The vision in my left eye has been poor at best since the aneurysm that I had that was "fixed" in 2006. When the poor vision progressed to where it was yesterday, I didn't really think much of it. Even though the Ophthalmologist told me to check the little grid daily and call her immediately if I noticed a change in my vision - when I really couldn't see the lines, I didn't realize something was wrong.
So I had "the injection" yesterday. While I still am not really to read letters and the like there is more light coming in. Driving before was really scary. I really couldn't see at any distance. The last time we went to the SSB we took Daughter's old truck up to be a farm truck and live out its days there. So since we needed a way home - I drove the Toyota. It was quite a tense trip.
Today we took the Toyota to have its fluids changed, and I followed in the truck since we never know how long it may take our mechanic. Plus I get something that is the biggest luxury in life - breakfast at a restaurant! Driving was so much better.
I am going to be hopeful here and think that with the change after one injection and one day, that perhaps I won't really have to be doing this every month. If I do, oh well. But it would be nice to not have my eye "jacked" with every month. It still feels gritty!!
In other things, I was really worried about Simone yesterday. We changed her food to one that is organic and the like. She has been losing hair (for years) to the point where I am afraid we will have a hairless boxer. She has been on a low fat food that is also meant for diabetic dogs for so many years, and I just decided that a change was in order - hopefully to re-grow hair. I know I haven't regrown my hair since chemo, but it was a little sparse before, and my dog doesn't need to give me moral support in that way.
I also was going to give her some treats after she takes her "old lady pills" for incontinence, her glucosamine, and Prevacid. I thought I was buying a good one. I bought Milo's Kitchen chicken bits. Yesterday there was a post that the chicken jerky had been been recalled. It is made in China. I looked at her chicken bits and while it isn't jerky, it is also made in China. And of course she chose yesterday to act like a child refusing to eat all of her breakfast. She will do this, but with the two things together I was really afraid I had killed my dog!
Fortunately she is well today! I can see today more than yesterday. All's right in my world.
Peace.
Thursday, August 09, 2012
Wednesday, August 08, 2012
Report on the day
Lunch was great! I wish I could have enjoyed it more had I not been to nervous about the afternoon activities. We went to my favorite restaurant (at least one of my favorites) that we haven't been to since we were there with the Toy still having paper plates and Bimbette hitting us.
Now on the the big event of the day! My eye. And what did you do for the afternoon of August 8 - why get my eyes dilated (again) and have a needle shoved into the left eye.
Talk about nervous. It seemed like we were there for days when in actuality it was only about an hour and fifteen minutes. The last bit was the worst, as you would imagine.
When I was finally taken back to THE room, after all the instructions and warnings I was given, I was ready to bolt out the door. No pool. If pain that won't stop, severe reaction to light, bleeding - call immediately.
The Betadine will irritate the eye for several hours - no kidding. But the needle is tiny - couldn't prove it by me. Yes, the eyeball was numb, but pressure could be felt and was strange. Pain? Really none. Could I feel the needle - yes, the pressure that my brain screamed that it was supposed to hurt.
Right now (almost three hours post injection) I feel like someone washed my eye out with Dove. It is irritated by the Betadine. Pain? Not really, but it did hurt right afterward and for the hour I decided to put myself in the dark bedroom. While I know my vision will never be perfect - ever, the vision is a little cleared. That is unbelievable.
I go back next week for a check to look for infection. I plan to ask if the aneurysm that was treated in 2006 was a precursor of this Wet Macular Degeneration. After all the hallmarks of this disease are the growth of blood vessels in the retina that disturb vision and cause blindness. I dodged the bullet when I had laser treatments on that aneurysm, and I am hoping for something near it with this. But it is a loooong road. These injections will be once a month for a while with the hopes of extending them to perhaps every quarter - I hope.
But I lived through it! Now I am getting hungry!
Peace.
Now on the the big event of the day! My eye. And what did you do for the afternoon of August 8 - why get my eyes dilated (again) and have a needle shoved into the left eye.
Talk about nervous. It seemed like we were there for days when in actuality it was only about an hour and fifteen minutes. The last bit was the worst, as you would imagine.
When I was finally taken back to THE room, after all the instructions and warnings I was given, I was ready to bolt out the door. No pool. If pain that won't stop, severe reaction to light, bleeding - call immediately.
The Betadine will irritate the eye for several hours - no kidding. But the needle is tiny - couldn't prove it by me. Yes, the eyeball was numb, but pressure could be felt and was strange. Pain? Really none. Could I feel the needle - yes, the pressure that my brain screamed that it was supposed to hurt.
Right now (almost three hours post injection) I feel like someone washed my eye out with Dove. It is irritated by the Betadine. Pain? Not really, but it did hurt right afterward and for the hour I decided to put myself in the dark bedroom. While I know my vision will never be perfect - ever, the vision is a little cleared. That is unbelievable.
I go back next week for a check to look for infection. I plan to ask if the aneurysm that was treated in 2006 was a precursor of this Wet Macular Degeneration. After all the hallmarks of this disease are the growth of blood vessels in the retina that disturb vision and cause blindness. I dodged the bullet when I had laser treatments on that aneurysm, and I am hoping for something near it with this. But it is a loooong road. These injections will be once a month for a while with the hopes of extending them to perhaps every quarter - I hope.
But I lived through it! Now I am getting hungry!
Peace.
Busy (scary) day
Later today I will be at the Retinal Specialists. I will be getting the first of what will be many injections in my left eye for the macular degeneration that is there. When I first watched the little video clip about this - prior to my diagnosis - I really squirmed. Not I am really scared. Before I left the office last week I was assured that my eye would be deadened very well. Yeah - deadened, but I will still be awake and aware of a needle coming to my eyeball!
Before that will be having lunch with Pastor. Don't know what will come from this. I know we will discuss shirts for our Women's group. And speaking of the group, we took our "Noisy Offering" for our group that ministers to the girls. People really had a lot of spare change. The cans were heavy! We also gave them the fleece blankets and crocheted hats. Quite a haul for them.
So - need to prepare for this ordeal. I'll let you know - that is if I am not on some sort of restrictions for a while.
Peace
Before that will be having lunch with Pastor. Don't know what will come from this. I know we will discuss shirts for our Women's group. And speaking of the group, we took our "Noisy Offering" for our group that ministers to the girls. People really had a lot of spare change. The cans were heavy! We also gave them the fleece blankets and crocheted hats. Quite a haul for them.
So - need to prepare for this ordeal. I'll let you know - that is if I am not on some sort of restrictions for a while.
Peace
Friday, August 03, 2012
I need an attitude adjustment
I have spoken before about my perception that we have too much nepotism in my church's leadership. It may be just me, but I suspect there are lots more that are beginning to feel it too, but that's not my topic today,
Those of us who are the most active in our women's group have our ducks in a row. We manage to organize and carry out very well. In fact, we feel like Pastor's sister, who is "minister" of social things, only comes to our meetings to try to catch us doing something "wrong."
The first thing that irked me was one of the groups to which we minister is school district based. She was pointed to that one by my SIL. We eventually adopted a school where we go to volunteer for different things. At our first Women meeting, I brought up a program this group provides to some schools in the district. It provides backpacks to needy kiddo full of food for the weekend. SHE said we were too small to be able to do this. Well guess what she did this past week. She signed us up for this program.
Today I got two emails from her,. The group with the pregnant girls will be the ones who will be getting our "noisy offering" Sunday. This is a neat thing we do for area organizations. Coffee cans are passed among the congregation and spare change (or bills!!) are put in. The director will be bringing some of the girls along with their children. Sister wants two or three women to run a nursery for them., So far she has one volunteer - and this volunteer hasn't done anything else!
THEN she asked me and the other "leader" when we planned to give them the blankets and baby hats we have done for them. Before service, after, during their Temple Talk or what. Pastor and the worship leader need to know before Sunday because it will make a difference the way the worship experience goes. WHAT??? Like we run on a tight, non-changing, chiseled in stone. Not.
So I know I have to get over my silly self. It is just difficult. We are supposed to be one type of church that is being run by those who came from the more conservative branch like that branch - I guess. Not like any other church I have been involved with, and I have been involved with the workings of the church for 51 years. Just having trouble.
Those of us who are the most active in our women's group have our ducks in a row. We manage to organize and carry out very well. In fact, we feel like Pastor's sister, who is "minister" of social things, only comes to our meetings to try to catch us doing something "wrong."
The first thing that irked me was one of the groups to which we minister is school district based. She was pointed to that one by my SIL. We eventually adopted a school where we go to volunteer for different things. At our first Women meeting, I brought up a program this group provides to some schools in the district. It provides backpacks to needy kiddo full of food for the weekend. SHE said we were too small to be able to do this. Well guess what she did this past week. She signed us up for this program.
Today I got two emails from her,. The group with the pregnant girls will be the ones who will be getting our "noisy offering" Sunday. This is a neat thing we do for area organizations. Coffee cans are passed among the congregation and spare change (or bills!!) are put in. The director will be bringing some of the girls along with their children. Sister wants two or three women to run a nursery for them., So far she has one volunteer - and this volunteer hasn't done anything else!
THEN she asked me and the other "leader" when we planned to give them the blankets and baby hats we have done for them. Before service, after, during their Temple Talk or what. Pastor and the worship leader need to know before Sunday because it will make a difference the way the worship experience goes. WHAT??? Like we run on a tight, non-changing, chiseled in stone. Not.
So I know I have to get over my silly self. It is just difficult. We are supposed to be one type of church that is being run by those who came from the more conservative branch like that branch - I guess. Not like any other church I have been involved with, and I have been involved with the workings of the church for 51 years. Just having trouble.
Wednesday, August 01, 2012
Well, isn't this just ducky
There is an old saying out there: if I had known I was going to live this long ... Well that's exactly how I am feeling right now!
The other day, we went to the optometrist's office. She said my eye pressures were really high, and the cataract in my left eye was ready to be dealt with. She told me to get to the ophthalmologist immediately. So I did.
My appointment was at 11 this morning. I was given every test the doctors have. I was finally seen by the doctor, and she did more tests. So now I am to use the Lumigan again because the pressure in my right eye is so high. It is really caused more by my thickened corneas, but she wants the pressure down. Bright side of this - I will have lovely eyelashes again. This is that same drug!
Then she discovered wet macular degeneration in the left eye. She said the cataract was the last of the problems there. This is the poor eye that about 10 years ago had an aneurism. It was treated with laser therapy, and the retinal specialist was amazed that as much vision came back as it did.
So I was whisked off to the retinal specialist once again. I just didn't want to see the same specialist. He just couldn't say anything more than lose weight. And I haven't. In fact, there is now pre-diabetes in my life.
I didn't have to see him, but I had to drive to another area since they were no longer in the medical center where I was. Darn.
So off I went - at 2. No lunch.
My eyes were dilated - again The pressures were measured - again. Pictures of my retinas were taken - again.
To cut to the chase, now I do once a month for an injection IN MY EYE. It also will cost me between $85 and $100 because the cost without insurance is about $2000. I called for assistance this afternoon, but after reading the information once again, because I am on Medicare, I won't get it.
So I have had cancer, my kidneys are sick, I am insulin resistant, and now I am going blind if I don't get this all done. Wonderful.
If I had known I would live this long ...
The other day, we went to the optometrist's office. She said my eye pressures were really high, and the cataract in my left eye was ready to be dealt with. She told me to get to the ophthalmologist immediately. So I did.
My appointment was at 11 this morning. I was given every test the doctors have. I was finally seen by the doctor, and she did more tests. So now I am to use the Lumigan again because the pressure in my right eye is so high. It is really caused more by my thickened corneas, but she wants the pressure down. Bright side of this - I will have lovely eyelashes again. This is that same drug!
Then she discovered wet macular degeneration in the left eye. She said the cataract was the last of the problems there. This is the poor eye that about 10 years ago had an aneurism. It was treated with laser therapy, and the retinal specialist was amazed that as much vision came back as it did.
So I was whisked off to the retinal specialist once again. I just didn't want to see the same specialist. He just couldn't say anything more than lose weight. And I haven't. In fact, there is now pre-diabetes in my life.
I didn't have to see him, but I had to drive to another area since they were no longer in the medical center where I was. Darn.
So off I went - at 2. No lunch.
My eyes were dilated - again The pressures were measured - again. Pictures of my retinas were taken - again.
To cut to the chase, now I do once a month for an injection IN MY EYE. It also will cost me between $85 and $100 because the cost without insurance is about $2000. I called for assistance this afternoon, but after reading the information once again, because I am on Medicare, I won't get it.
So I have had cancer, my kidneys are sick, I am insulin resistant, and now I am going blind if I don't get this all done. Wonderful.
If I had known I would live this long ...
Saturday, July 28, 2012
It was Christmas in July for 12 pregnant girls!
 |
| Part if the tables set yo and diaper cakes in front of out Prayer Table |
 |
| Some of the 15 diaper cakes (130 diapers!) |
 |
| The set up with Santa and MORE diaper cakes. |
 |
| The "Mommy Bags" that are JUST for the mommy - not baby!! |
 |
| Welcome table |
 |
| Little corsages from baby washcloths. Didn't turn out like I planned - the blasted florist tape didn't hold - and my hands couldn't tie 12 ribbons |
 |
| Another area church provided crib bedding sets |
 |
| Special baby shower punch. And it was GOOD! |
In total, there were 39 people in attendance, 12 were the girls. They ranged from 14 to 19. It is sad, but at least they are getting help from this organization. I still lament babies having babies. One girl will be starting high school this year, and someone remarked how immature she is. She had her mother sign her in, take care of her trash, etc. I don't know how she is going to take care of a baby. Grandmother is young too - she is 35.
I guess I think age brings better knowledge and ability, but I know that's not always true. I "rushed to judgement" in several cases. One girl brought the dad, her mom, and little sister. It really made me worry because I thought we were told it was only the girls, but this group was really something. I got to know them best. Daddy is 18, the mom 15. Both are really mature all things considered. He was very protective. Future grandma is a great lady. She did lament that SHE was s single mom - lost her job in May, but with the baby coming she didn't know if she could return to work. Her younger child is 9 and quite a character. I wish this family all the best in the world.
It was quite an afternoon!!
Thursday, July 26, 2012
*&*()&%^*(&%(%
I have a virus - no, I mean this computer has a virus. I have tried to be so careful about protecting my machines. I usually go to overkill (no pun intended here) to keep viruses and their buddies out. But since the protection programs are becoming so proprietary, there were issues with the new versions, so I dropped one of them.
I first noticed that I was getting pop-ups galore when I went on-line. My first
''polly-anna" thought was the server had changed their policies. I use two different ones, but I still wanted to believe the world had changed - not MY computer - the one I diligently protect.
So last night I loaded my previously used firewall/virus program. It immediately told me my computer was infected. It spend quite a while "disinfecting" it. It required immediate re-start. So I did.
Every time I tried to go on line after that - I was dumped. I figured I was in big trouble. And I couldn't start this procedure at a reasonable time! No, I wait until 11 pm. I. AM. SO. BRIGHT. SOMETIMES.
The last time I started the computer I decided I better get smart and restart in safe mode. That allowed me to go to a previous point (whatever the heck it is called - I am old remember - 67 today.). That got rid of all the "new" stuff, and put me back where the computer worked.
This morning, I have downloaded a free program that my son's computer guru friend swears by to get rid of crap. It has been running. We will see. Most of the pop-ups are gone. So far I have avoided the computer hospital. With any luck ...
Peace
I first noticed that I was getting pop-ups galore when I went on-line. My first
''polly-anna" thought was the server had changed their policies. I use two different ones, but I still wanted to believe the world had changed - not MY computer - the one I diligently protect.
So last night I loaded my previously used firewall/virus program. It immediately told me my computer was infected. It spend quite a while "disinfecting" it. It required immediate re-start. So I did.
Every time I tried to go on line after that - I was dumped. I figured I was in big trouble. And I couldn't start this procedure at a reasonable time! No, I wait until 11 pm. I. AM. SO. BRIGHT. SOMETIMES.
The last time I started the computer I decided I better get smart and restart in safe mode. That allowed me to go to a previous point (whatever the heck it is called - I am old remember - 67 today.). That got rid of all the "new" stuff, and put me back where the computer worked.
This morning, I have downloaded a free program that my son's computer guru friend swears by to get rid of crap. It has been running. We will see. Most of the pop-ups are gone. So far I have avoided the computer hospital. With any luck ...
Peace
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Back again
Hopefully next month, I will be living in the modern world with internet capabilities. I was hoping that the satellite internet people could get to us this last visit, but alas it was not to be. So we are scheduled for August 31. I just hope they can find us in the wilderness. I do have my doubts if my experience with ordering are the telling factor.
The trip was good. Daughter was there with the family. All was really smooth with the exception of the five year old. That kid can whine!
This morning I awoke to a dream. Most dreams that wake me are not good ones, but this one was. I was dreaming that I was teaching school again. Now that usually makes me wake not happy, but this was different. In this dream, all my success stories were there. It made me feel so good knowing that I had influenced these kiddos in a positive way. At the end, I wasn't sure that there was anything good coming from my teaching.
Our Women's Group will be hosting a baby shower for another group on Saturday. This is for young pregnant girls/mothers. When we first said we would do this, they said 25 girls. Our church members brought 2000 diapers to make diaper cakes for these girls. Then there were to be 15 girls. So we worked five hours making three layer "cakes" of 160 diapers each. Then one of our members saw a Facebook page advertising for pregnant girls. I am worried.
I do know that our members will overwhelm this shindig. And there will be enough food to feed an army. The person in charge of this from our group has worked this out - somehow while I was gone. I need to call her ASAP to see what was going on.
Peace.
The trip was good. Daughter was there with the family. All was really smooth with the exception of the five year old. That kid can whine!
This morning I awoke to a dream. Most dreams that wake me are not good ones, but this one was. I was dreaming that I was teaching school again. Now that usually makes me wake not happy, but this was different. In this dream, all my success stories were there. It made me feel so good knowing that I had influenced these kiddos in a positive way. At the end, I wasn't sure that there was anything good coming from my teaching.
Our Women's Group will be hosting a baby shower for another group on Saturday. This is for young pregnant girls/mothers. When we first said we would do this, they said 25 girls. Our church members brought 2000 diapers to make diaper cakes for these girls. Then there were to be 15 girls. So we worked five hours making three layer "cakes" of 160 diapers each. Then one of our members saw a Facebook page advertising for pregnant girls. I am worried.
I do know that our members will overwhelm this shindig. And there will be enough food to feed an army. The person in charge of this from our group has worked this out - somehow while I was gone. I need to call her ASAP to see what was going on.
Peace.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Still Thankful
Last year, we in Texas were moaning and groaning because it seemed it would never rain again. For a while, we really thought that was going to be the case.
What a difference a year makes. Since Saturday, here at my house we have had at least a half of an inch a day. This is bringing a lot of mosquitoes too. That part I am not thankful for. God must have a strange sense of humor to have created those little buggers - perhaps He didn't - perhaps the Lucifer caused them to mutate from something else. But I digress.
Since last night to the present time (because it is still raining) my gauge registers 2 inches since 10 pm last night. The news said our area has gotten 11 inches. After last year, I will not lament this. My friend probably is/will. Her house just flooded again. I am so sorry to hear that. It isn't surprising. Our ground is saturated, and this heavy rain will lead to that. She lives in an area that is still prone to flooding.
My area was in a flood area. Subsidence and building upstream from us caused our area to be prone to flooding. We were close - the houses behind us (including the rental we bought) flooded. We had water over our curb into the front yard. My neighbor had her car out in the street and it flooded out. We were lucky with that one - at least my house and my close neighbors.
The county has done a lot of work. G called me after he got to the park-n-ride. He said the bayou that causes our flooding was at the bridge. Usually this would mean that we are in big trouble. It seems to be running off well. We really don't even have water in the street.
Will I complain. Absolutely not. It is so nice to have the rain (sorry Kathy - I know you could use about 5 inches less today), but in addition to giving plants water, it has the temps lower. The farmers are probably not happy especially if they need to be in the fields to harvest or plant.
Hopefully the weather is moderating wherever you are.
Peace.
What a difference a year makes. Since Saturday, here at my house we have had at least a half of an inch a day. This is bringing a lot of mosquitoes too. That part I am not thankful for. God must have a strange sense of humor to have created those little buggers - perhaps He didn't - perhaps the Lucifer caused them to mutate from something else. But I digress.
Since last night to the present time (because it is still raining) my gauge registers 2 inches since 10 pm last night. The news said our area has gotten 11 inches. After last year, I will not lament this. My friend probably is/will. Her house just flooded again. I am so sorry to hear that. It isn't surprising. Our ground is saturated, and this heavy rain will lead to that. She lives in an area that is still prone to flooding.
My area was in a flood area. Subsidence and building upstream from us caused our area to be prone to flooding. We were close - the houses behind us (including the rental we bought) flooded. We had water over our curb into the front yard. My neighbor had her car out in the street and it flooded out. We were lucky with that one - at least my house and my close neighbors.
The county has done a lot of work. G called me after he got to the park-n-ride. He said the bayou that causes our flooding was at the bridge. Usually this would mean that we are in big trouble. It seems to be running off well. We really don't even have water in the street.
Will I complain. Absolutely not. It is so nice to have the rain (sorry Kathy - I know you could use about 5 inches less today), but in addition to giving plants water, it has the temps lower. The farmers are probably not happy especially if they need to be in the fields to harvest or plant.
Hopefully the weather is moderating wherever you are.
Peace.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Sorry
I guess I shouldn't have vented so in my last posts. I am not sure this is the place for it; I just had to vent. Going to the kids (who saw the entire thing) isn't the thing to do, so I could compose words here somewhat better. I appreciate the kind words - and especially the prayers. I need them.
My attitude is still poor. I really want to tell him to go to the SSB while I stay here, but I know that won't fly. I would like to just be alone for a while though.
It is happening a little bit. Yesterday, he had his colonoscopy, so things were rather quiet yesterday. Today he had jury duty and got chosen as an alternate. That means I have time to myself. This will be good.
I have been working on the alter linens for the last couple of days. Our "assistant" pastor asked me about them on Sunday. Don't know why - it's only been at least a month since I said I would do them. I had cut some out, and then realized that I didn't take the hem into account - been sewing much Grandma? Apparently not. That was a really stupid mistake.
Sunday night Lady Bug told me she wouldn't be in "camp" next week - she was between the ones they are attending. She would be available to help me. I wish I could have her that week, but it is SSB week. Monkey Boy wanted to spend Saturday with me again. I told him it was fine - I hoped he would enjoy the day at Women's group! He quickly withdrew that question.
I was going to buy some new shoes today with DIL. But we are getting blessed rains. Like everything - when it doesn't rain - it doesn't rain forever. When it rains - it floods. I will not complain. I will just sit here in the house - and have my arthritis hurt big time. But it is still glorious rain that has lowered our temps considerably. That is so good.
The shoes are a big deal because my first class feet require expensive shoes. Now were I independently wealthy, it wouldn't be a big deal. I would have been buying those designer shoes all along. No - I just wear a cloddy looking Finn. They are certainly not pretty, but they feel so good. They also start at about $150. I know that isn't much, but I was always the Pay-Less queen. Perhaps that's why I need the Finns now!
Peace.
My attitude is still poor. I really want to tell him to go to the SSB while I stay here, but I know that won't fly. I would like to just be alone for a while though.
It is happening a little bit. Yesterday, he had his colonoscopy, so things were rather quiet yesterday. Today he had jury duty and got chosen as an alternate. That means I have time to myself. This will be good.
I have been working on the alter linens for the last couple of days. Our "assistant" pastor asked me about them on Sunday. Don't know why - it's only been at least a month since I said I would do them. I had cut some out, and then realized that I didn't take the hem into account - been sewing much Grandma? Apparently not. That was a really stupid mistake.
Sunday night Lady Bug told me she wouldn't be in "camp" next week - she was between the ones they are attending. She would be available to help me. I wish I could have her that week, but it is SSB week. Monkey Boy wanted to spend Saturday with me again. I told him it was fine - I hoped he would enjoy the day at Women's group! He quickly withdrew that question.
I was going to buy some new shoes today with DIL. But we are getting blessed rains. Like everything - when it doesn't rain - it doesn't rain forever. When it rains - it floods. I will not complain. I will just sit here in the house - and have my arthritis hurt big time. But it is still glorious rain that has lowered our temps considerably. That is so good.
The shoes are a big deal because my first class feet require expensive shoes. Now were I independently wealthy, it wouldn't be a big deal. I would have been buying those designer shoes all along. No - I just wear a cloddy looking Finn. They are certainly not pretty, but they feel so good. They also start at about $150. I know that isn't much, but I was always the Pay-Less queen. Perhaps that's why I need the Finns now!
Peace.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
This and that
I am sorry I was off the deep end about my surgeon. I realize I had only seen him perhaps 12 times - including hospital visits, but he really was a great guy. There are far too few doctors like him around, and that is really sad.
Sunday was pretty much a disaster. I was ready to either just walk out or kill G. He has decided that he is going to blame me for things that go wrong. I don't like that - at all. We put Simone in the bedroom while the kids were here. William doesn't like her, and I don't like him being mean to her. He is usually pretty sneaky about it. All she wants is to be with the "puppies" and enjoy them. I don't want him around her.
Anyway - she managed to bully herself past G. He came blustering into the den yelling about MY dog and it was MY fault she could get out. Well - with all the family watching - I lost it. I told him that was right. Everything that happens in this world is my fault - in fact the sun going down is my fault. I am that powerful.
Well - he sulked off. Nice. Things were really strained after that. I forgot to use paper plates for dinner. He came back from the closet with the paper, and pointed at the cake and then at the plates. At that point I could have stuffed those plates, er, down his throat (or someplace else). I, like a fool, apologized. See - my fault again.
So after dinner, I told him if he would just finish unloading the dishwasher, I would load. Son and family were leaving, so I went out to tell them good by. Daughter was going to stay a little longer, but SIL said it was time to go, and I could tell that another temper tantrum was taking place since G shoved the left over bread into a baggie and slammed the cabinet door. I repeated that I told him I would load.
After everyone was gone - he said that a pottery plate ($$$) under the aluminum pot got broken. Well = ok. He WANTED to make me feel it was my fault for putting the pot in the sink after I emptied it into a serving bowl (there wasn't any place for a hot pot). BUT had he listened to me and left the room it would have never happened.
What really happened was that he had loaded most of the dishes - except for this one. He then was going to scrub the pot, and in his ire used a lot of force which broke the dish.
I was then really ready to just leave. Just get in the car and leave and not come back. I really have had enough of this. Hopefully he decided to be on the straight and narrow, because I haven't put that idea completely out of my mind.
Sorry to burden you with this. Just had to vent.
Peace
Sunday was pretty much a disaster. I was ready to either just walk out or kill G. He has decided that he is going to blame me for things that go wrong. I don't like that - at all. We put Simone in the bedroom while the kids were here. William doesn't like her, and I don't like him being mean to her. He is usually pretty sneaky about it. All she wants is to be with the "puppies" and enjoy them. I don't want him around her.
Anyway - she managed to bully herself past G. He came blustering into the den yelling about MY dog and it was MY fault she could get out. Well - with all the family watching - I lost it. I told him that was right. Everything that happens in this world is my fault - in fact the sun going down is my fault. I am that powerful.
Well - he sulked off. Nice. Things were really strained after that. I forgot to use paper plates for dinner. He came back from the closet with the paper, and pointed at the cake and then at the plates. At that point I could have stuffed those plates, er, down his throat (or someplace else). I, like a fool, apologized. See - my fault again.
So after dinner, I told him if he would just finish unloading the dishwasher, I would load. Son and family were leaving, so I went out to tell them good by. Daughter was going to stay a little longer, but SIL said it was time to go, and I could tell that another temper tantrum was taking place since G shoved the left over bread into a baggie and slammed the cabinet door. I repeated that I told him I would load.
After everyone was gone - he said that a pottery plate ($$$) under the aluminum pot got broken. Well = ok. He WANTED to make me feel it was my fault for putting the pot in the sink after I emptied it into a serving bowl (there wasn't any place for a hot pot). BUT had he listened to me and left the room it would have never happened.
What really happened was that he had loaded most of the dishes - except for this one. He then was going to scrub the pot, and in his ire used a lot of force which broke the dish.
I was then really ready to just leave. Just get in the car and leave and not come back. I really have had enough of this. Hopefully he decided to be on the straight and narrow, because I haven't put that idea completely out of my mind.
Sorry to burden you with this. Just had to vent.
Peace
Saturday, July 07, 2012
The bad and the good
Yesterday, I was enjoying myself sewing little purses and coin purses "in the hoop" on the embroidery machine when the phone rang. I knew Doodle was at the ortho's office to determine hair line fracture or not. I thought, as it was true that is was, Daughter.
Yes they were there, and it was a madhouse. So she called upstairs to where one ortho guy and mine officed. They said they were sure the one where she was would be a madhouse because theirs was too. Dr F (my knee surgeon) had a heart attack a couple of weeks ago and died.
This news still brings the tears to my eyes, and yesterday it brought loud sobs while I was talking to Daughter. Dr F was one of the best people, let alone doctors I have ever met. My first visit to him was wracked with so much fear. I had heard such horror stories about the pain of joint replacement.
After looking at my knees, he said we had to do the left one ASAP because it was so unstable\\. He was afraid it would crumble and break at any time, and then I would have a real problem. I remember how reassuring he was. I clearly remember the words "we can't control the pain you are in now - we CAN control the pain post surgery." And he did.
He always took time to fully explain what was going on, what was going to happen, why and/or any other question we might have. We also talked about his hawks that he looked after in the area of the hospital.
After reading the tributes to him at the funeral web site, this is how he was with his patients. He CARED. He spent time. Explaining. Teaching. Curing. Talking. With one, they talked about music.
He also helped people who didn't have cures from other doctors. On that first visit, we talked with a man who fell into a pond on his farm in another state. He contracted MRSA - that skin eating bacteria. He was about to lose his leg and his life. He returned to Texas and Dr F. His leg was saved.
In reading those tributes, I discovered Dt F didn't only do knees and hips. He did shoulders. Oh, how I wish I had known this. I wouldn't be suffering as I am.
I think of my future. I will not see him for my yearly follow up. Something that I, like his other patients, looked forward to. We enjoyed going to see him. That isn't something most people feel about their doctors.
I am so very, very sad at his passing. The tears still want to flow. I know he was "only" my surgeon, but I know he looked on us as more than "only" his patients.
_____________________________________________________________________________
The good is that birthday boy has had a good day with us. He needed this time today - with us - alone. Usually the girls push him our of the way and take over. It must be hell to be the middle between two sisters - especially like his outgoing sisters. The eldest usually brags that she is my favorite, and I love her more. I have spend a lot more time with her - she is older, is able to do my hobbies, and has always been easier. But today is Monkey Boy's day! Tomorrow I will post a picture or two!
Peace
Yes they were there, and it was a madhouse. So she called upstairs to where one ortho guy and mine officed. They said they were sure the one where she was would be a madhouse because theirs was too. Dr F (my knee surgeon) had a heart attack a couple of weeks ago and died.
This news still brings the tears to my eyes, and yesterday it brought loud sobs while I was talking to Daughter. Dr F was one of the best people, let alone doctors I have ever met. My first visit to him was wracked with so much fear. I had heard such horror stories about the pain of joint replacement.
After looking at my knees, he said we had to do the left one ASAP because it was so unstable\\. He was afraid it would crumble and break at any time, and then I would have a real problem. I remember how reassuring he was. I clearly remember the words "we can't control the pain you are in now - we CAN control the pain post surgery." And he did.
He always took time to fully explain what was going on, what was going to happen, why and/or any other question we might have. We also talked about his hawks that he looked after in the area of the hospital.
After reading the tributes to him at the funeral web site, this is how he was with his patients. He CARED. He spent time. Explaining. Teaching. Curing. Talking. With one, they talked about music.
He also helped people who didn't have cures from other doctors. On that first visit, we talked with a man who fell into a pond on his farm in another state. He contracted MRSA - that skin eating bacteria. He was about to lose his leg and his life. He returned to Texas and Dr F. His leg was saved.
In reading those tributes, I discovered Dt F didn't only do knees and hips. He did shoulders. Oh, how I wish I had known this. I wouldn't be suffering as I am.
I think of my future. I will not see him for my yearly follow up. Something that I, like his other patients, looked forward to. We enjoyed going to see him. That isn't something most people feel about their doctors.
I am so very, very sad at his passing. The tears still want to flow. I know he was "only" my surgeon, but I know he looked on us as more than "only" his patients.
_____________________________________________________________________________
The good is that birthday boy has had a good day with us. He needed this time today - with us - alone. Usually the girls push him our of the way and take over. It must be hell to be the middle between two sisters - especially like his outgoing sisters. The eldest usually brags that she is my favorite, and I love her more. I have spend a lot more time with her - she is older, is able to do my hobbies, and has always been easier. But today is Monkey Boy's day! Tomorrow I will post a picture or two!
Peace
Friday, July 06, 2012
Let the festivities begin
Ah, July. The month with the onslaught of birthdays for our family!
Today is Monkey Boy's eighth birthday. His mom always looks around and buys lots and lots of things before Christmas and birthdays, and she lets me shop her "store" when it is time. I will do that again this year, but for something small. I have decided that he is old enough (and has come around to thinking I am
an ok person - and he will even say he loves me without being prompted) that I will take him to lunch and out to choose his birthday present.
Tomorrow, Son turns 36. Wow - where did those years go. I was just so glad he wasn't born on the 4th, but he would have parlayed that into his Country band somehow. His cousin was due the same week. Son couldn't wait, and nephew was in no hurry, so he came on the 23rd. That would have been something to have two babies in the family that would have been 7-4-1976.
Doodle Bug comes in on the 20th. We will find out today if her early present is a real cast. She is handling the splint well, but I am not sure about 6 more weeks in a real cast. The other kids already can't get in the pool since she can't. Like the stereotypical baby of the family, she objects - loudly.
Then on the 26th I turn (gasp) 67. This is a new thing for me - to admit my age. But for a while there, I wasn't sure I would see this age. So now I might as well be proud of it. When I was teaching, the last thing you wanted was to be seen as old. The kiddos didn't take too well to that.
So July is hot as a firecracker (but not our hottest month) and we help the local economy too!
Stay cool, and have a good weekend.
Peace
Today is Monkey Boy's eighth birthday. His mom always looks around and buys lots and lots of things before Christmas and birthdays, and she lets me shop her "store" when it is time. I will do that again this year, but for something small. I have decided that he is old enough (and has come around to thinking I am
an ok person - and he will even say he loves me without being prompted) that I will take him to lunch and out to choose his birthday present.
Tomorrow, Son turns 36. Wow - where did those years go. I was just so glad he wasn't born on the 4th, but he would have parlayed that into his Country band somehow. His cousin was due the same week. Son couldn't wait, and nephew was in no hurry, so he came on the 23rd. That would have been something to have two babies in the family that would have been 7-4-1976.
Doodle Bug comes in on the 20th. We will find out today if her early present is a real cast. She is handling the splint well, but I am not sure about 6 more weeks in a real cast. The other kids already can't get in the pool since she can't. Like the stereotypical baby of the family, she objects - loudly.
Then on the 26th I turn (gasp) 67. This is a new thing for me - to admit my age. But for a while there, I wasn't sure I would see this age. So now I might as well be proud of it. When I was teaching, the last thing you wanted was to be seen as old. The kiddos didn't take too well to that.
So July is hot as a firecracker (but not our hottest month) and we help the local economy too!
Stay cool, and have a good weekend.
Peace
Thursday, July 05, 2012
Our first hotel of the trip
 |
| This is taken from the door. |
 |
| This is taken from in front of the dresser below. The bath is in the door with the mirror |
 | ||
| This is from the bed area in the first picture |
The closet isn't included in the pictures, but it is between the mirrored door and that chair in the above picture. You can see the remains of plumbing - like for a sink. All in all the closet was strange.
The room was clean. It was BIG, but the a/c left a lot to be desired. The thermostat on the wall in the door to the outside alcove didn't seem to work. I'll bet that this was a great room at one time for a family. I have never stayed in a room as large as this one.
To be honest - I was glad we were only to be here one night. This hotel was built in 1905 I believe.
I will post pictures of the second old hotel in the next couple of days.
Peace
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
For today - answers
As to the Lipitor. I simply told the doc that I couldn't tolerate the leg cramps. Some of them were really deep in my upper thigh. I couldn't work them out sometimes for several minutes. He said this happens in about 10% of people taking the drug. He then asked how long I had been off of it, and I told him at least 2 months. My numbers still hadn't climbed too far, so he gave me something (I'll look at the script later if it seems important) that is a powder to put in my morning liquids. It doesn't enter the blood stream and acts like a magnet to the cholesterol and even some of the sugars to pass them out of the body. We'll see. But if it means being off the Lipitor and getting plaque, then it better hurry and build up. There are other threats out there to my life!
I was watching "The View" for a few minutes - until I got so tired of Paula Dean and realized it was a re-run. On there, Dr Oz pointed out to avoid white foods. I agree with him. I looked at my labs from the cardio doc (the only ones I was privy to) and saw that the potassium was at the limit for normal. With that in mind - I will be a bit more careful, but white foods - no! G wanted me to ask the cardio doc about that, but we talked about so many other more important things that I didn't get it in.
JuJu - yes I heard that Adele is pregnant!
Our friend/neighbor/cousin's death in reality is a good thing. One of the last things he told G when they talked on the phone was that brain cancer wasn't any fun. When we had seen him the month before, he was just a skeleton. Of course, he also had suffered a ruptured colon which almost killed him, and he was with a colostomy bag. I know the quality of his life was terrible. I don't think he was really happy about being alive, and they did everything possible to prepare for the eventuality of his death. They had Thanksgiving, Christmas, and birthdays in June knowing the end was near. I know there is peace for all now. I think the preparations were so complete that the funeral taking place the next day was just part of the plan. I personally hated it because we couldn't have made it under the best of circumstances.
Hopefully our upstairs a/c is finally fixed. Perhaps we should have just replaced the $500 board for the fan. After replacing the heater (yeah, that makes sense in July!) and the a/c coil - there has been nothing but trouble. If I didn't trust the company as I do, I would say they wanted to replace the entire system, which I wanted to suggest in the first place. But we are able to stay nice and cool down here since they are separate systems.
To those of you without power (if there is anyone), I really understand what you are going through. I really hope you are restored soon. It is such a terrible time. The news reports did say one thing that you have that is more than we in Swampland have - cellars. Not a great help to be sure, but they are cooler! Praying for you to have power restored soon.
In the other parts where the heat is so bad, I know what you are going through. I am praying for a break for you too! This is killer heat. Be careful.
Peace.
I was watching "The View" for a few minutes - until I got so tired of Paula Dean and realized it was a re-run. On there, Dr Oz pointed out to avoid white foods. I agree with him. I looked at my labs from the cardio doc (the only ones I was privy to) and saw that the potassium was at the limit for normal. With that in mind - I will be a bit more careful, but white foods - no! G wanted me to ask the cardio doc about that, but we talked about so many other more important things that I didn't get it in.
JuJu - yes I heard that Adele is pregnant!
Our friend/neighbor/cousin's death in reality is a good thing. One of the last things he told G when they talked on the phone was that brain cancer wasn't any fun. When we had seen him the month before, he was just a skeleton. Of course, he also had suffered a ruptured colon which almost killed him, and he was with a colostomy bag. I know the quality of his life was terrible. I don't think he was really happy about being alive, and they did everything possible to prepare for the eventuality of his death. They had Thanksgiving, Christmas, and birthdays in June knowing the end was near. I know there is peace for all now. I think the preparations were so complete that the funeral taking place the next day was just part of the plan. I personally hated it because we couldn't have made it under the best of circumstances.
Hopefully our upstairs a/c is finally fixed. Perhaps we should have just replaced the $500 board for the fan. After replacing the heater (yeah, that makes sense in July!) and the a/c coil - there has been nothing but trouble. If I didn't trust the company as I do, I would say they wanted to replace the entire system, which I wanted to suggest in the first place. But we are able to stay nice and cool down here since they are separate systems.
To those of you without power (if there is anyone), I really understand what you are going through. I really hope you are restored soon. It is such a terrible time. The news reports did say one thing that you have that is more than we in Swampland have - cellars. Not a great help to be sure, but they are cooler! Praying for you to have power restored soon.
In the other parts where the heat is so bad, I know what you are going through. I am praying for a break for you too! This is killer heat. Be careful.
Peace.
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
Bits of this and that
Our friend/neighbor/cousin that lives close to the SSB succumbed to his brain cancer yesterday morning. I really had wanted to attend his funeral. After all, we did have so many things in common - his wife had gotten sick at the same time I discovered my cancer, and he did have cancer. His was different however. It was fast growing, and killed him so quickly. We had planned to see him the next time we were at the SSB, the last time he was getting treated by hospice and we were going to be leaving the next day. Sad.
I had my follow-up with the nephrologist. He said my potassium was high, so he gave me a diet that would limit my ingestion of potassium. It is something that I simply cannot really adhere to because the very first part flies in the face of what I consider healthy. With pre-diabetes, I try to avoid white foods. This diet says to eat white bread and white rice as opposed to wheat bread and brown rice. Guess I am going to have a problem there.
Today I went to the cardio doc. I told him that I had quit Lipitor on my own because I couldn't stand the muscle cramps in my legs at night. I thought he was going to tell me that was just tough and get back on it. I figure I will be 67 (ouch!) in a few weeks. My heart is in good condition. What is going to get me first? Cancer recurring or a massive stroke or heart attack. Let's face it, there simply aren't too many more dances in my future!
Doodle Bug had to go back to the clinic yesterday. It is still not clear if there is a fracture or not. I found out this was in the elbow. So she is in a splint for a few days then heading to a bone doc. We will see what happens now. She flipped out at first about the splint, but she is doing ok with it now. It is pink. It is ok.
Tomorrow I will try to post some pictures of the trip. I especially want to post that first hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It was horrid! The pictures don't seem to do it the way it really was. It was just so bad. I still shudder when I think of it. I hope I never have to stay in 100 year old hotels!
Peace.
I had my follow-up with the nephrologist. He said my potassium was high, so he gave me a diet that would limit my ingestion of potassium. It is something that I simply cannot really adhere to because the very first part flies in the face of what I consider healthy. With pre-diabetes, I try to avoid white foods. This diet says to eat white bread and white rice as opposed to wheat bread and brown rice. Guess I am going to have a problem there.
Today I went to the cardio doc. I told him that I had quit Lipitor on my own because I couldn't stand the muscle cramps in my legs at night. I thought he was going to tell me that was just tough and get back on it. I figure I will be 67 (ouch!) in a few weeks. My heart is in good condition. What is going to get me first? Cancer recurring or a massive stroke or heart attack. Let's face it, there simply aren't too many more dances in my future!
Doodle Bug had to go back to the clinic yesterday. It is still not clear if there is a fracture or not. I found out this was in the elbow. So she is in a splint for a few days then heading to a bone doc. We will see what happens now. She flipped out at first about the splint, but she is doing ok with it now. It is pink. It is ok.
Tomorrow I will try to post some pictures of the trip. I especially want to post that first hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It was horrid! The pictures don't seem to do it the way it really was. It was just so bad. I still shudder when I think of it. I hope I never have to stay in 100 year old hotels!
Peace.
Monday, July 02, 2012
Slow start
It has been a slow start to get back into the scheme of things. I finally got my laundry done. I don't know what that says about me - either I have way too many clothes or something. But I really do hate laundry.
We had new windows put in the other day. All the ones across the front are done, but the one we are having put in the back had to be re-ordered. Its frame was broken. It is a huge window - replacing two fairly large windows. It will be less expensive to put a picture window there. That's ok -we don't open the windows anyway. They could have all been picture windows.
Today we had the upstairs' heater replaced. The unit wasn't working properly before we left, and I made the appointment before we got home. It was a circuit board that was out, and it was going to be over $500. The heater was wonky to begin with, and there was the thought of the a/c coil being damaged, so that was done today.
Watch us bleed money!
Daughter has had her share of things recently, but she really has brought them on herself. Yesterday she went with LB to a swim meet. She had little DB with her. Then Monkey Boy had another base ball tournament. She brought DB with her. DB wanted to go home last night, but Daughter convinced her to stay longer. To cut to the chase - Monkey hit her with a bat. They thought her arm was broken. She went back this morning. I am still waiting on that one. She should have just brought the baby home - she was tired. This wouldn't have happened.
If you can read between the lines there, you can see that I really believe they have gone completely overboard with all this sports stuff. It is the weekend - from early Saturday (often Friday nights) to late Sunday night. Too. Much.
Yes - I am not into sports. When my kids were little we didn't do this. SIL's father was like this. SIL claimed he would never be this way , but actions speak louder than words.
Enough of my vile. I am really sorry so many of you are sweltering. I know how bad it can be. For a change, we had rain, and our temperatures are about normal for a change.
I know it will be over for you all soon - and we will be hit hard again. Ah, such is life.
Peace.
We had new windows put in the other day. All the ones across the front are done, but the one we are having put in the back had to be re-ordered. Its frame was broken. It is a huge window - replacing two fairly large windows. It will be less expensive to put a picture window there. That's ok -we don't open the windows anyway. They could have all been picture windows.
Today we had the upstairs' heater replaced. The unit wasn't working properly before we left, and I made the appointment before we got home. It was a circuit board that was out, and it was going to be over $500. The heater was wonky to begin with, and there was the thought of the a/c coil being damaged, so that was done today.
Watch us bleed money!
Daughter has had her share of things recently, but she really has brought them on herself. Yesterday she went with LB to a swim meet. She had little DB with her. Then Monkey Boy had another base ball tournament. She brought DB with her. DB wanted to go home last night, but Daughter convinced her to stay longer. To cut to the chase - Monkey hit her with a bat. They thought her arm was broken. She went back this morning. I am still waiting on that one. She should have just brought the baby home - she was tired. This wouldn't have happened.
If you can read between the lines there, you can see that I really believe they have gone completely overboard with all this sports stuff. It is the weekend - from early Saturday (often Friday nights) to late Sunday night. Too. Much.
Yes - I am not into sports. When my kids were little we didn't do this. SIL's father was like this. SIL claimed he would never be this way , but actions speak louder than words.
Enough of my vile. I am really sorry so many of you are sweltering. I know how bad it can be. For a change, we had rain, and our temperatures are about normal for a change.
I know it will be over for you all soon - and we will be hit hard again. Ah, such is life.
Peace.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Home again, home again ...
We made it home in good time. Of course it was 104 here too. Wonderful. And the heat hasn't stopped yet.
I had called the a/c people from Tulsa because I knew the unit for upstairs was out. So they came yesterday early morning. It was, as I suspected, a problem with the fan. And it was. A circuit board (which means $$$) was out. It will cost $500, but the heater unit is bad, and replacing it will cost about $3000. AND doing this may break the internal a/c coil. Nice.
We picked up our fur babies right after coming home. Simone acted strange all night - in fact she threw up. She acted like someone tugged too hard on a leash and irritated her throat. It may have been me since she was ready to walk out the door as soon as we got there. Today, she is her old self again.
Shadow has never been a really friendly cat. He wanted to be close by, but he really didn't want to be in a lap and petted. He never even purred much. He is a different cat. For the most part, he doesn't want to be away from me. Today is is spending time looking out the window during the day, but at night he is clingy.
So now life returns to normal - whatever that is.
Peace.
I had called the a/c people from Tulsa because I knew the unit for upstairs was out. So they came yesterday early morning. It was, as I suspected, a problem with the fan. And it was. A circuit board (which means $$$) was out. It will cost $500, but the heater unit is bad, and replacing it will cost about $3000. AND doing this may break the internal a/c coil. Nice.
We picked up our fur babies right after coming home. Simone acted strange all night - in fact she threw up. She acted like someone tugged too hard on a leash and irritated her throat. It may have been me since she was ready to walk out the door as soon as we got there. Today, she is her old self again.
Shadow has never been a really friendly cat. He wanted to be close by, but he really didn't want to be in a lap and petted. He never even purred much. He is a different cat. For the most part, he doesn't want to be away from me. Today is is spending time looking out the window during the day, but at night he is clingy.
So now life returns to normal - whatever that is.
Peace.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Warm welcome
We were given a very warm welcome back to Texas. We have stopped in Dallas to visit G's elderly aunts. Dallas was kind enough to give us a warm welcome, very warm - 106 degrees warm. While I appreciate the gesture, you didn't have to do it - really.
Yesterday we drove from Cedar Rapids to Tulsa - actually a little place south of Tulsa. Then today was the leg to Dallas.
If G ever leaves for a trip without a map, I swear I will kill him. That has caused more problems than anything else on this trip. I really don't think the GPS in the car is working properly. In fact, I know it. I cannot input addresses. etc. The map is ok - until it is messed with!
The road from Tulsa to Dallas is not well marked with road signs. We wanted highway 75. That highway and 69 ran together, but 75 wasn't marked well. The GPS didn't have the markings either.
Tomorrow - home. And the next day - we have the ac people out. Our upstairs ac was out before we left. I will bet it is over 100 up there today.
We had dinner with the aunts. They are getting so feeble. But we went to dinner and had a great time.
Bed time now!
Peace
Yesterday we drove from Cedar Rapids to Tulsa - actually a little place south of Tulsa. Then today was the leg to Dallas.
If G ever leaves for a trip without a map, I swear I will kill him. That has caused more problems than anything else on this trip. I really don't think the GPS in the car is working properly. In fact, I know it. I cannot input addresses. etc. The map is ok - until it is messed with!
The road from Tulsa to Dallas is not well marked with road signs. We wanted highway 75. That highway and 69 ran together, but 75 wasn't marked well. The GPS didn't have the markings either.
Tomorrow - home. And the next day - we have the ac people out. Our upstairs ac was out before we left. I will bet it is over 100 up there today.
We had dinner with the aunts. They are getting so feeble. But we went to dinner and had a great time.
Bed time now!
Peace
Saturday, June 23, 2012
The end has come
We finished off the convention with another train ride. And to think we made fewer trips this year!!
This one ended at an independent train operation shops around here. All would have been good with one glaring exception. We were to get off the train for lunch. They SAID there would be seating. Do I need to tell you? No, well I will anyway. There were about 8 tables that sat 8 - for about 300 people. Now my math doesn't have those numbers equal.
People were leaning anyplace they could, sat anyplace they could - on the ground or any flat piece of equipment or simply stood to eat a pretty good meal of chicken breast, chicken tetrazinni, a mayo salad, roll and cookie. That has been a weakness here.
Tomorrow we head to St Joe's. We want to be as close to Dallas as we can get. We want to see G's 2 remaining aunts. They are the only ones left from the 10 children, and my favorite one doesn't sound good at all. They had lived in Houston until Aunt B's daughter insisted they not live alone, and not live in Houston. She wanted her mom close, but I don't know why. She is never home.
It has been overall a good time here. The meals were the glitch. I already talked about those associated with the train rides. We went to the banquet last night. It was a zoo getting in. They finally served food. The tables were not properly set - like only four coffee cups for seven people - things like that. The food was, well, banquet food. There was to be a program, but at 8 it had not begun. So we left. That was ok - I wanted to be home. I couldn't believe he had signed up for the banquet. The last one we went to was a zoo too!
Peace
This one ended at an independent train operation shops around here. All would have been good with one glaring exception. We were to get off the train for lunch. They SAID there would be seating. Do I need to tell you? No, well I will anyway. There were about 8 tables that sat 8 - for about 300 people. Now my math doesn't have those numbers equal.
People were leaning anyplace they could, sat anyplace they could - on the ground or any flat piece of equipment or simply stood to eat a pretty good meal of chicken breast, chicken tetrazinni, a mayo salad, roll and cookie. That has been a weakness here.
Tomorrow we head to St Joe's. We want to be as close to Dallas as we can get. We want to see G's 2 remaining aunts. They are the only ones left from the 10 children, and my favorite one doesn't sound good at all. They had lived in Houston until Aunt B's daughter insisted they not live alone, and not live in Houston. She wanted her mom close, but I don't know why. She is never home.
It has been overall a good time here. The meals were the glitch. I already talked about those associated with the train rides. We went to the banquet last night. It was a zoo getting in. They finally served food. The tables were not properly set - like only four coffee cups for seven people - things like that. The food was, well, banquet food. There was to be a program, but at 8 it had not begun. So we left. That was ok - I wanted to be home. I couldn't believe he had signed up for the banquet. The last one we went to was a zoo too!
Peace
Friday, June 22, 2012
Nearing the end of the convention
And I am glad. I really am ready to go home. Basically I am a home body who married basically a nomad. And, of course, since the temperatures here have broken and are back to the normals of 80's, he really doesn't want to go home. At breakfast he read that the temp in Houston was going to be 105. Now I do readily admit I HATE that too, but then I am a house person. I rarely go out in those temperatures.
Now to the travelog, or what I did on my vacation. Yesterday I had the morning to myself. It was just Della, the computer, and me. I visited some sites, did some on-line buying of embroidery designs (like I need more since at last count I was over 45,000). I discovered that it's easy to set up a store on Facebook. Now I know that will come back to bite me in the butt. Facebook doesn't do anything to help the average person, but I did it anyway. So I am about half way through loading my stuff.
In the afternoon, we took the fob to the Toyota place. You see we have one of those fancy-dancy starting thingies that you don't stick the key in to start. When the fob goes, you have a few times of magically touching the start button with the fob Toyota side down. We have been depend on my fob alone on this trip. But this was the way it was planned. G figured we would have free time here, and Cedar Falls is certainly big enough to have a Toyota dealer.
The problem with that dang thing was when we followed the manual, there was no battery just staring us in the face when we opened the thing. Knowing how much normal fobs run, I wasn't about to take the thing apart. I could just see me breaking welds and the like. The circuit board had to be removed! A little step that the fine people in Japan neglected to tell us folks over here. My son would say he could just see the writer of the manual laughing his a*s off thinking of us poor souls here in the states trying to figure this one out.
So, fob with new battery in hand, we set out to explore Cedar Falls. We thought we would go down to Czech square, since the closest we got was the museum that wasn't open (still questioning that one!). Most of the stores are still boarded up from the terrible flood two years ago.
We set out for home with a mission to find paper plates. That one came out of left field, didn't it? We needed them so that on Saturday night we can have a smorgasbord of left over Mexican and Chinese foods. Appetizing isn't it?
That led us to a Dairy Queen. My diet has completely gone in the toilet this week. The trips we have been on include lunch. The lunches are big, but do I only eat a little of it, oh, no! Of course not! After all there are starving children in _________ (you fill in the blank). That's always an excuse, right? AND yesterday put the period to any thought of going home with less of me than I started with. I had a MEDIUM blizzard. Something that I have not had in at least 10 years. And. I. Enjoyed. Every. Bite!
So as I sit here, falling over this chair on both sides, and before I waddle to the banquet tonight, I'll sign off my little report.
Peace.
Now to the travelog, or what I did on my vacation. Yesterday I had the morning to myself. It was just Della, the computer, and me. I visited some sites, did some on-line buying of embroidery designs (like I need more since at last count I was over 45,000). I discovered that it's easy to set up a store on Facebook. Now I know that will come back to bite me in the butt. Facebook doesn't do anything to help the average person, but I did it anyway. So I am about half way through loading my stuff.
In the afternoon, we took the fob to the Toyota place. You see we have one of those fancy-dancy starting thingies that you don't stick the key in to start. When the fob goes, you have a few times of magically touching the start button with the fob Toyota side down. We have been depend on my fob alone on this trip. But this was the way it was planned. G figured we would have free time here, and Cedar Falls is certainly big enough to have a Toyota dealer.
The problem with that dang thing was when we followed the manual, there was no battery just staring us in the face when we opened the thing. Knowing how much normal fobs run, I wasn't about to take the thing apart. I could just see me breaking welds and the like. The circuit board had to be removed! A little step that the fine people in Japan neglected to tell us folks over here. My son would say he could just see the writer of the manual laughing his a*s off thinking of us poor souls here in the states trying to figure this one out.
So, fob with new battery in hand, we set out to explore Cedar Falls. We thought we would go down to Czech square, since the closest we got was the museum that wasn't open (still questioning that one!). Most of the stores are still boarded up from the terrible flood two years ago.
We set out for home with a mission to find paper plates. That one came out of left field, didn't it? We needed them so that on Saturday night we can have a smorgasbord of left over Mexican and Chinese foods. Appetizing isn't it?
That led us to a Dairy Queen. My diet has completely gone in the toilet this week. The trips we have been on include lunch. The lunches are big, but do I only eat a little of it, oh, no! Of course not! After all there are starving children in _________ (you fill in the blank). That's always an excuse, right? AND yesterday put the period to any thought of going home with less of me than I started with. I had a MEDIUM blizzard. Something that I have not had in at least 10 years. And. I. Enjoyed. Every. Bite!
So as I sit here, falling over this chair on both sides, and before I waddle to the banquet tonight, I'll sign off my little report.
Peace.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
So, it's Thursday (isn't it?)
We are staying at a really nice hotel. It is only about 6 months old. Very clean, very bright, wonderful desk for me to use. But, and you knew there would be a but from me, the air conditioner is a schizophrenic!
When we first got into the room a few days ago, the room was hot and stuffy. So we cranked the thermostat down to 65. After a bit, we were freezing, so we put the thermostat at 72. Then we were boiling. It was not 72 I will tell you! It had to be more like 79.
That night I cranked it down to 67 under G's watchful eye. In the middle of the night - when I was sure he was asleep - that sucker went down. I don't know how far down because it was dark and I didn't have my glasses on. Better.
This was about the same for the next day. We were pretty comfortable day and night. We also turned the fan to high which produced a strong puff rather than an asthmatic wheeze. Worked fairly well. But it was set at 67. Uh, not the real temperature.
Last night we didn't change anything. It was HOT during the night, but we both were so restless, I dared not change it. I couldn't be assured G was asleep.
This morning I told G we needed to report this to the desk. Well, he left for this tour of the smokestacks at the ethanol plant. I didn't want to do this one - hart hats, steel toed shoes and safety goggles. Not in my wardrobe. Besides I get freaked out with huge equipment!
But back to the AC. I am sitting here FREEZING. How do I get someone here to check the b**tard when it appears to be working fine. BAH!
We only have two more functions. Tomorrow night is the banquet. I don't really know why G chose to go. We went to one, and it was boring, boring, boring. But we will go. Then on Saturday we have another train trip. We will go to Waterloo.
Yesterday was a bus tour. We went to a museum that isn't open yet. It isn't even filled out with displays. Then a little settlement of houses brought in to be like a working man's living area in the late 1800's to about 1930. Cute little houses. It ended with a tour of a mansion. I didn't take the tour choosing the museum instead because there were a lot of stairs.
Stairs have been my nemesis. School buses, trains, etc. I will be glad to get home!
Peace.
When we first got into the room a few days ago, the room was hot and stuffy. So we cranked the thermostat down to 65. After a bit, we were freezing, so we put the thermostat at 72. Then we were boiling. It was not 72 I will tell you! It had to be more like 79.
That night I cranked it down to 67 under G's watchful eye. In the middle of the night - when I was sure he was asleep - that sucker went down. I don't know how far down because it was dark and I didn't have my glasses on. Better.
This was about the same for the next day. We were pretty comfortable day and night. We also turned the fan to high which produced a strong puff rather than an asthmatic wheeze. Worked fairly well. But it was set at 67. Uh, not the real temperature.
Last night we didn't change anything. It was HOT during the night, but we both were so restless, I dared not change it. I couldn't be assured G was asleep.
This morning I told G we needed to report this to the desk. Well, he left for this tour of the smokestacks at the ethanol plant. I didn't want to do this one - hart hats, steel toed shoes and safety goggles. Not in my wardrobe. Besides I get freaked out with huge equipment!
But back to the AC. I am sitting here FREEZING. How do I get someone here to check the b**tard when it appears to be working fine. BAH!
We only have two more functions. Tomorrow night is the banquet. I don't really know why G chose to go. We went to one, and it was boring, boring, boring. But we will go. Then on Saturday we have another train trip. We will go to Waterloo.
Yesterday was a bus tour. We went to a museum that isn't open yet. It isn't even filled out with displays. Then a little settlement of houses brought in to be like a working man's living area in the late 1800's to about 1930. Cute little houses. It ended with a tour of a mansion. I didn't take the tour choosing the museum instead because there were a lot of stairs.
Stairs have been my nemesis. School buses, trains, etc. I will be glad to get home!
Peace.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
First train trip of the convention
We had that trip today. It. Was. Long! We boarded the bus to go to the train at 7:30 and as soon as we got off the bus we boarded the train. We got back at 7pm. I. Am. Tired!
It was a great trip - being brought almost all the way back by a steam engine, but that meant that we had to travel more slowly. The steamer is like me - slower and more fragile!
The bad (and only bad) part of the trip was lunch. The train stopped at a park that had perhaps three benches for lunch. There are a lot of us older folks that cannot sit on the grass. G and I found some playground equipment at the far end of the park and I sat on a hot slide to eat.
The best part of the lunch was a man we came across. At first I just thought it strange that he had no teeth. Our group is definitely middle class (or some much better). This is NOT a cheap hobby. So I thought it strange this guy had no teeth.
We talked about the train since they were going to do a "fly by" which means the train backs up to come by at speed for those who want pictures of that. Anyway, we just sort of mentioned the fly by.
Later G said - "he must be homeless." And G had to be right! This man managed to score himself a box lunch in the madness of getting those boxes! I know that wasn't the "right thing" to do, but I was so glad he was able to have a meal. I doubt many, if any others, know about this, but I was happy for this man.
He seemed to be very sweet, and when we were leaving, we looked out of the train window. He was helping the caterer clean up the area. Well done. And thanks be to God.
It was a great trip - being brought almost all the way back by a steam engine, but that meant that we had to travel more slowly. The steamer is like me - slower and more fragile!
The bad (and only bad) part of the trip was lunch. The train stopped at a park that had perhaps three benches for lunch. There are a lot of us older folks that cannot sit on the grass. G and I found some playground equipment at the far end of the park and I sat on a hot slide to eat.
The best part of the lunch was a man we came across. At first I just thought it strange that he had no teeth. Our group is definitely middle class (or some much better). This is NOT a cheap hobby. So I thought it strange this guy had no teeth.
We talked about the train since they were going to do a "fly by" which means the train backs up to come by at speed for those who want pictures of that. Anyway, we just sort of mentioned the fly by.
Later G said - "he must be homeless." And G had to be right! This man managed to score himself a box lunch in the madness of getting those boxes! I know that wasn't the "right thing" to do, but I was so glad he was able to have a meal. I doubt many, if any others, know about this, but I was happy for this man.
He seemed to be very sweet, and when we were leaving, we looked out of the train window. He was helping the caterer clean up the area. Well done. And thanks be to God.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Last night
We traveled a long time yesterday - much longer than anticipated. You see, the man who usually reads maps for fun while on the john didn't have a map. We got lost twice. I couldn't believe it! Plus even though we have a GPS in the Toyota, I don't know how to use it, and I wasn't going to try to learn on the road. I did that once, and it tooks weeks to get the voice quiet again, and not try to find a restaurant in Rockport, Texas.
We finally got to the motel, and discovered they had a terrible storm the day before. Their power was off for a long while, and the cable wasn't working when we checked in. That was a tragedy because last night was the conclusion of The Killing . We have watched this program for two years to find out who killed Rosie.
I had loaded Hulu on the computer, but decided to just check. Eureka, it was on! So we got to watch the ending - which was a great surprise, then they repeated it immediately, so we got to watch the bit we missed.
Today we headed out to Cedar Rapids. On the way we stopped for our first event. I had not been sure of what it was - a Thrasher Museum?? But it was fun. We got to ride a street car and a narrow gauge steam engine rail road. There were many farm implements in the museum. It was neat overall.
While there, we met out friend from California. So that was fun. We had lunch together there, and since the buses for those who were already here and came out there that way were going to not leave for hours, we brought him back to his hotel.
Tomorrow we will take a loooong train ride. But that's ok. I will wear my gimme hat however. This trip has been one for embarrassing things for me. First was not being able to make the step into the trolley in Eureka Springs, today while riding the steam engine, my wig was taken off my heat by the winds. Geesh! What else - uh, no I don't want to know!
Our motel room is nice. This is a NEW place!! It still has some paint smell to it. I can take that after squeeky floors, weird arrangements of rooms, etc!
Peace,
We finally got to the motel, and discovered they had a terrible storm the day before. Their power was off for a long while, and the cable wasn't working when we checked in. That was a tragedy because last night was the conclusion of The Killing . We have watched this program for two years to find out who killed Rosie.
I had loaded Hulu on the computer, but decided to just check. Eureka, it was on! So we got to watch the ending - which was a great surprise, then they repeated it immediately, so we got to watch the bit we missed.
Today we headed out to Cedar Rapids. On the way we stopped for our first event. I had not been sure of what it was - a Thrasher Museum?? But it was fun. We got to ride a street car and a narrow gauge steam engine rail road. There were many farm implements in the museum. It was neat overall.
While there, we met out friend from California. So that was fun. We had lunch together there, and since the buses for those who were already here and came out there that way were going to not leave for hours, we brought him back to his hotel.
Tomorrow we will take a loooong train ride. But that's ok. I will wear my gimme hat however. This trip has been one for embarrassing things for me. First was not being able to make the step into the trolley in Eureka Springs, today while riding the steam engine, my wig was taken off my heat by the winds. Geesh! What else - uh, no I don't want to know!
Our motel room is nice. This is a NEW place!! It still has some paint smell to it. I can take that after squeeky floors, weird arrangements of rooms, etc!
Peace,
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Eureka Springs
We are almost finished with this part of the trip. We finally got back to the car to put the parking permit in the window.
Last night was spent out on the balcony eating dinner and listening to a guitar and fiddle player play and sing. They were good, and the food was ok. Then we returned home for me to get ready to go to sleep.
Why so early? Well, what's with these hotels. The last one and this one have ONE chair! So, I sit on the bed - which is really uncomfortable. AND they are saving electricity. The bulbs are so small. In fact the bedside table lamp has a bulb that would normally be put in a chandelier candle. I am now sounding like my dad - this is all too dim!
Today we - now get ready for this newsflash - rode a train. It was a nice trip - with scenery we have seen 25 times, but that is just being an excursion rail road. This was a lunch trip. The food was really good! We had a great time.
Then we bought the daily pass for the trolley. We rode two of the routes, saw some beautiful houses, and traveled several hair pin turns to get to HIGH altitudes.
The hills here are steep. When we rode the trolley back, we chose the stop that is up the hill from the hotel. That was a crazy trip down. The sidewalk is as uneven as a dirt road. An unimproved dirt road! Several parts of the trip had to be a 30 degree path. I certainly watched my step closely.
The part I would like to forget - getting on the first trolley. G stopped one in the middle of the block. The part of the street I had to use was way lower than the step. The driver - sitting in the middle of traffic - had to lower the wheel chair lift to get me on. I could have died! My knees simply won't put a lot of push into things.
So, we are on the road tomorrow on our way to Iowa. It is just a sleep stop, so I am not expecting drama from a 100 year old hotel. I need a break!
Tonight will go out in style here. Our room is under the room that can be rented for special occasions. We have a wedding reception going on up there. It is only 5:37 - the thing hasn't even begun, and we are hearing a lot of heavy steps. Oh well - I have my ear plugs, and they have worked well for the last two nights!
Peace.
Last night was spent out on the balcony eating dinner and listening to a guitar and fiddle player play and sing. They were good, and the food was ok. Then we returned home for me to get ready to go to sleep.
Why so early? Well, what's with these hotels. The last one and this one have ONE chair! So, I sit on the bed - which is really uncomfortable. AND they are saving electricity. The bulbs are so small. In fact the bedside table lamp has a bulb that would normally be put in a chandelier candle. I am now sounding like my dad - this is all too dim!
Today we - now get ready for this newsflash - rode a train. It was a nice trip - with scenery we have seen 25 times, but that is just being an excursion rail road. This was a lunch trip. The food was really good! We had a great time.
Then we bought the daily pass for the trolley. We rode two of the routes, saw some beautiful houses, and traveled several hair pin turns to get to HIGH altitudes.
The hills here are steep. When we rode the trolley back, we chose the stop that is up the hill from the hotel. That was a crazy trip down. The sidewalk is as uneven as a dirt road. An unimproved dirt road! Several parts of the trip had to be a 30 degree path. I certainly watched my step closely.
The part I would like to forget - getting on the first trolley. G stopped one in the middle of the block. The part of the street I had to use was way lower than the step. The driver - sitting in the middle of traffic - had to lower the wheel chair lift to get me on. I could have died! My knees simply won't put a lot of push into things.
So, we are on the road tomorrow on our way to Iowa. It is just a sleep stop, so I am not expecting drama from a 100 year old hotel. I need a break!
Tonight will go out in style here. Our room is under the room that can be rented for special occasions. We have a wedding reception going on up there. It is only 5:37 - the thing hasn't even begun, and we are hearing a lot of heavy steps. Oh well - I have my ear plugs, and they have worked well for the last two nights!
Peace.
Friday, June 15, 2012
What's the deal?
My house is almost furnished with antiques - and no not G and I. I really love old things. At least I did.
Last night we were in Hot Springs, Arkansas. We were in an 80 year old hotel in a neighborhood that has seen its last days or at least better days. I think we escaped bed bug free ... at least I hope. The only real place to eat (without a $4 parking fee for 2 hours) was at the hotel. It was EXPENSIVE Italian. And they had the gall to remove the dish I wanted from the menu.
Well - we got out of there. Tonight? I am so glad you asked. We are in a hotel that was built in 1905 in Eureka Springs. I have to admit, the room is nicer. The elevator sucks as much as last night's, and we are once again on the fifth floor.
This place is a full out tourist area. When we got here, we found streets that were about the width of our single driveway. We couldn't find a place to park at the hotel, couldn't turn around due to the traffic, and played near bumper cars with a USP truck (second time after we did get a turn around place).
We finally found the parking lot for the hotel at the bottom of the hill on another street (??!?!?!?). We parked there, found a phone to call the hotel. They sent a shuttle (immediately - before I could sort luggage) that brought us and our metric ton of luggage back. They are there at our call - for a tip each way.
We will see what tomorrow brings. We are staying here for two nights.
See ya and peace
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Still here
Still here, still kickin', on the road to Iowa, have wonky internet right now.
We are in Hot Springs - in a hotel that has to be 100 years old. The internet was free for 30 minutes, but I looked and looked and found a couple that are free - the only problem being they conk out quickly and I have to reconnect.
Catch you tomorrow - hopefully with better internet!
We are in Hot Springs - in a hotel that has to be 100 years old. The internet was free for 30 minutes, but I looked and looked and found a couple that are free - the only problem being they conk out quickly and I have to reconnect.
Catch you tomorrow - hopefully with better internet!
Wednesday, June 06, 2012
Well ...
Yesterday we got pedicures (yes G gets them too!), and I wanted a manicure as well. My manicurist's next appointment came in talking about finally getting a hold of her oncologist.
So feeling like we had something in common, I asked what cancer she had. She said breast cancer, and so I asked what was the medication she was taking. It was femara - like me. Only, she was having a lot of problems with it.
She couldn't sleep (yes), she was gaining weight that she couldn't get rid of (oh, yeah), her glucose was erratic (um, yes - that's why I am taking metforamin and testing twice a day), her blood pressure was high (yes - that's probably why I am seeing a nephrologist for the protein in my urine), and generally retaining fluid (nope), But I certainly listened.
I can and should go off it this month or next at the latest, but I really thought I would stay on it for a while longer since I have about four months of pills left. Now I am thinking I won't. Perhaps I can get my body straightened out!
But anyway. We are headed off to the internet dead zone tomorrow. We will be there until Tuesday, so I will be out of touch. I have Wednesday to get ready for Iowa. So you all take care until I am back in touch!
Peace.
So feeling like we had something in common, I asked what cancer she had. She said breast cancer, and so I asked what was the medication she was taking. It was femara - like me. Only, she was having a lot of problems with it.
She couldn't sleep (yes), she was gaining weight that she couldn't get rid of (oh, yeah), her glucose was erratic (um, yes - that's why I am taking metforamin and testing twice a day), her blood pressure was high (yes - that's probably why I am seeing a nephrologist for the protein in my urine), and generally retaining fluid (nope), But I certainly listened.
I can and should go off it this month or next at the latest, but I really thought I would stay on it for a while longer since I have about four months of pills left. Now I am thinking I won't. Perhaps I can get my body straightened out!
But anyway. We are headed off to the internet dead zone tomorrow. We will be there until Tuesday, so I will be out of touch. I have Wednesday to get ready for Iowa. So you all take care until I am back in touch!
Peace.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
A bit miffed
So our October plans are changed. My bucket list is not going to be met then - at least part of it. Our planned trip to New York City, Philadelphia, etc has been canned.
I (sort of) agree with that. While I really wanted to experience NYC, I don't want to pay those rates for the hotels. After all, this would be the second trip for this year. So I agreed to doing this. I will live.
But we are probably doing another part of my bucket list. We are going to the Outer Banks. Now, that makes me happy too. Not as exciting as NYC, but it's still good. That's an area of the country I have never seen.
Right now, I am wondering how I am going to get everything in place that I need to do for this new doc. I need to make an appointment for the kidney ultrasound, and I have to have lab work done before I see him - the day we return from Iowa.
So what's the problem you say. Well - we are leaving Thursday for the SSB. I will have ONE day between these trips. Not. Enough. So my plans are to get an appointment for the ultrasound between now and Thursday. I will go on line with the lab to set an appointment for the day between the trips.
I don't like to be rushed that way. No, not at all. I really think I may broach the idea of cutting the SSB by one day. After all - it will be HOT up there. Not much will be done, and that would still leave four days there.
I know - I am such a whiner. I need to get over it. Things will work out. They always do.
Peace.
I (sort of) agree with that. While I really wanted to experience NYC, I don't want to pay those rates for the hotels. After all, this would be the second trip for this year. So I agreed to doing this. I will live.
But we are probably doing another part of my bucket list. We are going to the Outer Banks. Now, that makes me happy too. Not as exciting as NYC, but it's still good. That's an area of the country I have never seen.
Right now, I am wondering how I am going to get everything in place that I need to do for this new doc. I need to make an appointment for the kidney ultrasound, and I have to have lab work done before I see him - the day we return from Iowa.
So what's the problem you say. Well - we are leaving Thursday for the SSB. I will have ONE day between these trips. Not. Enough. So my plans are to get an appointment for the ultrasound between now and Thursday. I will go on line with the lab to set an appointment for the day between the trips.
I don't like to be rushed that way. No, not at all. I really think I may broach the idea of cutting the SSB by one day. After all - it will be HOT up there. Not much will be done, and that would still leave four days there.
I know - I am such a whiner. I need to get over it. Things will work out. They always do.
Peace.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Getting old ...
Open ended statement you fill in the negative words you wish. I'm trying to keep this blog G-rated. I know what my statement completion.
I had the opportunity to add yet another physician to my stable. Let's see: general physician, cardiologist, dermatologist, pain management,oncologist, dermatologist, orthopedics (two of them), and NOW we have a nephrologist. And my GP wants me to go to an endocrinologist. Nope - not yet!
At the first of the year, my GP ran his battery of tests. Apparently there was a lot of protein in my urine. Six weeks later, it dropped 50%, but still high. So I was referred.
I went today. Now I have to go for a kidney ultrasound and see him back in a month. Geesh! I am getting so tired of going to the doctor. What's more I am really tired of the lab tests.
Oh yes, I love, love, love getting older.
Peace
I had the opportunity to add yet another physician to my stable. Let's see: general physician, cardiologist, dermatologist, pain management,oncologist, dermatologist, orthopedics (two of them), and NOW we have a nephrologist. And my GP wants me to go to an endocrinologist. Nope - not yet!
At the first of the year, my GP ran his battery of tests. Apparently there was a lot of protein in my urine. Six weeks later, it dropped 50%, but still high. So I was referred.
I went today. Now I have to go for a kidney ultrasound and see him back in a month. Geesh! I am getting so tired of going to the doctor. What's more I am really tired of the lab tests.
Oh yes, I love, love, love getting older.
Peace
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Swim - or drown?
In college, I decided that an easy PE credit was beginning swimming. I already knew how to swim - I thought, but just how difficult could this be? Let's face it, I was not, am not a physical person. I don't like to sweat. I did enough of that with menopause.
That was the best course I ever took - other than the folk dancing that was also a PE credit. Pretty cool - fun PE credits! I learned the correct way to swim. We began with just getting used to the water. We ended swimming a couple hundreds of meter swim without stopping. And I could do it.
So I have always loved to swim. I loved it so much that we put in a pool. When the kids were little we were in that pool everyday for hours. Then they left, and I got old had cancer and two knee replacements.
After those surgeries, I had lots of stitches that shouldn't get wet. After the knees, I knew I couldn't get out of the pool. I don't have all the strength in my legs back. Years of inactivity has taken its toll.
We had to have the pool replastered this year, and I wanted a rail at the steps so I had something to hold onto. Otherwise I would be kneeling on the decking at some point, and I have been told not to kneel - especially on something hard. He said the titanium knees would do a real number on that thin knee cap bone. So we had the rail put in. That was no easy task. They are not usually on a private pool.
Saturday I finally decide that the pool had to be warmed enough. It is a deep pool - we have a diving board. It takes a long while for all that water to get warm. Even in Coastal Texas!
It still is a little cool. Its temperature is what I would like when the days are high 90's to 100. But I got in. Slowly. I am so glad I didn't launch myself into the deep end - which isn't far into the pool. As I began to kick, I realized I had never tried fake knees to swim. They felt a little strange. But more than that - I didn't have the strength to kick a lot. Kicking is my long suit. It scared me a little.
So I stayed in the more shallow end swimming from one side to the other which isn't far - maybe 5 feet. I also did some exercise moves to strengthen my legs. I wasn't in long. I didn't really expect to feel anything. I was so wrong. I was getting a little sore, and it wore me out! Talk about being out of shape! Geez.
So I haven't been in since, and I won't be able to get in today. The pool man comes and he will "shock" the pool which means the chlorine level will be off the charts. Not good for the skin. But I will be back in for a while, then we are basically away from home for the month of June.
In other news, I finally downloaded pictures from the "graduations." The top is my LB. Not a good picture and it is the best I could get! The bottom is Doodle Bug. I have one of her smiling, but her eyes are closed.
Oh, and JuJu - we had about 65 people at the picnic. I think everyone had a great time. Some stayed for quite a while, and there is talk about having another one soon!
Peace
That was the best course I ever took - other than the folk dancing that was also a PE credit. Pretty cool - fun PE credits! I learned the correct way to swim. We began with just getting used to the water. We ended swimming a couple hundreds of meter swim without stopping. And I could do it.
So I have always loved to swim. I loved it so much that we put in a pool. When the kids were little we were in that pool everyday for hours. Then they left, and I got old had cancer and two knee replacements.
After those surgeries, I had lots of stitches that shouldn't get wet. After the knees, I knew I couldn't get out of the pool. I don't have all the strength in my legs back. Years of inactivity has taken its toll.
We had to have the pool replastered this year, and I wanted a rail at the steps so I had something to hold onto. Otherwise I would be kneeling on the decking at some point, and I have been told not to kneel - especially on something hard. He said the titanium knees would do a real number on that thin knee cap bone. So we had the rail put in. That was no easy task. They are not usually on a private pool.
Saturday I finally decide that the pool had to be warmed enough. It is a deep pool - we have a diving board. It takes a long while for all that water to get warm. Even in Coastal Texas!
It still is a little cool. Its temperature is what I would like when the days are high 90's to 100. But I got in. Slowly. I am so glad I didn't launch myself into the deep end - which isn't far into the pool. As I began to kick, I realized I had never tried fake knees to swim. They felt a little strange. But more than that - I didn't have the strength to kick a lot. Kicking is my long suit. It scared me a little.
So I stayed in the more shallow end swimming from one side to the other which isn't far - maybe 5 feet. I also did some exercise moves to strengthen my legs. I wasn't in long. I didn't really expect to feel anything. I was so wrong. I was getting a little sore, and it wore me out! Talk about being out of shape! Geez.
So I haven't been in since, and I won't be able to get in today. The pool man comes and he will "shock" the pool which means the chlorine level will be off the charts. Not good for the skin. But I will be back in for a while, then we are basically away from home for the month of June.
Oh, and JuJu - we had about 65 people at the picnic. I think everyone had a great time. Some stayed for quite a while, and there is talk about having another one soon!
Peace
Monday, May 28, 2012
Church picnic
Yesterday was really a fun day. The people who attend our church are really great people, and being able to spend time with them in a relaxed place was great. We used our little city's park, and it worked out so well. The weather was perfect - a good breeze and temps only rising into the lower 90's. We set up under the pavilion, which really was a basket ball court until kids from the low income apartments near by would come and hanging out for hours ultimately destroying the basket ball goals repeatedly. But it is a big nicely covered slab. If there had not been the breeze it would have gotten not under the roof. It is metal, and heat is held.
An inter generational kick ball game began after we had lunch - hot dogs from the church, and a covered dish from the members. Those people really enjoyed that and are looking to start a league with the near-by church (our old one). It could be a lot of fun.
I made a cake from a mix to take - it was really nothing to inspire anyone to eat it, so G has cake around here. People ate bought cakes before my little bundt. Oh well. I knew after it came out of the oven that it was pretty pathetic. Certainly not what I usually try to do.
Of course, the picnic was a great opportunity for us to have a fight - well for G to display his wonderful personality. We ended up really not speaking Saturday night. I guess he thought I didn't begin preparing the steak soon enough to go on the grill. What preparation that takes. Sprinkling cajun seasoning on the meat - or if I get really fancy a little olive oil and THEN the seasoning. I began talking about taking a table or so to eat from. He exploded. I don't remember what he said exactly, but it was completely uncalled for. So I was pretty much silent after that.
Is there male menopause with the associated personality changes. If so, he has had it for about 30 years! Ah, well.
Peace
An inter generational kick ball game began after we had lunch - hot dogs from the church, and a covered dish from the members. Those people really enjoyed that and are looking to start a league with the near-by church (our old one). It could be a lot of fun.
I made a cake from a mix to take - it was really nothing to inspire anyone to eat it, so G has cake around here. People ate bought cakes before my little bundt. Oh well. I knew after it came out of the oven that it was pretty pathetic. Certainly not what I usually try to do.
Of course, the picnic was a great opportunity for us to have a fight - well for G to display his wonderful personality. We ended up really not speaking Saturday night. I guess he thought I didn't begin preparing the steak soon enough to go on the grill. What preparation that takes. Sprinkling cajun seasoning on the meat - or if I get really fancy a little olive oil and THEN the seasoning. I began talking about taking a table or so to eat from. He exploded. I don't remember what he said exactly, but it was completely uncalled for. So I was pretty much silent after that.
Is there male menopause with the associated personality changes. If so, he has had it for about 30 years! Ah, well.
Peace
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Didn't download, but
As usual, I didn't download the pictures from the pre-school graduation. but I will. I know you are waiting with baited breath for that one!
We went to the elementary graduation. It was really nice. I will try to include a picture of Lady Bug and our neighbor across the street's picture. I usually have problems with Blogger these days. And I did. I will try again.
I am back with using my sleep apnea machine. I have gotten really a little worried. I am hoping this will get my appetite under control. Ten years ago I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. That was when I was able to lose a considerable amount of weight. In fact, so much that I stopped the cpap because I didn't need it. That was also before the cancer - bc - lol!!
The problem with the CPAP is that the ramp feature no longer ramps! What that means is that it begins putting our only a little air. Then it gradually goes to the amount prescribed to keep the airways open. That took about two weeks to get used to. I was not getting much sleep since I was ramping it myself by manually adjusting the mask.
It is working now. Things are good on that front. My back is hurting some. My right hip, where I fell, feels bruised, but I don't think any real harm was done. No broken hip. Good fat on the butt!
We are in the process of changing our email account. We are getting with the program by bundling phone, internet and tv, so we will become ATT subscribers. I don't think it will affect this in anyway, but just so you know.
Tomorrow is the church picnic - first annual. I am looking for good things. Have a good Memorial Day.
Peace.
We went to the elementary graduation. It was really nice. I will try to include a picture of Lady Bug and our neighbor across the street's picture. I usually have problems with Blogger these days. And I did. I will try again.
I am back with using my sleep apnea machine. I have gotten really a little worried. I am hoping this will get my appetite under control. Ten years ago I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. That was when I was able to lose a considerable amount of weight. In fact, so much that I stopped the cpap because I didn't need it. That was also before the cancer - bc - lol!!
The problem with the CPAP is that the ramp feature no longer ramps! What that means is that it begins putting our only a little air. Then it gradually goes to the amount prescribed to keep the airways open. That took about two weeks to get used to. I was not getting much sleep since I was ramping it myself by manually adjusting the mask.
It is working now. Things are good on that front. My back is hurting some. My right hip, where I fell, feels bruised, but I don't think any real harm was done. No broken hip. Good fat on the butt!
We are in the process of changing our email account. We are getting with the program by bundling phone, internet and tv, so we will become ATT subscribers. I don't think it will affect this in anyway, but just so you know.
Tomorrow is the church picnic - first annual. I am looking for good things. Have a good Memorial Day.
Peace.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Yes, unfortunately I still exist
I've just been out of pocket for another week. The bad news is that ATT let me down. No internet through them and my fancy phone. The worse news is that I guess if I want internet, it will have to be by satellite. I guess the $50 (plus taxes and all sorts of fees) can go to the satellite that is advertised at $40 (plus taxes and all sorts of fees). G doesn't like the idea - he isn't even on board for the satellite tv!
We actually returned on Tuesday, but I was too tired to post then, and yesterday I went to Doodle Bug's "graduation" from pre-school. They were cute. I will try to post a picture tomorrow - especially since Lady Bug "graduates" from 5th grade. OMG! Let's make all these big occasions. In a way, LB's does mark her moving into a whole new era.
In other news, I guess technically I am not a great grandmother. My step granddaughter had her baby yesterday. Strange family this makes. I am a grandmother to a 4 month old and great grandmother to a newborn.
Anyway, M came through it with flying colors. I was worried about her. Like every pregnant woman, the last weeks are miserable, and you want that baby out more than anything else. So it was with her. Last week she was told her cervix wasn't softening. But she was given the choice of waiting or inducing (on her due date because of the gall bladder problems). Guess what she chose? So she went in on the evening of the 22nd for the Cervadil. Seems to have worked. Her water broke about midnight, and Allie Beth was born yesterday afternoon with a fairly easy labor. Congratulations M. Now don't follow in your birth mother's steps, who by the way isn't speaking to M.
Yesterday I pulled a real boner stunt. We laugh about the bottom step on our steps being the "killer step." I have fallen more than once, G has fallen, Son fell - holding his son and hurting his foot really badly. I try to be extra careful these days. Well, yesterday I was trying to get the suitcase with the fabric I took up the stairs when I remembered Simone had not gotten her pills. I was coming back down, not paying attention, and missed that last step. Down I went. I landed squarely on my right hip.
G, from the other room, asked it I were OK. Duh - didn't you hear the thud. Couldn't you have gotten off your dead a** to see? Anyway, things were all in tact yesterday. Today I am so sore!
Today I will be working to complete an outfit for Allie Beth and doing two more Baptismal blankets (that I have been asking about since January - our church - no communication until it is really serious!).
Peace.
We actually returned on Tuesday, but I was too tired to post then, and yesterday I went to Doodle Bug's "graduation" from pre-school. They were cute. I will try to post a picture tomorrow - especially since Lady Bug "graduates" from 5th grade. OMG! Let's make all these big occasions. In a way, LB's does mark her moving into a whole new era.
In other news, I guess technically I am not a great grandmother. My step granddaughter had her baby yesterday. Strange family this makes. I am a grandmother to a 4 month old and great grandmother to a newborn.
Anyway, M came through it with flying colors. I was worried about her. Like every pregnant woman, the last weeks are miserable, and you want that baby out more than anything else. So it was with her. Last week she was told her cervix wasn't softening. But she was given the choice of waiting or inducing (on her due date because of the gall bladder problems). Guess what she chose? So she went in on the evening of the 22nd for the Cervadil. Seems to have worked. Her water broke about midnight, and Allie Beth was born yesterday afternoon with a fairly easy labor. Congratulations M. Now don't follow in your birth mother's steps, who by the way isn't speaking to M.
Yesterday I pulled a real boner stunt. We laugh about the bottom step on our steps being the "killer step." I have fallen more than once, G has fallen, Son fell - holding his son and hurting his foot really badly. I try to be extra careful these days. Well, yesterday I was trying to get the suitcase with the fabric I took up the stairs when I remembered Simone had not gotten her pills. I was coming back down, not paying attention, and missed that last step. Down I went. I landed squarely on my right hip.
G, from the other room, asked it I were OK. Duh - didn't you hear the thud. Couldn't you have gotten off your dead a** to see? Anyway, things were all in tact yesterday. Today I am so sore!
Today I will be working to complete an outfit for Allie Beth and doing two more Baptismal blankets (that I have been asking about since January - our church - no communication until it is really serious!).
Peace.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Mother's Day
I do hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day. Mine was 99% great. G gave me a lovely orchid plant. He said he was replacing the one that died. That and another one were the only ones I have been able to keep going - in fact, the one that is still alive even bloomed again. That is a record for me, and it's a shame because I love orchids so much. But then I used to laugh about all the rosemary plants in the world screaming when I walked by. Every one I would buy would turn brown. I finally figured out my water person (G) was over watering! So now I have a huge, healthy rosemary plant. I am hoping the same for these orchids!
I had told Daughter I wanted a good pair of fabric scissors because I know they can be expensive. Well - I got those and another pair that cut nicely through thick layers of fabrics. Wonderful. Plus they hosted famly dinner last night, and it was delicious - as normally.
Son and DIL gave me a beautiful rose bouquet along with a gorgeous James Avery cross. It is a very heavy one, and absolutely beautiful. I think she likes it a lot too, and her birthday is the end of this month. I may give her a matching one. I will check with Son!
The 1% not good was my middle grandson. He is Son's oldest. He is three, and he is literally Hell on Wheels! I think I posted before about him (purposely) throwing a wooden block at Daughter's youngest hitting her above the eye. He throws things at Simone and chases Shadow. I had reached my limit about a month ago, and the next week cancelled family dinner because of him. No one stood up to host, so we didn't have dinner that week, then we were gone. Son and DIL had it last week, and now Daughter and SIL.
So what got me this time, it was direct, willful disobedience. G was going to borrow a book from SIL. So it was sitting on the couch, next to where one of the dog kennels was. W decided that he was going to push that book through the wire of the kennel. I just ignored that behavior. Then he threw the book into the far back of the kennel. I asked him to get it out, and he just looked at me as if to say eat sh*t and die. So I asked again. He acted like he wasn't hearing me. I told him that I knew he could hear me and requested again. Nothing. I was ready to paddle his little butt! I was furious. But by that time Doodle Bug had crawled in to get the book. And to think - she was the brat before!
I really was livid. They discipline this kid for a lot, but other things he is allowed to run wild. His other grandparents ( and there are three - real grandmother, step grandmother, and real grandfather) apparently cater to him. I don't cater to any of the six!
I think it is well known my family are deer hunters thus having racks of antlers about. W thinks these large, eight-point racks are his toys. They are dangerous. They have long tines and are sharp. When we were at his house, he had one that almost at differing times nearly pierced his little sister and baby brother. He was trying to put a hole in their leather ottoman. At Daughter's house, he took one from SIL's desk and was doing the same thing. Daughter took it away. DIL doesn't care - says he plays with them all the time.
OK - thanks for reading my rant. I think he may grow out of this - at least I hope so. I really believe he is going to give his parents a run for their money. I am worried a bit though because I see a mean streak in him. I neglected to say he threw a ball at his sister's head last night when they were outside - beaning her pretty good. Fortunately, she had a batter's helmet on. Mom just laughed.
Now I am done. Peace
I had told Daughter I wanted a good pair of fabric scissors because I know they can be expensive. Well - I got those and another pair that cut nicely through thick layers of fabrics. Wonderful. Plus they hosted famly dinner last night, and it was delicious - as normally.
Son and DIL gave me a beautiful rose bouquet along with a gorgeous James Avery cross. It is a very heavy one, and absolutely beautiful. I think she likes it a lot too, and her birthday is the end of this month. I may give her a matching one. I will check with Son!
The 1% not good was my middle grandson. He is Son's oldest. He is three, and he is literally Hell on Wheels! I think I posted before about him (purposely) throwing a wooden block at Daughter's youngest hitting her above the eye. He throws things at Simone and chases Shadow. I had reached my limit about a month ago, and the next week cancelled family dinner because of him. No one stood up to host, so we didn't have dinner that week, then we were gone. Son and DIL had it last week, and now Daughter and SIL.
So what got me this time, it was direct, willful disobedience. G was going to borrow a book from SIL. So it was sitting on the couch, next to where one of the dog kennels was. W decided that he was going to push that book through the wire of the kennel. I just ignored that behavior. Then he threw the book into the far back of the kennel. I asked him to get it out, and he just looked at me as if to say eat sh*t and die. So I asked again. He acted like he wasn't hearing me. I told him that I knew he could hear me and requested again. Nothing. I was ready to paddle his little butt! I was furious. But by that time Doodle Bug had crawled in to get the book. And to think - she was the brat before!
I really was livid. They discipline this kid for a lot, but other things he is allowed to run wild. His other grandparents ( and there are three - real grandmother, step grandmother, and real grandfather) apparently cater to him. I don't cater to any of the six!
I think it is well known my family are deer hunters thus having racks of antlers about. W thinks these large, eight-point racks are his toys. They are dangerous. They have long tines and are sharp. When we were at his house, he had one that almost at differing times nearly pierced his little sister and baby brother. He was trying to put a hole in their leather ottoman. At Daughter's house, he took one from SIL's desk and was doing the same thing. Daughter took it away. DIL doesn't care - says he plays with them all the time.
OK - thanks for reading my rant. I think he may grow out of this - at least I hope so. I really believe he is going to give his parents a run for their money. I am worried a bit though because I see a mean streak in him. I neglected to say he threw a ball at his sister's head last night when they were outside - beaning her pretty good. Fortunately, she had a batter's helmet on. Mom just laughed.
Now I am done. Peace
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Oh, what a meeting
I knew today's Women's Group would be poorly attended. I had gotten several replies that for one reason or another, they couldn't be there. Most were people who seldom come anyway, so it wasn't a big deal.
Then my co-conspirator called just before the meeting. She and her girls wouldn't be there. Her brother made a surprise visit for Mother's Day. I was a bit devastated
Daughter had asked last night who was going to be there. I told her I had no idea - I had only gotten the non-attending. I didn't think she would show either, but she called me when I was on the way. She was coming.
I got there first - of course. Then Daughter. She has a key, but can't find it. Plus she didn't think of bringing it. The daughter of another member arrived. She had no key. Her cousin has one, but couldn't be there either, and didn't give B the key.
B's aunt arrived - the mother of the other one - and still no key. But it was then determined that K had the key, but she wasn't there yet. I found out she was attending the first communion for her God-daughter.
Crazy - right!
Then we began discussing formalizing the church picnic set for the 27th of this month. We really couldn't because we didn't know what the church was providing. Pastor was at the Synod Convention, but Daughter called and texted him - a lot.
Just as we finally got all the answers we needed - he sent his sister. I already feel that they don't think we are able to handle this group, so I was really upset. I am more than happy to organize the picnic, but I have to be given the rules first.
I thought we were going to have hot dogs AND hamburgers. Well - no. So that needed to be set. At the very end of getting all set, Pastor's sister (who is Minister of ? - non ordained) asked who was going to furnish the grill. I nearly fell out of my chair.
This is part of the problem we have in this church. Communications are not clear, and most expectations are not well spelled out.
If this post sounds (and is ) crazy, that's because this meeting was crazy!!
Peace.
Then my co-conspirator called just before the meeting. She and her girls wouldn't be there. Her brother made a surprise visit for Mother's Day. I was a bit devastated
Daughter had asked last night who was going to be there. I told her I had no idea - I had only gotten the non-attending. I didn't think she would show either, but she called me when I was on the way. She was coming.
I got there first - of course. Then Daughter. She has a key, but can't find it. Plus she didn't think of bringing it. The daughter of another member arrived. She had no key. Her cousin has one, but couldn't be there either, and didn't give B the key.
B's aunt arrived - the mother of the other one - and still no key. But it was then determined that K had the key, but she wasn't there yet. I found out she was attending the first communion for her God-daughter.
Crazy - right!
Then we began discussing formalizing the church picnic set for the 27th of this month. We really couldn't because we didn't know what the church was providing. Pastor was at the Synod Convention, but Daughter called and texted him - a lot.
Just as we finally got all the answers we needed - he sent his sister. I already feel that they don't think we are able to handle this group, so I was really upset. I am more than happy to organize the picnic, but I have to be given the rules first.
I thought we were going to have hot dogs AND hamburgers. Well - no. So that needed to be set. At the very end of getting all set, Pastor's sister (who is Minister of ? - non ordained) asked who was going to furnish the grill. I nearly fell out of my chair.
This is part of the problem we have in this church. Communications are not clear, and most expectations are not well spelled out.
If this post sounds (and is ) crazy, that's because this meeting was crazy!!
Peace.
Friday, May 11, 2012
I did it! I did it! I did it!
In my never ending battle with technology, I finally won a battle! I bought another (sigh) router several weeks ago, but didn't even try to install it - until last night that is. I thought Comcast had messed with my modem (I know you know that since I have moaned and groaned several times).
I just decided I would give it another try. It was so easy peasy! Of course, I went with a good brand this time - one that I know the quality is there, not a cheap off shoot. And it worked. And it allowed me to load all the information on a thumb drive to go into other computers! Now I have my big laptop back. I can sit in the breakfast room to watch GMA, etc, and work on the computer. I have it on the little toy laptop that I use in the craft room to download designs directly. And G has his own computer to use - no more messing up my settings, etc.
Having the internet available to me upstairs is important. I need to be able to download directly because when I was trying to get the other router to work, I managed to get out of the Homegroup I set up. I cannot get that setting back, so my computers will not speak to one another anymore, thus no more sharing.
I was going post some pictures, but I don't know if it is the router or just this computer acting up. So - no pictures. They were from the SSB - including the one I tease G about. I call it his pet - actually a 12 inch rattle snake! I will try again sometime.
Peace.
I just decided I would give it another try. It was so easy peasy! Of course, I went with a good brand this time - one that I know the quality is there, not a cheap off shoot. And it worked. And it allowed me to load all the information on a thumb drive to go into other computers! Now I have my big laptop back. I can sit in the breakfast room to watch GMA, etc, and work on the computer. I have it on the little toy laptop that I use in the craft room to download designs directly. And G has his own computer to use - no more messing up my settings, etc.
Having the internet available to me upstairs is important. I need to be able to download directly because when I was trying to get the other router to work, I managed to get out of the Homegroup I set up. I cannot get that setting back, so my computers will not speak to one another anymore, thus no more sharing.
I was going post some pictures, but I don't know if it is the router or just this computer acting up. So - no pictures. They were from the SSB - including the one I tease G about. I call it his pet - actually a 12 inch rattle snake! I will try again sometime.
Peace.
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Bleeding money
There are times when it seems that we are just bleeding money - everything we do is at least 2 times what I expected.
We went to Walgreen's to get vaccinated for shingles. My dad had them, and I know how terribly they hurt. One of my daughter's friends had them recently. He is an ass, but still I could see how much they hurt. I really don't want to find out for myself. Well - guess what. Since we don't have part D Medicare, they weren't covered by that, and our supplemental drug insurances didn't cover. That wouldn't be so bad, except the injections were $ 215 (possibly more - G paid). And that was for ONE!
We decided we would replace our 35 year old windows with something more energy efficient. I wanted to do the entire house which meant something like 16 windows. He only wanted to do the front 6. We (surprisingly) compromised and are doing 8. I thought they would be cheap. Nope. NO. The one in the dining room has a curved top, so that equals two windows, that have to be done in the Cadillac line. The others, while still the same efficiency, are done in the bicycle line. The dining room window(s) alone are half the price. In fact that (those) windows are what I really thought we could do the entire house for. S. U. R. P. R. I. S. E!
These are good windows. They are the ones our neighbor had installed several years ago, and they love them. My daughter had her whole house done by an individual. I really don't know what brand of windows those are, and it was done by an individual and his son. It was a cheap price. We will see how they hold up. Plus, she never gave me his number.
So we are paying half on about 30 minutes, and the other half when completed - in about two months!
I also went back to my preferred cell phone carrier. I went ahead with a smart phone and hot spot. I got the bill today. I thought the lousy one I had was expensive. This is almost twice. Of course, the fee to begin will not be there, but OMG! I may cancel the hot spot and go with satellite at the ranch. Wow!
The injections I had a few months ago were, according to the bill, $63,000. Then there was the Medicare discount of $62,500. Anyway, my supplemental insurance won't cover the Medicare non-pay, so I owe $140 there!!! I am so tired of paying after paying for insurance.
I know - all I am doing is moan/groan. I'll get over it!
Peace.
We went to Walgreen's to get vaccinated for shingles. My dad had them, and I know how terribly they hurt. One of my daughter's friends had them recently. He is an ass, but still I could see how much they hurt. I really don't want to find out for myself. Well - guess what. Since we don't have part D Medicare, they weren't covered by that, and our supplemental drug insurances didn't cover. That wouldn't be so bad, except the injections were $ 215 (possibly more - G paid). And that was for ONE!
We decided we would replace our 35 year old windows with something more energy efficient. I wanted to do the entire house which meant something like 16 windows. He only wanted to do the front 6. We (surprisingly) compromised and are doing 8. I thought they would be cheap. Nope. NO. The one in the dining room has a curved top, so that equals two windows, that have to be done in the Cadillac line. The others, while still the same efficiency, are done in the bicycle line. The dining room window(s) alone are half the price. In fact that (those) windows are what I really thought we could do the entire house for. S. U. R. P. R. I. S. E!
These are good windows. They are the ones our neighbor had installed several years ago, and they love them. My daughter had her whole house done by an individual. I really don't know what brand of windows those are, and it was done by an individual and his son. It was a cheap price. We will see how they hold up. Plus, she never gave me his number.
So we are paying half on about 30 minutes, and the other half when completed - in about two months!
I also went back to my preferred cell phone carrier. I went ahead with a smart phone and hot spot. I got the bill today. I thought the lousy one I had was expensive. This is almost twice. Of course, the fee to begin will not be there, but OMG! I may cancel the hot spot and go with satellite at the ranch. Wow!
The injections I had a few months ago were, according to the bill, $63,000. Then there was the Medicare discount of $62,500. Anyway, my supplemental insurance won't cover the Medicare non-pay, so I owe $140 there!!! I am so tired of paying after paying for insurance.
I know - all I am doing is moan/groan. I'll get over it!
Peace.
Saturday, May 05, 2012
Oh, it's me again
I was going to comment on JuJu's comment, but it got so long, I thought I would just make it a post. Then I got so bent out of shape by my email adventure I forgot about it!
About my sewing club. The place I purchased my machine is the location of the club meeting. Our specific brand has three meetings on the day - morning, afternoon, and night. I go to the morning meeting, and recently our numbers have been growing by leaps and bounds. We, at times, have had 18 or so people. And it was crowded. I have noticed some of the "old heads" aren't coming anymore, but we have scads of new people there.
The store moved to a larger facility, and the classroom is a bit bigger than the old one. It still isn't big enough! I can only imagine how many people are actual members of this club with the three sessions.
All of the other embroidery machines also have clubs that meet there, but they only have one session. At Christmas, we usually combine with the Viking club since they only have a very few members, for the Christmas party.
It is fun. I learn new techniques at these meetings, and it makes me willing to try new things.
As for trains. As a kid, my grandmother lived fairly close to a track. I loved to be out there and listen and watch the steam engines work that track. Ohhh - that shows how old I am!
Once I visited my cousin here in Houston and we took the passenger train back to San Antonio. That was a lot of fun. Teens riding alone!
My real passion for train travel happened after G and I married. A few years ago, the train club here sponsored a special train trip over some lines that were to be torn up soon. We joined that group - which meant we also joined the National Historic Rail Road Society.
Recently, we have been attending the National conventions that are held all over the US. This year we are going to Iowa. Next year - Alaska. We have been to Ft Worth (whoo hoo - not a big trip for us), Duluth, last year, Portland and Seattle. We ride a lot of trains, able to see a lot of shops (not me this year), and meet a lot of interesting people.
In October we will be taking the train to New York City and near-by sites. It should be fun! By the way, any suggestions on things in NYC and Philadelphia? Thanks Kathy for all the ideas in NYC!
So there are the answers to the questions!
About my sewing club. The place I purchased my machine is the location of the club meeting. Our specific brand has three meetings on the day - morning, afternoon, and night. I go to the morning meeting, and recently our numbers have been growing by leaps and bounds. We, at times, have had 18 or so people. And it was crowded. I have noticed some of the "old heads" aren't coming anymore, but we have scads of new people there.
The store moved to a larger facility, and the classroom is a bit bigger than the old one. It still isn't big enough! I can only imagine how many people are actual members of this club with the three sessions.
All of the other embroidery machines also have clubs that meet there, but they only have one session. At Christmas, we usually combine with the Viking club since they only have a very few members, for the Christmas party.
It is fun. I learn new techniques at these meetings, and it makes me willing to try new things.
As for trains. As a kid, my grandmother lived fairly close to a track. I loved to be out there and listen and watch the steam engines work that track. Ohhh - that shows how old I am!
Once I visited my cousin here in Houston and we took the passenger train back to San Antonio. That was a lot of fun. Teens riding alone!
My real passion for train travel happened after G and I married. A few years ago, the train club here sponsored a special train trip over some lines that were to be torn up soon. We joined that group - which meant we also joined the National Historic Rail Road Society.
Recently, we have been attending the National conventions that are held all over the US. This year we are going to Iowa. Next year - Alaska. We have been to Ft Worth (whoo hoo - not a big trip for us), Duluth, last year, Portland and Seattle. We ride a lot of trains, able to see a lot of shops (not me this year), and meet a lot of interesting people.
In October we will be taking the train to New York City and near-by sites. It should be fun! By the way, any suggestions on things in NYC and Philadelphia? Thanks Kathy for all the ideas in NYC!
So there are the answers to the questions!
Is it me?
Since our Women's Group meeting is next Saturday, I thought I would send out the reminder yesterday to give people plenty of time to plan (ha). I know there will only be the few of us there. With school ending, sports in full swing, dance recitals, and being the day before Mother's Day - well, you know...
The group has been asked to coordinate the church picnic to be held on May 27. I assumed most people were aware of this date. It has been mentioned a lot. So in topics that we will be discussing, I put we would be working on the planning of the picnic.
I hardly pushed publish before I got an email asking if the picnic was on the 13th. I know I didn't put the date in the email, but seriously? This particular woman was even at the last meeting when we were formally asked - again.
That email set off the Director of Education sending one really panicked about that being the date. Seriously lady? You are more in the know about what's going on than I.
So I drafted yet another email to go out making a joke of sending one that was clear to me, but obviously not all. I guess I should have made that date clear, but it has been talked about for months. It even has the RSVP on the cards we fill out on Sundays. Geesh!
So from now on, I will make absolutely sure that there can be no misunderstanding of what is in those emails. I should know better - after all, I taught for 29 years in Public School and about three in an adolescent psychiatric facility.
Peace.
The group has been asked to coordinate the church picnic to be held on May 27. I assumed most people were aware of this date. It has been mentioned a lot. So in topics that we will be discussing, I put we would be working on the planning of the picnic.
I hardly pushed publish before I got an email asking if the picnic was on the 13th. I know I didn't put the date in the email, but seriously? This particular woman was even at the last meeting when we were formally asked - again.
That email set off the Director of Education sending one really panicked about that being the date. Seriously lady? You are more in the know about what's going on than I.
So I drafted yet another email to go out making a joke of sending one that was clear to me, but obviously not all. I guess I should have made that date clear, but it has been talked about for months. It even has the RSVP on the cards we fill out on Sundays. Geesh!
So from now on, I will make absolutely sure that there can be no misunderstanding of what is in those emails. I should know better - after all, I taught for 29 years in Public School and about three in an adolescent psychiatric facility.
Peace.
Thursday, May 03, 2012
Chasing my tail
At least that's the way I feel. I am still fighting with the password protector thingy. I really am ready to just delete it. I know one thing - it doesn't like you to have more than one account at a venue. I am still fighting about the Gmail accounts, and that's where the church women's group is.
Yesterday I was talked into going to a Rail Road Museum. The museum is very small inside, and G really wanted to see the tower that they had. It was too blamed hot for thatsh, er stuff. I did walk over to see the 1890 office car. Quite something. I was just thankful THIS museum wasn't the size of our museum. We have at least six pieces of rolling stock, and the artifacts number more than can be exhibited. And we have to move that place. Nice.
Today was my sewing club. OK, but I really didn't learn anything with the exception that a size 11 needle doesn't penetrate seven layers of cross stitch. It gives up and breaks! I guess the coaster is cute. Well the fellowship was fun anyway!
Why I am so rushed, I don't know. It just feels like every moment is spoken for. But then I tend to waste a lot of time here on the computer. But then, it's fun.
Peace.
Yesterday I was talked into going to a Rail Road Museum. The museum is very small inside, and G really wanted to see the tower that they had. It was too blamed hot for that
Today was my sewing club. OK, but I really didn't learn anything with the exception that a size 11 needle doesn't penetrate seven layers of cross stitch. It gives up and breaks! I guess the coaster is cute. Well the fellowship was fun anyway!
Why I am so rushed, I don't know. It just feels like every moment is spoken for. But then I tend to waste a lot of time here on the computer. But then, it's fun.
Peace.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)