Dick has gone geocaching in the Walton-Manton-Cadillac area. He called in to report that he was First to Find on two of Treeplanter's new hides. Dick was having a really good time until he got caught in a downpour and got soaking wet. He says that the car heater has him all dried off now. He's off to do some more looking.
Today I called and made appointments for aqua therapy through the Munson Community Health Center. They use the pool at Premier Fitness on Garfield.
I'm quaking in my boots because I'm so afraid of re-injury. The neurosurgeon gave me a prescription for aqua therapy 1-3 times a week for 4 weeks. I trust him to recommend the correct treatment, but..... this won't be starting until the first week of November and I'm already worried. I'm afraid I'll throw my back out climbing that ladder up out the pool.
Also, I had that bad experience at MCHC physical therapy when I was re-injured by the pelvic traction. That episode set me back for six weeks so far. So I think I have good reason to be cautious.
I've been doing some research on Google, and I found this excerpt encouraging:
****************
Experts agree that rehabilitation exercises in the water may improve and accelerate healing time and reduce the potential for re-injury.
Flexibility and stretching exercises are performed more easily in the water than on land, where gravity is a limitation
During all exercise, the resistance of the water matches the applied muscle force. This dramatically reduced the likelihood of re-injury caused by exceeding tissue tolerance levels.
Rhythmic movements in the water (both swimming and walking/running) provide a gentle and non-impact environment for improving cardiovascular fitness.
Aqua therapy is especially suited to the rehabilitation of neck and back injuries and recovery from orthopedic surgery.
Aquatic therapy provides an exceptional and unique environment for promoting normal movement patterns and building strength, usually with pain reduction and reduced the risk of further injury. Aquatic therapy in many cases is the only alternative for rehabilitation when land-based programs have not provided adequate results.
****************
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Januvia
Evidently lots of research is being done for people with diabetes type 2. Januvia sounds like an ideal medication. The following article describes it, and also mentions several other new medications on the horizon.
I'm putting the article in the blog just because I want to keep it and maybe discuss it with my Doctor, except my last HbA1C test was so normal that I probably don't need it anyway. I don't think it has much interest for anyone else but me.
Januvia targets the pancreas but I didn't see any reference in the article to pancreatic side effects.
***************
The Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved a novel once-a-day pill to treat Type 2 diabetes that lowers blood sugar levels without causing weight gain. The FDA said the drug, called Januvia, is ``important" because 70 percent of diabetes patients cannot adequately control their blood sugar using existing treatments.
Januvia is expected to become a billion-dollar blockbuster treatment for its maker, Merck & Co., and will be priced at $4.86 per tablet. Newly diagnosed patients can use the drug on its own, along with diet and exercise, to control blood sugar levels. And because it doesn't cause severe side effects when used in combination with popular diabetes drugs already on the market, Januvia also can be used by those whose disease is more advanced and requires more medicines.
The drug leverages the body's natural ability to control blood sugar by producing more insulin and lowering glucose. Controlling blood sugar can help stave off the need for patients to take insulin.
Diabetes affects about 21 million Americans and occurs when the body builds resistance to insulin needed to break down food, causing blood sugar levels to spike.
About 95 percent of adults with diabetes have the Type 2 form. They either do not produce enough insulin or their bodies fail to use what is produced. Those with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily because their bodies do not produce any insulin.
Unchecked diabetes can cause blindness , kidney failure , and heart ailments and can lead to amputations . The number of people with it is rising because of expanding waistlines and sedentary lifestyles, according to the National Institutes of Health.
In clinical trials, Januvia did not have the side effects typical of older treatments, such as weight gain, and dangerous drops in blood sugar. The most commonly reported side effects in trials have been minor: runny noses, coughs, colds, sore throats, diarrhea and nausea. But some in the medical community fear that could change when millions begin to use the new drug.
Analysts and physicians said Januvia offers a ``modest" reduction in a key measurement to gauge how well a patient's blood sugar level is being controlled. Elevated values increase the risk for eye , kidney , nerve, and heart damage.
A Boston man with Type 2 diabetes who has responded well to metformin, a generic treatment for diabetes, said he would use Januvia even if it only slightly improved his blood sugar value.
``I look at it as almost like a scale," said Marc Onigman , 56 . ``If the drug can help me keep that number dead-even, bring on the drug. As long as it doesn't have side effects that lay me out for a week."
Januvia boosts insulin levels when blood sugar levels are high, but cuts off the supply ``when the blood sugar goes down to normal," said Dr. Edward Horton , director of clinical research at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston . ``It's taking advantage of the body's own mechanism to respond to a meal."
Because Januvia helps the body better manage insulin levels, he said, it is much less likely to cause hypoglycemia -- dangerously low blood sugar levels -- than older treatments.
Horton, a Harvard Medical School professor of medicine , is a paid Merck consultant. The company has made him available for interviews about Januvia and has sponsored diabetes treatment sessions for doctors featuring him as a speaker.
Januvia targets an enzyme that is involved in activating many of the body's hormones, which worries some doctors because studies of how it affects patients have been limited. FDA approval was based on studies involving 2,719 patients. Roughly 440 of them had taken Januvia longer than one year and only 160 had taken the drug for two years.
``The concern always has been that the regulation of some of those hormones may be very important in subsets of patients that we don't yet understand," said Dr. John Buse , director of the Diabetes Care Center at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and president-elect of the American Diabetes Association . Because Januvia is the first drug approved in its class, it is not surprising that some people will approach it with caution, Buse said.
``There are many patients and, maybe, even more doctors who are relatively reluctant to use a new drug in the first six months or year after it's released," he said.
Merck said it will conduct additional tests of Januvia in combination with insulin and another class of diabetes drugs.
``Type 2 diabetics use a variety of medications to control their condition," said Dr. Mary Parks , the director of the FDA's division of metabolism and endocrine products . ``We want as much information" on the effectiveness and safety of Januvia taken in combination with other products, Parks said.
Some 400 different treatments for diabetes are in development. Recent innovations include inhaled insulin, which eliminates the need for injections.
Deutsche Bank research analyst Barbara Ryan , in a note to investors, called diabetes treatments ``hot, hot, hot" with a market size capable of supporting ``multiple new blockbuster opportunities."
Novartis AG is hot on the heels of Januvia with its own new-generation diabetes pill, Galvus , expected to receive FDA approval next month .
By shipping Januvia quickly, Merck aims to take advantage of ``a short window before Galvus gets the green light," Morgan Stanley analyst Jami Rubin wrote in a research note. Rubin forecasts $350 million in Januvia sales worldwide in 2007 with $1.6 billion in sales by 2010 , a conservative estimate.
A Reuters survey of 60 physicians found ``the vast majority" intend to prescribe Januvia and Galvus immediately.
I'm putting the article in the blog just because I want to keep it and maybe discuss it with my Doctor, except my last HbA1C test was so normal that I probably don't need it anyway. I don't think it has much interest for anyone else but me.
Januvia targets the pancreas but I didn't see any reference in the article to pancreatic side effects.
***************
The Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved a novel once-a-day pill to treat Type 2 diabetes that lowers blood sugar levels without causing weight gain. The FDA said the drug, called Januvia, is ``important" because 70 percent of diabetes patients cannot adequately control their blood sugar using existing treatments.
Januvia is expected to become a billion-dollar blockbuster treatment for its maker, Merck
The drug leverages the body's natural ability to control blood sugar by producing more insulin and lowering glucose. Controlling blood sugar can help stave off the need for patients to take insulin.
Diabetes affects about 21 million Americans and occurs when the body builds resistance to insulin needed to break down food, causing blood sugar levels to spike.
About 95 percent of adults with diabetes have the Type 2 form. They either do not produce enough insulin or their bodies fail to use what is produced. Those with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily because their bodies do not produce any insulin.
Unchecked diabetes can cause blindness , kidney failure , and heart ailments and can lead to amputations . The number of people with it is rising because of expanding waistlines and sedentary lifestyles, according to the National Institutes of Health.
In clinical trials, Januvia did not have the side effects typical of older treatments, such as weight gain, and dangerous drops in blood sugar. The most commonly reported side effects in trials have been minor: runny noses, coughs, colds, sore throats, diarrhea and nausea. But some in the medical community fear that could change when millions begin to use the new drug.
Analysts and physicians said Januvia offers a ``modest" reduction in a key measurement to gauge how well a patient's blood sugar level is being controlled. Elevated values increase the risk for eye , kidney , nerve, and heart damage.
A Boston man with Type 2 diabetes who has responded well to metformin, a generic treatment for diabetes, said he would use Januvia even if it only slightly improved his blood sugar value.
``I look at it as almost like a scale," said Marc Onigman , 56 . ``If the drug can help me keep that number dead-even, bring on the drug. As long as it doesn't have side effects that lay me out for a week."
Januvia boosts insulin levels when blood sugar levels are high, but cuts off the supply ``when the blood sugar goes down to normal," said Dr. Edward Horton , director of clinical research at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston . ``It's taking advantage of the body's own mechanism to respond to a meal."
Because Januvia helps the body better manage insulin levels, he said, it is much less likely to cause hypoglycemia -- dangerously low blood sugar levels -- than older treatments.
Horton, a Harvard Medical School professor of medicine , is a paid Merck consultant. The company has made him available for interviews about Januvia and has sponsored diabetes treatment sessions for doctors featuring him as a speaker.
Januvia targets an enzyme that is involved in activating many of the body's hormones, which worries some doctors because studies of how it affects patients have been limited. FDA approval was based on studies involving 2,719 patients. Roughly 440 of them had taken Januvia longer than one year and only 160 had taken the drug for two years.
``The concern always has been that the regulation of some of those hormones may be very important in subsets of patients that we don't yet understand," said Dr. John Buse , director of the Diabetes Care Center at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and president-elect of the American Diabetes Association . Because Januvia is the first drug approved in its class, it is not surprising that some people will approach it with caution, Buse said.
``There are many patients and, maybe, even more doctors who are relatively reluctant to use a new drug in the first six months or year after it's released," he said.
Merck said it will conduct additional tests of Januvia in combination with insulin and another class of diabetes drugs.
``Type 2 diabetics use a variety of medications to control their condition," said Dr. Mary Parks , the director of the FDA's division of metabolism and endocrine products . ``We want as much information" on the effectiveness and safety of Januvia taken in combination with other products, Parks said.
Some 400 different treatments for diabetes are in development. Recent innovations include inhaled insulin, which eliminates the need for injections.
Deutsche Bank
Novartis
By shipping Januvia quickly, Merck aims to take advantage of ``a short window before Galvus gets the green light," Morgan Stanley
A Reuters survey of 60 physicians found ``the vast majority" intend to prescribe Januvia and Galvus immediately.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Unsettling Visit
This has been a beautiful, blue skied, sunshiny day. Couldn't ask for anything better. The fall colors are past their peak, but still gorgeous in certain areas.
It's been a very quiet day here at home - a Sunday papers kind of day.
We made our regular Sunday visit to see Mother, and it was most unsatisfactory. This is the letter I sent to Betsy, the Director of Concord Place:
**************************
Dear Betsy,
We visited Mom today (Sunday, Oct. 15) and we wonder if you would check out a couple of things for us.
First of all, her telephone line is so full of static that she can't hear me when I call her. If you just pick up her receiver, you can hear the static along with the dial tone - check it out. We brought in a new phone because we thought maybe her phone was broken, but the static was on the new phone also. There's definitely something wrong with her phone line. I'm in the habit of calling her every day, and it's frustrating that for the past week she hasn't been able to hear me over the static.
Second, we don't know what happened to the pink box that her new Sylvania TV came in. The manual for the TV is in the box, and we'd like to have it.
Also, the box elder bugs are infesting her window again. Somehow, they are able to get inside - today they were on the windowsill and on the heater. While we were there one landed on Mother's hand, and it was quite unsettling. She told me that they have been on her bed as well. I would have thought that the freezing temps we've had would have killed the bugs, but no such luck. What do you think about using a can of Raid on the outside of the window? We'll be glad to pay for the Raid if that's a problem.
Thanks in advance,
Nancy and Dick Steiger
**********************
Let's hope this letter will achieve a positive result!
It's been a very quiet day here at home - a Sunday papers kind of day.
We made our regular Sunday visit to see Mother, and it was most unsatisfactory. This is the letter I sent to Betsy, the Director of Concord Place:
**************************
Dear Betsy,
We visited Mom today (Sunday, Oct. 15) and we wonder if you would check out a couple of things for us.
First of all, her telephone line is so full of static that she can't hear me when I call her. If you just pick up her receiver, you can hear the static along with the dial tone - check it out. We brought in a new phone because we thought maybe her phone was broken, but the static was on the new phone also. There's definitely something wrong with her phone line. I'm in the habit of calling her every day, and it's frustrating that for the past week she hasn't been able to hear me over the static.
Second, we don't know what happened to the pink box that her new Sylvania TV came in. The manual for the TV is in the box, and we'd like to have it.
Also, the box elder bugs are infesting her window again. Somehow, they are able to get inside - today they were on the windowsill and on the heater. While we were there one landed on Mother's hand, and it was quite unsettling. She told me that they have been on her bed as well. I would have thought that the freezing temps we've had would have killed the bugs, but no such luck. What do you think about using a can of Raid on the outside of the window? We'll be glad to pay for the Raid if that's a problem.
Thanks in advance,
Nancy and Dick Steiger
**********************
Let's hope this letter will achieve a positive result!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Fall Fun Day
Dick spent most of the day at the MiGo Fall Fun Day out at the Boy Scout Camp. I guess it was well attended in spite of the lousy weather, and it sounds like a good time was had. I know Dick and Tim&Susie had a good time.
Michigan beat Penn State tonight but it was close. It was an exciting game to watch, and a little scary too. This from mgoblue.com.
Football Sacks Penn State Behind Swarming Defense
The fourth-ranked Michigan football team sacked Penn State's quarterback seven times en route to a 17-10 victory Saturday, Oct. 14, in State College, Pa. U-M scored on back-to-back possessions in the second quarter to lead 10-3 at halftime, with Chad Henne throwing a 25-yard touchdown pass to Adrian Arrington and Garrett Rivas booting a 23-yard field goal. Mike Hart, who rushed for 112 yards, added a third-quarter TD run, while Rondell Biggs and LaMarr Woodley led the strong defensive effort with two sacks each.
Michigan beat Penn State tonight but it was close. It was an exciting game to watch, and a little scary too. This from mgoblue.com.
Football Sacks Penn State Behind Swarming Defense
The fourth-ranked Michigan football team sacked Penn State's quarterback seven times en route to a 17-10 victory Saturday, Oct. 14, in State College, Pa. U-M scored on back-to-back possessions in the second quarter to lead 10-3 at halftime, with Chad Henne throwing a 25-yard touchdown pass to Adrian Arrington and Garrett Rivas booting a 23-yard field goal. Mike Hart, who rushed for 112 yards, added a third-quarter TD run, while Rondell Biggs and LaMarr Woodley led the strong defensive effort with two sacks each.
Friday, October 13, 2006
I Can Cut Back !
Jana went home today - her IV therapy is finished and she feels better already. She's been told to stay home from work on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. I'm hoping she will rest and heal and recover completely.
It's a nasty day - the worst possible weather - 40 degrees, cold rain, and high winds. Our power was out for a couple of hours this morning.
Saw Dr. Burke this afternoon and he agreed that I can cut back on my blood pressure medication. Hooray hooray!
He was surprised that the spinal injections worked for me (so far), I'm not sure why he was so surprised. It's a little sobering to me because I'm sure he knows more about it than I do. A visit to the lab for blood tests, and that was it.
Tim and Susie were over here geocaching today, and came here for burgers afterwards. Susie made a delicious pasta salad. We watched the Tigers beat Oakland, and had a great time.
It's a nasty day - the worst possible weather - 40 degrees, cold rain, and high winds. Our power was out for a couple of hours this morning.
Saw Dr. Burke this afternoon and he agreed that I can cut back on my blood pressure medication. Hooray hooray!
He was surprised that the spinal injections worked for me (so far), I'm not sure why he was so surprised. It's a little sobering to me because I'm sure he knows more about it than I do. A visit to the lab for blood tests, and that was it.
Tim and Susie were over here geocaching today, and came here for burgers afterwards. Susie made a delicious pasta salad. We watched the Tigers beat Oakland, and had a great time.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Sort of a Snowy Medical Day
First of all, Jana is having some health problems. She was feeling discomfort when she was here in September, and it's just been getting worse and worse.
It turns out that she has an internal abscess in the pelvic area. She's in George Washington University Hospital receiving antibiotic IV therapy for 24-48 hours.
I just hung up from talking to her (4:40 p.m.) and they had just come in to start the IV. She has a lot of pain, but she seems to be in a really good mood. She's just glad that it's being taken care of. And so are we !
We woke up to a snow-covered landscape. It's been cold and snowy all day. A lot of it has melted already, but more is forecast for tomorrow. It seems really out of place for the middle of October.
Meanwhile, we went to see the neurosurgeon and got a really good report. He was pleased with my progress (!). He says no physical therapy or pool for 2 more weeks. He just recommends normal common sense activity and walking around. He said, "Every step you take will make it better." So now Every Step You Take is my new theme song. He wants me to practice walking without the cane right away, even if I am wobbly. I guess it's possible to get addicted to the cane.
It turns out that she has an internal abscess in the pelvic area. She's in George Washington University Hospital receiving antibiotic IV therapy for 24-48 hours.
I just hung up from talking to her (4:40 p.m.) and they had just come in to start the IV. She has a lot of pain, but she seems to be in a really good mood. She's just glad that it's being taken care of. And so are we !
We woke up to a snow-covered landscape. It's been cold and snowy all day. A lot of it has melted already, but more is forecast for tomorrow. It seems really out of place for the middle of October.
Meanwhile, we went to see the neurosurgeon and got a really good report. He was pleased with my progress (!). He says no physical therapy or pool for 2 more weeks. He just recommends normal common sense activity and walking around. He said, "Every step you take will make it better." So now Every Step You Take is my new theme song. He wants me to practice walking without the cane right away, even if I am wobbly. I guess it's possible to get addicted to the cane.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Reception
I have no pain since the spinal injections, but the leg is very weak, and I'm walking slowly with a cane - which is far better than sitting all day! My leg is really trying to get stronger, and I'm trying to do a bit more each day. I still am slow and wobbly though.
The only position that gives me trouble now is sitting upright. I've just been using the recliner. However I can ride in the car for short periods - the car seats give you more ease or something.
Today I'm doing my laundry and changing my bed, and that's the most activity I've done yet. Yesterday I was able to visit Mother, and I actually went up there twice, so I was very proud of myself. She's having trouble with her TV reception. We think it's the cable because we went out and bought a new TV and that reception was just as bad. By the end of the day today, the cable people (or somebody) had it repaired and she was back in business.
Dick has to drive because I'm not supposed to try that yet. I'm trying to be very careful because the last thing I want to do is to re-injure anything.
We see the neurosurgeon tomorrow at 2, and Dr. Burke Friday at 2:30.
The only position that gives me trouble now is sitting upright. I've just been using the recliner. However I can ride in the car for short periods - the car seats give you more ease or something.
Today I'm doing my laundry and changing my bed, and that's the most activity I've done yet. Yesterday I was able to visit Mother, and I actually went up there twice, so I was very proud of myself. She's having trouble with her TV reception. We think it's the cable because we went out and bought a new TV and that reception was just as bad. By the end of the day today, the cable people (or somebody) had it repaired and she was back in business.
Dick has to drive because I'm not supposed to try that yet. I'm trying to be very careful because the last thing I want to do is to re-injure anything.
We see the neurosurgeon tomorrow at 2, and Dr. Burke Friday at 2:30.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Solo Sunday
Jan left here around 9 a.m. Dick left Canton about the same time, and Tom boarded his plane then too.
I spent the day reading, dozing, and watching TV - still no appetite - still drinking the Pepto. I should buy some stock.
Jan stopped by in Houghton Lake to pick up Diann - they shared the drive back down to Belleville.
Dick geocached his way up north - he called five or six times to check in and to announce his finds. He found 3 before he even got on the expressway. He arrived home around 5 or 5:30. It was fun to hear his stories of the tailgate and the game.
I spent the day reading, dozing, and watching TV - still no appetite - still drinking the Pepto. I should buy some stock.
Jan stopped by in Houghton Lake to pick up Diann - they shared the drive back down to Belleville.
Dick geocached his way up north - he called five or six times to check in and to announce his finds. He found 3 before he even got on the expressway. He arrived home around 5 or 5:30. It was fun to hear his stories of the tailgate and the game.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Game Day
Still no appetite - weight keeps dropping, which is not a bad thing, but it's happening very fast. I'm just hoping it's not all muscle. Still drinking the Pepto.
I think my leg is getting stronger.
Jan and I had a very restful day reading and chatting and looking at magazines. We watched a Broadway musical DVD.
Neighbor Shirley came by with a treat and a card, and we had a good visit with her. Her husband is off duck hunting in upper New York State until Wed.
In Ann Arbor, Dick, Tom, Peter G. and Bill went to Steve's tailgate - they had 100 people there (not all at the same time) and grilled ribs for everyone, along with salads, potatoes, cakes, etc. It's quite a do. The guys really enjoyed the game, and it was fun to watch here, too. This from mgoblue.com
Henne on the Mark Again as Football Defeats Spartans
Chad Henne threw three touchdown passes for the third time in the last four games to lead the No. 6-ranked Michigan football team to a sound 31-13 defeat of Michigan State on Saturday, Oct. 7, at Michigan Stadium. Henne tossed scoring passes of 13 yards to Adrian Arrington and 41 yards to Mario Manningham to help U-M to a 17-0 halftime lead, and Henne hit Manningham again in the third quarter for a 27-yard TD play to make it 24-0. Mike Hart rushed 22 times for 122 yards, and Brandon Minor added a 40-yard touchdown run.
Then we watched Walk the Line on HBO and went to bed.
I think my leg is getting stronger.
Jan and I had a very restful day reading and chatting and looking at magazines. We watched a Broadway musical DVD.
Neighbor Shirley came by with a treat and a card, and we had a good visit with her. Her husband is off duck hunting in upper New York State until Wed.
In Ann Arbor, Dick, Tom, Peter G. and Bill went to Steve's tailgate - they had 100 people there (not all at the same time) and grilled ribs for everyone, along with salads, potatoes, cakes, etc. It's quite a do. The guys really enjoyed the game, and it was fun to watch here, too. This from mgoblue.com
Henne on the Mark Again as Football Defeats Spartans
Chad Henne threw three touchdown passes for the third time in the last four games to lead the No. 6-ranked Michigan football team to a sound 31-13 defeat of Michigan State on Saturday, Oct. 7, at Michigan Stadium. Henne tossed scoring passes of 13 yards to Adrian Arrington and 41 yards to Mario Manningham to help U-M to a 17-0 halftime lead, and Henne hit Manningham again in the third quarter for a 27-yard TD play to make it 24-0. Mike Hart rushed 22 times for 122 yards, and Brandon Minor added a 40-yard touchdown run.
Then we watched Walk the Line on HBO and went to bed.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Dick Leaves, Jan Arrives
Still feeling ill this morning. Hoping it goes away soon.
Dick is off on a great weekend of geocaching, football, male bonding, tailgating, and being with Tom. He has arrived safely in Canton and should be picking up Tom at the airport right about now.
Jan got here around 3, and we've been talking ever since! She's my combination friend, caretaker, and companion. She's really here so that Dick can have a worry-free weekend.
I"m feeling better today.
Dick is off on a great weekend of geocaching, football, male bonding, tailgating, and being with Tom. He has arrived safely in Canton and should be picking up Tom at the airport right about now.
Jan got here around 3, and we've been talking ever since! She's my combination friend, caretaker, and companion. She's really here so that Dick can have a worry-free weekend.
I"m feeling better today.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Lousy
Not so hot today. Somehow I've picked up some kind of a bug which I hope is the 24 hour variety. A crummy day.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
"Funny" Mistakes
We've been laughing about the dumb things I've done during the past couple of months because of the pain medications. I've forgotten whole days, whole conversations, whole events. Dick tells me that I have an appointment with the neurosurgeon surgeon on Oct. 12 - you could have fooled me! I suppose it's just to see how the injections are working out. Those strong drugs really do impair your thinking skills - always take somebody in with you!
Today we remedied the worst mistake - at the bank. While I was still "druggy", I was so proud of myself for paying the bills online and keeping up with everything. Ha!
I paid our bills all right, but I also paid Mom's rent and Mom's medical coverage out of our account, resulting in an overdrawal! Now that will put a dent in your budget. Luckily we have some kind of overdraft protection so nothing bounced, but there is a fee of some kind which I have to figure out how to pay.
So I'm not quite as proud of myself as I was before, but at least our bills got paid and Mother was kept covered and that's the important thing.
Strong storms last night - we got about 3 inches of rain. There was a tornado south of us in Missaukee County and high winds causing quite a bit of damage around the countryside. We just got the rain and the thunder.
Today we remedied the worst mistake - at the bank. While I was still "druggy", I was so proud of myself for paying the bills online and keeping up with everything. Ha!
I paid our bills all right, but I also paid Mom's rent and Mom's medical coverage out of our account, resulting in an overdrawal! Now that will put a dent in your budget. Luckily we have some kind of overdraft protection so nothing bounced, but there is a fee of some kind which I have to figure out how to pay.
So I'm not quite as proud of myself as I was before, but at least our bills got paid and Mother was kept covered and that's the important thing.
Strong storms last night - we got about 3 inches of rain. There was a tornado south of us in Missaukee County and high winds causing quite a bit of damage around the countryside. We just got the rain and the thunder.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
A Very Sad Monday
Two very sad funerals today. The first one is Tim and Susie's Mother Shirley Swedine. We've never met her, but our hearts go out to her whole family and especially to Tim and Susie. Susie's Mom died in February, and it just seems like too much to deal with for one year.
Shirley E. Swedine
(September 12, 1930 - September 29, 2006)
Shirley E. Swedine - Age 76, of Owosso, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, September 29, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Monday, October 2, 2006 from Grace Bible Church, 201 Michigan Avenue, Owosso, with Pastor Roger Rose officiating. Final rest will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 6 to 8 PM Saturday; 2-4 & 6-8 PM Sunday at Mowen Funeral Home. Mrs. Swedine will lay in state at the church on Monday from 9 AM until service time.
Mrs. Swedine was born September 12, 1930, in South Branch, Michigan, the daughter of James and Florence (Burr) Humphrey. She married Carl J. Swedine in South Branch on June 19, 1948. Mrs. Swedine was a homemaker and lived all her married life in Owosso. She was a graduate of Mio High School, Class of 1948. She was a member of Grace Bible Church of Owosso. She loved music and playing the piano. For a while, she also worked and played the piano in the youth groups and Sunday school. She liked to read and was a good golfer, bowler, loved to sew and do needle point. Mrs. Swedine loved tending her flower gardens, family get together's and making photo albums for all her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include: husband, Carl; children, Tim (Susan) Swedine, Kevin (Marion) Swedine, Melody Livingston, Eric Swedine, and Nancy (Jeff) Bateman; six grndchildren, Quincy, T.J., Erica, Ryan, Nicole and Nathan; four great grandchildren and two on the way; also, sisters, Marjorie DeVoe of Durand, Doris (Don) Mainprize of Higgins Lake and brother, James (Mae) Humphrey of Alabama; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by six brothers and one sister.
Memorials are suggested to the Grace Bible Church of Owosso.
********************
The second is Pauline Brigham Lather, who was a classmate of mine since elementary school. We went to Union Street School and were together all the way through graduation from Central High. Pauline was an amazing woman with a strong will to
live. Suffering from leukemia, she underwent a bone marrow transplant provided by her son, who was a perfect match. She went through a lengthy recovery, and even got back on the bike path and became quite active again. Evidently leukemia is even tougher than we are. She was a wonderful person, and her husband Dave was also in our junior high and high school class - he was always so pleasant and kind. I know it's been a struggle for him for many months now. At least Pauline's struggle is over.
Lather, Pauline Yvonne
TRAVERSE CITY — Pauline Yvonne Lather, 71, died on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006, in the arms of her husband and surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with Leukemia.
She was born to Harvey Vernon and Eva Mae (Brighty) Brigham on April 25, 1935, in Grant Township, Grand Traverse County.
Pauline attended Union Street Grade School, graduated from Traverse City Central High School and Michigan State University.
She met the love of her life, David, in their junior year of high school; They were married by the Rev. Donn Doten at Central United Methodist Church on July 6, 1957.
She valued good health and an active life style. She enjoyed most outdoor sports, including sailing, skiing, cycling, roller blading, snowshoeing and hiking.
Pauline's greatest love was her family and many friends. She always saw the best in people. Pauline's faith was very strong, a faith she passed on to her children.
She was an active member of Central United Methodist Church, her Yokefellow Group, and was a Stephen Minister. She was office manager of Central United Methodist Church and retired as their bookkeeper-treasurer.
Pauline is survived by her husband, David; son, Brantley (Michelle) Lather of Midland; daughter, Lori (Jan) Hesprich of Traverse City; sister, Susan (Wallace) Tuttle of Traverse City; three grandchildren, Henry, Conrad and Sarah Lather of Midland; and mother-in-law, Leona Lather of Traverse City.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Eva Mae Brigham.
In accordance with Pauline's wish, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Monday, Oct. 2, 2006, 11 a.m., at Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City. Visitation will begin one hour before the service. The Reverends John Ellinger, Tamara Williams and Dean Bailey will officiate. Inurnment of her cremains will be in the church columbarium.
Memorials may be directed to Central United Methodist Church or to the West 4 Oncology Unit at Munson Medical Center, Traverse City.
The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
Published in the Record-Eagle on 10/1/2006.
Shirley E. Swedine
(September 12, 1930 - September 29, 2006)
Shirley E. Swedine - Age 76, of Owosso, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, September 29, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Monday, October 2, 2006 from Grace Bible Church, 201 Michigan Avenue, Owosso, with Pastor Roger Rose officiating. Final rest will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 6 to 8 PM Saturday; 2-4 & 6-8 PM Sunday at Mowen Funeral Home. Mrs. Swedine will lay in state at the church on Monday from 9 AM until service time.
Mrs. Swedine was born September 12, 1930, in South Branch, Michigan, the daughter of James and Florence (Burr) Humphrey. She married Carl J. Swedine in South Branch on June 19, 1948. Mrs. Swedine was a homemaker and lived all her married life in Owosso. She was a graduate of Mio High School, Class of 1948. She was a member of Grace Bible Church of Owosso. She loved music and playing the piano. For a while, she also worked and played the piano in the youth groups and Sunday school. She liked to read and was a good golfer, bowler, loved to sew and do needle point. Mrs. Swedine loved tending her flower gardens, family get together's and making photo albums for all her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include: husband, Carl; children, Tim (Susan) Swedine, Kevin (Marion) Swedine, Melody Livingston, Eric Swedine, and Nancy (Jeff) Bateman; six grndchildren, Quincy, T.J., Erica, Ryan, Nicole and Nathan; four great grandchildren and two on the way; also, sisters, Marjorie DeVoe of Durand, Doris (Don) Mainprize of Higgins Lake and brother, James (Mae) Humphrey of Alabama; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by six brothers and one sister.
Memorials are suggested to the Grace Bible Church of Owosso.
********************
The second is Pauline Brigham Lather, who was a classmate of mine since elementary school. We went to Union Street School and were together all the way through graduation from Central High. Pauline was an amazing woman with a strong will to
live. Suffering from leukemia, she underwent a bone marrow transplant provided by her son, who was a perfect match. She went through a lengthy recovery, and even got back on the bike path and became quite active again. Evidently leukemia is even tougher than we are. She was a wonderful person, and her husband Dave was also in our junior high and high school class - he was always so pleasant and kind. I know it's been a struggle for him for many months now. At least Pauline's struggle is over.
Lather, Pauline Yvonne
TRAVERSE CITY — Pauline Yvonne Lather, 71, died on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006, in the arms of her husband and surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with Leukemia.
She was born to Harvey Vernon and Eva Mae (Brighty) Brigham on April 25, 1935, in Grant Township, Grand Traverse County.
Pauline attended Union Street Grade School, graduated from Traverse City Central High School and Michigan State University.
She met the love of her life, David, in their junior year of high school; They were married by the Rev. Donn Doten at Central United Methodist Church on July 6, 1957.
She valued good health and an active life style. She enjoyed most outdoor sports, including sailing, skiing, cycling, roller blading, snowshoeing and hiking.
Pauline's greatest love was her family and many friends. She always saw the best in people. Pauline's faith was very strong, a faith she passed on to her children.
She was an active member of Central United Methodist Church, her Yokefellow Group, and was a Stephen Minister. She was office manager of Central United Methodist Church and retired as their bookkeeper-treasurer.
Pauline is survived by her husband, David; son, Brantley (Michelle) Lather of Midland; daughter, Lori (Jan) Hesprich of Traverse City; sister, Susan (Wallace) Tuttle of Traverse City; three grandchildren, Henry, Conrad and Sarah Lather of Midland; and mother-in-law, Leona Lather of Traverse City.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Eva Mae Brigham.
In accordance with Pauline's wish, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Monday, Oct. 2, 2006, 11 a.m., at Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City. Visitation will begin one hour before the service. The Reverends John Ellinger, Tamara Williams and Dean Bailey will officiate. Inurnment of her cremains will be in the church columbarium.
Memorials may be directed to Central United Methodist Church or to the West 4 Oncology Unit at Munson Medical Center, Traverse City.
The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
Published in the Record-Eagle on 10/1/2006.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Hello Mother
After Dick got home from the Agency, we got into the car, did a couple of small errends, and went to visit Mother.
I was very nervous about walking up and down the ramp, but we did it - we did it and it wasn't that bad. I haven't taken any pain pills all day and there is no pain. I'm still walking very slowly with Dad's cane, but we did it. We visited with her for an hour and everything went well. She seems fine and we had a good talk. Then I came home and slept for two hours!
It was a beautiful drive around town. The trees and the hills are all in their fall colors and really quite imppressive. It's a warm wonderful, beautiful day.
I was very nervous about walking up and down the ramp, but we did it - we did it and it wasn't that bad. I haven't taken any pain pills all day and there is no pain. I'm still walking very slowly with Dad's cane, but we did it. We visited with her for an hour and everything went well. She seems fine and we had a good talk. Then I came home and slept for two hours!
It was a beautiful drive around town. The trees and the hills are all in their fall colors and really quite imppressive. It's a warm wonderful, beautiful day.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Sunny Sunday
It feels like fall today. I think it's around 45 outside, and some of our leaves are turning.
I am continuing to improve - haven't taken any pain meds since yesterday afternoon. I still have a slight ache in my left calf, but hardly enough to mention. My left leg is considerable weakened, but my new hobby can be strengthening it.
Dick has gone off geocaching south of Kingsley. It looks like a nice series along the Manistee.
Next weekend Dick will be going down to the Mich-Mich. State game and staying at Sniders. Tom is flying in from San Diego to go also, and Peter is driving up from Cleveland. I think that Bill will probably go to the game with them, so they should have a great time. They plan to go to Steve Koss' famous tailgate party pre and post game. Jan is driving up here to stay with me for the weekend, so I won't be lonely and "overdo". It should be a great time for all of us.
I am continuing to improve - haven't taken any pain meds since yesterday afternoon. I still have a slight ache in my left calf, but hardly enough to mention. My left leg is considerable weakened, but my new hobby can be strengthening it.
Dick has gone off geocaching south of Kingsley. It looks like a nice series along the Manistee.
Next weekend Dick will be going down to the Mich-Mich. State game and staying at Sniders. Tom is flying in from San Diego to go also, and Peter is driving up from Cleveland. I think that Bill will probably go to the game with them, so they should have a great time. They plan to go to Steve Koss' famous tailgate party pre and post game. Jan is driving up here to stay with me for the weekend, so I won't be lonely and "overdo". It should be a great time for all of us.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Post Injection(s)
What a great morning. So far it's 10 a.m. and I've had no pain. At all...just a little achiness once in a while. I even took a shower and washed my hair with no pain. Are you listening? Whoop, whoop, whoop! Not since July 17th could I say that. So I'm clean and shiny and happy. And I'm planning to follow Dr. In-Jecto's advice and do nothing today and tomorrow. Monday should be a lot of fun.
Sharon sent great pictures of Kevin's wedding - everybody looked so happy. I can't do the picture part of my blog yet - my upstairs computer chair is bad for my back, and I can't upload the pictures on my laptop down here in the recliner - but next week I'll be able to put the pictures on the blog, and I'm excited.
On the more serious side of life, we heard yesterday that Tim and Susie have lost Tim's Mother, Shirley Swedine of Owosso. She has suffered ill health for quite a while - but it's always heartbreaking to lose your Mom, as a lot of you already know. Our sincere condolences to the whole family.
On the lighter side of life, Michigan held on long enough to beat Minnesota tonight. Minnesota made several serious but fruitless threats, and Michigan went home with the Little Brown Jug. This from mgoblue.com:
Henne Tosses Three TD Passes as Football Claims Jug
Chad Henne made sure the Little Brown Jug's stay in Minnesota lasted just one year as he threw three touchdown passes in the first half to help the No. 6-ranked Michigan football team to a 28-14 win Saturday night, Sept. 30, in Minneapolis. Henne connected with Adrian Arrington on scoring passes of 16 and 37 yards for a 14-0 Wolverines lead and later found Mario Manningham for a 41-yard hookup and a 21-7 halftime edge. Mike Hart rushed 31 times for 195 yards, and Kevin Grady added a short TD run.
Heavily favored MSU was beaten by hapless Illinois with a last second field goal in the rain on homecoming day. We are well acquainted with that feeling.
Sharon sent great pictures of Kevin's wedding - everybody looked so happy. I can't do the picture part of my blog yet - my upstairs computer chair is bad for my back, and I can't upload the pictures on my laptop down here in the recliner - but next week I'll be able to put the pictures on the blog, and I'm excited.
On the more serious side of life, we heard yesterday that Tim and Susie have lost Tim's Mother, Shirley Swedine of Owosso. She has suffered ill health for quite a while - but it's always heartbreaking to lose your Mom, as a lot of you already know. Our sincere condolences to the whole family.
On the lighter side of life, Michigan held on long enough to beat Minnesota tonight. Minnesota made several serious but fruitless threats, and Michigan went home with the Little Brown Jug. This from mgoblue.com:
Henne Tosses Three TD Passes as Football Claims Jug
Chad Henne made sure the Little Brown Jug's stay in Minnesota lasted just one year as he threw three touchdown passes in the first half to help the No. 6-ranked Michigan football team to a 28-14 win Saturday night, Sept. 30, in Minneapolis. Henne connected with Adrian Arrington on scoring passes of 16 and 37 yards for a 14-0 Wolverines lead and later found Mario Manningham for a 41-yard hookup and a 21-7 halftime edge. Mike Hart rushed 31 times for 195 yards, and Kevin Grady added a short TD run.
Heavily favored MSU was beaten by hapless Illinois with a last second field goal in the rain on homecoming day. We are well acquainted with that feeling.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Dr. In-Jecto
Double your pleasure. Not one, but two lovely spinal injections. Dr. In-Jecto found the sciatic nerve all right - 3 times. What a thrill that was -3 times. It felt like being struck by lightning. OK, mild lightning, but still not at all pleasant. The second injection was not bad at all, except that I couldn't relax waiting for a repeat of injection #1. Oh well, it's over. The Doc says that by Monday I could try out for the Lions. I'm shopping for a uniform. I think I could be on special teams and keep the ball out of the end zone. How hard could that be?
Dick brought me roses yesterday -gorgeous yellow and pink roses. Best ever. Right now he's out geo-caching.
Dick brought me roses yesterday -gorgeous yellow and pink roses. Best ever. Right now he's out geo-caching.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Sorry for the Blog-Lag
A couple of our wedding outfits if we had gone to the wedding. On the left you see our glorious evening casual ensembles. On the right is obviously the daytime casual. Can you tell that Jana is holding me up?
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The poor blog has gone to pieces It doesn't react well to my pain meds. Maybe later, I'll fix it up. Maybe not.
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The poor blog has gone to pieces It doesn't react well to my pain meds. Maybe later, I'll fix it up. Maybe not.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Bye Bye Jay Bird
Jana's flight took off around noon. I'm so glad she came - we had a good time and she helped Dick take care of the crip (me).
Jan and Eileen stopped in shortly after. Jan brought the cutest plant in the cutest pot and I'm really enjoying it. It was great to see her and catch up on all of the news from California. It was fun to see Eileen - I always forget what a dynamo she is. She keeps things hoppin'.
Dick is still the world's best caretaker. Mother and I are trying to help him slow down a bit and just enjoy life. I'm as comfy as anybody could be, and so well taken care of and loved like Marmee in Little Women - remember?
Jan and Eileen stopped in shortly after. Jan brought the cutest plant in the cutest pot and I'm really enjoying it. It was great to see her and catch up on all of the news from California. It was fun to see Eileen - I always forget what a dynamo she is. She keeps things hoppin'.
Dick is still the world's best caretaker. Mother and I are trying to help him slow down a bit and just enjoy life. I'm as comfy as anybody could be, and so well taken care of and loved like Marmee in Little Women - remember?
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Kevin's Wedding Day
Laurie, Dylan and Tom called from San Diego this morning. They were eating eggs for breakfast and getting ready to go to the San Diego Zoo. Kevin and Amy's wedding is later on this afternoon (see link above). More Later.
Meanwhile, back in Michigan:
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The No. 6-ranked University of Michigan football team claimed a 27-13 victory in its Big Ten Conference opener against the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday (Sept. 23) in front of 111,058 fans at Michigan Stadium. The Wolverines defense held the Badgers to six straight three-and-outs to begin the second half, and Michigan tallied four sacks and held the Big Ten's leading rusher, P.J. Hill, to 54 yards rushing on 20 carries.
Meanwhile, MSU looked terrific for most of their game. State had it won by the time I went to bed. I could have fainted the next morning when I saw that the final score was Notre Dame 40, MSU 37. Unbelievable.
Meanwhile, back in Michigan:
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The No. 6-ranked University of Michigan football team claimed a 27-13 victory in its Big Ten Conference opener against the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday (Sept. 23) in front of 111,058 fans at Michigan Stadium. The Wolverines defense held the Badgers to six straight three-and-outs to begin the second half, and Michigan tallied four sacks and held the Big Ten's leading rusher, P.J. Hill, to 54 yards rushing on 20 carries.
Meanwhile, MSU looked terrific for most of their game. State had it won by the time I went to bed. I could have fainted the next morning when I saw that the final score was Notre Dame 40, MSU 37. Unbelievable.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
I Know What Day It Is!
It's Wednesday! Aha! I'm on top of things now!
When I taught school every classroom was responsible for putting on a program each semester about something we were studying. One year it just so happened that we had the names of the days of the week for spelling words so off we went to do some pretty heavy duty second grade research on Freya, Woden, Thor,etc.
We divided into groups, made costumes, wrote poems and music, made signs
and came up with a pretty good show.
The point of all this is that the other day in some office I saw the secretaty write out an appt. for Wen., Sept. 21. Any one of those 2nd graders would have bopped her with Thor's hammer.
Dick and Galadriel pulled in around 9 p.m. complete with a big celebratory presentation box of champagne (checked, of course). Dick fixed some supper while I dozed in my chair. Wonderful to see her. She traveled in her morning brunch outfit (daytime casual), so she's one up on me and we haven't even started yet.
We both loved her business plan....sh..white collar spies are everywhere.
When I taught school every classroom was responsible for putting on a program each semester about something we were studying. One year it just so happened that we had the names of the days of the week for spelling words so off we went to do some pretty heavy duty second grade research on Freya, Woden, Thor,etc.
We divided into groups, made costumes, wrote poems and music, made signs
and came up with a pretty good show.
The point of all this is that the other day in some office I saw the secretaty write out an appt. for Wen., Sept. 21. Any one of those 2nd graders would have bopped her with Thor's hammer.
Dick and Galadriel pulled in around 9 p.m. complete with a big celebratory presentation box of champagne (checked, of course). Dick fixed some supper while I dozed in my chair. Wonderful to see her. She traveled in her morning brunch outfit (daytime casual), so she's one up on me and we haven't even started yet.
We both loved her business plan....sh..white collar spies are everywhere.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Dick is for Real
Monday - at least I know what day this is. Have to be proud of something. I'm proud of Dick, anyway. He went to the Agency first thing and helped people all morning, and then came home and helped me all afternoon.
What Day is This?
Dick went out to do errands this morning and accomplished a lot.
I'm feeling like somebody else today - can't seem to keep things straight in my head. Mom says I never called her yesterday. Some daughter she wound up with! I just feel like sleeping all the time.
Talked to Laurie this morning. They're excited about going to LegoLand with Tom on Friday. (see link above).
We're all wishing we could be together this weekend. I'm wishing I could visit Mom. Maybe roller skating to California would work. I'm wishing I could remember what day this is.
A couple of Dick's errands this morning involved office supplies for the upstairs computer room. When I finally get strong enough to visit Mother, I want to take her pictures from the terrific half of our summer. I was preparing the digital photo printer and picking out the pictures, ding ding ding ding - the picture printer ran out of paper. No paper in this drawer, that drawer, or the other drawer either. So I might as well begin working on a different project - Jana's birthday present. Computer is all warmed up, Epson is up and running. I finish a page and press Print. Holy moly, that's a strange noise. It appears that all of the inks have run out.
I'm feeling like somebody else today - can't seem to keep things straight in my head. Mom says I never called her yesterday. Some daughter she wound up with! I just feel like sleeping all the time.
Talked to Laurie this morning. They're excited about going to LegoLand with Tom on Friday. (see link above).
We're all wishing we could be together this weekend. I'm wishing I could visit Mom. Maybe roller skating to California would work. I'm wishing I could remember what day this is.
A couple of Dick's errands this morning involved office supplies for the upstairs computer room. When I finally get strong enough to visit Mother, I want to take her pictures from the terrific half of our summer. I was preparing the digital photo printer and picking out the pictures, ding ding ding ding - the picture printer ran out of paper. No paper in this drawer, that drawer, or the other drawer either. So I might as well begin working on a different project - Jana's birthday present. Computer is all warmed up, Epson is up and running. I finish a page and press Print. Holy moly, that's a strange noise. It appears that all of the inks have run out.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Labor Day Weekend
My pain meds were running low, so on Friday at 9 a.m. I ordered refills online. It didn't work - the pharmacy never got the order. It has worked before, but not this time.
I did have some meds. I have tons of darvocet, which makes me physically ill. I'm having a bit of a bad tummy anyway - last thing I want is more of that! I have tons of regular Tylenol. The recommended dosage doesn't come anywhere near what I need.
The pharmacy heard nothing on Friday or Sat. and of course the clinic is closed for the holiday weekend. So like the drowning man who clutches at the straw, I stupidly tried ordering refills online again, knowing full well that no human eyes would see it until Tuesday morning.
I have totally lost my appetite, but desparate for some darvocet (which must be taken with food) I asked Dick to fix me toast and eggs for breakfast. I took the darvocet, kept it down, and noticed some pain relief. I think I took a second dose after proper preparation, and again I had good results. But, I'm sorry to say, I just can't eat meals - makes me feel sick just thinking about it.
Dick found a bottle of tylenol 3 with codeine dated March, 1999. I'll admit to taking 2 of those, and they do seem to make me more relaxed. I'm keeping them around for times when sleep seems the best optiom.
Sat., Sun., Mon. with no pain meds. Hey, come on - we contribute to Doctors Without Borders! Where are they when we need them???
Hooray it's Tues! I'll have meds before noon! I called the clinic. I spoke to an actual person who asked all the right questions, and she promised to give my order ro Dr. Burke's nurse. Heavy sigh of relief. Right? This always works, right? We've never had a failure between the clinic and Rite Aid, right?
Well, we waited a proper length of time, and phoned the pharmacy to make sure that the prescriptions had been called in. No luck. So we waited another proper length of time and repeated the process. Rite Aid hasn't heard a thing.
We went for a little ride, with me stretched out in the back seat in my one comfortable position (which isn't as comfortable as it used to be way back when I had some vicodin.) We just happened to be in the vicinity of Rite Aid, so we went to
the drive-thru pharmacy pick-up. Even eye to eye, the man said he had nothing for us.
Back at home, I called the clinic to set up a consultation with Dr. Burke concerning my inability to get medication for my sciatica. They gave me an appt. for THURSDAY MORNING. (Pardon me for shouting.) Dick called the clinic at 3:51 p.m. to speak with Dr. Burke or his nurse, and was told that they had both left for the day.
So I was facing another night with no meds, plus I was really feeling sick with flu-like symptoms. It was not a good night. So I asked myself, WWLIWD? (What Would Laura Ingalls Wilder Do?)
This morning (Wed) Dick called the clinic at 8 a.m. to order the refills (4th time). He's really on the job now. He's planning to call someone every hour, either clinic or pharmacy, whoever's turn it is. So I have a good possibility of getting some pain relief today, right? Today's the day, right? I can't hear you..
As of 10 a.m., I have my meds, I have my meds, I have my meds, I have my meds. Nothing looks better than Dick walking into the room with a pill bottle in each hand!!
Dr. Burke put refills on each bottle - I'm so grateful. He is now the world's 5th best doctor. He'll just have to work his way back up to first.
I have my meds. Thanks, Dick
I did have some meds. I have tons of darvocet, which makes me physically ill. I'm having a bit of a bad tummy anyway - last thing I want is more of that! I have tons of regular Tylenol. The recommended dosage doesn't come anywhere near what I need.
The pharmacy heard nothing on Friday or Sat. and of course the clinic is closed for the holiday weekend. So like the drowning man who clutches at the straw, I stupidly tried ordering refills online again, knowing full well that no human eyes would see it until Tuesday morning.
I have totally lost my appetite, but desparate for some darvocet (which must be taken with food) I asked Dick to fix me toast and eggs for breakfast. I took the darvocet, kept it down, and noticed some pain relief. I think I took a second dose after proper preparation, and again I had good results. But, I'm sorry to say, I just can't eat meals - makes me feel sick just thinking about it.
Dick found a bottle of tylenol 3 with codeine dated March, 1999. I'll admit to taking 2 of those, and they do seem to make me more relaxed. I'm keeping them around for times when sleep seems the best optiom.
Sat., Sun., Mon. with no pain meds. Hey, come on - we contribute to Doctors Without Borders! Where are they when we need them???
Hooray it's Tues! I'll have meds before noon! I called the clinic. I spoke to an actual person who asked all the right questions, and she promised to give my order ro Dr. Burke's nurse. Heavy sigh of relief. Right? This always works, right? We've never had a failure between the clinic and Rite Aid, right?
Well, we waited a proper length of time, and phoned the pharmacy to make sure that the prescriptions had been called in. No luck. So we waited another proper length of time and repeated the process. Rite Aid hasn't heard a thing.
We went for a little ride, with me stretched out in the back seat in my one comfortable position (which isn't as comfortable as it used to be way back when I had some vicodin.) We just happened to be in the vicinity of Rite Aid, so we went to
the drive-thru pharmacy pick-up. Even eye to eye, the man said he had nothing for us.
Back at home, I called the clinic to set up a consultation with Dr. Burke concerning my inability to get medication for my sciatica. They gave me an appt. for THURSDAY MORNING. (Pardon me for shouting.) Dick called the clinic at 3:51 p.m. to speak with Dr. Burke or his nurse, and was told that they had both left for the day.
So I was facing another night with no meds, plus I was really feeling sick with flu-like symptoms. It was not a good night. So I asked myself, WWLIWD? (What Would Laura Ingalls Wilder Do?)
This morning (Wed) Dick called the clinic at 8 a.m. to order the refills (4th time). He's really on the job now. He's planning to call someone every hour, either clinic or pharmacy, whoever's turn it is. So I have a good possibility of getting some pain relief today, right? Today's the day, right? I can't hear you..
As of 10 a.m., I have my meds, I have my meds, I have my meds, I have my meds. Nothing looks better than Dick walking into the room with a pill bottle in each hand!!
Dr. Burke put refills on each bottle - I'm so grateful. He is now the world's 5th best doctor. He'll just have to work his way back up to first.
I have my meds. Thanks, Dick
Sunday, September 03, 2006
The Pizza Cart
There have been some wild and crazy drug induced dreams in the past month,believe me. They are so realistic that even after I wake up I think it's still going on.
I just woke up from a hotel pizza dream - I heard the announcement in our room (It was the Van Something Hotel) - very posh. "Steigers, your pizza is ready. Call such and such for delivery when you're ready". I was barely awake, so I just assumed that Dick would call.
I have no idea how much time passed, but eventually I realized that nothing was happening, so I began to wake up. As I looked around the hotel room, I saw that the list of hotel amenities was beautifully and skillfully woven into the lovely rug on the floor. It had phone numbers, shuttle buses, menus, etc. One of the pictures on the rug was a cute little pizza delivery cart.
I waited for Dick to do something, and it seemed to me that I was awake in real life at that point. Still nothing was happening, so I actually said out loud, "Dick, did you hear that?" No response. OK, by now I really was waking up, although I could still see the black and white rug. I said a little more quietly this tme, "Dick, are you in here?"
Well of course he wasn't - I think he's outside somewhere. I'm in here alone with my powerful pain relievers. Luckily, I'm not hungry, and the pizza would be cold by now anyway.
.
I just woke up from a hotel pizza dream - I heard the announcement in our room (It was the Van Something Hotel) - very posh. "Steigers, your pizza is ready. Call such and such for delivery when you're ready". I was barely awake, so I just assumed that Dick would call.
I have no idea how much time passed, but eventually I realized that nothing was happening, so I began to wake up. As I looked around the hotel room, I saw that the list of hotel amenities was beautifully and skillfully woven into the lovely rug on the floor. It had phone numbers, shuttle buses, menus, etc. One of the pictures on the rug was a cute little pizza delivery cart.
I waited for Dick to do something, and it seemed to me that I was awake in real life at that point. Still nothing was happening, so I actually said out loud, "Dick, did you hear that?" No response. OK, by now I really was waking up, although I could still see the black and white rug. I said a little more quietly this tme, "Dick, are you in here?"
Well of course he wasn't - I think he's outside somewhere. I'm in here alone with my powerful pain relievers. Luckily, I'm not hungry, and the pizza would be cold by now anyway.
.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Not Today
There's an episode of "Everybody Loves Raymond" in which Ray's annoying mother Marie scolds him by saying, "Someday you'll turn around and I won't be here anymore." Ray quickly spins around, glares at her and says, "Not today."
Someday I'll get up in the morning and my leg won't hurt.
Someday I'll get up in the morning and my leg won't hurt.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Out of Bed At Last !
Today, thanks to the steroids, I am back in the recliner, well-iced, and
feeling like I'm in paradise. I'm sitting in the sunshine with the door and
the window open, and it's almost like being out on the deck. I'm able to
walk around periodically, but still can't stand for long. I also can't sit,
which puzzles me because one would think that sitting would be the easiest
thing. Go figure. Before my relapse, I was able to ride around in the car
for as much as an hour and a half. Now I'm back to zilch.
Today I learned that it's a mistake to try to walk around right after taking pain meds. Not only do you topple over and scratch your nose, but you also anger your caretaker who works diligently every hour of every day to improve your condition and expects you to do the same and not to put yourself in peril. I'll have to get used to asking for more help. My fear is to become too demanding. It's a delicate balance because I'm beginninng fo feel more able to try to do things.
Today Dick went to visit Mother. I'm so glad - I want her to remember that she does have family out here somewhere. Hooray for Dick. He reports that he thinks she's beginning to suffer short term memory loss.
Monday, August 28, 2006
OK, Here's the Deal...
My physical therapy session last Thursday did me in. I'm literally worse than I was when the sciatica first flared up.
Still can't sit, because I seem to be unable to find an un-achy sitting position.
Still can't stand or walk without cane and pain. (The kind of pain that my Dad used to say, "Made ya moan, didn't it!", with a
cute, wicked grin. Sometimes you just have to wonder about football coaches.)
I'm spending all my time in bed, which sounds pretty enjoyable to most hard-working people, and really isn't too bad for the first eight or nine hours. I've been here since 5 p.m. on Thursday afternoon and it's now Monday at 10:30 a.m. You could say that it's the opposite of geo-caching.
My only comfy position in bed is lying on my right side with knees bent and ice packs on the left hip and thigh. Dick has a great icing system going, and so I'm the world's luckiest icee.
I've lost my appetite. I'm blaming it on all these high-powered pain-killers. They also sometimes make me physically ill and unusually sleepy.
Since I flunked physical therapy, Dr. Burke cancelled all of the PT appointments and came up with a new plan. Here's the deal:
1. First we'll re-run the steroid medrol pack. He has confidence it will take away the pain the way it did before. That starts today, and lasts for 5 or 6 days.
2. After the pain is gone, I'll have an EMG on Sept. 11 to determine nerve damage and muscle weakness.
3. If necessary, I have an appointment with a neuro-surgeon on Sept. 21 to check out my bulging disc.
Here's my soft, cuddly present for being sick. His name is Fleming Bearie Steiger. I'm beginning to feel slightly better this afternoon. Some might say it's due to the steroids, but I know it's because of Fleming and Dick.
Still can't sit, because I seem to be unable to find an un-achy sitting position.
Still can't stand or walk without cane and pain. (The kind of pain that my Dad used to say, "Made ya moan, didn't it!", with a
cute, wicked grin. Sometimes you just have to wonder about football coaches.)
I'm spending all my time in bed, which sounds pretty enjoyable to most hard-working people, and really isn't too bad for the first eight or nine hours. I've been here since 5 p.m. on Thursday afternoon and it's now Monday at 10:30 a.m. You could say that it's the opposite of geo-caching.
My only comfy position in bed is lying on my right side with knees bent and ice packs on the left hip and thigh. Dick has a great icing system going, and so I'm the world's luckiest icee.
I've lost my appetite. I'm blaming it on all these high-powered pain-killers. They also sometimes make me physically ill and unusually sleepy.
Since I flunked physical therapy, Dr. Burke cancelled all of the PT appointments and came up with a new plan. Here's the deal:
1. First we'll re-run the steroid medrol pack. He has confidence it will take away the pain the way it did before. That starts today, and lasts for 5 or 6 days.
2. After the pain is gone, I'll have an EMG on Sept. 11 to determine nerve damage and muscle weakness.
3. If necessary, I have an appointment with a neuro-surgeon on Sept. 21 to check out my bulging disc.
Here's my soft, cuddly present for being sick. His name is Fleming Bearie Steiger. I'm beginning to feel slightly better this afternoon. Some might say it's due to the steroids, but I know it's because of Fleming and Dick.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Random Thoughts Since Thursday
[This is just an attempt by me to catalog my experiences so I won't forget the chronology.]
Sciatica is not such a big deal.
Mine began on July 17.
A little inflammation, a little discomfort, a little medication, a little rest, a little therapy, and voila! You're good to go.
I spent a lot of time in the recliner, where I could find a couple of truly comfortable positions, helped by either ice or the heating pad.
I also found a comfortable position in bed, which was almost totally pain free.
We followed directions to the letter.
I have kept track of every pill taken since July 17.
I haven't cooked a meal or cleaned the kitchen. I have been able to do laundry. I have trouble standing.
Before the first therapy appointment I was totally off all pain meds except Tylenol for 2 1/2 days!
I was walking slowly and with a limp, but hardly any pain.
I was feeling very proud of myself. (That's what goeth before a fall, you know.)
But when we got to the therapy part, we were blind-sided by something...who knows what.
After the first therapy session I was walking slowly, assisted by a cane.
When I got home I took some pain pills just because of the jostling of the clinician's evaluation.
After the second session, I couldn't walk or stand without the cane.
The pain was worse than anything I had felt since the onset.
It's too painful for me to sit or recline for any length of time.
I can find no comfy position in either the recliner or the bed.
Walking (with the cane) is horribly uncomfortable.
When I walk into the bathroom, if no one is around, I whimper like a 4 year old (not my usual style).
I called the clinic on Friday to explain my situation, and to ask for suggestions for something I could do to help myself.
Rest, they said. Rest and call back on Monday.
I wish I could find a position really conducive to rest.
So I've been in bed all day Friday and Saturday, with one more day to go.
We have seen no improvement, not even one small improvement.
There is constant discomfort despite the pain meds.
I have totally lost my appetite.
Dick has been very watchful and helpful. He's really good at keeping me iced.
He got me a beautiful teddy bear named Fleming.
We had thought that I was far along on the road to recovery.
What the hell happened?
Sciatica is not such a big deal.
Mine began on July 17.
A little inflammation, a little discomfort, a little medication, a little rest, a little therapy, and voila! You're good to go.
I spent a lot of time in the recliner, where I could find a couple of truly comfortable positions, helped by either ice or the heating pad.
I also found a comfortable position in bed, which was almost totally pain free.
We followed directions to the letter.
I have kept track of every pill taken since July 17.
I haven't cooked a meal or cleaned the kitchen. I have been able to do laundry. I have trouble standing.
Before the first therapy appointment I was totally off all pain meds except Tylenol for 2 1/2 days!
I was walking slowly and with a limp, but hardly any pain.
I was feeling very proud of myself. (That's what goeth before a fall, you know.)
But when we got to the therapy part, we were blind-sided by something...who knows what.
After the first therapy session I was walking slowly, assisted by a cane.
When I got home I took some pain pills just because of the jostling of the clinician's evaluation.
After the second session, I couldn't walk or stand without the cane.
The pain was worse than anything I had felt since the onset.
It's too painful for me to sit or recline for any length of time.
I can find no comfy position in either the recliner or the bed.
Walking (with the cane) is horribly uncomfortable.
When I walk into the bathroom, if no one is around, I whimper like a 4 year old (not my usual style).
I called the clinic on Friday to explain my situation, and to ask for suggestions for something I could do to help myself.
Rest, they said. Rest and call back on Monday.
I wish I could find a position really conducive to rest.
So I've been in bed all day Friday and Saturday, with one more day to go.
We have seen no improvement, not even one small improvement.
There is constant discomfort despite the pain meds.
I have totally lost my appetite.
Dick has been very watchful and helpful. He's really good at keeping me iced.
He got me a beautiful teddy bear named Fleming.
We had thought that I was far along on the road to recovery.
What the hell happened?
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Photographic Evidence of Traction
After getting some kind of a clinical dispensation, the tech was allowed to photograph the traction. Nobody had ever asked to be photographed before. I simply cannot imagine why (!). There's a harness around the midsection pulled very tight to keep the upper spine immobile. The hip harness is what pulls your spine toward the end of the table. The little machine at the end of the table is what provides the pull. It cycles between 40 pounds of pull and 100 pounds of pull. It cycles for 20 minutes.
The cord draped over my chest is a call button for the tech in case I should need her for anything. The little box on the wall is a kill switch in case the machine goes perquackey and starts pulling me like Westley in The Princess Bride.
The cord beyond my feet is what pulls on the harness. You actually can feel your spine stretching - it's a good feeling - a good stretch. After the traction, the clinician comes in and has you do exercises. The tricky part is not to hurt yourself. Today I felt hurt when she was finished. I went to visit Mother, and I shouldn't have done that. I should have just come right home. When I got here, I started in on pain meds again, and even some valium. I kind of resent have been marginally "re-injured", but maybe that's just the way it goes. I'm going to ask about it next time. I don't go back until Monday.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
PT 2006
Physical Therapy has changed quite a bit in the past 25 years since the other time that I had sciatica.
First of all, this time the first encounter was longer. The whole visit took an hour and a half, with poor Dick sitting in the waiting room the whole time. The therapist spent about an hour doing an "evaluation", which means that I spent an hour walking up and down the hall 14,000 times for her, balancing on one leg after the other, pivoting, lying down on back, belly, right side, and left side while alternately raising my legs, bending, stretching, twisting in every position (Does this hurt? How about this?), standing on my head, waving my arms, and quacking like a duck.
The second part was a half hour of pelvic traction. The object of this is to "decompress" my spine. I also had cane practice. I'm not allowed to limp because limping negates the benefits of the traction. I have to use the cane just right so that my pelvis stays level. I use the cane at all times, even around the house.
The cane I use at home is the cane my Dad got when he graduated from the U of M. It has a block M on it, and under the M it says 3ED0, because he graduated with a degree in Education in 1930. The letters and numbers are in some kind of metal, but I don't know what it could be. Mother says I can't help but improve quickly using that cane!
I'll be going to PT three times a week for the next month. I think there will be pelvic traction each time. I hope we eventually get around to leg strengthening. I'm also trying some bed and chair exercises to counteract having been immobilized for the past month.
Today Dick did a lot of picking up and putting things away outside. He finished just before the rain started. Then we went to recycling, UPS, and Oleson's.
First of all, this time the first encounter was longer. The whole visit took an hour and a half, with poor Dick sitting in the waiting room the whole time. The therapist spent about an hour doing an "evaluation", which means that I spent an hour walking up and down the hall 14,000 times for her, balancing on one leg after the other, pivoting, lying down on back, belly, right side, and left side while alternately raising my legs, bending, stretching, twisting in every position (Does this hurt? How about this?), standing on my head, waving my arms, and quacking like a duck.
The second part was a half hour of pelvic traction. The object of this is to "decompress" my spine. I also had cane practice. I'm not allowed to limp because limping negates the benefits of the traction. I have to use the cane just right so that my pelvis stays level. I use the cane at all times, even around the house.
The cane I use at home is the cane my Dad got when he graduated from the U of M. It has a block M on it, and under the M it says 3ED0, because he graduated with a degree in Education in 1930. The letters and numbers are in some kind of metal, but I don't know what it could be. Mother says I can't help but improve quickly using that cane!
I'll be going to PT three times a week for the next month. I think there will be pelvic traction each time. I hope we eventually get around to leg strengthening. I'm also trying some bed and chair exercises to counteract having been immobilized for the past month.
Today Dick did a lot of picking up and putting things away outside. He finished just before the rain started. Then we went to recycling, UPS, and Oleson's.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
A Plan
I waited all day for a phone call from the Doctor. I kept checking the phone all day to see if there was a dial tone. We got 4 other calls, so I knew that the phone was working. Finally, I called the clinic yesterday afternoon 5 minutes before they closed. I very politely inquired as to when I might expect to hear the results of the test that I had 10 days ago. She very sweetly said that she would give Dr. Burke's nurse a reminder note, and that I could expect a call this morning. I guess all it took was that little kick in the pants!
Dr. Burke actually did phone me this morning. He called at 8:11 a.m. (Don't you love digital clocks?) The MRI showed a lot of arthritic changes in my spine, but he says that everybody over 60 has osteo-arthritis in their spine. It also showed several bulging discs in the lumbar region, but the trouble-making disc is L-4, which is bulging enough to pinch my sciatic nerve.
I'm starting physical therapy today at 3 o'clock. I'll do the PT for a month, and he says that by the time of the wedding I should be "moderately improved". I don't know what that means, but it doesn't sound too bad. If I'm not moderately improved in a month, then he says he would want to do some more tests.
A really good sign is that I haven't taken any pain meds except regular Tylenol for two days now. The pain is mostly gone, but walking is still difficult.
So, I have a Goal, a Plan, the Motivation, and a Cheerleader (Dick). I think I'll be good to go.
Dr. Burke actually did phone me this morning. He called at 8:11 a.m. (Don't you love digital clocks?) The MRI showed a lot of arthritic changes in my spine, but he says that everybody over 60 has osteo-arthritis in their spine. It also showed several bulging discs in the lumbar region, but the trouble-making disc is L-4, which is bulging enough to pinch my sciatic nerve.
I'm starting physical therapy today at 3 o'clock. I'll do the PT for a month, and he says that by the time of the wedding I should be "moderately improved". I don't know what that means, but it doesn't sound too bad. If I'm not moderately improved in a month, then he says he would want to do some more tests.
A really good sign is that I haven't taken any pain meds except regular Tylenol for two days now. The pain is mostly gone, but walking is still difficult.
So, I have a Goal, a Plan, the Motivation, and a Cheerleader (Dick). I think I'll be good to go.
Monday, August 21, 2006
What The Heck, Go For It
My Doc didn't call again today, so I just went ahead and RSVPed to Joyce in California that we would be there for all of the wedding activities. I figure I have a whole month to practice walking. We just now mailed the post card.
Jana is always so inspirational - this is what her email said:
Thanks, Jana. And now I definitely do have a Goal!
Jana is always so inspirational - this is what her email said:
Actually I think it is kind of good to have a Goal to Work Towards, you
know? Especially since no one will provide any tunnel lightness for
you, you can come up with your own tunnel lightness.
I am being a nag here -- but, you know that katami bar? I think 2
minutes daily of using it to stretch would probably be really, really
good. I mean, unless it hurts. Remember -- stretching feels gooooood.
Thanks, Jana. And now I definitely do have a Goal!
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Mom and a Ride
We had a good visit with Mother. She tires quickly, and confuses parts of the conversation because of her poor hearing. But generally speaking she's fine.
We did a little cache maintenance, stopped to look over another park for possiblities, and did our cruise. I was shocked at how weak my left leg is and how slowly I was walking. The sciatica pain is mostly gone if I behave myself, but there's still a lot of work to do.
We did a little cache maintenance, stopped to look over another park for possiblities, and did our cruise. I was shocked at how weak my left leg is and how slowly I was walking. The sciatica pain is mostly gone if I behave myself, but there's still a lot of work to do.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
No News
Since the MRI was a week ago, I was pretty sure I would hear about the results by Friday. But there hasn't been a phone call or letter, so the next possibility is not until Monday. I would really like to get started on some kind of rehab - my left leg is noticeably weaker, and I walk like a drunken sailor. I'm mostly just elevating it and resting it.
My shoes for California came, and they're all fine except for the dressiest ones which were way too tight - hope I can exchange them. I lke the style.
Rick emailed that Fritz and Ruth will be going to Traverse Manor on Sept. 2. It's a real relief that there is finally a plan for the two of rhem. They both need so much help, and they're so far from family. I know Fritz will be both frustrated and relieved. He hates the part about not being able to drive anymore, but he'll be so relieved to have help with Ruth, who is very high maintainance at this stage of her life.
Dick took some cachers out to Power Island this morning to find the oldest cache in Michigan. He said they all were successful and had a good time. I believe it was photobug2, rathergohiking & the Waypoint Kid, and the Farm Boy and the Teacher. I think he has plans to take another group out there on the 25th. He went caching with them yesterday too.
My shoes for California came, and they're all fine except for the dressiest ones which were way too tight - hope I can exchange them. I lke the style.
Rick emailed that Fritz and Ruth will be going to Traverse Manor on Sept. 2. It's a real relief that there is finally a plan for the two of rhem. They both need so much help, and they're so far from family. I know Fritz will be both frustrated and relieved. He hates the part about not being able to drive anymore, but he'll be so relieved to have help with Ruth, who is very high maintainance at this stage of her life.
Dick took some cachers out to Power Island this morning to find the oldest cache in Michigan. He said they all were successful and had a good time. I believe it was photobug2, rathergohiking & the Waypoint Kid, and the Farm Boy and the Teacher. I think he has plans to take another group out there on the 25th. He went caching with them yesterday too.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Kim is Home, Kim is Home
The ordeal is over for Kim and Mike! We got this email last night, and we were so happy and totally surprised! They sort of sneaked out of Minnesota at the first possible moment. Who can blame them!! I edited the email to remove most of the personal things and all of the medical numbers, etc. But I couldn't resist including it because I think it's so charming, positive, and romantic in its own way:
Arrived in CA at 0200 this am.1 day earlier than anticipated since all
apptments were done on Tues afternoon and the need was overwhelming to
scram. The gal needed to get home."Home." An interesting concept when
you relocate 2000 miles from 12 years ofdeep friendships andmost of
your family only weeks before losing an organ system temporarily and
downsize 50% in housing,But here it is,2 months later and our house
is NOW a home. Like when you bring your first kid back from the
hospital when they are born...but better. This team was short our power
hitter for too long this season.
The Kid was unbelievable. I would have crumpled. Temps in the 104 range
for days,pain, diarrhea, pulmonary compromise,full body edema,
nausea....Got on the plane late last night as instructed: scarf, hat,
leg wraps and filtration mask. Fellow travelers wondering....Jessica?
Garbo? Jennifer? They have no idea. She Belongs to Me - (Bob Dylan
http://bobdylan.com/songs/belongs.html)
We did it. Time to make living routine with more than a touch of
priority affirmation, thankfulness, and perspective. Thanks to everyone
for their support, thoughts and encouragement.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Hey! I Lost a Day!
Sleep is a wonderful thing - but are you really supposed to sleep for a whole day? I lay down yesterday afternoon for a nap. When Dick woke me up for supper, I fell asleep over my plate, and couldn't stay awake long enough to eat anything. So he very gently suggested that I just go back to bed, which I did with no argument. I did wake up at 1:25 a.m. and sort of watched TV for about an hour, went back to bed and was wakened by Dylan's phone call at around 7:30 a.m. Went back to bed and finally did get up and dressed around 9 a.m. Then Dick decided to go caching around 9:30. As soon as he left, I went back to bed. Holy cow. I didn't wake up until he called around 1 p.m.
I figure I must have slept for 18 or 19 hours. This just never happens. I hope I've caught up on my zzz's by now.
Just got a call from my cousin Virginia who told me that Aunt Effie died last night at the age of 108 1/2. She would have been 109 in November. When Aunt Effie was 100, someone asked her how it felt to be that old. She said, "Well, there's no peer pressure!" She had many descendants both living and dead. It will be interesting to read her obit. Mother is now the only surviving daughter-in-law of Grandma Kanitz's nine sons and daughters-in-law. Dad was the last surviving son. Makes sense because they were the youngest of the eighteen sons and daughters-in-law.
Here's a picture of the whole family - Grandma and her nine sons and their wives. In this pose, the men are seated according to age, with Uncle Walt and Aunt Opal on the left, and Mom and Dad on the right. Grandma, of course, is in the middle.
In this picture Mom is on the left. Aunt Effie is seated the furthest left by the big round pitcher. (It was green.) It must have been take the same day as the one above because doesn't it look like they're all wearing the same clothes?
It's hard to believe that Mom is the only one left.
I figure I must have slept for 18 or 19 hours. This just never happens. I hope I've caught up on my zzz's by now.
Just got a call from my cousin Virginia who told me that Aunt Effie died last night at the age of 108 1/2. She would have been 109 in November. When Aunt Effie was 100, someone asked her how it felt to be that old. She said, "Well, there's no peer pressure!" She had many descendants both living and dead. It will be interesting to read her obit. Mother is now the only surviving daughter-in-law of Grandma Kanitz's nine sons and daughters-in-law. Dad was the last surviving son. Makes sense because they were the youngest of the eighteen sons and daughters-in-law.
Here's a picture of the whole family - Grandma and her nine sons and their wives. In this pose, the men are seated according to age, with Uncle Walt and Aunt Opal on the left, and Mom and Dad on the right. Grandma, of course, is in the middle. 
In this picture Mom is on the left. Aunt Effie is seated the furthest left by the big round pitcher. (It was green.) It must have been take the same day as the one above because doesn't it look like they're all wearing the same clothes?It's hard to believe that Mom is the only one left.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Hi Mom
The Big Event of the day was going to visit mother. She was very glad to see that she really does still have a daughter.
We took care of all of the financial details, additions, balancings and such. We caught up on all of the Concord Place doings (there aren't any), and enjoyed recounting all of the cute Dylan stories from July.
Mother gave me all of the good motherly advice about taking care of myself, not overdoing, canceling the California trip and many other things that I should and shouldn't do. She'll be 98 in a month, and she's still mothering me! So watch out kids - I guess it never ends.
We had a great drive through town on a perfectly beautiful day, and Dick showed me the lot that L&C picked out.
And I didn't overdo, Mother.
We took care of all of the financial details, additions, balancings and such. We caught up on all of the Concord Place doings (there aren't any), and enjoyed recounting all of the cute Dylan stories from July.
Mother gave me all of the good motherly advice about taking care of myself, not overdoing, canceling the California trip and many other things that I should and shouldn't do. She'll be 98 in a month, and she's still mothering me! So watch out kids - I guess it never ends.
We had a great drive through town on a perfectly beautiful day, and Dick showed me the lot that L&C picked out.
And I didn't overdo, Mother.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
MRI Redux
Had the test. Now mind you I've give up whining forever, so this is not a whine - this is a completely objective report.
This time the MRI seemed even noisier than I remembered, and quite uncomfortable because you have to lie flat on your back for the whole time, and that's the position I especially haven't been able to tolerate for the past couple of weeks. The test seemed to go on for an hour, but as I left the clock showed only 25 minutes had passed. It seemed to be a long time to stay motionless in an uncomfortable position. But it's over! That's the best part.
We went for a lovely ride and got iced tea and it was just like being alive again.
Downtown was beautiful and full of "touristers", and you wouldn't believe what's happening on Washington Street. The last half of the day was lovely.
This time the MRI seemed even noisier than I remembered, and quite uncomfortable because you have to lie flat on your back for the whole time, and that's the position I especially haven't been able to tolerate for the past couple of weeks. The test seemed to go on for an hour, but as I left the clock showed only 25 minutes had passed. It seemed to be a long time to stay motionless in an uncomfortable position. But it's over! That's the best part.
We went for a lovely ride and got iced tea and it was just like being alive again.
Downtown was beautiful and full of "touristers", and you wouldn't believe what's happening on Washington Street. The last half of the day was lovely.
Friday, August 11, 2006
The Iceman Cometh
The repairman from Max's came today and finished the refrigerator. So now we have a new gasket and a new ice-maker. No more buying bags of ice - hooray! No more condensation on the floor. Hooray!
I'm having fun ordering things on the internet while I'm sitting in my chair healing up. Mostly great stuff for scrapbooking, and some necessary wardrobe items. Yes, that's it - necessary items.
I'm having fun ordering things on the internet while I'm sitting in my chair healing up. Mostly great stuff for scrapbooking, and some necessary wardrobe items. Yes, that's it - necessary items.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
All we Can do is Cry
I'm a student of common sense and rationality, straightforwardness and integrity
http://www.slate.com/id/2147398/?nav=aisDr. C
http://www.slate.com/id/2147398/?nav=aisDr. C
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
What, Me Whine??
I actually am quite a bit better than I was 3 weeks ago, but to be honest, I thought I would be totally better by now.
It seems to me that I've been complaining a lot so I'm going to try to keep a stiff upper lip and stop being such a whiner - especially when I know so many people at the moment who have much more whinable situations than I have.
Just for one example, have you ever heard Aunt Odette whine about anything at all? Me either. (Well. maybe once I heard a sort of a whine about Uncle Doug, but nothing at all compared to a Nan-Whine.)
And our friends Tim & Susie for example - Susie's Mom died last Feb., and last Sunday Tim's Mom had a stroke of the more serious sort and are they whining? Nope - they're dealing with it.
Kimiko Marie is the least whinable person on the planet. Here she is, dealing with tests, proedures, pokings and proddings beyond our wildest imaginations, more closely threatened than we will ever be by life-ending situations on a minute to minute timeline, and yet teasing her Dr. hubby and blaming it on febrile delirium. A whiner? I don't think so. Michael sends daily updates and here's a sample:
Today pretty much the same..fever 39-40 which is not uncommon, every
antibiotic known being given, IV fluids, tylenol, Mag, Phos, Potassium
and gatorade orally as tolerated. A waiting game where, we are told,
cells start to produce anywhere from day 10-14. Today is 11. She is
strong and upbeat, resting with a fever. Still comes up with zingers
claiming febrile delirium. Ha.
(Haven't heard one whine from either of them yet. By the way a temp of 39-40 equals approximately 104* F.)
As for me, my leg hurts. Big whoop. Oh the tragedy of it all. I can't think of a better place to spend my downtime, or a better person to spend it with, or a better doctor, better neighbors, or more beautiful scenery out my window, or nicer weather. I'm the most fortunate whiner in the galaxy. To those who are sick of hearing about my stupid sciatica, I'm sick of it too - so this is the end. No more complaining. Amen.
(With the possible exception of my kids, who have earned a little mom-whining over the past 45 years. Some more than others. Sorry, kids.)
It seems to me that I've been complaining a lot so I'm going to try to keep a stiff upper lip and stop being such a whiner - especially when I know so many people at the moment who have much more whinable situations than I have.
Just for one example, have you ever heard Aunt Odette whine about anything at all? Me either. (Well. maybe once I heard a sort of a whine about Uncle Doug, but nothing at all compared to a Nan-Whine.)
And our friends Tim & Susie for example - Susie's Mom died last Feb., and last Sunday Tim's Mom had a stroke of the more serious sort and are they whining? Nope - they're dealing with it.
Kimiko Marie is the least whinable person on the planet. Here she is, dealing with tests, proedures, pokings and proddings beyond our wildest imaginations, more closely threatened than we will ever be by life-ending situations on a minute to minute timeline, and yet teasing her Dr. hubby and blaming it on febrile delirium. A whiner? I don't think so. Michael sends daily updates and here's a sample:
Today pretty much the same..fever 39-40 which is not uncommon, every
antibiotic known being given, IV fluids, tylenol, Mag, Phos, Potassium
and gatorade orally as tolerated. A waiting game where, we are told,
cells start to produce anywhere from day 10-14. Today is 11. She is
strong and upbeat, resting with a fever. Still comes up with zingers
claiming febrile delirium. Ha.
(Haven't heard one whine from either of them yet. By the way a temp of 39-40 equals approximately 104* F.)
As for me, my leg hurts. Big whoop. Oh the tragedy of it all. I can't think of a better place to spend my downtime, or a better person to spend it with, or a better doctor, better neighbors, or more beautiful scenery out my window, or nicer weather. I'm the most fortunate whiner in the galaxy. To those who are sick of hearing about my stupid sciatica, I'm sick of it too - so this is the end. No more complaining. Amen.
(With the possible exception of my kids, who have earned a little mom-whining over the past 45 years. Some more than others. Sorry, kids.)
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
In Another Galaxy Not So Far Away
I'm spending the day sitting in the recliner. Again. With my vicodin of course.
Dick has been bustling around stacking wood, shopping, etc. I'm sitting in this chair. Whoopee. But I'm not feeling sorry for myself because I think I've turned a corner - this is the first day that I have felt better since July 20, so that's very positive.
Kids have sent roses - so beautiful. Thank goodness for the laptop - it's been my link to life, news, & friends. I haven't been able to concentrate on reading, which is usually quite a lifesaver...but this time it's just been too hard to get into a comfy reading position. I am much better today and I'm thinking I'll be terrific in another two weeks.
In another galaxy of medical expertise Kim has begun to respond to her drastic treatment. She has a massive number of cheerleaders on her side, and such a supportive family! Go platelets, go platelets!!
Everybody has someone to worry about - could be yourself, your spouse, a friend or a neighbor. The worst worry of all has to be your child of any age who is putting up such a fight for life and all you can do is be there. So Sniders, we're with you 100%- if all of the friends who are thinking of you were actually there, Mayo would have to add a new wing or two. And if Marie could only be there, she would get those doctors straightened out.
Dick has been bustling around stacking wood, shopping, etc. I'm sitting in this chair. Whoopee. But I'm not feeling sorry for myself because I think I've turned a corner - this is the first day that I have felt better since July 20, so that's very positive.
Kids have sent roses - so beautiful. Thank goodness for the laptop - it's been my link to life, news, & friends. I haven't been able to concentrate on reading, which is usually quite a lifesaver...but this time it's just been too hard to get into a comfy reading position. I am much better today and I'm thinking I'll be terrific in another two weeks.
In another galaxy of medical expertise Kim has begun to respond to her drastic treatment. She has a massive number of cheerleaders on her side, and such a supportive family! Go platelets, go platelets!!
Everybody has someone to worry about - could be yourself, your spouse, a friend or a neighbor. The worst worry of all has to be your child of any age who is putting up such a fight for life and all you can do is be there. So Sniders, we're with you 100%- if all of the friends who are thinking of you were actually there, Mayo would have to add a new wing or two. And if Marie could only be there, she would get those doctors straightened out.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Lost in a Valium Bottle For 3 Weeks
My latest scientific discovery is that valium (5mg) is useless. It was prescribed as part of a pain regimen to relieve the discomfort of sciatica.
I wrote a letter to L,T & J yesterday whining about my sciatica pain and my medications. Thank goodness for children - you can usually subject them to some heartfelt whining without fear of a series of repercussions. It's a good type of
payback. Here's part of my letter from Tom:
>> I recommend morphine. It rocks.
Do you have some you could spare?
>>Sadly, no. It requires hospitalization.
It seems that vicodin is the morphine of Northern MI.
>>Yeah as far as I can tell doctors hand out Vicodin like lollypops.
I've got a lifetime supply. It doesn't really work. Granted, if I take two Vicodin when I'm not in serious pain I get high as a kite. But when my kidney stone kicks
in it's like the Vicodin isn't even there. I've got Percoset, too,
which according to Dr. Amy is supposed to be stronger but I haven't
noticed a difference.
I told my Doc he could either give me morphine or shoot me, but
all I got was vicodin and valium.
>Never tried Valium. I think my margaritas are probably more effective
>than any of that crap. Seriously.
So far it's about as effective as having the Pope wave some smoke
in my general direction.
>Yeah, I definitely feel for you. With the kidney stone the attacks
>usually only last 2-6 hours. It sucks, but you can gut it out. I
>can't imagine it going on for days and days.
>> Or the Ditty Bops. They are touring Michigan.
Do THEY have morphine?
>Doubtful. Maybe an outside shot at some pot, but that's probably about it.
*****************************************
I ran out of valium today, and while I was waiting for the refill to be fetched I noticed that I was feeling much better without it. A LOT better! Valium had no effect on the pain whatsoever, and I actually feel more like myself.
Sometimes I get the feeling that the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians are in charge of boiling the leaves and bark for my pain medication.
I was prescribed Darvocet originally for the sciatica, but it made me physically ill. The next thing we tried was percoset plus valium. This combo totally knocked me out -it didn't touch the pain, but it did put me to sleep. So now I'm happy just taking the vicodin by itself. I'm actually feeling halfway normal.
I wrote a letter to L,T & J yesterday whining about my sciatica pain and my medications. Thank goodness for children - you can usually subject them to some heartfelt whining without fear of a series of repercussions. It's a good type of
payback. Here's part of my letter from Tom:
>> I recommend morphine. It rocks.
Do you have some you could spare?
>>Sadly, no. It requires hospitalization.
It seems that vicodin is the morphine of Northern MI.
>>Yeah as far as I can tell doctors hand out Vicodin like lollypops.
I've got a lifetime supply. It doesn't really work. Granted, if I take two Vicodin when I'm not in serious pain I get high as a kite. But when my kidney stone kicks
in it's like the Vicodin isn't even there. I've got Percoset, too,
which according to Dr. Amy is supposed to be stronger but I haven't
noticed a difference.
I told my Doc he could either give me morphine or shoot me, but
all I got was vicodin and valium.
>Never tried Valium. I think my margaritas are probably more effective
>than any of that crap. Seriously.
So far it's about as effective as having the Pope wave some smoke
in my general direction.
>Yeah, I definitely feel for you. With the kidney stone the attacks
>usually only last 2-6 hours. It sucks, but you can gut it out. I
>can't imagine it going on for days and days.
>> Or the Ditty Bops. They are touring Michigan.
Do THEY have morphine?
>Doubtful. Maybe an outside shot at some pot, but that's probably about it.
*****************************************
I ran out of valium today, and while I was waiting for the refill to be fetched I noticed that I was feeling much better without it. A LOT better! Valium had no effect on the pain whatsoever, and I actually feel more like myself.
Sometimes I get the feeling that the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians are in charge of boiling the leaves and bark for my pain medication.
I was prescribed Darvocet originally for the sciatica, but it made me physically ill. The next thing we tried was percoset plus valium. This combo totally knocked me out -it didn't touch the pain, but it did put me to sleep. So now I'm happy just taking the vicodin by itself. I'm actually feeling halfway normal.
Saturday, August 05, 2006
In Hot (Dog) Water
When you're ill and you have diabetes and high blood pressure, your body does even stranger things than usual. One of the things that happens to me is that I lose my appetite, yet get certain cravings. So for the past week I haven't been eating properly, and I've had a craving for ice cream (butter pecan).This is nobody's fault but my own, and may not even be my fault, who knows. The diabetes guidelines know all about this, but unless you're a true student of your disease, how would you even know about it. This is what you're supposed to know:
Food for sick days
If you are too sick to follow your meal plan, try to replace carbohydrates with liquids or soft foods. Carbohydrates provide sugar so that the body does not have to burn fat for energy. Burning fat produces ketones, which can be dangerous. Carbohydrates also prevent blood sugar from dropping too low.
Small, frequent feedings may be easier for you to tolerate during an illness, and help your digestive system provide energy to your cells more quickly.
Try to drink 4 ounces of clear liquids such as tea, apple juice, or diet soda every hour.
If you can keep food down, but still have no appetite, try l/2 cup cream soup, 1/2 cup cooked cereal, 1 cup plain yogurt, Jell-O, 1/2 banana, 1 scrambled egg, 1/2 cup custard, or l/2 cup sherbet. Once you're feeling better, try adding toast, vanilla wafers, and small amounts of food from your regular meal plan. Avoid spicy foods.
[Yogurt and banana worked pretty well, as did butter pecan ice cream.]
Diabetes :
Sick Day Management
(Your blood sugar may go up if you have a cold, flu or infection.)
1. Check blood sugar if you have these symptoms.
A. Symptoms
1. Fever
2. Loss of appetite
3. Nausea
4. Vomiting
5. Loose watery stools
6. Increase in thirst or hunger
7. Urinating causes pain
B. Monitor
1. Before breakfast
2. Before lunch
3. Before dinner
4. Bedtime
2. Always take your insulin or diabetes pill even if you cannot eat your regular foods
3. Drink plenty of fluids
A. Eight ounces of calorie free liquids every hour (noncaffeine)
1. Water
2. Bouillon
3. Canned clear soups
4. Tea or Diet soda
If you cannot tolerate liquids by mouth, see your doctor for antinausea medication or possible I.V. (in the vein) fluids.
B. If blood sugar level is equal to or greater than 250 to 300 before you meal, continue to drink calorie free liquids.
C. If blood sugar is 180-250 before your meal, eat one food choice equal to 15 grams of carbohydrate.
Each of the following foods and beverages contain approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates:
1/2 cup apple juice
1/3 cup frozen yogurt
1/2 -3/4 cup regular carbonated beverage (not diet)
1/2 cup regular vanilla ice cream
3/4 of a double-stick popsicle
1 cup gatorade
3 teaspoons honey
1/4 cup sherbet
5 Lifesavers
1/4 cup regular pudding
1 slice dry toast
1/3 cup sweetened Jell-o gelatin
1 cup broth-based soup
6 saltines
D. If blood sugar is equal to or less than 180 before your meal or urine shows negative ketones and food is tolerated, eat your usual meal.
4. Check for ketones if blood sugar is equal to or greater than 240.
5. Please telephone your health care provider if you have any of these conditions.
A. Temperature equal to or greater than 101
B. Vomiting occurs more than once, CALL IMMEDIATELY
C. Breathing is difficult
D. Loose watery stools occur more than five times in a 24 hour period.
E. Blood glucose levels are higher than 300 after checking twice.
F. Urine ketones measure moderate or large.
*************************************************************************************************************************
This is probably such good advice to someone who is clear headed and pain free and interested. But for someone who is hallucinating about wild cats, unable to find one single comfortable position, and trying very hard not to overdose on some very strong medication, those guidelines are written in hieroglyphics,
Diabetic people can't fast -they have to have something every 4 or 5 hours just to keep conscious. I remember having a banana sometime this morning. But now it was 4:30 and time for something else. A hot dog seemed quick and easy and so I asked about the possibility of a hot dog. I could have done it myself, but standing is still very very uncomfortable so I asked Dick if I could have one. This elicited some kind of a shouting tantrum beginning with NOW? You want a hot dog NOW? And something vague about how I'd thoughtlessly, impolitely slept through filet mignon and sweet corn last night, and so how could I possibly want hot dogs now when anyone could intuit that we were to have chateau briand and pate de foie gras in a mere 3 hours or so. Now I'm in hot water with Dick because I wanted a hot dog. I did get two lovely delicious hot dogs which I enjoyed and appreciated. But I have a feeling that Dick is not speaking to me at the moment. It's possible that sciatica lasts much too long to put up with, and that I would do everyone a favor by taking a week at a good hotel.
Pineapple juice is the answer. Or peanut butter crackers. Or keeping popped corn on hand. It really doesn't take much.
I just have to deal with it.
Food for sick days
If you are too sick to follow your meal plan, try to replace carbohydrates with liquids or soft foods. Carbohydrates provide sugar so that the body does not have to burn fat for energy. Burning fat produces ketones, which can be dangerous. Carbohydrates also prevent blood sugar from dropping too low.
Small, frequent feedings may be easier for you to tolerate during an illness, and help your digestive system provide energy to your cells more quickly.
Try to drink 4 ounces of clear liquids such as tea, apple juice, or diet soda every hour.
If you can keep food down, but still have no appetite, try l/2 cup cream soup, 1/2 cup cooked cereal, 1 cup plain yogurt, Jell-O, 1/2 banana, 1 scrambled egg, 1/2 cup custard, or l/2 cup sherbet. Once you're feeling better, try adding toast, vanilla wafers, and small amounts of food from your regular meal plan. Avoid spicy foods.
[Yogurt and banana worked pretty well, as did butter pecan ice cream.]
Diabetes :
Sick Day Management
(Your blood sugar may go up if you have a cold, flu or infection.)
1. Check blood sugar if you have these symptoms.
A. Symptoms
1. Fever
2. Loss of appetite
3. Nausea
4. Vomiting
5. Loose watery stools
6. Increase in thirst or hunger
7. Urinating causes pain
B. Monitor
1. Before breakfast
2. Before lunch
3. Before dinner
4. Bedtime
2. Always take your insulin or diabetes pill even if you cannot eat your regular foods
3. Drink plenty of fluids
A. Eight ounces of calorie free liquids every hour (noncaffeine)
1. Water
2. Bouillon
3. Canned clear soups
4. Tea or Diet soda
If you cannot tolerate liquids by mouth, see your doctor for antinausea medication or possible I.V. (in the vein) fluids.
B. If blood sugar level is equal to or greater than 250 to 300 before you meal, continue to drink calorie free liquids.
C. If blood sugar is 180-250 before your meal, eat one food choice equal to 15 grams of carbohydrate.
Each of the following foods and beverages contain approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates:
1/2 cup apple juice
1/3 cup frozen yogurt
1/2 -3/4 cup regular carbonated beverage (not diet)
1/2 cup regular vanilla ice cream
3/4 of a double-stick popsicle
1 cup gatorade
3 teaspoons honey
1/4 cup sherbet
5 Lifesavers
1/4 cup regular pudding
1 slice dry toast
1/3 cup sweetened Jell-o gelatin
1 cup broth-based soup
6 saltines
D. If blood sugar is equal to or less than 180 before your meal or urine shows negative ketones and food is tolerated, eat your usual meal.
4. Check for ketones if blood sugar is equal to or greater than 240.
5. Please telephone your health care provider if you have any of these conditions.
A. Temperature equal to or greater than 101
B. Vomiting occurs more than once, CALL IMMEDIATELY
C. Breathing is difficult
D. Loose watery stools occur more than five times in a 24 hour period.
E. Blood glucose levels are higher than 300 after checking twice.
F. Urine ketones measure moderate or large.
*************************************************************************************************************************
This is probably such good advice to someone who is clear headed and pain free and interested. But for someone who is hallucinating about wild cats, unable to find one single comfortable position, and trying very hard not to overdose on some very strong medication, those guidelines are written in hieroglyphics,
Diabetic people can't fast -they have to have something every 4 or 5 hours just to keep conscious. I remember having a banana sometime this morning. But now it was 4:30 and time for something else. A hot dog seemed quick and easy and so I asked about the possibility of a hot dog. I could have done it myself, but standing is still very very uncomfortable so I asked Dick if I could have one. This elicited some kind of a shouting tantrum beginning with NOW? You want a hot dog NOW? And something vague about how I'd thoughtlessly, impolitely slept through filet mignon and sweet corn last night, and so how could I possibly want hot dogs now when anyone could intuit that we were to have chateau briand and pate de foie gras in a mere 3 hours or so. Now I'm in hot water with Dick because I wanted a hot dog. I did get two lovely delicious hot dogs which I enjoyed and appreciated. But I have a feeling that Dick is not speaking to me at the moment. It's possible that sciatica lasts much too long to put up with, and that I would do everyone a favor by taking a week at a good hotel.
Pineapple juice is the answer. Or peanut butter crackers. Or keeping popped corn on hand. It really doesn't take much.
I just have to deal with it.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Suddenly It's Over
This was the last day of the Big Annual visit of Chip, Laurie and Dylan. Things went very smoothly largely because Laurie had things pretty much under control last night.
Dylan and I had time for a long talk about the visit - some new things that we did and some other things that we didn't have time for this year. We missed riding the pontoon on Torch Lake this year, and stopping at Docksides for their fabulous cherry chicken salad for example.
He always enjoys the family picnic and he really enjoyed going tubing at the Rapids this year...I'm sure it will be a "must-do" activity next year. I think they went down there three times this summer.
Dylan was especially sweet this year, especially to his Grandma. When the sciatica flared up, he couldn't have been nicer or more understandintg.
Dylan and I had time for a long talk about the visit - some new things that we did and some other things that we didn't have time for this year. We missed riding the pontoon on Torch Lake this year, and stopping at Docksides for their fabulous cherry chicken salad for example.
He always enjoys the family picnic and he really enjoyed going tubing at the Rapids this year...I'm sure it will be a "must-do" activity next year. I think they went down there three times this summer.
Dylan was especially sweet this year, especially to his Grandma. When the sciatica flared up, he couldn't have been nicer or more understandintg.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Good Drugs
Went to bed at 10:30 p.m.- woke when phone rang at 8 a.m. Slept through the night just like a baby. Vicodin,steroids,aleve & valium.
Played with Dylan - magnet games. Made magnet book for Dylan.
Guys went tubing from 1-4 at rapids.
Napped whole time.
Kids leave tomorrow.
i feel sick,hurt,out of it,sad because of incomplete visit. Wish they could come for Christmas or something. Once a year is not enough. especially when one is laid up for more than a week,.
Played with Dylan - magnet games. Made magnet book for Dylan.
Guys went tubing from 1-4 at rapids.
Napped whole time.
Kids leave tomorrow.
i feel sick,hurt,out of it,sad because of incomplete visit. Wish they could come for Christmas or something. Once a year is not enough. especially when one is laid up for more than a week,.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Dragged To Doc
Dick woke me up from a drug-induced haze at 8:15 a.m. and told me I had an appointment with the doctor at 9;15. Well I was in no shape to even get out of bed , let alone go out into public. So naturally I gave him a bit of a hard time - Why are you doing this to me, etc,etc.
Well we got there and the Doc is as great as ever. He decides the percocet is not working. so on we go to vicodin, and a steroid medol pack. He schedules a lumbar MRI in August. Whatever. All I want is to go back to bed.
Well we got there and the Doc is as great as ever. He decides the percocet is not working. so on we go to vicodin, and a steroid medol pack. He schedules a lumbar MRI in August. Whatever. All I want is to go back to bed.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Mackinac Island Day 1
They left this morning
.
They found 3 caches today.
I got a prescription for valium in the mail.
I plan to sleep for 2 days.
.
They found 3 caches today.
I got a prescription for valium in the mail.
I plan to sleep for 2 days.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Healing Soon Please
My family has gone to Mackinac Island for a couple of days - I'm stuck here, sidelined by sciatica. (For more than you ever wanted to know about sciatica, see link above.) I have very good pain meds, good books, a heating pad, and a great recliner. I've been well stocked with all of my favorite foods, and I've already had 3 phone calls from the guys. I'm just dozing most of the day, and really glad of some time to myself to promote the healing process. You know how it is - with family around you always overdo even when you know better.
Dick is such a love - he says his hotel room is just fine, except it's too empty. Awwww... but we both know I'm better off here. My Doc says we'll give it 2 weeks and see how much better things are. If it's not better, we'll maybe do some P.T.
The guys are at the Fort on the Island right now, and their tickets will be good for tomorrow too, so it was good timing. Dylan found a sea gull feather on the dock at Mackinac City, and he says that it made the ferry go faster! Dick has several geocaches lined up that he wants to do while he's there. I think they'll have such a good time.
Dick is such a love - he says his hotel room is just fine, except it's too empty. Awwww... but we both know I'm better off here. My Doc says we'll give it 2 weeks and see how much better things are. If it's not better, we'll maybe do some P.T.
The guys are at the Fort on the Island right now, and their tickets will be good for tomorrow too, so it was good timing. Dylan found a sea gull feather on the dock at Mackinac City, and he says that it made the ferry go faster! Dick has several geocaches lined up that he wants to do while he's there. I think they'll have such a good time.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
The Blues
I am so disappointed. This attack of sciatica is just darned inconvenient! I have pictures that Dick took of the last two days of activities of L,C andD (tubing and geocaching) but I can't go upstairs and put them on the blog. Sitting in that desk chair is just too uncomfortable. I'll post them when I'm feeling better.
I saw the doctor yesterday - he has prescribed 3 different meds for me, and one combo is working for about 2 1/2 hours at a time. So I just kind of zone out for a while. But later, moving around is still very uncomfortable. Tomorrow everybody is leaving for Mackinac Island, so I'll have plenty of time to rest.
I saw the doctor yesterday - he has prescribed 3 different meds for me, and one combo is working for about 2 1/2 hours at a time. So I just kind of zone out for a while. But later, moving around is still very uncomfortable. Tomorrow everybody is leaving for Mackinac Island, so I'll have plenty of time to rest.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Back to Old Mission
At the Old Mission Lighthouse, Laurie, Chip and Dylan walked way, way out in the water. It stays shallow forever.
We found a very pleasant spot in the shade to read, people watch, and wait for them. The breeze was heavenly.
Here's Mr. D. after walking in the shallows.
A blast from the past - drinking Faygo Red Pop at the Bad Dog Deli. We ran into Rathergohiking and the Waypoint Kid there, and met the rest of their family.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Day at the Dunes
And there they go - up the Dune Climb for the Big Adventure.
Here's Laurie returning from the hike to the Big Lake.
When Dylan got back, there was a lot of sand to dump out of his shoes!
Chip and Dylan gave each other a High Five when they got back from the Big Trek!
Chip timed the hike so we would know exactly how long it took: 2 hours, 40 minutes, and 17 seconds.
Ice and cold beverages waiting at the end. This was a good time to hear all of the stories!Laurie, Chip and Dylan decided that this year they're "dune" it - walking from the Sleeping Bear Dune Climb over to Lake Michigan. The hike is 3.5 miles round trip, but it's mostly through sand, and there are four or five dunes to climb on the way over. We researched it, and talked to the Rangers and everything. They said it would take 3 to 4 hours to complete the hike, but our guys did it in 2 hours, 40 minutes and 17 seconds! They're massive! They took water and snacks, and while it was difficult, they were none the worse for wear when they returned. Dylan suffered a minor loss of energy on the return trip, but he bounced right back when they took the rocks out of his pockets! Luckily when they got back, we were waiting with a cooler full of ice and cold drinks, and also luckily it was a relatively cool day, although there was lots of bright sunshine.
Here is Dylan's hiking guide:
How To Get to the Lake Through the Dunes
First you go up the hill and up the hill and then down the hill and up the hill and up the hill and down the hill and then up the hill and down the hill, and then down the big big big hill and then you go straight for a while, then you climb up the big, big, big hill out of the valley. Then down a little hill then up a hill and down a hill and up a hill and down a hill then go straight for (it seemed like) 250 billion miles, then you go up the hill, down the hill, KERSPLASH - you're in Lake Michigan! Pick up some pretty rocks in the water, put them in your pocket, and do the whole thing in reverse with rocks in your pockets, which is about 6 pounds extra.
What You Need to Go Hiking in the Dunes
You need a walking stick, some Chewies, and seven bottles of water.
Safety Tips in the Dunes
1. Do not eat the berries alongside the path
2. Do not jump into the poison ivy somewhere along the path
3. Do not do somersaults down big hills
4. Most importantly, when you're going up a steep hill do not let go of your stick
or you'll fall over backwards and go tumbling backwards down the hill.
P.S.
Do not do this in the summertime!
After everybody cooled down and re-hydrated, we went over to Glen Arbor to Art's Tavern for lunch. The food was excellent, and we were really proud of everyone! We had such a good time. After lunch we drove over to Leland to look at the boats in the marina - always so enjoyable.
Everybody enjoyed looking at the boats and yachts.
The Leland Marina is a great place to stretch your legs and see some great watercraft and just enjoy the day.
Dylan discovered a school of fish. They were quite large - not minnows - but I don't know what they were.
I really enjoyed the Marina - the boats were interesting and beautiful.We had a lovely long leisurely drive through Leelanau County, and ended up at Moomer's for dessert. The perfect ending for a perfect day!
Friday, July 21, 2006
Last Class
Dylan's College for Kids class is over. He's very happy with it, and he says that he would do it again every summer. He really did enjoy it. Today was the day that the kids presented their inventions. Here is Dylan with his two inventions: Super Shoes, and Slow Motion Ball. In the classroom shot, you can see Chip in the background.
We all met for lunch at Bubba's. Then I came home, and everybody else went to play mini-golf, and ride go karts, and take in Friday Night Live downtown. I think everybody had a very good time. Right this minute, Chip and Dylan are having a campfire.
I'm having a bout with sciatica for the first time in 25 years. I'm doing everything I can think of to not irritate it further, and to make it feel better fast. Next week we plan to go to Mackinac Island, and I want it to be better by then. Right now it is quite uncomfortable!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Pirates and Inventions
Dylan's assignment is to come up with an original invention. He's really been brainstorming. His first idea was a flying beach ball which then turned into a slow motion ball. His second idea was Super Shoes which can't get stuck in the mud. He produced both of them!
Rathergohiking has a Pirate cache out in Yuba, and the guys went searching in the Maple Bay Natural Area to find it. Dylan found some pirate treasure!
Rathergohiking has a Pirate cache out in Yuba, and the guys went searching in the Maple Bay Natural Area to find it. Dylan found some pirate treasure!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Laundry
Dick and I stayed home to get some jobs done. He worked outside straightening things up, and I did laundry.
Laurie and Chip took Dylan to class, and then spent the rest of the day looking at subdivisions and houses and such. So far they haven't made any down payments (just kidding).
Laurie and Chip took Dylan to class, and then spent the rest of the day looking at subdivisions and houses and such. So far they haven't made any down payments (just kidding).
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Hoosier Valley
Dylan's second day at "College". After dropping him off, we went again to the Omelette Shoppe for a great breakfast! Dylan seems to really like his Inventors Class.
In the afternoon, we went geocaching in Hoosier Valley. ABXGuy has put out a series of 10 caches over there, almost in our back yard. Laurie and Dylan were first to find on all 10 caches, so it was a very successful outing. It took us from 2 p.m. until 5:30.
In the afternoon, we went geocaching in Hoosier Valley. ABXGuy has put out a series of 10 caches over there, almost in our back yard. Laurie and Dylan were first to find on all 10 caches, so it was a very successful outing. It took us from 2 p.m. until 5:30.
Monday, July 17, 2006
College for Kids
Dick signed Dylan up for a class this week. It's a class about Inventors for kids in grades 1-3, so it was perfect for Dylan, who just finished second grade. It will meet every morning this week from 10-12. Laurie, Chip, Tom and Dick delivered Mr. D to his class, and then went to the Agency so Dick could see if there was anything pressing there for him to attend to. Everything was OK.
Chip and I went to the eye doctor to have his eye checked out. He had gotten something in his eye while weed whacking on Friday. It turned out to be nothing to worry about. We all met up at the Agency and went for breakfast at the Omelette Shoppe. It was great to have a chance to visit with Tom in depth - we really didn't get much of a chance to visit all weekend.
The septic pumper had already finished his job by the time we got home, so the washing machine is back in business!
Tom's plane took off at 3:11 p.m., and then he had a 3 hour layover in Detroit, poor thing. He arrived home safely. We were so glad that he was able to get away even for such a short time!
Everybody but Dick went to see Pirates of the Caribbean at 5 p.m. We enjoyed it - it was entertaining. Everything was fine in the theater, but outside we were having a big storm. Trees were down all over on the way home. The traffic signal at South Airport Road and US 31 was out, and when we got home we had no power. In the theater we didn't have a clue what was going on outside!
Chip and I went to the eye doctor to have his eye checked out. He had gotten something in his eye while weed whacking on Friday. It turned out to be nothing to worry about. We all met up at the Agency and went for breakfast at the Omelette Shoppe. It was great to have a chance to visit with Tom in depth - we really didn't get much of a chance to visit all weekend.
The septic pumper had already finished his job by the time we got home, so the washing machine is back in business!
Tom's plane took off at 3:11 p.m., and then he had a 3 hour layover in Detroit, poor thing. He arrived home safely. We were so glad that he was able to get away even for such a short time!
Everybody but Dick went to see Pirates of the Caribbean at 5 p.m. We enjoyed it - it was entertaining. Everything was fine in the theater, but outside we were having a big storm. Trees were down all over on the way home. The traffic signal at South Airport Road and US 31 was out, and when we got home we had no power. In the theater we didn't have a clue what was going on outside!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
A Shower for Amy
The picnic is over - long live the Shower! Barb, the hostess, changed the venue from her home to an air-conditioned restaurant. We met at 11 a.m. at South City Limits for Amy's Bridal Shower. It was just charming. There were eight of us who all survived GenFest together, and were ready for brunch: Barb, Sharon, Melissa, Shelly, Laurie, Melanie, Amy, and me. The private room was blessedly cool, and the brunch was the best I've seen in a long time. The company was great, the gifts were fun, and it was a good time.
Then it was time for the Concord Place family picnic - Mom was proud to have the biggest family group in attendance - Dick and me, Chip, Laurie, Dylan, and Tom. The food was OK, the games were stupid, but we all hung in there. Laurie and I were full from the great brunch earlier, but the men enjoyed the hot dogs and beans and such.
Afterwards it was time to go home and put our feet up and relax after our Big Weekend.
We had to ration water use - no washing machine, etc. because of the septic failure yesterday.
Then it was time for the Concord Place family picnic - Mom was proud to have the biggest family group in attendance - Dick and me, Chip, Laurie, Dylan, and Tom. The food was OK, the games were stupid, but we all hung in there. Laurie and I were full from the great brunch earlier, but the men enjoyed the hot dogs and beans and such.
Afterwards it was time to go home and put our feet up and relax after our Big Weekend.
We had to ration water use - no washing machine, etc. because of the septic failure yesterday.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
July 15, 2006
GenFest is here at last! Odette and Jana were the two who couldn't make it this year, and they were missed all day long. We had Tom, Laurie, Chip and Dylan, Sharon, John, Derek, Kevin and Amy, Barb, Jim, Melissa, Peter, Autumn, Brooke, Adam, Melanie, Lydia, Shelly and Chris, Doug, Dave, Beth, Lauren, Sue, John, Kris, Molly, Roger, Megan, Fay, and Jackson, Dick and Nan for a total of 34. The dining room table was groaning from all of the delicious dishes. John and Adam were the intrepid cooks laboring over hot grills in 95 degree heat. We couldn't have done it without them.. Thank you John and Adam!
The food was delicious as usual, and I think everybody got what they wanted, even Lauren, who didn't want grill marks on her hot dog!
My favorite picture of the day was the father/daughter Lichtenberg picture of John and Kris.
The coolest spot in the afternoon turned out to be the umbrella table because of the breeze and the shade from the umbrellas. It started out to be a hen party, but then others joined us to enjoy the coolness.
We didn't get any pictures of all of the activities. Tubing and canoeing were popular because of the heat. The river temperature is always refreshing to say the least! The trebuchet was a lot of fun - we lofted quite a few water balloons and it worked perfectly. The activity soon turned into a water balloon fight though, which was really quite predictable! Nobody enjoyed it more than Dylan.
Volley ball was great fun - people played until the game was called on account of darkness. The volley ball observers gallery was fun, too. The kids had fun playing with the old fireplace and the spring water - they pretended they were cooking. That bodes well for future reunions, don't you think?
I didn't go to the campfire, but I hear that there was one and that it was good, and some people went home to put the kids to bed and then came back! That means it had to be good!
So another memorable GenFest is over. I think I'll remember this one especially because of the heat. It has to be the warmest on record (if we had records).
Friday, July 14, 2006
Set Up
This is the day before GenFest - when the rubber hits the road! Merry Maids came in the morning.
We had all kinds of last minute things to do. In the evening, family came to help set up for tomorrow. Dick and I left to go pick up Tom at the airport. He's sporting a big blue cast on his broken arm. He says it will come off in two more weeks. Tom's luggage did not arrive with him, and is scheduled to arrive around 11:30 p.m.
When we got back to the house, the folks had the tent halfway put up already.
We had pizza for everyone as we usually do, and I had a great time watching everyone else work hard moving tables, etc.
(In actuality, the luggage arrived at midnight, so I didn't really get my beauty sleep the night before the big event.)
We had all kinds of last minute things to do. In the evening, family came to help set up for tomorrow. Dick and I left to go pick up Tom at the airport. He's sporting a big blue cast on his broken arm. He says it will come off in two more weeks. Tom's luggage did not arrive with him, and is scheduled to arrive around 11:30 p.m.
When we got back to the house, the folks had the tent halfway put up already.
We had pizza for everyone as we usually do, and I had a great time watching everyone else work hard moving tables, etc.
(In actuality, the luggage arrived at midnight, so I didn't really get my beauty sleep the night before the big event.)
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Inaugural Blaze
The first campfire of the summer happened last night. Adam came out, and he and Laurie, Chip and Dylan had a great time burning old stuff like a ladder, a table, a bench, and pallets...quite an inaugural blaze. After Dylan's bath and bedtime, Laurie went back out to the campfire and nobody came back in until 2 a.m.
Shelley, Autumn and Brooke came over around 10 a.m. to play with Dylan and Laurie. Dick and I went to the hardware store for flag brackets, and to GFS to get the burgers and brats for the picnic. When we got home, the kids were playing in the river. Laurie fixed hot dogs for everybody. She wasn't feeling very perky, so after lunch the kids watched Hoodwinked, and Laurie took a nap. I went to do recycling and to return cans and bottles.
Dick is valiantly trying to finish the trebuchet with Chip's help. They've been working on it for a couple of hours now, and so far there's been only one trip to Menard's. My job is to make the sling/pouch - I think I've found the perfect fabric.
Chip has found a house he loves 4 miles away in Mayfield. He is totally excited about it - Laurie seems less than thrilled. She's concerned about where Dylan would go to school, etc. They have just gone to take a look at it.
Shelley, Autumn and Brooke came over around 10 a.m. to play with Dylan and Laurie. Dick and I went to the hardware store for flag brackets, and to GFS to get the burgers and brats for the picnic. When we got home, the kids were playing in the river. Laurie fixed hot dogs for everybody. She wasn't feeling very perky, so after lunch the kids watched Hoodwinked, and Laurie took a nap. I went to do recycling and to return cans and bottles.
Dick is valiantly trying to finish the trebuchet with Chip's help. They've been working on it for a couple of hours now, and so far there's been only one trip to Menard's. My job is to make the sling/pouch - I think I've found the perfect fabric.
Chip has found a house he loves 4 miles away in Mayfield. He is totally excited about it - Laurie seems less than thrilled. She's concerned about where Dylan would go to school, etc. They have just gone to take a look at it.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Cousins and Then More Cousins!
Dick painted everything in sight - all decks and porches and even the dock! Chip and Dylan washed and scrubbed and disinfected (not really) the playhouse to prepare for all of the little girl cousins who will be coming on Saturday or before.
Laurie and I made brownies for the Official Brownie Competition this Saturday - she used a heritage recipe from Mother for her famous frosted brownies. I made brownies from a recipe titled Knock You Naked Brownies. We ate some, but we kept our clothes on. In the first unofficial taste test, Dylan liked his Mommy's better than mine.
I went to Glen's and ordered little sandwiches for our evening meal on Saturday. We did that last year too, and it was a big hit. Bought some stuff for Mother, and went to visit her. We cleaned out her sock drawer - thrills a minute! She's fine.
The Gillespies went to the Bounce Arena with Shelly, Autumn and Brooke. They had a great time. We met them for dinner at the Mongolian Barbecue. The kids were all flushed and had wet hair from bouncing for an hour and a half! Dylan said that Mommy was a wimp because she didn't go on the Space Bounce-a-tron. (I don't know, either.)
Adam met us at M.B. just for a drink and a visit and plans were made for a campfire tonight! More plans were made for Shelly, Autumn and Brooke to come over in the morning to play and maybe have hot dogs for lunch.
Laurie and I made brownies for the Official Brownie Competition this Saturday - she used a heritage recipe from Mother for her famous frosted brownies. I made brownies from a recipe titled Knock You Naked Brownies. We ate some, but we kept our clothes on. In the first unofficial taste test, Dylan liked his Mommy's better than mine.
I went to Glen's and ordered little sandwiches for our evening meal on Saturday. We did that last year too, and it was a big hit. Bought some stuff for Mother, and went to visit her. We cleaned out her sock drawer - thrills a minute! She's fine.
The Gillespies went to the Bounce Arena with Shelly, Autumn and Brooke. They had a great time. We met them for dinner at the Mongolian Barbecue. The kids were all flushed and had wet hair from bouncing for an hour and a half! Dylan said that Mommy was a wimp because she didn't go on the Space Bounce-a-tron. (I don't know, either.)
Adam met us at M.B. just for a drink and a visit and plans were made for a campfire tonight! More plans were made for Shelly, Autumn and Brooke to come over in the morning to play and maybe have hot dogs for lunch.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
The Chipster
Chip is here!! Hooray! His plane landed shortly after noon, and they all went out to lunch at Apache. I was at home helping Uncle Danny, the handyman. He is doing odd jobs around the house, inside and out. He's very handy I must say! He'll be back on Thursday to finish up.
When they got back, I went to Glen's and did the big shopping for the rest of the week and for the picnic on Saturday. I got all the stuff for brownie-making and for Laurie's black bean salad. Thursday we'll go to GFS and get the meat.
We finished the Nancy Drew game, and we're starting on Syberia. Dylan seems to like it just fine, but he's still disappointed that we can't load EverQuest.
We all went for a ride again to look at subdivisions and houses. Laurie saw a green one that she liked quite a lot. Some of the new houses are absolutely huge!
Dick did steaks on the grill, and Laurie and Chip made a great salad.
When they got back, I went to Glen's and did the big shopping for the rest of the week and for the picnic on Saturday. I got all the stuff for brownie-making and for Laurie's black bean salad. Thursday we'll go to GFS and get the meat.
We finished the Nancy Drew game, and we're starting on Syberia. Dylan seems to like it just fine, but he's still disappointed that we can't load EverQuest.
We all went for a ride again to look at subdivisions and houses. Laurie saw a green one that she liked quite a lot. Some of the new houses are absolutely huge!
Dick did steaks on the grill, and Laurie and Chip made a great salad.
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