Here's a typical day in Megland:
Get up, make coffee, change clothes 14 times until you wind up looking like an out of work crack addict. Check the bus schedule and pick the bus you need to be on to make your appointment. Leave the house for the bus in the pouring rain. Soaked completely through you remember that your cell phone, which you most definitely will need today, is upstairs in the house. Go back to get it, miss the bus. Call the town cab company, wait for cab.
Oh wait - a brief respite when a friend calls to chat.
Cab comes and off you go. Get to T station, miss the train. Wait in the rain for the next one. Make it downtown just in time for the really heavy rain to hit so run over to your destination - getting soaked again. Wait around while the person you need to help you is goofing off - finally get what you came there for and leave for your appointment. No good way to get there so down in the rain you go - dripping wet and freezing cold at this point.
You're early so you get a cup of coffee and because your weight will be checked and you haven't eaten solid food in days you get a muffin which you eat only the top off of. Go to your appointment where they check your weight and your b/p - both are elevated. Doctor says you must be doing better your weight is up today and you think "no it's up because i am retaining water like the Grand Coolie Dam" but you let it go because why argue the point.... Get prescribed some new medication, have a discussion about mood and finally get out of there. Stop for monthly b12 injection on the way out - thank god that's over with for another month.
Walk in the rain back up the street to meet daughter and husband, buy dinner, get prescription filled, pick out library books. Cram onto the rush hour train with bags, once again dripping wet and miserable.
Finally make it home, get dinner going and feel glad that you made it through the day.
Until you go in the bathroom and realize that the one medication that you needed to get the refill for from your doctor is the one you didn't get.....
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Sunny Summer Day
Just finished reading a great book - Julie and Julia about a woman who spends a year cooking every single recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking and blogging about it. It has aroused in me a desire to spend more time cooking at a time when our apartment becomes an inferno.
Today it's 80 degrees out and I have the a/c on for the first time. I didn't spend any time out on the deck this morning as I like to do choosing instead to read and listen to smooth jazz. It's been a great day for just rocking and reading.
Now I find myself with my mother's battered copy of Mastering The Art of French Cooking wondering if I should begin to cook from it myself. I love to cook, it calms and soothes me like nothing else can and french cuisine is comfort food. I know that I won't cook all the recipes (there are some things I just will not eat even though I am a hard core foodie) and I probably will go at it in my own manner and time but I think I could find some peace in spending the summer with some great food and wine.
Today it's 80 degrees out and I have the a/c on for the first time. I didn't spend any time out on the deck this morning as I like to do choosing instead to read and listen to smooth jazz. It's been a great day for just rocking and reading.
Now I find myself with my mother's battered copy of Mastering The Art of French Cooking wondering if I should begin to cook from it myself. I love to cook, it calms and soothes me like nothing else can and french cuisine is comfort food. I know that I won't cook all the recipes (there are some things I just will not eat even though I am a hard core foodie) and I probably will go at it in my own manner and time but I think I could find some peace in spending the summer with some great food and wine.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Another Sunday - First of June
Last year at this time I was in Phoenix staying with friends. This year I am staying put here by the ocean and remembering a friend who has passed away.
What has changed this year?
Some things are different now - I am older, weaker but many good things stay the same - great place to live, many friends, family.
Today was a bright sunny day and I spent it out on the deck. I tanned, drank way too much iced coffee and relaxed. I read the paper for awhile but I find the news depresses me so I don't read very much. I am reading a book called Julie and Julia about a woman who spends a year cooking every recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I am enjoying this book.
Tonight I mixed up some shrimp salad that I stuffed into grilled hot dog rolls and cut up fresh strawberries that I ate with a slice of ricotta pie. The ricotta pie was my birthday cake this year.
A good day - I don't get many of these but today I will keep.
What has changed this year?
Some things are different now - I am older, weaker but many good things stay the same - great place to live, many friends, family.
Today was a bright sunny day and I spent it out on the deck. I tanned, drank way too much iced coffee and relaxed. I read the paper for awhile but I find the news depresses me so I don't read very much. I am reading a book called Julie and Julia about a woman who spends a year cooking every recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I am enjoying this book.
Tonight I mixed up some shrimp salad that I stuffed into grilled hot dog rolls and cut up fresh strawberries that I ate with a slice of ricotta pie. The ricotta pie was my birthday cake this year.
A good day - I don't get many of these but today I will keep.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Sick Far From Home
I am sick again and it's hard doing this so far from home. Started with a kidney infection and fever a week ago. I started antibiotics and the fever continues to rise.
It's really hard being a guest in someone's home feeling like this and trying to be sociable.
I wish I could just ball up in bed and sleep until this passes.
It's really hard being a guest in someone's home feeling like this and trying to be sociable.
I wish I could just ball up in bed and sleep until this passes.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Back in Phoenix
Back in Phoenix - Home from Hawaii. I had intended to post here from the ship but the internet was so awful that I was unable to do this.
The weather on the way to Hawaii was cloudy and cold. I spent alot of time in sweatshirt, socks and sitting out on the balcony wrapped in a blanket looking at the night sky. The stars while out at sea are the greatest thing in the world. I enjoyed the time out at sea.
We arrived in Hilo to sunny skies and warmth. I had a tour scheduled in the afternoon so I spent the time after arriving heading over to WalMart to get a few supplies (sunblock) and stopped briefly in a Hilo Hatties. Then I went on a tour of the island and to visit the Hawaiian Botanical Garden. This was an amazing way to spend the afternoon - climbing trails around waterfalls, orchids. I saw a mongoose, some macaws in an aviary and the most spectacular ocean view with a black sand beach. Just fantastic. I also saw the Liliuokalani Garden which is the largest Japanese Garden outside of Tokyo.
The next day was Kona and I spent the day in town, taking it slower and easier. I bought coffee and talked to Marty on the payphone for a long time. This is the island where I discovered that I really like Honey Roasted Macadamia Nuts and after going back to the ship to eat I got off again to buy more.
Wednesday we arrived in Kauai and I met Amy's sister Cathy who took us to an amazing place for breakfast. I had coconut pineapple pancakes with coconut syrup that I am still thinking about. After breakfast we drove up the coast and spent some time at a surfer's beach where I stood in the breaking waves - well away from any of the surfers. It was a great experience.
Thursday we arrived in Honolulu where I met Amy's other sister Melissa and her husband Geoff. Steve rented a car and after picking that up we headed to Chinatown for dim sum and some shopping. Afterwards we visited with Amy's family and headed out to dinner at the Outrigger Canoe Club in Waikiki. An amazing sunset and fabulous dinner of mahi-mahi - then it was time to head back to the ship. On the way I saw the Supreme Court and statue of King Kamemeha.
Friday was a beach day spent at Kaanapali Beach in Maui and some shopping for the necessary Elvis memorabilia for Miss E. I bought more coffee, more nuts and a dress. I took a shuttle to and from the beach and got a mini tour of the island by doing this. This was by far my favorite day.
There were 5 at sea days both ways and I spent the time by reading and watching some great movies. I ate alot but still managed not to gain any weight - even though I really tried. I enjoyed having a balcony for sailaways and night sky watching. I spent time in the Spa and the Casino (had alot of fun and some winnings).
It was an amazing trip and I have begun saving already to get there with Marty. It's going to take a few years but God Willing we will go together.
The weather on the way to Hawaii was cloudy and cold. I spent alot of time in sweatshirt, socks and sitting out on the balcony wrapped in a blanket looking at the night sky. The stars while out at sea are the greatest thing in the world. I enjoyed the time out at sea.
We arrived in Hilo to sunny skies and warmth. I had a tour scheduled in the afternoon so I spent the time after arriving heading over to WalMart to get a few supplies (sunblock) and stopped briefly in a Hilo Hatties. Then I went on a tour of the island and to visit the Hawaiian Botanical Garden. This was an amazing way to spend the afternoon - climbing trails around waterfalls, orchids. I saw a mongoose, some macaws in an aviary and the most spectacular ocean view with a black sand beach. Just fantastic. I also saw the Liliuokalani Garden which is the largest Japanese Garden outside of Tokyo.
The next day was Kona and I spent the day in town, taking it slower and easier. I bought coffee and talked to Marty on the payphone for a long time. This is the island where I discovered that I really like Honey Roasted Macadamia Nuts and after going back to the ship to eat I got off again to buy more.
Wednesday we arrived in Kauai and I met Amy's sister Cathy who took us to an amazing place for breakfast. I had coconut pineapple pancakes with coconut syrup that I am still thinking about. After breakfast we drove up the coast and spent some time at a surfer's beach where I stood in the breaking waves - well away from any of the surfers. It was a great experience.
Thursday we arrived in Honolulu where I met Amy's other sister Melissa and her husband Geoff. Steve rented a car and after picking that up we headed to Chinatown for dim sum and some shopping. Afterwards we visited with Amy's family and headed out to dinner at the Outrigger Canoe Club in Waikiki. An amazing sunset and fabulous dinner of mahi-mahi - then it was time to head back to the ship. On the way I saw the Supreme Court and statue of King Kamemeha.
Friday was a beach day spent at Kaanapali Beach in Maui and some shopping for the necessary Elvis memorabilia for Miss E. I bought more coffee, more nuts and a dress. I took a shuttle to and from the beach and got a mini tour of the island by doing this. This was by far my favorite day.
There were 5 at sea days both ways and I spent the time by reading and watching some great movies. I ate alot but still managed not to gain any weight - even though I really tried. I enjoyed having a balcony for sailaways and night sky watching. I spent time in the Spa and the Casino (had alot of fun and some winnings).
It was an amazing trip and I have begun saving already to get there with Marty. It's going to take a few years but God Willing we will go together.
Monday, December 31, 2007
New Year's Eve
Good Morning from Phoenix - New Year's Eve. No plans here today - a quiet day ahead getting ready to leave for San Pedro tomorrow. I will call home at midnight to talk to Marty so we will be together for the New Year.
Reflecting on 2007 this morning and although I spent alot of time in the hospital this year (too much) it has been a very blessed year for us. I am grateful for my family and friends who have helped me through alot and my doctors have been the best support. I am proud of my daughter and married the best man for me. I have been able to travel with modifications and have learned to live within my limits. It's been a year of growth for me and I have been loved. Can't ask for more than that.
My goals for 2008 are minimal since I don't do well with resolutions. I am going to work on eating every single day and building up my strength if possible. I hope to stay out of the hospital more this year by doing my IV fluids as an outpatient and going in sooner when I am in a bad period. I am going to make a nice home for my husband and daughter, filled with laughter and love.
Now I am off to drink tea, read email, watch movies, cuddle with dogs and get ready for an awfully big adventure to Hawaii!
Reflecting on 2007 this morning and although I spent alot of time in the hospital this year (too much) it has been a very blessed year for us. I am grateful for my family and friends who have helped me through alot and my doctors have been the best support. I am proud of my daughter and married the best man for me. I have been able to travel with modifications and have learned to live within my limits. It's been a year of growth for me and I have been loved. Can't ask for more than that.
My goals for 2008 are minimal since I don't do well with resolutions. I am going to work on eating every single day and building up my strength if possible. I hope to stay out of the hospital more this year by doing my IV fluids as an outpatient and going in sooner when I am in a bad period. I am going to make a nice home for my husband and daughter, filled with laughter and love.
Now I am off to drink tea, read email, watch movies, cuddle with dogs and get ready for an awfully big adventure to Hawaii!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Back in Phoenix
I made it through the holiday this year but just barely. I was unable to attend Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve so ended up watching it on tv. Spent most of Christmas Eve sleeping while my people were working and Christmas Day was spent with Marty and Liz. I made a ham dinner this year and did eat 2 small plates which is a great accomplishment for me.
Had a doctor appointment on December 19th that went as well as could have been hoped for. I lost 11 lbs which he was not too happy about but I was able to skip this month's B12 injection because my levels are good. I promised to work on the eating while in Hawaii and he gave me the okay to travel.
Yesterday I got up early and headed over to Logan for my flight. About halfway to the airport I had to head back to get something that I had forgotten but I was able to get to the gate and through the TSA line pretty quickly. The flight was oversold and I could have taken the bump with free airfare and a seat in 1st class today but I couldn't figure out how to make that work. Marty had left for work and I couldn't get my luggage home by myself so I said no and took the flight. It was an okay trip - lots of kids onboard and I slept through much of it. Got my bags and headed with my friends to have crab legs before going back to their house. I slept most of the afternoon and was in bed early last night.
It is cold here to me. The temp today in the house is 61. I do not have the right clothes packed for this weather and am going to have to have Marty ship my heavy fleece stuff for when I return from Hawaii. Thank god for blankets and lap dogs.
Today I am planning on a hot bath and a long nap and tonight is a big dinner out at Eddie V's (a nice restaurant with amazing food). I am presently drinking a cup of java and eating a chicken sandwich (or trying to).
We drive to LA on Tuesday and I will post until we leave and then if the internet is good onboard I will update while cruising to Hawaii.
Marty joins me in Phoenix when I return for his vacation.
Had a doctor appointment on December 19th that went as well as could have been hoped for. I lost 11 lbs which he was not too happy about but I was able to skip this month's B12 injection because my levels are good. I promised to work on the eating while in Hawaii and he gave me the okay to travel.
Yesterday I got up early and headed over to Logan for my flight. About halfway to the airport I had to head back to get something that I had forgotten but I was able to get to the gate and through the TSA line pretty quickly. The flight was oversold and I could have taken the bump with free airfare and a seat in 1st class today but I couldn't figure out how to make that work. Marty had left for work and I couldn't get my luggage home by myself so I said no and took the flight. It was an okay trip - lots of kids onboard and I slept through much of it. Got my bags and headed with my friends to have crab legs before going back to their house. I slept most of the afternoon and was in bed early last night.
It is cold here to me. The temp today in the house is 61. I do not have the right clothes packed for this weather and am going to have to have Marty ship my heavy fleece stuff for when I return from Hawaii. Thank god for blankets and lap dogs.
Today I am planning on a hot bath and a long nap and tonight is a big dinner out at Eddie V's (a nice restaurant with amazing food). I am presently drinking a cup of java and eating a chicken sandwich (or trying to).
We drive to LA on Tuesday and I will post until we leave and then if the internet is good onboard I will update while cruising to Hawaii.
Marty joins me in Phoenix when I return for his vacation.
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