. Just to be safe. Well my household isn't getting bit since 14 days buy who's to say try are really gone. It's a waiting game. You can be proactive. Vacuum often. Steam. And hopefully your pco is using the stuff to knock them out
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 6:20:03
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Jayme: Your are NOT alone, been dealing with this problem for some time now, have faith that you will make is through this, one foot in front of the other and just keep trudging on!

I also have lost a friend (for now at least) of twenty years, he doesn't take the bb thing seriously and I can't risk him being here, I found out for a fact he DOES have a problem but does not like to admit it, so I have to take care of my home even if it means losing him, sad but oh well.....

Its discouraging I know, but do what you must do, I never thought I'd feel better but now after the 3rd spray things are looking up (sorta) although I'm still very stressed and have probably developed some substance abuse problems but hey whatever gets you through the night!

Hang in, you will be o.k. believe it or not!

Sam
theyareoutthere

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 6:30:45
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Hi, Blackheart:

Can you meet him outside the home, at a coffee shop (and not even bring a purse and wear flip flops)...mostly talking on the phone?

I had an issue...YEARS AGO..with a friend who was dealing drugs from his home. I think I smoked two joints in high school and that was it. One of our mutual friends...well, his girlfriend went to prison because she was visiting during the drug best (and spoke to me that she would sit in the living room watching tv when he was dealing). I decided that I just couldn't go over there.. period..and wouldn't have him at my house. We were very old friends, and I moved around a lot and had few of those.

Anyway, we would meet halfway for coffee, but mostly spoke by phone. I figured the wire taps got an earful when he spoke to me (I always told him about my odd boyfriend problems).

You can do this!

TAOT
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 6:37:38
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Theyare: :lol

Your drug dealing friend sounds like my friend, he is pretty crazy, he is a high-rise window cleaner and can only function at his job while smoking pot.... go figure eh He also has hep C and drinks like a fish, I can't imagine going for a coffee anywhere with him, that's too funny Also one of the reasons I put up with him is that he has been quite supportive of my relationship problems all these years as well!

I figure since I told him I cannot chance him passing bugs he will act on that and get sprayed, but for now I'd rather be alone anyway, I'm trying to recoup my sanity!
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 10:10:12
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Well, no bites last night...and we got the call this morning that our treatment will be next Friday in the morning sometime, so for now it's just the waiting that sucks. I have heard of the pack tite but haven't done much research on it, and we can't afford it anyhow. I've heard it's pretty expensive. I vacuum daily, and check the beds. The company we used tried to schedule our treatment for today but I'm like no way. I still have alot to do before they come next week. We are finishing our hardwood floors in the living room this weekend.

Yeah, my "friend" has apologized a million times for all of this but I'm getting tired of hearing it. I mean I know it's expensive and all to get it treated but her and her mom live in a small apartment and it could easily spread to other apartments. I don't know. If I have to lose a friend over this to keep my house, and my family safe..I will, it's gonna hurt but oh well. My family and myself are more important.
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 10:16:25
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Good morning ladies! So no bites for me last night, but I could only sleep for 2 hours on my bed. Also, my PCO did a fourth treatment yesterday and is coming back Tuesday just to check, but I see the light at the end of this long, long dark tunnel. He actually called me while I was at dinner and was so reassuring and comforting as usual and promised this would end soon that I started crying! Yup, in front of my friends (they all know) and in the middle of the restaurant (in my defense, I had had a few drinks!). I think I must have looked so crazy that the waiter said something to the chef, and we got free dessert.

Jayme - welcome! As Sam said, please know you're not alone. I also feel like my family and friends sympathize, but they truly do NOT understand the emotional anguish and craziness. No one can, not unless you're going through this yourself. Even the little things, like I used to love reading in bed before going to sleep and obviously now, it's hard enough for me to get in the bed!

Angie - sorry to hear you'll need a fourth treatment, but that's probably for the best, just to be sure. As my PCO says, it takes as many treatments as it takes, and there's no magic number!

Anna - hope last night was as painless as it could be! Fortifying oneself with drinks beforehand never hurts. And you have such a good heart. I think I would confront and start yelling at my neighbor if I were in your shoes!

MN - yay for shingles. Who ever thought we'd say that? I always find the threads kind of funny where people are relieved to just have cockroaches on ID (which I'd rather have too!). But seriously, hope you're doing better. Shingles can be so painful!

Rosie, you are so brave. I could never sleep with the light off, and don't know if I ever will! Did your landlord start treatment yet???

Sam, I'm so sorry to hear about your Bell services (that's phone/internet, right, for non-Canadians like me, lol?). And your friend too. It's so frustrating when people don't understand. I'm staying at friend's place this weekend (with only the clothes on my back of course!) and he was like, don't worry, I bought all these foggers for you. Argh.

Sorry if I missed anyone! Hope you all have as restful weekends as possible and hang in there!!!
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 12:04:28
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Jayme - welcome to the group. This thread has been a godsend for me as I feel like the folks here can really relate to the mental anguish that comes with having BBs. My PCO said that it would take at least three treatments, and possibly a fourth, so don't despair. As for getting rid of them in your other stuff, a packtite is probably the best way to go, I know it's expensive, but I'm willing to add to my CC debt to give me peace of mind. There's also DDVP(?) strips and some other things that folks on this forum have talked about, but I'm not that familiar with them.

Sam - sorry to hear about your friend. I have a bunch of friends who are house painters, and they ALL smoke copious amounts of pot. Hmmm... However, glad to hear that things are looking up after the third treatment. I'm also drinking way more than I should, but like you said, whatever it takes to get through this.

Angie - glad to see you are still sounding much more optimistic than before. Pretty soon we'll be missing you on this thread, but will be so happy for you!

Kass, so sorry about your breakdown, but it's so great that you have such an understanding PCO. Mine is good, but it's actually the technicians that give me hope. They really know what they are doing, and the nutjobs actually ENJOY their job. They were all excited to get in and spray, dust, etc.

So I had a mental breakdown last night. I spent close to two hours vacuuming just my bedroom. just about every inch except behind my dressers where I couldn't get to (but will find a way). When I finished it was about 8:30pm, and I brought the vacuum outside to dump it's contents in the outside trash. I noticed that the basement lights were on. I peeked in and there is ALL of my downstairs neighbor's clothes all over the basement floor. He never bagged them, never washed them. So now those f*ckers are in the basement. I immediately called and left a message with my landlady, called my mom and cried, called my husband and cried. My landlady called me back shortly and I explained the situation to her. God bless her soul she was so understanding. She said that they would call the PCO first thing this morning to assess the damages, and would then speak to my downstairs neighbor.

Rosie - I also slept with the lights off. I was so mentally exhausted that surprisingly I slept through the entire night. Unfortunately I'm not sure whether or not I got bitten. I have so many old bites that are yet to heal that it's hard to tell, and the bites don't hurt or itch at all to me. I did find one live adult on my bedroom wall this morning. Doused him with alcohol.

Anyhow, apologies to anyone else that I may have missed. Hope that you all have a great Friday. Take your mind off of things and try to do something fun.

Anna
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 12:23:04
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Hi to all today, God I feel so shaky and tired, not a good day. Killed many today, one was trying to run away as I woke up but I got him. @ Kass, no, the landlord does little here, as I have a sink that is not working, water trickles through and when it does go through it leaks in the pipe below. He knows this as the janitor saw it but nothing. Yes, he came in for a toilet to be repaired but only cause there was leaking down below. I do not see many bites today. As to lights off, it's the only way I can sleep and even with that I am exhausted. Welcome to Jame and sorry to Blackheart about your friend. Hi to Kass, Anna, Theyareoutthere, Feelinghelpless and any other I missed. Sorry, hard to read all theads, just know my thoughts are with you!
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 14:25:59
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Rosie - yes, lights out is the only way I can sleep. That and a few shots of Jamesons . LOL.

Well, definitely got bit at least by one sucker. Looks like it just took a while to surface. On my hand, 1, 2, 3. Definitely was not there before. Oh well.
bugsandpugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 14:38:20
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I am so glad for this site. I have to admit that I have been reading for days......I am comforted by everyone's stories. Nice to know that I am not alone. I also have to confess that although now I am obsessed with them, before this happened to me I was one of the uneducate, clueless, never think about it individuals. Boy oh boy, how things have changed.
I believe that my problem started when one of these critters hitch hiked on mine and my sons suitcase when we stayed in a hotel for his college orientation tour. What a bummer, not only did my credit card get skimmed at a gas station causing my checking/savings account to be totally wiped out (I am luck the bank covered me for that) but now I got bugs on top of it...sigh...
Had bites show up and at first thought they were chiggers as I garden frequently and get them. I noticed that they were not clearing up getting worse by the minute and new ones would pop up every other day. I started looking for bed bugs when a girl at work told me to. I found only one skin casing and no spots/specks. I totally freaked! I still slept in my bed, hoping it wasn't true. Got a POC to come out the next day (one that a friend had used with success, she was never at my place so she couldn't have brought them) who confirmed I had them in my room, my sons room and that they had spread to my other sons room. Every where else was free. I cried so hard, I just finished paying for a broken water tank, new faucet, new washer and car repair all in one week that I am almost broke. This was the last straw.

I went through prep, while still working my two jobs, I am exhausted and long for sleep. The bites I have won't go away and I itch all the time. It is truly awful. Family doesn't understand just saying it can't be that bad....I had to see the doctor get an antibiotic and put on steriods.It cost about 200.00 just for the freaking laundromat. I thought I would go insane if one more person at the lundromat asked me, long time since ya did laundry, kid going away to school, washer broke are you really using allof these washers/dryers....arrrggghhh Emptying everything and spent tons on totes so that stuff could go in them and then be sealed with a Nuvan strip in them. Obsessing about not spreading them anywhere, sticking everything in the dryer after wearing it.
After folding my couch cover out of the dryer I found 2 dead bed bugs, since I had it in a dryer load with a couple of decorative pillows from my bed I wasn't sure where it came from, so I told my POC. He came out again for another inspection and still didn't find anything in the couch but said he would treat it and my two living room chairs just in case. Along with sprays, strips, heat and DE. The second treatment is Monday then he will apply mattress and box spring covers to all beds even in the rooms that were not infested. I threw out all of my pillows, couldn't bear the thought of my face on them again and worried that saving the cost of one pillow would lead to another infestation if they didn't get hot enough.
My one son who is austistic can't understand why he can't get to this stuff in the totes and why he can't go in his room and why all of his stuff is tripled bagged in grandmas garage. double sigh...
Is there hope after bugs...
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 17:25:32
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bugsandpugs - first thing I am going to tell you to do is BREATH. Seriously, take some long, deep breaths. Everyone on this thread has been throughh all of the feelings you are going through now.t

I've also spent a fortune on space bags, garbage bags, laundry. But hey, this is the first time in my adult life that I have used a laundry matt and I have to say, quite convenient! LOL. You can get so much done in such a short period of time.

I also obsess about not spreading them. I've completely developed OCD because of this. My morning routine is stripping down, clothes in my dirty clothes garbage bag, shower, makeup and hair in the buck nude, pick out my clothes for the day out of zip bags, put them on in the bathtub and leave the apartment.

But it HAS gotten better. Had my first treatment and feel really good about our PCOs. Yes, I saw a live BB on the wall this morning (alcohol spray), and I did get bitten last night. I just finally said to myself, they are just bugs, and I'm not going to let them dictate my life. I have a few glasses of wine, a shot of Jameson's, and call it a night.

It's also very healthy to take a mental holiday away from these boards and anything else BB related on the internet. Don't worry, folks will still be here to support you when you come back. And one day you will not need any of us at all. There are so many success stories. Believe in yourself.
theyareoutthere

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 17:55:02
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BuggyinS: The landlord can probably handle the issue with the basement, but it sucks. It sucks bigtime!!!! By handle, he may have not been in compliance with the PCO's instructions or even terms of the lease (when I rented with a basement laundry area, our lease give the landlord the right to throw anything away and charge us if items stayed down there longer than 24 hours..that doesn't help much with BBs). I'm not a lawyer and can't give legal advice, but you may want to run it by your tenant's rights group...just to make sure the landlord is doing the right thing.

BugsNpugs: I'm so sorry. A friend has an autistic son, and there is a spectrum. Most are very logical, but they really struggle if the daily structure changes. You will get through this. Two jobs, a son in college, and an autistic son...you are very strong. I agree about the mental holidays, but it is also great to have a place to get support and vent (I'm not a sufferer...just one of those people who had no idea until there was a scare).

Take care! TAOT
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 18:47:35
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Hoping everyone has a nice weekend...your in my thoughts in prayers..

It does get better. 25 days, no bites celebrating with a Twisted Tea drink. My landlords have been really good. I was afraid of being eviction... We had a great PCO team. I wish I can get over my OCD's..any kind of bug freaks me out now. I inspect every little spot I find. I'm trying not to use the flash lights at night..Still sleeping with TV on..and still need sleeps meds for now.
I'm going to take "buggyinsyracuse" message to heart... "I'm not going to let them dictate my life."

Hugs to you all

Kini
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 19:08:59
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Hi guys, so glad your all hanging in, me I'm ok I guess, just feel like I had a terrible dream awhile ago and still haven't awakened from the nightmare, had my friend Robin over today and he did help take my mind off things.... we were bf, gf many years ago, but now just friends, and thats all I want forever now I think!

Sometimes feel like I'm walking around in a bubble since this awful crap happened, and I wanna move past it sooo bad too.

Well he brought over two heavy duty "queen box spring bags" and to be honest I think this is a good thing, it is double wrapped and wound up a million times with duct tape (God guys love this stuff don't they)

But honestly I don't think you could buy anything better! Next mattress itself, I can't believe how kind he is but he is going to buy my mattress encasement (he does owe me a few favours after all)

I think things are looking somewhat up, Just checking in, thinking of all you on here, and welcome BugsandPugs, its going to be alright, eventually!
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 21:03:53
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Ok I am freaking... So, I was out for a few hours and when I came home waiting for the bus I felt on the back of my neck two bugs, not together. I picked them off one at a time. Both were quite small. Could they have been on my purse strap and I have not seen them? Why after a few hours? Or maybe they were not bed bugs? I kinda think they were, but this was freaky. My purse strap is long and black. God this is my worse nightmare. And I try to be so careful!!!!!!
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 21:15:41
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OMG Rosie, strange you say this, but when I first realized the extent of my problem a similar thing occurred, I was getting ready to go out and retrieved my purse which was hanging on the bedroom door, and I saw these slimy little creatures wiggling all over and I threw out everything except my wallet, oh shit it was just awful, through out about 90 dollars worth of makeup, but just didn't give a shit at the time.

Only God knows how they got there, but hey, HANG IN, don't let it freak you out too much o.k?
theyareoutthere

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 21:27:08
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I don't have much leather, but David Cain has said they don't like it much, but then I see all these pics of them in shoes.

It would completely FREAK me out.

Maybe one of the PCOs know...

I'm so sorry...
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 22:03:29
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Well on a light hearted note, I have to tell you what my dad used to say: (I never really understood it) but still it chills me out and makes me smile a bit at least

Ladies and Gents, take my advice, pull down you pants and slide on the ice? Hey I dunno what he meant, but just thinking these words make me relax a little
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 22:03:44
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"Only God knows how they got there, but hey, HANG IN, don't let it freak you out too much o.k?"
"I don't have much leather, but David Cain has said they don't like it much, but then I see all these pics of them in shoes.

It would completely FREAK me out.

Maybe one of the PCOs know...

I'm so sorry... "

Thanks for your support what is freaky is that I don't want anyone to see them and I don't want to infest. I thought I was careful, my purse was up in a wicker basket high up but I am still learning. My place is so small. Just one room and a small kitchen and a bathroom. My vacuum broke so I am stuck. Looking desperately on Craigslist for a cheap vacuum. I don't have a lot of money so this is so much harder! But I am home now and oddly enough I feel ok cause I am not out in public. God, do I ever feel like I am a pariah (outcast)
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 22:07:47
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Rosie, whatever you do, please be careful of Craigslist, so many shiesters on there that just wanna make a buck, they don't care, they could sell you something to even cause you more grief, just saying,,,

I care, so be careful, o.k?
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Fri Aug 24 2012 22:13:28
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Blackheart - 4 minutes ago »
Rosie, whatever you do, please be careful of Craigslist, so many shiesters on there that just wanna make a buck, they don't care, they could sell you something to even cause you more grief, just saying,,,
I care, so be careful, o.k?

Ah yes, thanks!!!!!!! Used them before to sell. But yes, will be careful and thanks!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 2:09:48
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Well let me tell you. I went to the hospital to visit my dad after our first treatment and I had my purse in the waiting room and I saw one it was as big as a pin head crawling on my finger. Maybe it could have been something else but to me it looked.like it I drove home my car was 110 degrees and I drove with the heat on threw the whole purse Michael Koran wallet wristlet and wallet. 400 bux worth . And stuck it in the dryer on high with pens gum and anything that was inside. Ruined it all. But I didn't care. I knew they surely be dead after that. Ugh! I can never say I love anything material. It's just that stuff can't take it with you in the end. But geesh they were my favorite. Hey I'm in Stockton headed to the emerald city. Not stopping at the hotel motel cuz I don't want to look for anything that might bite. I'm spooked for real lol. Have a good night guys!
MNbugger

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 3:21:28
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Well, I'm up and can't sleep because my arm is on fire and itching like crazy but at least that's not from bug bites. It actually turned out to be shingles. YAY for shingles. I know it sounds crazy and I'm a nurse but that means we're 7 nights with no bites.

I almost freaked tonight. Found one on my ceiling in the office. But it was dried up and dead. I look everywhere. Who else besides us would stare at the ceiling as we're walking around and we're actually looking for something?

I know its hard but just keep persevering and praying. We'll all get through this and although we'll never be the same, there will be a new normal for all of us. Bug free, of course
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 9:10:00
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Amen MNbugger...we had no bites last night except for my roommate and I had a mosquito bite
from being outdoors. Getting back to normal routines little by little..

Wishing you all a Happy Saturday!
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 10:03:03
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feelinghelplesswith3 babies - 7 hours ago »
Well let me tell you. I went to the hospital to visit my dad after our first treatment and I had my purse in the waiting room and I saw one it was as big as a pin head crawling on my finger. Maybe it could have been something else but to me it looked.like it I drove home my car was 110 degrees and I drove with the heat on threw the whole purse Michael Koran wallet wristlet and wallet. 400 bux worth . And stuck it in the dryer on high with pens gum and anything that was inside. Ruined it all. But I didn't care. I knew they surely be dead after that. Ugh! I can never say I love anything material. It's just that stuff can't take it with you in the end. But geesh they were my favorite. Hey I'm in Stockton headed to the emerald city. Not stopping at the hotel motel cuz I don't want to look for anything that might bite. I'm spooked for real lol. Have a good night guys!

So sorry that happened to you As I write this I have to go out again so before I do I took everything that was in my purse and put it in a plastic bag and sealed it. I have to look through it later as I have important papers and then I took the lining inside out and sprayed it with disinfectant which is alcohol based. I have seen that kill them on the mattress. I thoroughly got it soaked. I hope I did the right thing. So there was a dead one that came off it and nothing else. When I get home it will be put into a plastic bag as that is all I have, they are white small garbage bags and I can pretty much see if anything is on them or in I think.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 15:18:42
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Yeah Rosie I pánicked you're more wise than me. When I'm done being broke I will replace the wallet at least. Or when I'm done having bed bugs. Which I haven't seen in a while but neighbor is still being bitten. So I'm affraid still. I will have the pco spray a 4 th time. I also left a bed bug beacon in my dads part of the unit to monitor if there are anymore left tho.I think they'd have come out for me and hubby since the wall where my dad had his bed is right next to my bed. These creatures are relentless. Hope you guys are doing great I'm now in the emerald city.
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 23:15:52
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Hey everyone, well, no bites since burning my boxsprings after we had the inspector out again which was Tuesday...I guess that's a bright side...but I still feel helpless and VERY confused and stressed. I'm confused about how I could go a month and a half without any bites (all beds encased) and then bam! 2 weeks ago, I'm getting bit....and they have all been baby bed bugs...when all I used to see was adults. It's sooooo confusing and I'm trying to be positive but I have so many questions and want so many answers and can barely keep any of it straight. The company is coming for the treatment on the 31st (Friday) between 9am and 10am. I still have an entire house to clear out...literally everything before then. We actually ripped up the rest of the living room carpet last night so our family friend could come today and finish our flooring...Well that didn't happen and my worst fear is having the company come to treat and half of my living room is still ply wood...ugh. I did some reasearch on the PackTite though...it is a very useful thing so I have heard but my family and I are struggling to make ends meet with just my mother working and me being unemployed, so we can't afford that and I'm trying to find alternative ways of treating all of our other belongings. I read all of these post on all the forums about how everybody deals with it on a daily basis...and I feel like I barely do any of those things...We don't keep everything in bags, and all that. We do daily washings and keep stuff up off the floor and clean daily. I see all those things that other people do and it's make me feel like I'm not doing enough...I feel like this is all my fault even though I KNOW it isn't. I can't help but to feel like this is all on my shoulders and financially it is killing my mom. I'm 23 and I am at home almost 24/7 and have been trying to get my life back together and things we're going good after the second treatment and we were moving forward and past all of this and then we get smacked by down and have to deal with it again. I just don't understand what I'm doing wrong. I'm doing all I can and it doesn't seem like enough.

I was hoping maybe you all could give me some advice on other things I could do on a daily basis that will help in killing these things, and prevent them from spreading to other houses. Any advice or help or tips would be greatly appreciated..Thank you so much for all of your replies on my other posts! I really do appreciate it and reading your posts give me hope that it will all get better....and I really need that.
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sat Aug 25 2012 23:31:38
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Hi Jamie,
Well I am not an expert and a newbie on this. It's rough as I have no money and am trapped in a building that does hardly anything. It is a borderline crackhouse here. Not quite but close. I been seeing a lot of mattresses being thrown out Never used to be like this here. But I see more families moving in. Poor them. So yeah I am struggling big time with finances and can't move. But, as to what you are doing wrong, please don't say that, don't beat yourself up like this. Yours sounds like a very stressful time! I have only the one room that I live in and I can't imagine what you are going through! These BB are notoriously hard to get rid of, but you will make it! I am learning as I am going and I probably had BB much earlier than I thought but now I am getting the bites. Best thing is to launder clothes and bed clothes and put your clothes in a bag when they are clean and in a bag when used. Should be airtight. Same goes for your belongings. I even learned that I have to bag my purse when I get in and same for my shoes. I am still learning so maybe a more experienced person can give you ideas or if I made a mistake someone can correct me for sure. Take care, I know days can be very hard, but some turn out not so bad. But one thing I know, this has changed all of us here. Take care (((hugs)))
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 0:20:55
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Thank you Rosie for your reply. Yeah, I think I'm going to be calling my inspector on Monday and asking about how to go about treating other belongings, and maybe look up some good air tight bags for stuff. I threw out so many clothes, and so did my mom when we had the first treatment a couple months back. We threw out 4 truck loads of junk. Doing all of that was no fun at all, but at least we de cluttered the house and have been keeping things very clean and organized. I think my problem is that I get on all these sites and read all these horrific stories about bed bugs and I think we have a MAJOR infestation and my inspector and technician have to reassure me again that we don't have a bad one, but I'm just afraid that they will come and treat and it won't work. The hardest part about all of this is no one knows how I feel. No one else is being bitten in my house at all. My mom says I'm their "queen". haha. Also, my nieces and nephew come and stay like 3 times a week, and I make sure all of their stuff is clean before it leaves the house and nothing comes in the house without being washed. I just feel like my family and I aren't being cautious enough. We've never dealt with anything like this before.
RWhit

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 6:18:31
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I haven't had a first treatment yet but I'm in serious need of mental treatment. Bed bugs have consumed my life. I read about bed bugs, and when I'm not reading about bed bugs I'm looking for bed bugs. Staying awake all night watching my precious daughters sleep. I love astronomy and I used to love the night time.. taking my telescope out to stargaze. Now I dread the night. Just sitting her watching the clock tick away.. dawn cannot come soon enough. Even the physical part of bed bugs, although I have never had a bump, I've had insomnia, shaking, upset stomache, unbelievable itching, sobbing fests and head aches.. not to mention my whole body hurts. Sorry to be such a Debbie Downer but my glass is half empty for real. I'm fearfull of leaving my home, somehow getting bed bugs from somewhere and making my situation worse. My kids start school in one week and I've devised a plan to decontaminate everything they have as soon as they get in the home. I have an online business.. I'm thinking about shutting it down... fearfull I got bed bugs from shipments to my home.. I surely don't want to ship bed bugs out. I am broken.. I will never be the same again. I'm ashamed to tell family members and my husband doesn't care that we have bed bugs. He sleeps no problem and goes about his life as if everything is normal. How.can.he.do.that??????? Does it ever get better? Will I ever stop this sick obession? Will I ever trust the world around me? I captured a bed bug in a ziplock bag and named it betty the bed bug. Sleep deprived I replay the freddy's coming for you song from nightmare on elm street only it's betty's coming for you. Guys I've gone off the deep end. What am I ever going to do?????
theyareoutthere

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 10:14:35
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Hi, RWhit, I put a link to your post so people can read your story:

http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/losing-it-slowly-but-surely

I'm not going through this, but this is a great thread for you to read for support.

The only practical advice I have is, if you have some savings and your home business involves non-flammable items (no batteries too!), then consider a Packtite or Packtite closet. I have both (the packtite came out first). Depending on where you live and other factors, I would recommend the Packtite closet. It is larger, heats faster, and you can hang items (which I need for winter coats and work suits). I dont' work for Packtite. It just is a nice for my purse, shoes, etc. If your husband won't use it, you can maybe get advice from the other users. I do use it for any packages I receive (once I take it outside to look at it).

Good luck. Your first priority is to get some sleep. That's what is best for you and your family. I can only imagine how hard it is (I haven't been clinically diagnosed but was told a long time ago by a psychologist that I'm borderline OCD).
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 10:15:59
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MN and Kini - yeay for being bite free. But MN, sorry to hear about the shingles. Oh, and the first thing I do when walking into any room is to check the ceiling. I'm afraid of one of those suckers falling on my head!

Jayme - Rosie gave some good advice. I also started a post called something along the lines of Tips and Tricks of Daily Live with BBs. Also, one of the best resources is the FAQs. Your PCO should have given you instructions on how to prep for treatment. If they did not, I'd be weary.

RWhit - try to stay strong. I know how hard it is, I have repeated mental breakdowns. From reading the forums I've noticed many instances where women seem to be much more concerned about this than men. Not all of the time, but I've read many similar posts to yours. And "Betty the Bed Bug?" LOL at least you still have a sense of humor!

My landlord spoke to my downstairs neighbor about all of his clothes on the basement floor. He claimed that he had done as instructed and had washed and bagged all of his clothing and because we had gotten our first treatment he thought it woud be ok to rewash everything and put it back in his dressers. Landlord explained that he needs to keep everything in bags. Landlady then spoke with PCO who said that IF he was telling the truth everything should be ok. Landlady, God bless her soul, said that she could not be 100% sure that he was telling the truth. We are now getting the basement treated as well.

Had a mental breakdown Saturday morning. Have not seen any in the bed but still seeing them on the walls. Pulled my sh*t together and spent a lovely day celebrating my dad's birthday. I'm really ok when I'm with friends and family. It's just being alone in that danged apartment that kills me. Spent the night at my house, which I'm still constantly paranoid that I may have infested before I knew that I had them. But, no signs at all and we have cream and white colored sheets. Ordered a passive just in case. Spending the day today pickling peppers and putting up tomatoes. Will head back to the dreaded apt to be bug bait again tonight. Ugh.

Angie, Sam, Rosie, Kass, theyareoutthere, and anyone else I may have missed, hope you are all hanging in there in this battle. Thanks for being here for me.
BedBugly

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 12:38:29
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Heeeeyyy youuuu guyyyyss ( in the voice of Sloth from Goonies). Didn't someone on this thread say they are in Vegas or going to Vegas or something? I don't want to go back 201 posts ago to find out who, but I wanted to let them or any of you who might live in the area know there is a Bed Bug Convention/Party Sep 06th at the Red Rock hotel/casino!! Man, I kinda wish I could go... it is only 4 hrs away from me..hmmm.... Mostly to just have a couple of drinks and talk BB's with PCO's and peers face to face who actually give a Sh*t about what I'm talking about. But they will also have a ton of speakers, workshops, and an expo of over 75 BB product manufacturers. Which makes me wonder, why then does it seem like there really isn't heaps of things out there in the current BB market if there are that many vendors? ANYWAY, google it, not sure if I'm allowed to post the link here.

I wonder if the hosting hotel of this convention is ready for all the OCDness of their guests. LOL.
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 16:51:21
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Hi all. I had responded to jayme but my phone erased. All that I wrote was way long. But to all the new ladies or gentlemen to this thread. I know its hard and it will drive you crazy. These critters have that reaction. I am in Seattle right now and hadn't been bitten in 15 days but neighbor has so I'm still weary about it. But if you're getting treatment it will get better. Believe me it will. Hang tight. And try not to stress. Stressing 8Omakes it worse. They are only bugs. Keep that in mind p. Bello said it they are only bugs we are on the higher food chain. Don't be affraid of them. You can beat them. We are in this together.
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 17:14:22
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Hi, back on for a bit. Reading posts, so sorry about what everyone is going through. You know, for me the hardest part is worrying about spreading them. Well, one of the hardest parts. I hate the bites, feel bad for my cat, hate living in a slum building. Ranting. Hang in there, we have to. And yeah I am trying to get over the fear of them. Had to deal with roaches, now this Gearing up to call a few cousins for help. Scared, worried about what they may say etc..I am trapped here as I have no money to move. Take care and hugs to all!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 17:45:06
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Hugs Rosie. I've been getting bit by fleas I think. Hang in there.
BedBugly

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 18:01:27
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Had the most messed up dream last night myself, feelinghelpless, quite similar to yours. I had my bed back, and decided to lift the mattress to check and there were thousand of bugs scurrying everywhere! Some were as big as my fist! I grabbed my alcohol spray bottle and went to town, but they just kept coming. I woke up this morning with a jolt and found that my air matress had a puncture and I was deflated down to the floor. haha and Uggghhh.
Kass2010

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 19:17:49
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Bedbugly, I had a very similar nightmare when all of this started. Then I woke up and was so relieved they really weren't overrunning my bed. Well, at least not so obviously...

Jayme, I really feel for you. And I would echo what others have said about making sure clean clothes are in airtight bags (like those giant Ziploc bags). I would say that in a way, it's good that you're only seeing the nymphs, not adults (trying to be glass half full!). This means no eggs/next generations of BBs. It's something I've noticed with each treatment too and definitely means progress!

Rosie, big hugs to you. Let us know how things go with your cousins. The important thing is feeling like some family is there to support you. It took me a while to tell my immediate family, and even if not everyone's reaction was what I had hoped for (like one person saying it's really not a big deal, ugh), I did feel a lot of relief afterwards that my "secret" was out.

Anna, big hugs to you too! I'm so sorry to hear about Saturday, but let me tell you, you're completely entitled to breakdowns. I've had my fair share of them! BBs are stressful. They suck. Having moments where you're not okay is completely okay. And happy b-day to your Dad! So glad you got to relax and spend time with your family!

RWhit - welcome to our thread! I'm glad you still have a sense of humor - Betty the BB, lol. And I promise - it gets better. You don't think it will in those dark, early days when you first discover you have "friends" living with you, but it will. There were days when I prayed that my apartment would burn down (obviously with no one on my floor being hurt!) or when I wanted to just walk out with the clothes on my back and say to hell with all my possessions and money and breaking my lease. Those days, thank God are behind me, even if I'm not 100% sure that my problem is resolved. They will be for you too, slowly but surely.

Everyone else - sorry if I've missed anyone, trying to catch up on comments. But I truly truly hope everyone is hanging in there. You're all in my thoughts/prayers! As for me, I'm back in my apartment after spending the weekend elsewhere. I'm a 30-something year old woman and I literally almost cried with joy when I slept in a BB-free bed and didn't have to worry about doing a flashlight check, keeping the TV on, or making sure my pillow doesn't touch the headboard. It sounds pathetic, but a good night's sleep away makes a world of difference...and like the rest of you, I'm ready to face sleeping in my bed tonight. But with the TV and light on, of course.
rosiehatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 21:39:45
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"But I truly truly hope everyone is hanging in there. You're all in my thoughts/prayers! As for me, I'm back in my apartment after spending the weekend elsewhere. I'm a 30-something year old woman and I literally almost cried with joy when I slept in a BB-free bed and didn't have to worry about doing a flashlight check, keeping the TV on, or making sure my pillow doesn't touch the headboard. It sounds pathetic, but a good night's sleep away makes a world of difference...and like the rest of you, I'm ready to face sleeping in my bed tonight. But with the TV and light on, of course. [:)]"

I am so happy you got to sleep away. Thanks for your thoughts, it means much! Am calling my cousin tomorrow. Perhaps both. One is a nurse. I chickened out today, I know, it's stupid. Just scared what they will say. But I need help.
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 21:51:31
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Thank you everyone for your replies! I really appreciate it and will definitely be doing the airtight bag thing.

buggyinsyracuse- We did get a prep sheet from our PCO, I was just thinking of ways to treat the belongings before bringing them back into the house that would ensure that none of the bugs are in them.

Update on my story. I was sitting on the couch today and got 3 bites. One on each leg and then one on my lower back. Checked everything and didn't find a bug. So, I threw all the pillows and pillow cases and blanket, and the clothes I was wearing into the wash. I went to go and get in the shower because a hot shower always helps me when I'm stressed, but first, I decided to check my moms bed...I pulled back the sheets and found one. Only one live bug, and literally no signs of any others...
I'm sooo confused...ugh where are they coming from?!?! I think I would feel better if I knew where the little bastards were "nesting". I'm so worried that they might have spread to my sisters or one of my friends houses and they are just bringing them back over here. I'm trying to figure it out and none of the pieces are fitting together at all.
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 22:13:42
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Hey JaymeLauren I had found the damm bugs actually behind buttons in the sofa fabric which freaked me out. Lucky for me the next day was my first PCO treatment and they sprayed the sofa.

Hope everyone is doing well...I'm into week six.. (28) days no bites...(20) days since last treatment. Still medicating myself between pills and when I don't take the pills it's beer and shots. Just when I think I'm doing better, I go back to my OCD's and saying.."what if" and re checking everything. Once I move out for the season Oct 7 I plan on tossing my bedding, I wasn't going to get anything new til I know there's no more bugs...Ordering Monitors on Tuesday when I get my unemployment check.
We had bad storms, lighting & flooding in my area. I had 2 hours of sleep. I was laughing to myself wondering if the floods would drown damm bugs if they were lucking outside....

Keeping you all in my thought in prayers!
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Sun Aug 26 2012 22:29:13
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Hey Kini, our next treatment is this Friday, and waiting for that to come is beginning to feel like an eternity. So far, in the past 3 weeks, I was bitten on the couch, then my bed, then one got on my pjs, and then three bites on the couch again today. Luckily, they have all been generally young. No adults. My sister and I are doing prepping for the treatment tomorrow and more then likely will be throwing out more stuff and doing a major cleaning on the entire house. All I keep thinking is..if I was rich, I'd throw everything my family owns, and move out of this house and start all over...no worries, no taking pills just to sleep, no nightmares, no more fears, no more of any of this...but we aren't rich and we can't do that...and that sucks. I find comfort in the fact that I'm doing something about it. I am battling them as best I can. I'm thinking about discussing purchasing monitors with my family. that might just put me more at ease with everything.
bugsinbrooklyn13

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 1:01:49
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Hi all!!! I hope everyone is doing well! Just got back from vaca, and I tried to vaca the site too (there was one point when I had mosquito bites from being outside in Wisconsin, and I freaked, but then they went away and didn't swell up...so I knew mosquito. Plus I was just..outside...OCD! Ha.)

Back now! Midwest, then Vegas. I stayed at MGM, had a bug zip and checked the mattress and box spring the best I could (Thanks David Cain for your video!!!) Everything looked good, MGM hasn't been on the registry lately (means not a darn thing) and all of my clothing (in the suitcase still) is in a black contractor bag-all to be washed, and suitcase to be steamed.

On a funny note, my Vegas companion, carefree and non OCD, threw his luggage on a chair and made the acute observation that my large bug zip with my small suitcase, tote and purse-and shoes every night - looked like an aquarium. ha. ha. ha.

Lots of love and light to everyone!!
Blackheart

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 1:58:14
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Hi Kini, Jaymee, Rosie, Buginbrooklyn, Kass, feeling and everyone, too tired know I've missed some, but I'm thinking of y'all!

I'm awake after 1 a.m. and thinking about calling in sick, major bad dreams and also heartburn, too many beer probably (Kini yeah I've been on kinda of beer bender myself) along with garlic bread (the only thing I ate last night). Shots would definitely be the death of me though!

My friend Robin came over and he caulked the bedroom totally. Will probably be awhile till I get the mattress encasement, so the sofa is it for now, bummer

Just wanted to let you all know I'm thinking of you all, hang in!

Sam
theyareoutthere

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 2:11:16
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Sam, great about the caulking! Bummer about caulking. Take care of yourself.

P.S. I love garlic bread..it is irrestible.
RWhit

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 9:17:15
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Good morning all, and thanks for your nice comments! I actually slept 10 hours last night with the help of some zzzquil, I know it's not an ideal thing to do but I feel better today. I'm stronger I think and am ready to just get this over with. I keep telling myself.. this too shall pass.
I told my Mom about the BB's and she was extremely understand and sweet about everything. She's offered to help with anything and just knowing she's there makes me feel alot better.
As for my business, it's a boutique, I make all the stuff at my home with the use of hot glue. Which would melt and ruin the items I heat treated. So for now I have shut it down, at least until my first treatment. I am buying a packtite today though to help with contaminated items and for the future.
I would also like to tell you that Betty the Bed Bug is no longer with us. She passed away sometime during the night of unknown causes although it is suggested the cause was suffocation. May she burn in hell where she came from.
My thoughts are with all of you who are dealing with bed bugs, if you every want to talk just message me.
InfestedinOH

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 17:16:22
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Well folks, here I am. Feeling very depressed and dejected after having a PCO come out this morning for an initial consult. Here is our long drawn out saga.

Last April we first discovered we had bedbugs. Cue complete meltdowns and horrible initial response: panic. We threw out everything, beds, mattresses, rugs, curtains, couches. We made a hearty attempt at self-treating which seemed to go over rather well. It seemed like we had a pretty bad infestation at the time, but following all the cleaning and washing etc. we thought we'd done a great job. We didn't replace our things for months, just to be sure. Finally in August we purchased a new bed and couches and thought we were in the clear. 2 weeks later our upstairs neighbors informed us that they had bedbugs. Sadface. We had not traveled when we got our infestation and I have always suspected that our neighbor (who travels every week for work) brought them into the house and didn't discover that they had them until after we did. Anyway, they had an exterminator come out and it seemed like our house was bedbug free. Until a week ago.

We discovered one in our son's room and went looking in ours. Yep, bedbugs, all over our mattress cover, which we discovered had a rip in it. Fun. I called my landlord and this time he realized that he had to actually do something. He had a PCO come out this morning. I was convinced that it was a minor infestation compared to last time and that our couches were not infested. Wrong. The PCO found them right away on our bed in the broad daylight as well as my 3-year-old's bed. Apparently seeing them in the daylight is bad news bears. She also found one on the couch.

Here is the kicker to this dramatic saga, none of which really has to do with bedbugs but which are conspiring to drive me insane: my husband and I have been unemployed all summer after finishing grad school (him with his masters, me from law school). We are so behind on everything because of this extended unemployment. We've been struggling to keep the lights on, let alone everything else we need to live. He started working last week and I will start a very demanding job as an attorney next week. For the last month, we've just been trying to keep our heads above water, holding on to the hope that things will be turning around for the better very soon. And now this. Did I mention I'm 4 months pregnant? Because yeah, that too. So I start working 60 hour weeks next week, trying to figure out how to eat until I get my first paycheck, and now I have to figure out how to rid my place of bedbugs with limited time and resources.

The one bright spot is that our neighbors are bedbug free after this morning's inspection. Which means we have probably just never gotten rid of them, or they migrated down here after they sprayed. Our landlord is having the whole house done so that's a relief.

Anyway, I've been reading this thread today trying to maintain my composure. I may or may not have cried in front of the PCO and my landlord this morning. So far we don't have a set date for a first treatment yet, but it will likely be within the next week or so. I've already bagged everything, but have no clue how I'll afford to launder it all.

So if you have any commiseration for me, I'll gladly take it! I'm happy to be here, but sure as hell wish I didn't have to be!
feelinghelplesswith3 babies

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 17:40:29
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Wow . That's a lot to be going through and I'm sorry. Perhaps you can do laundry little by little I did it took me almost a month to do mine I have a family of 5. A baby who is 11 months old. And you are pregnant. But believe me you will get through this. Since you will get treated it will get better. Trust me I was really depressed for a while over it. But now I'm dealing. And refuse to let them suckers win. We are all in this together.
RWhit

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 17:46:34
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Hello infestedinOH, I'm very sorry you have bed bugs, and that they seem to happen during the worse of times. Just hold onto the hope that it will get better. I currently have bed bugs and am getting my first treatment tomorrow. It really sucks and I also have mental break downs. Just know your not alone. I hope things get better for you soon.
kinihatesbedbugs

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 19:22:08
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Hi infestedinOH,

I'm so sorry you have to go thru this with everything going on at once...

I agree with RWhit and feelinghelplesswith3 babies...it will get better and once you have your first treatment your on the right track...

As feelinghelplesswith3 babies stated I would do it little by little...I went to the laundry mat which made it easier to do a a lot of clothes at once in the bigger washer and dryer. I bought cheap laundry detergent . I was more concerned about having things washed in hot water and dried on high.

Were here if you need to vent...sending hugs to you!
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 20:34:00
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For all of you who mentioned nightmares, boy did I have a boozy the other night. Only they were HUGE, like rat sized and all over the place and I had to keep spraying them with alcohol. Yikes. Not nice.

infestedinOH – so sorry to hear about your situation. I can completely relate. Up until a few days after my first treatment you could see them in broad daylight, on my walls and ceiling too! Got them from my downstairs neighbor. Work is absolutely insane for me and I had to take some time off to prepare. I didn’t have time to finish all of my laundry in time, but I did have everything in sealed up garbage bags. My PCOs said that was no problem. As long as they were in sealed bags. So like feeling helpless said, you don’t need to finish everything at once, just do as much as you can. And check back in to this thread if you need any emotional support.

RWhitt – I find that talking to people about this is incredibly therapeutic. At first I was being really secretive because I was so embarrassed, but then I decided what the heck! This isn’t my fault! If any of my friends can’t handle it they don’t deserve to be my friends to begin with. As for my mother, I spent the first few years of my life in the dormitories of the University of Moscow. My mom told me they were just a fact of life there. Nobody freaked out. It’s really calmed me down to talk to her about this.

Sam – thanks, a lot. Now I NEED to get me some garlic bread. Drink some beer and get some sleep girl!

Bugsinbrooklyn – glad you had a good time in Vegas, and way to stay vigilant!

Kass – thanks for the kind wishes. Isn’t it incredible to sleep somewhere safe for just a few nights? I would suggest it for anyone who can afford a night or two away.
Anyone else I may have missed (Angie – always sending my best your way), apologies and know you are in my thoughts.

As for me, spending the night at home vs. the apt again. Hubby is away on business travel so I have cat duty. Still diligently checking in fear that I may have infested my beautiful house before I knew I had this problem. So far, so good. Can’t wait for the passives to get here. Getting my second treatment at the apt on Wednesday. Still seeing some live f*ckers in the bedroom, but it does seem to have gotten better. Saw my downstairs neighbor’s apt yesterday. Nightmare. Thank God I was planning on moving anyhow. As my mom said, “burn everything.” Well, not everything, but whatever I can’t packtite and a few pieces of furniture that I’ll contractor bag and store for 18 months. Also, thank God for wine and Jamesons.

Stay strong my friends in the BB war. We WILL get through this!
buggyinsyracuse

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 20:36:54
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Infestedin OH – forgot to mention that kini’s advice about the laundry mat is dead on. You can get so much done at once, and their washers/dryers tend to run hotter than a typical household washer/dryer. I had never been to a laundry matt before and was amazed at how quickly I was able to get everything done.
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Mon Aug 27 2012 21:41:45
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Hey everybody. I definitely agree with the laundry mat idea. Ours has such huge washers and dryers..I'm so thankful for that..

Well, no bites last night...so that's good. The house is also pretty much prepared for treatment...so right now, I am just focusing on all the positive and trying to keep my OCD and paranoia in check...but we all know how that goes...

Also, I'm going to ask my mother to pick up some good ziploc bags tomorrow and begin to be more cautious with clothes...It's hard when people are always throwing them on the floor (kids) ughh.

I honestly don't think my family is taking this as serious as I am, and it seems I'm unable to convince them..Looks like a family meeting will be tomorrow haha.

I'm hoping this will end soon. I don't like the person that this situation has made me into. I'm not the same as I was before last year. I'm not saying I want to be 100% happy, I'd just like to stop being miserable, ya know?
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 28 2012 2:43:56
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I know I just posted but in the time between the last posting and this one, I may have figured out the whole "Where are they coming from?" question.

I went into my mothers bathroom tonight and just in case, I turned on the bathroom light and looked at my mothers bed and there they were! 5 or 6 adult bed bugs! One on the boxspring, one on the sheets, one by her arm, and one on her pillow and another underneath her pillow. My heart sunk! I couldn't breathe. I ran to my room and grabbed my bottle of alcohol and ran back into her room. She woke up when I sprayed the first one. She was being bitten and didn't react until hours afterward, I'm guessing. She had said something about the bumps on her arm but put it off as just a reaction to a new medication. I'm trying soooo hard to fight the urge of running back in there and checking on her, because I don't want to wake her up. All I want to do is protect her, so she doesn't have to go through all the things I'm going through. I just don't understand what I'm doing wrong. I TRY soooo hard to be vigilant. I'm going to discuss with my PCO on Friday about having them come out every 2 weeks (Will they do that?). I can deal with them biting me. Yes, it is annoying but I can deal with it...My mother is an entirely different story. She doesn't seem to react as severely as I do. Sooo, how am I supposed to know if the treatments are working if she doesn't react until hours after. Her arm was covered in bumps. I should have known better. I even checked the mattress the other day and it was CLEAR of anything at all. I'm going to have a friend come over and help me inspect her boxspring and headboard in the morning. I need to find these things and kill them and I am more determined then ever now. Just the thought of those things on my mom, and all around her like it was in her bed...makes me sick to my stomach.

Could they have moved into her room after the first 2 treatments? Her room was treated the first time but not the second time because they said it was clear. Also, can anyone tell me how best to know if the treatments are working if I'm not the one being bitten and she is? Any advice on this would be awesome. Sorry, for posting twice...just needed to get some stuff of of my chest and ask some questions before I forgot.

Thank you
RWhit

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 28 2012 7:42:49
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JaymeLauren- I totally get you about wanting to protect your mother. Although my Mother doesn't have bed bugs I have the biggest fear of spreading them to her. She had to watch my children yesterday while I did my whole house of laundry at the laundromat and I heat treated all our clothes, showered, even heat treated the diapers and wipes before going there. Paranoid my car is infested. I can tell you though as a Mother myself, she is probably just as worried if not more worried than you are, only she's worried about you. I CANNOT stand the thought of bugs biting my children while they're sleeping so sweet and peacefully so I stay awake to watch them with a bottle of alcohol in my hand. My mindset is, BRING IT ON bed bugs! I will ruin your life if you want to try to feed on my children lol. And it sounds really silly now that I think about it. What I'm getting at is, the bond between a mother and daughter is so strong, I've loved my Mom since the moment of my conception, and I've loved my daughters since the moment of their conception. Your born wanting to protect the ones you love. If you have to go in her room every 20 minutes and go total Rambo on the bed bugs then so be it. If it gives you a little peace of mind I feel like it's worth it. This is totally all over the place, and if this doesnt show how bat shit crazy I am from sleep deprivation then I don't know what will lol. Good luck hun!
InfestedinOH

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 28 2012 9:04:13
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Thanks everyone for all the kind words. One thing that sucks is that none of us react to bites. I'm at the point where I wish I did so that after treatment I'll know if I'm being bitten! I think being nonreactive lets the problem get worse before you notice it.

So I had been sleeping on the couch thinking it was a safe space. After the PCO found evidence of them on the couch yesterday I tried sleeping in the bed again. I slept 3 hours before waking up and not being able to sleep, so I moved back to the couch. I figured what the hell. They are already there but at least I haven't actually SEEN one there yet! lol

I have a bunch of appointments today, but I'll be doing all the wash tomorrow. Good luck to everyone making progress against these bastards!
JaymeLauren

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Posted 8 months ago
Tue Aug 28 2012 10:46:09
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RWhit, thank you for your reply. I finally got some sleep after going and checking on her one more time. A friend and I took apart her bed this morning and found a bunch of them along the top of her boxspring. AHH! At least we were prepared with a bottle of alcohol and the vacuum with us. We sprayed everywhere we saw them and then vacuumed them all up and emptied the vacuum. Ugh, I'm hoping we got them all. Also, my house is torn apart from preparing for treatment and my living room is still half fricking plywood from finishing the floors. It never ends, it seems. I hope I can get some good sleep tonight knowing I killed all those bugs. The thing is I don't have any encasements for her bed right now. We get the ones at walmart until we get the ones from our PCO. We bought a set from them thinking it was going to go in my room, but looks like it is going on moms bed considering my room is clear hopefully. Geez, I'm exhausted just from doing all that this morning but there is a pot of coffee brewing and it definitely has my name on it.

I hope everyone had some good sleep last night and trys to enjoy their days today. thank you all so much for your advice and kind words. It helps me stay sane.