Sandra.M
Hello there! I am using this page so I can journal my experience with my WLS. If I can encourage or help others along the way as well, that is great! I am 31 years old, married to Juan, a wonderful man, my highschool sweetheart. We have an awesome 9 year old son, Mathew. We live in Ft. Worth, Texas. God, and family are the most important things in my life. The day my son was born, and the day I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior have been the 2 best days of my life! I know with God I can get through this journey. I know that there are going to be some tough roads ahead, but He will not leave me nor forsake me, and I am confident in that.
*****
~12-14-05~ I spent all day today at the pre-op consultation. It was a lot of information, and I am getting very prepared for my surgery. My husband's insurance is Blue Cross Blue Shield - Anthem. So far it looks as though my costs out of pocket will be minimal. I did not get to meet with Dr. Rodriguez...he was called in for surgery. I have an appointment with him next Wed., Dec. 21. I will be having the RNY. I know that I don't want the LapBand. I am afraid it would be too easy to cheat.
I am 31 and as of my appt. today, I weighed 395.8 lbs. I have severe back pain. I have had 2 back surgeries, and am in need of a 3rd. It is very hard to be active because of the pain. I have been diagnosed with foraminal stenosis and I have nerve damage in my left leg. This causes me to trip quite often, and is very painful.
My BCBS-Anthem said they would pay for my psyc. eval...I only have to pay the $25 co-pay. I also had to pay $150 for the all day orientation today. I will have a $250 in-patient co-pay, and then my insurance company will pay 80%, and I will be responsible for the remaining 20%. I am not yet sure about how much that is. I will update on Wed. as to what Dr. Rodriguez has to say, and what, if any, requirements I must meet.
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~12-20-05~ I wasn't going to write until after I went to the Dr. on Wed, but I decided to anyways. Just to talk. I have been in so much pain with my back. It is Christmas time, we have family in from South Texas, and I can not enjoy any of it. I can not go out shopping, and I can not go running around. I will be so glad to get this weight off. I know it will not remove the back pain all together, but it will surely help. I am taking so much pain medication, and it does not ever take away the pain...it just makes it so I can walk around the house to do for myself.
Enough pouting! I am so blessed to have my family! And thank God I am alive, and I know that He is providing a way for me to have a better quality of life. I really hope and pray that my appointment with Dr. Rodriguez goes well on Wed.
*****
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ WHO AM I ? ~~~(by Sandra Martinez~~~
Staring, staring in the mirror, no one looking back.
Who am I? What do they say I can do?
A nobody, nothing, just like everybody else:
Stuck, weighed down.
With no way out, and no way through.
Searching, searching…there must be more.
Haven’t I heard someone ask this question before?
“Who do men say that I am?” He asked.
No one knew His greatness, no one knew His task.
Spoken by the Spirit:
Revelation, Truth, identity.
“You are the Christ, Son of the living God”
And You have come to set us free.
Who am I? Who is He that is with in me?
He is Christ Jesus, the Truth that I believe.
He is The Anointed One
That breaks the yoke and removes the burden.
Breaking all the cycles, and stopping all the hurtin’.
He is the Truth.
Jesus, who am I?
Who am I?
I am forgiven, no more guilt, no more shame.
Who am I?
I am the righteousness of God in Christ.
Who am I?
I am free,
Free to fulfill the plans He has for me!
“For I know the plans I have for you”,
says the Lord, plans for good and not evil,
plans for a future and a hope.”
So, who am I and what can I do?
A child of the Most High God,
And anything I put my mind to!
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*****
~12-21-05~ I had my appointment with Dr. Rodriguez today. He seems to be a great guy. Very direct, and wants to make sure you understand everything clearly, and that you know exactly what he expects of you. I got a "tentative" surgery date for Feb. 7th. I have to have my psyc eval done, and I have to see a nutritionist before they can submit me for approval, so I will try to get those done next week. Christina, the insurance lady, said that my insurance company (BC/BS-Anthem) was really good about getting approvals back within 2 weeks...so we will pray and hope that it comes in quickly!
Dr. Rodriguez also said I will have to have an umbrella filter put in before surgery to stop any blood clots that could come after surgery. He is worried about my back going out and me not being able to walk.
We went to church tonight, and it was wonderful, but I am tired, and my back is really tired...lots of spasms...I will be glad when I don't fatigue so easily. All in all, I am very please with today, and I have a busy day tomorrow of making appointments and getting things done to speed this process up a little!
*****
~01-07-06~ It has been a little while since I updated. I don't have much news on the surgery itself since we can not send in the first approval letter until after my appointment for the psyc eval. I will do that on the 9th...Monday morning. The Dr has been out of town, so that is her first day back.
I did go to my pre-opp support group. There were about 8 of us there, but it was good to be able to ask questions and get more information. Leslie is great. She is a nurse there, and she had the surgery done 2 years ago, I think. She is really sweet, and not shy about sharing her own experiences. My husband and son, Mathew, both went with me.
I also went to my Nutritional Consult that is required by the insurance company before we can even send out the first letter. It isn't the one where I get the info I need about protien, etc...it is one where they ask me all sorts of questions about diets I have been on in the past, and why will this be different...blah blah blah. They lady was very nice, and after we went through all of that stuff, we sat and talked for about an hour about how I got this big in the first place, and how I have been working on any issues that may arise after surgery now, so that I am not wanting to eat to deal with things that have nothing to do with nutrition. All in all, it was a good meeting. I had to pay $40 for my co-pay.
Tonight I had a great treat!!! I went to meet Rhonda Davis. She is going to be my Angel. She had her surgery 14 months ago, and she looks Phenominal!!!! She and her husband are just great people, and I am really glad we got to meet them!
I am looking forward to going for my psyc eval Monday, and getting my first letter sent off! Hopefully the ONLY letter, and I will get back a quick YES YOU ARE APPROVED!!!!!!!! God, I thank you for favor and for a qiuck approval! In Jesus name! Amen!
*****
~01-09-06~ Today I went to see Dr. Steigleder for my psyc eval. It was interesting. Things went well, and I will go and see her for a follow-up 2 weeks after the surgery. It was good to be able to talk to someone that could give me some feedback and some suggestions. Hopefully the first letter will go out quickly; I will call Christine at Dr. Rod's office tomorrow to make sure she has all she needs and that the letter was sent to the insurance company.
I have been very tired, and just waiting until I get the approval. I kind of feel like I am in a holding pattern and need to rest, because when the plane takes off, it is going to be a long trip! I will update when I know more.
*****
~01-12-06~ Well, I received my copy of the letter that Dr. Rod sent to my insurance company today. I am praying for a quick approval! I also went to the Gastroenterologist today. His name is Dr. Safavi, in Irving. He is really nice! he was very incouraging. He said that I am really smart to be doing this now, especially considering my family history. He said to keep my fingers crossed and pray that I can avoid all of the heart troubles and diabetic problems in my family by taking care of my weight now. I have to go for a colonoscopy and then the other scope where they go down your throat to your stomache. He wants to make sure everything is fine before surgery. I am really glad that they are checking everything out before surgery...I think it will help me be more successful! I will update again later...
*****
~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE JOURNEY~~~(by Sandra Martinez)~~~
I’ve been traveling down this road called life.
I often walk, I love to run,
But sometimes all I can do is crawl.
There were even times that I couldn’t move at all.
So many feelings, so many needs…
So many things that were too hurtful too see.
Working all the time,
Working so hard…building walls.
It is all too much, I close my eyes.
No more, no more…I just want to hide.
It’s dark, it’s quiet…there is no one around.
I have what I thought I wanted.
It’s not what I thought it would be.
Empty. I am empty inside.
A big whole…it seems to never be filled.
What do I need? What does it take?
Am I worth it? Who cares? Do I?
Does anyone see me? Do I even exist?
Turning, turning, but there is nothing to see…
Darkness, sadness, lonely, tired.
Where can I go, who can I run to?
Who can see inside these walls?
JESUS!!!
Do you see me? Can you hear me?
Do you remember I am here???
Did you leave me,
Or did I build these walls to keep You out?
Where were You? Didn’t You care?
How did You let it happen?
Tears, sorrow, a hurting heart.
Forgiveness. How?
Fall to my knees. Lord, help me.
Faith, trust, love…it’s all so far away.
I need You, I need You…
Come and rescue me!
He hears my cries!
He sends His Angels…
Walls are breaking down.
Light and warmth streaming in…
Never alone, never alone again.
His hand extended, lifting my heart.
The whole…where did it come from?
What was I thinking? What did it all mean?
Was I all wrong, or could I just not see?
I climb on His shoulders, a peak at the plan.
Understanding, trust, safety, secure.
Now, standing face to face with the God-man.
What can He give me, what can He do?
Truth, love, compassion, grace.
Who am I? Why am I here?
What do I do now without the fear?
So much free time, not building walls…
So many people hurting, I must tell them all.
Freedom, freedom…freedom to run.
Traveling still, my journey’s just begun!
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*****
~01-18-06~ I called my insurance company today to see if they have received the letter from Dr. Rod yet, and they said no...so we wait. I am feeling pretty good. I tend to get excited when I feel good, and over-do it...and then end up in bed for several days, or even weeks, so I am trying to stay relaxed and just take things slow. I have been nesting...wanting everything clean, and no clutter...no dust. I have been driving hubby and son NUTS, because they have to do most of the work. Poor guys! I hope this is symbolic of my life right now. I hope I am really getting things straightened out. My health, the pain, my mobility, my happiness. I am so hopeful that this is a door God has enabled me to walk through to help restore my life back to me.
I will update when I find out more. For now, I have lots of appointments scheduled: Colonoscopy on the 30th, scope down the throat on the 31st, I go on the 25th for my physical fitness appointment @ Folsum Fitness @ the hospital. I am so thankful to have this opportunity. I will update soon!
*****
~01-19-06~ I called the insurance company again today...they still have not received their letter. They said nothing had been started for me, and that I should have the Dr's insurance rep call the pre-cert department and they can get it all started by fax and phone. So, I called Christina and left a message with her to call them. So we'll see what happens....
*****
~01-20-06~ I AM APPROVED!!!! I just got a call from Christina saying she got my message and she called them. they still hadn't received their letter, so she gave them everything over the phone, and then she talked to their nurse, and she approved me right on the spot! WOOHOO!!!! God is so good! Thank You, Jesus!!!
My surgery date has been changed to Monday, February 13th. Christina said I will have all my pre-opps and my IVC filter put in, and my appointment with Dr. Rodriguez all on the week before, since it is on a Monday. I am the first surgery that day, so I have to be there at 5:30 am. I am so excited! I will update as I get all of my appointments done....
*****
~01-24-06~ Today I met with Ginnie @ Folsum Fitness...it is there at the hospital. She went over some band exercises and walking for me to do before surgery. It was supposed to be an 8 week plan, but since I only have 3 weeks before my surgery date, she said that would be fine.
I am so ready to feel good again, and to give my back a break! I pray to God that this surgery helps my back and leg pain! What an answer to prayer that would be! Ok...I go in for my stress test and echo cardiagram tomorrow...I'll let you know how that goes...until then, be blessed.
*****
~01-25-06~ Well, I went in for my stress test and my echocardiagram. I will detail it from beginning to end so those of you who have not yet experienced this will know exactly what to expect...I had no idea!
First of all, I had to be fasted, which wouldn't have been a problem, except I depend upon my pain meds to be able to walk and get around...so needless to say, I wasn't looking forward to the day, but I dealt with it very positively, because I know these are necessary steps to getting the surgery done that will forever change my life.
When I got there, they started an IV and injected some sort of tracer so they could look at my heart, and then put on 12 leads for the heart monitor. I was very pleased that the lady got the IV on her first try, and it didn't even hurt! That never happens. she was very nice, and fully explained all that would happen that day.
Then, I waited in the little waiting area for abit (so the meds could do their thing, and then she took me into this room and I laid on this narrow machine. (cort of like an MRI machine, but the bed part is more narrow and the over head part is more open.) It is not a tunnel like the MRI, and it is really no big deal at all...it is not noisey or anything. It took 18 minutes. Then, I had to do the stress test on the treadmill. He said for women, they need to stay on there at least 3 minutes. They hook you up to all these leads, and then take your blood pressure. Then, you get on the tread mill. They started me on an incline, walking pretty slow. It got faster, and then the incline went WAY up! At this point, they were taking my blood pressure again, and shooting dye into my IV...YES...WHILE I was walking fast, UP HILL....lol. It was quite a sight! Then, they slowed it, and then it stopped.
By this time, I was having an all out asthma attack. My throat was very dry, and hurt (because I hadn't had anything to drink since midnight, and it was now about 2 pm!). I was coughing and wheezing like crazy and trying to get some air, because I did not have my inhaler...I haven't needed it for about a year!
The nice lady came out with an inhaler and I took a couple of puffs and in about 10 minutes all was on the calmer side.
So, then she took me back into the room with the machine...another 18 minutes, with 3 leads attached this time.
When I was done there, I had to go take off my clothes and put on one of their lovely little gowns, and go in for a sonogram of my heart. I was very surprised that this part hurt. The lady was very nice as well, and she explained everything....but 2 of the places she had to press pretty hard and for a loooong period of time, and it really hurt. I will be very surprised if I don't bruise.
And then that was it! I was there from about noon until 3 pm.
Over all, it was not a bad experience. I am very thankful that I was able to do the treadmill, and not the chemical one. I have heard those are horrible.
I am so very thankful that God has given me this opportunity (an open door) to gain back parts of my life that were either taken from me, or I lost, or gave up because of believing the lies of the enemy. But the devil is a liar! And I am takin' it back! I wrote a poem a couple of days ago about that very thing...I will post it below. I have more tests next week...I will update then!
Be blessed!
*****
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~AN OPEN DOOR~~~(by Sandra Martinez)~~~
Tired, lonely, nervous, bored
I've never been in this position before.
It's always been the same, never expecting much.
Until one day I experienced The Master's Touch!
I knocked and knocked, and He opened the door.
What? It opened...for me? Are You sure?
Taking a step, looking around...
I see things laying all on the ground.
Each one has my name, then printed above
Were: happines, joy, health, peace and love.
Hey! Wait a minute! These used to be mine.
I must have lost them some place in time.
I began picking the up, feeling the warmth of each.
Wait...can I do it? This one says 'TEACH'.
Without thinking too much, I added it to the rest.
This is one blessing I won't second guess.
Turning and looking...I now have them all.
I turn to walk down this long, narrow hall.
There on His thrown sat my sweet King.
"Hello Jesus", I said. "I think I've got everything."
"I am so proud of you, my child!
Seeking My Truth, and rejecting the lies."
I looked at the ground, and then into His eyes.
"I thought I didn't deserve them."
I started to cry.
"I have been here waiting," Jesus said,
"For you to turn from others, and ask me instead."
"I gave you all of these gifts before the begining of time.
You are entitled to each of them, because you are Mine."
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*****
~01-30-06~ I went in today for my colonoscopy. The test was a breeze, because I was asleep. The bad part was taking all the laxatives and drinking that drink to clean you out! I already have chronic diarreah...and so taking this stuff was like torture. I was so nauseated, and I felt like I was going to pass out. I finally called a friend of mine and talked to her, and I decided not to take anymore of the solution. I drank about 2/3 of it. I couldn't handle it anymore.
When I got to the hospital, they couldn't get the IV to go in. They had to poke me 4 times. I am bruised all over! I have a high tolerance for pain, but I was crying like a baby. Finally, another nurse came in and had to put it in on my upper, inner arm...on the inner part of my bicep. It didn't hurt much at all.
In the procedure room, the anesthesiologist came in and started acting like I was some sort of 2nd class citizen for being obese. He said, "Now...you know, what ever the risks are...you are MORE at risk, because of your weight, RIGHT???" I said, "Yes, I know. By the way, I just had my gallbladder out here a few months ago and everything was fine, and I have had many other surgeries, and I do fine...not to mention the fact that I KNOW it isn't good for me to be at this weight! Why do you think I am having this test done?? I am having the RNY gastric bypass done on Feb 13th, and I am just getting checked out to make sure there is nothing wrong before hand." well, he didn't have a response, and when my doctor, Dr. Safavi, came in, he was GREAT! He is the nicest guy! He was so positive and was talking abou tme getitng the bypass and how great things are going to be and how proud he is of me. Well, let me tell you...Mr. Anesthesiologist changed his toon! He started being nicer to me....what a JERK! That was really rude.
After the tests, I was a little nauseated, but they gave me some Zofran for it. I was able to go home and rest. They just told me not to drive or do much of anything for the rest of the day, and I could return to eating regularly...which I was glad to hear, because I hadn't eaten since 6pm on Saturday, because I was too nauseated to drink liquids yesterday. I am going to drink a LOT of liquids today, so that when I go in for my ECG tomorrow they won't have so much trouble with the IV.
*****
~01-31-06~ I had my ECG done today. Drinking all those liquids really paid off! I had a different nurse today, and she put a shot of this numbing stuff on my wrist, and then she got it the first try, not problem! She said that it is really hard when you are dehydrated. She also said she didn't know why the other nurse didn't use any numbing meds??? Whe shouldn't have hurt me so much....but it is over now.
I also had a different Anesthesiologist...Dr. Shannon, and he was very nice. I really love Dr. Safavi. If you are in the Irving area, and you need a good Gastroenterologist, I recomend him....he is great! Very supportive and has a very nice bed-side manner.
He did find a H-p??? something, and it showed that I had a bacterial infection in my stomach. The nurse said it is common from not washing fresh veggies good enough, or you can get it from the pre-bagged salads. Since my back is out, I have been eating those a lot. I guess not anymore. But Dr. Safavi said that I can still have the surgery, I just have to take some antibiotics between now and then, and they gave me a bag of antibiotics in my IV bag. I have to follow-up with Dr. Safavi on Thursday to find out exactly what all the biopsies show. I will update again after my appointment with him.
Until then, may God bless you and keep you, and make His face to shine upon you and give you peace!
*****
02-03-06 I had my follow-up with Dr. Safavi today (My gastroenterologist). He said to make sure I finished the meds he gave me for the H-p bacteria infection. It is a LOT! It is called a PREVPAC. It has 1 Prevacid, 1 Biaxin, and 2 Amoxicillan, and it comes marked AM and PM. So I have to take all 4 pills in the morning before breakfast, and then all 4 in the evening before dinner. I know Biaxin is really strong, and it is 2000 mg of Amox. a day, so hopefully it will take care of all the infection. He said the infection can cause an ulcer, but I don't have one, thank You, Lord! All of my biopsies came back negative, so I am all clear for surgery. Dr. Safavi said that I will be done with my meds the night before my surgery, so in his opinion, I should go ahead with the surgery date of Feb. 13th. He also said that if Dr. Rodrigues wants a test AFTER I finish my meds, I will have to postpone my surgery by a week or so. I pray that I do not have to do that.
Also, a new friend came over today and has offered to come and help me by cleaning my house twice a week. He price is very reasonable, and it is just a total blessing to me! It takes a load off of my mind.
I have to call Dr Rod tomorrow and fax the test results to him, and see what he says about my surgery date...I am praying everything stays the same!
*****
~02-05-06~ I received a voicemail on friday evening saying that Advanced Imaging was calling to verify an appointment for 7:45 am on Monday morning. Well....I didn't make any appointment, so I am assuming my Dr made it for me. I am not sure what they do, but the only thing I have yet to do is my IVC filter to stop any blood clots during surgery, and after. I was origionaly told that I would have this done the day after my pre-ops, maybe they changed their mind? I will not be able to call to see what this appointment is for or anything. They left directions on my Voicemail of when to start fasting, and what meds to stop taking. They do not open until 7 am, and I live an hour away, so I just have to 'show up', not knowing anything about it. I had to do a search for the name of the company to find out the address and city it is located in. It all just feels really weird to me. I don't like not knowing what is going to happen, and who the people are that are going to be working on me. I thought it would be done at the same hospital I am having my surgery at??? But it isn't. Oh well, I will just call on my cell phone on the way and find out. I pray that it all works itself out and all goes smooth. I will let you know what happens.
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~02-11-06~ Sorry I haven't updated all week, I have been so busy! Monday my appointment was for my IVC filter. The place was very clean, and the people were wonderful! The only part that hurt was the Dr having to keep such hard pressure on my pelvic area, to make it stop bleeding, and then I had to lay in the hospital bed on my back for 4 hours. That was really hard for me. My back hurt so much!
I was really, really sore for about 3 days afterwards, but I think it was because I never rested. I had classes in the evening all week, so I only came home and rested for 2 hours after the procedure, and then I went to class. I was out until between 11:30pm and 1:30am all week.
On Wed I had my pre-opps. Everyone at the hospital was so great!!! Very, very nice people, who act like they care.
Well.......surgery is on Monday! I am not sure of my surgery time. I have to be there by 6am, and they said I will have surgery anywhere between 8am and 1pm. I will update again after surgery and let you all know how I am feeling.
*****
~02-13-06~ Well, here it is...surgery morning! I am feeling very calm and I rested well (all 4 hours last night :O)) It is almost 5am, and we are leaving for the hospital now. the drink to do the cleanse last night made me sick, so I had to take the MOM. It was MUCH easier on me than the other stuff.
I will update when I get home...probably 2-3 days. May God be with us as we go through this procedure, Jesus guide Dr Rod's hands, and let him recall everything he ever learned in school, and add Your anointing to it, Lord, in Jesus name. I thank You for it. Amen and Amen.
Talk to you all in a few days...
*****
~02-28-06~ Wow! I can't believe I haven't updated things sooner! Sorry about that! I have been journaling every step of the way, so I will update you on all that has gone on...
First of all, my surgery was supposed to be early in the morning, but they didn't get to me until after 1 pm. I didn't mind, because as soon as I got to the hospital and was told I would have to sit in the waiting room and wait, it was so uncomfortable there that my blood pressure started rising. They told me to go ahead and take my pain meds, and a nurse snuck me a drink of water. They got me into a room within a couple of hours and the rest is history! I remember my husband being in there and taking some pics, and I remember talking to some of the people (nurses, anesthesia, etc...), but I don't remember what was said.
The next thing I remember was waking up in recovery. I didn't know where I was, I thought I was in hell, because I was hurting so badly! I started screaming out 'Jesus! help me!' That was all I could say. I don't remember much after that until I woke up in my room. It was about 9 pm before I got into my room. My friends and family were there, but I don't remember much of it. I remeber I was in pain. I was too big for the binder to fit properly, and when they took it off, I thought my guts were going to explode!
I know my sister, Brenda, that had the surgery last year, stayed with me for a while that night. That really helped me a lot. Just knowing she was there, and knew what I was feeling, and knowing I didn't have to pretend to be strong. It was a great feeling to be able to trust her. I don't even remember anything we talked about. I remember her talking to my nurse, Lawrence (he is an absolute angel!!! I have had many surgeries, and he is by far the best nurse I have ever ever had!), and I remember telling her that her being brave enough to have this done really motivated me to go ahead and do it. To take a stand for myself and say it is my turn now! I have taken care of everyone else, always, and now it is my turn! I really appreciated her being there. More than anything, that is what I remember...she was there, and that is so important when you are going through something like this.
I got up that night and walked a little ways..to the nurse's station and back.
The next day was Valentine's Day. My hubby and my son came in with this big balloon, and some flowers and things. I felt so bad that I could not enjoy it. I was in a lot of pain. They blow you all up with air, and it really hurt around my left lung and shoulder. It felt like my ribs were broken every time I would breathe.
I got up and got to walking, and then I started coughing and it hurt so much, but it was the very thing I needed! The more I could cough, the better I could breathe later! So, I walked as much as I could.
My friend, Charity, came to see my that day, and I was in no shape to visit, but she had her little baby with her, Tavis, and he is my little man and I wanted to hold him so much, but I couldn't. I had her hold him up to me, so I could kiss him.
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Wed. 02-15-06 I went home. The ride home was HORRIBLE! It is an hour drive, and my husband picked me up in the truck, so I was bouncing all around. I was feeling very nauseated, and didn't want to drink much. My ankels and feet were swelling.
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Thurs. 02-16-06 Here is my journal:
@6:30 am- 'I feel good this morning. I am really swollen though. (my hands, legs, stomache, feet and ankels) My tummy feels like I went too long without eating and when I swollow, my stomache burns. I think I need to drink a snack during the night. My back is really hurting - I am not able to baby it, because my stomache hurts so much. I know this will all be over soon.'
@ 9:30 am- 'I feel great! I have been up all day and have been walking and folding laundry. I walked a lot today...from the sunroom to the end of the hallway and back several times. I feel like I am really doing good! My back still hurts and my feet are really swollen.'
@ 11 am- 'I called Dr. Rod about the swelling and they want me to come in in the morning. I think it has more to do with my blood pressure because of my pain level in my stomache and my back.
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Friday, 02-17-16 my journal:
@ 12:30 pm- 'Dr. Rod was really nice. My blood pressure was really high 148/98. That is very high for me. They did lab work. I need to drink more liquids and get in more protein. I need to take more pain meds so I can get my pain under control. He gave me a script for Baclofen for nausea, and diozide for swelling. I have been able to drink much more liquids today.
@ 4:15 pm- 'I am feeling really good, but when I walk my blood pressure goes up. I am going to take some more pain meds and try and take a nap.
@ 9:30 pm- 'I feel really good! I am so proud of myself for getting in all of my protein and water today. It was an ALL DAY job, but I feel so much better! My blood pressure is still up, and I am still swollen and hearing my heart beat in my ears though. I hope this will all be over soon. I am looking forward to being active again.'
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Saturday 02-18-06 my journal:
@ noon- 'I feel really great today! I am still swollen though. I am having sharp pains in my stomache, it is gas. I wonder if I can take Mylicon drops or something for it?'
@ 5 pm- 'We went for a family walk outside. It is 22 degrees outside, so it was only a 5 minute walk, but I needed out of the house!
~~~~~
Sunday 02-19-06 my journal:
@ 9pm- I have had a lot of energy today! I have wanted to be up doing things all day, and for the most part, I have been, but my blood pressure keeps going up, and my face gets very red and hot, and my feet start swelling again. Besides the pain from my incision, my back hurting, and my blood pressure going up, I have felt pretty good. I get bursts of energy, and then after a couple of hours, I am exhausted and need a quick nap (20 minutes to an hour). I was getting my protein in well, but I felt like I just 'needed something' for energy (after being up doing dishes and folding clothes), so I turned to sec. 7 and picked the best food I could that was very soft and had no carbs, so I ate 2 scrambled eggs.
@ 9:30pm- I have gotten in all my water and protein today. I am so tired and ready to sleep!
~~~~~
~03-13-06~ It has been a couple of weeks since I updated. Things are so busy around here! My husband and I accepted a position as interum Youth Pastors at a new church, and have been very busy with that. I have also been very busy with my new way of life! Things change daily!
I talked with Karen today (the nurse at Dr. Rod's office) about somethings that have been going on for the past few weeks, and it was an interesting conversation. I found out that for 1 thing, I had been over-loading my pouch. You don't know exactly how big your pouch is, until you figure out you are getting sick. They say 2-3 oz., but everyone is different. I was given the guideline of using 1/3 cup as a measuring guide. Karen said 1/3c is = to 2.666oz, so if my pouch is only 2oz, I would still be over-loading it.
This explains a lot. I make sure to measure everything, but if I ate meats (measured at 1/3c), I was throwing up. I thought I just couldn't tolerate the meat, but I now think I was just over-filling, which is much better news....it was very bummed out thinking I couldn't eat chicken anymore.
I have my post-opp support group tonight at 6 pm. I will get to weigh-in, and I will get to ask questions and see what others are going through as well. Dr. Steigleder will be there also (she is their psycologist), and she is wonderful! I love talking with her. The last time I saw her, I was only 2 weeks post opp, and wasn't having any difficulty. I am still not having 'problems', but I am having a few issues pop up that I was expecting, but when it actually does happen I am not quite sure how to deal with it.
One thing is that tend to push my family away a lot. My husband is needing intimacy, and I am not in the least bit interested most of the time. I don't like that feeling. For me, it is equal with riding in the car...who wants all that bouncing around??? Not me right now!
I have been getting motion sickness and it happens when we have sex as well, and that is frustrating for me. Then, when hubby suggests it, all I can think about is getting sick. It isn't about not wanting to be with him, it is about me not wanted to feel nauseous for the rest of the evening. And I want that issue dealt with so that there isn't any wedge in our relationship.
Karen did tell me things like not to eat a protein drink before riding in the car, but instead to eat a solid food. It may be the liquids swishing around making me feel sick. I am not sure what the deal is, but I will bring it up again tonight, and see if anyone else in the group is dealing with it.
I am not sure how much I weigh right now. I will find out tonight. I do know that I am fitting into clothes that I haven't fit into in a LONG time. I had outgrown all of my size 32 clothes, and was very limited in what I could wear. My 32's look great on me now, and my panties are falling off when I walk! I never thought I would be happy for that to happen. :O)
Over all, I am so so happy that I had this surgery done. I am having a little trouble doing the walking on a consistant basis. I walk for 45 minutes for a few days, and then my back hurts really bad, so I spend a day on ice and heat alternation, and then when I walk again I can't walk for more than about 20 minutes without pain...but I keep going, and then my back is hurting again. I am hoping as I continue to loose the weight that my back will be less and less of an issue.
I will update more after the meeting tonight, or tomorrow morning...oh yeah, that is another thing: I do get really tired quickly, and I am sleeping a lot better when I sleep. I require a nap every day. At night I sleep a lot more sound. I tend to turn a lot (sort of like a rotisserie chicken), because as I am loosing, I feel like I do not have the padding on my hips and tail bone that I use to have, so I can't stay in one position for very long.
Ok...I will update later. Be blessed!
*****
~03-13-06~ I love the words to this song by Bethany Dillon. When I was considering this surgery, I heard this song and cried so so much. It totally expresses everything I have ever felt and it is a beautiful song. Here are the words...I hope you can relate, and I hope you enjoy it. I thank my Lord Jesus for bringing me to this point. Knowing that without this surgery I am enough, but with this surgery I will be free to be who He created me to be.
*****
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Beautiful~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bethany Dillon
I was so unique
Now I feel skin deep
I count on the make-up
to cover it all
Crying myself to sleep
'Cause I can not keep their attention
I thought I could be strong
But it's killing me
Does someone hear my cry?
I'm dyin' for new life!
I want to be beautiful
Make You stand in awe
Look inside my heart
And be amazed
I want to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough
I just want to be worthy of love
And Beautiful
Sometimes I wish I was someone
Other than me
Fighting to make
The mirror happy
Trying to find
What ever is missing
Won't You help me back
To Glory?
I want to be beautiful
Make You stand in awe
Look inside my heart
And be amazed
I want to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough
I just want to be worthy of love
You make me beautiful
You make me stand in awe
You step inside my heart
And I am amazed
I love to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough!
You make worthy of love
And Beautiful
You make worthy of love
And Beautiful
Beautiful
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*****
~03-14-06~ I went to my post-op support group last night. I weighed in at 358.7. I seem to be averaging about 8-9 pounds a week. My total loss in 4 weeks is 37 pounds. The post-op group was very informative, and it was good to hear what others were going through. I need to make sure I walk, but I don't need to be over-doing it either. I am going to stick with the 30 minutes a day for 2 more weeks, and see if I can do that consistantly, and if I can, I will increase to 45 minutes. By the end of the 2 weeks, I should be able to add in some type of resistance, I will call the physical trainer and ask if I can at least go back to Curves or something. I don't want to loose all of my muscle. I am getting very "smooshy". I will try and update more often. Have a blessed day!
*****
~03-14-06~ Today was a good day. I had a rough night with my back, but I rested and just cleaned the house. I took my son to soccer practice tonight, and I like to walk while they are practicing. I walked for 30 minutes, and then walked for another 30, so it was an hour total. I didn't walk very fast. I was really trying to pay attention to my body and really feel where my problem areas are. It is about 11 pm right now, and I am having a lot of back spasms. I really need to cut back and just do 30 minutes. Dr. Steigleder talked to me about this, and I did more than I should have anyway. When I am out there walking, I feel so great, but it is late that night, and the next day that I am in pain.
I will make myself walk for 30 minutes tomorrow, hurting or not...and just try to work through it. I hope that I can make myself only do 30 minutes so that I can get stronger and not be hurting myself. The hard part is that soccer practice is for an hour and a half, and I don't like sitting there with the other parents talking. A few of them are great, and we made good friends with one of the couples, but the majority of them are not people that we have much in common with...or that we are interested in similar things...so I just keep walking around the park until it is over, and try and waist as much time (in a positive way) as I can. I think Thursday I will just go sit in my truck and read a book after I get done with my walk. I will see how that works for me.
'Father, I pray that You would let peace flow through my back and legs, and that You would prevent any inflamation from occuring. I thank You for mercy and grace and for Your love. May You be glorified in all I do and all that I am. In Jesus name. Amen.'
*****
~03-16-06~ Today was a great day! I was having a lot of back pain and I called Karen and talked to her. She referred me to a place called Synergy. They are a bariatric rehab/exercise place. Karen said this will be a great opportunity to get help with strengthening my back and core muscles, so that I can be more successful with the weightloss and with keeping the weight off.
I called the Synergy people and they took my info and called my insurance. I will only have to pay $20 a week (no matter how many visits I have), and my insurance will cover the rest! Our insurance if fabulous! It is a real blessing from God.
I also talked with Jenny (the physical trainer at Folsom Fitness) and we talked about changing some things. I went back and read in my book the section on post-opp exercise and it talked about moving from just walking 30 minutes to walking as fast and as hard as you can for as long as you can, and then slowing down or stoping and resting, and then doing the same thing again, until it adds up to 30 minutes. This is what we (me and hubby) did at soccer. We walked what normally took us 25-30 minutes in 15 minutes. It felt really good to be pushing myself. We rested and drank water for 10 minutes, and then walked it again...and again in 15 minutes. I was so proud of myself! And of my hubby! He is so supportive! I love him very much!
*****
~03-19-06~ It has been a really busy couple of days this weekend! We were not home for Saturday or that night, and we didn't get home until after 7 pm tonight. I am getting the hang of being away from home and still eating the way I need to eat! It is not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. Our friends are very thoughtfull and know what I am going through, so they ask what I can eat, etc...and try to include me in as much as possible.
It has rained all weekend, so no walking outside. I did worship at church today...we have very lively worship, so I break a sweat for sure! :O) It lasts a good 45 minutes or so. It is a good little workout.
This afternoon we went over to our friend's house. They had their baby dedicated today, and the Pastor came out to the house to bless their home as well. Tavis (the baby) is so precious! I can already tell I am going to spoil him rotten! They had cooked out hamburgers and hotdogs, potato salad, baked beans, lots of cakes, and I am not sure what else...oh...BBQ ribs. I ate a spoon of hamburger patty, a spoon of potato salad, and a spoon of baked beans. I couldn't finish it all, but it was so good! I also took a bite of hubby's carrot cake. It was so good. Their family was in from Florida. They are great people, they are all like our extended family. They also had some other friends over that we hadn't met yet, but have heard a lot about them, and they were great! They have both had the lap band and have sites on OH. It was great to talk to other people who can relate to what I am going through. Their children are precious.
It was really different to go over there for a cookout and not eat so much I have to go take a nap, or to not be in so much pain with my back that I can't stand up! I had a good time.
I will update tomorrow after I go to Synergy. Maybe I can weigh there?? I hope so!
*****
~03-22-06~ I went to Synergy on Monday. The Dr. there is great! He took lots of x-rays and we talked a lot. He evauated me for body strength, etc. Of course, I am very weak...more than I thought. I have a lot of nerve damage on my left side, I already knew that. I guess it is just hearing it everytime makes it hit harder.
Where this Dr. is different than most is that he is SO optimistic! He is so excited, and really motivates me, and tells me not to be so hard on myself, but at the same time, he is hard on me in a good way.
Today was my first workout. First, I had to stretch on this machine. It was weird at first, but once I got the hange of it, it was a fabulous stretch! It is so hard to get a good stretch without hurting something, this machine is great for my back! Then, I did a whole 5 minutes on the eliptical machine. I couldn't believe that I was about to have an asthma attack from only 5 minutes! I have really gotten de-conditioned. The Dr. said I have muscle atrophy. He also said I have some nuropathy in my left leg. I am praying that all of this can be reversed, or at least be so minimal that I can still have a healthy, active life. After the eliptical machine, I did the weight machine with chest presses and then the bar you pull down over your head. Then, there was the machine where you press backwards, and then you change and can do crunches. I really like that one...I know it will strengthen my core. Then, I did something called CORE. They gave me a 6lb. ball, and I had to stand on one leg and lift it over my head and back down...it was halarious! I couldn't do it very well, but at least we all got a good laugh out of it. Then, I did something they call PRAY. I had to lay on my stomach and put my elbows together, and interlock my fingers and put them to my chin (like I was praying). Then, I had to get up on my tip toes and press with my elbows, lifting my rear end up in the air...that was the point of it, but I didn't get very far. I know I will grow stronger each time, and I am very excited to get active again!
I am really looking forward to working this program and being the best ME I can be! I am very thankful for this opportunity. Synergy reminds me of the Spine and Neurological Center that rehabed me after my first back surgery. It was a great place...and so is Synergy! I highly recommend it!
I will update more on Monday, when I go back to Synergy. I haven't been able to weigh, but I may go and do that Monday, since it will be my 6-week post-opp date.
*****
~04-17-06~ WOW! It has been too long since I updated. I keep saying I am going to, and then I get busy with something and forget to.
This is what has been going on...I have been going to Synergy to workout on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. It is a really great place! Dr. Wagle is wonderful!!!
The things I am working out on now are:
-the stretch machine
-15 minutes on the eliptical machine
-the ab machine w/weights. 55 lbs/forward crunch, 75 lbs/back extensions -- 3 sets of 20
-back extensions- this thing you step into, you bend down with support only for your legs, and then you pull yourself up and bow your back, looking at the ceiling. --3 sets of 10
-CORE - 6 lb. medicine ball -- 3 sets of 10 on each side (standing on one leg, raising ball over head and back down)
-TABLES - on medium therapy ball - you lay down on your back, with the ball supporting only your shoulders, and you do a pelvic lift and hold for 30 seconds, 3 times.
-the blue shoe - this is a good stretch for the calves.
-pelvic tilts with large therapy ball (I lay on on my back on the matted table and put my legs up on the ball, then I do pelvic tilts.) -- 3 sets of 10
-lower abs w/medium therapy ball (I lay on my back on the matted table, and hold the ball between my knees, and lift the ball up--in essence, raising knees up into my abs.) -- 3 sets of 10
-FROGS - this one I lay on top of the large therapy ball on my stomache. I role forward, and hold onto the edge of the table. Then, I bend my knees, with the soles of my shoes touching...and then straighten my legs and lift them up as high as I can, bowing my back. -- 3 sets of 10
-PRAYS - this one I lay on the matted table. I put my hands like I am praying and lift up my body with just my toes and my elbows. --3 times for 30 seconds each
-OBLIQUES - I lay on my side, with my arm bent, with forearm on the table, holing up my upper body, and my knees bent. Then, I lift my body up off the table...with only my knee, and fore arm holding me up. -- 3 times for 10 seconds each
-The Total Gym - ( I do several different exercises on this machine)
-leg extensions -I tie a wrap around my ankle, and my leg extends up toward my head, and then I pull it back down straight. I do this for 3 sets of 10, on each leg.
-the next one is the same style, but I bend my leg in, like if I am resting my foot on top of the other knee, and then I straighten it out and down. Again, I do this for 3 sets of 10 on each leg.
-Then, I do squats on the machine, and I do heel presses, and toe raises. All 3 sets of 10
-Pull ups -I lay down on my stomach and bend my knees and cross my ankles. I do 3 sets of 10 on this one also. This one is hard for me, but I am gaining strength.
-Pull Downs -I lay on my back and hold the hand grips and pull straight down. -- 3 sets of 10
-Side Pull Downs -I hold my arms out straight out and do like a butterfly motion. -- 3 sets of 10 (these are also very hard for me)
-Fore Arm Extensions -I hold the hand grips with elbows bent, and then I twist my wrist and fore arm and press out. -- 3 sets of 10
-lunges - these are walking lunges. You extend your leg, and then place it down and press down into a lunge, and then bring your back leg up and out and do the same with it. These were hard for me, and the next few days my knee really hurt.
I am going tomorrow morning for an MRI of my left knee. Dr. Wagle thinks my maniscus may be torn. If it is, I may need orthoscopic surgery. We will have to wait and see.
After working out, I go into this room and they do some therapy on me...including tends unit, ultrasound massage, heat and ice.
They are very thorough, and if you have any kind of injury, or if you have had bariatric surgery, give them a call! Here is their info: Synergy 972-620-8882 The Doctor is Dr. Wagle, and Dee is his assistant. They are both great! They have 2 locations...one in Farmers Branch, and one in Desoto. I drive an hour each way, 3 times a week, so if you are anywhere around the DFW metroplex, you should give them a call!
~~As for the rest of what is going on with me...I weighed in on the 13th. It was my 2 month anniversary, and I weighed in at 342 pounds! I am very pleased with my weightloss!
Also, we went to Six Flags on Saturday!!! I couldn't believe it! I only rode 2 rides, because I was afraid something would hurt my back worse. I rode the Roaring Rapids, and the Log Ride. The Log Ride was a little bumpy, but other than a bad sunburn, I am doing really great. I rested all day yesterday. I have had to take some pain meds, but over all, I am so happy that I can be active again. I just have to take it easy and take my time walking.
I am looking forward to taking my son to the Zoo. They have this new Dinosaur thing that he wants to go see.
Oh yeah...my hubby is going to Synergy with me now. He has back/neck/knee issues that need to be addressed, and he is diabetic, so this is going to be really good for him.
Well, I guess that is it for now. I need to update more often, so that I don't have to update so much at once! Until next time, may the Lord Bless you!
*****
~04-20-06~ Today I went to therapy w/Dr. Wagle...he had to change his schedule this week, so I did Monday, Wednesday and Thursday...instead of Friday. I am really tired-working out 2 days in a row.
I have been having cramps all afternoon. I am wondering if I am trying to ovulate, or have a period? I don't normally have periods without being medically induced. I guess I'll know in a few days what is going on.
I also had an MRI on my left knee today. Hopefully it shows what is going on, and it is something that can be easily fixed. If it requires surgery then I won't have anything done until I loose a lot more weight. I am managing ok with it now...I don't want to be down and not able to work out.
Dr. Wagle said he is going to do my measurements on Monday. He said they will start doing them every week now...because things are changing so rapidly! It is amazing from week to week what is going on...all the changes in my body are great! I am feeling so much better, and am getting around so much better.
My back is still having fits, but not AS bad, and as long as I keep on working out, and losing weight, I pray that it will only get better and better.
I guess that is all for now. Until next time, be blesses.
*****
~04-26-06~ Well, I was sick so I didn't go in on Monday, but I did go to Synergy today. Dr. Wagle was very pleased with my weight and my measurements. Their scales are a little different than Dr. Rodriguez'...it always weighs me about 3 lbs heavier. It still showed that I have lost 14 pounds and a bunch of inches in the past 2 weeks.
My left knee is totally messed up, and I will probably be having some sort of surgical intervention soon...I will keep you updated.
Hubby is going to be having to have neck surgery soon. He has a herniated disc that is herniated 5 mm. Not good, but hopefully they can help him to feel better.
My workout was phenominal today! It is so awesome to see myself getting stronger and being able to do more!!! I am really loving this Fit for Life program!
*****
~05-04-06~ I had my follow-up with Dr. Rodriguez today. I weighed in at 335 lbs. I have lost a total of 60.5 lbs. I have lowered my body fat % by 24%, and have lowered my BMI by 9 points! He said I am doing great, and to keep on working out at Synergy. He is very pleased with the program Dr. Wagle has me on.
As for my workouts:
-I am up to doing 20 minutes on the eliptical w/I-11, R6-8,90-114strides pm.
-we have added weights to the 'TABLES' (5lbs) @3 sets/10
-we have added 2 more sets to the 'OBLIQUES'
-we have canceled to 'LUNGES'--(my knee is too bad)
-we added more 'CORE' stretches
-on the 'TOTAL GYM', I have been able to raise my lower body level to a 5, and my upper body level to a 4. (my upper body is really weak, but I am getting stronger every week!)
I actually mowed my yard on Saturday!!! I thought I was going to die, but I made it! I just wrapped up my knee and took my time. I have not mowed a yard since I have been married. :O)
As for hubby, he is having to have neck surgery on May 11, 2006. (next Thursday). Dr. Giri is doing it, at Methodist, and I have heard nothing but great things about him, so I am happy about that!
Well, I guess that is all for now! Have a wonderful weekend and be blessed!
*****
~05-22-06~ It has been a while since I updated. Things have been very hectic with my husband having surgery. It has really been hard to try and focus on me, when I also need to be taking care of him. This has been a big test for me. I have always put everyone else before myself, so it has been a real struggle to still make myself a priority, while still caring for him.
Thank God, he is doing so much better. He still has no voice and is coughing a lot when he tries to talk, but other than that, he is doing great! He is not having much pain at all. I am very thankful that Dr. Wagle took the time to really find out what was wrong with him.
I have really been feeling overwhelmed by everything. Hubby's mom had her surgery last Tuesday, and that is a whole other story. Her family is up from south Texas, and there are a lot of expectations to be met, and it is an entirely different world down there...a different culture. On top of all the stress, I will be communicating in Spanish only for this week, and that in and of itself makes my brain hurt! haha.
I went to Synergy today and had a bit of a meltdown. I felt badly for Dr. Wagle, because I wasn't making sense when I was talking, and I was trying to hold back the tears...and it didn't work. He knew something was wrong.
My foot has been hurting me so badly! I think I am tired, a little dehydrated, haven't taken my vitamins as I should, and not getting in enough protein......and to top it all off......my back is hurting me, and I have done something to injure my foot! I am not too sure what exactly I did, but it feels like I broke something. Dr. Wagle did some xrays and says it isn't broken, and he thinks I may have some tendonitis.
I think my foot getting hurt just kind of pushed me over the edge. I am trying so hard for things to go right, and one more thing going wrong was just more than I could take at the moment.
I have really learned how much I depend on my husband.
I also weighed in today, and my weight was 320 pounds. That makes my loss be 75 pounds! I am very happy with that.
*****
~05-26-06~ I haven't been to workout at Synergy since Monday. My foot has been hurting a lot, and I stayed in bed all day Tuesday and then again on most of Thursday. It really has helped it to feel better. It has also helped my emotional state....I really needed some rest!
My workout today was great. Then, we drove out to my Mother-in-law's house to see the family. We took them to the mall in Frisco, and they were all amazed. They don't have any big malls in South Texas...so we walked for about 4 hours! I was 2 hours late eating dinner, but it was fun to spend time with them.
Dr. Wagle did my weigh-in and measurements. I am losing more inches, but since Monday I have gained 5 pounds. I am not worried about it. I am so bloated, and am not drinking liquids like I should...I am not going to worry about the numbers.
I will update more later...until then, be blessed!
*****
~05-28-06~ Well, hubby was feeling well enough today to go back to church! I was so glad to be back. I miss it so much when I am not able to go! It is wonderful having church family around to support us. We went out to lunch with some of our friends after church. It was a little Italian place. Oh my goodness, it was so good. Let me tell you...I use to EAT some Italian food! It felt good just to eat a 'normal' portion. I wanted to eat more, because it was there. I got a to go box, and then when it was out of site I didn't think about it anymore. When we were leaving, I forgot the to go box, and 1/2 way home started laughing.....I could have cared less.
I will update more later......until then, be blessed!
*****
~05-29-06~ Today was off to a slow start. I woke up with my back hurting very badly. I am sore from my workout on Friday, which is good, because I know that I am accomplishing something! I am not quite sure why my back is hurting so bad, but just doing the laundry and dishes is a hard task for me right now.
We went over to my parents today. My dad normally cooks out or something for Memorial Day. He served in Vietnam. He did 3 1/2 tours. My son, Mathew, loves looking at all the pictures and medals, and hearing all the stories. They didn't really get to do much of that today though. My parents had got a new puppy a couple of months ago, and over the weekend he got so so sick. it turns out that he has parvo. The poor little thing is so sick! So, my dad is so exhausted from taking care of him...but at least we got to see them.
I have felt better this evening. I had diareah for 3 days, and it is finally over...whew! Now, I need to catch up on my fluids. I got some house work done, and spent some time with hubby. He is going to go back to work tomorrow. I sure hope he takes it slowly! I went and bought some more protein shakes. If I run out, and go a couple of days without, it really affects me.
I will be starting to nanny a few kids this week. I do not know how I am going to be able to go and work out while I am working. I can't take all the kids with me! The boys I know would be fine, but the little girl is only 3 years old, so that won't work at all!
I am going to go to Academy and see about buying an exercise ball. I also need to go buy some material...I am making a wood table (like a therapy table). We are turning our sun room into a workout room. There are a lot of things that I do at Synergy that I can do at home on the days I can't go there. I also need to buy a Total Gym, and an eliptical machine. Hopefully I can use my nanny money to get those! I can't let this interfere with my eating or my exercising! I know it will all work out!
Well, I better be off to bed! Have a wonderful week! Until next time, be blessed!
*****
~06-05-06~ Well, I survived keeping the kids :O) We actually had fun! It is so great to be able to be out and about again. We went to a carnival/fund raiser at our church on Wed. night. The kids has a blast. On Thursday, I met up with a friend of mine that also takes care of kids, and we took them all to the zoo. We had 7 kids between us, and it was crazy! We had a great time though.
We walked for 5 hours. We did stop for 30 minutes and had a picnic with all the kids. That was fun. It was overcast and windy, so that made it not seem too terribly hot. I still got a little sun burn, but not much.
Friday we just hung out around the house and I had to make sure to wash all their clothes and make sure that all their things were together...their parents came in from California that evening. I was so worn out by the time I took them home that I just came home and said "I'm going to bed...eat what ever you want for dinner, just don't wake me up!" haha. I slept for a long time.
Saturday we had a block party here on our street. Hubby wanted the yard mowed, because he knew all the guys would be standing around critiquing all the yards...ye was right! I mowed it, and then iced my back really well. It was fun to get to know some of our neighbors. We are very fortunate that we don't have a very active street. There are a couple of rent houses that have a lot of turn over
