tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26193487318957679772024-03-13T15:39:14.803-04:00ouch!Candy's continuing and personal story about life with chronic pain after suffering a broken back. T5 refers to the fifth thoracic vertebra ... broken in 2003.Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-47051873005756789042011-03-13T12:35:00.003-04:002011-03-13T12:39:22.594-04:00Time Out!My mom just commented that I hadn't blogged in a while. Very true. I am taking a break. Why? My top 2 reasons:<div><br /></div><div>1. I am doing a computer project for the American Pain Foundation and I only have so many available hours at a computer before my back gives out -- and right now those hours are focused on something else.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Currently my life is focused on my husband. He got laid off and so he (we) are searching / researching / evaluating / considering / determining / dreaming about / worrying about (well, that's just me) / etc. the next chapter in our life. But that's mostly Mike's story and I am not comfortable blogging about Mike's story (too much), so I am taking time off to be there for Mike.</div><div><br /></div><div>I will return when I have something I can say. Till then, take care of yourselves.</div>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-41810930596976157382011-02-02T13:27:00.002-05:002011-02-02T13:30:07.633-05:00The Roller Coaster of Life<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"">Can a person ‘sprain’ their mid-back? Seems unlikely to me since the mid-back isn't as mobile as the upper or lower back. But it sure feels like I strained my mid-back. It’s in the t5 to right shoulder blade area – the same place I always have low-grade chronic pain, but this is different. This is a stabbing pain – like a big knife jabbing and pulling – ripping across my mid-back. It even hurts to breathe. And, I also have pain on the front side of a lower rib. What has changed?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif""></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">This morning I went to my monthly pain clinic appointment and we talked about this pain. The pain near t5 is the same rib that comes around the front so those two pains are related. Since breathing is important, it’s time to reconsider the procedure that the pain clinic wants to try which shoves a needle in my back and ‘burns’ the nerve in that area, killing the nerve (and hopefully the pain) sensations.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">The thought of that procedure used to scare me to a frenzy. Now, the Effexor (anti-depressant) has kicked in and nothing sends me over the edge. The doctor and I also talked about that. I say I’m dull and boring and numb. She says I’m more even-keeled and not prone to such low (or such high) mood swings. Is that a good thing? Boring is not ok by me. Dull is not ok. Numb is not a good thing for me. Now I have to figure out how to become not so boring, dull and numb without the major lows. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">The roller coaster of life – and I need to be on the child’s version – small hills and valleys. Blah…..</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-33074227762157317742011-01-28T09:04:00.001-05:002011-01-28T09:06:56.671-05:00When Do Two Negatives Make a Positive?<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><i>(WARNING: <b>Poop happen</b>s, so if that bothers you, you probably should NOT read this blog.)</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">Because of the chronic pain from my broken back, I take an opioid pain medication (morphine). (I won’t take the time to explain safe use, storage and disposal – just know that I do them all.) One of the most pronounced negative side effects of opioid use is constipation. Sometimes it can be bad enough where a person has to take action (like increasing fiber intake, taking stool softeners, etc) to reduce the constipation. Luckily, the medicine only causes mild constipation in me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">Fast forward to the present. A couple months ago, I was prescribed the anti-depressant Effexor. The doctor said one of the most common negative side effects with this medicine is loose bowel movements or diarrhea.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">Put those two negative side effects together in me – and they seem to off-set each other. A positive reaction: more regular poop. <b>Poop happens</b> and it’s much better when it happens regularly. So two negatives can make a positive!</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-23533855505542721412011-01-25T14:17:00.001-05:002011-01-25T14:19:09.123-05:00Silly Questions I Have Too Much Time to Think About<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">Most of the people I know are way too busy to think about the silly little things in life … not me. Here’s my latest time-consuming, mind-boggling thoughts:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">How do the birds know when I put food in the bird feeder? The bird feeder had been empty for a few days. There were zero birds in sight. A couple days ago, I filled the bird feeder. In less then 5 minutes, there were more than 50 birds in my yard attacking the bird seed. So, how do they know? Is one little bird sitting look out and then speed dialing on the bird cell phone to all the other little birdies? Can they smell the seeds? Are they chirping out the message? I don’t know. I don’t get it. It’s fun to watch anyway.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">How does the refrigerator get so dirty when I haven’t spilled anything? We are careful with our food, enclosing it in plastic containers or wrapping it in foil. We throw out bad food. We wipe containers before putting them away. So, how come when I cleaned the frig last week, it was totally yucky? Crumbs, sticky spots and residue. Where does the dirt come from?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">How come our cats come inside to go to the bathroom? Don’t they realize that when they are outside the whole world is their cat box? Why do they find it necessary to come inside to use the regular cat box and then want to go right back outside?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">My mind never stops thinking, processing, whirring. It’s tiring … and all for such trivial stuff.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-88726062817447018242011-01-19T11:48:00.002-05:002011-01-19T11:57:12.168-05:005 Steps to Safe Use of Rx<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">I haven’t written too much lately about my pain and my pain medications. I find that continual talk about pain ensures that the pain remains #1 on my brain … and that’s painful (and tiring). However, safe use of prescription medications is always on my mind. Many states, including North Carolina, are finding ways to fight prescription drug abuse/diversion. I don’t believe it should be up to the government. I think I need to be responsible for my medication … and I believe YOU need to be responsible for YOUR medication.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">Dr. Herbert Neuman, of <a href="http://covidien.com">Covidien Pharmaceuticals</a> and the <a href="http://caresalliance.org">C.A.R.E.S.</a> (Collaborating and Acting Responsibly to Ensure Safety) Alliance recently wrote a good article with 5 steps for safe use of prescription medications. His steps are:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><b>Use only as directed.</b> If a pain medication does not provide sufficient relief, talk to your doctor about other options. Simply increasing the dose can be dangerous.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><b>Never share.</b> National research shows that approximately 70% of abuse cases begin with a legitimate prescription that is shared by a friend or relative, often with the good intention of helping relieve a loved one’s pain.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><b>Lock it up. </b>Cases of abuse by family members or others who steal prescriptions are all too common. Medicine cabinets, accessible by all, including visitors, are NOT the place for most prescription medicines.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><b>Dispose of extras.</b> Check with the DEA or local drug stores for the next drug collection day. This eliminates the potential for theft or misuse of unused medications.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "><b>Spread the word.</b> If we work together, we can make a difference.<i> Are you taking responsibility for your medicines?</i> Check out the <a href="http://caresalliance.org">C.A.R.E.S. Alliance</a> or the <a href="http://painfoundation.org">American Pain Foundation’s</a> <a href="http://painsafe.org">PainSafe</a> site for more information. </span></li></ol><p></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-60436043390049776852011-01-14T16:13:00.001-05:002011-01-14T16:16:49.622-05:00Making Decisions for Other People<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">I just finished watching a <a href="http://toyota.com">Toyota</a> commercial. I have seen it numerous times – and each time it irritates me. I want to know if this is normal.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; ">In this particular Toyota commercial, a couple is searching for a new car. A second man enters the picture and calls the first man, “Buzz. Buzz Saw?” ‘Buzz’ and his woman/wife look at each other. The other man says the old band is getting back together and would ‘Buzz Saw’ be interested. Now, my irritation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >‘Buzz’ doesn't give the first answer. Before gathering any information, or talking it over, the woman declares, “NO.” And there it is, the woman decided that her man was NOT going to participate in the band.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Whoa! Wait a second. Who is she that she can make final decisions for her mate? What if he wants to do it? Doesn't he get a say so (or at least the ability to explain)?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I don’t ‘own’ my husband (and he doesn't own me). Sure, we collaborate and discuss and make joint decisions, but we don’t answer for each other. Do you feel you ‘own’ your mate and can make decisions for him/her? Do you like it when someone decides for you? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I know, it’s only a commercial, but it may portray actual life ... and that doesn't sit well with me. At least it isn't the <a href="http://geico.com">Geico</a> commercial in which the little piggy says ‘wheeeeee’ all the way home!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif""><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-2512571832521872392011-01-11T10:16:00.001-05:002011-01-11T10:20:16.709-05:00Tragedy in Tucson: Politics or Parenting?<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Along with everyone else, I am sending prayers to all those affected by the senseless shooting last weekend in Tucson, Arizona.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Should we blame it on today’s political environment? How about gun laws? Or maybe the mental health system? Or maybe there is no blame … it is what it is.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I have an opinion. Why don’t we look at parenting? Parents need to know what is going on in their children’s lives.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some parenting ‘experts’ say – Foster their creativity. Give them their freedom. Promote independence. Urge them to dream. Inspire them to be who they are.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">What about boundaries … and discipline … and being involved. I’m not saying that parenting can solve all problems, and I’m not saying to smother creativity, freedom and independence; however, I believe parenting makes a difference.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">We seem to live in a world of entitlement where everyone thinks the world revolves around them and they deserve stuff … without earning it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Many times we parents act (we really believe we are) too busy and forget that parenting is a total commitment. We are thrilled when the kid is behind closed doors and quiet, or out with friends – so we can do what we want to do.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">We don’t make it a priority to know what’s going on in our children’s lives. I don’t care if it takes spying or prying, it is a parent’s responsibility to know what their kids are doing, who they are friends with, how they are feeling, etc. And, when necessary, we need to step in and take action to change their direction.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Finally, I do not believe that parents are/should be/ can be their child’s friend. I am the parent – not the friend.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Parenting is an awesome responsibility and not to be taken lightly. We cannot stand back and expect our kids to grow up to be productive members of society if we don’t lead, teach and model that behavior.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I guess it’s my pet peeve. It’s easy to have a baby – it’s tough to be a parent.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Perhaps if we parents took it more seriously; got help when we need it; and stayed involved in our children’s lives, we could stop some of this insane behavior.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-73640162060347140252011-01-07T11:10:00.002-05:002011-01-07T11:14:32.685-05:00Soup and Sandwich<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSc7VTSa30I/AAAAAAAAAHo/fSMYW8WxDwM/s1600/bean%2Bsoup.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSc7VTSa30I/AAAAAAAAAHo/fSMYW8WxDwM/s200/bean%2Bsoup.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559477502152990530" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >My husband has traditional traits. Dinner should include meat, starch and veggies (and probably a glass of wine). Soup and sandwich for dinner? Not in his repertoire. But that doesn't stop me from experimenting. At least my experimenting included one of his favorites – beans (and if his sons are reading this, yup, Dad still has the traditional bean aftermath!).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Soup from a can and a simple grilled cheese sandwich are not good enough for my main man. I made homemade Tuscan Bean Soup, rosemary peasant bread and a grilled cheddar cheese, bacon and apple sandwich. YUM!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >I did cheat a little and used beans (kidney, cannelloni and chick peas) from the can and chicken stock from the box, but I chopped fresh onions, carrots, celery and garlic (and used frozen tomatoes that I grew this past summer). Plus I used fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano and a bay leaf from my garden.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">The peasant bread is similar to restaurant bread where you dip it in the oil on the plate. It was an easy (but time-consuming) recipe with NO kneading. A very sticky dough requiring well-oiled <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>hands. I love warm homemade bread with dinner.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Finally, I used some of the peasant bread and made delicious grilled sandwiches overflowing with cheddar cheese, bacon and Granny Smith apple slices.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">What did Mike say about a non-traditional dinner? “Yum.” When I asked for specific feedback (I’m all about continuous improvement), he said, “Yum. Yum. (dramatic pause) I’d like to have this again.” I guess that says it all.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">The only downside was (no, not the clean-up …. in our house, whoever cooks gets to rest and the other person cleans up) so much chopping. After I just blogged about pushing yourself and not taking pain medicine unless you REALLY need it …. I really need it. OUCH and YUM!</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-6848616388760406662011-01-06T11:39:00.001-05:002011-01-06T11:44:00.670-05:00A Day of Learning – Part 2<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">My learning (this time about some people) continued yesterday at my regular monthly appointment at the Pain Clinic. In an effort to avoid a repeat of last month’s three minute appointment, I went in with an extremely positive and upbeat attitude (I also drank a lot of water on the way figuring it was time for a random pee in the cup drug test).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >While I’m not a fan of being required to have a drug test to see the doctor, I am learning to be more accepting of it. That’s the way it is (and I’m not going to change it). It makes me feel like a criminal when I've done nothing wrong. However, the more I learn about drug abuse and diversion, the more I understand why it is required. They are checking to make sure I have the right amount of the prescribed medicines in my system. One time an upstanding, well-dressed, intelligent woman came to the pain clinic. For several months in a row, her drug test showed ZERO medicines in her system. She didn't really need the medicine, never took it and instead sold the pills (did you know one oxycodone pill can get $15 on the street). Come on people. Stop making it harder for people like me who live with pain and welcome the relief prescription pain medication gives. As the doctor said, it’s about being trustworthy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">After the pee in the cup discussion, my doctor and I discussed body awareness. I have both extended release (ER) and immediate release (IR) pain medicine. ER is taken every 12 hours to keep the pain in check. The IR is ONLY used when there is a major flare-up. Yet, the doctor gave me examples of people who took IR three times a day whether they really needed or not.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >We have to know our bodies and the seriousness of the medicines. Each of us probably wakes up from time to time with aches and pains – that doesn't mean it’s a flare-up and you can take morphine. When I have LOWER back pain (unrelated to my broken back, but maybe caused by lifting incorrectly), I do NOT take morphine – that’s not what it was prescribed for.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">People in pain need to push themselves. I don’t mean we need to physically hurt ourselves or cause more damage, but we need to stop wallowing around in self-pity and try to do as much as we can before we give up and pop another pill.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >And we need to take responsibility for our medication (lock them up people). One guy decided the people in his house weren't trustworthy so he locked his medicines in his car. Three months in a row, he came to the pain clinic with a police report saying his medicine was stolen from the car and he needed another prescription. REALLY? No. Capital NO. H. E. L. L. NO. Get real and get trustworthy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">So, part 2 of learning is related to people, their excuses, stories and gimmicks. I want to believe in the good in people. And while I believe that most people in pain are legitimate, I wish I never had to learn about how people lie, cheat and steal. </span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-11250279902454620152011-01-05T16:16:00.002-05:002011-01-05T16:20:05.567-05:00A Day of Learning – Part 1<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Even regular activities offer me the opportunity for learning. Today was a great example. For months, we've been accumulating empty, dried-out paint containers (from the house painting adventure). </span><a href="http://townofcary.org" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Cary, North Carolina</a><span class="Apple-style-span" > is a major recycling town and in the past, I've read that paint buckets need to recycled. But, they can’t just go to the neighborhood recycling center; they need to go to the regional hazardous waste sites.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Turns out, empty paint buckets no longer need to be recycled; they can simply go in the regular garbage. You mean I could have thrown these away any time? Since I was there, the recycling attendant and I had a contest tossing the paint buckets into the gondolas of garbage. Entertainment at the junkyard. The buckets are fairly easy to toss, but the tops – that’s another story. We tried the Frisbee throw. I wasn't that successful.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I also learned that if there is paint left in the container, recycle it. They pump all the paint into a 400 gallon container and spray that paint on the landfill area as an odor reducer. Really?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >Finally, I stopped at the cardboard recycling area to get rid of a truckload of cardboard. I must say, I like the Cary recycling center better. If I go alone, one of the helpers ALWAYS helps me unload (do I use my feminine wiles – well, maybe just a little). At this recycling center, the helper just watched as I unloaded the cardboard – he did not lift a finger. I know it’s not his job, but he wasn't doing anything but watching me at the time.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">So, I learned about paint recycling and I have a cleaner garage. A good start to the day.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-46705359330525291612011-01-04T14:31:00.001-05:002011-01-04T14:35:20.882-05:00Back to Routine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2Y90P5pI/AAAAAAAAAHc/0OoFYW8zeWo/s1600/firewood.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2Y90P5pI/AAAAAAAAAHc/0OoFYW8zeWo/s200/firewood.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558416536387970706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2YifcFCI/AAAAAAAAAHU/_W51X6WiKf0/s1600/splitting%2Bwood%2B1.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2YifcFCI/AAAAAAAAAHU/_W51X6WiKf0/s200/splitting%2Bwood%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558416529052931106" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2Ye7ykII/AAAAAAAAAHM/hoxc0mangp4/s1600/snow%2B1.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TSN2Ye7ykII/AAAAAAAAAHM/hoxc0mangp4/s200/snow%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558416528098103426" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">The Christmas decorations are packed away and I’m back to my regular routine. But before that, I need to recap our mostly uneventful Christmas-New Year’s break. When we woke up the day after Christmas, we had 7” of snow. Mike made snow angels; I gathered wood for a warm fire. Less than a week later, all the snow had melted and it was 65 and sunny. Mike rented a log splitter. For only $90 (the cost of renting the log splitter, since Progress Energy donated the wood to us when they cleared out the trees in our neighborhood to prevent any falling on their power lines), we now have enough firewood to last several years. How cool!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Now Mike is back to work and I am busy cleaning and de-cluttering the house. I really need to take a trip to the local recycling center to eliminate the piles of cardboard sitting in the garage.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-29493988151171707592010-12-25T11:46:00.003-05:002010-12-25T11:50:18.319-05:00Merry Christmas to all<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgmQJP-nI/AAAAAAAAAHE/gao756PuB14/s1600/xmas%2Btigger.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgmQJP-nI/AAAAAAAAAHE/gao756PuB14/s200/xmas%2Btigger.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554663031948966514" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgeZqwUPI/AAAAAAAAAG8/h6iCBmzDjUk/s1600/monkey%2Bbread.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 175px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgeZqwUPI/AAAAAAAAAG8/h6iCBmzDjUk/s200/monkey%2Bbread.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554662897066463474" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgPBP1LsI/AAAAAAAAAG0/1mbcGspDUnI/s1600/xmas%2Btreee%2B2010.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 112px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRYgPBP1LsI/AAAAAAAAAG0/1mbcGspDUnI/s200/xmas%2Btreee%2B2010.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554662632813047490" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">The Christmas tree looks great. Mike and I are having a relaxing Christmas day at home. Just us … and the cats. It’s almost lunchtime and we are still in our PJs.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">For breakfast I made caramel-pecan monkey bread. Big YUM! We each grabbed hunks and enjoyed it with a glass of eggnog. A perfect Christmas morning.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Tigger enjoyed the wrapping paper. Punk (the other cat) is nowhere to be seen. He doesn’t like any noises or activities out of the norm so unwrapping presents was scary for him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I cooked a feast for Thanksgiving so Mike is cooking our Christmas dinner feast. I’ll be sitting in front of the fire watching out the window for the snow we are supposed to get later today/tonight.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Hope you are enjoying your Christmas – wherever you are. You could come and visit us – but please call first so we have time to change out of our jammies into something more appropriate for company.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-36758023287278724502010-12-22T09:59:00.004-05:002010-12-22T10:15:53.483-05:00Are Homemade Gifts Acceptable?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVydAoWRI/AAAAAAAAAGo/1vqZmY-VdQw/s1600/lace%2Btable%2Bcover.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 189px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVydAoWRI/AAAAAAAAAGo/1vqZmY-VdQw/s200/lace%2Btable%2Bcover.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553525247026157842" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVyPa8d9I/AAAAAAAAAGg/D_mase67a1I/s1600/hanging%2Bsanta.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 60px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVyPa8d9I/AAAAAAAAAGg/D_mase67a1I/s200/hanging%2Bsanta.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553525243378431954" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVx1O9iVI/AAAAAAAAAGY/0ihoz68SnZk/s1600/green%2Bbag.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 95px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVx1O9iVI/AAAAAAAAAGY/0ihoz68SnZk/s200/green%2Bbag.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553525236348848466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVxreDJgI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/Goqyp7UbpKc/s1600/pink%2Bscarf.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 102px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVxreDJgI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/Goqyp7UbpKc/s200/pink%2Bscarf.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553525233727776258" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVxcPWfXI/AAAAAAAAAGI/5kjoRTpBeQA/s1600/fingerless%2Bgloves%2Bbatik.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 170px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TRIVxcPWfXI/AAAAAAAAAGI/5kjoRTpBeQA/s200/fingerless%2Bgloves%2Bbatik.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553525229639597426" /></a><br /><span><span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">I a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">m unable to work which means I do</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">n’t add to our bank account. My husband is wonderfully understanding, but I still don’t like to spend much money. So, this </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">year, outside the immediate family, I decided to make gifts. Pretty much the whole year I spent whatever time my back allowed knitting and crocheting. I also made some homemade edible treats – like buckeyes (chocolate covered peanut butter </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">balls), candied rats’ brains (sugared peca</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">ns) and cookies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Do others enjoy </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">homemade gifts? I don’t truly know. I hope so. I enjoy putting thought into what I make and give. Here’s some of this year’s gifts.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I made several people (including my daughter Katie and my counselor Rebecca) fingerless gloves and scarves </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">(I already got a request to make another set for Katie’s friend Marlo – they are on the needles now).</span></p><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I made a several bags (I think homemade bags are so much better to carry groceries in than the plastic store bags).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I saw a pattern for a table cover and immediately thought of a special friend so I worked my butt off and that one for months. I like the end result (and based on her reply</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">, I think she did too).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">ven made some Christmas decorations including placemats and hanging Santas.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">All in all, I think I did good. Maybe it would be fun to go to the mall and spend hundreds of dollars on gifts, but this is what I can afford and I really put my heart, my sole, and my back into each and every gift. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">In addition to being gifts, making these things was a gift to myself. My counselor and I recently talked about my need for projects and a greater purpose in life. Work used to be my project. But now, my main project is learning to live with pain – and that’s not a project I enjoy. Making things – mostly small items because that’s all my back and shoulder can tolerate (even with extra pain medicine) is good for me. I do hope the special people who received something homemade from me like it as much I as liked making it for them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"">And now it’s time to rest …<o:p></o:p></span></p></div>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-86069452078573722552010-12-16T09:28:00.001-05:002010-12-16T09:30:50.602-05:00No Birthday Cake for Brady<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TQoigcJsCZI/AAAAAAAAAFg/PnpY71s0t9U/s1600/brady%2Beats%2Bcake.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TQoigcJsCZI/AAAAAAAAAFg/PnpY71s0t9U/s320/brady%2Beats%2Bcake.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551287431395543442" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Last weekend, Mike and I traveled to Nashville, Tennessee for Brady’s first birthday. It was the best weekend in a long time. What made it so fun? Daughter Katie is a tremendous and organized party planner … Katie and Jason’s friends are super sweet … Mike and I always have fun together … opening Christmas presents … beer, wine, tacos, pizza and other good food … and of course, the awesome one-year-old Brady.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Mike had the best line of the weekend. He said, “Brady is about as perfect as a baby can be. I blame Katie for that.” Ahhhhh, very sweet … and I agree.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" >Since it was Brady’s first birthday, everyone (except Katie) thought he should love the birthday cake and wear it all over his face. Brady wasn't having any of that. Brady has never had sweets (no juice, no cookies, no cake, no candy, etc). He prefers blueberries, avocado, tomatoes, bananas and anything else. We tried shoving cake and frosting into his mouth (at least to get the one picture), but he just spit it out. A kid who doesn't crave sugar … very cool!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I like sugar though and I’m presently making Christmas goodies (one batch per day). I want the rewards without too much pain.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Happy birthday Brady!</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-79531721588161246262010-12-05T16:15:00.001-05:002010-12-05T16:16:44.551-05:00The 3 Minute Doctor Appointment<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I went to my monthly appointment at the pain clinic on Friday. Statistics show that doctors typically listen for 18 seconds before making a diagnosis, but I have never had a three minute doctor appointment before … and it’s not with a doctor, but a PA.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I’ve been going to this pain clinic for six months now and almost every month I see a different PA. I’m a person who likes to build relationships and have continuity and consistency. I want my doctor to understand me. Not here. The PA started out by asking how I was doing. I said fine. In the past, that would elicit a follow-up set of questions regarding my activity level, what is causing pain and talking about how I was feeling. Not here. The PA said, “Good, so which prescriptions do you need refilled?” Since she didn’t seem interested I didn’t tell her about the new anti-depressant or the weather/pain changes. And, at last month’s appointment, that PA wanted me to try a TENS unit and supposedly ordered one for me. This PA didn’t even mention it. Shouldn’t it be in their notes?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">So, in less than three minutes I took my one prescription and left. I just don’t think health care should be like this, but if all the practices are overcrowded and overworked and just trying to meet their quotas, I guess it is the way the game is played nowadays.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I left and met Mike for lunch. He likes me … and that makes life in NC bearable.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-45518651814770660452010-11-30T19:49:00.002-05:002010-11-30T19:54:01.944-05:00Fixing Mistakes Makes a Difference<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">One of our indulgences is drinking bottled water – the kind in 3 or 5 gallons bottles we put on the water cooler. About three months ago, our supplier,<a href="http://www.diamondsprings.com"> Diamond Spring</a>s, put a new driver and our route. Since then, problem after problem with delivery. He never had enough of the 3 gallon bottles by the time he got to my house. He’d take all of the empties and leave less than a full order – and a note saying he would drop of the bottles he shorted us the next day. Sounds ok, right? Trouble is, he never came back the next day. Instead of having 7 bottles for the 2 weeks, I had 5 bottles (and that's after a special delivery of 2 bottles after an earlier complaint) … and we ran out completely over Thanksgiving weekend.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Long story short (phone calls, messages, etc). I got 7 bottles delivered on Monday and then the next problem occurred – since the driver only picked up 5 empties, he charged me a $7 deposit for each of the other two bottles. I had never gotten a credit when the guy picked up the empties before.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Resolution … the general manager I talked to was good. He defused my frustration, said all the right things, listened, gave me an immediate credit, asked for my continued business and told me what he was going to do to make sure this doesn’t happen again. I hung up happy. Later, I realized that all I got was a friendly, understanding voice and a refund on the incorrect charges. I expected to get some extra free stuff, but ended up not even thinking to request it because the general manager was that good.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">See people, we know mistakes are made. Just fix them! Listening, taking action, saying the right things and being fair and timely – and you get customer satisfaction and retention and it doesn’t cost you anything.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Now I have to lie down. Bad body pain, dizziness and headache. A strong weather front pushed through today and my body doesn’t like that. Another front with strong storms is due tonight. (Or is this a reaction to day 2 of my new anti-depressant medicine?) I’ll know by tomorrow or Thursday.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-91649485152043443072010-11-28T10:58:00.000-05:002010-11-28T10:59:25.858-05:00Hoarding Christmas Decorations<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I started sorting through the Christmas decorations yesterday. What should this year’s theme be? Do we need more lights? Do we need more ornaments? Why is it that we keep collecting more and more Christmas stuff, but never throw/give any of it away?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I spent Friday going through the boxes. I plugged in EVERY set of lights I could find. If they didn’t work, I threw them out – let’s face it, I’m never going to go through to find the one bulb that doesn’t work and replace it. I still have more than enough lights to do the tree in all white or multi-colored (plus all red or all purple – yup, Katie and I did a purple and gold tree one year back when it was trendy).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I have handmade crocheted snowflake ornaments, all colors of balls, gold chains, gold garland, antique plastic icicles and several fancy ornaments. I don’t use most of them, and know that realistically I never will, but still, I never seem able to dispose of anything. This year, I am going to really try to reduce my hoard of Christmas decorations.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">It’s been a long weekend. After peeling potatoes and sweet potatoes, chopping onions, baking bread for the dressing, chopping fruit for the waldorf salad and baking dinner rolls – for the feast for just Mike on me on Thanksgiving … and then setting up the tree and putting on the lights on Friday, my back and shoulder are not working today. They probably won’t work for several days. I enjoy doing things, but my body no longer allows me to do all I want to do. Oh well, now I will spend this week recuperating and resting for the Nashville trip and Brady’s first birthday.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-24558352927850546982010-11-19T16:00:00.000-05:002010-11-19T16:02:38.201-05:00A week of doctor appointments done – I’m mostly normal<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">This week was all about the doctors.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"">Monday – psychiatrist. I already wrote about that. I don’t think I’m going back.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"">Wednesday – sleep apnea dentist. Two nights down and I’m liking my mouth piece. Mike says I’m significantly quieter and I know I’m sleeping more. I wake with a couple slightly sore teeth, but that goes away quickly and I’m thinking it’s worth it.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"">Thursday – orthopedist for follow-up on my shoulder pain. We’re happy that last month’s cortisone shot worked so well, but a little concerned that the pain came back (at a lower level). But, since I’m ok living with this level of pain, we are just going to let it slide for now. The doctor wrote an open order for a shoulder MRI – if the pain increases, that’s the next step. There’s a chance that the rotator cuff has a tear in it. Mike already had that surgery. I’m not going that unless/until I HAVE to.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif""></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Friday – 2<sup>nd</sup> half of my physical with my primary care. Pap, etc. No big deal. Got a print out of all my test results. Just about everything is normal and good. Being somewhat overweight and taking the medicines I do and not eating as healthy as I should, positive test results always surprise me. THANKS, MOM AND DAD! Mammogram – normal. We also discussed that if I decide to take the anti-depressant, I could get refills and monitoring here and not have to return to the psychiatrist. That’s good by me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS","sans-serif""></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">The only (small) negative was the bone density scan showed a slight amount of reduction in density. We aren’t going to do anything about it right now, but I will get another scan in one year (instead of two) and keep checking. Still don’t want to break any more bones!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I’m tired of doctor appointments. Next week, a dental check-up and cleaning, but then, a much needed break from being healthy! Time to think turkey, dressing, pie, etc.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-25470907754546805942010-11-18T09:28:00.001-05:002010-11-18T09:31:24.579-05:00A Night of More Sleep<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TOU4iepuFxI/AAAAAAAAAFY/0F6OmWFpSXY/s1600/my%2Bmouthpiece.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TOU4iepuFxI/AAAAAAAAAFY/0F6OmWFpSXY/s320/my%2Bmouthpiece.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540897081544021778" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Yesterday, I picked up my SomnoMed Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS) … translated, my mouthpiece that is supposed to help me sleep with sleep apnea. Skeptical me – it worked! I actually woke up almost refreshed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">It’s bulky, hard plastic (doesn’t bother me while I’m sleeping) and has a funny plastic taste (the dentist said that would go away soon). No mouth pain; no gasping or CPAP noise; no air in my stomach or air blowing on Mike. So far, so good.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">I wore it ALL night. Mike said I didn’t gasp and that I slept a lot quieter. I feel more refreshed. It didn’t stop the need to change positions during the night to combat back pain, BUT it did eliminate the waking up from sleep apnea and CPAP issues. So, on the first night, I reduced my awake time by 2/3. I think that’s a good first night.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Without getting my expectations too high, I really, really, really want this to work in the long run. It may look funny, but sleep is so much more important than vanity. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-44208295725372611192010-11-16T10:15:00.001-05:002010-11-16T10:18:04.468-05:00Tired of Doctors<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Yesterday, I went to a psychiatrist. Her end result – she said I was depressed and wrote a prescription for an anti-depressant. Of course she did. What else would she do? She gets paid when people come see her and as long as I go back regularly for medication review, she gets paid. My end result might be different. Since I’m going to see my primary care anyway this week, I will see what she thinks – and ask if she can simply write the prescription (if I decide to take it).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">How did the psychiatrist get to the depression diagnosis (other than my somewhat sarcastic take that it has to do with $$)? I don’t think I agree with most of her analysis. She thinks that since we were doing something stupid when I broke my back (non-professionals cutting a big tree without safety glasses/equipment); I am punishing myself with the pain. Really? You think I want to hurt? That I feel I deserve to hurt? I agree with the stupid part but not the punishment part. She had other thesis, but who cares?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">She did hit one on the head – suck it up. She thinks that I’m a person who sucks it up and deals with it rather than admit the pain, the hurt, the emotions, etc. Totally right. For her that’s a problem. Me? I think that’s a good thing. What’s the point of complaining or making a big deal of stuff that is out of my control. It is what it is. Get over it. She tried to talk me into believing that I shouldn’t suck it up and instead get help (in the form of another pill). We’ll see.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Finally, she said the WORST thing anyone can say to a person with pain. She wanted me to understand that “It’s all in your head.” She really said that … and I called her on it. Told her although I understood what she was TRYING to say, she should never use those words. She tried to weasel her way out of it. “I didn’t say it was all in your head.” YES, you did. “Well, what I meant, it’s biology …” Yes, I know what you meant – the brain controls the pain receptors and so while there is a physical deformity in your spine and your back hurts, we can possibly make a difference by taking a pill that interacts with the brain’s pain receptors.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Not sure I’ll go back to her … or what I’ll do. I’m just so tired of doctors … and tomorrow I go to the sleep apnea dentist to get my mouthpiece (hopefully that will allow me to sleep better); Thursday I go to the orthopedist for a follow-up on my shoulder pain (it’s at 50% and maybe that’s good enough); and Friday to my primary care for the 2<sup>nd</sup> part of my physical.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-28819735283890599632010-11-11T12:15:00.001-05:002010-11-11T12:17:08.217-05:00Tests and Timing<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">This week, I had a bone density scan and a mammogram – part of my annual physical routine. The mammogram is no big deal. As I have written before, this is the time I appreciate my large chest. Big boobs are much easier to mammogram; there is something to put on the table and x-ray. Women who have no boobs face extra pulling and squeezing. Not that it is unbearable to anyone – so get your mammogram!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">I am interested in the results of the bone density scan. Since I broke my back, I have had these scans every two years. Just want to make sure that the bones are not getting brittle or more fragile. Don’t want another break! For several years, I took fosamax (you have seen the ads; it promotes bone density and growth). Sounds good, but there are some risks. Since I started taking it well before menopause (the normal time to start) and have taken it for so long, I decided to take a break. Now this scan will show the results of NOT taking the fosamax. Then we’ll determine next steps.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">The other issue this week is WAITING. My regular counselor suggested I go see a psychiatrist (I’m not ready to discuss the personal part of the counseling yet). So I called for an appointment. The doctor can see me Monday, November 15 (a cancellation) or December 16 – nothing in between. And they require a credit card authorized for a $225 fee if I don’t show up or cancel. Rationally or logically, I understand – doctors are busy and their time is worth money. Of course, I’m not totally rational or logical right now – that’s probably why I am going to a psychiatrist. I don’t like giving out my credit card number when I don’t know you; $225 is a lot of money </span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">AND</span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""> I don’t think anyone should be so busy they can’t see your for five weeks. And the person who answered was NOT anything near empathetic when I voiced my concerns. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">I still don’t get the medical community. Unfortunately, I am forced to play their games.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-4514506579689834082010-11-04T14:14:00.001-04:002010-11-04T14:16:16.744-04:00Doctors, Needles and Questions<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">This week has been all about the doctors – physical time, blood work, flu shot and a new (to me, not to the practice) P.A. at the pain clinic.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Jeff, the P.A., wondered why I didn’t have a TENS unit that I used regularly. Because no one suggested it before? In addition to potentially helping the back pain, he thinks it could also help the shoulder pain. The cortisone shot I got two weeks ago, wore off after 12 days (most last around 3 months).</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">We talked about physical therapy and why it doesn't help my back. Jeff thinks either PT or the TENS would help – after a year. A year? Yup, a year! I’ve had the pain for seven years (since the break) so I should expect the therapy to take a long time to help. Now that’s frustrating to think about. Let’s use a TENS machine which uses an electrical current to stimulate the nerves every day for a year before it stops irritating the back and helps. They are ordering me a unit that will get at my next monthly appointment.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">For now, nothing else changes. Pain the same (worse today because it is raining, but the same in general). Medicine the same. Diagnosis the same. Treatment the same. Same sh** … different day.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">Next stop: Wake Radiology for a mammogram and a bone density test. Forget the updated guidelines, I still get a mammogram every year and a bone density test every two years. </span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-32004940641911307452010-11-02T10:22:00.003-04:002010-11-02T10:28:15.622-04:00A Place for Everything and Everything in its Place (ALMOST)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TNAfrQ9_JCI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/LmcnZ9rLiuE/s1600/clean+office.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TNAfrQ9_JCI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/LmcnZ9rLiuE/s320/clean+office.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534958770188133410" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">I have been in a major de-cluttering mood lately (and it’s not even spring cleaning time). How come our home offices always get so cluttered? It seems like everything ends up in the office.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">Today I am feeling good because my home office is newly refreshed, clean, organized … almost. As you can see, my desk (right) is neat. Back in my General Motors/Saturn years, we went through a period where all of our desks were marked with tape where everything went – phone, note pad, scotch tape, etc … all had specific places. Now, I haven’t gone that overboard, but I definitely found a neat, organized place for everything (on my side).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">Mike’s side is a little different. I did clean and dust everything on Mike’s desk. He has SOOOOO many wires though, I gave up trying to make them neat. And, notice the box on the floor next to Mike’s desk – that’s all his ‘extra’ stuff that doesn’t have a good home. Ranging from old (very old) games to notes to extra cables, I put everything that didn’t fit into a box. I wonder how long before Mike makes an effort to go through the box. I’m not holding my breath. Next week, I’ll just haul the box to the basement for storage and see if Mike even misses anything.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">The frustrating part? I went through a box of old pens/markers to throw away those that no longer wrote. Tried each one. Not heavy lifting, no big movements, but that repetitive click, scribble, click … probably 150 times or so … took me down. OUCH! Even though it hurt my back/shoulder, it was worth it in the long run!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">I know that in time, more stuff will just appear, but for now, I love the clean office!</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-40888238921539385272010-10-29T11:23:00.002-04:002010-10-29T11:28:34.643-04:00Apple Pie to Soothe the Soul<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TMrn7clLGhI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CyLvS2fdPZ8/s1600/apple+pie.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ph0nl4fnrCo/TMrn7clLGhI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CyLvS2fdPZ8/s320/apple+pie.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533490100648483346" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; ">In my feeble attempt to trick my mind into believing that I am not worthless (because I hurt and I don’t work), I try to accomplish at least something every day. Yesterday I made an apple pie.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">In the morning I went to the <a href="http://www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/">Farmer’s Market in </a></span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""><a href="http://www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/">Raleigh</a></span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""> and bought a bunch of fresh, delicious apples. I loved that each vendor had samples of the numerous varieties. Side-by-side sampling makes a difference in deciding which tastes better for baking pies or plain eating. Who knew there were so many choices – Black Arkansas, Mutsu, Honey Crisp, Sun Crisp, Golden Crisp, Winesap, etc. </span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""><i>YUM</i></span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""><i>!</i> In the afternoon, I baked my pie including a home made crust.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">It took me all day. Some of you may laugh – how hard can making a pie be? But for me, the peeling and slicing of 6 cups of apples (maybe 15 minutes max) was torture. With rest and pain medicine, I did it! So that was my accomplishment for Thursday … and breakfast today! </span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""><i>YUM</i></span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""><i>!</i></span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2619348731895767977.post-80666282858967787112010-10-27T12:59:00.001-04:002010-10-27T13:00:30.083-04:00Barometric Pressure Falls; Sleep Decreases<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">Wow! The weather changed big time overnight. Yesterday, the </span><st1:place><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">Midwest</span></st1:place><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""> experienced major storms and overnight that front moved into </span><st1:state><st1:place><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">North Carolina</span></st1:place></st1:state><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">. I know because I did not sleep. Changes in barometric pressure affect my body (in the past I kept an excel spreadsheet documenting these changes and my pain level).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">My body ached. Lying on my t5 area felt like lying on crushed stones. OUCH! I tried sleeping in the master bed but that wasn’t happening and all I kept doing was waking my husband, so I moved to the guest bed (which is another air bed and fairly comfortable). Still, sleep was not happening. Finally, I got up and put a Flector patch (topical NSAID that surprisingly works for me) on my back and moved to the living room reclining chair. I also took my pain medicine. Finally, around </span><st1:time minute="30" hour="3"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">3:30 am</span></st1:time><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">, I got to sleep for about an hour. At around </span><st1:time minute="0" hour="5"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">5 am</span></st1:time><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">, I moved back to the guest room bed and slept for another hour or so.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS""></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">The front moving in made for a very long, short night. I’ll definitely need a nap this afternoon. The barometric pressure is holding steady and I am finally feeling a little less pain. These are the days I think about my mom’s advice to move to the dry, steady climate of </span><st1:state><st1:place><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">Arizona</span></st1:place></st1:state><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Trebuchet MS"">.</span></p>Candyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729153382050074044noreply@blogger.com0