I stared 2mg of LDN on last Friday night. Friday night I slept wonderfully. I was completely shocked, but I did wake up with swollen fingers. However I had a pretty good day symptom wise.
I also slept well Saturday night, but I did have some serious allergy problems so I was forced to take a Claritin (my eyes were red & itchy). I also had some serious malaise and took an afternoon nap (not because I wanted to but because I had to).
Sunday night was a okay, but I did have several dreams that disrupted my sleep. So that caused me to be fatigued in the morning. I also had a small headache in the morning on Monday, but overall had a pretty good day. I was feeling like I was on a roll. Even with the severe malaise on Sunday night, I was doing pretty good on the 2mg LDN!
Monday night was a completely different story. I slept very poorly. I woke up every hour with nightmares and Tuesday I had body aches, picc line bumps (remember those pesky things that I really haven't had in months ....????), serious fatigue and what I call electric headaches. The pain shot right from the back of my brain up to the front of the brain. It would happen when I moved suddenly. It was an absolutely horrible day. I pushed through the pain and took another 2mg on Tuesday night.
I had some difficulty sleeping, but did have an okay day on Wednesday with only slight fatigue so another round of 2mg was in order. I slept better Wednesday night and had a great day on Thursday. In fact, I noted not a single symptom on Thursday at all! I slept great on Thursday night and my Friday morning was great. Friday evening I wound up with 6 bumps where the picc line used to be and a little bit of fatigue, but I felt comfortable enough to bump my LDN to 2.25mg!
I slept perfectly on Friday night. I went to bed and slept almost 12 straight hours without waking! I don't really like to sleep *that* long, but it was nice not waking up with dreams/nightmares. I felt really refreshed yesterday so I took my best friend up on his offer to go swimming. I swam (aka stood in the water and sometimes treaded in the deep end ... and occasionally actually swam) for almost two hours. I had very few symptoms on Saturday after the .25 increase. The only thing that was notably obvious was my "staring" symptom.
This is something that I really haven't talked about, but it's a problem I've had for quite some time. I honestly never really noticed it until about 8 years ago when someone commented that I needed to stop staring "at that lady." Well the thing was .. I wasn't staring at a lady ... I was just staring and it just happened to be in the direction of this lady in the restaurant. It was then that I realized I did it a lot and had done it a lot in the past.
Well in the last few years, the "staring" episodes have decreased until ... yesterday. I'm not sure if it was because (insert joke here) my brain was infected with chlorine (snorting very loudly ) or if it was because I was tired ... or something else, but I could not stop staring. My eyes would scan the room and then stop .... sometimes it was at a person, or an item or nothing at all. It was crazy! Fortunately my friend knows this happens so he was able to get me back on track most of the time before I looked like a crazy person. Anyways, there ya go. I have a problem with staring so if you & I ever hang out .. and I start to stare ... you know it's not my personal preference to stare .. at you or whatever it is I'm spacing out at .. it's just part of my Lyme symptoms sneaking out on me.
Plus:
Lightning Strike is still wreaking havoc. Still our phone is having issues. Still they haven't buried our permanent line. However ....
Our dishwasher is a dream! It's so very quiet. I hate that our old one was killed by lightning, but it was a blessing in disguise.
P.S. plan is to take 2.25mg the rest of the week until Friday and then increase to 2.5mg. AND I guess I'll have to make that follow-up now. The doctor's office called and left a message reminding me to come in for a follow up. At least I'll have something wonderful to tell him! (that I've been able to increase the 1mg of LDN to 2.25mg! and I'm really hoping to have it up to 3mg by the middle of June!)
P.P.S It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
2nd week of LDN Plus ...
So this week was my 2nd week of LDN. Plus we discovered that our dishwasher was fried by the lightning too. So we went dishwasher shopping yesterday and today. We found one we really liked at Lowe's, but we debating on it because it was so "expensive." So we went to Home Depot and shopped at Sears online. It was there that we discovered the same dishwasher we wanted at Lowe's for $234 cheaper! Wow. So we went up to Sears to feel it out in person and it was 134 more dollars in the store than online. We bought it online and are having it shipped for free to the store. We'll pick it up one day next week.
Now onto the LDN Update:
On Saturday the 14th, I had a terrible day. I was exhausted all day. I had a headache that lasted all day and Tylenol didn't touch it. To top it off, that was the morning that the lightning struck our property. Because the symptoms were so severe, I decided to only take a 1.25mg Saturday night.
On Sunday the 15th, I was less fatigued, but I was still pretty tired. However I did sleep all night from Saturday to Sunday. Since my other symptoms were pretty void, I decided to take 1.5mg. I went to bed really late because of Survivor Finale.
On Monday, I was what I like to call "Zombie tired." I had an aura all day and felt as if a seizure could come on, but one never came to pass. (thank God). I felt fevered all day and pure exhausted, but I knew that there were a couple of reasons to explain this other than the 1.5mg of LDN so I took another 1.5mg dose.
Tuesday: From Monday into Tuesday, I had very vivid dreams from 2 to 5. I was also very cold all day Tuesday. However, I felt so great other than that that I decided to go ahead and take A WHOPPING 1.75MG! Woo hoo.
Wednesday: I had another bad day. I was very fatigued. I woke up often Tuesday into Wednesday and this was a huge impact on my stamina. So I only took 1.5mg that night.
Thursday: I slept really well Wednesday into Thursday and my headache was better. I had an overall great day so I took 1.75mg of LDN.
Friday: I've had a pretty good day though I did wake with very swollen fingers (my rings wouldn't fit on) and a small headache. I took some Tylenol and it took care of it. I only needed 1/2 my normal dose too. So that's good. I slept well Thursday night only waking once and that really didn't count because it was at 5am (my normal wake up time for week days). I took today off work because my Mother in law had surgery. She's back at home so the surgery went well. My plan ... in a few minutes ... is to see how I feel tomorrow after taking TWO MG of LDN tonight! Since I don't have to work and it doesn't really matter how badly I feel, I thought I'd take a risk!
So that's how things are going so far this go around. Here is hoping I don't have vivid nightmares or a headache tomorrow.
Update: I slept mostly through the night ONLY woke up ONCE! I remember having some dreams, but don't remember what they were about so that's actually completely awesome! AND my head feels pretty good this morning. I have some swollen hands and feet, but hey .. I'll take that!
Now onto the LDN Update:
On Saturday the 14th, I had a terrible day. I was exhausted all day. I had a headache that lasted all day and Tylenol didn't touch it. To top it off, that was the morning that the lightning struck our property. Because the symptoms were so severe, I decided to only take a 1.25mg Saturday night.
On Sunday the 15th, I was less fatigued, but I was still pretty tired. However I did sleep all night from Saturday to Sunday. Since my other symptoms were pretty void, I decided to take 1.5mg. I went to bed really late because of Survivor Finale.
On Monday, I was what I like to call "Zombie tired." I had an aura all day and felt as if a seizure could come on, but one never came to pass. (thank God). I felt fevered all day and pure exhausted, but I knew that there were a couple of reasons to explain this other than the 1.5mg of LDN so I took another 1.5mg dose.
Tuesday: From Monday into Tuesday, I had very vivid dreams from 2 to 5. I was also very cold all day Tuesday. However, I felt so great other than that that I decided to go ahead and take A WHOPPING 1.75MG! Woo hoo.
Wednesday: I had another bad day. I was very fatigued. I woke up often Tuesday into Wednesday and this was a huge impact on my stamina. So I only took 1.5mg that night.
Thursday: I slept really well Wednesday into Thursday and my headache was better. I had an overall great day so I took 1.75mg of LDN.
Friday: I've had a pretty good day though I did wake with very swollen fingers (my rings wouldn't fit on) and a small headache. I took some Tylenol and it took care of it. I only needed 1/2 my normal dose too. So that's good. I slept well Thursday night only waking once and that really didn't count because it was at 5am (my normal wake up time for week days). I took today off work because my Mother in law had surgery. She's back at home so the surgery went well. My plan ... in a few minutes ... is to see how I feel tomorrow after taking TWO MG of LDN tonight! Since I don't have to work and it doesn't really matter how badly I feel, I thought I'd take a risk!
So that's how things are going so far this go around. Here is hoping I don't have vivid nightmares or a headache tomorrow.
Update: I slept mostly through the night ONLY woke up ONCE! I remember having some dreams, but don't remember what they were about so that's actually completely awesome! AND my head feels pretty good this morning. I have some swollen hands and feet, but hey .. I'll take that!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Boom Boom Pow
Not the song, but the lightning and thunderstorm last night was Boom Boom Pow.
It was a bit crazy over here. I didn't sleep well through it, but once I heard a little pop (okay a loud pop) and hail, I was outta bed! I woke to find that one outlet in the kitchen was kapoot and that a breaker was probably fried (b.c there was no electricity in the computer or other bedroom) and that our phone line was dead. Nothing appeared to be a direct hit to the house, but rather a hit to something else that slowly leaked to the house.
I went back to bed and struggled to sleep. When I did get out of bed, found out that the telephone cover was blown off our house so that our phone line wasn't going to get fixed until the phone company comes down (and we're still waiting) to fix it. More than likely will be a temporary fix first and then a permanent one. My husband fixed the breaker and the electrical outlet. Our wireless router is fried along with my beloved electric blanket (well the controller).
Crazy. In any case, we are all okay. I'm sure we'll find other things that have been struck. There is a huge hole at the base of one of our Bradford Pear trees. Add to that: we've found that our doorbell is also broken.
On other "electric" news. Scotty McCreery is back in town! If I were a country fan, it would be a huge deal. But he's taken over the television today! I wish the kid luck, but I'll be honest ... I haven't watched this season at all and country music makes me cringe.
It was a bit crazy over here. I didn't sleep well through it, but once I heard a little pop (okay a loud pop) and hail, I was outta bed! I woke to find that one outlet in the kitchen was kapoot and that a breaker was probably fried (b.c there was no electricity in the computer or other bedroom) and that our phone line was dead. Nothing appeared to be a direct hit to the house, but rather a hit to something else that slowly leaked to the house.
I went back to bed and struggled to sleep. When I did get out of bed, found out that the telephone cover was blown off our house so that our phone line wasn't going to get fixed until the phone company comes down (and we're still waiting) to fix it. More than likely will be a temporary fix first and then a permanent one. My husband fixed the breaker and the electrical outlet. Our wireless router is fried along with my beloved electric blanket (well the controller).
Crazy. In any case, we are all okay. I'm sure we'll find other things that have been struck. There is a huge hole at the base of one of our Bradford Pear trees. Add to that: we've found that our doorbell is also broken.
On other "electric" news. Scotty McCreery is back in town! If I were a country fan, it would be a huge deal. But he's taken over the television today! I wish the kid luck, but I'll be honest ... I haven't watched this season at all and country music makes me cringe.
Friday, May 13, 2011
One week of LDN
I started LDN again one week ago tonight. I took 1mg dose and went to bed. I slept all night and barely even budged that night. It was a good start. The next morning, I felt very warm and had a small headache, but it wasn't enough to keep me from taking another dose Saturday. Sunday morning I was very warm and my hands were swollen a bit. That afternoon I felt a bit off kilter. I was a bit dizzy and off balance, but nothing to keep me from taking another dose.
In fact, I decided to up my dose to 1.5mg. Within 15 minutes, my heart rate increased. I did go to sleep, but my sleep was disrupted with dreams. Monday I woke up exhausted and stayed fatigued through the day, but it was a fairly good day symptom wise. So I decided to take another 1.5mg dose Monday night. The next morning I felt pretty good., but in the afternoon and evening I felt very warm, off kilter and had a small headache.
This caused me to reduce my dosage to 1.25 mg. I didn't want to drop all the way down to 1mg and I didn't want to repeat the 1.5 so I went right down the middle. I woke up every 2 hours throughout the night. I had dry mouth and skin upon each waking. I had funny heart flutters in the afternoon, but they were gone by the time it was time to take the LDN. I decided to go ahead and take another 1.5mg dose that Wednesday night.
In the middle of the night, I woke to find that my fingers were swelling so I took off my wedding rings. When I woke at 5am, my fingers were so swollen that my rings wouldn't go back on. By that afternoon, my fingers had returned to their normal size. Other than a slight bit of fatigue from waking up in the middle of the night, I had a pretty good day. So Thursday night I took another 1.5mg dose. I slept well from Thursday into Friday, but Friday morning from midnight to 5am I woke 3 times.
That brings us to this morning. I actually had a pretty good day, but I woke with a slight headache. However, it went away after a few hours. I did feel fatigue through the day as well. I plan on taking another 1.5 mg. I'm so thrilled that things are going well this time around. I don't remember taking this many 1.5 mg in a row before. I'm hoping that I'll be able to up my dosage to 1.75 before long!
In fact, I decided to up my dose to 1.5mg. Within 15 minutes, my heart rate increased. I did go to sleep, but my sleep was disrupted with dreams. Monday I woke up exhausted and stayed fatigued through the day, but it was a fairly good day symptom wise. So I decided to take another 1.5mg dose Monday night. The next morning I felt pretty good., but in the afternoon and evening I felt very warm, off kilter and had a small headache.
This caused me to reduce my dosage to 1.25 mg. I didn't want to drop all the way down to 1mg and I didn't want to repeat the 1.5 so I went right down the middle. I woke up every 2 hours throughout the night. I had dry mouth and skin upon each waking. I had funny heart flutters in the afternoon, but they were gone by the time it was time to take the LDN. I decided to go ahead and take another 1.5mg dose that Wednesday night.
In the middle of the night, I woke to find that my fingers were swelling so I took off my wedding rings. When I woke at 5am, my fingers were so swollen that my rings wouldn't go back on. By that afternoon, my fingers had returned to their normal size. Other than a slight bit of fatigue from waking up in the middle of the night, I had a pretty good day. So Thursday night I took another 1.5mg dose. I slept well from Thursday into Friday, but Friday morning from midnight to 5am I woke 3 times.
That brings us to this morning. I actually had a pretty good day, but I woke with a slight headache. However, it went away after a few hours. I did feel fatigue through the day as well. I plan on taking another 1.5 mg. I'm so thrilled that things are going well this time around. I don't remember taking this many 1.5 mg in a row before. I'm hoping that I'll be able to up my dosage to 1.75 before long!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
My Mom had to endure this ....
What this teenager wouldn't do to watch a little Doogie Howser. Remember, this was before VCRs were really big much less DVR's. I had to watch all episodes live (IN THE LIVING ROOM NONE-THE-LESS!).
Then there was the year I met this marvelous basketball player and drooled over him. Oh who am I kidding, I still drool over him a bit almost 2 decades later.
Then I was in love with Patrick Dempsey BEFORE he was hot!
Then there was Michael J Fox
See what all my Mother had to endure?
Happy Mother's Day Mom. Thanks for putting up with all my celebrity crushes! :)
Then there was the year I met this marvelous basketball player and drooled over him. Oh who am I kidding, I still drool over him a bit almost 2 decades later.
Then I was in love with Patrick Dempsey BEFORE he was hot!
Then there was Michael J Fox
See what all my Mother had to endure?
Happy Mother's Day Mom. Thanks for putting up with all my celebrity crushes! :)
Dose 2
I slept all night and woke up with no headache after the 2nd 1mg dose of LDN. I do remember having some vivid dreams, but none really vivid enough to keep me awake. This is the huge problem I have with LDN. So hopefully it will remain this way. I did wake up a little "swollen" and "hot," but I can tolerate the tiny bits of this if it indeed helps my immune system function properly.
I'll probably go ahead and increase to the 1.5 mg soon. Usually I have much more symptoms than this on even the 1mg. So I'm pleased as punch to be making some headway already.
I'll probably go ahead and increase to the 1.5 mg soon. Usually I have much more symptoms than this on even the 1mg. So I'm pleased as punch to be making some headway already.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Lyme Awareness
Part of Lyme Awareness is truthfully being away that Lyme just never really goes away. So in this truth, I have to look at myself. I have to remember that it is always there. It may be hidden, but it is there. I must keep working to keep my immune system in good shape so that the Lyme bug doesn't come out and wreck my body.
Over the past few months I have experienced several health set backs. I've been on antibiotics twice for different things and recently (this past week) experienced the ever so much fun urinary tract infection. I didn't go get tested for it, but I knew it was there. I also have this most wonderful supplement for Urinary Tract Support called Mannose D Powder. I decided that I would give it try and see if it would help before going in to the doctors to get tested (and then antibiotics when the test proved positive).
It's something that can be taken 1/4 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon 1 to 3 times a day. In the past, I have used 1/2 teaspoon twice a day. This time since my symptoms were so severe, I decided to go ahead and max dose it at 1 teaspoon 3 times a day. I did this for 3 full days and then decreased it to 1/2 teaspoon 3 times a day. Yesterday I did it for 1/2 teaspoon 2 a day and today I haven't even taken my dose yet. However, I'm not going nearly as frequently and things are improving. I'll probably stay at this 1/4 teaspoon 3 times a day for a few more days and then stop. If things go back, then I'll have to go see a doctor for testing. However I'm confident that things will stay great.
With all of this in mind, I decided it was time to go back to the regiment that I should have been on. Back to the LDN. 1mg last night. I can tell today. :( Headache, swollen hands and feeling hot (though I don't have a temp). I just got to push through this initial phase. Wish me luck and remember
Stay Lyme Aware.
Over the past few months I have experienced several health set backs. I've been on antibiotics twice for different things and recently (this past week) experienced the ever so much fun urinary tract infection. I didn't go get tested for it, but I knew it was there. I also have this most wonderful supplement for Urinary Tract Support called Mannose D Powder. I decided that I would give it try and see if it would help before going in to the doctors to get tested (and then antibiotics when the test proved positive).
It's something that can be taken 1/4 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon 1 to 3 times a day. In the past, I have used 1/2 teaspoon twice a day. This time since my symptoms were so severe, I decided to go ahead and max dose it at 1 teaspoon 3 times a day. I did this for 3 full days and then decreased it to 1/2 teaspoon 3 times a day. Yesterday I did it for 1/2 teaspoon 2 a day and today I haven't even taken my dose yet. However, I'm not going nearly as frequently and things are improving. I'll probably stay at this 1/4 teaspoon 3 times a day for a few more days and then stop. If things go back, then I'll have to go see a doctor for testing. However I'm confident that things will stay great.
With all of this in mind, I decided it was time to go back to the regiment that I should have been on. Back to the LDN. 1mg last night. I can tell today. :( Headache, swollen hands and feeling hot (though I don't have a temp). I just got to push through this initial phase. Wish me luck and remember
Stay Lyme Aware.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Lyme Awareness month
It's Lyme Disease Awareness month. Check out your local PBS station to see if they are playing Under Our Skin this month. It the Raleigh Durham area, it's being aired on May 17th at 8pm on UNC-TV (most people's Channel 4 I think). Check this documentary out. The first time I watched it, I got sad. The second time I watched it, I got mad. The third and fourth time I learned something new. Please DVR it so you can watch it time and time again.
I still have my Lyme Green ribbon up, though I'm in desperate need of a new one. This one has been out for a year! Share the Lyme Light by educating others on this disease.
I still have my Lyme Green ribbon up, though I'm in desperate need of a new one. This one has been out for a year! Share the Lyme Light by educating others on this disease.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
since I last posted
Two sets of friends are in need of your prayers.
I don't want to name names, but both set of friends I've known for a while. Two of them I've known since elementary school and the other two I've known for ten years.
W & J lost their father late last night, early this morning. When I was in elementary school, I was extremely close to W & his Dad. His Dad had a way that just made me chuckle. He looked just like Yosemite Sam and whenever I think about my elementary school friends ... his son is one of the first that comes to mind. I just saw him for the first time in quite some time Easter 2010. I gave him a huge hug and he called me my mother's name until he realized that I was the tiny little Jennifer all grown up. So please pray for my friend's family.
V & J lost their Uncle early yesterday morning. V was one of my first friends after I married my husband. She was one of the first people in my world that didn't know me by Jennifer (insert maiden name). We worked together and her little brother would come in often to hang out while we worked our hind parts off. During the time we worked together, I became close with her mom & dad. Their Uncle that passed was their Mom's brother. While I've never met him, I know the close bond that their family shares. Their Uncle has been sick for quite some time and while it was expected, it's still a difficult time for their family.
My heart aches for all of them and if I could, I'd put my arms around each one and let them know how special they are to me. I'm just not sure I'll be able to see any of them anytime soon.
I've also heard that in the last week we've lost 2 people in the Lyme community. If I do say so myself, this week stinks.
I don't want to name names, but both set of friends I've known for a while. Two of them I've known since elementary school and the other two I've known for ten years.
W & J lost their father late last night, early this morning. When I was in elementary school, I was extremely close to W & his Dad. His Dad had a way that just made me chuckle. He looked just like Yosemite Sam and whenever I think about my elementary school friends ... his son is one of the first that comes to mind. I just saw him for the first time in quite some time Easter 2010. I gave him a huge hug and he called me my mother's name until he realized that I was the tiny little Jennifer all grown up. So please pray for my friend's family.
V & J lost their Uncle early yesterday morning. V was one of my first friends after I married my husband. She was one of the first people in my world that didn't know me by Jennifer (insert maiden name). We worked together and her little brother would come in often to hang out while we worked our hind parts off. During the time we worked together, I became close with her mom & dad. Their Uncle that passed was their Mom's brother. While I've never met him, I know the close bond that their family shares. Their Uncle has been sick for quite some time and while it was expected, it's still a difficult time for their family.
My heart aches for all of them and if I could, I'd put my arms around each one and let them know how special they are to me. I'm just not sure I'll be able to see any of them anytime soon.
I've also heard that in the last week we've lost 2 people in the Lyme community. If I do say so myself, this week stinks.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
I know I know
I know I've been quiet. Between being really busy at work and being really busy at home and being sick off and on, I've just been quiet. There have been a couple of anniversaries and birthdays.
Health: I'm okay, but the past couple of weeks I've had several really bad migraines. I'm pushing through them and finally today it eased off. I'm hoping that it will be through, but I think it has to do part weather and part stress.
Anniversaries: Rob & I celebrated our 11 year wedding anniversary on the 15th. Then two days ago, it was the one year anniversary of my Grandfather going "home." Today was the 2nd anniversary of my friend Pam going "home."
Birthdays and a BIRTH day: My niece Piper turned one! Happy Birthday Piper. My sister had her 5th baby and he's precious.
April has been quite a month, a busy month. I am glad that May is almost here.
Health: I'm okay, but the past couple of weeks I've had several really bad migraines. I'm pushing through them and finally today it eased off. I'm hoping that it will be through, but I think it has to do part weather and part stress.
Anniversaries: Rob & I celebrated our 11 year wedding anniversary on the 15th. Then two days ago, it was the one year anniversary of my Grandfather going "home." Today was the 2nd anniversary of my friend Pam going "home."
Birthdays and a BIRTH day: My niece Piper turned one! Happy Birthday Piper. My sister had her 5th baby and he's precious.
April has been quite a month, a busy month. I am glad that May is almost here.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
62 Tornadoes in NC
Yesterday was a frightful day in North Carolina (and surrounding states). There were 62 tornadoes. I spent a good portion of 15 minutes in the bathroom terrified, though most of the day shaking in my skin. I thought there was a good possibility that we'd get hit by one of the many tornadoes. There are 24 deaths in North Carolina confirmed so far.
Many stores including a Lowe's Home Improvement store were destroyed. One university has suspended classes for the duration of the Spring Semester because of damage to the building. Many schools will be delayed or closed. Many families lost their homes and many people lost loved ones.
Thankfully, my neighborhood was unscathed and as far as I know all my friends and family members are safe. However I know people that are friends with people that lost family. They are devastated and for that I am devastated for them.
Many stores including a Lowe's Home Improvement store were destroyed. One university has suspended classes for the duration of the Spring Semester because of damage to the building. Many schools will be delayed or closed. Many families lost their homes and many people lost loved ones.
Thankfully, my neighborhood was unscathed and as far as I know all my friends and family members are safe. However I know people that are friends with people that lost family. They are devastated and for that I am devastated for them.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
I'm still kicking
I just haven't been around much lately. I've been working hard and for some reason neglecting this.
Yesterday I had a very exciting day. I drove a little over an hour to meet someone I've been talking with online about Lyme. I am now proud to call her a friend. I spent quite a long time there and we even watched Under Our Skin together. We talked a lot about Lyme, but mostly about life.
Yesterday I felt as if we were old dear friends that were hanging out on the couch instead of people that were strangers less than two months ago.
Yesterday I had a very exciting day. I drove a little over an hour to meet someone I've been talking with online about Lyme. I am now proud to call her a friend. I spent quite a long time there and we even watched Under Our Skin together. We talked a lot about Lyme, but mostly about life.
Yesterday I felt as if we were old dear friends that were hanging out on the couch instead of people that were strangers less than two months ago.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
The project
We're having a gallery auction. The kids are going to create one masterpiece (one per class) and we'll auction them off. The highest bidder wins. The money is going to help the Tsunami Victims in Japan. I purchased the materials for the project and gave it out on Friday. I can't wait to see each classrooms creations.
Friday, March 25, 2011
sometimes I wake up
in such a great mood. I have no idea why, but I wake up SMILING. It's such a great feeling! :}
I have a post in mind to do, but I've not had time (imagine that!) to work on it. I'm working on a really big project at work and it pretty much consumes my mind at all times. I'll share about that later because I'm really excited about it. Anyways .... got to run to work (or drive ... that's my preference since it's a good 45 minute drive).
I have a post in mind to do, but I've not had time (imagine that!) to work on it. I'm working on a really big project at work and it pretty much consumes my mind at all times. I'll share about that later because I'm really excited about it. Anyways .... got to run to work (or drive ... that's my preference since it's a good 45 minute drive).
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Surviving the Raw Nose
I've seen to get over the worst part of the illness. I'm still coughing (which always lasts forever), but the thing that surprises me is the amount of mucus! Oh My Word. It just seems to be non-stopped. My nose was pure raw from the blowing. I finally had to pull out vaseline and pretty much lather it on my nose and lips after every single nose-blow.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Update
So I was pretty sick over night. Yesterday I fought to stay at work. Probably paid the price last night. I was doing pretty well, but decided on a whim to take some Night Time Delsym. Figured it would help me sleep and keep the coughing at bay over night. So I took the dose around 8pm. Around midnight, I woke up burning up. I thought that I had turned up my electric blanket so I checked it. It was OFF. Apparently I was so hot that I turned it off in my sleep. There are 10 levels on my blanket and I generally sleep with it on level 3 or 4. Sometimes hotter and sometimes cooler, but mostly 4. So I was shocked when it was OFF.
I decided to check my temperature and was a little stunned when I saw it say 100.5. I decided to wait 30 minutes to recheck and as I laid there ... I got hotter and hotter. When I rechecked it hit the 102 mark. I decided it was time to go ahead and take Tylenol. I went ahead and got a bottled water and Tylenol thinking that soon I'd be able to go back to sleep. Well by 2am, my temperature had reached a shocking 103.5. I stumbled into the kitchen to get a cool wet cloth for my body. I knew I had to take care of that fever quickly, but I can't take Motrin. Motrin makes my eyes swell up. It may help with the fever, but the last time I took Motrin I wound up at the Urgent Care getting a Steroid Shot.
I argued with myself over whether to use the Motrin or not and in the end decided that I would hold off. I continued to check. At 3:30am, it was 104.6. At this point I was pretty much out of it trying to sip water. Throughout all of this, I talked out loud to God. I knew He was with me. I knew He wouldn't give me more than I could handle. I remember asking for him to take away the fever. Somewhere around 4, I essentially passed out and woke at 5am when my alarm went off. I felt the coolness of the sweat and knew my fever broke.
Needless to say, I will be starting those antibiotics because I haven't gotten any better and all the factors my doctor said to watch out for started. I'm so glad to be alive. I'm so glad to be alive. Praise God I'm still alive.
I decided to check my temperature and was a little stunned when I saw it say 100.5. I decided to wait 30 minutes to recheck and as I laid there ... I got hotter and hotter. When I rechecked it hit the 102 mark. I decided it was time to go ahead and take Tylenol. I went ahead and got a bottled water and Tylenol thinking that soon I'd be able to go back to sleep. Well by 2am, my temperature had reached a shocking 103.5. I stumbled into the kitchen to get a cool wet cloth for my body. I knew I had to take care of that fever quickly, but I can't take Motrin. Motrin makes my eyes swell up. It may help with the fever, but the last time I took Motrin I wound up at the Urgent Care getting a Steroid Shot.
I argued with myself over whether to use the Motrin or not and in the end decided that I would hold off. I continued to check. At 3:30am, it was 104.6. At this point I was pretty much out of it trying to sip water. Throughout all of this, I talked out loud to God. I knew He was with me. I knew He wouldn't give me more than I could handle. I remember asking for him to take away the fever. Somewhere around 4, I essentially passed out and woke at 5am when my alarm went off. I felt the coolness of the sweat and knew my fever broke.
Needless to say, I will be starting those antibiotics because I haven't gotten any better and all the factors my doctor said to watch out for started. I'm so glad to be alive. I'm so glad to be alive. Praise God I'm still alive.
Monday, March 7, 2011
cough cough sneeze
Because I'll have a long day of work tomorrow and because my head hadn't improved with Claritin or Zyrtec or Tylenol or any other thing and this morning was even worse, I decided to cough my way to the doctor.
I sound completely pathetic so if no one gets phone calls this week ... it's because it is down right frustrating to talk. When I left work today, I called over to my PCP to see if by chance they could squeeze in a sick visit. I was thrilled when they asked if I would be willing to see "K." "K" is the nurse practitioner that I saw before my diagnosis. She sent me here and there trying to find out what was wrong with me. Though I was frustrated with no diagnosis, I loved seeing her. She knows my "preferences." And what I mean by that is that she knows which antibiotics I prefer and she also knows that I prefer to do something else before antibiotics. So I went in today telling her about my symptoms. I knew that I didn't have an infection yet, but I also knew that within 24 to 48 hours I might.
I told her what I had tried (minus some special integrative things that she probably has never heard of) and what I thought. She investigated (looking at my ears, nose and throat) and told me that there was no infection (yet), but that she would write me a script just in case the tides turned. She also sent me on my way with 7 days worth of samples of Singulair ( I used to take it before Lyme during the seasonal times). I get to take this and hopefully it will improve. If not, then Zithromax will be my friend again. While it's not my favorite antibiotic, I know it works.
Gah! These pollinating trees are going to be the death of me. I think every bone in my face hurts. Hopefully the Singulair will work and I won't need the Z pack.
I sound completely pathetic so if no one gets phone calls this week ... it's because it is down right frustrating to talk. When I left work today, I called over to my PCP to see if by chance they could squeeze in a sick visit. I was thrilled when they asked if I would be willing to see "K." "K" is the nurse practitioner that I saw before my diagnosis. She sent me here and there trying to find out what was wrong with me. Though I was frustrated with no diagnosis, I loved seeing her. She knows my "preferences." And what I mean by that is that she knows which antibiotics I prefer and she also knows that I prefer to do something else before antibiotics. So I went in today telling her about my symptoms. I knew that I didn't have an infection yet, but I also knew that within 24 to 48 hours I might.
I told her what I had tried (minus some special integrative things that she probably has never heard of) and what I thought. She investigated (looking at my ears, nose and throat) and told me that there was no infection (yet), but that she would write me a script just in case the tides turned. She also sent me on my way with 7 days worth of samples of Singulair ( I used to take it before Lyme during the seasonal times). I get to take this and hopefully it will improve. If not, then Zithromax will be my friend again. While it's not my favorite antibiotic, I know it works.
Gah! These pollinating trees are going to be the death of me. I think every bone in my face hurts. Hopefully the Singulair will work and I won't need the Z pack.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Allergy Season
I love March for one reason. It's March Madness. Basketball. UNC.
However March also makes me mad. It's the start of allergy season. So I woke up yesterday with a small sore throat and itchy eyes. Thought I'd "work through it" on my own, but this morning I woke wiht even more sore throat, irritating nose drippage and a small cough. All this tells me, I better jump on this and quick. Leucozepin, Zinc, Total B drops, Vitamin D ... to start. Then add in a Claritin and finally ... I had to add in Tylenol.
I'm hoping to be able to knock this out before it turns into an infection. Lately I've not been able to do that, but we'll see.
Madness, March Madness. One part exhilarating and the other part frustrating. Speaking of both the weather and basketball.
However March also makes me mad. It's the start of allergy season. So I woke up yesterday with a small sore throat and itchy eyes. Thought I'd "work through it" on my own, but this morning I woke wiht even more sore throat, irritating nose drippage and a small cough. All this tells me, I better jump on this and quick. Leucozepin, Zinc, Total B drops, Vitamin D ... to start. Then add in a Claritin and finally ... I had to add in Tylenol.
I'm hoping to be able to knock this out before it turns into an infection. Lately I've not been able to do that, but we'll see.
Madness, March Madness. One part exhilarating and the other part frustrating. Speaking of both the weather and basketball.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Is it summer yet?
I'm ready for summer because I'm ready for So You Think You Can Dance. I am wanting it so bad that I googled some dancing. And I found this:
Well this search led me to look up the artist of the song. I looked her up. I couldn't believe it.
She's actually a friend of mine. I didn't realize she was a singer/song writer. We had never talked about our careers. We had only talked about bad Doctors, Integrative Medicine, PICC Lines, Heavy Metal Poisoning and Lyme Disease. Anyways, I wanted to share with you Alisa's music.
Here's the full song called Breathing by Alisa Turner
Here is another song that I just have fallen in love with .. I can't get the tune out of my head.It's called Trouble.
Alisa is so sweet. I've seen her struggles, her troubles and she's seen what few have seen. Me at my very worst at the peak of my condition.
If you check out her music page on myspace, you can hear her music there too.
http://www.myspace.com/alisaturner/music/songs/trouble-68778538
Well this search led me to look up the artist of the song. I looked her up. I couldn't believe it.
She's actually a friend of mine. I didn't realize she was a singer/song writer. We had never talked about our careers. We had only talked about bad Doctors, Integrative Medicine, PICC Lines, Heavy Metal Poisoning and Lyme Disease. Anyways, I wanted to share with you Alisa's music.
Here's the full song called Breathing by Alisa Turner
Here is another song that I just have fallen in love with .. I can't get the tune out of my head.It's called Trouble.
Alisa is so sweet. I've seen her struggles, her troubles and she's seen what few have seen. Me at my very worst at the peak of my condition.
If you check out her music page on myspace, you can hear her music there too.
http://www.myspace.com/alisaturner/music/songs/trouble-68778538
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Roller Coaster Changes
Life is funny sometimes. It wasn't too awfully long ago that I cried almost every day. Then one day, I forced myself to change. I didn't even realize how upset I was all the time until a friend pointed it out. She asked what happened to the bubbly Jennifer she used to know. Oh what a question that was. I thought and thought and realized that the bubbly Jennifer was still there, but very guarded. It was in that moment I made a choice to change back. I slowly chipped away at the bad bits and even through the worst moments of my life managed to smile through the pain. I opened up my soul, my heart, my spirit to those around me. Every day, I change just a little bit. And today as I was thinking about this, it reminded me about this song sung by Addison Road. I realized that no one is perfect, not even those that we look up to and respect. Even those that we've known for a while can do things that hurt us. So what do we do when someone we respect and look up to hurts us or someone we love? We forgive because one day ... there will be a change in the making.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Has it really been four years?
It's hard to believe that today marks the fourth year of my Lyme diagnosis. I can't believe I've been through hard core antibiotic treatment, hard core IV alternative treatment and came out the other side of the Lyme life.
I can't believe it's been four years since a doctor finally listened to me and explained to me why I had Lyme Disease and why all the testing had been wrong. I'm so blessed to be alive. Four years and a day ago, I honestly thought I was dying. And here I am, four years later, blessed to be alive. Thank you God for sending me a phenomenal doctor who thinks outside the box.
Because he thought outside of the box, I've been able to live.
Flowers courtesy of my wonderfully thoughtful husband on Valentine's Day.
I can't believe it's been four years since a doctor finally listened to me and explained to me why I had Lyme Disease and why all the testing had been wrong. I'm so blessed to be alive. Four years and a day ago, I honestly thought I was dying. And here I am, four years later, blessed to be alive. Thank you God for sending me a phenomenal doctor who thinks outside the box.
Because he thought outside of the box, I've been able to live.
Flowers courtesy of my wonderfully thoughtful husband on Valentine's Day.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sensory Overload
Sometimes I have days where every little thing irritates me. Every night I pretty much have the same routine. Between 7pm and 8pm, I crawl into bed and play a CD that helps me relax and fall asleep. We have the room darker than a cave for most people's standards, but for me some nights ... it just isn't dark enough. The little red light on the TV when it's powered off might as well be a flashlight. I already have black tape covering the time on the clock, but the light that glows behind it ... might as well not even have it covered. I use an electronic toothbrush. I can't charge it at night because the glow is way too bright. Now on most nights I can ignore these little "lights." (this doesn't even talk about the sound that the TV makes when it's not on or the computers from the other room or the cars and dogs that are outside making noise that live down the street). Last night on the other hand. All these little things kept me from going to sleep. Sensory Overload.
I played my CD 3 times before giving up and getting up. Then I was up for an hour before laying back down for the CD to play twice before I just turned on the television set. Then I played it one final time and finally fell asleep sometime between 4 and 4:15. I fell asleep after 4am, but before 4:15am. My alarm goes off at 5am. 45 minutes of sleep I figure with waking once during that time to think "good I finally fell asleep."
Hopefully I can function today.
I played my CD 3 times before giving up and getting up. Then I was up for an hour before laying back down for the CD to play twice before I just turned on the television set. Then I played it one final time and finally fell asleep sometime between 4 and 4:15. I fell asleep after 4am, but before 4:15am. My alarm goes off at 5am. 45 minutes of sleep I figure with waking once during that time to think "good I finally fell asleep."
Hopefully I can function today.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The Closet
So in January (9th and 10th), I cleaned and organized the closet. I took photographs and posted. Once the batteries in my camera recharge, I'll post a picture of the state of the closet now. But first, who thinks it's still clean 37 days later?
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Losing Friends
Today my heart sank to my stomach. I woke up to see a friend's status on Facebook. My heart sank a little bit for her. I saw that she lost a friend to lung cancer. I saw the first name of her friend and prayed that it wasn't a friend of mine from many years ago. I went onto work. I didn't think about it again. Then my boss called me into the office as I was leaving. The words stung my heart and pierced my soul.
"Pam (removed last name) passed away last night. " I felt the lump form in my throat. It was all I could do to hold the tears back. The only thing that made this loss different from our last friend that went to Heaven was that her family had preparation. Her family knew this was coming. A loss of a friend/family member when you know is difficult, but along the journey of the rest of their life you mourn.
My heart aches for my friend's family. My heart aches for her beautiful daughters, her husband of 32 years and anyone that ever crossed her path. Forgive me if I'm quiet. I tend to retreat when I mourn.
"Pam (removed last name) passed away last night. " I felt the lump form in my throat. It was all I could do to hold the tears back. The only thing that made this loss different from our last friend that went to Heaven was that her family had preparation. Her family knew this was coming. A loss of a friend/family member when you know is difficult, but along the journey of the rest of their life you mourn.
My heart aches for my friend's family. My heart aches for her beautiful daughters, her husband of 32 years and anyone that ever crossed her path. Forgive me if I'm quiet. I tend to retreat when I mourn.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
I am
I was talking with a new friend last night. It got me to thinking about all the things I am. I often wonder about people's first impression about me and about my own first impressions about others. Let's face the cold hard truth that when we meet people we try to put our best foot forward. We try to offer all the best parts of ourselves to them and peel back the layers of ourselves a little bit at a time.
There are many things that we can learn just based on LOOKING at a person and then there are things we learn by LISTENING. Then there are things we think we know by ASSUMING.
If I show you these two photographs ... what might you assume?
Assumption: Lover of outdoors
Fact: 15 minutes outside is 15 minutes too long.
Who am I? By my choosing, I am several things. I am Christian. I am a wife and friend. I am a teacher. I am a college graduate. These are things I chose to do. Then there are things that I am that I have no control over. I am proud just the same, but they weren't under my control. They were things I was born into. I am a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece. There are so many other things that I am.
But there is one more thing that affects my daily life, but it is not who I am ... it is what I have. It took me years to say it comfortably. If you're just beginning your journey, it may take you a while too. However one day, you too will be able to say "I have Lyme Disease." It will roll off your tongue like "My name is Jennifer." As my new friend and I discussed last night, it's almost like an AA meeting. "Hi My name is Jennifer and I have Lyme Disease."
There are many things that we can learn just based on LOOKING at a person and then there are things we learn by LISTENING. Then there are things we think we know by ASSUMING.
If I show you these two photographs ... what might you assume?
Assumption: Lover of outdoors
Fact: 15 minutes outside is 15 minutes too long.
Who am I? By my choosing, I am several things. I am Christian. I am a wife and friend. I am a teacher. I am a college graduate. These are things I chose to do. Then there are things that I am that I have no control over. I am proud just the same, but they weren't under my control. They were things I was born into. I am a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece. There are so many other things that I am.
But there is one more thing that affects my daily life, but it is not who I am ... it is what I have. It took me years to say it comfortably. If you're just beginning your journey, it may take you a while too. However one day, you too will be able to say "I have Lyme Disease." It will roll off your tongue like "My name is Jennifer." As my new friend and I discussed last night, it's almost like an AA meeting. "Hi My name is Jennifer and I have Lyme Disease."
Sunday, January 30, 2011
2010 in Review
2010 had some ups and downs. I was supposed to have written this by now. Apparently, I've been slack. I scheduled it to post today figuring I'd have it completed. I only completed 2 months. Oh well. Here ya go.
January of 2010 One year ago I was given the best news: Concerns for Lyme Disease: And I quote, "No further treatment should be needed at this time." Of course I was also told to be conscious of risk for relapse.
We also enjoyed my birthday with some really extra sweet cake ~ the cake Debacle of 2010
The almost birthday snow.
February of 2010
In Feb of 2010, we got snow at least twice. In fact, I risked my life for my children.
And at the Alumni Game, it started to snow while we were there. I almost fell a couple of times and gripped onto him for dear life. But, seriously a great time was had by all. Alumni Game with my best friend at UNC.
Then we found the list of symptoms I had in 2006. It's amazing to think how sick I was almost five years ago.
IN 2009
In 2008
January of 2010 One year ago I was given the best news: Concerns for Lyme Disease: And I quote, "No further treatment should be needed at this time." Of course I was also told to be conscious of risk for relapse.
We also enjoyed my birthday with some really extra sweet cake ~ the cake Debacle of 2010
The almost birthday snow.
February of 2010
In Feb of 2010, we got snow at least twice. In fact, I risked my life for my children.
And at the Alumni Game, it started to snow while we were there. I almost fell a couple of times and gripped onto him for dear life. But, seriously a great time was had by all. Alumni Game with my best friend at UNC.
Then we found the list of symptoms I had in 2006. It's amazing to think how sick I was almost five years ago.
IN 2009
In 2008
Pain
Just because I don't complain about it doesn't mean it's not there. I learned a long time ago how to cope with Lyme pain (without medication too). However, I've pretty much been down and out since yesterday at waking time. It feels like someone is taking a knife and jabbing into my brain. I thought eventually it would improve, but finally decided to take Tylenol. Figured it would help. I figured wrong. It still feels like someone is jabbing my brain with a knife.
Top it off with a lot of back pain and stomach cramps, I'm pretty bad shape today. I know part of it is that lovely visit from my monthly friend. In fact, MOST of it is the visit from my monthly friend. However working 80 hours over the last 2 weeks hasn't helped. I really haven't worked 80 hours in 2 weeks in YEARS. I typically work at most 6 hours a day. Sometimes with an 8 hour thrown here or there. However over the last 4 weeks, I've worked many 9 hour days each week. My body feels like it's going to die and soon. I was even limping when I stood up after sitting to feed a baby. Of course I get asked, "What's wrong?" I want to scream, "I still have it. It doesn't just go away. I just have learned how to cope with it and most days I'm pretty fine." Instead I say, "I'm fine." I walk out of the room and try to cope with it better before I walk into the next room. Next week I have two 9.25 hour days scheduled. BACK TO BACK. This has happened the last few weeks. Last week I was actually not scheduled for this, but it happened when we had too many teachers call out sick.
So now it leaves me down & out for the weekend. I have to try to pull myself back together for tomorrow. It's a short day tomorrow unless someone calls out.
Top it off with a lot of back pain and stomach cramps, I'm pretty bad shape today. I know part of it is that lovely visit from my monthly friend. In fact, MOST of it is the visit from my monthly friend. However working 80 hours over the last 2 weeks hasn't helped. I really haven't worked 80 hours in 2 weeks in YEARS. I typically work at most 6 hours a day. Sometimes with an 8 hour thrown here or there. However over the last 4 weeks, I've worked many 9 hour days each week. My body feels like it's going to die and soon. I was even limping when I stood up after sitting to feed a baby. Of course I get asked, "What's wrong?" I want to scream, "I still have it. It doesn't just go away. I just have learned how to cope with it and most days I'm pretty fine." Instead I say, "I'm fine." I walk out of the room and try to cope with it better before I walk into the next room. Next week I have two 9.25 hour days scheduled. BACK TO BACK. This has happened the last few weeks. Last week I was actually not scheduled for this, but it happened when we had too many teachers call out sick.
So now it leaves me down & out for the weekend. I have to try to pull myself back together for tomorrow. It's a short day tomorrow unless someone calls out.
Friday, January 28, 2011
To David
I have been emailing with you about your wife. I have been trying to respond for the last week or so. However for some reason, my internet browser crashes whenever I reply to your messages. So I thought I would respond here out in the open so that you would know I wasn't ignoring your messages.
I did both the High Dose IV Vitamin C and IV Glutathione. I didn't do "shots." I did full on IV's. Typically took 3 hours when I did straight out IV's, but it took less time when I had my PICC line. I believe those two things were huge in my recovery process. Now while I am not feeling 100 percent, I am working 35 to 40 hours a week and not sleeping my days away. I used to sleep a LOT more. While my friends think I'm insane for going to bed at 7:30 or 8pm, what they may not realize is that I used to nap every afternoon for 3 to 4 hours only to get up for food and then go back to bed by 7pm. Some people don't respond by the Vitamin C and Glutathione, but I did.
Hope this helps David.
I did both the High Dose IV Vitamin C and IV Glutathione. I didn't do "shots." I did full on IV's. Typically took 3 hours when I did straight out IV's, but it took less time when I had my PICC line. I believe those two things were huge in my recovery process. Now while I am not feeling 100 percent, I am working 35 to 40 hours a week and not sleeping my days away. I used to sleep a LOT more. While my friends think I'm insane for going to bed at 7:30 or 8pm, what they may not realize is that I used to nap every afternoon for 3 to 4 hours only to get up for food and then go back to bed by 7pm. Some people don't respond by the Vitamin C and Glutathione, but I did.
Hope this helps David.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
XXXV
I've decided that XXXV sounds much younger than 35. Am I right?
Had a blast today. For the past 2o or so days, I've had this running count down with a friend at work. In December, she randomly blurted out that it was so many days until her birthday and that she expected a gift. She said it once and only once. So the day after her birthday (she took her actual birthday off), I showed up to work with an ornament that I made with her name on it. Well I randomly one day told her, "Hey it's 21 days until my birthday, I expect a present." I grinned and went on about my business. Then around day 14, I said it each and every day. I even mentioned it in statuses on Facebook on the weekends. I said it at different times each day and it was so random. Near the ends, it got groans from anyone that was near which made me laugh.
Today, she brought me my gift. A button that said "Happy Birthday." :o) I had to wear it all day long.
Rob made me a birthday cake again. It turned out much better than last year (though I haven't eaten it yet). We went out to eat at my fave T.G.I.Fridays. Ate way too much, got embarrassed with their birthday song and had a great time. The look on the dude's face when I told him I was "XXXV" was priceless. I don't think he'd ever have anyone tell him their age in roman numerals before!
I got tons of birthday wishes and I had a great great XXXVth birthday. :)
Had a blast today. For the past 2o or so days, I've had this running count down with a friend at work. In December, she randomly blurted out that it was so many days until her birthday and that she expected a gift. She said it once and only once. So the day after her birthday (she took her actual birthday off), I showed up to work with an ornament that I made with her name on it. Well I randomly one day told her, "Hey it's 21 days until my birthday, I expect a present." I grinned and went on about my business. Then around day 14, I said it each and every day. I even mentioned it in statuses on Facebook on the weekends. I said it at different times each day and it was so random. Near the ends, it got groans from anyone that was near which made me laugh.
Today, she brought me my gift. A button that said "Happy Birthday." :o) I had to wear it all day long.
Rob made me a birthday cake again. It turned out much better than last year (though I haven't eaten it yet). We went out to eat at my fave T.G.I.Fridays. Ate way too much, got embarrassed with their birthday song and had a great time. The look on the dude's face when I told him I was "XXXV" was priceless. I don't think he'd ever have anyone tell him their age in roman numerals before!
I got tons of birthday wishes and I had a great great XXXVth birthday. :)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Master Bedroom
Only thing it needs is a new coat of paint. Oh what am I saying .. it needs paint in the first place. We've painted all of TWO rooms in our house since 1998. One is the bathroom and the other is the computer room.
Anyways: Here's our "new" bedroom!
You can see our new curtains, new runner on the dresser, our new duvet cover & the pillow cases are part of our new sheet set. We purchased the ceiling fan over the summer when our old one went out. The picture on the wall I received for Christmas many many moons ago. When we first got married, we had a frame for our mattresses and that was it. It bothered me quite a bit. Scratch that, quite a lot.
I knew I didn't want "light" wood and preferably wanted a darker wood. I really wanted some iron of some sort in it, but in the end decided that simpler was better because I might not like the iron look in 10 years. We ordered a non-sleigh bed because the dimensions on the website. We knew it wouldn't fit our bedroom even though we really wanted the sleigh bed. Well when the bed arrived, it was the one we wanted (but didn't order) AND it fit the room. We called the place to let them know of the mistake, but told them we wanted to keep the one sent. Now if we could get the room painted, I'd be pleased as punch. :o)
The top of the dresser. I use table runners to cover my dresser so that it protects the wood a little bit from anything I might put on top of the dresser. For about 8 years, we used a Burgundy Comforter so our runner was Burgundy. Our second most recent purchased changed the color theme to the light teal green blue, but I finally got around to buying a new runner after the most recent duvet cover was purchased.
Our nightstands. We've had these lamps forever. I still love them as much as the first day we bought them. What's on my nightstand? A Lamp, A Clock that I keep facing towards me. Yes that is MY side of the bed. Also keep a telephone (which has a silent ringer!) and what you can't see because I hid it in the top drawer is the remote control for the fan/light. Yes I can crawl into bed and then turn off the light! It's wonderful.
The most wonderful invention ever because I don't have to remove my glasses, fumble to the light switch, turn off lights, fumble back to bed and get in. I just have to crawl into bed. Get comfortable and turn off the lights and then remove my glasses. It's on a dimmer turn off so turns off in a way that I can remove my glasses and scootch down in bed before it's completely off. LOVE IT! Also just like I use table runner on my dresser, I get place mats for the nightstands. You can see just how ginormous they are based on how much tiny the place mats look.
Once it's painted, I will be LOVING this room.
And yes, our closet is still clean! Must be a record for me.
Anyways: Here's our "new" bedroom!
You can see our new curtains, new runner on the dresser, our new duvet cover & the pillow cases are part of our new sheet set. We purchased the ceiling fan over the summer when our old one went out. The picture on the wall I received for Christmas many many moons ago. When we first got married, we had a frame for our mattresses and that was it. It bothered me quite a bit. Scratch that, quite a lot.
I knew I didn't want "light" wood and preferably wanted a darker wood. I really wanted some iron of some sort in it, but in the end decided that simpler was better because I might not like the iron look in 10 years. We ordered a non-sleigh bed because the dimensions on the website. We knew it wouldn't fit our bedroom even though we really wanted the sleigh bed. Well when the bed arrived, it was the one we wanted (but didn't order) AND it fit the room. We called the place to let them know of the mistake, but told them we wanted to keep the one sent. Now if we could get the room painted, I'd be pleased as punch. :o)
The top of the dresser. I use table runners to cover my dresser so that it protects the wood a little bit from anything I might put on top of the dresser. For about 8 years, we used a Burgundy Comforter so our runner was Burgundy. Our second most recent purchased changed the color theme to the light teal green blue, but I finally got around to buying a new runner after the most recent duvet cover was purchased.
Our nightstands. We've had these lamps forever. I still love them as much as the first day we bought them. What's on my nightstand? A Lamp, A Clock that I keep facing towards me. Yes that is MY side of the bed. Also keep a telephone (which has a silent ringer!) and what you can't see because I hid it in the top drawer is the remote control for the fan/light. Yes I can crawl into bed and then turn off the light! It's wonderful.
The most wonderful invention ever because I don't have to remove my glasses, fumble to the light switch, turn off lights, fumble back to bed and get in. I just have to crawl into bed. Get comfortable and turn off the lights and then remove my glasses. It's on a dimmer turn off so turns off in a way that I can remove my glasses and scootch down in bed before it's completely off. LOVE IT! Also just like I use table runner on my dresser, I get place mats for the nightstands. You can see just how ginormous they are based on how much tiny the place mats look.
Once it's painted, I will be LOVING this room.
And yes, our closet is still clean! Must be a record for me.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Ultimate Present II
So as I was saying yesterday, I am very cold natured. My old comforter shrank to the size of a waffle and my birthday is coming up. So after much discussion, we decided to go comforter looking. I had grand visions of matching the "new" comforter with curtains so that we wouldn't have to get new ones, but alas finding a comforter we both liked would find difficult. Finding one that matched the curtains that we weren't particularly fond of anymore would prove impossible.
I must first stay that Kmart isn't a shop we visit often, but I have discovered that if I need shoes or comforters it is the place to at least take a peek. They have comforters out the wazoo and have small sized shoes (5, 5 & 1/2 ladies which is very hard to find in a lot of stores). So instead of starting off at Target, we decided to start at Kmart. As our luck would have it, Kmart had NOTHING that we liked at all. Well that's a lie becuase there were two that kind of peaked our interest. But one was kind of uncomfortable feeling (which is a definite no no) and the other well it would have worked, but I thought there was something better. :)
So onto Target we went. (No you know if we had gone to Target first, we wouldn't have found a thing there right?). We venture down the first aisle. Then the second and right about the time we get to the second aisle, my husband says something very interesting. Now at home we have this very WHITE down comforter. It's extremely comfortable, but not very attractive. I mean if you're going for stark white, it's perfect. So back to what he said or rather what he hinted at. He suggested that we might be able to find a duvet cover for this crazy comfortable stark white down comforter. Now this is what we had intended originally, but never found one in our price point that matched our style. (aka expensive tastes = expensive price point).
As we're turning the corner, I see something that I loved. I thought to self, "Self if only they had a comforter in THIS. It's soooo pretty, but even if they do ... I bet it's close to 200 bucks!." I looked anyways. Then I realized that the pretty thang ... that I thought was a sheet set, was indeed a duvet cover. I thought we had hit the lottery. I knew I was going to ignore this lovely style and keep on going once I saw it so I looked quickly at the price. Keep in mind that when we went to K-mart, they had all these bed in a bags on sale for 49.99 that were typically a 99.99 price point. So we were hoping for that kind of price point. I looked once. I did a double take. This beautiful wonderful delight that looked so perfect was only 52.99!
At this point, I show to the husband. ;) He thinks it's perfect too. Except we hadn't felt the thing. What if it felt like the one at Kmart that was sort of okay, but felt horrible. So we unzipped the package and stuck a hand in. AWWWWWWWWWWWWW it was like the heavens opened up and sang for us. This is stock photo from Amazon's website, but here is the duvet cover. We did NOT pick up the Shams. We've never been big sham people as it seems like all they are there for is to throw in the floor to sleep at night (and then I never have the energy to put them back on the bed the next morning so they stay there ... FOR MONTHS!) I'm hoping that Rob can take that kind of taupe color and pain the walls. If he does, you'll definitely get pictures! :) BTW: Bed didn't really match curtains that we hated anyways so we picked up two panel curtains that were very plain. WE like them, but we need to get valance so it doesn't look as bare. Once the walls are painted, it will look 100 percent better.
I must first stay that Kmart isn't a shop we visit often, but I have discovered that if I need shoes or comforters it is the place to at least take a peek. They have comforters out the wazoo and have small sized shoes (5, 5 & 1/2 ladies which is very hard to find in a lot of stores). So instead of starting off at Target, we decided to start at Kmart. As our luck would have it, Kmart had NOTHING that we liked at all. Well that's a lie becuase there were two that kind of peaked our interest. But one was kind of uncomfortable feeling (which is a definite no no) and the other well it would have worked, but I thought there was something better. :)
So onto Target we went. (No you know if we had gone to Target first, we wouldn't have found a thing there right?). We venture down the first aisle. Then the second and right about the time we get to the second aisle, my husband says something very interesting. Now at home we have this very WHITE down comforter. It's extremely comfortable, but not very attractive. I mean if you're going for stark white, it's perfect. So back to what he said or rather what he hinted at. He suggested that we might be able to find a duvet cover for this crazy comfortable stark white down comforter. Now this is what we had intended originally, but never found one in our price point that matched our style. (aka expensive tastes = expensive price point).
As we're turning the corner, I see something that I loved. I thought to self, "Self if only they had a comforter in THIS. It's soooo pretty, but even if they do ... I bet it's close to 200 bucks!." I looked anyways. Then I realized that the pretty thang ... that I thought was a sheet set, was indeed a duvet cover. I thought we had hit the lottery. I knew I was going to ignore this lovely style and keep on going once I saw it so I looked quickly at the price. Keep in mind that when we went to K-mart, they had all these bed in a bags on sale for 49.99 that were typically a 99.99 price point. So we were hoping for that kind of price point. I looked once. I did a double take. This beautiful wonderful delight that looked so perfect was only 52.99!
At this point, I show to the husband. ;) He thinks it's perfect too. Except we hadn't felt the thing. What if it felt like the one at Kmart that was sort of okay, but felt horrible. So we unzipped the package and stuck a hand in. AWWWWWWWWWWWWW it was like the heavens opened up and sang for us. This is stock photo from Amazon's website, but here is the duvet cover. We did NOT pick up the Shams. We've never been big sham people as it seems like all they are there for is to throw in the floor to sleep at night (and then I never have the energy to put them back on the bed the next morning so they stay there ... FOR MONTHS!) I'm hoping that Rob can take that kind of taupe color and pain the walls. If he does, you'll definitely get pictures! :) BTW: Bed didn't really match curtains that we hated anyways so we picked up two panel curtains that were very plain. WE like them, but we need to get valance so it doesn't look as bare. Once the walls are painted, it will look 100 percent better.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Ultimate Present
I'm a cold natured person. VERY cold natured. If I could, I'd use the electric blanket in the summer! Well a few years ago, we purchased a new comforter with curtains to match. As much as I LOVED them, there were two big problems. The first time we washed the new comforter, it shrank. It barely covered the top of the bed. AND the curtains (valance part). Well they presented a whole new problem. It was barely noticeable to anyone other than us. Let's be honest, we're the only ones in our bedroom ever anyways. However, our window needed 2 valances. One of the valances had FOUR stripes of cream and the other Valance had FIVE stripes of cream. So it made the one with five stripes just a hair longer than the other one.
Stay tuned for what I got for my birthday that's coming up. I'm so stoked!
Stay tuned for what I got for my birthday that's coming up. I'm so stoked!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Inspired
My closet inspired me to work on my dresser and chest of drawers. I haven't fallen off the face of the planet. I promise.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Still alive
I'm still living. I just have been focused on other things. One of those things is getting my home back in order. Today I focused on our master bedroom closet. Purchased new hangers (I was so done with those white plastic hangers) with some Christmas money and spent today throwing things away from the closet. Sad to say I threw away something that I've had since I was probably 11 years old! *gasp* How this item managed to go from house to house to dorm to house to dorm house to dorm house to dorm to house is beyond me. There are a few more clothing items that I really should get rid of, but for some reason I keep holding on.
Probably share pictures soon.
Probably share pictures soon.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Review soon
I had planned on posting a full on 2010 review today, but I haven't been feeling good today. I work a really long shift tomorrow too so in liklihood the review won't happen tomorrow either.
Friday, December 31, 2010
So Long 2010
Lots of things happened in 2010. Some of those things gave me tremendous joys. Some that caused tremendous pains, both physically and emotionally.
So Long 2010, Hello to 2011.
For those of you that will be watching the Rose Bowl Parade ... you will have the opportunity to see Western Carolina University's Marching Band. They are awesome on the field and I can't wait to see them on the television. I believe that HGTV has the parade commercial free. It's 8am PST (so for all of us on the Eastern coast that's 11am). I believe they are number 48 in the line up. Can't wait to see my Pride of the Mountains Marching Band!
So Long 2010, Hello to 2011.
For those of you that will be watching the Rose Bowl Parade ... you will have the opportunity to see Western Carolina University's Marching Band. They are awesome on the field and I can't wait to see them on the television. I believe that HGTV has the parade commercial free. It's 8am PST (so for all of us on the Eastern coast that's 11am). I believe they are number 48 in the line up. Can't wait to see my Pride of the Mountains Marching Band!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Still snowing
So far we've had about 15 hours of snow. That's crazy. Here's a picture from noonish.
Most of the time North Carolina's snow isn't good enough for snowman building. Today's snow was perfect for building snowmen.
Most of the time North Carolina's snow isn't good enough for snowman building. Today's snow was perfect for building snowmen.
Almost White Christmas 2
I took this one to remind me later that it was during the Christmas days that we saw this snow. It is just pouring down. The plows can't get the roads clear before it's snowed over again. It's state wide pretty much. Fortunately I don't even have to worry about going to work tomorrow because I already have the day off. So I won't be waking up at 3am to see if they've made a call about work. I don't think this one will disappear any time soon unlike the other 4 snows we've had this season alone. I call those snows, but itw as more like snow for an hour and then ice for the rest of the time causing all the snow to be gone by teh time the precip stopped. Go to the last post to see a comparison of 5:30 am to 7:30am.
well it was close
By looking at the radar, it started snowing here at midnight. So for me, there was no white Christmas. BUT, the day after is pretty close. AND it did snow at the airport in Raleigh well before Midnight so it counts. The triangle had a white Christmas even if I didn't. So I think it's been snowing for about five hours. If my calculations are correct, there is about 8 more hours of snow. We'll see.
For now ... this is what we have.
7:30 am - a mere two hours later.
9:45am
For now ... this is what we have.
7:30 am - a mere two hours later.
9:45am
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Waiting for a White Christmas
A few days ago, the weather forecasters predicted a White Christmas (SNOW) for the Triangle for the first time since like the 1940's. Crazy thing is that I do remember having a White Christmas in 1997, but that part of NC isn't considered the Triangle (aka the airport didn't get snow that day). And I can't remember if it actually precipitated that day or if twas the day before Christmas. Either way, It just might snow today. My county is predicted to receive 4 to 6 inches of snow. It completely changes my plans for tomorrow. Our family has a reunion the Sunday after Christmas every year. As a child, we often went. The memories of this reunion are a cherished part of my life. Playing Pinball with my cousins, whining over having to listen to Achy Breaky Heart yet again and eating my Granny's infamous mac & cheese and of course the elder folks saying with gusto how much we had all grown over the past year.
This is the first year without my cherished Grandfather. We had planned to go partake in the reunion. I wasn't going to take Granny's infamous mac & cheese (it takes almost 4 hours to get there), but I did plan on whining about Achy Breaky Heart and kicking my "lil" (who is now very big!) cousin's butt in Pinball. Oh wait, maybe not b.c now the younger generation has taken over the pinball machine.
Looks like Bing will finally get what he wants in the Triangle. A White Christmas.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Family Christmas
So our home was once again gifted by the "Redneck Wrapper." This time the Redneck Wrapper wrapped in the used bag of popcorn. Inside the bag of popcorn was a present carefully wrapped in a Food Lion bag covered by paper towels. Once I got through the butter covered paper towels and into the food lion bag, I opened up the present by my brother in which the Redneck Wrapper hijacked. It was three boxes of toothpicks. Yeah we're crazy like that.
It was shortly after in which I was gifted with the annual gift Gummy Saver, a bag of Gummy Savers. It often results in this facial expression.
Once I suggested the theme was "bags," I gave my brother this look when I saw that he had given me a box of baggies for Christmas.
And if you look in the floor, you'll see a lunch "bag" and a Carolina "bag." This theme apparently was not intentional. In fact, it was only after I pointed out the "bag theme" after the third gift was a bag of something that each gift was funnier and funnier eliciting great responses like this one ....
After this, I got a bag of Munchos from "your facebook friend."
I had a wonderful time with my family on Christmas Eve Squared. I got lots of beautiful things including a wonderful ornament hand made by my mother, actually there were two. One was of my favorite Tar Heel basketball player and the other had photographs of my grandparents with me. Also received a lovely bath wrap which included was a bag to put it in to wash. I received lots of beautiful things, but most of all ... beautiful memories to cherish for the years to come.
It was shortly after in which I was gifted with the annual gift Gummy Saver, a bag of Gummy Savers. It often results in this facial expression.
Once I suggested the theme was "bags," I gave my brother this look when I saw that he had given me a box of baggies for Christmas.
And if you look in the floor, you'll see a lunch "bag" and a Carolina "bag." This theme apparently was not intentional. In fact, it was only after I pointed out the "bag theme" after the third gift was a bag of something that each gift was funnier and funnier eliciting great responses like this one ....
After this, I got a bag of Munchos from "your facebook friend."
I had a wonderful time with my family on Christmas Eve Squared. I got lots of beautiful things including a wonderful ornament hand made by my mother, actually there were two. One was of my favorite Tar Heel basketball player and the other had photographs of my grandparents with me. Also received a lovely bath wrap which included was a bag to put it in to wash. I received lots of beautiful things, but most of all ... beautiful memories to cherish for the years to come.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
*Snow Day*
So while most of the schools and child care centers were either closed or delayed today, ours was not. I made it to work and back just fine. Only slipped on my way to work this morning.
Unfortunately, I didn't get a photo of the beautiful snow this morning. After the snow changed into sleet/mixed wintry precip, the snow "melted" away. So now it's just a soggy mess out there. As the temp drops, the water will freeze. I wasn't scared this morning to drive to work.
I'll be terrified tomorrow morning though.
Unfortunately, I didn't get a photo of the beautiful snow this morning. After the snow changed into sleet/mixed wintry precip, the snow "melted" away. So now it's just a soggy mess out there. As the temp drops, the water will freeze. I wasn't scared this morning to drive to work.
I'll be terrified tomorrow morning though.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Prayer request for a friend
I had intended to write about what I learned on my last follow up appointment. Then I found out something.
My college friend sent me a message asking if I had heard about our mutual college friend. Well you see the thing is, I've been friends with this mutual friend since the first day of 7th grade. My heart hit my stomach as I learn a few details. The thing you must know is that my friend and her husband have been trying to have a baby since they got married. After years, they finally succeeded (with doctor's help). In November (about a month ago), she gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. Yesterday morning, her husband was off to work. He hit a patch of black ice and his truck rolled. He's alive. He has no brain injury. However, the wreck gave him severe injuries and he is paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors say that with surgery there is only a 1 to 2 percent chance that he'll move again.
We all know what prayers can do. Please pray for this family. A new Mom, a newborn son and his father. Pray for all of us in North Carolina that can't be with them physically because they live far away. I miss my friend and wishes she were here at least 3 times a week. There isn't a week that goes by that I don't think, I wish she were here so I could tell her about ... I don't get to see her often, but when I do ... it's as if no time had passed at all. My stomach churns for what has happened to her husband. Pray for his healing, pray for her understanding and for their beautiful baby.
I would share names, but some of our friends do not know this has happened yet. I would hate for them to see this on a blog before hearing about it on the telephone. Also I did not get permission from my friend to post this prayer request though I know she will appreciate that I have done so.
My college friend sent me a message asking if I had heard about our mutual college friend. Well you see the thing is, I've been friends with this mutual friend since the first day of 7th grade. My heart hit my stomach as I learn a few details. The thing you must know is that my friend and her husband have been trying to have a baby since they got married. After years, they finally succeeded (with doctor's help). In November (about a month ago), she gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. Yesterday morning, her husband was off to work. He hit a patch of black ice and his truck rolled. He's alive. He has no brain injury. However, the wreck gave him severe injuries and he is paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors say that with surgery there is only a 1 to 2 percent chance that he'll move again.
We all know what prayers can do. Please pray for this family. A new Mom, a newborn son and his father. Pray for all of us in North Carolina that can't be with them physically because they live far away. I miss my friend and wishes she were here at least 3 times a week. There isn't a week that goes by that I don't think, I wish she were here so I could tell her about ... I don't get to see her often, but when I do ... it's as if no time had passed at all. My stomach churns for what has happened to her husband. Pray for his healing, pray for her understanding and for their beautiful baby.
I would share names, but some of our friends do not know this has happened yet. I would hate for them to see this on a blog before hearing about it on the telephone. Also I did not get permission from my friend to post this prayer request though I know she will appreciate that I have done so.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
First snow of the season
I'm sure it won't stick, but our house has seen the first snow of the season.
December 4th. :o)
I can't get a good picture of it yet, but if I do will be sure to post it here later.
December 4th. :o)
I can't get a good picture of it yet, but if I do will be sure to post it here later.
Friday, December 3, 2010
follow up
It's follow up time. I go in tomorrow for my follow up. This will be the first time in years that I dont' have my blood results before I go in. I have no clue what the LLMD will say to me tomorrow. I have a sneaking suspicion that my blood work won't look good though.
I've enjoyed my time to myself this week.
(ps. never did write about this follow up - but it was a good visit. the words possible remission was used briefly)
I've enjoyed my time to myself this week.
(ps. never did write about this follow up - but it was a good visit. the words possible remission was used briefly)
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Time for myself
So my job comes with a few perks. One of those perks is vacation and sick time. It's not a whole lot of time, but I typically use it when I have doctor's appointments. Well this year, I didn't have as many doctor's appointment which meant that I had about 60 hours of vacation time left that I had to use or I would lose. So the past couple of weeks I've taken time off here and there, but it still would have left me with 40 hours of time that I would lose. So I made the decision to use a full week after Thanksgiving! This means I'd have 11 days off work in a row since we were closed the day of Thanksgiving and the day after. I have seriously enjoyed (minus the bronchitis) this time to myself. I've put up and decorated the tree, wrapped presents and just kind of relaxed watching Christmas movies.
Well yesterday I got the urge. I typically don't get this particular urge. In fact, I leave the creativity to my Dad. I took off to Michaels and picked up a few things and I'm covered in paint, ribbon and bells. My kitchen table looks like my parent's kitchen table this time of year. :O (No Offense Dad)
Anyways, it's been fun. :o) Minus the coughing, I'm feeling pretty good.
Well yesterday I got the urge. I typically don't get this particular urge. In fact, I leave the creativity to my Dad. I took off to Michaels and picked up a few things and I'm covered in paint, ribbon and bells. My kitchen table looks like my parent's kitchen table this time of year. :O (No Offense Dad)
Anyways, it's been fun. :o) Minus the coughing, I'm feeling pretty good.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Blood Work
Woke up at 5am to start prepping for my blood work this morning at 8am. Slick got it in one stick. Crazy thing is that here it is ... 5 hours later and I am still bleeding. This is unusual so I suspect that my blood work will be all wonky (platelets low or something like that).
Go for a follow up on Saturday.
Go for a follow up on Saturday.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
No Herxing!!!
So one thing that is a little frightening for a Lyme patient (post major treatment) is to be treated with an antibiotic. I guess I can't say this for all Lyme patients, but for me ... I worry that there will be a Herx reaction. This is the reaction that occurs when large amounts of toxins are released into the body as bacteria die during antibiotic treatment. I've pretty much avoided anything stronger than Amoxil since my Lyme treatment. In fact, I've pretty much even avoided it by taking IV Vitamin C when I felt it was getting close to antibiotic time.
I've had both a Penicillin type medicine and a Macrolide and ... guess what folks ... no herx reaction! I've had a little pain in my back, but the pain could be attributed to how much I've been coughing. This sure beats the "Oh My, I'm about ready to die from all these bacteria dying" feeling. I really feel that I have this sucker beat. I mean sure I have a weak immune system due to this sucker and sure there are many other things going on in my body thanks to dear old Lyme ... BUT the fact that I am not herxing during antibiotic treatment for Bronchitis ... means that I am in fact, getting better!
(even though I'm still coughing up a lung or two due to the Bronchitis)
Today is the last day of antibiotic. Hopefully, I'll start feeling better. I should know by Wednesday if Zithromax took care of it or not.
I've had both a Penicillin type medicine and a Macrolide and ... guess what folks ... no herx reaction! I've had a little pain in my back, but the pain could be attributed to how much I've been coughing. This sure beats the "Oh My, I'm about ready to die from all these bacteria dying" feeling. I really feel that I have this sucker beat. I mean sure I have a weak immune system due to this sucker and sure there are many other things going on in my body thanks to dear old Lyme ... BUT the fact that I am not herxing during antibiotic treatment for Bronchitis ... means that I am in fact, getting better!
(even though I'm still coughing up a lung or two due to the Bronchitis)
Today is the last day of antibiotic. Hopefully, I'll start feeling better. I should know by Wednesday if Zithromax took care of it or not.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Bronchitis
The whole reason I went to the doctor on November 2nd was to prevent Bronchitis. I knew that if I kept that infection any longer that the bacteria would travel on down to my lungs and well I'd be feeling like an elephant was sitting on my chest.
After finishing my antibiotics, I didn't have a long period of "health" before I got sick again. The lovely stomach flu hit and after it departed from my body, I got a small cough. It wasn't that bad, but along with the cough I felt the urge to clear my throat. Within a few hours of the onset of coughing, I began to feel it. It hurt to breathe. My lungs felt wet and heavy. This was all on Monday evening. I was hoping that by Tuesday I'd feel better, but to no avail. Then Wednesday morning I felt even worse. It was a chore just to breathe and I struggled to catch my breath after coughing spells.
So I made the decision to go to the doctor's after work. I called my PCP (Primary Care Physician) to see if they by chance had any sick appointments available. TO my surprise, they did with the caveat being they needed me there in the next hour. I got there 30 minutes before my appointment time and expected that I would have a huge wait in the waiting room or in the exam room. However, that is not what happened at all. I had enough time to fill out the paperwork and shortly after I was called back. I had enough time to have 3 coughing spells before the doctor came in commenting on how wonderful I sounded.
I told him of my ailments over the last couple of months and he listened to my lungs. The words crackling and wheezing were mentioned a couple of times. He went to get a sample inhaler so I could get started on treatment right away, but they were out of samples. Indeed, I had Bronchitis. He faxed over the script for Zithromax and the Inhaler I'd need. I've had one dose of the antibiotic (it's a one dose a day for 5 days macrolide). This morning I woke up without a sore throat for the first time in a few days!
I've also had my hand at the inhaler on two different occasions. Once last night as soon as it got home and this morning. My lungs feel so much lighter and I'm actually coughing stuff up without the use of an expectorant. Delsym seems to be working to keep the coughing controlled.
Funny thing is that my blood work was postponed a few weeks so I would be away from antibiotics when the blood was done. Now, my blood work is on Tuesday ... So I'll have antibiotics and Albuterol in my system. Oh well. It will be interesting to see what the blood work says.
My guess is that the Amoxil didn't knock out the infection completely. So it festered and festered and then reappeared immediately as Bronchitis.
After finishing my antibiotics, I didn't have a long period of "health" before I got sick again. The lovely stomach flu hit and after it departed from my body, I got a small cough. It wasn't that bad, but along with the cough I felt the urge to clear my throat. Within a few hours of the onset of coughing, I began to feel it. It hurt to breathe. My lungs felt wet and heavy. This was all on Monday evening. I was hoping that by Tuesday I'd feel better, but to no avail. Then Wednesday morning I felt even worse. It was a chore just to breathe and I struggled to catch my breath after coughing spells.
So I made the decision to go to the doctor's after work. I called my PCP (Primary Care Physician) to see if they by chance had any sick appointments available. TO my surprise, they did with the caveat being they needed me there in the next hour. I got there 30 minutes before my appointment time and expected that I would have a huge wait in the waiting room or in the exam room. However, that is not what happened at all. I had enough time to fill out the paperwork and shortly after I was called back. I had enough time to have 3 coughing spells before the doctor came in commenting on how wonderful I sounded.
I told him of my ailments over the last couple of months and he listened to my lungs. The words crackling and wheezing were mentioned a couple of times. He went to get a sample inhaler so I could get started on treatment right away, but they were out of samples. Indeed, I had Bronchitis. He faxed over the script for Zithromax and the Inhaler I'd need. I've had one dose of the antibiotic (it's a one dose a day for 5 days macrolide). This morning I woke up without a sore throat for the first time in a few days!
I've also had my hand at the inhaler on two different occasions. Once last night as soon as it got home and this morning. My lungs feel so much lighter and I'm actually coughing stuff up without the use of an expectorant. Delsym seems to be working to keep the coughing controlled.
Funny thing is that my blood work was postponed a few weeks so I would be away from antibiotics when the blood was done. Now, my blood work is on Tuesday ... So I'll have antibiotics and Albuterol in my system. Oh well. It will be interesting to see what the blood work says.
My guess is that the Amoxil didn't knock out the infection completely. So it festered and festered and then reappeared immediately as Bronchitis.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Fun House Glasses
I received the phone call that my glasses had arrived on Thursday. I was excited to get the call, but then was disappointed to find out my optical adjuster wouldn't be in until Monday. I decided to be patient because my optical adjuster never fails. Then I wound up puking my guts up a few hours later so I was glad I waited.
Anyways, Monday afternoon I drove up to the eye care place only to discover that my favorite lady was not in after all. I was disappointed, but decided to place trust in the optical lady that was there. I put on the new glasses and immediately felt a touch of motion sickness. Things were magnified and distorted. She made a few adjustments and sent me on my way. I wore them for five hours when I had to take them off. Everything was too tall and too wide ... I couldn't take it. Something was off. Really off. They told me though before I left to come back around 1 the next day and my favorite lady would be there.
So I made a special trip up there (it's about 20 minutes from my house and almost an hour from work) on Tuesday and got there at 1 on the dot. Then I saw a sign that wasn't there the day before, "Closed from 1 to 2:30 for training!." I have to be honest. I was very upset. Here I was, not feeling well and I had to wait 90 minutes to be seen. Decided to use the opportunity to walk around the few stores in the area and wasted 90 minutes in well .. 90 minutes.
I went back in to see my favorite lady and she was thrilled to see me, but disappointed to see me in my old frames. I told her about my magnification and motion sickness problem. She took them to the back. She put them under her fancy machine. I could see her perplexed look .. her I'm going to fix this look and then her I'm now cleaning the lens look. She came back out and said "how's this?" I put them on my face and the motion sickness feeling was much better.
Turns out that the Axis was off in the left lens. Then she explained to me that in my right eye, the astigmatism had changed by "one click." That is what made everything appear bigger and a little distorted. Then the axis problem in the left lens caused even more distortion and the combination caused major motion sickness. She spent a good 20 minutes working on the position of the glasses (nosepads and ear pieces). I had to go back again today ... and by the way they feel tonight ... I'll be back on Friday. I waste so much gasoline trying to get my new glasses adjusted.
I still have a little distortion, but it's a typical amount of distortion as my brain and eyes learn to use the new prescription. Next on Living the Lyme Life my recent diagnosis ....
1. Sinus Infection (November 2nd)
2. Stomach Flu (November 18th)
3. Bronchitis (November 24th)
Anyways, Monday afternoon I drove up to the eye care place only to discover that my favorite lady was not in after all. I was disappointed, but decided to place trust in the optical lady that was there. I put on the new glasses and immediately felt a touch of motion sickness. Things were magnified and distorted. She made a few adjustments and sent me on my way. I wore them for five hours when I had to take them off. Everything was too tall and too wide ... I couldn't take it. Something was off. Really off. They told me though before I left to come back around 1 the next day and my favorite lady would be there.
So I made a special trip up there (it's about 20 minutes from my house and almost an hour from work) on Tuesday and got there at 1 on the dot. Then I saw a sign that wasn't there the day before, "Closed from 1 to 2:30 for training!." I have to be honest. I was very upset. Here I was, not feeling well and I had to wait 90 minutes to be seen. Decided to use the opportunity to walk around the few stores in the area and wasted 90 minutes in well .. 90 minutes.
I went back in to see my favorite lady and she was thrilled to see me, but disappointed to see me in my old frames. I told her about my magnification and motion sickness problem. She took them to the back. She put them under her fancy machine. I could see her perplexed look .. her I'm going to fix this look and then her I'm now cleaning the lens look. She came back out and said "how's this?" I put them on my face and the motion sickness feeling was much better.
Turns out that the Axis was off in the left lens. Then she explained to me that in my right eye, the astigmatism had changed by "one click." That is what made everything appear bigger and a little distorted. Then the axis problem in the left lens caused even more distortion and the combination caused major motion sickness. She spent a good 20 minutes working on the position of the glasses (nosepads and ear pieces). I had to go back again today ... and by the way they feel tonight ... I'll be back on Friday. I waste so much gasoline trying to get my new glasses adjusted.
I still have a little distortion, but it's a typical amount of distortion as my brain and eyes learn to use the new prescription. Next on Living the Lyme Life my recent diagnosis ....
1. Sinus Infection (November 2nd)
2. Stomach Flu (November 18th)
3. Bronchitis (November 24th)
Fun House Glasses
There's not enough time this morning to write about my day of Fun House Glasses, but be prepared to come back here later on for my adventures in new glasses.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Never ending Illness
I sit here not really knowing whether to laugh or cry. I'm sick of being sick. I'm sick of talking about being sick. I have been fighting illness since the early days of October. We're nearing the end of November! I've been somewhat concerned, but until today (well ugh really 'last night') I wasn't alarmed because it's starting again -- already.
Back up to September where I began to have an allergic reaction to something. We still aren't sure what caused the reaction, but needless to say I wound up at Urgent Care getting something I certainly avoid at all cost -- Steroid Shot. Also took home a round of Steroids to take at home too. I must have been glutton for punishment. Here I am two months later and I realize that it must be the catylist (sp).
In early October, I began to fight off the common cold. I fought it off dutifully with Vitamin C, Zinc, Magic drops and even some OTC medications. I could feel nasal drainage in the back of my throat and had sore throats due to this. I also had small headaches. I did the best I could until October 24th when it hit me like a 2x4. Within 3 days, I had a fever and excess nasal drainage coming out of the nostrils. It was the beautiful green color that nurses used to say indicated infection. In order to prevent another trip to Urgent Care, I scheduled an IV appointment. You all know how that went, but let's recap -- shall we?
On the Friday I went in and got stuck twice over a three hour period, but wound up going home with no IV's. I went back on Saturday and got the IV. All was right in my world -- so I thought. I woke up the next day realizing I hadn't pushed out the infection ... in fact I was worse. I dosed myself up with OTC meds and went to work hoping I'd be able to leave early. That was a no go for launch however. That night, my boss told me I could stay home and rest since I had been feeling so terrible. I used this time to run to the nearest Urgent Care. They prescribed Amoxicillin and all was right with the world -- so I thought. I took this for the amount of time and slowly felt better. I thought about asking my Lyme doc for something else, but I was feeling better so I decided to hold off. November 12th was the last day of my antibiotic and I was doing well (or so I thought).
A few days later, I started feeling a little bit off. I couldn't explain it really, but I did have a headache. By November 17th, I felt a touch of vertigo and of course that's the day of the infamous puking incident(s). We all know what happened there and I won't rehash (pun intended) that one again. So fastforward to today (well by now .. yesterday). I felt pretty good at work. No particular problems, but I did notice that my lungs felt heavy. However, they had been feeling that way since the vomiting commenced. So I *assumed* that it was from that.
Well around 6pm, I started getting a little tickle in my throat. I thought ,hmm that's odd, and went on my way. By 8pm, I was coughing to the point where I decided to take old trusty (well new reliable) Delsym so I'd sleep. (you see where that got me). I honestly feel like I either have another bout of Bronchitis OR Pneumonia. SERIOUSLY? Can't I just get well? (and some rest would be good too)
I'm going to go trodge off to bed feeling the heaviness in my lungs. And you know it's Thanksgiving Week ... I pretty much refuse to go to Urgent Care for the third or fourth time in 2 months and regular PCP is booked up and so is Lyme doc. I go for blood work in one week and my Lyme appt the Saturday afterwards. I've also sent my doc a letter similiar to this post.
Either way ... I just want to get well. AND STAY THAT WAY.
Back up to September where I began to have an allergic reaction to something. We still aren't sure what caused the reaction, but needless to say I wound up at Urgent Care getting something I certainly avoid at all cost -- Steroid Shot. Also took home a round of Steroids to take at home too. I must have been glutton for punishment. Here I am two months later and I realize that it must be the catylist (sp).
In early October, I began to fight off the common cold. I fought it off dutifully with Vitamin C, Zinc, Magic drops and even some OTC medications. I could feel nasal drainage in the back of my throat and had sore throats due to this. I also had small headaches. I did the best I could until October 24th when it hit me like a 2x4. Within 3 days, I had a fever and excess nasal drainage coming out of the nostrils. It was the beautiful green color that nurses used to say indicated infection. In order to prevent another trip to Urgent Care, I scheduled an IV appointment. You all know how that went, but let's recap -- shall we?
On the Friday I went in and got stuck twice over a three hour period, but wound up going home with no IV's. I went back on Saturday and got the IV. All was right in my world -- so I thought. I woke up the next day realizing I hadn't pushed out the infection ... in fact I was worse. I dosed myself up with OTC meds and went to work hoping I'd be able to leave early. That was a no go for launch however. That night, my boss told me I could stay home and rest since I had been feeling so terrible. I used this time to run to the nearest Urgent Care. They prescribed Amoxicillin and all was right with the world -- so I thought. I took this for the amount of time and slowly felt better. I thought about asking my Lyme doc for something else, but I was feeling better so I decided to hold off. November 12th was the last day of my antibiotic and I was doing well (or so I thought).
A few days later, I started feeling a little bit off. I couldn't explain it really, but I did have a headache. By November 17th, I felt a touch of vertigo and of course that's the day of the infamous puking incident(s). We all know what happened there and I won't rehash (pun intended) that one again. So fastforward to today (well by now .. yesterday). I felt pretty good at work. No particular problems, but I did notice that my lungs felt heavy. However, they had been feeling that way since the vomiting commenced. So I *assumed* that it was from that.
Well around 6pm, I started getting a little tickle in my throat. I thought ,hmm that's odd, and went on my way. By 8pm, I was coughing to the point where I decided to take old trusty (well new reliable) Delsym so I'd sleep. (you see where that got me). I honestly feel like I either have another bout of Bronchitis OR Pneumonia. SERIOUSLY? Can't I just get well? (and some rest would be good too)
I'm going to go trodge off to bed feeling the heaviness in my lungs. And you know it's Thanksgiving Week ... I pretty much refuse to go to Urgent Care for the third or fourth time in 2 months and regular PCP is booked up and so is Lyme doc. I go for blood work in one week and my Lyme appt the Saturday afterwards. I've also sent my doc a letter similiar to this post.
Either way ... I just want to get well. AND STAY THAT WAY.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Vomiting and Blogging and TMI
Gross post ahead ... TMI ... if you don't want to read it .. skip it .. I'm warning you.
Okay one might blog too much when in the process of cleaning up the bathroom from one own's stomach contents ... that I think, "I should photograph this .. this is MASSIVE."
You can thank me now that I didn't photograph the magnitude of said explosion. It is only now there in my memory. It took THREE old towels to clean up the bathroom floor. Along with almost a whole roll of TP. The casualties in the explosion were three magazines. The shower curtain got washed along with the bath floor mat and my clothes. The weight scale almost got wiped out. My purse was almost hit in the massive explosion. I don't even know how my shoes were spared in such a mess.
Aren't you glad I didn't take photographs? :D
BTW: I am feeling better today. I'm still very weak from 17 hours of sickness. Oh and my husband can never ever say I didn't give him anything. In November alone, I gave him a sinus infection AND the stomach flu. Isn't he a lucky fellow to be married to me?
For a real Lymie ... Stomach flu = 17 hours of throwing up and more than 48 hours afterwards to recover.
For the husband ... Stomach flu = 4 hours of vomiting, 8 hours of sleeping and now he acts as if nothing ever happened.
Okay one might blog too much when in the process of cleaning up the bathroom from one own's stomach contents ... that I think, "I should photograph this .. this is MASSIVE."
You can thank me now that I didn't photograph the magnitude of said explosion. It is only now there in my memory. It took THREE old towels to clean up the bathroom floor. Along with almost a whole roll of TP. The casualties in the explosion were three magazines. The shower curtain got washed along with the bath floor mat and my clothes. The weight scale almost got wiped out. My purse was almost hit in the massive explosion. I don't even know how my shoes were spared in such a mess.
Aren't you glad I didn't take photographs? :D
BTW: I am feeling better today. I'm still very weak from 17 hours of sickness. Oh and my husband can never ever say I didn't give him anything. In November alone, I gave him a sinus infection AND the stomach flu. Isn't he a lucky fellow to be married to me?
For a real Lymie ... Stomach flu = 17 hours of throwing up and more than 48 hours afterwards to recover.
For the husband ... Stomach flu = 4 hours of vomiting, 8 hours of sleeping and now he acts as if nothing ever happened.
Friday, November 19, 2010
SICK
Yesterday I got home and didn't feel well. My stomach was feeling kind of "gnarly" and I thought I was hungry. I had a couple of pieces of salami (in hindsight ... bad choice) and a protein bar and went to go get my hair done. AS I was sitting there, I began to feel worse. My head began to pound. Almost near the end of her styling my hair, I told her I had to leave. I just felt horrible.
I got home ... and a moment that can only be described as the exorcist happened. Then it happened almost every hour for the next 17 hours. Fever, Vomiting and Diahrea. Gah I feel awful. I'm dehydrated, but I am starting to feel better. I've not gotten sick in about 6 hours though I still feel nauseated.
It's going around at work (the kids and other teachers) so once the first round hit, I knew I was in for it. So I called the boss to find out if she'd prefer I just go ahead and call out (which I never do) or if she wanted me to wait and see if it was just what I ate. She told me to call her in a couple of hours, but in about an hour she called me saying she found someone to cover my shift. I'm so thankful for the teacher that was willing to cover for me b.c I was still pretty sick this morning when I was supposed to go to work.
Ugh. Sinus infections and Stomach Flu all in the month.
I got home ... and a moment that can only be described as the exorcist happened. Then it happened almost every hour for the next 17 hours. Fever, Vomiting and Diahrea. Gah I feel awful. I'm dehydrated, but I am starting to feel better. I've not gotten sick in about 6 hours though I still feel nauseated.
It's going around at work (the kids and other teachers) so once the first round hit, I knew I was in for it. So I called the boss to find out if she'd prefer I just go ahead and call out (which I never do) or if she wanted me to wait and see if it was just what I ate. She told me to call her in a couple of hours, but in about an hour she called me saying she found someone to cover my shift. I'm so thankful for the teacher that was willing to cover for me b.c I was still pretty sick this morning when I was supposed to go to work.
Ugh. Sinus infections and Stomach Flu all in the month.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Thanksful Tuesday
Today I find myself thankful for something. I find myself thankful for this one thing often actually.
I am thankful for my friends. My TRUE friends. The Friends that get me on a deeper level. They know what I'm thinking before I'm even thinking it.
It's just nice to have people that know me that well.
I am thankful for my friends. My TRUE friends. The Friends that get me on a deeper level. They know what I'm thinking before I'm even thinking it.
It's just nice to have people that know me that well.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
See Saw
I went to the eye doctor today for my vision test. Did I pass? Yes & No. :)
The past few weeks I have been having pretty terrible headaches. I half thought it was change in vision and half thought it was the sinus infection. As the infection improved and my headache did not, I realized that more than likely my vision had changed at least slightly. And yes, each eye changed just slightly. So new lenses have been ordered. My insurance won't pay for new frames, but I ordered some anyways because my current pair are scratched. I'm hoping that by Thanksgiving I'll be sporting a new look and that within a few days of getting them that the headache will be no more.
*someone asked about my prescription. Actually I have no clue. I never pay attention to the numbers. If I remember, I'll ask my optical consultant when I go into pick them up.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Sick Check In
Remember when I said, '"Well if it "may" cause drowsiness, it might as well say "WILL" cause "sleep for 1/2 day."'
Well last night I started having some eye itching and swelling. It happens (more often than I care to admit). So I decided to take the Delsym Night Time cough syrup with antihistamine. Well the typical adult dose is 30ML. I poured it into the dosing cup and decided that it looked like it could knock me out for a good 30 hours so I poured 15 ML back into the bottle leaving me with only 15 ML to take. I took it at 8:30 and was asleep by 8:45. I didn't budge until 9:30 .... THIS MORNING. If you take into account last night was the end of Day Lights Savings time, I slept for 13 and 1/2 hours on 1/2 a dose. I can't imagine if I had taken the full dose.
Anyways, I do feel better. :) I'm still on antibiotics. I've only had three bouts of running to the bathroom. I was supposed to have blood work on this coming Wednesday, but we pushed it back to the week after Thanksgiving since there are several factors that could really affect the blood work results. I go get my eyes checked on Tuesday. I imagine that in about 2 1/2 weeks I'll be sporting new glasses.
Well last night I started having some eye itching and swelling. It happens (more often than I care to admit). So I decided to take the Delsym Night Time cough syrup with antihistamine. Well the typical adult dose is 30ML. I poured it into the dosing cup and decided that it looked like it could knock me out for a good 30 hours so I poured 15 ML back into the bottle leaving me with only 15 ML to take. I took it at 8:30 and was asleep by 8:45. I didn't budge until 9:30 .... THIS MORNING. If you take into account last night was the end of Day Lights Savings time, I slept for 13 and 1/2 hours on 1/2 a dose. I can't imagine if I had taken the full dose.
Anyways, I do feel better. :) I'm still on antibiotics. I've only had three bouts of running to the bathroom. I was supposed to have blood work on this coming Wednesday, but we pushed it back to the week after Thanksgiving since there are several factors that could really affect the blood work results. I go get my eyes checked on Tuesday. I imagine that in about 2 1/2 weeks I'll be sporting new glasses.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Getting there!
With each passing day, I feel a little bit better. On Wednesday and Thursday, people kept recommending to me to try a little cough syrup I had never even heard of. Where do I live? The Dark ages?
This stuff is liquid gold man! Thursday I was coughing so bad to the point of almost puking. And by almost ... I mean (TMI alert!) something came up and I was forced to swallow or I would have vomited in my car. And for those of you that know me, know that I LOVE my car! I was in tears from coughing so hard Thursday evening. I told my husband about this stuff and the trooper he was went out after his work event to get me some. When I woke (from very little sleep from all the coughing), I discovered three bottles of the stuff. One for Day time relief and Two for Night time relief. The thing is .. the Day Time stuff works so well, that I didn't even need to use the Night time stuff (b.c it has three other meds in it that I didn't really need last night).
I actually have a difficult time trying new medicines because I'm terribly sensitive to things. You know the side effect list of things ... if one says "MAY cause drowsiness." Well if it "may" cause drowsiness, it might as well say "WILL" cause "sleep for 1/2 day." Things that don't even say "may cause drowsiness" cause me drowsiness. Sometimes when I take Tylenol, I sleep for hours! Plus lately, I've been having weird allergic reaction to things. Example is that the other day I had a fever so I took Motrin and it caused my eyes to swell. I'd say who is allergic to Motrin, but I know a lot of people are allergic to different fever reducing meds. It's just weird that I haven't had a problem in 34 years and all the sudden I am ...
Anyways, Delsym has been wonderful. I took it before going to work yesterday. I only had one major coughing spell instead of a continuous coughing spell I had been having. I took it again last night before bed. I slept all night soundly.
On the antibiotic front, I've been taking Amoxil since Tuesday evening. It's really starting to work. My nasal passages are pretty clear and my nose is no longer running like a faucet. And you know that lovely post nasal drip that causes serious sore throat? Yah that's disappearing too. The antibiotics have only given me one round of bathroom runs (PUN intended) after dose 3.
As far as I can tell, I'm not really having any herx reaction. The only thing really "off" was that yesterday I felt like a complete moron ~ like washing my hands and turning around and washing them again ... or throwing bibs in the trash instead of the laundry or even being baffled as to why formula wouldn't come out of the bottle when I've used this type of bottles many times (it had a stopper in it .. DUH!). It added some humor to the class yesterday. In my defense, the others were just as stupid yesterday. We kept teasing each other all day about "How old are you?" (indicating that we were in our 90's instead of in our 30's).
I've been enjoying helping out at the other school. I'm feeling very appreciated (not that I don't feel appreciated where I already work) by the teachers. The teachers want me to stay on permanently. I haven't made a decision. I love both schools. Each school has it's pro and con. For right now, I'm splitting my time between the two schools.
This stuff is liquid gold man! Thursday I was coughing so bad to the point of almost puking. And by almost ... I mean (TMI alert!) something came up and I was forced to swallow or I would have vomited in my car. And for those of you that know me, know that I LOVE my car! I was in tears from coughing so hard Thursday evening. I told my husband about this stuff and the trooper he was went out after his work event to get me some. When I woke (from very little sleep from all the coughing), I discovered three bottles of the stuff. One for Day time relief and Two for Night time relief. The thing is .. the Day Time stuff works so well, that I didn't even need to use the Night time stuff (b.c it has three other meds in it that I didn't really need last night).
I actually have a difficult time trying new medicines because I'm terribly sensitive to things. You know the side effect list of things ... if one says "MAY cause drowsiness." Well if it "may" cause drowsiness, it might as well say "WILL" cause "sleep for 1/2 day." Things that don't even say "may cause drowsiness" cause me drowsiness. Sometimes when I take Tylenol, I sleep for hours! Plus lately, I've been having weird allergic reaction to things. Example is that the other day I had a fever so I took Motrin and it caused my eyes to swell. I'd say who is allergic to Motrin, but I know a lot of people are allergic to different fever reducing meds. It's just weird that I haven't had a problem in 34 years and all the sudden I am ...
Anyways, Delsym has been wonderful. I took it before going to work yesterday. I only had one major coughing spell instead of a continuous coughing spell I had been having. I took it again last night before bed. I slept all night soundly.
On the antibiotic front, I've been taking Amoxil since Tuesday evening. It's really starting to work. My nasal passages are pretty clear and my nose is no longer running like a faucet. And you know that lovely post nasal drip that causes serious sore throat? Yah that's disappearing too. The antibiotics have only given me one round of bathroom runs (PUN intended) after dose 3.
As far as I can tell, I'm not really having any herx reaction. The only thing really "off" was that yesterday I felt like a complete moron ~ like washing my hands and turning around and washing them again ... or throwing bibs in the trash instead of the laundry or even being baffled as to why formula wouldn't come out of the bottle when I've used this type of bottles many times (it had a stopper in it .. DUH!). It added some humor to the class yesterday. In my defense, the others were just as stupid yesterday. We kept teasing each other all day about "How old are you?" (indicating that we were in our 90's instead of in our 30's).
I've been enjoying helping out at the other school. I'm feeling very appreciated (not that I don't feel appreciated where I already work) by the teachers. The teachers want me to stay on permanently. I haven't made a decision. I love both schools. Each school has it's pro and con. For right now, I'm splitting my time between the two schools.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The friend that won't leave
So I've had this cough since Sunday. I've pretty much coughed non-stop since. I'm surviving though. I've had 4 doses of Antibiotics and only had round of stomach problems. I call that a success. :o) I'm hoping that by Saturday I'll be feel tons better. Even though I sound terrible and the cough just doesn't want to leave, I actually do feel better today than I have since Thursday. So I'm heading in the right direction.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Amos The Amoxy
Usually when I leave the Urgent Care, I remember why I hate regular physicians. This was a P.A and I was very impressed. He even asked me what generally worked best with my bacterial infections. I told him usually either Amoxil or Zithromax and that I preferred a suspension. He was very willing to write it for Amoxil and to write it out for a suspension without question. I'll be taking 1200 mg of Amoxicillin twice a day for 10 days for a total of 2.4 grams a day. If I'm remembering correctly, the typical adult gets between 500 mg and 875 mg twice a day.
I don't remember what my dosing was when I took Amoxil with other antibiotics for Lyme Disease, but 400mg/5ml is the largest dose in a suspension form. I just don't recall how many ML's I took. Usually day one and two go okay, it's days three and four on antibiotics post Lyme diagnosis that are the killer. Just wanted to give a good update not only for you guys, but for me to remember later on. :)
So the P.A. said that generally what happens is that people get a small virus that they fight off on their own in about 5 days. Since my symptoms have been going on for about 10 days, it has mutated into a bacterial infection. This is typically what happens in my case. However if I get the Vitamin C IV quickly enough, it helps kill off the small virus so that it doesn't change into the bacterial infection.
There is a small chance that I'll have a herx reaction due to the antibiotics killing off any Lyme bacteria lingering around in my body. I have blood work on next Wednesday. It will be interesting to see how things look while I'm on antibiotics.
I don't remember what my dosing was when I took Amoxil with other antibiotics for Lyme Disease, but 400mg/5ml is the largest dose in a suspension form. I just don't recall how many ML's I took. Usually day one and two go okay, it's days three and four on antibiotics post Lyme diagnosis that are the killer. Just wanted to give a good update not only for you guys, but for me to remember later on. :)
So the P.A. said that generally what happens is that people get a small virus that they fight off on their own in about 5 days. Since my symptoms have been going on for about 10 days, it has mutated into a bacterial infection. This is typically what happens in my case. However if I get the Vitamin C IV quickly enough, it helps kill off the small virus so that it doesn't change into the bacterial infection.
There is a small chance that I'll have a herx reaction due to the antibiotics killing off any Lyme bacteria lingering around in my body. I have blood work on next Wednesday. It will be interesting to see how things look while I'm on antibiotics.
Still sick
**Update since this morning** I know the way my body runs and it was either try to squeeze in yet another IV or go get some antibiotics today. I personally know that Tuesdays are my LLMD's business IV day so I didn't think I'd be able to get squeezed in for one and for two, I wasn't sure they'd be able to get an IV started so I decided to hit the Urgent Care to go ahead and get this infection cleared up. I'm sick of being sick and didn't think I could wait until Saturday to take care of the problem. So Amos the Amoxicillan and I are becoming reacquainted today. I would take it right now, but really the best dosing is at 12 hours. So I'll wait until about 5:30 to take it so I can take it at 5:30 twice a day for 10 days.
**** original post *****
I'm still not running on all 4 cylinders. In fact, I'm running on maybe only 2 of them. Last night, I got a really kind email from my boss. She told me she knew I hadn't been feeling well and offered for me to take today off. I would like to say that I accepted this offer, but it wasn't taken guilt free. I always feel so guilty about taking time away from all my "babies." I feel like I'm letting them down or something of that nature. Truth be told, I need today to be at home curled up in the bed dosed up on otc medications. All my waking moments will be spent wishing I was teaching my kids how to read.
I've passed this lovely germ to my husband who is now more than likely also going to be spending today at home as well. So we both get a day off of work, but more than likely we'll spend it sleeping. When we get sick, he tends to get it in the ears and I get it in the lungs/throat. Last night, he could barely hear and I could barely speak. Makes for quite interesting conversation.
I guess one of the main reasons I feel guilty is that I haven't stepped foot into my school in a week's time. I volunteered to help at another school so I have been there. There was no time to prep the children to let them know I was leaving and that I would be back soon ... I just was gone. I feel so guilty about that. Now it's time to hit the DayQuil and try to get some relief from the symptoms I'm feeling.
PS, hubby has Lyme appt on Saturday. So if I'm still like this, I may try to see if he'll write me a script since I've tried all the other routes.
**** original post *****
I'm still not running on all 4 cylinders. In fact, I'm running on maybe only 2 of them. Last night, I got a really kind email from my boss. She told me she knew I hadn't been feeling well and offered for me to take today off. I would like to say that I accepted this offer, but it wasn't taken guilt free. I always feel so guilty about taking time away from all my "babies." I feel like I'm letting them down or something of that nature. Truth be told, I need today to be at home curled up in the bed dosed up on otc medications. All my waking moments will be spent wishing I was teaching my kids how to read.
I've passed this lovely germ to my husband who is now more than likely also going to be spending today at home as well. So we both get a day off of work, but more than likely we'll spend it sleeping. When we get sick, he tends to get it in the ears and I get it in the lungs/throat. Last night, he could barely hear and I could barely speak. Makes for quite interesting conversation.
I guess one of the main reasons I feel guilty is that I haven't stepped foot into my school in a week's time. I volunteered to help at another school so I have been there. There was no time to prep the children to let them know I was leaving and that I would be back soon ... I just was gone. I feel so guilty about that. Now it's time to hit the DayQuil and try to get some relief from the symptoms I'm feeling.
PS, hubby has Lyme appt on Saturday. So if I'm still like this, I may try to see if he'll write me a script since I've tried all the other routes.
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