tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-174016092024-03-05T20:51:11.877-05:00What Is This Mom Thing???My life as a Mom, Wife, Daughter and Sisterdainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-4136165872203369402013-04-14T17:31:00.001-04:002013-04-14T17:31:37.945-04:00Never Say NeverI know it's a bit cliched. I should have known better, though. I learned very early in my life that the expected isn't something I should ever expect. I learned to hope and pray for the best possible scenario, but to prepare, and prepare well, for the worst possible scenario. Some confuse this with being pessimistic. That's so very far from the truth, at least with me it is. if I fail to prepare for the worst, then I am unable to deal with it in any way.<br />
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A little under eight years ago I had surgery on my left foot. At that point, I had fractured three times in three years. My podiatrist at the time, Dr. Russo, and I were under the impression that this would help to correct my gait (along with physical therapy, of course). If my gait could be corrected. the possibility of another fracture would decrease. He removed some joints but didn't remove the big joint in my big toe. I was only 29 at that time and we wanted to see if we could correct it, but keep that big joint. He removed three joints in my middle three toes and fused those bones together. While the healing took longer than anyone would have liked it to, the surgery seemed to to be a success.<br />
I didn't fracture my foot again for five years. That seemed like a win to me.<br />
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In 2010, I fractured my third metatarsal. I was in a walking cast (the boot) for about four months. At the time, we were pretty sure the fracture happened because I was favoring my right knee. Now, I'm not sure if it was the right knee messing up my left foot, or my left foot messing up my right knee.<br />
In 2011 I had a synovectomy and some other surgical stuff done to my right knee. About a week before that, I fractured my left foot again. At this point, I was using a cane for both my right knee and my left foot. My balance was shot and i was in enough pain to last me for a while. After the knee surgery, it took another three months for my foot to heal.<br />
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In August of 2012, I fractured my third metatarsal again. While I was in the boot, I somehow managed to fracture two other bones in my left foot (the middle and lateral cuneiforms). This type of fracture is relatively rare, and usually only happens when something has been done to a metatarsal. The fact that it happened while I was being treated for a metatarsal injury was the only typical thing about this break. When they did yet another MRI on the left foot, they found swelling in the bones (not the joints, the bones) and some smallish bone spurs. That's when they put a short leg cast on and I got to use crutches for two months. In the middle of winter. in Central New York. Everyone should try this at least once in their lifetime.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvarj_yCII_ozAZrNHC4Bt2HHtd-QhS2P-3fWNoWNtbWAnCy8byCC1l2o0VctA3w4fc_wUc6ciLL86Tb7HgBRihE1CWgSPNpKvgI58k235sFlbFaK3UFbRAQC9PQ4NmBXCotagCA/s1600/DSCF0911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvarj_yCII_ozAZrNHC4Bt2HHtd-QhS2P-3fWNoWNtbWAnCy8byCC1l2o0VctA3w4fc_wUc6ciLL86Tb7HgBRihE1CWgSPNpKvgI58k235sFlbFaK3UFbRAQC9PQ4NmBXCotagCA/s320/DSCF0911.JPG" width="320" /></a>First day of cast</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HAi2GZolMrBSrQHWnYrnHuZMOtpjZ0SUGLUwVdtpw5kTY3-oPLvTxF4WKwxrwQOgAhYCN_cvzoUAesbSjHiqee6OXoT7JY4fFKwuueqxyPhPYJvgXZb1Y3HXDcaD796rd5H_VA/s1600/DSCF1300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HAi2GZolMrBSrQHWnYrnHuZMOtpjZ0SUGLUwVdtpw5kTY3-oPLvTxF4WKwxrwQOgAhYCN_cvzoUAesbSjHiqee6OXoT7JY4fFKwuueqxyPhPYJvgXZb1Y3HXDcaD796rd5H_VA/s320/DSCF1300.JPG" width="320" /></a>My boys and miss adeline</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKCLsMdGSMB2CchCY2DRhRx6RC-7W_bq4pB0ueA7D8-00jkb0cm3WoZg5IOC_ZxqJwUEAL90aGKUPuBKbTIB28X9TdyGmdthQorUn1VnsBcRnnE65KYAAcyGEhuTrhJkqX7Jkjg/s1600/Photo0131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKCLsMdGSMB2CchCY2DRhRx6RC-7W_bq4pB0ueA7D8-00jkb0cm3WoZg5IOC_ZxqJwUEAL90aGKUPuBKbTIB28X9TdyGmdthQorUn1VnsBcRnnE65KYAAcyGEhuTrhJkqX7Jkjg/s320/Photo0131.jpg" width="320" /></a>I find it awesome that my converse matched my cast shoe :)</div>
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After the cast was removed, I was still in a lot of pain, so another MRI was ordered. They couldn't see anything new. Still with the bone spurs and additional swelling (now in my ankle as well). I was referred to a Lower Extremity Ortho. While I was waiting the few weeks to be seen by him, I found myself praying and asking for prayer for a resolution. A way to get rid of, at least, a little of the pain. I just want to be in the amount of pain I was in until last August. So that's what I got. A resolution.<br />
I will be having another surgery. This time a Complex Forefoot Reconstruction. It's pretty much the same surgery I had done before, just more extensive. They will be removing more joints, including that big toe joint. They will be fusing more bones and shaving off some bone spurs. If other stuff is found while they are in there, they will try to fix that as well. They will be staying away from my ankle for now. If I'm still having trouble with that after this surgery, there is talk about ankle surgery, possible replacement. Again, I'm really young for this sort of thing, but if it needs to happen, it will.<br />
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When I had that first foot surgery, I said I would never have another foot surgery again. It hurt. Bad. Almost as bad as the jaw surgery I had when I was 16. I understand the necessity though. I haven't had a foot that allowed me to walk without pain for quite some time. I have an eight year old who needs my body to be working. So I'm diving in again. I have confidence in my doctor to do well with the surgery and any surprises that may pop up. I have confidence in myself, that I will be able to do what needs to be done in the healing process. I have the most confidence in my husband and son to help out with all the extra stuff at home for just a little while longer.<br />
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I don't yet know when the surgery will take place, but I'll keep everyone updated. Once again I ask for prayer and happy thoughts. Praying that this surgery will do what it's supposed to, so i can do what I feel I'm supposed to.<br />
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Looks like my garden reconstruction will have to be held off for just a little while longer...dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-60228689216380083862013-03-22T11:59:00.000-04:002013-03-22T11:59:09.485-04:00Damn That Rodent!!!March 22nd. It's spring, right?????!!!! Not so, here in the great white north. We're supposed to get about 5 inches more of the cold white stuff before tomorrow morning.<br />
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The crocuses and the daffodils don't understand that they can't come out to play yet. I've got green sprouts coming up all over my yard. I actually find myself excited to go out in my yard and clean it up. We just need to get above 45 or so before I get my crazy butt out there to play.<br />
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Anybody know of a great kneel-er or something for me to use? Since my knee surgery, I'm unable to put any weight on my right knee while kneeling. So I need something really soft for support. Last year it wasn't an issue, since I was out of commission for most of the summer because of the kidney stone issues and the broken foot and whatnot. But this summer, I plan to get out there and absorb all the vitamin D I possibly can! So, any advice on cool tools or useful aids for people with arthritis or other conditions that make gardening a little more difficult would be most welcome! Also any advice on how to clean up a 60 year old yard and all the stuff that comes along with it would be welcome as well!!!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-8297191955578089272013-03-11T09:11:00.003-04:002013-03-11T09:12:13.005-04:00March 19th already???March 19th is quickly approaching. What's the big deal you ask? Well, it marks a year since the moving truck brought all of our stuff to our lovely yellow house and we began living here. It was also the start of a very hard season in the lives of the Syracuse Stocks.<br />
On March 23rd, 2012 Geoff went into the hospital due to an Acute Intermittent Porphyria attack. After a week of him on hardcore medication and being mostly asleep and not being able to be touched by anyone due to the pain, he was released and told to up his carbs and protein and to take it easy. I'm pretty sure he's just getting back to normal now.<br />
On May 6th, 2012, I was admitted to the same hospital one floor below where my husband had been. I was having more trouble with kidney stones and one had gotten stuck in scar tissue and required surgery. unfortunately, with my limited healing ability, I was in the hospital on copious amounts of pain killers (IV, Patch, and oral) and iv antibiotics and fluids, for about a week and a half. This included mothers day. I also got to call my sister in law and tell her I wouldn't be able to make it to her wedding on the 19th (I was a bridesmaid). The docs said no travelling (plus, when released, I couldn't move without pain until the removed the stent). But not to worry, my two boys will still be there!!!<br />
I was released on the 17th. The day I got home, I overheard Geoff talking to someone. Turns out, he was talking to his doctor. It seems the stress of my hospitalization triggered another episode for my hubby. Thank goodness, he was able to stay out of the hospital this time, just had to go in for numerous infusions. But guess what, no travelling for him either. So, he called his sister and had to tell her (with some tears in his eyes) that the Syracuse Stocks would NOT be represented at her wedding.<br />
By July, my pain was gone, Geoff seemed to be pretty OK and we were getting things unpacked (FINALLY) at our house.<br />
Beginning of August, I broke my foot and got to wear the boot again. During the boot wearing time I broke my foot in two other places. I got a real cast and crutches Mid November.I got the cast off the end of January and the boot back on. No more boot the middle of February. Referred to a lower extremity orthopedist.<br />
Through all this my liver enzyme levels have been REALLY fluctuating and I've been taken off of numerous medications for the rheumatoid arthritis, I've passed another kidney stone (the first time that didn't require any medical intervention, except pain killers). Geoff's stuff has fluctuated. We've traveled a couple times to see family and Michael has had ups and downs with school.<br />
But we are an awesome family and the three of us support each other and laugh and cry and joke together..<br />
We truly are blessed. W have our family, we are alive, we have a lovely home. Our little family became bigger with the addition of a Brittany named Spot. So now the Syracuse Stocks consists of a Mom, a Dad, a Son, a Dog and a Cat. We are truly blessed. That's what I keep thinking of. With everything that has happened, we have what we need and what we love.dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-22127672168322063182013-01-29T09:36:00.001-05:002013-01-29T09:38:12.758-05:00So, the DSM-5 has decide to add Somatic Symptom Disorder to their gigantic book of Mental Disorders. This is a huge deal, and not in a good way. Please read this article and share with anyone you can. Thanks!!!<br />
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<a href="http://fibrofeist.com/2013/01/28/dear-american-psychiatric-association/">http://fibrofeist.com/2013/01/28/dear-american-psychiatric-association/</a><br />
<br />dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-42864803031199729322013-01-21T10:04:00.001-05:002013-01-21T10:05:26.661-05:00The power of pronouns | OdeWire<br />
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<a href="http://odewire.com/248416/the-power-of-pronouns.html">The power of pronouns | OdeWire</a><br />
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This is an awesome article. One of the many reasons I journal and attempt to blog is because it actually makes me feel better!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-59053920921075052892013-01-21T09:39:00.002-05:002013-01-21T09:39:25.857-05:00Life Does NOT SuckIt doesn't, really. I realized after giving a summary of the events of the last 15 years of my life to a friend I haven't spoken to since high school, that my life, on the outside, really seems a little bleak. I promise you, it is anything but.<br />
Yes, I have gotten new, relatively serious, medical diagnoses, I have lost very dear loved ones, some very dramatic events have occurred to other dear loved ones, but I'm still here.<br />
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I am married to an AMAZING man, have and awesome kid, have people who love me beyond measure. Those loved ones I've lost? I have millions of great memories of them to tie me over till I see them again. The medical stuff, while not curable, is treatable. I have made many new friends that will always have my back, and have welcomed back friends that weren't in the picture for awhile.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilALfOPdOdgIKXDiy1p1PvCKOWgcSYPdLSeReGQB3OJ-2-P7pFChuiFLz4N2CCtlRqUdQrGPlvceFrYmxy0UpGDkBf7Dzi2SUhQ8gbMXo8e5XMYAMzFtdJHdAO-n1sEWq2ZbBaMQ/s1600/P6050094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilALfOPdOdgIKXDiy1p1PvCKOWgcSYPdLSeReGQB3OJ-2-P7pFChuiFLz4N2CCtlRqUdQrGPlvceFrYmxy0UpGDkBf7Dzi2SUhQ8gbMXo8e5XMYAMzFtdJHdAO-n1sEWq2ZbBaMQ/s320/P6050094.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-22009907459618428022012-12-31T18:57:00.001-05:002012-12-31T18:57:17.987-05:00I am Chronically AwesomeFor those of you who don't know, there is an amazing, supportive group of people out there that have started a community where we, as people with chronic illnesses of all kinds (or our caregivers), can go to and know that we are still capable of doing so many things. There is now even a foundation, "The Chronically Awesome Foundation". This group offers resources such as blogs about anything and everything, online support groups, or even just getting tips or advice from other Chronically Awesome people. I'm sure most of you have seen the articles I've shared on Facebook, when you do see those you should read them, they all offer quite a bit of insight into the Chronically Awesome world.<br />
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The Chronically Awesome Foundation's mission is to cultivate and support a chronically awesome community of writers and artists, to educate the public, and raise awareness about their needs, and advocate for resources to fight conditions they represent.<br />
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Every once in a while there will be group writing projects. The first one is: What Does Being Chronically Awesome Mean To You? So I'm taking up the challenge and trying to define, in one blog, what being Chronically Awesome means to me. It's a challenge because my thoughts are jumbled and I've been feeling a little less than positive the past couple of months because of the broken foot and the holiday travelling coming up and everything that goes along with all of that. So I sat down with my journal and just began writing. I ended up writing six pages in my journal, so I obviously have something to say about the topic. Please bear with me while I attempt to unscramble my thoughts and words. I hope everyone who reads this can take at least one positive thing with them.<br />
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To me, being chronically awesome means so much more than just being chronically ill. I am not ill all the time (well, I am, but I don't always feel that way). I'm going to give a short (well, not really short since this encompasses about 32 years of my existence)background about me. Many of you already know my background, but many of you are relatively new to my life, so everyone gets to know it again. I have rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, osteoperosis, bipolar 2, chronic kidney stones, PTSD, migraines and generalized anxiety disorder. These are all chronic conditions for which there is no real cure. For the purpose of this post, I will be talking mostly about rheumatoid arthritis (RA), since that is the one I have been dealing with for as long as I can remember. I don't remember a time when this wasn't a very major part of my life.<br />
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I started having issues when I was about four years old. Some family members have stated over the years that the issues started earlier, that when I started walking they could see that something wasn't quite right. Which would make sense, since it seems I was probably born with this disease. As a four year old, all I was really able to tell my mother and the doctors that my feet hurt and hands hurt. Back then, there was very little knowledge about kids with RA, so that wasn't even what they were treating. The docs started out giving me shoes specially made for my feet, trying to correct the shape of my feet, which were already showing signs of deformities. These shoes hurt, so Mom bribed me with a cabbage patch doll if I would wear them.<br />
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From the ages of four to about eight, I was tested for everything from lupus to lyme disease. Yes, they ran the test to see if I had a positive rheumatoid factor, but I didn't. At around age eight, the docs decided to call it juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. My hands were already showing deformities and the physical and occupational therapists tried everything to stop it. There wasn't much in those days. We used finger and hand splints, leg braces, lots of PT and even more aspirin and prednisone. The doctors told my mom that I probably wouldn't be walking by the time I was 12 due to the deterioration of my hips and knees and the deformities in my feet. I was in a wheelchair from about age nine to about age 11 (off and on). I was unable to walk up or down the stairs. Luckily, I was a tiny little thing and carrying me wasn't too hard on mom. My brother also helped, though I still feel bad for the lack of attention he got because mom was so focused on my health. <br />
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I was put on methotrexate at around age 10. The FDA had just approved it for use in adults with RA, but I was one of the first kids to use it for that purpose. I know I am in a couple of medical journals (a number, not a name). At age 12, mom got a call saying I needed to be taken off the drug immediately due to some liver damage. During this time I was also given gold shots. Those were a horrific experience, and when mom said "no more" to the doc, she threatened to call child services on my mother. Needless to say, we dropped that doctor like a hot potato and I will never forget her name. She's probably the reason I will never again go to a female rheumatologist.<br />
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The rest of my chronic conditions were diagnosed from between the ages of about 18 to the present. I am not negating the seriousness of these issues, but these diagnosis were easier to come by and I was old enough to understand what was going on. Plus, lots of the additional conditions were a direct result of the RA, so they're just in conjunction with it.<br />
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So what does it mean to be chronically awesome? It means I can walk (even if I do need a cane or crutches or a rolling office chair sometimes), it means I do yoga, make cards, scrapbook, crochet, write, take care of my husband and child and allow them to take care of me, trust in God and have faith in His plan, love on my family and friends, take my medicine, lean on my friends, cry when I need to and laugh even more (because laughter really is the best medicine sometimes). I sometimes use sarcasm as a defense mechanism, but usually I just use sarcasm because it's fun :) I forgive those who need forgiving and help those who need it. I try to take things as they come, and always have a plan b to z. My life is messy, but that's no different than everybody elses life.<br />
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When people ask me what it feels like to have RA, it's never a short answer. I know what it feels like for me. It's a sharp throbbing debilitating feeling in every joint of my body, all the time. But really, since I don't know any different, this is my normal. I truly believe that if you were diagnosed tomorrow, your pain would be more significant than mine. You've spent your life feeling "normal", then this disease comes in and rips you apart. I feel for you, I really do.<br />
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Being chronically awesome means getting out of bed and doing what I can (and yes, sometimes that even means staying in bed). I have good days and bad days. It means I can be a total biatch some days, but I have friends and family who will allow that and my craziness and my snarkiness and my cursing self. I try not to do it often, but because I'm just that awesome, I know it's allowed. <br />
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Some days I can get out of bed and all I can manage is a shower, sometimes I can only manage to make it to my chair to sit for the rest of the day. Some days I manage to do everything a typical stay at home mom can do. Often, after those days, the day after I'm unable to do hardly anything, but some days I have two very productive days in a row. I am truly blessed and thankful for all the days. The good ones and the bad, because they mean I'm still alive and fighting. It really doesn't hurt that I have a stubborn streak about a thousand miles long. Would I be this stubborn and strong without RA? Or did the RA cause all this stubbornness? Which came first, the chicken or the egg?<br />
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Yes, life sucks sometimes, but doesn't everyone have "life sucks" days? I'm pretty sure that's not only for people with chronic conditions. I have moments when I cry and ask God why this all happened to me. What did I do to deserve this? But those times are really few and far between. When I was in the middle of my diagnosis and in my early teens, I cursed God and felt abandoned, but that part is pretty much over. I thank God for the life he has given me and the people he has put in my path. I have a husband who takes care of me (when I let him), and whom I take care of. I have a son who is amazing and loving and caring and funny and gracious. I have a family (blood, in-laws and friends) who would and have done anything and everything for me. I have a roof over my head and food in the fridge.<br />
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I have so many things to be thankful for, how could I not believe this is an awesome life. How could I not be chronically awesome. Do I wish I didn't have all these illnesses? Hell yes!!!!!! But I don't believe I would be the same person if I didn't. And, for the most part I love the person I am. I love the people I surround myself with and who choose to be with me and my crazy self. I am chronically awesome. Very very awesome. The chronic part is just a part, not the whole. I'm just plain awesome. I truly believe that with every particle of my being.<br />
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So I walk out the door, sometimes with a cane, right now with crutches. Sometimes I cringe in pain and sometimes I don't have to. But I always try to walk out with a smile. When someone asks me how I'm feeling, very rarely to I just say "fine". I will usually tell you if I feel like crap, I will always tell you if I feel great. But even in the crappiness, I try to smile, because this is a good life. A very very good life. I may have some chronic conditions, but they don't have me.<br />
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I hope, that in my awesomeness, I can help people with my experiences, giving people a sounding board or just offering a smile when a person doesn't think there's anything to smile about. I can help people, whether they're chronically awesome, or just plain awesome. I believe this is, at least in part, what I was put on this earth for. Where it takes me in the end, I've yet to find out. But someday I will, and I know I've done all I can to help myself and others. Because I am so incredibly awesome.<br />
dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-78772515311813446152012-12-12T12:54:00.000-05:002012-12-12T13:04:52.816-05:00A Mother's Strength<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByTURRTlm8ZWOYySusgIb8FiN8SVmGUiLkv8YnYv_uzYk8B9_aG3A5QOO6M4DAGmKEzZuvXSR-eDB7E8Eslf54Pv-4z3Y_Cl6t2vLuDVr0qITPIOj72_6ZXy6pDVNPbL5apy1Fw/s1600/1172524058_25350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByTURRTlm8ZWOYySusgIb8FiN8SVmGUiLkv8YnYv_uzYk8B9_aG3A5QOO6M4DAGmKEzZuvXSR-eDB7E8Eslf54Pv-4z3Y_Cl6t2vLuDVr0qITPIOj72_6ZXy6pDVNPbL5apy1Fw/s320/1172524058_25350.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This time of year, I think a lot about my Mom. She was an amazing, strong, funny, sarcastic, loving, giving, kind-hearted, awesome individual. She was my best friend. She was the one who supported me through almost everything I ever did. Whether it was getting the grade or walking when the doctors said I wouldn't be able to, she stood by me.<br />
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This morning, I watched Soul Surfer. In this movie, the main character loses her arm in a shark attack. She went from being a champion surfer with a sponsorship to having one arm and having to learn a whole new way of doing everything. Her Mother stood in the background watching her daughter struggle and the emotions pouring through her were palpable. She wanted to protect or daughter through it all, whether it was from the press or her pain or anything else that was thrown her way. I know the movie wasn't about her Mom, but for some reason, I focused on that.<br />
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I have often wondered how my Mother felt through all those years trying to find a diagnosis for me, and afterward, when I got the diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. How she felt when, at eight years of age, the same doctors told her I probably wouldn't be walking by the time I was twelve. What did she go through every time my medications were changed, or when doctors called first thing in the morning to tell her to immediately take me off a medication. Sure, I heard her cry from behind closed doors, and she told me at least a thousand times she would take my pain if she could. But really, what was it like for her? To watch her only daughter suffer through the not knowing and the pain and the emotional issues that went along with it all. <br />
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I have a better idea now that I'm a mother to a child with special needs, but I'll never know exactly what it was like for her. We were blessed to get an early diagnosis and early help where it was needed. My Mom didn't have that little measure of peace. She had to deal with the question of what was wrong with her baby girl from the time I was about four, until they finally put a name to it when I was about eight. Four years of not knowing what was going to happen to me, then the knowing that I was never going to be normal or be able to do so many normal things. She did it all while showing me, at least what I could see, her strength and courage. She held me up when I most wanted to just give up. <br />
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It is because of her and God that I am where I am today. I am amazing, strong, funny, sarcastic, loving, giving, kind-hearted and awesome. I may be a little broken physically, but I can always pull through. Thanks Mom for teaching me and supporting me and loving me. I love you and I miss you!<br />
dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-80500965725494109262012-12-05T17:40:00.000-05:002012-12-17T08:04:37.823-05:00I'm Still HereGah!!! We moved into our new (to us) house on March 19th, 2012. Geoff's Mom and Dad cam up to help us unpack. Seems they needed to be here for other reasons. On March 23rd, Geoff was hospitalized. He had tested positive for having the gene to have an enzyme deficiency when he was a teen. Seems he DOES have said deficiency. The condition is called Acute Intermittent Porphyria. It causes quite a bit of pain and pain can be a trigger. He was in the hospital for a week on lots and lots of meds. He was close to comatose for the entire time, so someone needed to be there with him the whole time. Bev and I tag teamed for that. One of us was always her to get Michael of the bus and one of us was always at the hospital with him at all times. I usually slept there. At one point his blood oxygen level went down to 39, so we were all paying special attention to that. He came home the day before Michael's 4th birthday, which is April 1st. Geoff's Mom stayed until he was out of the hospital and for a few more days after that. <br />
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Michael's birthday went off without a hitch. We had it at a bounce house. All Children were happy and no parents were injured :) So now we have a great 7 year old boy. He's been healthy all year :) April was relatively quiet. Geoff did half days at work for the first week back, then he was on a normal schedule. Eating alot more, but on schedule. He needs to do high carbs and protein to try to avoid another episode. Plus, he had lost about 15 pounds. He needed to gain that back. We were all settled in and moving swiftly towards Geoff's sisters (Theresa) wedding. We were all to be in the wedding. Geoff as usher, me as a bridesmaid and Michael as the ring bearer. We were all getting ready for May 19th and the wedding of Theresa and Kevin. <br />
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On May 6th I went into the Urgent Care. I was having cramping and lower back pain. I KNEW it was probably a kidney stone, but I was hoping different. Sure enough, scan showed a few kidney stones. Given meds and told to go home and drink lots of water to help pass (yeah right). On the 7th, I went to the ER. They did another scan and found that one of the stones was stuck in scar tissue from previous stones. I was admitted by 8:00am on the 8th. The docs immediately put me on high levels of pain killers. Evidently my body has enough pain, that it takes alot to reach extra stuff that happens. I was put on a dillaudid drip, a fentenyl patch and oxycontin pills every four hours. The docs wanted to give me a couple days to see if it would pass on its own. It didn't. So I went into surgery on the 9th. When I woke up, I was told the surgery didn't go as was expected. They had to put a stent in my urinary tract where the scar tissue is. They were afraid that section would collapse. Instead of having it in for a couple days, it was going to need to be in for a few weeks. The stent moved everytime I moved, causing a great deal of pain. So I was in the hospital for a few more days on large amounts of meds. More than one doc came in the room wondering how I was awake, considering what I was on. By the 11th, we knew I wasn't going to make the wedding. I called Theresa and she was glad I was going to be OK and at least Michael and Geoff would still be attending. I was released from the hospital on the 15th. I spent Mothers Day in the hospital. Thank you to all my friends who came to visit me in the hospital, took the kid so Geoff could come see me and/or brought food to the house to keep me chair bound (since the stent was still in the body). <br />
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When I got home, things went as expected, except for one thing, a couple days after I got home, I was talking to Bev, and she asked how Geoff was, that he had called her and told her he hadnt been feeling well. He had called his doc. He was having a mild "episode", so I asked Geoff about it. He said yes, he was having an episode, but mild, so he was able to go in every other day or so for infusions of glucose (helps the attacks). He hadn't wanted to tell me because I was having such a bad time. So, he got to call his baby sister to tell her none of us were going to make the wedding. <br />
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After the wedding, Geoff's mom came back to take care of us some more. Thank God, Geoff was able to avoid the hospital stay this time. Mom stayed with us a couple weeks until the stent removed. She even removed wall paper!! I was so excited about that, especially since I wasn't able to do anything but sit. I sooooooo love my mother in law!! Actually all of my in laws!!! Summer went fast and uneventful, except for figuring out what all is planted in my back yard. <br />
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Then in July, we got Spot. He's a Brittany Spaniel and adorable!! Beginning of August, I decided to fracture my foot again. I was put in the walking cast (boot). <br />
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Then Michael and I took our annual trip to little rock, but we flew this time. We stayed in Little Rock for 2 weeks and had a great time. When we got home school started and doctor appointments and a short bout of Bronchitis for Michael, then for me. Then Geoff was in Dubai for a week (and only got me 3 lousy pictures!!!!) But he did bring me swiss chocolates from his layover in Zurich and perfume from the duty free shop:) I was then told I had fractured two more bones in my foot while in the boot (yes, same foot), but the original bone had healed. Three weeks ago I was given a fiberglass cast going from my toes almost to my knee. Then I was told it would have to stay on until mid-February. I'm totally non-weight bearing and on crutches. I've been using those and a rolling desk chair around the house. That works pretty well. Fun Winter for Daina and the rest of the Syracuse Stocks!! In a couple weeks we'll go to Little Rock and then St Louis for Christmas. This year we're flying. Trying to decide if that's gonna easier or harder. <br />
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Good thing about flying is that we have a 5 hour layover in Chicago. So I get to see Shannon and Brad and all the girls for breakfast that day :) Michael is doing well in school. Fitting in and trying real hard. He's being so very helpful with me on crutches. He brings me things and is cleaning up after himself well. That's all for now. Thanks for reading. And I promise, things will get better!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-26619545012144511012012-02-04T08:31:00.003-05:002012-02-04T08:48:49.874-05:00WOW!!Hey all!!!! My resolutions are going pretty well. All except for updating this here blog. But life has been crazy. I have an awesome excuse, really I do!!!!<br />WE'RE BUYING A HOUSE!!!!!!!<br />Our close date is Mid March. Which, by the way, is only 6 weeks away. We may be able to close earlier if underwriting doesn't take as long as is estimated. It's a cute little yellow ranch just .75 miles from where we live now. It sits on about half an acre, which will be great fun for Michael, since he would rather be outside than anywhere! It has three bedrooms (smaller than what we have here at the apartment, but the main living areas are bigger, which is more important to us). One of the bedrooms will be my craft room. I'm so very excited about having a designated area for all my crafty goodness. Pretty sure I've forgotten half of what I have here because I can't see it when it's all the way in the basement. We'll get to have all of our stuff in a designated space instead of in boxes in the basement. It's gonna be like a huge Christmas when we unpack since we haven't seen what's in those boxes down there for about four years. I know they say is you haven't used it in that long, you don't need it. But the stuff in those boxes is sentimental stuff. Blankets that grandma made, cards mom gave me, clothes that will hopefully fit again soon:) So it will be super fun to unpack:) The inside needs to be updated. The same people lived in it from the time it was built in 1953 until just about six months ago, when they went into assisted living. So it's got some really bad wallpaper and no dishwasher and bad paint color choices in all of the bedrooms, but we can fix that all easily. I can't wait!!!!!<br />I've been sick for the last two months, which isn't fun, but I haven't had a chance to really stop, so getting well is taking awhile. Geoff has been sick for the last week and Michael is trying to get sick to. Seriously, we need to quarantine our house! I think most of us are on the mend though.<br />That's about it for now!!!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-10534549972099786392012-01-03T07:22:00.003-05:002012-01-04T14:38:20.016-05:00Resolutions? MaybeOK. So, you see, this post was to be about my New Year's Resolutions. However, I think calling them that tends to make people fail almost right away. So.......We will call this my To-Do List for 2012. I LOVE To-Do lists. Honestly, I live by them. I love checking things off as I get them done, I feel I've accomplished something, so let's hope I accomplish alot this year:)<br />Write Dax more regularly, at least once a week. I love my brother something fierce, but life seems to happen around me and I can't get away from it. I need to be more mindful of sitting down and writing to him. He needs my love and support and gosh darnnet he will get it! I really enjoy writing to him to, we've had better conversations over the past year than we've had in the past 10 years. This is a VERY good thing, especially since we have now lost both our Mother and our Father. <br />Update Blog. Really, I've already said this, but it bears repeating. I have family members and friends who read this to catch up on the family and to see pictures and whatnot. I'm not going to put a number on how often, but will try for once a week or so. We'll see what happens.<br />Work out 3-4 times a week. I'm doing this now, but I have to step it up a little, push myself a little more each week. I know my pain level and I know my pain limit. For those of you who don't know about Rheumatoid Arthritis, I can't subscribe to the "No Pain No Gain" theory. For me, that would be just plain dumb. I can work until the pain is there, but not go further. However, I can work until I'm exhausted beyond reason, just have to watch the pain level. I know that. Good thing to know:) <br />Write in Journal 3-4 times a week. This isn't too hard, but I do need to make it happen. I feel better when I do this. Even if one day is just a phrase or verse or something of that nature. <br />Better Track of Finances. This is always one we try for, and we do well, but not well enough.<br />Scrapbook at least once a week. I used to scrapbook all the time. I have fallen woefully behind. So, I'm gonna get moving and get up to date. I really need to do this a few times a week, so I will say once a week, but try for much more:)<br />Learn more about Asperger's, Autism and ADHD. I've read huge amounts on all of these, but the more information, the better. Michael is doing so well and I want to make sure all of us continue in that manner.<br />Eat better. That's all there really is to say about that.<br />Drink more water. I drink about 120 ounces a day, but I want to drink even more. Water will help get rid of water retention, even that water retention brought on by prednisone. Grrrrrr prednisone!<br />Visit out of town family more. Last year we weren't able to take hardly any optional family gatherings. We took some for Dad's funeral and wrapping stuff up with that, but that was it. All of that was because of various health issues with me. This year will be much better and we will visit much more!<br />On another note: we had a great family visit with Geoff's family over Christmas break. We left for St. Louis on Dec. 23rd and came home on Jan. 1st. Got to see all of Geoff's siblings and most of his aunt's and cousins. It was a never-ending blur of busyness and chaos, but it was pretty much great. Michael got to spend time with his first first cousin on Geoff's side and reacted in just the way a boy should react to a girl five years his junior. He showed her some things and maintained his distance. It was fun to watch!<br />Now we're home and sorting through many many piles. I'll write more and post pics when we get through those:)dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-44762036767842469402011-12-13T11:26:00.002-05:002011-12-13T14:13:40.622-05:00GAH!I keep saying I will update more regularly. I will. I promise. Maybe.<br />I'm thinking alot about everything that's come and gone this past year, and am trying not to dwell, but it's kinda hard this time of year. Alot of reflection, unfortunately most of it not good. So I'm gonna write it all here and try to "throw it out the door" (Michael's old speech pathologist used to use that saying when trying to rid Michael of his poor speech patterns:)I have also had tons of great things occur this year too, so I will try to list some those as well.<br />At the beginning of the year (January 6ish)Michael was officially (after rounds of evaluations and doctor appointments) diagnosed with ADHD with a little oppositional defiant disorder thrown in for good measure. While this diagnosis wasn't a huge surprise, it was a huge shock to actually read and hear it. While we had already read quite a few books about ADHD, we began reading alot more. We're all working with it now and doing remarkably well.<br />Soon thereafter, my brother got in some bad trouble with the law, and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.<br />February 24th marked the 4 year anniversary of my mother's death.<br />On March 18th, my father passed away due to a drug overdose.<br />In May, we discovered that Michael also has a mild form of Asperger's Syndrome. Another thing we had researched and continue to research.<br />Through everything, I was dealing with extra doctor appointments myself. My left arm has been tingling and numb and my right knee was in so much pain, I had to resort to the use of a cane. After many appointments and much physical therapy, no news on the arm. The knee, however, was deemed operable. In mid-September I had an arthroscopic Synovectomy and a Chondroplasty done. The recuperation has been long, due to the fact that I have very little in the way of healing capabilities, but it's coming along nicely. My Mother -in-Law was able to come up from Arkansas to help out right after the surgery. She was such a HUGE help and I am very thankful for her and my father in law. They made a visit to us three times this year (including the surgery).<br />In July, I fractured my left foot again. It hadn't fractured since the surgery in 2005, but since I was favoring my right side, my left had to take up the slack. I spent about three months (including the time I had my knee surgery) in a surgical shoe and/or removable cast (the boot).<br />During the entire year, we had to hold of on family trips due to my knee. So we're very greatful that we're finally able to become fairly active again:)<br />So, now it's December and all is quiet in the house. Getting ready for Christmas and doing all sorts of normal stuff with that. We're a little harried around here, but all is good.<br />We get to go to St. Louis for Christmas and get to see, hopefully, the entire family. Michael is counting down the days until we get to leave!<br />I'm busy making Christmas gifts and cookies and having a pretty good time doing that too!<br />This coming year is already looking great!!!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-66215528844498968422011-09-08T09:00:00.003-04:002011-09-08T09:30:34.470-04:00Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I Love Ya Tomorrow, You're Alway's a Day Away!!I have always been a fan of the movie "Annie". I haven't had the opportunity to see the play, but if I get the chance, I'll be all over that. Even as a child, Annie's optimism amazed me. I was six when the movie came out, and I had never known that kind of optimism. My world always seemed kinda gloomy and I was always waiting for the next shoe to drop, so to speak. At six, I was in the middle of a long series of testing that would go on for another two years before I ever got a diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Watching Annie, who didn't have a home (orphanage does not count), who didn't have a family, who didn't have anything, made me feel a little like a schmuck, even at six. I had a roof over my head, a mother who adored me and would do ANYTHING for me, a brother who could be tolerated, and an extended family that helped us as much as they could. So what if I had a father who was never around, and when he was, he was a mean drunk, so what if I was in pain and nobody knew the reason why, so what if my brother was a typical brother and picked on me all the time. Compared to Annie, I had it good.<br />Times changed, I've gone through times of major pessimism where everyone around me wanted to shoot me. I've gone through times of great optimism, where again, everyone wanted to shoot me. On the whole, I think I'm an optimist. Although, I'm very sarcastic by nature (did you ever meet my Mom? I come by it honestly:), so i think some people still think I'm a pessimist. And when people ask me how I am, I tend to give it to them straight. And since, I'm not all that healthy right now, it doesn't sound so great. But I'm not good a sugarcoating, and i won't try to be good at it, I don't have time.<br />I will tell you this. I KNOW I am blessed. Doctor's told be when I was eight that I probably would not be walking when I was 12. I'm 35 and still walking. With alot of pain, but still walking. I was told that I may not be able to have kids because of all the experimental stuff I've been on (most of which is no longer experimental, but in use), I have a beautiful biological son who melts my heart almost every time I look at him. When I was in my early teens, I thought I would never get married, who would want to put up with all this? My husband, Geoff, is the most amazing man ever. really. We've been married just over nine years and have been together for about 12 years. I have better in-laws than most people could ever dream of. We own a condo (although it is in Chicago and we're in Syracuse). See, extremely blessed.<br />I'm getting into this because, as noted in previous posts, I'm having surgery tomorrow. I'm excited about this surgery, but not necessarily about the outcome. Heck, the doc isn't even all that optimistic, and he's and incredibly optimistic guy. I'm excited because I know, even if it doesn't take away the pain, it puts me that much closer to a total knee replacement. I've known this was going to happen since I was eight. So I've been able to hold it off for a long time. And I'm VERY optimistic about what a replacement could do for me:)<br />So tomorrow, please send and prayers and happy thoughts my way. All are needed and greatly appreciated. <br />Less than 24 hours to go!!!!!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-34089283164385894772011-09-05T10:50:00.005-04:002011-09-08T09:00:36.256-04:00The Great American Knee Surgery of 2011 and Other Amazing ThingsI'm just writing to keep everyone updated on our life here in the great Northeastern United States. Of course that's why I'm writing. Why else would I be writing. Oh well...<br />Currently I'm getting ready for the Great Arthroscopic Knee Surgery of 2011 (that's really what i'm gonna start calling it:) I'm making lists right now. Shopping lists, to do lists, Michael lists, Geoff lists and, of course, Daina lists. I do love my lists. I feel awesome when I get to check something off mys lists, and they are quite long right now...<br />On that note. Does anyone have any great things one should have by their side during recovery from such an operation? Any tips or tricks for manneuvering through the day with and even more bum knee? Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated!<br />I'm hoping to get a video of my surgery, not sure if that would happen, but it would be neat. if I do get one, it will be posted here, just a warning:)<br />Michael starts school tomorrow, and while I'm a bit nervous for him, I'm extremely excited, for him and me!!He's got a great team working with him this year and I'm looking forward to working with them all! My friend Brandi will be picking him up from the apart and taking him to the bus if I can't (she's pretty awesome). Of course, Mom will do it while she's here. I've got a wonderful prayer team (thank you!!!!)and a wonderful support group of friends and family (thank you too!!!!). <br />I should have an infusion this week, but because of the GAKS (yay the acronym is GAKS!! How awesome is that??) I will not have it until the 22nd. The last week is always hard, think it will be harder now. My fingers are swollen and I'm gonna have to do some fancy manneuvering to get my rings off my finger, but this will work!!!I have four doc appts this week (not including the GAKS) and an appointment with two of Michael's teachers. Busy busy busy!! See why my lists are important?<br />Last week we had Maw Maw and Paw Paw in for 6 days!!!!So much fun and so busy. The day they left I started with a fever and slept for two days. But on the upswing now. <br />We went to the fair, and to Dinosaur BBQ, and to Southwick Beach, and they took Michael miniature golfing while I had a doc appt, and Mom and I did a puzzle (actually, finished one we started when they were up here in April. i have one of those things that role puzzles up, so i had saved it for the next time we were together:). Mom and I went to the brand spanking new Hobby Lobby just up the street from us in Fayetteville. Annnnnnddddd we removed Michael's training wheels!!He's been able to ride without them for quite some time, but he refused, but he finally agreed:) All in all had a great time. We LOVE having them visit, especially since we know how hard it is for Dad to get away, such a blessing!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlhsljwdNXmPJZZzOv0gmTrH4fsKHnQisClIIr9spglK-79HfhdpZNp5Rj5zGrnWAx7SbTOMJYKGZmYhRE6sIK8_PWCdRVgT4c0KnrIxyG7YeZ7q2pE_2zi_KE-7LPNwluyG-5Q/s1600/DSCF8488.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlhsljwdNXmPJZZzOv0gmTrH4fsKHnQisClIIr9spglK-79HfhdpZNp5Rj5zGrnWAx7SbTOMJYKGZmYhRE6sIK8_PWCdRVgT4c0KnrIxyG7YeZ7q2pE_2zi_KE-7LPNwluyG-5Q/s320/DSCF8488.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648895783967082194" /></a><br />Some cuddle time with Michael and Paw Paw<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDLMkG3sSqmqc7EToVTFQ3FGoH12TcDkX7pb7NE_xaGwKz2reiCB9PqzrpXkP650RJzMMUONB7SzlLxfa5Eoj6S_f6DG32FhdbqlQHPsWQMmNH20XM46ZIKb6h6b6yd9KIQXVUA/s1600/DSCF8515.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDLMkG3sSqmqc7EToVTFQ3FGoH12TcDkX7pb7NE_xaGwKz2reiCB9PqzrpXkP650RJzMMUONB7SzlLxfa5Eoj6S_f6DG32FhdbqlQHPsWQMmNH20XM46ZIKb6h6b6yd9KIQXVUA/s320/DSCF8515.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648895794932636610" /></a><br />Removing the training wheels, he's soooo big!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMOsI5n6RD8rg2wG2zgZYGaugWcAi9zzw5PqVL8poCQclGO5qCRG5anOLehHHAFxzP3yB58ciq9X4K5MczvsiGP0DJKNCIqYiOdfJRDh3P_7njadidbrVq-TKrHJNjyef8csznw/s1600/DSCF8541.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMOsI5n6RD8rg2wG2zgZYGaugWcAi9zzw5PqVL8poCQclGO5qCRG5anOLehHHAFxzP3yB58ciq9X4K5MczvsiGP0DJKNCIqYiOdfJRDh3P_7njadidbrVq-TKrHJNjyef8csznw/s320/DSCF8541.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648895796279761090" /></a><br />First war wound. he handled it well and got right back on the bike after being given the band aid (it was pretty gross:(<br /><br />Mom is coming back up on Sunday the 11th to take care of the boy and I after my surgery, so geoff doesn't have to take alot of time off work. Hopefully we'll have an extended Holiday this year with family, since we've missed out on so much because of my knee and not knowing what was going on with it. LOVE my husbands family!!!!I really cannot stress that enough!!dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-36678699870958825472011-08-25T11:52:00.003-04:002011-08-25T11:56:36.786-04:00Arthroscopic Synovetomy with Video:)This is what they will be doing to me on September 9th 2011, as long as my ekg looks good. My ekg is on Aug 31st. I'm super excited but getting a little nervous. So please pray or send happy thoughts or just some extra loving my way. All is greatly appreciated and always welcome:)
<br />The surgeon will also be looking at a possible meniscus tear and a baker's cyst.
<br />I'm wondering if I will get a video of my surgery?!?!?
<br /><iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zvleP1uben0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-39306963390999886642011-08-18T12:02:00.005-04:002011-08-18T12:19:38.889-04:00Finally an UpdateNow, I'm really updating. First off, I'm bored. And tired. And tired of being bored. Just sayin.
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<br />The man-child, aka Michael, aka the monster, is doing quite well. Though he is bored too. He's super excited to start school again and that he gets to eat lunch at school now. I'm obviously nervous about him eating lunch at school because of his eating habits, or the fact that he doesn't enjoy eating, whatever you choose.
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<br />For those of you who don't know.....He got a formal diagnoses of ADHD in January and then a formal diagnoses of Asperger's in April. We've spent the last eight months getting used to a little different way of doing things. Since we've known about the Sensory Modulation Disorder for years now, we really haven't changed all that much. We're all adapting. It really helps that he is such a loving, giving child. He is sooooooo smart. he really cracks people up with how he phrases things. He said yesterday to his babysitter " this doesn't work well on rough surfaces". She got a real kick out of that. It's just not how a six year old would phrase things.
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<br />He's doing great with his reading, although he does get frustrated. He wants to do everything right the first time. When that doesn't happen, he gets mad at himself. but we're working on that:)
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<br />We've had a pretty good summer, all things considered. No camping this year though, which kinda sucks. Next year. Next year we will camp. Even if I have to spend ALL my time at the camp site and not see anything else. But we've gone to the beach alot and we've visited with friends, so it's been good. We've had to hold off on trips to St. Louis and Little Rock because of threat of surgery for me. But more about that in a moment. Here are some pics of visits and such:)
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWXwCOT-vYCXfGV3Bqx0c8EBFecfYH7qVmewjBdz546dvsv8nVqoyWqy2rQx99wz34iffMPCLfPTK2W3FyeXE8ZSV78rBFZT6iwdBK5vtqwo_xKntxEw7C538HCfZJoHEUfjMFg/s1600/DSCF7632.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642228718687083474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWXwCOT-vYCXfGV3Bqx0c8EBFecfYH7qVmewjBdz546dvsv8nVqoyWqy2rQx99wz34iffMPCLfPTK2W3FyeXE8ZSV78rBFZT6iwdBK5vtqwo_xKntxEw7C538HCfZJoHEUfjMFg/s320/DSCF7632.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTWBnTAeMIXSJaGB_qqwgPPapH-j2d9uIdYRHbG1z_fH7ug0nIPBsGoWMXzpm23QLqivvm6VOzSL7udlNxO5ktBD_VNqEwUjp5oBB3l6Qghqm5OSXVMbcUgRzt0nZJab3VBacnQ/s1600/DSCF8046.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642228703554275570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTWBnTAeMIXSJaGB_qqwgPPapH-j2d9uIdYRHbG1z_fH7ug0nIPBsGoWMXzpm23QLqivvm6VOzSL7udlNxO5ktBD_VNqEwUjp5oBB3l6Qghqm5OSXVMbcUgRzt0nZJab3VBacnQ/s320/DSCF8046.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNi2-Hf7Ts79fvB5FusiW3luETM80pE6x_7GyFc4cd8f29tpvPYqdPISUrGjoRlZpidc4UelqkkK-oSxYnUCdtwOZHpqZYXZMtXLtzQPc_bRw3L4uugDfwljM3UTGO1Gew35QGfg/s1600/DSCF8010.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642228711025720882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNi2-Hf7Ts79fvB5FusiW3luETM80pE6x_7GyFc4cd8f29tpvPYqdPISUrGjoRlZpidc4UelqkkK-oSxYnUCdtwOZHpqZYXZMtXLtzQPc_bRw3L4uugDfwljM3UTGO1Gew35QGfg/s320/DSCF8010.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5FvZM7OfOC0mSOogrw41DrOeCQ4cdIjVYUj8pIkcyf2oPkmNra2hs-SE-w4FCnd0etVJO3tQk_wFxwW1mxhtCW_eBQdbw-M8ySgj2rd4PWiTc_cm-0tExd18hfExA_FdMlqsdg/s1600/DSCF8254.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642228691183320530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5FvZM7OfOC0mSOogrw41DrOeCQ4cdIjVYUj8pIkcyf2oPkmNra2hs-SE-w4FCnd0etVJO3tQk_wFxwW1mxhtCW_eBQdbw-M8ySgj2rd4PWiTc_cm-0tExd18hfExA_FdMlqsdg/s320/DSCF8254.JPG" /></a>
<br />Maw Maw and Paw Paw will be coming up next week to go to the fair with us and visit the monster. They'll be here for a week and we always have a great time with them:)
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<br />Geoff is still loving his job, though summer is a very busy time for him. Lots of late nights, but we know that's temporary. He still likes being up here in the great North. We haven't sold our condo yet, but we do have an amazing renter in it, so lots of it is paid for, we're very thankful for that.
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<br />We've found a church that we like that has a great program for kids and offers buddies for kids with special needs. So we're really liking that:)
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<br />I am having an arthroscopic synovectomy on Sept. 9th at 8:45am. The doc will go in and shave the lining of my joint out. he will also be looking at a slight tear in the meniscus and a bakers cyst while he's in there, so those might get fixed too. I would much rather get a total replacement. it's been a year and a half since this right knee has worked to my normal ability. Not yours, mine. Mom will be coming up for a while after the surgery to help around the house and drive us to appointments and to play with Michael while I'm laid up. I LOVE my in-laws!!!!!!!
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<br />So, there's the scoop....Maybe I will actually write more. If I had a lap top it would be easier...
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<br />dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-47402878640277604282011-08-09T08:05:00.007-04:002011-08-09T08:37:28.626-04:00For RAWarrior and Everyone Else Who Requested That I Update AgainOk. So I may have lied a little when I said I would start posting again. I've had a crappy year and a half and have had very little good to write about, so I chose not to write. In retrospect we also had quite a few blessings as well, but you know how it is when you're going through the crappy stuff. This here blog post is gonna be about Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and pain relief. A blogger that I greatly respect posted this blog <a href="http://http//rawarrior.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-relief-what-do-you-know/%22%3EThis">http://http://rawarrior.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-relief-what-do-you-know/</a> to ask about doctors and pain relief for people with RA. Since above stated crappy year was due, largely in part, to pain problems associated with my RA, I thought I should jump back on the horse, or bicycle, or whatever. I will be posting more about my wonderful boys later. Promise. Again.
<br />RAWarrior asked a few questions about RA and pain relief in her blog. So I'm just gonna copy those questions the answer them. Sounds simple, let's see if I can do this.
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<br />1. Do people have sufficient pain relief? Are medications sufficiently prescribed? Do they work?
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<br />Those of you who know what I've been going through already know the answer to this. NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. In HUGE CAPS and many exclamation points. I am in pain throughout the day and night and yet have been told I'm not in an RA flare, but a fibromyalgia flare. However, feels like both to me. I am on pain meds would feel like without anything. Have SERIOUSLY considered within the past six months, quitting everything, infusions, prednisone, methotrexate.......everything but the vitamins. But once again, if I feel this crummy on stuff, how am I gonna feel off stuff?
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<br />2. Which doctors prescribe medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis pain relief? Pain management specialists? Rheumatologist practices? General practitioners?
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<br />My Rheumatologist prescribes pain relief meds, though I'm trying to find a RELIABLE pain management specialist. The one I saw for my arm that has been numb for 4 months said the same thing I've been getting from alot of specialists lately. I shouldn't be feeling this way. The drugs and therapy I'm on should be helping, but she gave no indication as to why I am and why they're not.
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<br />3. Which methods of Rheumatoid Arthritis pain relief work? Eastern medicine like acupuncture? Spiritual techniques like meditation? Traditional physical methods like heat, ice, or rest?
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<br />I have have not tried acupuncture, but am currently doing some research on it. Something has to work, right? Meditation and prayer helps my mindset about the pain, but doesn't help the pain. So, it does do something, I guess. I've been told no Heat, but heat makes it feel better for a while, but then it hurts worse. Ice actually causes me great pain (am I the only one??). Rest helps the fibromyalgia, but since I still have severe morning stiffness and soreness (yes, even after an afternoon nap), I don't think it helps with the RA. Plus, since I have a 6 yr old with special needs, rest is kinda hard to come by during the day when he's home..
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<br />OK. That's about all folks:) I have an infusion on Thursday and my arthroscopic synovectomy on my right knee will probably be on the 10th of September (waiting for Michael's first week of school).
<br />dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-80499667360380739412010-01-04T12:01:00.002-05:002010-01-04T12:09:10.437-05:00Seriously?So, it's been six months since I posted. I will do better this year, starting now!<br />I started a new infusion treatment last month. instead of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Remicade</span>, I'm now on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Orencia</span>. So far, it's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">working</span> much better and I'm highly optimistic, so please keep up the prayers and good thoughts, we all know I need them:)<br />Michael started <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-school last fall and he LOVES it! He's learning so fast and is an extremely social creature. He goes three days a week for three hours a day. He actually cries when he doesn't get to go and doesn't want to leave when I go to pick him up. I really can't wait for him to start kindergarten!<br />So much more is going on, but those are the big things. Geoff still loves his job and I still hate the snow, but I do like this area of the country <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">alot</span>. We did some camping at the end of the summer last year, and we plan on doing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">alot</span> more this year, as long as my health holds up, we're good to go.<br />I plan to update this blog more often with more pictures this year, so keep on looking:)dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-86450939009737794612009-07-01T07:42:00.002-04:002009-07-01T08:04:39.268-04:00What's going on now????Hello All!<br />All tests have come back great!!!!The mass on my Thymus appears to be part of the Thymus itself turning into fatty tissue (which is what it's supposed to do:). The results weren't actually inconclusive, the nurse gave me the wrong answer. the doc just wanted to see me to go over ALL the test results from the last couple months. I have to get another MRI in about 6 months, just as a followup, but all looks good!!!!!<br />We're going to Ocean City this weekend, so I'll come back with plenty of pics:)dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-58324053202984444612009-06-12T07:02:00.005-04:002009-06-12T10:51:30.508-04:00Good News! I DO NOT HAVE LUNG CANCER!!!!This will be a good news, still don't know news, and extra cute pics entry.<br /><br /><div>Seriously. I don't have Lung Cancer, that is VERY good news. The nodules on my lungs are just scar tissue. They still want a followup CT in 8 months, but nothing to worry about. When I had that bout with pleurisy so long ago, it left lots of little scars on my lungs, so that's what the unidentified objects are:)</div><div>Problem: when they did the CT on my lungs, they found a "mass" on my Thymus gland. They wanted an MRI on that. I waited on another approval from the insurance company. I had the first MRI on Tuesday (today is Friday). They called me back in for more views later on Tuesday, but because I have a son and am his sole caretaker during the day, I couldn't make it back in until yesterday. Went in yesterday for the extra views. The doc called yesterday at around four to tell me the results are "inconclusive". She wants to see me in her office and I have an appointment first thing Monday morning. After talking to a couple nurse friends of mine, they told me that she'll probably refer me to someone for a biopsy, but we can't be sure until Monday.</div><div>For those of you who don't know (I didn't until a couple weeks ago), the Thymus is a gland that helps the immune system until your out of puberty, then it does nothing but shrink until it's nothing but fat (when you're about 60). So the gland itself isn't all that important, or is it????Remember, I said helps the immune system. Does everyone remember that MY immune system has always worked AGAINST my body instead of for it? That's what Rheumatoid Arthritis does, that's its job.Anyway, people who get masses on their Thymus gland generally have, or end up with, an autoimmune disease. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Yay</span> Me!!!!! So, could be something bad, could just be nothing. If it's something bad, they'll just take out the entire <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">thymus</span>, they don't mess around with just removing the mass, the thymus is too small and it doesn't do anything. So, still <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">alot</span> of speculation right now. But I feel fine, except for the fact that I haven had a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">remicade</span> infusion in about four weeks, so I feel like I have arthritis, but my "spa day" is next Thursday, and then I will feel much better:)</div><div>OK, and because these were too cute to pass up, here's a few pis of my Boy (or boy's or friend and boy....)</div><div>Michael and Geoff with a sign that says "(I'm cute, but I may have rabies" PERFECT!!</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnJM_0_Zb8WcILMD-u-lGPmo8eCTkMw9YW_3ZjfJXKeKrdlbFQacX52lipXMPQNbpuQdFNlB7ekAcnWnu5CuI8xJKu6PW-qkhewLsfI2dhRLsb1fUy8sEtnTVNRYawqPChH53mA/s1600-h/DSCF4907.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346452456636380818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnJM_0_Zb8WcILMD-u-lGPmo8eCTkMw9YW_3ZjfJXKeKrdlbFQacX52lipXMPQNbpuQdFNlB7ekAcnWnu5CuI8xJKu6PW-qkhewLsfI2dhRLsb1fUy8sEtnTVNRYawqPChH53mA/s320/DSCF4907.JPG" /></a><br />Michael and our good friend Marcia roughhousing in the tee-pee. They don't look like their very happy, Do they?(Insert sarcasm..)This was up at Mexico point, so beautiful and Marcia was an excellent tour guide!!</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvaX9inCsNoX37fXYsZGH0swcQZ8OxrdV-El2FZtEp1x4-bNATTFGaV9DrIIDXW3zBkTC_tkj6OCYjNgyuPPB2QAvQTU_-M68uCxKYSg7mhvi0TO2DjaAg48cYDtjt-sIHpat5Q/s1600-h/DSCF5013.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346452457991332770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvaX9inCsNoX37fXYsZGH0swcQZ8OxrdV-El2FZtEp1x4-bNATTFGaV9DrIIDXW3zBkTC_tkj6OCYjNgyuPPB2QAvQTU_-M68uCxKYSg7mhvi0TO2DjaAg48cYDtjt-sIHpat5Q/s320/DSCF5013.JPG" /></a></div><div>And last but not least. Michael has been given <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">ALOT</span> of Time-Outs lately. Here's one when we were on a fishing trip. He decided to run into the woods.....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjySDYFAumU6fCJq0ldRVytk_mWO3aH1LGAijjrYV8Vh3xEYo_uNvXz0LRgScqpyUO_pwYtEz6wIzNuqf6x1xmMgVeiYTGuIWXnyWij5AeoPpJthidQMdk8sE6XCTK7FTSGc0AZ0Q/s1600-h/DSCF4820.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346452448338402210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjySDYFAumU6fCJq0ldRVytk_mWO3aH1LGAijjrYV8Vh3xEYo_uNvXz0LRgScqpyUO_pwYtEz6wIzNuqf6x1xmMgVeiYTGuIWXnyWij5AeoPpJthidQMdk8sE6XCTK7FTSGc0AZ0Q/s320/DSCF4820.JPG" /></a></div><div>OK. That's it for now. Will definitely update after my appointment on Monday. Plus, I'm sure we'll make it to a fun park or something this weekend...</div>dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-24923921071645134532009-05-27T22:31:00.003-04:002009-05-27T22:33:36.196-04:00I'm a square<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTJ2SzfpZwWAst1CIQI8QqXxpv9_K9GqmPeJoTKLIVRWqgtcIdZyBml9ihvh5HXyS_1Q157zo2EEJnEEUx6zgseByLVGHw0JIwyFYel5wWDaJh7KDTZEAwnaujTi3WqQg1Fk1TA/s1600-h/DSCF4618.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340697288378642290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTJ2SzfpZwWAst1CIQI8QqXxpv9_K9GqmPeJoTKLIVRWqgtcIdZyBml9ihvh5HXyS_1Q157zo2EEJnEEUx6zgseByLVGHw0JIwyFYel5wWDaJh7KDTZEAwnaujTi3WqQg1Fk1TA/s320/DSCF4618.JPG" /></a><br /><div>So, this is the afghan Christina and I crocheted for our wonderful Mother in Law. I'm pretty sure she liked it, though I was the first to nap with it:)</div><br /><div></div>dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-12504934196912736822009-05-22T07:56:00.005-04:002009-05-26T08:54:31.271-04:00Pictures and updates<div><div><div>First, let me say this. It's not my fault. It is not my fault that the doctor didn't send in for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-approval for the chest CT when he was supposed to. It is not my fault that the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-approval has not been received yet. So....it is not my fault that I have NOT had the chest CT yet. Still working on that, it will be a relief to get that over with..</div><div>Below are some pictures of our fishing trip to northern Arkansas. Every person in the pic was with us for our three day fishing trip. All Geoff's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">siblings</span> and their significant others. Geoff's Mom, Dad, Grandfather, Aunt and Uncle and their children. Plus, the three of us and Nora (Christina's Mom). It was a HUGE cabin and we all had a great time!!!!</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zPBRKGPCCbBvT4XB4002D5sSrtfqOwNRq9Z7fgkoaOkFlVnqofFHu557VXEJKWVCA2VnC3rfQBIqhSB5qMVJe290RLYe4jhsfsu-q_ZQHU9qeTAIDUczrmqi_fVgG44bLMcBvQ/s1600-h/DSCF4738.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338621583576740658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zPBRKGPCCbBvT4XB4002D5sSrtfqOwNRq9Z7fgkoaOkFlVnqofFHu557VXEJKWVCA2VnC3rfQBIqhSB5qMVJe290RLYe4jhsfsu-q_ZQHU9qeTAIDUczrmqi_fVgG44bLMcBvQ/s320/DSCF4738.JPG" /></a></div><div>This was taken after the second day of fishing. Check out those fish eyes:)</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUy5gboB1m4dUN8ShvWW-3RS1RnVQWSeduX84M7KqmDk9QHu9lUC9QekWtRrXLm1oc-j6bRwn1bfywTTSHO3ngJvoN86Zn7aBeWvRL3zIjHqLmYShv9TmPxFewOj0s-05aVsPQQ/s1600-h/DSCF4722.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338621579724986034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUy5gboB1m4dUN8ShvWW-3RS1RnVQWSeduX84M7KqmDk9QHu9lUC9QekWtRrXLm1oc-j6bRwn1bfywTTSHO3ngJvoN86Zn7aBeWvRL3zIjHqLmYShv9TmPxFewOj0s-05aVsPQQ/s320/DSCF4722.JPG" /></a></div><div>While we were at Maw Maw and Paw Paw's house in Little Rock, Michael decided he was ready to start using the potty for everything and made us all very proud:) As his special present, he requested a ride on Paw Paw's tractor. Ask and you shall receive:)</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AZ3C4v4qtK8WuKLTczwfYWwMIDq_J2l6-JPjcwaJaZ_FT1AL-a64dwFb-NH4gVRqLLcS6n_bSa42Jkt8Kns6fxYVyJrtxdHu6vJjXK-iJHfXWQQJ7HvScx6i9hq6UNaq7AvkRw/s1600-h/DSCF4761.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338621597174777618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AZ3C4v4qtK8WuKLTczwfYWwMIDq_J2l6-JPjcwaJaZ_FT1AL-a64dwFb-NH4gVRqLLcS6n_bSa42Jkt8Kns6fxYVyJrtxdHu6vJjXK-iJHfXWQQJ7HvScx6i9hq6UNaq7AvkRw/s320/DSCF4761.JPG" /></a></div><div>He actually took quite a few trips on that tractor after this. He went for rides with Alison, Jeremy and Geoff too:)</div><div>When we got home and I had the kidney stones, Geoff decided I needed some cheering up, so he planted a pretty little garden in our from patch of dirt. I think it looks lovely! The stuff in the little pots is some Yellow Moss that came home with us from Arkansas. It doesn't look very good in this pic, but it is finally starting to look alive! He also planted the two hanging plants.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uB7q71ho4qi43TA15QrUyuIJF6AAIHoohBx8OybifXpo2-o3Zd5tAGhJ2q8yrw5vm5qpBT-8WlL2oXaMmxWwDLdbq-j2_r_grgK6vVrKscfF_iIc7wzAy-yLCB0MrZSbgJ1HDQ/s1600-h/DSCF4805.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338621593734865746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uB7q71ho4qi43TA15QrUyuIJF6AAIHoohBx8OybifXpo2-o3Zd5tAGhJ2q8yrw5vm5qpBT-8WlL2oXaMmxWwDLdbq-j2_r_grgK6vVrKscfF_iIc7wzAy-yLCB0MrZSbgJ1HDQ/s320/DSCF4805.JPG" /></a></div><div> </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7x4h1A5ug0JWsZ12Yiz9xSXfgKzhrosbll8ikhx7uhXTo3aYNzUeXvsEiZKni3XOGuj4JIqPyr4DO-PUYUrXfH3-ITMfx3JqsC93rVixk7-Fk2z24HdEnocSOKmcnYWWd0RnXg/s1600-h/DSCF4800.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338621586922708754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7x4h1A5ug0JWsZ12Yiz9xSXfgKzhrosbll8ikhx7uhXTo3aYNzUeXvsEiZKni3XOGuj4JIqPyr4DO-PUYUrXfH3-ITMfx3JqsC93rVixk7-Fk2z24HdEnocSOKmcnYWWd0RnXg/s320/DSCF4800.JPG" /></a></div><div>We also have some tomatoes and other flowers growing in the back in some pots (more sun back there) but there's not much to see yet...</div><div>We went for a bike ride this weekend, all three of us had a great time!! There's lots of place to go bike riding around here and Michael is loving the family time outside on his bike. </div><div>We went fishing last weekend, but none of us caught anything. Hopefully we'll find someplace good to go fishing soon.</div><div>It's Tuesday and I'm back to the normal routine. Hope all is well!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUy5gboB1m4dUN8ShvWW-3RS1RnVQWSeduX84M7KqmDk9QHu9lUC9QekWtRrXLm1oc-j6bRwn1bfywTTSHO3ngJvoN86Zn7aBeWvRL3zIjHqLmYShv9TmPxFewOj0s-05aVsPQQ/s1600-h/DSCF4722.JPG"></a></div></div>dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-11812112581839489602009-05-13T10:36:00.002-04:002009-05-13T10:49:13.769-04:00Over a month?????OK, we went to Little Rock and had a great time. Such a huge loving family all under one roof. Luckily, it's a big roof, so it wasn't too crowded. We went fishing in Northern AR on the White River and I enjoyed myself and learned to fish a little and can't wait to do some of that here!! I'll post pics of that very soon!<br />About four days after returning home I was taken to the emergency room. Go figure. Kidney Stones AGAIN!!!! OK, so it's been four years since the last one, but that really wasn't long enough! After 4 trips to the ER and 3 CT scans and two X-Rays and a couple ultrasounds, I am finally feeling better and able to move, That was two and a half weeks go and I just started feeling better this past weekend, which is why I've been absent.<br />With all those <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">CTs</span> we found I had more stones, they're just resting there, so I'm waiting for another Bomb to blow. They also found a number of "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Pulmonary</span> Nodules" . The bottom of my lungs showed up in the abdominal CT and showed a lot of little bumps on it. So, now I get to go in for a CT of my chest. We'll see how that goes. I thought that would be tomorrow, but now it might not be until next week. Pray.....<br />Other than that, we're doing well here. Geoff planted me a little garden of plants while I was sick and a couple of hanging baskets. Geoff did the housework and the cooking and most of the caring for the child. So I think he should get a good fathers day gift...<br />I will post pics of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">the trip</span> and the garden once everything is downloadeddainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-80020599691375079802009-04-08T08:23:00.003-04:002009-04-08T10:07:23.199-04:00It's Been Awhile<div><div><div><div><div>Sorry about the lack of updating, been a little busy, and a little down, so I didn't feel like writing. I am back in the mood now! It's been a busy month and a half, here's the rundown:</div><div>I turned 33 on March 1st. woo-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">hoo</span>. Geoff made me a nice dinner, my "new" camera was my birthday gift:)</div><div>We had snow in March, I'm pretty sure we had snow on the first day of spring. I CANNOT wait till spring REALLY starts!</div><div>We found a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-school program for Michael to start in the fall.</div><div>Michael has been re-evaluated for speech therapy and occupational therapy, looks like he'll get both of those next year.</div><div>We had a visit from Jen-Jen and Mike. Had a wonderful time at the MOST and Michael is still talking about his "favorite cousin" (she bribes him:)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5HCYVIfFO39o4ai-3cMbyPKav_GsQRaIslqQZ-zQKAl0HKOwt4SbrP1LdFBWD1jx7Eb9G1B2LOHOs_88OnH8NiUa05GnBpkIXAemVUVhMmBzhU7VKlTsAFGHWgegmqDyOLWnrQ/s1600-h/DSCF4521.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322298664151034642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5HCYVIfFO39o4ai-3cMbyPKav_GsQRaIslqQZ-zQKAl0HKOwt4SbrP1LdFBWD1jx7Eb9G1B2LOHOs_88OnH8NiUa05GnBpkIXAemVUVhMmBzhU7VKlTsAFGHWgegmqDyOLWnrQ/s320/DSCF4521.JPG" /></a><br />Michael turned four on April first. We made cupcakes with blue icing and had dinner at a restaurant. Fun was had by all!!</div><div>On April 3rd, I got a car!!!!!!!!It's been a year since we moved up here and we've had only one car between us, so I was a little stuck out here when Geoff was at work. I'm not anymore!!It's a 2003 Saturn L200 and it only had 33,000 miles on it.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGX3I9t8o6BhTf5_uWui7And0oeteE5luQyueTgqi5sGAK3FkqQjHbyW6JMUjpBeSMMtx_zRA19a9BQJIDvMgogKYbDB9sd1z9QpqKkaXToKtJbitehHkGxGhy1_kj-HAI_T4vQA/s1600-h/DSCF4610.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322298655991776274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGX3I9t8o6BhTf5_uWui7And0oeteE5luQyueTgqi5sGAK3FkqQjHbyW6JMUjpBeSMMtx_zRA19a9BQJIDvMgogKYbDB9sd1z9QpqKkaXToKtJbitehHkGxGhy1_kj-HAI_T4vQA/s320/DSCF4610.JPG" /></a><br />We had a really warm day here a couple weeks ago, we were able to go to the park and climb. Then we had snow again and the deer came back, on our side of the fence this time! We have birds in each one of our birdhouses this year. I love watching them, can't wait to see babies!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YkUqdFUfC3x5_pzoAubIEUPeeJjudDGh8YuGvY-ZEkHByf0cK4Lym6aZ1jLHHBnq-N6XewG4L7XF2izDDEfXMLCukFvA8fSGNjFJ1BKYBLqZWTddURj3mKfBto7X0kKzcjUIBA/s1600-h/DSCF4606.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322298667727311938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YkUqdFUfC3x5_pzoAubIEUPeeJjudDGh8YuGvY-ZEkHByf0cK4Lym6aZ1jLHHBnq-N6XewG4L7XF2izDDEfXMLCukFvA8fSGNjFJ1BKYBLqZWTddURj3mKfBto7X0kKzcjUIBA/s320/DSCF4606.JPG" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-qVgEN1nMGSyOI3ozQTLXAfHpGXPp_7gDXEFI5_z4HvhleH30U7iKO85FsNVcZbE4I1_IpSPXL6F2MLpexbCCiI_2ouw-FLexeRUf8TSTXMOeBo07Re1FQzcftCwlX-3VibhfA/s1600-h/DSCF4476.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322298662348645970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-qVgEN1nMGSyOI3ozQTLXAfHpGXPp_7gDXEFI5_z4HvhleH30U7iKO85FsNVcZbE4I1_IpSPXL6F2MLpexbCCiI_2ouw-FLexeRUf8TSTXMOeBo07Re1FQzcftCwlX-3VibhfA/s320/DSCF4476.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76d2ilkqQX6FYx6L2aXKt6WmmqbFjRQtRYEr1vsIXqYuFrfNjAltfKTRxfbttCs4zifyw9VZwmNVXOMvEz8iMnOXQfYsnkcu6D97aozmKflm3wd7JmvQRF_AEbsau06_RjH6G_g/s1600-h/DSCF4452.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322298659294283858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76d2ilkqQX6FYx6L2aXKt6WmmqbFjRQtRYEr1vsIXqYuFrfNjAltfKTRxfbttCs4zifyw9VZwmNVXOMvEz8iMnOXQfYsnkcu6D97aozmKflm3wd7JmvQRF_AEbsau06_RjH6G_g/s320/DSCF4452.JPG" /></a></div><div>We leave for Little Rock tomorrow, we are all looking forward to it:) Will come back with more pics:)</div><div>The house hasn't sold yet, but there has been more activity on it, so keep praying!<br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div>dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17401609.post-41547514868063139522009-02-24T11:33:00.003-05:002009-02-24T11:38:56.678-05:00Today Will Be Over SoonOk, had a checkup. My Blood Pressure was 143 over 93. Seriously, hasn't been this high since that infamous Kidney Stone right after Michael was born. But really, I think it's to be expected. I am in pain, and today is the two year anniversary of Mom's passing. I'm really a little surprised I'm as composed as I am.dainahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14405807125716079059noreply@blogger.com2