3/16/2018
It's Friday, but since all my days blend into each other, I actually had to check a calendar! Welcome to retirement. The sky is very blue, but the wind is whipping all around. In our backyard, several smaller branches have come loose. Bella, in particular, loves to chew on these branches, and that's fine, just don't bring them into the house. You have to set limits sometimes.
The occupational therapist is coming today. I'm not sure what she is going to do with me, but the rehab facility thought that I needed both the occupational and physical therapists to work with me.
Scott et al are coming to the house tomorrow for breakfast. There are a number of things that Jeff can cook for them: eggs, waffles, oatmeal, etc. Hard to say what the three of them will want to eat.
After therapy this afternoon, Jeff and I will do the Costco/WalMart run. I'd like to take Bella with us, but I don't know if she would walk with me, while I'm in those stupid riding cars. I will say this, she doesn't balk when Jeff puts the jacket on her. When we went to the doctor's office earlier this week, I walked her to the car, and it was effortless on my part. We're trying to expose her to different sounds as well as different people. We, obviously, don't let anyone pet her, but she's so pretty, that people really do want to pet her. We do ask them, politely of course, not to pet her, she's working, and when she's working, there is no playing.
Jeff made sweet 'n sour last night from scratch. The one pot wonder was delicious, and will make a most enjoyable lunch today. Yummy for my tummy!
In an act of an old woman, I painted my fingers red - really red. I love the color, but more difficult to get off. I hate chipped nail polish, so when that happens, I will either reapply or choose another color. You can easily see how difficult my life is - to polish - or not to polish! I have a very difficult life, as you can easily see!
I'm reading a very good book. Trouble is, when I find a good book, then I'm rushing to do my chores, so that I can return to my chair and keep reading. The story is about 100 women who, on their own accord, marry Indians, in exchange for horses to the government. I am at the point, where these women realize that they will have to abandon not only their "city" clothes, but attitudes as well. The Indians these women "marry" cause them no harm, but the Indian women - not so much. Anyway, a good story.
I've also ordered, "The Grapes of Wrath" to read on my Kindle. I believe this is one of the classics, and I'm anxious to finish my present book and then grab up my Kindle. The nice part of the Kindle, is my ability to change the font size from regular to the Largest possible font. Of course, when I'm reading with this really large font, there aren't many lines that can fit on the screen at one time.
I'm seeing an Ophthalmologist in two weeks. I need my vision checked, but also need to know if my cataract has reached the taking out size. People who have had their cataracts removed, say that their vision improved significantly. I need that! I have magnifying glasses all over the house, because I can no longer read the cooking directions on a box, and really can't read any information on a prescription bottle! Just another thing that makes getting old - suck.
Also in a nod to age, I'm now wearing my glasses with the "old lady necklace" around my neck. I was forever losing my glasses, because I would set them down somewhere, and then couldn't find them. At least I was able to find on Amazon, a prettier necklace, than was available in stores. I'm not particularly vain, but I knew that I didn't want to wear some kind of necklace that is rubber, or something similar to that.
Yesterday, I tried to give Bella more liberty in the house (leaving some of the gates down). And, she repaid me by taking one slipper outside and destroying it. I just wish if she's going to ruin something, ruin the pair. When I went in the backyard to retrieve the remnants of my slipper, I also found one Unicorn sock that I got as a Christmas present. Really Bella?
When, we take Bella with us, we let Daisy have the run of the house. She's too small to really get in trouble, unless she spends her alone time yapping outside. I hope she's not doing that.
Cutting this short, because I have to tidy up the kitchen before the therapist arrives.
Happy Friday.
P
Friday, March 16, 2018
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Don't Trust The Box and Auctions
3/15/2018
A long time ago, when Jeff and I were both you and a "bit" foolish, we went to an unclaimed storage unit sale. We have subsequently, gotten older and are now more mature.
At the time, we bid on a box marked electronics, and needless to say the box had faulty advertising. Electronics were not in the box. If memory serves me right, the box had inside the grossest bring orange curtains I had and have every seen.
I like to watch the television show "Storage Wars". Some of the units being bid on, contain mostly boxes, and some of those boxes are marked "crystal", etc. A few of the regular bidders, are occasionally, taken in by the writing on boxes. Almost all of the bidders have stores, or sell things on Ebay. Clearly, at times, the buyers try and bid up the price, and then unceremoniously dump the unit on someone else. It doesn't happen every episode, but occasionally a buyer will find expensive works of art, crystal, and other high end things, perfect for selling.
What I have noticed is that the buyers on a regular basis, are sucked into bidding, if they see anything that resembles a jewelry box and/or a locked box (cash inside perhaps?). The locked boxes are, for the most part, empty as are the jewelry boxes. I can't believe that someone would leave small valuables in a unit, and then simply walk away. That just doesn't make sense.
The show has a few buyers, who throw boxes out of the unit, without any regard to what maybe inside. Most of the time, the boxes do hold clothes, but a buyer can't really be sure until they open those boxes up.
In the past, also a long time ago, Jeff would go to a local auction house and bid on pieces of furniture. At least, with an auction, you can see and feel the items being sold. So no pig in a poke kind of buying.
I have in the past, been a regular Ebay shopper, particularly when it comes to Murano glass pieces. I've also found slightly used Birkenstocks, and I know some of you are turning up your noses at this kind of purchase. New Birkenstocks are expensive, and to me, it makes sense to buy nearly new ones for a much discounted price.
When Benjamin was a baby, I found a woman somewhere in Texas, who was selling baby clothes. Instead, of selling each piece of clothing one at a time, she was selling, a lot (term used for bulk selling and buying), and more times than not, I was the buyer. Benjamin wore Ralph Lauren outfits, as well as other high end clothing.
If you are buying anything on Ebay, then you need to be a savvy buyer. When I'm interested in something, I not only look at the price, cost of shipping, 30 day returns and probably most important, the seller's feedback. As a buyer, my feedback score is 100, and I want sellers to also have high scores.
I, no longer, buy any Murano glass. Would I if I was still working? Definitely. But today, I have to pick and choose what, if anything, to buy on Ebay. I recently bought a Ralph Lauren sweater for myself for less than $10.00. You certainly can't beat that price.
My suggestion to you is, if you have spare income, and love mystery boxes, then get out there and bid and/or buy.
P
A long time ago, when Jeff and I were both you and a "bit" foolish, we went to an unclaimed storage unit sale. We have subsequently, gotten older and are now more mature.
At the time, we bid on a box marked electronics, and needless to say the box had faulty advertising. Electronics were not in the box. If memory serves me right, the box had inside the grossest bring orange curtains I had and have every seen.
I like to watch the television show "Storage Wars". Some of the units being bid on, contain mostly boxes, and some of those boxes are marked "crystal", etc. A few of the regular bidders, are occasionally, taken in by the writing on boxes. Almost all of the bidders have stores, or sell things on Ebay. Clearly, at times, the buyers try and bid up the price, and then unceremoniously dump the unit on someone else. It doesn't happen every episode, but occasionally a buyer will find expensive works of art, crystal, and other high end things, perfect for selling.
What I have noticed is that the buyers on a regular basis, are sucked into bidding, if they see anything that resembles a jewelry box and/or a locked box (cash inside perhaps?). The locked boxes are, for the most part, empty as are the jewelry boxes. I can't believe that someone would leave small valuables in a unit, and then simply walk away. That just doesn't make sense.
The show has a few buyers, who throw boxes out of the unit, without any regard to what maybe inside. Most of the time, the boxes do hold clothes, but a buyer can't really be sure until they open those boxes up.
In the past, also a long time ago, Jeff would go to a local auction house and bid on pieces of furniture. At least, with an auction, you can see and feel the items being sold. So no pig in a poke kind of buying.
I have in the past, been a regular Ebay shopper, particularly when it comes to Murano glass pieces. I've also found slightly used Birkenstocks, and I know some of you are turning up your noses at this kind of purchase. New Birkenstocks are expensive, and to me, it makes sense to buy nearly new ones for a much discounted price.
When Benjamin was a baby, I found a woman somewhere in Texas, who was selling baby clothes. Instead, of selling each piece of clothing one at a time, she was selling, a lot (term used for bulk selling and buying), and more times than not, I was the buyer. Benjamin wore Ralph Lauren outfits, as well as other high end clothing.
If you are buying anything on Ebay, then you need to be a savvy buyer. When I'm interested in something, I not only look at the price, cost of shipping, 30 day returns and probably most important, the seller's feedback. As a buyer, my feedback score is 100, and I want sellers to also have high scores.
I, no longer, buy any Murano glass. Would I if I was still working? Definitely. But today, I have to pick and choose what, if anything, to buy on Ebay. I recently bought a Ralph Lauren sweater for myself for less than $10.00. You certainly can't beat that price.
My suggestion to you is, if you have spare income, and love mystery boxes, then get out there and bid and/or buy.
P
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Banned Children's Books
3/14/2018
I like to read. Now, that's not completely true, I love to read. I generally avoid what I consider "heavy" books, books that require a lot of thinking. I enjoy "pleasant" reads, where nothing really bad happens to anyone. Oh, there maybe a murder, but it's a pleasant murder, if there's such a thing. No gore, no blood, just a dead body shows up. and the murder is most likely, solved by a nosy neighbor. Perfecto.
Today's paper has an article where the ALA (American Library Association), is considering the renaming of the Wilder Award. Think "Little House on the Prairie"). Why, on earth would anyone even think of renaming the award? Apparently, the ALA believes that Wilder's books reflect racism and anti-Native American sentiments. Really? I read Wilder's books, including my favorite "Little House on the Prairie. Perhaps, I had blinders on when I read her books, because all I was reading, was a good story. I also remember watching the television show, where Michael Langdon (sp) had a primary role.
So, after reading the nonsense in the paper, I decided to check out a few other children's books, and I was truly shocked by some of the books, that are now considered "banned" books. Winners of this "high" honor include:
"Where is Waldo" because there is a topless beachgoer.
"Winnie the Poo" because talking animals are considered to be ungodly.
"Anne Frank" for sexual and homosexual content.
"Wizard of Oz" for ungodly influence for depicting women in strong leadership roles.
And last, as only an example of ridiculousness, is "Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary" for its definition of oral sex.
As an adult, I have read most of these, as well as other banned books, enjoying their stories. And, I've read some of these books to my sons and my grandson. It could be, that I wasn't looking or thinking hard enough, to see that talking animals are ungodly. This absolutely makes no sense to me. As far as I'm concerned, "Winnie the Poo" for example, is just a story about a bear and his rabbit friend. I actually like that animals talk, and if any of these stories, think "Wizard of Oz", have somehow got a hidden agenda, then fool be me. Those in power of banning books, are truly looking to find "bad" things in books. I read for pleasure, and spend no amount of my time, thinking about things, for example, that talking animals are ungodly. I do believe those folks at the ALA, are taking their job a little too seriously. These are books, for heaven's sake, and for the most part, children's books at that. To be sure, I'm not going to go upstairs and start reading Benjamin's books, that he keeps here, to make sure that all of those books are "G" rated.
There is even a "banned books week". Who even knew there was such a thing? Needless to say, yours truly will not even give a thought or a hoot to such a silly, my opinion only, week.
People, keep reading. Books can take you anywhere, any time period, and/or any character. Even though I read most books on my Kindle, every now and then, I'll pick up an actual book. I still love the feel of a book, but poor eyesight, makes reading anything but large print books, a challenge.
P
I like to read. Now, that's not completely true, I love to read. I generally avoid what I consider "heavy" books, books that require a lot of thinking. I enjoy "pleasant" reads, where nothing really bad happens to anyone. Oh, there maybe a murder, but it's a pleasant murder, if there's such a thing. No gore, no blood, just a dead body shows up. and the murder is most likely, solved by a nosy neighbor. Perfecto.
Today's paper has an article where the ALA (American Library Association), is considering the renaming of the Wilder Award. Think "Little House on the Prairie"). Why, on earth would anyone even think of renaming the award? Apparently, the ALA believes that Wilder's books reflect racism and anti-Native American sentiments. Really? I read Wilder's books, including my favorite "Little House on the Prairie. Perhaps, I had blinders on when I read her books, because all I was reading, was a good story. I also remember watching the television show, where Michael Langdon (sp) had a primary role.
So, after reading the nonsense in the paper, I decided to check out a few other children's books, and I was truly shocked by some of the books, that are now considered "banned" books. Winners of this "high" honor include:
"Where is Waldo" because there is a topless beachgoer.
"Winnie the Poo" because talking animals are considered to be ungodly.
"Anne Frank" for sexual and homosexual content.
"Wizard of Oz" for ungodly influence for depicting women in strong leadership roles.
And last, as only an example of ridiculousness, is "Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary" for its definition of oral sex.
As an adult, I have read most of these, as well as other banned books, enjoying their stories. And, I've read some of these books to my sons and my grandson. It could be, that I wasn't looking or thinking hard enough, to see that talking animals are ungodly. This absolutely makes no sense to me. As far as I'm concerned, "Winnie the Poo" for example, is just a story about a bear and his rabbit friend. I actually like that animals talk, and if any of these stories, think "Wizard of Oz", have somehow got a hidden agenda, then fool be me. Those in power of banning books, are truly looking to find "bad" things in books. I read for pleasure, and spend no amount of my time, thinking about things, for example, that talking animals are ungodly. I do believe those folks at the ALA, are taking their job a little too seriously. These are books, for heaven's sake, and for the most part, children's books at that. To be sure, I'm not going to go upstairs and start reading Benjamin's books, that he keeps here, to make sure that all of those books are "G" rated.
There is even a "banned books week". Who even knew there was such a thing? Needless to say, yours truly will not even give a thought or a hoot to such a silly, my opinion only, week.
People, keep reading. Books can take you anywhere, any time period, and/or any character. Even though I read most books on my Kindle, every now and then, I'll pick up an actual book. I still love the feel of a book, but poor eyesight, makes reading anything but large print books, a challenge.
P
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Unicorns, Rainbows and Life
3/13/2018
Almost a year ago, my life changed, and not for the better. For reasons unclear to me, as well to the many doctors I saw, I was pretty much unable to walk, stand, etc. For an entire month, I lived in my recliner 24/7. My life, at that point, felt like to me, to be pretty much over. I was forced to accept my new reality, and the reality of it all, wasn't positive.
I spent a month last year in a rehab facility. Through the efforts of the physical therapist, I was finally able to get up and down stairs, which was huge for me. I was able, with the use of a walker, "walk" again. When I came home last year, I managed then as I manage now, to be able to go up and down stairs. It's a lengthy process, since I am still unable to put my left foot on a stair step, and then put my right foot on another stair step. I can now sleep in the bed, shower, dress and am able to do a lot more things for myself.
So, where do unicorns and rainbows come into the picture? My family and friends know that I want to be "cured", and then my life will be filled with unicorns and rainbows. Sound silly when I write this, but that's my goal, and one I believe I will eventually meet.
According to the internet, which knows everything, the unicorn “is the fiercest animal, and it is said that it is impossible to capture one alive. It has the body of a horse, the head of a stag, the feet of an elephant, the tail of a boar, and a single black horn three feet long in the middle of its forehead. Its cry is a deep bellow. Oh I wish that unicorns were not the stuff of dreams and imaginations. Do I believe that a unicorn is going to make an appearance in my world? Nope. Just a goal that keeps me going.
And rainbows fill the sky after a storm. Theory is, and that's all it is, is that at the end of a rainbow, is a pot of gold. Maybe, that pot of gold in reality is a winning lottery ticket. If, that's the case, then Jeff and I had better start (a) buying more tickets; and (b) actually have more than one number on said ticket. Neither of those things have occurred yet, but who knows what the future holds for us.
A month or so ago, I had an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon. This doctor actually looked at me, while he was talking. This was huge for me, because my interaction with surgeons in the past, displayed arrogance and a diagnosis of "I don't know what the hell is wrong with you", and suggested all manner of things, lose weight (ah, if it was that easy), exercise, which is kind of difficult if you can't even walk without a walker, etc.
Okay, I digressed there for a moment. Back to the surgeon I now have. Two weeks ago, I had spinal fusion surgery of two discs. The doctor did find one (or maybe it was two, and the number isn't important), nerves that he "set free"! Can I say hallelujah? You bet I can and still do.
To comply with all things Medicare, I had to stay in the hospital for three nights, even though I was ready to go home the day after surgery. Then, still following Medicare, had a week in the rehab facility. I'm now home, and the therapists (physical and occupational) are scheduled to come to the house to work with me.
Last summer, when I had therapists here at the house, I learned how to get up off a sofa, without assistance, for one thing. I want the physical therapist this time to work on: balance, which I'm badly in need of; and how to pull myself up when I'm down on the floor. Anything else, would be a bonus.
I see the surgeon today for a post-op visit, and I think he'll be very pleased with my progress. I know I am. Unlike the spinal fusion surgery I had in 1999, where I had to wear a back brace and the recovery was slow and painful, while this surgery hasn't left me in unbearable pain. Before surgery, I was unable to unload and load the dishwasher without taking a break to sit and stretch my back. Yesterday, I unloaded and loaded the dishwasher, and cleaned the kitchen without sitting down. After doing these things, I did need to stretch my back, before I could start another task.
When I do sit, I am pretty consistently moving the toes on my right foot, up and down. I both knew and know that I wasn't going to get my unicorns and rainbows immediately after surgery. My attitude is good and I just know, and I can't tell you how I know, is that in the future, my physical condition will make a breakthrough and my life will have unicorns and rainbows! Please keep sending positive air waves in my direction.
To that end, Stacey and Benjamin brought me a really large unicorn balloon, who bobbles back and forth in the den. I love it. I have a small purse that had both unicorns and rainbows printed on one side. There's a small unicorn in the kitchen and another one that I've taped to the top of my monitor.
So on the day, when my right leg/foot becomes more normal, you will be able to hear me roar with gratefulness. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to drive my car someday soon.
P
Almost a year ago, my life changed, and not for the better. For reasons unclear to me, as well to the many doctors I saw, I was pretty much unable to walk, stand, etc. For an entire month, I lived in my recliner 24/7. My life, at that point, felt like to me, to be pretty much over. I was forced to accept my new reality, and the reality of it all, wasn't positive.
I spent a month last year in a rehab facility. Through the efforts of the physical therapist, I was finally able to get up and down stairs, which was huge for me. I was able, with the use of a walker, "walk" again. When I came home last year, I managed then as I manage now, to be able to go up and down stairs. It's a lengthy process, since I am still unable to put my left foot on a stair step, and then put my right foot on another stair step. I can now sleep in the bed, shower, dress and am able to do a lot more things for myself.
So, where do unicorns and rainbows come into the picture? My family and friends know that I want to be "cured", and then my life will be filled with unicorns and rainbows. Sound silly when I write this, but that's my goal, and one I believe I will eventually meet.
According to the internet, which knows everything, the unicorn “is the fiercest animal, and it is said that it is impossible to capture one alive. It has the body of a horse, the head of a stag, the feet of an elephant, the tail of a boar, and a single black horn three feet long in the middle of its forehead. Its cry is a deep bellow. Oh I wish that unicorns were not the stuff of dreams and imaginations. Do I believe that a unicorn is going to make an appearance in my world? Nope. Just a goal that keeps me going.
And rainbows fill the sky after a storm. Theory is, and that's all it is, is that at the end of a rainbow, is a pot of gold. Maybe, that pot of gold in reality is a winning lottery ticket. If, that's the case, then Jeff and I had better start (a) buying more tickets; and (b) actually have more than one number on said ticket. Neither of those things have occurred yet, but who knows what the future holds for us.
A month or so ago, I had an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon. This doctor actually looked at me, while he was talking. This was huge for me, because my interaction with surgeons in the past, displayed arrogance and a diagnosis of "I don't know what the hell is wrong with you", and suggested all manner of things, lose weight (ah, if it was that easy), exercise, which is kind of difficult if you can't even walk without a walker, etc.
Okay, I digressed there for a moment. Back to the surgeon I now have. Two weeks ago, I had spinal fusion surgery of two discs. The doctor did find one (or maybe it was two, and the number isn't important), nerves that he "set free"! Can I say hallelujah? You bet I can and still do.
To comply with all things Medicare, I had to stay in the hospital for three nights, even though I was ready to go home the day after surgery. Then, still following Medicare, had a week in the rehab facility. I'm now home, and the therapists (physical and occupational) are scheduled to come to the house to work with me.
Last summer, when I had therapists here at the house, I learned how to get up off a sofa, without assistance, for one thing. I want the physical therapist this time to work on: balance, which I'm badly in need of; and how to pull myself up when I'm down on the floor. Anything else, would be a bonus.
I see the surgeon today for a post-op visit, and I think he'll be very pleased with my progress. I know I am. Unlike the spinal fusion surgery I had in 1999, where I had to wear a back brace and the recovery was slow and painful, while this surgery hasn't left me in unbearable pain. Before surgery, I was unable to unload and load the dishwasher without taking a break to sit and stretch my back. Yesterday, I unloaded and loaded the dishwasher, and cleaned the kitchen without sitting down. After doing these things, I did need to stretch my back, before I could start another task.
When I do sit, I am pretty consistently moving the toes on my right foot, up and down. I both knew and know that I wasn't going to get my unicorns and rainbows immediately after surgery. My attitude is good and I just know, and I can't tell you how I know, is that in the future, my physical condition will make a breakthrough and my life will have unicorns and rainbows! Please keep sending positive air waves in my direction.
To that end, Stacey and Benjamin brought me a really large unicorn balloon, who bobbles back and forth in the den. I love it. I have a small purse that had both unicorns and rainbows printed on one side. There's a small unicorn in the kitchen and another one that I've taped to the top of my monitor.
So on the day, when my right leg/foot becomes more normal, you will be able to hear me roar with gratefulness. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to drive my car someday soon.
P
Monday, March 12, 2018
Monday, Monday
3/12/2018
It's Monday (duh), and the sky is gray. Because of the lack of sun today, I have turned my SAD light on, to give me the much needed "sunshine" I need during the winter months.
I was feeling a bit guilty about watching the television show "RuPal's Drag Queen". I'm not sure exactly why I feel guilty, but in the paper a few days ago, Nancy Pelosio (spelling), went in person to watch a drag queen show! If she can go to a theater, and watch basically the same thing I'm watching, it's all good. And, in case you're interested, I don't watch said show when Jeff is around. It would drive him crazy and would rank up there with the cooking shows I watch!
The nurse from the rehab facility came yesterday. I told her that I didn't need any nursing care, and she agreed. I do need physical therapy to address balance issues. The occupational therapist is coming this afternoon, and I'm pretty sure that visit will be a waste of time.
I read an article last week that said the number of women purchasing high heels, is going down. This, particular news, was not new news to me. I did, once upon a time, actually had heels in my closet. They are now all gone. For fancy occasions, like weddings, I have a very nice leather sandal with a thick, but small heel. Do women look better in heels? Most of the time, the answer is yes. Legs look better when you're wearing heels. But, is the discomfort that comes when wearing heels, worth it? I say no. Today, there are all kinds of beautiful flat or almost flat shoes for women. And dressier sneakers are also becoming part of a woman's wardrobe. As well they should be.
In my retired, and mostly reclusive world, I want comfort first, style second, or maybe even third, etc. Elastic waist clothing was invented by someone, and I am grateful for the making of elastic. At home, it really doesn't matter what I wear, but going out for any reason, I do try and make an attempt at "dressing up", while staying true to my favorite style of clothing. I wore leggings (black, no pattern of course) on Saturday, with a lovely short tunic, and I believed that I looked fabulous. My leggings, are of course, a size bigger than I actually need, but I abhor anything that clings to my backside! It's not a particularly pretty sight. We women, need to know what area of their body is an asset, and what area isn't. What can I say about me? Um, my eyes look nice! Oh, to be sure, there are other areas of my body that don't look too bad, at least when I'm looking at myself.
Occupational therapist visits today. These therapists concentrate on improving a person's ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments. They work with individuals who have conditions that are mentally, physically, developmentally, socially or emotionally disabling. Well, you see, a search showed me what the therapist, visiting today, is supposed to do. While I'm "mental" and somewhat handicapped (if that's the right word to describe my right leg), I'm getting the laundry done and cleaning the kitchen. Ada comes on Wednesday, and she cleans the bathrooms (yeah), vacuums and dusts, and also cleans up the kitchen. I'm not a demanding person, but when dust on tables builds up enough that you can actually "write" on, then dusting needs to be done.
Tomorrow, is my post-op visit with the surgeon. I think he'll be surprised at the progress I've made since my surgery on the 27th. I'm not ready to run a marathon (actually, never could), but I'm getting around in the house really well.
The morning is slipping away, and while I'd love to stay and chat, I really do have things that need doing.
Have a wonderful day.
P
It's Monday (duh), and the sky is gray. Because of the lack of sun today, I have turned my SAD light on, to give me the much needed "sunshine" I need during the winter months.
I was feeling a bit guilty about watching the television show "RuPal's Drag Queen". I'm not sure exactly why I feel guilty, but in the paper a few days ago, Nancy Pelosio (spelling), went in person to watch a drag queen show! If she can go to a theater, and watch basically the same thing I'm watching, it's all good. And, in case you're interested, I don't watch said show when Jeff is around. It would drive him crazy and would rank up there with the cooking shows I watch!
The nurse from the rehab facility came yesterday. I told her that I didn't need any nursing care, and she agreed. I do need physical therapy to address balance issues. The occupational therapist is coming this afternoon, and I'm pretty sure that visit will be a waste of time.
I read an article last week that said the number of women purchasing high heels, is going down. This, particular news, was not new news to me. I did, once upon a time, actually had heels in my closet. They are now all gone. For fancy occasions, like weddings, I have a very nice leather sandal with a thick, but small heel. Do women look better in heels? Most of the time, the answer is yes. Legs look better when you're wearing heels. But, is the discomfort that comes when wearing heels, worth it? I say no. Today, there are all kinds of beautiful flat or almost flat shoes for women. And dressier sneakers are also becoming part of a woman's wardrobe. As well they should be.
In my retired, and mostly reclusive world, I want comfort first, style second, or maybe even third, etc. Elastic waist clothing was invented by someone, and I am grateful for the making of elastic. At home, it really doesn't matter what I wear, but going out for any reason, I do try and make an attempt at "dressing up", while staying true to my favorite style of clothing. I wore leggings (black, no pattern of course) on Saturday, with a lovely short tunic, and I believed that I looked fabulous. My leggings, are of course, a size bigger than I actually need, but I abhor anything that clings to my backside! It's not a particularly pretty sight. We women, need to know what area of their body is an asset, and what area isn't. What can I say about me? Um, my eyes look nice! Oh, to be sure, there are other areas of my body that don't look too bad, at least when I'm looking at myself.
Occupational therapist visits today. These therapists concentrate on improving a person's ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments. They work with individuals who have conditions that are mentally, physically, developmentally, socially or emotionally disabling. Well, you see, a search showed me what the therapist, visiting today, is supposed to do. While I'm "mental" and somewhat handicapped (if that's the right word to describe my right leg), I'm getting the laundry done and cleaning the kitchen. Ada comes on Wednesday, and she cleans the bathrooms (yeah), vacuums and dusts, and also cleans up the kitchen. I'm not a demanding person, but when dust on tables builds up enough that you can actually "write" on, then dusting needs to be done.
Tomorrow, is my post-op visit with the surgeon. I think he'll be surprised at the progress I've made since my surgery on the 27th. I'm not ready to run a marathon (actually, never could), but I'm getting around in the house really well.
The morning is slipping away, and while I'd love to stay and chat, I really do have things that need doing.
Have a wonderful day.
P
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Sunday, And I'm All Confused, Among Other Things!
3/11/2018
Yesterday, my very special friends, Angela and Sharon took me out to play for the day. Sharon brought me an orchid plant, which I'm hoping I can keep alive, but my green thumb is very limited. Angela, brought me a basket of yummy food treats, most of them chocolate. I felt very blessed that my friends would come and spend time with me. We went out and "did" lunch, and a mostly quiet restaurant where we sat and enjoyed a leisurely lunch. In my world, no meal, other than breakfast, is complete without dessert, so I ordered Tres Leches Cake. If you haven't eaten this cake, do yourself a favor and order, you will love it I promise.
Then my friends took me to Target for some cathartic shopping. I don't get out much anymore, and when I do go out, I generally have to use that stupid power cart, which I hate with a capital "H". I needed a birthday card for Stacey, but as long as I was in the store, I found other stuff to buy. I did actually buy a card, so my goal for shopping was met! After buying the card, we roamed and I drove through the store. I hate the little cart, because I kept running into things and/or people. And that obnoxious beep-beep sound the cart makes when you're backing up, makes me cringe. I never feel so handicapped, as when I'm forced to drive the little cart.
Oh, I also needed to buy new shelf liners for the refrigerator. I bought the rubbery kind, and it works very well to try and maintain the glass shelves. So, you can plainly see that there was a reason to go to Target. Umm, I may have bought other things besides those necessary things, but I had so much fun with my friends. Both ladies work, so for them to take one of their precious weekend days to spend with me meant a great deal.
And, getting dressed for my outing, I put on my new, black leggings. I bought them in a size larger than I need, so that said leggings didn't show as much all the dents and rolls of my body! I topped the leggings with a new tunic gray shirt, and I thought I looked fabulous. What the rest of the world saw, didn't and doesn't matter to me. I believe if you believe you look good, that's all that's important. This belief may be occurring because I'm 68 now, and frankly Scarlet, I don't give a damn!
Today, the nurse from the rehab facility is coming to evaluate me for services that I need. All I need and want is to get some of my balance back, and maybe more important, how to get off the floor, when I fall down. Once I've fallen, I'm like a beached whale, flapping my arms and legs in a desperate attempt to get up. Unlike last year, I now have someone come in and clean the house once a week. Deep cleaning? Nope, just the regular stuff (bathrooms and kitchen), makes me very happy.
While I was at Target, I bought the book a "Wrinkle in Time". I want to read this book and then give it to Benjamin, if he hasn't read it, before he and/or I go to see the movie.
Well, friends that's my news for the day. Have an excellent Sunday, and remember to go around and set all your clocks.
P
Yesterday, my very special friends, Angela and Sharon took me out to play for the day. Sharon brought me an orchid plant, which I'm hoping I can keep alive, but my green thumb is very limited. Angela, brought me a basket of yummy food treats, most of them chocolate. I felt very blessed that my friends would come and spend time with me. We went out and "did" lunch, and a mostly quiet restaurant where we sat and enjoyed a leisurely lunch. In my world, no meal, other than breakfast, is complete without dessert, so I ordered Tres Leches Cake. If you haven't eaten this cake, do yourself a favor and order, you will love it I promise.
Then my friends took me to Target for some cathartic shopping. I don't get out much anymore, and when I do go out, I generally have to use that stupid power cart, which I hate with a capital "H". I needed a birthday card for Stacey, but as long as I was in the store, I found other stuff to buy. I did actually buy a card, so my goal for shopping was met! After buying the card, we roamed and I drove through the store. I hate the little cart, because I kept running into things and/or people. And that obnoxious beep-beep sound the cart makes when you're backing up, makes me cringe. I never feel so handicapped, as when I'm forced to drive the little cart.
Oh, I also needed to buy new shelf liners for the refrigerator. I bought the rubbery kind, and it works very well to try and maintain the glass shelves. So, you can plainly see that there was a reason to go to Target. Umm, I may have bought other things besides those necessary things, but I had so much fun with my friends. Both ladies work, so for them to take one of their precious weekend days to spend with me meant a great deal.
And, getting dressed for my outing, I put on my new, black leggings. I bought them in a size larger than I need, so that said leggings didn't show as much all the dents and rolls of my body! I topped the leggings with a new tunic gray shirt, and I thought I looked fabulous. What the rest of the world saw, didn't and doesn't matter to me. I believe if you believe you look good, that's all that's important. This belief may be occurring because I'm 68 now, and frankly Scarlet, I don't give a damn!
Today, the nurse from the rehab facility is coming to evaluate me for services that I need. All I need and want is to get some of my balance back, and maybe more important, how to get off the floor, when I fall down. Once I've fallen, I'm like a beached whale, flapping my arms and legs in a desperate attempt to get up. Unlike last year, I now have someone come in and clean the house once a week. Deep cleaning? Nope, just the regular stuff (bathrooms and kitchen), makes me very happy.
While I was at Target, I bought the book a "Wrinkle in Time". I want to read this book and then give it to Benjamin, if he hasn't read it, before he and/or I go to see the movie.
Well, friends that's my news for the day. Have an excellent Sunday, and remember to go around and set all your clocks.
P
Saturday, March 10, 2018
I'm Back!
3/10/2018
Hey everybody, I'm back😃, so let the games begin. There are, obviously, no games, but just sounded cool to write it!
I went to rehab for one week, fussing the whole time. They put me in a room with a bariatric (however you spell it) bed. Now, I'll be the first to say I'm a "tad" overweight, but a special bed for me - nope, not happening. The overall room, left me feeling like the red-headed stepchild at the family reunion. No lamp, no recliner, a curtain cutting the room in two. I was initially almost in tears over this hastily put together room. Now, I did not actually "nag", but I told anybody that would listen about my complaints. Want a regular bed, thank you very much, a lamp and a recliner. Those things were eventually put in my room, but the room dividing curtain didn't come down until yesterday, the day I was leaving. Oh well, the next habitant (boy I'm having a lot of trouble spelling today) of this special room will at least have the bare minims of comfort.
I did my week of therapy, because in order to keep everybody happy, I had to spend 3 nights in the hospital (over kill, because I was ready to go home after one day), then a week in rehab, so that I can receive home services, etc. When you're dealing with Medicare, and you want them to pay for something, you must follow the dotted line! For my younger readers, bear this in mind, when you get to that magical age. And, when AARP starts sending you their monthly magazine, don't just toss it, they always have some useful stories to read.
Yesterday afternoon, I had a most excellent surprise. Benjamin and Stacey came to visit (happy, happy faces). They didn't know that I had been sprung from rehab, and I'm sorry that I didn't let them know. When they walked in, they were carrying the largest unicorn balloon I have ever seen and a shamrock plant. The unicorn is so pretty and I just love it. When the air is gone, I think I will lightly tape it to my den window, because we don't open those blinds very often. Western sun and all that.
My life just gets better and better. I think 2018 is going to be a good year for the Bassetts. I'm feeling so much better and really walking quite well. When I'm sitting, I exercise the toes on my right foot up and down, and it's probably my imagination, but I think they curl under a bit more than they did last week. And, again, that could be wishful thinking.
Oh, getting better and better. My two girlfriends are coming today to take me to lunch and I'm looking forward to seeing them. I'm sporting leggings (plain black color) in a size that allows the leggings to be roomier and a really lovely gray tunic top. I agree with the folks that do wear leggings, they are very comfortable. I, however, have no wish to put printed leggings on. No storks, fish, flowers, etc., will ever be seen on these legs, unless and until I'm the size of Twiggy (again, the name Twiggy will not mean anything to you).
After suffering through bed head for a week, this morning's shower was fantastic. My hair, which I cut quite short, is very cute. At least I think so, and in the long run, my opinion is the only one that matters.
Getting mighty spunky in my old age. People had better watch out!
I'm so happy that I'm home, because the yard work that is going to happen in the backyard hasn't been started. I know that our neighbors will undergo a bit of a shock when they see how many trees are being cut down. After cutting down various dead Leland Cypress trees, I will need the landscaper to put new trees in their place. My goal has always been to block my view of the neighbor behind me, who's kitchen window is in line with mine. We just never topped those trees, and let them get too tall and eventually fragile looking.
Oh, before I forget, Jeff bought a very nice red vest for Bella, with "in training" patches on both sides of the vest. She doesn't fuss putting it on, and he brought her to the rehab facility several times, and she was as good as gold. But, there's more work to be done with her.
I guess that's pretty much what's been happening here at the estate. I'll be back to daily blogging, starting tomorrow. Thanks for sticking around, I appreciate it.
P
Hey everybody, I'm back😃, so let the games begin. There are, obviously, no games, but just sounded cool to write it!
I went to rehab for one week, fussing the whole time. They put me in a room with a bariatric (however you spell it) bed. Now, I'll be the first to say I'm a "tad" overweight, but a special bed for me - nope, not happening. The overall room, left me feeling like the red-headed stepchild at the family reunion. No lamp, no recliner, a curtain cutting the room in two. I was initially almost in tears over this hastily put together room. Now, I did not actually "nag", but I told anybody that would listen about my complaints. Want a regular bed, thank you very much, a lamp and a recliner. Those things were eventually put in my room, but the room dividing curtain didn't come down until yesterday, the day I was leaving. Oh well, the next habitant (boy I'm having a lot of trouble spelling today) of this special room will at least have the bare minims of comfort.
I did my week of therapy, because in order to keep everybody happy, I had to spend 3 nights in the hospital (over kill, because I was ready to go home after one day), then a week in rehab, so that I can receive home services, etc. When you're dealing with Medicare, and you want them to pay for something, you must follow the dotted line! For my younger readers, bear this in mind, when you get to that magical age. And, when AARP starts sending you their monthly magazine, don't just toss it, they always have some useful stories to read.
Yesterday afternoon, I had a most excellent surprise. Benjamin and Stacey came to visit (happy, happy faces). They didn't know that I had been sprung from rehab, and I'm sorry that I didn't let them know. When they walked in, they were carrying the largest unicorn balloon I have ever seen and a shamrock plant. The unicorn is so pretty and I just love it. When the air is gone, I think I will lightly tape it to my den window, because we don't open those blinds very often. Western sun and all that.
My life just gets better and better. I think 2018 is going to be a good year for the Bassetts. I'm feeling so much better and really walking quite well. When I'm sitting, I exercise the toes on my right foot up and down, and it's probably my imagination, but I think they curl under a bit more than they did last week. And, again, that could be wishful thinking.
Oh, getting better and better. My two girlfriends are coming today to take me to lunch and I'm looking forward to seeing them. I'm sporting leggings (plain black color) in a size that allows the leggings to be roomier and a really lovely gray tunic top. I agree with the folks that do wear leggings, they are very comfortable. I, however, have no wish to put printed leggings on. No storks, fish, flowers, etc., will ever be seen on these legs, unless and until I'm the size of Twiggy (again, the name Twiggy will not mean anything to you).
After suffering through bed head for a week, this morning's shower was fantastic. My hair, which I cut quite short, is very cute. At least I think so, and in the long run, my opinion is the only one that matters.
Getting mighty spunky in my old age. People had better watch out!
I'm so happy that I'm home, because the yard work that is going to happen in the backyard hasn't been started. I know that our neighbors will undergo a bit of a shock when they see how many trees are being cut down. After cutting down various dead Leland Cypress trees, I will need the landscaper to put new trees in their place. My goal has always been to block my view of the neighbor behind me, who's kitchen window is in line with mine. We just never topped those trees, and let them get too tall and eventually fragile looking.
Oh, before I forget, Jeff bought a very nice red vest for Bella, with "in training" patches on both sides of the vest. She doesn't fuss putting it on, and he brought her to the rehab facility several times, and she was as good as gold. But, there's more work to be done with her.
I guess that's pretty much what's been happening here at the estate. I'll be back to daily blogging, starting tomorrow. Thanks for sticking around, I appreciate it.
P
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