It is the end of February. I can so feel and see Spring although today is overcast and rainy. I figured you've amused me long enough by my not talking about my health. So I figured as the end of February comes about, I will stop for a minute and give you an update.
First off, I still have an eyebrow dent....although the dent is getting better. I found I can really disguise it by using brow makeup. I usually don't worry about it but when I am out with my friends, I usually try to disguise it some. (Thanks Mom for the eyebrow powder)
What else is going on is I feel it. It is a different feel. It has been sore to touch since surgery and has a "band" of swelling that goes up my forehead. My eyelashes are still numb too. When I talked to Dr. S (my Surgeon), he said that was right were the nerve was and it will take time for it to heal. I think this "swelling" is not helping the dent as it really shows it off. But the feeling is strange. Almost like rubbing hair the wrong way. I often find my cancer lumps because I "feel" it so you can imagine my freak out when my eyebrow was "feeling". But as I play with it, I suspect the numbness is wearing off and that is what I feel. There is a lumpy feel but I'm not sure it feels like a cancer lump yet. I plan to wait to see what is going on with it and try to relax about it until I see Dr. L again. I see Dr. L(my Oncologist) in April.
Muscle wise? I am weak but it is weakness from the gym. I went again last night and for some reason, I am more sore than usual today. My butt muscles are crying. And my underarms...oh my underarms are sore. What? But I am sticking with it. I believe it will get better if I keep sticking with it and I will get stronger. I have little tiny calf muscles already. Yeah you have to dig around for them but I can feel them again. As much as my butt hurts, I hope I am getting my gluts in shape. But mostly I am working on my hip flexors and shoulders as those are the muscle groups my disease attacks most. I did go 2 days between gym work outs (instead of every other day) and that seemed to feel better for me. If I stick with that schedule, I won't make my 3 times a week but I will give me permission to change if I need.
I get my blood checked monthly. One of the tests is the CPK (or CK) which checks injury to the muscles. I was a little nervous to have it checked since going back to the gym but it came back at 101 which is fantastic. You are considered normal under 200 so I am good. My main concern is that I haven't been to the gym since I got off Prednisone. At this point, it appears I am doing okay with my work outs and not further damaging my muscles. I will see my Dr. D (my Neurologist) in April.
So things are good for now. I wouldn't consider myself out of the woods at this point but I feel I am stable and waiting. Waiting hopefully for good news down the road. I have a goal for myself. And that is easier mobility when we head to Moab the end of May. I want to be able to cruise around that gravel at the RV park without issues. We will see....
Friday, February 28, 2014
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Just a few observations....
Heidi ho! Or is it Hiddie Hoh! Or....nevermind
I have a few things that have been rattling around in my head that I decided are worth a random blog. Hang in there with me as I share them.
As you probably know, I'm trying to get back into the gym. I certainly lack the enthusiasm and optimism I had a few weeks ago. But I am trying. I find it boring. And worse yet, it makes me really weak for several days later. I am able to finish the work out okay and I can walk to the car and even go to the grocery store after but it is the few days after that are a problem. Building hip flexors and shoulder muscles suck! But I am trying and I am really trying to stick with 3 times a week. But it depends what else I have going on that week. For example, if I need to walk anywhere during the week, I am not so good a few days after a workout so I am trying to schedule around my plans so I can still have some social life.
I started playing tricks with my mind while at the gym. This week is Reggae week. If I can't go to Jamaica, I am going to pretend I am. So I dialed up Reggae on Pandora and got going on my workout. While on the bike, I closed my eyes and tried to remember what the beach in Jamaica felt like. The sunshine on my skin (sweat in the gym) and the sounds around me are clearly people on the beach....right? Well it kind of worked. I really miss the Caribbean.
Another thing I do to distract my mind through my mindless muscle routines is I watch people. It is actually pretty hard to miss watching people because, believe it or not, some people come to the gym to show off. They strut around like peacocks. They call attention to themselves by grunting or dropping weights. And then the outfits...Oh my. But what really caught my attention last weekend was the guys working out with....well....a woodie (hard on). Sure, I don't know what that is like but if you find you get a boner working out, why are you wearing those silky tight gym shorts? And if you get a woodie, is it okay to just keep working out with a "pitched tent"? Seriously. And then there was a guy that came strutting in wearing super tight shorts and shirt with a super cinched weight belt on. It was so tight, his big stomach was pushed out like a beach ball! He carried his backpack and motorcycle helmet all the way through the gym to the back. He got on the universal machine where you do sort of a rowing movement but your butt is stationary. Well this guy...he was having nothing with the stationary butt so he had lots of weights on the machine and would jerk back and grunt as he pulled the weights back while scooting his butt down the seat. Seriously....wouldn't you hurt yourself something significant? I can't imagine. Anyway, he did a whopping 5 "pulls" and then he was done. I was glad because I spend about 15 minutes on the arm thingy across from where he was and I was so absorbed by what he was doing, I lost count of my repetitions.
One thing about gym behavior that I find fascinating is everyone has ear buds in so there is rarely conversation unless you have a personal trainer session and no one obviously looks at anyone else. Yet everyone is looking at everyone else. Who wouldn't?? You just have to look when they aren't looking. Or practice the look of a distant gaze when really you are staring. Because everyone is enjoying their personal music selection, you make hand gestures to ask questions. A point and a look means "Are you done with this machine?". You would assume because they walked away, they were done but that is simply not true. I've been bullied before assuming someone was done because they were on a different machine but apparently in the gym, you can monopolize several machines at the same time to do "circuits". Luckily as an old fat lady, I've only been yelled at once. And honestly, I think you shouldn't take up several machines while people are waiting.
On to the next topic......
I don't think it is a secret I've been staying in for a few weeks. Not in in...but in. I've been a little "funky" and have been trying to shake it out. What occurred to me last night is how do you decide if you are tired, fatigued (they are different), sick, depressed, or lazy? For me, it all blurs together. I've been so incredibly tired. But I am not sleeping very well. It is because I am sick? Or maybe I am lazy and spend too much time laying around so I can't sleep? Or maybe I am too tired and it is making me lazy. Or maybe I am sick and it is making me fatigued. Or maybe I am depressed and it is making me tired and lazy. See what I mean? I don't know. Or maybe I can toss it all out the window and agree being a single Mom of a teen (good kid or not) is exhausting and can make you depressed, sick, tired, and lazy.
Anyway, it has been beautiful outside so I decided to shift into my "recovery" mode. I drove with the windows down today. You can smell Spring in the air. This afternoon, I opened my living room windows to let in fresh air. I've been noticing nature. My bulbs coming up. The beautiful blue sky. The birds totally teasing my cats in the open windows. I also decided to eat better. I've been trying to avoid so much gluten and eating more fruit and veggies. That along with going to the gym has got to break it up right? I also gave myself permission to get more non-fat Chai Lattes at Starbucks. I'm also trying to connect with people more. Dinners, lunches, texts, birthday parties, and paint classes. It has got to shake it lose.
In the meantime, I keep on keeping on. Hopefully my talk of "woodies" hasn't offended my few followers! Sorry.
I have a few things that have been rattling around in my head that I decided are worth a random blog. Hang in there with me as I share them.
As you probably know, I'm trying to get back into the gym. I certainly lack the enthusiasm and optimism I had a few weeks ago. But I am trying. I find it boring. And worse yet, it makes me really weak for several days later. I am able to finish the work out okay and I can walk to the car and even go to the grocery store after but it is the few days after that are a problem. Building hip flexors and shoulder muscles suck! But I am trying and I am really trying to stick with 3 times a week. But it depends what else I have going on that week. For example, if I need to walk anywhere during the week, I am not so good a few days after a workout so I am trying to schedule around my plans so I can still have some social life.
I started playing tricks with my mind while at the gym. This week is Reggae week. If I can't go to Jamaica, I am going to pretend I am. So I dialed up Reggae on Pandora and got going on my workout. While on the bike, I closed my eyes and tried to remember what the beach in Jamaica felt like. The sunshine on my skin (sweat in the gym) and the sounds around me are clearly people on the beach....right? Well it kind of worked. I really miss the Caribbean.
Another thing I do to distract my mind through my mindless muscle routines is I watch people. It is actually pretty hard to miss watching people because, believe it or not, some people come to the gym to show off. They strut around like peacocks. They call attention to themselves by grunting or dropping weights. And then the outfits...Oh my. But what really caught my attention last weekend was the guys working out with....well....a woodie (hard on). Sure, I don't know what that is like but if you find you get a boner working out, why are you wearing those silky tight gym shorts? And if you get a woodie, is it okay to just keep working out with a "pitched tent"? Seriously. And then there was a guy that came strutting in wearing super tight shorts and shirt with a super cinched weight belt on. It was so tight, his big stomach was pushed out like a beach ball! He carried his backpack and motorcycle helmet all the way through the gym to the back. He got on the universal machine where you do sort of a rowing movement but your butt is stationary. Well this guy...he was having nothing with the stationary butt so he had lots of weights on the machine and would jerk back and grunt as he pulled the weights back while scooting his butt down the seat. Seriously....wouldn't you hurt yourself something significant? I can't imagine. Anyway, he did a whopping 5 "pulls" and then he was done. I was glad because I spend about 15 minutes on the arm thingy across from where he was and I was so absorbed by what he was doing, I lost count of my repetitions.
One thing about gym behavior that I find fascinating is everyone has ear buds in so there is rarely conversation unless you have a personal trainer session and no one obviously looks at anyone else. Yet everyone is looking at everyone else. Who wouldn't?? You just have to look when they aren't looking. Or practice the look of a distant gaze when really you are staring. Because everyone is enjoying their personal music selection, you make hand gestures to ask questions. A point and a look means "Are you done with this machine?". You would assume because they walked away, they were done but that is simply not true. I've been bullied before assuming someone was done because they were on a different machine but apparently in the gym, you can monopolize several machines at the same time to do "circuits". Luckily as an old fat lady, I've only been yelled at once. And honestly, I think you shouldn't take up several machines while people are waiting.
On to the next topic......
I don't think it is a secret I've been staying in for a few weeks. Not in in...but in. I've been a little "funky" and have been trying to shake it out. What occurred to me last night is how do you decide if you are tired, fatigued (they are different), sick, depressed, or lazy? For me, it all blurs together. I've been so incredibly tired. But I am not sleeping very well. It is because I am sick? Or maybe I am lazy and spend too much time laying around so I can't sleep? Or maybe I am too tired and it is making me lazy. Or maybe I am sick and it is making me fatigued. Or maybe I am depressed and it is making me tired and lazy. See what I mean? I don't know. Or maybe I can toss it all out the window and agree being a single Mom of a teen (good kid or not) is exhausting and can make you depressed, sick, tired, and lazy.
Anyway, it has been beautiful outside so I decided to shift into my "recovery" mode. I drove with the windows down today. You can smell Spring in the air. This afternoon, I opened my living room windows to let in fresh air. I've been noticing nature. My bulbs coming up. The beautiful blue sky. The birds totally teasing my cats in the open windows. I also decided to eat better. I've been trying to avoid so much gluten and eating more fruit and veggies. That along with going to the gym has got to break it up right? I also gave myself permission to get more non-fat Chai Lattes at Starbucks. I'm also trying to connect with people more. Dinners, lunches, texts, birthday parties, and paint classes. It has got to shake it lose.
In the meantime, I keep on keeping on. Hopefully my talk of "woodies" hasn't offended my few followers! Sorry.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Paint Nite - getting creative!
Back in January (?), my friends all agreed to purchase a Groupon for Paint Nite. Paint Nite is one of those fun painting activities where you go to a different location and paint a picture. The plan is in about 2 hours you will have a painting you completed all by yourself and you don't need to bring anything but a good "can do" attitude. You pick your date and location based on the picture planned for that date and location. Well last night was our night.
The Paint Nite was planned at a bar in my neck of the woods, Piper Down Pub. They had round tables set up for 3 people at each table. I was at a table with my friend Stacy and her mom, Gayle (Mama Gayle...as I've referred to her before). Before me was a table top easel with a blank white canvas. We put our acrylic paints on a Styrofoam plate and picked up 3 brushes from the leader, Grace. I'm guessing there were like 30 people there? 7 from my group including me.
Grace was a great teacher. Very optimistic, organized, and helped guide us "non-painters" through the steps to end up with something we created. She has a sample of the picture already painted so we knew where we were headed but she also had a blank canvas she worked on with us. She encouraged us all to drink along the way. In fact, she would encourage us that if we were trying to control it too much and think too much about it, it was a good indication we needed a refill. I stuck with water...thinking about my poor liver.
We started by making a blue gradient background. We let it dry then moved on to white, yellow and green grasses (mine look like worms to me). Then we put in the large glowing fireflies (some called them nipples) and then little dots for smaller fireflies. At the last, we were given some red paint to make orange with and we put some small additions of contrast.
As promised, we were all done within 2 hours. Everyone had a painting that they created themselves and honestly, I think everyone was very pleased. Grace took lots of photos and we took lots of photos. We dumped our plates of leftover paint in the trash, put our brushes and aprons in bins, and we were free to leave. The girls went out to dinner but it was too late for me to eat and I wanted to get home and get Philip off to bed at a decent hour.
It was great fun. I simply love these girls. They do fun stuff and they are fun to be around. If you have a chance to go to a paint party, I highly recommend it.
The Paint Nite was planned at a bar in my neck of the woods, Piper Down Pub. They had round tables set up for 3 people at each table. I was at a table with my friend Stacy and her mom, Gayle (Mama Gayle...as I've referred to her before). Before me was a table top easel with a blank white canvas. We put our acrylic paints on a Styrofoam plate and picked up 3 brushes from the leader, Grace. I'm guessing there were like 30 people there? 7 from my group including me.
 |
| Grace, our fearless leader and owner. |
We started by making a blue gradient background. We let it dry then moved on to white, yellow and green grasses (mine look like worms to me). Then we put in the large glowing fireflies (some called them nipples) and then little dots for smaller fireflies. At the last, we were given some red paint to make orange with and we put some small additions of contrast.
 |
| Me and Stacy |
 |
| Koli and Kim |
 |
| I did it. Paint on the white! |
 |
| My grass start (worms) |
 |
| In process. I'm on the far left. You can see my hand. |
 |
| Gayle, Me, Stacy |
As promised, we were all done within 2 hours. Everyone had a painting that they created themselves and honestly, I think everyone was very pleased. Grace took lots of photos and we took lots of photos. We dumped our plates of leftover paint in the trash, put our brushes and aprons in bins, and we were free to leave. The girls went out to dinner but it was too late for me to eat and I wanted to get home and get Philip off to bed at a decent hour.
It was great fun. I simply love these girls. They do fun stuff and they are fun to be around. If you have a chance to go to a paint party, I highly recommend it.
 |
| Finished! Top - Koli, Christine, Jen, Stacy. Bottom - Kim, Me, Gayle |
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Lazy ass kind of day
Philip spent the night last night even though it was his Dad's day. He went to a concert last night (another band I've never heard of) and had to work this morning so it made sense for him to stay. When he got home last night, he was totally hashed out. His voice was raspy and he was super excited about the music and the night. Makes it tough to figure out if his cough/sore throat is from singing or if he is getting more sick. We doped him up anyway and sent him on his way. (By doped up, I mean Theraflu and Robutissin. He assured me he didn't have "anything else" in his system. :-) )
He had to be to work at 8:00 this morning. But I sure didn't have to be anywhere. I admit I woke up but I absolutely refused to get out of bed. So after he left at 7:30, I rolled over, snuggled my kitty, and proceeded to sleep until....noon. NOON. I didn't meant to sleep that long but I guess I needed it. Yes I woke up a few times in there to see what time it was. 8:30...nope....9:48....nope....11:05....maybe...but nope. If it wasn't for my old lady bladder, I'm not sure I would have got up at noon either.
I am so not a morning person but I can't help but feel like I missed 1/2 my day when I get up so late. As you get older, aren't you suppose to need less sleep? Agreed I didn't fall asleep until midnight but Noon?? Well it is what it is. I have medications I have to take an hour before I can eat anything. So I took them and moved to the couch to wait. The wait turned into a marathon "Renovation Reality" couch surf thing. People are such dumb asses. EVERYONE knows to turn off the breaker before taking to your kitchen electrical outlets with a pair of wire cutters. But watching the sparking phenomenon over and over for several episodes was hilarious. I know one thing for sure, I hope I never buy a house that has had an unskilled couple do much more than paint. Caulk can hide a multitude of mistakes unless it is 1/2" gap in your laminate counter top. Don't think I'm not going to look behind your fancy bowl of apples and oranges if I am buying your house!
Anyway, I finally pulled myself off the couch at 4:00. Much to Sissy's surprise who was thoroughly enjoying a day of cat corralling and snuggling. I decided to head to Lehi to the scrapbook store for my monthly page kit. I only have a few more months of these kits. Since June, I have faithfully drove to Lehi to pick up my kit. One of the things I love about this store is they have the BEST clearance section. I've picked up huge packs of paper for under a $1 that have helped me with so many layouts. Today, they had racks of paper for $.25. Plus I get 10% off each month when I pick up my kit. And today, they gave me a big handful of paper and embellishments just for coming in. I'm pretty sure it was as much as I bought. I think they know me now.
Anyway, I've come to really enjoy my run to Lehi. It has such a small town yocal feel right off the freeway. On my way back, I often stop at Kneaders for food. Today was Linner (lunch/dinner). Linner has become my MO lately. I suppose if you don't eat your first meal of the day until 1:30, you don't get 3 squares a day! Today I had Mushroom Brie soup (love it!!) and 1/2 a sandwich. While I was there, there was a table of "ladies who lunch". They were clearly a group of friends/sisters that were out for the day. Made me think about when Nola used to live in Utah and we would go out shopping for the day and often stop for lunch. I really miss that. Sigh.
Tonight I am on my own. Back home by 6:00 from my errands (stopped at Joann's for yarn for Mom) and now I am going to finish up my crop class from last week. I have just one more layout to finish. Should be a snap.
I asked one of my bookclub friends if they wanted to go to dinner with me tonight. Here is my snarky side....she is going to a blessing party for a book club lady's baby. Yes. It is the one that I helped organize the huge stroller purchase for in October. I wasn't invited to the blessing however, others from book club were. And I really already knew about it because she keeps posting about it on Facebook. Guess I know where I stand with her. But see here is the problem. If you send out a Facebook event to particular people and you make it private, you should probably keep your requests for RSVP to that group too. I assume my lack of invitation was an oversight and I probably wouldn't have gone anyway. I couldn't help but post something on her Facebook to have a fabulous time tonight. Snark ended.
Its not like I expect to be invited to everything. I know my other friends have things they go do without me. I think we just have a grown up way about it and an understanding we are friends that don't do EVERYTHING together. And I appreciate that.
Hope you are having a great Saturday of a long weekend!
He had to be to work at 8:00 this morning. But I sure didn't have to be anywhere. I admit I woke up but I absolutely refused to get out of bed. So after he left at 7:30, I rolled over, snuggled my kitty, and proceeded to sleep until....noon. NOON. I didn't meant to sleep that long but I guess I needed it. Yes I woke up a few times in there to see what time it was. 8:30...nope....9:48....nope....11:05....maybe...but nope. If it wasn't for my old lady bladder, I'm not sure I would have got up at noon either.
I am so not a morning person but I can't help but feel like I missed 1/2 my day when I get up so late. As you get older, aren't you suppose to need less sleep? Agreed I didn't fall asleep until midnight but Noon?? Well it is what it is. I have medications I have to take an hour before I can eat anything. So I took them and moved to the couch to wait. The wait turned into a marathon "Renovation Reality" couch surf thing. People are such dumb asses. EVERYONE knows to turn off the breaker before taking to your kitchen electrical outlets with a pair of wire cutters. But watching the sparking phenomenon over and over for several episodes was hilarious. I know one thing for sure, I hope I never buy a house that has had an unskilled couple do much more than paint. Caulk can hide a multitude of mistakes unless it is 1/2" gap in your laminate counter top. Don't think I'm not going to look behind your fancy bowl of apples and oranges if I am buying your house!
Anyway, I finally pulled myself off the couch at 4:00. Much to Sissy's surprise who was thoroughly enjoying a day of cat corralling and snuggling. I decided to head to Lehi to the scrapbook store for my monthly page kit. I only have a few more months of these kits. Since June, I have faithfully drove to Lehi to pick up my kit. One of the things I love about this store is they have the BEST clearance section. I've picked up huge packs of paper for under a $1 that have helped me with so many layouts. Today, they had racks of paper for $.25. Plus I get 10% off each month when I pick up my kit. And today, they gave me a big handful of paper and embellishments just for coming in. I'm pretty sure it was as much as I bought. I think they know me now.
Anyway, I've come to really enjoy my run to Lehi. It has such a small town yocal feel right off the freeway. On my way back, I often stop at Kneaders for food. Today was Linner (lunch/dinner). Linner has become my MO lately. I suppose if you don't eat your first meal of the day until 1:30, you don't get 3 squares a day! Today I had Mushroom Brie soup (love it!!) and 1/2 a sandwich. While I was there, there was a table of "ladies who lunch". They were clearly a group of friends/sisters that were out for the day. Made me think about when Nola used to live in Utah and we would go out shopping for the day and often stop for lunch. I really miss that. Sigh.
Tonight I am on my own. Back home by 6:00 from my errands (stopped at Joann's for yarn for Mom) and now I am going to finish up my crop class from last week. I have just one more layout to finish. Should be a snap.
I asked one of my bookclub friends if they wanted to go to dinner with me tonight. Here is my snarky side....she is going to a blessing party for a book club lady's baby. Yes. It is the one that I helped organize the huge stroller purchase for in October. I wasn't invited to the blessing however, others from book club were. And I really already knew about it because she keeps posting about it on Facebook. Guess I know where I stand with her. But see here is the problem. If you send out a Facebook event to particular people and you make it private, you should probably keep your requests for RSVP to that group too. I assume my lack of invitation was an oversight and I probably wouldn't have gone anyway. I couldn't help but post something on her Facebook to have a fabulous time tonight. Snark ended.
Its not like I expect to be invited to everything. I know my other friends have things they go do without me. I think we just have a grown up way about it and an understanding we are friends that don't do EVERYTHING together. And I appreciate that.
Hope you are having a great Saturday of a long weekend!
Friday, February 14, 2014
Happy Valentine's Day!
Happy Valentine's Day to all you sweethearts out there. I really is a day dedicated to recognizing the people you love. For me, it is "Singles Awareness Day" as there is no other holiday that puts so much pressure on someone to be in a relationship with a significant other. If you aren't in a relationship, there is the assumption that you must be sad about it and wish you were. Like some damaged goods that has to hide in the house for the day to hide your shame and discomfort from others. (Courtesy of the media including the 4th hour of the Today show.)
Well I don't feel that way. Most of you know that while I would love to be in a good relationship, I don't accept "Riff Raff" and that has left me single. I do find as I grow older, the dating pool is more limited and damaged. Plus having serious health issues seems to narrow that pool further. So many years ago, I learned to love being alone and filling my "love" quota with loving family and friends.
Yesterday, I received a delivery I wasn't expecting. I couldn't imagine what it was. Much to my surprise, it was a tray of 12 chocolate covered strawberries from Nola and Gregg!! I was so incredibly surprised! Thank you so much Nola and Gregg! Unfortunately, it is fresh fruit so I can't possibly ration them out over several days. I had to jump right in yesterday and I estimate I will be required to finish them today if at all possible. :-) (Sarcasm here...I want to eat them all!) I can't let these gems go bad or mooshie. It really is a reminder to me that love comes in all ways and from unsuspecting places. Honestly, my Valentine's is better than many I had while married. Because there are no expectations and each loving gesture is a surprise.
This afternoon, I was working away, enjoying my Taco Time Linner (lunch/dinner) and my uncle John came by with a dozen red roses! I simply can't believe it. What a grand surprise. My cup runneth over. Thank you Mars and John.
Those of you with significant others, I hope you have a very special day. I hope you and your "other" are in tune enough to spend the day exactly how you want and regardless how it is shown, you feel the overwhelming love and support from each other and the people in your world. My day came as a sweet card from my Mom and Chuck, flowers from Mars and John, and a goodie from my forever "Maybe" date and her love, Gregg.
I love you all and thank you for filling my love quota all year long.
P.S. What is a Maybe Date? It is something Nola and I came up with years ago. Basically, when I (we?) were dating guys, we would be each other's back up plan should the date fall apart. We called it a Maybe date...but honestly, on the phone, it sounds like "Navy" so sometimes I call it a Navy date because...well I am weird.
Well I don't feel that way. Most of you know that while I would love to be in a good relationship, I don't accept "Riff Raff" and that has left me single. I do find as I grow older, the dating pool is more limited and damaged. Plus having serious health issues seems to narrow that pool further. So many years ago, I learned to love being alone and filling my "love" quota with loving family and friends.
Yesterday, I received a delivery I wasn't expecting. I couldn't imagine what it was. Much to my surprise, it was a tray of 12 chocolate covered strawberries from Nola and Gregg!! I was so incredibly surprised! Thank you so much Nola and Gregg! Unfortunately, it is fresh fruit so I can't possibly ration them out over several days. I had to jump right in yesterday and I estimate I will be required to finish them today if at all possible. :-) (Sarcasm here...I want to eat them all!) I can't let these gems go bad or mooshie. It really is a reminder to me that love comes in all ways and from unsuspecting places. Honestly, my Valentine's is better than many I had while married. Because there are no expectations and each loving gesture is a surprise.
This afternoon, I was working away, enjoying my Taco Time Linner (lunch/dinner) and my uncle John came by with a dozen red roses! I simply can't believe it. What a grand surprise. My cup runneth over. Thank you Mars and John.
Those of you with significant others, I hope you have a very special day. I hope you and your "other" are in tune enough to spend the day exactly how you want and regardless how it is shown, you feel the overwhelming love and support from each other and the people in your world. My day came as a sweet card from my Mom and Chuck, flowers from Mars and John, and a goodie from my forever "Maybe" date and her love, Gregg.
I love you all and thank you for filling my love quota all year long.
P.S. What is a Maybe Date? It is something Nola and I came up with years ago. Basically, when I (we?) were dating guys, we would be each other's back up plan should the date fall apart. We called it a Maybe date...but honestly, on the phone, it sounds like "Navy" so sometimes I call it a Navy date because...well I am weird.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Ugh. I'm Meloncoly
What the heck is that? Well I'm in a funk. I'm worriedstressedsadfrustrated. Don't worry, I am okay but my family is not 100%.
Mom had surgery today. She is a lucky woman to make it into her 60's without ever having surgery. But that streak ended today. Her doctor was running 4 hours behind so she didn't even get into surgery until my work day was done. She is fine but had some complications that have me worried.
I also find out my sister, who lives in North Carolina, got caught in the nasty snow storm they are having and couldn't make it home from work. Luckily she is at a Residence Inn but has nothing with her but her purse and what she wore for the day. No meds, no change of clothes, no snacks. And the city is completely shut down. Might be like that for a few days. I know I would be going crazy if I was her. And since I share her need for Benedryl at night to sleep, and she has none, I feel her level of frustration at considering a night with fitful sleep. Never mind the other meds she is supposed to take. She did get a comb and a toothbrush from the front desk. She said the hotel is full of stranded people. If it were me, this would be the end of my work week. See you on Monday! I have my fingers crossed the storm has a clearing so she can get home tomorrow. And I hope the power stays on. They have power problems often in the storms.
My Aunt Mars did get discharged from the hospital on Monday so she is home and recovering. I believe she has at least a month of recovery ahead of her still. I've still stayed away in an effort to keep her from getting sick. So that is a good deal.
Today I went to have my silk peel on my face. The lady who does it is named Jen. I've not seen Jen since May! That was before my radiation! It was so nice to catch up with her. While I've been gone, she got pregnant!! This is a huge deal because her hubby had cancer so they have to do it the tough way (IVF) and she has had problems with that. She is expecting a baby boy and is due in May. One thing that really touched me and surprised me was while she was pampering my arm, she rested it on her pregnant tummy. I could feel the fullness of her tummy and I swear I could feel the baby kick. I forgot what that felt like so many years ago. I really don't think I've ever touched another pregnant woman's tummy before. It surprised me and it felt so special to know her little boy she dreamed of and worked so hard for is doing so well in her tummy. I didn't say anything to her though. She is a special person. Not only does she make my skin look good, it is like having an hour of positive affirmations. Who doesn't need that occasionally?
Tonight my old friend Bev came over for some Philip tutoring. She brought her son Jaxon. Much to my surprise, he brought his stuff for his Valentine's school box. He asked if I would help him. It is so funny because someone asked online about Valentine's boxes and I realized I never made one with Philip because they either did them in class or didn't do them at all. So we spent some time planning and I let him really drive the creative process. I helped by covering his box with Duck Tape and paper (under his direction) while he made a "Stained Glass Heart" drawing. It actually was a very fun process. I was happy I've learned patience and allowing the child to drive the process. He was very happy with the end result and was positive he would win a prize for the best box. It was fun to share my creative side with him. And Philip was able to help Bev with her Algebra and put a little cash in his pocket. All good things. Warmed my heart tonight.
And speaking of hearts....I got an email last week that Giardino's was offering free shipping of true blue deep dish Chicago pizza. Yes this is pizza made in Chicago and shipped to me to finish cooking at home. I swear that pizza is 2" deep. We've had pizza while in Chicago and I've had it delivered before and we loved it. It comes in a big Styrofoam container with dry ice. It was still frozen hard as a rock when I got it. I got a heart shaped pizza this time. I would cook it for Friday but I want to share it with my sweetheart, Philip who will be at his Dad's house. So I will hang on to it until next week. I can't wait!!
And I got my big work project handed off yesterday. So now I wait until it comes back to me for review. Huge relief though.
So good things and bad things. I guess I am worried about my loved ones but I am sure it will all work out. I feel better just typing the things out. I am a "glass half full" kind of gal so I am trying to keep that damn glass 1/2 full and not knock it over, spilling all over my important papers. Haha.
I made a joke on Facebook today....I need to rearrange my bedroom furniture because I keep getting up on the wrong side of the bed. Hahaha. I thought it was funny. I think people understood it was a funny. Anyway, I need to get an action plan together to make sure I am happy more and not so worriedstressedsadfrustrated. I highly suspect getting back to the gym is part of that. After 2 weeks off, I can feel it slip away...and it just can't. Life is really all about how we handle the daily "intakes" we receive. Finding productive ways to deal with the ups and downs is a big task....but a good thing to strive for more "ups" then "down". Now I need to ratchet it up and practice what I preach!
Thanks for listening.
Mom had surgery today. She is a lucky woman to make it into her 60's without ever having surgery. But that streak ended today. Her doctor was running 4 hours behind so she didn't even get into surgery until my work day was done. She is fine but had some complications that have me worried.
I also find out my sister, who lives in North Carolina, got caught in the nasty snow storm they are having and couldn't make it home from work. Luckily she is at a Residence Inn but has nothing with her but her purse and what she wore for the day. No meds, no change of clothes, no snacks. And the city is completely shut down. Might be like that for a few days. I know I would be going crazy if I was her. And since I share her need for Benedryl at night to sleep, and she has none, I feel her level of frustration at considering a night with fitful sleep. Never mind the other meds she is supposed to take. She did get a comb and a toothbrush from the front desk. She said the hotel is full of stranded people. If it were me, this would be the end of my work week. See you on Monday! I have my fingers crossed the storm has a clearing so she can get home tomorrow. And I hope the power stays on. They have power problems often in the storms.
My Aunt Mars did get discharged from the hospital on Monday so she is home and recovering. I believe she has at least a month of recovery ahead of her still. I've still stayed away in an effort to keep her from getting sick. So that is a good deal.
Today I went to have my silk peel on my face. The lady who does it is named Jen. I've not seen Jen since May! That was before my radiation! It was so nice to catch up with her. While I've been gone, she got pregnant!! This is a huge deal because her hubby had cancer so they have to do it the tough way (IVF) and she has had problems with that. She is expecting a baby boy and is due in May. One thing that really touched me and surprised me was while she was pampering my arm, she rested it on her pregnant tummy. I could feel the fullness of her tummy and I swear I could feel the baby kick. I forgot what that felt like so many years ago. I really don't think I've ever touched another pregnant woman's tummy before. It surprised me and it felt so special to know her little boy she dreamed of and worked so hard for is doing so well in her tummy. I didn't say anything to her though. She is a special person. Not only does she make my skin look good, it is like having an hour of positive affirmations. Who doesn't need that occasionally?
Tonight my old friend Bev came over for some Philip tutoring. She brought her son Jaxon. Much to my surprise, he brought his stuff for his Valentine's school box. He asked if I would help him. It is so funny because someone asked online about Valentine's boxes and I realized I never made one with Philip because they either did them in class or didn't do them at all. So we spent some time planning and I let him really drive the creative process. I helped by covering his box with Duck Tape and paper (under his direction) while he made a "Stained Glass Heart" drawing. It actually was a very fun process. I was happy I've learned patience and allowing the child to drive the process. He was very happy with the end result and was positive he would win a prize for the best box. It was fun to share my creative side with him. And Philip was able to help Bev with her Algebra and put a little cash in his pocket. All good things. Warmed my heart tonight.
And speaking of hearts....I got an email last week that Giardino's was offering free shipping of true blue deep dish Chicago pizza. Yes this is pizza made in Chicago and shipped to me to finish cooking at home. I swear that pizza is 2" deep. We've had pizza while in Chicago and I've had it delivered before and we loved it. It comes in a big Styrofoam container with dry ice. It was still frozen hard as a rock when I got it. I got a heart shaped pizza this time. I would cook it for Friday but I want to share it with my sweetheart, Philip who will be at his Dad's house. So I will hang on to it until next week. I can't wait!!
And I got my big work project handed off yesterday. So now I wait until it comes back to me for review. Huge relief though.
So good things and bad things. I guess I am worried about my loved ones but I am sure it will all work out. I feel better just typing the things out. I am a "glass half full" kind of gal so I am trying to keep that damn glass 1/2 full and not knock it over, spilling all over my important papers. Haha.
I made a joke on Facebook today....I need to rearrange my bedroom furniture because I keep getting up on the wrong side of the bed. Hahaha. I thought it was funny. I think people understood it was a funny. Anyway, I need to get an action plan together to make sure I am happy more and not so worriedstressedsadfrustrated. I highly suspect getting back to the gym is part of that. After 2 weeks off, I can feel it slip away...and it just can't. Life is really all about how we handle the daily "intakes" we receive. Finding productive ways to deal with the ups and downs is a big task....but a good thing to strive for more "ups" then "down". Now I need to ratchet it up and practice what I preach!
Thanks for listening.
Friday, February 7, 2014
Another week down
Here we come to the close of another week. They go by way too fast. Let's see.....
Mars is still in the hospital going through her recovery roller coaster. Ultimately, she is making forward steps but it is not a smooth or easy steps. I've spent quite a bit of time at the hospital helping them through the process of dealing with cancer and all the emotions that goes with that. This is also really the first time they've faced a serious medical situation so it has been tough getting through the recovery process for them. I hope I've been able to help them work through it.
Unfortunately, Philip came down with a cold on Tuesday. By Thursday, I was feeling it myself. After last Fall's experience, I'm honestly terrified of getting sick. I've been doing my Vitamin C, more rest, lots of liquids, and Zicam. So far, it doesn't seem to have spread to a full blown illness but I feel it could any minute. I've stayed away from both John and Mars until I am better. The last thing they need is for Mars to get sick. I know they would never forgive me if I got Mars sick.
Work has blown up and been totally crazy. I've been working late into the night in my attempt to stay caught up. I have some very pressing deadlines the end of the month. With my production cycles, next week I need to hand them off or I won't make it...which is not an option in my work world. Luckily I think I will make it...with the heavy work load I've balanced this week.
I also worked so hard to finish my book club book. We read "Unbroken". I didn't start it until last Saturday. It is 400 pages. After hospital visits and late night work, I would lay in bed until my eyes just wouldn't stay open one more minute. I finished it yesterday!! I was so excited. But then I couldn't go to book club tonight because of my cold. I didn't think it would be fair to share it with everyone.
This weekend, I'm in another online scrapbook crop. I have some photos left over from the last class to work on but I also have all the holiday photos and Philip's Eagle ceremony photos I'm anxious to work on. I did get my photos ordered this evening. I hope they are the right size and work out okay. I still need to finish up my journaling on my pages from 2013 before I forget what I was going to say. Then of course, I want to get them into my book!
It has been a fast and furious week. Although I tried to stay balanced, I did get a little stretched. I wouldn't change it for the world but I plan to spend the weekend taking it easy and resting as much as possible.
I hope everyone had a great week and a fantastic weekend!
Mars is still in the hospital going through her recovery roller coaster. Ultimately, she is making forward steps but it is not a smooth or easy steps. I've spent quite a bit of time at the hospital helping them through the process of dealing with cancer and all the emotions that goes with that. This is also really the first time they've faced a serious medical situation so it has been tough getting through the recovery process for them. I hope I've been able to help them work through it.
Unfortunately, Philip came down with a cold on Tuesday. By Thursday, I was feeling it myself. After last Fall's experience, I'm honestly terrified of getting sick. I've been doing my Vitamin C, more rest, lots of liquids, and Zicam. So far, it doesn't seem to have spread to a full blown illness but I feel it could any minute. I've stayed away from both John and Mars until I am better. The last thing they need is for Mars to get sick. I know they would never forgive me if I got Mars sick.
Work has blown up and been totally crazy. I've been working late into the night in my attempt to stay caught up. I have some very pressing deadlines the end of the month. With my production cycles, next week I need to hand them off or I won't make it...which is not an option in my work world. Luckily I think I will make it...with the heavy work load I've balanced this week.
I also worked so hard to finish my book club book. We read "Unbroken". I didn't start it until last Saturday. It is 400 pages. After hospital visits and late night work, I would lay in bed until my eyes just wouldn't stay open one more minute. I finished it yesterday!! I was so excited. But then I couldn't go to book club tonight because of my cold. I didn't think it would be fair to share it with everyone.
This weekend, I'm in another online scrapbook crop. I have some photos left over from the last class to work on but I also have all the holiday photos and Philip's Eagle ceremony photos I'm anxious to work on. I did get my photos ordered this evening. I hope they are the right size and work out okay. I still need to finish up my journaling on my pages from 2013 before I forget what I was going to say. Then of course, I want to get them into my book!
It has been a fast and furious week. Although I tried to stay balanced, I did get a little stretched. I wouldn't change it for the world but I plan to spend the weekend taking it easy and resting as much as possible.
I hope everyone had a great week and a fantastic weekend!
Sunday, February 2, 2014
A weekly update??
I realize it has been a week since I've provided an update. And now my update is that I really don't have an update. I've been very busy this past week helping my Aunt Mars and Uncle John. Turns out Mars has Sarcoma. It started in her chest muscle but quickly spread to her lung and ribs (and other various parts in the path that we don't really talk about...like vessels, nerves, and such). It is really her story to tell so I am not going to go into detail but she had major surgery last Tuesday and has been recovering in the hospital. In true "Cancer Buddy" form, I've been very busy at the hospital daily. She is expected to have a full recovery which is excellent. Getting there will take some time.
Besides that, of course there is work. Not much gym time last week but I hope to get back to it this week. Philip was at his Dad's this past weekend. I did go to the dentist and had no cavities which is a nice surprise. Other then that, I don't have much to share.
So know that I am okay and everything is good. Just a little preoccupied and unless I share cat wrangling stories with you, I have nothing else to share.
Love you all.
Besides that, of course there is work. Not much gym time last week but I hope to get back to it this week. Philip was at his Dad's this past weekend. I did go to the dentist and had no cavities which is a nice surprise. Other then that, I don't have much to share.
So know that I am okay and everything is good. Just a little preoccupied and unless I share cat wrangling stories with you, I have nothing else to share.
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| Cat Wrangling this morning. Not sure if I am wrangling Sissy or if she is wrangling me. Regardless, she was purring as loud and hard as she could at this moment. |
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