~ Happy New Year ~

 

:::waving::: Hi folks!  I know I haven't been around much and entries by me have been few and far between.  That is with the exception of a tag offer here and there.   Just not into the blog thing right now I guess.  I think it's because I have a hard time sitting here and I am sick of having the 'poor me attitude' and complaining about the aches and pains.   I am doing good and will be doing some rehab on a regular basis.  Need to get my muscles back into use.   Speaking of.... we went out for dinner this evening and stopped at my nieces after.  What a hoot!  The kids got Wii for Christmas and we went to town.  The 'fit' game is a riot and let me tell you it is a work out.  I think I'm going to look into getting that game.  LMAO  won't need a gym membership :)

I will also be going back to work on Jan 5.  I will start out by working from home, and then gradually get into going into the office.  I can drive and have a few times.  It felt odd but no fear of the actual driving.  More of the snow and getting stuck or something.   Walking is not an option right now.  Not any distance anyway.  I do go back to the vascular doc on the 6th and I'm hoping he can give me something for the discomfort in my foot.  The blood thinner has helped a bit but I definitely still have some major issues.

I didn't do any tag requests for the holiday, but feel free to snag these.  All I ask is that they not be altered, resized, or claimed as your own. 

'Nuff about me.. I am good.  Promise.  I did want to wish you all a very Happy New Year.  May 2009 bring good things to all of us.  Health, wealth, and love.  I do hope whatever you did to celebrate was all that you hoped for. 

Happy New Year!!!

~ Tag Request - Winter Dance ~

Expires 1/1 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email address will be ignored.

If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.

Limit 1

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.

hugs

~d

~ Attention Xenia ~

I do apologize to my regular readers, but I wanted to address this comment and since email apparently is not arriving to this person.


May I have this with XENIA? My e-mail address is ksenija_z@hotmail.com

P.S. I requested the previous two graphics too, on time and with e-mail address enclosed, but I never got them. I wonder what is the reason. Sending you many blessings.

Xenia... I've sent each and every tag you've requested to the email address you've provided.  I've even sent follow up emails based on your comments with no response.  I have to think since I am not getting a bounce back I am going into your spam folder.  Please look into or supply a different email for your requests.  Below is the last request for you to snag, but this is not something I can do in the future.  Please adjust your email.

Thanks
~d

~ Tag Request - Winter Falls ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below

****PLEASE READ****

This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request

Expires 12/28 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.
If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.
Limit 1
Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.
hugs
~d

~ Mystery Blogger XIV - Update ~

Ohhhhh, we did have a few winners for Mystery Blogger XIV. That adorable girl with Santa was in fact Missie, from Missie's Upside Down World. What a sweetheart... though it does look like she is not real sure of the jolly fellow. Stop by and give Missie some love. Let her know you saw her here, and please send her some good vibes as she will be having surgery on her knee soon. Thanks!

~ 'Tis the Season ~

 

'Tis the season of crazy weather, busy days and nights, tons of food, and smiles all over the place.   My family must have been good this year.  We met up at my parents on Christmas Eve.  A ton of food to be shared, laughs, and hugs.  We were even visited by Santa.  We must have been good!!

 

Our own little 'bug' watching as Santa made his entry.  Not real sure what to make of it, but the glint in her eye and the smile on her face says it all.  Such innocence in a childs face.

 

She did eventually warm up to him and sat on his lap with her brother.  Not sure if her brother urged her more or if she realized this man in the red suit just brought her presents and it's the least she could do to say thank you. 

 

Me?  I had no problem sitting on Santa's lap.  I wanted to have him bring all the gifts I asked for to my house.  Ok, so I already got the best gift of all, so I wanted to thank him for that.  I think I might have that same glint that 'bug' had.

 

It wouldn't be right if Great Grandma didn't sit on his lap.  It is her house and we couldn't leave her out.  I'm not real sure what Santa said or did, but I'm not sure if that is the same glint, or what that smile is telling us.  LMAO  

 

The kids made out like bandits, opening one gift after another.  Bug made sure she put her new hat on and then went direct to the next gift.  She did stop long enough to smile and shout out a thank you to the giver, Gage did as well

.

 

Christmas morning my son and his girlfriend, along with my sister's boys came here.  We exchanged our gifts and had a huge breakfast.  My son got me a new printer and hooked it up.  I got a foot massager, clothes, and a couple new purses.  I needed something bigger so I could take my diabetes supplies if I need to.  No way no how the tester and insulin pen would fit in my current one.  

Our kids made out like bandits as well.  LOL  'Tis the season to spoil them a bit I suppose.  We had breakfast and dinner here and then went to my sisters for dessert and coffee.  Gage did get Wii and had a few new games so he brought them with him to his Grandma's.  Look at that smile as he plays one of the games.

All in all the two days have been great.  Lots of fun, smiles, good food, friends and family.  I've not gotten around to many journals as it's just been crazy.  I do hope everyone had a great Christmas (or whatever holiday you may celebrate).  It's hard to believe 2008 is ending and a new year is fast approaching. 

Hugs

~d

~ Tag Request- Tree Angel ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below

****PLEASE READ****

This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request

Expires 12/24 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.
With all going on at this time I hardly did any Christmas tags. With any luck I will get some winter ones out and soon.
If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.
Limit 1
Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.
hugs
~d

~ Better Days ~

Yeap, better days....  I do hope they are ahead.   Yesterday I arrived at the hospital for my procedure, though scared and nervous I felt confident things would be ok and I'd be leaving either late Wed night or first thing this morning all fixed up.   Not to be............

The procedure started smoothly.  I was awake and talking.  I felt a pinch here, a pinch there in my leg/groin area.  At some point they moved to my arm.  Not real sure exactly when as things are a bit foggy.  What isn't foggy is the end result.   They could not do any stents.  It was basically a bust.  The blockage is not where they thought it was, but higher.  More in my abdomen.  The main artery and were they break off to go to either leg. This is not going to be an easy fix.  Instead they will be doing another bypass.  Major surgery.  Apparently several things were contributing factors.  Family history, being a woman (who have smaller arteries), having smoked, and previous radiation.  Radiation causes things to shrink and I knew that but never in a million years did I suspect my arteries.  Lisa, I saw your comment from yesterday.  Tell your friend from work, ok?  If they already know that is the issue with her foot maybe they should go one step further and make sure.  Makes me nervous to think she could experience this down the road.  I'd not wish this on my worst enemy!!

So back to recovery.  I was a wreck emotionally.  My son hugged and kissed me.  Talked very confident and tried with all his might to calm me down.  Since they went in my artery I had to wait a few hours before I could go home.  Yes and home I came.  I had a board attached to my arm to keep it straight.  Virtually no pain, maybe just a bit discomfort.  My heart was broke though.  Emotionally I am drained and I'm not sure I can handle any other setbacks.  My son made me promise I'd not give up and try to be positive.  I will try, but let me tell you it is not easy.

So......... the surgery.  My doctor from yesterday wants to consult with all my doctors.  He feels we should wait a few months and let me get stronger.  I am waiting for a call from him to see what direction we will go in.  In the meantime he will put me on a blood thinner to try and help with the discomfort in my foot/leg.

I am now scared of what they might find when they go in.  Seems it's always something bigger/worse then what they anticipated to begin.  ::sigh::

I will most likely go back to work after the holidays.  Work has been great and will definitely work with me if I need to work from home for a bit.  I will take them up on the offer if need be so no worries on going back to soon.

The holidays have me a bit emotional too.  I feel like I've done nothing to contribute and it's eating at me.  My one sister is out shopping and has picked up a few things for me as well.  I just need to have something wrapped and under the tree.  Yes, I know no one cares, but I do.

I wanted to thank you all for your prayers and support.  I also appreciated the emails from those that went and got a brief update on my sisters blog.  She is definitely a gem!!

So I am trying to stay positive and keep my chin up.  I will also do my best to try and keep up with you.  It's just been so hard and I feel so very bad!   OOOOOOOOOOoohhhhhhhhhhhh and I did get Christmas cards, thank you!!   Love you all.  I know I didn't share my address with a ton of folks, damn time just flew by with all that's been going on.  Know good thoughts and vibes are being sent your way.

Hugs

~d

~ Elfin ~

My niece stopped over Sunday and picked me up to take me to her Mom's (my sister's).   Yeap, still not allowed to drive :(   Eight weeks is next week so keep your fingers crossed.   They were making Christmas cookies and preparing to watch the Buffalo Bills blow yet another game.  Good gaawd maybe I jinxed them way back when they were 4-0.  Either way they've laid a huge egg and now are the laughing stock of the league... ok maybe not that bad but.......  Sunday was fun.  Both Gage and Bug were having fun being in the Christmas spirit.  Bug, once again had to check on me several times to make sure I was ok.   I do think once I pulled out the camera she let out a sigh of relief.  'Aunt Donna is back.'   LOL 

I went to bed last night as the snow fell.  They were calling for a rough drive this morning.  I was thrilled I didn't have to get up for work and my sister prayed for a snow day.  It's not just the kids that hope for schools to be closed because of the weather.   She wasn't that lucky.  There is snow out there and they are stating now that the temps went up we could get freezing rain.  We'll see.  Just need to make sure I get to the hospital as planned.

::sigh:: speaking of the hospital.  I am scared to death.  I know I've been through some tough things and this should be the easy part, but trust me I am still nervous and scared.   So many things go through your head.  I was feeling very confident that I'd be home tonight, but a visit to my primary doctor yesterday said otherwise.  I had to visit him to get clearance after all my tests.  He didn't want me thinking I'd be home and then be disappointed if I wasn't.  He didn't feel it would be the procedure itself.  He thinks that will be fine and will fix the issues with my foot.  He just feels that since I'm not having it done until 3 in the afternoon they may keep me overnight.  I guess going in thinking that is probably better.  Does make me feel better or make me happy, but I'm preparing for the stay.   If you don't hear from me later give me a day or so......  

I do hope this works.  I'm in some pain and it is extremely uncomfortable.  No position is good.  Laying, sitting, standing.  I can't do any for any length of time.  Sitting at the computer can be brutal.  I've tried to stay current with entries but it never seems to be possible to sit and read all... forgive me.  With any luck at all this will fix the issues and allow me to sleep an night without constantly waking up and having to get up to'walk it off.'  Hopefully I can walk without a limp and actually get some much needed exercise in.  Taking a few steps and then having a pain and tired feeling in my leg is frustrating as all get out.  I feel like I'm carrying a good 70 pounds of dead weight.  Sitting, feet up or feet down, not happening.  My foot and lower leg throb within minutes.  I pray this works. 

Well, off to get a shower and pack a bag.  I do hope I'm home this evening but if you don't hear from me expect an update tomorrow.  My sister has been blogging and she may update, not real sure but you could stop by anyway :::giggle:::

Hugs to you all and again thank your for your friendship, love and support.  The prayers and good vibes are also so appreciated. 

~d

~ Community Photo Challenge Ornament ~

 

This weeks challenge is Ornaments.  It's been awhile since I took part, but I had to do this one :)  Yes, it is an ornament but this one rarely goes on our tree.  It is out year round on the entertainment center.  Just too cute to put away.  During the holiday he actually makes his home in the bathroom.   I just think it has great meaning to the season, and after.  Who doesn't feel like a bubble bath when it's all said and done?

'Cmon and join in.  Click here to see the other participants and join yourself.  I look forward to seeing your shots. 

Happy Holidays!

~ Tag Request - Santa Baby ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below

****PLEASE READ****

This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request
 

Expires 12/12 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.
If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.
Limit 1
Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.
hugs
~d

~ Dr Follow Up ~

 

I guess I will start with the Dr's appointment yesterday.  It went very well, I guess, I mean I was at the Dr's.  I liked him.  It was the first time I'd seen him and he made feel very comfortable.  We went over all the things that have happened and how I came about being in his office.  He let me know that he thought I looked great for someone who had open heart, triple bypass only about a month ago.  I may have blushed a bit.  Especially after being so emotional and feeling sorry for myself as I told him my story. 

He had the results from my doppler tests and confirmed what my primary Dr had said.  I have some issues in both legs.  He let me know that the left leg was most likely more bothersome and in the fore front so quickly because of the balloon pump.  My right leg has issues, but nothing in comparison.  I can't even explain what I feel.  My left foot is pretty much numb.  No tingling really, just no feeling.  It goes up my ankle and then on occasion will be in my entire leg.  I can walk but my foot kind of falls like dead weight.  Some days it's better then others, but lately it seems to be worse.  I wake up in the middle of the night from an ache.  Oddly enough it feels better once I get up and walk around or am in a sitting position.  He actually told me that prior to me getting that far. 

He did tell me yesterday that I would need surgery, and had his office call me today with the day.  I will be going in on Wed the 17th.  He will do an angiogram and most likely put stents in my left leg.  He said he can't do both legs at the same time as he feels the issues are in my groin upper thigh area.  He is confident it will be done as an outpatient and I will be home after.  Can't promise anything because he won't know until he gets in there. 

I asked him to promise me I'd wake up.  He smiled and told me I would not be out.  I'd have something for pain and something to make it so I don't remember.  He said just like when they went in my wrist in the hospital.  Well, I don't remember that at all.  I only remember them telling me they would have to do surgery and I told them to call my mother and my son.  He chuckled and told me I'd be talking to him the entire time.  Ok if he says so :)  He is pretty sure that once he does this the leg and foot will be much better.  I have to hope and pray he is right. 

Tomorrow I go for some blood work and then on Tues I will see my primary for confirmation and the release to have the procedure done.  I hope there are no issues and things go smoothly.  I'm nervous, I'm scared, I just want things to move forward and start me in the right direction.  

Thanks so much for all the good thoughts, concerns, support, and prayers.  Can I bother you to keep them coming?

Hugs

~d

~ Mystery Blogger XIV ~

 

Oh, that time again, and low and behold this was the next in line.  Talk about timing!!  I think it's perfect to say nothing about adorable.  Don't forget to leave your guess.

Ok, so you're looking for a couple hints....

20th wedding anniversary is coming up

Could be called a teacher

Likes to make an entry every day

'Cmon.. guess...........

~ 'Tis the Season ~

My sister is a 'Saint', she spent some time this past weekend getting the decorations and tree up. Mind you it's not as festive as it has been in years past but at least the decorations are up.

I'm a bit bummed about the holiday this year. I've done nothing. I've purchased not one gift. Not one! I know I will get out and get a few but this Dr appointment today threw a monkey wrench into things.

Besides being scared to death about what the next step is, it has more then likely taken my recovery time and pushed it out even further. I thought maybe the numbness would get better, but to be honest I think it's getting worse. The past several nights I've woken up to soreness in my ankle and my thigh. I couldn't lay there so I'd have to get up and walk around. I have no idea what is in store, but based on my primary doctor it appears more surgery. Another stay in the hospital. Trust me I want to get better, but I have a fear of being under and this time it is no different.

My appointment is at 5 pm, and no doubt I was pushed in for today. That in itself is a bit scary. Good vibes sent my way would be appreciated. I know I've asked for a ton, but ....... thanks :) I'll definitely stop by later and give an update... 'les of course they force me to the hospital right away.

Hugs
~d

~ Mystery Blogger Update ~

Hey, hey, hey.  It's time to reveal our recent Mystery Blogger.  It's our own Lori over at Lori's Letter Box.  What an absolute doll.  Stop by and give her a visit, leave some love for her. 

I do still have a few more to go, but if you want to partake make sure you send me your picture along with some clues to post.

~ Congrats to the Bulls ~

The University of Buffalo traveled to Michigan to play Ball State, who was ranked #12 in the nation, for the MAC Championship. The Bulls, unranked themselves, were surely the underdog. It was the first time in the schools history they played for the championship. I was thrilled it was on ESPN last night and actually watched a good chunk of it. The boys were on a mission and the defense stood tall causing 4 turnovers. The final score, Buffalo 42- Ball St 24. Congrats boys on a job well done!!

The Bulls have also been invited to a bowl game for only the second time in 94 years of college football. It will be the first time they accept. Back in 1958 the Bulls were invited to play in the Tangerine Bowl against Florida State but turned down the invitation when it was made known that two of the Bulls players who were African-American would not be allowed to compete.
Whuuu huuuu lets go Bulls! At least we have something to look forward to here. The Bills are sucking wind and will no doubt miss the playoffs after a tremendous start of 4-0. The Sabres? Oh my boys.. not sure what the hell is happening there but it's painful to watch. No worries I'm watching 'em but it is painful.

~ Tag Request - First Snow ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below

****PLEASE READ****

This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request

Expires 12/7 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.

If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.

Limit 1

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.

hugs

~d

~ Will it Ever End ~

::sigh:: So I woke up this morning and examined myself in front of the mirror.  No itching and no additional hives, welts, or spots.  Good deal.  I smiled as I remember I was going out for a bit with my son before he had to go to work.  Maybe a little shopping, maybe a little picture taking.  I had a spring in my step.

I went and tested my sugar.  I know the routine of my sugars lately with the steroids.  High, high.  Two booster insulin shots, and then it levels out.  Before bed it goes high again.   The start of the day was no different.  Gave myself the booster, took my meds, ate breakfast and started to read some journals and mail as I sipped on my coffee.  It wasn't long into the morning that my phone rang.  It came up restricted.  Hmmmmm  I answered and it was my primary Dr.  Must be calling from his private office line. 

So, he got the results from the doppler tests I had done on the Friday after Thanksgiving.  The one that registers blood clots came back good.  No issues.  The other one.  Well, I wasn't so lucky.  I have serious issues in both legs.  He set an appointment for me to go to a vascular surgeon.  My appointment is on Tuesday evening.  Looks like I will be scheduled for an angiogram and depending on the results stents could be put in my legs to open up the circulation.  If that happens I will most likely be kept over night.  When I asked if it was nerve damage instead what would be the next step he replied with, 'we'll address that if it comes to that.'   I had a brave face and voice with the Dr but inside I was losing control. 

I hung up and broke down in tears.  Why is it 3 steps forward 7 back?  I feel like I can't get better and with each thing I get the worse case scenario.  I was in tears and sobbing talking to my son as I canceled our plans.  I was in no mood to get dressed let along go out.  He reminded me if it was in fact the worst case scenario I would not be here.  Smart boy, ok young man.  It's just so hard to feel so good and look forward to getting better only to have such a road block thrown up. 

I'm scared of this.  I know I have numbness etc in my left foot, but don't feel any issues in my right leg or foot at all.  How could this all happen in such a short span.  My Dr feels that maybe I'd have the diabetes for awhile with no notice of it.  It's not uncommon he said.   I haven't had that kind of blood work in awhile.  Not to test sugars I guess.  ::shrugging::  You know I will be paying much more attention these days.  I just fear it's going to be nerve damage and then amputation, then...........  

I can't get that fear out of my  head.  The fear of how much disability I will be on, for how long.   I know my health comes first and I will do nothing to keep me from getting healthy.  Just hard to think past all the other issues that arise.  Makes me wonder how long will this go on, how many more things will be found?

I want to clarify that my Drs are great.  I know previous entries may have eluded to them not being.  I am a 'want answers now' type person.  Patience is not one of my best characteristics.  I want it now.  Ya know?  I have gone to the internet and some forums but I've decided that answers and information there just send my head into a tizzy and I get the worst possible outcomes causing me to freak more.  I will just take it step by step, day by day.  I will try to be positive and move forward.   I can't change the direction anyway.

Is it easy?  Hell know.  I've cried several times today.  My son stopped over a bit after our call to make sure I was ok and let me tell you a hug goes a long way.

He has to work a bit in the morning tomorrow but he will be coming after work and we will go out.  A little shopping and maybe some pictures.  We've been getting some snow today so hopefully the trees will be covered in white and I can relax behind the camera.  Have at least something feel like 'my life.'

So........... everyone heard the verdict and sentencing on OJ I'm sure.  I don't want to get into if I think he was guilty 13 years ago or not.  I just find it hard to believe that child molesters are getting less time then he is for this offense.  Does he belong in jail, well of course (my humble opinion) but you are telling me the sentence of up to 33 years and min of 9 years does not have something to do with paying back for the acquittal 13 years ago when sex offenders are getting max of 2 years?   They say what goes around comes around...  but is this how our judicial system is suppose to work?  K.. 'nuff on that.

I've gotten way behind on blogs.  Damn I looked before doing this entry and I have over 150 to get to.   I will make my rounds this evening and tomorrow morning.   I hope everyone is doing well.   I do want to thank you all for the support, good wishes, and friendship you've all showed me ............

Hugs

~d

~ Tag Request - Waiting for Santa ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below

****PLEASE READ****

This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request

Expires 12/6 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.
If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.

Limit 1


Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.
hugs
~d

~ Better ~

Yeah, yesterday at the cardiologist went well.  Not sure I was thrilled with seeing the Nurse Practioner, but what can I do.  They did an EKG which was fine, we went over other test results from the past.  Talked about how I was doing and my emotions.  Kind of different, not knowing how to feel or what to expect.  I still get emotional because I'm not sure what that twitch is, what that pain, why does that feel different, what's that burning sensation.  It gets overwhelming.  Again, I'm told it's normal, but to me it is not normal.  It is so far from normal it isn't funny.  No control over things and no straight up explanations for things I want to know about.   Ok, nuff feeling sorry for me.  We went over the reaction to the meds and because 2 are directly related to my heart, the healing and/or beating of it they put me back on the Lisinipril and Amiodarone.  Ok, so I tell her that the Lisinipril definitely makes me sleepy after I take it and it was scheduled to be taken at 11am.  'Take it before you go to bed.'  Ok, that sounds good.  I started that back up before I went to bed last night.  Amiodarone I took this morning with the other morning meds.  

I slept in today until 9:45.  Wow!  Not something I do often and lately I've been up before 6.  And Bill... I am going to bed early in comparison to what I use to do :)~   So I get up and go to the restroom.  I lift my nightgown to check the hive sites.  Call me paranoid.  Anyway, there on my belly are two fresh red welts.  Ok, what's up with that?   I feel great, sound good, and according to those that see me look wonderful.  Why can't I just heal and get back to things?  Something normal?   I call the Dr's office and discuss my findings.  They requested that I take the Lisinipril again tonight.  I've concluded that to be the culprit as the new welts arrived prior to taking the other.  They explain to me it could be something that was still 'in' my system and not be a 'new' reaction.  Ok, it's not itchy like it was in the past so I will give them the benefit of the doubt.   I've been checking regularly and really don't have an itch sooooooooooooooooooo   maybe it's paranoia after all.  Keep your fingers crossed that I wake up tomorrow with no welts, no new marks, and no itch.  That would make me extremely happy.   I don't want to cry again.....

I did go out to dinner tonight.  I had a gift certificate for a place and I had forgotten all about it.  Earlier in the week my brother mentioned he had one for the same place and it would be expiring soon.  Hmmmm  ding ding.. I remembered mine.  We decided to all go together.  OMG!  I'd never been to this place but the food was amazing and the serving size huge.  I've got enough for another meal :)  Yeah!!!

Anyone else having issues here?  Not sure if it's me or what.  Dashboard didn't want to open, it was difficult getting the new entry option to open, google reader was as slow and shit, and I tried to send my tag requests out and it would look to go then when it was all done I'd get an error, upload aborted.  Hmmm by who?   LOL  Anyway I tried a couple times and same thing.  Then in my sent mail was the mail.  Soooooooo I have no idea if they went at all or if they went numerous times.  If you didn't get it let me know... if you got it more then once forgive me.  GRRRRRRRRRRR   me thinks it's AOL and not blogger at all...  just thought I'd ask if anyone else had issues.  

Ok, off to climb in bed and watch the news.  Hope everyone is doing great.

Hugs

~d

~ Tag Request - She thinks I'm Cute ~

I need an email address if you request a tag see note below
****PLEASE READ****
This is very important. Unlike AOL blogger does not give me an email when I receive your comment alert. I never saved addresses in AOL, so I don't have them, or I have no idea who you are as I don't see your AOL username. I must have an email address when you request a tag. If I don't, your request will be ignored. You can make it really easy and go to your blogger profile and include an email address. It's real easy when you log in you have the option to view your profile or you can view your entire profile from your journal. Edit your profile and add an email. AOL or other it doesn't matter. If you don't want to do that you must leave your address in the comment each time you make a request

Expires 12/4 at noon EST

any requests after that time or without an email will be ignored.

If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment letting me know. Please make sure I get your email address.Do not alter tags No resizing, stopping animation, cutting or ripping to add your name, signature, or any other text. If you need help with animation on your blog let me know I will give you directions.

Limit 1

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit. Thank you for following these terms.

hugs

~d

~ Hives ~

... and I'm not talking bee hives. I went to bed a little later then the norm on Sunday because I had to go for blood work in the am. My appointment wasn't until 9:40 and I had to fast, so I thought going to bed a bit later would allow me to sleep in a bit and forget that I couldn't eat or have coffee. Well............

That did not work. About 6 am I woke to the feeling of my skin crawling. I itched every where and it was a gazillion times worse then when I went to bed and this time it was all over. I went in to the bathroom and nearly screamed at what I saw in the mirror. My right eye lid was red and swollen almost shut. Both my ears were swollen, red, and hot. Can you say Dumbo? I lifted my nightgown to find red welts the size of dimes up to the size of softballs on my tummy, around my waste line, bra line, you name it. I was definitely having a reaction but to what? I immediately called my primary Dr and left a very detailed message with the answering service. With all the meds I am on I wasn't sure what I could take, Benadryl and option? Or what the hell was causing it. Nothing had changed.. not soap, laundry soap, body creme, foods I'd been eating. The meds I was on I've been taking for a month. Is it possible to have a reaction so far after the start of them?

Apparently so. The Dr returned my call and told me to take the benadryl and come to his office with my meds as soon as I was done getting my blood work done. I took the benadryl and went back to bed. I was woken by son arriving to take me for the blood work. Let me tell you he was not one bit happy with me. He scolded me for not calling and telling him. Instead I took the benedryl and fell asleep. Home alone as my sister had gone to work. 'What if something happened? I'd have no clue. You HAVE to call me with these things.' I know he was right and I apologized. He hugged me and off we went for the blood work and Dr appointment.

My Dr did not make me wait long and in I went to the examining room. There were more welts and they had gotten a lot redder. He knew exactly the three meds I was on that could cause it. The only thing he wasn't sure of was which one. He took me off all three. Amiodarone, Plavix, and Lisinipril. Yes, if you know these drugs you know a couple have to do with the regulation of my heart beat. He was confident that my cardiologist would be taking me off two tomorrow when I go, so he was confident in the decision and told me so. He also prescribed Methylprednisolone (a steroid) for the reaction. He did warn me this would make my sugar readings go up too. Great! Just what I need, one more thing.

Off to get the prescriptions filled, get home to have lunch and off to the diabetic Dr. That appointment was a long one. I met with the Nurse Practioner first then the Dr. Both were happy with the sugar readings I've had since being home from the hospital. Not sure if I mentioned this before but if my reading goes above 150 I need a booster shot before I eat. At bedtime I take insulin regardless of my reading. Never a booster at night with that one. I've only needed a couple boosters in the 3 weeks I've been home and that is good, but levels are still a bit high. Good but high. It doesn't appear this will be temporary and I will most likely be giving myself insulin every day. They did agree with my Dr and told me not to freak out with the sugar readings. Just give myself a booster when needed and go forward. The steroid pack I got starts out extremely high and then each day the dosage goes down. Thus my sugar should come back down too. If it doesn't I need to call, but today, already, it has come down a bit so I think I'm good to go. ::knocking on wood:: I need to get a break, don't ya think?

Regarding my foot. She is not ready to declare it is neurothopy, but rather will wait for the results of my recent doppler tests. If she feels the need she will do some nerve testing to get a better idea. Neurothopy is common in diabetics and causes the numbness and tingling sensation. It is not reversible, but we can slow it down. I shed a tear or two at that point. I've often read of amputations etc. She informed me it wasn't the neurothopy that causes the amputations, but the infections that go unnoticed because of the numbness. 'We'll address that as we find out more.' So I guess I need to just relax there and wait and see what is going on.

Today the hives are much better. My ears are about normal, my eye is definitely much better and the welts are definitely lighter in color and do not itch. YEAH!! I will go to the cardiologist tomorrow and see what they think and what I will need to do about the meds. Most likely at that point I will be set up with cardio rehab and begin the process of coming back a bit more in my recovery.

I am feeling much better as you may have noticed by the tags I've offered. It takes my mind off things and keeps me from climbing the walls with boredom. Funny thing about that is the folks that rush here to request one almost as fast as I post it, yet have not once commented on any other post. Not bothered to wish me well with my health, with my recovery. Nothing. I've also received numerous emails from folks letting me know they've posted. NO THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. These are blogs I've subscribed to as well as became a follower, yet they insist on sending me an email telling me they've posted and yet have not bothered to stop by and say hi. To find out how I'm doing, nothing. IT IS NOT about COMMENTS. It's about human nature, how some folks are, how inconsiderate actions are. And yes, how I've noticed. I've attempted to keep up with commenting on other blogs. Maybe not on each entry as I may get a bit behind and read two the same day etc, but I think I've been damn good and letting people know I'm here and I'm reading. That I care. It amazes me at some who do not care about me or what is going on, they just care about the damn tag or that I stop by their blog. Will I stop making tags for those folks? Will I stop visiting the other blogs? Probably not. It's not my nature, like I said it's not about the comments. But be damn sure I may be sick, but I notice. I think it is extremely rude. It says a so much about a person and the respect I may have had for you is really diminishing if it hasn't disappeared completely. Will they ever know I said any of this? Nope as I don't think they bother to read any entry, including the tag ones, they just request one or move on completely with all entries. For those of you who do comment and show support always, I am forever thankful and I do so appreciate you.

Hugs

~d