I'm Drawing A Blank ...

 My head is pretty empty this morning. I went through the morning routine, well, up to this point anyways. Did my vitals, did my meds, checked the ol' email box. Placed an order for pickup this afternoon for tonight. Aside from the Dinner tonight, I have nothing on my calendar for today.

Riders Dinner tonight. This will be our last monthly one, and we will move to Quarterly with the next being in October. We will bring back the Soup Night that has gone over well the last couple times we have done it. I am picking up some Southern style Potato salad, plus I already got the buns and BBQ sauces. 

Okay, I'm going to gripe a bit. I enjoy being a part of the VFW Riders (even though I do not personally ride a motorcycle). I have not minded (overly) being the Secretary for the past couple years (a thankless job no one wants), but I am getting kind of fed up and tired of the Chapter. No one attends meetings except about 7-8 of us; the same group that are getting burned out doing the dinners. Trying to put some kind of ride together is next to impossible. If we were to just tell the members 'this is what we're doing' they would follow like sheep, but to create something on their own, or even in a meeting - impossible it seems. Plus the changes coming down the line. Late July there is to be a vote that will brings the Riders into the group as a 'Sister' organization to the VFW and Auxiliary, rather than just a 'committee under the Post'. Which will be a Treasurer's and Secretary's nightmare of paperwork. From setting up bank accounts, EINs, 501(c), bond requirements, and on and on. There are some good aspects coming out of the deal though also. Officer positions are able to be held by non-Post members (like Aux) and they want to bring in a unified patch. Right ow we have a patch for the Post members, and a separate one for the Aux members. Anyway, enough on that for now ... I'm starting to get heated up. Save that rant for another time.

Welp, I have taken a bathroom break, and sat here for a bit pondering where to lead this train-wreck, and am not coming up with anything. Catch you on the Flipped Side!

PeacE

It's A Brand New Day ...

 Today starts a fresh round of Life. Well, at least that is how I am looking at it. I may share too much on here at times, but when it comes to my liver transplant, maybe someone else going through similar will take inspiration from my words - as if I had any readers.

Tuesday I met with the IR for a consult at Mayo. This was specifically to go over the TIPS procedure, the pros/cons of it. After discussion with the IR doctor, and a few questions, I opted to do the procedure. The Wife and I had talked about this back in November, to look at as possible assistance. Basically, it is a bypass to take the pressure of backed up blood flow that the liver cannot handle and redirect it. It is supposed to reduce, if not eliminate, the build-up of the ascites in the abdomen. In my support groups, I have heard some guys say it greatly decreased the number of times they had to do paracentesis and others said they didn't have to do any at all while they waited for their transplant. I'm not aiming high but I would truly like being able to not do a para every week. If I could get it to once a month or longer, it would be much easier to deal with. Either way, the TIPS stays in until the transplant. I have a CT of the Abdomen, then a couple days later the procedure. Oh, and finally scheduled the colonoscopy for late August (like you wanted to know that crap - see what I did there). Oh! And they drained 10L plus said there was still some fluid in there. Sigh.

Brand new day. Brand new start. It's Day One. I smoked the last cigarette I had last night. No longer are there any here at home, or in my car. All I need to do is not buy them. Today I have nothing on my calendar and told the Wife I was not going ANYWHERE today, to reduce the want to stop and get more. She says she has a couple prescriptions to be picked up. Sigh. I probably have yet another one to get as well. But I can use the drive-thru pick up versus going inside. Even if I went inside, I usually pay at the pharmacy, so do not even have to go to the front counter (and see cigarettes).

Friday is our last VFW Riders dinner for awhile. We voted to go quarterly now, as the same 6 or so people were the ones doing it all, all the time. We are getting burned out. So it will be shredded chicken or pork sandwich, Cole slaw, and I am thinking of getting a couple tubs of southern style potato salad. 

Last night as the Wife and I lay in bed doing our phone/tablet or whatevers, I turned to her and asked, I'm supposed to tell you if I am feeling things (in regards to medical especially). She said of course, so I did. I felt ... off. I know when I have a para done, that for a couple days at least I do go through an adjustment: organs adjusting to where they should be, feeling some fatigue and other tiredness, even sometimes a lack of desire to do anything that involves moving around. But this was different. It started early evening, and went through at least until I fell asleep. Still not sure what it was, but at least she knew about it in case something worse happened. I have got to get better at communicating when I do not feel right, or well. This morning I was up at 5:10a and as far as I can tell, feel normal. Whatever I felt last night is gone. I was going to be a bit worried if it persisted through a sleep cycle. 

Alrighty then. I think I over-shared too much today. Oh well. May it live forever on in the internet universe.

PeacE

Short Stuff Today ...

 Today is Day One again. I think I know part of the problem. I have 8 cigarettes left in the last pack I have. I am going to move Day One to this weekend. I will finish this pack off, and just not buy any more. If it isn't available, I will be able to fight the urges better. 'Just throw them away' one would think, but I got some weird part of me that claims that would be a waste of money. I know, weird, right?

I have the Interventional Radiology consult this morning. It will be about the TIPPS procedure more than anything. I have mixed feelings about it, but at least right now, I am wanting it done. If it can reduce the number of times I have to have a paracentesis, I am all for it. I do not know if we will set a date to do the procedure, or what. Find out later this morning I guess.

Paracentesis scheduled for 1pm tomorrow. I need it. I feel about 8L or so to be drained.

I decided to compete this week with RM. I have several packages coming in over the next week. I did get a couple shirts I ordered already. And a wide mouse pad with Office/Excel/PowerPoint functions so maybe when I need one, I don't have to go hunting on Google. I know Joe gave me a tip on the Miss Excel email, and I have gotten a few things from those. Thanks again, Joe.

Entertainment and House meeting tonight. I did get the agenda out yesterday, as I worked on it first thing. Riders Dinner is Friday, then we are going to quarterly dinners. Pulled Pork/Chicken sandwiches and a side this week.

Supposed to have a Chapter ride on August 1st called 'Burn Your Buns'. It's basically a ride around the Valley on the 202 freeway system. And it will be hot. I know nothing else about it. I told them at the last meeting to get the info together. I'm a Secretary - I just note the stuff, not plan it.

Another of yesterday's packages was one of the books I ordered. "Demolishing Doubt" by Cliffe and Stuart Knechtle. It was the one that caught my eye when I was at the site. I was thinking it was more on self-doubts, but it is about doubts that affect our faith. It's about doubts we have of 'Is God real', is the Bible true? Kind of more for a starting Christian. But will still be an interesting read. And it is a hardback. And it smells new (yes I am weird, I smell books.

And I think that concludes this morning's focus. I am already off and thinking about the consult.

PeacE

Misplaced Thoughts, Gripes, and-Look! Squirrel!!

 Yesterday morning I woke (though early) and made myself look at this week in a positive way. I had nothing going on that should cause any issues for me, so it should be a good week. That lasted about four hours.

I received a text from Banner Hospital (where I go for the paracentesis when I need one) to remind me of the upcoming Wednesday appointment at 9am. Brakes screeched to a halt. I have had the time set for 11am on my calendar for a couple weeks at least. I think when I was canceling a previous appointment, and setting up new ones weeks out, someone moved this one maybe as the 9am slot opened up for me. I don't know, but I need a draining this week. I have a Zoom meeting with a doctor at 9am though, so the call was made to scheduling. This close to Wednesday, I knew it would be hard to get what time I wanted, and in the end, I had to settle on Friday at 1pm. So two extra days and a few hours. It's going to be fun seeing if I can get through the week. I am pretty distended now, and it is starting to get very uncomfortable, ad some pain like when I roll over (shifting the fluid around, etc.). Sigh. But I did also make sure I had appts scheduled for the next three weeks.

A few minutes of breathing to calm down and get back into a positive mindset and the day went on. I did an AA meeting. I was complimented after the meeting, which surprised me. I have been attending meetings with this group for about two months now, and consider it my Home Group. A few of the people know just a little of my medical stuff, as it is part of my sharing experience. Well, one of the 'regulars' commented that I was an amazing person. That I could be feeling the lousiest, hurting the most, whatever, and I am always positive and open at Group. I don't take compliments well, but I swallowed it and said Thank You. I had to spend a few minutes getting my ego back down to normal size... 

Riders meeting last night. Oh boy, the stress started up. Discussed the Riders Dinner plans for July, then voted to go to having the dinners once per quarter rather than monthly. With the same 5-6 people doing it constantly, we are getting burn-out, so this will help on that front until we can truly build up our roster. Our past Director received some information about the bylaws to be voted on this year and shared with the group. I have many questions going on in my head. I did print out the proposed bylaws so I can try to read through it today and write down my questions. There is supposed to be a Riders State Convention on the 27th, at my Post, but there is a huge scheduling conflict already. I reached out to Post leadership about it 0 no answers yet. Seems we need to have a state convention to vote to accept these National bylaws prior to the official vote in late July. Several big changes, most I like, but still. I came home a bit stressed about all this. I am the Secretary, and it will add more to my workload, especially of stuff I *don't* know the procedure or who to report it to. I am sure this will be discussed more later on.

The other parts of the day were good though, and I did sleep well last night, all the way to the alarm this morning! I have been working on a review for a smart ring and app. Today is Day Two wearing it, and I pretty wrapped up my thoughts on the product. Will be submitting it today. Longest review I ever wrote I think.

Today is an open day on the calendar. Probably will do the AA meeting later this morning. At some point this week I need to write up the minutes from last night's meeting, but there is not an extreme rush on it. Friday is a luncheon for my AA group to meet up and in person. I was debating  on going. The only hold back is that it is 'downtown' (Thomas/22nd St area) and if you figure we leave there about 2-3 puts me into rush hour. Now I cannot go as Friday at 1pm is my paracentesis, same as the luncheon. I mentioned it before the meeting yesterday, and I guess one of the guys does the printing for hats, or something to do with them, and he had some freebies to give out to those who show up. Well, I wanted a ballcap, so mentioned it to him. He just ask I text him my address and he would send me one since I couldn't make it. Woot!

Applying for disability and being approved has helped so much, even in just the last month. I have brought my account at Mayo to a currently 0 balance. Started a payment plan for 6 months with the hospital, less than $500/month, to bring that current total to 0, paid off all the smaller medical, dental, etc. for the Wife and I both. And still have a bit leftover. I mentioned to the Wife last night we are just going to build on the leftover each month from my check, save it up for future big medical - like if my transplant doesn't happen until after Jan. 1, when deductibles reset. So doing well on that front.

Welp, the Wife just left for work. I am running out of thoughts for right now. I am sure RM will be checking for my post anytime now. Y'all have a good one!

PeacE

Crickets and Flies ...

 Yesterday started off fairly nice. There was a cloud cover that looked like it wanted to try to rain, but this being the Valley, of course it didn't. I planned my morning out the day before - pick-up from Fry's the remainder of items I needed for the Riders Dinner, then head to RM's to visit while PT was out for his Men's group and friend visitation. It was a good visit (as most are) as we sat in her 'office' (spare room) and chatted while she was was watching/checking her work computer for anything that might come along that needs her attention. In the three hours or so we had together, I think we covered several topics. I even learned a little more about RM, believe it or not. PT looked (to me) like he was butt-hurt that I had been there visiting there without him being home. Oh well. Sorry, Charlie! (Remember that commercial?)

So. around one I left there and headed to the Post. Unloaded my food stuff and had an iced tea, then played on my tablet until about four. There was only 4 of us to work the whole dinner last night, but it went on okay. Our numbers of attendees went way down from other dinners, and not sure why. I know the VFW had the Western Convention in Tucson this weekend down in Tucson, but Leadership rarely participates in the dinners we put on (even the Cmdr. who is the Treasurer of our chapter). One lady did buy 6 meals, so that helped put us in a small profit zone. It was crickets chirping from about 5:15 until we wrapped up about 6:30. I ended up taking home the cooked meats at the end. About a dozen burgers, both with and without cheese, and a handful of beef hot dogs. Took home a package of buns for both, 1 (of 2) buckets of potato salad w/mustard, and another I picked up for personal - it's the same thing, but "Southern Style" so I want to see/taste the difference. A paragraph for another day.

The Wife and I had a discussion last night. At the end, I admitted I wanted to think on it for a day at least before offering my thoughts. Unfortunately for you , the reader, I cannot share this here, regardless of anonymity. RM and I touched this topic yesterday in our visit, and we are on the same page, but there have been some developments. RM has powerful prayers, and I know my Son needs it right now. No, no one there is hurt, just other things going on. So, RM, we may have to do a lunch again pretty soon.

This weekend the only thing I have on my "to-do" list is the Agenda for the Riders meeting on Monday evening. Today, the Wife has a dental appointment near noon. Since I have nothing on my calendar, I will probably do my Twice Gifted meeting at 9am, and then my home AA Group at 11am. I'll wrap it up about when the Wife will be headed back home. She might even pick up lunch... what do I want....? I'm thinking Subway. I got burgers at home, so no burger place. Wife had Arby's for lunch yesterday, so that is out. She won't be near Chino Bandito, so that's out. That pretty much leaves subs, and there are more Subways than Jersey Mikes or Jimmy Johns here. I will have to ask her before she leaves.

So, you know the crickets. What about the flies? Well, I want to be a fly on the wall for a particular conversation that is to take place soon. No details! Just wanna be a fly for a bit ....

... and with that, I am out of here. I am feeling a bit of discomfort with the abdomen area today. The belly is distended pretty good, and I don't have the Paracentesis until Wednesday. Might be 10L then - that's the max they can drain per doctors orders. I can do this. Only a handful of days. At least it isn't brutal pain ... that is to come...

PeacE

I'm Free!

 Today I make myself sound busy. Last night I set up a Frys order to be picked up at 8am (stuff for Riders Dinner) and then I am headed out west to ol' Sin City ... I mean, Sun City ... to visit with RM this morning while PT Is not home. From there I'll probably grab lunch somewhere, then head to the Post early.

Riders Dinners. Riders Meetings. I'm starting to get frustrated with the Riders (our chapter). I know we barely started a year ago, but only 7-8 people show to the meetings, even fewer sign-up to help with the dinners - be it picking up or making food, or just to help set-up and clean-up. I think at our next meeting (Monday) I am going to bring up that I am no longer going to "lead" the dinner stuff. I would like to delegate to someone to do that, but no one shows up to meetings. The whole catch-22 ...

It'll be a nice visit this morning with RM. I am not headed there for any reason other than to visit - no exciting news (I wish it were) or anything ... just a visit.

Okay, enough from Negative Nellie. I need to work on being more positive about my outlook in general.

PeacE

A Day of Nothing

 As part of my morning routine, I check my calendar for any appointments, events, etc. Today is the first weekday in quite awhile that it is blank. No IOP. No personal session. No appointment at Mayo. It feels a bit weird not having anything I HAVE to do.

Yesterday, at the completion of the IOP session, I received my certificate of completion, which I promptly forwarded to Mayo. This was the last deferment item that I was in control of completing, in order to get on the waiting list. The Transplant Council meets today, and I am hoping my case is up for review. I did receive two separate phone calls from Mayo yesterday afternoon. One was to schedule Bloodwork/Nurse/doctor visit (24th) and a Zoom meeting with the head psychologist (17th), so they did move those appointments up sooner. I am hoping they are able to put me on the list, and just have these two items to be completed then. I just don't know, so I am a bit ... anxious? apprehensive? nervous? ... as I wait to hear what is going on. It could be that it doesn't go to Council today, and instead have to wait until after these appointments. I just don't know. I am going off of what my Team Psyche doctor told me last week about it going to council today. Either way, fingers crossed.

I am a bit groggy this morning. I took one of my sleeping pills last night, and slept through until the alarm went off (7am) and then I rolled over and slept until about 8am. I think it is a side effect of the pill, but it is clearing up pretty fast.

VFW Riders dinner this Friday. I ended up asking my brother to come and help by doing the grilling. I never learned the "art" of it, and don't trust myself. I never made it out to the bread store, so figure I will just pick up the cheap brand at the store. It will cost versus being donated, but at this point I just don't care. The whole Riders chapter is on my crap list right now.

I suppose I should go finish my morning routine and see if RM has something up.

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

Dinners, Nominations, Election Time

 You are probably looking at that Post title and thinking I have finally lost it. The Elections aren't until November! Well, not in the world of the VFW. Our fiscal year runs June-May, and our elections are held in May for Officers in the following year. More on that later, I'm getting ahead of myself.

Tonight is our monthly Rides Dinner. Have 5five volunteers for making soups, but one backed out last night as he is unable to attend due to other reasons. Too bad, he was making the Cabbage soup that I liked last time. So I am down to a Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken & Rice, Stew, Korean Pork & Potato, and Sinigang. I'll bring some saltines, and the Post reached out to me the other day, as they have some rolls that need to be used up. I offered to take two bags (about 24) off their hands. I'll heat those up just before the start of dinner tonight. No idea who will help with anything, Aside from the one that signed up, but that seems par for the course lately.

Elections. I am so not looking forward to this. So, last night I was talking with T, our Sr Vice of Aux, and she happened to mention that I was being sought out for the 3-year Trustee position. It's not full of duties - meet a couple times a year to go over our financial figures and make sure we are in agreement (two other trustees and myself). So I admitted I would accept the nomination when made in May. That'll make me a titled position holder in all the groups I am working with at the Post. The Riders. Oy. Over the last year, the VFWRG has been working on becoming its own group within the VFW sphere, rather than being a sub-committee for the Post. There will be many bylaw changes once we are ready to vote on this topic, which I don't forsee happening for closer to another year yet, if not longer. So I figure we are going to run with the current bylaws for now. That means I have three electable positions that need to 1) retain the seat, 2) vote in replacement, or 3) Leave empty. All three must be Comrades (Veterans) and two must actively ride cycles. With our participation numbers so low, and the current requirements, I really hope everyone just retains the seat they hold, and we fill the one open position we have. That is my hope.

So all that coming up in the next couple months. Preliminary appointments with Mayo Clinic start the 23rd of this month, and though only last about a week, I am not sure how much longer it would be to get some answers finally, like: Where am I on the list? What's the typical wait time? Should we do the TIPPS prior to since we have no clue how long it will be before a liver is available.... Things I never would have guessed myself asking 54 years ago.

Anyways, I need to get out and get some errands done before heading to the Post. My 'special prescription' should be ready for pick-up at CVS. Need to go by the bank to provide cashbox change for tonight. Need to grab something to eat. Kind of in that order, too.

PeacE

Ghost Hunts and Motorcycles

 I was browsing back through the few recent posts I have put up this last week, or so, and noticed From Friday night's goings-ons, I forgot to share the part of the night I thought was weird. So, you now have a teaser for that coming up in today's post. Probably followed with a bit of the day yesterday as my Riders Chapter did the Frozen Throttles Run. Then, like always, I think I will round it out with plans for this week. In other words, not much more than a regular post, and now you know all this is going to say, you can move on and quit wasting your time today.

Friday night was the "Ghost Hunt at the Post" event put on by the Post. I heard yesterday, that the whole thing was supposed to go until about midnight, but it was past 2am before it ended. Allegedly, no one that attended is talking about "who" or "what" they may have seen, so, is this true stuff? Anyways, earlier Friday evening, after having dinner with RM & PT, I was talking to Stace, as she had said she had an extra ticket for the Ghost Hunt part of the night. She was offering it up to someone else that really wanted to go (limited seating slots available) but turned out, she couldn't get a sitter last minute, so Stace offered the ticket to me. This is probably just a short bit before 9pm - Hunt starts at 10pm. 

Throw in a little backstory part - earlier in the week I had talked with RM and as usual she had asked about the Riders Dinner this week. I glossed over about what we were having, and I was hoping for more people due to the Hunt...which is where I got RM's "holy" look. Now PT & RM are ordained ministers. RM preaches at a couple places here in the Valley during snowbird season. I don't recall exactly what was said between us, but it basically me mentioning to RM to not start on the holy, spiritual thing of angels and demons, and psychic things like this are nothing but temptation to trouble. And she did not continue, but I knew what she was thinking. And earlier too, when I mentioned to the Wife about the Hunt (prior to me even knowing about the ticket) her words were "Don't invite anything home". How do you fell about that?

So, it's around 9pm, Friday night. Psychic is off doing the private readings people actually signed up for (ad paid money). Hunt is not for about an hour. I start getting a headache. One of those stress ones, that start on the neck and from the back, slowly envelopes your skull. I have been told to not take Ibuprofen and Aspirin and  Acetaminaphen (liver has to break them down) whilst trying to figure out my liver issues, so there is no relief that way. I just deal with it... as I did now. I switched my drink from tea to cola. About 5 minutes later, nausea hits - strong! within moments of that, my pulse kicks up, you know the one, that beats at your chest like it is going to bust through and you feel anxiety that speeds it up more. I turned to Stace, told her to give the ticket to someone else, I was out. I went home. I hadn't even gone 1/2 mile from the Post, nausea gone. About halfway home, pulse settles. By the time I got in the house, the headache had not completely gone, but faded to where it was more of an irritant than anything. Was I being manipulated to leave? Was I being moved to avoid something bad happening (let alone to me)? Just a weird story part to the tale. Yes, RM, I am sure I can figure out what you are thinking about it....lol.

The ride yesterday went pretty good I thought. Granted, this is the first one I have ever been on, and I was in my Rav, not on two wheels. We did KSU at 10am to a bright and chilly morning of about 43 degrees. We had 5 guys from our chapter (best turn-out yet) and three others along. We headed north to Prescott. There are a couple steep hills going north of the Valley towards Flagstaff. One of the riders started lagging as we hit the first one. Seems his bike was "just small enough" it didn't have the power to hold the speed limit (75) as it went up the hill. I stayed behind him until we caught up to everyone. We made out first stop (about 30 riders from all over were there) hung for a bit. They had a grand opening so had burgers and hot dogs with chips for free. It was still 43 degrees (there is about a 10 degree difference between Phoenix and our closest urban neighbors year round - Tucson, Prescott, Payson especially). Had a dog, and eventually we readied to move on. another group of riders from Chino Valley joined us as we went to VFW Post 541 Bucky O'Neill. First time there, as typical for the town, the place is well-worn looking, but comfortable. Hung out for a soda or two, and we were off again to Camp Verde VFW Post 6739. Nicer place, bigger, on a mesa so it overlooks a part of the Verde Valley headed out of town (pretty). Couldn't stay long as the riders wanted to be as close to Phoenix before full dark, so we hit the road near 5, and made it back to the Post around 6:15pm. Had a good day and enjoyed my time. Met a bunch of riders from different groups and places. So, for being only like the second ride run we have done, this wasn't bad I thought. ABATE of AZ sponsored with us, so I know getting the word out was more them than us.

This week: Paracentesis on Monday. Liver Specialist on Thursday, followed with bloodwork for his office. Medically, that's all I have. Tuesday (I should) need to get over to SSN to get that Disability paperwork started. Joy. I think that is about all I got off the top of my head this morning.

PeacE

*GASP* I Was Wrong ....

Putting this post in on Friday night, as tomorrow will be a long day with a fairly early start for me. But we will get there ....

I had mentioned before about tonight being the Riders Monthly Dinner, and this Ghost Hunt/Show they are doing at like 10pm. I thought maybe we would pick up additional meal sales, as people come early (they had to purchase within a limited number of tickets) as they get off work, and haven't eaten dinner yet... sounds about right? Well, we only sold 16 meals tonight. The gal that was making the garlic bread and possibly bringing a "cheap dessert" (like cupcakes from the store) totally zoned about tonight, so no garlic bread to go with the spaghetti. The Director made (or rather bought then cooked) plain meatballs at home and brought them in, and we used a big ol' bottle of Ragu for sauce. Threw some noodles in the pot, and were off! I personally had picked up 4 bags of salad. Last month, we did about 20 sales, and went through 2 bags, so I figured if we popped out a 35+ number of sales like most months (pre-holiday period) there wouldn't be much spaghetti or salad left over to worry about. No. Instead I have 3 unopened bags. I know I can only get through one bag, before the others start turning to mush and brown stuff, so I ended up giving one to the bartender, and one to my friend's daughter. At least they will eat it.

So the meal came and went. RM and PT came up, as usual (which is nice). Another couple had sat at our table as well, so we didn't talk as much personally as we might normally, but we still caught up. PT's mental facilities are definitely wearing down. I felt he kept asking me questions that he should already know the answer to, or know at least I don't have the answer. Maybe it was just my observation, as I admit, I always get 'testy' when PT comes around. Irritation doesn't begin to hardly describe it. Oh well.

Tomorrow I am going on the Frozen Throttles Run our Riders are putting on with ABATE of AZ. Charity ride to Prescott to Full Stop Motorsports (a motorcycle custom/tire shop) grand opening (friend of one of our riders). Followed with short trip to the Bucky O'Neill VFW 541 in Prescott. Then back to the main highway to head north to Camp Verde to VFW Post 6739. Heard this place is just full of awesome people, and the views, as they sit on top of a hill, look over Camp Verde's valley city area. Two more I can add to my list of visited. Another one of our 'Support' Riders is riding along with me. Have the car pretty much packed up: case of bottled water, trauma kit, 2 boxes of Tees (for the 2 styles we have for sale), my notebook (with all the addresses in case I get lost/lose the group) and a day out of the Valley. Was thinking about stopping in Black Canyon City at Cafe there. It is "world-famous" for their pies. Thought I might stop and get one to bring home, but then I saw the prices online.... almost $30 for a pie. Yeah, they ain't that special to me.

With all that going on, I am sure Sunday will be me resting up, as I have another paracentesis on Monday.

Oh the Joy....

PeacE

For Those That Work .... TGIF!

 Friday has rolled around, and I feel like I got absolutely not one dang thing done. Getting over to the Social Security has been moved to next week (or the attempts to). I just could not get things to work out right for me to get it done this week. I know it is important to get it started forthwith, but still....

Tuesday I did make the VFW House/Entertainment committee meetings and did my secretarial duties. This coming Tuesday, the General Post will vote on the new House Policy that I have helped revamp/emend/revise/update (my first one!) so I am a bit excited. I have been working on this goal for seven months now.

Spent close to an hour up at the Walgreens yesterday. I'm physically out of two of my prescriptions (that have auto-refill) and now have one day left of another. So I go in, as I have not received any of the regular text notifications of auto-refill, or asking if I want a refill. In the past month, the "regular ladies" that work in the pharmacy and I have gotten to know each other a bit. Well, I found out it seems they are all gone (relocates) or retired just all of a sudden it seems. I had three "new" people that didn't know my name, situation, but trying to figure out why their system isn't releasing refills, versus my insurance holding them (which they are). Found out the insurance is 'requiring' a new prior auth for medications (even though some I have been on for years) so my doctor's office has to contact the insurance, then the pharmacy, on each one (I take like 8). I've been out of a couple for a couple days. Already I can feel being chemically "off" a bit.

Friday! This one is a Riders Dinner night for the month. We are serving up some basic spaghetti with sauce, garlic bread, and salad. I believe my friend Stacey even said she was going to bring an easy dessert as well. Even though I am trying to get the Riders Group to "step up" and have others start volunteering (it is slowly working) I try to not offer to help with getting food, or prep, etc. But I did offer finally about Tuesday to get the salad for tonight. Nice and easy, right? Well, tonight will be interesting.... Long story short, we have members that believe that the VFW is "haunted" by spirits - ones they know from the Post. Either way, one of the members knows a popular "medium" and she is doing some private readings tonight, as well as a "show" (I say that, as it sounds like a seance show to me) for a limited number of people as well. Hey, proceeds and the mediums donations, almost all the money for the event comes back to the Post!

Anyhow, I warned our Riders Director, that tonight could be a big dinner night for us, as the "Ghost show" starts a couple hours after our dinner, but people always come up early. He said no it won't. So, typically for the past handful of months, we have averaged around 35-40 dinners in sales. The Director cut it 30-35 tonight. We shall see who was right.

Saturday the Riders also have a Ride! I am planning as of right now to be going, in my 4-wheel Rav4, but it will be a nice ride up to Prescott to a grand opening of a motorcycle place, then to a VFW there in town, then back up north to Camp Verde to visit their VFW, before returning to the Valley. A nice day to get out of town and drive. This will be my first "run", and will be running behind the group, but it is all good. I got the trauma kit and training (hope to not use).

Next week will be interesting. Paracentesis on Monday. Liver Specialist on Wednesday where they will finally get an ultrasound scan of the liver and see what we are working with. May be an adjustment of meds. May be several changes (for the good) but don't know until Wednesday, then I need a day or so to wrap my head around it all.

In the meantime, RM, yes, I will be a the Post for dinner.

PeacE

I Feel ... Productive

 Not quite noon, and I feel like I have accomplished quite a bit this morning (for me). Picked up the Youngest's dead computer from Data Doctors. They quoted $1300 for replacement of compatible parts. At Walmart, I found a system that would work for him (verified) and for only $899. It is to be shipped and arriving tomorrow. Christmas is definitely done for that kid this year!

Our Riders dinner wasn't as good last night. I think we did like 14 sales versus our usual 20+. I know it is December, and that limits, but truly was hoping for more. RM and PT came by. At one point I about smacked PT upside the head. We were in the canteen area prior to dinner, and he asks, out load, 'Have you decided to quit your Secretary position in the Riders'? Well, the Director was right behind him, so I muttered a quick 'I don't want to talk about it' and hoped the Director didn't overhear. I don't think he did. But PT is just getting worse with the dementia/mindset stuff. Just blurts out whatever, even if he already asked it. Does things like above, without a thought. Makes me want to be around him less, if that is possible from what I already feel.

So, dead computer picked up, new one ordered, picked up "breakfast" at McDs for the family, and started to pull out all my Santa gear. I need to see if I threw away the suit I had been using for the Santa Runs. It is stained, and whatnot, but I did find it, so no worries of dirtying up my nicer one I use for gigs. Some electrical tape repair to the belt, a quick lint remover roll and should be good to go for tonight. Oh, I need to get a hat for it. I didn't see one when I found the rest of the suit. Good suit is pretty much ready to go for the 19th as well.

I think I have decided that I am going to go to the ER tomorrow for a paracentesis. This morning I woke, again not feeling the pressure as bad, so am beginning to think the change in meds has starting a positive impact now. But I still need this drainage done as it is uncomfortable. I'm packing my backpack tonight just in case. Couple changes of underwear, socks and PJs, laptop, tablet and chargers. Just in case they keep me over night (or longer).

VFW Riders meeting Monday night for me, if I am discharged in time. Looks like we might do a spaghetti, garlic bread and salad for our January dinner. Director and I talked last night, the Hall has a rental that night after our dinner, so I am sure we will pick up some extra meal sales. A good reason to go with spaghetti! Cheap to make lots of it.

Okay, well, I still have stuff to finish prior to the Santa Run tonight. We should call it "The Myth, the Beard, the Legend ... Last Run with Santa". I am the only one from seven years ago, that will be at tonight's Run, and the last of the Original Guard. Really wish Oldest Son could make tonight (he has 6 years of going) but I understand Life happens.

Yesterday I worked on a spreadsheet for my medical stuff. One page is medications, amounts, times/day, followed by a second workbook page of the Doctors, and who they are to me (PCP, AZ Liver, etc.). Printed out a handful of copies to carry with my medical journal, because everyone always asks for the medicine info. Second page is in case they need contact numbers, etc. I think it turned out pretty good, considering I am self-taught and learning. My buddy that is "taking over the Santa Run" did a spreadsheet for those going, who has paid, who confirmed, etc. that I also modified up this morning. Adjusted it so those that need to pay still are at the top and easy to find on the list. We need about 8 more that committed to go, to show up and pay to cover the bus costs. I'm hoping the SIL doesn't go, as my Brother said her money will pay for my spot if she doesn't go. I like free.

Anyways, I wasting time now, so need to get off here.

PeacE

Early Post for Tomorrow ....

 So it is still Tuesday night, but I figured I need(ed) to get thoughts straightened out in my head somewhat, so be prepared to get lost in my musings....

I hadn't slept well through the night, even with all the additional sleep I took during the afternoon. I was plenty tired, but just so uncomfortable with the abdomen extended as much as it is. Really need to get that paracentesis done and soon.

Up before 8am this morning to do the pill and BP/Glucose checks, and to wait until 8am for when the medical offices tend to open. The checks were in good range. It's after 8am, so I call up the GI Doctor office. I explain that the hospital has no standing order for me to get a paracentesis (as was discussed two weeks prior) and I really needed to get one, but do not want the hassle and additional fees of having to go through the emergency department (again) just to get it done. The excuse I was given? 'Oh, we sometimes have issues with treatment orders between our office and the hospital'. What?!? Not only are your physical buildings of practice LITERALLY next door to each other, no one follows up on this stuff? What if it was a more important procedure for a patient? I'm vexed. Then I am told, 'Well, the hospital takes a day to even process our orders when we send them' - So, I interrupt, I have to wait even longer than the two days I have already had to wait to get this done?

In one word, yep. Thankfully early this afternoon I did receive a call from the hospital, the scheduling department for the paracentesis, and I was able to schedule mine for Thursday morning. Which means two more days of uncomfortableness and bad sleeping.

I followed this up by looking up a FedEx shop near the house (wow, less than a mile away!) so off I went to get the title off to the insurance to hopefully get that check this weekend to get the vehicle for the Wife. She ahs to turn in the rental Friday morning, and I think she will borrow the Youngest's car for the day to get to/from work. Really hope the check gets here fast. With my accident, it came pretty quick.

Trying to get this all scheduled... then I have the Riders dinner this Friday. The Youngest is making his potato soup, and we are going to flair it up and make it loaded baked potato style - add in some bacon bits maybe, some green onion shoots. Son and I need to get to the store to get ingredients, and I think we will plan on that tomorrow, since I would be making a good guess he doesn't want to get up early and sit at the hospital for my procedure (even if it is less than an hour). Cook up soup on Friday!

Oh, and I finally remembered to return the 'Traditional Cookie Plate' to RM, for me to be surprised with Christmas goodies later this year. Maybe find a raspberry cheesecake cookie recipe, as the ones at Subway are awesome.

Welp, other than Thursday, I don't have anything medical on my calendar for the rest of the month. Just three more meetings at the Post, a Dinner, and (sigh) a possible Riders breakfast at the Post on 10/26 - though, tonight I asked if the Post would like to do this one, since the Riders did the one last month. Find out next week once they vote at their meeting.

I'm finally reaching the end of the whole revising/amending the House Policy. Tonight I explained to the House members, that I had provided all the changes/additions/corrections needed according to the Post bylaws, and asked for final clarification in regards to the Inventory issue (that started all this crap). Discussion was short, and verbiage worked out quickly, that after this final adjustment, all I need are the other appendices (asked for from the Adjutant again already) and then send this out for the members to peruse and vote on next month. At least, I hope I have all the stuff by then. Waiting for other people to get me information is sometimes a pain.

I think I have bored you enough, and I think I am almost ready to go to bed just to catnap and toss and turn all night.

PeacE

Welp, Did What I Could

 Friday I spent a bit of time in the morning calling all the doctors I am to see. The PCP was easy to reschedule, and I'll see her on Thursday. The first specialist I called, they had not received the referral from the hospital as of yet, but set me up for an appointment - two weeks out. The second specialist, wouldn't even schedule me. They stated they wait for the referral, then call me to set it up. I told them if they haven't called by Tuesday, I was calling back, and having them contact the hospital for the referral. I can't wait forever - my condition won't allow it.

Friday night was our monthly Riders dinner, and I think it went okay. RM had made brownies, that received many compliments on how good they were. I don't think our sales were like the last two months, but we still made profit.

Saturday I spent the afternoon and evening at the Post, just hanging out. Only drank water. RM had given me some packets to flavor water, and these have electrolytes in them. The Wife said it would be good for me to have maybe a couple per day (versus every drink) to help increase my sodium (Dr said it was low). So I spaced out the two I had taken with me. The flavor was Orange Salt, and you are to mix it in like 16 oz of water. I did the packet in a small pitcher, and even then it was almost too strong for me to drink. After I was able to get able a third of the pitcher down, I had them top it off with more water to dilute it some more. But it was good. And to be honest, I didn't feel as fatigued throughout the afternoon, as I have been of late. So bonus all the way around.

Today is Sunday, and the Wife and I were up way later than we should have been last night. She had gone over to the Middle Son's place to sit with his partner and Doc (my only grandson). His partner has some post-partum depression diagnosis, and the Son called asking if his Mom could be with her a bit to help with baby and whatnot. So Wife made it home early hours, which woke me, and we had to catch up on things (we do nightly). I had to get up a couple times to pee (damn water pills) but ended up finally rising around noon.

I had told the Wife I was planning on just staying home today, but think I will be going to the Post to watch football and read. Wife has some video watching and other things to do regarding work (mandatory, but get paid for the time doing it) and I am letting her use my laptop. She brought her work one home, but forgot the charger. So she will be busy doing that, that's why I'm going to the Post.

Tomorrow is Monday, and I have no plans. Tuesday is our Riders meeting. That's what I am doing Monday! Printing out copies for the meeting!

PeacE

Phone Calls and Dinner

When I was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday, there was a lot of head nods, and "Yeah, I'll call them" going on because I just wanted out of there. I know, I know. It is for the betterment of my health to get these appointments set and actually go to see these specialists... but I haven't called yet. Yesterday was somewhat busy for me.

Tuesday, the Directors of my Riders group called me. Seemed he was without a car (but still had his motorcycle from transportation) and needed someone to pick up the hot dog/hamburger buns that were being donated from the Orowheat Store. OF course he calls me, as I am the Secretary, and seemingly the only other person responsible enough in the group. I mentioned to him I was in the hospital, and I would try to get there the next day. He was to call and let them know it may be a day or two before IO could get up there. So as the Wife prepped to leave for work, I prepped to get on the road. Yeah, it was a little trip. The store is about 10 miles from my house, but I got there and picked it all up (plus two plastic bags of powdered and chocolate covered donuts). I then headed to the Post (another little jaunt) to drop them off, as well as attend the flag raising we were doing in Remembrance of 9/11 (which went well, considering it is a work day for many).

I had brought along the laptop, so I stayed at the Post and worked on the Agenda for the Riders meeting this next week. I got the flyers for events at the Post, as well as Rider-related events sorted. I even took the time to clean up my loose files in my "VFW" folder and assign folders. I felt productive. By afternoon, I had approval to send out the Agenda - Done! Earlier in the morning, the Post Adjutant and I were talking, and he mentioned the Post had recently updated their Post Bylaws, and that since I was working on doing an amendment to the House Policy, that there was some wording/phrasing from the Bylaws that should be incorporated in to the Policy, as well as some Appendixes that they had finished. <eye roll> Great. More work. But I explained, since I am not a Post member (only Aux) I don't have access to the Post Bylaws. So he is supposed to send me everything, sometime before he leaves for vacation in the next week. Sigh. So who knows when I will get it, when I will get the House Chair to sit down with me to do the corrections/amendment(s). Sometimes this volunteer work is more of a job, and I wish I got paid for it.... Moving on. It was Thursday, and Washington was playing, so I stayed to watch the game at the Post. I did go home about 8pm in the third quarter as it didn't look like my team was going to win.

So, no. I did not call and set up appointments. But I am working on that today. I already scheduled my PCP for Tuesday. Now just waiting for the other two offices to open and see what I can do.

Yesterday I felt fatigued. I think it may be the new meds, or the restricted amount of water I am allowed (though I did go over that amount). There were a few members that asked if I was okay, as I wasn't my usual self, so some of the Aux leadership are aware of what is going on with me. I've popped my pills for the morning, and am getting ready to check the sugar and BP. Feeling pretty normal right now, but see how the day goes.

I'll be back at the Post this afternoon, as we have our monthly Riders dinner tonight (hamburgers and hot dogs, beams, chips, and brownies that RM made). The Wife has a team building workshop after work, so won't be home until late. 

PeacE