This year, the country needed to elect a new President. Barack Obama cannot run as he has been in office for 8 years. Has his presidency improved my situation over the past 8 years? Not really. In fact, it made it worse. The Government health plan is wrought with issues. People do need health care, but companies are not really doing their part to help provide that. Did I see the administration do much about the corporations outsourcing jobs to other countries for lower wages? No. The situation only got worse.
So, when the process started, I was surprised that Biden did not run. Then, again, I remember when he tried to run and he ended up dropping out over plagiarism. I figured he did not want to go through that.
Next, Hilary Clinton put her hat into the ring. I lived through the "Clinton Years" in the 90s and I still have a bad taste in my mouth over that. I flat out do not trust the woman. I would have preferred Condalezza Rice to have run for office. I would have voted for her in a heartbeat!
Bernie Sanders - I really could not get behind his plans.
Then, there was the Republican offers. Jeb Bush was probably the only one I would have voted for in that group. However, in the end, Donald Trump was able to kick each and every one of them to the curb. For the record - I cannot stand Donald Trump. He is a loud, obnoxious, inconsiderate, ugly soul man. At the same time, everything you need to know about him is out in the open.
The debates that took place between both candidates was a complete farce. I felt I was back in middle school listening to two kids bad mouthing the other and going on about what they would do to one another. There was no high road with either of them and it was just plain sad.
For me - neither candidate truly expressed what they would do to help this country. When faced with the violence, neither had an answer.
When November 8th rolled around, Donald Trump won the electoral vote, so he wins the presidency, even though Hilary won the popular vote. So, I can understand why people do not want to exercise their right to vote - the common man really has no say. A group of elitists do.
It is what it is. I did not want or vote for either candidate. However, I am stuck with whoever wins the electoral college. Okay - let's see what happens. That is my attitude - let's see what happens. Maybe he will be a good president; maybe he will suck. However, I said the same thing when Barack Obama took office. I did not like either candidate, nor did I vote for either. However, like it or not, I said the same thing - "Let's see what happens."
So, now, I am going to voice my opinion regarding the reaction that so many people have had with this outcome - this is my right:
Hilary/Democratic voters: Hilary made mistakes. While a candidate cannot be everywhere, it does no good to shun the "common voter" to hob-nob with celebrities. If you look at how the electoral college was broken down, those hardworking farmers and so forth were not happy with the current administration. Those people did not wish to see another 4-8 years of the same thing. Furthermore, I am appalled at the attitudes of those who consider themselves "open-minded" and so forth. You label these people as "racists" and "misogynistic" because they voted for Trump. Seriously?! I would imagine a small minority are that way - a larger amount are concerned with how the current administration is basically taking from them to provide for others who are not carrying their weight. Those people are screaming for help and to be heard. Rather than insult and shun them, take some time to hear their fears and help.
I know all of you are hurting because you are so passionate for your candidate, but all of this gnashing of teeth, squandering around, and so forth - accept it. I have accepted every single president elect in my 50 years on this earth. It won't hurt you to think: It is what it is. I may not like this outcome, but I will get through this. If I do not like what is going on, then by God, I am ripping out some people in congress in two years. In the meantime, I am going to keep an eye on what I can do locally to make changes to improve not only my life, but others around me. How about expending that energy there?
Trump/Republican voters: I think it is right that Donald not accept the $400,000 salary. He is wealthy enough. Furthermore, make sure that Trump is surrounded by good, solid people who will guide him in the right direction. Squelch building a wall - remember how well that went over in Berlin - it makes no sense, seriously. This country was built by foreigners - let's try to make it better for the hardworking illegal immigrants to become naturalized citizens. Help make health care more affordable - let's do something about these CEOs buying companies and raising medicine prices - it is beyond insane. Also, how to make sure the doctors, labs, and so forth are not screwing the patients (I have my own story regarding this).
No gloating - you have a long road to haul here and you need to back your word and do your part. There is a large part of America looking for better changes. If anything, Democrats and Republicans MUST come together to help heal this country - it is in dire pain. We have so many issues to fix and I know one President cannot fix what is wrong, but as a collective, we have to come together and do our part.
After you read this, consider the following:
Can Trump really make a lot change in his term in office? He can try, but I doubt seriously a lot of that will be done.
Are these issues that the President/Congress really need to address or is this something I need to start addressing on a local level? I think you will find that internally, we have a shitload of work we need to do and we need to quit demanding someone else do that dirty work for us. We need to step up and get dirty - it may get nasty at first, but in the end, we will all be better for it.
Lastly - What if - what if Trump actually does a good job? The very least we can do is give him a chance. Forego all of the insanity and let's just focus on trying to do the right thing. I think we can all learn something from all of this.
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Jumping in with Bullet Journaling...
I usually order a Circa Master Planner from Levenger and use it for planning my activities, events, and so forth. As you know, last year, I got 2 planners. When I attempted to use both, one for work and the other for health/miscellaneous, my life got pretty complicated. So many calendars, work and personal, and trying to maintain some sort of order in my life. I was finding my life was becoming more chaotic as I was trying to make doctor appointments and consistently gettting meeting requests for work during the same time.
I had known about the Bullet Journal from a friend on Facebook, Stefanie Harvey, as well as Random Cathy. Initially, I thought - This would be great! I could see the ease of use and so forth. Recently, I began to see all of these people who put their "BuJos" on display. Oh - My - God! Talk about overwhelming! These beautiful pieces of art that you would love to be able to do, but yet, you feel like "How would I have time to do that?" After awhile, I got too caught up in that overwhelming feeling.
Finally, I simply put my foot down and said - Just make it clean and simple. Do you really need all of that frilly stuff? Not really - I need the Bullet Journal to just do the simplest of functions for me. Maybe later, I can add some pretty things to it, but let's not push it.
So, I sat down and followed BohoBerry's suggestion - Mind dump. Put down on a sheet of paper what exactly did I want the BuJo manage. I feel that should be the first step for anyone about to create a Bullet Journal - sort out what you want to get out of this - what functions do you want to manage?
On Monday, I had a small notebook with lined paper and decided - This will be my step-off. So, it won't be beautiful, but in order to find out what works for me, I need to "play" with it. I went back to Ryder's BulletJournal.com site and watching the video. Taking notes for what the "basics" are and working from that point. I honestly believe, we should all start "clean and basic." Later, if you wish to make it fancy, go for it. However, I feel that this initial step is very important.
So far, I am writing down my activities, getting my appointments sorted out and updated in my various calendars, and setting up a health tracker. I am working to track my blood sugar and pressure as well as setting up a "food log". The food log helps me track how well I am working on eating better and seeing where I am making mistakes.
We shall see how well this test Bullet Journal works out for me. So far, I am using it quite a bit to keep myself updated on my activities and so forth. Trying to make it a habit forming thing to do.
I had known about the Bullet Journal from a friend on Facebook, Stefanie Harvey, as well as Random Cathy. Initially, I thought - This would be great! I could see the ease of use and so forth. Recently, I began to see all of these people who put their "BuJos" on display. Oh - My - God! Talk about overwhelming! These beautiful pieces of art that you would love to be able to do, but yet, you feel like "How would I have time to do that?" After awhile, I got too caught up in that overwhelming feeling.
Finally, I simply put my foot down and said - Just make it clean and simple. Do you really need all of that frilly stuff? Not really - I need the Bullet Journal to just do the simplest of functions for me. Maybe later, I can add some pretty things to it, but let's not push it.
So, I sat down and followed BohoBerry's suggestion - Mind dump. Put down on a sheet of paper what exactly did I want the BuJo manage. I feel that should be the first step for anyone about to create a Bullet Journal - sort out what you want to get out of this - what functions do you want to manage?
On Monday, I had a small notebook with lined paper and decided - This will be my step-off. So, it won't be beautiful, but in order to find out what works for me, I need to "play" with it. I went back to Ryder's BulletJournal.com site and watching the video. Taking notes for what the "basics" are and working from that point. I honestly believe, we should all start "clean and basic." Later, if you wish to make it fancy, go for it. However, I feel that this initial step is very important.
So far, I am writing down my activities, getting my appointments sorted out and updated in my various calendars, and setting up a health tracker. I am working to track my blood sugar and pressure as well as setting up a "food log". The food log helps me track how well I am working on eating better and seeing where I am making mistakes.
We shall see how well this test Bullet Journal works out for me. So far, I am using it quite a bit to keep myself updated on my activities and so forth. Trying to make it a habit forming thing to do.
Sunday, October 2, 2016
First World Problem: iPhone 5S is Falling Apart...
When discussing the iPhone 7 with some friends, I was asked if I would be getting it. Originally, I said, "Nah - I don't have the money to really spend for it." Used to be, you could get the phone at a lower price with a 2-year contract. Now, there are no such contracts like that. One must pay so much a month for the phone. I don't like that, but here we are.
For the past few months, my iPhone 5S has a problem with being able to hold a charge on its own. I have to make sure that my mophie case is completely charged. Once the mophie loses its charge, the battery on the iPhone may show 60%, but all of a sudden, the phone will shut down and when you try to turn it back on, it will display the battery with a small red streak and tell you to connect to power. It is very annoying to say the least.
One of my resolutions was to move my apps and such over to an iPod Touch. That has been working out really well. I use the iPhone for some texting, but mainly for phone calls. I try to stay off of it with FB and other apps.
This week, I started noticing that there was a light coming from the edge. Also, if I pressed down on the screen, it was acting funny. Upon closer inspection, the iPhone screen is detaching itself from the phone. I thought - seriously? Have I really been THAT abusive to the phone? I mean, the phone is in a mophie case and it does not allow for any bending. I rarely remove the phone from the case.
Point blank - the phone is breaking. How odd?!
Considering Chloe's issues today, I have stayed home and not done the shopping I should have done. Also, I have a prescription that I need to get refilled. I needed to do that, but it is too late at this point. I will deal with the prescription business tomorrow.
I did look into getting an iPhone 7. It will increase my current payment, but not by a whole lot. I may run by a store some time this week. Actually, I will probably wait until I get paid this week, get the budget worked out, then from there, see what I can do. I know I have t pay for installation fees and such, so if upgrading will cost about $50, that should not be too bad.
While I fully admit to being a tech junkie, I have gotten a bit better about not having to have the latest tech gadgets as they are released. Technically, I should only be keeping a computer for 2-3 years. However, most of my systems that I have are much older than that. I still have the Toshiba laptop I bought 10 years ago this month, as a matter of fact. It still works great, too.
However, the cost of such "nice to haves" is so much that I want to make sure I get my money's worth out of them. For example, when I bought my father a 3-D Smart TV in 2012, I considered getting a new TV myself. The problem was that my current Sony Bravia I got in 2007 was still working perfectly. I have no complaints - it is 1080p. So what if it does not have 3-D? Do I really need it? Nah. Would it be nice to have? Sure, but what would I do with my current TV? So, I won't get a new TV anytime soon. I might if I were to move into a house. However, that makes sense to get a 65" TV for a larger room. I could always put my current TV elsewhere and it would still be used.
Everyone is different, I suppose. I hate having to get another phone. However, I cannot believe that my current phone is just falling apart. I suppose the product composition quality is not that great. It was the only one iPhone 5S I have had the entire time. Before that, I had an iPhone 3S. It took me a while before I switched over to the iPhone. I will say this much - I won't get a Samsung. I got one for a company phone and I do not care for it too much.
Next week, we will see if I make it to the store to get a new phone. Or will I talk myself out of it? LOL
For the past few months, my iPhone 5S has a problem with being able to hold a charge on its own. I have to make sure that my mophie case is completely charged. Once the mophie loses its charge, the battery on the iPhone may show 60%, but all of a sudden, the phone will shut down and when you try to turn it back on, it will display the battery with a small red streak and tell you to connect to power. It is very annoying to say the least.
One of my resolutions was to move my apps and such over to an iPod Touch. That has been working out really well. I use the iPhone for some texting, but mainly for phone calls. I try to stay off of it with FB and other apps.
This week, I started noticing that there was a light coming from the edge. Also, if I pressed down on the screen, it was acting funny. Upon closer inspection, the iPhone screen is detaching itself from the phone. I thought - seriously? Have I really been THAT abusive to the phone? I mean, the phone is in a mophie case and it does not allow for any bending. I rarely remove the phone from the case.
Point blank - the phone is breaking. How odd?!
Considering Chloe's issues today, I have stayed home and not done the shopping I should have done. Also, I have a prescription that I need to get refilled. I needed to do that, but it is too late at this point. I will deal with the prescription business tomorrow.
I did look into getting an iPhone 7. It will increase my current payment, but not by a whole lot. I may run by a store some time this week. Actually, I will probably wait until I get paid this week, get the budget worked out, then from there, see what I can do. I know I have t pay for installation fees and such, so if upgrading will cost about $50, that should not be too bad.
While I fully admit to being a tech junkie, I have gotten a bit better about not having to have the latest tech gadgets as they are released. Technically, I should only be keeping a computer for 2-3 years. However, most of my systems that I have are much older than that. I still have the Toshiba laptop I bought 10 years ago this month, as a matter of fact. It still works great, too.
However, the cost of such "nice to haves" is so much that I want to make sure I get my money's worth out of them. For example, when I bought my father a 3-D Smart TV in 2012, I considered getting a new TV myself. The problem was that my current Sony Bravia I got in 2007 was still working perfectly. I have no complaints - it is 1080p. So what if it does not have 3-D? Do I really need it? Nah. Would it be nice to have? Sure, but what would I do with my current TV? So, I won't get a new TV anytime soon. I might if I were to move into a house. However, that makes sense to get a 65" TV for a larger room. I could always put my current TV elsewhere and it would still be used.
Everyone is different, I suppose. I hate having to get another phone. However, I cannot believe that my current phone is just falling apart. I suppose the product composition quality is not that great. It was the only one iPhone 5S I have had the entire time. Before that, I had an iPhone 3S. It took me a while before I switched over to the iPhone. I will say this much - I won't get a Samsung. I got one for a company phone and I do not care for it too much.
Next week, we will see if I make it to the store to get a new phone. Or will I talk myself out of it? LOL
Poochie Worries...
This weekend - on one hand, I have been somewhat productive in that I got dishes washed, made a pitcher of iced tea, cooked, and gotten some laundry done. On the other hand, I spent most of the weekend in bed snoozing with the dogs. Yesterday was a complete time waste.
Today, after the morning rituals with the dogs, I packed them in the car for a ride to Starbucks. I needed a Pumpkin Spice Latte fix along with an Egg McMuffin for breakfast. Granted, not the best thing for me to eat for breakfast, but I needed that out of my system.
When I got home, I ate my breakfast while the dogs found their normal spots. I made out my shopping list and was trying to determine how to get it all done today. My back is not cooperating again today, so I decided I would lie down for a bit. Bo was quite eager to join me, but Chloe remained sleeping in the bathroom door way. I might have let her stay there, but I know how she is - if you are in bed without her, she will pitch a fit.
As I put her in bed, I felt something wet. I even stepped in something wet, which was very unusual. There were little piddle areas around the bed where she had walked around. I checked the bed - there were quite a few very damp areas on the bed. Luckily, none of that soaked through to the mattress. Something is not right with my old girl.
Rather than get upset, I remembered I had purchased some female incontinence wraps for her. At the time, she peed in my bedroom because I was not getting myself together fast enough for her. That was a few years ago. I thought of getting that because Bo still has to wear a belly band. (Generally speaking, when he has to go, he will let you know. However, when you leave the house, he either gets that pissed off or anxiety hits him and he pees. I think it is a male dog thing.)
I got her the wrap along with a pad and put it on her. I removed the bedding that needed to be washed and put on some towels and another blanket. I am very concerned for her because quite honestly Chloe never has accidents in the house. She could have diarrhea and she would do her best to hold it and let you know she needed to go. That is why when those days happen, I turn down offers to go out or break plans to do stuff. She has always been so good about that and I know how I would feel in her position if I left her by herself and she was not feeling well. As I always say, I am an asshole, but I try hard not to be one of those pet owner assholes. I care about my pets because they are probably the only children I will ever have. Chloe - my mother entrusted her care in my hands and I made the promise to take very good care of her. I do my very best to uphold that commitment.
I sent an email to my vet describing the situation and also chatted a bit with the vet tech that works closely with my vet. I had already decided I needed to take Chloe in for a recheck on her ribs and such. The vet tech stated that there were medications to help with incontinence for pets, so it is probably simply old age. How well I know - I have my own issues from time to time. So, I laid down with Chloe and told her it would be okay. We all have to live with things that no one speaks.
Before I took the dogs back out, the pad and the wrap were soaked. I figured they might be, so the pad went into the trash and the wrap goes into the wash. People in Target or CVS probably think I am weird, but I have to buy the extra absorbent Poises pads for Bo. What the pet store provides is very similar to women's feminine napkins - regular. Bo can drench one of those, so my mother at the time suggested getting the super sized Poises. I would say that 99% of the time, Bo will fill it up. There are some times that he will overflow the pad, then I look at how much he is drinking. So, I used one of Bo's pads to put in Chloe's wrap. She gave me this rather sad look and I gently petted her and said "Don't worry - this is only temporary and besides, it is no big deal. You are still the best girl ever."
...and she is.
So, later in the week, I will be taking Chloe to the vet for a check up. At that time, we shall see how everything holds up.
Today, after the morning rituals with the dogs, I packed them in the car for a ride to Starbucks. I needed a Pumpkin Spice Latte fix along with an Egg McMuffin for breakfast. Granted, not the best thing for me to eat for breakfast, but I needed that out of my system.
When I got home, I ate my breakfast while the dogs found their normal spots. I made out my shopping list and was trying to determine how to get it all done today. My back is not cooperating again today, so I decided I would lie down for a bit. Bo was quite eager to join me, but Chloe remained sleeping in the bathroom door way. I might have let her stay there, but I know how she is - if you are in bed without her, she will pitch a fit.
As I put her in bed, I felt something wet. I even stepped in something wet, which was very unusual. There were little piddle areas around the bed where she had walked around. I checked the bed - there were quite a few very damp areas on the bed. Luckily, none of that soaked through to the mattress. Something is not right with my old girl.
Rather than get upset, I remembered I had purchased some female incontinence wraps for her. At the time, she peed in my bedroom because I was not getting myself together fast enough for her. That was a few years ago. I thought of getting that because Bo still has to wear a belly band. (Generally speaking, when he has to go, he will let you know. However, when you leave the house, he either gets that pissed off or anxiety hits him and he pees. I think it is a male dog thing.)
I got her the wrap along with a pad and put it on her. I removed the bedding that needed to be washed and put on some towels and another blanket. I am very concerned for her because quite honestly Chloe never has accidents in the house. She could have diarrhea and she would do her best to hold it and let you know she needed to go. That is why when those days happen, I turn down offers to go out or break plans to do stuff. She has always been so good about that and I know how I would feel in her position if I left her by herself and she was not feeling well. As I always say, I am an asshole, but I try hard not to be one of those pet owner assholes. I care about my pets because they are probably the only children I will ever have. Chloe - my mother entrusted her care in my hands and I made the promise to take very good care of her. I do my very best to uphold that commitment.
I sent an email to my vet describing the situation and also chatted a bit with the vet tech that works closely with my vet. I had already decided I needed to take Chloe in for a recheck on her ribs and such. The vet tech stated that there were medications to help with incontinence for pets, so it is probably simply old age. How well I know - I have my own issues from time to time. So, I laid down with Chloe and told her it would be okay. We all have to live with things that no one speaks.
Before I took the dogs back out, the pad and the wrap were soaked. I figured they might be, so the pad went into the trash and the wrap goes into the wash. People in Target or CVS probably think I am weird, but I have to buy the extra absorbent Poises pads for Bo. What the pet store provides is very similar to women's feminine napkins - regular. Bo can drench one of those, so my mother at the time suggested getting the super sized Poises. I would say that 99% of the time, Bo will fill it up. There are some times that he will overflow the pad, then I look at how much he is drinking. So, I used one of Bo's pads to put in Chloe's wrap. She gave me this rather sad look and I gently petted her and said "Don't worry - this is only temporary and besides, it is no big deal. You are still the best girl ever."
...and she is.
So, later in the week, I will be taking Chloe to the vet for a check up. At that time, we shall see how everything holds up.
Saturday, October 1, 2016
Update on My Back and Other Health Related Things...
On Monday, I went in for another set of test nerve blockers injected into my back. Pre-surgical procedure was a nightmare due to the nurse having issues getting a good vein for the IV. Ended up putting in the IV right under my wrist because she could see that vein. Granted, I do not care for IVs period, this is really not an area I want an needle anywhere. It is very soft and tender, therefore, when she inserted the "stick", it hurt like hell.
Compound matters - she had to remove the IV because it was not dripping. So, I had to go through that hell again on my left hand. Luckily, another nurse came in and she asked for a vein finder. What an interesting tool! The infrared is able to show all of the veins in the area where it is flashed. That nurse got the IV in on top of my left hand with no issues.
Frankly, I am a true weenie when it comes to this IV business. I despise it. I felt even worse because I without saying anything, I was crying because it really did hurt. Today, I still have this massive bruise under my right wrist and it hurts like hell. I have no unkind words for the nurses - they were very nice and caring. This was my third time at this surgical center and all of the people there are very lovely, so I have no ill will towards any of them. The IV business is a tricky one and I am a huge weenie when it comes to needles. So, I thank them for their patience with me.
Then, anesthesiologist came by to check on my paper work. The nurses had to draw blood from the IV 3 times. Apparently, my potassium levels were high. Now, he tried to put me at ease by telling me that it was probably due to pulling from the IV due to the fluid mixture being flowed into my veins. Still, that makes me sit and wonder if that is what is causing my muscles, glutes and hamstrings, to ache so much. The idea is worth researching just to make sure.
The anesthesiologist also mentioned that I had more anethesia given to me on my last visit than the first one. This guy did the work the first time I had a shot in my back. Apparently, I moved while I was on the table. I told him that the only thing I remember on that visit was I was discussing REM with the other doctor as he was injecting the medication in my veins. After that, the nurse kept saying "Melissa, are you going to wake up?" (Sounded like my mom, but you know how it is when you are that doped up.) I explained that when I woke up, it was difficult to shake off the grogginess.
Before I entered the procedure room, the anethesiologist gave me a sedative. That stung, but it made my head start spinning and relaxed my body before we got in the room. I vaguely remember getting on the table and he giving me the medication to knock me out before I was actually OUT.
Like last time, I had a hard time waking up from the medication. Anesthesiologist was there by my side. He told me that I had moved again and he had to give me more medication, so he was there to make sure I woke up. I thought that was nice of him.
When I to go the recovery room, I got a coke and some animal crackers. Once I ate and drank a bit, I had to put on my clothes. For the first time, I actually felt like I did not have complete control over my body. My back felt sore, but it was hurting before I had gone in for the procedure.
Like last time, I had to keep a pain diary for the next 3 hours. Generally, my back was okay, but my muscles were so stiff and sore. So, that made me a bit frustrated. Since my father had driven me for the procedure, he had asked if we could stop by Fry's - he wanted to get some additional memory for his computer. I said as long as I could get something to eat, which was not difficult to do. I work in the area where Fry's is located in Plano, so we stopped by Casa Cha-Cha's for lunch, then I directed him to how to get to Fry's. I had him avoid the high traffic areas, so getting there was pretty easy.
Yesterday, my back doctor said it would appear that the test worked. Now, I have to be scheduled for two procedures. In about a month, I will have a procedure to have the right side done and two weeks later, I will have the left side done. At that point, I suppose we shall pray that life returns somewhat normally.
I was talking to a co-worker over the phone the other day. I mentioned that two and half years ago, I had a couple of options of what I wanted to do with some of my bonus money from work. I had set aside $500. At the time, I had lost 35 lbs and I was doing a lot of walking. Of course, you hear that one also needs strength training. I thought I could get a personal trainer or I could use that money to get the hair around my chin removed. (Apparently, I have too much of some hormone and that is the only place I would love to get rid of hair.) I chose the personal trainer. By June of that year, that was when I started experiencing back issues. I do not blame the trainer - stuff happens all of the time. However, I am saddened in that my original plan was to at least lose 50 lbs and get in some sort of shape so that I could walk the yearly Turkey Trot for Thanksgiving. I have never been one who was a runner, but I could walk. I had wanted to do that in order to see friends in Fort Worth. While I am not a competitive person, I thought this activity would be really fun to do and also, I would not need to feel badly about eating so much because I would have done my exercise.
Now, I have trouble just walking the dogs. While I try not to have a pity party for myself, I get angry for what has happened. Sometimes, I will just think - Why in the hell did you just not go for the laser hair removal?!
I still would like to get into better shape in order to walk the Turkey Trot. While I may not be able to compete with my friends, I would be there for myself and that would be all that mattered.
So, with that in mind, I saw my endocrinologist on Thursday. My numbers look a bit better, but he noted the increase in a two week period. I stated it was probably due to seasonal allergies and I take Claritin for that. The medication has a tendency to raise my blood sugar. I have to slowly increase the amount of extended release insulin from 80 to 90. His goal is 110, but honestly, I would rather drop weight and drink more water, so I did not have to increase. The more I increase my insulin use, the harder it is to lose weight.
I saw my dietician and chiropractor on Friday. Dietician noted that in the past month, I had lost 3.8 lbs. I will take that, but I am still swollen for some reason. I need to take my water pill to help flush that out of my system. She provided me with some tips on how to evaluate my food intake. I already use my 9" plates for whenever I eat at home. The smaller plate fools your mind into thinking that you are eating a full plate. I work on the plate system where half of my plate is non-starchy veggies, one quarter is protein, and the other quarter is starchy veggies/grains. I need to get in the habit of measuring everything. When I get pretty OCD about my food intake, I do really well at losing weight.
As for the chiropractor, I explained that my muscles are so stiff and tense - you could put a piece of coal in between them and get a diamond within 15 minutes. That is what makes it so difficult to walk. It is even worse when you experience that sharp back pain, then when your muscles come into play, gee - give a person a chance, you know?
All in all, I really feel that I am hitting rock bottom. I have to do something more and that will be sorting out how to get exercise done. Everyone suggests water aerobics. While I am not opposed to that, it is getting a gym membership to a place that has a pool, when are classes scheduled, and getting a bathing suit. Money and research. I would go back to the YMCA down the street from my apartment, but it does not have a pool and the only thing I could use is the recumbant bikes. Also, most of the classes I would like to take, like Yoga, are during working hours.
I know my company has deals with various health fitness clubs. I will just have to do the research, work the budget, and locate one nearby that can provide something for someone like myself. All I know is that I need to have faith in that if I drop weight, that could very well help me out of my current health situation in more ways than one. I really cannot go on like this much longer.
Compound matters - she had to remove the IV because it was not dripping. So, I had to go through that hell again on my left hand. Luckily, another nurse came in and she asked for a vein finder. What an interesting tool! The infrared is able to show all of the veins in the area where it is flashed. That nurse got the IV in on top of my left hand with no issues.
Frankly, I am a true weenie when it comes to this IV business. I despise it. I felt even worse because I without saying anything, I was crying because it really did hurt. Today, I still have this massive bruise under my right wrist and it hurts like hell. I have no unkind words for the nurses - they were very nice and caring. This was my third time at this surgical center and all of the people there are very lovely, so I have no ill will towards any of them. The IV business is a tricky one and I am a huge weenie when it comes to needles. So, I thank them for their patience with me.
Then, anesthesiologist came by to check on my paper work. The nurses had to draw blood from the IV 3 times. Apparently, my potassium levels were high. Now, he tried to put me at ease by telling me that it was probably due to pulling from the IV due to the fluid mixture being flowed into my veins. Still, that makes me sit and wonder if that is what is causing my muscles, glutes and hamstrings, to ache so much. The idea is worth researching just to make sure.
The anesthesiologist also mentioned that I had more anethesia given to me on my last visit than the first one. This guy did the work the first time I had a shot in my back. Apparently, I moved while I was on the table. I told him that the only thing I remember on that visit was I was discussing REM with the other doctor as he was injecting the medication in my veins. After that, the nurse kept saying "Melissa, are you going to wake up?" (Sounded like my mom, but you know how it is when you are that doped up.) I explained that when I woke up, it was difficult to shake off the grogginess.
Before I entered the procedure room, the anethesiologist gave me a sedative. That stung, but it made my head start spinning and relaxed my body before we got in the room. I vaguely remember getting on the table and he giving me the medication to knock me out before I was actually OUT.
Like last time, I had a hard time waking up from the medication. Anesthesiologist was there by my side. He told me that I had moved again and he had to give me more medication, so he was there to make sure I woke up. I thought that was nice of him.
When I to go the recovery room, I got a coke and some animal crackers. Once I ate and drank a bit, I had to put on my clothes. For the first time, I actually felt like I did not have complete control over my body. My back felt sore, but it was hurting before I had gone in for the procedure.
Like last time, I had to keep a pain diary for the next 3 hours. Generally, my back was okay, but my muscles were so stiff and sore. So, that made me a bit frustrated. Since my father had driven me for the procedure, he had asked if we could stop by Fry's - he wanted to get some additional memory for his computer. I said as long as I could get something to eat, which was not difficult to do. I work in the area where Fry's is located in Plano, so we stopped by Casa Cha-Cha's for lunch, then I directed him to how to get to Fry's. I had him avoid the high traffic areas, so getting there was pretty easy.
Yesterday, my back doctor said it would appear that the test worked. Now, I have to be scheduled for two procedures. In about a month, I will have a procedure to have the right side done and two weeks later, I will have the left side done. At that point, I suppose we shall pray that life returns somewhat normally.
I was talking to a co-worker over the phone the other day. I mentioned that two and half years ago, I had a couple of options of what I wanted to do with some of my bonus money from work. I had set aside $500. At the time, I had lost 35 lbs and I was doing a lot of walking. Of course, you hear that one also needs strength training. I thought I could get a personal trainer or I could use that money to get the hair around my chin removed. (Apparently, I have too much of some hormone and that is the only place I would love to get rid of hair.) I chose the personal trainer. By June of that year, that was when I started experiencing back issues. I do not blame the trainer - stuff happens all of the time. However, I am saddened in that my original plan was to at least lose 50 lbs and get in some sort of shape so that I could walk the yearly Turkey Trot for Thanksgiving. I have never been one who was a runner, but I could walk. I had wanted to do that in order to see friends in Fort Worth. While I am not a competitive person, I thought this activity would be really fun to do and also, I would not need to feel badly about eating so much because I would have done my exercise.
Now, I have trouble just walking the dogs. While I try not to have a pity party for myself, I get angry for what has happened. Sometimes, I will just think - Why in the hell did you just not go for the laser hair removal?!
I still would like to get into better shape in order to walk the Turkey Trot. While I may not be able to compete with my friends, I would be there for myself and that would be all that mattered.
So, with that in mind, I saw my endocrinologist on Thursday. My numbers look a bit better, but he noted the increase in a two week period. I stated it was probably due to seasonal allergies and I take Claritin for that. The medication has a tendency to raise my blood sugar. I have to slowly increase the amount of extended release insulin from 80 to 90. His goal is 110, but honestly, I would rather drop weight and drink more water, so I did not have to increase. The more I increase my insulin use, the harder it is to lose weight.
I saw my dietician and chiropractor on Friday. Dietician noted that in the past month, I had lost 3.8 lbs. I will take that, but I am still swollen for some reason. I need to take my water pill to help flush that out of my system. She provided me with some tips on how to evaluate my food intake. I already use my 9" plates for whenever I eat at home. The smaller plate fools your mind into thinking that you are eating a full plate. I work on the plate system where half of my plate is non-starchy veggies, one quarter is protein, and the other quarter is starchy veggies/grains. I need to get in the habit of measuring everything. When I get pretty OCD about my food intake, I do really well at losing weight.
As for the chiropractor, I explained that my muscles are so stiff and tense - you could put a piece of coal in between them and get a diamond within 15 minutes. That is what makes it so difficult to walk. It is even worse when you experience that sharp back pain, then when your muscles come into play, gee - give a person a chance, you know?
All in all, I really feel that I am hitting rock bottom. I have to do something more and that will be sorting out how to get exercise done. Everyone suggests water aerobics. While I am not opposed to that, it is getting a gym membership to a place that has a pool, when are classes scheduled, and getting a bathing suit. Money and research. I would go back to the YMCA down the street from my apartment, but it does not have a pool and the only thing I could use is the recumbant bikes. Also, most of the classes I would like to take, like Yoga, are during working hours.
I know my company has deals with various health fitness clubs. I will just have to do the research, work the budget, and locate one nearby that can provide something for someone like myself. All I know is that I need to have faith in that if I drop weight, that could very well help me out of my current health situation in more ways than one. I really cannot go on like this much longer.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Where is Simple Respect for Others? (Possibly Not Safe For Work due to Language)
Disclaimer: If you are easily offended by strong language and sexual content, you probably need to skip this. On the other side of that, this is not some hot, steamy sex story, either.
At what point in our lives does it become acceptable to send someone a text message saying some horribly awful things? We all get angry. One of the suggested ways to get your anger out is to "write a letter", but never to send. However, too often than not, people just hit send and take out their aggression on the other party.
Someone on my FB friends list posted such a message. Many have poor opinions on this person, but with that aside, I thought the message was very inappropriate. No matter how one may feel about another person, it does not provide you the right to say the following:
"I hope you fucking die you stupid ugly lazy drug addict alcoholic no job mooching stupid ass fucking bitch."
"Jump off a cliff"
"You worthless cum guzzling whore"
I have the background for the response, but again, there is no reason for it. I have been known to craft an email and say all of the things I am feeling at that time. I take a break and look at it, then realize, there is no way you can send that and not cause drama. When you actually send a response such as the one above, one must be truly ready to accept whatever reactions should come their way. Nutshell, you have lost complete control over your words and possibly your actions. Every action has an equal or higher reaction.
This is why I get so fed up with people. It does not take a whole lot to be nice. While I have my bad days, I also understand what it means to be humble and apologize with meaning behind it - not just words. People just do not get being respectful. Everyone expects to be respected without really earning that respect.
I told the receiver that the best approach would have been to never have answered the young woman in the first place. First, the young woman should not be interfering in matters that are none of her business. Second, she did not deserve a response. She was pleading for the receiver to do something that she cannot do in the first place.
Again, a lack of respect because the young woman did not get what she wanted is supposed to be acceptable. I swear a good part of my generation raised a bunch of selfish brats that expect to get whatever they want. There are plenty of my friends who are above this sort of behavior, but when I see this, it makes my blood boil. Why is it that these values were taught to be acceptable? It just is not acceptable and the fact that we condone it is beyond me.
Before you craft a nasty-gram, make sure that before you hit send, would you want that sent to you and are you ready to accept the repercussions of your words? You might want to rethink your thoughts and take the Buddhist option - Allow karma to take over. It may take time, but revenge is not yours to take and it is better to allow things to happen naturally. If you think that is a load of bunk, check out the news about Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.
At what point in our lives does it become acceptable to send someone a text message saying some horribly awful things? We all get angry. One of the suggested ways to get your anger out is to "write a letter", but never to send. However, too often than not, people just hit send and take out their aggression on the other party.
Someone on my FB friends list posted such a message. Many have poor opinions on this person, but with that aside, I thought the message was very inappropriate. No matter how one may feel about another person, it does not provide you the right to say the following:
"I hope you fucking die you stupid ugly lazy drug addict alcoholic no job mooching stupid ass fucking bitch."
"Jump off a cliff"
"You worthless cum guzzling whore"
I have the background for the response, but again, there is no reason for it. I have been known to craft an email and say all of the things I am feeling at that time. I take a break and look at it, then realize, there is no way you can send that and not cause drama. When you actually send a response such as the one above, one must be truly ready to accept whatever reactions should come their way. Nutshell, you have lost complete control over your words and possibly your actions. Every action has an equal or higher reaction.
This is why I get so fed up with people. It does not take a whole lot to be nice. While I have my bad days, I also understand what it means to be humble and apologize with meaning behind it - not just words. People just do not get being respectful. Everyone expects to be respected without really earning that respect.
I told the receiver that the best approach would have been to never have answered the young woman in the first place. First, the young woman should not be interfering in matters that are none of her business. Second, she did not deserve a response. She was pleading for the receiver to do something that she cannot do in the first place.
Again, a lack of respect because the young woman did not get what she wanted is supposed to be acceptable. I swear a good part of my generation raised a bunch of selfish brats that expect to get whatever they want. There are plenty of my friends who are above this sort of behavior, but when I see this, it makes my blood boil. Why is it that these values were taught to be acceptable? It just is not acceptable and the fact that we condone it is beyond me.
Before you craft a nasty-gram, make sure that before you hit send, would you want that sent to you and are you ready to accept the repercussions of your words? You might want to rethink your thoughts and take the Buddhist option - Allow karma to take over. It may take time, but revenge is not yours to take and it is better to allow things to happen naturally. If you think that is a load of bunk, check out the news about Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Internet or PC?
My current Dell Inspiron was purchased in 2009. I am a huge believer in that if I spent a good deal of money on something, it better damn well last. This computer still have Windows 7 and currently have no plans to upgrade the OS.
The machine has had its issues over the years. The first Dell I bought for myself in 2001 would lock up so much that it was pretty much stinking worthless. Tech support was basically no support. In 2006, I bought a Toshiba laptop while I was taking a course at UTD. Man - that machine was da bomb! It rarely had an issue and never skipped a beat. However, I went back to Dell and got this laptop.
Over the years, the laptop has developed a similar tendency, but not with the frequency, of locking up over nothing. Some times, I have to reboot the laptop about 3 to 4 times for the performance to get better.
As of late, I have noticed that my internet connectivity is really sucking - BAD. Right now, I have two Firefox tabs opened and they have been spinning away to access their perspective sites for the past 5 to 10 minutes. I am more than annoyed.
This has been going on for the past week. A couple of months ago, I increased the internet speed, so I find this behavior very unacceptable. I have rebooted the laptop several times. I tried downloading software that was supposed to speed up the internet speed - that was a no go.
I am almost ready to find the portable drive, do a back up, crater the laptop of everything on it, then start fresh. I feel that the issue is something within the system itself since the problem is accessing the internet. Of course, what good is a computer if you cannot access the internet.
The other thing I am going to do is see how well my iPad and MacBook Pro are responding. I feel that my iPhone and iPod Touch are seeing issues with internet access as well. I know my speed test showed that I was not getting the 200 Mb download speeds I was promised. Therefore, it is time to figure out what the issue is.
Man - I am so annoyed.
The machine has had its issues over the years. The first Dell I bought for myself in 2001 would lock up so much that it was pretty much stinking worthless. Tech support was basically no support. In 2006, I bought a Toshiba laptop while I was taking a course at UTD. Man - that machine was da bomb! It rarely had an issue and never skipped a beat. However, I went back to Dell and got this laptop.
Over the years, the laptop has developed a similar tendency, but not with the frequency, of locking up over nothing. Some times, I have to reboot the laptop about 3 to 4 times for the performance to get better.
As of late, I have noticed that my internet connectivity is really sucking - BAD. Right now, I have two Firefox tabs opened and they have been spinning away to access their perspective sites for the past 5 to 10 minutes. I am more than annoyed.
This has been going on for the past week. A couple of months ago, I increased the internet speed, so I find this behavior very unacceptable. I have rebooted the laptop several times. I tried downloading software that was supposed to speed up the internet speed - that was a no go.
I am almost ready to find the portable drive, do a back up, crater the laptop of everything on it, then start fresh. I feel that the issue is something within the system itself since the problem is accessing the internet. Of course, what good is a computer if you cannot access the internet.
The other thing I am going to do is see how well my iPad and MacBook Pro are responding. I feel that my iPhone and iPod Touch are seeing issues with internet access as well. I know my speed test showed that I was not getting the 200 Mb download speeds I was promised. Therefore, it is time to figure out what the issue is.
Man - I am so annoyed.
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