... and So I Beat Them Up.

 I really did. I beat both the Youngest and the Wife up from bed this morning. Not hard when one seems to sleep most of the day, and the other doesn't need to be up for work this early. I woke at 4:30am, right on the money. I laid there, trying to go back to sleep, to no avail. Got to thinking about what appointments I have this week, etc. and decided I might as well get up and shower, then get the day started.

Only have an early PCP visit today. Some new doctor that NOAH has assigned to me. Evidently they think I need to update them on what's going on. I'm taking in a list of my current medications and dosages, then telling them if they want lab results, to contact Mayo. I made it so my PCP has access to my file. I don't want to do lab/blood/urine workups twice a month for the same things. Plus, there isn't much my PCP is able to do at this point. I do have an appointment in October to get the third and final vaccine shots for Hep A & B. I think I should go to Walgreens here soon and get the flu shot as well.

The VFW Riders. Sigh. I was told last month that there were to be elections this month. And that was it. No clue-in, nothing. So we started out with that last night. Our President needs to step down due to online schooling he has going on until December, and possibly next semester as well. Okay - so the Vice moves up, and we elect a new Vice Pres. No, because someone holding a position now, may want a position we elect. So our Sargent-At-Arms became our President, the Pres. leaving office moved to Vice, and we had a new Rider join up that got the Treasurer position. With the new bylaws and procedures, we also needed to elect an Auditor, that quarterly goes over the accounts with the Treasure, plus will travel to another Chapter to check their records. Similar to a Trustee. Well, no one jumped at it, so they wanted to leave it blank with a future election to come when we have someone that wants it. No, I said. I'll do. I'm a Trustee for the Aux, so am learning how to do all this anyways. Plus, it prevents problems later, and if nothing else, has me as a place-holder until someone takes it over. The Treasurer and I are going to learn the Treasurer position together, as National gets things going...or when they do. So I now have yet another title. Sigh.

I received a message yesterday about some lab work being needed for Mayo. This is the monthly drug screening basically. I looked at the Doctor orders and see that the usual one for alcohol is on there. Then, written in gold filigree, was the word, NICOTINE. So we finally get a test of it, and hopefully it will come back Negative so we are able to move on. The lab is tomorrow, so will be end of week before I see results.

And that's all I got today.

PeacE

Acceptance - The Sequel

 Tuesday in my AA Home Group a speaker usually joins us and shares their story (about 15 minutes) and either from their experiences or whatever, they pick a topic that we bounce around the group in discussion. Today's follows my previous post ... Usually it is something like 'acceptance of your faults', etc. but today it was just the word 'acceptance'.

The problem with being in a group you frequently see, you get 'tagged' from others in the group to talk. I have noticed a trend that most regulars will call only on other regulars. Personally, I try to bring in someone that is fairly new (to AA or to our group) but not like this is their first day new. Well, I don't know how my brain works, but when I wrote about acceptance, I think it was more situated around the medical/death scenario. By 11:30am, it was in a new place. I got tagged, of course.

Acceptance. For us it has a wide field of coverage throughout our lives. Acceptance of our drinking problem. Acceptance of a Higher Power. Acceptance of our faults. Acceptance in group - never been to an AA meeting I did not feel accepted. Except a couple times years ago (another story, another time). The list just goes on.

Some of it is hard to get through. Like me, I am working on issues with my acceptance of a Higher Power (God). I have accepted my drinking problem. I have accepted the wrongness of actions while I was drinking. I have accepted I may be attending meetings for the rest of my life ... needed or not. And I try to be accepting to others. Greeting people (even in zoom), thanking them for sharing (if they did). I try to never speak out in irritation because of a difference of opinion, or exclude/snub others even online.

I'm going to let that all marinate there for the rest of the day and night. Maybe I'll add more in the morning.

Welcome to the pre-morning, when the sun has yet to peek its bright self over the mountaintop, and scorch the Valley into a mild version of Hell. Yeah, I am up early. I woke around 4am and just could not go back to sleep. So did my quiet time, and now am getting the day started. I had even set an alarm for 30 minutes prior to my usual time, to allow me time to sit with God, since I have a paracentesis this morning. At least the time isn't being wasted.

Ended out yesterday with the House/Entertainment committee meetings. I have a couple days before I need to be sure the minutes are done and into our Adjutant, as there are points to bring up to the general Post meeting next Tuesday. I spoke to our Commander (who is also Treasurer for the Riders) about the voting that was to take place at National Convention, making the Riders a separate VSO (Veteran Service Organization) like the Auxiliary are. Verbally, unofficially, he said yes it passed. He had a picture of what the new unified patch will look like, too. I need to reach out to our state leadership to find out what is the next step we need to do to get all this started. State may be waiting instruction from National. I emailed out to the Riders the basic 'unofficial' information, the pic of the new patch, and listed details for a dinner the Riders are doing this month. No, RM, it is not a regular Riders Dinner. On 8/15 the Aux. had to cancel their steak fry due to members being at the MIT conference that weekend. The Riders are jumping in this one night to at least have some food available. It's just hotdogs/hamburgers with an added twist: I won't be there. I informed them all. I gave the info of who has signed up to help, who is bringing some food, a list of things we probably still need (cheese slices maybe, condiments depending on what is in the fridge at the Post). Then 2 days later is the Riders meeting, which I will need to try to attend. Hopefully I will be able. The TIPS is being done 8/13.

The Wife had meatloaf going when I got home. I haven't meatloaf in forever it seems, and this of course did not disappoint. She even added a layer of mozzarella cheese to the middle. Side of mashed potatoes...mmm, mmm good! Then she also added some of the juices from the pain on the mashed potatoes.... It was soooo good! I saw how much was leftover, and glad to see I might get two days out of it - as long as no one else touches it.

I got to nap a bit in the night, and here I am. Hope you have a great day!

PeacE

'is A Slippery Slope ...'

 Back when I was in the IOP, I was told that by another patient. We were in "group" and I forget what the actual topic was, but I had mentioned that I still occasionally went to the bar to visit friends. This other patient was about my age, had some experience in psycho-therapy (as a therapist/counselor). He believed that all I was doing was tempting fate, that I would fall back into the drinking habit just because I was around alcohol. I politely sat through his verbal opinion about me, then promptly ignored it. Alcohol does not define me. I wouldn't go if I could not handle myself and I refuse to let it define me.

Defining oneself ... there's a topic! In fact, it was the chapter I read today. I'll be thinking on this one for awhile. What does define me? Am I in the process of changing that with all the other changes I am making? If it does, or even if it doesn't, what does define me? A lot of time for self-reflection on this one I think, plus conversation with God.

I feel better! Did the Para yesterday afternoon. Drained 4.7L, and from the u/s looks like they got pretty much all the fluid that was there. I "felt" like I was more drained. Of course I am now going through the couple days of letting the organs re-adjust to where they should be and unflatten themselves. It hurts a bit at times, and I tend to walk hunched over in the middle, but it is only for a couple days. I need to check with Mayo about the Dr. orders on file at Banner. Seems they only go through until later this month. I know with the TIPS, the lessening of fluid won't be instantaneous, but I believe I need the orders to even set an appointment. I got the lab results from the screening I had just over a week ago. I don't know how to read these things because of the names for stuff. I mean there are like 3-4 different cholesterol ones...etc. I didn't see any that specified nicotine. I did see a test result that I was NEG for alcohol (duh).

Today I have an extra Zoom meeting. It is one Mayo provides for transplantees, regardless of the organ. Most of us in there are for a combination of Liver, or liver and kidneys. Today they will have a guest speaker to field questions pertaining to medications related to all this, as they are a pharmacist there at the hospital. I might learn some useful stuff.

VFW National Convention was last weekend in Reno. I have not heard yet if it passed to make the Riders a 'sister' to the VFW (like the Auxiliary is) or not. Neither official word, or rumor. My Post Commander did a FB post that showed a back patch that read VFW RIDERS GROUP, and I know one of the factors involved was being able to create one Unity patch, instead of separate ones for POST/AUX. If I haven't heard anything by this weekend, I'll have to get the minutes out either way.

Don't give up. If the hair around your butthole can thrive in a challenging environment, so can you.

PeacE

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

I'm Just Done ...

 This whole up at 5:30am stuff is just nuts. Here we are again today. This 'smart' ring says I slept for 4 hours last night, supposedly in a deeper sleep through the night than the usual waking a few times. I don't feel tired, but there is something to be said about that half-sleep where you are 'just right' comfortable, and the sun ain't over the mountain. Sigh. I give. I just accept it now. If I feel like I need a nap, I'll take one (as appointments allow) and just go by what the body tells me it needs.

Nothing major on the calendar for this week. Good! I see the only thing I have marked is a "business meeting" following our AA meeting this morning for my Home Group, and a paracentesis scheduled for 9am Wednesday - which I will be attending. My hope this week is that they are able to 'drain me dry'. Just short of two weeks ago, 10L were drained, and another 10L five days later. I don't feel as bloated as then, so am hoping to get the fluid down to regular levels. I also hope to here by Wednesday if my case was reviewed. And to add to the excitement, I need to get a colonoscopy done. Over the weekend I picked up five prescriptions. One was my statin pill, another my anxiety pill, and the rest were "aids" for the clean-out. Only, it hasn't been scheduled yet, so not sure when to start these. Most start like 6-7 days prior to the procedure. I guess I should send a message inquiring about it.

Giving up your stresses and problems to a Higher Power. I am still working on this step for AA - well, acceptance and the actual giving it up. The Riders Convention has had me stressed now for two weeks, even though I "gave up" and just waited to find out what is going on, instead of actively seeking the information. It paid off, somewhat. I received a message from our previous Director (why is he STILL getting our official info and not us?) that last minute, the Convention was going to be a Zoom meeting on Sunday afternoon starting at 1:30pm. There were only about 10-12 people that showed up for the meeting. They asked if there was anything in the proposed bylaws we needed to discuss to bring before National, and there wasn't really anything from this small selection of Riders. The main purpose of this meeting was to elect Officers for State, prior to the Convention in Reno late July. Which we did. And that was pretty much it. I was off by 2:20 (about 40 minute meeting) and ... yeah. Kind of felt like I was left hanging in the wind, but in truth, it is that we just do not have the information at this time. There is so much that needs to be on our National level, then trickle down through State, and finally Chapter. At least we are knocking "District" out of the loop now. I need to get an email sent out to our group just giving them the highlights of what we went over, and who the new officers will be for State.

Sigh. Worrying about things that do not need it. Seems to be a trait of mine sometimes.

Sister and BIL headed back to NM yesterday. It was a short turn-around, so I didn't get a chance to visit. Besides they were busy with their family stuff. RM must be tired today, as she had a drive up North (with PT) yesterday for a 'graduation'. I checked on her at one point through that Life360 thing. They were headed north, and were about Anthem (just north of Phoenix) so just starting the trip. Later in the evening I checked again, as she said they may find a hotel, as PT was voicing worries that they should not go, and is worried about her driving at night, etc. I only hear this stuff, and it is frustrating - imagine RM having to deal with it. Well, it was late when I checked, but they were home, and had been since about 8pm. So glad she did make it home with no major issues.

Well, that's about all I got to say about that. I'm off to message Mayo about scheduling the ol' poop-chute picture taking session.

PeacE

A Late Post on a Sunday

 *yawn* what a good night! I ended up going to the Post last night. I left the house about 2:45, took the car through the wash, picked up some sodas and chips at Fry's (yes, I did order them that morning for pick-up) then headed to the Post. My friend Stacey showed up not long after I Got there, and we had some time to sit and 'catch-up' on the past couple weeks. I stayed through until the drawing for the Queen (didn't win anything) then headed home. After not having really gone out to the Post much lately, excluding meetings, it was sort of nice to have a nice night out with a good friend. I'd say the same for some other friends, but they drink, which doesn't bother me, but I just don't feel like sitting in a bar all the time to hang out. I do still get together with them for a lunch every now and then - in fact, I'm hoping to have lunch this week and be able to share some good news.

Yesterday morning I received an email from the Riders previous Director. Seems the AZ State Convention is going to be today, at 1:30, via Zoom. So I sent the information out, and 'strongly suggest that all attend'. I got a fresh notepad here at the desk, and I have been racking my brain for questions to maybe ask if not covered in the meeting. I still did not receive this through 'official' lines of communication, and that really irritates me, especially after formally telling them the our previous director is just that - previous. All official communication needs to go to the current officers, plus gave them contact info. I'm hoping it is just they are scrambling (like all of us) in getting things done prior to the big vote at the end of July. Sigh. I know my duties as Secretary are going to increase ...

This morning I slept through until 7am and the alarm. Seems if I stay up really late, that happens. Well, I ain't doing that regularly (staying up real late) so will deal with whatever comes. I picked up some prescriptions at Walgreens yesterday. Five to be exact. One is the statin pill the cardio doc wants me to start taking again. three were prep stuff for a colonoscopy I have to have done soon, and then one of my regular meds. This next week I have many of the others that will be filled. I need to remember to get to CVS for one of them as well. They called last week and said they were sending it to the store.

So today will be a day. I think I am able to squeeze in my AA group this morning, and then the Riders thing this afternoon - will probably be 2-3 hours. Then it is game time! Hope you have a relaxing day, even though I know RM and PT will be on the road north for a graduation ceremony. Be careful out the RM!

PeacE

What is Wrong With Me?

 Here we are again. Awake at a 4:45am and unable to go back to sleep. Seems like this is like the fourth or fifth day in a row it has happened. I mean, I do like getting the sleep I do get, compared to the insomnia issues I was having for years, but this is just frustrating. By noon time I am wanting a nap, but don't because I want to sleep well that evening. Doesn't seem to have made a difference, so maybe today I will try like a 30-minute nap and see what happens tonight.

Not racing today to beat RM in getting a post up. She has already ceded the contest. Just some fun because we were both waking earlier than our normal.

The only thing I have on my calendar for today is the Riders meeting this evening. I did complete and send out the Agenda yesterday later in the day. Only one correction was needed, and it wasn't big enough to re-edit and send out, so just corrected it by hand on my 10 copies I printed. Of course I did edit the document, so it is properly marked for record-keeping. Not much on the Agenda, but a couple bigger topics need to be addressed.

I have a Zoom meeting Wednesday morning with the Psychologist, followed by a paracentesis at 11am. I need it. I have been uncomfortable the last two days, and I stick out like a petite woman having triplets. I'll feel so much better when I get drained.

I need to go around to some Goodwill stores. I am looking for an office chair. The one I have now was a Christmas present, and has had the warranty (now expired) used once to get an equivalent replacement. Now the floor here in my office is painted concrete, so rollers are a necessity. From there it is comfort and 'wants'. If I hit a couple stores and not find anything, I may go to Staples (where original chair was from) and see what they have at a reasonable price.

Saturday, my grandson, Doc, turns one! The Middle Son is having a little come and go type party between the pool and his apartment. I signed up to bring a veggie or fruit tray. Need to find a gift that I am able to get before Saturday. Papaw been slacking... Hoping the Daughter and family will be up for it, but not sure. They are in Missouri for a weeding this weekend. Maybe the Oldest Son will show as well. Youngest is riding with us.

Here's a bit of a pisser ... So the party is Saturday starting about noon. I noticed on our VFW Post calendar, the is a VFW Riders State meeting scheduled 1-4pm at my Post. First I ever knew of it. It does say tentative, so not sure what is happening, but if it happening, I need to be there. So much for seeing the family. Sigh. Going to have to reach out for more info I guess. I just messaged the Jr. Vice Commander to ask for any details. There's a problem if this is happening, as our Chapter never received any information about the meeting, let alone it being at our Post. There is so much going regarding the Riders right now, I get frustrated at times trying to sort out, prepare for, etc. these new changes.

Well, I need to go to the Reading Room for a bit. Y'all have a good one!

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

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 Rest For The Wicked ....

 ... since I am not getting any sleep tonight. Sigh.

Here it is Thursday and I feel like I have a full day on my plate. Monday I had 13.8 liters drained, my Albumin treatment, did the bloodwork at the Liver Dr.'s office, and still made it to the Post for the Riders meeting - that only 5 of us were in attendance. Sigh. RM, so you know, 3/13 we are doing the soup night again.

Tuesday I woke (after a long night of not sleeping much) to just feeling miserable. Seems the day following a paracentesis, I always feel this way. Adjustment of the organs causes some of the discomfort and mild pain. They have to slide back into their original places since being displaced by all the fluid. So I slept a good part of the day, which I needed to catch up on. Nausea came and went throughout the day. Hardly ate. Monday I had weighed myself and I am down to 256 lbs. now. That's overall good, just not how I got there. Would love to drop another 20, and then hold fairly steady....

Wednesday, I spent the afternoon up at the pub, working on the minutes from the Riders meeting. I was already a day late getting it done (I had said I would have them the next day but didn't feel well). Got that sent to the Int. Dir. to review, he approved, and out they went to Riders tonight once I got home around 8pm. Then I started in on a project to collect Rider stats for meetings, rides, events, etc. They count as monthly activity to the District and State, and I presume Nat'l level as well. Our previous director was a Google Docs lover. Why? Does anyone really know why? I don't care for it. I have become more and more for Office, so I fixed/created our Roster/Attendance workbook into my OneDrive. Working on the sharing bit. Then we had a link that would take us into a Google Doc to answer questions about an event we are signing in for. This data is them collected and dumped into a spreadsheet, so we can easily track who does what, etc. etc. That is turning into a chore. Even using CoPilot, right now it requires much more typing and time than I want to spend on it. However, I may find another way to do it, so that is still in progress.

Thursday plans: Yesterday I set up with Kars4Kids to come get the Middle Son's car, finally. It took months to get him over here to sign the title at the DMV so we could have it notarized. Then I gave Youngest a couple weeks to get the remaining personal stuff, and mostly all the trash, out of said car. They reached out wanting to pick it up this evening, but I was not home, and the title/keys were not in the car. I'll put them in there first thing this morning and leave it unlocked for the tow. 

I have a feeling the better part of the day is going to be waiting on CVS. They are supposed to get that special prescription in at the store location near me today. The office said that the stores do not always call the people when the 'scripts come in, so I will wait until after 1pm, then head up there and see if it came in.

No other plans from that for today. I did my readings this morning (BP and Glucose) and all are in the good range. Time to take what meds I do have here. Then grab a bite of something for breakfast. I forgot to pick up milk, so I have a sticky here with that note taped to my phone, so I don't forget.

....and I am outta here!

PeacE

Getting Into the Week

 Figured I might write this one up a little early. I have an appointment with my PCP at 9am, and I am planning on going earlier to see if she is able to get me in sooner. We will be playing 'catch-up' together as we talk about what has gone on since my last visit in late November. Also, updating insurance, medications I am on now, procedure results I have  (endoscopy results including the biopsy they took) plus any that are planned coming up. Which, at this time I do not have any excluding the paracentesis when I do them. I think I mentioned that after this week, I may try going to two weeks at a time, versus this one week. I don't think there will be much else for her to really address, aside from wanting to refer me to a cardiologist. Which I will do, once I got this under control. Actually, I should start now, since I am nearing the deductible limit, that way more of the year is not out of my pocket.

Anyways, so I have the PCP in the morning. No idea if she will want any bloodwork (they do it in office) so will be fasting. From there I have to head over to the hospital. Thankfully it is only about 15 minutes from the PCP. I have an 11am paracentesis (need to be there early for valet parking, as well as check-in). Heh, so here's one... At one point towards later November I think it was, I had a paracentesis scheduled. The hospital called me up to verify my information, insurance, blah, blah, which they should have already had on file like a trillion times by now... back to the point. Hospital called, and after verifying info, stated that my patient portion for the procedure is $380 (I think that was the figure). I said okay, as I was willing to pay it. But when I went to the appointment, no one collected it. Moving forward, this past week the hospital calls about my paracentesis coming up Monday, and tells me my patient responsibility is $1710 (haven't quite reached my deductible that I know of, but am so close that I am not paying this). I told her I couldn't afford that. They want to do a payment plan, and have me sign a contractual agreement for it. Again I said no. I am willing to do up to half the amount, as I want the insurance to catch up on the submitted bills, so when these hospitals and doctors log-in to see what my patient responsibility would be for a procedure, it is up to date. We will see what happens tomorrow.

After that, I have the afternoon free. I am debating heading over to RM's, but I know she will be working, and I don't want to sit with PT all afternoon. I joined a new website called Social Nature, and it is one of them shopping for items at the store sites. I told it what stores I shop at, and it brings up deals for products at those stores. I saw tonight it was updated, and had some salsas, and sauces in there, so I added them. Smaller product size - I think the largest is up to 16oz. Maybe I'll run by the store, grab these items, go to RM's, share one or two. I dunno.

Post opens at 4pm, so I will be heading there by that time. I do have a Riders meeting at 6:30pm there, that I am really not feeling like wanting to attend. Our Director has stepped down from the position (and his Trustee one with the Post) due to personal reasons, which I really understand. But I feel it leaves our chapter in a bit of a lurch. Still so new, we barely have members, let alone one that meets the requirements to be the Director (voting comes up in May). Our Vice Dir. will step up and fill the position for now, though he said he has no idea what he is doing. I told him I would help guide him. Our Post commander is supposed to be there at the meeting as well (he is our Treasurer for the chapter, too). That will help explain what is going on, and hopefully, give us some leadership guidance as to what we need to focus and get done right now regarding this situation. It will be interesting, but I still don't want to go.

Alright, enough from me....

PeacE

My Chemical Romance

 I don't know if there is actually anyone that reads this drivel, that would actually know the band in the Post title. Maybe have heard of the name, but the music as well? Doubtful. Either way, those were the first words I thought of when I sat down and asked myself what should the post title be today. Hidden meaning? Double entendre? Maybe a little of both? Well, let's take that short walk that was yesterday, and maybe you'll figure it out ...

Got up 8am and did the routine. I double-checked the SSA website, directing me to this particular SSA office, to verify address as well as they are accepting walk-ins. I don't get over to the NE area of Phoenix that often, and I still have no desire to do so. I was still a few miles away when - road construction. Three lanes into one, I'm still, literally, almost a 1/2 mile from the light (of several to go through). No, no, no. Took a side street, went up to the next main road and continued on. Got there in 5 minutes from there. Roll up to the SSA, seeing lots of cars and several people in the parking lot. Yep, surely they are open. Start to go inside, and am stopped before I even get to the security check-point by a gal handing out a flyer. They are NOT taking walk-ins. Physical interviews are for only extreme situations, otherwise you have to call some number and set up either a video, or phone, appointment. Sigh. I asked what the time frame for an appointment for the disability application process, and she said a few days. I sat there in the foyer and called. Robo-witch told me it was going to be a 30 minute wait. Nope. Not here. I left.

On the way home, a different route as to avoid all that construction, led me into ... more construction, just as bad. Finally got to 'My side' of town and picked up scrips for the Wife and I. Got home and made the call to the SSA. Forty minutes later, I have a phone appointment around 10:30a on the 21st. At least it is only a week out. So I am tossing all the stress/worry/angst over the disability filing out the window for right now. It is completely out of my hands until the 21st.

Attended the general Post/Aux meetings last night. I was pulled into several conversations before and after, regarding the Riders Director stepping down. I had no answers. All I heard were speculations. Either way, come Monday's meeting, I am sure I will be stumbling a bit as we try to see where the Director left things (gave me no paperwork of anything for the Chapter). I was a bit relieved to hear our Treasurer, who is our actual Post Commander, will be at the meeting, and will be much help in helping us re-focus. I also checked with the Adjutant as to monthly reports - as in finding out what ones we are supposed to turn in. I am guessing that is a role I will take over, since of the two reports, one is my minutes. Sigh. More work.

So you sorta see how my day went, which is a bot crazier than normal for myself. I was a bit frazzled last night. Tried sleeping for a couple hours - nope. Took one of my edibles, and I can still feel that thing working this morning. One of the scrips I picked up was for me, and was one of the ones I ran out of last week. So I took those pills right away. Still no Rybelsus. When I asked, was told it is between the doctor and the insurance. Just great. Sigh.

Popping some pills that I was off of a few days, while already feeling off-balance due to being out of 2 scrips, throw in the remnants of the workings of my edible, and all my medical in general.... yeah. It's Chemical alright.

Had an email come in late last night from the Daughter. It is that time again, and I urge you to hide. Girl Scout cookies are out for ordering, and my Doodad has already hit me up via text and email. Doesn't she know Papaw isn't supposed to have that stuff (the sugar-free ones are nasty). I am sure the Wife will be buying a couple cases, and taking many to work.

Welp, I think I got nothing else for now. You know what day of the week it is ... and I have nothing planned (I hope - need to check my calendar and notebook).

PeacE

PeacE

Quick Update - with an edit

 Yesterday was another paracentesis. Drained off 9.5 liters today. I weighed in afterwards and am down to 260 lbs now.

I am up somewhat early (for me) to head over to the SSA to see about getting my disability claim started. I wonder if I should call first... I dunno. It ain't far either way, and I need to go out to pick up  scrips anyways.

The Director of my Riders chapter has stepped down. I'll talk more about this later when I have more time to write...

EDIT: So I made it over to the SSA office. As soon as I walk in, I cannot even pass the security checkpoint, they have someone there TELLING everyone an appointment is now required, regardless what it says online. Sigh. She offered me the seating in the entryway foyer in order to sit and call, where I may get an appointment right away. I don't think so with my application....

So, after calling and finding out there is a 30 minute wait, I figured I would do it later today. Headed to Walgreens to pick up a couple meds for the Wife. Nice surprise they had 2 of mine ready, but only one was really needed right this minute. My Rybelsus... the insurance, doctor, and pharmacy are all fighting over giving it to me. According to the pharmacist, right now it is the round for the insurance and my PCP. All I know is, this is my main diabetic medication, and it has now been over a week since I had it. I wonder... I see my PCP in another week, and if my numbers are still down, could I just drop the rybelsus now? After all, we would have the numbers for at least two weeks without it. Who knows.

Saturday after our Riders Run, I had exchanged some small chatter in a group chat of some of us Rider, talking a bit about the day. The Director had asked how many, etc, and I had answered, then was distracted by other texts, msgs, etc. Last week, I had told the Director, and Asst Sec., that I would step back into Secretary at our next meeting as I was starting to feel better. Got an email from the Asst that she had left the Riders binder at the Post. I keep a divider bin with much of the physical paperwork for the Riders. She had it when I stepped down a couple months ago. I thought no big deal. I happened to go back into the chat group, and see that he Director had other texts Saturday I had missed - the last being he was stepping down from Director for personal reasons. Due to issues I have had with this guy, I don't know to be happy or not. Our Vice will step up until voting (May). The whole thing has already got people talking, but I am trying to stay out of it all.

Started the call to SSA prior to typing in here. I'm still on hold. Sigh.

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

Tucking In On A Sunday Night

 Your first Post of the 2026 year.

It is almost bedtime. I feel I have pretty much wasted today, and most of yesterday, and most days of last week. The whole waking up just feeling "off" be it due to meds, or body changes, it just doesn't set well with me to lay around, or sit around (which I cannot do) all day. Makes me feel like I am wasting time I could be doing something important, or needed, or just ... something.

For the month of January, I have appointments each Monday for a paracentesis. Most are 8-9 am, so I don't waste much of the day, and I think one is at 10:30. Either way, with appointments, I am usually in and out within the hour. Last week, 9.1 Liters were drained before we stopped. Something to do with the catheter/needle/device. Nurse stated there was still some fluid i the abdomen, but they would have to re-stick me, and for 3+ liters, I didn't want to go through that again, on the same morning. So, theory and hypothesis would concur that there might be more than 14 Liters in this week's drain. Or, as I sincerely hope, it is actually lower than that (showing that meds/diet/something) is finally working the way it should. Tomorrow will tell....

The Wife woke me this morning, saying she was off to church. I said I didn't feel up to it, and I didn't. Nausea has been hanging around here too long, and I need to kick this to the curb. Wife did bring some Arby's back for lunch, and I was able to eat half, before my taste buds shut down. Between a bite of hamburger, and a curly fry, the taste just left, and I had dry lumps of food to finish. After, I laid down for awhile, but just felt like I was wasting time (like I would anywhere else) so said I was headed up to the Post for a change of scenery (I'm home way too much now). Went there for a couple hours or so, said some hellos, played some games on the tablet, then headed home before 6pm.

Wife was gone, so I kicked into my evening wear (satin pajamas with the red velvet robe) ha! PJ's and a T-shirt... Meetings resume their regular scheduled dates this month with the Post. With the Holidays, and events, meeting cancels, event schedules, house parties, sigh. It's been a month! Anyways, I have everything pretty much set for the House meeting on Tuesday. Riders Dinner on Friday (Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad). Haven't decided about dinner. They need someone to bring salad, so I may wait a day or two to see if any others offer up. Trying to get more people to volunteer in this group.

Went through the bills that showed up this last week. Aside from regular bills, there hasn't been much. Most of my medical was at patient limits by October, and the majority of that is on a "credit card" for the hospital. I did have one bill come in from the ER docs, for that first date of service, I will go ahead and pay. The minimum on the card. Electric bill came, but isn't sue for a couple weeks, but it will go out this week as well. This week will start the accumulation of new medical bills for me. 

First one is tomorrow, for about $371 patient responsibility. Guess what that means? Yup! New spreadsheet!! Since this all started in September, I have gotten somewhat of a chance to learn more of Excel. I had one of the "bibles" I'd bought a few years ago, but the functions, etc. it goes over, is above my head. I need a more basic one for regular arithmetic formulas, text join, splits, etc. Maybe upping my skills will up my getting a job game.

The end of December I made the move to claim Disability. I've been told there is a difference between SS Disability, and just Disability. The one D gets less money. not worried, it's to supplement costs with all the medical. I determined through the online process, there was no way for me to submit an application, even with my 500Mb (exaggerated) of medical, birth cert, etc. So at some point this week I need to go to a SSN office and meet with someone that can direct me to where I need to go for assistance. Luckily, there are two offices within 10 miles of the house. I think we will pencil that in for Tuesday. I got to go look if I have to call for an appointment or just show up....

With that all said, I'm getting off of here. I know RM has been hinting I haven't been updating here (or anywhere) but no sense if there is no new info to share. Everyone knows I feel nauseous some days, better some others, and know to just leave me alone.

PeacE 

Let's Close Out the Weekend ....

  Saturday night was the 7th Annual Santa Run I have led, planned, etc. and am in the process of turning over to someone new to do it. That meant some changes to things, which I particularly didn't care for, but I am not doing this after this year, so why should I care? We had a total of 8 people show up. We had close to 32 on the original list, and winnowed down those that couldn't make it, to about 20. We needed about 16 to make back the money spent on the bus. Eight showed up. There were at least 3-4 that had pre-paid that didn't bother to show, and several were last minute "I'm not going to make it". So the 8 of went out still. At the final bar, we didn't even go in. it was about 12:15am, and we had the bus for another hour, but I said I was taking a Lyft. I was done. Nauseous, the whole abdomen pressure thing ... I was done. And sober. It was decided we just call it a night and all took the bus back, where I went straight home.

Around 8:30am, I had the Wife drop me off at the ER for a draining. She stayed about an hour, but I told her to go, as we both know it will take a bit to get through ER and services, no since both of us wasting our day. Drained out 14.1 liters this time (last drain was exactly 2 weeks ago). No fluid in chest cavity, so no need to hold me longer. Wife picked me up around 2 or so.

We did dinner tonight as a belated birthday one for the Wife. She chose Olive Garden. My taste buds and everything have been off during this whole liver thing, and tonight it was a bit worse. Everything I ate (salad, tour of Italy, breadstick) all tasted "off" in some manner. But the Wife enjoyed, and the Youngest came with us.

I have one last Riders meeting this month, tomorrow night. I'll head there after going out to visit the Sister. She was finally removed from the hospital to a rehab facility as of today. I missed being discharged from the ER and visiting her at the same hospital by about an hour. She has a supposed stay at the rehab of two weeks - hoping for faster recovery, and it is shorter, with the holiday coming up and all.

This week will consist of the final presents being bought (read: gift cards) and the start of the wrapping. Since the Wife does most of the shopping, I only have a handful of things to wrap. Too bad I have no clue who gets what, otherwise I would get stuck wrapping more.

Youngest's new computer arrived today. Right now he is just opening it up and hooking  things up and preparing to download his games/programs/services.

Guess that does pretty much round out the weekend. Til next time...

PeacE

Even A Big Man Hurts ....

 ... and boy, was I hurting come Thursday morning. I had called last Monday to set a paracentesis appointment, and the earliest they could get me in was 10/28 (about 8 days away). I was hesitant, but had no choice. I was going to suck it up and see if I could make it through until then. 

I broke.

Wednesday night, the Wife informed me she was off work the next day due to low patient census. I was like, oookkkaaay. Well, when we got up about 8am Thursday, we looked at each other, and I mentioned I needed to go to my PCP to get a blood draw she had called and asked me to do. The Wife also needed to go to her doctor's for some bloodwork. I asked her to drive, as I was just feeling miserable, short of breath, extreme discomfort (but not real physical pain). By the time we made it to her car, I asked her to go straight to the ER instead. I couldn't take it anymore. So off we went.

Once into the ER, I told the Doctor on duty I only needed a paracentesis - that i had one scheduled for 10/28, but the discomfort was bad enough, I was told to go to the ER to have it done. They were trying to talk me into CT Scans, and chest x-rays. I literally argued with the doctor about it. Finally about 1pm or so, I got the procedure done (9.5 Liters removed = 28.56 Lbs.). The doctor commented after I returned to the ER, he was glad I argued with him, as what I was saying was what was needed, not all the extra tests (he had gone and looked at my record).

First stop was for some food for the Wife, and a large vanilla shake for me. Still not big on the food idea (been slim eating for the past few days). Got home and I did my 'dry weight' which came out to 290.8 (I ain't embarrassed - I'm losing weight!). I piddled around the grabbed my "work bag" and headed to the Post. Up there I completed the minutes from our last Riders meeting. Home by 9pm, and zonked out.

Today I am still tender in the abdomen area. Seems to take a couple days for the organs and tubes to readjust to where they are supposed to be when not being forced around by extreme pressure from a fluid. Taco night here at the Post, but not sure if I will try to eat or not. Truthfully I am not feeling it right now. Of course I am at the Post again! I did complete the Agenda for the House Comm, finished some final marks on the Policy we are voting on next month, and updated my Calendar of Events file I use for my minutes/agendas (Post events, Rider Events, Aux events - I specialize each as needed).

Now I am done with all that. Waiting to hear back from a friend to print out the copies I need for the policy to vote on it, as there are some pages with colored highlights. They'll get back to me later tonight I am sure, and they will do it for me.

Tomorrow is the crap-show I am calling the VFWRG 1433 White Tanks first Ride event. Since our Director went psycho and made executive decisions without membership knowledge or voting, I have no idea how many will be there. It was supposed to be our first ride for just our chapter - to get to know each other's riding style, etc. But the Director changed all that, including donating to a charity that in my opinion is worthless as horseshit. I remind him every time he brings up the ride (I say things like "That wasn't approved or voted on" and similar stuff. I think he is getting mad at me). I am not going on the ride due to other major issues I have the Director is trying to pull (re: alcohol) and have District meetings that morning anyways.

So that's the week so far. I rescheduled Tuesday's appointment out another week or two. Next Bloodwork is for the Kidney Doc on 11/6. Yee haw.

PeacE

The Weekly Weekend Recap....

... almost sounds like a parody TV show SNL or someone would do....

Friday I did end up at the Post, until about 7:30p or so. I still wasn't feeling good, even though I finally got the correct meds for the Diabetes (or die-a-beat-us as Wilford Brimley says). I was hoping over the next couple days things would be better .... but let's not jump ahead of my boring recap.

Saturday I was up at the crack of dawn (literally) as I had to pee (again). Popped the pills, waited 30 minutes, and did my readings. Normal (for me). Then I was off to the Post again to assist with the Inventory we need to complete each month. Afterwards, I headed home (about 11'ish), got the Wife up and moving, then headed to the car dealership. Wrote the check, waited about 45 minutes for them to detail/gas the new(er) car. The Wife and had a good talk just sitting there waiting, and we worked out some details about the medical bills that are starting to arrive from my stay back in September, as well as some bloodwork done after that. A few other topics got worked out - well I say worked out, as I feel I was the one trying to figure it all out myself, instead of asking for help. I truly was starting to feel overwhelmed, and that's not counting my volunteer work I do. Back home for short stop, then went up to the Post to "relax". Stayed for the Queen drawing (pot is over $2k) but didn't win anything. By then I was really starting to feel bad again - nausea, abdominal pressure, fatigue, tiredness, achiness. Home it was straight to bed.

Sunday - had to be at the Post for a Celebration of Life for the partner of one of my pals. Overall it was a nice event. They had been together for 44 years, and that was a fact I had not known. Afterwards, I stayed and embarrassingly watched Washington lose to the Cowboys. Again, I was not feeling well most of today either, and when I got home I had made a couple decisions. Even though it has hardly over a week since the last one, I am scheduling a paracentesis for Wednesday/Thursday this week. The pressure is getting bad again, and faster this time. Over the last few days I have noticed how much thinner my arms and legs are - Wife says from the pills pulling water. I am starting to look like the old man I feel I am.

So tomorrow is a To-Do list day for me. Need to get the newer vehicle on the insurance. Set the paracentesis appointment. Work on the medical bills, pay what we are able at this time. Then it is on to the dreaded volunteer stuff that I need to get done. Riders meeting is Tuesday night, and I am pretty much prepared for it, but need to go through the agenda and make sure I have any additional info/papers for the Director so I will be able to keep him on track through the meeting. Otherwise, this guy will go off on tangents that have nothing to do with our purpose. Then it will be prepping the Agenda for the House Comm, which meets the first Tuesday of November. I also need to go through the Post events calendar, my calendar, Auxiliary calendars, to compile my file on events. I tag these on each meeting I Secretary for, and try to edit out events that don't pertain to a group particularly (i.e.. Rider stuff for Riders, etc.). This helps keep everyone informed of events going on at the Post, through the Post, what needs volunteers to help, and so on.

Sounds like a busy Monday. I was going to try to knock out some of the file stuff tonight, but I felt so bad when I got home, I stripped down and just laid on the bed, as it is the most comfortable position when there is this much abdominal pressure. I even told the Wife I was being lazy and avoiding doing stuff I know needs to be done. She told me it was okay. For some reason she has been worried about me lately. I mean, that I know of, I ain't dying tomorrow...well... that's not in my control anyways.

So start your week off well ... I'll be here "supposedly working".

PeacE

Waiting Around

 Whew, I wore myself out yesterday. I was yo at 6am, to get down to the Shamrock store to get the sausage links for the breakfast the Riders put on. From there to the Post, where I prepped by putting out cutlery, condiments, salt & pepper. I made sure there were napkins. I pulled out the serving utensils I figured would be needs, and placed near where the items would be cooked/served. Then I had to get the cashbox and the order pad. The other volunteers should up around 8:30, and stood around until 9am (when breakfast started) so there were a few people that had to wait while they got started. Overall it wasn't a bad morning, but due to lack of advertising, not many knew of it.

I pretty much sat there for two hours, taking monies as people ordered, but it wasn't that busy. Our Director showed up around 10:30 ( after being out of town camping for three days) and what is the first thing he does? No, not stop and say hi. Goes for the tip jar, starts counting money, then grabs the stack of orders completed to calculate how much money we made. He's really getting on my nerves. Then he has the gall to tell me, when we are done to bring him all the money. I flatly told him no, that I was in charge of things this morning, and I would take care of it. Why was he there anyways? He didn't even buy a breakfast! Then he tried to kiss my ass, by saying how much he appreciates all I have doing for the Riders. I just walked away from his fake platitudes, before I said something I would regret.

So I was a bit peeved by the time 11am rolled around. I put up the cashbox, and started putting things away. All the guys (the volunteers) had disappeared into the cantina since 10am as football was on. I had to constantly holler for them when someone bough a meal, so they could be served. Well, no one back there, I started cleaning up the kitchen. Did the dishes, wiped the counters, put up everything I could. I was down to one pan, that needed to soak a bit (cooked sausage on it) before I finally went and sat down. I told the other guys, they were to take care of the leftover foods (most were in crockpots they had brought anyways) and to clean the last pan. I was fatigued by this point. I hung out at the Post for the afternoon, as at 3pm, there was a birthday party I was going to at least say happy birthday for. I did, and by 4, I literally snuck out and went home. I was head-nodding and weary by the time I got home, my ankles and calves were swollen (from being on my feet so much during the day). In bed by 9:30p, and slept pretty good through the night.

Today I play the waiting game. The Gastro Doc should be calling me today for the referral sent over late Thursday, and scheduling my appointment. If not, I will be contacting my Dr.'s office to let them know. So I am just hanging at the house today, I guess.

PeacE

I Dislike Leadership With Bad Decisions

 Last night was our monthly VFW Riders Group meeting. Normally, I look forward to these, not only for the feedback, but because I am the Secretary and the positive feedback I get from members of how good my minutes, or agenda, or the calendar of events. But lately, our Director has started some "bad habits" that I do not like. The biggest one is paying receipts (especially his) from proceeds gained from things like our monthly dinners, etc. His complaint is that it takes the Quartermaster too long to reimburse him, citing it takes over a month (not true) and it is just easier and faster this way. Sounds way to shady for me, as no one sees the receipts he is claiming, so how do we know he isn't taking more? The second issue I had, was brought up at the meeting last night. Director wants to do a couple raffles, each for a handgun, and have the drawing in mid-December. Sounds fine, right? Well, he wants to buy the guns out of pocket (instead of from our account) and reimburse him the cost(s) from the proceeds of the raffles, as ticket sales come in.

Tonight, I decided I wasn't going to stand for it.

Tonight we had our Quarterly Post/Auxiliary meeting, where we basically go over our calendar of events, and give status reports for some of them, or additional information that has been brought up. Our Post Commander was there tonight (he is also the Treasurer for our Riders chapter, but do to Commander duties, is not able to make every meeting). After the meeting, I sat with him and explained I had some contention about the actions of the Riders Director. I explained the self-reimbursement from proceeds. Big no-no. As a non-profit entity (the VFW) when proceeds are collected, they need to be recorded for audit, then the reimbursements are dispersed by the Quartermaster. So the Commander was not happy. Then I brought up the issue about the raffles for the handguns. Another big no-no. We, as the Riders, Post, or Auxiliary, should never have possession of a fireman we are raffling off. Proper procedure is to place it on lay-away at whatever gun shop, use some of the raffle proceeds to make payments on it, excluding the final $1.00. Thus, the gun shop has the gun. When drawing, three tickets are drawn. the first draw is the winner, who will at agreed time, meet with our delegate at the gun shop, do their background check, and if passes, we pay the final $1, they go home with the weapon. If they don't pass, then the second ticket drawn gets to repeat the same process. We are never in possession of the weapon. Our Riders Director wants to do some kind of electronic raffle draw (online) and reimburse his own pocket, as well as have possession of the weapons.

The Commander told me "I will take care of speaking to him", and I was relieved. I am sure my name will not be mentioned but I know the Director will still find out it was me. Why? Because I completed our minutes from last night's meeting tonight, and sent to him for approval, or any corrections, prior to sending to the group. Regarding the gun raffles, I phrased it we are still looking into information about doing the raffle "as the VFWRG should not be in possession of said weapon at any point during the raffle". I am sure he is smart enough to put it together. Oh well. What he is doing goes against Rider bylaws, Post bylaws, and frankly, is just shady as all get out.

The next couple of weeks shall be interesting.

Tomorrow I have my appointment with my PCP, to catch her up on the hospital visit/stay, and was able to print off many of the reports from the hospital for her to 'add to my file'. I am not sure she will change anything at this point, as I have the Kidney specialist next Thursday. Shall be interesting. Friday I have nothing on my calendar (thank goodness). Saturday I am at the Post helping with Inventory (done monthly). Sunday the Riders are providing breakfast 9-noon, so I will be there to help with that.

Some days, I feel I am just too involved at the Post. But, at least now it gives me a better outlet than just going to the bar (though they have a canteen - and cheaper prices). And, I feel better being involved in helping reach out to the communities through events the Aux and Post put on.

Alright, it is late, and I need to get to bed to try to get some sleep (hopefully). Doctor at the hospital told me to stop taking the edibles I use to relax and sleep, at least until I see the specialists and find out what they think. Also, I'm getting tired of water - even with the electrolyte flavor packs RM gave me. Worse, being told to limit my water intake as much as possible (goal was under 1500mL - 50oz per day).

PeacE