Orange Cake

Back when my husband was a boy, his mother made what she called an orange cake. It is a pound type cake with nuts and raisins and then a glaze made with sugar and orange juice is poured over the hot cake and allowed to soak in.

Unfortunately, according to my husband, it only turned out just right ONE time. If the syrup is cooked too long, it does not soak all the way into the cake, leaving much of the cake very dry and crumbly.

After an experiment using (shudder) BOXED pound cake mix by my sister-in-law over Thanksgiving, I decided that I was going to attempt this legendary cake. I started out by putting out a query on a cooking forum about cooking the syrup. I bought the best ingredients, said a little prayer, and set to work.

I am calling it a belated Christmas miracle! The syrup soaked all the way through the cake, leaving it moist and delicious.

I just hope this is not a one-time event for me too!

He's BACK!

Apparently, there was quite an outcry from other distressed Pokey owners (besides me!) and we were given our original puppies back. At last count, 152 Pokey owners had written in to thank the creators for restoring our "babies."

I don't feel quite so daft now.

Just happy!

Smokey

Smokey was a chocolate lab puppy with the most adorable face. I fed, watered, petted, and played with him every day. He would turn over and let me rub his tummy wriggling with pleasure.

This week, Smokey changed. His face was no longer adorable. He wouldn't let me rub his tummy anymore. I was warned that if I did not feed and water him, he would be taken away from me.

Smokey was my Facebook "cyber-pet." Now known as a FooPet.

I know! It sounds ridiculous that I should get so attached to something that was not "real." But, since my husband refused to get another dog after my beloved Duffy died years ago, I just enjoyed playing with my Smokey.

I tried to get used to this new dog who claimed to be my Smokey. The one who liked to chew up shoes, especially high heels. The one I had had since March. But I just could not get used to this thing that was trying to take the place of MY puppy.

So, with a heavy heart, I went to my applications list, found the FooPets entry and clicked delete.

RIP Smokey. I miss you.

Stealing

A damper was put on Christmas Eve this year when I was warned to put my purse somewhere safe and out of sight before other guests arrived. I was told that one of the guests (a regular visitor to this home) had been suspected of stealing money from the hostess for some time, and had stolen a large amount from her earlier in the week.

So, we found ourselves in the position of having to watch our belongings and put our Christmas money out of sight during what should have been a carefree and enjoyable time. The entire color of the evening was changed, because of one person and her need to take what does not belong to her.

I don't understand stealing. I really don't. There is nothing I want bad enough to steal. I find no thrill in it. I don't think I am "entitled" to it. My conscience would bother me forever. But, some folks can steal without a second thought. They simply can't tell right from wrong. Or, they don't care.

Sad.

A Moment of Sad

I thought that I might escape it this year. That day or so of melancholy that comes over me every year at Christmas. It is nothing serious, but it comes every year, just like clockwork.

I know that at the forefront of this is the fact that I still miss my mom. She will have been gone 18 years this Christmas, but I still miss her. I probably always will.

I know, also, not to have too many expectations for Christmas. My DH does not like the holiday and is not going to do something romantic or spontaneous. My dad is going to be a grump. My sister is going to be so tired that she gets snappish. But, every year, a tiny part of me wishes for the whole Norman Rockwell happy holiday bit, even though I know that this is a total myth!

But, I will go do the Christmas Eve thing tomorrow. I will be thankful that my family is alive and well this holiday. It will not be as bad as I fear. And then I will take off to St. Alban's Episcopal Church to sing for the Christmas Eve service. A lot of my Christmas Spirit will come then, singing in this beautiful church and hearing the Christmas Story read.

And Christmas Day is always lovely. My sister's mother-in-law will have everyone over for a potluck lunch. Everything is laid back and everyone feels equally welcome. This is the precious woman who decided with my mom long ago not to make the family have to choose between them every holiday. They would have everyone at Thanksgiving at one house and Christmas at the others house. It is a tradition that works well and has been a blessing.

Of course I have my list of Christmas miracle wishes. I wish for my brother to come back to family gatherings and learn to at least tolerate my sweet stepmom. I wish for my sister to stop and smell the roses a bit more. I wish for better years for my friends who had hard times this year.

I believe in Christmas.

I believe in miracles.

Who knows?

Wardrobe

Holiday dressing is a challenge in Mississippi. I never know from one day to the next what type of clothing I will require. Yesterday, I went to get gas in my car in shorts and sandals. Today, I am in velveteen and still chilly. People talk about putting their summer clothes away, but in Mississippi, that is not really feasible.

Trying to figure out a party/event wardrobe can be especially difficult. Holiday clothing pretty much consists of sweaters, velvet, turtlenecks, etc. So what does one WEAR when 75 degree weather on the day of the party makes that cute sweater totally unwearable? Someone would make a fortune down here designing a line of clothing that looks Christmasy, but can be worn when it is just plain hot.

Maybe that is my future calling?

Catfish!

Today I got to expand my soft diet to include a bit of fish. Catfish, that is. It was like Heaven to my taste buds as I took teeny, tiny bites of my fillet and a lovely change of pace from Rice Crispies, mashed potatoes, and Jello.

To many Southerners, farm raised catfish is a direct gift from God. I count myself among this number. To paraphrase Ben Franklin, CATFISH is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.

I'm happy.

:)

Diet

Today is week 2 of a mostly liquid diet. I am on it while my stomach heals from being wrapped around my esophagus. I have to admit, it is already getting old.

I am beginning to understand why so many of those commercial liquid diets fail. Yes, you get full, but there is just no satisfaction in the process. I am already looking forward to the day when I get to CHEW something again!

On the bright side, this is one holiday season that won't involve a weight gain!

:)

Amazed!

As I write this, I am three days post op. I have been out of the hospital since Wednesday and have done so well that I am still amazed.

In the past, most of my surgeries have had complications. Some of these were due to poor hospital care and some just due to anesthesia, luck of the draw, etc. This time, other than the usual difficulty getting my oxygen saturation to proper levels after surgery, I have done well.

I know that all the good thoughts and prayers going up for me have made the difference. As has the excellent care I received from Dr. Petro and the Mississippi Baptist Medical Center nursing staff.

Healing is going to take awhile. I am limited to liquids. I am tired and a bit sore.

But mostly...

Amazed.

Surgery

Tuesday, I am having fundoplication surgery. This is a fancy name for having the top of my stomach wrapped around my esophagus in order to cure my GERD.

I have to admit that I am a little nervous. I have not been put under to this extent since being diagnosed with MG. Myasthenics tend to have trouble breathing when sedated, so things can be a bit more complicated than they are for the average patient. However, I would not be doing this if I did not have faith in God and the doctor.

I am praying that this surgery will eliminate the chest pain, indigestion, and diet limitations that have been my constant companions for years. The thought of eating half a grapefruit without pain makes my mouth water in anticipation.

Wonder if I can wrangle a trip to Florida to get some?

Hmmmmmm.

Carols and Kisses

One of my favorite Christmas traditions each year is when I take a huge bag of Hershey's kisses over to my favorite nursing home, get on my scooter, and ride down the halls singing carols and passing out chocolate. Everyone who is able to eat it gets chocolate or a sugar free peppermint patty. Many residents can't peel their kisses, so I unwrap them and gently guide these tiny treasures to eager mouths. I love to see the look of enjoyment on the faces of those who can no longer express themselves in words. The smiles and the eyes say what their tongues can't. If the resident can no longer eat solid food, then he or she gets a "real" kiss.

As for the carols, I never cease to be amazed that even the Alzheimer's patients can sit and sing every word to Jingle Bells or Silent Night even when they no longer know their own names. And some residents will continue to sing, even when I have gone on to the next hall. I can't help but smile when they just keep on singing.

And when I leave, my heart is full of smiles and songs.

And maybe a kiss.

Or two.

Over

It has been a lovely week, but I am glad it is over!

My husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. My mother gave it 6 months. There have been struggles at times, but we went into marriage knowing that we shared core values and that we were committed to making it work.

Most of my husband's family came for the holiday. I really do enjoy my in-laws. They have always treated me more like "blood kin" than an "outlaw" and for that I am grateful.

We celebrated a niece's 7th birthday, complete with cake, balloons, and presents.

Other than that, we watched football, ate too much pie, and played Scrabble and Dominoes. Another typical Thanksgiving.

And for that, I am thankful.

Thanksgiving

I usually look forward to Thanksgiving. I love good cornbread dressing more than most anything on the planet. I love that my husband's family comes in from out of town and I get to enjoy them. I love pecan pie. I love the relative lack of commercialism.

I usually eat with my husband's family, but this year, since he is working on Thanksgiving, I am eating with my family instead. I am already beginning to think this is a mistake. My dad starts with his "maybe not up to doing Thanksgiving this year" stuff. But, when we offer to have it somewhere else, he insists on hosting. Then, despite the fact that each attendee is bringing at least one dish and offer to prepare more, he insists on making the most labor intensive dishes himself.

He reminds me of that Rice Crispie marshmallow treat commercial where the woman dusts flour on herself and comes out with her hand on her forehead trying to look like a martyr.

Next year, I'm having pizza. At home. Alone.

Twilight

Looking for something easy to read while trying to get things in order for the next couple of weeks, I picked up this book. My surly bookseller friend had read it and given it a favorable review. My young neighbor, Sam, had expressed an interest in it as well, so I thought I would get it and pass it on to her when I finished.

Well, today, she came up, saw my copy of "Twilight" on the table and immediately declared that she wanted it. I am not through reading it, but I downloaded a second copy from e-reader and gave her my hard copy. She declares that she does not like to read. However, she is now sprawled out on my couch devouring this book.

I am tiptoeing around her.

I don't want to break the spell...

Nuts

It is 56 degrees and raining. I am warm and dry in my snug little house. My husband, however, is in a tent at Natchez State Park. He went camping knowing that rain was a distinct probability.

He has an honor society membership and a Bachelor's degree. Those would indicate a certain degree of smarts. But, obviously, he is not quite smart enough to come in out of the rain...

Good Game!

Well, not unexpectedly, my young LSU team went down to #1 ranked Alabama. But they put up one heck of a fight and made me proud.

Just wait till next year!!!

Football!

Tomorrow my beloved LSU Tigers will play #1 ranked Alabama. It is going to be tough for my Tigers. They are in rebuilding mode and are playing with three very young, very inexperienced quarterbacks. What success they have had this season has been accomplished by pride and a degree of luck.

But, one of the things I love about SEC football is that, literally, ANYTHING can happen on any given Saturday. So, though the odds are against them, I believe my Tigers can pull off the upset!

GEAUX TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stay tuned...

Daddy

I had a rare treat going to the family reunion yesterday. Some "one on one" time with my Daddy. Don't get me wrong. I am crazy about my sweet stepmom, but sometimes it is nice to have Daddy to myself. I imagine a lot of daughters feel the same way.

Coming back from the reunion, we stopped in Hazlehurst to visit the cemetery and put flowers on the graves of my mother and my grandparents. We passed by the house where Daddy was born, the church where he and my Mama were married, and the house where his parents had lived. He told me about working at a local diner for $2.00 a day when he was a teenager and of his mother threatening some chicken thieves with a shotgun. I have trouble reconciling this image with my memories of my sweet, gentle Mamaw, but I would love to have seen her brandishing her shotgun and yelling at the men who would try to take HER chickens!

"God gave us memory that we might have roses in December."
JM Barrie

I had mine a little early.

Reunion

Today I headed down to Kentwood, Louisiana for the annual "Blades" family reunion. My mother's mother was a Blades and she had a boatload of brothers and sisters. At one time my mother had 51 first cousins.

My grandmother used to take me down to Kentwood in the summertime when I was a child. We stayed with my favorite great aunt, Emma Lee and I had cousins in abundance to play with. This city gal got to see what country life was like, helping herd cows from one pasture to another, picking butterbeans, and fishing in one of the many ponds.

It is a rare treat to return to Kentwood and talk with the people who remembered my mama. Pretty and vivacious, this only child would come from Mississippi and enjoy the companionship of her many cousins. From what I have been told, she was quite the ringleader of a number of escapades. I am told I favor her in looks and personality. I consider that an honor.

So, when I get that invitation next year, I will do my best to go back to Kentwood.

And my family.

Beautiful Things

This week, I have more than 3!

1. The relief in my dad's voice when he found out he did not have any new cancer.
2. The promise of relief from reflux pain.
3. Sam's improved science grade.
4. Getting to see my husband now that the plant shutdown is over.
5. A lovely trip to Natchez on Wednesday, complete with pie!
6. Beautiful weather for the past 2 days.

And for all these, I am truly thankful!

Crash

Nope, not a computer. Just me.

Last week I overdid (for me) and I am paying for it this week. Every time I start thinking I might could go back to at least part-time work, I seem to get a reminder from the MG monster. This one came with an "asthma flares up in cooler weather" addendum.

For my next trick, I am going to get a shower and get dressed.

Ta dah!

Cool?

I have been awarded a high honor by Sam's 11 year old cousin. After watching me send a text message to Sam, he looked astounded and told me that I texted faster than anyone he knew over...like...TWENTY!

I guess this old gal still has it.

:P

Tech Support

When I bought my first computer about 10 years ago, I had no idea that I would someday become the family tech support person. I was the one calling Sharon, Vik, and Chip with my barrage of questions. I never pictured myself actually being able to ANSWER any!

This past couple of weeks I have found myself setting up two new computers and switching another to DSL for friends and relatives. It has actually been fun for the most part, except for the 2 1/2 hour call to AT&T tech support. I like solving problems. The only problem is, I have a hard time giving up until the problems are SOLVED. This can make sleep difficult if potential solutions are rolling around in my brain at bedtime. I am tired.

For the moment, I think I have everyone squared away.

I hope.

Celebration

Today we celebrated the life of my friend Virginia. And it truly was a celebration. The funeral home chapel was packed and people were spilling out into the halls. Her favorite scriptures were read (many of which are mine also) and her favorite songs were played and sung by her minister. Stories were told and tears were shed. It was so obvious that Virginia's life had made a difference.

I saw many mutual friends there. One is a guy everyone calls "BB." This sweet gentleman has had some health problems and when I asked him about them today, he replied that the only thing that was hurting today was his heart.

I think he spoke for all of us.

Aunt Viola

Aunt Viola was actually my husband's great aunt, but she made me feel like I was "hers." She was a "maiden lady" who spent her life in the mission field teaching English to children in Mexico and telling them about her Jesus.

I met Aunt Viola about 6 years ago when she came to be a resident of the nursing home that I was doing some work for. She was a gentle soul who was more interested in asking about how YOU were than reciting a litany of aches and pains. Although advanced in age, until a very short time ago, her mind was quite sharp.

Aunt Viola passed away this week. I will miss her. But I know that she is ecstatic to finally see "her" Jesus face to face.

And I am happy for her.

Rest in Peace, Virginia. I will miss you.

Norton

I have to say it. I hate this anti-virus program with a passion. It is kinda like the "Borg". "Resistance is futile. Your computer will be assimilated!"

Today, while my friend Sharon and I were trying to hook up my father-in-law's DSL, we got to the part where they wanted us to disable the anti-virus program. We clicked links, opened Windows, and gnashed our teeth for over an hour. There was NO place to DISABLE the stupid program!

After an unsuccessful attempt to call at&t tech support and 1-800-CALL-VIK did not answer, I called my friend Teresa, who hates Norton as much as I do. There was computer support guy near her cubicle who answered our exhausted plea for help. After some convoluted gyrations we finally disabled Norton, and finished the basic DSL installation. It had taken us over three hours to do what we should have been able to do in one.

Norton is evil and must be destroyed.

Just sayin'

49

Yep, today is my birthday. I remember when I thought 49 ws one step away from the crypt. :P

Quite honestly, there was a time when I did not think I would live to see 49. Before I was able to get my illnesses diagnosed and treated, I was a frequent flyer on the ambulance/emergency room circuit. The local ambulance crew could remember the last time and place they had picked me up and ER's in 3 counties knew who I was. :P

So I always take a moment on my birthday to think of sweet Dr. Kliesch (rhymes with fish) and his part in getting me the diagnoses and treatments that allowed me to regain a better quality of life. Not to mention giving me a chance at some more quantity as well!

I woke up on this side of the dirt.

It is a good day!

Video Camera

I have been looking at this little video camera for months. It is called the "Flip" and is very lightweight and suitable for taking casual videos. I have resisted purchasing it, because I was not sure I would really use it and I did not feel like I had the money to spare. Sometimes I think I am the only person on the planet never to have owned a camcorder!

I moved it up to my serious wish list when my dad mentioned wanting to videotape himself talking about his growing up years and how he met and married my mother.

I received a lovely, unexpected monetary birthday gift from my sister-in-law this afternoon. I called up Amazon.com and was looking at the Flip and trying to decide if I really needed to spend the money on that or something more practical.

In the midst of my dithering, I received an e-mail from an online friend who just lost her father tonight.

I pressed the "buy now" button. I don't think I will regret it.

SOLD!

This afternoon I finally sold my first little red scooter. I was riding mine in Wal-Mart last week and this lady asked about it. I told her that I had one that was similar at home that I was trying to sell. This lady has rheumatiod arthritis and, like me, can't walk long distances. So, I gave her my phone number and invited her to call me if she decided she wanted to see the scooter.

This afternoon, she and her husband came to take a look. I told her to take it for a test spin in my driveway. This lady was like a kid in a candy store! Pretty soon she had taken it from "turtle" to "rabbit" and was making circles around my yard. It was fun for me just watching her. She called it a "bad boy" and declared that she wanted it!

So, we loaded it into the back of her van and she took off. I was hoping that I could find someone who would really use and enjoy my little red scooter.

I think she will. :)

Concerned

My young friend was over tonight. She was in tears over grades, and other teenage troubles. This kid had survived traumatic head injury and cancer by the time she was 9. She is tough. I don't think I have ever seen her cry before. She says she is tired of feeling sad all the time.

But right now, she can't find that toughness. She deals with impossible choices. ADHD meds improve school performance, but have frightening side effects for her. She does not have the kind of structure in her life that enables her to manage without meds. I do what I can, but I have no real authority. The people who do have authority are preoccupied and inconsistent. Although she might not always want to admit it, this kid craves consistency.

I try to be that consistency.

But, is it enough?

Cancer, again.

Today I went by to pick up one of my prayer shawl friends who has recently been in the hospital with pneumonia. She e-mailed the group that she felt too shaky to drive yet, so I offered to pick her up as she lives quite nearby.

When I asked her how she was feeling, tears welled up in her eyes. The cancer that was confined to the liver has now spread to her lungs. She is taking chemo for pain control, but there is nothing that can be done for her beyond that. She does not know if she has weeks or months and does not want to know. She says that nobody but God knows when her time will be and she will leave it at that.

So, I pray for peace for her and peace for those of us who will miss her when God calls her home.

Whenever that shall be.

Cubs

FAIL :(

Another Saturday Night

And I am by myself. Again.

The husband is working the shutdown at his plant and I have had several options as to what to do tonight.

1. Watch Auburn lose.
2. Watch Oregon lose.
3. Watch the Cubs probably lose.

Of course, my beloved LSU Tigers did not play.

I think I need a life.

A Little Rusty

Who would have thought it? After all this time of not really singing much, one would think I would be dying to sing my heart out. But, I am actually having to remind myself that it is OK to sing now. I still feel cautious and uncertain.

So, for now, I am singing along with the radio and CD's trying to get the feeling of really letting go again. Early Ella Fitzgerald works well for this. I got to singing along with "But Not For Me", "Black Coffee", and "Embraceable You" this morning.

Just have to get my confidence back.

Yipeeeeee!

My checkup went well! Vocal cords have healed and I can sing again in in moderation. I have to take it easy for a while yet, but I can sing the anthem for the Sunday service, an occasional solo, etc.

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers sent up on my behalf.

Cord Check

Tomorrow I go back to the doc for another check of my vocal cords to see if the nodules have completely healed. I am trying not get too excited. He did not promise me that I would be able to sing in October, but was hopeful. If I am able to sing, there will be some restrictions for a longer period of time.

It has been an interesting time being a "non-singer." At first, the loss of such a large part of my identity scared me. I could not picture being "me" without a voice. But, I have managed and had time to do some other things and found blessings in them as well.

That does not stop me from praying and asking for prayers for the return of my singing voice.

Till tomorrow...

On the Money!

If anyone is interested in how OCD affects thinking, this lady has it right on the money.

It is not usually as bad for me when on meds, but the essence is there. The name of the post is "Christmas in March."

http://ocdliveshere.blogspot.com/

Hammer Time!

The friend I call CloudSharon just gave me my birthday gift early. She said I might need it before my birthday, which is October 12. I just have to remember not to throw IT at the TV!

I can imagine some of the pictures I am going to stage with my hammer already. I am not going to share these as I want them to be fresh for people as situations arise throughout the rest of football season. You probably know who you are already. ;)

My lovely LSU hammer will make a welcome addition to my LSU beer stein, rug, Tiger ears, T-shirts, hats, and stuffed tigers.

Geaux TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Don't Touch That Dial

I really have changed the template for my blog. Do not adjust your television sets.

Challenge

Yesterday, I signed on for a Weight Watcher challenge with my online buddies. It is pretty straightforward. Stay within POINTS and journal. A friend is taking on my exercise component because of the counterproductive nature of trying to exercise with MG.

Through a discussion with the man who did my stomach testing last week, I realize that the constant sipping and nibbling I tend to do actually play a part in reducing reflux pain. I am hoping to get some answers this week, and hopefully a treatment that is more effective in keeping the pain under control. Trying not to "medicate" the pain is Challenge Hurdle #1.

Prednisone is Challenge Hurdle #2. I am on double the amount I have been on during past challenges. It greatly improves the quality of my life, but causes me to want to eat. My dosage is not huge, but I can tell the difference in my appetite with the increase.

Challenge Hurdle #3 is OCD. I have been getting bad lately about nibbling at night in an attempt to calm my intrusive thoughts. The worst of my symptoms are under control with two medications, but I still have periods of "breakthrough" symptoms that I doubt will ever totally go away. Medicine pretty much keeps my relatively mild OCD behaviors under control. The thoughts are another story. I have never attempted a challenge when I am having this much OCD trouble, but I need to try.

Despite the hurdles, I am going to give this challenge my best shot. A combination of the aforementioned and a lovely vacation have left me unable to fit into much of my wardrobe. And, with the holidays coming, it is just going to get worse.

Bring it on!

Click

Just like that, the nasty, intrusive thoughts have stopped. At least for a while. What baffles me is that I don't necessarily DO anything. They just go away. It's kind of like flipping a light switch. It is different from worry, but hard to explain how. It is easy to "justify" worry. There is no justification for barrages of thoughts that make no real sense and are not rational.

But, for now, my head is "silent."

And I am savoring the silence.

OCD

**************Angsty Post Alert************** :P

OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It is an anxiety disorder that, for me, primarily manifests in intrusive thoughts more than compulsive behaviors, although I do struggle with some of those too. I was diagnosed with OCD in 1993, but I know that I have had it all my life. Anti-depressants can help OCD symptoms, but nothing totally eradicates them. Therapy also helps, but again, does not make OCD "go away."

The intrusive thought component of OCD can make a chance remark assume larger than life proportions. Like a snowball, it grows larger and larger until it takes up much more space in my mind than it deserves. I try to use my skills at disputing irrational thoughts and sometimes it works. But, other times, OCD is stronger than I am and it wins for a while. Compulsive behaviors, like overeating, can calm the voices for a while, but those create their own problems and are no solution.

I love Fall. Fall brings my birthday, my anniversary, and my second favorite (to Easter) holiday, Thanksgiving. But, for some reason, it seems to intensify my OCD as well. Fighting it just exhausts me, both physically and mentally. To coin a phrase, it drives me nuts! :P

Karen vs. OCD.

I plan to win.

13

Drama Queen.

Finally!

Bill and I have been trying for several years to get Sam to let us help her study. Bill has tons of patience when it comes to teaching people. Heck, HE was the one who finally taught ME to drive! And I can make studying almost anything fun, putting things to rhythms and tunes so that they can be remembered more easily.

But Sam had always resisted this until last night. She is failing pre-algebra and finally brought her book up here. Now, I am no math whiz, but I figured I could help her learn her properties. We put these things to a beat and she was hooked. Only time will tell if any of this worked, but it was worth a try.

Horoscope

I don't usually take much stock in these things, but today's caught my eye. I am a Libra, BTW. Don't everyone say "I have been telling you this for years" at once. :P


Instead of thinking about everyone else's needs, put yourself first for a change. This is not about being unconsciously selfish. It's about acknowledging that love of others begins with developing your self-esteem. If you don't take adequate care of yourself, then you won't have very much to give anyone else.

Testing 123 (again)

I went to Jackson this morning for my stomach tests. Over the phone, I have to admit that they did not sound that bad.

I get to the office and Paxton (from Braxton) calls me back. I was in the middle of my cellphone Scrabble game, but I groggily got up and followed him to his little room. I was groggy because I could not have my customary Diet Coke this morning. I am not a fun person in the morning without my Diet Coke.

Paxton is a respiratory therapist who performs these tests. After some small talk about our respective vacations, he got down to the nitty gritty. The first test was not so bad. It involved having a small tube put in my nose and slowly lowered to my stomach as I took sips of water. I did my relaxation breathing. Not pleasant, but tolerable. Paxton kept up a steady stream of encouragement.

The second test was not fun. I have to admit, I am a nausea wuss. I hate being queasy worse than most anything. When Paxton showed me the thing (called "the introducer!") that was going to put a little camera in my esophagus, I almost said "no thanks!" But, I let him spray the yukky stuff in my throat and proceed. All his encouragement did not make this one any better, but we managed to get the camera in position.

Then Paxton hands me a $7,000.00 box that has buttons to press for (1) heartburn, (2) regurgitation, and (3) chest pain. Press the appropriate button at the appropriate time. I can do this. The bigger pain is the diary. I have to write down every time I eat, when I start and when I finish. This includes drinking. I also have to write down every time I lie down. There are not enough slots to write an average day of many small meals for me, and I am embarrassed at the thought of having to write on the back, so that will discourage me from eating unless I am really hungry.

Of course, by now I am 5 days without my stomach meds, facing 2 more, so the chest pain button is being hit pretty hard. I am not allowed to sip a drink, chew gum, or suck on cough drops. Apparently this camera is not quite sophisitcated enough to tell what is going down and what is coming up!

But, all this accomplishes it's mission, I may be able to get some lasting relief for this reflux. And it will be worth it.

Shoes

Nope, not cute new shoes for me. I just got through buying basketball shoes for Sam. She has been invited to be on the Junior Varsity basketball team at her school.

Why am I purchasing basketball shoes for a kid who does not even "officially" belong to me? Because I feel like this is an investment in her future. Studies have shown that girls who play sports tend to make better grades and are more likely to graduate than girls who don't. It is also well known that physical exercise helps keep depression at bay. The structure and discipline of being on a sports team can help girls learn skills that are valuable in the working world as well.

Even if basketball ends up not being Sam's sport, making sure she has this opportunity is worth the investment.

AC

Yep, that stands for Air Conditioning. And ours broke down today, one day shy of the first day of Autumn and six weeks after the warranty expired. The man who sold it to us died (young) a couple of years back and no one else will come out on a weekend without charging an exorbitant fee.

Fortunately, it is only in the mid 80's right now and I can tolerate that if I keep the clothing to a minimum, drink a lot of fluids, and stay relatively still.

If LSU can beat Auburn, I probably won't really care how hot it is.

Geaux Tigers!!!

Antacids

The problem is, I can't have ANY for the next 3 1/2 days. I have been off my Protonix for 2 days already.

This is all in preparation for a couple of really fun sounding (insert sarcasm here) tests next Tuesday to try to determine why I have persistent reflux despite double doses of stomach meds, eating TUMS, and taking OTC Zantac as well. I have modified my diet and bought a bed wedge to sleep on. The head of my bed is elevated. I have drastically reduced my consumption of Diet Coke.

But, I still have reflux. And I have had it since I was in college. By my calculations, that is 30 years.

I guess I need to get DH to hide the TUMS bottles from me so I don't accidentally slip up and grab for them by pure reflex. Just have to remember to get them all. They are in my bedroom, the living room, the kitchen, and even in the van. I feel like a TUMS-a-holic.

Is there 12 step program for this?

Denied

I just got my notice. I have been denied life insurance due to my admitted history of myasthenia gravis and asthma. I was not really surprised. There are a lot of misconceptions about both diseases. In reality, neither of these is liable to shorten what should be my natural life span.

I am keeping the letter. I figure I will send it back to the company in 30 years.

With a raspberry.

Fall

No, Fall does not officially begin until next Monday. However, Mississippi has been blessed with lovely Fall-like temps for the last few days. Highs in the 70's and lows in the 50's are my idea of bliss.

It has been lovely enough for me and my friend Sam to sit on the front stoop and chat in the afternoons when she gets home from school. Cool enough to open my windows and let in the breeze blow through my house. And when the weather is like this, I feel my best, and that is a treat.

Temperatures are supposed to be on the rise again this weekend, but I have had my respite.

And I am thankful.

Christmas Cards

OK, I KNOW it is early to be thinking about this. But, I normally hand make between 50 and 75 Christmas Cards every year, so I have to start now if I am going to get it done. I love sending Christmas cards. They are one of the highlights of my season.

The only problem is, this year, I can't come up with an idea that I like. I have put several things together, but they just don't "do" it for me. I have to wonder if maybe it is time to just find nice, store-bought cards. Or possibly send a Thanksgiving or New Year's card instead. Or, (and I can't imagine doing this) stop sending Christmas cards altogether.

I still have some time to come up with an idea.

But it needs to happen SOON.

Wrap Up and Outtakes

Our trip went more smoothly than we ever dreamed it would. Except for getting turned around in Seattle trying to return the car and some flight delays, there were no problems. And those were very minor.

Bill got this great pic of Mount Rainier from the plane window on the flight out of Sea-Tac.






There was a "flamingo moment" in the airport near our departure gate. (Look closely at the top right-hand corner.)








My Mt. Vernon friend had the coolest toenails in town.







And did a dandy "Sampson" impression with the aid of a couple of totem poles.








I saw that my husband's sense of humor is still intact.
(The pseudo-earthquake was not THAT bad!)





And after 25 years, we still want to hold hands.





Priceless.

Day 6: Seattle

Bill and I spent our last day of vacation in Seattle. Since we only had one day, we concentrated on City Center and the Space Needle. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair and is one of most unique landmarks in the Pacific Northwest.










After the Space Needle, we found Mecca for Sci-Fi Fans in the Science Fiction Museum & Hall of Fame!


Shhh, don't tell the picture police,
but we had to sneak a few shots.

Yep, this is Uhura's uniform from the original "Star Trek" series!






And do you recognize these guys behind me? Warning: you are dating yourself if you do!



The day ended perfectly visiting with a Seattle area friend. She brought me a sackful of lovely PANK Seattle themed goodies, including an umbrella that I never needed! The item she is clutching is a tin a Mississippi Cheese straws. I wonder if she shared these with her family?

Day 5: La Conner

Actually, Day 5 started out in Burlington, Washington at the rockin' church of our Mt. Vernon friends. It was a bit different than what I am used to, but I have to say, I really enjoyed it. One of the highlights was singing along on a hymn chorus for the first time in months. I had been given permission for occasional, light vocalizing and I think the voice is finally back. No major singing till I see the doc in October, but this was a start. :) This worship service truly was one of the highlights of my trip.

Then we headed over to the quaint little town of La Conner, to rummage around cute shops and find good eats.
Situated on the delta near the mouth of the Skagit River, La Conner was founded in the early 1860's and is Skagit County's oldest community. I loved the artwork on the walls of this brewpub (yes, another one!).

In addition to numerous photo ops, we saw a "smart car" close up for the first time. These neat little vehicles would be great for those like me who have fits parallel parking. I was also able to show off my scooter to a man and his wife who were considering purchasing one just like it.


The bronze statue in this picture is of "Dirty Biter" a pup who was the town pet for a number of years. He had his own barstool in his favorite pub and his own place on the dance floor and would just go home with anyone he chose to in the evening. Sounds like some people I knew in college.

We went back to steak and fresh picked grilled corn for supper, again prepared by our Mt. Vernon hostess. And for dessert, with a nod to our favorite gal from Kansas, we had PIE!

Day 4: O Canada!

On Saturday, our friends from Mount Vernon took us into Vancouver, Canada, the land of kilometers and misspelled words. ;P It is also the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

After passing through customs, where Bill and I got to show off our renewed passports, we headed to a neat little marketplace. One of the first things I found was a booth filled with lovely jewelry and I stopped to pick up some gifts for folks back home. Next to it was a stand filled with produce so beautiful that I almost wept at not being able to take any back to the states with me. Even Bill was impressed and promptly found a stall selling cut-up fruit and loaded up a bowl with enough for us all to sample. I never thought I would want to fight for fruit, but this was that good!

After a delicious lunch and some photo opportunities (see below) we took off for a lovely spot called Stanley Park.


Stanley Park is a huge park that includes beaches, hiking and biking trails, and totem poles. It was a chilly day, but that did not stop people from
being on the beach. Brrrrrrrrrrr!




















Altogether a lovely day in a lovely country.

Day 3: Headed North

.


Day 3 found us at the AmTrak Station ready to take the Cascades train to Seattle, where we would rent a car and drive to Mount Vernon.

To my delight, trains have changed for the better since my last trip on one 20 years ago. An adorable Redcap in a uniform that had me thinking he was going to burst into a chorus of "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" any moment, helped me get my red scooter on the train. We had real conductors in spiffy uniforms and everything!

The scenery on the trip was lovely and we got much more of a feel for this part of the trip than we would have from interstate (excuse me, FREEWAY) driving!

After our arrival in Seattle, Bill and I got our red Enterprise Rent-a-Car (the match to my scooter was a happy coincidence!) and headed to Mount Vernon where the spoiling began.

My friend in Mount Vernon had put on a spread that was worthy of the South (and that is high praise indeed.) We met her sweet DH and the adorable father-in-law that she is always talking about. I want to be Mr. Bill when I grow up!

We talked about everything from trains to planes and made plans for the following day when we would go on our first ever trip into Canada

Portland Day 2

On our second day in the Portland area, Bill and I arranged for a tour of the Columbia River Gorge area with E & E tours. We were promised beautiful waterfalls and spectacular scenery.

We were not disappointed.

Our tour guide, Mr. Ellis, was a walking encyclopedia on all things Oregon. Who knew that most potatoes are now grown in Oregon?

We visited several waterfalls. The one in the picture above is called "Horsetail." The highest was Multnomah, the tallest "year round" waterfall in the US. As you can see in the pic, it comes down in two stages.


Vista House at Crown Point is one of the most photographed sites along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Not hard to see why!

Portland Day 1

As promised, the travelogue begins!

Gustav cooperated and the planes were flying out of Jackson again the day after Labor Day, so we were able to be off to the great Pacific Northwest.

Thanks to my snazzy new red scooter, I was able to be mobile in the airports for the first time in many years. I had a great time zooming around the concourses during layovers between flights. Thanks to my friend Mel, for suggesting I gate check my wheels!

We checked into the 101 year old Mark Spencer Hotel in the heart of Portland's Pearl District, where the friendly staff did everything they could to make us welcome.

First on our Portland agenda was a trip to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, where a WW II diesel submarine ("boat" to submariners) was open for tours. My former submariner husband toured the boat while I played in the kid's portion of the museum. I went in the "Earthquake House" where I had the opportunity to experience what earthquakes feel like. I'll stick with the hurricanes, thank you very much!

After the museum, we rested up a bit in anticipation of supper with one of my Weight Watcher Online friends, her husband, and her brother at a local brewpub. The food was good, even with Diet Coke instead of beer! Dessert was marionberry (Not THAT Marion Berry!) cobbler and carrot cake with cream cheese flavored ice cream. Yum!

After supper came the highlight of the day! A visit to Powell's Books! Rooms and rooms of books of all descriptions. And, a tall friend to reach up on the shelves to get them for me! My suitcase went home considerably heavier than when it arrived in Portland thanks to my sojourn at Powell's and the book given to me by my friend.

Loaded down with books, Bill and I crossed the street to the hotel (of COURSE I chose the hotel for it's proximity to Powell's!) to get some sleep in anticipation of our Columbia River Gorge tour the next day.

Back to Reality

I stepped off the plane to the heat and humidity of Mississippi last night. These I have not missed!

Nor have I missed the hurricane threats to me and my loved ones. As I write this, my sister-in-law is evacuating from Corpus Christi and other relatives are still dealing with the effects of Gustav. Just life in these parts.

I am still trying to put my trip into words.

Watch this space...

Trippin'

This is by no means a travelogue, just a ahout out to people who read my blog!

Observations to this point:

Delta rocks. I have had no trouble with accommodations at all thus far.

Powell's is as awesome as everyone says! And having a tall friend willing to reach for books is even more awesome!

Q and the Hubster are adorable together.

~c can REALLY cook!

Jim is the world's greatest sport.

Being "chauffeured" to Canada is the way to go!

~c' & Jim's church rocks and I loved it!

I am tired, but holding up. Can't wait to see Carrie, Darren, and the kids tomorrow in Seattle!

Whew!

So far, so good.

Looks like Gustav is going to go to the West of us. We are still in for some rain, possible tornadoes, and wind, but nothing like it might have been. Of course, since most of my mother's family lives in the Baton Rouge and Houma areas, I am concerned for them. However, they are a bright, resilient bunch of folks, and I am sure that they have made themselves as safe as possible.

I have to admit, my anxiety level has been high these past few days. The memories of Katrina are still pretty fresh. That was one of the scariest times of my life. Not just the weather on that day, which felled trees scant feet from my home, but the aftermath as well. Of course, this time, I had much more time to prepare.

At this point, it looks like my long anticipated trip to the Pacific Northwest is ON!

Yippeeeeee!

Gustav

***********Warning*************
Another Hurricane Post. Skip if you are sick of reading about it! :P


WLBT meteorologist Barbie Bassett just told the Jackson viewing area (that's us) to be prepared for similar conditions to those we faced with Katrina. Interstates are being routed to for one-way traffic out of coastal areas. Shelters have opened today and more will open tomorrow. Generators are selling as soon as they are unloaded and police continue to patrol businesses that sell them.

I am as prepared as I can be. There is really not much more to do except watch and wait.

And pray.

A lot.

Watching

We are still watching Hurricane Gustav. So far, we really can't tell exactly where he is going to hit at this point. Even if he does not directly hit the Mississippi Gulf Coast, that does not mean that we will not be affected. These pictures are from 1992 when high winds brought about by Hurricane Andrew uprooted a healthy tree in our front yard, slamming it into the room that is now my office. Thank goodness, neither of us was in the room at the time. The tree did not just fall on the roof, it smashed through the wall and demolished the hardwood floor. It took almost a year to get our home back to normal.

I can totally understand that my husband does not want to risk going on a trip and coming back to something like this. But that does not keep me from hoping that things are under enough control by Tuesday morning so that we can leave without worry.

Meanwhile, I am packing and still hoping for the best!

Selfish

OK, in the light of morning and having had some sleep, I do realize how selfish my post last night seems. Losing a trip is nothing compared to losing a home.

So, I have gone from starry-eyed traveler to hurricane watcher. I have already been out this morning to stock up on bottled water and non-perishables. My tank is full of gas. We have candles, lanterns, and batteries. I even found some disposable grills on sale at the Kroger store. We are about as ready as we can get.

So, I am watching the weather channel and hoping for the best.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

My husband and I have had a trip planned since last December. For our 25th wedding anniversary gift to each other, we are going to the Pacific Northwest. We plan to see friends while we are there and enjoy a week together before he starts his 12 hour a day (14 with commute) 6 day a week schedule for the plant shutdown. We have not had a real vacation together in 5 years.

But another man has come into the picture. His name is Gustav. Right now, his path is headed straight for the Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coasts. And guess when he is due to arrive? You guessed it. The very day we leave on our trip.

My husband has already said that we are not leaving if there is any chance of damage to our home or that of our neighbors. One neighbor is pregnant and the other one just had ankle surgery. Neither of them is going to be able to climb up on a rooftop and secure things if a tree falls or part of a roof blows off.

So, I am praying really hard that Barbie Bassett (WLBT weather person who correctly predicted the severity of Katrina way in advance) is wrong this time and that Gustav blows himself out before he gets here.

Breathe in...Breathe out...