I started this post as a whine about what is wrong with me but as I wrote it I realzied it was more of an information piece about Fibromyalgia Syndrome and me.
I have been diagnosed fibromyalgia This is not something made up that is just in my mind. This is an honest to god syndrome with real symptoms. I try hard not to complain because I know so many people have worse problems than I do. But it gets really frustrating when I try to vent and hear things like - your mom never complained about her illness, see a shrink it is just depression, the pain can't BE that BAD, lose weight that will solve ALL your problems, why are you always tired, why can't you remember anything, the list goes on.
Fibro is not a well understood problem. It is very difficult to diagnose as there are other diseases out there who mimic Fibro. I have recently had ruled out Chrons, Hep A-C, Celiac, thyroid, and ruematoid arthritis. The main diagnosis for Fibro is something called pain points. There are 18 points where pain typical is in a person with Fibro - if you have at least 11 and everything else has been ruled out then they will agree you have Fibro. Yea for a diagnosis but now how to treat it. It is not a well understood problem so it isn't easy to treat. (there isn't even a correct spelling for Fibro in spell check so how can it be treated if it can't even be spelled?)
I recently went on Lyrica - it works OK but I am on a low dose. Unfortunately I have gained 10 pounds on it. People on it tend to gain up to 10% of their current body weight. I am asking to go off of it Friday. I have learned from reading that pain management is one of the main components. Problem is most regular docs don't understand the amount of pain a Fibro patient suffers. On a good day my pain is a 4 out of 10. Those days I can function pretty well. I try to manage to be a normal housewife and mom on those days. But right now because my former doctor doesn't understand fibro or the management of it I am changing docs, I sit most days at least an 8 out of 10. Yes I know I have given birth and labor was painful. BUT this is different pain. It is hard to describe. Ever have the flu? Of course you have. you know that achy feeling you get when you are on day 2 or so? It is like that but only worse. Some days I feel like someone has poured cement in to my body and I have to stop and think about how to walk.
A second problem is fatigue and insomnia. I get very tired. Look for an artitcle tomorrow about the spoons. It explains the fatigue very well. I have taken to telling Scott I have about used all my spoons for the day. It is a signal to me that I am listening to my body and to Scott that I need some relief from mom/wife duties for the rest of the evening. Some days it happens at 2 or 3 and others it happens at 7. Even then, I try very hard not to miss my bedtime routine with Drew. It isn't is fault that I have this crap. Insomnia is a nightmare - no pun intended. I do try to be a regular mom and not have this impact him too much. I volunteer in his class for 3 hours one day a week. I use all my spoons by then. He has playdates etc. I just have to manage what I do on those days so I am able be alert and able to deal with things.
Another major problem I suffer from is memory loss - some call it Fibro Fog. It is not dementia. I know who people are and what my car keys are for. My problem is I can't remember names of people and things. I never know when it will strike. The other day I couldn't remember what a magnet was called. I knew exactly where it was on the fridge, I knew the color and what I needed off of magnet but DAMN if I could remember what to call it. A week ago I couldn't remember my phone #. I was talking to an insurance company and she rattled off a phone #. I had no clue if it was mine. I had to stop and look for my # to make sure it was correct. It can be embarassing and frustrating. Be patient with me. I don't like not remembering things. It has always been something I was very good at. Scott has taken to having me describe what I am trying to say then he fills in teh blank. I used to get mad when he would guess before i could describe. So we have found a way to communicate. Phil gets pretty frustrated with me but I think he is doing better.
I try to make a joke out of most of this - what else can I do? Wallow in self pity? Nah my mom wouldn't have done that. She was strong. And I try to be like my mom - to a point. She was dealt a very crappy hand. My hand is better but don't blow me off when I try to talk about it. I am not asking for sympathy I am asking for understanding. I don't need advice, I need a cyberhug - softly because hugs can hurt some days. Ask me how I am truly doing if you don't want to know. My typical answer is I am fine. don't press for more information just to be polite. IF you want to know I can answer your questions. I am reading lots on how to work with this.
soft hug to everyone. Look for spoons tomorrow.
FTPD
C
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Glorious day
What a day. I got to watch history in the making. Watching President Obama get sworn in was amazing. Even if the Chief Justice messed it up a little. I loved Mrs. Obama's dress for the swearing in. The color seemed to scream SPRING. And to me spring brings hope renewed. Ant that is where we are at today. Today we are at a wonderful cross road where hope is renewed and it springs eternal in the hearts of people everywhere. I loved watching one of the daughters with her camera taking pictures of the crowd. This had to be an amazing day for them to.
I did feel sorry for the dignitaries in the stands. When I saw Mohammad Ali come in almost 2 hours before the ceremony started my thought was - I hope someone put hand toasties in his pockets. It had to be uncomfortable sitting in those folding chairs for so long. Who's brilliant idea was it to have this thing in January? I vote we move it to April.
I was glad I was watching the ceremonies from the comfort of my warm house. I had a much better view than the million people freezing their tush off and not being able to see anything.
I missed Beyonce tonight singing "At Last" while the first couple danced. I am sure I will catch a repeat. I am no fashion guru but I thought white tie went only with tails. I was vey surprised to see the President in a white tie and short coat this evening. But what do I know?
I do know that I wish Mr. Obama 4 years of Faith Trust and lots of pixie dust to get us back on track and show the world what America is really all about.
Stay warm my Kansas Friends. And send an umbrella, I am going to need it this week.
Cathy
I did feel sorry for the dignitaries in the stands. When I saw Mohammad Ali come in almost 2 hours before the ceremony started my thought was - I hope someone put hand toasties in his pockets. It had to be uncomfortable sitting in those folding chairs for so long. Who's brilliant idea was it to have this thing in January? I vote we move it to April.
I was glad I was watching the ceremonies from the comfort of my warm house. I had a much better view than the million people freezing their tush off and not being able to see anything.
I missed Beyonce tonight singing "At Last" while the first couple danced. I am sure I will catch a repeat. I am no fashion guru but I thought white tie went only with tails. I was vey surprised to see the President in a white tie and short coat this evening. But what do I know?
I do know that I wish Mr. Obama 4 years of Faith Trust and lots of pixie dust to get us back on track and show the world what America is really all about.
Stay warm my Kansas Friends. And send an umbrella, I am going to need it this week.
Cathy
Sunday, January 18, 2009
He is back in Kansas Toto
Well, Phil left today. It is funny. When he is here it is like he was never gone. The family dynamic switches back to include him and make him part of the nuclear family. But as soon as he is gone, we go back almost instantly to a family of 3. While there is a hole that he always leaves when he is not with us, it isn't like we don't have our roles. Not sure if I am making myself clear.
I had a friend tell me that by going back to that nuclear family, I was not allowing him to grow and find his own way. I disagree. To me, even tho he is on his own he still needs some guidance. Heck there are times I need guidance from my dad. I don't think parenting ever stops. It just grows and changes as the child grows and changes. My role is no longer disciplinarian, keeper of the car keys, checking to make sure he washes and brushes his teeth. I am more of a guider as he gets older. I talk more and listen more. I try to respect his opinion and his choices. He is at the age that I have become very dumb. He knows it all. He has is world opinion - from his limited world view. It will change as he grows. I hope.
I know I did something right. We were at the mall and Drew handed me a bag to carry. I took it. Phil took it from me and explained to Drew that men should always carry bags for women because it is polite. Where did that come from?
He is back in Topeka. Mike and Brooke picked him up this evening. He wsa going directly to Lisa's to see Kennedy. That is Meghan's daughter. Meghan is Phil's cousin who is 4 months younger than him. Trent's sister. Someday I need to figure out how to put a family tree on here. LOL. Phil loves Kennedy - Kenny for short. she is almost 3. WOW that is hard to believe. She adores Phil. They have a very special relationship. Then he was headed to the fraternity. He had a meeting with a certain girl.
I am still knitting away. I have taken a break from the blue sweater. I don't understand the next section of instructions so I need to pop into the yarn shop this week for clarification. I have been working on the sleeve of the gray sweater. Today it looked more lavender. I really need something brainless tonight so i think I will work on my wrap for a while. It has been neglected lately. I am hoping that the pattern for the Bravo bag gets here this week. I am DYING to work on it.
Here is to massive Faith with the inaguration of a new President this week. May God protect him and provide him the wisdom to lead us to a better country and world.
C
I had a friend tell me that by going back to that nuclear family, I was not allowing him to grow and find his own way. I disagree. To me, even tho he is on his own he still needs some guidance. Heck there are times I need guidance from my dad. I don't think parenting ever stops. It just grows and changes as the child grows and changes. My role is no longer disciplinarian, keeper of the car keys, checking to make sure he washes and brushes his teeth. I am more of a guider as he gets older. I talk more and listen more. I try to respect his opinion and his choices. He is at the age that I have become very dumb. He knows it all. He has is world opinion - from his limited world view. It will change as he grows. I hope.
I know I did something right. We were at the mall and Drew handed me a bag to carry. I took it. Phil took it from me and explained to Drew that men should always carry bags for women because it is polite. Where did that come from?
He is back in Topeka. Mike and Brooke picked him up this evening. He wsa going directly to Lisa's to see Kennedy. That is Meghan's daughter. Meghan is Phil's cousin who is 4 months younger than him. Trent's sister. Someday I need to figure out how to put a family tree on here. LOL. Phil loves Kennedy - Kenny for short. she is almost 3. WOW that is hard to believe. She adores Phil. They have a very special relationship. Then he was headed to the fraternity. He had a meeting with a certain girl.
I am still knitting away. I have taken a break from the blue sweater. I don't understand the next section of instructions so I need to pop into the yarn shop this week for clarification. I have been working on the sleeve of the gray sweater. Today it looked more lavender. I really need something brainless tonight so i think I will work on my wrap for a while. It has been neglected lately. I am hoping that the pattern for the Bravo bag gets here this week. I am DYING to work on it.
Here is to massive Faith with the inaguration of a new President this week. May God protect him and provide him the wisdom to lead us to a better country and world.
C
Saturday, January 17, 2009
updates
First I know I am boring everyone with my knitting updates. But sorry. for any crafty people out there - esp knitters there is a new website to check out. If you WOOT , this is the knitters version. It is called Dizzy Sheep It is brand new, been around since Novemberish. I just ordered a couple "bags o knit" from there. I will let you know what is in it.
Phil leaves tomorrow. Mixed emotions on that. It has been a good visit but he is anxious to get back and that is adding a little tension. You see, there is this girl, and she is looking for her Superman, and Phil thinks he can be her Superman since she is counting down the days until he gets back. Enough said.
Drew had the last of this series of tests. He had an ambulatroy EEG for the past 24 hours. The tech who removed the wires this morning told me that Drew's neurologist was in teh hosptial waiting for it to be downloaded because he wanted to see it. WE don't have an appt until mid March for follow up. The tech did tell me he would relay that to Dr. Chez because that seemed like a long time to wait. I know the Fragile X came back normal. I don't know anything about the Chromosomal studies. The spine xray didn't show anything except a buldging disk. Nto sure what the Brain MRI showed. The thyroid, and celiac are normal. Hopefully we will here something soon. That way we can start something.
I am knitting like mad. My fibro is acting up. But what is new about that. I saw my GP last week and didn't like who the Rheumotologist sent me to so she has a new Rheumotologist to send me to. They will be upping my Lyrica again this week.
Scott is back at it. Even with all that time off for his illness he was in the top 10 billers for the year for the company. - before the surgery and recup he was in the top 3. I keep telling him he is a work a holic. There are some changes in the company coming down the pike. We are just waiting to see what it means for Scott. We don't anticipate another move. They would have to take me kicking and screaming. So we just sit and wait for the announcements right now...
That is about it
C
Phil leaves tomorrow. Mixed emotions on that. It has been a good visit but he is anxious to get back and that is adding a little tension. You see, there is this girl, and she is looking for her Superman, and Phil thinks he can be her Superman since she is counting down the days until he gets back. Enough said.
Drew had the last of this series of tests. He had an ambulatroy EEG for the past 24 hours. The tech who removed the wires this morning told me that Drew's neurologist was in teh hosptial waiting for it to be downloaded because he wanted to see it. WE don't have an appt until mid March for follow up. The tech did tell me he would relay that to Dr. Chez because that seemed like a long time to wait. I know the Fragile X came back normal. I don't know anything about the Chromosomal studies. The spine xray didn't show anything except a buldging disk. Nto sure what the Brain MRI showed. The thyroid, and celiac are normal. Hopefully we will here something soon. That way we can start something.
I am knitting like mad. My fibro is acting up. But what is new about that. I saw my GP last week and didn't like who the Rheumotologist sent me to so she has a new Rheumotologist to send me to. They will be upping my Lyrica again this week.
Scott is back at it. Even with all that time off for his illness he was in the top 10 billers for the year for the company. - before the surgery and recup he was in the top 3. I keep telling him he is a work a holic. There are some changes in the company coming down the pike. We are just waiting to see what it means for Scott. We don't anticipate another move. They would have to take me kicking and screaming. So we just sit and wait for the announcements right now...
That is about it
C
Friday, January 16, 2009
Thursday, January 15, 2009
projects
So how many is too many knitting projects at a time. I have 4 going right now. I have 2 sweaters (pictures posted). I have a wrap/shawl. I have a labyrinth hexagon carpet bag. I need to get pictures of the others so you can see the progress.I really need to get the carpet bag done so that when my pattern for the bravo bag gets here I can get it started. I have many people (non knitters) say that 4 is too many. Personally I like having many projects in different stages. When I get bored or frustrated with one I can let it hibernate and work on another one. Makes perfect sense to me. Guess you have to be a knitter to understand. Maybe crafters understand.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
It is official
I am old. I got my eyes examined yesterday. I was put in bifocals. I went with progressive lenses. Same thing happened to Scott. Some how the poem 'Come grow old with me' comes to mind. It isn't a horrible superscription but still it is the idea of it. The doc said I could have gone with one pair for distance and for close work but felt that progressives would be the best bet.
So I went on my mission to find that purse pattern. I went to the 'other' knit shop in town. It was awful. The owner was rude there was no yarn selection, and she didn't have the pattern. I asked if she could order it and she said yes that she would be seeing the designer at a conference this coming weekend and would see about it. But she it wasn't her ordering time and I would have to wait until she ordered again to get it. So I went to 'my' yarn shop. I showed the pattern to the girls and everyone fell in love with it. We pulled up the website and Anna had me pick about 10 patterns to order for the shop. THEN she told me once I got the bag knitted up she would have me teach the class on it. SO cool. There are several of this designers patterns that I am going to make. She has one that is called 'Saturday Morning' I am in love with it. There are several others but those are the ones I am starting with.
I need to get pictures of my projects and get them posted on here so you can see the progress.
Phil leaves in a week. It has been a really good visit. I am going to miss him. He is interested in this girl. Enough said. For now.
Wishing you Faith Trust and Pixie dust
C
So I went on my mission to find that purse pattern. I went to the 'other' knit shop in town. It was awful. The owner was rude there was no yarn selection, and she didn't have the pattern. I asked if she could order it and she said yes that she would be seeing the designer at a conference this coming weekend and would see about it. But she it wasn't her ordering time and I would have to wait until she ordered again to get it. So I went to 'my' yarn shop. I showed the pattern to the girls and everyone fell in love with it. We pulled up the website and Anna had me pick about 10 patterns to order for the shop. THEN she told me once I got the bag knitted up she would have me teach the class on it. SO cool. There are several of this designers patterns that I am going to make. She has one that is called 'Saturday Morning' I am in love with it. There are several others but those are the ones I am starting with.
I need to get pictures of my projects and get them posted on here so you can see the progress.
Phil leaves in a week. It has been a really good visit. I am going to miss him. He is interested in this girl. Enough said. For now.
Wishing you Faith Trust and Pixie dust
C
Friday, January 09, 2009
date night
No not with my husband - although that would be nice. I have a date night with my fave 6 year old. Phil and Scott are headed to the Sacramento Kings vs Miami Heat game tonight. So it is just the munchkin and I. Haven't quite figured out what it will entail but I can pretty much guarantee it will include McDonalds.
I am going pattern searching today. I found the cutest bag ijn a knitting magazine last night. It isn't at my normal yarn store but it is to be at one in Elk Grove. So Phil and I are on a mission this afternoon. Here is the link It actually uses belts as the handles. I am really excited to do this one. I have 2 sweaters I am working on as well as a shawl. I am also working on another handbag but I am letting it hibernate for a while. It is driving me crazy so I am stepping a way from it for a while. My sis has this crazy idea that I should only do one project at a time. Silly silly girl. the more projects the better.
off to our mission
I am going pattern searching today. I found the cutest bag ijn a knitting magazine last night. It isn't at my normal yarn store but it is to be at one in Elk Grove. So Phil and I are on a mission this afternoon. Here is the link It actually uses belts as the handles. I am really excited to do this one. I have 2 sweaters I am working on as well as a shawl. I am also working on another handbag but I am letting it hibernate for a while. It is driving me crazy so I am stepping a way from it for a while. My sis has this crazy idea that I should only do one project at a time. Silly silly girl. the more projects the better.
off to our mission
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
First let me say DAMN COLD!!!!! It is just starting. I have started zycam but I can already feel this crap moving to my chest. It sucks to go to bed feeling good and wake up feeling like crap
OK Pixie dust alert. I have said that we are going to WDW next Christmas come Hell or high water. I called this morning and got a discount of 1500.00 on our stay. We are staying at the Wilderness Lodge on the Conceirge level going in December 21 and coming home December 30. 9 nights all passes and meals and snacks included....less than 7500.00 down from 9693.00. Yes I know it looks like more than 1500.00 but I also shaved 2 days off the trip. Orginally we were leaving on Dec 19.
For those that don't know. When you sign up on line at Disney.com they will send you offers via mail and email for deals to visit. Everything from Free Dining to % off. I missed a piece of mail that offered me a deal and when I called to book this trip I asked if there was a PIN/CODE next to my name. Some people right now are getting 40% off their room. and that included Holiday season next year. The lady who helped me book the trip told that any time I see mail from Disney to check every page of the flyer because they "hide" the codes. You can also get on the mailing list by ordering the Disney travel DVD. So now I have a reason to blog. I can bore you with details and dilemmas with planning my trip.
Phil has not commited to going so at this point is is just the 3 of us.
I guess the most appropriate sign off....
When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are, anything your heart desires will come to you.....
Faith trust and pixie dust.
C
OK Pixie dust alert. I have said that we are going to WDW next Christmas come Hell or high water. I called this morning and got a discount of 1500.00 on our stay. We are staying at the Wilderness Lodge on the Conceirge level going in December 21 and coming home December 30. 9 nights all passes and meals and snacks included....less than 7500.00 down from 9693.00. Yes I know it looks like more than 1500.00 but I also shaved 2 days off the trip. Orginally we were leaving on Dec 19.
For those that don't know. When you sign up on line at Disney.com they will send you offers via mail and email for deals to visit. Everything from Free Dining to % off. I missed a piece of mail that offered me a deal and when I called to book this trip I asked if there was a PIN/CODE next to my name. Some people right now are getting 40% off their room. and that included Holiday season next year. The lady who helped me book the trip told that any time I see mail from Disney to check every page of the flyer because they "hide" the codes. You can also get on the mailing list by ordering the Disney travel DVD. So now I have a reason to blog. I can bore you with details and dilemmas with planning my trip.
Phil has not commited to going so at this point is is just the 3 of us.
I guess the most appropriate sign off....
When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are, anything your heart desires will come to you.....
Faith trust and pixie dust.
C
Sunday, January 04, 2009
knitting
It isn't our mothers hobby any more. I remember when I was a child and my mom was knitting. you basically had only acrylic yarn or wool. There was no such thing as alpaca, cashmere, silk, bamboo, ribbon yarns. I doubt there were many stores solely devoted to yarn.
I found a shawl made by here many moons ago. I remember her knitting it when I was about 7 or 8.
today the knitter has so many choices in yarn, needles, patterns, it is an endless world of color and texture. There is something theraputeic about sitting down with a pair of needles and getting into this rhythm. It is almost hypnotizing at times.
the internet has added an even bigger dimension to knitting. There are doors open to more yarns that our mom's never imagined. Everyone shares patterns there are sites for free patterns for any level of knitter. There are conventions to learn new techniques and to get the newest yarn. I am currently trying to decide if I want to take a train 3 hours to Santa Clara for one of the biggest yarn conventions. If I don't go this year I am going next year.
I am currently waiting for my invitation to join 'Raverly" it is an online site for knitters. It is like all other boards - only huge over 250,000 members. I don't know much abuot it but once I get in there i will let you know what I think.
My first sweater is coming along well. I have started working on teh body. Only 20 some more inches to go. I think to day tho I am going to work on my carpet bag. it needs some devotion plus i need a day of working with larger needles. my hands don't always lke those little needles. give me size 10 and up and I am a happy camper.
I have let many hobbies go by the way side but knitting seems different.
so I am off to knit one purl one for the afternoon.
I found a shawl made by here many moons ago. I remember her knitting it when I was about 7 or 8.
today the knitter has so many choices in yarn, needles, patterns, it is an endless world of color and texture. There is something theraputeic about sitting down with a pair of needles and getting into this rhythm. It is almost hypnotizing at times.
the internet has added an even bigger dimension to knitting. There are doors open to more yarns that our mom's never imagined. Everyone shares patterns there are sites for free patterns for any level of knitter. There are conventions to learn new techniques and to get the newest yarn. I am currently trying to decide if I want to take a train 3 hours to Santa Clara for one of the biggest yarn conventions. If I don't go this year I am going next year.
I am currently waiting for my invitation to join 'Raverly" it is an online site for knitters. It is like all other boards - only huge over 250,000 members. I don't know much abuot it but once I get in there i will let you know what I think.
My first sweater is coming along well. I have started working on teh body. Only 20 some more inches to go. I think to day tho I am going to work on my carpet bag. it needs some devotion plus i need a day of working with larger needles. my hands don't always lke those little needles. give me size 10 and up and I am a happy camper.
I have let many hobbies go by the way side but knitting seems different.
so I am off to knit one purl one for the afternoon.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
I am hopeful
HAPPY 2009. Wonder what it will bring? I started a Lyrica today for my Fibro. I have great hope. It hasn't given me stomach problems like Neurotin did. Thank goodness. I don't think I could do that again. I did have a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread on stand by if needed.
I am hopeful this year we figure out how to treat Drew's develpmental delays. They aren't serious but unless we figure out what is going on it could be detrimetnal as he goes farther in school.
I am hopeful that Scott's next surgery is successful and it takes care of the bulk of the diverticulitis issues and we get rid of the ostomy.
I am hopeful that I can continue to improve my knitting skills and continue to step out side my comfort zone and knit some different items. I am working on my first sweater right now.
I am hopeful that Phil finds what he is looking for. It is hard to 19.
I am hopeful the economy improves and this country learns to live inside its means.
I am hopeful that the new president brings change and promise to this country that lacks direction.
I am hopeful that I continue to grow my Faith and trust in what I believe and have the conviction to stand up for those who say I am wrong.
I am hopeful.......
I am hopeful this year we figure out how to treat Drew's develpmental delays. They aren't serious but unless we figure out what is going on it could be detrimetnal as he goes farther in school.
I am hopeful that Scott's next surgery is successful and it takes care of the bulk of the diverticulitis issues and we get rid of the ostomy.
I am hopeful that I can continue to improve my knitting skills and continue to step out side my comfort zone and knit some different items. I am working on my first sweater right now.
I am hopeful that Phil finds what he is looking for. It is hard to 19.
I am hopeful the economy improves and this country learns to live inside its means.
I am hopeful that the new president brings change and promise to this country that lacks direction.
I am hopeful that I continue to grow my Faith and trust in what I believe and have the conviction to stand up for those who say I am wrong.
I am hopeful.......
Sunday, December 28, 2008
next year
I was looking back over my blog for the past couple of years. I started this in 2006 and had 7 entries, in 2007 I had approx 37 entries, 2008 the total was 70. I am going to set a lofty goal this year of 170. That is approx one every other day.
As you know I refuse to make New Years Resolutions because I feel every day is the start of a new year. Face it every day you wake up it is 365 days until the next time that day rolls around.
What I hope for all of you in the New Year is peace, happiness, health and Pixie Dust out the Wazzu. May you find what you are looking for around the corner and may you have the intelligence to recognize it when you find it.
Much love to everyone
Cathy
As you know I refuse to make New Years Resolutions because I feel every day is the start of a new year. Face it every day you wake up it is 365 days until the next time that day rolls around.
What I hope for all of you in the New Year is peace, happiness, health and Pixie Dust out the Wazzu. May you find what you are looking for around the corner and may you have the intelligence to recognize it when you find it.
Much love to everyone
Cathy
Friday, December 26, 2008
The day after
Well we survived Christmas. how about you? Here is a look at the mayhem at 530 AM when Drew decided we needed to be up and going. Just please note he did not go back to sleep until 9 last night and was up at 8 this AM. all pictures were taken with my present. A new nikon camera.
Hope everyone had a wonderful day and here is to a new year filled with Faith Trust and tons of Pixie dust.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
12 days of Anderson Christmas
12 presents still to wrap
11 Christmas cards to write
10 pounds of Prime rib
9 lights to hang
8 carrots for the reindeer
7 phone calls waiting
6 ornaments to hang
5 cookies baking
4 wreaths to decorate
3 fights to have
2 presents still missing
1Merry Christmas to all.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
I wish
I know many women this problem.
I wish instead of telling me to go buy what I want for Christmas, I wish the men in my family would think about me. What they know about me, My likes and dislikes. What drives me. More than anything I would love them to put some time into my presents, just like I do them. I wish they would stop and thinkg about what i like, my dislikes, my fibro limitations, things i have expressed an interest in trying - and no I don't mean a tatoo. I mean painting with acrylics, quilting, Kumihimo. The hints I keep dropping to get Bill Engvall tickets for January. Even point blank sais I wanted those. I even sent my oldest the instructions down to the dimension to have my former FIL make me a Kumi stand. But it never got done. I don't have an particular projects for knitting right now but a gift certificate would be nice. I love to read - they all know what i like go get me some books. I have Fibro so some massages would be good, I have hair, so a GC to the salon wouldn't be out of line. Things that pamper me. I want a hippo for christmas and i think Drew has that covered. Scott was kind enough to have me make a list of what I needed in the way of small trinkets that I could use for knitting. So I know my stocking is covered.
I don't expect them to go buy me the moon but it would be nice. If they would look at Chrimstas' past they should have some clue. I keep saying maybe a sewing machine so I can quilt again but I have one in my MIL basement and I am sure she wold love to get it out of there and I wold love to have it. He says that he doesn't do anything because I can go buy what I want when I want so there is nothing I need that I can't go get for myself. What I want for myself is my husband and my eldest son to listen to me through out the year, talk to each other and get a plan and enact it. the only present under the tree right now for me is the yarn and pattern to make a felted carpet bag, I had given him the name of a knitting book I wanted. I had to buy it myself becasue he didn't make it there in any reasonable time frame and they were almsot sold out AGAIN. But it isn't even wrapped. It is sitting on his desk. I try and find things that we will have fun with Christmas morning and ahve memories about in years to come. Like last year when all 3 got matchign Jack Skellington Pajamas. They were a great hit. I looked this year for matching hippo slippers but struck out because I didn't want to pay 25.00 a pair. I was informed that last year it wasn't Christmas because "Santa" dropped the ball and didn't get lifesaver books. It was duly noted and Santa has them on his list this year.
What frustrates me is that I spend hours shopping online and instores for things I know everyone wants. I do enjoy it but sometimes I wish someone would return the favor My office looks like Santa is it to store presents that won't fit in his sleigh for this leg of the trip. But if you looked under the tree you'd think I was on Santa's naughty list.
Now don't cut Scott slack on this one. He is up and well. In fact on monday he went to Oakland for a meeting. He goes to the doc today to get released to go back to work on Monday. And if they don't release him, they will have to commit me.
MAybe that wouldn't be such a bad idea.
I wish instead of telling me to go buy what I want for Christmas, I wish the men in my family would think about me. What they know about me, My likes and dislikes. What drives me. More than anything I would love them to put some time into my presents, just like I do them. I wish they would stop and thinkg about what i like, my dislikes, my fibro limitations, things i have expressed an interest in trying - and no I don't mean a tatoo. I mean painting with acrylics, quilting, Kumihimo. The hints I keep dropping to get Bill Engvall tickets for January. Even point blank sais I wanted those. I even sent my oldest the instructions down to the dimension to have my former FIL make me a Kumi stand. But it never got done. I don't have an particular projects for knitting right now but a gift certificate would be nice. I love to read - they all know what i like go get me some books. I have Fibro so some massages would be good, I have hair, so a GC to the salon wouldn't be out of line. Things that pamper me. I want a hippo for christmas and i think Drew has that covered. Scott was kind enough to have me make a list of what I needed in the way of small trinkets that I could use for knitting. So I know my stocking is covered.
I don't expect them to go buy me the moon but it would be nice. If they would look at Chrimstas' past they should have some clue. I keep saying maybe a sewing machine so I can quilt again but I have one in my MIL basement and I am sure she wold love to get it out of there and I wold love to have it. He says that he doesn't do anything because I can go buy what I want when I want so there is nothing I need that I can't go get for myself. What I want for myself is my husband and my eldest son to listen to me through out the year, talk to each other and get a plan and enact it. the only present under the tree right now for me is the yarn and pattern to make a felted carpet bag, I had given him the name of a knitting book I wanted. I had to buy it myself becasue he didn't make it there in any reasonable time frame and they were almsot sold out AGAIN. But it isn't even wrapped. It is sitting on his desk. I try and find things that we will have fun with Christmas morning and ahve memories about in years to come. Like last year when all 3 got matchign Jack Skellington Pajamas. They were a great hit. I looked this year for matching hippo slippers but struck out because I didn't want to pay 25.00 a pair. I was informed that last year it wasn't Christmas because "Santa" dropped the ball and didn't get lifesaver books. It was duly noted and Santa has them on his list this year.
What frustrates me is that I spend hours shopping online and instores for things I know everyone wants. I do enjoy it but sometimes I wish someone would return the favor My office looks like Santa is it to store presents that won't fit in his sleigh for this leg of the trip. But if you looked under the tree you'd think I was on Santa's naughty list.
Now don't cut Scott slack on this one. He is up and well. In fact on monday he went to Oakland for a meeting. He goes to the doc today to get released to go back to work on Monday. And if they don't release him, they will have to commit me.
MAybe that wouldn't be such a bad idea.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
No good deed.....
My dad always told me no good deed goes unpunished.
When I enrolled Drew in school I met the PTA president. Very nice lady. She asked if I would volunteer on the PTA. Sure I said what do you need. She asked if I could head up Holiday wrapping paper sales. Sure I say. Sally Foster takes care of most of the details. I just have to get the forms out, collect them, count the money - with a partner and hand out the paper which has already been sorted by child, grade and teacher. simple.
Nothing in life is simple. We had an order deadlilne. Most orders made it. We thought we had them all. After everything was picked up by Sally Foster i walked into the office and found another stack of about 20-30 orders. I gather them, do my thing, get them turned in. Then Sally Foster lets me know these will come as a seperate order soemtime before Christmas. It is of course to late to cancel the order. So I call ALL the people on the list to tell them they will be delayed. Most are very nice. Some don't listen to their messages and show up on orginal delivery day. I explain that there are orders we are holding on and they will be in before Christmas. Most again are very nice. But there is always one. She was mad that her order didn't make the first cut. She spent 10 minutes at pick up complaining about how I did things. Not sure if teacher didn't get it in or what - (coincedently this parents sisters order is also on the next delivery) I told the parent that there was nothing I could do but I would call Monday - today and see what I could find out. I told her when I had an answer I would let her know. So she shows up today at paper handouts wanting to know where her stuff is. I told her I didn't have an answer yet. 830 tonight my phone rings. I was reading to drew so it went to my cell voice mail. it was her wanting to know if I knew anything because she needs it by Monday. Her and everyother person on my list (you know the patient ones). I left her a message telling her once again I didn't have an answer, that I had emailed the rep as well as called her. and as soon as I had an answer I would be calling her as well as the other parents who are waiting on orders.
Sorry it is a vent night. So my thought? She doesn't like how it is done she should do it next year. but I am sure she will use the excuse that she is a working mom and can't simply be bothered by such as this.
Going to bed now to dream about
Faith trust and pixie dust.
When I enrolled Drew in school I met the PTA president. Very nice lady. She asked if I would volunteer on the PTA. Sure I said what do you need. She asked if I could head up Holiday wrapping paper sales. Sure I say. Sally Foster takes care of most of the details. I just have to get the forms out, collect them, count the money - with a partner and hand out the paper which has already been sorted by child, grade and teacher. simple.
Nothing in life is simple. We had an order deadlilne. Most orders made it. We thought we had them all. After everything was picked up by Sally Foster i walked into the office and found another stack of about 20-30 orders. I gather them, do my thing, get them turned in. Then Sally Foster lets me know these will come as a seperate order soemtime before Christmas. It is of course to late to cancel the order. So I call ALL the people on the list to tell them they will be delayed. Most are very nice. Some don't listen to their messages and show up on orginal delivery day. I explain that there are orders we are holding on and they will be in before Christmas. Most again are very nice. But there is always one. She was mad that her order didn't make the first cut. She spent 10 minutes at pick up complaining about how I did things. Not sure if teacher didn't get it in or what - (coincedently this parents sisters order is also on the next delivery) I told the parent that there was nothing I could do but I would call Monday - today and see what I could find out. I told her when I had an answer I would let her know. So she shows up today at paper handouts wanting to know where her stuff is. I told her I didn't have an answer yet. 830 tonight my phone rings. I was reading to drew so it went to my cell voice mail. it was her wanting to know if I knew anything because she needs it by Monday. Her and everyother person on my list (you know the patient ones). I left her a message telling her once again I didn't have an answer, that I had emailed the rep as well as called her. and as soon as I had an answer I would be calling her as well as the other parents who are waiting on orders.
Sorry it is a vent night. So my thought? She doesn't like how it is done she should do it next year. but I am sure she will use the excuse that she is a working mom and can't simply be bothered by such as this.
Going to bed now to dream about
Faith trust and pixie dust.
Monday, December 08, 2008
Adoption Quiz. Do you see anything WRONG with this post?
Shall we count the ways?
Still available1/2 Anglo, 1/2 unknown race
due 2-16-09fetus appears to be a boy presented 11-25-08
Mother wants a married couple or single woman
Heterosexual only agency adoption
$4800 AdoptLink +
$25,000 estimated including finalization if baby is mixed race
$39,000 estimated including finalization if baby is Anglo.
Unfortunately this is the way it is in the adoption world.
I stole this from my friend Lori's blog. This is an actual post from a facilitators list of potential babies. If you see anything wrong with this ad let me know. If you don't I am truly sorry for you.
Still available1/2 Anglo, 1/2 unknown race
due 2-16-09fetus appears to be a boy presented 11-25-08
Mother wants a married couple or single woman
Heterosexual only agency adoption
$4800 AdoptLink +
$25,000 estimated including finalization if baby is mixed race
$39,000 estimated including finalization if baby is Anglo.
Unfortunately this is the way it is in the adoption world.
I stole this from my friend Lori's blog. This is an actual post from a facilitators list of potential babies. If you see anything wrong with this ad let me know. If you don't I am truly sorry for you.
Friday, December 05, 2008
The question finally came....
We have always told Drew that he was adopted and that he grew in my heart not my tummy. Earlier today I found out one of his friends has a new baby brother as of this morning so tonight he brought up how he came to be.
He asked if someone cut me open and moved him from my heart to my tummy and he came out that way. (pretty ingenious for 6) I said no. Well then how did I get out of your heart he asked. Taking a deep breath and looking at Scott, I explained that he grew in my heart but in someone else's tummy. WHAT I HAVE MORE PARENTS?!?!? he asked. I said that we were his parents and that someone else gave him to us to be his parents because she couldn't be his mommy. He asked what she looked like. We told him what we remembered. He asked if she was flexible because he is. I told him I didn't know. He asked her name. I told him Angel. He asked if I loved her. I said I was grateful for the gift she gave me. Scott started to go into more detail but I stopped him. I wasn't sure what Drew wanted to know exactly - kind of like when a kid asks where babies come from. Plus I wanted to see how Drew was digesting this news. Drew said He didn't want to talk about it anymore because it was just too wierd. So we let it drop.
I am sure there will be many more discussions on this topic as he gets older. But at least the dialoge is out there and we will be as open as we can with Drew as long as it is age appropriate. There are some things he will not know for a long time- maybe ever.
He asked if someone cut me open and moved him from my heart to my tummy and he came out that way. (pretty ingenious for 6) I said no. Well then how did I get out of your heart he asked. Taking a deep breath and looking at Scott, I explained that he grew in my heart but in someone else's tummy. WHAT I HAVE MORE PARENTS?!?!? he asked. I said that we were his parents and that someone else gave him to us to be his parents because she couldn't be his mommy. He asked what she looked like. We told him what we remembered. He asked if she was flexible because he is. I told him I didn't know. He asked her name. I told him Angel. He asked if I loved her. I said I was grateful for the gift she gave me. Scott started to go into more detail but I stopped him. I wasn't sure what Drew wanted to know exactly - kind of like when a kid asks where babies come from. Plus I wanted to see how Drew was digesting this news. Drew said He didn't want to talk about it anymore because it was just too wierd. So we let it drop.
I am sure there will be many more discussions on this topic as he gets older. But at least the dialoge is out there and we will be as open as we can with Drew as long as it is age appropriate. There are some things he will not know for a long time- maybe ever.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
blogblock
During the day I think of things to write about and share with my few but loyal readers. Then it comes time to sit and type something and I get blogblock. then I end up rambling about nothing of any importance. Silly trivial things that no one probably cares about but me.
guess what is happening right now?!?!?! Blog Block. Check back tomorrow.
Maybe I will make a list of topics or feel free to suggest something. I need all the help i can get.
guess what is happening right now?!?!?! Blog Block. Check back tomorrow.
Maybe I will make a list of topics or feel free to suggest something. I need all the help i can get.
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