There’s an old saying in my family, “If it ain’t roaches, it’s piss-ants”. I wonder which it is this time.
I had my semi-annual eye check this morning. Mostly things are good, but he wants to start treatment for early stage glaucoma. I'm to start with one drop once a day in each eye - planning to stop the glaucoma before it becomes serious. He gave me some a sample to try for a couple of weeks before he gives me a prescription. That leads me to believe it might be pretty expensive - I didn't ask at this point. But I'll give it a try. As we all do, I hate having my eyes dilated, and it seemed to take longer than usual for them to return to "normal".
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Has the weather gone even more nuts? Torrential rains and flash floods in Phoenix. Earthquakes in California. Rumbling volcanoes in Iceland.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Monday, August 18, 2014
Miscellany on Monday
We had lots of thunder and lightning this morning, so I turned off the alarm and went back to sleep. It was nice. I had a good PT session - only three left to go. I had a few good cards this afternoon, but most had 5-8 points. John was first last week. We went to dinner at our favorite Chinese place with a friend. The three of us got only two entrees, and still took enough home for her lunch tomorrow and our dinner again.
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The folks at PT loaned me a copy of Frozen. We'd not seen it before. It is lovely movie. We didn't like it as much as we liked Up and Despicable Me, but it was good.
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We're due to have high heat (mid 90s) and humidity for the rest of the week, with heat indexes (indices?) of over 100. Welcome to August in Chattanooga
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The folks at PT loaned me a copy of Frozen. We'd not seen it before. It is lovely movie. We didn't like it as much as we liked Up and Despicable Me, but it was good.
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We're due to have high heat (mid 90s) and humidity for the rest of the week, with heat indexes (indices?) of over 100. Welcome to August in Chattanooga
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Sunday Stealing
From "A Place Of My Own" by L'Empress
Would you ever cheat on someone if they cheated on you?
Nope. Retaliation doesn’t accomplish anything except making you look bad.
Would you ever consider becoming a teacher?
Not in the classroom. I can teach one-on-one, but not in a group.
Would you ever give a hitch-hiker a ride somewhere?
Possibly.
Would you ever try fasting for a whole week?
No. That can’t be healthy.
Would you ever try to quit one of your addictions?
Of course.
Would you ever dye your hair purple?
Yes. I probably wouldn’t even need much of an excuse.
Would you ever spend $100 for the best tasting hamburger in the world?
Definitely not. No hamburger is worth that much.
Would you rather chew gum off the ground or kill a squirrel?
Dumb choices. I’d probably shoot at a squirrel (and miss).
Would you rather play Monopoly or Operation?
I don’t know what “Operation” is. I was never much of a Monopoly player, but I’d have to choose that one.
Would you rather eat chocolate or fruity candies?
Chocolate
Would you rather listen to one CD forever or become deaf?
It depends on the CD. I’d take the CD, if I could choose it.
Would you rather be deaf or blind?
Deaf.
Would you rather text or talk on the phone?
Talk on the phone.
Would you rather spend a day with Lady Gaga or Miley Cyrus?
First choice would be neither, but I guess Lady Gaga.
Would you rather learn to play piano or guitar?
I’ve learned both, but definitely no talent. I’m better at playing a CD player.
Would you rather have a stomach-ache or headache?
How about neither. I’ll take a headache, though.
Would you rather be overly interesting or overly dull?
I guess that would depend on those around me. I’ll take interesting.
Would you rather be too loud or too quiet?
Too quiet. I hate “too loud”.
Would you ever cheat on someone if they cheated on you?
Nope. Retaliation doesn’t accomplish anything except making you look bad.
Would you ever consider becoming a teacher?
Not in the classroom. I can teach one-on-one, but not in a group.
Would you ever give a hitch-hiker a ride somewhere?
Possibly.
Would you ever try fasting for a whole week?
No. That can’t be healthy.
Would you ever try to quit one of your addictions?
Of course.
Would you ever dye your hair purple?
Yes. I probably wouldn’t even need much of an excuse.
Would you ever spend $100 for the best tasting hamburger in the world?
Definitely not. No hamburger is worth that much.
Would you rather chew gum off the ground or kill a squirrel?
Dumb choices. I’d probably shoot at a squirrel (and miss).
Would you rather play Monopoly or Operation?
I don’t know what “Operation” is. I was never much of a Monopoly player, but I’d have to choose that one.
Would you rather eat chocolate or fruity candies?
Chocolate
Would you rather listen to one CD forever or become deaf?
It depends on the CD. I’d take the CD, if I could choose it.
Would you rather be deaf or blind?
Deaf.
Would you rather text or talk on the phone?
Talk on the phone.
Would you rather spend a day with Lady Gaga or Miley Cyrus?
First choice would be neither, but I guess Lady Gaga.
Would you rather learn to play piano or guitar?
I’ve learned both, but definitely no talent. I’m better at playing a CD player.
Would you rather have a stomach-ache or headache?
How about neither. I’ll take a headache, though.
Would you rather be overly interesting or overly dull?
I guess that would depend on those around me. I’ll take interesting.
Would you rather be too loud or too quiet?
Too quiet. I hate “too loud”.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Robin Williams' films
We watched The Birdcage (1996), the remake of La Cage Aux Folles, with Robin Williams, Nathan Lane, and Gene Hackman. What a terrific, funny movie! We’ll be watching Good Morning, Vietnam, and Good Will Hunting in the next few days.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Learning about my home town
We went to a program at the Chattanooga History Center this evening. The director, Dr. Black, covered a huge range of material about our city, mainly covering the time from immediately after the Civil War to about the mid 1970s. These are 10 things I learned about Chattanooga tonight:
1. Chattanooga was pivotal during the Civil war because of its being a railroad hub.
2. Many Union officers stationed here during the war returned afterwards and became part of the growth and prosperity of the city.
3. During the last half of the 19th Century, the black population ranged between 40-50% of the inhabitants of the city.
4. There was a vibrant black commercial presence in several areas of the city.
5. There were black policemen, black firemen, black aldermen, all in the years immediately following the end of the war.
6. Jim Crow laws started to be passed during that time, and by the earely 20th Century, segregation was in full sway, and would remain so until the mid20th Century.
7. In 1950, Chattanooga was the 9th most industrialized city in the US, with the 2nd most diversified industries (second only to Brooklyn).
8. Adolph Ochs moved to Chattanooga and bought the struggling newspaper, the Chattanooga Times. He made it into on of the first papers in the country that printed news without a specific bias. (He later went on to buy another struggling newspaper - the New York Times).
9. A lot of Chattanooga’s 20th Century prosperity began when George Thomas convinced Asa Candler (the inventor of Coca Cola in Atlanta) to give him the world-wide right to bottle Coke. He and his partner were able to develop the process by using the crimped metal bottle cap that is still being used today. The zillions of dollars made from this early investment went on to invest in a lot of new industry starting up in Chattanooga.
10. Another of the big entrepreneurs in early Chattanooga was Z. Patten, who made his fortune selling patent medicines (mainly a nostrum called “Wine of Cardui”). This company is now Chattem, which makes many of the OTC products we use today.
It’s a fascinating story. The newly expanded History Center will finally be open in Spring 2015. Come visit.
1. Chattanooga was pivotal during the Civil war because of its being a railroad hub.
2. Many Union officers stationed here during the war returned afterwards and became part of the growth and prosperity of the city.
3. During the last half of the 19th Century, the black population ranged between 40-50% of the inhabitants of the city.
4. There was a vibrant black commercial presence in several areas of the city.
5. There were black policemen, black firemen, black aldermen, all in the years immediately following the end of the war.
6. Jim Crow laws started to be passed during that time, and by the earely 20th Century, segregation was in full sway, and would remain so until the mid20th Century.
7. In 1950, Chattanooga was the 9th most industrialized city in the US, with the 2nd most diversified industries (second only to Brooklyn).
8. Adolph Ochs moved to Chattanooga and bought the struggling newspaper, the Chattanooga Times. He made it into on of the first papers in the country that printed news without a specific bias. (He later went on to buy another struggling newspaper - the New York Times).
9. A lot of Chattanooga’s 20th Century prosperity began when George Thomas convinced Asa Candler (the inventor of Coca Cola in Atlanta) to give him the world-wide right to bottle Coke. He and his partner were able to develop the process by using the crimped metal bottle cap that is still being used today. The zillions of dollars made from this early investment went on to invest in a lot of new industry starting up in Chattanooga.
10. Another of the big entrepreneurs in early Chattanooga was Z. Patten, who made his fortune selling patent medicines (mainly a nostrum called “Wine of Cardui”). This company is now Chattem, which makes many of the OTC products we use today.
It’s a fascinating story. The newly expanded History Center will finally be open in Spring 2015. Come visit.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Robin Williams (1951-2014)
Robin Williams (1951-2014)
How sad. And what a loss for not just his family and friends, but for all of us.
Reference has been made to his depression and his substance abuse problems leading to his probale suicide. At the same time, they’re talking about his manic comedy turns. But I’ve not heard anybody put the two together as manic-depression or bipolar disorder.
My sister was diagnosed as manic-depressive about the time a name was put on this disorder. (She died nearly 20 years ago from other causes.) When I read about it, it was like they were writing about my sister - with the mood swings, the high highs and the corresponding lows. She attempted suicide at least once (that I know of). And this sounds so much like Robin Williams.
We can only rejoice in the wonderful gifts he gave us - Mrs. Doubtfire, Hook, and (my personal favorite) The Bird Cage, etc. And feel so sorry for the pain he was obviously enduring.
RIP
How sad. And what a loss for not just his family and friends, but for all of us.
Reference has been made to his depression and his substance abuse problems leading to his probale suicide. At the same time, they’re talking about his manic comedy turns. But I’ve not heard anybody put the two together as manic-depression or bipolar disorder.
My sister was diagnosed as manic-depressive about the time a name was put on this disorder. (She died nearly 20 years ago from other causes.) When I read about it, it was like they were writing about my sister - with the mood swings, the high highs and the corresponding lows. She attempted suicide at least once (that I know of). And this sounds so much like Robin Williams.
We can only rejoice in the wonderful gifts he gave us - Mrs. Doubtfire, Hook, and (my personal favorite) The Bird Cage, etc. And feel so sorry for the pain he was obviously enduring.
RIP
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Saturday, August 09, 2014
Sunday Stealing
From Pinterest
1. Outside my window…
Birds at the feeders, trees.
2. I am thankful…
That this third surgery has worked so well
3. In the kitchen…
is where I like for somebody else to be cooking
4. I am wearing…
soft clothes
5. I am creating…
a pair of socks, and stuff to go on the computer
6. I am going…
to dinner at Bonefish Grill Sunday night
7. I am reading…
Wanted: A Leopold Blake thriller
8. I am learning…
Exercises to strengthen the muscles in my shoulder
9. I am pondering…
Not much of anything right now
10. A favorite quote…
“If we weren’t all crazy, we would go insane”, Jimmy Buffett
11. One of my favorite things…
is being at the beach
12. A few plans for the rest of the week…
physical therapy, aquatic exercises, bridge, etc.
13. A peek into my day…
not very exciting
Friday, August 08, 2014
Rainy Friday
I saw the orthopod this morning. He says that I'm doing well, and to keep up with the exercises. He prescribed another three weeks of PT, so I'm good to go with that. I asked him about osteopenia/osteoporosis and some of the medications involved. I had called and gotten my numbers from the Dexa scan to show him. He said that he didn't think it was enough to warrant the medication at this point. He recommended that I try to start doing some weight-bearing exercises (you KNOW how I love that idea), and wait until after the next scan to make any decisions. That's pretty much what I expected him to say, and what I had been thinking, too. I go back to see him again in a couple of months.
We headed out to play duplicate this afternoon. We're pretty much decided we don't want to get so serious about this game that we get into using nothing but artificial bids, etc. So, for now anyway, I think we're going to stay with the less-advanced group on bi-monthly Friday afternoons. And this would be a wonderful idea, if only we could get the timing correct. Unfortunately, we thought 1:30, and it started at 1:00. So no bridge for us this afternoon. Better luck next time, I hope.
I don’t even want to discuss election results. I know we live in a red state, but this is ridiculous - even for here.
We headed out to play duplicate this afternoon. We're pretty much decided we don't want to get so serious about this game that we get into using nothing but artificial bids, etc. So, for now anyway, I think we're going to stay with the less-advanced group on bi-monthly Friday afternoons. And this would be a wonderful idea, if only we could get the timing correct. Unfortunately, we thought 1:30, and it started at 1:00. So no bridge for us this afternoon. Better luck next time, I hope.
I don’t even want to discuss election results. I know we live in a red state, but this is ridiculous - even for here.
Thursday, August 07, 2014
Complaint department
I had a massage, had the car washed (inside and out - not that it needed it, or anything), and went to the bank. We went to dinner at O'Charley's with Renna and Tina, but that was it for the day.
In the complaint department, we had terrible service at Panera's yesterday morning. Two of our group waited for several minutes to place their orders, with no one at the registers. One gal got hazelnut coffee and said it was full of grounds. I went back for seconds of dark roast. The urn was empty, and when I told the shift manager, he told me they didn't have any - there was no dark roast coffee in the building to make more. And when I got regular, it tasted like hazelnut, and had grounds in it.
John posted a complaint letter on the Panera web site and got back a quick e-mail apology from the head office. Their story was that the particular store is a franchise, but that they'd pass the complaint on. This morning, there was an apology letter from the local manager. It'll be interesting tomorrow to see if anything happens.
In the complaint department, we had terrible service at Panera's yesterday morning. Two of our group waited for several minutes to place their orders, with no one at the registers. One gal got hazelnut coffee and said it was full of grounds. I went back for seconds of dark roast. The urn was empty, and when I told the shift manager, he told me they didn't have any - there was no dark roast coffee in the building to make more. And when I got regular, it tasted like hazelnut, and had grounds in it.
John posted a complaint letter on the Panera web site and got back a quick e-mail apology from the head office. Their story was that the particular store is a franchise, but that they'd pass the complaint on. This morning, there was an apology letter from the local manager. It'll be interesting tomorrow to see if anything happens.
Wednesday, August 06, 2014
PT Forecast
I had my last scheduled PT session today. We talked about future sessions, and both agreed that, since I was showing improvement on each visit, it was worthwhile to have more sessions. She'll put that in her report to the doc, and I'll ask him to prescribe another month's worth of treatments. They've already scheduled me for twice a week for the rest of August. I've got almost a full range of passive motion, it's just a matter of strengthening the muscles so I can get more active range. So, it's more work - at therapy and at home.
Tuesday, August 05, 2014
Tuesday news
We got an upgrade to our cable system today. The tech guy was here before his scheduled time (!), with the new box, hook-up, buttons pushed, new book, and instructions on how the recording feature works. We tried it tonight, and will be checking it out tomorrow - just to see if we can actually work it.
We're not really going into the tech area kicking and screaming, but we're definitely not on the fast track.
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I have my last scheduled PT session tomorrow, and the next doctor's followup appointment on Friday. I'm going to ask the therapist what my prognosis is; whether she thinks I can increase strength and range of motion on my own at home; or whether she thinks I could benefit from another series of sessions. Then the doc and I will talk about it.
We're not really going into the tech area kicking and screaming, but we're definitely not on the fast track.
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I have my last scheduled PT session tomorrow, and the next doctor's followup appointment on Friday. I'm going to ask the therapist what my prognosis is; whether she thinks I can increase strength and range of motion on my own at home; or whether she thinks I could benefit from another series of sessions. Then the doc and I will talk about it.
Monday, August 04, 2014
Tough Mondays
Mondays are tough.
The swimming class is always a good workout, and I am trying to push. The next-to-last scheduled PT session was this morning. The therapist stretched the shoulder a good bit, and worked me hard. Several new exercises were added, too.
Bridge games this afternoon were mentally tough. I had bad cards, but there was still a lot of defense involved. It's fun, though, and we enjoy the challenges.
Having said all that, it makes for a long day. And I'm ready for some pain meds and some good sleep.
The swimming class is always a good workout, and I am trying to push. The next-to-last scheduled PT session was this morning. The therapist stretched the shoulder a good bit, and worked me hard. Several new exercises were added, too.
Bridge games this afternoon were mentally tough. I had bad cards, but there was still a lot of defense involved. It's fun, though, and we enjoy the challenges.
Having said all that, it makes for a long day. And I'm ready for some pain meds and some good sleep.
Sunday, August 03, 2014
Quiet weekend
It was a pretty quiet weekend.
The only thing on Saturday was a terrific thunderstorm with lots of thunder and lightning. It was relatively brief, although it dropped an inch of rain in our area.
More excitement today. Let’s see - first I did the laundry. That’s always a thrill a minute. But really, we had a short visit from Jesse and his lady friend. They’ve been at Margaret’s for the weekend, and brought us more tomatoes, okra, and squash. A special treat is some green tomatoes, so I can make some fried green tomatoes for me. We finished off the day with dinner at Sticky Fingers with John’s cousin, Bob.
And so, we start another week.
The only thing on Saturday was a terrific thunderstorm with lots of thunder and lightning. It was relatively brief, although it dropped an inch of rain in our area.
More excitement today. Let’s see - first I did the laundry. That’s always a thrill a minute. But really, we had a short visit from Jesse and his lady friend. They’ve been at Margaret’s for the weekend, and brought us more tomatoes, okra, and squash. A special treat is some green tomatoes, so I can make some fried green tomatoes for me. We finished off the day with dinner at Sticky Fingers with John’s cousin, Bob.
And so, we start another week.
Friday, August 01, 2014
Welcome!
Welcome, August!
It would be lovely if you would be as even and cool as July was this summer.
It would be lovely if you would be as even and cool as July was this summer.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Being competitive
Today wound up being pretty full - for not doing all that much.
A manicure and pedicure filled up most of the morning.
A pretty decent nap filled up the afternoon, with the chinks filled in with the newspaper and computer stuff.
We played duplicate tonight at the Bridge Center. We came in 9th out of 12 couples, not great, but not too bad. There were some folks there with zillions of master points - this may not be our best venue for learning the methods. We do have one inherent problem with duplicate. Deep down inside, where it really counts, neither one of us is strongly competitive. We like to play our best, we like to improve our game, and we like to win. But we just don’t have that killer competitive instinct. Oh, well, we’ll find happy medium somewhere along the way.
A manicure and pedicure filled up most of the morning.
A pretty decent nap filled up the afternoon, with the chinks filled in with the newspaper and computer stuff.
We played duplicate tonight at the Bridge Center. We came in 9th out of 12 couples, not great, but not too bad. There were some folks there with zillions of master points - this may not be our best venue for learning the methods. We do have one inherent problem with duplicate. Deep down inside, where it really counts, neither one of us is strongly competitive. We like to play our best, we like to improve our game, and we like to win. But we just don’t have that killer competitive instinct. Oh, well, we’ll find happy medium somewhere along the way.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Wonderful Wednesday
Swimming and PT this morning. The therapist always tells me how good I’m doing. I know that’s part of the spiel, but I hope it’s true. Three more sessions before I see the doc again on 8 August.
We had Tina, Missy, Renna, and Bob over tonight to eat up all the veggies Margaret brought. Plus Tina brought BBQ ribs for the meat part of the dinner, Tina and Renna brought fruit for dessert, and Bob brought a bottle of wine. It made for some damn good eating. To say nothing of the great company.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Miscellany
This is the Thought for the Day from Wordsmith.
To keep your marriage brimming,
With love in the loving cup,
Whenever you're wrong, admit it;
Whenever you're right, shut up.
-Ogden Nash, poet (1902-1971)
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One of the blogs I follow is Messy Nessy Chic. She is a young woman living in Paris who finds an eclectic mixture of things to post.
Today, she posted a piece on the wonderful photographs of Native Americans by the great photographer, Edward Curtis. They are amazing, and well worth taking the time to look at. Click here.
To keep your marriage brimming,
With love in the loving cup,
Whenever you're wrong, admit it;
Whenever you're right, shut up.
-Ogden Nash, poet (1902-1971)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
One of the blogs I follow is Messy Nessy Chic. She is a young woman living in Paris who finds an eclectic mixture of things to post.
Today, she posted a piece on the wonderful photographs of Native Americans by the great photographer, Edward Curtis. They are amazing, and well worth taking the time to look at. Click here.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Bridge and weather
We came in 2nd last Friday at the Bridge Center. We played some very good defensive bridge - we set 10 of the 18 hands played. And we’re now the proud possessors of 1.02 master points. It just shows you can do some good when you have crappy cards. I had them (crappy cards) again today, but it wasn’t duplicate, so it was just a pain.
There was some terrible weather overnight. We just had some thunder, lightning, and 0.6” of rain about 2 a.m. as the front came through. But we going to have some lovely days coming up, with cool nights and low humidity. We’ll always take this in July.
There was some terrible weather overnight. We just had some thunder, lightning, and 0.6” of rain about 2 a.m. as the front came through. But we going to have some lovely days coming up, with cool nights and low humidity. We’ll always take this in July.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Another one
Except for doing laundry, today was another do-nothing Sunday. We enjoyed it thoroughly!
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Good stuff!
Margaret brought a lot of good stuff yesterday.
There’s fresh corn, green beans (cut and strung), field peas (shelled), okra, yellow squash, last year’s tomato juice, and lots of incredibly wonderful tomatoes.
I’m probably going to make myself sick eating the tomatoes, but it’ll be worth it.
There’s fresh corn, green beans (cut and strung), field peas (shelled), okra, yellow squash, last year’s tomato juice, and lots of incredibly wonderful tomatoes.
I’m probably going to make myself sick eating the tomatoes, but it’ll be worth it.
Friday, July 25, 2014
A busy week
After all my recent inactivity, this week turned crazy. Something was going on almost every day - not just the usual swimming/coffee/grocery store stuff.
PT was three days, we played bridge two days (once regular, once duplicate), company for dinner, haircuts, early voting, massage.
Margaret is here tonight (carry-out Chinese for supper). She and Tina are going to Atlanta to meet Sue and go to a glass show, and check out some of the antique shops. I hope they find some goodies - I know they’ll have a good time.
I know, if you’re working at a regular job, it doesn’t sound like much. But for us old retired folks, it’s a lot.
PT was three days, we played bridge two days (once regular, once duplicate), company for dinner, haircuts, early voting, massage.
Margaret is here tonight (carry-out Chinese for supper). She and Tina are going to Atlanta to meet Sue and go to a glass show, and check out some of the antique shops. I hope they find some goodies - I know they’ll have a good time.
I know, if you’re working at a regular job, it doesn’t sound like much. But for us old retired folks, it’s a lot.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
A late July Wednesday
The therapist told me that I’ve got a nearly normal range of motion now (passively at least). She says, starting Friday, I’ll be doing more to gain strength.
John’s Cousin Bob came to dinner tonight. He’s having some major changes in his life. We were glad to be able give him a sympathetic ear, some food and adult beverages, and some time out of his situation.
John’s Cousin Bob came to dinner tonight. He’s having some major changes in his life. We were glad to be able give him a sympathetic ear, some food and adult beverages, and some time out of his situation.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
The incredible shrinking woman
I had a full morning - starting with a 6-month check with my primary care doc. I’m a few pounds lighter than I had feared, but also shorter. Having been 5’5 7 ½” for most of my life, I’m now down to 5’5”.
Then to Aldi, WalMart, and a vegetable stand (good tomatoes, no peaches worth buying). That did it for this hot, muggy day.
Monday, July 21, 2014
An early night
We had rain this morning, but just grey and muggy this afternoon. With rising temperatures, we still have rain predicted for the next five days. Welcome to July!
Monday is currently a long day for me. I went to the regular swim class this morning and did pretty well - just a few moves I couldn't do. The therapist has three new tortures to add to my repertoire, so I keep progressing.
We had six tables again at bridge. My cards were mixed - I'm sure I wound up somewhere in the middle again.
So Monday is almost over, and we're on our way into another week.
Monday is currently a long day for me. I went to the regular swim class this morning and did pretty well - just a few moves I couldn't do. The therapist has three new tortures to add to my repertoire, so I keep progressing.
We had six tables again at bridge. My cards were mixed - I'm sure I wound up somewhere in the middle again.
So Monday is almost over, and we're on our way into another week.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
James Garner (1928-2014)
One of my all-time favorites, And my favorites of his roles were
Bret Maverick (1957-1962)
Jim Rockford (1974-1980)
King Marchand (Victor Victoria - 1982)
Saturday, July 19, 2014
A rainy Saturday
We set another record today, for the lowest high temperature on record. It was 78. We’ve had 2.5” of rain over the last couple of days. This is really unusual for July, but we’ll enjoy every minute of it. The heat will be coming back.
I actually paid attention to a newspaper ad today. We went to a local salvage store, looking for (and finding) an area rug to put on our carpet. We’re hoping to freshen up the aging wall-to-wall. It’s looking pretty good.
A nice Vietnamese dinner followed by ice cream on the porch with Tina finished the day nicely.
I actually paid attention to a newspaper ad today. We went to a local salvage store, looking for (and finding) an area rug to put on our carpet. We’re hoping to freshen up the aging wall-to-wall. It’s looking pretty good.
A nice Vietnamese dinner followed by ice cream on the porch with Tina finished the day nicely.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Allergies
John went to the allergist this morning. Including the stop at the drug store on the way home, he was there for 3 hours. He had a number of major reactions. The usual trees and grasses, cats and dogs, but also mold and the dreaded dust mites. (He got a good laugh when the tech asked him if he had a reaction when his wife vacuumed or dusted.) I’ve washed the bedding on our bed in hot water, and will do that on a weekly basis. Plus the cleaning lady is coming Monday, so I'll get her to clean in that bedroom (she doesn't usually do the bedrooms). He was changed to generic Allegra for his daily antihistamine and given another Rx for an inhaler. He's supposed to carry one of them with him, and use it more often.
I know this house has a mold problem. Sue, Jean, and Alison all have trouble when they're here. We might have to have the whole house treated, and I'm sure that would be a huge undertaking...one I don't even really want to think about. So we'll see how it goes.
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We set a record temperature today - the lowest high ever recorded on this date. The high today was 72!!!
I know this house has a mold problem. Sue, Jean, and Alison all have trouble when they're here. We might have to have the whole house treated, and I'm sure that would be a huge undertaking...one I don't even really want to think about. So we'll see how it goes.
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We set a record temperature today - the lowest high ever recorded on this date. The high today was 72!!!
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Writing again
Sorry I’ve been bad about not writing.
I’ve been going to the pool, to coffee, and to physical therapy. The therapy has been great. The stretching-out is uncomfortable, but necessary (and I do take a pain pill before I go). They keep telling me how good my range of motion is - and I can tell that I can already do things I haven’t done since I fell nearly two years ago. I have eight more sessions currently scheduled, and can only hope I continue to improve.
We went to play duplicate at the Bridge Center again tonight. I’m sure we came in low this time. Mostly we had lousy cards, but there were a couple that we didn’t play too well. We’ll get better, I’m sure - and we’re planning to stay with it.
John goes for his initial visit to the allergist tomorrow. I hope they can help him with his respiratory/nasal/sinus/etc. problems.
I’ve been going to the pool, to coffee, and to physical therapy. The therapy has been great. The stretching-out is uncomfortable, but necessary (and I do take a pain pill before I go). They keep telling me how good my range of motion is - and I can tell that I can already do things I haven’t done since I fell nearly two years ago. I have eight more sessions currently scheduled, and can only hope I continue to improve.
We went to play duplicate at the Bridge Center again tonight. I’m sure we came in low this time. Mostly we had lousy cards, but there were a couple that we didn’t play too well. We’ll get better, I’m sure - and we’re planning to stay with it.
John goes for his initial visit to the allergist tomorrow. I hope they can help him with his respiratory/nasal/sinus/etc. problems.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Tough Monday
Tough day today - some workout in the pool, coffee, PT, and bridge. I'm shot, and the arm is sore. John "cooked" - picking up burgers at 5 Guys.
The PT went well, but she really stretched me out. We're all pleased with my progress. The actual measurements are much improved over the first treatment ( last Monday), and I can see that I have more range of motion than I've had since I fell almost two years ago.
I had some good cards at bridge today - some not-so-good ones, too, but it was still good to get back. We had a good crowd - six full tables.
We're in the path of the storm system by tonight or early tomorrow, then the much cooler weather.
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There was huge news from Chattanooga this morning. Volkswagen announced this morning that they will build their new SUV crossover at the Chattanooga plant. Wonderful news for our city and for the regional economy!
The PT went well, but she really stretched me out. We're all pleased with my progress. The actual measurements are much improved over the first treatment ( last Monday), and I can see that I have more range of motion than I've had since I fell almost two years ago.
I had some good cards at bridge today - some not-so-good ones, too, but it was still good to get back. We had a good crowd - six full tables.
We're in the path of the storm system by tonight or early tomorrow, then the much cooler weather.
============================
There was huge news from Chattanooga this morning. Volkswagen announced this morning that they will build their new SUV crossover at the Chattanooga plant. Wonderful news for our city and for the regional economy!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Sunday Stealing, etc.
Click here for some great sculpture pictures.
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From: Cool Free Surveys
One Thing .....
that makes you smile:
I can’t come up with one thing. Family and friends are high on the list.
that makes you cry:
Just about anything - I’m a good cry-er.
that you love to do on the weekends:
I’m retired - not too much difference between weekends and weekdays.
that you do for only yourself:
Get a manicure and pedicure
that you have in your underwear drawer that's NOT underwear:
I think there is only underwear in that drawer.
that you do before going to sleep:
Write my blog.
that you do within the first 15 minutes after waking:
Bathroom, start the coffee, breakfast
that's in your purse:
Wallet
that you actually LIKE to clean:
Nothing
that you DETEST cleaning:
Everything
that other people would find odd about you:
That I enjoy time by myself.
that you would buy if I handed you a $100 bill:
Maybe some nice fancy yarn.
that you feel you HAVE to do before you die:
I’ve done so much - I don’t know what I’d put on this list.
==================================================
From: Cool Free Surveys
One Thing .....
that makes you smile:
I can’t come up with one thing. Family and friends are high on the list.
that makes you cry:
Just about anything - I’m a good cry-er.
that you love to do on the weekends:
I’m retired - not too much difference between weekends and weekdays.
that you do for only yourself:
Get a manicure and pedicure
that you have in your underwear drawer that's NOT underwear:
I think there is only underwear in that drawer.
that you do before going to sleep:
Write my blog.
that you do within the first 15 minutes after waking:
Bathroom, start the coffee, breakfast
that's in your purse:
Wallet
that you actually LIKE to clean:
Nothing
that you DETEST cleaning:
Everything
that other people would find odd about you:
That I enjoy time by myself.
that you would buy if I handed you a $100 bill:
Maybe some nice fancy yarn.
that you feel you HAVE to do before you die:
I’ve done so much - I don’t know what I’d put on this list.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Week #1
This has been an exceptionally busy week - at least for me at this time.
Full days and full evenings - I guess it's a way of getting me back into a "real" life. I did my second day back at the Y - just walking and moving my arm in the therapy pool. Coffee, and then on to PT for the third session.
I've been saying that I thought I already had as much range of motion as I had had before this last surgery. Today, the therapist had me doing something that I hadn't been able to do since the accident. It was just a simple arm movement, but it seemed like a big step to me. Now to continue to work on things at home.
Tina's friend Melyssa is here visiting, and we went out to dinner with them. That made for a pleasant finish to the day.
Full days and full evenings - I guess it's a way of getting me back into a "real" life. I did my second day back at the Y - just walking and moving my arm in the therapy pool. Coffee, and then on to PT for the third session.
I've been saying that I thought I already had as much range of motion as I had had before this last surgery. Today, the therapist had me doing something that I hadn't been able to do since the accident. It was just a simple arm movement, but it seemed like a big step to me. Now to continue to work on things at home.
Tina's friend Melyssa is here visiting, and we went out to dinner with them. That made for a pleasant finish to the day.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Something different
Today was different.
I finally got back to see my massage therapist, and she was wonderful. I always feel so good afterwards.
We had no plans for the rest of the day. But then our bridge-playing friends, Rosemary and Darryl, called to ask us to go play duplicate with them at the Bridge Center this evening. Well, of course - that was easy. It was a longer evening than we had thought it would be, but it was a nice group of people, and we got a lot of hands played.
Duplicate is an interesting version of bridge. It takes some getting used to the mechanics, but we’re enjoying it. We’re not so competitive that we’ll be striving for master points and life master status. But I’m sure we’ll be going back.
I finally got back to see my massage therapist, and she was wonderful. I always feel so good afterwards.
We had no plans for the rest of the day. But then our bridge-playing friends, Rosemary and Darryl, called to ask us to go play duplicate with them at the Bridge Center this evening. Well, of course - that was easy. It was a longer evening than we had thought it would be, but it was a nice group of people, and we got a lot of hands played.
Duplicate is an interesting version of bridge. It takes some getting used to the mechanics, but we’re enjoying it. We’re not so competitive that we’ll be striving for master points and life master status. But I’m sure we’ll be going back.
Wednesday, July 09, 2014
Session #2
I went to the pool this morning, and it surely did feel good. I didn't go to the regular class, but it was good to see the gals. The second PT session wasn't quite as benign as the first, i.e., she DID hurt me this time. "Stretching out" sounds like it ought to feel good, but... Actually, it wasn't all that bad, and the therapists are very good at what they do. I took my pain pill beforehand, and so far I've not had any followup pain. We'll see how it goes when the meds wear off.
John has cleared me to drive , so I'll take myself to my regular massage appointment tomorrow, and then I have another PT session on Friday. Busy, busy.
John has cleared me to drive , so I'll take myself to my regular massage appointment tomorrow, and then I have another PT session on Friday. Busy, busy.
Tuesday, July 08, 2014
Contagious?
Jean’s been having lots problems with allergies. The problem has been around since childhood, but has gotten so very much worse. Any kind of artificial scent does really bad things to her lungs and breathing.
Well, over the last few months, John has been developing more breathing problems. He’s seen our family doc and the office PA. He has a prescription inhaler, and is using an OTC nasal spray. But over the last few weeks, even at the beach, and since we’ve been home, his symptoms have been getting worse. This morning, he made an appointment to see an allergist (a week from Friday).
This morning, he took me for my mani/pedi. As soon as I got in the car when he picked he up, he went into a spasm of coughing and choking from the salon scents that was really scary. This didn’t happen the last time he picked me up from there. Fortunately, we’re not too far away, so I was able to get out of the car and away from him quickly. I got my clothes changed and hands well washed, and things calmed down.
‘Twill be interesting to see what happens at the allergist visit.
Monday, July 07, 2014
Baby Steps
The next step in the process of healing has started. I went to the first PT session this morning. The therapist (Corrie) said I had very good range of motion for just starting out. I feel like I have almost as much range of motion and pain as I had prior to this surgery, so anything I gain from here is new progress.
I dutifully took some pain medicine about an hour before the session - lots of advice on that subject, and I believed. Most of today was evaluation and passive movements by the therapist. Actively, I did some stick lifts and some table slides. If you’ve had PT for shoulder problems, you know what those are.
I still appreciated the big ice pack at the end of the session. The plan is for three sessions a week for three weeks, followed by two sessions a week for two weeks. We’ll see where I am after that.
Not too much discomfort this time. We’ll see what happens after later sessions.
I dutifully took some pain medicine about an hour before the session - lots of advice on that subject, and I believed. Most of today was evaluation and passive movements by the therapist. Actively, I did some stick lifts and some table slides. If you’ve had PT for shoulder problems, you know what those are.
I still appreciated the big ice pack at the end of the session. The plan is for three sessions a week for three weeks, followed by two sessions a week for two weeks. We’ll see where I am after that.
Not too much discomfort this time. We’ll see what happens after later sessions.
Saturday, July 05, 2014
Home
We're back home from our wonderful week at the beach. What could be better than sun, sand, salt-water, shrimp, family and friends? Only more of everything. Unfortunately, we have to wait until next year, but the reservations are made.
Maybe I'll be able to get back into a routine in a day or two. We'll see how I feel after physical therapy starts on Monday.
Maybe I'll be able to get back into a routine in a day or two. We'll see how I feel after physical therapy starts on Monday.
Wednesday, July 02, 2014
From the beach
A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
The measure of a country's greatness is its ability to retain compassion in times of crisis. -Thurgood Marshall, US Supreme Court Justice (1908-1993)
Friday, June 27, 2014
Chaos reigns!
Wasn’t it Robert Burns who wrote “the best laid plans of mice and men”, etc.?
It’s so true.
We had this lovely orchestrated plan for Jesse to fly to Atlanta to be picked up by Matt today, and then picked up by Sue to go with her to the beach tomorrow. Oh, well…..
The weather on the East Coast fixed that. Jesse couldn’t get to Atlanta. So then it was scrambling around to get everybody in the loop and figure out how to get things done. Many texts, phone calls, web searches happened.
The current plan is for Jesse to fly to Birmingham tomorrow about noon. I’m going to drive to the beach with Carol & Stephen, leaving about 8:30. John and Margaret are leaving later and picking Jesse up in B’ham, then driving on down to the beach.
Life does go on. Who knows how it will ultimately go. Stay tuned.
It’s so true.
We had this lovely orchestrated plan for Jesse to fly to Atlanta to be picked up by Matt today, and then picked up by Sue to go with her to the beach tomorrow. Oh, well…..
The weather on the East Coast fixed that. Jesse couldn’t get to Atlanta. So then it was scrambling around to get everybody in the loop and figure out how to get things done. Many texts, phone calls, web searches happened.
The current plan is for Jesse to fly to Birmingham tomorrow about noon. I’m going to drive to the beach with Carol & Stephen, leaving about 8:30. John and Margaret are leaving later and picking Jesse up in B’ham, then driving on down to the beach.
Life does go on. Who knows how it will ultimately go. Stay tuned.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Doctor visit #2
I saw the doc this afternoon. The x-rays looked good, and he says I'm doing fine. I can go without the sling after a week, and he gave me some exercises to start at home. I've made an appointment for my first PT session the Monday after we get home. He gave me some more pain Rx so I'll have some during the PT. He also said I could go back to the pool, so I'll be doing that when we get home. I asked about driving, and he said it was okay with him. John, however, is another matter. He'll have to be sure himself that I'm able to handle the wheel enough to be safe. We'll worry about that post-beach, too.
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Howard Baker, Jr. 1925-2014
He was, in general, one of the good guys. I loved this story and quote:
Baker, an accomplished amateur photographer, was known to carry a camera with him wherever he went. But he didn't take any photos during the Watergate hearings.
"I felt that it was beneath the dignity of the event," he said years later. "It turned out the event had no dignity and I should have taken pictures."
-------------------------------------------
Howard Baker, Jr. 1925-2014
He was, in general, one of the good guys. I loved this story and quote:
Baker, an accomplished amateur photographer, was known to carry a camera with him wherever he went. But he didn't take any photos during the Watergate hearings.
"I felt that it was beneath the dignity of the event," he said years later. "It turned out the event had no dignity and I should have taken pictures."
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Wednesday night
I did sleep last night - whether from the melatonin, or just not having slept the night before. Lots of potty breaks, but went right back to sleep. We'll see how it goes from here. I’ll keep taking the melatonin, at least for the short term.
We've been to coffee, and John walked on the Riverwalk for his exercise this morning. It was too windy for him to row.
That was pretty much it for the day.
However, I wanted to post another link to an article from nooga.com. If you love libraries - as I do - you’ll enjoy reading this. Even though I read almost exclusively e-books now, it doesn’t preclude my love and veneration for library. Click here.
We've been to coffee, and John walked on the Riverwalk for his exercise this morning. It was too windy for him to row.
That was pretty much it for the day.
However, I wanted to post another link to an article from nooga.com. If you love libraries - as I do - you’ll enjoy reading this. Even though I read almost exclusively e-books now, it doesn’t preclude my love and veneration for library. Click here.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
No sleep
Last night wound up being an all-nighter of no sleep. I finally got a couple of hours from 5-7 a.m. I took a short nap this afternoon, but managed to to stay up most of the day. Jean had suggested Benadryl (which didn't work last night) and melatonin. I got some melatonin at WalMart this morning, and will give that a try tonight. In my web-surfing during the night for melatonin, I read that as we age, melatonin production slows and/or ceases. Also that surgery can greatly disrupt sleep. So I'm into those things.
We'll see how it works tonight.
We'll see how it works tonight.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Miscellany
Have you noticed the Google Doodles lately? They've all been animated and about the World Cup. Sometimes they've changed during the day, and reflect the matches being held. They're just fun. I'm not much of a sports fan, but I do know the World Cup is the biggest thing going on right now.
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John got some "middling" cards at bridge today. That always keeps us interested.
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We finally got under some of the scattered storms today, and got about 0.3" of rain.
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I did one of those nasty jobs today. I ran vinegar through the coffee pot - twice. And then three pots of clear water to clean that out. The auto-drip pots are great, but the reservoirs are all but impossible to clean. We also ran the Brita pots through the dishwasher and changed the filters. Isn't that exciting!
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So much for Monday.
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John got some "middling" cards at bridge today. That always keeps us interested.
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We finally got under some of the scattered storms today, and got about 0.3" of rain.
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I did one of those nasty jobs today. I ran vinegar through the coffee pot - twice. And then three pots of clear water to clean that out. The auto-drip pots are great, but the reservoirs are all but impossible to clean. We also ran the Brita pots through the dishwasher and changed the filters. Isn't that exciting!
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So much for Monday.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Sunday Stealing
From Survey Haven:
61. Do you like current pop stars?
I guess not - I don’t know who any of them are.
62. What is your least favorite chore?
Any kind of housework
63. Last place you drove your car?
To get a massage on 21 May - the day before surgery.
64. Ever been out of the country?
Many times. We’ve been fortunate enough to go 6 of the 7 continents (not to Africa).
65. Where were you the last time you used a public bathroom?
It’s been at least a month, so I don’t remember. I will several times on our way to the beach next week.
66. Could you handle being in the military?
I might could have when I was of an age to do that. But at 78, it’s not likely.
67. What is your average cell phone bill?
Way too much, I’m sure.
68. Who or what are you thinking about right now?
Answering these questions
69. When was the last time you laughed REALLY hard?
I think it was at Jon Stewart’s show from last Thursday night (which we watched on Friday).
70. How many pairs of shoes do you own?
I have no idea, but I wear only about 2-3 different ones.
71. Are your toes always painted?
I don’t paint my toenails. When feet are as ugly as mine, I don’t want to call attention to them.
72. How many piercings do you have?
Two - one in each ear.
73. What are you doing today?
I cooked breakfast, have done the laundry, heated leftovers for supper, and that’s about it.
74. Have you ever been gambling?
I’ve been to Las Vegas and lost the obligatory $10.00 in a slot machine. The gambling gene just got left out of me.
75. When is the last time you updated your blog?
Today - answering these questions.
76. Do you like roller coasters?
Not particularly. I haven’t gone to an amusement park in ages, and wasn’t a great fan even then.
77. Have you ever been to Disneyland or world?
No, but I did go to Six Flags over Texas when it was just the second theme park, and to Opryland Park when it was first open in Nashville.
78. Do you have a favorite cartoon character?
Not particularly.
79. Last thing you cooked?
The chili relleno souffle I made for breakfast this morning (it was good and very easy - recipe provided on request).
80. How's the weather?
We have the usual summer forecast - highs around 90, lows around 70, lots of sunshine, with high humidity, and a chance of scattered afternoon thundershowers.
81. Do you e-mail more than snail mail?
Yes, I’m sorry to say. But I do still write thank-you notes.
82. What's the funniest picture you ever took with your cell phone?
I don’t take pictures with my cell phone - although it has that capability.
83. Last time you were sick?
It’s been a while, but I’ve been really out of commission since the surgery on my shoulder on 22 May.
84. What states have you lived in?
Missouri, Texas, Tennessee
85. Do you wish you could move?
Sometimes - not from Chattanooga, but maybe into an apartment or retirement complex. Unless it was to live on the water somewhere, of course.
86. Do you take a lot of quizzes?
No - Sunday Stealing is about it.
87. What is your dream car?
I’m not really into cars. The Altima I drive now is just fine, thank you.
88. Have you ever wanted someone you cant have?
Nope - I’ve got the one I want.
89. If you could be anywhere right now where would it be?
We are SO ready to be at the beach.
90. Are you happy with your life?
Mostly. It’ll be better when this current thing is behind me, but I’d like to have more energy.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
A busy day
Who would've thought we'd have a busy Saturday.
It started out slow. But then some folks from the Monday bridge group called. We've been trying to get together to play some bridge for a while. And it turned out today was the day.
Darryl and Rosemary came over after lunch and we had a lovely afternoon playing bridge. We played "girls against the boys", and after a slow start, Rosemary and I wound up being ahead by 30 points. We'll do that again sometime soon, I hope.
We had a great evening, too. Tina brought us dinner from a new Italian place - pizza, meatballs, olives, and salad. Absolutely delicious! And we finished off the evening with some cherry pie.
All in all, a pretty good day!
It started out slow. But then some folks from the Monday bridge group called. We've been trying to get together to play some bridge for a while. And it turned out today was the day.
Darryl and Rosemary came over after lunch and we had a lovely afternoon playing bridge. We played "girls against the boys", and after a slow start, Rosemary and I wound up being ahead by 30 points. We'll do that again sometime soon, I hope.
We had a great evening, too. Tina brought us dinner from a new Italian place - pizza, meatballs, olives, and salad. Absolutely delicious! And we finished off the evening with some cherry pie.
All in all, a pretty good day!
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Well said!
Nooga.com is a Chattanooga web newspaper. I check it several times a day. I thought this morning's piece by Rachel Watkins was worth passing along. Please read her column, Patriotism is not blind.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Big news (or not)
John took me to both grocery stores this morning. I managed to get through Aldi on foot, but then rode the cart in WalMart.
This exciting recuperative life doesn't provide much to write about. Please bear with me.
This exciting recuperative life doesn't provide much to write about. Please bear with me.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
"Who owns your body?"
The Chattanooga Times Free Press is unusual in that it has two editorial pages - one with a liberal slant (on the left) and one with a conservative slant (on the right). I hasten to say that I’m a proud liberal and seldom read the right-hand page. However, this morning, the headline of Walter Williams’ column caught my eye.
Who owns your body? the bold print read.
What? Has this uber-conservative columnist and the right-hand page decided to take up the cause of women’s reproductive rights? I couldn’t believe my eyes.
Well, of course not. I only had to read the first paragraph to see that Williams was complaining about the FDA not being fast enough to approve a new drug for the treatment of ALS. Surely, he said, it was the patient’s right to control the treatment for his own body.
Oh, well - I knew it couldn’t be true.
Who owns your body? the bold print read.
What? Has this uber-conservative columnist and the right-hand page decided to take up the cause of women’s reproductive rights? I couldn’t believe my eyes.
Well, of course not. I only had to read the first paragraph to see that Williams was complaining about the FDA not being fast enough to approve a new drug for the treatment of ALS. Surely, he said, it was the patient’s right to control the treatment for his own body.
Oh, well - I knew it couldn’t be true.
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Sunday Stealing
30. Do you read your horoscope?
No - except on my birthday
31. Where was the last place you bought something?
Grocery store
32. How do you feel about your hair right now?
It’s okay, with a summer and post-surgery haircut
33. Do you bite your nails?
No, although I did as a child and adolescent.
34. Do you have any expensive jewelry?
I have a couple of small family pieces, but nothing really valuable
35. Have you ever been told you speak fast?
Oh, yes.
36. Is your laugh usually hearty?
I think so
37. How fast have you driven a car?
Probably around 80-85.
38. Have you ever smoked?
Yes - from when I was in college, until about my late 40s.
39. What was your favorite subject in school?
History, languages
40. Do you have cell phone provider loyalty?
Sort of. I stay with the one that most of my family uses.
41. What type of boy or girl do you usually fall for?
I “fell” for the right one nearly 60 years ago.
42. Do you have any hidden talents?
Nope
43. Favorite Song?
I like most music - nothing I’d call a real favorite
44. Do you like to sing at all?
Sometimes, just not very well.
45. Dream Job?
Retired!
46. Where does most of your family live?
The Southeastern United States
47. Are you an only child or do you have siblings?
I was one of two girls. My older sister died in 1996.
48. Would you consider yourself to be spoiled?
No, but I probably was/am.
49. What was the first thing you thought when you woke up?
Getting up to go to the bathroom.
50. Do you drink?
Mostly water and coffee; not alcoholic beverages
51. Know any other languages?
I know a smattering of French and Spanish, and am mostly fluent in English.
52. Ever write a coded message?
Not since I was a child.
53. Have you ever been in someone else's wedding?
Twice
54. Do you have any children?
Yes, four wonderful daughters
55. Did you take a nap today?
Yes
56. Who has the same birthday as you?
I don’t know anybody, but our two granddaughters are the two days before mine.
57. Ever met anyone famous before?
Very superficially
58. Do you want to be famous one day?
No
59. Any Pet Peeves?
Intolerant people; bad grammar; liars
60. Are you multitasking right now?
Of course.
No - except on my birthday
31. Where was the last place you bought something?
Grocery store
32. How do you feel about your hair right now?
It’s okay, with a summer and post-surgery haircut
33. Do you bite your nails?
No, although I did as a child and adolescent.
34. Do you have any expensive jewelry?
I have a couple of small family pieces, but nothing really valuable
35. Have you ever been told you speak fast?
Oh, yes.
36. Is your laugh usually hearty?
I think so
37. How fast have you driven a car?
Probably around 80-85.
38. Have you ever smoked?
Yes - from when I was in college, until about my late 40s.
39. What was your favorite subject in school?
History, languages
40. Do you have cell phone provider loyalty?
Sort of. I stay with the one that most of my family uses.
41. What type of boy or girl do you usually fall for?
I “fell” for the right one nearly 60 years ago.
42. Do you have any hidden talents?
Nope
43. Favorite Song?
I like most music - nothing I’d call a real favorite
44. Do you like to sing at all?
Sometimes, just not very well.
45. Dream Job?
Retired!
46. Where does most of your family live?
The Southeastern United States
47. Are you an only child or do you have siblings?
I was one of two girls. My older sister died in 1996.
48. Would you consider yourself to be spoiled?
No, but I probably was/am.
49. What was the first thing you thought when you woke up?
Getting up to go to the bathroom.
50. Do you drink?
Mostly water and coffee; not alcoholic beverages
51. Know any other languages?
I know a smattering of French and Spanish, and am mostly fluent in English.
52. Ever write a coded message?
Not since I was a child.
53. Have you ever been in someone else's wedding?
Twice
54. Do you have any children?
Yes, four wonderful daughters
55. Did you take a nap today?
Yes
56. Who has the same birthday as you?
I don’t know anybody, but our two granddaughters are the two days before mine.
57. Ever met anyone famous before?
Very superficially
58. Do you want to be famous one day?
No
59. Any Pet Peeves?
Intolerant people; bad grammar; liars
60. Are you multitasking right now?
Of course.
Friday, June 13, 2014
Little baby steps
A little more activity today, and I could tell.
I guess it really wasn’t that much. We went out to dinner with Carol, Stephen, and Tina (good Chinese and sushi). Then we went to Carol & Stephen’s for coffee and more conversation.
It was a good evening with good friends, but it was more than I’ve done so far.
Little baby steps.
I guess it really wasn’t that much. We went out to dinner with Carol, Stephen, and Tina (good Chinese and sushi). Then we went to Carol & Stephen’s for coffee and more conversation.
It was a good evening with good friends, but it was more than I’ve done so far.
Little baby steps.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Still improving
I'm continuing to progress. I've gone off all prescription pain medication, and doing fine. So far, I seem to have at least as much range of motion as I did before surgery, and that's without any physical therapy. As much as I dread the PT, I'm hoping for good things. Now if I can get the sleep pattern somewhat back to normal.
We've finally been getting some rain this week - lots of "popcorn" thundershowers. We've gotten a total of about 1.5" so far. That's about par for the course during Riverbend (Chattanooga's 10-day long riverfront music festival).
We've finally been getting some rain this week - lots of "popcorn" thundershowers. We've gotten a total of about 1.5" so far. That's about par for the course during Riverbend (Chattanooga's 10-day long riverfront music festival).
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Excitement
It is pretty lame when the big excitement of the day is getting out to go to WalMart. AND to ride in the electric cart through the store.
Or maybe it was some better to get my manicure and pedicure - definitely needed.
Or maybe it's stopping the Rx pain meds and getting pain control with extra-strength acetominophen.
Whatever works.
Or maybe it was some better to get my manicure and pedicure - definitely needed.
Or maybe it's stopping the Rx pain meds and getting pain control with extra-strength acetominophen.
Whatever works.
Monday, June 09, 2014
Another exiting day
Another half-inch
Of rain this morning. Makes for
An exciting day.
Recovery is
Slow, but continuous and
Steady. We hope so.
Saturday, June 07, 2014
An early Sunday Stealing
From Survey Haven:
1. What was the highlight of your week?
Taking a full shower.
2. Whose car were you in last?
John’s
3. When is the next time you will kiss someone?
Probably before I go to bed tonight.
4. What color shirt are you wearing?
Red
5. How long is your hair?
Very short. Just got it cut yesterday.
6. Are you good looking?
Not particularly.
7. Last movie you watched?
I don’t remember - it’s been a while.
8. Who were you with?
See above.
9. Last thing you ate?
Dinner - made a frittata.
10. Last thing you drank?
Water with dinner.
11. When was the last time you had your heart broken?
I don’t know that my heart’s ever been “broken”.
12. Who came over last?
Jeanne, to bring a Mexican lasagna casserole (frozen). Saving that for later.
13. Are you happy right now?
Yes
14. What did you say last?
Why on earth are they still showing reruns of the horse race?
15. Where is your phone?
One on either side of me
16. What color are your eyes?
Brown
17. Are you left-handed?
No
18. Spell your name without vowels:
Mr Zll
19. Do you have any pets?
No
20. Favorite Vacation?
The next one
21. What do you dislike currently?
I’m not particularly fond of pain.
22. What are you listening to?
On TV, but muted now - game #2 of the Stanley Cup.
23. If you could have one thing right now what would it be?
To be at the beach
24. What is your favorite scent?
I don’t like artificial scents at all. I like the smell of freesh fruits, or fresh cut grass, or rain
25. Who makes you happiest?
My loved ones.
26. What were you doing at midnight last night?
Sleeping
27. When is your birthday?
March
28. Who has the same phone as you?
Landline - John; cell - nobody
29. Last time you went swimming in a pool?
21 May - the day before my surgery.
1. What was the highlight of your week?
Taking a full shower.
2. Whose car were you in last?
John’s
3. When is the next time you will kiss someone?
Probably before I go to bed tonight.
4. What color shirt are you wearing?
Red
5. How long is your hair?
Very short. Just got it cut yesterday.
6. Are you good looking?
Not particularly.
7. Last movie you watched?
I don’t remember - it’s been a while.
8. Who were you with?
See above.
9. Last thing you ate?
Dinner - made a frittata.
10. Last thing you drank?
Water with dinner.
11. When was the last time you had your heart broken?
I don’t know that my heart’s ever been “broken”.
12. Who came over last?
Jeanne, to bring a Mexican lasagna casserole (frozen). Saving that for later.
13. Are you happy right now?
Yes
14. What did you say last?
Why on earth are they still showing reruns of the horse race?
15. Where is your phone?
One on either side of me
16. What color are your eyes?
Brown
17. Are you left-handed?
No
18. Spell your name without vowels:
Mr Zll
19. Do you have any pets?
No
20. Favorite Vacation?
The next one
21. What do you dislike currently?
I’m not particularly fond of pain.
22. What are you listening to?
On TV, but muted now - game #2 of the Stanley Cup.
23. If you could have one thing right now what would it be?
To be at the beach
24. What is your favorite scent?
I don’t like artificial scents at all. I like the smell of freesh fruits, or fresh cut grass, or rain
25. Who makes you happiest?
My loved ones.
26. What were you doing at midnight last night?
Sleeping
27. When is your birthday?
March
28. Who has the same phone as you?
Landline - John; cell - nobody
29. Last time you went swimming in a pool?
21 May - the day before my surgery.
Friday, June 06, 2014
Darwin Award candidate?
This article was in the Chattanooga Times Free Press this week.
John Doe was driving northbound on Highway 58 around 3:30 p.m. when the gun somehow went off and struck him in the upper leg, reports WRCB-TV. He pulled over to the side of the road and 911 was called by witnesses, but he died from loss of blood before emergency personnel could respond.
Suicide has been ruled out by investigators, and WRCB-TV reports that Doe had a carry permit and always carried a gun, according to his family.
The incident is still under investigation, according to the sheriff's office.
Man Shoots, kills self while driving
MEIGS COUNTY, Tenn. — The Meigs County Sheriff's Office has confirmed at a man shot and killed himself accidentally while driving Wednesday afternoon.John Doe was driving northbound on Highway 58 around 3:30 p.m. when the gun somehow went off and struck him in the upper leg, reports WRCB-TV. He pulled over to the side of the road and 911 was called by witnesses, but he died from loss of blood before emergency personnel could respond.
Suicide has been ruled out by investigators, and WRCB-TV reports that Doe had a carry permit and always carried a gun, according to his family.
The incident is still under investigation, according to the sheriff's office.
Thursday, June 05, 2014
Awake!
I really hate being awake at this hour, when I've been trying to get to sleep for 2 hours. Soon, I hope.
Tuesday, June 03, 2014
First doctor visit
I've seen the doc, and had the staples removed. The first x-rays look good - at least to me. I think I understand how this thing is put together. The ball part, which is usually attached to the top of the arm piece, is attached to the shoulder blade. The socket piece is attached to the shaft that goes down into the arm. TMI???, I'm sorry. Anyhow, no PT scheduled yet - just keep on with the passive exercises for the next four weeks, then see him again. Full shower in two days.
I took a photo of the x-ray, but can't seem to put photos on the blog anymore - sorry.
I took a photo of the x-ray, but can't seem to put photos on the blog anymore - sorry.
Monday, June 02, 2014
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Sunday stealing
1)Where would you retire to?
We haven’t found anyplace we like better than where we are. I would love to be closer to the ocean, though.
2)What are your best physical features?
The body is pretty well falling apart. I guess I’ll have to go with my eyes.
3)What are your best characteristics?
Caring and friendliness, I guess.
4)What kind of books do you like to read?
My reading is so sporadic now. I still like to read mysteries, but I do best with nonfiction.
5)What are you reading now?
Wild. It’s an autobiography of a young woman walking the Pacific Crest Trail.
6)Where would you want to retire to?
See #1.
7)What is your favorite time of the day?
I’m retired - pretty much the same. But I am partial to early mornings and late evenings.
8)Where did you grow up?
Houston, TX
9)How far away from your birthplace do you live now?
450 miles
10)Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Some of each, but if I’m going to get a job done, it’ll usually be in the morning.
11)What inspires you?
Nothing specific - just something that lights my fire at the moment.
12)Can you close your eyes and raise your eyebrows?
Yes
13)Do you have pets?
Not any more.
14)How many rings before you answer the phone?
I like to answer it right away - before the second ring, if I can get to the phone in time.
15)What are some of the different jobs that you have had in your life?
Medical transcription (office, medical records, pathology, x-rays), medical office manager.
16)Any new and exciting things that you would like to share?
No - and this is a good thing.
17)What is most important in life?
Good health, someone to love and someone who loves you.
18)Did you dream last night?
I don’t think so.
19)Do you remember your dreams?
I usually remember that I have dreamed, but don’t remember the dreams specifically.
We haven’t found anyplace we like better than where we are. I would love to be closer to the ocean, though.
2)What are your best physical features?
The body is pretty well falling apart. I guess I’ll have to go with my eyes.
3)What are your best characteristics?
Caring and friendliness, I guess.
4)What kind of books do you like to read?
My reading is so sporadic now. I still like to read mysteries, but I do best with nonfiction.
5)What are you reading now?
Wild. It’s an autobiography of a young woman walking the Pacific Crest Trail.
6)Where would you want to retire to?
See #1.
7)What is your favorite time of the day?
I’m retired - pretty much the same. But I am partial to early mornings and late evenings.
8)Where did you grow up?
Houston, TX
9)How far away from your birthplace do you live now?
450 miles
10)Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Some of each, but if I’m going to get a job done, it’ll usually be in the morning.
11)What inspires you?
Nothing specific - just something that lights my fire at the moment.
12)Can you close your eyes and raise your eyebrows?
Yes
13)Do you have pets?
Not any more.
14)How many rings before you answer the phone?
I like to answer it right away - before the second ring, if I can get to the phone in time.
15)What are some of the different jobs that you have had in your life?
Medical transcription (office, medical records, pathology, x-rays), medical office manager.
16)Any new and exciting things that you would like to share?
No - and this is a good thing.
17)What is most important in life?
Good health, someone to love and someone who loves you.
18)Did you dream last night?
I don’t think so.
19)Do you remember your dreams?
I usually remember that I have dreamed, but don’t remember the dreams specifically.
Friday, May 30, 2014
Another day .....
Wish we’d get some rain. There are lots of “popcorn” showers around us, and we hear lots of thunder, but so far, no rain in about 10 days or so. Doing it now, in fact.
It’s been fun. I got lots of antibiotics in the hospital because of the joint replacement. Despite my loading up with yogurt beforehand, I started up with a yeast infection. I had a diflucan pill that I’d had stashed away, and took that, with good results. Then I realized that I was starting a plain old UTI. Well, @#$%^^! I had some AZO, which took care of most of the symptoms but, of course, not the real problem. I finally got in touch with my family doctor this morning (she called me from a training session), and she called me in an Rx for more antibiotics and another Rx for diflucan. Sighhhhhhhh!
But the shoulder seems to be doing fine.
It’s been fun. I got lots of antibiotics in the hospital because of the joint replacement. Despite my loading up with yogurt beforehand, I started up with a yeast infection. I had a diflucan pill that I’d had stashed away, and took that, with good results. Then I realized that I was starting a plain old UTI. Well, @#$%^^! I had some AZO, which took care of most of the symptoms but, of course, not the real problem. I finally got in touch with my family doctor this morning (she called me from a training session), and she called me in an Rx for more antibiotics and another Rx for diflucan. Sighhhhhhhh!
But the shoulder seems to be doing fine.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Status update
Recovery seems to be going well. I see the doctor next Tuesday, so just keep recuperating until then.
The swimmers are taking very good care of us - with a schedule of meals being brought in. I guess I’d better not get used to this, although it’s incredibly wonderful! We can’t possibly thank them enough, so we’ll just have to pay it forward when the time comes.
Tina has been in almost every day, being sure we’re getting anything else we need.
Otherwise nothing is going on. And since it’s pretty hard to type one-handed, I probably won’t be writing every day.
Take care of yourselves.
The swimmers are taking very good care of us - with a schedule of meals being brought in. I guess I’d better not get used to this, although it’s incredibly wonderful! We can’t possibly thank them enough, so we’ll just have to pay it forward when the time comes.
Tina has been in almost every day, being sure we’re getting anything else we need.
Otherwise nothing is going on. And since it’s pretty hard to type one-handed, I probably won’t be writing every day.
Take care of yourselves.
Monday, May 26, 2014
+4
Margaret finished up stuff, and went home this morning. I guess we could've managed alone, but it was SO much more comfortable with her help and Tina's help. They were super!
Carol's going to go to the store for me tomorrow, and we'll continue along with help from our terrific friends.
Many thanks to all.
Carol's going to go to the store for me tomorrow, and we'll continue along with help from our terrific friends.
Many thanks to all.
Sunday, May 25, 2014
Vote against the Tennessee Taliban
I recently found out there's a referendum on the November ballot in Tennessee on a proposed state constitutional amendment. This advertisement was in this morning's paper and is the first I've seen about it from either side. Needless to say, I'll be sending money to these folks.
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Saturday, May 24, 2014
Home
The surgery was successful, I guess. At least I'm back together, and am back home. Typing slowly, one-handed. Thanks for all the good wishes. I'll see the doc in 10 days, then probably start PT.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Back in a few days
I'm supposed to be at the hospital at 5:30 a.m. tomorrow for my left total shoulder replacement. As far as I know, the surgery is still scheduled for 7:30. I've been told it should last about two hours, and that I should be in the hospital for 3-5 days. We'll just hope all goes well and I get discharged in a minimum amount of time.
I'll be back in a few days. Thanks for all your good wishes.
I'll be back in a few days. Thanks for all your good wishes.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Monday, May 19, 2014
Bridge!
Bridge was the story of the day today. Something new and different.
John was high last week (when I didn't go). We had a big group today - 6 full tables, plus one. I don't know how I ended up, but I was in the high partnership for each of the five rounds we played. It was sweet!
John was high last week (when I didn't go). We had a big group today - 6 full tables, plus one. I don't know how I ended up, but I was in the high partnership for each of the five rounds we played. It was sweet!
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Shhhhhhhhhh
I've always said, "If you don't have anything to say, be quiet". So I'll be quiet tonight.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Sunday stealing
Random Twenty
1. Last time you had butterflies in your stomach?
I can’t remember - I know it’s been a long time.
2. What was your last alcoholic beverage?
It’s been about 15+ years. Maybe a glass of wine?
3. Who can you trust?
John, always.
4. Where was your first kiss with your current significant other?
Houston, when we were at Rice
5. Favorite Band?
Any symphony orchestra
6. What is something you've learned about yourself recently?
I’m not really into pain.
7. Do you like anyone?
I like almost everyone. There are a few people I’d rather not spend a lot of time with, but….
8. Do you know anyone who is engaged?
Yes, Grandson Matt and Claire
9. What's your favorite number?
I don’t have one.
10. Who was the last person to make you cry?
Nobody really “makes” me cry. I cry at movies, commercials, happy news, stuff like that.
11. Did you ever go to camp as a kid?
I went to Girl Scout camp for about 4-5 summers.
12. When was the last time you cried?
I don’t remember
13. What is one thing you miss about your past?
I miss having lots of energy and being pain free. I miss Pink and Betsy and Ken.
14. What is one thing you've learned about life?
I’ve learned that there’s always something new to learn. And that you should never stop learning.
15. Are you jealous of anyone?
Not really.
16. Is anyone jealous of you?
I have no idea.
17. Has a friend ever used you?
Not that I know of. If someone did, he/she certainly wasn’t a friend.
18. Has anyone recently told you that they like you more than as a friend?
No. I’ve been married for many years, and the situation wouldn't arise.
19. Who was the last person you drove with?
John - we came home from dinner tonight.
20. What are you looking forward to?
Getting this surgery over with and getting on with recovery.
1. Last time you had butterflies in your stomach?
I can’t remember - I know it’s been a long time.
2. What was your last alcoholic beverage?
It’s been about 15+ years. Maybe a glass of wine?
3. Who can you trust?
John, always.
4. Where was your first kiss with your current significant other?
Houston, when we were at Rice
5. Favorite Band?
Any symphony orchestra
6. What is something you've learned about yourself recently?
I’m not really into pain.
7. Do you like anyone?
I like almost everyone. There are a few people I’d rather not spend a lot of time with, but….
8. Do you know anyone who is engaged?
Yes, Grandson Matt and Claire
9. What's your favorite number?
I don’t have one.
10. Who was the last person to make you cry?
Nobody really “makes” me cry. I cry at movies, commercials, happy news, stuff like that.
11. Did you ever go to camp as a kid?
I went to Girl Scout camp for about 4-5 summers.
12. When was the last time you cried?
I don’t remember
13. What is one thing you miss about your past?
I miss having lots of energy and being pain free. I miss Pink and Betsy and Ken.
14. What is one thing you've learned about life?
I’ve learned that there’s always something new to learn. And that you should never stop learning.
15. Are you jealous of anyone?
Not really.
16. Is anyone jealous of you?
I have no idea.
17. Has a friend ever used you?
Not that I know of. If someone did, he/she certainly wasn’t a friend.
18. Has anyone recently told you that they like you more than as a friend?
No. I’ve been married for many years, and the situation wouldn't arise.
19. Who was the last person you drove with?
John - we came home from dinner tonight.
20. What are you looking forward to?
Getting this surgery over with and getting on with recovery.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Rainy night; drug questions
We got about 1.5" of much-needed rain overnight. It sounded so nice as we were going to sleep.
Or at least John was going to sleep. I had one of my non-sleeping nights - the brain just wouldn't shut off. It was about 3 a.m. before I finally got to sleep.
My bone density test at the rheumatologist's showed some increase in osteopenia, and the recommendation was for one of the new drugs to combat osteoporosis. They would not be giving right now, a week before surgery, in any case. But we'll talk about it again in six months. I'll have to think about that. I'm leaning toward not doing it. The side effects can be pretty severe, my numbers are not in the osteoporotic range (at least not yet), and the semi-annual injections are very expensive. We shall see...
Any comments from folks out there?
Or at least John was going to sleep. I had one of my non-sleeping nights - the brain just wouldn't shut off. It was about 3 a.m. before I finally got to sleep.
My bone density test at the rheumatologist's showed some increase in osteopenia, and the recommendation was for one of the new drugs to combat osteoporosis. They would not be giving right now, a week before surgery, in any case. But we'll talk about it again in six months. I'll have to think about that. I'm leaning toward not doing it. The side effects can be pretty severe, my numbers are not in the osteoporotic range (at least not yet), and the semi-annual injections are very expensive. We shall see...
Any comments from folks out there?
The countdown begins...
My surgery is a week from tomorrow. Tonight we filled out our pill boxes for the next week. I had to pay close attention to which meds to leave out on which days. I have to stop several of the meds after Friday, and then take only three on the morning of surgery.
And I have to start planning what to buy at the grocery store and what to take with me.
-------------------------------
The new sidewalk is great. It already feels just right.
-------------------------------
Mr. M. is due to come Saturday morning to install the new HVAC system. Lots of money going out this spring.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Monday, May 12, 2014
Getting it done
The workmen have just left here. We had the sidewalk from the driveway to the front porch redone, changing the slope to eliminate the step from the sidewalk to the porch (where I fell). They've also put in a reinforced wrought-iron handrail. It looks great. They'll be coming back in the morning to remove the wood form, and we should be able to walk on it by Wednesday. The next job is having the HVAC replaced. We're not sure when that's going to be done - hopefully before I go into the hospital.
I went in for my pretesting this morning. That took about 1 1/2 hours, with form filling out, signing, question-asking, information-giving, nasal swab, EKG, and blood work (they had to stick me three times before they could get any). I guess I'm as ready as I'm going to be.
I went in for my pretesting this morning. That took about 1 1/2 hours, with form filling out, signing, question-asking, information-giving, nasal swab, EKG, and blood work (they had to stick me three times before they could get any). I guess I'm as ready as I'm going to be.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Special Saturday
Last night, we had nearly normal sleeping - at least I did. And I slept until 8:30! I’m sure I’m not completely over the jet lag, but that certainly did feel good.
This morning was Sarah’s commencement from the University of Miami School of Law. Sue and Randy were there for the occasion. We were able to watch the proceedings via live streaming on the computer, wired to the TV. Unfortunately, the sound was garbled, so we kept it muted - at least until they got to the graduates. It was a big class. Fortunately, the graduates were “hooded” in alphabetical order, so we watched until Sarah was honored, and then turned it off.
Tonight, Matt and Claire took both sets of parents and one set of grandparents (us) to dinner at the Red Lobster near our house. Matt got there very early to get on the books for a table for 10; then he called us to come as the time got close. It was the first time the parents and grandparents had met, so it was a very special occasion - Mothers’ Day, plus Meet-Each-Other day. We had a nice dinner and nice chatting with no stress involved.
We are so proud of all our children and grandchildren and their accomplishments!
Friday, May 09, 2014
Just a whimper
It’s back into the routine with a vengeance - or maybe just a whimper.
In any case, John went to row and I went to my swim class at the Y. The class about did me in, and John said he started out very slowly. We did finish, though, and managed to get to coffee with the group.
I certainly am glad that I had the forethought to schedule a massage for this morning. It was greatly appreciated by this old body.
Fortunately neither of us had anything else scheduled for today. The next two weeks are going to get interesting. Lots to do in the time leading up to my shoulder replacement surgery on 22 May.
In any case, John went to row and I went to my swim class at the Y. The class about did me in, and John said he started out very slowly. We did finish, though, and managed to get to coffee with the group.
I certainly am glad that I had the forethought to schedule a massage for this morning. It was greatly appreciated by this old body.
Fortunately neither of us had anything else scheduled for today. The next two weeks are going to get interesting. Lots to do in the time leading up to my shoulder replacement surgery on 22 May.
Thursday, May 08, 2014
Home from Hawai'i
We got home about 11:30 last night, from our lovely two weeks on Kaua’i. We stayed in two different resort condos, one in Princeville on the north shore of the island, and the other in Lawa’i on the south shore. The north shore is cooler with showers nearly every day. The south shore is warmer, and we had no rain at all. It was pleasant, although hotter when the trade winds died (which they did the last couple of days). The water was more accessible to our place in Lawa’i, and John was able to snorkel every day. John, Ann & Al did something active nearly every morning (walks, garden tours, etc.). I went along for the ride usually, but sat in the shade and knitted while they “did”. On the north shore, we found one wonderful beach - almost deserted on a Saturday midday. There are of more peopled beaches, but none so charming as this one, IMO. Again, they walked on the beach, while I enjoyed the breeze, the ocean, and the sound of the waves.
We usually found some nice place to have lunch, then went back “home” to nap, play some bridge, eat supper, and play some more bridge. One high point of the trip was checking the LA Kings’ progress in the march to the Stanley Cup. Our Californians are huge Kings fans, so the every-few-days games were very important, whether on the TV or my checking the progress on my iPad. (Both units had good WiFi.)
We flew from Hawaii to LA on Tuesday and spent the night with Ann & Al. Then to Atlanta on Wednesday. For some unknown reason, our luggage was the last onto the carousel, so we just barely made the shuttle van to Chattanooga. But we got home safe and sound.
After unpacking and eating a bit, we turned in about 1 a.m. John slept well, but I had a lot of problems with leg cramps and wound up in the chair. But we both were up by 8. John went in for the lab work for his physical exam, and I did the grocery stores and laundry. We both had short naps, and will really have to work at getting over jet lag.
We’ll be going to the Y in the morning and I have an appointment for a massage. Next week is really busy, with doctors, etc.
When John gets his photos downloaded from his camera, I'll post some goodies (if I can make the photo-thing work.)
We usually found some nice place to have lunch, then went back “home” to nap, play some bridge, eat supper, and play some more bridge. One high point of the trip was checking the LA Kings’ progress in the march to the Stanley Cup. Our Californians are huge Kings fans, so the every-few-days games were very important, whether on the TV or my checking the progress on my iPad. (Both units had good WiFi.)
We flew from Hawaii to LA on Tuesday and spent the night with Ann & Al. Then to Atlanta on Wednesday. For some unknown reason, our luggage was the last onto the carousel, so we just barely made the shuttle van to Chattanooga. But we got home safe and sound.
After unpacking and eating a bit, we turned in about 1 a.m. John slept well, but I had a lot of problems with leg cramps and wound up in the chair. But we both were up by 8. John went in for the lab work for his physical exam, and I did the grocery stores and laundry. We both had short naps, and will really have to work at getting over jet lag.
We’ll be going to the Y in the morning and I have an appointment for a massage. Next week is really busy, with doctors, etc.
When John gets his photos downloaded from his camera, I'll post some goodies (if I can make the photo-thing work.)
Monday, April 21, 2014
Again
Our bags are packed (again)
We’re ready to go (again)
Standing there beside the door (again)
---------------------------------------
It’s been a long day, but we’ve really accomplished a lot. Swimming and coffee, of course. I had a just-before-we-leave mani/pedi this morning, and went straight from there to bridge (no lunch for me today). I had terrible cards, with one or two opening hands. Most of them had 3-6 points, and if my partner bid, I’d have a singleton - really awful.
We came straight home to meet with various workmen. The H/VAC guy came by to talk to John about getting our new system, what to buy and when to install it. They came to an agreement, and that’ll be done between the time we get home and when I have surgery. The concrete guy came by, too, to pick up a check for the wrought iron railing. All the fabricator’s work is custom-made, so has to be paid for in advance. He’ll be ready to put the sidewalk in as soon as we get home.
We’re leaving on the 5 a.m. shuttle to Atlanta, heading for LAX. We fly to Kaui on Thursday. I’ll have my iPad, and there is wifi in the apartments, so will still be in touch - just not so much. Stay safe.
We’re ready to go (again)
Standing there beside the door (again)
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It’s been a long day, but we’ve really accomplished a lot. Swimming and coffee, of course. I had a just-before-we-leave mani/pedi this morning, and went straight from there to bridge (no lunch for me today). I had terrible cards, with one or two opening hands. Most of them had 3-6 points, and if my partner bid, I’d have a singleton - really awful.
We came straight home to meet with various workmen. The H/VAC guy came by to talk to John about getting our new system, what to buy and when to install it. They came to an agreement, and that’ll be done between the time we get home and when I have surgery. The concrete guy came by, too, to pick up a check for the wrought iron railing. All the fabricator’s work is custom-made, so has to be paid for in advance. He’ll be ready to put the sidewalk in as soon as we get home.
We’re leaving on the 5 a.m. shuttle to Atlanta, heading for LAX. We fly to Kaui on Thursday. I’ll have my iPad, and there is wifi in the apartments, so will still be in touch - just not so much. Stay safe.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Today is really Sunday.
Today is really Sunday, but the only way to tell around here was the big paper with colored comics, and laundry was done.
Tina called and asked if we'd like to have bagels and lox for lunch. Definitely something different. And it was incredibly good! Einstein Brothers Bagels is something relatively new in town. We might have to do something like that again sometime. Thanks, Tina!
Tomorrow will be in full get-ready-to-travel mode.
Tina called and asked if we'd like to have bagels and lox for lunch. Definitely something different. And it was incredibly good! Einstein Brothers Bagels is something relatively new in town. We might have to do something like that again sometime. Thanks, Tina!
Tomorrow will be in full get-ready-to-travel mode.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
It felt like Sunday all day today.
We were at home all day today. This morning, we continued visiting with Jean. She scavenged some day lilies, columbine, ivy, etc., for her yard. And then she (and Leroy) headed back to Nashville about noon. It surely was nice having her here for a couple of days.
The concrete guy came by again to talk more, and to formally start processing our order. He’s coming back tomorrow to take working measurements, and then will talk to the handrail fabricator on Monday. We’ll get everything lined up, and then he’ll be ready to go as soon as we get home.
Happy Passover and Happy Easter to all.
The concrete guy came by again to talk more, and to formally start processing our order. He’s coming back tomorrow to take working measurements, and then will talk to the handrail fabricator on Monday. We’ll get everything lined up, and then he’ll be ready to go as soon as we get home.
Happy Passover and Happy Easter to all.
Friday, April 18, 2014
We got a lot done today.
We got a lot done today.
John rowed, took boxes and glass to the Recycle Center, and took a box of books to McKay’s Used Books.
I went to the Y, and we all made it to coffee with the group. Jean and I picked up the quilt I had made from Allan’s rowing t-shirts, picked up the t-shirts I had made into jackets with ribbon trim, tried to early-vote (the office was closed because of Good Friday), went by the knit shop to look for needlepoint stuff for Jean, and went to Michael’s for some embroidery floss for her needlepoint.
And that was all by 1 p.m.
We capped off the day by meeting Tina, Carol and Stephen for dinner at Old Saigon, and some wine and talking back here afterwards.
We’ve all earned our sleep tonight.
John rowed, took boxes and glass to the Recycle Center, and took a box of books to McKay’s Used Books.
I went to the Y, and we all made it to coffee with the group. Jean and I picked up the quilt I had made from Allan’s rowing t-shirts, picked up the t-shirts I had made into jackets with ribbon trim, tried to early-vote (the office was closed because of Good Friday), went by the knit shop to look for needlepoint stuff for Jean, and went to Michael’s for some embroidery floss for her needlepoint.
And that was all by 1 p.m.
We capped off the day by meeting Tina, Carol and Stephen for dinner at Old Saigon, and some wine and talking back here afterwards.
We’ve all earned our sleep tonight.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Concrete
We got the name of a contractor who does concrete stuff from a friend. We want to have the cracked sidewalk from the driveway to the front porch replaced, and to have it slope to the level of the porch, so there is no step.
The concrete guy came by this evening and we got an idea of what he can/will do, with some good input from him. We’re going to have him put in a handrail. We have to decide whether we want decorative/functional or just functional. The decorative railing will be about 3X cost of a pipe handicapped one, but would probably be worth it in the long run, since it’s on the front of the house.
We’ve looked at examples at the web site of the wrought iron fabricator and have picked out one we like. In either case, it’ll be set into the concrete, and about an additional foot into the ground below the concrete.
He has given us an estimate, and we’ll talk again about details and timing. We’ll aim for right after we get back from Hawaii.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Spring?
The redbud has bloomed. The flowering crab is in bloom. The pollen count is in the stratosphere. The dogwoods are glorious! Today John saw our spring visitors - the rose-breasted grosbeaks.
And yet the high today was in the mid-40s. The low tonight is supposed to be 30 degrees or lower.
What???
And yet the high today was in the mid-40s. The low tonight is supposed to be 30 degrees or lower.
What???
Monday, April 14, 2014
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Happy Birthday, Pink!
We had a yard man come by to do the yard yesterday, and it looks great! It hasn’t looked this good in ages. He’s going to just come by and mow when it looks like it needs it, and then we’ll pay him. That’ll make things much easier.
Duplicate was okay last night. There were three tables. I don’t know how we did overall. My bidding was pretty bad, even though we’d talked about it before we went. The hands I played, I played very well (if I do say so myself). We were probably in the middle somewhere.
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13 April is always a special day. This is Pink’s birthday.
Lydia Russell Wheeler (4-13-1908 - 8-20-1983)
Sunday Stealing
: Bonus Questions
What’s your favorite frozen treat on a stick?
Currently, a chocolate-covered sprinkled with butter brickle ice cream from Weight-Watchers.
What’s your favorite lollipop?
I haven’t had one in years, but I used to like the red ones.
When you passed notes during class in high school, who was mostly often the recipient?
Probably Anne.
Who among your high school friends was the first to get his or her own car?
Molly, who let me ride to school with her.
Who’s the black sheep in your family?
I don’t think we had one - at least that I know of.
Who’s the family historian?
I’m about the only one left, and unfortunately, I don’t know much of it.
What was the last thing you sprayed from a spray bottle?
Probably water, at my painting class.
What was the last thing you sprayed from an aerosol can?
Canola oil on the skillet for our Friday breakfast.
When did you last make reservations for something?
A few months ago for our trip to LA.
What’s your next upcoming appointment?
An overdue massage, on Tuesday
What store’s departure from your preferred shopping mall most saddened you?
What’s good to eat at your preferred shopping mall?
What services (as opposed to goods) do you pay for at your preferred shopping mall?
What’s a store you’ve never been inside at your preferred shopping mall?
What kind of store would you most welcome in your preferred shopping mall?
I haven’t been in a shopping mall in at least five years, so I have no way to answer the above questions.
What did you most recently purchase at an office supply store?
I got something at Staples, but can’t remember what it was.
What did you most recently purchase at a book store?
An e-book from Amazon
What did you most recently purchase at a drugstore?
A prescription.
What did you most recently purchase at a convenience store?
I don’t go to convenience stores.
What did you most recently purchase at a thrift shop?
Mostly I take things to thrift shops, don’t buy stuff.
Currently, a chocolate-covered sprinkled with butter brickle ice cream from Weight-Watchers.
What’s your favorite lollipop?
I haven’t had one in years, but I used to like the red ones.
When you passed notes during class in high school, who was mostly often the recipient?
Probably Anne.
Who among your high school friends was the first to get his or her own car?
Molly, who let me ride to school with her.
Who’s the black sheep in your family?
I don’t think we had one - at least that I know of.
Who’s the family historian?
I’m about the only one left, and unfortunately, I don’t know much of it.
What was the last thing you sprayed from a spray bottle?
Probably water, at my painting class.
What was the last thing you sprayed from an aerosol can?
Canola oil on the skillet for our Friday breakfast.
When did you last make reservations for something?
A few months ago for our trip to LA.
What’s your next upcoming appointment?
An overdue massage, on Tuesday
What store’s departure from your preferred shopping mall most saddened you?
What’s good to eat at your preferred shopping mall?
What services (as opposed to goods) do you pay for at your preferred shopping mall?
What’s a store you’ve never been inside at your preferred shopping mall?
What kind of store would you most welcome in your preferred shopping mall?
I haven’t been in a shopping mall in at least five years, so I have no way to answer the above questions.
What did you most recently purchase at an office supply store?
I got something at Staples, but can’t remember what it was.
What did you most recently purchase at a book store?
An e-book from Amazon
What did you most recently purchase at a drugstore?
A prescription.
What did you most recently purchase at a convenience store?
I don’t go to convenience stores.
What did you most recently purchase at a thrift shop?
Mostly I take things to thrift shops, don’t buy stuff.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Fridays can be nice
It was the usual start to our Friday, but with a nice ending.
One of the best parts of the morning was getting our overdue haircuts. We were certainly getting shaggy, but I was trying to fit haircuts into the travel schedule. And we’ll probably be shaggy before our next haircuts, too. I guess this is a pretty small price for our easy-to-keep hairdos.
My current art teacher, Sandra Paynter Washburn, has a solo show at the Dalton Creative Arts Guild. Her opening reception was this evening. We met friends, Diane and Harry, at the opening, and then we went to a local Italian restaurant for dinner. What a pleasant evening. Diane and I are both scheduled for surgery soon, but we plan to get together to eat this summer.
The rain has just started and it should make for some nice sleeping.
One of the best parts of the morning was getting our overdue haircuts. We were certainly getting shaggy, but I was trying to fit haircuts into the travel schedule. And we’ll probably be shaggy before our next haircuts, too. I guess this is a pretty small price for our easy-to-keep hairdos.
My current art teacher, Sandra Paynter Washburn, has a solo show at the Dalton Creative Arts Guild. Her opening reception was this evening. We met friends, Diane and Harry, at the opening, and then we went to a local Italian restaurant for dinner. What a pleasant evening. Diane and I are both scheduled for surgery soon, but we plan to get together to eat this summer.
The rain has just started and it should make for some nice sleeping.
Wednesday, April 09, 2014
Southwest comes through
Last year, on our return trip from Portland, Southwest Air had problems with airplanes and we (and others, of course) spent many hours in the Portland airport. For our troubles, SWA issued the passengers $100 vouchers on other SWA flights taken within the calendar year.
John made reservations for our upcoming flights to and from Los Angeles several months ago, but forgot to use the vouchers. Now it seems like we probably won’t be making other flights before the vouchers expire.
This afternoon, John called SWA to try to get the $100 vouchers applied to our already issued tickets as a refund.
Since this was happening on the phone, he expected that it would take quite a while. Somehow, he didn’t expect 1 ½ hours (with supper during that time), and three different phone calls.
The first folks he talked to kept telling him it couldn’t be done. He kept saying, “Surely it can. Let me talk to someone who can make it happen. We always travel Southwest, and they can always do it.” And the agent would say, “No, it can’t.” So, as his voice kept getting louder, he kept getting sent to the next person up the management chain.
And then, finally, he obviously got to the right person - the one who was able to accomplish this and to do all the steps required to do it. It wasn’t easy - things had to be done with tickets, vouchers, credit cards, reissuing this, changing that. John gave her huge amounts of praise and kept telling her to tell her supervisor that she had made at least one customer very, very happy. And that she had renewed his confidence in Southwest.
All’s well that ends well.
John made reservations for our upcoming flights to and from Los Angeles several months ago, but forgot to use the vouchers. Now it seems like we probably won’t be making other flights before the vouchers expire.
This afternoon, John called SWA to try to get the $100 vouchers applied to our already issued tickets as a refund.
Since this was happening on the phone, he expected that it would take quite a while. Somehow, he didn’t expect 1 ½ hours (with supper during that time), and three different phone calls.
The first folks he talked to kept telling him it couldn’t be done. He kept saying, “Surely it can. Let me talk to someone who can make it happen. We always travel Southwest, and they can always do it.” And the agent would say, “No, it can’t.” So, as his voice kept getting louder, he kept getting sent to the next person up the management chain.
And then, finally, he obviously got to the right person - the one who was able to accomplish this and to do all the steps required to do it. It wasn’t easy - things had to be done with tickets, vouchers, credit cards, reissuing this, changing that. John gave her huge amounts of praise and kept telling her to tell her supervisor that she had made at least one customer very, very happy. And that she had renewed his confidence in Southwest.
All’s well that ends well.
Tuesday, April 08, 2014
Monday, April 07, 2014
An early night
I’m going to bed early. I didn’t sleep well last night. I don’t know if it’s the rain and/or the cold front or what, but just about everything has been hurting today. I’m on my second dose of pain med, and I probably won’t even make half-time of the men’s final game.
Let’s all sleep well tonight.
Let’s all sleep well tonight.
Sunday, April 06, 2014
Sunday Stealing
The For Old Times' Sake Meme
When was the last time you swam in a pool?
Friday
Do you like to party?
Depends on the occasion and the company. Not just to “party”.
Describe the shirt you're wearing?
Old, pink, Lady Vols breast-cancer-awareness giveaway.
What is one feature film that you don't like?
I see very few movies in the theater. I’ve always liked the ones I see.
Would people describe you as happy?
I think so.
Sleep with or without clothes on?
With
Does it bother you if people swear around you?
Not particularly - it depends on the situation, the number of words, the people around.
Do you prefer Wednesdays or Thursdays?
I’m retired - they’re all pretty much the same.
Like to travel?
Love it!
Think you're attractive?
Not particularly - just average.
Are or were you a good student?
I was usually on the honor roll in high school.
Are you currently happy?
Mostly - the physical problems are annoying.
Colored or black-and-white photo?
Of what? It depends on the subject matter.
Do you consider yourself the life of the party?
Definitely not.
Do you drink?
I drink water and coffee, occasionally unsweet iced tea, rarely soft drinks.
Do you make fun of people?
Maybe just teasing, and only in front of them and gently, so they know I love them.
Do you think dreams eventually come true?
No.
Favorite fictional character?
Atticus Finch.
Go to the movies or rent?
Not much of either, but more likely to rent.
Have you ever moved?
Yes, but not often - to Middle Tennessee in 1962, and to Chattanooga in 1986.
Have you ever stolen anything?
Probably a piece of candy as a kid, but nothing more substantial.
How's the weather right now?
Spring-like - raining.
Last time you cut your hair?
Three weeks ago.
Last person you talked to on the phone?
Tina.
Last time you showered?
Yesterday.
Loud or soft music?
Soft
McDonalds or Burger King?
Of those two, Burger King. Five Guys and Fries would be my first choice.
Night or day?
Depends on what I’m doing.
Number of pillows?
Two
Piano or guitar?
I have taken lessons on both, but can’t really play either. I enjoy listening to both.
Current longing?
To have all my parts working and not hurting.
Current disappointment?
That I have to have this surgery done.
Current annoyance?
See above.
Last thing you ate?
Summer rolls from the local Vietnamese restaurant.
Last thing you bought?
A cover/stand for my iPad from Woot.
Pick a lyric, any lyric or a song...
“Follow the yellow brick road”
Pick a movie quote...
“There’s no place like home!”
Saturday, April 05, 2014
Getting things done
It’s amazing that we both accomplished things today.
John went to the boat house and spent several hours getting the club boats rigged for the season.
This was the weekend to get lasagna made. I had gotten the ingredients on Tuesday, and we’d gotten the Bambi-burger into the refrigerator to thaw. The process wound up taking all day. It’s gotten to where I can only stand up to work for about 20-30 minutes, and then I have to sit down for about 10-15 minutes. So I’ve learned to do what I can until the pain says “sit down, you fool!”, and then I sit down.
But, without making too big a mess, I managed to come up with six pretty nice-looking pans of lasagna. John got them in the freezer, and once they’re solidly frozen, we’ll get them stored properly.
And we finished off the evening watching the men’s semi-final games. Congratulations to Connecticut and Kentucky. John and Margaret will be heading to Nashville tomorrow for the women’s semis.
John went to the boat house and spent several hours getting the club boats rigged for the season.
This was the weekend to get lasagna made. I had gotten the ingredients on Tuesday, and we’d gotten the Bambi-burger into the refrigerator to thaw. The process wound up taking all day. It’s gotten to where I can only stand up to work for about 20-30 minutes, and then I have to sit down for about 10-15 minutes. So I’ve learned to do what I can until the pain says “sit down, you fool!”, and then I sit down.
But, without making too big a mess, I managed to come up with six pretty nice-looking pans of lasagna. John got them in the freezer, and once they’re solidly frozen, we’ll get them stored properly.
And we finished off the evening watching the men’s semi-final games. Congratulations to Connecticut and Kentucky. John and Margaret will be heading to Nashville tomorrow for the women’s semis.
Friday, April 04, 2014
Thursday, April 03, 2014
Miscellany
I did get two things done today. I went through some of Allan's rowing t-shirts. We're going to have a quilt made from them for Tina. I'll try to get them to the quilt shop tomorrow. And I found a recipe and cooked some lamb ribs for supper. Wayne got us half-a-lamb last fall, and this is the first I've fixed of it. It was delicious! Click here for the recipe I used.
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Has anybody out there taken black cohosh for hot flashes? Somebody mentioned that John might try that. I thought I'd get him some at the herb shop tomorrow - just as a trial.
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I found it interesting (if patronizing) that, at the news conference this afternoon about the awful Fort Hood shooting, the general found it necessary to mention several times that the hero of the event was the "female MP". He also mentioned a medic, but didn't feel the need to mention the gender of the medic. Is that too nit-picky of me?
======================
Has anybody out there taken black cohosh for hot flashes? Somebody mentioned that John might try that. I thought I'd get him some at the herb shop tomorrow - just as a trial.
======================
I found it interesting (if patronizing) that, at the news conference this afternoon about the awful Fort Hood shooting, the general found it necessary to mention several times that the hero of the event was the "female MP". He also mentioned a medic, but didn't feel the need to mention the gender of the medic. Is that too nit-picky of me?
Wednesday, April 02, 2014
That's what friends are for
We spent the morning at Tina’s, giving her moral and emotional support while the co-executor and accountant went through some of Allan’s papers. The will has finally been filed for probate and things are moving along, but it’s certainly traumatic for her. We weren’t here for his final illness and death, so we’re trying to give her as much support as we can now. I only hope we can continue to do so as time goes on.
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