December 28, 2014
3:09 p.m.
Christmas is over and New Years is coming up quick. I feel like we're in a holding pattern, even like I'm sort of holding my breath. My daughter is due any day now, with plans to induce labor on January 5th if she doesn't go on her own by then. Personally, I'm rooting for a New Year's baby.
It seems like everyone has been sick during this holiday. My other daughter has only been here to visit once, as she and her two toddlers have been sick. Her teenaged daughter is here with the rest of us, since she got sick first and is over it. We were all at her house Christmas day, so I guess we're lucky we aren't all sick here, too. My grandson dealt with it well before Christmas, and thankfully didn't pass it on.
It's been a Holiday full of Legos. It's pretty cool watching my son-in-law and grandson putting these elaborate buildings and machines together. Hours of fun! I love Legos, except when I step on one in my bare feet.
Anyway, today I'm just checking in before getting down to some homework. Studious, that's me! Hahaha!
Have a great day, everyone!
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Friday, December 19, 2014
December 19, 2014
6:16 p.m.
It surely has been a busy week! I've been all over town with these grandchildren. (Not really, just to their schools.) Dance recital, band concert, school musical, Christmas parties. Busy, busy.
I'm having a good time. I just wish I wasn't all slow-pokey with my dumb foot.
Just a few days left to finish Christmas shopping. This year won't be the same as last year. I was so on top of things last year, but this year "Dumb Foot" has interfered with my mobility to the point that I've gotten so little done. It's frustrating.
I wish the rest of my family could be here. I miss those Colorado kids and grandkids. One of these days we may manage to be all in the same place at the same time.
In the meantime, I have been thinking about a lot of things to do with peace and happiness. You must be at peace to be happy--that's a given. I understand that it's difficult to be at peace in a world where unrest is the natural state.
For me, peace is an internal state, that place I go to where life's nit-picky stuff isn't allowed to get in and get me down. I can't always get into that place, unfortunately. I don't know anyone who can constantly live in that state, but I do know a couple who do a pretty good job of living there most of the time. Those people are the ones I most admire, because even though life throws them some pretty nasty curve-balls, they always have a smile for everyone and a friendly word to pass along. While that in itself is admirable, they are also the ones who admit their frailties, admit that they are suffering, but choose to go on and count their blessings as they limp along their way. They choose life, and they choose peace and happiness even as their tears are flowing.
I try to do this myself, and sometimes I even succeed. (No one laughs at me or my foolishness as much as I do.) But I often fall short, and so I must try, try again.
Here is what I strive for, and what I hope to teach through my example:
1. Realized that any person, regardless of race, colour, religion or sexual orientation will bleed red blood if cut, requires the same vital organs to live, must eat, drink, sleep and eliminate waste to stay healthy, and needs to love and be loved to be fulfilled.
2. No one has the right to judge another person simply because their beliefs differ from yours.
3. No one has the right to judge another person because their skin, hair and eye colour differs from yours.
4. Hate is a learned emotion. Parents teach it to their children. Friends teach it to friends. Teachers teach it to students. No one is born hating.
5. Babes and small children are open to loving everyone. They discriminate against no one. No wonder Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me." They are the most worthy among us. Lets be more like them!
'Tis the Season, everyone. I want to look at the world with the wonder and openness of a small child. I want to have my cry when needed and then get over it and move on, the way a toddler does. We can learn a lot from the little ones.
Until we meet again--goodnight!
6:16 p.m.
It surely has been a busy week! I've been all over town with these grandchildren. (Not really, just to their schools.) Dance recital, band concert, school musical, Christmas parties. Busy, busy.
I'm having a good time. I just wish I wasn't all slow-pokey with my dumb foot.
Just a few days left to finish Christmas shopping. This year won't be the same as last year. I was so on top of things last year, but this year "Dumb Foot" has interfered with my mobility to the point that I've gotten so little done. It's frustrating.
I wish the rest of my family could be here. I miss those Colorado kids and grandkids. One of these days we may manage to be all in the same place at the same time.
In the meantime, I have been thinking about a lot of things to do with peace and happiness. You must be at peace to be happy--that's a given. I understand that it's difficult to be at peace in a world where unrest is the natural state.
For me, peace is an internal state, that place I go to where life's nit-picky stuff isn't allowed to get in and get me down. I can't always get into that place, unfortunately. I don't know anyone who can constantly live in that state, but I do know a couple who do a pretty good job of living there most of the time. Those people are the ones I most admire, because even though life throws them some pretty nasty curve-balls, they always have a smile for everyone and a friendly word to pass along. While that in itself is admirable, they are also the ones who admit their frailties, admit that they are suffering, but choose to go on and count their blessings as they limp along their way. They choose life, and they choose peace and happiness even as their tears are flowing.
I try to do this myself, and sometimes I even succeed. (No one laughs at me or my foolishness as much as I do.) But I often fall short, and so I must try, try again.
Here is what I strive for, and what I hope to teach through my example:
1. Realized that any person, regardless of race, colour, religion or sexual orientation will bleed red blood if cut, requires the same vital organs to live, must eat, drink, sleep and eliminate waste to stay healthy, and needs to love and be loved to be fulfilled.
2. No one has the right to judge another person simply because their beliefs differ from yours.
3. No one has the right to judge another person because their skin, hair and eye colour differs from yours.
4. Hate is a learned emotion. Parents teach it to their children. Friends teach it to friends. Teachers teach it to students. No one is born hating.
5. Babes and small children are open to loving everyone. They discriminate against no one. No wonder Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me." They are the most worthy among us. Lets be more like them!
'Tis the Season, everyone. I want to look at the world with the wonder and openness of a small child. I want to have my cry when needed and then get over it and move on, the way a toddler does. We can learn a lot from the little ones.
Until we meet again--goodnight!
December 17, 2014
9:04 p.m.
A "Happy Birthday" shout out to my brother, Rick. Dang, we are getting old--only one sibling under fifty left.
I have been in Oklahoma for six days now, and we have been going non-stop. This is really a great time if year for a visit. These grandchildren don't get to see me much, and certainly not for Christmas. I have attended a Christmas lunch with my grandson, my granddaughter's dance recital and my grandson's Christmas play. Still to come: granddaughter's band concert and grandsons' school Christmas parties.
A sad fact: I have been to Walmart three times in the past five days. That's as many times as I usually go in three months. Probably more than three months, because I certainly don't go every month. I am pretty much an on-line shopper. I am a champion store-avoider. But not this week!
Even sadder is the fact that my "Turbo-Mom status has been revoked for the foreseeable future. I am usually a pretty fast walker, but now I can't keep up with anyone and I have even resorted to using the ride-on carts. My blankety-blank foot hurts. Bleeping thing.
Regardless, this is a good time. Today my daughter had an ultrasound, and we got a pretty good look at the new baby girl's little face. 3-D technology is amazing.
Well, duty calls. Good-night, all!
9:04 p.m.
A "Happy Birthday" shout out to my brother, Rick. Dang, we are getting old--only one sibling under fifty left.
I have been in Oklahoma for six days now, and we have been going non-stop. This is really a great time if year for a visit. These grandchildren don't get to see me much, and certainly not for Christmas. I have attended a Christmas lunch with my grandson, my granddaughter's dance recital and my grandson's Christmas play. Still to come: granddaughter's band concert and grandsons' school Christmas parties.
A sad fact: I have been to Walmart three times in the past five days. That's as many times as I usually go in three months. Probably more than three months, because I certainly don't go every month. I am pretty much an on-line shopper. I am a champion store-avoider. But not this week!
Even sadder is the fact that my "Turbo-Mom status has been revoked for the foreseeable future. I am usually a pretty fast walker, but now I can't keep up with anyone and I have even resorted to using the ride-on carts. My blankety-blank foot hurts. Bleeping thing.
Regardless, this is a good time. Today my daughter had an ultrasound, and we got a pretty good look at the new baby girl's little face. 3-D technology is amazing.
Well, duty calls. Good-night, all!
Thursday, December 11, 2014
December 11, 2014
6:09 p.m.
The airplane has landed safely and I am here at my daughter's. Yay!
Wow, what a great flight experience! I arranged for wheelchair service because of my silly foot. I just knew that there was no way I could get through the airport on my foot, and couldn't drag my carry-on while on crutches, so I swallowed my pride and arranged for help. So glad I did! Southwest Airlines was so nice to me, got me through the incredibly huge Denver International Airport in record time. Kudos, Southwest, you made me feel like queen for the day.
I am so happy to be here. I will write more soon.
Grinning!
6:09 p.m.
The airplane has landed safely and I am here at my daughter's. Yay!
Wow, what a great flight experience! I arranged for wheelchair service because of my silly foot. I just knew that there was no way I could get through the airport on my foot, and couldn't drag my carry-on while on crutches, so I swallowed my pride and arranged for help. So glad I did! Southwest Airlines was so nice to me, got me through the incredibly huge Denver International Airport in record time. Kudos, Southwest, you made me feel like queen for the day.
I am so happy to be here. I will write more soon.
Grinning!
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
December 10, 2014
9:54 p.m.
Wow, I pretty much skipped blogging in November. In my defense, I was busy. My house has been full, I've somehow made it through Thanksgiving, and I've been in physical therapy.
Excuses, excuses.
Okay, here's how things have gone down:
1. I had pre-ordered some books. I got them. I read them. Here are three of the six new books I read this month: (We won't go into the several re-reads I did this month!)
a. As You Wish by Cary Elwes. So much fun to read about the making of the movie "The Princess Bride. It has always been a family favorite. If you're a fan, I highly recommend the book.
b. Choose Your Own Autobiography by Neil Patrick Harris. I could not put this down until I was sure I had read every possible scenario. You get the story of his life, plus some funny extras. I'm a fan. I'm sure I'll read it again.
c. Revival by Stephen King. Wow. This is the first time in years that Stephen King has actually kept me up at night after finishing one of his books. (Clearly, I do not scare easily.) I can't explain why this book left me with such creepy-crawlies, not without spoiling it. Suffice it to say that when the Preacher loses faith, it's a lose-lose situation. I'm going to let this sit for a few months before reading it again. I enjoy a good spook, and I need time to let it fade...
2. Doctors, boot fittings and physical therapy.
a. Hurray! I do not have Lupus. Test results show that my pain is being caused by osteoarthritis and muscle shortening in my hips, hamstrings, calves, ankles and heels. I have lots of therapy ahead of me, but if I keep at it I may be able to reverse some on the muscle shortening. (It hurts; I'll live.)
b. Due to insurance issues, the boot I'm in is not the ideal boot for healing this injury. So I could be in it for a long time--at least six months. Boo. But at least I am walking without crutches as long as I'm in the boot.
3. Thanksgiving. Anyone who knows me knows that I love Thanksgiving. This year everyone in the house but me decided they had to get sick right before the holiday. Bad form, sons and daughter-in-law! Bad form.
Due to these illnesses, one family cancelled their plans to join us. They have eight children, so I could hardly blame them for not wanting to risk it. They were very much missed!
Then, to my surprise and delight, my brother-in-law (yes, I divorced his brother, but not the rest of the family!) called and said that he would like to come. It was quite a trip for them, but I was so very happy to have them join us! I got to meet his wife and two sons. His daughter was unable to join us, but hopefully we will get to meet her soon. His other daughter is married, so Heaven only knows when we might get to meet her.
Anyway, my daughter and her family came as well, and I had lots of help in the kitchen, which I very much needed and appreciated. (Who knew an injured heel could put me so far back in terms of cooking a meal?)
We had such a wonderful time, and I cannot express how thankful I am that the Uncle of my children is back in their lives. We have missed him so much.
Tomorrow I will take my leave of this house and make my way to Oklahoma for Christmas and to await the arrival of grandchild number eight. I'm so excited! My son will have to take care of this place for me, lucky guy.
And now, I must resume packing. Like putting clothes away, this is not my favorite chore.
Good-night!
9:54 p.m.
Wow, I pretty much skipped blogging in November. In my defense, I was busy. My house has been full, I've somehow made it through Thanksgiving, and I've been in physical therapy.
Excuses, excuses.
Okay, here's how things have gone down:
1. I had pre-ordered some books. I got them. I read them. Here are three of the six new books I read this month: (We won't go into the several re-reads I did this month!)
a. As You Wish by Cary Elwes. So much fun to read about the making of the movie "The Princess Bride. It has always been a family favorite. If you're a fan, I highly recommend the book.
b. Choose Your Own Autobiography by Neil Patrick Harris. I could not put this down until I was sure I had read every possible scenario. You get the story of his life, plus some funny extras. I'm a fan. I'm sure I'll read it again.
c. Revival by Stephen King. Wow. This is the first time in years that Stephen King has actually kept me up at night after finishing one of his books. (Clearly, I do not scare easily.) I can't explain why this book left me with such creepy-crawlies, not without spoiling it. Suffice it to say that when the Preacher loses faith, it's a lose-lose situation. I'm going to let this sit for a few months before reading it again. I enjoy a good spook, and I need time to let it fade...
2. Doctors, boot fittings and physical therapy.
a. Hurray! I do not have Lupus. Test results show that my pain is being caused by osteoarthritis and muscle shortening in my hips, hamstrings, calves, ankles and heels. I have lots of therapy ahead of me, but if I keep at it I may be able to reverse some on the muscle shortening. (It hurts; I'll live.)
b. Due to insurance issues, the boot I'm in is not the ideal boot for healing this injury. So I could be in it for a long time--at least six months. Boo. But at least I am walking without crutches as long as I'm in the boot.
3. Thanksgiving. Anyone who knows me knows that I love Thanksgiving. This year everyone in the house but me decided they had to get sick right before the holiday. Bad form, sons and daughter-in-law! Bad form.
Due to these illnesses, one family cancelled their plans to join us. They have eight children, so I could hardly blame them for not wanting to risk it. They were very much missed!
Then, to my surprise and delight, my brother-in-law (yes, I divorced his brother, but not the rest of the family!) called and said that he would like to come. It was quite a trip for them, but I was so very happy to have them join us! I got to meet his wife and two sons. His daughter was unable to join us, but hopefully we will get to meet her soon. His other daughter is married, so Heaven only knows when we might get to meet her.
Anyway, my daughter and her family came as well, and I had lots of help in the kitchen, which I very much needed and appreciated. (Who knew an injured heel could put me so far back in terms of cooking a meal?)
We had such a wonderful time, and I cannot express how thankful I am that the Uncle of my children is back in their lives. We have missed him so much.
Tomorrow I will take my leave of this house and make my way to Oklahoma for Christmas and to await the arrival of grandchild number eight. I'm so excited! My son will have to take care of this place for me, lucky guy.
And now, I must resume packing. Like putting clothes away, this is not my favorite chore.
Good-night!
Sunday, November 2, 2014
November 2, 2014
10:10 p.m.
It occurs to me that I have become a person who needs an appointment calendar. I can't tell you how much this discourages me.
Or why it should discourage me at all.
But it does.
I guess it's because the only appointments I have to keep track of are medical in nature, and I don't want to go to any of them.
I have three upcoming appointments. The only one I remember is the one on Friday. The other two are sometime this week, and all I know for sure is they are not tomorrow. (Monday) So tomorrow I must make two phone calls to remind myself when my appointments are so I can make arrangements to be picked up for them.
Sad.
I want an appointment to interview for a new job. Or to take a dance lesson. Or to go see a play. Those are the types of things I want to see in my appointment calendar!
Someone remind me to get an appointment calendar when I go out to one of my medical appointments, okay?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I am feeling semi-proud of myself for completing my ballot. I hate voting. I often feel like I am choosing between the lesser of two (or three or four) evils. I'm interested in school issues only up to a point, as I have no school-age children anymore and my grandchildren will be unaffected by anything I vote for in my area. All the children I know and love live far out of my jurisdiction. I suppose it's okay with me if they tax marijuana and marijuana related products--I don't buy it, so I won't be taxed.
But I'm semi-proud of myself anyway, because I looked up some stuff and tried to make informed decisions. I will be totally proud if I remember to drop off the ballot when I go out to one of my appointments. Provided one of those appointments fall before November 4th.
Uh...hmm. I may have to arrange for another ride. Just in case. So I can be proud of myself. Yeah.
_________________________________________________________________________________
First of the month, and I have almost completed the bill-paying. That's another thing I really don't like doing, but I do like having a place to live, heat and electricity and food, so I write the checks and wave bye-bye to the money as soon as it comes in.
Just like everyone else!
Because I'm not fond of the process, I am going to take a minute right now to thank God that I am actually able to do this. So many people have no homes. So many people who do have homes are unable to keep them adequately heated during the winter. So many people went to bed tonight with empty bellies. So I should just shut up and be grateful for all that I have and all that I am able to do.
Sometimes I'm just disappointed in me! Gratitude, not attitude, girl.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have this great laundry basket with long handles, which I managed to drag down the hall to the washing machine today all by myself! My son said, "Look at you, doing laundry by yourself!" I have to say, it's those little things that make your day!
Of course, now I have to go put all those clothes away, but that's probably not going to happen. I've probably confessed this before--sometimes the clothes remain in the basket without ever finding their way into closet or dresser before being worn again. I have always been notorious for that. Clothes washed, dried and folded, but put away? Er--sometimes!
So, can I get credit for 3 out of 4, please?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I pre-ordered Stephen King's new book, Cary Elwes's new book and Neil Patrick Harris's new book. At least one of them ought to show up this week. I'm so excited. New books! New books! Hurray!
_________________________________________________________________________________
And to all, a good night!
10:10 p.m.
It occurs to me that I have become a person who needs an appointment calendar. I can't tell you how much this discourages me.
Or why it should discourage me at all.
But it does.
I guess it's because the only appointments I have to keep track of are medical in nature, and I don't want to go to any of them.
I have three upcoming appointments. The only one I remember is the one on Friday. The other two are sometime this week, and all I know for sure is they are not tomorrow. (Monday) So tomorrow I must make two phone calls to remind myself when my appointments are so I can make arrangements to be picked up for them.
Sad.
I want an appointment to interview for a new job. Or to take a dance lesson. Or to go see a play. Those are the types of things I want to see in my appointment calendar!
Someone remind me to get an appointment calendar when I go out to one of my medical appointments, okay?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I am feeling semi-proud of myself for completing my ballot. I hate voting. I often feel like I am choosing between the lesser of two (or three or four) evils. I'm interested in school issues only up to a point, as I have no school-age children anymore and my grandchildren will be unaffected by anything I vote for in my area. All the children I know and love live far out of my jurisdiction. I suppose it's okay with me if they tax marijuana and marijuana related products--I don't buy it, so I won't be taxed.
But I'm semi-proud of myself anyway, because I looked up some stuff and tried to make informed decisions. I will be totally proud if I remember to drop off the ballot when I go out to one of my appointments. Provided one of those appointments fall before November 4th.
Uh...hmm. I may have to arrange for another ride. Just in case. So I can be proud of myself. Yeah.
_________________________________________________________________________________
First of the month, and I have almost completed the bill-paying. That's another thing I really don't like doing, but I do like having a place to live, heat and electricity and food, so I write the checks and wave bye-bye to the money as soon as it comes in.
Just like everyone else!
Because I'm not fond of the process, I am going to take a minute right now to thank God that I am actually able to do this. So many people have no homes. So many people who do have homes are unable to keep them adequately heated during the winter. So many people went to bed tonight with empty bellies. So I should just shut up and be grateful for all that I have and all that I am able to do.
Sometimes I'm just disappointed in me! Gratitude, not attitude, girl.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have this great laundry basket with long handles, which I managed to drag down the hall to the washing machine today all by myself! My son said, "Look at you, doing laundry by yourself!" I have to say, it's those little things that make your day!
Of course, now I have to go put all those clothes away, but that's probably not going to happen. I've probably confessed this before--sometimes the clothes remain in the basket without ever finding their way into closet or dresser before being worn again. I have always been notorious for that. Clothes washed, dried and folded, but put away? Er--sometimes!
So, can I get credit for 3 out of 4, please?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I pre-ordered Stephen King's new book, Cary Elwes's new book and Neil Patrick Harris's new book. At least one of them ought to show up this week. I'm so excited. New books! New books! Hurray!
_________________________________________________________________________________
And to all, a good night!
Saturday, November 1, 2014
November 1, 2014
8:26 p.m.
Oh my God, it's November! I missed October, man! I mean, I really missed it! Between September 26th and now, I have been out of my house a grand total of five times. Doctor appointment day, MRI day, once to get an ice cream cone, a trip to Lowe's to buy a new toilet and a trip to the bank. Holy crap, I missed October!
Okay, I did go to the Emergency room on September 26th, but I'm not gonna count that. Sue me. Besides, that was in September.
My son and daughter-in-law took me to eat on Doctor day. On MRI day friends took me to lunch, and we went to Lowe's to find out what we needed to know before purchasing the toilet. They have scooters at Lowe's! That was interesting--it's a learning experience! But I didn't have to deal with crutches, and that was nice. Then a few days later we went and purchased the toilet and made arrangements for installation, and I boogied around on the scooter again.
Thursday we hit the bank, went out for an early dinner, then stopped at Safeway's for a few things. Safeway also has scooters, but guess what? They are nothing like the scooters at Lowe's, so I had to learn again! Safeway scooters are racing scooters. You could run someone down with those things! Ask my son, I tried to run over him. Sorry, son!
I finally got a diagnosis on my foot injury. Well, a diagnosis of sorts. Apparently I have no current tear, but I have "really bad" tendonitis and a lot of scarring on the tendon, according to the Physician's Assistant who called me. I see the doctor again on Friday. I imagine I will be ordered to stay in the boot or else I will be put in a cast. (That's what I'd make me do, if I was the doctor. Threaten me. Threats have been effective in the past.)
Confession: I have been lax with the boot. It doesn't fit right, it doesn't immobilize my foot and ankle, and it hurts like hell. So unless I actually leave my house (see above, five times in the last thirty-five days) I have been wearing the boot intermittently. Don't I know better? Well, yeah. But my insurance would not approve a second boot, and the one I got at the hospital is a generic piece of crap, so unless and/or until I can get some modifications to make it work...I'm not gonna wear it. I'll find out on Wednesday if that can happen.
I could end up in a cast. Boo.
I've already been warned that a sprain, which is technically what this is, can take longer to heal than a torn tendon or a broken bone. That sucks! Who would have thought that a tear or break would be better news than a sprain?
All I want is to be able to ambulate without crutches by the time I leave for Oklahoma in December. Crutches in the airport is not something I want to deal with.
I'm headed back to physical therapy next week, so losing the crutches will be my goal. Wish me luck!
Enough about the foot. I'm really tired of the foot.
_________________________________________________________________________________
On a happier note, the new toilet was installed yesterday. Hurray! No more having to shut off the water after every flush because it never stops running! My main bathroom is now fully functional, since we recently repaired the bathtub/shower faucets as well. It's the little things that make my day.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I've got to get on the ball regarding Thanksgiving plans and making product for the upcoming craft fair. It's not like I'm going anywhere! I'm just the queen of procrastination!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Everyone have a good night!
8:26 p.m.
Oh my God, it's November! I missed October, man! I mean, I really missed it! Between September 26th and now, I have been out of my house a grand total of five times. Doctor appointment day, MRI day, once to get an ice cream cone, a trip to Lowe's to buy a new toilet and a trip to the bank. Holy crap, I missed October!
Okay, I did go to the Emergency room on September 26th, but I'm not gonna count that. Sue me. Besides, that was in September.
My son and daughter-in-law took me to eat on Doctor day. On MRI day friends took me to lunch, and we went to Lowe's to find out what we needed to know before purchasing the toilet. They have scooters at Lowe's! That was interesting--it's a learning experience! But I didn't have to deal with crutches, and that was nice. Then a few days later we went and purchased the toilet and made arrangements for installation, and I boogied around on the scooter again.
Thursday we hit the bank, went out for an early dinner, then stopped at Safeway's for a few things. Safeway also has scooters, but guess what? They are nothing like the scooters at Lowe's, so I had to learn again! Safeway scooters are racing scooters. You could run someone down with those things! Ask my son, I tried to run over him. Sorry, son!
I finally got a diagnosis on my foot injury. Well, a diagnosis of sorts. Apparently I have no current tear, but I have "really bad" tendonitis and a lot of scarring on the tendon, according to the Physician's Assistant who called me. I see the doctor again on Friday. I imagine I will be ordered to stay in the boot or else I will be put in a cast. (That's what I'd make me do, if I was the doctor. Threaten me. Threats have been effective in the past.)
Confession: I have been lax with the boot. It doesn't fit right, it doesn't immobilize my foot and ankle, and it hurts like hell. So unless I actually leave my house (see above, five times in the last thirty-five days) I have been wearing the boot intermittently. Don't I know better? Well, yeah. But my insurance would not approve a second boot, and the one I got at the hospital is a generic piece of crap, so unless and/or until I can get some modifications to make it work...I'm not gonna wear it. I'll find out on Wednesday if that can happen.
I could end up in a cast. Boo.
I've already been warned that a sprain, which is technically what this is, can take longer to heal than a torn tendon or a broken bone. That sucks! Who would have thought that a tear or break would be better news than a sprain?
All I want is to be able to ambulate without crutches by the time I leave for Oklahoma in December. Crutches in the airport is not something I want to deal with.
I'm headed back to physical therapy next week, so losing the crutches will be my goal. Wish me luck!
Enough about the foot. I'm really tired of the foot.
_________________________________________________________________________________
On a happier note, the new toilet was installed yesterday. Hurray! No more having to shut off the water after every flush because it never stops running! My main bathroom is now fully functional, since we recently repaired the bathtub/shower faucets as well. It's the little things that make my day.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I've got to get on the ball regarding Thanksgiving plans and making product for the upcoming craft fair. It's not like I'm going anywhere! I'm just the queen of procrastination!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Everyone have a good night!
Monday, October 27, 2014
October 27, 2014
1:26 p.m.
There have been days of late when I wished I could travel back in time and make wiser choices. For example, on September 26, 2014, I would have elected to play a bowling game instead of dancing!
Those who follow my blog know that I chose dancing that day and injured myself. It's been a month now, and I am still using crutches to get around. I haven't improved much at using them, sad to say. My arthritic hands hate me, and I don't blame them. After all, I was the one who got us into this situation!
I finally had an MRI done on Friday and now I am waiting by the phone hoping the doctor will call and tell me that nothing is wrong, so suck it up and quit being a baby. Ha ha! Seriously, I am so tired of not being able to just get up and do whatever I want to do. It's frustrating.
Okay, enough about my foot, I'm tired of my foot. I'm tired of all medical stuff today. So is everyone else, I'm sure.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Today I would like to address something that has been on my mind for awhile, and that is the lack of respect that people show each other. I know this has been going on for decades, but it seems to me that as time goes by it just gets worse and worse.
I'm not talking about strangers on the street or co-workers and classmates, who are bad enough in and of themselves. I'm talking about people who are supposedly friends. I'm talking about spouses, children and parents.
I see this all the time, even within my own circle, and it makes me so sad.
So look, people--here's what I know:
1. Children learn not by what they are told, but by what they are shown. Therefore--
a. If a husband treats his wife with disrespect in front of his children, he is teaching them that it is acceptable for them to disrespect their mother.
b. If a wife treats her husband with disrespect in front of her children, she is teaching them that it is acceptable for them to disrespect their father.
c. If grown children treat their parents with disrespect in front of their children, they are teaching their children that it will be acceptable for them to disrespect their parents (you) when they are grown.
2. People fight. I know that people do not always agree with one another. (I'm not Pollyanna, no matter what they say.) People will argue, it's inevitable. But--
a. Arguments are not public domain. Respect each other enough to take it to another room, where your children will not have to bear witness to their parents' lapses in self control.
b. Your child's opinions do not matter. Don't ask them to take sides. Don't involve them in any way. It's not their disagreement, it's yours, so keep it to yourselves.
c. Children deserve your respect, too. Subjecting them to displays of disrespect will breed disrespect in them.
3. The Internet is no place to have an argument!
a. If you want to be a clown, join the circus. If you believe your personal matters should be someone else's entertainment, you probably should be painting your face.
b. There are hundreds of people out there in the cyber world who will rejoice in your pain, who will add their (useless) opinions, and who will do their best to instigate even more damage than you can do on your own. And once it's out there for all the world to see, you can never take it back. Delete it? Big deal. There will be more than plenty of people out there to remind you of it repeatedly.
4. You reap what you sow. If you want to be respected, show respect to those around you. If you don't, the disrespect you'll be shown will be precisely what you deserve.
I'm not talking about going online and expressing an opinion--although God knows I've taken some shots for expressing mine, and I expect to take some shots for this post as well--I'm talking about posting things like "My wife is such a so-and-so", or "What's-his-name will be sorry for", etc. Comments like these just invite people to join in with the bashing. Some will agree with you, some won't, and the fight is on.
Don't we get enough of this crap on television? Shows like "Jerry Springer" and "Cheaters" exist because we all want to get in on the bashing, I guess. Personally, I'd rather take the "Ice Water Challenge" every day for a year than watch cow dung like this, and that's how I feel about bearing witness to others' disagreements in general. It makes me profoundly uncomfortable. It makes me unbearably sad. It also makes me want to turn someone over my knees and give them a good, sound spanking, because--GROW UP, PEOPLE!
Several weeks ago--when I could still walk on my own--we went to a buffet for dinner. There I was witness to quite the spectacle: a little boy, about nine years old, ordering his mother around. When she told him he needed to ask for things nicely, he told her to shut up and do as she was told. Meanwhile, his father was sitting next to his own mother, and loudly berating her for one thing and then another until she was nearly in tears. A few minutes later, the little boy went off on his mother again, telling her she was too stupid to load his plate right. The father jumped in and demanded to know how in hell he got the idea he could talk to his mother like that. The little boy lifted his chin and said, "Why not? You do!"
Case closed.
But-- do you think this father learned a lesson? Or did he employ the ever popular "Don't do as I do, do as I say" position? (Which certainly doesn't work, now does it?)
(You know, my father used to say that from time to time, but it was always in reference to his dislike of eating his vegetables. We'd try to use it as an excuse to skip our own, and that was his response.
The one time I really raised my voice to my mother, my father stepped in immediately, and when asked how in hell I got the idea I could talk to her like that, I could never have replied as that little boy did! I know now my parents didn't always agree, but they didn't fight in front of us.)
People need to wake up. The day will come when that little boy will be grown, and he'll treat his father the same way his father was treating grandma.
Children learn what they see.
Respect each other, folks!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, on a happier note, "Horns", starring Daniel Radcliffe, comes out on Halloween, and I would very much like to go see it. It's based on the story by Joe Hill, who is the son of Stephen King. Loved the story, looking forward to the movie.
Trick-or-treaters never come to my house anyway. Might as well see a spooky movie, right?
Seriously, I never get any kids knocking at my door on Halloween! I may have had a total of ten kids over the last ten years! It makes me sad! I love seeing the kids all dressed up, and I always get plenty of candy--which I just end up eating! Hahaha!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, I have to go do something, even if it's wrong! Have a great one, peeps!
1:26 p.m.
There have been days of late when I wished I could travel back in time and make wiser choices. For example, on September 26, 2014, I would have elected to play a bowling game instead of dancing!
Those who follow my blog know that I chose dancing that day and injured myself. It's been a month now, and I am still using crutches to get around. I haven't improved much at using them, sad to say. My arthritic hands hate me, and I don't blame them. After all, I was the one who got us into this situation!
I finally had an MRI done on Friday and now I am waiting by the phone hoping the doctor will call and tell me that nothing is wrong, so suck it up and quit being a baby. Ha ha! Seriously, I am so tired of not being able to just get up and do whatever I want to do. It's frustrating.
Okay, enough about my foot, I'm tired of my foot. I'm tired of all medical stuff today. So is everyone else, I'm sure.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Today I would like to address something that has been on my mind for awhile, and that is the lack of respect that people show each other. I know this has been going on for decades, but it seems to me that as time goes by it just gets worse and worse.
I'm not talking about strangers on the street or co-workers and classmates, who are bad enough in and of themselves. I'm talking about people who are supposedly friends. I'm talking about spouses, children and parents.
I see this all the time, even within my own circle, and it makes me so sad.
So look, people--here's what I know:
1. Children learn not by what they are told, but by what they are shown. Therefore--
a. If a husband treats his wife with disrespect in front of his children, he is teaching them that it is acceptable for them to disrespect their mother.
b. If a wife treats her husband with disrespect in front of her children, she is teaching them that it is acceptable for them to disrespect their father.
c. If grown children treat their parents with disrespect in front of their children, they are teaching their children that it will be acceptable for them to disrespect their parents (you) when they are grown.
2. People fight. I know that people do not always agree with one another. (I'm not Pollyanna, no matter what they say.) People will argue, it's inevitable. But--
a. Arguments are not public domain. Respect each other enough to take it to another room, where your children will not have to bear witness to their parents' lapses in self control.
b. Your child's opinions do not matter. Don't ask them to take sides. Don't involve them in any way. It's not their disagreement, it's yours, so keep it to yourselves.
c. Children deserve your respect, too. Subjecting them to displays of disrespect will breed disrespect in them.
3. The Internet is no place to have an argument!
a. If you want to be a clown, join the circus. If you believe your personal matters should be someone else's entertainment, you probably should be painting your face.
b. There are hundreds of people out there in the cyber world who will rejoice in your pain, who will add their (useless) opinions, and who will do their best to instigate even more damage than you can do on your own. And once it's out there for all the world to see, you can never take it back. Delete it? Big deal. There will be more than plenty of people out there to remind you of it repeatedly.
4. You reap what you sow. If you want to be respected, show respect to those around you. If you don't, the disrespect you'll be shown will be precisely what you deserve.
I'm not talking about going online and expressing an opinion--although God knows I've taken some shots for expressing mine, and I expect to take some shots for this post as well--I'm talking about posting things like "My wife is such a so-and-so", or "What's-his-name will be sorry for", etc. Comments like these just invite people to join in with the bashing. Some will agree with you, some won't, and the fight is on.
Don't we get enough of this crap on television? Shows like "Jerry Springer" and "Cheaters" exist because we all want to get in on the bashing, I guess. Personally, I'd rather take the "Ice Water Challenge" every day for a year than watch cow dung like this, and that's how I feel about bearing witness to others' disagreements in general. It makes me profoundly uncomfortable. It makes me unbearably sad. It also makes me want to turn someone over my knees and give them a good, sound spanking, because--GROW UP, PEOPLE!
Several weeks ago--when I could still walk on my own--we went to a buffet for dinner. There I was witness to quite the spectacle: a little boy, about nine years old, ordering his mother around. When she told him he needed to ask for things nicely, he told her to shut up and do as she was told. Meanwhile, his father was sitting next to his own mother, and loudly berating her for one thing and then another until she was nearly in tears. A few minutes later, the little boy went off on his mother again, telling her she was too stupid to load his plate right. The father jumped in and demanded to know how in hell he got the idea he could talk to his mother like that. The little boy lifted his chin and said, "Why not? You do!"
Case closed.
But-- do you think this father learned a lesson? Or did he employ the ever popular "Don't do as I do, do as I say" position? (Which certainly doesn't work, now does it?)
(You know, my father used to say that from time to time, but it was always in reference to his dislike of eating his vegetables. We'd try to use it as an excuse to skip our own, and that was his response.
The one time I really raised my voice to my mother, my father stepped in immediately, and when asked how in hell I got the idea I could talk to her like that, I could never have replied as that little boy did! I know now my parents didn't always agree, but they didn't fight in front of us.)
People need to wake up. The day will come when that little boy will be grown, and he'll treat his father the same way his father was treating grandma.
Children learn what they see.
Respect each other, folks!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, on a happier note, "Horns", starring Daniel Radcliffe, comes out on Halloween, and I would very much like to go see it. It's based on the story by Joe Hill, who is the son of Stephen King. Loved the story, looking forward to the movie.
Trick-or-treaters never come to my house anyway. Might as well see a spooky movie, right?
Seriously, I never get any kids knocking at my door on Halloween! I may have had a total of ten kids over the last ten years! It makes me sad! I love seeing the kids all dressed up, and I always get plenty of candy--which I just end up eating! Hahaha!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, I have to go do something, even if it's wrong! Have a great one, peeps!
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
October 14, 2014
6:17 p.m.
Well, well. It's insurance open enrollment time, and do I have any idea what I am doing? Sort of, but...
See, the last time I changed anything, I ended up with a big bill for my C-PAP supplies because my new carrier is not contracted with my supplier.
Ugh!
So here I am, trying to decided what's next, and of course, I have an injury that is being covered by my present carrier, and I have no idea if I will still be dealing with issues concerning this injury when any changes I might decide to make take effect in January.
Am I alone in wishing that all this could be simpler?
Honestly, I want to change back to the coverage I had prior to this one, but if future treatment of issues regarding this injury won't be covered because they'll be considered "pre-existing", then I'm going to have to stick with this and find a C-PAP supplies supplier that is contracted with my present insurer.
I have a headache.
It is clear to me that I will be on the phone a lot tomorrow.
Boo! Hiss!
_________________________________________________________________________________
I've been given the go-ahead to return to physical therapy. Whee!
Seriously, I hope they can help me regain some more mobility. As I've stated previously, I am a terrible crutcher. The arthritis in my hands makes it pretty challenging. I've been out exactly once since September 26th, and that was to go to the doctor and go to a medical supply company to be fitted for a more appropriate boot (which I still don't have).
Now that I have finally gotten insurance approval, I will be scheduling an MRI to find out if this really is a tear of the Achilles tendon, or just a sprain. I say "just a sprain", but according to my doctor, a sprain can actually take much longer to heal than a tear. Yippee.
What I do know is that I still can't walk on it, that it feels better out of the boot than in, and that I can't get the hang of these bleepity bleep bleeping crutches.
Ah, ya gotta laugh.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have to send out some kudos and thanks to my son & daughter-in-law, and my daughter and son-in-law, who have been a great help to me of late. I appreciate the help with the electricity, the laundry, and the general waiting on me hand and foot. I know I'm a drag, guys, but I really appreciate you and all your help! Love you all!
Everyone have a good night!
6:17 p.m.
Well, well. It's insurance open enrollment time, and do I have any idea what I am doing? Sort of, but...
See, the last time I changed anything, I ended up with a big bill for my C-PAP supplies because my new carrier is not contracted with my supplier.
Ugh!
So here I am, trying to decided what's next, and of course, I have an injury that is being covered by my present carrier, and I have no idea if I will still be dealing with issues concerning this injury when any changes I might decide to make take effect in January.
Am I alone in wishing that all this could be simpler?
Honestly, I want to change back to the coverage I had prior to this one, but if future treatment of issues regarding this injury won't be covered because they'll be considered "pre-existing", then I'm going to have to stick with this and find a C-PAP supplies supplier that is contracted with my present insurer.
I have a headache.
It is clear to me that I will be on the phone a lot tomorrow.
Boo! Hiss!
_________________________________________________________________________________
I've been given the go-ahead to return to physical therapy. Whee!
Seriously, I hope they can help me regain some more mobility. As I've stated previously, I am a terrible crutcher. The arthritis in my hands makes it pretty challenging. I've been out exactly once since September 26th, and that was to go to the doctor and go to a medical supply company to be fitted for a more appropriate boot (which I still don't have).
Now that I have finally gotten insurance approval, I will be scheduling an MRI to find out if this really is a tear of the Achilles tendon, or just a sprain. I say "just a sprain", but according to my doctor, a sprain can actually take much longer to heal than a tear. Yippee.
What I do know is that I still can't walk on it, that it feels better out of the boot than in, and that I can't get the hang of these bleepity bleep bleeping crutches.
Ah, ya gotta laugh.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have to send out some kudos and thanks to my son & daughter-in-law, and my daughter and son-in-law, who have been a great help to me of late. I appreciate the help with the electricity, the laundry, and the general waiting on me hand and foot. I know I'm a drag, guys, but I really appreciate you and all your help! Love you all!
Everyone have a good night!
Thursday, October 2, 2014
October 1, 2014
11:59 p.m.
Oh my Gosh, it's October! What happened?
I'm laying in my bed listening to the rain and trying to read on this little screen. Ah, ctrl + +sign, you are my hero!
So today I took a bit of a public berating for basically pre-judging a couple being held on a One million dollar bond for the death of their 4-month old daughter. In my defense, I have to say I was really judging any anonymous parents who would do harm to their children and bemoaning the fact that this type of person seems to procreate as easily as a rabbit while people who would make wonderful, loving, safe parents can't conceive.
It shakes my faith in a just God, sometimes.
Oh, I can feel the hate directed at me for that one already.
Well, tough titty, said the kitty. My faith gets shaken all the time. If you have faith, and you're honest about it, I'll bet yours gets shaken, too.
I still have faith. But I am just a human being, and I fall down every now and then.
(For those who read my blog, I am not referring to recent injuries. I didn't fall. First I put leftovers away. Then I danced. Now I'm on crutches. What can I say?)
Anyway, I have few details about this abuse case, but what I have learned just brings up so many questions.
When my oldest grandchild was born, she was a month premature. She spent a long time in hospital, and when she came home, a home health nurse checked up on her and my daughter every week. She came right to the house and weighed the baby, measured her, and answered questions and concerns that my daughter had. My daughter breast-fed, but there is always a concern about weight-gain in premies, and the hospital was very diligent in making sure that the baby was growing steadily.
Has that type of service changed in the last 15 years? I would think they'd have improved, if anything.
A wonderful young friend of mine had premature twins earlier this year, and her health care providers have been just as diligent in educating the family about proper nutrition, special formula and feeding methods.
Of course, my granddaughter was cared for in Wyoming, and my precious twin loves are here in Colorado, but I have a hard time believing that this family did not have access to the same level of care as my granddaughter got 15 years ago.
So what happened? Clearly a ball was dropped, but who dropped it first, and why didn't someone pick it up? Premies are closely followed by their doctors, so why weren't these children being attended to?
Oh, so many questions.
So, do I think these parents deliberately set out to kill their child? Do I think the healthcare system was negligent? Do I think anything?
I don't know what to think, but I do know some of the questions I'd be asking everyone concerned if I were involved.
All I can say is it's very sad. I feel sorry for all concerned, but mostly, I care about the children. They get no choice in the manner in which they are raised.
So I was dissed a bit today, but all I care about is the kids.
I can take it.
They can't.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Update on me: still not weight bearing. getting slightly better with the crutches. Maybe I will try going outside tomorrow. Maybe I can make it to the mailbox!
On top of it all, I have caught a cold. Doggone it!
Can't get in to see my doctor til next week. I am a rather unhappy camper.
So now, I am going to try to read myself to sleep. It's a win-win situation: If I sleep, cool. If I don't, it's a great book!
Good night!
11:59 p.m.
Oh my Gosh, it's October! What happened?
I'm laying in my bed listening to the rain and trying to read on this little screen. Ah, ctrl + +sign, you are my hero!
So today I took a bit of a public berating for basically pre-judging a couple being held on a One million dollar bond for the death of their 4-month old daughter. In my defense, I have to say I was really judging any anonymous parents who would do harm to their children and bemoaning the fact that this type of person seems to procreate as easily as a rabbit while people who would make wonderful, loving, safe parents can't conceive.
It shakes my faith in a just God, sometimes.
Oh, I can feel the hate directed at me for that one already.
Well, tough titty, said the kitty. My faith gets shaken all the time. If you have faith, and you're honest about it, I'll bet yours gets shaken, too.
I still have faith. But I am just a human being, and I fall down every now and then.
(For those who read my blog, I am not referring to recent injuries. I didn't fall. First I put leftovers away. Then I danced. Now I'm on crutches. What can I say?)
Anyway, I have few details about this abuse case, but what I have learned just brings up so many questions.
When my oldest grandchild was born, she was a month premature. She spent a long time in hospital, and when she came home, a home health nurse checked up on her and my daughter every week. She came right to the house and weighed the baby, measured her, and answered questions and concerns that my daughter had. My daughter breast-fed, but there is always a concern about weight-gain in premies, and the hospital was very diligent in making sure that the baby was growing steadily.
Has that type of service changed in the last 15 years? I would think they'd have improved, if anything.
A wonderful young friend of mine had premature twins earlier this year, and her health care providers have been just as diligent in educating the family about proper nutrition, special formula and feeding methods.
Of course, my granddaughter was cared for in Wyoming, and my precious twin loves are here in Colorado, but I have a hard time believing that this family did not have access to the same level of care as my granddaughter got 15 years ago.
So what happened? Clearly a ball was dropped, but who dropped it first, and why didn't someone pick it up? Premies are closely followed by their doctors, so why weren't these children being attended to?
Oh, so many questions.
So, do I think these parents deliberately set out to kill their child? Do I think the healthcare system was negligent? Do I think anything?
I don't know what to think, but I do know some of the questions I'd be asking everyone concerned if I were involved.
All I can say is it's very sad. I feel sorry for all concerned, but mostly, I care about the children. They get no choice in the manner in which they are raised.
So I was dissed a bit today, but all I care about is the kids.
I can take it.
They can't.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Update on me: still not weight bearing. getting slightly better with the crutches. Maybe I will try going outside tomorrow. Maybe I can make it to the mailbox!
On top of it all, I have caught a cold. Doggone it!
Can't get in to see my doctor til next week. I am a rather unhappy camper.
So now, I am going to try to read myself to sleep. It's a win-win situation: If I sleep, cool. If I don't, it's a great book!
Good night!
Monday, September 29, 2014
September 29, 2014
1:30 p.m.
I must consider remodeling--or at least refurnishing--my room. It is very boring back there!
I haven't posted since the wee hours of Saturday morning, because really, all I could do was gripe. I've had a little practice on my crutches since then, and all I can say is: I suck at using crutches!
I also suck at being unable to do things for myself. I feel like a real ass every time I ask for a glass of water. I suppose I could crutch to the sink and drink a whole glass standing there, but I like having a glass handy. I need a water bottle in the perfect size to stick into my cleavage!
Cleavage is very handy, you know. I managed yesterday to stuff all my pill bottles into my bra and cleavage to carry out to my desk and refill my weekly pill box. You should have heard me rattle! Ha ha!
Of course, my first attempt was a failure, and picking them up off the floor was no fun, but I did it!
Anyway, I'm supposed to spend most of my time with my foot elevated, which means staying in my room on the bed, which is just...tedious. I need a chair with a footrest.
Yeah, like I have room in there for that.
I'm just not a stay in bed type. Unless I am so sick I actually sleep, I want to be up and out of my room. I'm not sick unto sleepiness, I'm just a little battered. Lemme out! So I'm up and at my desk, but I will be a good girl and go back to my room to elevate my foot soon. I promise.
Or I may get into the massage chair and read for awhile! Yeah! That will elevate my foot, and I can read! I am almost finished with book five of Game of Thrones. It is so good, I have kept trying to read the series slowly so I can savor it. Of course, now I want to re-watch the series, as well!
_________________________________________________________________________________
2:52 p.m.
Wow, we just got a wild hail storm! It lasted a few minutes and now it;s just raining lightly. I couldn't see a thing out the window while it was happening. Glad I was still up! I'm headed for the chair.
Later!
1:30 p.m.
I must consider remodeling--or at least refurnishing--my room. It is very boring back there!
I haven't posted since the wee hours of Saturday morning, because really, all I could do was gripe. I've had a little practice on my crutches since then, and all I can say is: I suck at using crutches!
I also suck at being unable to do things for myself. I feel like a real ass every time I ask for a glass of water. I suppose I could crutch to the sink and drink a whole glass standing there, but I like having a glass handy. I need a water bottle in the perfect size to stick into my cleavage!
Cleavage is very handy, you know. I managed yesterday to stuff all my pill bottles into my bra and cleavage to carry out to my desk and refill my weekly pill box. You should have heard me rattle! Ha ha!
Of course, my first attempt was a failure, and picking them up off the floor was no fun, but I did it!
Anyway, I'm supposed to spend most of my time with my foot elevated, which means staying in my room on the bed, which is just...tedious. I need a chair with a footrest.
Yeah, like I have room in there for that.
I'm just not a stay in bed type. Unless I am so sick I actually sleep, I want to be up and out of my room. I'm not sick unto sleepiness, I'm just a little battered. Lemme out! So I'm up and at my desk, but I will be a good girl and go back to my room to elevate my foot soon. I promise.
Or I may get into the massage chair and read for awhile! Yeah! That will elevate my foot, and I can read! I am almost finished with book five of Game of Thrones. It is so good, I have kept trying to read the series slowly so I can savor it. Of course, now I want to re-watch the series, as well!
_________________________________________________________________________________
2:52 p.m.
Wow, we just got a wild hail storm! It lasted a few minutes and now it;s just raining lightly. I couldn't see a thing out the window while it was happening. Glad I was still up! I'm headed for the chair.
Later!
Saturday, September 27, 2014
September 27, 2014
12:19 a.m.
I have just popped two Aleve, and when they kick in I'm going to bed to try to sleep away this awful day. (I hope I can sleep!!)
Well, not the 27th. The 26th.
First of all, September 26th is a pretty good day. It's my oldest daughter's birthday. So that's a good thing.
The bad thing is I spent over half the day in terrific pain, and several hours in the Emergency Room.
It all started out as such a promising day! But I made a big mistake. I decided to skip my shower until after I had some breakfast. Then I decided to further skip it until after exercise.
So dumb.
My son and I decided to dance for exercise, so he set up the Wii and I did some stretches to warm up.
Then we started dancing, and the first time I came down hard on my right foot, I tore my Achilles tendon.
Dang, that hurt.
Now, since I did this on my left foot in 2009, I know exactly what I'd done. Only, the last time I did it, it wasn't this painful. I could still walk on it.
Not this time. I had to use a chair like a walker to get around until a friend took me to the emergency room a few hours later. I had iced it all afternoon hoping that it would improve, but...nope.
So I spent over three hours there--they were so busy--and had some ex-rays. Finally saw a doctor long enough for him to assure me that I hadn't broken my foot. I told him I already knew that, and that I suspected a torn Achilles tendon. He agreed with me that it's probably a partial tear. So lucky, because if it had torn completely, I'd be in surgery right now.
I got myself a new boot, but I was unable to bear weight on it even once I was booted up. Now I know for sure it's worse than when I tore the left one. The boot was like a miracle worker that time. Not this time.
So I got some crutches. The tech insisted that she needed to lengthen them so I would't lean. She said that would be better for my shoulders. Well, I have arthritis in my hands and shoulders, and when I tried them I nearly fell and stepped backward--hard--at least two times on this foot. Up to that point I had handled the pain pretty well, but that brought some tears to my eyes!
So she shortened the crutches and had me try using them. I went a little way, and my hands were a screaming pair of useless lumps.
She went and got a wheelchair to take me to the car. And I thanked her very much!
When we got home I crawled up the porch steps. Easier.
In my own house, the crutches are a bit easier. It'll take some practice. Hopefully I will be able to bear weight tomorrow.
For tonight, I'm done.
Wish me luck on sleeping! Good night!
12:19 a.m.
I have just popped two Aleve, and when they kick in I'm going to bed to try to sleep away this awful day. (I hope I can sleep!!)
Well, not the 27th. The 26th.
First of all, September 26th is a pretty good day. It's my oldest daughter's birthday. So that's a good thing.
The bad thing is I spent over half the day in terrific pain, and several hours in the Emergency Room.
It all started out as such a promising day! But I made a big mistake. I decided to skip my shower until after I had some breakfast. Then I decided to further skip it until after exercise.
So dumb.
My son and I decided to dance for exercise, so he set up the Wii and I did some stretches to warm up.
Then we started dancing, and the first time I came down hard on my right foot, I tore my Achilles tendon.
Dang, that hurt.
Now, since I did this on my left foot in 2009, I know exactly what I'd done. Only, the last time I did it, it wasn't this painful. I could still walk on it.
Not this time. I had to use a chair like a walker to get around until a friend took me to the emergency room a few hours later. I had iced it all afternoon hoping that it would improve, but...nope.
So I spent over three hours there--they were so busy--and had some ex-rays. Finally saw a doctor long enough for him to assure me that I hadn't broken my foot. I told him I already knew that, and that I suspected a torn Achilles tendon. He agreed with me that it's probably a partial tear. So lucky, because if it had torn completely, I'd be in surgery right now.
I got myself a new boot, but I was unable to bear weight on it even once I was booted up. Now I know for sure it's worse than when I tore the left one. The boot was like a miracle worker that time. Not this time.
So I got some crutches. The tech insisted that she needed to lengthen them so I would't lean. She said that would be better for my shoulders. Well, I have arthritis in my hands and shoulders, and when I tried them I nearly fell and stepped backward--hard--at least two times on this foot. Up to that point I had handled the pain pretty well, but that brought some tears to my eyes!
So she shortened the crutches and had me try using them. I went a little way, and my hands were a screaming pair of useless lumps.
She went and got a wheelchair to take me to the car. And I thanked her very much!
When we got home I crawled up the porch steps. Easier.
In my own house, the crutches are a bit easier. It'll take some practice. Hopefully I will be able to bear weight tomorrow.
For tonight, I'm done.
Wish me luck on sleeping! Good night!
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
September 23, 2014
8:55 p.m.
I wonder how many other people out there get cramps in their feet or toes while doing stair-stepper exercises. I mean, before I can go on to the next exercise, I have to walk off foot cramps! Zowds!
Physical therapy is a joy.
Okay, I'm overweight and out of shape. Yet I have so far not had trouble doing any of the things my therapist has me doing. It's just as I finish something that my body says, "Oh! Oh, we're exercising? I should probably make a fuss about this. Here ya go! Have a foot cramp!"
Um, I lied. One exercise really hurt: walking sideways. My hips do okay forward and back, but side motion--OW! And I expected pain going left, but going right was just as bad.
I have a feeling this is just a warm up. But if it helps in the long run, I'm in. (I just have to figure out how I'm going to afford this.)
I have to say, though, I really like my therapist. She's very nice.
_________________________________________________________________________________
So today's big fuss is over whether or not Facebook is really going to charge us for using it. All I know is, I am NOT paying.
It's not true, anyway. Chill out, people.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Ouch, I'm sore! Calling it a day soon. Night, all!
8:55 p.m.
I wonder how many other people out there get cramps in their feet or toes while doing stair-stepper exercises. I mean, before I can go on to the next exercise, I have to walk off foot cramps! Zowds!
Physical therapy is a joy.
Okay, I'm overweight and out of shape. Yet I have so far not had trouble doing any of the things my therapist has me doing. It's just as I finish something that my body says, "Oh! Oh, we're exercising? I should probably make a fuss about this. Here ya go! Have a foot cramp!"
Um, I lied. One exercise really hurt: walking sideways. My hips do okay forward and back, but side motion--OW! And I expected pain going left, but going right was just as bad.
I have a feeling this is just a warm up. But if it helps in the long run, I'm in. (I just have to figure out how I'm going to afford this.)
I have to say, though, I really like my therapist. She's very nice.
_________________________________________________________________________________
So today's big fuss is over whether or not Facebook is really going to charge us for using it. All I know is, I am NOT paying.
It's not true, anyway. Chill out, people.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Ouch, I'm sore! Calling it a day soon. Night, all!
Monday, September 22, 2014
September 22, 2014
2:26 p.m.
Telemarketers are like date-rapists. You tell them no, repeatedly, and they just keep coming at you!
What part of "no" don't they understand?!
"But--"
"No, I'm not interested. Thank you."
"But if you will just--"
"I'm not interested. Thanks for calling."
"But if I could--"
"Not interested. Thank you."
"But I--"
"I said no! Thank you!" Click.
Okay, I know it's my fault. All those "thank yous". What am I thinking?
It's just that I was raised to be polite. I hate it when people are rude to me, so I don't want to be rude to anyone else.
I think I may take it too far sometimes, though.
For example, I always apologize to beggars for not having any change for them. I don't carry cash for a reason--I'm a sucker and I would be broke before I got my errands done. But I have been known to hand out the candy bar I was saving for later--or my lunch!
Come on, you know they ask for money to eat, but they're going to use it to buy booze or drugs. I did them a favor by giving my lunch!
Anyway, I was griping about telemarketers, who are really just paid beggars, right? Only they have your phone number and will accost you at dinnertime. And they don't want your lunch, they want your grocery money for the year.
I don't know why I bother to answer the phone, really. I tell myself it's because I don't want to have to clear off all the messages later.
Maybe I just need to learn how to be rude sometimes.
Probably not.
I guess I will just gripe about them here.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have gotten a bit more information about Lupus. Kristin Johnston (of "The Exes"!!--doing silly geek-out dance and squealing "Eeek!") tweeted me with a web site that was very informative. What a courageous and gracious woman. I love her even more now for taking the time to communicate with me.
The website is www.lupusla.org. I found a lot of interesting information and other links here. Very helpful.
I still don't know if this is what is ailing me. A definitive diagnosis is difficult. Even if it's not, the information is good to know. After all, I am a medical coder! Knowledge is power.
I have physical therapy tomorrow and another doctor appointment next week. The journey continues.
_________________________________________________________________________________
2:26 p.m.
Telemarketers are like date-rapists. You tell them no, repeatedly, and they just keep coming at you!
What part of "no" don't they understand?!
"But--"
"No, I'm not interested. Thank you."
"But if you will just--"
"I'm not interested. Thanks for calling."
"But if I could--"
"Not interested. Thank you."
"But I--"
"I said no! Thank you!" Click.
Okay, I know it's my fault. All those "thank yous". What am I thinking?
It's just that I was raised to be polite. I hate it when people are rude to me, so I don't want to be rude to anyone else.
I think I may take it too far sometimes, though.
For example, I always apologize to beggars for not having any change for them. I don't carry cash for a reason--I'm a sucker and I would be broke before I got my errands done. But I have been known to hand out the candy bar I was saving for later--or my lunch!
Come on, you know they ask for money to eat, but they're going to use it to buy booze or drugs. I did them a favor by giving my lunch!
Anyway, I was griping about telemarketers, who are really just paid beggars, right? Only they have your phone number and will accost you at dinnertime. And they don't want your lunch, they want your grocery money for the year.
I don't know why I bother to answer the phone, really. I tell myself it's because I don't want to have to clear off all the messages later.
Maybe I just need to learn how to be rude sometimes.
Probably not.
I guess I will just gripe about them here.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have gotten a bit more information about Lupus. Kristin Johnston (of "The Exes"!!--doing silly geek-out dance and squealing "Eeek!") tweeted me with a web site that was very informative. What a courageous and gracious woman. I love her even more now for taking the time to communicate with me.
The website is www.lupusla.org. I found a lot of interesting information and other links here. Very helpful.
I still don't know if this is what is ailing me. A definitive diagnosis is difficult. Even if it's not, the information is good to know. After all, I am a medical coder! Knowledge is power.
I have physical therapy tomorrow and another doctor appointment next week. The journey continues.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Sunday, September 21, 2014
September 21, 2014
10:10 p.m.
Since I am not a techno-savvy person, it took me awhile, but I managed at last to post on RTD's Facebook page how pleased I was with Hector, the driver who helped me with my neighbor the other day. I hope they can do something nice for him.
(In case you're wondering, see yesterday's post.)
Still have not complained about being utterly ignored by the park patrol. I really should do that, I just hate complaining. But--BUT--they do need to be more vigilant. That's what they're here for! Okay, okay, I'm gonna gripe.
Ugh. Now all I can think about is griping. I don't wanna.
Should I?
_________________________________________________________________________________
10:46 p.m.
So I'm sitting here listening to my son and daughter-in-law playing a video game. They have on headphones and are carrying on conversations in-game with each other and at least one other player who I cannot hear. They're kind of hilarious at times. I'm in headphones, too, but every time my music stops, I end up listening to them while I choose a new album. So funny.
(Just a side note--I can still hear them over the music. I like it loud, but I'm not crazy. Ha ha!)
_________________________________________________________________________________
As I mentioned yesterday, I started physical therapy for my hip. I guess I should say hips, although the left is worse than the right. side to side mobility wasn't enough to even be measured. That's discouraging!
My therapist gave me some exercises to do at home, and I must say: Ouch! But I am doing them. Stretching out the old hamstrings and calves. Forcing some side to side hip motion. Then trying to walk everyday. Nothing drastic. But, as I said--ouch.
I finally made another doctor appointment. I was supposed to return in three weeks, but--hey, this is me we're talking about. Broke, as always. So it had to wait. I know my doctor wants me in physical therapy every week, too, but broke people need to go less often. Oh, well! She;ll forgive me.
I have to say I'm a little worried about all this, though. I have been on anti-inflammatory medication all month, and at first I felt better, but then the pain started getting bad again. My fingers and toes are so painful! It hurts to type or hold a book, and my handwriting looks atrocious! It hurts to walk. Nothing on me wants to bend. I'm tired all the time, but I can't sleep. I know I'm a raving insomniac, but this is worse, because it is pain keeping me awake, on top of my ever-talking brain!
Oh, boo hoo, Someone tell me to shut up, please.
Anyway, more P.T coming up this week and doctor next week. Hurrah.
The doctor suspects Lupus. I asked before, but got no real information. Does anyone out there know anything about Lupus? What might I be looking at here?
_________________________________________________________________________________
When I started reading the "Game of Thrones" books, I was also reading a couple of other books at the same time. But now that I'm in book number four, I just have to read it exclusively until I finish book five. This is good stuff, people!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Enough, already. Everyone--have a great night!
10:10 p.m.
Since I am not a techno-savvy person, it took me awhile, but I managed at last to post on RTD's Facebook page how pleased I was with Hector, the driver who helped me with my neighbor the other day. I hope they can do something nice for him.
(In case you're wondering, see yesterday's post.)
Still have not complained about being utterly ignored by the park patrol. I really should do that, I just hate complaining. But--BUT--they do need to be more vigilant. That's what they're here for! Okay, okay, I'm gonna gripe.
Ugh. Now all I can think about is griping. I don't wanna.
Should I?
_________________________________________________________________________________
10:46 p.m.
So I'm sitting here listening to my son and daughter-in-law playing a video game. They have on headphones and are carrying on conversations in-game with each other and at least one other player who I cannot hear. They're kind of hilarious at times. I'm in headphones, too, but every time my music stops, I end up listening to them while I choose a new album. So funny.
(Just a side note--I can still hear them over the music. I like it loud, but I'm not crazy. Ha ha!)
_________________________________________________________________________________
As I mentioned yesterday, I started physical therapy for my hip. I guess I should say hips, although the left is worse than the right. side to side mobility wasn't enough to even be measured. That's discouraging!
My therapist gave me some exercises to do at home, and I must say: Ouch! But I am doing them. Stretching out the old hamstrings and calves. Forcing some side to side hip motion. Then trying to walk everyday. Nothing drastic. But, as I said--ouch.
I finally made another doctor appointment. I was supposed to return in three weeks, but--hey, this is me we're talking about. Broke, as always. So it had to wait. I know my doctor wants me in physical therapy every week, too, but broke people need to go less often. Oh, well! She;ll forgive me.
I have to say I'm a little worried about all this, though. I have been on anti-inflammatory medication all month, and at first I felt better, but then the pain started getting bad again. My fingers and toes are so painful! It hurts to type or hold a book, and my handwriting looks atrocious! It hurts to walk. Nothing on me wants to bend. I'm tired all the time, but I can't sleep. I know I'm a raving insomniac, but this is worse, because it is pain keeping me awake, on top of my ever-talking brain!
Oh, boo hoo, Someone tell me to shut up, please.
Anyway, more P.T coming up this week and doctor next week. Hurrah.
The doctor suspects Lupus. I asked before, but got no real information. Does anyone out there know anything about Lupus? What might I be looking at here?
_________________________________________________________________________________
When I started reading the "Game of Thrones" books, I was also reading a couple of other books at the same time. But now that I'm in book number four, I just have to read it exclusively until I finish book five. This is good stuff, people!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Enough, already. Everyone--have a great night!
Saturday, September 20, 2014
September 20, 2014
3:21 p.m.
Today I am finally going to share a story with you. This happened on September 9th, and I've been going back and forth in my mind about sharing it, because I didn't have a conclusion. Now, at last, there's an "end" to it.
No excuses for my silence in between now and my last post. I'm sick. That's all I know, and it will have to be enough for now, since those answers are as yet unknown. Just tired out and typing hurts. Sorry! (I'm about to make up for it somewhat, and pain be damned.)
So, here's my little story:
On September 9th I had my first physical therapy appointment. I'd called the day before to have our local Call-N-Ride bus pick me up and take me. Due to their schedule, I was slated to arrive about an hour early, but I didn't mind that. I figured I'd get myself a fancy coffee before the torture commenced,
About 10:45 a.m. I received a phone call from my driver, who confessed that he was a little lost. I gave him detailed directions, figuring I'd have a few more minutes to goof off before he got here.
But for some reason, I decided I'd grab my bag and go outside to wait for him. Detailed directions from me might not be the greatest directions, I thought.
I went outside, and decided to go to the front of my house to watch for him. As I was walking around, I noticed my neighbor across the street struggling with her garbage can. It looked like she was trying to wrestle it back up on the curb.
I called to her to wait and I'd help her. Just as I got to her, she went down on all fours.
"Oh, crap!" I cried, rushing to her. "Are you alright? Let me help you up." I offered my hand and she took it, hers feeling damp and limp in my own. "I won't pull," I told her. "I don't want to hurt you." I braced myself to help her pull herself up. She gave a weak tug. No way was she getting up.
Okay, so this was not a simple fall. This was a collapse. Oh, dear.
"Is anyone home?" I asked her. I knew perfectly well that I couldn't pick her up.
"My brother," she mumbled.
"What's his name?"
Unintelligible answer.
No problem. "Hello. the house!" I called. "Hey, anybody home? Hello?!"
Nothing. In my defense, I'm not a great shouter. Also, no one was home.
I asked her name and she told me. I noted bruising on her arms, and the tell-tale leavings if band-aids, and asked her, "Have you been in the hospital?"
"Yes," she said. "I got out yesterday. I'm fine now. You can go."
"Nope, don't think so. You got out of the hospital yesterday?"
"Yes, Sunday."
"Okay...? Today is Tuesday."
"Oh. I'm fine. You can go. I'll get up in a minute."
"I'll stay with you. Want to try again?" I was still bent over, holding her hand.
Weak tug. Not happening. No way was I leaving.
I heard a vehicle and looked up hopefully. Great! It was the park patrol truck. I waved to them. They drove right by us without even glancing at us.
That reminds me--gotta complain about those guys when I pay the rent. Look out, patrol guys. You suck!
I saw my neighbor who lives on the other side of me, and waved at him. He walked into his house. I don't know if he saw me or not. Jeez, Louise, what a world.
"Why were you in the hospital?" I asked. "Did you have surgery?"
"Yeah."
"Have you had any bleeding?"
"Uh...yeah?"
Her words were slurring now. Where were all the neighbors? Why did the patrol truck just drive on by? My cell phone was in my bag, but I was afraid to let go of her, afraid she'd hit the ground.
Then, oh thank God, my ride appeared. He'd gone down the wrong street and come back up and ended up right where I needed him. I waved and yelled out "Here! I'm your rider! Help us, please!"
He put his vehicle in park, got out and helped me get the woman to her feet. "Oh!" she declared. "I feel better already! You may go."
"Nope." That was me and the driver together. If we hadn't been there holding on to her, she would have gone right back down.
"Hold her," I told him. "I'm going to see if anyone is home." I ran to their front door and banged on it, calling out for anyone to come to the door, Nothing, Not even the dogs. Hmmm.
I went back to the woman and driver, put my arm around her to support her weight, and said, "Call
911."
"I'll call 911," the driver said simultaneously. We smiled tensely at each other. He made the call. then he called his dispatch to let them know he'd be running late.
I knew that my neighbors had chairs in their yard, as I can see them sitting outside when I'm at my desk, so I sent the driver around to fetch a chair and we eased her into it. I rubbed her back and we waited for the ambulance.
I continued talking to her, but could no longer understand any of her answers.
The police arrived first. I told him the woman's name, showed him where I lived, confirmed that we were in the driveway of the house where she lived and that no one else was home. I told him she'd said she was just out of the hospital and had had surgery. EMTs arrived, and things were getting crowded.
My driver moved his vehicle across the street, in front of my house. I took my leave of the scene once the police told me it was okay to go, and the driver took me to my appointment.
Whew! What a morning. I felt like I'd already had a workout. But I still had an appointment to keep.
Well, physical therapy isn't fun, and it was my first appointment with them, so it was all about testing. Whee. Apparently my hip mobility on the right is pretty bad, and on the left couldn't even be measured. Always good news. Arthritis is not fun, my friends.
I could barely pay attention, though, because I was still preoccupied with my neighbor. Was she alright? Did they take her to the hospital?
After therapy I had to wait for my return ride, so I text messaged my son. He and his significant other had been out when all this went down, so I wanted to know if they'e gotten home in time to see anything. (I'm so nosy!)
He told me there'd been an ambulance there when they arrived home minutes after I'd left, and that our neighbor looked like she was awake and aware. They came inside the house and put things away and when they looked out again everyone was gone.
When I was picked up for my trip home, it was a new driver. I praised his co-worker to the skies and got his name.
Once home I went to the neighbor's to see if anyone was home. Nope. So I watched throughout the rest of the day until I saw someone and ran out to ask about her condition.
He told me she was doing well, but she had stopped breathing in the ambulance! Then he thanked me so much for looking out for her. Well, that was a stroke of luck, no lie. I would never have been outside at that time of day, and certainly not in front where I could have seen her, on any other day. I'm so glad I was!
I'm happy to report that today I was able to speak with her, and she is much better. Apparently, she'd taken her medications on an empty stomach and they overwhelmed her. She said she woke up in the hospital, intubated and pissed off.
When I went out to get today's mail she hailed me from across the street, saying, "I hear I have you to thank for saving my life!" Her brother had told her that Paula had helped her and she said "Who's Paula?" Then she laughed and said it was good to meet me.
I told her I was happy to meet her under better circumstances, and glad to see her looking and sounding so well.
Then she told me how thankful she was that I'd called such handsome paramedics! She's kind of a hoot.
Life can be good, folks. Happy endings are always nice.
To Hector, at Federal Heights Call-N-Ride--you're my hero!
To Federal Heights Police Department, Fire Department, Ambulance Service--You're the best!
To all of you who read my blog--Have a great evening!
Bye!
3:21 p.m.
Today I am finally going to share a story with you. This happened on September 9th, and I've been going back and forth in my mind about sharing it, because I didn't have a conclusion. Now, at last, there's an "end" to it.
No excuses for my silence in between now and my last post. I'm sick. That's all I know, and it will have to be enough for now, since those answers are as yet unknown. Just tired out and typing hurts. Sorry! (I'm about to make up for it somewhat, and pain be damned.)
So, here's my little story:
On September 9th I had my first physical therapy appointment. I'd called the day before to have our local Call-N-Ride bus pick me up and take me. Due to their schedule, I was slated to arrive about an hour early, but I didn't mind that. I figured I'd get myself a fancy coffee before the torture commenced,
About 10:45 a.m. I received a phone call from my driver, who confessed that he was a little lost. I gave him detailed directions, figuring I'd have a few more minutes to goof off before he got here.
But for some reason, I decided I'd grab my bag and go outside to wait for him. Detailed directions from me might not be the greatest directions, I thought.
I went outside, and decided to go to the front of my house to watch for him. As I was walking around, I noticed my neighbor across the street struggling with her garbage can. It looked like she was trying to wrestle it back up on the curb.
I called to her to wait and I'd help her. Just as I got to her, she went down on all fours.
"Oh, crap!" I cried, rushing to her. "Are you alright? Let me help you up." I offered my hand and she took it, hers feeling damp and limp in my own. "I won't pull," I told her. "I don't want to hurt you." I braced myself to help her pull herself up. She gave a weak tug. No way was she getting up.
Okay, so this was not a simple fall. This was a collapse. Oh, dear.
"Is anyone home?" I asked her. I knew perfectly well that I couldn't pick her up.
"My brother," she mumbled.
"What's his name?"
Unintelligible answer.
No problem. "Hello. the house!" I called. "Hey, anybody home? Hello?!"
Nothing. In my defense, I'm not a great shouter. Also, no one was home.
I asked her name and she told me. I noted bruising on her arms, and the tell-tale leavings if band-aids, and asked her, "Have you been in the hospital?"
"Yes," she said. "I got out yesterday. I'm fine now. You can go."
"Nope, don't think so. You got out of the hospital yesterday?"
"Yes, Sunday."
"Okay...? Today is Tuesday."
"Oh. I'm fine. You can go. I'll get up in a minute."
"I'll stay with you. Want to try again?" I was still bent over, holding her hand.
Weak tug. Not happening. No way was I leaving.
I heard a vehicle and looked up hopefully. Great! It was the park patrol truck. I waved to them. They drove right by us without even glancing at us.
That reminds me--gotta complain about those guys when I pay the rent. Look out, patrol guys. You suck!
I saw my neighbor who lives on the other side of me, and waved at him. He walked into his house. I don't know if he saw me or not. Jeez, Louise, what a world.
"Why were you in the hospital?" I asked. "Did you have surgery?"
"Yeah."
"Have you had any bleeding?"
"Uh...yeah?"
Her words were slurring now. Where were all the neighbors? Why did the patrol truck just drive on by? My cell phone was in my bag, but I was afraid to let go of her, afraid she'd hit the ground.
Then, oh thank God, my ride appeared. He'd gone down the wrong street and come back up and ended up right where I needed him. I waved and yelled out "Here! I'm your rider! Help us, please!"
He put his vehicle in park, got out and helped me get the woman to her feet. "Oh!" she declared. "I feel better already! You may go."
"Nope." That was me and the driver together. If we hadn't been there holding on to her, she would have gone right back down.
"Hold her," I told him. "I'm going to see if anyone is home." I ran to their front door and banged on it, calling out for anyone to come to the door, Nothing, Not even the dogs. Hmmm.
I went back to the woman and driver, put my arm around her to support her weight, and said, "Call
911."
"I'll call 911," the driver said simultaneously. We smiled tensely at each other. He made the call. then he called his dispatch to let them know he'd be running late.
I knew that my neighbors had chairs in their yard, as I can see them sitting outside when I'm at my desk, so I sent the driver around to fetch a chair and we eased her into it. I rubbed her back and we waited for the ambulance.
I continued talking to her, but could no longer understand any of her answers.
The police arrived first. I told him the woman's name, showed him where I lived, confirmed that we were in the driveway of the house where she lived and that no one else was home. I told him she'd said she was just out of the hospital and had had surgery. EMTs arrived, and things were getting crowded.
My driver moved his vehicle across the street, in front of my house. I took my leave of the scene once the police told me it was okay to go, and the driver took me to my appointment.
Whew! What a morning. I felt like I'd already had a workout. But I still had an appointment to keep.
Well, physical therapy isn't fun, and it was my first appointment with them, so it was all about testing. Whee. Apparently my hip mobility on the right is pretty bad, and on the left couldn't even be measured. Always good news. Arthritis is not fun, my friends.
I could barely pay attention, though, because I was still preoccupied with my neighbor. Was she alright? Did they take her to the hospital?
After therapy I had to wait for my return ride, so I text messaged my son. He and his significant other had been out when all this went down, so I wanted to know if they'e gotten home in time to see anything. (I'm so nosy!)
He told me there'd been an ambulance there when they arrived home minutes after I'd left, and that our neighbor looked like she was awake and aware. They came inside the house and put things away and when they looked out again everyone was gone.
When I was picked up for my trip home, it was a new driver. I praised his co-worker to the skies and got his name.
Once home I went to the neighbor's to see if anyone was home. Nope. So I watched throughout the rest of the day until I saw someone and ran out to ask about her condition.
He told me she was doing well, but she had stopped breathing in the ambulance! Then he thanked me so much for looking out for her. Well, that was a stroke of luck, no lie. I would never have been outside at that time of day, and certainly not in front where I could have seen her, on any other day. I'm so glad I was!
I'm happy to report that today I was able to speak with her, and she is much better. Apparently, she'd taken her medications on an empty stomach and they overwhelmed her. She said she woke up in the hospital, intubated and pissed off.
When I went out to get today's mail she hailed me from across the street, saying, "I hear I have you to thank for saving my life!" Her brother had told her that Paula had helped her and she said "Who's Paula?" Then she laughed and said it was good to meet me.
I told her I was happy to meet her under better circumstances, and glad to see her looking and sounding so well.
Then she told me how thankful she was that I'd called such handsome paramedics! She's kind of a hoot.
Life can be good, folks. Happy endings are always nice.
To Hector, at Federal Heights Call-N-Ride--you're my hero!
To Federal Heights Police Department, Fire Department, Ambulance Service--You're the best!
To all of you who read my blog--Have a great evening!
Bye!
Thursday, September 4, 2014
September 2, 2014
10:31 p.m.
Wow, I am a horrible blogger! It's been days since my last post. I have no excuses. Bad me! Bad!
Okay, now I guess I'll be a little more honest.
It's hard for me to put myself out the in a negative way. I've said this before, I know. I just want to present a positive light. But the truth is, I haven't been feeling very positive lately, and so I have avoided writing anything.
I know I have also said in the past that if I'm going to do this, I need to confront the dark side. I guess I prefer not to acknowledge that I have a dark side!
How silly of me!
I've been having a rough time. Ever since I hurt my hip a few weeks ago, I've been in a great deal of pain. What started in my left hip has somehow managed to spread to all my joints. Just typing this now is causing me to wince and mutter. My fingers and wrists are stiff and achy. My elbows and shoulders do not want to bend. Walking hurts my hips, knees, ankles and toes. My neck is stiff. Even my ribs hurt.
I kind of feel like I'm going nuts here. I've tried to talk myself out of it, but I can't get comfortable, and so I haven't been sleeping well. As of tonight I've had about four hours sleep over the last seventy-two hour period.
My brain is feeling pretty stupid. I may begin slurring my words and walking into walls any minute now.
Yes, I went to the doctor. I've had blood tests which came back mostly normal for the test they've run so far. Mostly I was being ruled-out for rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is positive, I've had that for years.
This is the beginning of a chain of rule-out diagnosis, I fear. The suspected diagnosis is Lupus, which has no definitive tests. Bummer.
Internet glitch! Will this save?
Only time will tell!
10:31 p.m.
Wow, I am a horrible blogger! It's been days since my last post. I have no excuses. Bad me! Bad!
Okay, now I guess I'll be a little more honest.
It's hard for me to put myself out the in a negative way. I've said this before, I know. I just want to present a positive light. But the truth is, I haven't been feeling very positive lately, and so I have avoided writing anything.
I know I have also said in the past that if I'm going to do this, I need to confront the dark side. I guess I prefer not to acknowledge that I have a dark side!
How silly of me!
I've been having a rough time. Ever since I hurt my hip a few weeks ago, I've been in a great deal of pain. What started in my left hip has somehow managed to spread to all my joints. Just typing this now is causing me to wince and mutter. My fingers and wrists are stiff and achy. My elbows and shoulders do not want to bend. Walking hurts my hips, knees, ankles and toes. My neck is stiff. Even my ribs hurt.
I kind of feel like I'm going nuts here. I've tried to talk myself out of it, but I can't get comfortable, and so I haven't been sleeping well. As of tonight I've had about four hours sleep over the last seventy-two hour period.
My brain is feeling pretty stupid. I may begin slurring my words and walking into walls any minute now.
Yes, I went to the doctor. I've had blood tests which came back mostly normal for the test they've run so far. Mostly I was being ruled-out for rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is positive, I've had that for years.
This is the beginning of a chain of rule-out diagnosis, I fear. The suspected diagnosis is Lupus, which has no definitive tests. Bummer.
Internet glitch! Will this save?
Only time will tell!
September 4, 2014
6:10 p.m.
I'm...back at the keyboard again! Finally!
After resolving to post more frequently, I recently went through a very bad patch with my arthritis. I could barely click on the mouse, let alone type. (This did NOT stop my obsessive playing of Farmville, however. Depressing, huh? All you have to do is click.)
To be honest, typing is still hard for me today, but the old hands are finally starting to feel a bit better, and I figure--use it or lose it, baby!
I tried to post night before last, typed up a whole bunch of nonsense, tried to save, and lost the internet!!! Bleepity bleep!
So here I am again--look out world.
I guess I should go back a bit.
I had two of my grandchildren here for a few days near the end of July, and it was wonderful. I went totally "Nana". I roasted a turkey and made all the fixings. We played, we drew, we made jewelry. We watched movies and just had a good old time.
But somewhere in the middle of it all, I was cleaning up the kitchen and putting away leftovers. I bent into the fridge to put away some salad, and I heard this "pop" in my hip and immediately felt a hot, sharp pain. I didn't want to have the kids leave, so I just limped along through the next couple of days and hoped it would feel better soon.
Well, time passed and it did seem to get better--at first. Then the pain started to increase over time, and began to wonder if I might have cracked the iliac crest or somewhere in the region of the sacroiliac joint. I finally called and made a doctor appointment. I wanted to see my own physician, so I had to wait a few days.
Over those few days, suddenly all my joints began to be increasingly painful and swollen. If it was meant to bend, it hurt. I developed a red rash across my cheeks and forehead. I felt exhausted even when I managed to sleep (this is me, you know).
Now, I have had this happen before, including the rash. I have treated it like an acne outbreak in the past, but the time has come for me to admit that this is not acne. It's an inflamed, red and bumpy rash, sometimes quite bad, sometimes almost gone.
This time, it was quite red and felt painful and hot. I rubbed virgin coconut oil into my skin and hoped for the best. I hobbled when I walked because my ankles and feet and toes were so stiff and sore. My knees were swollen and stiff. My hip sang forlorn songs to me, and my back sang back-up. My fingers quit singing and started to sob.
I was one very unhappy camper by the time I went to see the doctor.
So...hip ex-ray: "Paula, you have arthritis in your hip. It's pretty ugly."
Knew that.
"There's some bone deformity, and bone from your hip and bone from your spine that shouldn't even be friends are getting too close together and in danger of fusing."
Didn't know that. Sounds...scary.
Blood panels done, and negative for rheumatoid arthritis. Blood sugar improved by a whopping tenth of a point. Bad cholesterol still in the high-normal-but-lets-get-this-lower range.
Okay.
I've been on an anti-inflammatory for two weeks now, and my feet and ankles feel better, and the swelling in my knees is much improved. My toes are still pretty painful. My hip and back do not like me yet. My hands hurt like hell but are less swollen and I can type--sort of. Lots of typos going on here, because my left hand is slower than usual.
Tomorrow I start physical therapy to try to increase the mobility in my hip and move those ill-matched bones apart so they don't fuse. I find that I am looking forward to it, although I'm pretty sure I will be an unhappy camper by the end of the appointment.
That's fine, though. Like I said before: move it or lose it.
Then next week it will be back to the doctor for more tests. The possible issue: Lupus.
Lupus is one of those lovely diseases that they have no specific test for. It's more a matter of testing for everything else and ruling those things out before saying, "Yep. Lupus."
Doesn't that sound like fun?
Yeah, that's what I thought, too. Whee!
So that's what I've been up to lately. Maybe I will post tomorrow about the joys of physical therapy!
What's going on in your world?
_________________________________________________________________________________
Sadly, we have lost yet another. Rest in Peace, Joan Rivers.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Robin Williams said:
'When I'm awake, I don't want to go to sleep. I don't want the hassle of turning the light off, putting my head down and then all the thoughts. I don't want all those thoughts'
I think he was reading my mind. This is why I have the t.v. on in my room, against all the expert advise. If I listen to the t.v., it drowns out all the thoughts that go racing around in my head keeping me awake all night. Did I lock the door? What do I have to do tomorrow? I should have said this or that to the rude guy on the bus. Do I smell smoke? Are the kids okay? I should call my mother in the morning. Blah blah blah.
I've tried listening to music, but music doesn't work so well, because I want to stay awake and listen to it! I want to sing along. I tried instrumentals, but I want to conduct the orchestra and identify the instruments.
So, the television plays just loud enough for me to hear the droning voices of the "Law and Order" characters. If I don't fall asleep before 3:00 a.m. when "Smallville" comes on I'm probably done trying for the night. I worked nights when that show originally ran, so I haven't seen most of the episodes. If it comes on before I fall asleep, I often sit up and watch, hoping I might catch a nap afterward. You know, during "Charmed". Because "Charmed". *yawn*
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, my last thought for now. I am really grateful for the Kindle my sons got me as a gift awhile back. My hands have been so painful, I know I would not be able to hold a regular book for any length of time right now. I've had trouble even with the Kindle, but when I lose my grip, none of the pages go fluttering and make me lose my place! Ha ha!
Good night!
6:10 p.m.
I'm...back at the keyboard again! Finally!
After resolving to post more frequently, I recently went through a very bad patch with my arthritis. I could barely click on the mouse, let alone type. (This did NOT stop my obsessive playing of Farmville, however. Depressing, huh? All you have to do is click.)
To be honest, typing is still hard for me today, but the old hands are finally starting to feel a bit better, and I figure--use it or lose it, baby!
I tried to post night before last, typed up a whole bunch of nonsense, tried to save, and lost the internet!!! Bleepity bleep!
So here I am again--look out world.
I guess I should go back a bit.
I had two of my grandchildren here for a few days near the end of July, and it was wonderful. I went totally "Nana". I roasted a turkey and made all the fixings. We played, we drew, we made jewelry. We watched movies and just had a good old time.
But somewhere in the middle of it all, I was cleaning up the kitchen and putting away leftovers. I bent into the fridge to put away some salad, and I heard this "pop" in my hip and immediately felt a hot, sharp pain. I didn't want to have the kids leave, so I just limped along through the next couple of days and hoped it would feel better soon.
Well, time passed and it did seem to get better--at first. Then the pain started to increase over time, and began to wonder if I might have cracked the iliac crest or somewhere in the region of the sacroiliac joint. I finally called and made a doctor appointment. I wanted to see my own physician, so I had to wait a few days.
Over those few days, suddenly all my joints began to be increasingly painful and swollen. If it was meant to bend, it hurt. I developed a red rash across my cheeks and forehead. I felt exhausted even when I managed to sleep (this is me, you know).
Now, I have had this happen before, including the rash. I have treated it like an acne outbreak in the past, but the time has come for me to admit that this is not acne. It's an inflamed, red and bumpy rash, sometimes quite bad, sometimes almost gone.
This time, it was quite red and felt painful and hot. I rubbed virgin coconut oil into my skin and hoped for the best. I hobbled when I walked because my ankles and feet and toes were so stiff and sore. My knees were swollen and stiff. My hip sang forlorn songs to me, and my back sang back-up. My fingers quit singing and started to sob.
I was one very unhappy camper by the time I went to see the doctor.
So...hip ex-ray: "Paula, you have arthritis in your hip. It's pretty ugly."
Knew that.
"There's some bone deformity, and bone from your hip and bone from your spine that shouldn't even be friends are getting too close together and in danger of fusing."
Didn't know that. Sounds...scary.
Blood panels done, and negative for rheumatoid arthritis. Blood sugar improved by a whopping tenth of a point. Bad cholesterol still in the high-normal-but-lets-get-this-lower range.
Okay.
I've been on an anti-inflammatory for two weeks now, and my feet and ankles feel better, and the swelling in my knees is much improved. My toes are still pretty painful. My hip and back do not like me yet. My hands hurt like hell but are less swollen and I can type--sort of. Lots of typos going on here, because my left hand is slower than usual.
Tomorrow I start physical therapy to try to increase the mobility in my hip and move those ill-matched bones apart so they don't fuse. I find that I am looking forward to it, although I'm pretty sure I will be an unhappy camper by the end of the appointment.
That's fine, though. Like I said before: move it or lose it.
Then next week it will be back to the doctor for more tests. The possible issue: Lupus.
Lupus is one of those lovely diseases that they have no specific test for. It's more a matter of testing for everything else and ruling those things out before saying, "Yep. Lupus."
Doesn't that sound like fun?
Yeah, that's what I thought, too. Whee!
So that's what I've been up to lately. Maybe I will post tomorrow about the joys of physical therapy!
What's going on in your world?
_________________________________________________________________________________
Sadly, we have lost yet another. Rest in Peace, Joan Rivers.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Robin Williams said:
'When I'm awake, I don't want to go to sleep. I don't want the hassle of turning the light off, putting my head down and then all the thoughts. I don't want all those thoughts'
I think he was reading my mind. This is why I have the t.v. on in my room, against all the expert advise. If I listen to the t.v., it drowns out all the thoughts that go racing around in my head keeping me awake all night. Did I lock the door? What do I have to do tomorrow? I should have said this or that to the rude guy on the bus. Do I smell smoke? Are the kids okay? I should call my mother in the morning. Blah blah blah.
I've tried listening to music, but music doesn't work so well, because I want to stay awake and listen to it! I want to sing along. I tried instrumentals, but I want to conduct the orchestra and identify the instruments.
So, the television plays just loud enough for me to hear the droning voices of the "Law and Order" characters. If I don't fall asleep before 3:00 a.m. when "Smallville" comes on I'm probably done trying for the night. I worked nights when that show originally ran, so I haven't seen most of the episodes. If it comes on before I fall asleep, I often sit up and watch, hoping I might catch a nap afterward. You know, during "Charmed". Because "Charmed". *yawn*
_________________________________________________________________________________
Okay, my last thought for now. I am really grateful for the Kindle my sons got me as a gift awhile back. My hands have been so painful, I know I would not be able to hold a regular book for any length of time right now. I've had trouble even with the Kindle, but when I lose my grip, none of the pages go fluttering and make me lose my place! Ha ha!
Good night!
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
August 12, 2014
3:35 p.m.
I'm not having a very good day.
Actually, it started yesterday, this not very good day phase. I woke up in a state of near-tears, for no apparent reason. It was one of those days where I felt compelled to call family members and make sure everyone is okay.
I was online, not really looking for anything in particular, when a breaking news announcement appeared at the top of my page. "Robin Williams Found Dead From Apparent Suicide," it said.
"No," I whispered. Whimpered, really.
I told my son, "Robin Williams is dead."
"It's a lie," he replied, obviously shaken. "It has to be. It's a different Robin Williams."
I hoped for a hoax. You know, like all the ongoing reports of Jackie Chan's death in accidents while filming his movies. They are all over the internet all the time.
That's what it will turn out to be, I thought--hoped--prayed--as I clicked on the link to see the story.
Well, clearly I was wrong. Robin Williams is gone.
I just can't believe it. I've spent half my life saying "Shazbat" and "Nano, nano." I've stood in front of the house in Boulder that is famously called "The Mork and Mindy House." I have been entertained by this man for all of my adult life. He made me laugh. He made me cry.
He's not supposed to be gone. Not yet. And certainly not like this.
Generally, when a celebrity I am a fan of passes away, I feel saddened, but go on with my day without too much fuss.
This one has hit me so hard! And I can't stop reading everything that shows up online about him. I feel so bad for his wife, and even worse for his children. I sit here now, typing away and blotting tears off my face with a tissue.
I guess the main thing bothering me is the fact that he was ill in a way that is so hard to define. All the Coroner can do is pronounce his death was the result of suicide, but it was really the result of an illness that so few recognize or acknowledge--especially those who suffer with it.
This is not the first time I've seen the aftermath of this illness. I have friends who have lost children to it. I fear sometimes that I could lose people close to me because of it. Or they could lose me.
It digs in, you see. It moves into you slowly and starts to eat away at every pleasure. There doesn't have to be any specifically defined reason for feeling "blue"; after awhile it just feels like that's the way it has always been and always will be.
Depression builds a home within you and announces, in no uncertain terms, that it has no intention of leaving.
I understand the driving force that took Robin Williams from us; I understand it well. That feeling of: "This is never going to get better!" and "I'm too tired to fight this anymore."
But--Oh, God!--I wish he'd kept fighting. We could have had another decade or three of his wit and wisdom and wild, zany antics. Better still, HE could have had those years.
What I said first certainly sounded selfish, but what can I say? I will miss him. I will miss all the things he could have done in the future. And I know damn well that his children would have given anything to have him decide he needed to stick around awhile longer.
Depression kills. It's a sad fact.
Please, please, if you are suffering with this, don't try to tough it out. There is nothing weak in admitting that you need some help. I'm speaking from experience, hard as that is for me to admit.
So talk to someone--your spouse, your children, your parents, your doctor--anyone. You are important to many different people, even when you don't believe that you are. Let them help you find the strength to stick around. They need you.
To Robin, wherever you are--I'm so sorry. You are well loved and will be missed by so many. Depression cannot reach you now, so fly, Peter Pan. Fly.
3:35 p.m.
I'm not having a very good day.
Actually, it started yesterday, this not very good day phase. I woke up in a state of near-tears, for no apparent reason. It was one of those days where I felt compelled to call family members and make sure everyone is okay.
I was online, not really looking for anything in particular, when a breaking news announcement appeared at the top of my page. "Robin Williams Found Dead From Apparent Suicide," it said.
"No," I whispered. Whimpered, really.
I told my son, "Robin Williams is dead."
"It's a lie," he replied, obviously shaken. "It has to be. It's a different Robin Williams."
I hoped for a hoax. You know, like all the ongoing reports of Jackie Chan's death in accidents while filming his movies. They are all over the internet all the time.
That's what it will turn out to be, I thought--hoped--prayed--as I clicked on the link to see the story.
Well, clearly I was wrong. Robin Williams is gone.
I just can't believe it. I've spent half my life saying "Shazbat" and "Nano, nano." I've stood in front of the house in Boulder that is famously called "The Mork and Mindy House." I have been entertained by this man for all of my adult life. He made me laugh. He made me cry.
He's not supposed to be gone. Not yet. And certainly not like this.
Generally, when a celebrity I am a fan of passes away, I feel saddened, but go on with my day without too much fuss.
This one has hit me so hard! And I can't stop reading everything that shows up online about him. I feel so bad for his wife, and even worse for his children. I sit here now, typing away and blotting tears off my face with a tissue.
I guess the main thing bothering me is the fact that he was ill in a way that is so hard to define. All the Coroner can do is pronounce his death was the result of suicide, but it was really the result of an illness that so few recognize or acknowledge--especially those who suffer with it.
This is not the first time I've seen the aftermath of this illness. I have friends who have lost children to it. I fear sometimes that I could lose people close to me because of it. Or they could lose me.
It digs in, you see. It moves into you slowly and starts to eat away at every pleasure. There doesn't have to be any specifically defined reason for feeling "blue"; after awhile it just feels like that's the way it has always been and always will be.
Depression builds a home within you and announces, in no uncertain terms, that it has no intention of leaving.
I understand the driving force that took Robin Williams from us; I understand it well. That feeling of: "This is never going to get better!" and "I'm too tired to fight this anymore."
But--Oh, God!--I wish he'd kept fighting. We could have had another decade or three of his wit and wisdom and wild, zany antics. Better still, HE could have had those years.
What I said first certainly sounded selfish, but what can I say? I will miss him. I will miss all the things he could have done in the future. And I know damn well that his children would have given anything to have him decide he needed to stick around awhile longer.
Please, please, if you are suffering with this, don't try to tough it out. There is nothing weak in admitting that you need some help. I'm speaking from experience, hard as that is for me to admit.
So talk to someone--your spouse, your children, your parents, your doctor--anyone. You are important to many different people, even when you don't believe that you are. Let them help you find the strength to stick around. They need you.
To Robin, wherever you are--I'm so sorry. You are well loved and will be missed by so many. Depression cannot reach you now, so fly, Peter Pan. Fly.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
August 9, 2014
1:39 p.m.
I finally got some sleep last night, after about three days in a row of "cat-naps" I think I may have gotten a total of six hours during those days, and last night I managed about seven! Hurray for me!
But I had the strangest dream. I mean, really strange, because it was so real. I usually don't share my dreams, but this won't seem to leave my mind, so I'm going to tell you.
I was in a huge building with a lot of people. I don't remember who they were, friends or family, but I do remember that I seemed to know them all. I remember discussing children and grandchildren.
I was nicely dressed, so it was apparently a celebration of some kind. People were mingling in small groups, sipping drinks and chatting. There were not a lot of children, but the adults were of all ages. I was laughing with a small group of women, and then told them I was going to go outdoors for a breath of air.
I turned toward the doors, glass doors in a glass wall which displayed a beautiful courtyard outside. I started up the stairs, and waiting for me there was Robert Reed, the actor who played Mike Brady on the 1970's show "The Brady Bunch".
"Hello, Paula," he said, smiling.
"Hi, 'Mike'", I replied, returning his smile, with interest added.
He threw back his head and laughed. "It never ends," he snorted, grinning.
"Hello, Robert," I relented, and he hugged me tightly. I hugged back, and it was like coming home.
One of the women I'd just left called up to me, 'You know him?"
"Of course she knows me!" Robert replied. "I'm Mike Brady! Everybody knows me."
"You remember me," I commented, loud enough for only him to hear.
"I remember you," he agreed.
Now, this is very strange, because I never met Robert Reed in my life. I did watch "The Brady Bunch" in the '70's, like everyone else I knew at that time, so of course I grew up seeing him as a father figure, but beyond that, I didn't follow his career or anything like that. At the time, I was more interested in Barry White (Greg Brady), also like other girls I knew at that time.
So why would he remember me?
"Come walk with me," Robert said, swing the door open.
"I'd love a walk," I agreed. He put his arm around my shoulder, I put mine around his waist, and we walked out into that beautiful courtyard.
There were many different kinds of trees there, and flowers of all colors. Lilac and rose bushes dotted the scenery. I braced myself for sneezing and watery eyes, possibly even an asthma attack. I wasn't carrying a bag, so no inhaler. How silly of me!
But nothing happened; my breathing was fine, and the smells were wonderful.
"I feel so good today," I said.
"It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"
"Yes."
And it really was. The sun was shining, the temperature was perfect, a few fair-weather cottony clouds floated passively overhead. Birds flitted between the trees and the foot-path was perfectly maintained.
We walked on for awhile. I looked over my shoulder. The building we'd left was nowhere in sight. All around us were trees, bushes, flowers and birds.
"Look," Robert said, stepping off the path. "Berries." He plucked a few off a bush and popped them in his mouth. "Mmmm. Want some?"
Of course I did. We stood there munching the most delicious berries I've ever eaten for a few minutes. I have no idea what kind of berries they were, but I wish I had some right now.
Robert offered me his arm and I took it. We returned to the path and resumed our walk. We reached a place where there were steps leading up a steep hill. I eyed them with trepidation, but I didn't want to complain about my arthritis to Robert Reed!
We began climbing the steps. My fears, it turned out, were unfounded. My knees, ankles and back made no protest whatsoever.
(What a great dream!)
Squirrels and chipmunks scampered across the path. A doe stood staring at us from a small clearing in the trees, her fawn beside her. We continued to climb, up and up.
Robert turned to me. "So," he asked, "what do you think about closing all the zoos?"
"That's stupid!" I blurted, before I could think of how that would sound. "I mean--wow."
I stared down at me feet, watching them as they effortlessly continued mounting step after step. How was this even possible?
I looked back up at Robert. "Sometimes I open my mouth first and speak second. I don't mean I think zoos are a good thing--"
Robert grinned at me. "I know what you mean," he said.
The crazy thing is, I believed him. He did know, I know he did, but I felt a need to clarify.
"When I go to a zoo, I feel sad," I told him. "Animals don't belong in cages. But--" I added, "no one can realistically expect to just close all the zoos and let the animals go free. It won't work."
"Because?" Robert raised his eyebrows at me, no doubt expecting me to say something brilliant.
I'm not brilliant. But I said what I think. "Because they have forgotten how to be free," I said. "They've been bred and raised in cages, fed every day by zookeepers. Some may be able to survive in the wild using their instincts--I think the reptiles would be fine--but some would just languish and die."
Robert nodded at me and opened his mouth to speak--
And I woke up! Doggone it! I want to know what he might have said next.
I also want to know where we were and where we were going. Why was I able to climb those stairs without pain or difficulty? Why wasn't I gasping and wheezing and weepy and sneezing?
I think I may have been dreaming about my death.
If that's the case, I find it interesting that Robert Reed was the one sent to fetch me.
I don't find it unbelievable or incredible. Just interesting.
Dreams are crazy things, aren't they? I mean, I've had some pretty wacky ones over the years, and some that seem prophetic in retrospect. If I die soon, does that mean I dreamed it and it came true? You'll have no way of knowing, will you? I don't think anyone living will see it if Robert Reed comes to walk me home.
I know one thing, though: I liked Robert Reed. I felt very comfortable walking through the trees with him. I liked breathing in the scents of nature without wheezing and climbing stairs with no pain. If that can be a true thing--and of course I believe it can, I must believe that, mustn't I?--then I have no fear of death.
I'm in no rush, however. I do want to stick around awhile and watch my grandchildren grow up. That would be nice.
So this was a strange post, I think.
Now I wonder about you. What are your dreams like? Do you believe they have any meaning, or are they just the brain's way of cleaning house at the end of the day?
Let me know in the comments!
Ta ta for now!
1:39 p.m.
I finally got some sleep last night, after about three days in a row of "cat-naps" I think I may have gotten a total of six hours during those days, and last night I managed about seven! Hurray for me!
But I had the strangest dream. I mean, really strange, because it was so real. I usually don't share my dreams, but this won't seem to leave my mind, so I'm going to tell you.
I was in a huge building with a lot of people. I don't remember who they were, friends or family, but I do remember that I seemed to know them all. I remember discussing children and grandchildren.
I was nicely dressed, so it was apparently a celebration of some kind. People were mingling in small groups, sipping drinks and chatting. There were not a lot of children, but the adults were of all ages. I was laughing with a small group of women, and then told them I was going to go outdoors for a breath of air.
I turned toward the doors, glass doors in a glass wall which displayed a beautiful courtyard outside. I started up the stairs, and waiting for me there was Robert Reed, the actor who played Mike Brady on the 1970's show "The Brady Bunch".
"Hello, Paula," he said, smiling.
"Hi, 'Mike'", I replied, returning his smile, with interest added.
He threw back his head and laughed. "It never ends," he snorted, grinning.
"Hello, Robert," I relented, and he hugged me tightly. I hugged back, and it was like coming home.
One of the women I'd just left called up to me, 'You know him?"
"Of course she knows me!" Robert replied. "I'm Mike Brady! Everybody knows me."
"You remember me," I commented, loud enough for only him to hear.
"I remember you," he agreed.
Now, this is very strange, because I never met Robert Reed in my life. I did watch "The Brady Bunch" in the '70's, like everyone else I knew at that time, so of course I grew up seeing him as a father figure, but beyond that, I didn't follow his career or anything like that. At the time, I was more interested in Barry White (Greg Brady), also like other girls I knew at that time.
So why would he remember me?
"Come walk with me," Robert said, swing the door open.
"I'd love a walk," I agreed. He put his arm around my shoulder, I put mine around his waist, and we walked out into that beautiful courtyard.
There were many different kinds of trees there, and flowers of all colors. Lilac and rose bushes dotted the scenery. I braced myself for sneezing and watery eyes, possibly even an asthma attack. I wasn't carrying a bag, so no inhaler. How silly of me!
But nothing happened; my breathing was fine, and the smells were wonderful.
"I feel so good today," I said.
"It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"
"Yes."
And it really was. The sun was shining, the temperature was perfect, a few fair-weather cottony clouds floated passively overhead. Birds flitted between the trees and the foot-path was perfectly maintained.
We walked on for awhile. I looked over my shoulder. The building we'd left was nowhere in sight. All around us were trees, bushes, flowers and birds.
"Look," Robert said, stepping off the path. "Berries." He plucked a few off a bush and popped them in his mouth. "Mmmm. Want some?"
Of course I did. We stood there munching the most delicious berries I've ever eaten for a few minutes. I have no idea what kind of berries they were, but I wish I had some right now.
Robert offered me his arm and I took it. We returned to the path and resumed our walk. We reached a place where there were steps leading up a steep hill. I eyed them with trepidation, but I didn't want to complain about my arthritis to Robert Reed!
We began climbing the steps. My fears, it turned out, were unfounded. My knees, ankles and back made no protest whatsoever.
(What a great dream!)
Squirrels and chipmunks scampered across the path. A doe stood staring at us from a small clearing in the trees, her fawn beside her. We continued to climb, up and up.
Robert turned to me. "So," he asked, "what do you think about closing all the zoos?"
"That's stupid!" I blurted, before I could think of how that would sound. "I mean--wow."
I stared down at me feet, watching them as they effortlessly continued mounting step after step. How was this even possible?
I looked back up at Robert. "Sometimes I open my mouth first and speak second. I don't mean I think zoos are a good thing--"
Robert grinned at me. "I know what you mean," he said.
The crazy thing is, I believed him. He did know, I know he did, but I felt a need to clarify.
"When I go to a zoo, I feel sad," I told him. "Animals don't belong in cages. But--" I added, "no one can realistically expect to just close all the zoos and let the animals go free. It won't work."
"Because?" Robert raised his eyebrows at me, no doubt expecting me to say something brilliant.
I'm not brilliant. But I said what I think. "Because they have forgotten how to be free," I said. "They've been bred and raised in cages, fed every day by zookeepers. Some may be able to survive in the wild using their instincts--I think the reptiles would be fine--but some would just languish and die."
Robert nodded at me and opened his mouth to speak--
And I woke up! Doggone it! I want to know what he might have said next.
I also want to know where we were and where we were going. Why was I able to climb those stairs without pain or difficulty? Why wasn't I gasping and wheezing and weepy and sneezing?
I think I may have been dreaming about my death.
If that's the case, I find it interesting that Robert Reed was the one sent to fetch me.
I don't find it unbelievable or incredible. Just interesting.
Dreams are crazy things, aren't they? I mean, I've had some pretty wacky ones over the years, and some that seem prophetic in retrospect. If I die soon, does that mean I dreamed it and it came true? You'll have no way of knowing, will you? I don't think anyone living will see it if Robert Reed comes to walk me home.
I know one thing, though: I liked Robert Reed. I felt very comfortable walking through the trees with him. I liked breathing in the scents of nature without wheezing and climbing stairs with no pain. If that can be a true thing--and of course I believe it can, I must believe that, mustn't I?--then I have no fear of death.
I'm in no rush, however. I do want to stick around awhile and watch my grandchildren grow up. That would be nice.
So this was a strange post, I think.
Now I wonder about you. What are your dreams like? Do you believe they have any meaning, or are they just the brain's way of cleaning house at the end of the day?
Let me know in the comments!
Ta ta for now!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
August 5, 2014
6:17 p.m.
I'm in a weird mood today. (well, weirder than usual) Although I have been sleeping a bit, I feel more tired than I usually do, and I just want to crawl back into bed.
I should preface this, I guess. I had my grandchildren over for a few days last month. (I know, I know, I gushed about this already, but I love it when they're here!) During that time, I made a big turkey dinner, because Thanksgiving can be any day all year long, and I was thankful that I had kids in my house.
While I was cleaning up and putting away leftovers, I bent into the refrigerator to put away some macaroni salad, and I felt a terrific pain in my left hip. At the same time, I heard a sharp cracking sound.
Since then, I have been in various degrees of pain. I guess I should go have an ex-ray, but I don't want to! I'm too young to break a hip! What I don't know can't hurt me. Ha ha!
It's no news to me that someone can break a hip and remain mobile--a crack in the iliac crest won't keep you from walking, but it sure will hurt when you do. (It does!)
But I'm probably just a big baby, anyway, and it's noting but more arthritis pain. I ought to be used to that by now, right?
But back to the sleep thing: I can't get comfortable, and so I'm not resting well when I actually do get to sleep. So I've been kind of sleepwalking the last few days.
I took a walk yesterday to convince myself that I could do it, and I managed it, but--wow, did I hurt afterward. I may break down and call the doctor. Especially since I know I have her all paid off now. The joys of medical bills! What can I say?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have recently viewed "Game of Thrones" and got all caught up with the rest of America, so I decided I should read the books. I started on them yesterday. And I have to say: so far, so good. HBO has been very true to the story, at least up to the point I've read.
Now, my general mode of operation is to read the books first, but I've gone backward this time, and so far I've not been disappointed by either the series or the book.
So, here's my question: When I reach the point where the story left off on the HBO series, should I keep reading?
I doubt I'll be able to stop, even though that will mean I'll go into the next season of the series with all the spoilers. But what do you think? Would you stop reading so the show is a surprise every week, or would you want all the answers now? Let me know in the comments section!
_________________________________________________________________________________
I may add to this later, but for now...good evening!
6:17 p.m.
I'm in a weird mood today. (well, weirder than usual) Although I have been sleeping a bit, I feel more tired than I usually do, and I just want to crawl back into bed.
I should preface this, I guess. I had my grandchildren over for a few days last month. (I know, I know, I gushed about this already, but I love it when they're here!) During that time, I made a big turkey dinner, because Thanksgiving can be any day all year long, and I was thankful that I had kids in my house.
While I was cleaning up and putting away leftovers, I bent into the refrigerator to put away some macaroni salad, and I felt a terrific pain in my left hip. At the same time, I heard a sharp cracking sound.
Since then, I have been in various degrees of pain. I guess I should go have an ex-ray, but I don't want to! I'm too young to break a hip! What I don't know can't hurt me. Ha ha!
It's no news to me that someone can break a hip and remain mobile--a crack in the iliac crest won't keep you from walking, but it sure will hurt when you do. (It does!)
But I'm probably just a big baby, anyway, and it's noting but more arthritis pain. I ought to be used to that by now, right?
But back to the sleep thing: I can't get comfortable, and so I'm not resting well when I actually do get to sleep. So I've been kind of sleepwalking the last few days.
I took a walk yesterday to convince myself that I could do it, and I managed it, but--wow, did I hurt afterward. I may break down and call the doctor. Especially since I know I have her all paid off now. The joys of medical bills! What can I say?
_________________________________________________________________________________
I have recently viewed "Game of Thrones" and got all caught up with the rest of America, so I decided I should read the books. I started on them yesterday. And I have to say: so far, so good. HBO has been very true to the story, at least up to the point I've read.
Now, my general mode of operation is to read the books first, but I've gone backward this time, and so far I've not been disappointed by either the series or the book.
So, here's my question: When I reach the point where the story left off on the HBO series, should I keep reading?
I doubt I'll be able to stop, even though that will mean I'll go into the next season of the series with all the spoilers. But what do you think? Would you stop reading so the show is a surprise every week, or would you want all the answers now? Let me know in the comments section!
_________________________________________________________________________________
I may add to this later, but for now...good evening!
Monday, August 4, 2014
August 3, 2014
10:11 p.m.
I was just thinking that it is always so much more fun around here when I have my grandchildren. They add some life to this house! I got to have them for a few days last month, and I really didn't want them to go home!
It's always a treat for me, spending time with these little people. Although they are being raised by the same couple and in the same house, they are such distinctly different people, different from their parents and from each other. Individuality is such a wonderful thing. It amazes me to think that some societies put stock in conformity. How boring that would be!
My grandson is already a gamer. My son introduced him to video games when he was about three years old, and he took to it like a duck to water. He's now eight and is really getting a hold on his frustration levels. Being unable to master things when he was younger led to some melt-downs, but when it became clear to him that a melt-down would lead to losing his gaming time, he's learned to control himself.
My granddaughter is an avid reader, enjoying books that are well beyond what her reading level would be measured at, and for that I am so grateful. Reading is a fundamental part of life, as far as I am concerned, and it makes me so happy to see a child with a book in her hands.
They've both become enamored with Animae lately, so we enjoyed some programs while they were here. Cosplay my become a thing around here. Suddenly I wish I could sew! (Not really!!)
We spent some time at the pool while they were here, and I do wish it was warmer so I could join them. Cold water plays havoc with my arthritis.
Anyway, I'm hoping I can have them for a few more days before summer ends and they're back in school. Hint, hint, daughter of mine!
_________________________________________________________________________________
10:11 p.m.
I was just thinking that it is always so much more fun around here when I have my grandchildren. They add some life to this house! I got to have them for a few days last month, and I really didn't want them to go home!
It's always a treat for me, spending time with these little people. Although they are being raised by the same couple and in the same house, they are such distinctly different people, different from their parents and from each other. Individuality is such a wonderful thing. It amazes me to think that some societies put stock in conformity. How boring that would be!
My grandson is already a gamer. My son introduced him to video games when he was about three years old, and he took to it like a duck to water. He's now eight and is really getting a hold on his frustration levels. Being unable to master things when he was younger led to some melt-downs, but when it became clear to him that a melt-down would lead to losing his gaming time, he's learned to control himself.
My granddaughter is an avid reader, enjoying books that are well beyond what her reading level would be measured at, and for that I am so grateful. Reading is a fundamental part of life, as far as I am concerned, and it makes me so happy to see a child with a book in her hands.
They've both become enamored with Animae lately, so we enjoyed some programs while they were here. Cosplay my become a thing around here. Suddenly I wish I could sew! (Not really!!)
We spent some time at the pool while they were here, and I do wish it was warmer so I could join them. Cold water plays havoc with my arthritis.
Anyway, I'm hoping I can have them for a few more days before summer ends and they're back in school. Hint, hint, daughter of mine!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
July 23, 2014
6:34 p.m.
I have grandchildren over for a few days! Hurray!
We went to the pool for awhile, and I got to thinking that I wish I had one of the newer model Kindles that you can see well out in sunlight. This old lady does not submerge in cold water. No, no, no. This old lady reads while the kids--who seem to be unaffected by cold--swim and play. Yep.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Call me crazy, but I am going to roast a turkey tomorrow. Who says I have to wait for a holiday? Gonna make all the fixings, too.
It may interest you to know that I have a counter top roaster--I don't have to use the oven. Just in case you thought I was really crazy. Cuz it's hot out there this week, folks.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How hard is it to remember to buy a new toothbrush? Do I literally have to be brushing my teeth in the store to say to myself, "Wow, I need a new one of these.!"?
_________________________________________________________________________________
Aughh! I think I handled a spoon better when I was a toddler. Stupid arthritis!
_________________________________________________________________________________
My granddaughter is just like me: up all night! Wait til school starts, she's going to get quite a shock to her system. (I can't believe she starts middle school this year. Dang, time flies!)
_________________________________________________________________________________
I think I have thought enough for one day. I'm gonna watch a movie with my grandkids and do Sudoku puzzles.
Good night!
6:34 p.m.
I have grandchildren over for a few days! Hurray!
We went to the pool for awhile, and I got to thinking that I wish I had one of the newer model Kindles that you can see well out in sunlight. This old lady does not submerge in cold water. No, no, no. This old lady reads while the kids--who seem to be unaffected by cold--swim and play. Yep.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Call me crazy, but I am going to roast a turkey tomorrow. Who says I have to wait for a holiday? Gonna make all the fixings, too.
It may interest you to know that I have a counter top roaster--I don't have to use the oven. Just in case you thought I was really crazy. Cuz it's hot out there this week, folks.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How hard is it to remember to buy a new toothbrush? Do I literally have to be brushing my teeth in the store to say to myself, "Wow, I need a new one of these.!"?
_________________________________________________________________________________
Aughh! I think I handled a spoon better when I was a toddler. Stupid arthritis!
_________________________________________________________________________________
My granddaughter is just like me: up all night! Wait til school starts, she's going to get quite a shock to her system. (I can't believe she starts middle school this year. Dang, time flies!)
_________________________________________________________________________________
I think I have thought enough for one day. I'm gonna watch a movie with my grandkids and do Sudoku puzzles.
Good night!
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
July 22, 2014
9:38 p.m.
There are times in life when a person has to come to terms with what they are and what it is.
I am not Nellie Nitpicky or Hollie Housekeeper or Martha Stewart. I have good intentions, (sort of) but I will never be the type of person whose house is their main focus. I do just enough in my house so that it looks semi-respectable. I always promise myself that I will do better, but it's never gonna happen.
I hate housework.
There. I said it. I've put it out there. Now everyone knows, and do I care?
Not really.
My house will never be listed in Better Homes and Gardens. If there were such a thing, it would be listed in Better than Nothing.
I mean, I have issues, man. I could totally become that crazy lady living with piles of stuff that she just can't throw away. You know, a HOARDER. But I am trying to curb that tendency to save things because I might need them later. (Although every time I do, sure enough I find a use for it! Then I go searching for it, and it's GONE! Devastation!)
But, just so you know, I have never been compelled to save my toenail clippings in a coffee can. I'm not that far gone, thank God!
Seriously, I am proud of myself because I went through my closet and got rid of some clothes I brought with me from Wyoming when I moved here in 1999. You might not believe it, but this is progress. I still have a few things--it's a process--but it's nice to have some room in there.
Yesterday I went through papers on my desk and filled up my little garbage can with papers I don't need. Why was I saving them? I don't know.
I will not throw away the drawing the grandchildren have made for me, though. Don't even suggest it. To suggest such a thing may put you in serious peril. I don't care if it's a fire hazard. My grandchildren made them for me. They're mine!
Also, I finally replaced my old sheets and tossed them. I bought new ones in December, but I never opened the packages and just kept washing and using the old ones, even though they were falling apart.
I believe in using my stuff til it dies.
Well, it's all going to be out there now. The world will now know for sure that I am slightly wacky.
I doubt it will come as a surprise to anyone.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I am hoping for some good news on the job-training front in the next few days. Send some positive vibes my way, will you please??
I may get to take some more classes, which will help a great deal in my job search. Nothing is finalized, though, but I would really love this, so again: please send positive thoughts my way!
Thank you!
And good night!
9:38 p.m.
There are times in life when a person has to come to terms with what they are and what it is.
I am not Nellie Nitpicky or Hollie Housekeeper or Martha Stewart. I have good intentions, (sort of) but I will never be the type of person whose house is their main focus. I do just enough in my house so that it looks semi-respectable. I always promise myself that I will do better, but it's never gonna happen.
I hate housework.
There. I said it. I've put it out there. Now everyone knows, and do I care?
Not really.
My house will never be listed in Better Homes and Gardens. If there were such a thing, it would be listed in Better than Nothing.
I mean, I have issues, man. I could totally become that crazy lady living with piles of stuff that she just can't throw away. You know, a HOARDER. But I am trying to curb that tendency to save things because I might need them later. (Although every time I do, sure enough I find a use for it! Then I go searching for it, and it's GONE! Devastation!)
But, just so you know, I have never been compelled to save my toenail clippings in a coffee can. I'm not that far gone, thank God!
Seriously, I am proud of myself because I went through my closet and got rid of some clothes I brought with me from Wyoming when I moved here in 1999. You might not believe it, but this is progress. I still have a few things--it's a process--but it's nice to have some room in there.
Yesterday I went through papers on my desk and filled up my little garbage can with papers I don't need. Why was I saving them? I don't know.
I will not throw away the drawing the grandchildren have made for me, though. Don't even suggest it. To suggest such a thing may put you in serious peril. I don't care if it's a fire hazard. My grandchildren made them for me. They're mine!
Also, I finally replaced my old sheets and tossed them. I bought new ones in December, but I never opened the packages and just kept washing and using the old ones, even though they were falling apart.
I believe in using my stuff til it dies.
Well, it's all going to be out there now. The world will now know for sure that I am slightly wacky.
I doubt it will come as a surprise to anyone.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I am hoping for some good news on the job-training front in the next few days. Send some positive vibes my way, will you please??
I may get to take some more classes, which will help a great deal in my job search. Nothing is finalized, though, but I would really love this, so again: please send positive thoughts my way!
Thank you!
And good night!
Friday, July 18, 2014
July 18, 2014
10:51 p.m.
I find that I am disappointed that my last post didn't generate more responses. I really feel strongly that people over the age of fifty have a harder time getting back into the workforce after losing a job, and I wish more people would join the conversation.
By the way, if you are reading my blog and you're a job seeker under fifty, I am still interested in your comments about your job hunt.
I just saw an ad that claimed that Colorado now has an unemployment rate under 5%. I don't think I believe that. I think a lot of people who had a choice to begin collecting Social Security decided it was time to do so after repeatedly not getting the jobs they were after. It wasn't my first choice, but Unemployment benefits don't last forever! I had to be able to make it from one day to the next somehow.
Maybe the number of people now collecting Unemployment has decreased, but that doesn't necessarily mean that employment in the state has increased. It just means that a lot of people gave up looking for jobs.
Or maybe I'm wrong. Maybe I am the problem, and everyone else is doing great.
Tell me so! Please comment!
_________________________________________________________________________________
On a more cheerful note, I have to say that I'm very excited about becoming a grandmother again come January. This will be number eight! I want to say I'm hoping for a girl to even up the numbers--it's presently three girls, four boys--but I think it's a boy. I don't know why.
My daughter has Crone's Disease, and she's been having a difficult time so far, but has made it to her second trimester now, so she has shared the news. I anticipate the possibility that I may need to go to her location somewhat earlier than January, so I may be spending Christmas out there this year. That will be nice--I have not had Christmas with my far-away daughters since their daughters were babies!
Knowing that I will at some point have to make a trip east, I am now quite ambivalent about my job search. I have been looking for a job all year, but if I get one now I won't have been with it long enough to request time off for the delivery of the new baby.
I would hate missing the delivery of the newest grandchild. I have missed only one delivery out of the last seven, and it was the same daughter. She delivered early and I didn't make it out until my grandson was a week old. I was sad.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Well, I clearly have nothing much to say tonight except "Good night!"
10:51 p.m.
I find that I am disappointed that my last post didn't generate more responses. I really feel strongly that people over the age of fifty have a harder time getting back into the workforce after losing a job, and I wish more people would join the conversation.
By the way, if you are reading my blog and you're a job seeker under fifty, I am still interested in your comments about your job hunt.
I just saw an ad that claimed that Colorado now has an unemployment rate under 5%. I don't think I believe that. I think a lot of people who had a choice to begin collecting Social Security decided it was time to do so after repeatedly not getting the jobs they were after. It wasn't my first choice, but Unemployment benefits don't last forever! I had to be able to make it from one day to the next somehow.
Maybe the number of people now collecting Unemployment has decreased, but that doesn't necessarily mean that employment in the state has increased. It just means that a lot of people gave up looking for jobs.
Or maybe I'm wrong. Maybe I am the problem, and everyone else is doing great.
Tell me so! Please comment!
_________________________________________________________________________________
On a more cheerful note, I have to say that I'm very excited about becoming a grandmother again come January. This will be number eight! I want to say I'm hoping for a girl to even up the numbers--it's presently three girls, four boys--but I think it's a boy. I don't know why.
My daughter has Crone's Disease, and she's been having a difficult time so far, but has made it to her second trimester now, so she has shared the news. I anticipate the possibility that I may need to go to her location somewhat earlier than January, so I may be spending Christmas out there this year. That will be nice--I have not had Christmas with my far-away daughters since their daughters were babies!
Knowing that I will at some point have to make a trip east, I am now quite ambivalent about my job search. I have been looking for a job all year, but if I get one now I won't have been with it long enough to request time off for the delivery of the new baby.
I would hate missing the delivery of the newest grandchild. I have missed only one delivery out of the last seven, and it was the same daughter. She delivered early and I didn't make it out until my grandson was a week old. I was sad.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Well, I clearly have nothing much to say tonight except "Good night!"
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
July 16, 2014
4:02 p.m.
I've been gone awhile from this venture. I had decided, somewhere in my boggled mind, that "Me Thinks" should be light and jolly, and although my life is not tragic or anything, I've just had nothing light and jolly on my mind.
Then I had a visit with dear friends who ask why I hadn't been posting, and they told me that the things that are on my mind were worth sharing. No one is light and jolly all the time, after all, and it's no crime to say what's on your mind during the times when you're not.
I can get behind that, especially since nothing I have on my mind will hurt anyone if I say something about it. So I guess I am back.
As many of you already know, I "retired" on disability a few years ago, at the ripe old age of fifty. I didn't want to stop working, but I didn't really have a choice at the time. Well, I guess I did have one choice--keep it up and end up in the hospital.
I was a really sad lady in really sad shape. I tried to get another job, but it was pretty clear that I was never going to be doing what I'd done in the past. So I went back to school.
I studied hard. I got sick and missed my original graduation schedule, but I mad it through and graduated with a 4.0 grade average. Honor student. Yay me. Then I continued my studies and tested for Certification. Now I am a Certified Professional Coder. Again, yay me.
So why can't I find a bloody job? I am qualified, I am eager to re-join the workforce, and--damn it all--I am a good employee. I work hard. I'm reliable and honest. I have tons of workplace experience. I have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. I am great with people, even those who choose to be difficult at times. These things should matter in the job market.
But apparently, they don't.
What seems to matter more and more is my age. I'm over fifty, and therefore will not be long for this world. Naturally, I won't last long in any job, because I'm old and I will die soon. Or something.
Okay, yes, I got sick. Explaining a four-year gap between jobs is a pain in the butt. And it's true that my health issues are not going to disappear, much as I would love that. But I addressed the main issues by choosing a new career path. I would not be exposing myself to the same circumstances in this vocation. That was the whole point in going back to school and learning something new.
All anyone hears is: I got sick. All they see is: woman over fifty.
And lets be honest, here. Even if I hadn't gotten sick, even if I just lost a job recently, employers still see the same thing when I go in for an interview: Woman over Fifty.
I dyed my hair. I use anti-wrinkle cream, even though I don't really have any wrinkles. I worry about my sun-spots and the fact that my face seems to be sliding off my skull. For the first time in my life, I wonder about the validity of botox and face-lifts. Not because I want to be beautiful, but because I am beginning to hate the way the thirty-something interviewers I've been meeting with assess me and dismiss me with a glance.
Too old.
I've been told I don't have enough experience in the field, and that may be true if assessing only the job title, but further study of my resume proves that I have several years of experience in this field. I've been involved in the medical field for over twenty years. You don't work with the public for over thirty years without learning how to deal with people and situations.
Look: I've been yelled at by irate mothers who decided I was the only one they could vent their anger at because the Doctor is God and they can't vent at there, and I've never lost my cool. They vented, and then we talked it over. I've fought with social services and insurance companies for the sake of a child's health--or, in some cases, a child's life. I have even cried with grieving parents. No one can teach you any of this; it comes with experience.
And experience covers a lot more than just work. My life-experience makes me a great candidate for employment. I have learned to deal with situations that younger people have never even thought of. You don't raise four children alone without learning something. You don't balance a budget and manage a household on practically no money without learning something.
And, damn it, I'm not a quitter. I was not ready for this. I'm still not ready for this. I would be happier and probably healthier if I had a place to go to every day with some goals to aspire to and a purpose beyond the walls of my own house.
I might even sleep better.
Workers over fifty are being pushed out of their jobs every day because someone has decided that we can no longer make a meaningful contribution. Either that, or because they are too cheap to pay us what we're worth, and know that they can hire someone younger, someone with less experience in life, for less.
These over-fifty job seekers are facing hell-on-earth trying to get back to work. I know I'm not alone in this--but I feel alone.
It makes me tired. It makes me question my self-worth. And that makes me angry.
End of rant--for the moment.
Now, I would really appreciate some feedback.
Over-fifty job seekers, please let me know how you are doing. It would really help me feel like I'm not alone in this struggle.
Employers, why are you ignoring this pot-of-gold pool of potential employees who would require less training and supervision, and who are more likely to stay for the long haul?
Please comment.
Thank you.
4:02 p.m.
I've been gone awhile from this venture. I had decided, somewhere in my boggled mind, that "Me Thinks" should be light and jolly, and although my life is not tragic or anything, I've just had nothing light and jolly on my mind.
Then I had a visit with dear friends who ask why I hadn't been posting, and they told me that the things that are on my mind were worth sharing. No one is light and jolly all the time, after all, and it's no crime to say what's on your mind during the times when you're not.
I can get behind that, especially since nothing I have on my mind will hurt anyone if I say something about it. So I guess I am back.
As many of you already know, I "retired" on disability a few years ago, at the ripe old age of fifty. I didn't want to stop working, but I didn't really have a choice at the time. Well, I guess I did have one choice--keep it up and end up in the hospital.
I was a really sad lady in really sad shape. I tried to get another job, but it was pretty clear that I was never going to be doing what I'd done in the past. So I went back to school.
I studied hard. I got sick and missed my original graduation schedule, but I mad it through and graduated with a 4.0 grade average. Honor student. Yay me. Then I continued my studies and tested for Certification. Now I am a Certified Professional Coder. Again, yay me.
So why can't I find a bloody job? I am qualified, I am eager to re-join the workforce, and--damn it all--I am a good employee. I work hard. I'm reliable and honest. I have tons of workplace experience. I have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. I am great with people, even those who choose to be difficult at times. These things should matter in the job market.
But apparently, they don't.
What seems to matter more and more is my age. I'm over fifty, and therefore will not be long for this world. Naturally, I won't last long in any job, because I'm old and I will die soon. Or something.
Okay, yes, I got sick. Explaining a four-year gap between jobs is a pain in the butt. And it's true that my health issues are not going to disappear, much as I would love that. But I addressed the main issues by choosing a new career path. I would not be exposing myself to the same circumstances in this vocation. That was the whole point in going back to school and learning something new.
All anyone hears is: I got sick. All they see is: woman over fifty.
And lets be honest, here. Even if I hadn't gotten sick, even if I just lost a job recently, employers still see the same thing when I go in for an interview: Woman over Fifty.
I dyed my hair. I use anti-wrinkle cream, even though I don't really have any wrinkles. I worry about my sun-spots and the fact that my face seems to be sliding off my skull. For the first time in my life, I wonder about the validity of botox and face-lifts. Not because I want to be beautiful, but because I am beginning to hate the way the thirty-something interviewers I've been meeting with assess me and dismiss me with a glance.
Too old.
I've been told I don't have enough experience in the field, and that may be true if assessing only the job title, but further study of my resume proves that I have several years of experience in this field. I've been involved in the medical field for over twenty years. You don't work with the public for over thirty years without learning how to deal with people and situations.
Look: I've been yelled at by irate mothers who decided I was the only one they could vent their anger at because the Doctor is God and they can't vent at there, and I've never lost my cool. They vented, and then we talked it over. I've fought with social services and insurance companies for the sake of a child's health--or, in some cases, a child's life. I have even cried with grieving parents. No one can teach you any of this; it comes with experience.
And experience covers a lot more than just work. My life-experience makes me a great candidate for employment. I have learned to deal with situations that younger people have never even thought of. You don't raise four children alone without learning something. You don't balance a budget and manage a household on practically no money without learning something.
And, damn it, I'm not a quitter. I was not ready for this. I'm still not ready for this. I would be happier and probably healthier if I had a place to go to every day with some goals to aspire to and a purpose beyond the walls of my own house.
I might even sleep better.
Workers over fifty are being pushed out of their jobs every day because someone has decided that we can no longer make a meaningful contribution. Either that, or because they are too cheap to pay us what we're worth, and know that they can hire someone younger, someone with less experience in life, for less.
These over-fifty job seekers are facing hell-on-earth trying to get back to work. I know I'm not alone in this--but I feel alone.
It makes me tired. It makes me question my self-worth. And that makes me angry.
End of rant--for the moment.
Now, I would really appreciate some feedback.
Over-fifty job seekers, please let me know how you are doing. It would really help me feel like I'm not alone in this struggle.
Employers, why are you ignoring this pot-of-gold pool of potential employees who would require less training and supervision, and who are more likely to stay for the long haul?
Please comment.
Thank you.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
May 17, 2014
11:40 p.m.
Post operative pain is not cool. My poor son, he's having a rough time. It's hard to see your kids in any kind of distress. Please keep him in your thoughts, folks. Prayers and good vibes are appreciated.
As parents, we always wish we had magic powers to heal all wounds and erase all pain. When my kids were really little, I used to wish I could just be sick for them. It didn't seem fair to me that these little people had to feel badly. I was bigger and stronger, so let me do it, instead.
I guess that feeling doesn't go away once they're grown. I don't want my "little boy" to feel badly. I hope he gets a good night's sleep and feels better in the morning.
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11:40 p.m.
Post operative pain is not cool. My poor son, he's having a rough time. It's hard to see your kids in any kind of distress. Please keep him in your thoughts, folks. Prayers and good vibes are appreciated.
As parents, we always wish we had magic powers to heal all wounds and erase all pain. When my kids were really little, I used to wish I could just be sick for them. It didn't seem fair to me that these little people had to feel badly. I was bigger and stronger, so let me do it, instead.
I guess that feeling doesn't go away once they're grown. I don't want my "little boy" to feel badly. I hope he gets a good night's sleep and feels better in the morning.
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Friday, May 16, 2014
May 15, 2014
11:41 p.m.
It's been a long day. Having your loved one in hospital, even for a simple procedure, is stressful. My son has been in considerable pain for awhile now, so hopefully this will give him the relief he needs. He came through the procedure very well and is doing fine, although he has post-surgical pain, of course. Tonight I offer up a prayer for his speedy recovery, and ask you, please, to do the same. Thank you!
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So, I found a cute picture online and made a meme. Hope no one gets mad at me for it! (Nah, it's cute, I promise.) But, seriously--can I get in trouble for that? Because I really doubt that the memes that are already out there were made from people's own pictures...
11:41 p.m.
It's been a long day. Having your loved one in hospital, even for a simple procedure, is stressful. My son has been in considerable pain for awhile now, so hopefully this will give him the relief he needs. He came through the procedure very well and is doing fine, although he has post-surgical pain, of course. Tonight I offer up a prayer for his speedy recovery, and ask you, please, to do the same. Thank you!
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So, I found a cute picture online and made a meme. Hope no one gets mad at me for it! (Nah, it's cute, I promise.) But, seriously--can I get in trouble for that? Because I really doubt that the memes that are already out there were made from people's own pictures...
And honestly, who hasn't felt this way about getting their pictures taken? (Cute baby, huh? Love her!)
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It was a pretty nice day today, actually got into the 60's for the first time in awhile. Someone needs to give Mother Nature a nudge--she's forgotten it's May. We've had snow and rain and wind and cold this past week, and my bones are saying "Enough is enough!" So ready for some warmer weather.
(I'll be complaining about dry, hot weather soon enough, don't worry.)
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I was revising a resume today, and had someone watching over my shoulder. I can't type worth a ding-dang in the first place, and I'm even worse if someone is watching me! Please don't be offended that I asked you not to watch--just laugh at me from a little distance, por favor! Ha ha!
Did anyone out there have a teacher who used to stand right behind you as you were trying to work? I liked most of my teachers (actually, I guess I liked them all, because I couldn't name one I didn't like if someone asked) but that little stunt always drove me crazy. I would just stop whatever I was doing and turn around and stare at them until they left. I certainly couldn't have completed anything with them there, that's for sure!
I guess some things never change--except I never had the nerve to just say "Please don't watch over my shoulder," to my teachers! Thank goodness I can say it to family! *grin*
Speaking of teachers and the little things they did, I just remembered one of my dear teachers, Mrs. Fox, and her uncanny ability to discern the presence of chewing gum, regardless of how sneakily one might chew it. She'd come and stand next to my desk and hold out her hand--never said a word, just waited there, palm up, until I deposited my gum therein.
Ugh! She was a tough cookie, that lady. I could never let anyone else's germ-infested chewing gum touch my lily-white hands! *giggle*
Yeah, right. I raised four kids--there's probably nothing I haven't had to touch at one time or another.
Still...ugh! Someone else's gum! Yucky!
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I think I might make an early night of it. I've been up since 5:00 a.m., which is about an hour later than my usual bedtime! I made myself go to bed before midnight last night and managed to sleep a bit before getting ready for my son's trip to the hospital this morning. Maybe I can do it again!
So, goodnight, sweetheart, goodnight! Voe doe dee doe doe...
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