Last day of rehab class for a week was yesterday. I iced down my knee when I got home then wrapped it. In the middle of the night, I checked it and it was flat! No swelling! I was thrilled but this morning, the swelling is back. What happened? This weekend, it will be iced and wrapped and maybe settled in by Monday. I hope.
Sleep did not happen last night. I was awake at 9 then 10 then 11 until 3 then slept until 5:30. There is going to be a lot of coffee to get me through the day as I will be with mom. Before seeing her, I will do my Trader Joe run then leave the stuff in her refrigerator for the day. She wants to clothes shop at JCP, so that's the plan.
My weekend plans are to take care of the knee, nap, read all the rules for the Christmas AirB&B to be sure I have jumped through all the hoops, order my prescription drugs for mail delivery and water the yard. I plan to do a lot of cooking, too. I am trying a new breakfast recipe, which is perfect for my diet and I need to make something for Michael's breakfasts plus our dinners.
Breathing? Surprisingly good. The weather has shifted, it is cooler and not so humid. My numbers in rehab were very good and I felt like I had a workout yesterday. Since I have been watching my diet closely, I suddenly feel lean so that always makes me happy.
Next week: doctors. Lots of doctors!
Friday, September 29, 2017
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Fractured Knee = Prolia Shot
Even with icing and wrapping my knee yesterday, it was swollen this morning. More ice and I will keep it wrapped all day. It is going to take time to get the swelling under control. I will continue to take it a bit easier in the rehab class today.
What a lovely, quiet day yesterday. While Michael cleaned out the garage and even did a dump run, I had my hair done and he met me for lunch afterwards. I have been really watching my diet the past few weeks so I had a lovely warm seafood salad over the best greens ever. I watched as Michael ate cheese and green chilies enchiladas with black bean and rice on the side. So not on my diet!
It has been almost seven years since I lost over 70 pounds with the help of the weight management clinic and my nutritionist. Being on prednisone since 2005 has messed up my pancreas and has changed how I process sugars in foods like all carbs and starchy veggies and sugar. My diet is protein and non-starchy veggies. Period. But with the prednisone, my bones are losing mass. The infusion clinic of my university hospital phoned to make an appointment next week for my first Prolia shot to help my bones. Mom has been taking it for two years and has no issues with it. I hope it is the same for me!
It was 80 degrees in the house yesterday but it begins to cool today. Thankfully. It's fall, for heaven's sake!
What a lovely, quiet day yesterday. While Michael cleaned out the garage and even did a dump run, I had my hair done and he met me for lunch afterwards. I have been really watching my diet the past few weeks so I had a lovely warm seafood salad over the best greens ever. I watched as Michael ate cheese and green chilies enchiladas with black bean and rice on the side. So not on my diet!
It has been almost seven years since I lost over 70 pounds with the help of the weight management clinic and my nutritionist. Being on prednisone since 2005 has messed up my pancreas and has changed how I process sugars in foods like all carbs and starchy veggies and sugar. My diet is protein and non-starchy veggies. Period. But with the prednisone, my bones are losing mass. The infusion clinic of my university hospital phoned to make an appointment next week for my first Prolia shot to help my bones. Mom has been taking it for two years and has no issues with it. I hope it is the same for me!
It was 80 degrees in the house yesterday but it begins to cool today. Thankfully. It's fall, for heaven's sake!
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Fighting Swelling
We were third in line for Michael's blood draw at 7AM yesterday. The reward was a fantastic breakfast in a place we hadn't visited in decades. Good, hot coffee in a pot on the table with a pitcher of iced water and huge plates of food. Sort of a 1980s kind of a place. It was a real treat, though both of us were only able to eat about half of our breakfasts.
Filled to the brim, we were home by 8:30! I made lot of appointments while waiting to go back to the hospital for the rehab class. Poor Michael is seeing three doctors in two days next week. I thought I would pile them all together so it is done and not drawn out.
My knee was swollen so I took it easy on the treadmill, my first day back on my favorite piece of equipment. This morning, it is being iced and I am going to wrap and ice it for a few days to see if I can get the swelling down. It will feel nice and cool as it is going to be 80 degrees here on the coast today. I have a hair appointment this morning then Michael might meet me for lunch. Maybe.
I can't believe it is Fall. It has been such an odd year and time just flew by. So many funerals but, there were also weddings and it has been a good health year for my mom. Positive things to remember. Life continues.
Filled to the brim, we were home by 8:30! I made lot of appointments while waiting to go back to the hospital for the rehab class. Poor Michael is seeing three doctors in two days next week. I thought I would pile them all together so it is done and not drawn out.
My knee was swollen so I took it easy on the treadmill, my first day back on my favorite piece of equipment. This morning, it is being iced and I am going to wrap and ice it for a few days to see if I can get the swelling down. It will feel nice and cool as it is going to be 80 degrees here on the coast today. I have a hair appointment this morning then Michael might meet me for lunch. Maybe.
I can't believe it is Fall. It has been such an odd year and time just flew by. So many funerals but, there were also weddings and it has been a good health year for my mom. Positive things to remember. Life continues.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Lab Tests at Dawn
I stayed out in the waiting room while Michael had his physical. At one point, I remembered that he left the blood pressure machine in the car. Got it. While he was taking the eye test in the hallway, he was not doing well but he did not mention that he needed his distance glasses so I said, "Put on your prescription sunglasses!" Oops. Also, in the car. Got them. He passed the test. They also said they were not concerned about his blood pressure readings but were thrilled that he was planning to lose 15-20 pounds by the end of the year.
He ended up with lab test for many things including thyroid and one for his low blood sugar which will give levels over the past three months and several other tests. Also, he is going to have a Shingles vaccine and a scan of his aorta, as he was a former smoker. This morning, we are going to be at the hospital right at 7AM when the lab opens, have the blood tests then go to breakfast. I have to be back to pick up Jeannie for our pulmonary rehab class back at the hospital. Lots of driving today!
I really like these new local doctors. They are all about maintaining good health.
Back to rehab. Back on the treadmill but low and slow until I build up the muscles once again.
He ended up with lab test for many things including thyroid and one for his low blood sugar which will give levels over the past three months and several other tests. Also, he is going to have a Shingles vaccine and a scan of his aorta, as he was a former smoker. This morning, we are going to be at the hospital right at 7AM when the lab opens, have the blood tests then go to breakfast. I have to be back to pick up Jeannie for our pulmonary rehab class back at the hospital. Lots of driving today!
I really like these new local doctors. They are all about maintaining good health.
Back to rehab. Back on the treadmill but low and slow until I build up the muscles once again.
Monday, September 25, 2017
William
It all worked out. We left the coastside at 3:00PM to avoid the beach traffic of people going home and arrived at the venue to meet William only two hours early! We didn't mind. The weather was fantastic, we walked a few blocks to a coffee shop for a snack then sat in the car to people watch. We met him right on time at the Stage Door then followed him into the tour bus. What a gorgeous bus!
We gave him the baklava and settled in for a nice chat. It was just so good to look at him. He was happy. He was loving working with this group and appeared very relaxed before the concert. Several other crew member drifted in and out of the bus and it was good to meet them, as well. Nice people. Professionals.
After almost an hour and a half, we left so he could do his job but not before lots of hugs and promises to be together at Christmas. He also was looking forward to cooking during our Palm Springs getaway and even suggested a few different menus!
This morning, I am going to sit in the waiting room while Michael has his physical so I am nearby in case they ask him something and he needs my help. I want him to have to deal with the doctor directly and develop a relationship without me. We have been tracking his blood pressure and I think the doctor is going to suggest he begin medication. I have primed Michael to ask for three months to try to lose 15 pounds and exercise to bring it down instead of instant medication. We will see what the doctor says. From there, I am going to mom's for lunch.
My soul feels like it has been filled to the brim after seeing William yesterday. It is a good Monday for this mom.
We gave him the baklava and settled in for a nice chat. It was just so good to look at him. He was happy. He was loving working with this group and appeared very relaxed before the concert. Several other crew member drifted in and out of the bus and it was good to meet them, as well. Nice people. Professionals.
After almost an hour and a half, we left so he could do his job but not before lots of hugs and promises to be together at Christmas. He also was looking forward to cooking during our Palm Springs getaway and even suggested a few different menus!
This morning, I am going to sit in the waiting room while Michael has his physical so I am nearby in case they ask him something and he needs my help. I want him to have to deal with the doctor directly and develop a relationship without me. We have been tracking his blood pressure and I think the doctor is going to suggest he begin medication. I have primed Michael to ask for three months to try to lose 15 pounds and exercise to bring it down instead of instant medication. We will see what the doctor says. From there, I am going to mom's for lunch.
My soul feels like it has been filled to the brim after seeing William yesterday. It is a good Monday for this mom.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
A Mom Day
After more than a year, we are going to see our son today! It sounds so silly but I just want to hold him, smell him and look into his eyes. Guess that makes me a mom! Michael had a fantastic conversation with him on Friday when he expressed how happy he was on this tour, with this group and their management team. They have been playing venues of 3000-5000 people but beginning in January, they move into arenas. Yes, they have outgrown the clubs with this current album's success. This is right up William's alley. There is where he feels at home. We also learned that he has a contract with them through September of 2018.
I made a pan of baklava for him and his crew. After I messaged that fact to him yesterday, we arranged a meeting before the concert tonight. We are going to meet after the sound check and he will maybe have time for a cup of coffee or a quick dinner. We will see. We are expecting nothing but a brief visit as we always remember that he is working.
He also mentioned to Michael that he is totally on for our Christmas getaway to Palm Springs. I think it will be the downtime he will need.
It is hot today and we expect hundreds of tourists to flock to the coast. That is fine except we need to get over the pass about the same time that they will all be going home. So, we are planning to leave the coast mid-afternoon and get over the bridge to the East Bay then just hang out until we see our son. Better to be there than to sit in endless traffic.
It is an unusual Sunday for us and a great day for this mom.
I made a pan of baklava for him and his crew. After I messaged that fact to him yesterday, we arranged a meeting before the concert tonight. We are going to meet after the sound check and he will maybe have time for a cup of coffee or a quick dinner. We will see. We are expecting nothing but a brief visit as we always remember that he is working.
He also mentioned to Michael that he is totally on for our Christmas getaway to Palm Springs. I think it will be the downtime he will need.
It is hot today and we expect hundreds of tourists to flock to the coast. That is fine except we need to get over the pass about the same time that they will all be going home. So, we are planning to leave the coast mid-afternoon and get over the bridge to the East Bay then just hang out until we see our son. Better to be there than to sit in endless traffic.
It is an unusual Sunday for us and a great day for this mom.
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Lung Transplant Questions Answered
My last appointment with the lung transplant clinic ended with the founder of the clinic telling me that I was stable and asking if I wanted to check-in with them once a year. Yes, please.
Then, I became involved with the young woman in Southern California waiting for a lung transplant for a year, who suddenly was hospitalized with a collapsed lung. After four weeks in the hospital, her lung was healing on its own and she was looking forward to going home to her young daughter and her supplemental oxygen, something she thought she never wanted to see again. She wanted her life back. A life outside of a hospital. The good news was that her transplant waiting list number zoomed to the top of the list because of the collapse lung. She was in critical mode. Plans had changed again when I spoke to her a few days ago. She was being transferred to another hospital where she was listed (she was double listed at two medical centers), where they told her that she was at the top of their list and she should get her new lungs soon. All good news.
Around the same time I was speaking with her, the head coordinator at the lung transplant clinic phoned and left a message on my cell phone. We had developed a personal relationship so she phoned to just confirm my agreement not to be seen in the clinic for a year. It was in her tone that I had the feeling she was trying to tell me something. I returned her call and asked to have a conversation.
She phoned a couple of days ago. I told her of the journey of the young woman in Southern California and was wondering if I was being foolish not being seen in the clinic but once a year and maybe would miss my chance to get lungs if I suddenly crashed. Should I continue to be seen in the clinic every 3-6 months and have all the tests towards being listed? As I am functioning, I would have a big number on the list but I would be on the list. I asked if not being seen in the clinic more often would put getting new lungs in jeopardy?
There was an interesting reply. Since I am stable, they would continue to do the tests but if I were to suddenly crash, I would need to re-do all those tests. Being seen just once a year would make no difference in the long term. She said that I am now under their roof. I have a home with them, even though I am not being seen often. I would not have to start all over again if I suddenly needed to fast track lung transplants.
She then made a deal with me. If anytime in the next year I needed more that 2 liters of oxygen during exertion or if I needed any supplemental oxygen during rest, I am to phone her on her private number. At that time, she would review any latest tests I had taken through Dr. K. then order new PFTs. The process will begin from there.
I finally feel like I know what to look for before contacting the clinic. The question at that time will be whether my downturn is due to a virus, infection or a downward march of the disease.
Bottom line? I will not have to start from the beginning again. I won't have to take tests that I will be needed to be taken again if I begin to crash. I know specifically what to look for before contacting the clinic. All in all, I am really grateful for her time and conversation.
Then, I became involved with the young woman in Southern California waiting for a lung transplant for a year, who suddenly was hospitalized with a collapsed lung. After four weeks in the hospital, her lung was healing on its own and she was looking forward to going home to her young daughter and her supplemental oxygen, something she thought she never wanted to see again. She wanted her life back. A life outside of a hospital. The good news was that her transplant waiting list number zoomed to the top of the list because of the collapse lung. She was in critical mode. Plans had changed again when I spoke to her a few days ago. She was being transferred to another hospital where she was listed (she was double listed at two medical centers), where they told her that she was at the top of their list and she should get her new lungs soon. All good news.
Around the same time I was speaking with her, the head coordinator at the lung transplant clinic phoned and left a message on my cell phone. We had developed a personal relationship so she phoned to just confirm my agreement not to be seen in the clinic for a year. It was in her tone that I had the feeling she was trying to tell me something. I returned her call and asked to have a conversation.
She phoned a couple of days ago. I told her of the journey of the young woman in Southern California and was wondering if I was being foolish not being seen in the clinic but once a year and maybe would miss my chance to get lungs if I suddenly crashed. Should I continue to be seen in the clinic every 3-6 months and have all the tests towards being listed? As I am functioning, I would have a big number on the list but I would be on the list. I asked if not being seen in the clinic more often would put getting new lungs in jeopardy?
There was an interesting reply. Since I am stable, they would continue to do the tests but if I were to suddenly crash, I would need to re-do all those tests. Being seen just once a year would make no difference in the long term. She said that I am now under their roof. I have a home with them, even though I am not being seen often. I would not have to start all over again if I suddenly needed to fast track lung transplants.
She then made a deal with me. If anytime in the next year I needed more that 2 liters of oxygen during exertion or if I needed any supplemental oxygen during rest, I am to phone her on her private number. At that time, she would review any latest tests I had taken through Dr. K. then order new PFTs. The process will begin from there.
I finally feel like I know what to look for before contacting the clinic. The question at that time will be whether my downturn is due to a virus, infection or a downward march of the disease.
Bottom line? I will not have to start from the beginning again. I won't have to take tests that I will be needed to be taken again if I begin to crash. I know specifically what to look for before contacting the clinic. All in all, I am really grateful for her time and conversation.
Friday, September 22, 2017
All is Right with My World
He is home. My coffee is hot and strong and delicious this morning. It was poured by a happy man with a smile who was so happy to be home. But, oh my, it was a challenge to get to the airport yesterday afternoon. I gave myself 1.25 hours to drive to the airport's cell phone parking lot to wait for their plane to land. It actually should take about 25 minutes, I just wanted to get there and didn't mind waiting.
On the pass, there was a problem. A large truck was stopped and blocking the entire westbound lane while I was heading east. Traffic was being controlled by the CHP while waiting for a large tow truck to take it away. This major artery had traffic backed up in both directions and rush hour was beginning. It was ugly. I was worried that I would not make it to the airport before they landed and also, that I would be held up after the tow truck arrived. I just wanted to get through before that. It took an extra thirty-minutes to get past the truck, I got to the airport, took a deep breath and happily waited for their call.
By the time we got back onto the pass, all the backup was gone and we flew home for a quick dinner and endless talking before I had to play an Irish Fiddling gig at the Wine and Cheese store in town. It was a good gig, I loved the venue but the audience was rather dull. Not a lot of interaction. It was, alas, a Thursday night when we are used to playing Friday or Saturday nights. Different crowd.
Mom and I are hanging out today then we hope to see William this weekend. I will be making my famous Baklava on Saturday to give to him and share with his crew. If it works out, we should be able to see him Saturday evening or Sunday morning. Michael is going to connect with him today.
A nice weekend ahead.
On the pass, there was a problem. A large truck was stopped and blocking the entire westbound lane while I was heading east. Traffic was being controlled by the CHP while waiting for a large tow truck to take it away. This major artery had traffic backed up in both directions and rush hour was beginning. It was ugly. I was worried that I would not make it to the airport before they landed and also, that I would be held up after the tow truck arrived. I just wanted to get through before that. It took an extra thirty-minutes to get past the truck, I got to the airport, took a deep breath and happily waited for their call.
By the time we got back onto the pass, all the backup was gone and we flew home for a quick dinner and endless talking before I had to play an Irish Fiddling gig at the Wine and Cheese store in town. It was a good gig, I loved the venue but the audience was rather dull. Not a lot of interaction. It was, alas, a Thursday night when we are used to playing Friday or Saturday nights. Different crowd.
Mom and I are hanging out today then we hope to see William this weekend. I will be making my famous Baklava on Saturday to give to him and share with his crew. If it works out, we should be able to see him Saturday evening or Sunday morning. Michael is going to connect with him today.
A nice weekend ahead.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Coming Home
Michael and British Don are arriving at SFO around 4PM today. I must say, the worst part of having Michael away from home was at night when I didn't feel him next to me. No breathing or snoring or moving. Too quiet!
They are having a wonderful time with Anthony and his family but the big deal for Michael was yesterday. He loves the TV show "Street Outlaws" and the OKC guys are considered the best in the country. Don and Michael found the area where they work on the cars but, because people were stealing items, no one is allowed in the work areas anymore. Instead, there was sort of a store where people could buy t-shirts and other mementos. Apparently, Michael bought stuff not only for himself but for other friends, too. He had a ball.
He said he is ready to get home. I think he may miss his own bed more than anything else!
While he was shopping yesterday, so was I! My adventure at JCP went really well as I bought four t-shirts to wear with my new winter skinny jeans and a gold tone bracelet for a grand total of $40. What a deal! I continued my shopping and brought home groceries for the week.
The Irish Fiddlers are playing a gig at the Wine and Cheese store in town this evening. It is a lovely, elegant venue and the wooden floors just loves my bass. A welcome home concert for Michael!
They are having a wonderful time with Anthony and his family but the big deal for Michael was yesterday. He loves the TV show "Street Outlaws" and the OKC guys are considered the best in the country. Don and Michael found the area where they work on the cars but, because people were stealing items, no one is allowed in the work areas anymore. Instead, there was sort of a store where people could buy t-shirts and other mementos. Apparently, Michael bought stuff not only for himself but for other friends, too. He had a ball.
He said he is ready to get home. I think he may miss his own bed more than anything else!
While he was shopping yesterday, so was I! My adventure at JCP went really well as I bought four t-shirts to wear with my new winter skinny jeans and a gold tone bracelet for a grand total of $40. What a deal! I continued my shopping and brought home groceries for the week.
The Irish Fiddlers are playing a gig at the Wine and Cheese store in town this evening. It is a lovely, elegant venue and the wooden floors just loves my bass. A welcome home concert for Michael!
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Oklahoma City
They arrived, checked into a new hotel and were resting when Michael checked in with me yesterday afternoon. They are going to need the rest! Anthony and his beautiful wife, who Michael met at British Don's daughter's wedding in Nashville a couple of years ago, had plans to meet at 7PM at one of the two very popular and successful bars owned by Anthony's son and his wife. Got that? From there, Anthony arranged dinner reservations at an amazing restaurant then they were going to drop by the other bar owned by Anthony's son and his wife.
It was going to be a long night! Even with a two hour time difference, I have not heard from Michael yet this morning. He must have been feeling the long drive plus a late night equals sleeping in this morning.
He was so excited about plans for today. It has something to do with cars, of course.
I can't believe my time alone is almost over. They fly home tomorrow afternoon, we will throw Michael's stuff in the laundry basket then load up the bass for a gig in town. Welcome home, honey. Gotta go!
My plans today, after a shower, are to swing by JC Penney to look for a few colorful t-shirts and do the food shopping. That should take all morning and into the afternoon!
At rehab class, Bob was still AWOL so we hoped he was getting new lungs. We also learned of the passing of another person in our class, who died last Wednesday. That news is never easy to hear. She crashed quickly and died in hospice.
The young woman I have been speaking with in the hospital in Southern California with a collapsed lung, who has been waiting for new lungs for a year, is being moved. Her lung is finally healing on its own after four weeks in the hospital but the other hospital where she is listed for lung transplants is having her transferred to their facility this week. She is at the top of their transplant list and they think she will get her new lungs soon. I so hope so. She has such a positive outlook and a young daughter waiting for her to come home.
It was going to be a long night! Even with a two hour time difference, I have not heard from Michael yet this morning. He must have been feeling the long drive plus a late night equals sleeping in this morning.
He was so excited about plans for today. It has something to do with cars, of course.
I can't believe my time alone is almost over. They fly home tomorrow afternoon, we will throw Michael's stuff in the laundry basket then load up the bass for a gig in town. Welcome home, honey. Gotta go!
My plans today, after a shower, are to swing by JC Penney to look for a few colorful t-shirts and do the food shopping. That should take all morning and into the afternoon!
At rehab class, Bob was still AWOL so we hoped he was getting new lungs. We also learned of the passing of another person in our class, who died last Wednesday. That news is never easy to hear. She crashed quickly and died in hospice.
The young woman I have been speaking with in the hospital in Southern California with a collapsed lung, who has been waiting for new lungs for a year, is being moved. Her lung is finally healing on its own after four weeks in the hospital but the other hospital where she is listed for lung transplants is having her transferred to their facility this week. She is at the top of their transplant list and they think she will get her new lungs soon. I so hope so. She has such a positive outlook and a young daughter waiting for her to come home.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Almost There
When Michael phones in the evening, my heart beats a bit faster when I see his name pop up then I just melt when I hear his voice. Crazy after all these years. They are on their way out of Amarillo this morning on their last leg to OKC.Here is a photo of Michael at the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX. Some art guys buried these caddies half way into the earth and there they sit. People spray paint them and the metal is almost gone. I think nothing else holds them together now except the spray paint!
Here is a brief history quoted from Wikipedia: Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation and sculpture in Amarillo, Texas, USA. It was created in 1974 by Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez and Doug Michels, who were a part of the art group Ant Farm. It consists of what were (when originally installed during 1974) either older running used or junk Cadillac automobiles, representing a number of evolutions of the car line (most notably the birth and death of the defining feature of mid twentieth century Cadillacs: the tailfins) from 1949 to 1963, half-buried nose-first in the ground, at an angle corresponding to that of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt"
A truly special spot for car people. I remember standing alone out in the field with the winds blowing watching Michael looking at and touching each car. It was almost like a religious experience for him. He so wanted to share this with his friend Don.
My day yesterday was fine but felt rather empty. Mom and I went to her doctor's appointment then I found a few tops at Nordstrom before we had lunch. Russian Cabbage Soup. Delicious. I slept okay but it was very quiet around here.
Jeannie and I are off to the rehab class later this morning. This evening, I am going to make dinner to enjoy the next few evening. That is all that is on my agenda today along with missing Michael.
Monday, September 18, 2017
All Alone, Day One
I am one spoiled woman. Usually by this time of the morning, my coffee is hot, strong and ready while my phone is being charged and Michael has rolled up my oxygen hose and returned it to its home in the garage. This morning? I had to make the coffee and it isn't great, I plugged the phone in and no sweet, smiling face was up to greet me to take care of my oxygen. And, that is just in the first few minutes of the day. I am sure I will continue to miss Michael's presence throughout the day. Sleeping alone was just plain strange.
But, we spoke last night after they checked into a hotel in Flagstaff, AZ after driving 830 miles and he said he was not exhausted. As it was a Sunday, there was very little traffic the entire journey. I hope he slept well as he has to get to Amarillo, TX, by this evening. That should be a much shorter leg of the trip than yesterday.
In the meantime, Leslie posted that she and Joe were going to see one of our friend's Irish Fiddling group at the brewery where we play. Another violinist from our group posted that he would join them at 5:00. Hmmmmm. There I sat, dirty from working hard in the yards for three hours and needing a shower anyway soooooooo....I joined them! I felt like such an adult, although I had a diet soda instead of a beer! We even took a selfie of all of us to send to Michael!
After I got home, I needed a bit of dinner but the phone rang. Christien. Her mother's second graveside service was Saturday. Everyone behaved themselves, her step-dad was able to fly out of Florida on Thursday as planned and all was well. Her mom's ashes were split for burial among her home in Florida, her home in Pennsylvania and next to her first husband (killed in WWII) in Holland, planned for October. By the tine I finally ate dinner, it was almost bedtime!
Day one all alone went better than I though it would.
Day two will involve my mom, so it should be fun. She is having a Prolia injection at her university hospital this morning then we will go to lunch. And talk. Non-stop.
But, we spoke last night after they checked into a hotel in Flagstaff, AZ after driving 830 miles and he said he was not exhausted. As it was a Sunday, there was very little traffic the entire journey. I hope he slept well as he has to get to Amarillo, TX, by this evening. That should be a much shorter leg of the trip than yesterday.
In the meantime, Leslie posted that she and Joe were going to see one of our friend's Irish Fiddling group at the brewery where we play. Another violinist from our group posted that he would join them at 5:00. Hmmmmm. There I sat, dirty from working hard in the yards for three hours and needing a shower anyway soooooooo....I joined them! I felt like such an adult, although I had a diet soda instead of a beer! We even took a selfie of all of us to send to Michael!
After I got home, I needed a bit of dinner but the phone rang. Christien. Her mother's second graveside service was Saturday. Everyone behaved themselves, her step-dad was able to fly out of Florida on Thursday as planned and all was well. Her mom's ashes were split for burial among her home in Florida, her home in Pennsylvania and next to her first husband (killed in WWII) in Holland, planned for October. By the tine I finally ate dinner, it was almost bedtime!
Day one all alone went better than I though it would.
Day two will involve my mom, so it should be fun. She is having a Prolia injection at her university hospital this morning then we will go to lunch. And talk. Non-stop.
Sunday, September 17, 2017
All Alone!
They have been gone for two hours already! Michael and British Don began their road trip to Oklahoma City, where Don is moving in October. They needed to get his beautiful 1997 Porsche through the mountains of Arizona before the snows.
It will be a three day trip. Today will be the longest drive from the Bay Area to Flagstaff, Arizona. Approximately eight hundred miles. Tomorrow will be a shorter drive of only eight-hours to Amarillo, Texas then their final destination on Tuesday will only be a fast four hours.
Once there, they will get the car registered then stored awaiting his move. They will eat at his friend's son's two bars/restaurants and visit will lots of people. I will pick them up from the airport on Thursday afternoon.
This will be the longest we have been separated. Feels rather weird.
I need to pick up from Don spending the night and pull the house together then I plan to take my clippers and a bucket and hand trim some things in the garden. It will insure that I sleep well tonight! All alone!
It will be a three day trip. Today will be the longest drive from the Bay Area to Flagstaff, Arizona. Approximately eight hundred miles. Tomorrow will be a shorter drive of only eight-hours to Amarillo, Texas then their final destination on Tuesday will only be a fast four hours.
Once there, they will get the car registered then stored awaiting his move. They will eat at his friend's son's two bars/restaurants and visit will lots of people. I will pick them up from the airport on Thursday afternoon.
This will be the longest we have been separated. Feels rather weird.
I need to pick up from Don spending the night and pull the house together then I plan to take my clippers and a bucket and hand trim some things in the garden. It will insure that I sleep well tonight! All alone!
Friday, September 15, 2017
While Working Out
At the rehab class yesterday, we all noticed that Bob was not present again. He has been MIA for three weeks. Our collective fingers are crossed. He is the nicest man who is waiting for the phone call from his university hospital to announce they had a set of lungs for him. The last time I saw him, his sweet, handsome high school senior son was dropping him off at rehab. So young. He also has a daughter in college. This must be a very stressful time for the entire family. I only hope that it has happened for him and he is doing well.
A weird thing happened during the class. The RN walked by with an empty cart for one of our green oxygen tanks. She asked if I had noticed that it was empty when I got my oxygen at the beginning of class, which I had not. A large green oxygen tank was missing. Without the cart. Weird.
It is not worth anything to anyone when the oxygen runs out. One just can't go somewhere to get it refilled. It was a mystery. I told her to cover her butt and report it to security. If used improperly, these tanks can give off quite a big blast. She contacted her boss first then tried security, which kept rerouting her so she hung up. The boss arrived and began a search of the other rehab areas and pool area. Finally, the RN contacted security and they arrived.
They did not seem to understand the bigger implications at first. They wanted to know the value of the tank. "Why was the hospital's name not on the tank?" Well, they are not the hospital's tanks but a company that delivers filled tanks and picks up the empty ones several times a week. It is not about the value but about how it could be used to cause trouble. Finally, they said they would be aware but really what else could they do?
Then, in the mail after I got home, I received notification that Medicare rejected my last visit with the nutritionist. The comment was they never pay for it and that I should have received a letter from my provider of that fact before the appointment. It also said that I should not pay any bills to the university hospital for the appointment. Something is wrong as it has paid for my visits for almost 7 years. I will be phoning my university hospital to find out what is going on later this afternoon.
Also, this afternoon, I have a phone appointment with my endocrinologist to discuss my poor bones and the beginning of my relationship with Prolia.
But, all this will happen after mom and I have our toenails polished this morning followed by a nice lunch. I am counting the hours before British Don and Michael begin their road trip.
A weird thing happened during the class. The RN walked by with an empty cart for one of our green oxygen tanks. She asked if I had noticed that it was empty when I got my oxygen at the beginning of class, which I had not. A large green oxygen tank was missing. Without the cart. Weird.
It is not worth anything to anyone when the oxygen runs out. One just can't go somewhere to get it refilled. It was a mystery. I told her to cover her butt and report it to security. If used improperly, these tanks can give off quite a big blast. She contacted her boss first then tried security, which kept rerouting her so she hung up. The boss arrived and began a search of the other rehab areas and pool area. Finally, the RN contacted security and they arrived.
They did not seem to understand the bigger implications at first. They wanted to know the value of the tank. "Why was the hospital's name not on the tank?" Well, they are not the hospital's tanks but a company that delivers filled tanks and picks up the empty ones several times a week. It is not about the value but about how it could be used to cause trouble. Finally, they said they would be aware but really what else could they do?
Then, in the mail after I got home, I received notification that Medicare rejected my last visit with the nutritionist. The comment was they never pay for it and that I should have received a letter from my provider of that fact before the appointment. It also said that I should not pay any bills to the university hospital for the appointment. Something is wrong as it has paid for my visits for almost 7 years. I will be phoning my university hospital to find out what is going on later this afternoon.
Also, this afternoon, I have a phone appointment with my endocrinologist to discuss my poor bones and the beginning of my relationship with Prolia.
But, all this will happen after mom and I have our toenails polished this morning followed by a nice lunch. I am counting the hours before British Don and Michael begin their road trip.
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Jury Duty and Medical Test
I made a decision to not play with the local orchestra for this concert series. The idea of loading up the bass and having to haul into the rehearsal space along with my new heavy stool and music stand felt overwhelming. If it was fantastic music that I loved, it might be different. This will be a program presenting music I have performed many times, and none of it is a favorite or a challenge.
This has been an ongoing debate inside my brain throughout the summer and I feel better for having made a decision.
The medical test to check why acid reflux has returned went well but disappointing. It showed no acid reflux and all the functions looked normal. Now what? The acid reflux tends to come and go but now, I can't prove it. So, what next? I have a feeling that nothing is going to happen and I will have to deal with it going into my lungs causing problems. The only things I can continue to do is to not eat food that kicks up the acid levels in my stomach, sleep on my wedge, continue to eat dinner early and just to be aware.
Jury duty. Through the years, I have been tagged for jury duty. Having sat on three or four juries, I love the process. It is important for our freedoms that regular people sit on juries. Common sense. Since I am immunosuppressed, we do not go to the movies or symphony concerts or anywhere there are large groups of people. Even yoga class can be a problem. With jury duty, people have to show up on a specific date whether they are ill or not. The waiting room is usually filled with people coughing and blowing and sneezing. Then, one may have to sit next to an ill person for weeks or even months during a trial. I would have no rehab classes, no doctor appointments and no driving mom to her doctor appointments. Also, I would be exhausted.
Since I began taking prednisone in 2005, Dr. K. has written a note to excuse me from jury duty because of all those reasons. About every two to three years, I get a notice to appear. She writes a note, I mail it in and done. I always feel awful asking her to take the time to write the note to excuse me from jury duty as it feels like such a waste of her time.
Three days ago, I received a jury duty notice. That afternoon, I wrote an email to her asking for a signed letter and the followed day, it arrived in my Inbox. This morning, I will have copies made of the notice and her letter and have it sent to the County with a request for proof of delivery.
Done for another a couple of years. We will be checking the mail for a notice of jury duty for Michael. Every time I have been excused, he has received a notice to appear for jury duty within weeks.
This has been an ongoing debate inside my brain throughout the summer and I feel better for having made a decision.
The medical test to check why acid reflux has returned went well but disappointing. It showed no acid reflux and all the functions looked normal. Now what? The acid reflux tends to come and go but now, I can't prove it. So, what next? I have a feeling that nothing is going to happen and I will have to deal with it going into my lungs causing problems. The only things I can continue to do is to not eat food that kicks up the acid levels in my stomach, sleep on my wedge, continue to eat dinner early and just to be aware.
Jury duty. Through the years, I have been tagged for jury duty. Having sat on three or four juries, I love the process. It is important for our freedoms that regular people sit on juries. Common sense. Since I am immunosuppressed, we do not go to the movies or symphony concerts or anywhere there are large groups of people. Even yoga class can be a problem. With jury duty, people have to show up on a specific date whether they are ill or not. The waiting room is usually filled with people coughing and blowing and sneezing. Then, one may have to sit next to an ill person for weeks or even months during a trial. I would have no rehab classes, no doctor appointments and no driving mom to her doctor appointments. Also, I would be exhausted.
Since I began taking prednisone in 2005, Dr. K. has written a note to excuse me from jury duty because of all those reasons. About every two to three years, I get a notice to appear. She writes a note, I mail it in and done. I always feel awful asking her to take the time to write the note to excuse me from jury duty as it feels like such a waste of her time.
Three days ago, I received a jury duty notice. That afternoon, I wrote an email to her asking for a signed letter and the followed day, it arrived in my Inbox. This morning, I will have copies made of the notice and her letter and have it sent to the County with a request for proof of delivery.
Done for another a couple of years. We will be checking the mail for a notice of jury duty for Michael. Every time I have been excused, he has received a notice to appear for jury duty within weeks.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Exercise, Once Again
I was feeling pretty miserable yesterday. Tired. Not breathing well. Not moving well. It took time to pull it together to pick up Jeannie and drive to the rehab class. I was not looking forward to it.
As I was waiting to check out after working out, I realized that I felt so much better. Once again, the reminder that exercise helps everything from muscles to attitude. It was a different person who arrived home. I was filled with energy with lots to do. I made a fantastic dinner and slept well last night.
Michael and I are heading into the city for the esophagram to check to see if my hernia or Nissen surgery site is leaking causing my acid reflux. Weirdly, I have not had any reflux in a while. Kind of like going to the mechanic's when the car makes a funny noise until you get to the mechanic's!
No breakfast this morning. No coffee!! The test should take an hour then we will shop for Michael's traveling clothes and some groceries. A full day ahead.
As I was waiting to check out after working out, I realized that I felt so much better. Once again, the reminder that exercise helps everything from muscles to attitude. It was a different person who arrived home. I was filled with energy with lots to do. I made a fantastic dinner and slept well last night.
Michael and I are heading into the city for the esophagram to check to see if my hernia or Nissen surgery site is leaking causing my acid reflux. Weirdly, I have not had any reflux in a while. Kind of like going to the mechanic's when the car makes a funny noise until you get to the mechanic's!
No breakfast this morning. No coffee!! The test should take an hour then we will shop for Michael's traveling clothes and some groceries. A full day ahead.
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Storm Blew Through
Fueled by an Americano, we made our way through the huge Macy's, including their tons of sale racks and I ended up buying the only thing not on sale! I still got a discount for using a credit card but it was a good price. An eggplant colored three-button, structured, lightweight jacket to wear over my new skinny jeans this winter. We have mild winters!
We celebrated with a lunch at PF Chang's where we got into a conversation with our waiter. He had just moved from Rochester, NY to the Bay Area with his sister and had been working at the restaurant for just under a week! Great kid. He was shocked that I knew anything about Rochester and all the places they visited on their road trip to their new home. Sweet kid.
It was hot and humid when I got home and we had a huge lightning storm with lots and lots of thunder through the night. While on the front porch watching the fireworks move through, one bolt struck near our fence! Too close! One of the neighbors was with us and we all jumped and moved closer to the house! Then, it poured. Lots of rain. Another hot and muggy day ahead. So not what we are used to here on the coast!
Breathing was difficult all day. The air was heavy and I should have carried some oxygen with me. This morning, Jeannie and are going to the rehab class and it will be interesting to see our numbers. I will bet everyone will be having a hard time breathing.
We celebrated with a lunch at PF Chang's where we got into a conversation with our waiter. He had just moved from Rochester, NY to the Bay Area with his sister and had been working at the restaurant for just under a week! Great kid. He was shocked that I knew anything about Rochester and all the places they visited on their road trip to their new home. Sweet kid.
It was hot and humid when I got home and we had a huge lightning storm with lots and lots of thunder through the night. While on the front porch watching the fireworks move through, one bolt struck near our fence! Too close! One of the neighbors was with us and we all jumped and moved closer to the house! Then, it poured. Lots of rain. Another hot and muggy day ahead. So not what we are used to here on the coast!
Breathing was difficult all day. The air was heavy and I should have carried some oxygen with me. This morning, Jeannie and are going to the rehab class and it will be interesting to see our numbers. I will bet everyone will be having a hard time breathing.
Monday, September 11, 2017
Worries
It was a weekend of watching the hurricane hit the Florida coast and being worried about Christien's step-father in Naples. I didn't wanted to bother her with phone calls but since she has not phoned, I have a feeling that he has been able to contact her. The pictures coming out the area are horrible but he was about 10-miles inland.
I slept a lot during the day but I had received a weird email that made me worry that we had been hit in that credit company ID theft. Seeing a phone number at the bottom of the email, I phoned and found that there was a reason for the odd email. But, I tried to call Lifelock, which helped so much many years ago when we had ID theft. They can lock our accounts down so no one can get new credit cards or mortgage our house or anything else. Just to be safe. Well, the wait time was 64 minutes. I waited and at 56 minutes, I was disconnected. One would think they would have been prepared for their customer to reach out to them as well as new scared customers wanting to sign up. Other companies dealing with a lot of calls will kick in a system where the phone number is noted and they return your call. That is nice. But, to be hung up on was just not okay.
Thinking no more about it all until about 11PM Saturday night when I suddenly awoke in a panic. Was it a scam? Did I phone the scammers? I tried Lifelock again. Nope, still a wait time of 64 minutes. I hung up. I began to search phone numbers and studied the email and went on the web and I finally felt that it was a real company and I was okay. By that time, it was close to 2AM. While online, Michael's night owl sister Anna messaged me through Facebook and we chatted. She was shocked to find me awake!
So, Sunday I was exhausted. I slept for over an hour and felt better. It was so hot and muggy here that I had a bit of a hard time breathing again. More fans really helped! I was able to recycle about a dozen old shoeboxes and tossed eight pairs of worn out shoes to make room for the new sandals and ankle boots that arrived on Friday. At least I got one chore done!
Today, mom and I are shopping. Clothes shopping for a couple of new tops and maybe a light structured jacket. And, lunch!
I slept a lot during the day but I had received a weird email that made me worry that we had been hit in that credit company ID theft. Seeing a phone number at the bottom of the email, I phoned and found that there was a reason for the odd email. But, I tried to call Lifelock, which helped so much many years ago when we had ID theft. They can lock our accounts down so no one can get new credit cards or mortgage our house or anything else. Just to be safe. Well, the wait time was 64 minutes. I waited and at 56 minutes, I was disconnected. One would think they would have been prepared for their customer to reach out to them as well as new scared customers wanting to sign up. Other companies dealing with a lot of calls will kick in a system where the phone number is noted and they return your call. That is nice. But, to be hung up on was just not okay.
Thinking no more about it all until about 11PM Saturday night when I suddenly awoke in a panic. Was it a scam? Did I phone the scammers? I tried Lifelock again. Nope, still a wait time of 64 minutes. I hung up. I began to search phone numbers and studied the email and went on the web and I finally felt that it was a real company and I was okay. By that time, it was close to 2AM. While online, Michael's night owl sister Anna messaged me through Facebook and we chatted. She was shocked to find me awake!
So, Sunday I was exhausted. I slept for over an hour and felt better. It was so hot and muggy here that I had a bit of a hard time breathing again. More fans really helped! I was able to recycle about a dozen old shoeboxes and tossed eight pairs of worn out shoes to make room for the new sandals and ankle boots that arrived on Friday. At least I got one chore done!
Today, mom and I are shopping. Clothes shopping for a couple of new tops and maybe a light structured jacket. And, lunch!
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Jigging, Emailing and Worrying
It was a fun night at the Wine Room, which was filled to the brim with happy, loud, dancing people. The Irish Fiddling band was tight and the room, with its wooden floors, loved my bass. It just rang out. I climbed into bed by 9:30 but Michael sat in the garage and shared a sipping bourbon with our neighbor Mike until midnight. Mike's wife was out with girlfriends for the evening so the boys had some time to chat. So good for both of them.
Today, I have several chores on my list. The simple one is to clean out all my shoes, donate the gently used ones and toss the others. I will also organize my closet, again.
The difficult chore will be writing a group email to mom, my brother and his wife, my sister and her husband, and my niece and her husband confirming the changes we are beginning this holiday season. No Thanksgiving or Christmas together. No long drives in bad holiday traffic. No stress of having to prepare several meals (lunch and dinner). No gift giving, except to mom as she wants to continue to give money for us to buy our own gifts from her. This email will also propose that we chose a date in October to meet in a town, half way for everyone, for a nice lunch on a weekend. No extra holiday traffic. No stress. Just being together for a few hours. Everyone is on board except my sister. Michael approached her during my niece's wedding but, as the first born, she has a hard time with any changes in traditions.
I will write the draft and work with Michael to insure it has the right tone. A bit nervous about it. I need to send this before I book the AirB&B for our post-Christmas celebration in Palm Springs.
My friend Christien has been worried about her elderly step-father on the West coast of Florida. He is not right on the water and he did not leave before the planes stopped flying. He is not capable to drive his way out. She wishes she had flown in several days ago to fly them back to her house in No. Carolina. Too late. My hope is that she has talked him into going to a shelter but I know he can be stubborn. This is just one story of thousands. Millions. I think the entire country is holding its breath waiting for this huge hurricane to make landfall. Sadly, it is going to be ugly.
Today, I have several chores on my list. The simple one is to clean out all my shoes, donate the gently used ones and toss the others. I will also organize my closet, again.
The difficult chore will be writing a group email to mom, my brother and his wife, my sister and her husband, and my niece and her husband confirming the changes we are beginning this holiday season. No Thanksgiving or Christmas together. No long drives in bad holiday traffic. No stress of having to prepare several meals (lunch and dinner). No gift giving, except to mom as she wants to continue to give money for us to buy our own gifts from her. This email will also propose that we chose a date in October to meet in a town, half way for everyone, for a nice lunch on a weekend. No extra holiday traffic. No stress. Just being together for a few hours. Everyone is on board except my sister. Michael approached her during my niece's wedding but, as the first born, she has a hard time with any changes in traditions.
I will write the draft and work with Michael to insure it has the right tone. A bit nervous about it. I need to send this before I book the AirB&B for our post-Christmas celebration in Palm Springs.
My friend Christien has been worried about her elderly step-father on the West coast of Florida. He is not right on the water and he did not leave before the planes stopped flying. He is not capable to drive his way out. She wishes she had flown in several days ago to fly them back to her house in No. Carolina. Too late. My hope is that she has talked him into going to a shelter but I know he can be stubborn. This is just one story of thousands. Millions. I think the entire country is holding its breath waiting for this huge hurricane to make landfall. Sadly, it is going to be ugly.
Friday, September 8, 2017
Knee Update
The university's orthopedic clinic is a well oiled machine. They see a huge number of people each day with ease. It was fun to watch the process. I arrived early enough to enjoy a really good cup of coffee at the little place in their building before heading upstairs. No waiting in line to check-in. I grabbed a newspaper and sat for minutes before being called for the X-rays.
Back to the waiting room for a few minutes, I was then escorted down the hallways to see the doctor. We reviewed the X-rays after he examined my knees. The good news was that I have tight ligaments and he said both knees felt great. The new X-ray reveled that I had completely healed from the fracture, there was no arthritis and I had amazing cartilage. So why the pain and fluid? He believed that I overdid the treadmill and my muscles in the knee were stressed and not happy. Thus, the swelling and the soreness.
He said that I must begin again. No treadmill for a bit then I need to start slowly and build both the time and speed in a safe manner. All good news. No permanent damage. Thank goodness.
In other news, a new blood pressure machine is in the house and I am still shocked at Michael's high numbers. We will continue to take the pressure in the mornings and evenings until his physical. I have also noticed a recent breath odor that is new during the past three months. He has excellent dental care but I worry the cause may be connected to his recent acid reflux issues. I will make sure he mentions it during the physical.
When I was being featured in advertising for my university hospital in 2015, the woman who interviewed me for the writers told me her father had been diagnosed with IPF. We ended up meeting with her parents for lunch here on the coast and I think I helped him with many of his questions. She wrote to me yesterday with an update that he is currently on hospice, had two strokes and on oxygen 24/7 but his sense of humor was still intact. He was a really great guy and actually, he has done well for IPF as I think he was diagnosed in 2014. It is such a nasty, fast disease. The hope is that the new anti-fibrotic drugs will change that fact and slow down the process of the disease. Sadly, it is too late for many.
Back to the waiting room for a few minutes, I was then escorted down the hallways to see the doctor. We reviewed the X-rays after he examined my knees. The good news was that I have tight ligaments and he said both knees felt great. The new X-ray reveled that I had completely healed from the fracture, there was no arthritis and I had amazing cartilage. So why the pain and fluid? He believed that I overdid the treadmill and my muscles in the knee were stressed and not happy. Thus, the swelling and the soreness.
He said that I must begin again. No treadmill for a bit then I need to start slowly and build both the time and speed in a safe manner. All good news. No permanent damage. Thank goodness.
In other news, a new blood pressure machine is in the house and I am still shocked at Michael's high numbers. We will continue to take the pressure in the mornings and evenings until his physical. I have also noticed a recent breath odor that is new during the past three months. He has excellent dental care but I worry the cause may be connected to his recent acid reflux issues. I will make sure he mentions it during the physical.
When I was being featured in advertising for my university hospital in 2015, the woman who interviewed me for the writers told me her father had been diagnosed with IPF. We ended up meeting with her parents for lunch here on the coast and I think I helped him with many of his questions. She wrote to me yesterday with an update that he is currently on hospice, had two strokes and on oxygen 24/7 but his sense of humor was still intact. He was a really great guy and actually, he has done well for IPF as I think he was diagnosed in 2014. It is such a nasty, fast disease. The hope is that the new anti-fibrotic drugs will change that fact and slow down the process of the disease. Sadly, it is too late for many.
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Knee
By 7AM, I will be in the car heading to the new campus of my university hospital for an 8:30 appointment at the orthopedic clinic. After telling the scheduler my story about the recent pain in rehab, she got me right in. I worry that I have re-injured it and possibly even have an unhealed fracture. The swelling in the knee and around my ankle is very impressive. Something is happening.
Why this is so concerning is because I am not able to exercise at the level to keep me healthy. I don't feel fit. I worry about diabetes as the exercise and my diet has kept the prednisone induced diabetes at bay. I was just getting back to a high level on the treadmill and kicking it up on the bike and now I will have to pull back again. No walks along the ocean. No anything. I have to heal completely.
Michael had his first appointment with his new primary doctor yesterday, she was able to access his files so we had the information regarding his low blood sugar issues and the two seizures. The only thing that caused some concern was his blood pressure. He has always had low pressure but it was 138/93 yesterday. Scary. I am buying a blood pressure cuff on the way home so he can keep a diary of his pressure for the next few weeks before his physical. I also made appointments for his colonoscopy and with a dermatologist to check his skin on his face and the rest of his body.
After the appointment, we had a great lunch, did the grocery shopping and stayed home the rest of the day.
William is on tour and escaped Florida just in time to beat the hurricane. Irma will be chasing them up the coast but I think they are far enough ahead of it to avoid it all. I hope!
Why this is so concerning is because I am not able to exercise at the level to keep me healthy. I don't feel fit. I worry about diabetes as the exercise and my diet has kept the prednisone induced diabetes at bay. I was just getting back to a high level on the treadmill and kicking it up on the bike and now I will have to pull back again. No walks along the ocean. No anything. I have to heal completely.
Michael had his first appointment with his new primary doctor yesterday, she was able to access his files so we had the information regarding his low blood sugar issues and the two seizures. The only thing that caused some concern was his blood pressure. He has always had low pressure but it was 138/93 yesterday. Scary. I am buying a blood pressure cuff on the way home so he can keep a diary of his pressure for the next few weeks before his physical. I also made appointments for his colonoscopy and with a dermatologist to check his skin on his face and the rest of his body.
After the appointment, we had a great lunch, did the grocery shopping and stayed home the rest of the day.
William is on tour and escaped Florida just in time to beat the hurricane. Irma will be chasing them up the coast but I think they are far enough ahead of it to avoid it all. I hope!
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Re-Fracture?
The knee. Instead of working on the treadmill in the pulmonary rehab class yesterday, I took my knee for an adventure on the bike. Twice. The first run, no problem. After doing the wall pulleys, I climbed back onto the bike, started peddling then about four minutes in, my knee began hurt. That had never happened before and I immediately stopped. Maddison, the RN, noticed and told me to contact my orthopedic group when I got home.
I tried. After two 14-minute rounds of being on hold then disconnecting, I decided to try again early this morning. I have another hour to go before they are open and hopefully, I can get an appointment to be seen ASAP. What worries me is that my recent bone scan was not good and when I kicked up the speed and time on the treadmill, I may have cracked or somehow re-injured my knee. I am feeling the same pains as when it was fractured. And, the swelling has returned with a vengeance.
Bob, who is waiting for lung transplants, was not in the rehab class last Thursday nor yesterday. I asked if the RNs had heard from him, as he promised me that he would let us know if he got the call. Nothing. We all still hope he is getting his new lungs.
Today is a major day for us. Michael is seeing the new primary doctor in town for his first Medicare appointment. He had been paying for an individual policy for years and the combined cost of both of our supplemental and prescription insurance polices are $150 less per month than his individual policy. And, no co-payments. Major sigh of relief.
I tried. After two 14-minute rounds of being on hold then disconnecting, I decided to try again early this morning. I have another hour to go before they are open and hopefully, I can get an appointment to be seen ASAP. What worries me is that my recent bone scan was not good and when I kicked up the speed and time on the treadmill, I may have cracked or somehow re-injured my knee. I am feeling the same pains as when it was fractured. And, the swelling has returned with a vengeance.
Bob, who is waiting for lung transplants, was not in the rehab class last Thursday nor yesterday. I asked if the RNs had heard from him, as he promised me that he would let us know if he got the call. Nothing. We all still hope he is getting his new lungs.
Today is a major day for us. Michael is seeing the new primary doctor in town for his first Medicare appointment. He had been paying for an individual policy for years and the combined cost of both of our supplemental and prescription insurance polices are $150 less per month than his individual policy. And, no co-payments. Major sigh of relief.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Smoke Free
The past few days, smoke has been drifting into the entire Bay Area. There are huge fires burning inland and north of us and, with an off shore breeze, it has stayed for a few days. Breathing has been very difficult. The smell was overwhelming yesterday, like someone was burning wood in a fireplace next-door. The good news is that this morning, the winds have changed direction and the area is cleaned out. I was really concerned about going over the pass to the rehab class today as it was so much worse there. The temperatures have also dropped and the high over the pass will only be 76 degrees. Perfect.
I think there is a problem with my formally fractured knee. It has not been the same since working out on the treadmill two days in a row a few weeks ago. There is now fluid. It aches. I now know it has not completely healed. So, I will adjust and not do any treadmill today, double up on the bike and keep it wrapped. There has also been swelling in my foot and ankle.
To rehab I go!
It has been a wild long weekend with tons of celebrations and fun. Back to life, thank goodness! We get our routines back. We get our little town back from the tourists. Life slows down so we can enjoy it a bit more.
In other news, William phoned on our anniversary and Michael's birthday. We confirmed with him that we are going to rent an AirB&B in Palm Springs for several days after Christmas. We realized that what we love about fine hotels, he didn't need. He practically lives in them and wanted somewhere where he could cook, swim in a private pool and enjoy being just the three of us together. A house not a hotel. He suggested an AirB&B. We haven't seen him in a year so we need to have the opportunity to sit and talk. I miss those late night conversations about hopes and next steps in life. I think I found the place to rent with the goal that it will be perfect to help him relax.
I think there is a problem with my formally fractured knee. It has not been the same since working out on the treadmill two days in a row a few weeks ago. There is now fluid. It aches. I now know it has not completely healed. So, I will adjust and not do any treadmill today, double up on the bike and keep it wrapped. There has also been swelling in my foot and ankle.
To rehab I go!
It has been a wild long weekend with tons of celebrations and fun. Back to life, thank goodness! We get our routines back. We get our little town back from the tourists. Life slows down so we can enjoy it a bit more.
In other news, William phoned on our anniversary and Michael's birthday. We confirmed with him that we are going to rent an AirB&B in Palm Springs for several days after Christmas. We realized that what we love about fine hotels, he didn't need. He practically lives in them and wanted somewhere where he could cook, swim in a private pool and enjoy being just the three of us together. A house not a hotel. He suggested an AirB&B. We haven't seen him in a year so we need to have the opportunity to sit and talk. I miss those late night conversations about hopes and next steps in life. I think I found the place to rent with the goal that it will be perfect to help him relax.
Monday, September 4, 2017
Birthday Luncheon
It was much cooler yesterday as we made our way to meet British Don in the city to celebrate Michael's birthday. At 10AM, the traffic coming down the coast to our town while we were leaving was bumper to bumper. Crazy. We knew it was going to be a challenge to get home later in the afternoon.Lunch was amazing. It was at an elegant dim sum place in the financial district of the city where we enjoyed a variety of goodies including soup dumplings. We moaned a lot. It was that unusual and delicious. Traffic in the city was easy, we stopped for a cup of coffee and a chat before dropping Don off at his home.
We braced ourselves for the ride home. It was fine until we hit the town north of us. Thirteen miles away from home. Many packed beaches in between. We made it through the mess in under an hour. It was a tough way to end our celebration weekend!
Michael could not believe all the people who called or sent cards or Happy Birthday wishes to him on Facebook. Very touching! We are recovering from it all today and plan to stay around the house.
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Happiest
This guy even did the yard work yesterday morning, before the heat of the day, and watered everything. We spent a few hours with Rick and Natalie then enjoyed Melanie's amazing chocolate cake she made for Michael. I was amazed how well Natalie was moving around after her double knee replacement surgery. She was even back to work! One strong woman.
Let's hope it over.
But, for today, we will celebrate the birthday of this handsome guy. He is on the phone with his mom right now and I will bet it is the first of many phone calls today. The homemade cheesecake is also awaiting it's candles. Maybe he will have a slice with breakfast!
Saturday, September 2, 2017
The Day Between
Did I mention we are in the middle of a major heatwave? It was the hottest I can remember here at the ocean's side. It is traditional that our summer fog leaves the moment the kids go back to school and this year was no different except to the extreme. It was in the 90s yesterday.
Traffic was horrible. Everyone was trying to escape the 110+ heat over the pass. We decided not to add to the madness and stayed close to home. We went to the little restaurant on the water at the harbor to celebrate our anniversary, Michael had his Lobster Roll and I had a crab and shrimp salad. We drove home and stayed in front of fans the rest of the day. Breathing was difficult and I was sweating just doing the dinner dishes (a light salad).
Today, it should be even hotter. YIKES! This morning, I need to make a cheesecake and get it into the refrigerator overnight so it is ready for Michael's big birthday tomorrow. As the kitchen windows face southwest, I need to finish any cooking this morning.
September 2 is always the day between. After we got married, we had to hang around for Michael to turn 21-years old the next day so the car insurance would kick in. One had to be a minimum of 21 to get insurance back then. We went to a local, very cool Art Faire high in the mountains, which I ended up working as William went to the elementary school who was the major beneficiary of the Faire. Funny how life works. The honeymoon from hell began on his birthday on September 3.
This day between will be spent at home cooking then Rick, Natalie and Melanie have invited us to their house this afternoon to celebrate Michael birthday. Lots to celebrate this weekend. Hopefully, the heatwave will break tomorrow and we will begin to once again enjoy our cool coastside.
Traffic was horrible. Everyone was trying to escape the 110+ heat over the pass. We decided not to add to the madness and stayed close to home. We went to the little restaurant on the water at the harbor to celebrate our anniversary, Michael had his Lobster Roll and I had a crab and shrimp salad. We drove home and stayed in front of fans the rest of the day. Breathing was difficult and I was sweating just doing the dinner dishes (a light salad).Today, it should be even hotter. YIKES! This morning, I need to make a cheesecake and get it into the refrigerator overnight so it is ready for Michael's big birthday tomorrow. As the kitchen windows face southwest, I need to finish any cooking this morning.
September 2 is always the day between. After we got married, we had to hang around for Michael to turn 21-years old the next day so the car insurance would kick in. One had to be a minimum of 21 to get insurance back then. We went to a local, very cool Art Faire high in the mountains, which I ended up working as William went to the elementary school who was the major beneficiary of the Faire. Funny how life works. The honeymoon from hell began on his birthday on September 3.
This day between will be spent at home cooking then Rick, Natalie and Melanie have invited us to their house this afternoon to celebrate Michael birthday. Lots to celebrate this weekend. Hopefully, the heatwave will break tomorrow and we will begin to once again enjoy our cool coastside.
Friday, September 1, 2017
For Better or For Worse
Forty-four years ago this evening, we were married. Two young kids. It was the 1970s, I was in a homemade muslin cotton wedding dress, he in a powder blue tux. We look so young in the photos, with our 70s hair styles but with so much hope and love in our eyes.
I remember meeting with him before the ceremony and we walked together along the side of the church. We just wanted it over. We just wanted to begin our lives together. We now look back and laugh at our horrible honeymoon but even that did not make us question our complete commitment to each other.
When I got sick and it looked really bleak, it was clear this was going to be a very difficult time for Michael, as a caretaker as well as the horror of having to watch his wife die. He told our son that often people divorced over an illness as it was a lot of stress but Michael wanted our son to know that we were committed to the end. We had made that vow to each other forty-four years ago today and he meant every word of it. For better or for worse.
It was later that I realized that we were actually teaching our son what a committed marriage really was. It followed the years of our son referring to his parent's marriage as a good working relationship, a rare event in the lives of his co-workers and friends. Every year, our son phones us on our anniversary, no matter where he is in the world.
Today, there is a heatwave in the Bay Area, just as there was all those many years ago. The church was steaming as there was no air conditioning. Our plans to drive to Carmel are gone. Too hot. Instead, we are going to stay in our little, cooler town by the ocean's side and go out for a nice lunch before working in the garden. Actually, a perfect way to spend our anniversary together.
I remember meeting with him before the ceremony and we walked together along the side of the church. We just wanted it over. We just wanted to begin our lives together. We now look back and laugh at our horrible honeymoon but even that did not make us question our complete commitment to each other.
When I got sick and it looked really bleak, it was clear this was going to be a very difficult time for Michael, as a caretaker as well as the horror of having to watch his wife die. He told our son that often people divorced over an illness as it was a lot of stress but Michael wanted our son to know that we were committed to the end. We had made that vow to each other forty-four years ago today and he meant every word of it. For better or for worse.
It was later that I realized that we were actually teaching our son what a committed marriage really was. It followed the years of our son referring to his parent's marriage as a good working relationship, a rare event in the lives of his co-workers and friends. Every year, our son phones us on our anniversary, no matter where he is in the world.
Today, there is a heatwave in the Bay Area, just as there was all those many years ago. The church was steaming as there was no air conditioning. Our plans to drive to Carmel are gone. Too hot. Instead, we are going to stay in our little, cooler town by the ocean's side and go out for a nice lunch before working in the garden. Actually, a perfect way to spend our anniversary together.
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