An Inspiration

For the past few months, I've been busy with some tasks including seeing new doctors etc. I have several drafts to finish to share with you.

In the meantime, I read this in my church bulletin and thought I'd share.

Dear God,

I did not sleep well last night
But I did wake up this morning.

My muscles are sore
But they do still function.

My wallet isn't full
But my belly is.

I do not have all that I want
But I do have all that I need.

My life is not perfect.
But my life is very good.

Thank you for all of your blessings to make it so.

Amen.

Thanks for dropping by..Until next time...be thankful for all you have.

Crawfish Surprise Recipe

Before I get into the good stuff I want to apologize to those who have commented on my recent posts and I have not replied. For whatever reason, I am no longer getting an email saying I have a comment.  I'm trying to figure it out. 

Now on to the good stuff.

Years ago, one of my daughter's friend made this recipe and it was so delicious but I never got around to cooking it until last week. OMG! 

Warning: If you are on a diet or have high cholesterol I would eat this in moderation!

As promised to some of you here is the recipe.

Ingredients:

1 stick of butter.    

2 packs of crawfish

1/2 onion, diced

1/2 bell pepper, diced

Garlic powder (The friend didn't write how much). I just did two shakes.

1 Can of mushroom soup.

Package of broad egg noodles.

A cooking spoon of sour cream. (You can leave out if you don't like it)

Creole seasoning to taste. (I use Tony's Chachere's but I'm sure salt and pepper will suffice)

Block of Velveeta cheese. I used 16 oz.

Directions:

1)  Melt the stick of butter in pan.

2). Add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until translucent

3)  Add crawfish. Stir and wait until it heats up.

4) Meanwhile, start the water for noodles. Add butter or oil to prevent sticking. Cook noodles according to the package.

5)  When crawfish is warm, add mushroom soup, seasonings, sour cream and garlic powder.

6) Add one cup of cheese and let melt before you add another piece of cheese. Continue to add as much as desired.

7) When noodles are done, drain. Mix with crawfish mixture in pot. Stir and serve. Enjoy.

Until next time...pray for all those people who are experiencing all the disasters with floods and fires.





Word count 222 words

What Is Clonus? PT Graduation!!!

All of my life, I have been able to put my foot a certain way on the floor and my leg will shake up and down continously. When I put my foot flat or stand up it stops. I have control of it starting and stopping at will. ] It's not because of nervousness. It actually feels good.

However, I can see how it is involuntary because when I start it just goes until I stop it. I cannot just shake my leg that fast without putting my foot in that position. So I guess in that case I guess the action could be involuntary.

For six weeks during PT (Physical therapy) clonus would begin when I was struggling and straining to do an exercise.

The first time my PT, Monica  saw me do it voluntarly she told me not to do that and she put a name to it, Ankle Clonus. I informed her I do it all of the time. She told me to stop it and that it tightens my tendons. I told her I've been doing this for over 40+ years and I've seen no adverse effects.

I became curious and googled clonus. There are several different definitions but this video pretty much explains it. It is short and sweet.

They didn't mention it occurs with people with spastic cerebral palsy. I disagree that I cannot control it, because for the most part I do most of the time.

On Health line.com the site states there is a problem with the electrical pathway involved in muscle movement.

Conditions that can lead to clonus is cerebral palsy, stroke, muscular dystrophy etc.

Spasticity often occurs with clonus. I have spastic and ataxic cerebral palsy. It involves long-term muscular tightness. That describes me.

I found my last orthopedist report from 1983 down below.  It shows as you can read that I had unsustained clonus in the ankles and it has been present for a long period of time. In my mind, the report proves my point that the ankle clonus is not doing me any harm.

I remember as a little girl when I went to church and sat between my parents, I would rock side to side and/or start the clonus. One of them would always put their hand on my leg for me to stop it because it was making the pew shake or the rat-a-tat-tat noise would echo.

My Hubby sometimes does the same especially in church, if someone is in the same pew as us. My point of view is if the people don't like it they can go sit elsewhere. I do stop if it makes noise.

i am ecstatic to inform you that I have graduated from PT. YEA!

PT Certiticate 

Until next time...remind someone you love that you love them.






Word Count 467 words

Cops Need Better Hand Signals

This morning I was driving from the church in my small town of about 1000 following an elderly lady. There's a stop sign at an intersection of the main highway. Most people just slow down and then go. There should be a yellow light. 

Anyway, the lady in front of me just slowed down at the stop sign and turned. I admit I yielded a little more and turned following her going the same direction. As we got on the highway a cop put on his lights and got in front of me so I assumed he was only stopping the elderly lady. She turned left off to a little road. He put his hand out waving forward so I thought he was letting me pass and started to pass when he half blocked me with his car pointing to where the lady was. So I turned on the same road. 

He went to the elderly lady and was talking to her.  Then another cop arrives. This female cop came to me after talking to the male cop saying that he stopped me because I didn't stop at the stop sign. I admitted I didn't stop and just mentioned I was coming from the church following the lady. She asked which church. I told her. She said to stay put until the other cop comes talk to me.

So I retrieved my driver's license, insurance and registration. He finally finishes with the elderly lady and he comes to me and informs that I did not stop at the stop sign and trying to pass him when he was saying to stop was not safe nor legal. I did not argue with him. He said he was going get information and be right back.

As I waited I started thinking of his hand gestures. His hand gesture was waving me forward not to turn. I was behind him so how am I supposed to know he was stopping both of us? I contemplated if I was going to point that out or if he gave me a ticket for that I would just accept it and pay the fine for the not stopping but I would fight the other one he would come up with.

He finally returns and I immediately asked him if I could say something? He said yes. I explained to him that his hand gestures made me believe he was motioning for me to pass him. I was not trying to pass him and get away. He said, "Okay. That's fine. I'm just giving you a warning, it won't be in the system or anything. After signing the warning, he told me to keep safe and have a blessed Happy Memorial weekend.  I reciprocated.

Notice, he did not give me a response to my comment in regards his hand gestures.

I was shaken, upset and angry. It just irritated me that he accused me of trying to pass him. I made it home cried my frustration to my sick husband. (Please pray that nasty illness he has goes away soon and doesn't transfer to me just as bad.)

I am thankful that I was only given a warning. 

It's crazy, the one time I go without Hubby to mass in a very long time I get stopped by a cop.

Until next time.....when you come to a stop sign, STOP. Have a safe and blessed Memorial Weekend.

P.S. I didn't forget about the post on Clonus. Working on it.




word count 582

Physical Therapy

I went for my follow-up two weeks ago with my Neurologist Neurologist Nurse Practitioner. She started asking me questions. Most of the answers were on my chart. Anyway, she said they were concerned about my falling and balance. I reminded her that before and after the Ritalin and Welbutrin, I didn't fall a lot and my balance, well I have Cerebral Palsy. DUH! (Okay, I left out the duh verbally.)

She insisted I see a Physical Therapist to help with my balance, get orthotics and some kind of percussion vest since I have a history of pneumonia.  I haven't had pneumonia in ages. Probably because I take the pneumonia shot. So to make her happy I agreed to be evaluated by the PT.

The staff and PT were awesome. However, when the PT came get me she was walking behind me with her arms out on both sides of me to catch me if I fell. It made me uncomfortable. I told her don't do that. She said, "I just want to catch you if you fall." I asked her to stop and told her if I fell I would just get back up. She backed off a little.

I really like my PT and I know she was just concerned.

After a slew of questions, she tested me. I laughed at some things and I have to admit I gave her trouble until she told me she was testing my balance and risk of falling. 

Here are a few tests of many: 

She made me stand up from sitting with and without the support of my hands  I was able to stand with support no problem. Without using my hands I did it but it was unstable. No surprise to me.  Sometimes if I stand up from my couch or bed I'll fall back down two or three times until I finally find my balance.

She made me stand with my feet close together and stay still. I was not to move. That was a challenge because I kept moving. I would sway. Then I had to do it with my eyes closed. That was funny but it makes you realize how important your sight is to balance. I kept swaying.

Another test was walking up steps. There were three steps. She told me to walk up the steps without holding the rail. Yikes! I felt iffy but determined. I went up one step fumbled, regained my balance and walked up the other and so on with same results. Then she told me to walk down the steps. That was fairly easy. Of course, when I got down to the bottom and stopped I woobled but I didn't' fall.

I had to stand up and lift each leg. That was hilarious. That didn't go so well but I didn't fall.

She told me my ankle tendons were tight and could be a factor in my balance. "SIGH" When I was a child I had the surgery to lengthen the tendons to loosen them.

I was sitting while she was putting things in the computer. All of my life I have been able to put my foot a certain way on the floor and my leg will shake. I can stop it anytime I want.  It's not because I'm nervous, it's just something I've done all my life. It is sorta habit sometimes but it feels good.

She informed me it was clonus and not do that. My next post will be about that subject and I promise it will be very soon.

All in all, she said I was at Medium risk for falling. Actually, I thought it would be high.  She suggested I visit her twice a week for six weeks. I grudgingly agreed.

Today is the end of my second week. I realize I can walk backward. Slowly and carefully. PT has benefited me a little. Most of it I think that it just been my life for 55 years. But I understand that since I'm older (If I hear that word one more time I'm gonna scream!) I'm prone to broken bones or serious injury if I do fall. It's frustrating to hear professionals tell me what they THINK they know about me. They just read the paperwork, if they actually DO read it, that I have Cerebral Palsy. They assume things because I have CP that doesn't pertain to me.

I was so tired last week because I was running around working on another project plus PT. I'm not used to being on the go 2-3 times a week. Last week was 4 days.

I will fulfill my promise I'll go six weeks but I will be done. I may take some exercises to strengthen my muscles etc but I shall go along with my life like I've always done.

Oh! My PT didn't think I needed a vest. Thank you very much! I already have orthotics in my shoes. They asked if I had any assistive devices. I told them I had walker from surgery but it is in my junk room.  I refuse to get any canes or other things like that. Now if they suggest a scooter to go around the yard I would certainly go for that but she said no.

Until next time, tell someone you love them.

Word count: 888

Team Effort

In December, I received a letter from Medicare that they would no longer pay for Nuvigil or Provigil for me because I did not have narcolepsy, shift work sleep apnea or obstructive sleep apnea.

I have taken this drug for many years to help with my excessive daytime sleepiness.

I went through the appeal process but I was denied every time. My pulmonologist who is also certified in sleep disorders also wrote a letter to Medicare and they continued to deny it.

I went 2 weeks without my medication and I was listless, sleepy, unfocused, depressed and in a fog. I looked online to see if I could get help but I did not qualify. I searched a few online pharmacies but I was afraid to trust them and sometimes the cost was just as expensive.

In the meantime, I went to my family doctor for leg cramps. If you've been a follower you know I have spastic/ataxic cerebral palsy. If you have just begun following me, well now you know. 😃 I've dealt with cramps all my life. However, they have become worse to where it nearly made me cry. Cramps would wake me up and had sleepless nights walking them out during the night. I had been on Xanax for years for cramps but they obviously stopped working. She did blood work and my electrolytes and iron were abnormal so she had me drinking Gatorade and taking iron pills. But cramps continued although follow up blood work showed potassium and electrolytes were fine.

I also mentioned to her about my dilemma with my excessive daytime sleepiness medication. She referred me to a neurologist who also specializes in sleep disorders. It was a few weeks to wait for my appointment.

In desperation, I went to my pharmacy and asked if they could help me in decreasing the price from $600/month until I saw the neurologist. They sympathized with me and they gave me a really nice discount. I thanked them graciously but I did not want to put them in a hole either. They are a  Good Neighbor Pharmacy in my small little town. I actually cried when they told me the special price for me.  I thanked them and told them they had no idea how appreciative and thankful I was. The assistant came and hugged me and said it was okay. That's what they were there for, to help customers.

You would never get that from chain pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens or Walmart.

When my neurologist appointment finally arrived I liked him and his staff immediately. They were proficient, nice and understanding.

He prescribed Valium at night for my cramps. He said he gave it to his patients with Cerebral Palsy with cramps like I do. Thank God it worked. My cramps are a lot less.

He started me on Ritalin for the excessive daytime sleepiness. It worked some but after 3 hours I crashed and it zapped my appetite. I made myself eat but I was beginning to lose weight.  I had worked so hard to get to 90 lbs. I struggled for 1 month or so. It just wasn't working for me.

I called his office and he changed the Ritlan to Wellbutrin. Although Wellbutrin is mainly used for depression it does help some people suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness.

Not me! Ironically, I became depressed. I felt that black hole swallowing me up. I was sleepy and felt useless all of the time. I was also falling and my balance was worse. I tried for a few months before I called the neurologist again because I know some medications take a while to get into your system.

Although I felt like a pest, I notified his office. They were concerned with my depression and falling as was my husband. As I waited for a callback, I decided to make a Plan B for in case they couldn't help me.

I contacted my pharmacy again and asked them what would be the maximum price they could give me without putting themselves in the hole selling me the Provigil without insurance. I was thinking I could handle up to $150. It would be tight but it would be worth it. They gave me a very nice price I could work with. Bless their hearts.

A few hours later my doctor's nurse called and said they called Medicare and they approved it. A few minutes later my pharmacy called and said it was approved. I thanked them and told them I appreciated the hard work they did. When I went to pick up my medication I hugged the pharmacist. They told me it was a team effort with the doctor and them. About 4 days later I received a letter from Medicare stating that the drug has been approved and the prior authorization is good until 2019, then it will have to be prior authorized again. 

The day I took my Provigil I became myself again. I am functional, not falling, alert, awake and happy.

I'm trying to think of what I could give to my pharmacist and neurologist and staff as a token of appreciation for their hard work and team effort. I know they say it is their job and it is what they're there for but I want to show them how appreciative and thankful I am. I'm thinking of a small fruit basket with a thank you note. Everyone should like fruit right? 

Do you have any other suggestions?

Thanks for still following my inconsistent blog. I do appreciate all of you.

Until next time...Be thankful for your health and the medical team who cares for you!




828 words

Yoga

Hello everyone!

I don't think I've written this year. Sorry about that.  I was going through medical issues (like that is anything different ha!), my meds had to be changed and I don't think the new meds are working after second switch.

Anyway, I've been wanting to do yoga for a while.  I did yoga many years ago but then I moved and couldn't find anything that fitted my budget, convenient time and close to my home.

At the beginning of the year I have been searching and I found one. It is about 24 miles in a little town called Breaux Bridge. The price I can handle and there was an 8:30 am session. I emailed the owner telling her my limitations and inquired if I should try the 8:30 am one which is called Slow Flow Yoga. In the description it says it is intermediate/advanced but beginners are welcome. They provided mats. At this point I'm just paying per session.

My sister and mother goes to yoga in my childhood home town and she said theirs were cheaper but others she talked to was like mine and varied. I looked at many yoga places and the prices are outrageous and the times sucked.

Today, I went to my first session. The instructor Raven was really nice. I giggled in my head when she said to wiggle my toes or roll my feet. It just won't happen. Some movements were hard to do
because of my pins in my legs and neck. Some I couldn't do but I just did the best I could.

Although I'm a little sore I feel better. She said the schedule changes monthly so that might be a problem for me but I'm optimistic. If I continue to go I will improve. Of course with my spasticity it may take a little longer but I will get better as I continue.

I have so much more to write about other things. I'm trying folks.

Until next time ponder this quote from the movie "Wonder", now my favorite movie of all time, because I relate to his experiences being "different' from others.

Who is it that I aspire to be? That is the question that we should be asking ourselves all the time. 
                                                                                                                       Mr. Browne

Movies I Watched Lately.

Unless you've been under a rock lately the new Star Wars movie is in theaters. 

I've watched all of the Star War movies. The first one premiered in 1977. I went with friends, although Sci-Fi movies are not my favorite movies. It seemed everyone wanted to watch it so the curiosity got the best of me.

Through the years I watched every one of them. Not necessarily when they came out but I eventually saw all of them.

I found out really quick that MyHubby was into Star Wars and Star Trek so I've gone alone with him to watch them. In return he endures the Chick flics I like to watch. (Its really not that bad for me Ha)

Yesterday, we went see Star Wars: The Last Jedi. I get confused who is who. What can I say? I am getting old. At least I know who the main characters are, right?  I like the story line and the fighting etc. But what I love the most are the cute characters: 

BB-8

C-3PO

R2-D2

Wise Sweet Yoda

Chewbacca

PORG

Last week or so we watched Wonder on KODI. It is a heart warming story based on a best seller book of the same name about a young boy with facial differences called Treacher Collins Syndrome.  He is the sweetest and smartest little boy who can be an inspiration to us all. I think every kid should see this movie as well as adults.  This is my kind of movie!

Auggie, the boy is played by Jacob Tremblay. Julia Roberts plays the mother, Isabel. Owen Wilson plays Auggie's father Nate and his sister is Via played by Isabel Vidovic.

Some of my favorite quotes (and there are many) from WONDER the movie are:

“You’re going to feel like you’ve all alone but you’re not.” – Nate

"If you don’t like where you are, picture where you want to be.” – Auggie

"When given the choice between being right or kind, choose kind.” – A precept taught by Mr. Browne in class

"You are not ugly Auggie… Because I’m your mom it counts the most because I know you the most.” – Isabel

"You can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.” – Auggie’s sister Via, played by Isabel Vidovic (The sister was so awesome saying that.)

"We all have marks on our face.  This is the map that shows where we’ve been and it’s never, ever ugly.” – Isabel

What evil man created dodgeball?” – Auggie    (I so can relate to him on this)

I don't want to overwhelm you with ALL the quotes I love. I may make a full list on another page.

Have you watched either of these movies? What do you think about them? Out of thee quotes does one speak to you?

Thanks for dropping by..

Merry Christmas!!

Until next time....be kind

Here's a Little Inspiration: Explore Your Faith For Any Religion

I found this in Acadiana Catholic booklet. BUT you do NOT have to be Catholic to get something out of this. Please read and share your thoughts. It was sponsored by a local dentistry. I think Christmas time is 

Explore Your Faith

I am flat broke from overspending at Christmas time, but I need to go shopping again soon because I am completely out of self-respect.  I've said things I wish I could take back and I am not feeling too good about myself.

I also want to exchange a cart of self righteousness for an equal amount of humility. I hear that it is less expensive and wears well,  and while I'm at it I'm going to check on tolerance and see if there is any available in my size.

I must remember to try to match my patience with the little I have left. My neighbor is loaded with it and it looks awfully good on her. I was told the same department has a repair shop. for mending integrity. Mine has become frayed around the edges from too much compromise.  If I don't get it refurbished soon. there won't be any left.

I almost forgot the most important thing of all-- compassion. If I see some, no matter what the color, size or shape I'm going to stock up heavily regardless of the price.  I have run out of it so many times and I always feel ashamed when it happens.

I don't know why it has taken me so long to get around the shopping for these items. They don't cost nearly as much as some of the  frivolous things  I've bought for Christmastime, and I'll get a lot more satisfaction from them.

Yes, I'm going shopping today, and I can leave my checkbook and credit cards at home. The things I'm looking for have no price tags--what a joy.

I love this. I think it sends s a great message. 

Do you have any inspiration quotes, poems or thoughts? I'd love to hear.

Until next time...during the season of excitement waiting for Jesus'   birthday when you pass someone as you shop, say Merry Christmas and smile!

Cold Weather Has Arrived. Ugh.

The cold is here and it is yucky. I live in Southern Louisiana so it is not as cold as some of you.  

For in case you don't know Southern Louisiana's weather is weird. It can be sunshine in one area and one mile away it could be raining. 

Yesterday, as I walked out the door it was in the 80's and cloudy. We did have high rain percentages but in the afternoon so I was hoping and praying I would make it home before. That wasn't the case. 

I had to travel to my childhood hometown, of New Iberia 45 minutes away. Half way, in Broussard I stopped to have my hair cut at my niece's shop. She is awesome. Since I know some of you live around here I'll give my niece a free ad. She owns Salon Muse In Broussard on Albertson Parkway. She has a Facebook page. So if you need a hair cut I highly recommend her. Not because she is my niece, but because she is good at what she does.  If you need the phone number message me and I'll give it to you.

Then I made my way to my destination, New Iberia. I went to the Rosary House. I've wanted a Nativity Scene for ages. I decided it was the time. It's a table top one.  I'll be sure to post a picture.

It was time for my GI appointment. The PA stated my residual symptoms of the gastroenteritis could be from my gallbladder. I'm waiting for my appointment to do an ultrasound of my gallbladder.

After my appointment  I was making my way back home to my little hick town that I love. About 5 minutes driving on the interstate, it started raining Two miles further it abruptly stopped. However, about 20 miles later rain resumed and it got a lot worse as I went along.  At the busiest area I could hardly see but there was this one particularly moron going 50 miles an hour weaving in and out of traffic. He nearlyclipped me and ran a woman off the road. We both honked our horns and made gestures at him.   It was stressful.

.Luckily, I wore a long sleeve shirt although it was in the 80's. According to the meteorologist the temperature dropped 30 degrees in 6 hours. It was windy and cold. The next few days more rain and colder is to come. They also say we may get few sleet pellets and snowflakes but it won't accumulate. Thank God. 

I was watching a video of a family who lives in UTAH and they have snow. It is beautiful and so serene but I wouldn't want to live in it.

Until next time...stay safe and warm

Thanks for dropping by!

Gastroenteritis Sucks!

HI EVERYONE!

It's been a rough few weeks. I couldn't get rid of a urinary tract infection.  Then when I finally conquered that something else came up. Tis my life. Sigh.

This may be too much information but it is my life. For the past 2 months, after supper I have had excessive gas. I mean it started from the time after I ate until the time I went to bed. Passing gas is usually normal so I was kinda excited. On the other hand, deep down something was telling me it was an aura of something big coming. 

I was right.  

Wednesday before Thanksgiving diarrhea and cramping started. The cramping had me folded over. The diarrhea was so bad I had a thought of just getting a book, a footstool and sit on the toilet because I was going that often 

Regardless, I had a nice Thanksgiving. I didn't eat a lot because I knew the cramps would come. 

Friday after Thanksgiving, my reflux began and nausea was setting in. Nausea alarms me because when I start vomiting I'm prone to dehydration and weight loss. Of course, my GI doctor and regular doctor was off for the long weekend.😧

So I made my way to Urgent care. Evidently, no one could get to their doctor that day. There was a 2-1/2 hour wait  but actually I was in there for four. The Nurse practitioner said it sounds like I had gastroenteritis. He didn't want to give me anything for the diarrhea because of my history of constipation. I tended to agree with him. So he told me to drink 40 oz of Pedialyte per day and eat 3 crackers every hour.  (This was something new I've never been told to do in such detail.) He also gave me Zofrain for nausea. Zofrain rocks because it rids of the nausea without putting you to sleep.

The diarrhea finally stopped Friday night. But the cramps were horrendous. I suffered through the weekend. 

Monday, I finally talked to my GI doctor's office. He is in my childhood hometown 50 miles away except Thursday's when he comes to a city 10 minutes from home. After emphasizing my dilemma to the unsympathetic receptionist she said if I wanted an appointment at the office near here they could take me DECEMBER 21. I told her there would be no way I could wait until then. So she said the earliest at the other office she could put me Dec 5th. I grudgingly took the appointment. 

Tuesday, I called my GP and they took me that day.  ALLELUIA! Her diagnosis was same as urgent care. Except she gave me 3 days of Zithromycin to hopefully kill the bug and Carafate to take three times a day to coat my stomach. After taking the first dose Zithromycin I felt so much better two hours later I am able to eat a little better. I'm still queasy sometimes and my GERD is acting up but I can handle it. I get a cramp here and there. I continue to have gas.

I will keep my appointment with my GI doctor although I KNOW I will not see him. I only see him for procedures. I see the Nurse Practitioner who acts like a Robotic PDR (Physician's Desk Reference). I keep thinking I need to change and I had tried one once and that was a fiasco.

By the way, Tuesday Urgent Care called to see how I was doing. That was nice.

So there it is...reason why I disappeared again.

Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time.... be thankful for your health

Dr Rob's Bomb

When it comes to my medical needs I hate change. I had been going to my GP, Dr Rob, for over 18 years. He was down to earth, unlike many stuffy doctors. He is patient, understanding and thinks outside the box. He saw me go through a lot of changes in my life, a lot of ugly but some good too. I say he saved my life going beyond his duty. I will always be grateful and thankful

The past few years I heard his frustration with dealing insurances etc. He was stressed. I knew a change was coming but not what it actually was.

He told me on a visit that he would be changing course in his practice. He will be joining a network called MDVIP.  It's a Wellness Program that is personalized to the patient. It's focus is preventive care. The amount of patients he will have would be much less, from 3000 to 300. But it is also VIP care. You call, you get to talk to him to name one. .There's also a yearly fee. You can read the details at https://www.mdvip.com/patients/benefits/annual-wellness-program.

He said he didn't want to seem like he was throwing me under the boss and wasn't sure if I would benefit from it with all my medical issues but we could try. He gave me a whole bunch of information and I had a few months to think about it.

I walked out of the office angry, sad, frustrated and scared. I cried the 45 minutes to get to my house.

I read over the benefits and talked it over with my Hubby. I was terrified because what if I can't get a doctor that understands me? What if I can't get someone that LISTENS to me and respects my knowledge of my body and illnesses?

I wrote down the pros and cons. I pondered if I wanted to pay the yearly fee plus what I pay for my Medicare. I was in limbo. 

I thought if I got a new doctor, it would be much closer. I drove 45 minutes one way to see Dr Rob. I contemplated whether I wanted to try a female or male doctor. I had a few months to figure it out.

God answers in mysterious ways.

I was sitting in my eye doctor's office one day and was reading a local independent paper. There was a huge ad that a physician's office was accepting new patients. It was a husband and wife clinic only 10 miles away.

I made an appointment to interview her.  I was anxious because I know I'm not an ordinary patient. MyHubby came with me. She was thorough. I felt comfortable with her. I'm staying with her.

Dr Collins is a petite blond who reminds me so much of my daughter (when she had her blond hair). I didn't scare her with all the multiple problems I have so that was a plus. 

I'm trying to word this next thing I want to say. I'm just going to say. . I love Dr. Rob and he has done so much for me. However, after seeing Dr Collins and what her plan is I think she will be doing a similar thing that Dr Rob changed to without the extra cost. S

When I went to Dr Rob, we only dealt with the acute problem and there were so many at one time.. With Dr Collins she went through whether or not a list of preventive tests, such as mammogram, colonoscopy etc was done. I have a feeling she will be helping me keep up to date with them.

So far, the staff is great. They are all friendly and helpful. Some of Dr Rob's staff I just wasn't comfortable with. 

It was such a relief that I found her. Oh and for a bonus,  her office is less than 10 minutes away. Yea! 

I wish Dr Rob success in his new journey.

God answers prayers

Until next time...call a friend you haven't talked to for a while to say hello.

The Big 55

Today is my birthday! I'm the Big 55. I have been reflecting on my life. I guess birthdays do that to you.

I am so blessed to have a family and friends that I have. Everyone is awesome.

I think I say this every year but I'm amazed that I'm still here. I guess God is not ready for me. I'm okay with that.

Hubby had to work but he left a bag of Dove's chocolate covered fruit and a beautiful card.  Did you get the CHOCOLATE part?  I LOVE chocolate! He is also bringing supper home. No cooking is a gift in itself! 😊

My parents called and sang Happy Birthday to me and sent me a card. My sister sent me a a birthday wish via email and card snail mail.

My daughter posted a FB b'day wish and I get to see her for lunch Thursday. YAY!

Speaking of Facebook. I have received so many Happy Birthday wishes. It makes me smile and my heart sing that everyone took one minute out of their day to wish me a Happy Birthday. Thank you! I'm trying to respond to each one individually.

As mentioned on previous birthdays I share my birthday with my Uncle. I don't know why he made it his business to come into this world on my birthday a few years later. You know I love you (Uncle) Robert.

A childhood friend, Gwendolyn who also shares my birthday is celebrating with the angels. She is gone physically but always here in my heart. I love you Gwen and Happy Birthday.

I've been tweaking this blog. Changed font colors and a little layout. If you have any suggestions or comments about it please share.

Until next time..tell the people you love that you love them.

Can't Get Rid of Me Yet

Hi My Faithful Followers,

I know I have not been consistent. It seems that I say this every time. I promise my intentions are good. I've been seeing visits on my FB blog page. I thought how I feel when I go to a site and there is nothing there. Guilt seeped in as well. So I don't know how long this will last but just know I appreciate all of you.

Here is a summary of what has been going on in my crazy cajun life.

I went to my surgeon hoping I would be discharged in August. I wasn't. It's been over a year. My swallowing is better. My throat still feels weird sometimes but maybe that'll pass too.  The pain in my neck and legs are gone and that's the most important thing!

Then somehow I sprained my foot. I think I have a clue but nothing definitive.  I figured it'll heal so I hobbled on the other foot with my walker I had from surgery. Thank God I kept the walker. That was a mistake because it aggravated the other ankle. I had a hard time getting around.  After 3 weeks of frustration I finally went to the doctor.

Here's something to think about.  When I went to Dr. L for my neck the first time, he sent me to the surgeon, Dr B. When I called for an appointment for my ankle asking for Dr K, the receptionist said that the doctors have their own area of expertise. So off I went to see Dr C in the same clinic. Then Dr C sent me to Physical therapist B, again in the same clinic.

I had to pay an initial visit for every one of them although they are still in the same office. I guess it's logical but they could have given me a discount. Wouldn't you agree? I'm sure they all have a share of the huge practice. I can guarantee they are making big bucks.

Dr C informed me that I had tendinitis in both ankles, plantar fasciitis and a flat foot. I knew something was wrong but gee whiz. He did x-rays, gave me an anti-inflammatory and referred me to PT. 

The PT put the orthotics in my shoes and informed me that my shoes is a culprit of my problem. "SIGH". He also snuck in that I am getting older (like I need a reminder) and since I have CP, all the weight I've put on my lower extremities all these years is also a contributing factor. Of course, he gave me exercises to do. I will elaborate on this in another post coming soon.

Before all of this my GP, Dr Rob threw me a bomb. He informed me that he was changing course in his practice. Okay, I'll be  honest . I knew he was stressed and unhappy and there was change coming.  BUT NOT THIS! He didn't want to"throw me under the bus" and he wasn't sure if I would benefit from his program.  I've been with Dr Rob for many years, I think 18. If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know how much I love and respect him and how he really cares and can think out of the box, what I absolutely need sometimes. After the shock (and yes some anger at first) subsided I was so depressed but God works in mysterious ways. Stay tuned.

I'm sorry I keep saying stay tuned but I just want to run down the main events in my life thus far trying to catch you up with my crazy life.

Other than that I just continue to live one day at a time, trying to jump over the obstacles and push through everything that is thrown at me. 

Once again, MyHubby has been amazing. You have no idea how much crap he has to deal with being married to me. He has only shown  compassion, understanding and helpfulness. He not once complained or tried to minimize what I was going through.

Everyone is doing well. I think my Mom is having the beginning stages dementia or Alzheimer's. But everyone is healthy in their own way.

Thanks for stopping by. I'm trying to get into the swing of things again. I don't promise every day but more than I've been.

Until next time. Smile at someone and make their day!

P.S. Sorry I forgot to put a title

Survivor At A New Low

I couldn't believe my eyes and what I was hearing last night. On Survivor, Zeke, a transgender was outed by a tribemate who Zeke obviously confided in, 

I kept saying, "Oh my God!" "Is this really Happening??" Among other things.

I understand Survivor is supposed to be a study of human behavior but I think this went too far.  It was malicious on Jeff Varner's part, the outer. He says he didn't mean it to be. DUDE, are you serious?

Jeff Probst has been losing my respect through the years because of the havoc during tribal council and just things he says and does. He and CBS makes me sick acting all shocked and caring but yet still airing it. 

I guess it shows some people will do ANYTHING to win money and make money! 

They've deleted many scenes before. Why couldn't they have deleted that one for Zeke's sake? 

I am not sure if Varner's apology was real. Was he saying he was sorry because he really was or he realized it was not taken very well by the others.

However, you have to give it to Zeke. He was calm and forgiving. But the compassion and forgiveness he showed Varner showed the real person he is.

So what do you think? Was Varner wrong in outing this transgender person? 

Until next time...

Water, Snow, Storms

I hope everyone is safe and sound. I know I just can't get with the blogging thing. But I do appreciate all the emails asking how I'm doing and when I am going to write again. 

About six months ago, we had the Historic Flood. I personally wasn't affected. Thank you God!

I watched it on TV and Facebook. I can't imagine watching water come up to my doorstep.

Wait! If I knew my home flooded, or I was in a flood zone  I would haul tail. 

As I watch, people being rescued I often wonder.

Why do they want until the last minute or until they are under water? Then they plead for someone to go help them. They risk the rescuers lives as well as their own. Such stupidity!

After, a lot of people expect our government to help them get back to normal. When did that even start?

I understand you may need a little help to get by but I've noticed how many people expect our government to do it for them.  There are unending lines to get money, food and water to compensate them because of losing their home after floods or hurricanes. Its like they feel they are owed it.

Don't get me wrong people. I don't mind helping people but there are so many that are asking for a handout.

Also, how can people have a home and not have insurance?  I know insurance is expensive. I hate it!

But if I would be in a flood zone and my house was flooded once, I would get flood insurance or I would move out of here. 

I was watching this man on TV. His home was flooded for the third time.  He apparently had insurance. I wouldn't want his premiums. To do it over and over..nah..

I know the northern states are bracing for a winter blast. That is one thing I would not want to be stuck in. Cold. Wet.  Slippery. Brrrr

Hubby and I were talking the other day. I said I'd take my occasional hurricanes, rain and floods vs the snow blizzard and cold. At least once the hurricane passes it is gone. These snow blizzards and cold stay for months!

Ya'll be safe, warm and dry. My prayers are going out for everyone, even the stupid ones.

Until next time.

Farewell To Father Robitaille

From his home country, Canada, he made it to our small parish in the deep south and stayed here for seventeen years. He always considered it his home.

I can't describe his character in words but I'll try. He was a simple man. He was humble and kind. He was compassionate. He devoted his life to God.

There is one memory that sticks in my mind. During Holy Communion rehearsal as I walked down the aisle I was suppose to genuflect, making sure my knee hit the ground. I was about 6-7 years old and my coordination had not developed to what it is now.  He quietly told me to not worry about it and do what I felt was comfortable.

Last time I saw him was a few years ago. He was in his early 90s then. He recognized me but couldn't remember my name.

He will be missed. It is a sad day for us but I know he is in heaven with the angels.

Until next time.



171 words.

A New Year Begins

We survived 2016!! Yeah!

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and was able to share it with someone you love.

From the Friday after Thanksgiving until about a week ago, a bug attacked me that I never thought would let go. After two prescriptions of Prednisone, one of antibiotics and decongestants and cough meds I think it is leaving slowly but surely. But then it bounced on Hubby, not as bad though the first time. But he got it again. I love him but try not to get near him as much. But then again, we live in the same house, sleep in the same bed and near each other when he is home so....hopefully it'll go away.

Then I got a urinary infection. Lucky for me I have meds on hand.  It never ends it seems.

Surgery wise I'm doing much better. Swallowing continues to be a botheration but I'm happy.

For our Christmas, we did the usual. Memorial, Hubby's brothers house and midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Every year they go all out and everything is so tasty and nice to see everyone.

I met Hubby's sister for the very FIRST time. That was interesting and exciting. I didn't get to talk to her because she left soon after we got there but it was nice to finally have a face to a name.

 I cooked Christmas dinner for my daughter and parents. It was nice and low key. I enjoyed it.

We have so much leftovers.  Hubby kept saying that is too much. He was right. I didn't think it was a lot at the time.  It was only turkey roll, jalapeno cheese sausage bread, rice dressing, potato au gratin, corn and strawberry pie for dessert.

Fro three days it was like I was on an adrenaline rush and after everyone left and my kitchen was cleaned I crashed. Hubby and I sat on the sofa to watch TV. I missed most of it. 

New Years we stayed home. It was nasty outside. We're homebodies anyway.

I have given up on New Years resolutions.  I just pray we all have a healthy and happy 2017!

Thanks for dropping by!

Until next time. 

Word count: 364

Progressing along..

Yes, I am still here. Thank God I don't blog for a living eh? Sometimes I open up to a new post and just stare at the screen. I think of all the things I could write but don't feel it is interesting. I don't know what is wrong with me. I want to write. I want to read your views and thoughts. My fingers and brain just don't want to cooperate. Maybe I can blame in on my CP?

I'm kidding!

Gotta say postoperatively has been up and down. I went for my six month check up this two weeks ago. Doc  reassures me the pain I'm experiencing is normal as well as the difficulty swallowing.  What was encouraging is the doctor told me he would me monitoring my progress for at least a year. It is how long it takes to recover and see if the surgery helped. He said it could be a little longer for me since I have my other issues. "SIGH"

He gave me the okay to drive. Ironically, as much as it aggravated me that I couldn't  just get up and go, I've not had an inkling to do so.  My first drive was to pay the water bill and it was okay as it was less traffic and only a couple of miles. It is awkward because I can't turn my neck as before and it continues to hurt when I move it constantly.

Yesterday, I had to go to my eye doctor (more frustrating news) and then I went to Walgreens to pick up a few things. The drive was about about 30 miles for the entire trip.  As I was walking into my house I was feeling dizzy and weak and my neck was hurting from turning it so much because people are freaking crazy on the road.

We take so much for granted and really don't think how  all of our body parts work together. Turning my head to drive was difficult and it totally aggravated the pain. But doc said as much as I move it will heal better.

I still cannot pick up anything heavier than a gallon of milk. I promise I don't want to anyway. As I chuckled with Hubby one time, normally I usually can't pick up more than a gallon of milk anyway. Well, not too much more anyway.

I've gone back to cooking and some daily chores. When my body says stop I do. I try anyway. But then I am wiped out for the rest of the day.

I have to give my awesome Husband some credit in my recovery. For the first weeks he did everything to keep the house running and taking care of me. He made sure I took my meds. He cooked and bathed me. He helped me in so many little ways that I am so thankful for. He showed genuine concern and care for me. 

I know you are thinking I SHOULD feel that way. I know this but with my child's father I never felt that way with him when I needed him the most.

When Hubby had to go back to work, he would put everything on the counter for me to use for my meals. He called me at lunch and before he came home.  I am blessed.

Good thing is I do have improvement in my legs. No more shooting pains and I can walk a lot more without hurting so much. YAY!

I want you to know I do read my followers blogs and others. I just don't respond but I will try to do so more in the near future. Thanks for the good wishes you've sent me through email, Facebook and here.  I want you to know that even when I'm not diligent, when I come back you are always here. I am humbly grateful. Thank you!

Until next time.

Word count: 652 words.

Post Op Surgery

Its been a month since my surgery. I feel like its been six months. I was warned it could be a slow recovery.  It is still hard though. I admit I'm not the most patient person in the world when it comes to recovery.

In general the surgery was a success. I have no more pain in my hips when I walk. I still get some shocking pains in my feet but not like before.

I still have pain from surgery but it is to be expected. Tylenol takes care of it.

My swallowing is worse than before. I understand they had to intubate me, as they had to move my trachea and esophagus to make a passageway. The doc and report said everything was put back. Nevertheless the swallowing is bad. Doc and nurse keeps reassuring me  it'll get better as time goes by. I'm not like any 'normal' patient. It seems it takes me forever to recover.

For those who don't know what intubate is, its when a tube is placed into the trachea through the mouth into my airway and put on a ventilator that pushes air into the lungs. When the anesthesiologist told me they were going to do that I nearly freaked. 

The first few weeks I scared the crap out of MyHubby (and myself). I couldn't tuck my chin to chest as I usual do to swallow so it was a challenge. The pill and water would go down but some of the water would go into my trachea causing me to gasp and cough. I couldn't breathe. It felt like I was drowning. Folks, that is a very scary feeling. Trust me.

Thank God MyHubby is the calm one. Of course, it is not him going through the experience. HA!  He was scared but he calmly talked me into taking slower breaths and be less panicky until I got my breath back. 

It is getting better but something is just not right. Hopefully, they are right and it'll get better.

Because of the discomfort I have good nights and bad nights.  When I wake up sometimes its like my head is locked in place. I eventually turn it (very slowly)  but it is excruciating pain.

I can't get into a good position. I normally sleep on two pillows because of my GERD and COPD. But the pressure causes a pain from the neck to my  head whether I am on my side or back. I definitely can't sleep one pillow. I tried sitting up sleeping but I end up on my back and in weird positions.

One day I feel great and the next I can feel like crap. I wish it was more consistent. I am so tired of doing nothing. I was craving rice and gravy. Hubby cooks (mostly microwave) and he does it well but he doesn't know how to make gravy. One day I decided to cook. Hubby had put the pot on the stove. I made it simpler than I usually do I threw some pork chops in the pot with onions and bell peppers then threw a can of black eyed peas. I was so exhausted after and hurt all over the next day. Yea, it taught me a lesson.

MyHubby has been so awesome. He has been supportive and helpful.

Next week I have my follow-up appointment and I have a list of things to discuss with him. 

Anyway, some of you have been asking me so I thought I'd write a short post. Thanks for your support, love and concern.

Until next time..