The Morning Went Where?

 This morning went by pretty fast. Of course sleeping in does that. Two or three nights ago I was up most of the night ( I Think I mentioned it earlier) and for at the past couple days I have been trying to make up for some of that sleeplessness. Last night was the night evidently, as I slept through until about 9:30 this morning. I woke at one point and turned off the alarm (7am) and dozed back off, evidently. Spent some cuddle-time with the Wife, and was able to go attend a Zoom meeting with my AA home group.

It's into the early afternoon now, and I suppose we should figure out what to have for lunch. I did snack a little on some pickle de Gallo I picked up yesterday. That stuff is soooo good! Really now big plans today. I friend is having a birthday party, but I don't much feel like going as now. I am not even sure I want to head to the Post for the afternoon/evening.

No major plans this week. Friday I am having another MRI of my abdomen completed. It's at 5:45pm, so will have to deal with rush hour traffic to Mayo, but most of it should be done by the time I am done (probably about an hour). I have a Zoom meeting with the Mayo psychologist on my team. It may last an hour on Wednesday. IOP for the regular three days, and the two Zooms with the counselor and my team lead. This is my last full week of IOP, as I finish the program on the 9th. That's 11 hours extra each week I will regain. Now, how to productively use that...

With IOP finished, and the MRI, that should clear all the deferments that Mayo required me to complete prior to a decision if I make the list. so in about 2-3 weeks, my case should be going to the Council for a decision. I know many have been praying for good health and recovery for me, so as to hopefully NOT have the transplant. I have mixed feelings about that. I think it would be great if I had some healing, but at the same time, I want the transplant (and other related things with it) versus a healing. I don't know. It's a weird thing. I figured see if I make the list, and if I don't, just roll with the punches and the changes to my regime.

And that is all I have for you today. Tomorrow will be iffy about getting a post from me ...

PeacE

Some Time With the Youngest ...

 'Friday is going to be a rather slow day,' I thought to myself this past Wednesday. The only item on my calendar was my 3 hour IOP session (9-12). So, I saw I am pretty well out of snack foods I keep here by the desk in my "Ralph's Snack Basket". The basket I got something like two or three Christmas' past from RM and it was full of snack stuff. The basket is great as it is big enough to hold quite a few snacks (depending on amount/size). So, I asked the Youngest if he would want to go with me on Friday, after my session, to Discount Grocery. I know he is out of soda and snacks as well. I verified with him again yesterday, and he is still going with me. I even threw in that we could grab some fast food somewhere while we are out, for lunch.

So I have some running to do. Walgreens for a prescription, car wash as some bird tagged my hood in a large spread that goes across the hood. And it needs vacuumed. Then Discount Grocery. I am running through the food ads to see if we need to run by some groceries we normally do not use for any special pricing on something we could use. Then back home. I'll be tired by then, from all the walking, so will probably call time out of the house over, and play on the computer (after groceries are put away).

I still need to get a haircut. I'm sitting down this morning and will determine who is getting paid how much, and I can get most medical bills paid off, or to a way lower figure due, with the backpay I received. 

Didn't sleep much last night. By 1:30 I knew I wasn't going to fall asleep soon. I was having some toothache pain keeping me up. So I went into the office and watched reels and some surfing the web, until about 5am, then laid down again. I did get about a two hour nap before the alarm went off. Maybe there is a nap after the shopping this afternoon...

Alrighty then. I think I bored you enough for one day. See ya tomorrow!

PeacE

Sorry, Not Sorry ...

Obviously I never made it back to finish the post yesterday. I did go in for the paracentesis and  liters were drained. I had a Zoom meeting scheduled for 2pm with my Group Lead of my IOP - a personal session each week to see how I am doing overall with everything. We had agree to move it to noon, so I was a bit rushed getting home in time. Things took longer at the hospital because of the amount drained, I had to receive an extra dose of albumin I had not time-factored into the day (about - minutes). So I made my meeting with about 10 minutes to spare.

Tuesday was such a great day for me. Dropped the car off to have the safety recall fixed on it. Something about a sensor in the passenger seat that improperly detects someone sitting there or not when an airbag is deployed. While that was being done, RM picked me up and we went back to her place. I set up my laptop and did my 3-hour IOP, then RM and I went to get my vehicle, followed up with lunch at Red Robin.

All I can say is ... wow. We ended sitting there and chatting after lunch until nearly 3:30pm, and it was such a great conversation! I felt I shared too much about things going on in my life, but I felt I needed to. I usually keep things so close to my chest until after, and on my way home, I realized that RM had also opened up and shared a lot with me about how things are in her life. I don't think we have been so open with each other before and shared so much. It was ... just fantastic! Oh, and the endless side salads were good, too. RM sent me home with a pint of her salsa for the Youngest (which only has about a third in it now) and had even made a quart of chunky for me (which is now gone).

I arrived home and saw that mail had come so I grabbed it. On top of everything is a check. You know how you can tell a Government check - their style of check peeking behind my address. I got excited! I rushed back to mt desk, and the second piece of mail was from SS Disability. I opened that one first to find I have been approved! The check that had come, well, it was for "backpay" from March to current. So an unexpected bonus ... and the amount I am to receive each month is higher than I was at least hoping for! So now I have some income coming in to help with all the medical. I hope to have all my balances current and at/near a zero balance in the next few months. At least right now I can address the ones that are overdue.

That evening, since I had no meetings at the VFW this Tuesday, I attended my TG group, and had a good discussion on 'Have you ever felt in control enough that you didn't need AA'. When my turn came up, I shared that I could NOT do it without AA. Though I went 5 months sober without any additional learning of the program, or the IOP, but I don't think I could stand here and honestly say I could have relapsed at anytime, and now that I am in the program, just the support keeps me going, let alone working on the steps.

Tuesday was awesome! So yesterday, I was in very good spirits when I had my one on one, and shared why. There's a nice big chunk of mental stress and worry off my mind now that the disability is coming in.

Today? Hmmmm. I have my IOP this morning, and nothing planned for the day. I may go get my hair cut, as the sides and back are getting shaggy. I know tomorrow after IOP the Youngest and I are headed to Discount Grocery to get drink, snacks, and any other good deals we find. No major weekend plans. We were invited to a "pool party" for one of the Post members who I consider a good acquaintance, but have not decided if I will go. I am sure the Wife won't go, but I am going to try to get her mind changed, at least to go for a little bit. I want her around more of the people I know and like/trust. Saga to be continued....

And with that, I need to get on with my day. My numbers are good this morning, and I am feeling better with the abdominal pressure off. I think I'll have some tuna salad for lunch today.

PeacE

To Drain, Or Not To Drain ...

 Don't worry everyone ... I have not disappeared just yet. I am headed out the door for a paracentesis (draining) so I'll have to finish this when I get back .... See ya in about three hours.

Memorial Day 2026

 No post today. Spend time with family remembering some gave all for you to be able to.

PeacE

Awww, Crap! I Gotta Work ...

 I need to get the minutes done from my Riders meeting. I have been putting it off most of the week, and today is payday. Technically, I don't need to do it until next week, but sooner did, sooner done.

I didn't go the the Flag Drop today. I'm just not feeling it - the walking around and all in the heat. This afternoon is a friend's granddaughter's birthday party at the Post. Since it is one of my good friends, I need to go and hang out for a bit. She also has to work this evening as the volunteer barmaid, and asked if I would stick around for that. I said I would until I couldn't. To me that sounds like about 8pm.

This friend is my "insider at Disability. We talked yesterday briefly, and it looks like I am approved, but she could not access for how much allowance each month. No letter yesterday. Today I hope.

I need to get things done so this is short this morning.

PeacE

Does The Alarm Even Work?

 I am up early today. Woke at least three times through the night with bladder calls, decided to finally get out of bed, and it was barely 6:30am. I feel well rested, but I haven't heard my alarm go off in days now. Seems I am up before it is time quite a bit. It's only 20 minutes, and I try to be productive still, but every once in awhile, it would be nice to sleep in until it went off.

IOP this morning. Yesterday's was interesting. It was on PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) that deals with symptoms several months (or years) after one quits drinking. Talked about the 'plateau' you hit, and start to backslide. I know she picked that specifically for me, because of our Wednesday session. Here I am at 7 months sober, and though I am not struggling currently, there is always a possibility.

My calendar is free after that. Tomorrow, I have been invited to a friend's granddaughter's birthday party that is being held at the Post. It's sort of invite only, so that is nice. I need to get a card and I'll throw $20 in it. I think she is about 10'ish. Then may stay for the Queen of Hearts drawing. I haven't stayed past 7pm on a Saturday at the Post in several weeks. I should make an 'appearance' for the karaoke crowd.

RM and I set plans for lunch on Tuesday. She took the day off work (not for me) and with the car drop-off, it works out well. Looks like we are going to Red Robin (endless side salads) after my IOP that morning. I was debating bringing my headset when I go to RM's, to make it so passer-bys cannot hear what is being said, but PT is hard enough of hearing, I don't think it will matter, as long as he knows he can't interrupt me with questions during my session. 

Disability. I have a friend on the "inside" regarding my Disability filing. She called me yesterday and asked have I gotten the letter yet. I knew to what she was referring, and said no. She said they sent a letter, and was all she could share. But in her voice, she sounded happy, so I am thinking I got approved the first time through, and those payments will start soon. It'll be nice to have the extra income since I cannot work currently, and to help with the medical bills. Didn't come yesterday... maybe today.

Bio's are okay this morning. BP is a little low, glucose is where it has been resting for a few months. 

Welp, I am outta thoughts this morning.

PeacE

Running Late ...

 ... this morning since I guess my body decided it needed just one more hour of sleep. I did sleep well last night, so that "extra" hour - I dunno, but it just set back my routing for the morning. My IOP starts here shortly.

I texted RM yesterday to "remind" her it's about time for our lunch date again. I say remind in that way, as I know she doesn't forget it, she looks forward to our one-on-one time, as do I. Since my weekends are fairly clear for the foreseeable future, I let her pick the date. I'm supposed to find a place. I wanted to find a place I, at least, have not been to before, but it's kind of hard to find one. I should clarify, hard to find a place where RM doesn't have to drive terribly far from home. I'm not saying she has issues driving (like PT) but I do it to try to make it easier. Best would be for me to pick-up/drop-off at her house, but sometimes that is a bit further. Maybe I'll start giving her the option to meet, or for me to pick her up ... let it be her decision. But still haven't found a place yet. Almost everywhere has a House Salad and Italian dressing so I'm good with whatever we decide.

I had my weekly personal session with my Group Leader yesterday. I yakked for a good 40 minutes. After the beginning "small talk" of how are you feeling and are you still working your goals, it merged into my medical and she was asking quite a few questions about the transplant process, estimated times, etc. Then we brought up my end date. June 9th is my last IOP class. Which, once I send a copy (JPG/GIF/PDF) of my completion certificate, that is the last thing on my deferment list, from what I received back in late March/early April. If Mayo has completed the things on their end, my case will go to the Transplant Council within a week for consideration again. That's when I make the List, or learn of other deferments that may have arisen since the last meeting. Getting closer to the goal!

Overall health today is good. Still kind of waking up. Bio figures are fine. I feel pretty good and ready for my IOP (in 20 minutes). I guess I should get off here and take care of the bathroom issues before the meeting....

PeacE

Morning Libations

 I slept good last night. After the previous two nights, I guess the body decided to correct itself, and I drifted off to sleep within moments of laying down. Only recall waking twice (bathroom calls) yet still woke 30 minutes before my alarm. Sigh. What can one do?

It dawned on me just a few minutes ago, I'm turning into (I don't know how else to say it, so no offense) an "old" person. I get up early (for me), I do my morning routine - you know, bathroom, get dressed, check blood pressure (been running a little low lately - today is 104/60) then check glucose (97 today). 'Turn on' the computer, check my calendar for what today holds. And the routine drops into place. I almost feel like going outside and yelling at someone walking by to "Get off my lawn" except it is way to hot out, and not many walk by the house.

How am I doing medically? I'm holding on - no. That sounds like I'm near death (which I am not). Medications are the paracentesis every now and then are holding my symptoms at bay. I have about 3 weeks to go in my IOP, at which point I believe I have completed everything on the list regarding the deferment. Which means soon my case will go up to the transplant council to determine making the Waiting List. Am I getting 'antsy' about it? Nah. Nothing I can do at this time except finish the IOP and maintain my meetings. Side note: Last night with my transplant support/AA meeting, we had a great topic about "Giving Without Strings" based off the AA Daily Affirmation of the day. Not in the biblical, sermon-type way. Moreso about helping other alcoholics recover, and support.

This weekend is Memorial Day weekend, and though the Post has a few events going on, I am not sure how many I will help with. Saturday they do the 'flag drop' at the cemetery near the Post (placing flags at each Veteran's stone) followed by a breakfast at the Post. Monday they are doing three flag raisings that morning, the final one being at the Post around 10:30am, I probably will make that one. Tuesday is their FOD walk, where the flags are picked back up, bundled, and returned to the Post for next year. This is usually done by the high school ROTC groups (about 4-5 of them this year) but open to any that want to help. Maybe I will check with the Youngest and see if he would like to do the flag drop again. He did go with me a couple years ago, and said he actually enjoyed it. Amazing what giving some time for a good thing is ale to make a person feel! I figure he won't do it this year, but I'll ask.

Well, this morning's drink of choice is Canada Dry ginger ale. No, not feeling nausea, just out of other soda and I wanted some carbonation. It'll be tea afterwards I am sure. Side thought: too much tea causing the sleeplessness? Too much caffeine? Nah.

One thing on the calendar for today, and it isn't until 2pm, so I got time to pick up a prescription this morning after 9am. I should work on the minutes from the Riders meeting, but I am pushing that off today. 

Okay, I'm outta here....

PeacE

Another Birthday ...

 ... is here, and this one is for the Oldest Son, Ralphd00d IV. Today he turns 28, and has turned into a wonderful young man. From holding you in my arms, to you joining me on the Annual Santa Runs, we have been blessed to have such good times. 

Slow day today. I have a personal session for the IOP (that usually lasts about 10 minutes) and a Riders meeting tonight. That's my whole day basically.

Nothing to ramble on about this morning. Rough time falling asleep last night, and wasn't able to drift off until near 4am. Up at 7am, a bit tired, but otherwise awake and moving. Now typing, not so much. I was texting with RM, and the errors have begun. What a Monday.

As I gaze into the misty future, I see a possible nap today.

PeacE

If I Think Real Hard ...

 ... it will come. Maybe. Sometimes coming up with a post title is hard.

It is Sunday, and I am up at the usual time. For a short bit, while getting dressed, I was going through things I need to get done today. After a few minutes of this, I realized it was Sunday and not Monday, so it kind of messed with my 'just made' plans. But wait! Sunday is more open to get things done. Only, the things I was going over was my appointments and the VFW Riders meeting in the evening. Oh crud! I forgot to do the Agenda - I better do it right away before the meeting. Wait! It's Sunday, I have time to complete it. Sigh.

Guess what I get to do today? Yeah, the Agenda for the Riders meeting. Shouldn't take too long - I don't think we have much going on.

'The wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round' but the ones on my office chair, not so much these days. The chair I currently have is a nice one from Staples a few years ago. But in this older house, the concrete-painted floor of the office has "roughened" up the surface from use, so the plastic wheels just pretty much got destroyed over time. Considering how heavy I was, it is not surprising. Unfortunately, I think it is past the warranty date (which I find isn't where it is supposed to be) but I don't think they would cover use/abuse. Maybe I'll take the Wife and hit a couple Goodwills nearby and see if they have a roller office chair that is good. I could look for shorts too, of the style I like, preferably in my "new" waist size.

The Wife and I went to dinner last night at Garcia's - one of our favorite Mexican restaurants. I had the El Magnifico Sampler platter (Chimi, burrito, chile rellano, taco refried beans, and rice. Don't forget the chips and salsa! I ate way more than I should have, but I'm just calling it a "cheat day". I still have the beans, rice, chimi and burrito to eat for today.

Tomorrow is the birthday of my Oldest Son, and he turns 28. I have asked if he wanted anything for his birthday, but have never gotten a response, so I have no clue. I don't know if the Wife has gotten anything for him. I'll text him tomorrow, as we rarely see him. He works night as a Night-Time Operation Mgr. at Home Depot.

Well, I guess I should wrap this up and get stuff done.

PeacE

Saturday ...

 ... and it feels like a regular weekday to me. The only exception is the Wife is at home. Nothing on my calendar for this weekend, so no idea what will be going on.

I went up to Safelite yesterday, and within 30 minutes, the car was fixed. The Manager was the only one that dealt with me. The whole ordeal would have ended just fine, if he had just apologized, fixed it, and sent me on my way. But no, he opened his mouth. Before he looked at it, the cause was a "false positive" as they take of a picture of the calibration results for the file, and mine should all was working fine. I shrugged, I mean I know stuff happens. After he brought the car back out, the excuse was a "broken cord" that after the picture, and they were replacing the mirror panel, etc., that he has a bunch of new trainees, and he must have been busy with one of the others when this tech did my car. I still didn't care, even though I know stuff happens sometimes. He made a comment along the lines of 'I wish you would have contacted me first instead of writing a bad review'. I looked him straight in the eye, 'I didn't write a review for you yet. I filled out a survey about my visit. The 2-star review you are getting now is a bonus as it was going to be 1-star, but you fixed it. 

So it seems some of the IOP sessions are paying off. I went through some things that we covered under Anger, and did not straight out attack Safelite angerly like I normally would have back in the day. 

... and that is all I have today.

PeacE

Oh Squeaky Wheel...

 ... how wonderful when you work properly! I had emailed Safelite yesterday regarding the Pre-Collision System malfunction with my car. Briefly, when I was in last week for a replacement windshield, evidently they did/didn't do something that was supposed to be done to the camera in such a way the only thing it works for is the speed limit. And it is irritating having the notice on the vid screen, with no way to remove it except to fix the darn thing. Well, they called me yesterday, I had to explain what PCS means (they use the term ADA) and he told me to schedule an appointment, and explain what is going on to the counter help, and it should be taken care of. I'm scheduled for 1pm, right after my IOP this morning.

Other than that, I have nothing on the calendar today. Oh! I do need to swing by CVS and see if they have my prescription in. They were to have it last week, but I never got the call it was in, and I kept forgetting to go by there. I'll do that on my way home...

Feeling almost back to normal after the paracentesis. A day or two afterwards I fell like the body is re-adjusting from the fluid drained, as I get some nausea, and feel somewhat fatigued without doing anything. Today I almost feel normal - well, normal to me.

I expect to be finishing yesterday's session material today. Seems yesterday, one of the new people (just joined this week) went off on a tangent, and off topic for a good 5 minutes. Then someone else replies to what she is talking about, and the back and forth of it all... Our group led should have gotten them back on topic faster, but not my job. I've learned in life that no matter where you are, it seems there are always people that set off my 'spidey-sense'. There are a couple new people in session (just starting) that I have this about. I've been good about not saying anything, no matter how much I want to. What use would it do? They are already having issues similar to what I went through already, so I can relate that way, but their attitude just floors me. I guess it comes down to how they were raised. We all have our opinion about that issue these days....Sigh.

Anyways, that's my boring life for the day basically.

PeacE

They Abused Me ....

 ... at the hospital yesterday. I went in for a paracentesis (draining of ascites from the abdomen) like I have for several months now. This is the second time (in a row even!) I have been able to go three weeks before needing to be drained. Not bad considering it used to be weekly. Either way, there was a "new girl" at the hospital that does the actual catheter insertion. This is a 2-shot process: 1). numbing shot, and 2). second shot to insert the catheter. Well, for some reason, as she was starting the second insertion, I felt a hard jab. I said something, and for some reason, the numbness hadn't set in yet. It is usually quite fast this whole start-up procedure. So she had to do another jab with some more 'numbness', then the second step wasn't bad, until they get to the abdominal wall, then a quick push and ...voila! Drained 6.7 liters yesterday (around 15 pounds).

Afterwards, like usual, I was "drained" (pun intended). I don't know what it is about getting this draining done that I always feel this way for a day or so afterwards. I think it may be the body telling me to slow down for a bit so it can readjust after the draining so the organs can 'resettle' after being under pressure. I truly don't know, but that us my guess.

IOP this morning. I had my hour session yesterday with our Group Leader, and we talked for a good hour. Not so much about problems I am having, but how am I doing with the adjustments and self-awareness of applying some of the things I have learned in class. I like this gal. We joke around and she even has me sharing a joke or two each class session at the end. I forget how that came to be... I think I wanted to share a funny one-liner, and now everyone wants a joke to end the meeting with laughter. But finding a funny, clean joke is hard, even with the internet. It is either sexual, racial, or not funny.

No plans the rest of the day. Don't really feel like going to the Post today. I did email Safelite yesterday, and voiced my problem with two possible solutions for them. Hope t hear back from them today, but I have a feeling I will have to get it in to a dealer to fix. Maybe they add it on when I go in in a couple weeks....

Welp, I think I shared enough. Go out and make your own stories!

PeacE

I Never Liked the Stair Climber ....

 ... but here I am doing steps, as in the 12 Steps of AA. At this point in time, I am currently settling in on Step Four: Make a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Basically, where I 'make a list' of those that I have wronged due to my alcoholism. It is somewhat daunting. In some ways I could generalize that would include every body that I knew during those years. So that won't work. I do not have a Sponsor, and maybe they could explain it better to me, though I am reading the AA Book, I haven't made much progress, but I am sure there is a section that covers more detail for this step. Maybe I should skip ahead a bit, as it is built on chapters of things, not a linear story. I may be on this step for awhile, which is fine so I may do it right.

I am going to my paracentesis this morning for a draining. I weighed in this morning at 252 lbs, and I am guessing about 14 lbs of that is fluid...unless I have been eating good enough I put a few back on. So I am thinking 6-7 liters for the drain today. Find out soon enough. I have an hour session with my Group Lead for the IOP this afternoon. Other than that, I am free. The Wife is 'flexed' off today, but sort of 'on-call still. Maybe we can break for a quick bite together, or even bring the Youngest out to lunch - though he usually declines going out to eat with us.

I need to contact Safelite today to see what they want to do about the PCS in my car. I have not been able to get the malfunction warning off still. I spoke to a Post member last night that works in the repairs for a dealership, and even though he doesn't do this kind of work, but based on what I told him about the situation and what I have tried, he suggest taking it to the dealer for them to re-calibrate the system. Just hooking it up to the computer though is about $150 estimated, plus if they do any work. So I am going to reach out to Safelite to see if they are going to  fix it for me, or give me money to go the dealer. I do have an appointment later this month for a recall issue, maybe I could get them to squeeze in this calibration as well....

Welp, I should close this up for the day. I need to leave in about 30 minutes for the Para.

PeacE

I'm Waiting ....

 at 11:30pm for the pill I just took to kick in. This pill is my 'sleep aid' when I have problems sleeping (like tonight). I give about 15 more minutes until it starts, so I'll ramble on about stuff until then.

Tuesday. I have my IOP this morning. Walgreens has a prescription pick up ready for me for one of the ones I have been out of for two days now. I had a blood draw at Mayo on Monday morning. Drove 25 minutes, for a 3-minute procedure, and drove 20 minutes back home. I don't get it sometimes....

Auxiliary meeting is tonight at the Post. The agenda and last month's minutes were sent earlier this evening so I have yet to read them. Will do that after the IOP.

Dentist wants me to get a 'deep cleaning' done. Can do top and bottom on one side, then a couple weeks later the other side. I guess they numb you up real good, and go to town on descaling plaque. Well, me might be moving an extraction before that now. The past couple days, my back molar has started ringing it's pain alert - especially caused by the water pik (the dentist told me to get one) every night when I use it there. Hence the reason I am up right now. They are not open until Wednesday, unless it is an emergency, which I don't think is bad enough to qualify even though it is quite bad.

I think I will do the draining this Wednesday as well. Been feeling quite a bit of pressure and the abdomen  has filled out. I weighed myself tonight, and if I am at the 237 I was at 3 weeks ago, then I have about 6-7 liters to be drained. I have been eating better, so that could be a lower number amount to be drained. <shrug>.

Okay, I am headed to bed to be knocked out.

PeacE

Mother's Day

 Today is Mother's Day, and I have not yet reached out to RM to tell her 'Happy Mother's Day'. I have always asked that people wait to text/call me at least until after 8am, and I try to respect that for others as well. I probably should have gotten a card, and 'snail mailed' it, but I didn't. I always have the hardest time shopping for RM. I think it is because I feel I never can find a gift to surprise her with, that she would use. As she likes to point out, she really doesn't NEED anything.... maybe I took that too literally.

Our Youngest has shown some good initiative this year. I am able to post it, because I am sure the Wife does not read this blog.... He helped out last week doing some of the yardwork. He spent part of the day yesterday helping do things around the house. He also took me aside at one point, and asked about dinner plans for today. I told him no chance of a restaurant, so I was open to ideas. He wants to make his potato soup (so yummy!) for dinner for the Wife. I told him I thought that was a wonderful idea! And, he actually went out Friday to the store to find a gift for her. I just hope all the kids remember to call/text their Mom.

I am not doing anything today. I know, it is mother's that are supposed to enjoy doing nothing today... but I really have no plans. I have blood draw to do tomorrow morning at Mayo (close to an hour drive time, just for a blood draw that doesn't take but 5-10 minutes).

Welp, I'm tired of typing today already. 

PeacE

Starting To Get Frustrated ...

 ... at Safelite Auto Glass. True, they had the cheapest price I could find for the replacement. True, they got it completed earlier than the estimated time. True, they messed up my Pre-Collision System (PCS) somehow. I received four emails from them: 1) car is being worked on; 2) windshield has been re-calibrated successfully; 3) Notice that the PCS system may malfunction due to their reset when  replacing the windshield, and to turn all features back on to fix the warning; 4) my receipt. Well yesterday before going out shopping I sat in the car for a good half hour, manually turning back on things like lane assist, etc. Then I went and set it so the PCS was "ON". No change. I shut it off and restarted a couple times, with no change. What is the big deal about the PCS? Well, for starters, it wipes my digital display in the dash, and though I can send it away, it's only for a few seconds and it returns and sits there telling me to see dealer.

So this morning I spent some time looking up some DIY to try to fix the issue. I did get a couple ideas that I will try tomorrow when I have the time to get my hands dirty. One deals with removing the battery cables and let sit for three hours, or hold the two disconnected cable ends metal to metal for about 15 secs. It drain the "juice from the system and when hooked back up, resets the system. I can easily deal putting the stations on preset, and my favorite phone numbers. The second option is to check the fuses. No idea how many for the PCS system (or components) so pretty much have to test most of them. If that doesn't work, then it a call to Safelite. In one video I watched, the place forgot to actually connect one of the connectors back up, up in the compartment by your windshield mirror. I may check that too.

Did my IOP this morning. We have been working through "Anger" this week, and I learned a few things about how to be self-aware of it better, and solutions. Lately, I haven't been angry that often (irritated, yes, angry, no) so haven't had a chance to try any coping mechanisms, or thought processing. It was good to learn of the triggers for Anger, and a better definition of Anger and the Causes of.

Tonight is the Riders Dinner at the Post. I went out yesterday afternoon to Sam's Club and was disappointed with my location. I mainly needed some produce (shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, jalapenos) and their produce section was very small. No tomatoes at all, so I ended up with cans of diced tomatoes. Got the big jar of jalapenos for any that want to add. Chips, big bag o0f cheese for queso, and a couple other things. Spent too much (just over $60) so I will be asking reimbursement this time around. Then I had to go to Fry's for the rest, plus some stuff for home. I think I got it all, and went to the Post. I dropped off most of the stuff, including the cheese I wanted to bring home to make the queso before I go... So now I need to go earlier and start that up.

Sigh. And to top it off, my diuretics are kicking in full swing today - more than usual. Like every 30-45 mins doing a trip to the bathroom. I know, prolly TMI...

PeacE

I'm Tired Already ...

 ... thinking about what I need to get done today. I have my IOP this morning. After that I need to head to Sam's Club for some of the dinner items for the Riders Dinner tomorrow. I may have to stop at the regular grocery to make sure I have everything. I only signed up for chips and queso, but am getting all the veggies/cheese for toppings. After I think I have everything (because you know, even with a list I will miss something) I'll run most of it out to the Post and put in the fridge. I have mixed feelings about the Dinner. At the House Comm. meeting on Tuesday, the Jr Vice was saying he wants to invite Motero Life, a motorcycle group that supports Vets, etc. The  last event they came, bringing about 100 + people, and we just have not done a dinner for that many people. I am not sure we will have enough food. I guess earlier out is earlier done.

Not much for the rest of the week: IOP tomorrow morning, then the day is clear. I'll be at the Post early to help get set up for the Dinner. Saturday is an Aux Dist/Dept President training. It is in Mesa from like 10a-12p... or maybe it is 1p. It is open to any one that wants to attend, and I am debating. I think the training is more about leadership and reports, but at the different levels and who are responsible for them. But what do I know. I am not sure I am going, yet.

Well, I feel my body saying it is time to go to the Reading Room, so I'll talk atcha later ...

PeacE

Another "Nothing" Day

 It's Wednesday, and I cancelled the paracentesis I had previously scheduled for this morning. I do have some fluid build up, but it isn't overly uncomfortable yet. I think I'll go next week, that'll be another three weeks I went without draining. For the most part, the medications are handling my symptoms well. Encephalology has 'cleared' somewhat, though I still am having short-term memory issues, and at times, lose track/focus. With all the weight loss, the knees/hips/back feel slightly less pain, butt still requires me to use a cane for walking.

Yesterday ended well. I had my IOP in the morning, followed by a trip to Safelite for a windshield replacement. Afterwards, my car now tells me it has pre-collision 'something-or-other' and SEE DEALER. It won't shut off the message or the dash light. I figured maybe a few starts and stops would take care of it (like new air sensors with tires). After I got home, and had time to check my emails, I saw one from Safelite that explained the new issue - that if the settings for certain anti-collision features had been turned off, they will need to be reset, as the 'camera in the windshield' they had to reset the factory defaults when they calibrated it. They could have told me in person.... I headed to the VFW for the House/Entertainment meeting, and we finished early enough, I rushed home to get into the Zoom meeting for my AA/Support Liver group. I was only 5 minutes late, but the weekly meeting is done.

With the Para cancelled this morning, I do not have anything until 2pm with my group leader for a short personal check-in. I should work on the minutes from the meeting, but I don't think so today.

... and now I am off to do something...

The Weekend is Over ...

 ... and I am back to the routine. Well, for the most part. This morning I have to run out to Mayo for a psych consult. Shouldn't be longer than an hour, and then back home. I think I am clear until my 1pm zoom meeting with the counselor from my IOP. I know that will last all of 15 minutes. She just wants to make sure I am reaching goals, and doing well. I haven't checked my calendar yet this morning, so I am running off of memory for now.

Weekend was fine. Did some grocery shopping on Saturday. Yesterday we went to church. I met a couple of guys (Andy and Mike, if I remember correctly) that are in the men's bible study group that PT is in. They were happy to put a face with a name for me, because evidently PT has them praying for the transplant. In fact, I was a bit miffed at church. People there I have known for years were coming up to me and saying things like, " Glad to see you able to get up and about", or "Hope everything goes okay". I looked at the Wife and asked her "Does everyone here know about this?". She just kinda shrugged her shoulders. Well, what's done is done.

Picked up some Chino Bandito for lunch. It was perfect for the day. It just tasted so good, that even the Wife was commenting that it really hit the spot. I spent the afternoon playing around on the computer mostly.

Oh, I need to call the DMV today. Seems the registration for the Youngest's car (still in my name) came last week with the new sticker. Well Saturday, I received another one. I need to compare the two, and if they have different sticker numbers, or something, I should call to make sure the correct one is one the vehicle. I also need to get ahold of National Archives. I have ordered a copy of my Dad's DD-214 twice now. They said it was completed and sent, allow 5-7 business days. First time I waited a month, then ordered it again. It has now been almost another month, and the second order they said was completed 4/13. I *KNOW* the address to deliver to was correct, as I made sure of it the second time.

Welp, I need to get my meds down the hatch, and get ready for my appointment this morning. Y'all have a good 'un.

PeacE

Oh My, It Got Busy!

 Today is a "busy day for me. I have a 7:20am with my PCP for the next couple shots in the Hep series vaccine. Followed by my regular 3 hr IOP session at 9am. Then a zoom consult with one of the Psych docs at Mayo at 1:45pm. And lastly an event at the Post tonight I thought I would go check out. So today is short and sweet.

And I got nothing. 

My morning numbers are good (BP and Glucose). I think the PCP is going to do an A1C test this morning, but not sure since Mayo is doing my monthly blood work. I did do a drug test a bit ago, and the results came back negative (of course) though I could not tell from the report if the THC was out of my system yet. They need it cleared out prior to the transplant for sure.

Alright, I am out of here I guess....

PeacE

Another Spin of the Earth ...

 ... I don't think I have anything for you avid readers today. My drivel is dried up. My whining and complaining is done (psych!). Nothing much has been happening the past couple days. IOP session this morning, then nothing really planned for the day. I need to get back up to Walgreens for the next 2 prescriptions they now have filled (literally, 30 minutes after I left there the last time).

May starts tomorrow. We have a couple birthdays this month, though they are ones I generally don't get anything for (Oldest Son and SIL). I have a couple psyche consults with Mayo early in the month. IOP goes on all month pretty much. In yesterday's personal session, we determined I'm at about the halfway mark. So there was a 32-question assessment I had to do, which we compared to my intake results. Most of the intake results were "No Difficulty" but a few changed to "a little" this time round. I believe it is because I have learned to look for certain signs. I'm talking in dealing with anger issues, or personal communication, or whatnot. Because I am working on those (and other) factors, I tend to think there is more to learn - to know about how to improve even more than I have. Even though I am required by Mayo to complete this course, I find myself enjoying it, and never would have the insights I do now.

Welp, the Wife just left for work, so I need to call everyone over to party!

PeacE

*Yawn* Oh, It's Monday ...

 ... and I am awake at 5:30am this morning. I'd explain why, but I don't think the Wife would be happy about about me sharing. Either way, I am wide awake and figured I might as well get up and be productive. Heh. Like that'll happen.

The Youngest is needing to get his car through emissions for registration. He has never been before, so doesn't have any clue. I should just send him up there and let him figure it out, but I said I would go with and "teach him the ropes". Thankfully the Emission Check is only about a half mile up the road, and if extremely busy, we could always come back a little later.

I have a personal session today with a counselor I have slotted for an hour, but we usually are done in about 15 minutes. She just checks I am working on goals (positive ones).

Welp, I ain't got anything else on my mind to share right now....

PeacE

Sunday Down Time

 I'm up at the usual time today. Slept pretty good last night, but still have the yawns going this morning. Today holds no major plans for me. The day is actually clear on my calendar! This week doesn't hold much, just time-consuming things: IOP on Tues, Thurs, Fri at 3 hours a session. then I allow an hour each for personal session - one on  Mondays, the other on Wednesdays. No VFW meetings this week, but I do need to work on the Agenda for the House/Entertainment committee.

Yesterday was nice. I had District 3 meetings in the morning, but made it home around 1:30pm. I even checked in with the Wife if they had had lunch (no) so I stopped at Whataburger and brought lunch home. Killed the afternoon playing some games or surfing the web. Around 6pm the Youngest and I went to meet our Guild leader from Warcraft, who is in town working and flying out today. He had ate supper with the work crew, so we just went to a Denny's, I ordered a full-size nachos appetizer and drinks. We visited for a good hour and a half before he was ready to head back to his room.

If there is one thing I truly dislike, is driving in an area where a major event is going on. For those familiar with the Valley, State Farm stadium is in Glendale, around the 101 Loop and Glendale Avenue. The Denny's we were at is on Camelback and 99th Avenue (about 3 miles south of the stadium, and on the other side of the Loop 101). Leaving Denny's, I could not make a left to get back to the 101, so figured I would go a mile up 99th Ave and turn to the freeway. Nope. No Right Turns. Same at Bethany Home, and Glendale Aves. Finally at Northern Ave I was able to turn right. But as I went to get on the Freeway entrance ramp, traffic was at a near standstill. After about 20 minutes (and 5 exits) I finally got off and used side-streets to get back to his hotel. Seems there was a Monster Truck Jam going on at the stadium. Who knew there were that many rednecks out here that love to watch this stuff.

So a clear schedule leaves me wondering what I will do today. Probably end up playing some Warcraft, maybe a movie, maybe I can talk the Wife into getting Chino Bandito and bringing it home for lunch. Welp, I am off to have some breakfast (oh yay. Raisin Bran).

PeacE

Up Early Today ...

 ... and actually on purpose. Today we have a longer than usual District 3 meeting(s) for the VFW. Mostly longer because of elections. I am up early so I can get through my morning medical routine (done) and to arrive at the Post round 8-8:30am.

Post stuff will take up most of the morning, then the Youngest and I are meeting our Guild Leader from Warcraft. He is in town from out of state for work, and we plan to meet up for dinner near where he is staying. It's nice sometimes to be able to put a face and a name together of online friends.

This is heading into the last week of April, and that means some Mayo appointments coming up in early May. I have a Psych consult by Zoom, an in person psych visit (different person) and a blood draw all pretty much the first week. I should check my results from last week, and see if they found any trace of THC still in my system....

With that, I am outta here.

PeacE

Brain Fog Attack!!!

 This morning was the final IOP group session I have this week. I'm around the 2 week mark of the 8 week program. Normally I tend to like doing group sessions. The Group Lead has some great guides about Stress, anxiety, coping mechanisms, etc. and usually I request a copy of that lesson. That way, I can get more details from the reading, than just the memory of someone reading it aloud, and only able to get notes done about main points. Some of them have self-assessments, and I will go back after the program and go through them, twice, to compare what I remember about my drinking days, and comparing them to how I feel now. Anyways, no more group until Tuesday.

My point about Group today (see, I am easily led off topic by my own thoughts-SQUIRREL!) is that I just could not get into the study today. The 'Brain Fog' I get from the encephalopathy was stronger today, and I could not stay focused. Instead, while the discussions were going on, I paid some bills, got some snail mail ready and stamped to go. Made sure refills for about four medications were to be refilled (hopefully by Monday or Tuesday). The only errand I have to get out of the house for today is drop the mail off at the Post Office (mine is just a 1/2 mile up the road). I haven't decided about going to the Post as usual. I know I am going to be there a good portion of the day tomorrow for our District meetings/elections. This past year the President for the District Aux, is the Secretary for our Post Aux. I went over the Agenda for tomorrow, and seeing the positions to be voted on - there is a n Asst. Secretary listed as well. If she is elected President again, or Secretary, I am sure she is going to ask me to help there as well. Will find out tomorrow.

That reminds me I need to update my email signature line.

I did get the Riders meeting minutes finished yesterday and sent out. Also two applications for membership. Finally! Some new members that actually show up to meetings and events, and help volunteer on Dinner nights.

Just checked - the Mail has not been delivered yet today, so I am going to just put the outgoing in the box. Now I don't have to leave home at all. I think I will spend the afternoon playing some Warcraft.

PeacE

My To-Do List For Today ....

 ... feels quite full. I have the Group IOP session this morning. Then nothing on the calendar (appointments) so need to get the meeting minutes done and sent out for the Riders (and applications for two new members). Also, I had went to the store yesterday and picked up some supplies for pickling. They had tomatillos on sale, so I got a couple bags. One of the guys I know at the pub makes his pickles on occasion, and he always does a few quarts of spicy hot pickle-ness with tomatillo pieces, some jalapenos, garlic, and usually throws in a small ghost pepper. But I just love those quarts, so I am going to try one. I also am going to make another quart of the Zesty Italian flavored ones as I really like them. Depending how many cucumber slices I get, I may do a second Zesty quart, or a half quart, to share at the Post.

I need to get on a windshield repair. Last Saturday, as we are just getting on the highway, a pick-up truck in front of me tossed a rock that caught the drivers-side edge of the windshield, and the crack spread across half the glass. Plus it is almost directly across my view - enough to be somewhat distracting. Safelite is the best quote I have gotten so far and it is $750 for a replacement (there ain't no "fixing a crack"). I'm going to mull it over for a few days and see if can't find cheaper, but out of four other places, this is still cheapest - and I can do 4 payments versus the whole amount up front.

Between medical bills and Life things (like windshields) it feels like all I do are make payments. Sigh.

Yesterday was PT's 89th birthday. The Wife and I had stopped by last Sunday and brought him a couple presents (a 'Gibbs' Rules T-shirt, and a book on Snowden) and he chose to open them that day instead of waiting for today. My Sis flew into town yesterday as well, as she, RM, a niece and grand-niece are doing their 'Jailbreak' vacation the girls do each year. Well, RM had mentioned the possibility of doing dinner at Black Bear for them, and in the afternoon she messaged me asking if we could make it. The Wife was able to get off early, and we met RM and gang at the restaurant. There were 8 of us, had a nice dinner (I had a Taco Salad, which was good, and plentiful). PT loved being the center of attention (as usual) and I am going to stop there before I voice my opinion about things. As RM says... (erase, erase).

It was nice seeing my Sis, though she has only been gone a few short months, over one state into New Mexico. I may swing out Monday to RM's and visit with her more on Monday prior to her flying back home on Tuesday. Will have to check the calendar in a few and see what is scheduled.

I had a personal session with my Group Lead in the IOP. Usually each week it lasts about 10-15 minutes, but yesterday I yakked for an hour - and didn't realize it. Most of it was griping about PT. We had hit that topic after talking about how I am trying to throw memories and stories together for my kids of my younger days, which lead to telling about my Dad, his passing, and moving to AZ - which brought us to Tom and his conception of "raising kids". For there, it was more than venting. I realized that my viewpoints of PT are so full of anger for how I was treated growing through my teenage years. Then led into how he has been the last several years, from back when I asked him to give up his car keys (he still hasn't) and the advancement of the dementia that many older people get. All I do now is tolerate his questions that are not on topic, his desire to feel wanted and needed (he made his own choices) and in general, just put up with it to prevent a Family Squabble (though most of the family agrees with me to a large degree, in my opinion). Enough! I'm getting worked up (anger) just thinking about this....

With that I need to get off here. IOP in about an hour.

PeacE

I Tried to Take Her Out ...

 I woke in a hurry this morning, for some reason thinking I was late to my paracentesis I have scheduled at 9am. It was 6am ... and in my semi-sleep/waking state, I went to 'fling' the sheet back to rush and get dressed and to the hospital. Well, I missed grabbing the sheet, and my flung out - straight into the Wife's forehead (imagine her waking to that). Of course, that startled her awake and brought out a litany of I'm sorrys. Being it was only an hour from the going off, I decided to just get up. I don't want to miss my appointment - it has been three weeks since I was last drained.

So I have the Para at 9am, then nothing until 2pm, for a zoom meet with the IOP Group Lead for a
"personal session". Just to male sure I am following goals and how am I coping with cravings, etc. Only I don't have any, so we end up just talking about whatever (for me it is usually the Grandkids). She only takes up about 20 minutes, but I have to do these for the IOP. After that, no more appointments today.

Today is PT's 89th birthday. I will wait until a bit later this morning to text him, even though I am sure he is up right now. 

Mayo Clinic had reached out to my in my message portal on Monday. They gave me until today to get a drug test done at the lab. I guess they want it done immediately, as they stated failure to comply in the two days is a strike against me from getting on the Wait List. So of course I scheduled an appointment with Sonora Quest real fast -it was yesterday. I goofed and forgot the printed sheet with the Dr.'s orders. So when I got called back (20 minutes early mind you) the gal asked me for them. I had forgot them, so I went to find it in my Mayo portal, was having some difficulty navigating where it is located, but found it. I showed her and was told it has to be on paper. So she wanted me to email her work address with the orders. I go back through, find the doc (I thought) download to my phone, share it out via email ... and five minutes later, she has it. Only problem? It was for a different procedure - I had somehow downloaded the wrong doc. So I've wasted 10 minutes trying to find this document and save and email... I admit defeat to them, and say I will just have to re-schedule and make sure I have the orders 'in hand'. But then I sat in the Lobby for about five minutes, found the document, and re-checked in (it was still my scheduled appointment time) and got in. Emailed it to the lady (same one as before) and all was good. A lot of effort for a urine sample and one vial of blood.

Welp, I guess that's all I got to say about that, so I am out of here.

PeacE

Traveling Today

 This morning we are preparing to head down to Tucson for the day. We are celebrating the oldest granddaughter's (Doodad) birthday a day early. Since my morning routine is getting up at 7am, I let the Wife sleep in a little bit more, before I wake her to get ready. She says all she has to grab is some stuff for Doodad, but who knows with her. Sometimes we take bags of clothes, and come back with the same clothes. Wife's reason: I needed the Daughter's opinion on some items. At least it is stuff from Goodwill, and not some pricey stuff. I was smart and ordered my gifts online and shipped to their house.

Not much to write about today. The Daughter has taken in her nephew for a few days, so today all three of the grands will be together, with their Papaw. My heart is swelling at the thought, though I am sure I will be worn out tonight.

PeacE

Mission Accomplished

 My Middle Son and I went out yesterday afternoon and found him a vehicle. He is driving a 2017 Jeep Patriot, which is going to be roomy enough for them. I think it was a good deal for the money. And there is a little left over from the financial gift he received so he can put it in the bank or catch up on some bills. But better than that, we got to spend some time together and "catch-up" on each others lives. He even said as he was headed home that he enjoyed the time together today, and wants to check our schedules for a time he and I are able to get together. Damn kids making their dad tear up. 

Feeling a bit lethargic this morning. My friend, the bladder, woke me about 3am screaming something. I could understand the need to go though, so I went, and was wide awake. So I sat at the computer and watched the season finale of season 2 of "The Pitt", and then stupid facebook reels for about an hour. Went and laid back down just before 5a, and slept to the alarm, and then some. So I'm feeling tired, got the yawns, and just don't want to feel motivated to do anything.

Only thing on my schedule today is the IOP session. I might go up to the Post, not sure. I do need to take my meds this morning and grab some breakfast before the session, so ...

PeacE

The Results Are In ...

 Last night at our regular Auxiliary meeting, it was time to elect new officers for the next year (runs June-May). I knew I was going to be nominated for 3rd Year Trustee, and when that position came up for vote, no one ran against me so I was voted in unanimously. The last position that came up was Asst. Secretary. Now our current (and re-elected) Secretary is a past Department President (over the state of AZ) and has been doing this for years. She threw my name out for nomination, No one else wanted it (I know because I'm a secretary in other things). I agreed to be an Assistant, so "won" that position as well. On my exit after the meeting, S pulled me aside and said thank you for doing the Asst Secretary position. Not only will it help her workload, but I'll be learning more as well. S admitted she is "grooming me" for the Secretary position. Oh, boy. I don't know I actually want to do that, but who knows.

My regular scheduled Paracentesis is cancelled. I called it in yesterday, and also placed two more appointments on Wednesdays. I'm a little uncomfortable in the abdomen, but feel I will be able to make another week easily. No appointments with Mayo until May 1st, so this month I am concentrating on completing the IOP, and getting in my weekly AA meeting. Overall, I have been feeling better as my symptoms are responding well to medication. I started doing band exercises (with one of those colored bands that stretch) and am trying to walk more. Still fatigue somewhat easily, and by evening I am worn out.

Saturday we are doing a day trip to Tucson. My Doodad's birthday is Sunday, and we will go celebrate a day early with her. I already have her gifts sent to their house - a couple large sketch pads, and stack of smaller ones. She asked for drawing pads...Papaw got drawing pads. That, and RM keeps nagging me about picking up her Girl Scout cookies when I am there next since I forgot last time (kidding Mom).

The Middle Son and a Car Saga. Tomorrow I hope is the end of this story. We are going car shopping and I am determined to have him driving something home. Let's dive right into a story ... An Uncle had sent some money (a fairly large sum) via Western Union to me. Due to appointments and meetings, I couldn't get to the store until later in the evening, at which time the Fry's person said she is not the regular person that mans the WU, and she didn't think they could give me the full amount. In the end, the money is there, but they have an untrained person manning the counter. <insert eyeroll>. I go home slightly frustrated. I go to the WU site, create an account, and go to set up to transfer the monies to my debit card. Couldn't do it. Kept saying some error. Wednesday morning I downloaded the WU app, thinking it would help. Nope. Cannot transfer that way. So I head back to Fry's. There she said they wouldn't be able to do the full amount, but I could pull a bit off it from several stores. But now there is a hold on it again. Sender needs to call and verify something. So I text my Uncle what is going on, he called, then told me everything should be good. It took awhile, and I was headed to my VFW meeting, so I stopped at a different Fry's. There I am told they can only send or release up to $999.99 per federal guidelines. I asked if that was a store policy or a WE one. I also stated that, what, I have to go to 8 different stores to get my money that is sitting there ready? She couldn't answer. I got angry. I left. I sat in the car and called WU. Got that guy in India. Sigh. After 10 minutes of increasing frustration I found out that since Sender sent it to be picked up in person, they cannot change how I receive the monies. Also I would have to go to different locations for WU (there's quite a few) and each place will disburse what they can (allegedly). I am beyond frustrated now and took the expressway to being pissed off. I continue on to my meeting. I'm just blocks from the Post and remember there is a Walmart right close, so I went there. They weren't sure if they had enough cash on hand for the full amount, but in the end, they did. So God Bless Walmart for helping me out and not having to do a bunch of driving today. I do have to go to the bank though, as they gave it to me in cash.

Welp, that should keep you entertained today....

PeacE

Random Stuff

 I don't have anything of extreme noteworthiness to share today. So I am going to just ramble.

I have a Para scheduled tomorrow. Today I need to decide if I need to use it or not. If not, I need to call and cancel the appointment, and schedule another one into May. I'm only slightly uncomfortable with the build-up, but feel I could go another week. Guess I will decide this afternoon.

IOP this morning. This is a nice program if you are struggling with substance abuse with the support and sharing. Learning different ways to work around your addiction and better yourself are good things, but I was a fortunate one, I guess. I never had cravings after I quit drinking. Granted it has only been just over 6 months, But overall this class does nothing for me, except check a box for Mayo. Same with the weekly AA meetings.

Hoping Walgreens gets in a couple of my prescriptions in. I have two I ran out of while filling my pillbox for this week. I went up Friday and checked status on four of them, and so far have gotten 1 filled, 1 partially filled, and waiting on two (the two I need to complete the week out). Supposed to be in by tomorrow they said last time I checked (Monday).

The General and Auxiliary meetings for the month are tonight, and it is the time of year for nominations/voting for leadership. I already know I am going to be nominated for 3rd Year Trustee in the Aux. I have decided to accept. The duties I would need to do only happen once per quarter as we go over the figures as an audit to be sure all is accounted for. This is a 3-year term, so shouldn't be asked to run for anything else for the next few years.

Riders meeting this Monday. I need to put together the Agenda. Nominations... Ugh. No idea how this is going to go. I've checked that our Treasurer is willing to resume duties for the new term. The Interim Director has not said one way or the other. And a Vice Director position needs filled as well. At times I feel like I am the only one wanting to expand and grow, and everyone seems content to just "wear the patch". Well, July may bring some changes as the VFWRG splits from the Post, and becomes their own like the Auxiliary. New voting, new bylaws, maybe new patch.

No appointments with Mayo until May 1st as of right now. I have a couple consults next month, a blood/urine sample given, and that is pretty much it. Same going into July, where I hope to have all the deferments done, and will get on the Waiting List finally.

Well, I guess that's more of my griping than you want to hear...

PeacE

No Title Today

 I couldn't think of a post title today. I also don't have much to say. My day is fairly clear until 1pm, I have a 'personal session' with a counselor at the place I am doing the IOP. I can't imagine it taking more than a  half hour, as I don't have any issues to go crying on about.

I got a chance to look at some vehicles this weekend online. A used car place I have bought from before had quite a number of vehicles available within the price range. Thank goodness for family, as RM And an Uncle have helped financially since most of my money is gone to medical. I reached out the the Middle Son last night, and the best time for us to go is on Thursday afternoon. Gives me time to gather all the funds.

I am just waiting now for the pharmacy to open, then will run up and pick up some meds that are ready.

Told you not much today.

PeacE

Sunday Rest Day

 I wore myself out yesterday, but it was a good thing. Went to the dentist for my 8am, and walked out after the exam with a very expensive list of things to get completed. Of course, this is all the things they think I need done. I'm all for extractions, but will have to see which teeth in particular need to be removed. 

Then it was off to Walgreens. They had one partial prescription in, and it didn't complete my pillbox for this week. Rest due in this week. As well as my others ones I needed. Plus the dentist called in a fluoride toothpaste he wants me to use. From there I grabbed some breakfast sandwiches, dropped the SSA Disability questionnaires in the mail, and headed home. Found an AA group that may be a second group I attend, and did a meeting. I folded and put away my laundry, and cleaned up my side of the room a bit. Got so exerted my hands were shaking. The Wife had me stop and sit for a bit. I decided I was done for the day with getting things done. Then up to the Post for a couple hours. Came home to a nice pork loin dinner.

Late getting to sleep last night, but I didn't want to take a pill. So I am a bit groggy this morning. Not sure what is on the agenda for today - other than finishing the minutes from Tuesday's meeting.

PeacE

Friday Afternoon Off

 After my 3-hour IOP this morning, I am free for the rest of the day. Plans were for the Youngest and I to head out to Peoria Discount and see what they have this time around for snacks and lunches for us. I dislike picking things out for him when he is not with, as I only know some of his likes. What if wants to try something new? So I told him I was free after noon, and he is yet still in bed. He's an adult. we talked about Discount last night, so he knew what time to get up and be ready. It's 2pm... I don't think we are going today. 

I may have mentioned before, but I did get the taxes filed online. I stopped at CVS and picked up my "special" medicine. Stopped at Walgreens. Explained I had heard from them in a week for prescriptions, so had her run through about 4 of them I know are ready for refill, or close, and one past that I need for next week. Today, they have one filled, two delayed, and I think it said it is too early for the 4th one. Of course the one I need for next week is a delayed one. Sigh. Insurance had "fought" the pharmacy on it, but finally okayed, they just don't have in stock.

Normally tonight would be the Riders Dinner at the Post, but we cancelled as this Bike Week AZ. In place they have the M.O.C. doing a spaghetti dinner. I don't think I will be up there at all today.

Tomorrow morning I have a dental cleaning and exam. I know I have at least two cavities, on molars, and rather than root canals and crowns, I'm just going to have them pulled. But that will be another appointment. I did look at the dental panoramic x-ray Mayo did, and it noted no gum disease and that it is noted dental work has been done before. Nothing about cavities being an infectious thing. SO do I need to have it done? Maybe not, but it is just going to start hurting at some point, and rather get it done now before the transplant.

In the mail today I received a letter from Mayo about the items the Transplant Council wanted completed prior to being on the Wait List. An MRI-Abdomen in June, treatment for Strongyloides (threadworm) and Cocci series, complete psychiatric and psychological consults in about 6 weeks, random drug testing until negative (from THC edibles I stopped in February),complete an IOP, Weekly AA meeting, and CT cardiac imaging to be reviewed by cardiologist. The Cocci and Strongyloides treatments I have already completed. I am in the IOP that should end early in June. Appointments made for the Psych consults. Drug testing is done monthly when I do blood work. I've been attending AA meetings, in fact, I need to do one probably today for the week. The CT cardio has been reviewed and at this time are not doing anything. I have a high calcium score, and some calcium build-up in the arteries. Deferment is for 3 months to get all this done (more than halfway there) then will re-evaluate with the Council.

Social Security Disability contacted me the other day and sent me some forms they need information on. One set was job history, the other was functional ability. Those are filled out and ready to go to the box at the P.O. 

Oh, and RM ... I got the two packages in for PT's birthday. I got him a book I thought he would enjoy (teach him to buy me a book) and a T-shirt that has Gibb's Rules listed from NCIS. I think I got a large, so not sure how it will fit. All their sizes tend to run on the lower side of a size.

Welp, I think I covered quite a bit today. How bored are you now?

PeacE

What Have I Got Today?

 I'm still waking up a bit. I have been setting my alarm for 7am each day to get in the habit of rising from bed at that hour. Another tactic to try with my sleeping issues. To try setting a more regular wake/sleep times. Last night I was asleep by 10:30p and slept through the night wonderfully. So good, I'm a bit sluggish right now.

Nothing major in plans today. I have my 3-hour IOP at 9am. Afterwards I need to get over to Walmart as the Wife asked me to pick up cat food. Seems she stopped at a Frys (RM - over at 83rd Ave & Union Hills) last night after work. Well, she was wrapping up some shopping, had some really good deals on meat, plus some marked down specials (part of which was going to be supper), when over the speakers they asked everyone to evacuate the store. I mean, leave your groceries where they are, and git. So she had to leave the cart. Seems there was some sort of situation in the Deli area, no idea what, but the Wife saw the Fire Dept go in with some guys carrying fire extinguishers. Needless to say, she was tired and done shopping at that point and came home empty-handed - So we had to 'create our own' for dinner last night. Sigh.

I might head up to the Post after shopping. Not sure. I need to work on the minutes from Tuesday's meeting, and get those turned in before the meeting next week. Sigh. 

Welp, I am going to head out - got some things to do prior to my meeting.

PeacE

Oh Happy Hump Day

 Wednesday has arrived. Like the boring day it is, I am sure today will bring no excitement.

The Youngest has to do his Zoom meeting re: Caregiving, this morning about 9am. I got it all set up for him, and just need to tweak a couple final details when he gets up. Yesterday in my IOP, for some reason my camera was only doing close-ups, as sitting at the desk it was zoomed in so much, you could only see half my face. I think I fixed that to a wider view - at least I hope so.

At 2pm, I have a 30-minute weekly check-in with the gal running my IOP sessions. She does it each week with each of her attendees, to see how they are doing, and talk on a more personal level if we are having problems, etc. Boring crap, I am sure. But I must do it, so I shall. I also need to find an AA online meeting for this week - oh joy.

The rest of the day is mine! And I'll probably end up playing games on my tablet. So exciting.

PeacE

Busy Tuesday

 Today I have done nothing pretty much except sit on my butt in my office chair at the computer. But it is a productive butt-sitting!!

Had my IOP session from 9-12, and it went fine. Then I decided I needed to clear clutter from my desk, and see what it all is. I grabbed an accordion file from our "supply" cabinet, and got to work. Most of it is medical bills, EOBs, and miscellaneous medical. So I grouped mine together, transferred notes from the envelope of when I last paid, amount, etc. onto the bill (showing which ones are PIF). Then it was the medical EOBs, then Dental EOBs. We had transferred my medical from 2025 to a card through Banner. and it has it's own section. So now easier to locate if needed for taxes next year. I added in some extra stuff I had in the clutter: my IRA, my Stock Ownership from Spencer's, and Property Tax/Valuation notices. As I went through them, there were a couple that were ready to pay (Insurance already had) and I paid them off, or got on a short-term payment plan.

I completed our taxes. I tried Itemized (with all that medical) and filled in what I could based on what information I had (Property Tax, Charitable Donations, etc.). Did a comparison between Itemized and Standard, and my Itemization was way less than the given standard, so went Standard. We are getting some money back from Fed and State, as we should with all the medical that went on just for me last year alone. I'll go over the figures with the Wife tonight and eFile tomorrow.

I updated my Google Calendar with more appointments/meetings. Still nothing but two appointments with Mayo in May are my next ones. One is a video call, the other in person. Added in my IOP sessions, IOP Personal sessions, and One-on-one sessions. Cancelled the Paracentesis for tomorrow - I feel pretty good - no sloshing, no pressure. I do feel a small build up of fluid, but should easily go to next week for sure. I also scheduled a Para for 4/29. 

Youngest has the Caretaker video meeting tomorrow morning. I'll probably sit in on it, just to hear what they go over. Most will be the importance of their caregiving, and into my after-care, I am sure.

Today all I have left is a meeting at the Post. I did the Agenda and sent it out yesterday.

So, productive day? Even though I sat on my butt, I feel much got done, organized, and/or paid. That's counts as I see it. I see a bowl of ice cream as an award.

PeacE

Mayo Appointments For April - COMPLETED

 This morning I had a blood draw done, and since they scheduled it, and my preferences are for mornings, it was at 7:30am. That means leave my house by 7am. I didn't get to bed last night until after midnight. so I am  bit tired today.

According to my scheduling with Mayo, this morning is the last appointment I have in April. I do have two "sessions" scheduled in early May. I know they also re scheduling in June another MR of the abdomen. Which is all fine by me. Gives me time to complete my IOP and not have to worry about conflicts in the schedule.

The Wife and I went to Sierra Vista this weekend as a late celebration of our anniversary. We stopped in Tucson Saturday enroute to visit the Daughter and family. We haven't seen them since Christmas-time. The 1 yr old is saying/repeating some words, and is so cute as she can blow kisses and wave. She's about 15 months. She got lots of Papaw loves, because her Sister wasn't as huggy with me. She did give me hugs without complaining though all this weekend.

Went on down to Sierra Vista, and checked into the Comfort Inn. I have stayed at this chain before, and have had a nice stay. But Saturday night...ugh! Someone had some screaming toddler out in the hallway for at least 1/2 an hour just letting them throw their tantrum. What was so bad about that? It was after 11pm. Then around midnight, one of the two rooms across from us had people (I assume it was plural) knocking on the doors with the knocker, so it is loud in our room, with the door shut. Needless to say, I think it was after 2am before I was able to fall asleep.

Sunday our plans changed 'on the fly' all morning. We were going to go back to Benson and look at the painted murals they have all over. They have a guidebook for $5 that gives a background for each mural, artist info, and the murals contain a hidden item in the picture. The list is in the book, but doesn't say what thing to to what picture. Well, after the hot breakfast at Comfort Inn, I wasn't feeling up to walking that much, so we changed to going to Tombstone. As we drove through there, they don't have the 'old-fashioned' shops on the main road, and we didn't see any signs guiding us to the location. I admit, I did not research it very well, it was spur of the moment. So then we headed to Benson (had to to get back on the interstate) and stopped at the Visitor Center to get a guidebook. They are closed. We go online and see 4 other places in town that sell the book. One across the street (closed) an art gallery, and a feed store we had passed coming into town. It's Easter, and a Sunday, so no idea if these places are closed every Sunday, or just Easter, or both. So that was a bust. We started back towards Tucson, and I even stopped at a random Goodwill to cheer the Wife up. I found a nice T for $3, and she got a couple small things. As we left she said she was disappointed in the selection, as in there wasn't much. I dunno, so I only shrugged. Stopped at the Daughter's and stayed through to Easter Dinner. It was so good!

Got home a little after 11pm, and unloaded. Then it was into bed for me. I went out fast as I was just worn out from all the activity and driving. So that was my weekend. Today I got errands to run (sorry RM, none out that way). Another prescription to pick up, need to clean all the bug crap off my window and trash out of the car. Probably get a haircut, then head up to the Post around 4 - it is Bike Night (well, trying to get it started) and I'll work on my House Agenda there to send out tonight - meeting tomorrow.

That's all I got, as I gotta get going....

PeacE

I Got the Call, Well, a Call Anyways

 Update from yesterday... My car appointment is for 5/26, not 5/2. Not that you care, but RM might.

Yesterday I did do a paracentesis. Drained 6L (two weeks accumulation - almost 13lbs). I am going to try to start going longer periods if I can, since I seem to not be producing the ascites as much as before. I still set my appointments for every week - just cancel a day or so before if I don't need.

Did the payment (all up front of course) for the IOP, and scheduled a virtual (online) Intake at 12pm today. I have already emailed them asking for my link to the appointment, and if I needed to download something more than Teams or Zoom. 8:30a and still not heard yet. I'll start calling at 10 if no email reply.

The camera I ordered came in yesterday evening. Took a bit to get working right, but according to my tests, the mic and picture are good, and I have the backdrop in program to "hide" the view behind me. I am ready for all my online stuff now (I hope). Since I am doing so much online, I spent a nice dollar on it. This morning I ordered a pill box/case. I know I needed a bigger one than the one I have here, as the after surgery meds will be numerous. This one is a week long, but each day is only split into 2 halves, is removable to carry if needed. I think it will work fine.

Still looking for a car. Never heard back from the best offer I have seen/heard yet. I wonder if it was sold already. Wife's co-worker is the one she has to go through to find out.

Til next time....

PeacE

Its Para Day!

 For me, today is Para day - the time for the weekly drainage of ascites from my abdomen. Last week there was only about a liter of fluid, and we all agreed no need to drain. But this week, I know we are doing some. I have felt the pressure slowly building the past 2-3 days, and can feel it slosh around every now and then. Hopefully won't be a full 10 Liters, and then leaving some as that is the max darin amount per the Doctor.

I had received a safety recall on my Rav4 a few days ago. Yesterday I looked it up. A sensor in the front passenger seat had many of them improperly made, and they may not work correctly in detecting a passenger weight, thus causing an airbag to fail to deploy. Eh. Kind of important I guess. I went to to an online scheduling of an appointment for a dealership out near RM's. Set it up for tomorrow at 7am, have RM pick me up, spend part of the day there until they call, get dropped off, and home we go. Well, Toyota called back. They have to order the part in, and the earliest I could get it in for the replacement is May 2. So the appointment was changed to that date at 7am. I'm sure RM is up to the same arrangement as long as I remind her.

I signed documents and paid too much to get the IOP program started. I have to do a video intake tomorrow. It is a three-hour session, and being done 'virtually' - as will ALL the sessions I have to do (about 3 hours/day, 3 days/week for 8 weeks). It will be fun scheduling things around this big block of time during the week, but I will make it happen.

I attended an online AA meeting last night. It is the Twice Gifted group that consists of people that have gone/are going to Mayo for a Liver transplant due to alcoholism. A double-support group if you will. It was a great meeting that lasted about an hour. In talking to the one of the lead people, he mentioned my video picture was pretty choppy looking, and the camera kept going out of focus if I were to move more than an inch. Lastly that the mic just wasn't good at picking up my voice - it cut in and out and was very faint. I explained I was on a cheap laptop, but would resolve the situation.

So, I went shopping. Online. Amazon. Found a nice camera/mic setup for the PC/Laptop, with good picture rating and sound quality - trust me, I read PLENTY of reviews on these things last night. The new one is to arrive here late this morning, while I am at Para most likely. I will set it up tonight for my Intake tomorrow. This camera rig was a bit pricey (to me) at $50, versus the $15 models I started looking at. But I figured it I was doing AA meeting virtually, support groups, Dr. appointments, plus this 8-week IOP course - ALL ONLINE - it is a good investment.

Alrighty, I guess I need to get some other stuff done prior to heading to the hospital. I am almost done with our taxes - trying to calculate medical last year is a BITCH! I'm hoping to be like RM, in that I write the info down as it happens, and I have started doing that a couple months ago - so I don't get lost in all the receipts and mess. Excel is becoming a good friend, and I am starting to learn more and more about it as I test if it can do what I want in format, etc. Shout out to Hoosierboy (Joe) at 'Fat in Indiana' for the tip on the emails from Miss Excel. I have read a couple, and just those little tidbits she shares in the mail have helped!! Thank you good sir! Shameless plug: Joe has a couple books for you to get and read!! Here they are: "

Hoosier Flats: A Novel of the Greatest Generation and 

Suburban Moon: The Autobiography of Sam Wyatt (Hoosier Flats Book 2) 

Well, I think that does it for me.

PeacE

Gotta Get It Done ....

 Today I have no appointments. Well, not really. Waiting to hear back from a place I am doing the IOP. I may have to do their Intake Admission in person, but thought she said we are able to do most of it over the phone or Zoom calls - including my sessions. For what the insurance isn't covering, I should get a steak dinner in there somewhere, too. Either way, that will get started today. Oh! I checked my calendar (thank goodness!) and I see there is a Group Zoom meeting tonight at 7pm that counts for AA and support. I'm going to try to do my meetings with them on my weeks I do not have VFW meetings. Those nights I still need to locate an online/in-person site to pick one. Have several in mind.

Tomorrow is my Para. I feel we will be draining some amount, as I am starting to feel the build-up of fluid. What a joke, right? Get it, April Fools Day? Thursday is another day with no appointments except a possible Zoom liver transplant support group from 12p-1p if I want to - not required. So I set up a service appointment with Toyota. I got a safety recall regarding the OCS sensors in the passenger front seat. Seems some were made improperly and can short out, causing it to reflect incorrect weight and possibly cause the airbag to NOT deploy. I set it for 7am. Trying to reach out to RM now, and see if she could pick me up from the dealership ( a couple miles from her) and I could go visit until it was ready, then get a ride back.

Today I am going to be hating Life. I MUST/NEED to get the medical finished calculated (plus mileage) and read up on how much medical we can claim, and get the taxes done and filed! I have had paperwork strewn all over my desk for the past few weeks as I try to piece together 2025 medical, and get 2026 recorded so I don't have this mess again. Adulting is getting harder.

Talked to RM, looks like I will be visiting with them on Thursday. Waiting this morning for the call for the IOP. And working papers for taxes. Joy.

PeacE

Monday Preppin'

 I slept good last night. I was wearied out all day yesterday, and forced myself to stay awake until about 9:30p. I slept good through the alarm going off 10 minutes ago. Still feel a bit groggy - still trying to get the sleep the body needs to catch up on.

Here in about a half hour I have a Zoom call with Dr. This is a Psych Doc, but they said he is the one to ask about a sleeping aid prescription. Other than that, not sure what else he will be asking. I should be pretty much done with questionnaires and all. I am hoping it is a really short meeting, as I need to be at the Phoenix Campus for a 9am appointment, and morning rush hour is upon us.

So the Zoom meeting, then 9am the Research thingy, 10:45a Consult to go over recommendation to the transplant council and things to complete prior to, then Nutritionist at 12:45p. Shots w/PCP at 3:30p, and I think I will be really mentally drained by then.

PeacE

A Little Quiet

Oh, the joys and goodness of good sleep! I actually slept through the night, having only woken once to use the loo, and got around 8+hours of good sleep finally! Take a gummy? Other sleep aid? Nope, was just getting 2-3 interrupted hours of sleep for the past month plus. Since I had to quit taking the gummies, my sleep issues are back.

I'm nearing the end of all the tests, etc. Mayo had me doing this last week. Most of my appointments left are consults. Monday I have the first around 7:45a, and hopefully it doesn't last long. On Friday, during one of the consults, I brought (again) about my lack of being able to sleep. I was told the Dr. I do my Zoom with is the one to ask about a prescription for Ambien. That's this call - and I will be asking!!

Either way, I hope that zoom is short, as my next appointment is at the Phx campus at 8:45a (about a 15-20 minute drive with regular traffic, but at that hour may still be rush hour. This is the Research appointment. I don't recall if I mentioned here, but they had snuck in a Research Consult last week. It has to do with a clinical study about how much energy/calories we use in a restful state (non-asleep, resting). I had gotten so frustrated with this person as her English was very heavy with a Slavic accent and was hard to hear let alone understand. So by the time I realized she was asking me to join this research clinical trial, as I was a candidate that met the criteria. I was frustrated, I said fine! Whatever! I just need to get this stuff done and get better! So now I am in a research study. Monday I do a calorimetry. It is laying down with a clear canopy placed over the head and upper torso, and just lay there and breath. Yeah, I don't know how that works, but it seemed simp[le enough, and if I have to show in person, I can try to do it on days I have another appointment there hopefully.

At 10:45 I have the important meeting. This one is to go over the results of the testing, etc. done over the past week, and tell us the Team recommendation to the Transplant Council. Also will tell me any time deferred from the List, or other stuff needed done prior to surgery (cavities fixed, current on shots, etc.). The Wife is coming to this one. Then it is sit until 12:45p to meet with a Nutritionist. I'm sure I won't like that discussion either.

Done with Mayo for the day, I have a 3:30p at my PCP to get all the update shots: Flu, Pneumonia, Meningitis, start Hep A and Hep B series, update my tetanus. I also will update her on Mayo's progress. 

Another issue Mayo requires is an 8-week Intensive Outpatient Program. Basically, a detox program, since my liver disease is alcohol related. Well, the problem is, in short, I don't need it. This is for people going through detox, or having problems staying sober, etc. I never had any of that, and I have been fine for 6-months. <eye roll> Requirement. So I found a place that isn't but about 8 miles from home, and they can do a majority, if not all, of the program online as well. I am having them verify insurance to see if all is covered (should be - transplant requirement) and they are to contact me late afternoon on Monday (my timeframe with the other appts.) and right now it sounds really good. Looks like quite a bit of meeting time, but that is going to happen anywhere. I also am required to do a minimum of 3-years of AA-type meetings, once a week. They gave me a link for a local group that only takes liver transplant-alcohol related as referrals from Mayo. It would be like a double support - for the surgery and recovery, and the AA portion! But they only meet Tuesdays 7p. I have VFW meetings 3 times a month on Tuesdays at 6:30p. But maybe I can find an online, or close to home AA group for another night, and the Tuesdays I don't have a meeting, do this support group. I emailed to verify they only meet Tuesdays and am waiting to hear.

Have to wait to call dentist - business hours. But I can schedule my cleaning right now so they can get their x-rays, and a quick basic exam of my mouth. Then I will schedule to have the bad teeth removed. I'm thinking two, but might luck out with 1 extraction, and a filled cavity. Otherwise they say they want me to do crowns - too expensive!

I'm getting all my things in a row. the IOP will keep me from getting on the list for the duration. I was informed of that. Trying to get it started this week so I can get on the list in 2-months.

Whew, that was tiring typing all that out. TTYL.

PeacE

What's Going On?

 Too much is going on, it feels like at times. This week especially. I feel like a teenager on his first day of Freshman class, at a school he has never been to before, with a class schedule so packed, he wonders how he is going to get from one point to the next, etc. without being late or missing it. Yeah. That's my appointment calendar. I will admit though, after the first two days, they really do have it together and a great process for the whole preliminary test process. Even though most days are split between the two campuses (about 20 minutes apart depending on traffic), almost all of them are 'grouped together. Example, Monday. Phoenix campus - had blood draw, urine sample, and I think it was three separate consults. Blood/urine were done at one floor of building 3, the consults were on floor 6 of building 3, and they went back to back basically, with even a break between, as we finished earlier than some other consults they do. Did that make sense? In my head it did, but re-reading it, I'm not sure....

So you saw what I had done Monday. I'll add that the blood work was 31 vials taken. Literally, it was draining. I was glad the rest of appointments were consults and not tests. They weighed me in at 246lbs. Tuesday started with my first appointment at 6:45am in Scottsdale - the further campus. Without looking at the schedule for exact order I had: Bone Density Exam, CT Carotid Angiogram (supposed to last up to 2 hours - done in 40 min), 2 more vials if blood taken, Ultrasound of the Carotids, a 6-hour break, travel to the Phoenix campus for a Echocardiogram at 6:25pm (slotted for 2 hours). Though we tried to see if they could get me in earlier for the ECHO, they weren't able to, but once I was in, they were able to get me done in about 40 mins. I guess they allot more time for different complications. We made it home around 7:30pm.

Today will be easy. I only have the Paracentesis scheduled today. I am not sure what will happen. I do not feel bloated like have by this time for so many weeks. When they go to U/S the ab today, I'll ask if I even need to drain today - that's how I am "feeling" but my body could just be used to it, and I still need some draining. Will find out in a couple hours. No plans otherwise for the day. Should rest for tomorrows adventures at Mayo. Thursday starts at 6am with an MRI of the abdomen, followed by appointments for chest x-ray, dental x-ray (dreading), Surgical Consult (Wife is taking part of the day off work to attend this one), travel to the Scottsdale campus, get an ECG, do a 6-minute Walk under observation, and hopefully done by 3pm for the day.

Monday and Tuesday I woke both days feeling good (for me) and though I dealt with nausea throughout Monday, and cramps on Tuesday, today is okay so far. Some cramps in one lower leg/foot, but otherwise okay so far. I think I may hit a Goodwill or two, and start looking for shorts. Currently I am wearing a 52 waist, and I feel like one of those weight-loss ads where they are holding out the waistband of their pants... yeah. The clown with suspenders at the circus (not my peanuts, not my monkeys, not my circus). Not sure what I am down to for size, but I figured I would start with a 48 and go down as needed. *IF* I am able to find some I like. Most times they are "old man golf shorts" where I prefer cargo shorts. Anyways....

I need to get going for the day.

PeacE

I *HAVE* to ...

 ... go into public today.

Happy Friday for those that care. For the first time this week, I have woke in the morning feeling somewhat refreshed. I crashed last night about 10:30p, and slept thru until the Wife got up to get ready for work. I feel rested for the first time in quite awhile. And that needed sleep? I think it helped with some of the other stuff (symptoms) I have had recently. So no major side cramps (so far), feeling rested, and now anxiety. I hate shopping, no matter how many times I go, I still hate it. But I mentioned to the Wife I would try to figure out a recipe for the crockpot for tonight. I think I have found a nice chicken and potatoes one to try. I'll go out and get the items needed, and some the Wife said she needs more of, and let it cook all afternoon.

Went to the CoL yesterday. Aside from the circumstances, it was good to see my good friend and his family. Many others there I know, and were glad to see as well. I opted out of the reception/food after the event, as it was a bit further than I felt like driving (I had been up over 48 hours at this point, and didn't want to drive much) so I went to the Post instead - what? It was only a 1/4 mile from the cemetery.

I had a tea there, and was feeling crappy so headed home. Picked up burritos for dinner. 

Todays plans make me tired already. Shopping, then getting food started. I need to log in to the portal for Mayo and do the pre-check-in stuff for some of the appts next week (only 7 days ahead of time so can't just do them all at once).

Oh! I wanted to share! A small bit of faith in humanity was restored to me yesterday. Late last year, The Wife's Company gave us some money to help us financially (they were aware of my liver diagnosis, etc.). This is from a special fund the Company keeps and has employees from all facilities contribute a small amount to each paycheck. Something like a Wellness Relief Fund, that an employee can request funds based on situation, for another employee (as in our case). Well, the petitioner is anonymous, but the Wife found out yesterday who it was, and why. This fellow co-worker felt that the amount the Company gave us wasn't enough (depends on how you look at it) and held some kind of silent auction for an iPad or something. Yesterday she gave the Wife $570 cash she had raised raffling that off. Such a nice, and unasked for gesture. I told the Wife I will draft up a very nice thank you, and find a card to give this lady. The amounts given to us by the few people are always a tremendous help to the mountain of medical.

I've lost 90 pounds since September. Back then I was weighing in 330-333lbs. Wednesday I weighed myself (after the Para) and I am down to 241lbs. In my head, my ideal weight is 230, and maintain. But I know I need to build muscle mass back up (I am so weak now) and would be nice to get rid of the baggy flesh on the body (I know, eventually it will go). So, almost time to start clothes shopping. In fact, while dinner is cooking, I need to go through my clothes and start ridding myself of now too big/don't wear items. Wife will take the ones in decent or better shape to the facility - they always need donations of clothes for their older LTC patients with no families (note to RM? If you go through your clothes, but they need more like Tees and Sweats/shorts).

Okay, my phone has just about run through every type of notification sound it has.... I suppose I should go see what they want.

PeacE