Ups and downs - Highs and lows

I just hit something and erased 3 paragraphs. As much as this Netbook is convenient...this pisses me off! I'm better off at the desktop. (And no...it wasn't saved in drafts...I looked)

Anyway...I was saying that this is wearing me out. I am having a hard time eating. I went from being able to eat sweet rolls, a whole pizza, huge portions of cheesecake...are you noticing a pattern here? All sweets - All carbs. And I was still hungry. Now...I am having a hard time eating period as everything makes me sick to my stomach.

Once I start to eat, and I make myself eat...it's not quite so bad. Last night I had some steak and carrots. Probably not a smart thing on those carrots. My bedtime reading was 295. This morning it was 215...then I slept...then at lunch it was 250. I missed a snack. I have got to eat these snacks at a regular time....without fail.

I found a food log template on line yesterday and printed out a few so I can keep a compete record of what I eat. Husband has prepared several containers of snacks so I just have to 'open and eat'. This is a tremendous help. He is pretty close to irritating in making sure I eat at the proper times and log my info. He is purchasing sugarless everything and cooking like a demon. I am very fortunate. Don't tell him I said that.

I am also seriously missing some foods. Not necessarily really bad since I am so nauseous, but no fruit is a killer. And cereal. I love cereal. My 'last meal' was 2 bowls of Frosted Flakes!! I will positively stick to this eating plan...but I will count the days till I can eat an orange!! Or drink an orange!!

I wanted to post this now since I didn't feel well last night and I need to write this stuff down so I don't forget it! Will hopefully be back later...

Thanks so much for reading...and caring...

b

Day 3 of Hell

Man...this kicks your ass! I didn't have a very good day. I got up and ate some breakfast and took my medication and was sick all day. Readings were 285/AM - 289/Noon - 295/tonight - something is going backwards here. I had a hard time eating food because I feel bad. Called the DR and advised of the situation. She said it was not unusual as my system is adjusting to well... everything. I have until the 9th to get this under control with pills, or I'll be taking insulin. I don't wanna do that! She wants me to call her tomorrow and give an update.

I also slept all day. Husband cooked a turkey breast this evening and I walked to the office with him and by the time I got back I had to lay down! I ate and feel a little queasy. I'll get some hot tea in a bit with a little ginger and see how that goes. I am not liking this shit one little bit!!

Obviously I have nothing to write about because my day was totally uneventful. I did, on and off, watch the news coverage of the white powder coated ink cartridge on the UPS planes. Spooky.

Guess what is on now??? CHOCOLATE!!! On the History Channel on Modern Marvels. Lots and lots and lots of chocolate. Right now they are showing how they make chocolate Easter bunnies. I am drooling....

Sorry, but I seriously need to lie down. I just took evening meds and...well, you know. Have a nice night.

b

Day 2

I feel like crap. I thought I felt like crap before. Nope! I really feel like crap now. I'm not sure if it's lack of donuts...lack of food because I am severely sick to my stomach...but I'm betting it's the medication getting into my system. I can gar-un-tee that's what it is. But my blood sugar readings are as follows:

In DR's office: 478  -  Before Lunch: 369  -  Before Supper: 315  -  Before Bed:  241

Today - Before Breakfast 266  -  Before Lunch: 258  -  Before Supper: 286  (I'm still up so no bedtime reading as yet).

It's OK. I will be very conscientious. Like I said...I now know what the problem is and I never want to feel the way I have in the past few weeks again. I kept saying I was going to make changes in my life and I mean it. I wish it wasn't this drastic.

I spent the day doing more research. Mostly for meal plans. I actually have several diabetic cookbooks that I have been checking out. I have to limit carbs to none for the next two weeks. DR said to eat protein and lots of vegetables. No fruit!!! Maybe later...I LOVE fruit! And donuts.

I got blood drawn this morning at 8 o'clock by Vampire-man. He took 3 - count 'em - 3 vials! And he had  to use BOTH ARMS!! Hey! Wait a minute!!! It's Halloween! What was  thinking!! Damn......

He said it was for a 'complete screening' which includes organ function. I said, "What if I only have a piano?" He laughed. Made me feel good.

But I came home and laid down allllllll day. And that's what I am going to do tomorrow and more than likely the next day.

I think I am going to hate beans. Just a personal observation.

I should take this time to be very, very crafty. I got a few things out today and just set them aside. Tomorrow is another day. I have an order for some earrings and I really need to get those done. And, yes, I am tired...but right now my eyes are pretty messed up. There is no way I can see to assemble anything in artificial light. Tomorrow.

Guess what? When we to the DR this AM...it was crispy cold! And according to the Weather Channel it was only 40 degrees at 9:00AM! There is a freeze warning out tonight for the Davis Mt's just North of us and I think we will get pretty close to freezing also.

It's shower time. I am starting to see blurry letters so I better stop. Have a nice nite!

b

Answers...and more questions

Husband is home. He is having chemo. We'll see what's next. He's upset.

I haven't been feeling great so I went to the DR. A different DR. I saw the girl (I can't think of her title, she's an assistant...the one who takes your history and preliminary symptoms) and I explained how I felt at that moment, how I have felt for the past few months, and she asked if I would want a Blood/Glucose test right now, rather than wait until tomorrow AM when I will get complete blood screening and I said "sure"". (It cost an additional $13). She stuck my finger and said "Oh my God".

I said, "Pardon me????"

She said, "Your blood sugar is 478. That's dangerous...Let me get the DR."

I thought, "F**ing right get the DR!!"

She came back. "Can you pee in a cup?"

I said. "Are you kidding! I can pee on demand!"

This little test showed off the chart ketones. I have no idea what a ketone is. But mine are purty special! They show really, really pink on that chart!

So I left there in route to the pharmacy for medication and a monitor. The pharmacist said..."you might feel a little uncomfortable having to test yourself, so someone might have to do it for you."

(Husband? With a razor blade to stab me? He'll be delighted!)

Tomorrow morning I will have a complete blood workup. I have tested myself once since I got home and before I ate green beans and it was 369. See!! I'm better already!!

BFFMS took me to the butcher, I mean the DR, and when I came out and told her what happened, she....that Sara!!! she's so funny girl!!...said "I knew it! I knew that was what it was!!" Oooooo she's a clever one, that Sara!! I could have saved myself $78!!!! Of course...getting that prescription may have been a little tricky.....

I am very fortunate that I have wonderful friends. BFFMS is amazing. She is such a support person for me and I thank her. I know she'll read this later...it will be a while as she and BFFAL are going to see Secretariat tonight....but thank you Sara from the top and bottom  of my heart for everything.

I am so glad to know what is wrong. I will be very honest in telling you that I have been very scared about my health. I'm not saying that I was given bad medical advice prior to today...but I am glad that I went to a different DR today. It may have saved my life....and I mean that sincerely.

Now I can prepare myself for my future. First of all...I need to figure out what to do with those damn Krispie Kreme Donuts that I ordered from the school kids! They will be here on Friday. Damn the luck!! Damn! Damn! Damn!

I almost forgot! I can still take my One-a-Day Gummie Vitamins! Decadent!! And I could sure use some cookies right now. I think it's going to be hard to not eat what I normally would have eaten by now (which would have been a healthy amount). I have been eating a lot and often which I understand now, is a symptom. But I like food. I can eat a whole can of peaches in a sitting and I am used to eating that. WOE IS ME!!!!!!! I'll eat another can of green beans.

I need to look a few things up. Might be back later. Have a nice evening...

b

Saturday...in the park...I wish it was the 4th of July...seriously

I am sitting down resting my back. I ache. I'm tired and I have just eaten too much candy corn. (I'm thinking I need some energy...and it sounds like a vegetable!) I just got up and got me 5 more kernels...that way it doesn't look like I'm eating a whole lot. I love candy corn. It is my most favorite candy ever. I am eating the cheap brand that I got at the Dollar Store which I am trying to clean up (5 kernels at a time) so I can buy some GOOD STUFF!! I think I just ate my limit.

Husband has his stuff ready to go. It's not like he's packing for a month's vacation....but he is ready. I have my list of things to do while he is gone done, also. It's long and distinguished. Let's just see how ambitious I really get. I may sleep the entire time he is gone.

Several hours have passed since I first started writing this. I needed real food and a nap. I took a shower and am now trying to find something on TV. Not much luck. I am sort of watching 48 Hour Mystery on A&E. Sometimes these are pretty good.

Did you see the Oreo? As you know, I am not the best picture taker and this was definitely not a good one...but when I tried to download it...I just couldn't. I have no idea why...But I was getting frustrated and just a little testy!! So I just stopped and when I tried this morning...it posted immediately. Whatever!!

Oh! I almost forgot. We got rain during the night! I missed it completely. (sleeping...) It was a pretty good storm, too. Sorry I missed it.

I'm such a wimp tonight. I need to go to sleep. Thanks for reading. See you later.

b

I am actually cold!

I am posting this on Saturday morning because I could not get the photo to download last night...

I am cold right now because the AC is on. But we were outside a little bit ago and it's mighty cool out there! I like it!! A group of 'somebody's' have a fire in the firepit in the courtyard and although it looks mighty purty....I think they found some cottonwood or greasewood...and it stinks! Pretty don't always smell good. I checked the weather for here tomorrow and one site says the high will be 58 and another says 73. Go figure.

I got all the VA crap done today. Husband is set to leave on Monday. I actually spoke with his DR today who told me this. She will decide, on Tuesday, if she personally will be able to do surgery on Husband or if she will send him to MD Anderson Hospital in Houston. She will do an ultrasound at 10:30 Tuesday AM and will know immediately what will be done. She said he would either go directly to the OR there...or be shipped out. So I won't know anything until then. But all arrangements are made and believe it or not...it wasn't as irritating as it usually is when I deal with the VA.

If he does go to MD Anderson, I will meet him there.

I had to go get a couple of Oreos. Nothing like Oreos at 10:30 PM to get the old heart pumping and primed for a couple of

nightmares. I should have had some Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. Oh well...too late! Have you looked at an Oreo lately??       

Remember how the inside filling used to be a nice even blob of creamy white delight? Well, now the filling is still creamy and white...but instead of being a solid blob...there is a hole in the center! I wonder how much money they save by eliminating that tiny little bit??? A might smart sum, I reckon. I should take a picture...hold on a minute....I'll go get another Oreo (darn the luck!!)  I know, that's a crappy picture, but you certainly see the hole.

I'm closing now cuz this things is pissing me off...nite

b

Rain...Rain...Where the hell are you!!

Not a drop! It's all around us...but nothing here. We are the dessert, after all.

I'm going to whine and get it over with. My back is killing me. My headache is not so bad tonight. But I am stiff all over. I have been drinking a lot of water and juice so I don't think it's dehydration. Could be, though.

Husband is going to ALBQ VA on Tuesday, actually on Monday, as he has to leave here a day before in order to make the early morning appointment. I was getting sick and tired of no response or action from anyone since he was in Big Spring almost a month ago, so I got on the phone. My idea of ASAP and their idea of ASAP were just not the same. So I decided to ruffle a few feathers. I must have gotten a 'big bird' cuz they called him back within the hour. Now I will spend a few hours tomorrow making the arrangements for him to get there. I have no idea what they are going to do to him...neither does he. But at least looking at him is a big step. I'll keep you posted.

Busy day. Glad it's over.

I came home and semi cleaned this place. I wouldn't look any different to anyone but me. It was what I would call deep cleaning. Under the bed, the closet, drawers...not noticeable but very necessary. Glad it's over.

I always do a massive clean when Husband goes to the hospital so I am a baby step ahead. I cleaned before I knew he was going...oh but don't you worry...I have PLENTY more to do!! I will make a list tonight. You see...I make a real mess when I clean! One thing I have to do is check out the Rubbermaid tubs. Mostly for fall/winter clothing. I am afraid everything will be pretty big but I know there are sweatshirts that I can use. I need to downsize that stuff, too.

What I usually do is put all of my stuff on the bed and touch each and every thing I own at least 20 times and try to figure out if I really, really need it and then eventually put it back where I took it from in the first place. I have a better idea this time. I will bring 2 or 3 boxes home and sort stuff...and actually put what I really, really don't need in those boxes...and out the door they go. I am such a pack rat. And I hate to get rid of anything. It's easier to throw out Husband's stuff.

I am drinking a huge glass of orange juice. Probably not the smartest choice, especially this late at night...but I sure did want some. I had forgotten that I had some concentrate in the fridge that I got from DeCoty Coffee Company a while back. It's vacuum sealed and keeps well. So I decided to make it and it tastes wonderful. I also have some fruit punch concentrate that I need to use up. I forgot about that, too. I'll make some in a while and have it tomorrow.

I think I will forego the tea tonight. I got some Sleepy Time tea yesterday. It's pretty good. A slight mint flavor. But nothing I have will go with orange juice. Or should I say the amount of orange juice I just drank.

I suppose I should get some rest. I am clean and ready to cover up and get some ZZZZZZZ's.
See you tomorrow!

b

I am full of....

Tabouli!! Ha!! You thought I was going to say SHIT!! Didn't you!! Well I didn't.

I like tabouli. Husband and I first ate some when we went to the Texas Folklife Festival about
100 years ago. This is a great place to go. Lots and lots of ethnic foods and entertainment. And beer. And wine. We would go to all of the booths and share whatever they were selling. English Bangers....meaty tomatoey oniony sandwiches on a thick and dense bun (VERY good) that you usually have with an English Ale....which is served warm (not so good) but ethnically correct.

Stuffed Grapes Leaves with a lamb filling...ate 'em once....once was enough. Definitely find ice cold Lone Star Beer to wash the taste out of your mouth! It's a personal thing. You may love them!

And of course there is always Chinese Egg Rolls - Tacos and Chalupas, Chili, Sopapillas...

Let's see...what else...Polish Sausages, Kolaches, Crawfish Etouffee, Chicken and sausage gumbo, Chicken adobo, Bratwurst, German potato salad, Greek salad, Fry bread, Red beans and rice, Gumbo, Boudin, Crawfish Etouffee, Beef B.B.Q. Korean Style, Shish-kabob, Hummus, Tamales, Ceviche, Pirogi, Spring roll , Fried rice, Crab rangoon , Peach cobbler, Chicken Kebab, Baklava, Noodles....and many varieties of beer and local wines.

You can get pretty full....and that's not even 1/4 of the foods. We just happen to like all of the above.

We haven't been in a few years. They used to hold it in August when it is 356 degrees in San Antonio but rescheduled it to June. It's still hot, but not killer! The whole event is set up around the Institute of Texan Culture - where they keep the temperature sub-zero! This way you have the option of walking into the ITC and back out into the scorching heat to insure that you develop a case of pneumonia that should kill you!

But is sure is a lot of fun!!

Now...where was I going with this?? Oh yeah...the Tabouli. That's why I like it.

We are watching Support Your Local Gunfighter. Love that James Garner.

And I am drinking tea. I am relaxing. It was a long, busy day. Husband had a very busy day. Lots of phone calls. Most of them with the VA. They are incompetent.

I got rid of quite a few magazines last night. I'll do the same in a few minutes after I take a shower. I am full of dust and dirt. We are almost through remodeling #10. There is a toilet plumbing issue that I refuse to do and we need the furniture back in the room...then I'll take a couple of after photos. We are so busy here that we are doing the minimum on the room so we can be home before 4:00. I refuse to kill myself for this place. I usually have more to do after 4, and that's because I am here. Huge difference.

And no rain yet! Supposedly a 30% chance tonight - 40% chance tomorrow. Who knows.

I think I'll take a shower and go horizontal. Nite!

b

Tom is mad at me

Oh boo hoo!! Here's what happened. There was a hairline crack in a piece of PVC in the hot water line in the bathroom which needed to be fixed. Rather than worry that the door be left open and Tom make the Great Escape...I put him in the bathroom next door. A couple of hours later I went and got him. Needless to say...he was pissed. Really pissed. He hissed and swung at me and continues to do so. Five hours later. Oh well...he'll get over it or he gets no treats from me!! And the hot water line is repaired.

I was very busy last night...downsizing. I threw away one....1....uno....magazine. I was exhausted. I kept three pages. And more than likely, I'll throw them out too. I'll go through quite a few tonight. I have them right here beside me. Ready to toss. I'm trying not to feel guilty about not being crafty. I just don't feel like it. Therefore, I won't do anything. I think I'd either mess something up or not be happy with what I did...so I choose not to make or do anything. Except go through these magazines.

Supposedly the cool/cold front is coming through...tonight!! I'll be the judge of that in the AM. It was a nice day today. I still had sort of a headache, but it has to be the barometric pressure. Yeah...that's it!

There are supposed to be meteor showers tonight/very early in the AM. And there was quite a heavy ring around the moon tonight. To me...that means a snowstorm. But I'm thinking not here...not tonight.

Can you believe it's almost November? That's just crazy. I feel that time is going by so very fast. There is no more catch up time...just making the most of every day...and I'm having a hard time doing that. I used to almost always think at the end of the day...'I'm so glad I got this done today...for me'.  I haven't had those days in a while. I get a lot done...but for the wrong reason.

'Nuff of that! I need to get these magazines taken care of and get some rest. Oh, I think I finally hit the nail on the head. It's not the sleep that I need as much as the rest. I thought they were the same thing....but they are not. Nite...

b

Why does oatmeal make you feel good??

Question of the day!!!

Why does oatmeal make you feel good?? It makes me feel good. I don't know about you. If all fails...eat oatmeal. If there is nothing else good...eat oatmeal. If you need to feel all warm inside...eat chili....then eat oatmeal. I personally like it cooked (of course) with a pat of real butter and a layer of brown sugar...melting...yummmmmy! I also like the instant ones, cinnamon and spice, apples and cinnamon, maple and brown sugar. M-M good!

Have you ever had hot grape nuts? With a little cream and brown sugar? That, too, is very good!

I had a very long day and am very tired. I won't be saying much tonight. I'll be finishing my tea in a few minutes and then nighty nite.

See you tomorrow!

b

Almost Friday

Not like it makes any difference. Every day is just another day. But It's nice to know it will be Friday. Better if it was a payday Friday! Oh well....

We finished the second layer of grout in room #29 today. Not that the whole floor needed it, but sometimes the grout just sinks into the cracks and it looks so much better to re-grout. So we did. We had to replace a lock on the bathroom door in #10, the magnet on the cabinet that houses the fuse box by the mini fridge in the kitchen area, and replace a tile on the floor. We should be done grouting that floor tomorrow and then seal it so we can move the furniture back in by Monday. I'll take after photos...It's been an ordeal.

I got a couple of small mum plants for the party the other night and I need to re-pot them. I have them housed in an open ice chest right now...I seriously need to do this because I am famous for just letting plants sit there until they die. That's why there never was a garden this year (except Francine's herbs). I have too many irons in the fire. And I'm too lazy to water anything.

I MUST work on some stuff tonight. I don't know what yet. I have ignored my craft to-do list because of all that has been going on, so I need to get back on track. I think I should concentrate on felt ornaments. My hands hurt from this tiling and tile cutting and it's hard to crochet. Hell...it will be harder to embroider! I might have to re-think the ornament thing.

We are watching Laredo. I like that series. There is nothing on TV to watch...and these old cowboy series are great. And no commercials!

I took a few Tylenol when I got home and they are kicking in. My neck and shoulders are so stiff, strained and sore.

They are making coffee in the Sheriff's Office in 'Laredo' and that sure sounds good. I love coffee. I just limit myself as the caffeine is not so good for me. But a cup sounds good right now. Especially when I have a head/neck ache. I always drank coffee or Coke when I used to take Excedrin. It makes it work faster. I need to think about this coffee....it really sounds good! 

And...I need to clean this place up. I am looking around and I have a lot of crap I could just go through and throw away. Key words...looking around. Not standing up and doing anything about it! I have too many magazines. And I probably don't need any of them. I know I don't need any of them. Many have just a couple of articles to save and I'd have a whole shelf for more 'important' stuff! I used to get Sothern Living magazine and I really did make a lot of the recipes. Then, I realized that I could buy the Annual Southern Living Cookbook and have them all in 1/4 of the spaces as saving the magazines. Brilliant!

Question of the Day!!!!! Why are there always HUGE rocks strategically placed in the dessert, so when you jump off your horse and are fixin' to have a gunfight you have a place to hide?? Hmmmmmmmmm??? Amazing..............

Have you heard this flap about the Banned Book List? That is also on my list of things to do. Read the top ten. I think I have read them all anyway, but I need to refresh my memory.

I think I'll sign off...I have a few things to do while the sun stills shines...maybe later. Have a nice night!

b

Whew! I'm beat!!

It's been a hellish few days. All of the, I mean, most of the drama is over.

UPDATE!! It seems that everyone likes my hair. Even I like my hair. I'm happy.

The Meet & Greet is over. I was a resounding success. All went well...food was exceptionally good, if I do say so myself (like I cooked it!!)  Husband did a great job. I'll have some photos soon. The beer was very cold!! There were, I believe, 70 people here. The courtyard looked wonderful. It was  great.

Work was OK today. Got lots of loose ends tied up. Some grouting done...hot water is operational...massive water leak under control...a short day, considering. But we are in for another long weekend! Oh well.

I believe we have a cold front coming in. #1 - There are a trillion flies everywhere. #2 - I saw it on the weather channel. Nothing dramatic. I'm glad. Not for the flies. But to possibly get rid of the flies! They are getting quite lethargic...one was actually walking across the floor when I smashed it!

I get more ambition when it's cooler. Maybe I just don't get as tired as fast. I don't know...I just like cooler weather.

I just got an update on the food from BFFMS. She really liked the brisket. I have to agree and I am not a fan of BBQ. Strange huh, since Husband is the aficionado of BBQ! This brisket was melt in your mouth good. Husband is an expert on cooking them...but the brisket has a lot to do with it. These were 14 pounders...and the bigger the brisket...the better the brisket . These were proof positive. Thank you MS...I passed the word on to Husband!

I am getting ready to settle in for the night. Hot tea and me. A shower...hot tea...and me. I am physically worn down and I think an evening with...a couple of Tylenol 12 hour melt the pain out of the old body gel caps...a hot shower...hot tea...and me...will go nite nite. Have a good one!

b

My hair is kind of red...........

No....I say my hair is definitely red. I'll draw the final conclusion in the daylight. Or by the first person who says...Holy SHIT! What did you do to your hair!!

I shall reply "I dyed it red you dumb ass, what does it look like!"

'nough said.  

It was awful today. I hated it. I am still hating it and I have been home for hours. I have been very busy since I got home...aside from dying my hair red. I have been working on the shindig (I like that word) for Tuesday. I have 31 calls to make in the morning. 

Husband has his list of things to get at the grocery store.

Husband, "Do you want to go to the store with me to get this stuff?"

Me, "No."

Husband, "OK...I'll ask Jake."

Me, "OK. Have fun."

That's how to grocery shop. I have enough shit to do. I wrote out the list!

And my hair is red.

Hey...wait a minute! I had a Baby Ruth sitting here a minute ago! Well...almost a whole Baby Ruth. I think Husband ate it while I was looking at my hair!! I haven't had a Baby Ruth in...well...I'm not sure if I have ever had a Baby Ruth, but I had one today. It was given to me by a generous co-worker. I normally eat Pay Days. I know I have mentioned that I'm not all that crazy about chocolate. But guess what. This tastes pretty good! Probably would have tasted better if 'somebody' hadn't taken it!! I'm not supposed to eat it anyway...but nobody was looking! I take that back...someone was!

I need to make a morning list. Not a lot of stuff to do...personal stuff. Like laundry. But I still need a list.

And hang up the flagpole. I'm looking at the flag right now, but I need to put it on my list to take it with me. And the drill...see what I mean?? Miles to go..............

There are 53 days left till the Craft Show. After this shindig on Tuesday I will get back on the ball. 53 days is like 14 days in Brenda's world. It's goes oh so very fast!! It will be fine. I have lots of things done already. Francine...holy shit! I almost forgot about her! She's been so quiet lately. I am thinking about borrowing her straw roll brim hat on Tuesday! I'll swap her out some stuff.

It's almost midnight. I guess I'll go horizontal. Long day tomorrow.

b

Literally....Holy CRAP!!!

That is all you need to know. But I think the problem is solved! Let's put it this way...it better be.

Then, we thought another VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM!! No hot water in 2 units. Do you know why it was serious??? Because it affected ME!!! That my friends, makes it a VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM!!! It was a circuit breaker on the hot water heater itself. That's a first for me. All of the 'other' hot water heaters I have had personal contact with here were not like this one. Lesson learned. Push in button - wait 30 minutes - HOT WATER!!! I love this country!!

Then...well there were a 100 thens. All kinds of shit today. Tomorrow will be the supreme bitch of a day. Oh well. I get paid VERY well. I'm worth it. And I'm not being my usual smart ass. I work very hard. So there.

Guess what? I don't have to make the cupcakes. Someone asked what they could do...so I asked if they wanted to make some politically correct cupcakes...and they said YES!! Goody!!

My Tuesday list is getting shorter. I just have to stay focused.

I really need to put some Nice and Easy #117 on my hair. Maybe tomorrow night. And I really need to get some pants that fit me. Remember that pair of pants I told you I had ordered? Well, I got them...They are long, which is fine, but the waist is a little snug. That's the bad thing about lady's pants. They naturally assume that you have a waist. I think that is a rude assumption! Consequently, I will have to put these pants on very early in the morning before gravity has had a chance to interact with my body mass. It's not pretty. Trust me.

It was 91 degrees today. Didn't expect that. It's so comfortable at night. Cool. Jacket weather.

I'm getting a 'post not saved due to form errors' at the bottom of this thing. I think I publish this so I don't lose it. Might be back later...if not...have a nice evening!

b

OK, I ate some salad and cheesecake...now I need real food

I'm not full...that's for sure, so I'll be thinking about what I really really want to eat while I am writing this.

Let's see....got almost all the floor tiled today. There is a reason we didn't finish. Want to hear it? I had a headache. Not a slammer, but it would have been if I had fired up that tile cutter. Consequently, We only squared off the room. And we are so very busy this weekend, that we may not get back to the room until maybe Monday...possibly Wednesday. I will be very busy on Tuesday with the Meet & Greet and wlll take that day off anyway.

Some of the lights in the trees got hung today...but most of the physical stuff will be done tomorrow and Sunday. I am comfortable that everything is right on schedule. Tough shit if it's not.

Husband has serious back pain, and although we have a new mattress...he just can't get comfortable. So I went on line and researched some of those memory foam pads. There are a lot of them. Various degrees of thickness, weight, volume per pound (go figure)...

I decided on a 3" thick Serta Memory Pad. It had great reviews and an amazing price. It arrived on Tuesday and I put it on the bed immediately. Since I have deep pocket fitted sheets, mine fit the extra height fine.

What a great night's sleep! I thought I was comfortable until I slept on this! Excellent investment. Husband is very pleased.

Jezus Kerist! I just had to go put a doorknob on a door! Don't even start with me...I know...where else would you have put it! Evidently the set screw had backed out and the doorknob just spun around! NOT a good thing!! I found another knob and just replaced it for tonight, but I'll check it tomorrow. That would be unnerving...Not getting in is one thing...not getting out is scary! There is a window...but that wouldn't be my first choice either. And it's 9:00 already!!

It's time to take a shower. I didn't expect the interruption. Sorry. I'll be back tomorrow...

b

Progress - it's a GOOD thing!!

Gosh and golly! I have accomplished a plethora of 'stuff' today! Jobs, chores, working, painting, cutting, sanding, screwing (don't go there) sawing, hammering, cooking... Whew! I'm exhausted!

Seriously, I got lots done today. I feel good about it. We will be tiling the floor tomorrow. What a milestone for us. Not as much got done in assigned jobs...but it's something I have to deal with. I'm not real happy about it.

Husband baked a chicken for supper. I smells wonderful. I made wild rice (hence the cooking).

I ordered a pair of jeans on line and received them today. I may have made a mistake. The waist looks pretty small. I have flab around my waist. Rolls of it. Maybe I can shove it down in the pants...I sure don't want a layer or two hanging over the waistband! Maybe I'll just put them in the drawer. Maybe I should quit the coconut pie and paydays.................pahleeeeze!!

I looked up sanders. I think I'll just get a cheapo hand held orbital style sander for now. I need a belt sander, but it may be a while. First, they are expensive, although worth it...and second, right now I don't really need one that nice. Want it...but don't necessarily need it. I am so backlogged on what I need it for, it will sit next to me for a month before I use it. Maybe I would be inspired if I actually looked at it....something to think about.

It was a beautiful day today. A comfortable chill in the air this morning. Great weather to work in.
I sure hope it holds out through next week. I'm thinking it's supposed to.

Nothing from the VA today. Now remember, they work at their own speed. Husband will ignore them. Not that he would ignore any call because he won't do that...he'll It's because he has a plan for next Tuesday and the closer it gets, the more he won't go to the hospital until after this event. Plus the fact...there is a Monday holiday. Nothing will be scheduled until after then with the VA and it's already Wednesday and these people don't shit in their own nest.

Since the reception on Tuesday is primarily a Democratic party (hey! that was clever!) I think I'll make a sheet cake with a donkey on it...what do you think? And some red, white and blue frosting and little flags!! I love it!! Or maybe just cupcakes...with R,W & B frosting with little flags...Depends on how I feel Monday night. I expect to hear back from some of the 'other' candidates and if anybody offers anything...cupcakes for everyone!! That way I don't have to do anything!

Husband is tormenting the cat. The cat loves it. They are both demented.

My eyes are messed up. I think it stems from working around the paint fumes, sawdust, regular and irregular dust...they itch like crazy and are blurry. I can't stand putting drops in them although that might solve the problem...I am just a chicken.

Well...I have a few things to do. Still have to keep up with a few lists. Have a nice evening.

b

I'm behind schedule for today

In my personal life that is. I got stuff that needed gettin' done...done...last night. But I haven't started my gettin' done stuff for tonight. And I may not. Well...no...well...I don't know...I might. I am just not feeling like doing anything .Period. But I might.

It was another of those, if it can go wrong..it will...days at work. So damn frustrating. And I am already not looking forward to tomorrow. It was physically tiring today. I guess that's why I am just sitting here tonight.

I have several letters to get out tomorrow regarding the Meet & Greet. Out of towners.

I sorry, I just have to lie down for a while. Can't promise I'l be back tonight. Bye!

b

Coconut Cream Pie

I had a piece of coconut cream pie tonight. It was delicious. Better than yogurt. (And it was a big piece!)

Moderately busy today. I was home early enough to get quite a few things accomplished. I have a bit more to finish tonight and I will be right on track. It's the 'just a week left' until the Meet and Greet for Hector Uribe. We decided today that the food would be Russ' BBQ with all the fixin's.

I plan things backwards. My calendar starts with Tuesday October 12 from 4-7. That's when the party starts.

Since I can never remember anything...Did I mention that we are having a M&G for Hector? He's a friend of ours who is the  'Democrat for Texas Land Commissioner' candidate. He and his main squeeze, Pamela (Pia) who is a dear friend of ours will be coming down on Monday for the M&G on Tuesday. I, the hostess with the most-ess, have sent out press releases and invitations (hence the stuff I have been working on) and will have my email and phone campaign launched on Wednesday. There may be 20 people here...there may be 200. Who knows...but it will be fun. I'm sure there will be 'film at 11'.

Husband spoke with the VA today...who assured him they would be back in touch with him before the day was out. Guess what!! You guessed it! Nothing! As in 'no phone call'. He will call again tomorrow. He is still wearing his hospital bracelets.

When I talked with Pia today regarding food to serve she said we could just do the cold cuts in case Husband was in the hospital. She didn't want him stressed over this.I told her that he would more than likely be here...and it was a week away. And he had already made the commitment. That's how he is.

He thrives on cooking and planning and is good at it. I know I have mentioned that he has a couple of young men that assist him in everything and they enjoy being part of Husband's team and participating in the festivities. I really appreciate them. But between you and me, if they tell Husband to be in any hospital this week...he will go. I can handle this reception and he needs to take care of this situation ASAP.

They just had somebody eating this massive New York style cheesecake on TV. Doesn't that sound good??

Well...I have a few things to do before I sleep. Busy day tomorrow. Several things to finish up so we can start tiling the floor. Oh happy day...Nite!

b

I am sad today

I went to work. Extraordinarily depressing. Then Husband called to tell me that our horse had died during the night. This made me so sad.

His name is King and he was born with us. He was 30 years old. I will no doubt refer to him as 'is' and 'was' forever. He was a beautiful paint horse. I'll find a photo of him and post it one of these days. We have a young man who feeds for us and he called Husband around noon and told him he had found King this morning when he went out to check on the horses. Evidently, King had just laid down and went to sleep. Husband took care of everything and brought me some of King's mane and tail hair. I have been going down memory lane thinking about him all day.

And now...here is a photo of Tom...being taunted by Husband. With his own whisker. Well, he shouldn't leave them hanging around! Right back atcha Tom! He has been all over us since we got home. Even me! Normally, Tom is Husband's cat. Never leaves his side and keeps asking to be tormented. I, on the other hand, am his meal ticket. His yogurt ticket. His clean cat box ticket. But today when I came home from work, I became really tired. (A good escape route when you don't want to think about stuff) So I took a nap. I must have really out because Husband said..."I was trying to keep Tom away from you while you were asleep".

I said..."Oh thanks, but I never felt him."

"Really?"...Husband said, " He was licking your face!!!"

HORRORS!!!!

"No shit? I never felt it!" I said.  I'm thinking I was really asleep.

It smells good in here. Husband is making some BBQ sauce. I think if it as 'dipping sauce'. A couple of pieces of bread...a bowl of sauce...doesn't get any better than that!

Have you ever tried Lean Pockets? I had never had one until tonight. It was the Turkey, Broccoli and Cheese one. I mean two. I ate them both. There was 800 mg of sodium. Total. Not good...but not bad I don't think. I have definitely eaten worse. Actually I ate worse earlier. I ate Ruffles (ummm...Ruffles Lightly Salted, I might add) and Green Onion Dip. Made me full.

I have several things I really need to do tonight which earlier I didn't think I was going to get done...but I have changed my mind. It must have been the nap.

I have to give Tom some yogurt now. He's giving me the very evil eye. See ya later.

b

We are home...nuts to the VA

Suffice it to say...it was not the best of visits to the VA. Normally, I don't go with Husband and he (pretty much) always comes home with nothing done. I wasn't quite that way this time, but pretty much.

We got there Thursday evening, ate dinner, checked into the hotel and watched TV. Up at 6:30 to go to the hospital for blood draw and 'prep'. The hospital called (while we were there...) to let Husband know that there was a cancellation and he could come on in. He told them he was already here and was in Ambulatory Surgery waiting for the DR to come back in!.

"(Ha Ha!) OK, well...thanks!! We'll see you, then!!

Now...let me interject this...(sorry Mumsy) I am going to copy most of the email I sent to her last night so I don't have to write t all over again...here goes....

I am in the waiting room. Husband walks by and goes to the Radiology Dept. They hadn't done the correct x rays, and needed them now. The Tech said she couldn't do anything until 3:30!! They were packed.


By now, I am standing there and said...so what will happen after 3:30. It's Friday! Who is taking care of this? She calls back over to the 'prep' area and talks to the DR and explains this to him. He says, I don't need and x-ray...I need an ultrasound to determine the density of the mass. We (I went this time) went back to see the DR...and he says...I need to draw the fluid from the 'soft mass' but it's behind the 'firm mass' and I have to see what I have to work with.


The 'Tech' comes in and says she can do the ultrasound right now if he wants it and will he be in there to view it so they don't have to do whatever they do that takes extra time to process it. He says...definitely...so Russell goes in for the ultrasound.


The DR is in there with RC, and he comes out to tell me that he, personally, will not be able to remove the 'hard mass' because of it's location and the soft mass must be biopsied and drained. By now it's 2:00 and he is determining what's what.


He goes back to his office area and comes out say that he wants Russell to have the mass drained...OK...and he will send the biopsy to MD Anderson in Houston. He agrees that ALBUQ is not the place for the 'hard mass' to be removed, but will set it up.


I asked him...so we came here for what? He says...I thought I was going to be able to just make an incision and remove the mass. Unfortunately, there is more to it than that. He said he was not capable of that particular surgical procedure and was not comfortable doing it, primarily because of the location.


I asked what was next. He said he would draw the fluid, now, send it off and set up a surgery appt. I know Russell was frustrated and pissed. I told this DR that Russell had gone through this same bunch of bullshit so many times that he may not come back. He explained that this mass really needed to come out and he was sorry that RC was being sent here and there but he would make it happen. I told him he better make it happen pretty damn quick.


They drew out fluid and put in a drain tube that will stay in until the surgery. We didn't get out of there until 5:45.


Now I understand and know how he feels when they send him home. I can't even blame the DR as he really didn't know what he was looking at until he saw the ultrasound. I asked if we should have had it done a few days ago, and he said no, as the mass(es) change daily.

I am so frustrated for Husband, but rest assured I will be on the phone Monday morning with somebody. Perhaps Husband will end up in Houston, I just don't know.

That was it in a nutshell. 

Question of the day...What DID get done while we were gone??

I crocheted 5 (count 'em...5!) hats!!  And we got some goldfish for the fountain...Yippee!!

I can honestly say it was good to get away from here. Everytime we leave, I just don't want to come back to work. I have lots of irons in the fire right now and will be very busy for the next two weeks....and this is stuff that I really enjoy doing! Working is hindering my 'things to do!'!!

We just had company for a couple of hours, which was enjoyable...but I have several things to finish tonight...it's on the lost...and if I don't get them done...well, you know the drill...I will be behind and do NOT want to try to catch up tomorrow. 

It's been a tiring time so I'll close and get my 'today' stuff done. Thanks for letting me vent...

b