That is what my biopsy revealed. It is a BENIGN condition. =D I got the news after lunch on Monday. It was a huge relief. A giant weight lifted. I wanted to cry. My DH was so happy, he wanted to cry too. And now I feel like I should go and party. I'm joyous and thankful beyond words.
My sincerest and deepest thanks to all who prayed for me, kept me in their thoughts and sent positive thoughts and vibes my way. I was on quite a few prayer lists and I am so grateful to all of those who prayed for me - to get me through this. I was a wreck on Monday before I got the news. I just felt certain dread. It was awful. I can't imagine having that dread and then having bad news given. My heart goes out to those who get bad news and then end up needing cancer treatment.
DH is doing well after his appendectomy. His incisions are still sore because the dogs are constantly jumping on his lap and hitting his belly. I feel for him.
That's all for now.
Peace out... Love to all.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Stereotactic Biopsy
I had my stereotactic Core Biopsy today. I was a bit nervous and on edge (grouchy) until I got there, and then I calmed down. Somehow my orders fell through the cracks and there was no order there for the biopsy. When I dropped my films off at the Women's Center, they said they would get the order from my doctor. I think that someone dropped the ball because they were expecting me to walk through the door with it. The situation was resolved easy enough, one phone call to my doctor and they faxed it over. Not a big deal.
Here is how the biopsy went:
After changing into a front-opening gown, I was taken into a room that had a mammogram machine along with a couple of other machines and a cushioned table. The procedure was explained to me by the nurse, as well as the restrictions after. The doctor performing the procedure was called in. He also explained everything that I had just heard. He left the room, and the nurse got me set up.
I laid down on my stomach on the cushioned table. My right breast was placed in a hole on the table. The table was raised and then the machines used for the procedure were moved into place underneath me. My nurse took several images using a mini mammo type machine that then displayed onto a computer screen. The computer gave a location, the doctor was called back in and the computer told them where to make the incision.
Lidocane was used to numb the area, the incision was made and then the core biopsy needle was inserted. Another image was taken to make sure they were in the right spot. Another dose of lidocane was placed deep in the tissue where the incision was made. Then the tissue samples were taken. Four of them that were about 2 inches long and about the thickness of an earth worm. I saw them on the tray. They were ugly. LOL
The needle was left in place, the tissue samples were xrayed to make sure the calcifications were there - another indication that they were biopsying the correct location. I got to see that too.
All of the microcalcifications were removed. The doctor then inserted a titanium clip to mark the biopsy spot and he left. More images were taken for documentation. I was then allowed to move. I sat up for a bit, then laid on my back. The nurse squeezed my breast a lot, I guess to make sure there were no big blood clots in there. Then she cleaned up the area and closed it with steri-strips.
Then another mammogram was done on that breast - for more documentation.
After the films were checked, my tissue samples were put into a cup to be picked up for pathology. And I was allowed to leave. Everything took about an hour and a half to two hours.
I have to ice the incision area for 30 minutes, wait an hour, and ice again... until I go to bed tonight. I'm wearing a sports bra and have to sleep in it. I am to do nothing but veg today and take it easy for today and tomorrow. But I will probably go to work tomorrow.
I get to start taking my anti-inflammatory again tonight - which I had to stop for 3 days because it could cause excessive bleeding. And I've been in pretty nasty pain for 3 days. I am looking forward to having that go away.
I should have the biopsy results in 3-5 business days. I've been told that if I haven't heard anything by next Wednesday, that I need to call my doctor.
So, that's the scoop. I will update with results when I get them.
Here is how the biopsy went:
After changing into a front-opening gown, I was taken into a room that had a mammogram machine along with a couple of other machines and a cushioned table. The procedure was explained to me by the nurse, as well as the restrictions after. The doctor performing the procedure was called in. He also explained everything that I had just heard. He left the room, and the nurse got me set up.
I laid down on my stomach on the cushioned table. My right breast was placed in a hole on the table. The table was raised and then the machines used for the procedure were moved into place underneath me. My nurse took several images using a mini mammo type machine that then displayed onto a computer screen. The computer gave a location, the doctor was called back in and the computer told them where to make the incision.
Lidocane was used to numb the area, the incision was made and then the core biopsy needle was inserted. Another image was taken to make sure they were in the right spot. Another dose of lidocane was placed deep in the tissue where the incision was made. Then the tissue samples were taken. Four of them that were about 2 inches long and about the thickness of an earth worm. I saw them on the tray. They were ugly. LOL
The needle was left in place, the tissue samples were xrayed to make sure the calcifications were there - another indication that they were biopsying the correct location. I got to see that too.
All of the microcalcifications were removed. The doctor then inserted a titanium clip to mark the biopsy spot and he left. More images were taken for documentation. I was then allowed to move. I sat up for a bit, then laid on my back. The nurse squeezed my breast a lot, I guess to make sure there were no big blood clots in there. Then she cleaned up the area and closed it with steri-strips.
Then another mammogram was done on that breast - for more documentation.
After the films were checked, my tissue samples were put into a cup to be picked up for pathology. And I was allowed to leave. Everything took about an hour and a half to two hours.
I have to ice the incision area for 30 minutes, wait an hour, and ice again... until I go to bed tonight. I'm wearing a sports bra and have to sleep in it. I am to do nothing but veg today and take it easy for today and tomorrow. But I will probably go to work tomorrow.
I get to start taking my anti-inflammatory again tonight - which I had to stop for 3 days because it could cause excessive bleeding. And I've been in pretty nasty pain for 3 days. I am looking forward to having that go away.
I should have the biopsy results in 3-5 business days. I've been told that if I haven't heard anything by next Wednesday, that I need to call my doctor.
So, that's the scoop. I will update with results when I get them.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
More...
More... yes there is more. lol
My husband had his appendix removed yesterday morning. He had it done laproscopicly (sp?), so that is good news. No issues. He is off of work for 2-3 weeks.
Tomorrow is my biopsy. I've been nervous, but distracted for these few days with the appendectomy thrown in the mix. lol I'm pretty much too exhausted to do much worrying. lol
I'll update when I have some news to share.
My husband had his appendix removed yesterday morning. He had it done laproscopicly (sp?), so that is good news. No issues. He is off of work for 2-3 weeks.
Tomorrow is my biopsy. I've been nervous, but distracted for these few days with the appendectomy thrown in the mix. lol I'm pretty much too exhausted to do much worrying. lol
I'll update when I have some news to share.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
When It Rains It Pours, so they say...
And... right now I seem to be walking through 2008 with a HUGE black cloud over my head.
I know that I haven't posted in a while. And I honestly don't even know where I left off last. lol Guess I should read my own blog, huh? :)
So, I will do a recap... Have been having problems in my neck, left knee, left elbow, left shoulder and my lower back too. Have had x-rays and an MRI of my neck, x-rays of the knee and lower back. Was referred to a pain clinic. They sent me for therapy and gave me meds for pain (tramadol). Six weeks of therapy did nothing to help me. They tried traction and that made matters worse. I self-referred to a neurosurgeon and that was a joke. He argued with me that my MRI was an open one and I insisted that it was closed. He told me that I was not surgical and that he had no answers and ordered a nerve test.
The pain clinic only referred me for physical therapy on my neck and to a sports oriented orthoepedic specialist. He told me it was all tendonitis and gave me a medrol dose pack (steroids). I had already tried a medrol dose pack from my PCP. It is great while I'm on it, when it is done I go back to the pain. The worst of the pain (and swelling) was in my knee and I told the ortho this. I also told him about the medrol. He ignored me and told me to take it anyway. When I called back after the pain returned after the medrol pack was over, I asked what to do about my knee now. I got a call the next day saying the doctor wanted to give me a shot in my shoulder. Yah okay. I said, it is my knee that is the bad part. She looked at my chart and said, he wrote shoulder. You'll just have to come in and discuss it with him. I was astonished.
Feeling at my wits end, I contacted my PCP and asked for help. I got an appointment to see her and we went over everything. She gave me vicodin for bedtime pain since the tramadol didn't seem to do much and I haven't been sleeping well because of the pain. She also ordered some blood work to check for Lupus and Rhumatoid Arthritis. And she referred me to an othropaedic specialist who specializes in backs - since I was having trouble in all areas that could be diagnosed/treated by an ortho.
I saw that doctor - he was wonderful. Gave me a cortisone shot in my knee and it has been much better now. :) He also told me that I am not a surgical candidate. And that my issues are not tendonitis. He thinks I have systematic arthritis. He gave me a different anti-inflammatory to use instead of ibuprofen. It has done a better job. :) And he referred me to an arthritis specialist.
I saw that doctor and he prescribed a muscle relaxer for bedtime. My sleep has improved even more. :) Sleep is a wonderful thing. :) He doesn't think it is lupus or RA. And has requested more blood work. I still have to have that drawn. They told me I didn't have to fast - went to the lab and was told to come back after fasting. (sigh)
So, on good days... my neck doesn't hurt until about 3pm. On bad days, it is hurting when I wake up. But the pills are helping. I'm sleeping almost normally. And I'm feeling more positive. The prescription anti-inflammatory is really helping my shoulder and elbow too.
So... you are probably wondering then, why did I entitle this post "When it rains it pours, so they say". Here's why...
In July, I turned 40. My GYN ordered a routine Mammogram. Abnormalities were indicated and further testing was recommended. A repeat mammo in 6 months (which I didn't know about and found out about yesterday) and a bi-laterial ultrasound of both breasts.
So, the u/s was ordered and it was done shortly after the mammo. The abnormalities in the left breast were deemed normal by the u/s. But two cystic areas were found in my right breast - with echoing in one (meaning possibly NOT a fluid filled cyst). A repeat u/s of the right breast was ordered for 6 months later.
I was able to get a repeat u/s of the right breast anytime in December. I chose 12/1. I went to a different facility, but had all films sent there for comparison. This time, one of the original cystic areas were not found (the one with the echoing), but six areas were found this time. I was told to repeat the u/s on the right breast again in six months. It was then that I was told that it was recommended, 6 months ago, that I have a repeat mammo on the right breast also. The doctor at the imaging center said he would remind my GYN in the report of the u/s that he would send them.
This morning, my GYN's office called me this morning to tell me to schedule a repeat mammo. I called the imaging center and was able to get in there at 3:30 this afternoon. My GYN faxed over the order.
I had 5-7 images taken by the mammography machine (I can't remember how many now). The reason for the repeat is that calcifications were found on the original mammo six months ago.
The same doctor from yesterday conferred with the other doctor on staff and they agreed that I need a biopsy. They can't tell if they grew in size, but they appear to have grown in quantity.
I now have to wait to hear from my GYN to find out where and with whom to schedule the Stereotactic Biopsy that I need to have done.
So, when it rains, it pours. or so they say... and so it seems.
In this year, I have been diagnosed severely anemic and needed an emergency blood transfusion out of the blue. Then I needed an iron infusion (IV). Now I'm on oral iron supplements.
Then I had the routine mammo, followed by a bi-laterial breast u/s. Then had to wait 6 months to follow-up.
Then I started having neck problems and found out I have herniated and bulging discs in my neck. Then came the elbow and shoulder pain. Then the knee pain and swelling. Then the lower back pain.
Now I have to have a biopsy to make sure that those calcifications are not an indication/the beginning of breast cancer.
Does anyone have an umbrella? =D
You should see my purse... it is a mini pharmacy. In it, I have Protonix for my acid reflux, Tramadol for minor neck/back pain. Vicodin for moderate neck/back pain. Prescription anti-inflammatory (that I can't remember the name of, lol). Glucosamine. Fish Oil. Fibro-Ease (vitamin supplement for joint pain). Iron Supplements. Birth control pills. I also carry ibuprofen and tylenol for other members of my family who may need a non-prescription pain aid.
The doctor at the imaging clinic said that I have an 80% chance that the results of the biopsy will be benign. I'm hoping he's right. He also said that the area with calcifications is small and if the results are not benign, we caught it very early and that is a very good thing. I'm to call and let them know the results of the biopsy when I get them.
So, that is my update. Hopefully my next update, I will have good news. Right now I'm rather stressed but trying to be strong and not as scared as my heart is telling me to be.
If you made it through all of this... thank you. :)
Maybe I will get a bigger purse for Christmas that will include enough room for an umbrella to get me out of this rain. =D
I know that I haven't posted in a while. And I honestly don't even know where I left off last. lol Guess I should read my own blog, huh? :)
So, I will do a recap... Have been having problems in my neck, left knee, left elbow, left shoulder and my lower back too. Have had x-rays and an MRI of my neck, x-rays of the knee and lower back. Was referred to a pain clinic. They sent me for therapy and gave me meds for pain (tramadol). Six weeks of therapy did nothing to help me. They tried traction and that made matters worse. I self-referred to a neurosurgeon and that was a joke. He argued with me that my MRI was an open one and I insisted that it was closed. He told me that I was not surgical and that he had no answers and ordered a nerve test.
The pain clinic only referred me for physical therapy on my neck and to a sports oriented orthoepedic specialist. He told me it was all tendonitis and gave me a medrol dose pack (steroids). I had already tried a medrol dose pack from my PCP. It is great while I'm on it, when it is done I go back to the pain. The worst of the pain (and swelling) was in my knee and I told the ortho this. I also told him about the medrol. He ignored me and told me to take it anyway. When I called back after the pain returned after the medrol pack was over, I asked what to do about my knee now. I got a call the next day saying the doctor wanted to give me a shot in my shoulder. Yah okay. I said, it is my knee that is the bad part. She looked at my chart and said, he wrote shoulder. You'll just have to come in and discuss it with him. I was astonished.
Feeling at my wits end, I contacted my PCP and asked for help. I got an appointment to see her and we went over everything. She gave me vicodin for bedtime pain since the tramadol didn't seem to do much and I haven't been sleeping well because of the pain. She also ordered some blood work to check for Lupus and Rhumatoid Arthritis. And she referred me to an othropaedic specialist who specializes in backs - since I was having trouble in all areas that could be diagnosed/treated by an ortho.
I saw that doctor - he was wonderful. Gave me a cortisone shot in my knee and it has been much better now. :) He also told me that I am not a surgical candidate. And that my issues are not tendonitis. He thinks I have systematic arthritis. He gave me a different anti-inflammatory to use instead of ibuprofen. It has done a better job. :) And he referred me to an arthritis specialist.
I saw that doctor and he prescribed a muscle relaxer for bedtime. My sleep has improved even more. :) Sleep is a wonderful thing. :) He doesn't think it is lupus or RA. And has requested more blood work. I still have to have that drawn. They told me I didn't have to fast - went to the lab and was told to come back after fasting. (sigh)
So, on good days... my neck doesn't hurt until about 3pm. On bad days, it is hurting when I wake up. But the pills are helping. I'm sleeping almost normally. And I'm feeling more positive. The prescription anti-inflammatory is really helping my shoulder and elbow too.
So... you are probably wondering then, why did I entitle this post "When it rains it pours, so they say". Here's why...
In July, I turned 40. My GYN ordered a routine Mammogram. Abnormalities were indicated and further testing was recommended. A repeat mammo in 6 months (which I didn't know about and found out about yesterday) and a bi-laterial ultrasound of both breasts.
So, the u/s was ordered and it was done shortly after the mammo. The abnormalities in the left breast were deemed normal by the u/s. But two cystic areas were found in my right breast - with echoing in one (meaning possibly NOT a fluid filled cyst). A repeat u/s of the right breast was ordered for 6 months later.
I was able to get a repeat u/s of the right breast anytime in December. I chose 12/1. I went to a different facility, but had all films sent there for comparison. This time, one of the original cystic areas were not found (the one with the echoing), but six areas were found this time. I was told to repeat the u/s on the right breast again in six months. It was then that I was told that it was recommended, 6 months ago, that I have a repeat mammo on the right breast also. The doctor at the imaging center said he would remind my GYN in the report of the u/s that he would send them.
This morning, my GYN's office called me this morning to tell me to schedule a repeat mammo. I called the imaging center and was able to get in there at 3:30 this afternoon. My GYN faxed over the order.
I had 5-7 images taken by the mammography machine (I can't remember how many now). The reason for the repeat is that calcifications were found on the original mammo six months ago.
The same doctor from yesterday conferred with the other doctor on staff and they agreed that I need a biopsy. They can't tell if they grew in size, but they appear to have grown in quantity.
I now have to wait to hear from my GYN to find out where and with whom to schedule the Stereotactic Biopsy that I need to have done.
So, when it rains, it pours. or so they say... and so it seems.
In this year, I have been diagnosed severely anemic and needed an emergency blood transfusion out of the blue. Then I needed an iron infusion (IV). Now I'm on oral iron supplements.
Then I had the routine mammo, followed by a bi-laterial breast u/s. Then had to wait 6 months to follow-up.
Then I started having neck problems and found out I have herniated and bulging discs in my neck. Then came the elbow and shoulder pain. Then the knee pain and swelling. Then the lower back pain.
Now I have to have a biopsy to make sure that those calcifications are not an indication/the beginning of breast cancer.
Does anyone have an umbrella? =D
You should see my purse... it is a mini pharmacy. In it, I have Protonix for my acid reflux, Tramadol for minor neck/back pain. Vicodin for moderate neck/back pain. Prescription anti-inflammatory (that I can't remember the name of, lol). Glucosamine. Fish Oil. Fibro-Ease (vitamin supplement for joint pain). Iron Supplements. Birth control pills. I also carry ibuprofen and tylenol for other members of my family who may need a non-prescription pain aid.
The doctor at the imaging clinic said that I have an 80% chance that the results of the biopsy will be benign. I'm hoping he's right. He also said that the area with calcifications is small and if the results are not benign, we caught it very early and that is a very good thing. I'm to call and let them know the results of the biopsy when I get them.
So, that is my update. Hopefully my next update, I will have good news. Right now I'm rather stressed but trying to be strong and not as scared as my heart is telling me to be.
If you made it through all of this... thank you. :)
Maybe I will get a bigger purse for Christmas that will include enough room for an umbrella to get me out of this rain. =D
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Some relief!
Yes!!!
Finally some relief! :)
Had my second round of PT on Monday and then a chiro visit for a manipulation on my neck and my lower back (sleeping all funky due to the pains here and everywhere). I woke up yesterday morning, feeling refreshed and in less pain - and no headache at all yesterday! :) Woo Hoo!
The one and only thing is that where she put the rolled up towel for the traction, it hurts to touch. Still does today, a bit - so will mention that.
Taking less pills makes me happy too - I'm more alert. I'm looking for a solution/fix... not a life of pain pills.
Finally feeling upbeat about this. Hopefully I can get the other aches/pains fixed too and be good as new. Then I can get back to my lifting and stuff. The biggest loser is lighting a fire under my butt again. =D
Finally some relief! :)
Had my second round of PT on Monday and then a chiro visit for a manipulation on my neck and my lower back (sleeping all funky due to the pains here and everywhere). I woke up yesterday morning, feeling refreshed and in less pain - and no headache at all yesterday! :) Woo Hoo!
The one and only thing is that where she put the rolled up towel for the traction, it hurts to touch. Still does today, a bit - so will mention that.
Taking less pills makes me happy too - I'm more alert. I'm looking for a solution/fix... not a life of pain pills.
Finally feeling upbeat about this. Hopefully I can get the other aches/pains fixed too and be good as new. Then I can get back to my lifting and stuff. The biggest loser is lighting a fire under my butt again. =D
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Scared. Frustrated.
I'm scared. Posting here because I need to get it off of my chest and it seems as though no one around me really wants to hear about my problems anymore. They are all tired of my complaining and whining. My family doesn't want to hear it. And most of my online friends don't even acknowlege my words anymore. So, here I turn... to whomever happens to run across my words and cares enough to read. It may end up being no one. lol But at least I've got my thoughts out there.
I'm scared.
I seem to have all of these things going wrong with me. I've got several doctors looking at pieces of me No one is looking at the whole. What is the likelihood that I have multiple things go wrong, at the same time, but nothing is connected to anything else? I guess I'm not believing in that very much at this point.
I've always had bad knees. 50+ pounds ago, they were worse. I could not kneel. Gradually, my right knee got better. My left knee - no. And then the tendonitis set in. When I would rest it, it would improve.
While on vacation in July, I got bad neck pain and my knee was killing me - bad weather came through. I did not seek medical treatment.
The knee thing has been off & on. The neck pain has been more consistent. Have had x-rays of both areas. Knee is fine (bone wise). Neck... not good. Long story short... x-rays, MRI, bone scan w/SPECT. I have 2 bulging discs, 2 herniated discs. I'm on a pain pill (tramadol) and started physical therapy last Thursday.
Left knee is still having problems. Several weeks ago, while working out, my left elbow was popping and snapping - but not hurting. Then it started hurting a few days later. When I would rest it, it would be fine. It is no longer fine. My left shoulder started hurting shortly after the left elbow. Thought it was connected to my neck - was told by the pain clinic doctor that it is a separate issue. I see an orthopedic specialist on 9/30 for my knee and shoulder. Will have them check my elbow too. (everything is on my left)
Since having 3 children, I would leak a bit of urine when I would sneeze sometimes - or cough when sick. On Friday.... I was trying to be a brave girl and kill a big spider - I was screaming as I was trying to kill it - and peed my pants. :( How embarassing.
Today, took my DD leaf searching for her biology project... and had a bowel accident that I didn't even know I had until the dog pointed it out when she came into the bathroom with me. :( Again... how embarassing. :(
What is going on with me? Is this what happens to everyone who turns 40? Your whole body just collapses and falls apart? Are all of these things happening at one time, just a coincidence? Am I just being paranoid and have nothing to be worried about?
Oh yeah... 20% hearing loss too.
I'm scared.
I seem to have all of these things going wrong with me. I've got several doctors looking at pieces of me No one is looking at the whole. What is the likelihood that I have multiple things go wrong, at the same time, but nothing is connected to anything else? I guess I'm not believing in that very much at this point.
I've always had bad knees. 50+ pounds ago, they were worse. I could not kneel. Gradually, my right knee got better. My left knee - no. And then the tendonitis set in. When I would rest it, it would improve.
While on vacation in July, I got bad neck pain and my knee was killing me - bad weather came through. I did not seek medical treatment.
The knee thing has been off & on. The neck pain has been more consistent. Have had x-rays of both areas. Knee is fine (bone wise). Neck... not good. Long story short... x-rays, MRI, bone scan w/SPECT. I have 2 bulging discs, 2 herniated discs. I'm on a pain pill (tramadol) and started physical therapy last Thursday.
Left knee is still having problems. Several weeks ago, while working out, my left elbow was popping and snapping - but not hurting. Then it started hurting a few days later. When I would rest it, it would be fine. It is no longer fine. My left shoulder started hurting shortly after the left elbow. Thought it was connected to my neck - was told by the pain clinic doctor that it is a separate issue. I see an orthopedic specialist on 9/30 for my knee and shoulder. Will have them check my elbow too. (everything is on my left)
Since having 3 children, I would leak a bit of urine when I would sneeze sometimes - or cough when sick. On Friday.... I was trying to be a brave girl and kill a big spider - I was screaming as I was trying to kill it - and peed my pants. :( How embarassing.
Today, took my DD leaf searching for her biology project... and had a bowel accident that I didn't even know I had until the dog pointed it out when she came into the bathroom with me. :( Again... how embarassing. :(
What is going on with me? Is this what happens to everyone who turns 40? Your whole body just collapses and falls apart? Are all of these things happening at one time, just a coincidence? Am I just being paranoid and have nothing to be worried about?
Oh yeah... 20% hearing loss too.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
At war with myself
There is a war being fought within me. Or I was abducted by aliens and placed into someone else's body. SOMETHING is going on. And not only is it causing me stress and frustration along with discomfort and pain... it is causing me to feel as though I am not able to communicate properly (well). I am a talker. I am almost never at a loss for words. And I always thought I was able to get my thoughts across well... no longer am I confident that I can express myself well. (sigh)
Anyone who knows me, knows that I have been working on becoming healthy and living a healthy lifestyle - something completely new for me. I've incorporated eating healthy as well as exercising (cardio) and strength training. I started on this journey in October 2007 and have lost over 50 pounds so far. I am very proud of myself and my accomplishments. I have lost a lot of fat, increased my strength and cardio abilities. I am not tired and my body doesn't ache like it used to. I can walk and not hurt or become fatigued quickly/easily. I WANT to be outside doing things. This is all new for me. Even when I was thin, I wasn't fit. I am becoming fit. :)
So, what is the problem, right? Sounds like everything is great.
Perhaps I am just being whiney about it. If that is the case, then I just need to get over myself and move on. If you have a thought or opinion on this, feel free to share.
When I was at my heaviest, I was miserable and in pain whenever I tried to do things (like walking, carrying clothes baskets, etc...). I knew it was because of my weight and the pain was then justified. I hated it, so decided to do something about it... hence the lifestyle change. I have been feeling better and better with each pound that I shed. With each day further into a better, healthier lifestyle.
Until this year. Until I hit 40. Until... whatever milestone you want to throw in there. Whatever "thing" you want to throw in there as the "beginning" of this shit.
I was feeling poorly for so long, that I didn't realize how bad off I really was, I don't think. That is why the severe anemia diagnosis came out of nowhere and smacked me square in the jaw. That was in March/April. If you read my blog or know me, you'll know that I got an iron infusion and that seems to have done the trick. I go for one more blood draw to confirm that everything is staying up where it should be - then I will be considered "cured" without further testing or explanation of how I became severely anemic.
After that, came my yearly GYN visit where he ordered my first mammogram. Came back with abnormalities in both breasts. Lovely. Had to then go for an ultrasound of both breasts. Something was detected in the right breast and I am to go back in December for a followup ultrasound to see if there are any changes. If not, then I am just abnormal - which would be "normal" for me and what is being seen would then be labled... nothing.
At that same GYN visit, I asked for YAZ birth control pills. Two reasons... Severe PMS and because we officially decided no more TTC and we don't want a "surprise" thrown at us now. I hope that statement doesn't offend anyone. I know many would love a surprise at any age. Don't hate me or begrudge me for my choices at this point in my life. So, he gives me YAZ and I get the bright idea to ask to do back-to-back packs so that I skip having a period altogether. Who likes AF anyway, right? Right! So, I get the ok from the doctor's office... and a week into the second pack, I start bleeding and bleed for about 19 days. About 14 days into it, I call the doctor - he orders blood tests and schedules a visit to see him. I see him, he gives me more pills and instructions on how to get back on track with the BCPs and we will try back-to-back one more time and see how it goes. So, after 19 days of bleeding... I finally get relief and the bleeding stops (from the extra pills he gave me)... For THREE days. THREE! :( Yes, I am bleeding again. And it is heavy. And I have cramps. After bleeding for 19 days, how much could actually be built up in there? I figured not much. I figured wrong.
So, hormonally, my body is screwed up. PMS is back, I'm a pig, I'm a bear and I'm bloated. Freaking yay. Oh, and Niagara Falls has taken up residence in my hoo-ha. Okay, maybe not NIAGARA FALLS... but a small, fast flowing stream. Okay? :)
And... my neck and left knee have been bothering me. I see a chiropractor, but this neck pain felt "different", not like I needed a manipulation/adjustment. So, I went to the PCP instead. She ordered x-rays of both areas. Knee is tendonitis. Yipee. Neck is disc degeneration. I'm taking ibuprofen and seeing the chiropractor to see if he can give me some relief. So far... nothing. :( I *thought* maybe a little improvement yesterday - today... No.
So, my neck hurts today. My knee is giving me troubles and feels really "tight". In addition, the backs of my thighs - down by my knees are tight and tender feeling, but it is not from lifting as I am resting in that area of my life so as not to aggrivate the neck area. And now, for whatever reason, I have a sore spot on the bottom of my right foot. Whatever. (sigh) Oh yeah... and the ingrown toenail is STILL hanging around and giving me trouble too.
So, this ... all of this... is why I feel like my body has waged war on me. I am improving my life, I should be feeling good - not feeling like my body is quitting on me.
Oh yeah... everyone in my family has been giving me a hard time and calling me deaf lately. So, at the fair yesterday - there was a booth set up and they were doing free hearing tests. I thought it was a good idea to do one. I am borderline. 20% hearing loss. I can't hear low tones well at all. So of course.... that is 3/5 of my family - the men with their low voices. I just can't hear them or make out what they are saying a LOT of the time. My boss and his son - both men, soft spoken - can't hear them hardly at all if they aren't right beside me. And even if they are beside me sometimes I still have troubles. It is ridiculous.
Let's not even talk about my eyesight. I bet the next time I get my eyes checked... I will move to bifocals. Do they sell contacts that are bifocals? Small print sucks.
Age. Age has snuck up on me and bashed me good. I'm in round 3 and ready to be KO'd here. I want to win this fight, but am not even sure how one goes about fighting themselves... and coming out the winner.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I have been working on becoming healthy and living a healthy lifestyle - something completely new for me. I've incorporated eating healthy as well as exercising (cardio) and strength training. I started on this journey in October 2007 and have lost over 50 pounds so far. I am very proud of myself and my accomplishments. I have lost a lot of fat, increased my strength and cardio abilities. I am not tired and my body doesn't ache like it used to. I can walk and not hurt or become fatigued quickly/easily. I WANT to be outside doing things. This is all new for me. Even when I was thin, I wasn't fit. I am becoming fit. :)
So, what is the problem, right? Sounds like everything is great.
Perhaps I am just being whiney about it. If that is the case, then I just need to get over myself and move on. If you have a thought or opinion on this, feel free to share.
When I was at my heaviest, I was miserable and in pain whenever I tried to do things (like walking, carrying clothes baskets, etc...). I knew it was because of my weight and the pain was then justified. I hated it, so decided to do something about it... hence the lifestyle change. I have been feeling better and better with each pound that I shed. With each day further into a better, healthier lifestyle.
Until this year. Until I hit 40. Until... whatever milestone you want to throw in there. Whatever "thing" you want to throw in there as the "beginning" of this shit.
I was feeling poorly for so long, that I didn't realize how bad off I really was, I don't think. That is why the severe anemia diagnosis came out of nowhere and smacked me square in the jaw. That was in March/April. If you read my blog or know me, you'll know that I got an iron infusion and that seems to have done the trick. I go for one more blood draw to confirm that everything is staying up where it should be - then I will be considered "cured" without further testing or explanation of how I became severely anemic.
After that, came my yearly GYN visit where he ordered my first mammogram. Came back with abnormalities in both breasts. Lovely. Had to then go for an ultrasound of both breasts. Something was detected in the right breast and I am to go back in December for a followup ultrasound to see if there are any changes. If not, then I am just abnormal - which would be "normal" for me and what is being seen would then be labled... nothing.
At that same GYN visit, I asked for YAZ birth control pills. Two reasons... Severe PMS and because we officially decided no more TTC and we don't want a "surprise" thrown at us now. I hope that statement doesn't offend anyone. I know many would love a surprise at any age. Don't hate me or begrudge me for my choices at this point in my life. So, he gives me YAZ and I get the bright idea to ask to do back-to-back packs so that I skip having a period altogether. Who likes AF anyway, right? Right! So, I get the ok from the doctor's office... and a week into the second pack, I start bleeding and bleed for about 19 days. About 14 days into it, I call the doctor - he orders blood tests and schedules a visit to see him. I see him, he gives me more pills and instructions on how to get back on track with the BCPs and we will try back-to-back one more time and see how it goes. So, after 19 days of bleeding... I finally get relief and the bleeding stops (from the extra pills he gave me)... For THREE days. THREE! :( Yes, I am bleeding again. And it is heavy. And I have cramps. After bleeding for 19 days, how much could actually be built up in there? I figured not much. I figured wrong.
So, hormonally, my body is screwed up. PMS is back, I'm a pig, I'm a bear and I'm bloated. Freaking yay. Oh, and Niagara Falls has taken up residence in my hoo-ha. Okay, maybe not NIAGARA FALLS... but a small, fast flowing stream. Okay? :)
And... my neck and left knee have been bothering me. I see a chiropractor, but this neck pain felt "different", not like I needed a manipulation/adjustment. So, I went to the PCP instead. She ordered x-rays of both areas. Knee is tendonitis. Yipee. Neck is disc degeneration. I'm taking ibuprofen and seeing the chiropractor to see if he can give me some relief. So far... nothing. :( I *thought* maybe a little improvement yesterday - today... No.
So, my neck hurts today. My knee is giving me troubles and feels really "tight". In addition, the backs of my thighs - down by my knees are tight and tender feeling, but it is not from lifting as I am resting in that area of my life so as not to aggrivate the neck area. And now, for whatever reason, I have a sore spot on the bottom of my right foot. Whatever. (sigh) Oh yeah... and the ingrown toenail is STILL hanging around and giving me trouble too.
So, this ... all of this... is why I feel like my body has waged war on me. I am improving my life, I should be feeling good - not feeling like my body is quitting on me.
Oh yeah... everyone in my family has been giving me a hard time and calling me deaf lately. So, at the fair yesterday - there was a booth set up and they were doing free hearing tests. I thought it was a good idea to do one. I am borderline. 20% hearing loss. I can't hear low tones well at all. So of course.... that is 3/5 of my family - the men with their low voices. I just can't hear them or make out what they are saying a LOT of the time. My boss and his son - both men, soft spoken - can't hear them hardly at all if they aren't right beside me. And even if they are beside me sometimes I still have troubles. It is ridiculous.
Let's not even talk about my eyesight. I bet the next time I get my eyes checked... I will move to bifocals. Do they sell contacts that are bifocals? Small print sucks.
Age. Age has snuck up on me and bashed me good. I'm in round 3 and ready to be KO'd here. I want to win this fight, but am not even sure how one goes about fighting themselves... and coming out the winner.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Full/Best Summer
Since I am sharing photos, I might as well share some more... =D
Honestly, this was THE best summer of my adulthood. We got to do a lot this summer. I've really enjoyed it. I've been extremely overweight for a long time - and a big part of my life (battled it all my life). I've not been able to have a summer filled with activities that I was able to participate in and enjoy. Walking was a real chore the last few years. That made most everything, not fun. Since I've lost so much weight (so far), I was able to do so much more. THAT in of itself is enough reason to lose weight! And we were able to go on our very first family vacation. Never, since I have had my kids (my oldest is 19, the youngest is 14), never have I been financially in a position to have a family vacation. You cannot imagine how much this summer has meant to me.
In addition to our week trip to Geneva-On-The-Lake, OH (post below), we were able to see the balloons lift during Balloon Quest. Balloon Quest happens each year in our township and I'd yet to be able to time it right to get to see the balloons rise (hot air balloons that is). My DD is the photographer of the family. I did not take these shots, she did. It is so cool to see them all and watch them rise and float off...
Honestly, this was THE best summer of my adulthood. We got to do a lot this summer. I've really enjoyed it. I've been extremely overweight for a long time - and a big part of my life (battled it all my life). I've not been able to have a summer filled with activities that I was able to participate in and enjoy. Walking was a real chore the last few years. That made most everything, not fun. Since I've lost so much weight (so far), I was able to do so much more. THAT in of itself is enough reason to lose weight! And we were able to go on our very first family vacation. Never, since I have had my kids (my oldest is 19, the youngest is 14), never have I been financially in a position to have a family vacation. You cannot imagine how much this summer has meant to me.
In addition to our week trip to Geneva-On-The-Lake, OH (post below), we were able to see the balloons lift during Balloon Quest. Balloon Quest happens each year in our township and I'd yet to be able to time it right to get to see the balloons rise (hot air balloons that is). My DD is the photographer of the family. I did not take these shots, she did. It is so cool to see them all and watch them rise and float off...
Vacation Photos
Here are some photos from our vacation at Geneva-On-The-Lake, OH. We had a great time. We were there the week ended July 13th. We stayed at Long Lake House. A VERY nice house rental. Kelly & Denny Long are great people with a lovely piece of property. :) We all enjoyed ourselves!
The Men Of Steel (an all male dance review aka Strippers) were at a local bar on Wednesday during our vacation. My Mom, MIL, SIL and I all went to see them. TOTALLY NOT what I expected. Ever see the movie, The Full Monty? THAT is what I was expecting (minus the full nudity). THAT is NOT what I saw. I can barely even describe it. I thought I was on the wild and risky side of life (beings that I have a penis tattoo)... oh was I in for a complete shock! And I got trashed and went home early. I got trashed because the show started an hour and a half late. I started doing shots and with my increased metabolism... I was out, quick. BAD! I don't think I could have handled the "Finale" that they kept saying was coming anyway. I could barely "handle" the 3 strippers that did perform before I left that night. My eyes had to be surgically replaced back in their sockets and I said "Holy Crap" more times in that hour-ish, than I did in MY ENTIRE 40 YEARS OF LIFE!!! I saw male strippers. BTDT. No need to do it again. Wow.
First photo is of my mom with "Jake", one of the "dancers".
This one is of the body guard holding my mom. Yes, the have body guards. If you are familiar with what goes on during their show, they NEED a body guard. They called him Sgt. Big Guns, I think (drunk, remember? lol).
See.... drunk. (SIL, Chris on left - me on right)
This is my mom with the only one of them that wasn't "gross about it". I can't remember his name right at this moment. But he genuinely seemed like a nice person. He was the only one who did NOT strip down to a g-string. Thus, his was the only butt I grabbed.
Beach, scenery...
The kids and their tattoos (temp ones of course, lol)
Just random family shots...
And these are my favs out of all the ones we took.
The Men Of Steel (an all male dance review aka Strippers) were at a local bar on Wednesday during our vacation. My Mom, MIL, SIL and I all went to see them. TOTALLY NOT what I expected. Ever see the movie, The Full Monty? THAT is what I was expecting (minus the full nudity). THAT is NOT what I saw. I can barely even describe it. I thought I was on the wild and risky side of life (beings that I have a penis tattoo)... oh was I in for a complete shock! And I got trashed and went home early. I got trashed because the show started an hour and a half late. I started doing shots and with my increased metabolism... I was out, quick. BAD! I don't think I could have handled the "Finale" that they kept saying was coming anyway. I could barely "handle" the 3 strippers that did perform before I left that night. My eyes had to be surgically replaced back in their sockets and I said "Holy Crap" more times in that hour-ish, than I did in MY ENTIRE 40 YEARS OF LIFE!!! I saw male strippers. BTDT. No need to do it again. Wow.
First photo is of my mom with "Jake", one of the "dancers".
This one is of the body guard holding my mom. Yes, the have body guards. If you are familiar with what goes on during their show, they NEED a body guard. They called him Sgt. Big Guns, I think (drunk, remember? lol).
See.... drunk. (SIL, Chris on left - me on right)
This is my mom with the only one of them that wasn't "gross about it". I can't remember his name right at this moment. But he genuinely seemed like a nice person. He was the only one who did NOT strip down to a g-string. Thus, his was the only butt I grabbed.
Beach, scenery...
The kids and their tattoos (temp ones of course, lol)
Just random family shots...
And these are my favs out of all the ones we took.
Friday, August 8, 2008
40 = {anemia - weight + muscle} / neck degenertion * (breast abnormality + stress) + xrays + [blood draws * X]
Solve for X. LOL
Since my diagnosis of severe anemia, I've had more blood drawn than my entire life total - I do believe. LOL Since 40 started creeping up on me... I've had blood draws, iron infusions, pap smears, mammograms, ultrasounds, blood draws, xrays, blood draws. Chiropractic treatments, doctor visits, excessive and unusual bleeding, BCPs, blood draws and some.... stress to go along with it all.
Yes. 40 is a beautiful number. It brings all kinds of joy and wonder (wonder what is going to "break" next!). Who said 40 is the next 30? They need smacked in the back of the head. lol
Oh yeah... and DH was in a car accident. Totalled the car. Totally his fault (according to Trooper Bell). Totally left us in a bind. Car accident = 3 days off work + {fines * 2} - running reliable vehicle + [sleep / 2] + (gasoline * 3). It was raining hard after a long dry spell. Fireman said that brings oil to the road surface making it even more slick when the downpour came. DH was going slow (under the speed limit) but it was still too fast for driving conditions (according to Trooper Bell) and he slid down a hill and hit a minivan that cut the bend too short (but that is irrelevant according to Trooper Bell) this making the accident 100% DH's fault. Yay. Good for DH, he finally did something 100%. LMAO
Good news is.... Current Cathy = Old Cathy minus a little over 50 pounds! Woo Hoo for me! =D
We had a wonderful vacation. I need to put some pics here. They are all family pics - nothing really scenic from our vacation. It was all about family time and relaxation - not scenery or activities.
Short on time right now, but wanted to post something! Thanks to Lisa for the reminder that I've been neglecting my blog-ly duties!
Until we meet again...
Since my diagnosis of severe anemia, I've had more blood drawn than my entire life total - I do believe. LOL Since 40 started creeping up on me... I've had blood draws, iron infusions, pap smears, mammograms, ultrasounds, blood draws, xrays, blood draws. Chiropractic treatments, doctor visits, excessive and unusual bleeding, BCPs, blood draws and some.... stress to go along with it all.
Yes. 40 is a beautiful number. It brings all kinds of joy and wonder (wonder what is going to "break" next!). Who said 40 is the next 30? They need smacked in the back of the head. lol
Oh yeah... and DH was in a car accident. Totalled the car. Totally his fault (according to Trooper Bell). Totally left us in a bind. Car accident = 3 days off work + {fines * 2} - running reliable vehicle + [sleep / 2] + (gasoline * 3). It was raining hard after a long dry spell. Fireman said that brings oil to the road surface making it even more slick when the downpour came. DH was going slow (under the speed limit) but it was still too fast for driving conditions (according to Trooper Bell) and he slid down a hill and hit a minivan that cut the bend too short (but that is irrelevant according to Trooper Bell) this making the accident 100% DH's fault. Yay. Good for DH, he finally did something 100%. LMAO
Good news is.... Current Cathy = Old Cathy minus a little over 50 pounds! Woo Hoo for me! =D
We had a wonderful vacation. I need to put some pics here. They are all family pics - nothing really scenic from our vacation. It was all about family time and relaxation - not scenery or activities.
Short on time right now, but wanted to post something! Thanks to Lisa for the reminder that I've been neglecting my blog-ly duties!
Until we meet again...
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Let the sun shine....
It has been raining, raining, raining lately. Let the sun shine! :)
It finally is sunny today and the lawn is finally dry enough to cut. The yard looks horrendous because we haven't been able to cut it in 2 weeks. ugh.
Mark did some landscaping work a couple weeks ago that has made a huge difference in the appearance of the front of the house. We have two more huge bushes that we want taken out, then he is going to try to find the cause for the wetness in the downstairs bathroom when it rains excessively. He thinks it is due to missing downspouts, we will see once all of that excess folliage is gone. lol
I had bloodwork done on 5/6 and had a follow-up appointment with the hematolgoist on 5/13. All of my levels are normal again! Yay! What a relief!!!! I am to have bloodwork done again in August and if everything is still normal, he will consider me "cured" and I won't have to go back there anymore.
I've been feeling great! And ready to get back on track with the weight loss/healhty lifestyle. I hired a personal trainer who comes to your house! Cool, huh? We had our consultation, I signed on for 8 weeks and we have our first session on the 28th. He has already given me nutritional guidelines and a workout schedule though. :) My legs are finally starting to feel a bit better from the first workout, but are still sore. Even my butt was hurting! LOL The only thing is that I have extreme difficulty with the stability ball. Imagine trying to balance a ball (me) on another ball (the stability ball)... doesn't work. I fall off. LOL Maybe with his help, I will get it? I dunno. If not, I'm sure he will find an alternative.
I bought myself a bathing suit that I cannot fit into. I plan on fitting into it for vacation the 2nd week of July. That is my goal right now - to fit into that suit for vacation!!! I will do it! :) My weight goal is to lose 20 pounds by the end of the 8 weeks with my trainer. Then we'll go from there.
Mark and I have been getting along great. We had a "spat" since the last time I posted. We had a very open and very rewarding talk... for once HE did the talking. :) And things have been so much better. :)
DD, A, is only a few months away from being able to get a job and get her drivers license. Look out world... here she comes. Gas Ass will be turned loose onto all of you unsuspecting members of society. :)
Oldest DS, J, is working where I work. He's not doing too bad. He enjoys the money he makes. He opened a checking account and got himself a debit card. He has a gf, he bought her a "real" gift and can't wait to give it to her and take her out to dinner to celebrate.
Youngest DS, R, says he doesn't want to play football this coming school year (where he would be on Junior Varsity and Varsity). I can't imagine him not playing football. He lives,breathes and eats football. Makes no sense to me. I wonder if he is afraid. I would be.
DD did not make the varsity cheer squad. She had a bad day that day - she was PMS'ing and stressed to the max. She failed her math test that day and totally bombed the tryout. She said she wasn't sad. I'm sad, but can't tell her that or she will think I am disappointed in her. She wants to start with tumbling lessons and dance lessons to be prepared (better?) for next year's tryouts. Good for her!
I got bitched at, at work on Friday - by the boss. Instead of asking me about something he found, he made an assumption and then stewed about it all day and then freaked out on me. I cleared things up easy enough... and he relaxed and said he should not hold things in like he does. Then I got a raise. LOL Never in my life have I been hollered at, then given a raise. Whatever. I'll take the raise.
He wants me to take more responsibility there and have more job responibility... to move forward. And then I guess the pay will come along with it. It could be a dream job if the craziness could be taken out of the equation. It is a 5 minute drive from where I live. I hope they/we get things straightened out so that we can all move forward.
Oh, we got a "new" vehicle. A 2004 Mercury Mountaineer. Very exciting. Seats 7 - we traded in the van. Things are looking pretty good. And soon, financially, things will be a little easier. I will be coming into some money - spread out over the next 3 years. It will really help. And one of my goals is to get a boob job next year (2009) after I lose all my weight. I've always had icky nasty boobs. I've always wanted lovely perky boobs (not necessarily huge ones). Soon will be my chance to reward myself with that dream come true. :)
Now... off to take advantage of the shining sun and do some yardwork! Hope everyone reading has a wonderful holiday weekend!
*muah*
It finally is sunny today and the lawn is finally dry enough to cut. The yard looks horrendous because we haven't been able to cut it in 2 weeks. ugh.
Mark did some landscaping work a couple weeks ago that has made a huge difference in the appearance of the front of the house. We have two more huge bushes that we want taken out, then he is going to try to find the cause for the wetness in the downstairs bathroom when it rains excessively. He thinks it is due to missing downspouts, we will see once all of that excess folliage is gone. lol
I had bloodwork done on 5/6 and had a follow-up appointment with the hematolgoist on 5/13. All of my levels are normal again! Yay! What a relief!!!! I am to have bloodwork done again in August and if everything is still normal, he will consider me "cured" and I won't have to go back there anymore.
I've been feeling great! And ready to get back on track with the weight loss/healhty lifestyle. I hired a personal trainer who comes to your house! Cool, huh? We had our consultation, I signed on for 8 weeks and we have our first session on the 28th. He has already given me nutritional guidelines and a workout schedule though. :) My legs are finally starting to feel a bit better from the first workout, but are still sore. Even my butt was hurting! LOL The only thing is that I have extreme difficulty with the stability ball. Imagine trying to balance a ball (me) on another ball (the stability ball)... doesn't work. I fall off. LOL Maybe with his help, I will get it? I dunno. If not, I'm sure he will find an alternative.
I bought myself a bathing suit that I cannot fit into. I plan on fitting into it for vacation the 2nd week of July. That is my goal right now - to fit into that suit for vacation!!! I will do it! :) My weight goal is to lose 20 pounds by the end of the 8 weeks with my trainer. Then we'll go from there.
Mark and I have been getting along great. We had a "spat" since the last time I posted. We had a very open and very rewarding talk... for once HE did the talking. :) And things have been so much better. :)
DD, A, is only a few months away from being able to get a job and get her drivers license. Look out world... here she comes. Gas Ass will be turned loose onto all of you unsuspecting members of society. :)
Oldest DS, J, is working where I work. He's not doing too bad. He enjoys the money he makes. He opened a checking account and got himself a debit card. He has a gf, he bought her a "real" gift and can't wait to give it to her and take her out to dinner to celebrate.
Youngest DS, R, says he doesn't want to play football this coming school year (where he would be on Junior Varsity and Varsity). I can't imagine him not playing football. He lives,breathes and eats football. Makes no sense to me. I wonder if he is afraid. I would be.
DD did not make the varsity cheer squad. She had a bad day that day - she was PMS'ing and stressed to the max. She failed her math test that day and totally bombed the tryout. She said she wasn't sad. I'm sad, but can't tell her that or she will think I am disappointed in her. She wants to start with tumbling lessons and dance lessons to be prepared (better?) for next year's tryouts. Good for her!
I got bitched at, at work on Friday - by the boss. Instead of asking me about something he found, he made an assumption and then stewed about it all day and then freaked out on me. I cleared things up easy enough... and he relaxed and said he should not hold things in like he does. Then I got a raise. LOL Never in my life have I been hollered at, then given a raise. Whatever. I'll take the raise.
He wants me to take more responsibility there and have more job responibility... to move forward. And then I guess the pay will come along with it. It could be a dream job if the craziness could be taken out of the equation. It is a 5 minute drive from where I live. I hope they/we get things straightened out so that we can all move forward.
Oh, we got a "new" vehicle. A 2004 Mercury Mountaineer. Very exciting. Seats 7 - we traded in the van. Things are looking pretty good. And soon, financially, things will be a little easier. I will be coming into some money - spread out over the next 3 years. It will really help. And one of my goals is to get a boob job next year (2009) after I lose all my weight. I've always had icky nasty boobs. I've always wanted lovely perky boobs (not necessarily huge ones). Soon will be my chance to reward myself with that dream come true. :)
Now... off to take advantage of the shining sun and do some yardwork! Hope everyone reading has a wonderful holiday weekend!
*muah*
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron Deficiency Anemia - that is my tentative diagnosis by the Hematologist. He said that while my iron saturation level was normal, my ferritin level was low. I guess my GP just didn't realize, huh?
So, I went in - figuring for the worst since the GP had already ruled out the simple stuff. And I was still blown away - by getting the simple answer. :)
He said it looks like a clear-cut case of Iron Deficiency Anemia and is treating me as such. He also ran some blood work. A complete metabolic panel and two tests to check for Celiac's disease - even though he doesn't think that is it since I am not malnourished. I haven't heard anything about the bloodwork results, so must not be bad news.
Oh, and my Ferritin level was a 2. Yes a TWO. Normal is 20-290. Guess I was a little low. ;)
So, on 4/15/08, I am going for an iron "infusion" by IV. It will take 3-4 hours to complete and I am not to drive myself because they give you benadryl first and I may get loopy/tired. So, my Mom is taking me. DH will be out of town at school for work.
Then 3 weeks later, I will have more blood drawn to see if the iron "infusion" worked and then meet with the Hematologist again a week after that to review everything and see if we are good or need to do more testing. Right now, we have no "reason" for me being iron deficient. I don't know what the plan is for that right now. We'll see. I'm just so thrilled and relieved that it is the simple kind of anemia!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
So, I went in - figuring for the worst since the GP had already ruled out the simple stuff. And I was still blown away - by getting the simple answer. :)
He said it looks like a clear-cut case of Iron Deficiency Anemia and is treating me as such. He also ran some blood work. A complete metabolic panel and two tests to check for Celiac's disease - even though he doesn't think that is it since I am not malnourished. I haven't heard anything about the bloodwork results, so must not be bad news.
Oh, and my Ferritin level was a 2. Yes a TWO. Normal is 20-290. Guess I was a little low. ;)
So, on 4/15/08, I am going for an iron "infusion" by IV. It will take 3-4 hours to complete and I am not to drive myself because they give you benadryl first and I may get loopy/tired. So, my Mom is taking me. DH will be out of town at school for work.
Then 3 weeks later, I will have more blood drawn to see if the iron "infusion" worked and then meet with the Hematologist again a week after that to review everything and see if we are good or need to do more testing. Right now, we have no "reason" for me being iron deficient. I don't know what the plan is for that right now. We'll see. I'm just so thrilled and relieved that it is the simple kind of anemia!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
Friday, April 4, 2008
Ah, the dress...
The dress.... oh the dress... :) I never did give an update on the dress, did I?
So, here goes. The modesty piece was put in and while it did alter the dress, it still looked great and there were no issues.
I am not sure how to do a picture in a blog, but I'm going to give it a try. Here is a picture of my DD in the dress (with the modesty piece):
But, the story doesn't end there. Does it ever just end where it is supposed to? lol :)
So, the day of the dance comes. We are prepared. Nails have been done, toes have been done. Hair appointment is scheduled. Dress, shoes, purse, jewelry, silicone sticky-bra, new make-up... everything has been purchased and is sitting - waiting. :) We get up early and head to the salon. DD is excited, she has a photo picked out of how she wants her hair done. We are there for about an hour and a half and the style comes out looking fantastic - exactly what she wanted. She is thrilled. I am thrilled. We are excited about the dance!
We get home and she doesn't feel well - her tummy hurts. I chalk it up to nerves and not eating much so far. She eats and proceeds to get ready to go. We get to her BFF's house. Take ass-loads of photos! FINALLY... it is time to head off to the dance. Because she was voted onto the dance court, we were allowed to go too - to be able to see her court announcement. :)
She rode with her date, DH and I drove ourselves. All was well. We (DH & I) are sitting in the "visitors" area waiting for the announcement of the court. Dance guests are milling around - visiting with each other. DD comes up to me - not looking very happy. Tells me she is going to throw up. We head to the bathroom... put a cool wet cloth on her face. She is bent over the sink trying to get "this" to pass. Her friends are in and out of the bathroom trying to cheer her up. Everyone thinks it is nerves (because she is on the court). I am concerned now that it isn't nerves and the flu that has been going around. Teachers come in to check on her. More friends.
The court announcement line up is in place. DD mus decide... does she go out or what? She gathers herself (she had been crying) and gets in line for the court announcement. I tell her that if she feels she is going to throw up - RUN! RUN out of there and get to the bathroom. DO NOT puke in front of everyone.
She puts on a smiling face, is announced. Walks out, waits in line with her date while the rest of the court is announced. Photos are taken. She is smiling - looking lovely.
Photos are done. She is back in the bathroom crying that she just wants to go home. Her friends are around her - everyone is feeling bad. The teacher feels bad. DD feels bad - bad for her date who is going to be left behind. Bad for me that I spent all that money and she isn't staying for the dance. Bad for herself that she is going to be missing out on all of the evening's fun.
We (DH & I) scoot her out the door quickly. She made a quick announcement and apology to the friends at her table and grabbed her stuff and we were out of there. Stopped once in the middle of the foyer - I got behind her and pushed her outside so that she wouldn't barf in front of anyone. She managed to hold it. We got into the van. She was crying on the way home. We ended up having to stop so that she could barf on the side of the road. I held her hair - DH held her dress out of the way. When we got home, she collapsed in front of the toilet with her gown still on. :(
I got her undressed and into comfy clothes (sweats and t-shirt) and into bed. Sent text messages to her date and BFF that she indeed was sick and it wasn't nerves - and an apology because she felt so bad leaving them there.
She spent the next 2 days in bed. Sick. :( Poor kid. (sigh)
So, here goes. The modesty piece was put in and while it did alter the dress, it still looked great and there were no issues.
I am not sure how to do a picture in a blog, but I'm going to give it a try. Here is a picture of my DD in the dress (with the modesty piece):
But, the story doesn't end there. Does it ever just end where it is supposed to? lol :)
So, the day of the dance comes. We are prepared. Nails have been done, toes have been done. Hair appointment is scheduled. Dress, shoes, purse, jewelry, silicone sticky-bra, new make-up... everything has been purchased and is sitting - waiting. :) We get up early and head to the salon. DD is excited, she has a photo picked out of how she wants her hair done. We are there for about an hour and a half and the style comes out looking fantastic - exactly what she wanted. She is thrilled. I am thrilled. We are excited about the dance!
We get home and she doesn't feel well - her tummy hurts. I chalk it up to nerves and not eating much so far. She eats and proceeds to get ready to go. We get to her BFF's house. Take ass-loads of photos! FINALLY... it is time to head off to the dance. Because she was voted onto the dance court, we were allowed to go too - to be able to see her court announcement. :)
She rode with her date, DH and I drove ourselves. All was well. We (DH & I) are sitting in the "visitors" area waiting for the announcement of the court. Dance guests are milling around - visiting with each other. DD comes up to me - not looking very happy. Tells me she is going to throw up. We head to the bathroom... put a cool wet cloth on her face. She is bent over the sink trying to get "this" to pass. Her friends are in and out of the bathroom trying to cheer her up. Everyone thinks it is nerves (because she is on the court). I am concerned now that it isn't nerves and the flu that has been going around. Teachers come in to check on her. More friends.
The court announcement line up is in place. DD mus decide... does she go out or what? She gathers herself (she had been crying) and gets in line for the court announcement. I tell her that if she feels she is going to throw up - RUN! RUN out of there and get to the bathroom. DO NOT puke in front of everyone.
She puts on a smiling face, is announced. Walks out, waits in line with her date while the rest of the court is announced. Photos are taken. She is smiling - looking lovely.
Photos are done. She is back in the bathroom crying that she just wants to go home. Her friends are around her - everyone is feeling bad. The teacher feels bad. DD feels bad - bad for her date who is going to be left behind. Bad for me that I spent all that money and she isn't staying for the dance. Bad for herself that she is going to be missing out on all of the evening's fun.
We (DH & I) scoot her out the door quickly. She made a quick announcement and apology to the friends at her table and grabbed her stuff and we were out of there. Stopped once in the middle of the foyer - I got behind her and pushed her outside so that she wouldn't barf in front of anyone. She managed to hold it. We got into the van. She was crying on the way home. We ended up having to stop so that she could barf on the side of the road. I held her hair - DH held her dress out of the way. When we got home, she collapsed in front of the toilet with her gown still on. :(
I got her undressed and into comfy clothes (sweats and t-shirt) and into bed. Sent text messages to her date and BFF that she indeed was sick and it wasn't nerves - and an apology because she felt so bad leaving them there.
She spent the next 2 days in bed. Sick. :( Poor kid. (sigh)
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Anemia
Well, I haven't been here posting in a while now. I guess that there just really wasn't all that much to say, so I didn't say anything.
Now, I am here for my own theraputic reasons. I've heard from many others that blogging is theraputic. So, for anyone who happens to still come and check out my dormant blog, this one is for me.
After losing so much weight (almost 40 pounds) and learning how to eat healthy - and doing a good job at it, I got what I called 'the back-ended flu' from my boss before he left for his Hawaii trip. The last week of February, I got the diarreah along with fever, stomach ache... normal flu-like symptoms without vomitting. All kinds of nasty crud was going around at the time - my kids were sick (several times). My intestinal issues (diarreah, gas, grumbles) lasted 3 weeks and I decided it was worth a trip to the doctor's office. She didn't think it was real serious (or should I leave out the word "real"?) but decided it was a good opportunity to do some bloodwork and see how things looked.
She tested my cholesterol, sugar, liver function, kidney function, a CBC and I'm not sure what else, but I had to fast for 12 hours and so I ended up waiting a couple weeks-ish until it was a Saturday when I remembered to not eat for a long enough period of time. :) That Saturday - was last Saturday (3/29/08). I went and had my two tubes drawn, knowing that all would turn out great and confirm that my healthy new choice of living was doing good things for my body.
On Monday morning, the doctor called me. Yes, the doctor herself. She called me to tell me that I am/was severely anemic. Normal hemoglobin levels are 12-16. Mine was 8.5. She told me that when hemoglobin level gets in the 8-9 range, doctors consider giving a blood transfusion. She told me the cause of the anemia was probably due to low iron and that she wanted to check my blood to be sure before she gave me a prescription for iron supplements. So, Monday before noon - I went back to the lab to have my iron checked.
The nurse took me back to the room and proceeded to draw SIX tubes of blood. SIX!!! I thought I was just getting my iron level checked. My doctor ordered TEN additional blood tests. And one of them had to be done at the lab - the one to check to see how fast my blood clots. So, after leaving six tubes of blood behind at that lab, I headed to the hospital to have my finger pricked for the TENTH test.
Tuesday morning, I call the doctor's office and find out that they have not been faxed my results. I called the lab and had them "resend" them. The doctor would be reviewing the results at lunchtime and call me. At 12:30, the doctor calls (yes, the doctor herself again) and tells me that - surprisingly - my iron level is fine. AND my hemoglobin level has dropped from 8.5 to 8.1. She is now thinking that my anemia must be a hereditary form - and that test result wasn't in yet - so we would have to wait a couple days for that test result to come in.
I'm almost 40 years old and have never had my hemoglobin checked? I'm almost 40 years old and have had low hemoglobin all my life and NO ONE has ever mentioned it? Not while I was pregnant? That didn't seem right to me. So, I spent two hours calling around getting authorizations to get my labwork results from doctors I've seen. The hospital came through for me and faxed me over 18 pages of labwork results for tests I've had done from 1998 - 2004. I look over the results. Not anywhere in that 6 year period did I have a hemoglobin result come back low. Not even once. I faxed over those 18 pages along with a note to my doctor that it wasn't looking likely that the results of that hereditary test was going to come back and give that answer.
About an hour or so later, the doctor (herself) called and said that based on what I sent her, she agreed... not hereditary. So, she told me that she was arranging for me to get a blood transfusion the next morning (WHAT???????????) and that she was calling a Hematologist to get me in asap. And that she wanted to me do a stool kit to check for internal bleeding (WHAT?) She called me back a short time later to give me times for both appointments.
So, Wednesday morning comes and I head to the hospital. Before I can get my blood transfusion, I have to have another blood draw to make sure my blood is low. Test comes back at 8.3. Got to hospital at 10:00 and at 11:30, they hook up unit #1 and start transfusing. When it was finished, I got a second unit. When that was done, we waited about 20 minutes-ish and then I had to have my blood drawn again to make sure the count increased. Thankfully, I didn't have to wait for those results before leaving! I was discharged at 3:40pm. Long day. (sigh) And the result of that last draw showed an increase from 8.3 to 10.4. :) Good news.
Now, I am here for my own theraputic reasons. I've heard from many others that blogging is theraputic. So, for anyone who happens to still come and check out my dormant blog, this one is for me.
After losing so much weight (almost 40 pounds) and learning how to eat healthy - and doing a good job at it, I got what I called 'the back-ended flu' from my boss before he left for his Hawaii trip. The last week of February, I got the diarreah along with fever, stomach ache... normal flu-like symptoms without vomitting. All kinds of nasty crud was going around at the time - my kids were sick (several times). My intestinal issues (diarreah, gas, grumbles) lasted 3 weeks and I decided it was worth a trip to the doctor's office. She didn't think it was real serious (or should I leave out the word "real"?) but decided it was a good opportunity to do some bloodwork and see how things looked.
She tested my cholesterol, sugar, liver function, kidney function, a CBC and I'm not sure what else, but I had to fast for 12 hours and so I ended up waiting a couple weeks-ish until it was a Saturday when I remembered to not eat for a long enough period of time. :) That Saturday - was last Saturday (3/29/08). I went and had my two tubes drawn, knowing that all would turn out great and confirm that my healthy new choice of living was doing good things for my body.
On Monday morning, the doctor called me. Yes, the doctor herself. She called me to tell me that I am/was severely anemic. Normal hemoglobin levels are 12-16. Mine was 8.5. She told me that when hemoglobin level gets in the 8-9 range, doctors consider giving a blood transfusion. She told me the cause of the anemia was probably due to low iron and that she wanted to check my blood to be sure before she gave me a prescription for iron supplements. So, Monday before noon - I went back to the lab to have my iron checked.
The nurse took me back to the room and proceeded to draw SIX tubes of blood. SIX!!! I thought I was just getting my iron level checked. My doctor ordered TEN additional blood tests. And one of them had to be done at the lab - the one to check to see how fast my blood clots. So, after leaving six tubes of blood behind at that lab, I headed to the hospital to have my finger pricked for the TENTH test.
Tuesday morning, I call the doctor's office and find out that they have not been faxed my results. I called the lab and had them "resend" them. The doctor would be reviewing the results at lunchtime and call me. At 12:30, the doctor calls (yes, the doctor herself again) and tells me that - surprisingly - my iron level is fine. AND my hemoglobin level has dropped from 8.5 to 8.1. She is now thinking that my anemia must be a hereditary form - and that test result wasn't in yet - so we would have to wait a couple days for that test result to come in.
I'm almost 40 years old and have never had my hemoglobin checked? I'm almost 40 years old and have had low hemoglobin all my life and NO ONE has ever mentioned it? Not while I was pregnant? That didn't seem right to me. So, I spent two hours calling around getting authorizations to get my labwork results from doctors I've seen. The hospital came through for me and faxed me over 18 pages of labwork results for tests I've had done from 1998 - 2004. I look over the results. Not anywhere in that 6 year period did I have a hemoglobin result come back low. Not even once. I faxed over those 18 pages along with a note to my doctor that it wasn't looking likely that the results of that hereditary test was going to come back and give that answer.
About an hour or so later, the doctor (herself) called and said that based on what I sent her, she agreed... not hereditary. So, she told me that she was arranging for me to get a blood transfusion the next morning (WHAT???????????) and that she was calling a Hematologist to get me in asap. And that she wanted to me do a stool kit to check for internal bleeding (WHAT?) She called me back a short time later to give me times for both appointments.
So, Wednesday morning comes and I head to the hospital. Before I can get my blood transfusion, I have to have another blood draw to make sure my blood is low. Test comes back at 8.3. Got to hospital at 10:00 and at 11:30, they hook up unit #1 and start transfusing. When it was finished, I got a second unit. When that was done, we waited about 20 minutes-ish and then I had to have my blood drawn again to make sure the count increased. Thankfully, I didn't have to wait for those results before leaving! I was discharged at 3:40pm. Long day. (sigh) And the result of that last draw showed an increase from 8.3 to 10.4. :) Good news.
Now my job is to complete the stool kit I've been given. Yipee. Yahoo. Fun, fun, fun. And to write down all of my questions that I have for the Hematologist.
From all of the "research" I've done online, my last chance for a "semi-simple" answer is for them to find blood in the stool and have it be something like a bleeding ulcer. If there is no internal bleeding, they I am more-than-likely looking at some blood disorder, blood disease or cancer. Let's hope whatever it is, it is treatable if not curable. :)
Friday, January 18, 2008
Dress Stress
This dress stress that A and I have been dealing with all week has taken a toll. We are both cranky, irratible, on-edge and just flat-out tired.
When we chose this dress, with the help of the girls at the dress shop, I don't think that either of us even considered the dress to be the type to cause even the slighest controversy. Now it seems to be the center of our lives. Ridiculous. Honestly.
Herein lies the problem. The dress shows a very small amount of abdominal skin in a V pattern. The bottom of the V is at the top of A's belly button. And it is not a gaping V. I am her mother, for goodness sake, I would not let her go out in something that showed all of her "stuff" hanging out.
We are having the dress altered to include what is called a "modesty piece" so that the skin that you see in the V, will be covered. We are still having to jump through hoops. And it has become very tiring. I've seen way "worse" dresses being worn to the school dances, yet no one else has ever had to go through this scrutiny.
I am hoping that the whole dress issue is laid to rest today. Please hope for us that it is in a positive way.
When we chose this dress, with the help of the girls at the dress shop, I don't think that either of us even considered the dress to be the type to cause even the slighest controversy. Now it seems to be the center of our lives. Ridiculous. Honestly.
Herein lies the problem. The dress shows a very small amount of abdominal skin in a V pattern. The bottom of the V is at the top of A's belly button. And it is not a gaping V. I am her mother, for goodness sake, I would not let her go out in something that showed all of her "stuff" hanging out.
We are having the dress altered to include what is called a "modesty piece" so that the skin that you see in the V, will be covered. We are still having to jump through hoops. And it has become very tiring. I've seen way "worse" dresses being worn to the school dances, yet no one else has ever had to go through this scrutiny.
I am hoping that the whole dress issue is laid to rest today. Please hope for us that it is in a positive way.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
I am racist and my daughter is a skank
Give me a moment while I pick my jaw up off of the floor, pick my eyeballs up and put them back into my head and get some q-tips to clean my ears.
Let me explain...
I received a forwarded email this morning about Barack Obama. I will not post it here, but will say that it was not a very nice email. I am not one to automatically believe what I hear about others, so I copied and pasted the email contents and pasted to a post in OT on FF for assistance in knowing whether the information I received was true or not. I am NOT up on politics or religions other than Christianity. Which is all the more reason why I asked for help - since I, basically, know nothing.
This is an excerpt of one of the replies to my question: "Do you know anything about this man? Or are you just racist against all Muslims?"
When I read that comment, my mouth hit the floor and my eyes popped out of my head. You have got to be kidding me! I am racist against no one - period. I can't believe something like that was posted to ME! Obviously this person has no clue about me. Obviously. But it still threw me for a loop that someone could blatantly disregard my words (asking for help) and read into my post something totally out of line - about me. Wow.
And now about my daughter being a skank. Obviously she is not. But she is a lovely young lady (in personality and looks) that other young ladies are becoming jealous of. These other young ladies are supposed to be friends of my daughter. I've never had a "friend" call me names before. Another wow. It amazes me (and not in a good way) that these girls are so nasty to each other. None of them are ever happy for each other. It's all some big contest and if you aren't the "winner" of whatever the topic of the day is, then the "winner" is called nasty names. Shame on you girls. And shame on your parents for not teaching you how to be a better person than that. Where does this hatefulness come from?
Instead of picking on her/at her... why don't you girls try to be more like her? My daughter would never call any of you - her friends - a skank. Even if she thought it, deep down.
You women out there - who jump to conclusions, who assume, who have nastiness and hatred in your blood and attitudes... perhaps try a little forethought and kindness instead. :)
Let me explain...
I received a forwarded email this morning about Barack Obama. I will not post it here, but will say that it was not a very nice email. I am not one to automatically believe what I hear about others, so I copied and pasted the email contents and pasted to a post in OT on FF for assistance in knowing whether the information I received was true or not. I am NOT up on politics or religions other than Christianity. Which is all the more reason why I asked for help - since I, basically, know nothing.
This is an excerpt of one of the replies to my question: "Do you know anything about this man? Or are you just racist against all Muslims?"
When I read that comment, my mouth hit the floor and my eyes popped out of my head. You have got to be kidding me! I am racist against no one - period. I can't believe something like that was posted to ME! Obviously this person has no clue about me. Obviously. But it still threw me for a loop that someone could blatantly disregard my words (asking for help) and read into my post something totally out of line - about me. Wow.
And now about my daughter being a skank. Obviously she is not. But she is a lovely young lady (in personality and looks) that other young ladies are becoming jealous of. These other young ladies are supposed to be friends of my daughter. I've never had a "friend" call me names before. Another wow. It amazes me (and not in a good way) that these girls are so nasty to each other. None of them are ever happy for each other. It's all some big contest and if you aren't the "winner" of whatever the topic of the day is, then the "winner" is called nasty names. Shame on you girls. And shame on your parents for not teaching you how to be a better person than that. Where does this hatefulness come from?
Instead of picking on her/at her... why don't you girls try to be more like her? My daughter would never call any of you - her friends - a skank. Even if she thought it, deep down.
You women out there - who jump to conclusions, who assume, who have nastiness and hatred in your blood and attitudes... perhaps try a little forethought and kindness instead. :)
Monday, January 14, 2008
Being Civil / Letting go
One of the best lessons in life, that I have learned, is how to "let things go". There is no sense in me holding on to anger and hatred for something that was said or done to me. It doesn't give "pay back" to the person who wronged me or hurt my feelings. It only hurts *me* to hang on to those negative feelings. Sometimes that is not so easy. And sometimes those hurt, angry, hateful feelings can come back when someone else doesn't feel like I do... and continues on.
This doesn't mean that I am a baby and afraid of standing up. I'm all for standing up for myself, my feelings, my words and my actions. But once "it" is done. "It" is done. There is no sense in carrying "it" forward.
I wish everyone in this world felt the same way. It would be so much easier for everyone to just get along. Kum-bah-ya Lord, Kum-bah-ya. :)
And once "it" is over, be civil. You don't have to like the person. You don't have to like or agree with their beliefs, thoughts, opinions, actions, etc... but you can be civil. They are their own person, just like you are your own. They have every right to be themself just as you do. Let them go on with being themself. :)
Stand up when it is important, and sit down to enjoy life for the rest of the time. :)
Oh Lord.... Kum-bah-ya. =D
This doesn't mean that I am a baby and afraid of standing up. I'm all for standing up for myself, my feelings, my words and my actions. But once "it" is done. "It" is done. There is no sense in carrying "it" forward.
I wish everyone in this world felt the same way. It would be so much easier for everyone to just get along. Kum-bah-ya Lord, Kum-bah-ya. :)
And once "it" is over, be civil. You don't have to like the person. You don't have to like or agree with their beliefs, thoughts, opinions, actions, etc... but you can be civil. They are their own person, just like you are your own. They have every right to be themself just as you do. Let them go on with being themself. :)
Stand up when it is important, and sit down to enjoy life for the rest of the time. :)
Oh Lord.... Kum-bah-ya. =D
Saturday, January 12, 2008
One of those days
Ever have one of those days? Where it starts out bad and just gets worse and worse? We all have, right?
How about one of those days that just starts out great and continues to get better? Those don't happen very often, do they? :)
Well, I'm having one of those days. :) It actually started last night when I got home, I found out that my daughter has been nominated to be on the Teenettes Dance Court. They choose two freshman, two sophomores, two juniors and four seniors - then a queen is chosen from those girls. The vote was taken yesterday, so we don't know if she will actually be on the court yet, but I think it is awesome that other girls thought enough of her to even nominate her. :) Yay A!!!! =D
Then I get up this morning and heed to the call of the scale (my problem while losing weight is to get weighed every day!). Much to my surprise, I lost 1.8 pounds! Yay Me! :) I have lost 33.2 pounds since 10/8/07. My goal for 1/8/08 - 2/8/08 was to lose an additional 8 pounds. I am already 3.2 pounds into that goal! I am very excited and proud of myself! =D
Today A and I are going dress shopping for the Teenettes Dance. She has something in mind that she saw before and we are hoping to find it today. :) Wish us luck!
How about one of those days that just starts out great and continues to get better? Those don't happen very often, do they? :)
Well, I'm having one of those days. :) It actually started last night when I got home, I found out that my daughter has been nominated to be on the Teenettes Dance Court. They choose two freshman, two sophomores, two juniors and four seniors - then a queen is chosen from those girls. The vote was taken yesterday, so we don't know if she will actually be on the court yet, but I think it is awesome that other girls thought enough of her to even nominate her. :) Yay A!!!! =D
Then I get up this morning and heed to the call of the scale (my problem while losing weight is to get weighed every day!). Much to my surprise, I lost 1.8 pounds! Yay Me! :) I have lost 33.2 pounds since 10/8/07. My goal for 1/8/08 - 2/8/08 was to lose an additional 8 pounds. I am already 3.2 pounds into that goal! I am very excited and proud of myself! =D
Today A and I are going dress shopping for the Teenettes Dance. She has something in mind that she saw before and we are hoping to find it today. :) Wish us luck!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Haters
Since I have no where else to put it - even though I don't know if the "right" people will see it - I just wanted to say that I REALLY don't care if you don't like me. I don't care if you think I've gone through all of the shit in my life because of karma. I don't care if you think I am the author of the FertilityFriendDrama blog.
And for those who like to be anonymous. Go ahead and keep hiding. I will stay out in the open and stand behind what I say and have enough "balls" to show my face when doing so.
For those of you who just like to beat people down - especially when they are going through something traumatic - you'll get yours. I am a firm believer in Karma.
ETA: I just wanted to post that all comments will be posted through. So, if you have something to say to me... spit it out.
And for those who like to be anonymous. Go ahead and keep hiding. I will stay out in the open and stand behind what I say and have enough "balls" to show my face when doing so.
For those of you who just like to beat people down - especially when they are going through something traumatic - you'll get yours. I am a firm believer in Karma.
ETA: I just wanted to post that all comments will be posted through. So, if you have something to say to me... spit it out.
Employers that don't give a flying crap about their employees
How is that even possible? Here shows my naivety yet again.
How can an employer expect their employees to be dedicated, want to give above and beyond, etc... when they don't give a flying crap about the employee?!?!
I've worked for large companies, I've worked for small companies. I've always (until now) worked for companies that treated their employees well - they care about them.
I've been able to temporarily adjust my work hours do to some family/child related emergency. I've been able to be a few minutes late due to issues. I've always had health coverage as promised. I've received bonuses, raises, etc... At my last job (for a small company), my DD was going to a dance and I couldn't afford to take her to the salon to get her hair done in addition to all of the other expenses. My boss heard, gave me his personal credit card and told me to go and get her hair done.
I now work for a company that promises it's employees health insurance after 90 days of continuous employment. There are people here who have been here over a year that STILL do not have coverage. I took it upon myself to do all of the leg work for the company to help my co-workers. The rates are in, the boss now just needs to pick a policy. All employees have been underwritten. I approached him about meeting to discuss the options and he said "I guess". Like it is such a nuisance to choose a health insurance plan for his employees!! WTF?!?!?!
I am outraged that an employer could care so little for the people who are working so hard for him. In a matter of just those few seconds, I have lost a TON of respect for that man.
As I've said numerous times in the past... I need a new job. Too bad the freaking job market in my small city is SO FREAKING HORRIBLE that there is nothing even available to apply for.
Grrrr......
If I won the lottery and had my own business, you bet your ass I'd treat them all well.
How can an employer expect their employees to be dedicated, want to give above and beyond, etc... when they don't give a flying crap about the employee?!?!
I've worked for large companies, I've worked for small companies. I've always (until now) worked for companies that treated their employees well - they care about them.
I've been able to temporarily adjust my work hours do to some family/child related emergency. I've been able to be a few minutes late due to issues. I've always had health coverage as promised. I've received bonuses, raises, etc... At my last job (for a small company), my DD was going to a dance and I couldn't afford to take her to the salon to get her hair done in addition to all of the other expenses. My boss heard, gave me his personal credit card and told me to go and get her hair done.
I now work for a company that promises it's employees health insurance after 90 days of continuous employment. There are people here who have been here over a year that STILL do not have coverage. I took it upon myself to do all of the leg work for the company to help my co-workers. The rates are in, the boss now just needs to pick a policy. All employees have been underwritten. I approached him about meeting to discuss the options and he said "I guess". Like it is such a nuisance to choose a health insurance plan for his employees!! WTF?!?!?!
I am outraged that an employer could care so little for the people who are working so hard for him. In a matter of just those few seconds, I have lost a TON of respect for that man.
As I've said numerous times in the past... I need a new job. Too bad the freaking job market in my small city is SO FREAKING HORRIBLE that there is nothing even available to apply for.
Grrrr......
If I won the lottery and had my own business, you bet your ass I'd treat them all well.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
New Years Resolutions, Babys, Band, etc...
My friend "S" had her baby on Monday! Very exciting! And absolutely adorable!!!! :) Congrats to S & L on their new addition! :) And may all women look as beautiful as S after labor & delivery!!! Not even one hair out of place and perfect make-up! I guess that some women have "it" (S!) and some don't (Me!). LOL
My youngest son applied to be in All-Star band for our county. He was chosen from the applicants and was part of a 285 member concert band that practiced all day yesterday, then put on a performance at West Minster College last night. It was SO different than the normal band concerts that I've been attending for the last many years. I really enjoyed it! And am very proud of "R". He did a great job. :) Hoo-rah from Mom!!!
A few days ago, someone on FF posted a thread about New Years Resolutions. My reply at that time was to become more financially stable and to see if DH would agree to a resolution of having a better sex life. :) I've been thinking and in addition to those two items, I would also like to be as drama-free as possible. I will do my best to not get sucked in anymore. lol :) So, I've decided to give up trying to figure out who the drama blogger is and who Liberty is. It's just not worth my "mind space" anymore. :)
I'm working hard to follow my new lifestyle which recently started to incorporate "real" weight training. I had been doing weight training for obese people. That's the stuff you do while sitting down, using light weights, resistance bands and things like paper plates and rolled up towels. It got me started, but I have since moved on to bigger and better. :) I'm proud of myself that I am so dedicated and committed to doing this. I cannot wait to see what my body is going to look like at the completion of my goals!
My youngest son applied to be in All-Star band for our county. He was chosen from the applicants and was part of a 285 member concert band that practiced all day yesterday, then put on a performance at West Minster College last night. It was SO different than the normal band concerts that I've been attending for the last many years. I really enjoyed it! And am very proud of "R". He did a great job. :) Hoo-rah from Mom!!!
A few days ago, someone on FF posted a thread about New Years Resolutions. My reply at that time was to become more financially stable and to see if DH would agree to a resolution of having a better sex life. :) I've been thinking and in addition to those two items, I would also like to be as drama-free as possible. I will do my best to not get sucked in anymore. lol :) So, I've decided to give up trying to figure out who the drama blogger is and who Liberty is. It's just not worth my "mind space" anymore. :)
I'm working hard to follow my new lifestyle which recently started to incorporate "real" weight training. I had been doing weight training for obese people. That's the stuff you do while sitting down, using light weights, resistance bands and things like paper plates and rolled up towels. It got me started, but I have since moved on to bigger and better. :) I'm proud of myself that I am so dedicated and committed to doing this. I cannot wait to see what my body is going to look like at the completion of my goals!
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Eyebrows and the pain of "beauty"
Okay, who invented eyebrow waxing? Why are "natural" brows not just "naturally" acceptable? Who decided that eyebrows needed "tending to"??? Huh? Probably some guy. There is always "some guy" that is behind every painful "beauty" regimine that we somehow buy into and subject ourselves to. WTH?
Eyebrow waxing, stilettos, pantyhose, hours of working on hair, hours of working on makeup. The burn of hair dye. Mascara in the eyeball. Water bras, underwire. Deoderant that feels like it will never dry or that leaves "balls" in the pit (even if it is freshly shaven). Bikini waxing. Powder here, perfume there, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash. Hair gel, mousse, hair straighteners, hair curlers.
What is it that men have to do in comparision? Doesn't seem quite fair, huh? Do you know that the human species is the only species where the female attracts the male with her efforts? It is usually the other way around. Not fair. LOL
Eyebrow waxing, stilettos, pantyhose, hours of working on hair, hours of working on makeup. The burn of hair dye. Mascara in the eyeball. Water bras, underwire. Deoderant that feels like it will never dry or that leaves "balls" in the pit (even if it is freshly shaven). Bikini waxing. Powder here, perfume there, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash. Hair gel, mousse, hair straighteners, hair curlers.
What is it that men have to do in comparision? Doesn't seem quite fair, huh? Do you know that the human species is the only species where the female attracts the male with her efforts? It is usually the other way around. Not fair. LOL
Monday, January 7, 2008
Yeah Toast!
Sometimes life is as simple and un-eventful as the song "Yeah Toast". lol That's about how it is lately, other than the blog "stuff" that is going on. :)
The Steelers lost their first round playoff game on Saturday night. What a freaking bummer. And what a good/intense game to watch. I was literally on the edge of my seat during some of it. Wow. I'm still a Steelers fan though - I'm diehard, through and through. We'll get'em next year guys! :)
And for the record... I will NEVER root for the Cowboys because that is my ex-h's team. He shoves them down my throat whenever possible - and rips on the Steelers when possible. I have a feeling that they will make it to the superbowl - which means I'll be cheering on the OTHER team - whomever that may be. lol =D (No offense to the Cowboys or their fans.)
My "baby", my youngest will be turning FOURTEEN in less than 2 months. Where in the world did 14 years go?????? Amazing.
I'm pumping iron, folks. Can you believe it? I can hardly. LOL I've never done weights in my life (other than pissing with the bar a few times when my brother got his weight set). I am like a new person. I hope that my core self stays the same. Although I'm sure that my mom will make sure that I don't get too confident in myself. She has this need/desire (??) to always make sure that her thoughts and opinions are known to me and all of my family as well as my brother. She just has this underlying nastiness that comes out more often than we'd like. Wonder why she is like that? She doesn't even know she's doing it - I'm sure of it. So if she doesn't know she is doing it, how would she be able to answer that question, if I even posed it?
My friend "S" is having her baby today! She's being induced today and I can't wait for an update!!! I wish her a speedy and easy labor! :)
Not much to say, so....
10-4. Over and out good buddy.
The Steelers lost their first round playoff game on Saturday night. What a freaking bummer. And what a good/intense game to watch. I was literally on the edge of my seat during some of it. Wow. I'm still a Steelers fan though - I'm diehard, through and through. We'll get'em next year guys! :)
And for the record... I will NEVER root for the Cowboys because that is my ex-h's team. He shoves them down my throat whenever possible - and rips on the Steelers when possible. I have a feeling that they will make it to the superbowl - which means I'll be cheering on the OTHER team - whomever that may be. lol =D (No offense to the Cowboys or their fans.)
My "baby", my youngest will be turning FOURTEEN in less than 2 months. Where in the world did 14 years go?????? Amazing.
I'm pumping iron, folks. Can you believe it? I can hardly. LOL I've never done weights in my life (other than pissing with the bar a few times when my brother got his weight set). I am like a new person. I hope that my core self stays the same. Although I'm sure that my mom will make sure that I don't get too confident in myself. She has this need/desire (??) to always make sure that her thoughts and opinions are known to me and all of my family as well as my brother. She just has this underlying nastiness that comes out more often than we'd like. Wonder why she is like that? She doesn't even know she's doing it - I'm sure of it. So if she doesn't know she is doing it, how would she be able to answer that question, if I even posed it?
My friend "S" is having her baby today! She's being induced today and I can't wait for an update!!! I wish her a speedy and easy labor! :)
Not much to say, so....
10-4. Over and out good buddy.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Introductory Post
Okay, so I had a blog here a couple years ago and it got lost by the wayside. I don't remember the login anymore and it is sooooo very old now that I just decided to start a new one. For anyone who cares to reminisce here is the URL: http://allshousefamily.blogspot.com. I am now 39, DH is 40. The kids are 19, 15 and 13 - so you can really see how old it is!
So, why start a new blog when I never kept up with the old blog? Because I feel the need to put myself back out here due to "recent events".
For the record (and believe what you want), I am not the author of any other blog. I am not the kind of person (and if you knew me well, you'd already know this) who would post or say anything "anonymously". I have a voice and I use it. I stand behind my thoughts and beliefs so there is never a need for me to not present my thoughts and beliefs openly - as myself.
I am NOT into drama. I *HATE* drama. I have had more drama in my life, in my past than I ever imagined possible. I do NOT want drama in my life. I try to avoid it as much as possible, although sometimes it gets the best of me and I'm sucked in. But, I much prefer calm, peace, harmony, serenity, joy... all of the good things in life. More times than I can count, I have said to myself, and aloud, "Why can't we all just get along???"
And I do believe that peace and harmony is possible in a group of women. All participants just need to be mature/adult about things. I am part of a group of women and we accomplish this EVERY DAY. There are no cat fights. There is only love and support - even when we disagree with each other. Yah, sounds hookey to anyone on the outside, I'm sure. But it is true. They are the BEST group of friends anyone could ever have. I know that I can count on them for anything and everything.
DH and I are no longer TTC. We gave that up quite a while ago now. I just don't think it was in the cards for us. And I'm okay with that - so is DH. "My" kids are all big now (and I say that in quotes because DH feels they are his too and I'm just being facetious about it, lol) and honestly I don't think I would want to start over with an infant.... toddler... again. I like the freedom and interaction that I have with my "big" kids now. :)
My new focus, is to live a healthier lifestyle. I am NOT dieting. Diets work to take off the weight, sure. But they do NOT work in keeping the weight off. I've struggled with my weight since I was 7. Enough is enough. I don't want to struggle anymore. I want to be healthy, feel healthy and be a healthy weight. As of today, I have lost 31.4 pounds. I do believe that is all fat loss as I am working hard to retain lean muscle mass with proper nutrition, cardio and weight training. I cannot wait until I reach the light at the end of the tunnel. :)
So, why start a new blog when I never kept up with the old blog? Because I feel the need to put myself back out here due to "recent events".
For the record (and believe what you want), I am not the author of any other blog. I am not the kind of person (and if you knew me well, you'd already know this) who would post or say anything "anonymously". I have a voice and I use it. I stand behind my thoughts and beliefs so there is never a need for me to not present my thoughts and beliefs openly - as myself.
I am NOT into drama. I *HATE* drama. I have had more drama in my life, in my past than I ever imagined possible. I do NOT want drama in my life. I try to avoid it as much as possible, although sometimes it gets the best of me and I'm sucked in. But, I much prefer calm, peace, harmony, serenity, joy... all of the good things in life. More times than I can count, I have said to myself, and aloud, "Why can't we all just get along???"
And I do believe that peace and harmony is possible in a group of women. All participants just need to be mature/adult about things. I am part of a group of women and we accomplish this EVERY DAY. There are no cat fights. There is only love and support - even when we disagree with each other. Yah, sounds hookey to anyone on the outside, I'm sure. But it is true. They are the BEST group of friends anyone could ever have. I know that I can count on them for anything and everything.
DH and I are no longer TTC. We gave that up quite a while ago now. I just don't think it was in the cards for us. And I'm okay with that - so is DH. "My" kids are all big now (and I say that in quotes because DH feels they are his too and I'm just being facetious about it, lol) and honestly I don't think I would want to start over with an infant.... toddler... again. I like the freedom and interaction that I have with my "big" kids now. :)
My new focus, is to live a healthier lifestyle. I am NOT dieting. Diets work to take off the weight, sure. But they do NOT work in keeping the weight off. I've struggled with my weight since I was 7. Enough is enough. I don't want to struggle anymore. I want to be healthy, feel healthy and be a healthy weight. As of today, I have lost 31.4 pounds. I do believe that is all fat loss as I am working hard to retain lean muscle mass with proper nutrition, cardio and weight training. I cannot wait until I reach the light at the end of the tunnel. :)
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