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