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Can you believe it?? Not only is it a new year, it's already the end of the first month... Yep. And I'm glad to be alive.
I was finally sleeping this morning when the very loud, annoyingly repetitive beeps of the smoke/fire alarm system went off this morning. What?? Dan had been up, and I sniffed for food. That's usually when the alarm goes off--you know, smoke alarm = dinner's ready. I didn't smell anything, and I hear Dan moving around. I got up.
He's got 3 of the detectors removed from their bases on the ceiling, and the alarm is still blaring. Let's see--no smoke, no fire, hmmm. Is it carbon monoxide?? I'm not drowsy, and neither is he. I clicked off the circuit breaker marked "smoke alarm". Nope, that didn't quiet it either. Now he's got a ladder and gotten the detector removed from our bedroom ceiling. It finally stopped.
He checked all the batteries, and they showed "good", and put everything back together after a while. Very odd. We still don't know why it alarmed.
I snuggled back into bed, as it was only 0800, and woke again shortly after 9. Ahh. Feeling rested.
I got up, showered, dressed, breakfast. I caught up on email , did a load of laundry, and did some reading. Dan has been working on his computer all day. We decided to go out to Los Tres Amigos for food. Yum!
The sun had come out, and although it was still in the 'teens, it was pretty. When we got back I went out for a walk.
The wind was cold, but I was bundled up and did fine. So beautiful out there.
The rest of the evening was low key. I finished a chapter and worked on another, while Daniel finally got his computer functioning!! Woo Hoo!! He is very pleased with himself.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm going too, pretty soon. Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Saturday 01.30.2010
Trying to sleep better, really. Had the earphones in/on most of the night, and though I still woke frequently I was able to go back to sleep. And this morning I got up about 9. Dan says he got up at 0630.
We had a quiet morning. The sun was beautiful in the clear blue sky. We went out mid-afternoon. Washed his car, poked around the Goodwill store, over to Meijer for groceries. Gas prices dropped today, so when we got back and had groceries put away, I took my car out for a wash and fill.
Dan was busy on his computers, and had eaten. I ate, too, and the rest of the evening went by. Next thing I know, he's going to bed. Hm. 9:30.
I've spent some time looking at the driving map to go to Jeremy's on the 9th of February. Not sure if anyone is going with me. I have the option to fly, too, if the weather is bad, though the fare is more than the cost of driving.
I received a phone call asking for help at work tomorrow, and I said yes to mid-morning. I'm not good at getting up consecutive days, and I'm scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. We'll see what happens.
My left forearm was aching quite a bit before we went out. I massaged it as well as I could and put the sleeve and gauntlet on. It helped some, but not enough. I had just a little bit of the "head stuff" this afternoon, too. Sure is strange how that goes.
I'm off to bed; thank you for reading.
Hugs.
We had a quiet morning. The sun was beautiful in the clear blue sky. We went out mid-afternoon. Washed his car, poked around the Goodwill store, over to Meijer for groceries. Gas prices dropped today, so when we got back and had groceries put away, I took my car out for a wash and fill.
Dan was busy on his computers, and had eaten. I ate, too, and the rest of the evening went by. Next thing I know, he's going to bed. Hm. 9:30.
I've spent some time looking at the driving map to go to Jeremy's on the 9th of February. Not sure if anyone is going with me. I have the option to fly, too, if the weather is bad, though the fare is more than the cost of driving.
I received a phone call asking for help at work tomorrow, and I said yes to mid-morning. I'm not good at getting up consecutive days, and I'm scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. We'll see what happens.
My left forearm was aching quite a bit before we went out. I massaged it as well as I could and put the sleeve and gauntlet on. It helped some, but not enough. I had just a little bit of the "head stuff" this afternoon, too. Sure is strange how that goes.
I'm off to bed; thank you for reading.
Hugs.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday 01.29.2010
I did seem to sleep a little better with the tylenol and motrin on board. Maybe I should say that I returned to sleep better. I still woke a couple of times. And then it was time to get up for work.
A safe drive to Jackson, thank you God, and the shuttle took us over to the hospital.
I worked on the overflow unit today. Oh. My. Gosh. We were busy. My orientee went to "class" for 8 hours, and we had a "house" CNA to help us. Thank God we did--she turned out to be very helpful and kept our boat from sinking. We finally settled down about 5 o'clock, but ended up the shift with one of our patients needing "urgent" care. We did what needed to be done, but had to pass it on to the next shift. I'm sure the patient will be ok, but it's difficult to hand over that kind of situation in the middle of the process and leave.
A safe drive home, thanks again. Dan was able to leave his work shortly after noon today, which was very nice for him. He was upstairs still working on that computer...
We visited a little, I had a snack, and wrote here. I'm about ready for bed. I also had another several experiences of that annoying head stuff this afternoon. Very odd.
Tomorrow we need to get groceries. I'm not sure what else.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
A safe drive to Jackson, thank you God, and the shuttle took us over to the hospital.
I worked on the overflow unit today. Oh. My. Gosh. We were busy. My orientee went to "class" for 8 hours, and we had a "house" CNA to help us. Thank God we did--she turned out to be very helpful and kept our boat from sinking. We finally settled down about 5 o'clock, but ended up the shift with one of our patients needing "urgent" care. We did what needed to be done, but had to pass it on to the next shift. I'm sure the patient will be ok, but it's difficult to hand over that kind of situation in the middle of the process and leave.
A safe drive home, thanks again. Dan was able to leave his work shortly after noon today, which was very nice for him. He was upstairs still working on that computer...
We visited a little, I had a snack, and wrote here. I'm about ready for bed. I also had another several experiences of that annoying head stuff this afternoon. Very odd.
Tomorrow we need to get groceries. I'm not sure what else.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Thursday 01.28.2010
I took tylenol and motrin before going to bed, hoping to sleep better. Maybe just a little bit. I still woke, though, every couple of hours. I had dozed off again when the radio came on.
I got up and got ready for work. Dan got up a short while after me and got ready, also. We left and headed to our respective jobs.
I parked, the shuttle came, and picked us up.
We had a good day today. Busy, but good. Unfortunately I had not gotten someone to work/cover for me so that I could attend a meeting, and was too busy to leave for the two hours. The day was finally over, night shift came in, and we were able to leave.
I stopped at the Goodwill store on the way out of town, browsing around. I was looking for some type of thermos for hot beverages, but didn't find what I wanted. I did find a collection of piano music that was $1.99 and picked it up. I haven't looked at it much more than to see that there is at least one piece labeled "Duet".
I had a safe drive home, thank You Lord. It's 10 degrees out there. Frank and Dan were working with that computer again. They say they've made progress...
Dan has gone to bed long ago, I wrote here, and Frank is still doing computer stuff.
Tomorrow is a workday for both Dan and I. Frank is still on a layoff.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and got ready for work. Dan got up a short while after me and got ready, also. We left and headed to our respective jobs.
I parked, the shuttle came, and picked us up.
We had a good day today. Busy, but good. Unfortunately I had not gotten someone to work/cover for me so that I could attend a meeting, and was too busy to leave for the two hours. The day was finally over, night shift came in, and we were able to leave.
I stopped at the Goodwill store on the way out of town, browsing around. I was looking for some type of thermos for hot beverages, but didn't find what I wanted. I did find a collection of piano music that was $1.99 and picked it up. I haven't looked at it much more than to see that there is at least one piece labeled "Duet".
I had a safe drive home, thank You Lord. It's 10 degrees out there. Frank and Dan were working with that computer again. They say they've made progress...
Dan has gone to bed long ago, I wrote here, and Frank is still doing computer stuff.
Tomorrow is a workday for both Dan and I. Frank is still on a layoff.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Wednesday 01.27.2010
Still awake somewhat during the night, when Dan left for work I took tylenol and motrin and tried to get better sleep. I think it helped--I woke again about 9, feeling almost rested. I listened to the current story on my device while I did the lymph exercises and the massage that I could do to help move the fluid out. After an hour, my right wrist is sore and feels swollen, and I think I might have made a small difference in my left lower arm.
I got up and had breakfast, showered, and got ready for the day. I checked email and before I knew it, it was time to go to Leah's.
She did a great job. I had asked if she would focus on my left upper quadrant of my body, and she did. At the end of the hour I felt like I had my hand and wrist back, along with a lot of the sensation under my upper arm. I am truly blessed to have her in my world.
When I got home, Dan was home! What a nice surprise... or is he not feeling well and left early...? No, he was just able to leave an hour early today. That's nice for him, seeing as how he goes in early every day and stays way into the next shift most days.
We caught up a little after I showered again. He was working on his computer most of the afternoon/evening. I fixed us something to eat.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm not far behind. I was surprised that I had those "sensations" in my head again for a couple hours this afternoon. I sure hope that goes away completely.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and had breakfast, showered, and got ready for the day. I checked email and before I knew it, it was time to go to Leah's.
She did a great job. I had asked if she would focus on my left upper quadrant of my body, and she did. At the end of the hour I felt like I had my hand and wrist back, along with a lot of the sensation under my upper arm. I am truly blessed to have her in my world.
When I got home, Dan was home! What a nice surprise... or is he not feeling well and left early...? No, he was just able to leave an hour early today. That's nice for him, seeing as how he goes in early every day and stays way into the next shift most days.
We caught up a little after I showered again. He was working on his computer most of the afternoon/evening. I fixed us something to eat.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm not far behind. I was surprised that I had those "sensations" in my head again for a couple hours this afternoon. I sure hope that goes away completely.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday 01.26.2010
Geez, I couldn't sleep last night. Toss, turn. Cold. Hot. Stretch out, get comfortable, doze off, wake up in a different position, and not comfortable. Why do I reposition to discomfort? Seems odd.
Dan got up and went to work. I thought that I would finally sleep. Not. I continued the doze/wake/restless/repeat cycles a couple more times before giving up and getting out of bed. Not rested.
I was grumpy. But I washed up, talked real nice to the woman in the mirror and smiled at her, and changed my perspective. Ahh. That's better.
I had breakfast and a brew and looked at the PBS "Create" shows off and on, while looking at the computer. I got really sleepy shortly after noon and tried to close my eyes for a nap. Boing! Eyes opened. Huh? Oh geez, never mind.
I got up and spent the next couple hours cleaning the bathroom. That's always nice to have done. Just as I was finished putting the cleaning supplies away, Dan came in, and Frank, too. Good timing.
They went upstairs and were geeked about whatever they were doing. Finally, Daniel was ready to eat.
We went to Scalawag's, a franchise seafood place that originated near Mackinaw. It was good.
We got back and they got back at it. Dan went to bed after Frank left, shortly after 10.
This afternoon my head was real icky again, for maybe 4 hours or so. Very odd. Seems to be mostly better now. I was surprised when it started happening. My shoulder is achy, too. I see Leah tomorrow; I'm hoping that will help.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan got up and went to work. I thought that I would finally sleep. Not. I continued the doze/wake/restless/repeat cycles a couple more times before giving up and getting out of bed. Not rested.
I was grumpy. But I washed up, talked real nice to the woman in the mirror and smiled at her, and changed my perspective. Ahh. That's better.
I had breakfast and a brew and looked at the PBS "Create" shows off and on, while looking at the computer. I got really sleepy shortly after noon and tried to close my eyes for a nap. Boing! Eyes opened. Huh? Oh geez, never mind.
I got up and spent the next couple hours cleaning the bathroom. That's always nice to have done. Just as I was finished putting the cleaning supplies away, Dan came in, and Frank, too. Good timing.
They went upstairs and were geeked about whatever they were doing. Finally, Daniel was ready to eat.
We went to Scalawag's, a franchise seafood place that originated near Mackinaw. It was good.
We got back and they got back at it. Dan went to bed after Frank left, shortly after 10.
This afternoon my head was real icky again, for maybe 4 hours or so. Very odd. Seems to be mostly better now. I was surprised when it started happening. My shoulder is achy, too. I see Leah tomorrow; I'm hoping that will help.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Monday 01.25.2010
I slept fair during the night, waking again with Daniel's alarm. I turned the radio on "snooze" so it would turn off in 15 minutes and tried to stay awake while he was getting ready for work. I turned the radio on for another 15 minutes, Dan left, and I went back to sleep. I was dismayed when I woke shortly after 8, feeling like I wasn't done sleeping, but unable to go back to sleep. When the radio turned off at 0820 I decided to get up.
I enjoyed the morning--breakfast, shower, grooming, and took my time. A couple phone calls and it was time to get ready to go to Jackson. I had lunch and left.
The roads were dry, but it was windy. I got there and parked in the parking structure. Technically not for employees, but I'm only there for an hour or so, and not too many people park there yet. Why, I don't know.
It was a good presentation. When I left I stopped at the credit union then headed back home. It was starting to snow, the round white icy balls that make noise. The roads were good, though, and I got back to Holt without difficulty, thank you God. A stop at the library and then the drug store and then home.
Dan had gone to his golf stuff, and I made my supper and ate. He got home a while later. We had a short visit before he sat down and fell asleep. He's gone to bed now.
My head is definitely better. Hot flashes are still flashing, but I don't notice any difference than when the effexor was on board. My brain doesn't feel wrapped in a film, either. Praise the Lord. Three more years of Arimidex...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I enjoyed the morning--breakfast, shower, grooming, and took my time. A couple phone calls and it was time to get ready to go to Jackson. I had lunch and left.
The roads were dry, but it was windy. I got there and parked in the parking structure. Technically not for employees, but I'm only there for an hour or so, and not too many people park there yet. Why, I don't know.
It was a good presentation. When I left I stopped at the credit union then headed back home. It was starting to snow, the round white icy balls that make noise. The roads were good, though, and I got back to Holt without difficulty, thank you God. A stop at the library and then the drug store and then home.
Dan had gone to his golf stuff, and I made my supper and ate. He got home a while later. We had a short visit before he sat down and fell asleep. He's gone to bed now.
My head is definitely better. Hot flashes are still flashing, but I don't notice any difference than when the effexor was on board. My brain doesn't feel wrapped in a film, either. Praise the Lord. Three more years of Arimidex...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday 01.24.2010
I slept pretty good, as I do, waking every couple of hours. Of course, when one goes to bed at 10:45 ish, waking at 12:30 ish and 2:30 ish then getting up at 4:30 constitutes waking twice during the night. Right?
I got up and got ready for work; so did Dan. We went on our ways.
I had a safe drive down in the dark, starting with a fine drizzle to outright lightning and rain in Jackson. I had an umbrella in the car to walk across the lot into the hospital. My pants got pretty wet, but the lightweight scrubs dried fairly quickly.
We had a good day, with good co-workers. We moved the remaining patients over to the primary wing and closed the overflow unit at the end of the shift.
A safe drive home, thank You for safe travel. Dan was home. He had been grocering, then a couple errands, and was pleased with his purchases. Pretty neat.
I may go to Jackson tomorrow afternoon for a presentation that a physician is doing for us. Other than that, no plans.
I also noticed tonight that my head feels sooo much better. Just a little "pudding" sensation. Maybe it was withdrawal from the effexor...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and got ready for work; so did Dan. We went on our ways.
I had a safe drive down in the dark, starting with a fine drizzle to outright lightning and rain in Jackson. I had an umbrella in the car to walk across the lot into the hospital. My pants got pretty wet, but the lightweight scrubs dried fairly quickly.
We had a good day, with good co-workers. We moved the remaining patients over to the primary wing and closed the overflow unit at the end of the shift.
A safe drive home, thank You for safe travel. Dan was home. He had been grocering, then a couple errands, and was pleased with his purchases. Pretty neat.
I may go to Jackson tomorrow afternoon for a presentation that a physician is doing for us. Other than that, no plans.
I also noticed tonight that my head feels sooo much better. Just a little "pudding" sensation. Maybe it was withdrawal from the effexor...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Saturday 01.23.2010
I got up when the radio came on. Not done sleeping, but I can catch up Monday morning. I got ready for work; Dan did too, and we went to our respective job places.
I had a safe drive down, thank you God, found a parking place and walked across the lot. A real light misty precipitation and 32 degrees.
We had a good group of staff, and our patients kept us busy today. We finally settled down in the late afternoon, which enabled some staff to leave a couple hours early. Not me, though. I stayed until the end of the shift.
A good drive home, thanks again. Dan was home, doing computer stuff again. We had a quiet evening together, which was nice.
I noticed on the way up the stairs into the house that my head has been ok today!! Woo Hoo!! Praise the Lord!! I don't know what caused it, but I'm 8 days off of the effexor 37.5 mg. I don't think my hot flashes are any different. The sleep isn't any different, either. I'll catch up sooner or later...
So maybe it's sooner. I just dozed off here. I'm going to bed.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I had a safe drive down, thank you God, found a parking place and walked across the lot. A real light misty precipitation and 32 degrees.
We had a good group of staff, and our patients kept us busy today. We finally settled down in the late afternoon, which enabled some staff to leave a couple hours early. Not me, though. I stayed until the end of the shift.
A good drive home, thanks again. Dan was home, doing computer stuff again. We had a quiet evening together, which was nice.
I noticed on the way up the stairs into the house that my head has been ok today!! Woo Hoo!! Praise the Lord!! I don't know what caused it, but I'm 8 days off of the effexor 37.5 mg. I don't think my hot flashes are any different. The sleep isn't any different, either. I'll catch up sooner or later...
So maybe it's sooner. I just dozed off here. I'm going to bed.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday 01.22.2010
I listened to the radio for a while last night to sleep--I was happy to see when I woke it was daylight. I dozed again, getting up about 9 with sinus discomfort. Ugh. I took a sudafed and motrin and tylenol.
A slightly hazy morning and 28 degrees. Hm, maybe I'll go out for a walk before I go this afternoon...
I enjoyed my morning--breakfast, fresh brew, caught up on emails, and realized that I was feeling better. I got ready for the day. The sky had cleared to bright blue, and though there was a bit of a breeze, I got ready to go outside.
Bundled up, I took the camera and went out. The possum tracks under the shed are not as active as previously; there was a set of rabbit tracks, though. The breeze was coming from the east, so I decided to walk down Grace Street first, then back across the lake to our cabin, with the wind at my back.
It was lovely outdoors. All was well at the Goodwin Cottage, as well as the All-Inn, Anne's place next door. It was 30 degrees on the Goodwin thermometer. I took a few pics. I'll post the link when I can.
Down the bank and out onto the ice. So awesome. I got photos of the same cracks as last time; so neat. When I got back, I fired up the van and let it run while I knocked down the (low) snow drift in our driveway. It didn't take very long, though I do notice that my shoulder didn't like it. I was careful, trying to be aware of the muscle moves and rested frequently.
That done, I undid the van, closed up the garage, and got ready to go. When I got back in, I saw that I had been out for 2 hours. Wow. I had to pack up and leave.
I did, and left just before 5. I stopped in Mt. Pleasant to see Diane on the way back, and I had the pleasure of meeting her friend of 30 years, Gail. Of course, we had heard of each other, but had only met once, way back in the last century. She joined us as Diane and I were looking at the pictures I had just taken. The three of us went on the walk together. It was fun. Thanks for inviting Gail, Diane, I had a good time.
I had to leave. I got on the road shortly after 9, getting home by 10:45. I've unloaded the car, had a snack, and looked in on Dan a couple of times, who was sleeping soundly.
So I wrote here. I'm off to bed, as tomorrow is a workday. For both of us. I'm happy to say that my head is better again. Not gone, but better. Thank you God. And for the safe travel.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
A slightly hazy morning and 28 degrees. Hm, maybe I'll go out for a walk before I go this afternoon...
I enjoyed my morning--breakfast, fresh brew, caught up on emails, and realized that I was feeling better. I got ready for the day. The sky had cleared to bright blue, and though there was a bit of a breeze, I got ready to go outside.
Bundled up, I took the camera and went out. The possum tracks under the shed are not as active as previously; there was a set of rabbit tracks, though. The breeze was coming from the east, so I decided to walk down Grace Street first, then back across the lake to our cabin, with the wind at my back.
It was lovely outdoors. All was well at the Goodwin Cottage, as well as the All-Inn, Anne's place next door. It was 30 degrees on the Goodwin thermometer. I took a few pics. I'll post the link when I can.
Down the bank and out onto the ice. So awesome. I got photos of the same cracks as last time; so neat. When I got back, I fired up the van and let it run while I knocked down the (low) snow drift in our driveway. It didn't take very long, though I do notice that my shoulder didn't like it. I was careful, trying to be aware of the muscle moves and rested frequently.
That done, I undid the van, closed up the garage, and got ready to go. When I got back in, I saw that I had been out for 2 hours. Wow. I had to pack up and leave.
I did, and left just before 5. I stopped in Mt. Pleasant to see Diane on the way back, and I had the pleasure of meeting her friend of 30 years, Gail. Of course, we had heard of each other, but had only met once, way back in the last century. She joined us as Diane and I were looking at the pictures I had just taken. The three of us went on the walk together. It was fun. Thanks for inviting Gail, Diane, I had a good time.
I had to leave. I got on the road shortly after 9, getting home by 10:45. I've unloaded the car, had a snack, and looked in on Dan a couple of times, who was sleeping soundly.
So I wrote here. I'm off to bed, as tomorrow is a workday. For both of us. I'm happy to say that my head is better again. Not gone, but better. Thank you God. And for the safe travel.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday 01.21.2010
I slept better last night, only because I listened to my headphones. I do go to sleep, and when I wake I wonder why, then realize the music has stopped. I managed to feel mostly rested this morning.
Dan was up first this morning. I was awake about 9 ish when I heard Frank and Dan talking. It wasn't long before they were up at the computer again. I got up and got myself ready for the day.
I put laundry in, had breakfast, and soon it was time to go see Leah. Lee -ahhhh. She does such a good job. Reflexology on the feet today. It may be "hooey" but I believe it's making a difference.
That hour flew by. Back at home the guys were still doing their thing. I had forgotten to move the laundry into the dryer; I did that now and pondered going to the lake. Hmm. It's nice outside, 28-32 degrees, hazy/sunny, no precipitation...I checked the weather for Long Lake. About the same. Dan asked if I was going up north. "Yes" I responded. I set about gathering what I wanted to take with me for an overnight, as I work on Saturday.
I packed, and Frank carried things downstairs for me (thanks Frank), I heated up some food to take with me, and got on the road about 3. Oooohh yeeaaahhh. (cue music On The Road Again)
Travel was good, thank you God. I had a stop at Wilder Road for vehicle fuel in and me, fuel out. I parked at the end of a row so I could walk a bit to get to the restrooms. It was just enough, as I didn't want to get there too much after sunset.
As it was, I arrived just before 6, dusky twilight closing in. The neighbor Bob and Evelyn had moved a little of the snow in our driveway, and he drove in to make tracks with his four wheel drive vehicle. There has been enough snow melt/compaction that the larger of the drifts in the driveway was just deep enough that the undercarriage of the car rubbed. Not too much, and I was able to drive up to our garage. Thank you, Evelyn and Bob.
I unloaded the car, and all was well inside. I had a bit of a time to get the furnace to stay lit, but after a half hour or so, I DID!!! By now it was totally dark outside, with a waxing crescent moon and gobs of stars. I put on boots and tromped over to Evie & Bob's.
It's pretty cold out--20's--and a light breeze. But so quiet, and the odd noises of the lake, like the distant kettle drum. I would like to figure out how I could be outdoors, quietly, and listen, without freezing...
They saw me outside and I went around to be let in. The dogs greeted me happily, as dogs do. We visited briefly. Bob was going over to work on a project that wouldn't take real long, and "would you like to go see the house Evelyn's son is building?" Well, not really. I'd kind of like to stay home. I thought about it. How long are you going to be gone?? Only about a half hour...
We were indeed gone for a short time. Evelyn is very proud of her son's carpentry and finish work. He has crafted all of the cupboards, door and window frames and sills, and done (I think) all of the work themselves. Very nice work. I was glad I went.
Back at home, the cabin had warmed up nicely. I changed clothes, put things away, found a snack, and wrote here. And I'm getting sleepy.
My head seems go be intermittent. I'm hoping it's getting better.
It's nice to be here. Thank you God. I hope I can sleep.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan was up first this morning. I was awake about 9 ish when I heard Frank and Dan talking. It wasn't long before they were up at the computer again. I got up and got myself ready for the day.
I put laundry in, had breakfast, and soon it was time to go see Leah. Lee -ahhhh. She does such a good job. Reflexology on the feet today. It may be "hooey" but I believe it's making a difference.
That hour flew by. Back at home the guys were still doing their thing. I had forgotten to move the laundry into the dryer; I did that now and pondered going to the lake. Hmm. It's nice outside, 28-32 degrees, hazy/sunny, no precipitation...I checked the weather for Long Lake. About the same. Dan asked if I was going up north. "Yes" I responded. I set about gathering what I wanted to take with me for an overnight, as I work on Saturday.
I packed, and Frank carried things downstairs for me (thanks Frank), I heated up some food to take with me, and got on the road about 3. Oooohh yeeaaahhh. (cue music On The Road Again)
Travel was good, thank you God. I had a stop at Wilder Road for vehicle fuel in and me, fuel out. I parked at the end of a row so I could walk a bit to get to the restrooms. It was just enough, as I didn't want to get there too much after sunset.
As it was, I arrived just before 6, dusky twilight closing in. The neighbor Bob and Evelyn had moved a little of the snow in our driveway, and he drove in to make tracks with his four wheel drive vehicle. There has been enough snow melt/compaction that the larger of the drifts in the driveway was just deep enough that the undercarriage of the car rubbed. Not too much, and I was able to drive up to our garage. Thank you, Evelyn and Bob.
I unloaded the car, and all was well inside. I had a bit of a time to get the furnace to stay lit, but after a half hour or so, I DID!!! By now it was totally dark outside, with a waxing crescent moon and gobs of stars. I put on boots and tromped over to Evie & Bob's.
It's pretty cold out--20's--and a light breeze. But so quiet, and the odd noises of the lake, like the distant kettle drum. I would like to figure out how I could be outdoors, quietly, and listen, without freezing...
They saw me outside and I went around to be let in. The dogs greeted me happily, as dogs do. We visited briefly. Bob was going over to work on a project that wouldn't take real long, and "would you like to go see the house Evelyn's son is building?" Well, not really. I'd kind of like to stay home. I thought about it. How long are you going to be gone?? Only about a half hour...
We were indeed gone for a short time. Evelyn is very proud of her son's carpentry and finish work. He has crafted all of the cupboards, door and window frames and sills, and done (I think) all of the work themselves. Very nice work. I was glad I went.
Back at home, the cabin had warmed up nicely. I changed clothes, put things away, found a snack, and wrote here. And I'm getting sleepy.
My head seems go be intermittent. I'm hoping it's getting better.
It's nice to be here. Thank you God. I hope I can sleep.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Wednesday 01.20.2010
The usual interrupted sleep. Dan got up shortly after 8, I turned on my radio and was able to doze again. I was surprised when he came in and told me it was 10:00, and his friend that was originally coming this afternoon had called, saying he would be here in about an hour. Hm. Guess I'd better get up...
I showered and got ready for the day. The coffee was brewing and I had started pancakes when he arrived. Frank had stayed last night, and I like to make 'cakes when someone else is around to enjoy them. As it turned out, Dan's friend Al showed up and we all had 'cakes and eggs. It was yummy.
Dan and Al went to the garage and did golf stuff out there, while Frank showered and I cleaned up the kitchen. He went upstairs and got started on that computer up there, too.
We all visited for a while, with Al leaving near 4. Dan was hungry again and wanted a gyro, so Frank and I looked at the menu and Dan went out and picked it up. They devoured their food; I had mine before Frank and I went to the swimming class called Finning.
That was interesting. We wore socks, as recommended, got a pair of fins and styrofoam dumbbells, and got in. There were lots of people there tonight, maybe 25? We were led through a series of kicks and movements that got our heart rate up. I liked it a lot, even though the pool was almost crowded, and Frank liked it, too.
We got our heart rates up, and before long, it was time to get out of the pool. Time does fly...
Back at home Frank and Dan continued to discuss and try different ways to set up the new system. I checked email and stuff, and was surprised when Dan came down and went to bed shortly after 9.
Frank and I talked a lot for the next couple of hours. It was good.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm about there, too.
My head has been a little better today. It seems that it's worse, or maybe I notice it more, in the afternoon. I hope it's getting better.
Tomorrow I've been thinking of going to the lake, just for an overnight. Want to go?
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I showered and got ready for the day. The coffee was brewing and I had started pancakes when he arrived. Frank had stayed last night, and I like to make 'cakes when someone else is around to enjoy them. As it turned out, Dan's friend Al showed up and we all had 'cakes and eggs. It was yummy.
Dan and Al went to the garage and did golf stuff out there, while Frank showered and I cleaned up the kitchen. He went upstairs and got started on that computer up there, too.
We all visited for a while, with Al leaving near 4. Dan was hungry again and wanted a gyro, so Frank and I looked at the menu and Dan went out and picked it up. They devoured their food; I had mine before Frank and I went to the swimming class called Finning.
That was interesting. We wore socks, as recommended, got a pair of fins and styrofoam dumbbells, and got in. There were lots of people there tonight, maybe 25? We were led through a series of kicks and movements that got our heart rate up. I liked it a lot, even though the pool was almost crowded, and Frank liked it, too.
We got our heart rates up, and before long, it was time to get out of the pool. Time does fly...
Back at home Frank and Dan continued to discuss and try different ways to set up the new system. I checked email and stuff, and was surprised when Dan came down and went to bed shortly after 9.
Frank and I talked a lot for the next couple of hours. It was good.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm about there, too.
My head has been a little better today. It seems that it's worse, or maybe I notice it more, in the afternoon. I hope it's getting better.
Tomorrow I've been thinking of going to the lake, just for an overnight. Want to go?
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Tuesday 01.19.2010
What strange dreams last night. Seems like I slept forever, woke up from odd dreams, dreams that I don't recall much other than there were people in them and when I woke up it was maybe an hour later and I remember thinking "that was an odd dream". I had gotten to bed by 10:30, but was awake frequently, sometimes hot, most times restless. Dan is so good to not fuss and complain about my moving around so much.
I got up and got ready for work. The first thing I noticed was that my head wasn't as strange feeling as it had been. Whew.
Until I went out into the kitchen and started fixing breakfast. Yup. Still there. Darn.
I had a safe drive to Jackson, thank you God, and a few minutes after I parked the shuttle took us over to the hospital.
We ended up having a very busy day, but with a good group, we got through it.
Later in the afternoon I was walking down the hall and I almost stumbled over my own feet. A few times. I realized that my great toes and the inside balls of my feet were feeling funny like my head does. Whoa. That's weird. The sensation only lasted a few seconds, and the several episodes correlated with an increase of the oddness in my head/brain. The escalation of the sensations lasted maybe an hour?? but we were busy and I don't have a good sense of time. I just kept on keeping on. I did tell the girl I was working with, and one of the others asked if I was ok before I had said anything. I wanted them to know something was happening if something did happen to me.
It didn't. The frequency and intensity of the sensations eased, and at the time of this writing (10:30 PM) the sensations are infrequent and not as intense as they had been. Thank you God. It's very disconcerting having that stuff happen, not knowing what it's about.
It was finally time to leave. I got home safely, thanks again. Frank was at the house with Dan, and they were working on the computer stuff again. Seems they haven't made much progress today.
I'm tired; I'm surprised that Dan is still awake. Frank is having a snack. I'll be going to bed soon. And I'm still having hot flashes. I don't think those are any different than what they have been. I haven't had the effexor 37.5 mg since Friday's dose.
Anonymous wrote a comment about the supplements that might help. I am taking some supplements; if this person would like to give specific milligrams/dosages it would be helpful. Please comment here or by email, as found on my profile. Thank you.
And thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and got ready for work. The first thing I noticed was that my head wasn't as strange feeling as it had been. Whew.
Until I went out into the kitchen and started fixing breakfast. Yup. Still there. Darn.
I had a safe drive to Jackson, thank you God, and a few minutes after I parked the shuttle took us over to the hospital.
We ended up having a very busy day, but with a good group, we got through it.
Later in the afternoon I was walking down the hall and I almost stumbled over my own feet. A few times. I realized that my great toes and the inside balls of my feet were feeling funny like my head does. Whoa. That's weird. The sensation only lasted a few seconds, and the several episodes correlated with an increase of the oddness in my head/brain. The escalation of the sensations lasted maybe an hour?? but we were busy and I don't have a good sense of time. I just kept on keeping on. I did tell the girl I was working with, and one of the others asked if I was ok before I had said anything. I wanted them to know something was happening if something did happen to me.
It didn't. The frequency and intensity of the sensations eased, and at the time of this writing (10:30 PM) the sensations are infrequent and not as intense as they had been. Thank you God. It's very disconcerting having that stuff happen, not knowing what it's about.
It was finally time to leave. I got home safely, thanks again. Frank was at the house with Dan, and they were working on the computer stuff again. Seems they haven't made much progress today.
I'm tired; I'm surprised that Dan is still awake. Frank is having a snack. I'll be going to bed soon. And I'm still having hot flashes. I don't think those are any different than what they have been. I haven't had the effexor 37.5 mg since Friday's dose.
Anonymous wrote a comment about the supplements that might help. I am taking some supplements; if this person would like to give specific milligrams/dosages it would be helpful. Please comment here or by email, as found on my profile. Thank you.
And thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Monday 01.18.2010 Chemo Brain? Efffexor Withdrawal?
I slept a little better last night, though still waking frequently. The alarm went off for me to get up--I can't complain about it, I've had so much time off.
Dan had just gotten up, and I was just finishing my make-up when my phone rang. Again??
I talked with my co-worker. There are two of us in my job role today, and we only need one. I've lost 24 hours already this pay; she's lost 18 1/2. So by "turns" it's my turn to work. But she is one of the girls I've told that I would take her staffing hours, as her husband is in Iraq, she's expecting, and will be having time off for the baby. So, I offered to stay home this morning and split the shift with her. My head is still "funny" anyway.
I stayed up until Dan left for work then I went back to bed. I'm happy to say that I did go back to sleep, waking around 9.
I got up and realized that my head is still odd. It's difficult to explain. When I turn my head quickly, or turn my eyes to look at something, it's almost like a jolt around the outside of my brain, within the skull. I know. It's weird, and most difficult to describe. I do know that it's very strange. It reminds me of when I was having the chemotherapy. Not fun. The other piece of this is that I haven't had the effexor 37.5 mg since Friday's dose. Is this an effect of stopping it?? When I've researched the effexor, people who have problems are taking way larger doses, like 300 mg.
I breakfasted and called work to verify that we are going to split the shift. Yup. I got ready to go, as I need to be there by 12:30.
I had a good drive down, thank you God. The beauty of the foliage today was something we don't see often; there had been fog earlier and was mostly lifted, but the air was cold enough that the moisture that had collected on the trees and shrubs and grasses had frozen. Everything was coated with a frosty ice (the roads were hardly wet, though, so driving was ok) and shades of gray. Gray sky, gray landscape. Almost eerie. By the time I got to Jackson the air temperature was a little warmer, so there wasn't the ice formation there.
I found a parking place and walked the 2 blocks to the hospital, which is strange to do with my head feeling the way it does.
We had a good afternoon, and I was surprised to see that the night shift had arrived. Yippee!
A good drive home, thanks again, but it was really dark.
Dan was home, too. We talked a bit, but he was doing computer stuff. Me too. He fell asleep before too long and has gone to bed.
Dan finally has a day off tomorrow. I will work. I hope my head is better.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan had just gotten up, and I was just finishing my make-up when my phone rang. Again??
I talked with my co-worker. There are two of us in my job role today, and we only need one. I've lost 24 hours already this pay; she's lost 18 1/2. So by "turns" it's my turn to work. But she is one of the girls I've told that I would take her staffing hours, as her husband is in Iraq, she's expecting, and will be having time off for the baby. So, I offered to stay home this morning and split the shift with her. My head is still "funny" anyway.
I stayed up until Dan left for work then I went back to bed. I'm happy to say that I did go back to sleep, waking around 9.
I got up and realized that my head is still odd. It's difficult to explain. When I turn my head quickly, or turn my eyes to look at something, it's almost like a jolt around the outside of my brain, within the skull. I know. It's weird, and most difficult to describe. I do know that it's very strange. It reminds me of when I was having the chemotherapy. Not fun. The other piece of this is that I haven't had the effexor 37.5 mg since Friday's dose. Is this an effect of stopping it?? When I've researched the effexor, people who have problems are taking way larger doses, like 300 mg.
I breakfasted and called work to verify that we are going to split the shift. Yup. I got ready to go, as I need to be there by 12:30.
I had a good drive down, thank you God. The beauty of the foliage today was something we don't see often; there had been fog earlier and was mostly lifted, but the air was cold enough that the moisture that had collected on the trees and shrubs and grasses had frozen. Everything was coated with a frosty ice (the roads were hardly wet, though, so driving was ok) and shades of gray. Gray sky, gray landscape. Almost eerie. By the time I got to Jackson the air temperature was a little warmer, so there wasn't the ice formation there.
I found a parking place and walked the 2 blocks to the hospital, which is strange to do with my head feeling the way it does.
We had a good afternoon, and I was surprised to see that the night shift had arrived. Yippee!
A good drive home, thanks again, but it was really dark.
Dan was home, too. We talked a bit, but he was doing computer stuff. Me too. He fell asleep before too long and has gone to bed.
Dan finally has a day off tomorrow. I will work. I hope my head is better.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Sunday 01.17.2010
Whoa. I didn't hardly sleep last night. For one thing, I was cold. And couldn't get warm. I put the earpiece in my ear and listened to the radio for a couple of hours, but only drifted, never really sleeping. When Dan got up and left for work, I pulled another blanket on. Still cold, still awake. I decided to check the furnace. What?!? It's showing that it's 65 degrees in the house. No wonder.
I know there are lots of people who keep their house at that temperature, but we don't. I turned it up to 72 and went back to bed. After about a half hour I was finally warming up and I drifted off to sleep. And wouldn't you know it--I had a #blinking# hot flash that had me throwing the blankets off and deep breathing. Ugh. Where were the hot flashes when I was so cold...???
I was happy that when I woke I had slept a couple of hours. Not feeling rested, for sure, but since it's nearly 10 o'clock I got up.
I was hungry, so I had breakfast. And my head feels really strange, like when I was having chemo treatments. Like when I turn my head my brain takes a minute to catch up. I thought maybe I was a little dehydrated, so I drank water, making sure to have more throughout the day.
After a lovely shower, I checked the times for the library, made a grocery list, and went out. Probably not the smartest thing to do with my brain feeling like this. But I did.
I selected a few items at the library and checked those out and went on to Meijer.
The store was kind of busy, being Sunday afternoon. I kept to my list, although I had to go back through the aisles a few times. That was kind of strange, but I navigated through, checked out, and got home.
Dan was home when I got there and he came down to help carry the bags up. He's a great guy.
We spent the rest of the evening catching up. He went to bed a while ago, and I'm on my way.
My head is still weird and I'm still hot flashing. I did not take the effexor 37.5 mg again today (second day without it). Is this brain thing from the lack of that medication? I don't know. I hope I'm better tomorrow... It's a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I know there are lots of people who keep their house at that temperature, but we don't. I turned it up to 72 and went back to bed. After about a half hour I was finally warming up and I drifted off to sleep. And wouldn't you know it--I had a #blinking# hot flash that had me throwing the blankets off and deep breathing. Ugh. Where were the hot flashes when I was so cold...???
I was happy that when I woke I had slept a couple of hours. Not feeling rested, for sure, but since it's nearly 10 o'clock I got up.
I was hungry, so I had breakfast. And my head feels really strange, like when I was having chemo treatments. Like when I turn my head my brain takes a minute to catch up. I thought maybe I was a little dehydrated, so I drank water, making sure to have more throughout the day.
After a lovely shower, I checked the times for the library, made a grocery list, and went out. Probably not the smartest thing to do with my brain feeling like this. But I did.
I selected a few items at the library and checked those out and went on to Meijer.
The store was kind of busy, being Sunday afternoon. I kept to my list, although I had to go back through the aisles a few times. That was kind of strange, but I navigated through, checked out, and got home.
Dan was home when I got there and he came down to help carry the bags up. He's a great guy.
We spent the rest of the evening catching up. He went to bed a while ago, and I'm on my way.
My head is still weird and I'm still hot flashing. I did not take the effexor 37.5 mg again today (second day without it). Is this brain thing from the lack of that medication? I don't know. I hope I'm better tomorrow... It's a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Saturday 01.16.2010
Dan got up and went to work; I woke about 8:30. I got up and had breakfast, enjoying the morning. After getting ready for the day, I went to Lansing Opthalmology to pick up Daniel's contacts, then down to Jackson for my haircut. While I was in town I took care of some banking, too.
I stopped at Meijer to pick up something for dinner, and found a nice package of "cubed steak". Don't know why it's called cubed--I would think of that as chunks--but it's been run through the machine that flattens it and almost chews it up.
Frank was at the house when I got home. He was rustling up some food and had started a load of laundry. When he was done in the kitchen, I started the meat.
Daniel got home when dinner was about ready. Swiss steak, carrots, onions, mashed potatoes--yummy. It turned out really good.
Frank and Dan worked on the computer stuff all evening again. Frank left about 8, and Dan sat down in his chair. He was asleep within minutes. He woke about an hour later and went to bed.
I've been reading and looking at stuff on the computer this evening after cleaning up the kitchen. My axillary wound has been itchy, and it wouldn't surprise me if that one is trying to peel like the other one did. And I intentionally did not take the Effexor tonight. It's only 37.5 milligrams, so I hope there's not much in the way of side effects or withdrawal. I'll probably take it tomorrow. Time will tell. If the hot flashes get worse I'll definitely take it. (It's used to help with the hot flashes even though it's an antidepressant)
Dan works tomorrow, I don't have anything planned.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I stopped at Meijer to pick up something for dinner, and found a nice package of "cubed steak". Don't know why it's called cubed--I would think of that as chunks--but it's been run through the machine that flattens it and almost chews it up.
Frank was at the house when I got home. He was rustling up some food and had started a load of laundry. When he was done in the kitchen, I started the meat.
Daniel got home when dinner was about ready. Swiss steak, carrots, onions, mashed potatoes--yummy. It turned out really good.
Frank and Dan worked on the computer stuff all evening again. Frank left about 8, and Dan sat down in his chair. He was asleep within minutes. He woke about an hour later and went to bed.
I've been reading and looking at stuff on the computer this evening after cleaning up the kitchen. My axillary wound has been itchy, and it wouldn't surprise me if that one is trying to peel like the other one did. And I intentionally did not take the Effexor tonight. It's only 37.5 milligrams, so I hope there's not much in the way of side effects or withdrawal. I'll probably take it tomorrow. Time will tell. If the hot flashes get worse I'll definitely take it. (It's used to help with the hot flashes even though it's an antidepressant)
Dan works tomorrow, I don't have anything planned.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Friday 01.15.2010
I got up this morning when the radio came on. Only one day of work, I can sleep tomorrow morning. I was washed and dressed and just starting on my hair when the phone rang...
One of my co-workers, who I've told that if she gets "on-call" I would take it for her. Well, she got on-call, so she called me to see if we could swap. Sure, I told her, and we talked about the orientation for our new teammate that she would have with her today.
I stayed up while Dan got ready for work, and even a bit longer, finally going back to bed about 0630. I woke again about 9:30. Ah, that's better.
I got up and had breakfast. Frank called a little later saying he would be here a little after noon. Oh, ok. Seems Dan called him to do some computer work. He got here a bit after noon.
Frank and I visited a bit, then he went in to bathe. He cut his hair, too, and I helped trim the edges. Before long, Dan was home.
The two of them went upstairs and worked on a computer the rest of the evening. I fixed supper, they ate, went back upstairs. Dan finally quit about 9, and Frank left a half hour later. Needless to say, Dan was snoring before Frank was out of the complex.
I've been reading, and enjoying listening to them. It's nice to hear Frank sharing his passion with someone, and laughing. And it's nice that the someone is my husband. We are truly blessed.
Tomorrow is haircut day. Frank is coming back to continue with the project.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
One of my co-workers, who I've told that if she gets "on-call" I would take it for her. Well, she got on-call, so she called me to see if we could swap. Sure, I told her, and we talked about the orientation for our new teammate that she would have with her today.
I stayed up while Dan got ready for work, and even a bit longer, finally going back to bed about 0630. I woke again about 9:30. Ah, that's better.
I got up and had breakfast. Frank called a little later saying he would be here a little after noon. Oh, ok. Seems Dan called him to do some computer work. He got here a bit after noon.
Frank and I visited a bit, then he went in to bathe. He cut his hair, too, and I helped trim the edges. Before long, Dan was home.
The two of them went upstairs and worked on a computer the rest of the evening. I fixed supper, they ate, went back upstairs. Dan finally quit about 9, and Frank left a half hour later. Needless to say, Dan was snoring before Frank was out of the complex.
I've been reading, and enjoying listening to them. It's nice to hear Frank sharing his passion with someone, and laughing. And it's nice that the someone is my husband. We are truly blessed.
Tomorrow is haircut day. Frank is coming back to continue with the project.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursday 01.14.2010
I woke about 0930 again this morning. Ahhh. I got up and was just finishing breakfast when the phone rang.
It was Leah. She had me down for 10:00 this morning. It's now about ten after. We opted to re-schedule for another day. I thought I had a 12 o'clock with her. Darn. I was sooo looking forward to it. *sigh*
So I had a cup of coffee and looked through recipes and cookbooks, looking for something to make for supper tonight. I finally landed on a spinach and bean and sausage soup. I'm not real keen on sausage, but Dan likes it. I made a grocery list.
After a while I went out, stopping at the car wash, since it was 36 degrees out. I should get better gas mileage after getting all the dirt off.... On to Meijer. I got what I needed and back home.
I made the soup, which smells wonderful. And I made biscuits to go with it. Yum. Dan got home from work, and we ate when the biscuits were done. He really liked the soup.
I went to water aerobics tonight. My shoulders sure are sore, especially the left one. I'll keep moving...
Dan went to bed shortly after I got back, and I wrote here.
I forgot to mention yesterday that the breast incision peeled off again. Kind of like a sunburn peels.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
It was Leah. She had me down for 10:00 this morning. It's now about ten after. We opted to re-schedule for another day. I thought I had a 12 o'clock with her. Darn. I was sooo looking forward to it. *sigh*
So I had a cup of coffee and looked through recipes and cookbooks, looking for something to make for supper tonight. I finally landed on a spinach and bean and sausage soup. I'm not real keen on sausage, but Dan likes it. I made a grocery list.
After a while I went out, stopping at the car wash, since it was 36 degrees out. I should get better gas mileage after getting all the dirt off.... On to Meijer. I got what I needed and back home.
I made the soup, which smells wonderful. And I made biscuits to go with it. Yum. Dan got home from work, and we ate when the biscuits were done. He really liked the soup.
I went to water aerobics tonight. My shoulders sure are sore, especially the left one. I'll keep moving...
Dan went to bed shortly after I got back, and I wrote here.
I forgot to mention yesterday that the breast incision peeled off again. Kind of like a sunburn peels.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wednesday 01.13.2010
I woke a little after 2 AM, Daniel's "sleeping well". I put the earphone in my "up" ear (the one not on my pillow) and listened to the radio on low. I slept enough to get some rest, but I did hear Dan get up and ready this morning. I turned the radio off after he left and woke again about 0930.
I got up, putzed around the house, did some light housekeeping. Looked at the computer, and then since the sun was shining in a clear blue sky, I went out for a walk.
I was glad to have my hat and scarf, as the wind was still cold, even though the temperature was about 36. I enjoyed looking at the bird and rabbit tracks in the back of the complex. I was out almost an hour.
Dan got home shortly after I came in. We went out for food, going to Bob Evans. It was good, and we enjoyed each other's company and conversation.
When we got home, Dan showered, then sat down in his chair. He managed to stay awake until 7:30ish. He went on to bed about 8.
I've had a quiet evening. I listened to my book some, and wrote here.
Tomorrow I see Leah for reflexology.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up, putzed around the house, did some light housekeeping. Looked at the computer, and then since the sun was shining in a clear blue sky, I went out for a walk.
I was glad to have my hat and scarf, as the wind was still cold, even though the temperature was about 36. I enjoyed looking at the bird and rabbit tracks in the back of the complex. I was out almost an hour.
Dan got home shortly after I came in. We went out for food, going to Bob Evans. It was good, and we enjoyed each other's company and conversation.
When we got home, Dan showered, then sat down in his chair. He managed to stay awake until 7:30ish. He went on to bed about 8.
I've had a quiet evening. I listened to my book some, and wrote here.
Tomorrow I see Leah for reflexology.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Tuesday 01.12.2010
I slept somewhat better last night; woke to the radio and got up for work. Dan, too.
I had a good drive down, thank you God. No shuttle. Hmmm. I waited several minutes, but ended up walking the two blocks in 15 degree weather. Of course I was bundled up. I way don't like being cold.
And let me just say, as an aside, that for me, hot flashes and freezing temperatures do not equal out. When the bitter cold air comes in contact with hot, sometimes perspire-y skin, it almost hurts. Burns. The temperatures do not equal out. Kind of like being thirsty in the ocean?
We had a busy day today on the overflow unit, which had just opened during the night shift for their deliveries. So all of the patients were new, and just kept coming. We had a good crew, though, and we got through it.
A safe drive home, thanks again, and Dan was home, too. We had brief conversation before I looked over and saw him sleeping in the chair. *sigh* It makes for a quiet evening, I guess.
I picked at the email and wrote here; not sure what I'm going to do tomorrow.
For the most part, working Mother/Baby is a happy place to be. Both yesterday and today we had losses. Please keep the families of these angel babies in your prayers.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I had a good drive down, thank you God. No shuttle. Hmmm. I waited several minutes, but ended up walking the two blocks in 15 degree weather. Of course I was bundled up. I way don't like being cold.
And let me just say, as an aside, that for me, hot flashes and freezing temperatures do not equal out. When the bitter cold air comes in contact with hot, sometimes perspire-y skin, it almost hurts. Burns. The temperatures do not equal out. Kind of like being thirsty in the ocean?
We had a busy day today on the overflow unit, which had just opened during the night shift for their deliveries. So all of the patients were new, and just kept coming. We had a good crew, though, and we got through it.
A safe drive home, thanks again, and Dan was home, too. We had brief conversation before I looked over and saw him sleeping in the chair. *sigh* It makes for a quiet evening, I guess.
I picked at the email and wrote here; not sure what I'm going to do tomorrow.
For the most part, working Mother/Baby is a happy place to be. Both yesterday and today we had losses. Please keep the families of these angel babies in your prayers.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday 01.11.2010
Geesh, feels like I tossed and turned and was awake most of the night. I had called the unit (of the hospital where I work) before I went to bed to check staffing for today. We had lots of staff, so I offered to be on-call.
Dan got up and gone to his j.o.b. while I mostly didn't hear him. I woke again about 9 and listened to the radio a bit before getting up.
I ended up having a lovely day. Since I had the time, I was able to call the library guy to troubleshoot downloading emedia. It took a short while, as computer stuff does, but we did it!! I also browsed the elibrary. I'm sure it's the way of the future. I also looked at my projected work schedule and blocked out groups of days to go to the lake, as well as my vacation time. Looking good...
I went out for a short walk, came in and fixed dinner, read some, and finally Dan came home. He was tuckered out from his day. We chatted a bit while he ate, and he went on to bed after doing his computer stuff.
Tomorrow I will work.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan got up and gone to his j.o.b. while I mostly didn't hear him. I woke again about 9 and listened to the radio a bit before getting up.
I ended up having a lovely day. Since I had the time, I was able to call the library guy to troubleshoot downloading emedia. It took a short while, as computer stuff does, but we did it!! I also browsed the elibrary. I'm sure it's the way of the future. I also looked at my projected work schedule and blocked out groups of days to go to the lake, as well as my vacation time. Looking good...
I went out for a short walk, came in and fixed dinner, read some, and finally Dan came home. He was tuckered out from his day. We chatted a bit while he ate, and he went on to bed after doing his computer stuff.
Tomorrow I will work.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Sunday 01.10.2010
I thought I slept pretty good. I woke this morning about 10. Dan was already up. I got up and putzed around, had breakfast, did another load of laundry.
After a while, Dan asked about going out. Sure, I answered, let me get ready...
We had a big date of Los Tres Amigos (yummy) then on to Meijer for groceries (not so much fun, as the store was quite busy, and some of the popular sale items were gone). We got what we needed, anyway.
Back home, Dan started up the Vibe and let it run. Yes, he still has it, and it is still for sale. He thinks he has a serious buyer at his jobplace; that person is trying to coordinate something.
I was finally able to get some computer time. I downloaded the pictures from Saturday, and you can See the pictures here. I think I've identified the creature as an opossum, though where the tracks led to the scat pile, the scat there looked more like rabbit.
I continued on my walk from tracking the animal out onto the ice, which was very different than being on water. It's been a long time since I've been on a frozen lake. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
Dan has gone to bed. I am scheduled to work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
After a while, Dan asked about going out. Sure, I answered, let me get ready...
We had a big date of Los Tres Amigos (yummy) then on to Meijer for groceries (not so much fun, as the store was quite busy, and some of the popular sale items were gone). We got what we needed, anyway.
Back home, Dan started up the Vibe and let it run. Yes, he still has it, and it is still for sale. He thinks he has a serious buyer at his jobplace; that person is trying to coordinate something.
I was finally able to get some computer time. I downloaded the pictures from Saturday, and you can See the pictures here. I think I've identified the creature as an opossum, though where the tracks led to the scat pile, the scat there looked more like rabbit.
I continued on my walk from tracking the animal out onto the ice, which was very different than being on water. It's been a long time since I've been on a frozen lake. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
Dan has gone to bed. I am scheduled to work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday 01.09.2010
I was sleeping good when the phone rang. No, not work. Hm, it's daylight. I missed getting the phone, was dozing back off to sleep when I heard footsteps on the back porch and knocking at the door. Hm. I got up, grabbed my bathrobe, and went out.
First of all, I was surprised that it was 10:40. Whew, I was sleeping good. And it was Bob, the neighbor. Coming to check on me, since they had been playing with the furnace and all. Ok, thanks Bob. He left. I was up now.
It was a beautiful sunny day. Blue sky, white lake with patchy areas of bluish gray ice showing through where the wind has blown the snow away. Wow. Totally amazing.
And totally cold. 10 degrees.
But warm in the house! I took my time this morning, enjoying everything, finally having breakfast. I saw the squirrels coming down out of the trees to eat at the feeders Evelyn and Bob have. Interesting to watch. I really want to go outside. Cross country skiing is out--too cold for my first time out, getting re-acquainted with my equipment and such. So I bundled up in snow pants, balaclava, hat, scarf, gloves, boots, sunglasses, and camera and went out.
Wow. So different. Quiet, still. Odd sounds of the lake; ice shifting, I suppose. I walked around the house, looking at tracks, following them to see where they go, what they are. I got several pictures of the tracks of the creature that lives under the shed, and followed them over to the lilac bushes in back of the gas pig, where there was feces. Round balls about 1/4" in diameter. When I get the pictures transferred to the computer I'll link them. Maybe someone will know what animal it is.
I went down to the frozen lake and walked out onto it. I was hearing occasional deep tones, like kettle drums or something. At first I thought it was someone's music, but then I realized it was the lake itself. I'm fascinated by the cracks and the shifting and such. I heard a high pitched screechy crack, too. Not to worry, though, the ice was at least 8-12 inches thick, as far as my inexperienced eye could tell. The cracks themselves where whitish and you could see the depth of them from an angle. I took pictures of those, too. I haven't seem them yet, though, to know if they turned out.
I walked across the bay around to the Goodwin Cottage where all was well, then returned along Grace Street. It's interesting to see all the different animal tracks and where their paths are.
When I got back, I started the van and let it run about 10 minutes or so as I got things organized in the house to get ready to go. I turned off the van and closed the garage back up before showering. I cleaned the bathroom, vacuumed, finished the kitchen. Scrounged up some food, loaded the car, and was on the road before 5 pm.
I stopped at Diane's again, where we ended up at the Grand Traverse Pie Company. Yummy! We ate and visited and laughed. Back at her place, we took turns warming up at the piano, and tried to play a piece of music together. Ha Ha!!! We both need more practice. I'll keep trying...
I had spoken to Daniel a few times today, and I called to tell him I would be leaving soon. He was already in bed by 9 o'clock.
I had an uneventful drive, thank you God, and made it home safely about 11:30. Of course Dan's snoring, and I don't think he even knows I'm back. He will when I climb into bed.
I'm unpacked, had a snack, and picked through a few emails, and wrote here.
Tomorrow is groceries, plus whatever Dan has to do. We're both off, and I'd like to spend some time with him.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
First of all, I was surprised that it was 10:40. Whew, I was sleeping good. And it was Bob, the neighbor. Coming to check on me, since they had been playing with the furnace and all. Ok, thanks Bob. He left. I was up now.
It was a beautiful sunny day. Blue sky, white lake with patchy areas of bluish gray ice showing through where the wind has blown the snow away. Wow. Totally amazing.
And totally cold. 10 degrees.
But warm in the house! I took my time this morning, enjoying everything, finally having breakfast. I saw the squirrels coming down out of the trees to eat at the feeders Evelyn and Bob have. Interesting to watch. I really want to go outside. Cross country skiing is out--too cold for my first time out, getting re-acquainted with my equipment and such. So I bundled up in snow pants, balaclava, hat, scarf, gloves, boots, sunglasses, and camera and went out.
Wow. So different. Quiet, still. Odd sounds of the lake; ice shifting, I suppose. I walked around the house, looking at tracks, following them to see where they go, what they are. I got several pictures of the tracks of the creature that lives under the shed, and followed them over to the lilac bushes in back of the gas pig, where there was feces. Round balls about 1/4" in diameter. When I get the pictures transferred to the computer I'll link them. Maybe someone will know what animal it is.
I went down to the frozen lake and walked out onto it. I was hearing occasional deep tones, like kettle drums or something. At first I thought it was someone's music, but then I realized it was the lake itself. I'm fascinated by the cracks and the shifting and such. I heard a high pitched screechy crack, too. Not to worry, though, the ice was at least 8-12 inches thick, as far as my inexperienced eye could tell. The cracks themselves where whitish and you could see the depth of them from an angle. I took pictures of those, too. I haven't seem them yet, though, to know if they turned out.
I walked across the bay around to the Goodwin Cottage where all was well, then returned along Grace Street. It's interesting to see all the different animal tracks and where their paths are.
When I got back, I started the van and let it run about 10 minutes or so as I got things organized in the house to get ready to go. I turned off the van and closed the garage back up before showering. I cleaned the bathroom, vacuumed, finished the kitchen. Scrounged up some food, loaded the car, and was on the road before 5 pm.
I stopped at Diane's again, where we ended up at the Grand Traverse Pie Company. Yummy! We ate and visited and laughed. Back at her place, we took turns warming up at the piano, and tried to play a piece of music together. Ha Ha!!! We both need more practice. I'll keep trying...
I had spoken to Daniel a few times today, and I called to tell him I would be leaving soon. He was already in bed by 9 o'clock.
I had an uneventful drive, thank you God, and made it home safely about 11:30. Of course Dan's snoring, and I don't think he even knows I'm back. He will when I climb into bed.
I'm unpacked, had a snack, and picked through a few emails, and wrote here.
Tomorrow is groceries, plus whatever Dan has to do. We're both off, and I'd like to spend some time with him.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Friday 01.08.2010
I woke enough this morning to have a brief conversation with Dan; I fell back to sleep before he left, waking again about 6. I had the alarm set for 0820 so I could check the weather and get ready to go to the lake. Since I was awake, I started a load of laundry, getting started. I went back to bed, sleeping until the radio came on.
Ugh.
I listened to the weather, and hearing that the snow had passed, I got up. Yippee!! I can go to the lake!!
I got up, changed the laundry, had breakfast, got things together. Before I knew it, it was time to go for my massage appointment with Leah. Ahhh.
Before I knew it again, that hour was over, and I had to leave. She had done a good job, as always.
The roads had been plowed and salted, improving their condition. By the time I'm ready to head north they might be pretty good.
I finished getting my things together, dried the second load of laundry and got it out, loaded the car, was on the road by 12:20.
The highways were wet and drying, and north of St. Johhs they were mostly dry. And the sun came out, too, making the snow covered rural landscape bright and fresh looking. So Beautiful. Thank you God for letting me see this today.
I stopped at cousin Diane's place of work to give a hug (and return what I had borrowed) and use the restroom. She has her own office with a name plate on the wall and everything! It was a brief visit, and I got on my way.
I made it to the Cabin about 4:15 and 21 degrees. The heating guy called to say that he was about 15 minutes out--which was great, because I was just coming into Long Lake.
I parked next door at our neighbors' Evelyn and Bob. Our driveway is definitely plowed closed. But the drift pattern lent itself to a nice path between the yards. I loaded my arms and went up to the house. The sun had crusted the snow, so it was fairly easy to walk on.
All was well inside. Looks good, with the radiant heater keeping the temperature about 40 degrees. I was just getting the last load from the car when the furnace guy pulled in.
He checked the furnace the same as Dan did, but then removed a piece and bypassed it. Wa La!! It worked! Through the magic of Nextel, a replacement part arrived in about 20 minutes. The guy was here a little more than an hour, and for the price of only $190.10, the heat is on. Thank you God.
Time for supper. As my food was cooking, I unpacked, made the bed, etc. By now it was dark. When I was talking with Daniel, I looked out and saw that the temp has dropped to 10. I'm comfy inside...
After dinner was cleaned up I figured out how to use the VCR (with all the different remotes and such). I put the yoga tape in, and before I knew it the 70 minutes tape was done. Those stretches feel sooo good.
And wrote here. Tomorrow I'd like to at least go out for a walk. I hope there's not much wind, and maybe even 20 degrees.
Wish you were here. Hugs.
Ugh.
I listened to the weather, and hearing that the snow had passed, I got up. Yippee!! I can go to the lake!!
I got up, changed the laundry, had breakfast, got things together. Before I knew it, it was time to go for my massage appointment with Leah. Ahhh.
Before I knew it again, that hour was over, and I had to leave. She had done a good job, as always.
The roads had been plowed and salted, improving their condition. By the time I'm ready to head north they might be pretty good.
I finished getting my things together, dried the second load of laundry and got it out, loaded the car, was on the road by 12:20.
The highways were wet and drying, and north of St. Johhs they were mostly dry. And the sun came out, too, making the snow covered rural landscape bright and fresh looking. So Beautiful. Thank you God for letting me see this today.
I stopped at cousin Diane's place of work to give a hug (and return what I had borrowed) and use the restroom. She has her own office with a name plate on the wall and everything! It was a brief visit, and I got on my way.
I made it to the Cabin about 4:15 and 21 degrees. The heating guy called to say that he was about 15 minutes out--which was great, because I was just coming into Long Lake.
I parked next door at our neighbors' Evelyn and Bob. Our driveway is definitely plowed closed. But the drift pattern lent itself to a nice path between the yards. I loaded my arms and went up to the house. The sun had crusted the snow, so it was fairly easy to walk on.
All was well inside. Looks good, with the radiant heater keeping the temperature about 40 degrees. I was just getting the last load from the car when the furnace guy pulled in.
He checked the furnace the same as Dan did, but then removed a piece and bypassed it. Wa La!! It worked! Through the magic of Nextel, a replacement part arrived in about 20 minutes. The guy was here a little more than an hour, and for the price of only $190.10, the heat is on. Thank you God.
Time for supper. As my food was cooking, I unpacked, made the bed, etc. By now it was dark. When I was talking with Daniel, I looked out and saw that the temp has dropped to 10. I'm comfy inside...
After dinner was cleaned up I figured out how to use the VCR (with all the different remotes and such). I put the yoga tape in, and before I knew it the 70 minutes tape was done. Those stretches feel sooo good.
And wrote here. Tomorrow I'd like to at least go out for a walk. I hope there's not much wind, and maybe even 20 degrees.
Wish you were here. Hugs.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Thursday 01.07.2010
I thought I slept pretty good overall, waking every couple hours or so like I do. I guess what makes it "pretty good" is that I didn't lay awake forever, waiting for the night to pass. I was sleeping when the alarm came on.
I got up and ready for work; Dan, too.
A safe drive down, thank you God, and the shuttle was waiting in the lot. Woo Hoo!!
We had a busy day today--my orientee was in classroom this morning but joined us about 11:30, which was helpful. The afternoon was "a good learning opportunity". Geesh.
It was finally time to leave. It had been snowing most of the day, and there was about 4-5 inches covering my car. It took me several minutes to get it cleaned off to drive 30+ miles home. And I did part of the car next to me. (something I like to do. What a nice surprise to come out of a long day of work and find your car cleaned off) She arrived when I had just started, and was surprised and thankful, as she couldn't locate her snow brush/scraper.
I had a safe drive home, thanks again, which wasn't near as bad as some of the trips I had made to Jackson to help Elaine.
Dan was up, but he didn't stay up long, as it was nearly 9 pm when I got home. We visited a little before he turned in.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to go to Long Lake. I'll check the weather before heading north.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and ready for work; Dan, too.
A safe drive down, thank you God, and the shuttle was waiting in the lot. Woo Hoo!!
We had a busy day today--my orientee was in classroom this morning but joined us about 11:30, which was helpful. The afternoon was "a good learning opportunity". Geesh.
It was finally time to leave. It had been snowing most of the day, and there was about 4-5 inches covering my car. It took me several minutes to get it cleaned off to drive 30+ miles home. And I did part of the car next to me. (something I like to do. What a nice surprise to come out of a long day of work and find your car cleaned off) She arrived when I had just started, and was surprised and thankful, as she couldn't locate her snow brush/scraper.
I had a safe drive home, thanks again, which wasn't near as bad as some of the trips I had made to Jackson to help Elaine.
Dan was up, but he didn't stay up long, as it was nearly 9 pm when I got home. We visited a little before he turned in.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to go to Long Lake. I'll check the weather before heading north.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Wednesday 01.06.2010
The alarm went off this morning after a too-short night. The big salt trucks came through the complex between 2 and 3. And what goes in comes out, meaning that they went by twice. I'm thankful they did, so that Dan and I could each get out, but they were noisy.
The freeway was "good" for my drive south. Until I got just north of Jackson, where there was more crunchy slush, like it had not been salted for as long. But I arrived safely, thank you God, and the shuttle was in the lot. Woo Hoo!!
On the overflow unit today, we had a good crew. An odd type of busy, steady, with unusual occurrences with our patients. Everything and everyone was taken care of very well, although I'm sure the pacing had much to do with it. Had the flow been more congested it could have been a really bad day.
Frank stopped in to see me and to do an errand for me. He's a great guy. I like how my co-workers smile at him, and hug him. He does, too.
Our shift was finally over. The shuttle took me back to my car, and I headed home in the dark, on mostly dry roads.
Dan had gotten home a couple hours later than usual due to a staff meeting, and he had just showered and gotten settled in "his" chair. We had less than an hour together before he fell asleep, and off to bed he went.
I wrote here, and I'm going to bed soon, too.
I found myself surprised several times throughout the day at the different muscles that are making themselves known, especially around the shoulders, hips, and knees, from the water aerobics last night. I ended up taking tylenol/motrin after lunch, and again when I got home this evening.
I've fallen asleep here, so ...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
The freeway was "good" for my drive south. Until I got just north of Jackson, where there was more crunchy slush, like it had not been salted for as long. But I arrived safely, thank you God, and the shuttle was in the lot. Woo Hoo!!
On the overflow unit today, we had a good crew. An odd type of busy, steady, with unusual occurrences with our patients. Everything and everyone was taken care of very well, although I'm sure the pacing had much to do with it. Had the flow been more congested it could have been a really bad day.
Frank stopped in to see me and to do an errand for me. He's a great guy. I like how my co-workers smile at him, and hug him. He does, too.
Our shift was finally over. The shuttle took me back to my car, and I headed home in the dark, on mostly dry roads.
Dan had gotten home a couple hours later than usual due to a staff meeting, and he had just showered and gotten settled in "his" chair. We had less than an hour together before he fell asleep, and off to bed he went.
I wrote here, and I'm going to bed soon, too.
I found myself surprised several times throughout the day at the different muscles that are making themselves known, especially around the shoulders, hips, and knees, from the water aerobics last night. I ended up taking tylenol/motrin after lunch, and again when I got home this evening.
I've fallen asleep here, so ...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Tuesday 01.05.2010
I was surprised that I didn't sleep very long this morning--0830. Perhaps because I was vaguely aware that Dan was up...
I had breakfast, then a shower. Checked email. And spent the rest of the afternoon putting Christmas away. Two trips over to the storage unit (which would have been one trip with the van, but it's at the lake).
Dan came home, changed clothes, and left for his golf lesson. I had a bite to eat, and he came in just as I was leaving for water aerobics.
I had a good class. It still amazes me how different it is moving in the water.
When I got home he was finishing looking at something on the internet. It wasn't long before he was in bed. Now that I'm sitting, I'm getting very heavy-eyed myself.
Tomorrow is a work day for both of us. The television had a scroll along the bottom that an area of the freeway here is shut down due to accidents with icy roads, with a statement from the police urging people not to drive. I hope it's better in the morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I had breakfast, then a shower. Checked email. And spent the rest of the afternoon putting Christmas away. Two trips over to the storage unit (which would have been one trip with the van, but it's at the lake).
Dan came home, changed clothes, and left for his golf lesson. I had a bite to eat, and he came in just as I was leaving for water aerobics.
I had a good class. It still amazes me how different it is moving in the water.
When I got home he was finishing looking at something on the internet. It wasn't long before he was in bed. Now that I'm sitting, I'm getting very heavy-eyed myself.
Tomorrow is a work day for both of us. The television had a scroll along the bottom that an area of the freeway here is shut down due to accidents with icy roads, with a statement from the police urging people not to drive. I hope it's better in the morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday 01.04.2010
The radio woke me at 0750. I had heard Dan get up and leave, though I didn't stay awake. I got up and got ready to go to Ingham Medical Center to have that MRI of the breasts.
I get there in good time, stop at the registration desk "please have a seat, someone will be with you...", get called into a cubby "have a seat, we'll verify your information..." When the questions had been asked and the computer information tweaked, she handed me my papers and directed me down the hall to the radiology reception area. Thanks.
I waited my turn in back of someone whose appointment was really tomorrow at 0900. Hm. If it had been today, he would have missed it, as it was now 0925. I hand the lady my papers, she tells me "please have a seat, a volunteer will be right out to take you back..." She hands me the papers back, I thank her, and wander away from the window. I'm getting anxious, so I loiter around, looking at the "artwork" on the wall. The volunteer appears from a hallway and asks "who's going to MRI?"
I respond that I am, and another woman does, too. He escorts us both through the lefts and rights of the halls, which are starting to look familiar to me. Yep, this is where I had the bone scan, and down here, this is where... "Here we are" he says, and shows us to the waiting area there. "Have a seat..."
A nice lady named Carol was just behind us. I said hello, my name is Katherine, for a breast MRI. The other lady told her her name. Carol didn't recognize her name, looked on her list, made a phone call. She was supposed to be in a different area. Carol excused herself, escorted the woman to the appropriate area, then came back for me. We continued down the hall to where I remembered was the MRI machine.
We went in. She got the "questions" paperwork--have you had an MRI before? yes. Here? yes. Is all the information the same? Yes--No--the previous one was diagnostic. I went on to tell her the time line of diagnosis, surgeries, chemo, radiation. She wrote all of that on her paper to enter into the computer. When she was almost done, I asked her if I needed a gown. She said yes, and I reached into the cupboard to get one. She was surprised, I think, and I apologized. I'm definitely anxious. She fished out a gown from the back and handed it to me. I changed while she finished the paperwork. Sign here, initial here... I did, put my things in a locker, and we went across to the machine room.
Another nice girl, Eileen, who was about 5'10", and Carol who is smaller than I, got me ready for the scan. Eileen wanted to put the IV needle in my left arm. No, I told her, that's my affected side. She looked at Carol. Oh, we don't use their left arm for IV's?? (I'm wondering what's up here) Carol told her no, that if they've had lymph node dissection, or if the patient tells you you can't use it, you don't. Oh, Eileen said. Then Eileen said to me that she doesn't usually work down here with the breasts.
She was skillful, though, in putting the IV needle in. Even though she had to look for a vein, it was a one-poke event (thank you God, and Eileen). The coiled tubing was attached to me and they had me stand up to get positioned on the table with boob holes.
Wait!!! This table doesn't have boob holes--there's a molded/foam/sheet covered/form thing with boob holes, about 3 feet long, the width of the table, on top of the table. I asked if this is different. No, it's the way we've always done it. Hm. It sure isn't what I remember. I thought I was on the hard table with boob holes. I remember a sheet being on top of it, but not that it was foamy soft/firm. They assisted me to climb onto the narrow table, face down, get my chest just so, with the breasts loose within the spaces created for them. This still didn't feel familiar. And trying to get my head supported--they were using some other molded piece that was not fitting my petite size. We ended up turning it a little differently and got me somewhat comfortable. Which was just that, somewhat. Only my forehead was resting on it, supporting the head. Which I now know is less than optimal.
My arms were down to my sides, fingers tucked under legs. The IV tubing was across the small of my back. One of the girls had gotten a pair of the yellow foamy earplugs for me and put them in. They had offered the headphones, but they work intermittently, at best. My left hand was given a small soft ball on a cord, to squeeze if I needed them. Ok, here we go...
The table moved slowly forward. Of course, I couldn't see anything other than straight down. And that looked different, too. The same color, and the light, but not the same shape and shadow as I remember. Odd, isn't it??
Before long, the loud chatter of the machine started. Repetitive noise, like a jackhammer. For many minutes, then quiet. Whirring, soft thunks, a slight movement of the table, and the loud noise again. Two or three of these cycles, maybe more, then quiet. During one of the quiet interludes, one of the girls tells me that this next cycle is when the contrast is going to be infused. You'll feel it cold going in, then maybe warm. If you feel any pain at the injection site, squeeze the ball...The machine chattered and indeed, the cold solution going down my arm, then back up my shoulder, warming as it moved up my arm. That was an odd sensation, too. The machine continued it's rhythmic chant, accompanying my conversation with God.
Finally, the table moved backward, and Carol was talking to me, saying we were done. She helped me to sit up, regain my bearings. This still doesn't feel the same as the previous time.
She takes my iv out and tapes a cottonball over the inside of my elbow. She picks up the room, and we exit, going over to the monitors.
I don't see Eileen, and Carol has answered the ringing phone, so I go in to put my top back on. When I come out I remind her that I had wanted to see my images, if that was still ok. Sure....
She pulls them up on the screen and manipulates the images to move through them like a flip book. It is so fascinating to me to see that. My untrained eye doesn't see anything glaringly obvious, except for the "dents" of the existing woundbeds. It looks to me like the dents are going to be mine to keep. That's ok--much better than the bright white area that showed up two years ago....
I thanked Carol and turned to leave, surprised to see that Eileen had brought in a woman in a wheelchair. The woman looked at me; I smiled and wanted to say that I loved her bald head, I remember when...
But I didn't, as it seemed to be a private place back there. I hoped that in that split second of eye contact she could see my heart. I asked the Lord to be with her.
Carol escorted me back through the winding turns of the hallways back to the lobby. I thanked her for taking good care of me, and she said "Of course; and next time too, if we need to." (That's all good and well, Carol. I don't want a next time.) I stopped at the restroom before going through the lobby to the exit, breathing, surprised that her comment unsettled me.
I went out into the cold air that smells like winter and found my car in the lot. Whew. I was more anxious about that than I realized. I sat there a minute or so before leaving.
Next stop Meijer. I went in and got what I wanted. I'm really ready for a coffee.
Back at home I put groceries away, heated a cup, had lunch. I've been drinking water to get the contrast stuff rinsed out, and have been going frequently. I'm also tired this afternoon. I wanted to lay down and sleep, but when I did lay down I felt restless, so I got back up. Ugh.
After a while I fixed dinner. I was ready to eat before Dan got home, and he had called, so I ate anyway. Not yummy, but not yucky, either. Just food.Dan thought it was good, though.
We had a quiet evening and he's gone to bed.
I was able to talk with someone at Colvin's Heating in Hale about the furnace. They are available to come out whenever we are there; I scheduled for Friday late afternoon. So I work Wednesday and Thursday, massage Friday morning, then I'll leave to go up. I don't know if Dan will go. If the furnace gets fixed I just might stay overnight...
Tomorrow is unplanned, so far. Hopefully I'll feel better after sleeping tonight.
Thank you for reading. You were with me today, surrounding me with your colors. Hugs.
I get there in good time, stop at the registration desk "please have a seat, someone will be with you...", get called into a cubby "have a seat, we'll verify your information..." When the questions had been asked and the computer information tweaked, she handed me my papers and directed me down the hall to the radiology reception area. Thanks.
I waited my turn in back of someone whose appointment was really tomorrow at 0900. Hm. If it had been today, he would have missed it, as it was now 0925. I hand the lady my papers, she tells me "please have a seat, a volunteer will be right out to take you back..." She hands me the papers back, I thank her, and wander away from the window. I'm getting anxious, so I loiter around, looking at the "artwork" on the wall. The volunteer appears from a hallway and asks "who's going to MRI?"
I respond that I am, and another woman does, too. He escorts us both through the lefts and rights of the halls, which are starting to look familiar to me. Yep, this is where I had the bone scan, and down here, this is where... "Here we are" he says, and shows us to the waiting area there. "Have a seat..."
A nice lady named Carol was just behind us. I said hello, my name is Katherine, for a breast MRI. The other lady told her her name. Carol didn't recognize her name, looked on her list, made a phone call. She was supposed to be in a different area. Carol excused herself, escorted the woman to the appropriate area, then came back for me. We continued down the hall to where I remembered was the MRI machine.
We went in. She got the "questions" paperwork--have you had an MRI before? yes. Here? yes. Is all the information the same? Yes--No--the previous one was diagnostic. I went on to tell her the time line of diagnosis, surgeries, chemo, radiation. She wrote all of that on her paper to enter into the computer. When she was almost done, I asked her if I needed a gown. She said yes, and I reached into the cupboard to get one. She was surprised, I think, and I apologized. I'm definitely anxious. She fished out a gown from the back and handed it to me. I changed while she finished the paperwork. Sign here, initial here... I did, put my things in a locker, and we went across to the machine room.
Another nice girl, Eileen, who was about 5'10", and Carol who is smaller than I, got me ready for the scan. Eileen wanted to put the IV needle in my left arm. No, I told her, that's my affected side. She looked at Carol. Oh, we don't use their left arm for IV's?? (I'm wondering what's up here) Carol told her no, that if they've had lymph node dissection, or if the patient tells you you can't use it, you don't. Oh, Eileen said. Then Eileen said to me that she doesn't usually work down here with the breasts.
She was skillful, though, in putting the IV needle in. Even though she had to look for a vein, it was a one-poke event (thank you God, and Eileen). The coiled tubing was attached to me and they had me stand up to get positioned on the table with boob holes.
Wait!!! This table doesn't have boob holes--there's a molded/foam/sheet covered/form thing with boob holes, about 3 feet long, the width of the table, on top of the table. I asked if this is different. No, it's the way we've always done it. Hm. It sure isn't what I remember. I thought I was on the hard table with boob holes. I remember a sheet being on top of it, but not that it was foamy soft/firm. They assisted me to climb onto the narrow table, face down, get my chest just so, with the breasts loose within the spaces created for them. This still didn't feel familiar. And trying to get my head supported--they were using some other molded piece that was not fitting my petite size. We ended up turning it a little differently and got me somewhat comfortable. Which was just that, somewhat. Only my forehead was resting on it, supporting the head. Which I now know is less than optimal.
My arms were down to my sides, fingers tucked under legs. The IV tubing was across the small of my back. One of the girls had gotten a pair of the yellow foamy earplugs for me and put them in. They had offered the headphones, but they work intermittently, at best. My left hand was given a small soft ball on a cord, to squeeze if I needed them. Ok, here we go...
The table moved slowly forward. Of course, I couldn't see anything other than straight down. And that looked different, too. The same color, and the light, but not the same shape and shadow as I remember. Odd, isn't it??
Before long, the loud chatter of the machine started. Repetitive noise, like a jackhammer. For many minutes, then quiet. Whirring, soft thunks, a slight movement of the table, and the loud noise again. Two or three of these cycles, maybe more, then quiet. During one of the quiet interludes, one of the girls tells me that this next cycle is when the contrast is going to be infused. You'll feel it cold going in, then maybe warm. If you feel any pain at the injection site, squeeze the ball...The machine chattered and indeed, the cold solution going down my arm, then back up my shoulder, warming as it moved up my arm. That was an odd sensation, too. The machine continued it's rhythmic chant, accompanying my conversation with God.
Finally, the table moved backward, and Carol was talking to me, saying we were done. She helped me to sit up, regain my bearings. This still doesn't feel the same as the previous time.
She takes my iv out and tapes a cottonball over the inside of my elbow. She picks up the room, and we exit, going over to the monitors.
I don't see Eileen, and Carol has answered the ringing phone, so I go in to put my top back on. When I come out I remind her that I had wanted to see my images, if that was still ok. Sure....
She pulls them up on the screen and manipulates the images to move through them like a flip book. It is so fascinating to me to see that. My untrained eye doesn't see anything glaringly obvious, except for the "dents" of the existing woundbeds. It looks to me like the dents are going to be mine to keep. That's ok--much better than the bright white area that showed up two years ago....
I thanked Carol and turned to leave, surprised to see that Eileen had brought in a woman in a wheelchair. The woman looked at me; I smiled and wanted to say that I loved her bald head, I remember when...
But I didn't, as it seemed to be a private place back there. I hoped that in that split second of eye contact she could see my heart. I asked the Lord to be with her.
Carol escorted me back through the winding turns of the hallways back to the lobby. I thanked her for taking good care of me, and she said "Of course; and next time too, if we need to." (That's all good and well, Carol. I don't want a next time.) I stopped at the restroom before going through the lobby to the exit, breathing, surprised that her comment unsettled me.
I went out into the cold air that smells like winter and found my car in the lot. Whew. I was more anxious about that than I realized. I sat there a minute or so before leaving.
Next stop Meijer. I went in and got what I wanted. I'm really ready for a coffee.
Back at home I put groceries away, heated a cup, had lunch. I've been drinking water to get the contrast stuff rinsed out, and have been going frequently. I'm also tired this afternoon. I wanted to lay down and sleep, but when I did lay down I felt restless, so I got back up. Ugh.
After a while I fixed dinner. I was ready to eat before Dan got home, and he had called, so I ate anyway. Not yummy, but not yucky, either. Just food.Dan thought it was good, though.
We had a quiet evening and he's gone to bed.
I was able to talk with someone at Colvin's Heating in Hale about the furnace. They are available to come out whenever we are there; I scheduled for Friday late afternoon. So I work Wednesday and Thursday, massage Friday morning, then I'll leave to go up. I don't know if Dan will go. If the furnace gets fixed I just might stay overnight...
Tomorrow is unplanned, so far. Hopefully I'll feel better after sleeping tonight.
Thank you for reading. You were with me today, surrounding me with your colors. Hugs.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Sunday 01.03.2010
I slept well this morning; I kind of heard Daniel getting up and gone. When I woke the sun was shining in between the slats of the blinds. Ahhh. I stretched and got up.
I enjoyed breakfast and was just getting to the fresh brew when the phone rang. My co-worker, who had gone in to work this morning. After talking with her, I'm going to split the shift with her and go in at 12:30. I lingered over my coffee before getting ready to go.
A safe drive down, (in the sun!) thank you God.
The unit was busy. I came in as it was starting to settle down, with another girl who had been called in. We took the new patients, helped the others catch up, the girl I split with was finally able to leave. The rest of the afternoon was steady but nice.
A safe drive home, thanks again. Daniel had gone to a birthday gathering for Breon. He had left a bouquet of flowers and a card for me for our anniversary (4 years already!).
He got home shortly after 9, we visited for a short bit, and he has gone to bed.
Dan works tomorrow; I have breast MRI tomorrow morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I enjoyed breakfast and was just getting to the fresh brew when the phone rang. My co-worker, who had gone in to work this morning. After talking with her, I'm going to split the shift with her and go in at 12:30. I lingered over my coffee before getting ready to go.
A safe drive down, (in the sun!) thank you God.
The unit was busy. I came in as it was starting to settle down, with another girl who had been called in. We took the new patients, helped the others catch up, the girl I split with was finally able to leave. The rest of the afternoon was steady but nice.
A safe drive home, thanks again. Daniel had gone to a birthday gathering for Breon. He had left a bouquet of flowers and a card for me for our anniversary (4 years already!).
He got home shortly after 9, we visited for a short bit, and he has gone to bed.
Dan works tomorrow; I have breast MRI tomorrow morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Saturday 01.02.2010
Seems I woke up a lot during my few hours in bed. The radio came on at 0420. I got up.
Dan and I had breakfast and went our separate ways. Temps were 12 degrees this morning and the roads were salty dry, creating a white layer over the dark blacktop, which actually makes it easier to see the road. I arrived at the hospital safely, thank you God, parked, and went in.
We had a busy day, even though there were not many patients. We had a good group and worked together to get through the day. We ended up staffing down in the early afternoon after the discharges left which left us with 7 patients and 3 of us by the time the night shift came in.
I checked the schedule for tomorrow and made a phone call. As it turned out, I'll be on call tomorrow, unless the phone rings to call me in.
I had a safe drive home, thanks again, and Dan was home, too. He had a busy day, too. We're both tired.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm finding my eyes closing as I write this.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan and I had breakfast and went our separate ways. Temps were 12 degrees this morning and the roads were salty dry, creating a white layer over the dark blacktop, which actually makes it easier to see the road. I arrived at the hospital safely, thank you God, parked, and went in.
We had a busy day, even though there were not many patients. We had a good group and worked together to get through the day. We ended up staffing down in the early afternoon after the discharges left which left us with 7 patients and 3 of us by the time the night shift came in.
I checked the schedule for tomorrow and made a phone call. As it turned out, I'll be on call tomorrow, unless the phone rings to call me in.
I had a safe drive home, thanks again, and Dan was home, too. He had a busy day, too. We're both tired.
He's gone off to bed, and I'm finding my eyes closing as I write this.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Friday 01.01.2010 A New Year
I was sleeping pretty good this morning when I realized Daniel wasn't in bed. Huh. Almost 8 o'clock. I looked through the door and saw his feet in his chair. Guess he must be up. I stretched out and went back to sleep...
I woke again after 9. Time to get up.
I washed up, breakfasted, talked with Dan (he said he was done sleeping, had gotten up at 7), and took a nice shower. After a bit I called the hospital, as I was "first on-call" today for the holiday. I wasn't needed, so instead of going to Jackson, I went grocery shopping.
I took my time in the store and was surprised that I had been in there over an hour. That's ok. I went back home.
I put some cheesy potatoes together and into the oven for our supper, and while waiting for that I did some of the paper chasing that needs to happen every so often, paying bills and such.
We had a yummy dinner, I cleaned up the kitchen, and we had a quiet evening.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I woke again after 9. Time to get up.
I washed up, breakfasted, talked with Dan (he said he was done sleeping, had gotten up at 7), and took a nice shower. After a bit I called the hospital, as I was "first on-call" today for the holiday. I wasn't needed, so instead of going to Jackson, I went grocery shopping.
I took my time in the store and was surprised that I had been in there over an hour. That's ok. I went back home.
I put some cheesy potatoes together and into the oven for our supper, and while waiting for that I did some of the paper chasing that needs to happen every so often, paying bills and such.
We had a yummy dinner, I cleaned up the kitchen, and we had a quiet evening.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
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