Firstly thanks for the positive comments I have received about restarting my ramblings, its always good to hear that people are getting entertained by my misfortunes.
Friday I had arranged to meet an ex workmate for lunch, so thought I would combine it with a bit of festive shopping. Unfortunately I slept in so it was a mad rush to get into Norwich on time. I had intended to reduce my carbon footprint by hopping on the bus, but unfortunately I darent risk being late, plus i wanted to shop in and out of town and the car was easier. The central carparks for the 2 Malls were full to overflowing, with huge queues, but I managed to park on the roof of a central one, and spent a while admiring the wonderful skyline of my home city, one or 2 pics to follow.
I headed for the shops with quite a jaunty air for about the first 50 yards, then slowed down considerably as the pain set in. First stop W H Smiths to get a book for mum for christmas, but they didnt have it in stock. Quick flit through British Home Stores (cos they have nice Loos), then into "Ladies Modes" to look for a bit of sparkly garb for christmas. Lots of sale rails but nothing I fancied, so i saved my christmas money for later, Final stop Poundland for loads of Terrys choc oranges, Cadburys buttons, Toblerone and 20 electronic lighters !!! great value, and i only spent £6.
Staggered up the hill to meet Sue for lunch, didnt recognise her with long hair, you looked great Sue, and so relaxed too x . Stuffed our faces at the eat as much as you can Chinese buffet, caught up on about a years worth of scandal, and had a thoroughally enjoyable time, made a new years resolution, I must make the effort to get out more.
Next stop was shopping on the outskirts of Norwich, since i am having such trouble sleeping I wanted to try a memory foam pillow, so bought 2, one for me and one for, yes you guessed, mum.
Remembered to buy some wrapping paper so started wandering back to the car, I cant believe how heavy those pillows were, the rolls of paper kept slipping down, my shoulder bag was dragging on the floor and i was wilting fast, after a short rest on one of the many benches that surround the square, and subbing one of the local vagrants for a cup of tea and donating him one of my newly acquired lighters (he probably wanted to flambe the meths on his christmas pud, bless) i staggered back to the car and went home to start wrapping, now where did i put that sellotape ?
Mums new bathroom was oficially finished (subject to inspection) on Friday. She got up on Saturday dreaming of sitting under a hot shower for the first time in over a month. There is a pull cord that you have to use before you can turn the shower on, but however hard she tried it would not pull, and she was scared that she might break it, so she rang the workman and he assured her it wouldnt bring the ceiling down, by this time she was dressed, so given up the idea. She managed eventually to get it on, then couldnt get it off !! She again rang him, and he said it was ok to leave it on, it wouldnt matter. Monday the building inspector turned up for the final check. He took one look at the pull cord, and said it was not right, and needed replacing, and the floor was a mess and would need to come up and be replaced AGAIN !!!!
Result is we should have been going to turkey and tinsel at the local garden centre today, and I am sitting here writing this, and poor old mum is sitting at home, with no heating again because the workman has turned the electricity off, and a wet room with no flooring. Well no one said it would be easy.
Tuesday 15 December 2009
Thursday 10 December 2009
YES IT HAS BEEN A WHILE, SO LETS CATCH UP
All I can do is apologise, last post was July, and a lot has happened since. I was about to commit to the horrors of dental surgery and thank goodness that is now all done and dusted. I was extremely brave, the surgeons were wonderful and gave me the most wonderful cocktail of sedatives during the operation, that although awake, i really didnt give a damn. Anyway they removed 10 teeth, (all healthy) grrrr split my gum and scrubbed and reamed out all the damaged bone then stitched it all up again. I then got sent to intensive care recovery where my blood pressure dropped to my boots and they had to inject me with magic juice to bring it back up again !!! eventually got back to the ward about 7pm and all I wanted to do was go home, but the computer said "NO"
Now to any readers who know me, I dont take to being told what to do very well, so i told them i needed the bathroom, so they brought me a "lady bottle" these are the mose cumbersome things, which are impossible to use, you might as well just pee the bed !!!! I told them i couldnt use it and they brought me a commode, all well and good. but I cant pee when i am being observed by someone peeping through a curtain who is running the tap and making swishing noises either. By now all my IV drips had finished so i asked them to disconnect me and let me go to the loo in a civilised fashion. After checking my BP, which was back up to normal, they agreed, but with the warning that if I passed out it would be my own fault. I quickly grabbed my clothes and did a runner to the bathroom. Once there, I got my first look in the mirror at the "damages", it was quite scarey, I was bruised, swollen and very gummy, but also very numb still, so i was still determined to go home.
When I got back to my bed I heard one of the nurses on the phone to mum, and she said i would be staying in as I was "disorientated" I shouted NO I AM GOING HOME !!!! and nurse put mother through to talk some sense into me, she didnt succeed either, so I promptly rang big bro and told him to come and get me I would be waiting outside!!!
Oh the joy of getting home to familiar surroundings, i spent the next 10 days lying low, eating slops and became adept at untying my stitches with my tongue!! so didnt need to go back to have them out lol. Six weeks later I booked a dentist, had impressions made, remaining teeth scaled and polished, and now can give a great display of my pearly whites, although I seem to have acquired a cute lisp. Gradually getting used to the new teeth, although i do take them out to eat lol.
Right thats me up to date I think, but as for mother, where do I start? For months I have been going on at her to have one of her bathrooms adapted to a Wet Room, this finally happened last week. I was popping in most days to monitor progress, and every time I arrived the workmen were either standing out front having a fag break, or sitting in her kitchen drinking tea !!!! on several occasions she was banished to the lounge with no electricity for hours at a time and chilled to the bone.
Work finally finished last Friday, so I thought great she will be able to shower in safety, how wrong I was. Apparently the occupational therapists still had to attend to fit seat and grab rails for her, and check the work. They turned up on Tuesday and the list of faults is horrendous. The bathroom was tiled with white tiles, but they left the original cream tiles on the windowsill with half an inch overlapping, so if she slipped chances are she would cut her head open. the waterproof flooring is already coming away from the wall !! the shower curtain is 6 inches too short, the toilet is not the specified high pedestal one, and the cistern is incorrectly fitted and to cap it all the old immersion heater switch is electrically still live. The annoying thing is that the workmen asked us to put in a good word for them, as they liked doing all this council grant work !!!!!
So no grab handles, no seat, and the workmen are back in residence again.
Glad to get that lot off my chest, I am now off Christmas shopping so no doubt the grumpy old woman will be back writing with a vengance soon xxxxxx
Now to any readers who know me, I dont take to being told what to do very well, so i told them i needed the bathroom, so they brought me a "lady bottle" these are the mose cumbersome things, which are impossible to use, you might as well just pee the bed !!!! I told them i couldnt use it and they brought me a commode, all well and good. but I cant pee when i am being observed by someone peeping through a curtain who is running the tap and making swishing noises either. By now all my IV drips had finished so i asked them to disconnect me and let me go to the loo in a civilised fashion. After checking my BP, which was back up to normal, they agreed, but with the warning that if I passed out it would be my own fault. I quickly grabbed my clothes and did a runner to the bathroom. Once there, I got my first look in the mirror at the "damages", it was quite scarey, I was bruised, swollen and very gummy, but also very numb still, so i was still determined to go home.
When I got back to my bed I heard one of the nurses on the phone to mum, and she said i would be staying in as I was "disorientated" I shouted NO I AM GOING HOME !!!! and nurse put mother through to talk some sense into me, she didnt succeed either, so I promptly rang big bro and told him to come and get me I would be waiting outside!!!
Oh the joy of getting home to familiar surroundings, i spent the next 10 days lying low, eating slops and became adept at untying my stitches with my tongue!! so didnt need to go back to have them out lol. Six weeks later I booked a dentist, had impressions made, remaining teeth scaled and polished, and now can give a great display of my pearly whites, although I seem to have acquired a cute lisp. Gradually getting used to the new teeth, although i do take them out to eat lol.
Right thats me up to date I think, but as for mother, where do I start? For months I have been going on at her to have one of her bathrooms adapted to a Wet Room, this finally happened last week. I was popping in most days to monitor progress, and every time I arrived the workmen were either standing out front having a fag break, or sitting in her kitchen drinking tea !!!! on several occasions she was banished to the lounge with no electricity for hours at a time and chilled to the bone.
Work finally finished last Friday, so I thought great she will be able to shower in safety, how wrong I was. Apparently the occupational therapists still had to attend to fit seat and grab rails for her, and check the work. They turned up on Tuesday and the list of faults is horrendous. The bathroom was tiled with white tiles, but they left the original cream tiles on the windowsill with half an inch overlapping, so if she slipped chances are she would cut her head open. the waterproof flooring is already coming away from the wall !! the shower curtain is 6 inches too short, the toilet is not the specified high pedestal one, and the cistern is incorrectly fitted and to cap it all the old immersion heater switch is electrically still live. The annoying thing is that the workmen asked us to put in a good word for them, as they liked doing all this council grant work !!!!!
So no grab handles, no seat, and the workmen are back in residence again.
Glad to get that lot off my chest, I am now off Christmas shopping so no doubt the grumpy old woman will be back writing with a vengance soon xxxxxx
Wednesday 8 July 2009
Bricking it !!!!
Well its nearly time, seem to have spent so much time at the hospital this week, I am considering asking for my own parking space.
Monday was the diabetic clinic, late appointment 4:15 I arrived early as there are a few disabled spaces right outside the department and the short walk makes things much easier for me. As I pulled up a couple came skipping out to their car and I thought great I will get a space quickly. How wrong I was. HE got out and started rummaging about in the back seat. SHE fastened her seatbelt, wound down the windows and started reading the newspaper !!!!! HE then got back in the car with a thermos flask!!!!! SHE unfastened her seatbelt and started rummaging in the back seat, returned to drivers seat with a handbag the size of Wales and started sorting through that, cheque book, pen, diary various coupons, tin opener etc etc. After much discussion HE gets out with note clutched in his hand and wanders off to the cafeteria. Five minutes later he returns with afternoon tea, scones, rolls and more drinks. By now I was glaring at them maliciously as they settled down to enjoy their impromptu picnic, and wondering if I dared hoot at them and give them the hurry up signal. By now the sun was blaring down and it was 28 degrees and my temper was hotting up even faster.
HE then got out of the car and wandered over to me, tea in hand and started a conversation on the merits of my beautiful Ford Focus compared with his piddling little Fiesta, he wanted to know what mileage i got, how it performed !!!! and i grudgingly grunted answers as sweat dripped off the end of my nose. Fortunately another disabled space then became available and I quickly slid into it, just beating another woman who was also heading for it.
Clinic was OK, apart from the doctor running an hour and a half late. I have lost 4kg and my long term blood glucose levels had gone down 4 months in a row so everyone was happy. Discussed forthcoming operation with doctor and she said I need to eat, and suggested Ice Cream (oh joy) I told her I would try and get some down, then stopped at ASDA and bought 8 litres of the stuff lol. finally got back to the car at 6:15 pm. 2 and a half hours later, and discovered the picnickers were just driving off, looking very jolly, having enjoyed their afternoon in the hospital carpark.
Tuesday morning dawned and off i go back to the hospital at silly o clock for my pre op assessment where i was weighed, measured, oxygenated, blood pressured, tested for MRSA, jabbed for blood (twice) and then sent to the other side of the hospital to see the surgeon. I begged him for a general anesthetic, but he said it was too dangerous, and not to worry, it would take a long while, but everything would be explained clearly on the day (like that made me feel better) The Nurse had already told me to eat nothing from midnight and to take half my insulin in the morning, the doctor told me to eat lightly and take all my insulin !!! so i may well be comatose anyway. Big Bro is picking me up at 6:50 am tomorrow morning as I have to be on the ward by 7:15. We will be travelling in style in his scrap lorry complete with wrecked cars ready for him to take to the breakers !!! Dont know when I will be out again, i hoped for same day, but surgeon is doubtful on that one, especially as some of the roots have perforated my sinuses, and apparently if i drink and it comes out of my nose they will have to take me back to theatre to repair that.
Anyway I am trying to keep busy. At the moment I am searching for a slipper, I am sure i have seen it somewhere, but where is a mystery. I also have to go to ASDA pack my bag and do all those last minute things you have to do before going on holiday. Hope to be back soon xxx
Monday was the diabetic clinic, late appointment 4:15 I arrived early as there are a few disabled spaces right outside the department and the short walk makes things much easier for me. As I pulled up a couple came skipping out to their car and I thought great I will get a space quickly. How wrong I was. HE got out and started rummaging about in the back seat. SHE fastened her seatbelt, wound down the windows and started reading the newspaper !!!!! HE then got back in the car with a thermos flask!!!!! SHE unfastened her seatbelt and started rummaging in the back seat, returned to drivers seat with a handbag the size of Wales and started sorting through that, cheque book, pen, diary various coupons, tin opener etc etc. After much discussion HE gets out with note clutched in his hand and wanders off to the cafeteria. Five minutes later he returns with afternoon tea, scones, rolls and more drinks. By now I was glaring at them maliciously as they settled down to enjoy their impromptu picnic, and wondering if I dared hoot at them and give them the hurry up signal. By now the sun was blaring down and it was 28 degrees and my temper was hotting up even faster.
HE then got out of the car and wandered over to me, tea in hand and started a conversation on the merits of my beautiful Ford Focus compared with his piddling little Fiesta, he wanted to know what mileage i got, how it performed !!!! and i grudgingly grunted answers as sweat dripped off the end of my nose. Fortunately another disabled space then became available and I quickly slid into it, just beating another woman who was also heading for it.
Clinic was OK, apart from the doctor running an hour and a half late. I have lost 4kg and my long term blood glucose levels had gone down 4 months in a row so everyone was happy. Discussed forthcoming operation with doctor and she said I need to eat, and suggested Ice Cream (oh joy) I told her I would try and get some down, then stopped at ASDA and bought 8 litres of the stuff lol. finally got back to the car at 6:15 pm. 2 and a half hours later, and discovered the picnickers were just driving off, looking very jolly, having enjoyed their afternoon in the hospital carpark.
Tuesday morning dawned and off i go back to the hospital at silly o clock for my pre op assessment where i was weighed, measured, oxygenated, blood pressured, tested for MRSA, jabbed for blood (twice) and then sent to the other side of the hospital to see the surgeon. I begged him for a general anesthetic, but he said it was too dangerous, and not to worry, it would take a long while, but everything would be explained clearly on the day (like that made me feel better) The Nurse had already told me to eat nothing from midnight and to take half my insulin in the morning, the doctor told me to eat lightly and take all my insulin !!! so i may well be comatose anyway. Big Bro is picking me up at 6:50 am tomorrow morning as I have to be on the ward by 7:15. We will be travelling in style in his scrap lorry complete with wrecked cars ready for him to take to the breakers !!! Dont know when I will be out again, i hoped for same day, but surgeon is doubtful on that one, especially as some of the roots have perforated my sinuses, and apparently if i drink and it comes out of my nose they will have to take me back to theatre to repair that.
Anyway I am trying to keep busy. At the moment I am searching for a slipper, I am sure i have seen it somewhere, but where is a mystery. I also have to go to ASDA pack my bag and do all those last minute things you have to do before going on holiday. Hope to be back soon xxx
Friday 26 June 2009
Just Call me gummy !!!
At last I have heard from the hospital today and been given the date for my Jaw operation. I go in for pre-op assessment on 7th July and then have the actual work done on the 9th July, so plenty of time for a blind panic, and to find numerous recipies for gruel and similar sloppy food.
I am truly terrified, but so deperate for the pain to stop that I am almost looking forward to the events, although the thought of having to be in there for 7 am in the morning is not so appealing, as i dont normally get dressed much before lunch.
Very short post today, as son is waiting to get on here. I did a wonderful tribute to my dad on Sunday, but unfortunately the computer said NO and decided to delete it !!! No doubt i will be having lots of thoughts over the next week or so, so prepare to get bored rigid xxx
I am truly terrified, but so deperate for the pain to stop that I am almost looking forward to the events, although the thought of having to be in there for 7 am in the morning is not so appealing, as i dont normally get dressed much before lunch.
Very short post today, as son is waiting to get on here. I did a wonderful tribute to my dad on Sunday, but unfortunately the computer said NO and decided to delete it !!! No doubt i will be having lots of thoughts over the next week or so, so prepare to get bored rigid xxx
Thursday 11 June 2009
In a Turmoil
Hi again readers, I dont quite know why I am about to bare my soul to you, but I feel its something I have to do for my own sanity. A year after my husband died 11 years ago, I met a lovely man, he treated me like a princess, nothing was too much trouble, and I fell for him head over heels, we travelled, we had romantic nights in listening to soppy music, I adored his kids, we started a business together, him putting in the work and knowledge, and me putting in the finance. After 2 years, we had a profitable business, a gorgeous puppy and I thought my life was complete when he bought me a big rock and proposed. Then he got ill, I spent my time split between the hospital, my own full time job, and trying to run our business till he was well again, five months later he was, and resumed work, but with a lighter workload. Things progressed, we bought another vehicle and kitted it out for the mobile side of the business (generator, pressure washer, vacuum and all the paraphanalia required for a complete valeting unit. I now had outstanding loans of over 15K and the pressure of a demanding job, and he was once again at home most days. On that fateful Sunday he perked up and said he would run me to work for my late shift, that was the last time I ever saw him !!! when i left off at half past midnight there was no sign of him, no answer on the phone and I was starting to panic. I got a lift home, and as soon as I arrived I found the house had been emptied, every electrical appliance gone, my puppy gone, my jewellry gone, my car gone. I had asked him previously where the new van was, and he said it was in for servicing, I later found he had sold it together with all the equipment and stock. The next day (still in a state of shock, and having been given compassionate leave from work) the postman arrived. He brought 3 letters from my bank telling me that all accounts were to be closed and they had foreclosed on the loan, yes he had emptied both my accounts. Then I found that the cash I had been giving him to pay the rent had gone into his pocket too and I was facing eviction for £1800 rent arrears. I threw myself on the mercy of these people and worked out a feasable repayment scheme. I could have become a victim and just rolled over, but at the time I was so hurt, but more importantly so angry that i had to sort it out. it took me almost 6 years but I paid everything off and am now reasonably solvent again. So why am I getting this off my chest, because i got a phone call from his sister yesterday, telling me he had died !!!! so why do I just want to cry ???
Wednesday 13 May 2009
WHY I LOVE PC WORLD (NOT)
For several weeks now my mouse has been having hissy fits, it either dosen't click at all, or triple clicks, I cant mark off my bingo numbers, and my cut and pasting is pathetic.
Being a technophobe I decided this morning to tart up my computer and trotted off to PC World to get a new mouse. Mice were abundant, varying in price from £4.99 (cheapskate) up to £79.99 (showoff). I perused them all thoroughally, whilst trying to look like I knew what I was doing and picked up a shiny black and silver laser mouse for £9.99 (with 1600 DPI resolution - for smooth accurate control ) yeah OK !!!
I found a 14 year old spotty geek (salesboy) who assured me it was just what I needed, so off I went to the paydesk. I commented on their store security, which was a 9ft cardboard policeman placed in the entrance (scary or what). Well 2 minutes later it was, because as I walked past it all the sirens went off, (thank god for Tena Lady) I prayed for a hole in the ground to swallow me up, whilst hoping no one i knew saw me. Apparently the cashier was so busy chatting to me that she failed to disable the security chip, she cheerily waved me off, and I skulked back to the car and did a racing start out of the carpark, while feeling hundreds of accusing eyes on me.
I dashed home and duly presented my purchase to Matt, who I must admit looked quite impressed, so I decided to install the new Dell keyboard that I had bought a couple of years ago (just in case).
First the whole area needed to be moved out, cleaned vacuumed and polished, 2 inches of ash odd pills, smarties, ciggies, 1 slipper 5 earrings and a gold chain plus 26p in coppers, how does it all get there ?
Right time for the grand installation, cables are unplugged new items installed and wait for it, nothing bliddy works !!!! not the keyboard, not the mouse, so all the old stuff put back and I have got nowhere. Still my desk is clean and tidy and i might take a screwdriver to my old mouse. Any suggestions would be gratefuly received.
I took mum to a couple of appointments end of last week, I haven't written about it because I was so angry. First appointment was to the doctors for a 6 monthly check up.
Our Surgery is having major building work carried out, and the carpark is temporarily much smaller because of this. The only way in was to push her chair over uneven hardcore, and she moaned all the way, no thought to what it was doing to my back !!! The appointment only took 5 minutes, then we had to struggle over the hardcore (uphill this time) accompanied by more moans and groans. I was furious as the doctor asked her about her pain, and she said "oh its wonderful, I dont get any" which is totally untrue !!! (or is it)
Next day was her appointment for physio. Again the hospital was busy, but normally there are wheelchairs available. Mum decided she didnt want to take her chair and would use one of theirs. I found a parking space about 20 yards from the door, and I hobbled across to get a chair, by now my back was agony, they were all in use.
I went back to the car and told mum I would drop her at the entrance to save her walking, she was already out of the car and struggling towards me, she said she would walk !!
Once inside, and ensconced in her chair, she commented that people who were used to dealing with disabled persons would have stopped at the main entrance and dropped her off !!!!. I did point out (possibly too vocally) that I was disabled too, and i was the one doing the pushing, doing all the little jobs round her house, doing her shopping, washing her hair, making her bed etc etc etc. With this I left her in the waiting room, and went out, sat on a wall, smoked 2 ciggies and had a large cappuchino. Suitably refreshed I went back in time to collect her, where she smiled sheepishly and called me darling for the rest of the day.
Dont you just love em lol
Being a technophobe I decided this morning to tart up my computer and trotted off to PC World to get a new mouse. Mice were abundant, varying in price from £4.99 (cheapskate) up to £79.99 (showoff). I perused them all thoroughally, whilst trying to look like I knew what I was doing and picked up a shiny black and silver laser mouse for £9.99 (with 1600 DPI resolution - for smooth accurate control ) yeah OK !!!
I found a 14 year old spotty geek (salesboy) who assured me it was just what I needed, so off I went to the paydesk. I commented on their store security, which was a 9ft cardboard policeman placed in the entrance (scary or what). Well 2 minutes later it was, because as I walked past it all the sirens went off, (thank god for Tena Lady) I prayed for a hole in the ground to swallow me up, whilst hoping no one i knew saw me. Apparently the cashier was so busy chatting to me that she failed to disable the security chip, she cheerily waved me off, and I skulked back to the car and did a racing start out of the carpark, while feeling hundreds of accusing eyes on me.
I dashed home and duly presented my purchase to Matt, who I must admit looked quite impressed, so I decided to install the new Dell keyboard that I had bought a couple of years ago (just in case).
First the whole area needed to be moved out, cleaned vacuumed and polished, 2 inches of ash odd pills, smarties, ciggies, 1 slipper 5 earrings and a gold chain plus 26p in coppers, how does it all get there ?
Right time for the grand installation, cables are unplugged new items installed and wait for it, nothing bliddy works !!!! not the keyboard, not the mouse, so all the old stuff put back and I have got nowhere. Still my desk is clean and tidy and i might take a screwdriver to my old mouse. Any suggestions would be gratefuly received.
I took mum to a couple of appointments end of last week, I haven't written about it because I was so angry. First appointment was to the doctors for a 6 monthly check up.
Our Surgery is having major building work carried out, and the carpark is temporarily much smaller because of this. The only way in was to push her chair over uneven hardcore, and she moaned all the way, no thought to what it was doing to my back !!! The appointment only took 5 minutes, then we had to struggle over the hardcore (uphill this time) accompanied by more moans and groans. I was furious as the doctor asked her about her pain, and she said "oh its wonderful, I dont get any" which is totally untrue !!! (or is it)
Next day was her appointment for physio. Again the hospital was busy, but normally there are wheelchairs available. Mum decided she didnt want to take her chair and would use one of theirs. I found a parking space about 20 yards from the door, and I hobbled across to get a chair, by now my back was agony, they were all in use.
I went back to the car and told mum I would drop her at the entrance to save her walking, she was already out of the car and struggling towards me, she said she would walk !!
Once inside, and ensconced in her chair, she commented that people who were used to dealing with disabled persons would have stopped at the main entrance and dropped her off !!!!. I did point out (possibly too vocally) that I was disabled too, and i was the one doing the pushing, doing all the little jobs round her house, doing her shopping, washing her hair, making her bed etc etc etc. With this I left her in the waiting room, and went out, sat on a wall, smoked 2 ciggies and had a large cappuchino. Suitably refreshed I went back in time to collect her, where she smiled sheepishly and called me darling for the rest of the day.
Dont you just love em lol
Monday 4 May 2009
Calm and Tranquil
Right I seem to have calmed down enough to think straight again. Typical Bank holiday here, crap TV, chilly grey weather, although the sun is struggling to break through.
I have been somewhat remiss in household matters for the past few days, having just discovered a new thriller author, his name is Simon Beckett. I have just finished reading his book "The Chemistry of Death" and to anyone who loves a good thriller, I recommend you search him out. He kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire read, I suspected everyone and did not have a clue who did it till the last few pages. Cant wait till the 19th of May when his next book hits the shops.
Friday was my appointment with the dietician at the diabetic clinic. I thought it was going to be a complete waste of time, because, I think as we all do, I knew what I should be eating, its just a case of being disciplined enough to do it right. How wrong I was, it was very informative. For the first time since being diagnosed with diabetes 10 years ago I understood how things work. I now understand the Glycaemic Index, and how small changes can make big differences as to how
my body copes with its sugar metabolism. Already I seem to have more energy and my sleep pattern has improved a bit.
I have to keep a diary of my eating habits listing what I ate, recording my blood sugar levels and logging my moods !!! So far it has included porridge, All Bran, brown seeded bread, Yoghurt and lean meats. (I omitted to enter the fact that I made 2 lemon meringue pies yesterday) so Sunday will become Monday on my list, as I have been really good today lol.
Its amazing how crafty you can be with this, I have discovered that if I drink a pint of Stella lager my blood sugars drop alarmingly (means I have to eat jelly babies to boost it again ). I was also suprised to learn that it is better to eat new potatoes instead of the good old standby jacket potato.
I have promised myself that I will try and do a bit of excersice, this is difficult due to the arthritis in my knees and back, but i have so far managed to do buttock clenches whilst sat at my keyboard (nutcrackers) !! I do knee squats while holding onto the worktop while waiting for the kettle to boil (Dr Gillian says they are good for getting your bowels going) mind you with the All Bran this might be a squat too far.
Although I appreciate that all this is serious stuff, I am not by nature a disciplined person, rules are meant, like chocolate, to be adjusted to suit life, but I must be doing something right as my long term blood sugars are reducing, and I have even lost a few pounds
I have been somewhat remiss in household matters for the past few days, having just discovered a new thriller author, his name is Simon Beckett. I have just finished reading his book "The Chemistry of Death" and to anyone who loves a good thriller, I recommend you search him out. He kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire read, I suspected everyone and did not have a clue who did it till the last few pages. Cant wait till the 19th of May when his next book hits the shops.
Friday was my appointment with the dietician at the diabetic clinic. I thought it was going to be a complete waste of time, because, I think as we all do, I knew what I should be eating, its just a case of being disciplined enough to do it right. How wrong I was, it was very informative. For the first time since being diagnosed with diabetes 10 years ago I understood how things work. I now understand the Glycaemic Index, and how small changes can make big differences as to how
my body copes with its sugar metabolism. Already I seem to have more energy and my sleep pattern has improved a bit.
I have to keep a diary of my eating habits listing what I ate, recording my blood sugar levels and logging my moods !!! So far it has included porridge, All Bran, brown seeded bread, Yoghurt and lean meats. (I omitted to enter the fact that I made 2 lemon meringue pies yesterday) so Sunday will become Monday on my list, as I have been really good today lol.
Its amazing how crafty you can be with this, I have discovered that if I drink a pint of Stella lager my blood sugars drop alarmingly (means I have to eat jelly babies to boost it again ). I was also suprised to learn that it is better to eat new potatoes instead of the good old standby jacket potato.
I have promised myself that I will try and do a bit of excersice, this is difficult due to the arthritis in my knees and back, but i have so far managed to do buttock clenches whilst sat at my keyboard (nutcrackers) !! I do knee squats while holding onto the worktop while waiting for the kettle to boil (Dr Gillian says they are good for getting your bowels going) mind you with the All Bran this might be a squat too far.
Although I appreciate that all this is serious stuff, I am not by nature a disciplined person, rules are meant, like chocolate, to be adjusted to suit life, but I must be doing something right as my long term blood sugars are reducing, and I have even lost a few pounds
Thursday 30 April 2009
Not a happy Bunny !!
I think this title is the understatement of the century.
Today was the much dreaded appointment with the maxiofacial surgeons. Despite trying for an early night, I didnt sleep a wink last night, thoughts were running through my head swinging between blind terror and the wonderful thought of pearly white teeth that didnt hurt. If only life was that simple.
I spent the morning killing time as the clock hands moved slowly to the appointed hour. Oh how many times i picked up the phone to cancel, I lost count, wondered if they would believe I had contracted swine flu !!!! although by this time i did have a bad case of the "screaming abdabs" and had to lock myself in the loo for an hour, and my head was pounding too.
Arrived at the hospital car park in good time and chain smoked four ciggies to steady my nerves, then lightheaded from no food and too much nicotine I wobbled over to the dentistry department.
It was actually quite nice in there, no indication of the tortures that went on behind the closed doors, comfy chairs, decent mags, water cooler, and not a drill to be heard (i found out why later).
First stop was x-ray department, not scarey ar all, apart from the fact that it was a trainee doing it, and she nearly ripped my head off when she got me clamped in the machine, then hit the raise button !!! still my ears are still there, just a bit pink lol. You have to do a big cheesy grin when they take the x-ray so they get a good view, I looked at mine afterwards, and I looked like Wallace out of Wallace and Grommit around the mouth.
Then off to see the surgeon. Apart from the fact that she looked about 16 !!! she was a sweet little thing we had a chat and discussed my problems. She then dropped the first bombshell !!!
All they do is remove the required teeth in order to treat the infected jawbone. They dont do fillings, replace teeth or make bridges to fill the gaps they have made, for this i need to see my own dentist !!!
Bombshell 2: they cant do it by general anesthetic because of my heart condition, it is too risky. It will be done in theatre by local anesthetic, with anethetists and cardiologists on standby just in case.
Bombshell 3: they expect to call me back quickly for the treatment (within 3 months)!!!!! I would hate to see slow !!!
Bombshell 4: A total of 10 teeth need to be removed in order for them to clear the bone infection, including 3 roots which require cutting and stitching.
Bombshell 5: when all of the above is done and the healing complete, only then can I think of getting a bridge to span the gaps.
So now you know why I am not such a happy bunny today.
Today was the much dreaded appointment with the maxiofacial surgeons. Despite trying for an early night, I didnt sleep a wink last night, thoughts were running through my head swinging between blind terror and the wonderful thought of pearly white teeth that didnt hurt. If only life was that simple.
I spent the morning killing time as the clock hands moved slowly to the appointed hour. Oh how many times i picked up the phone to cancel, I lost count, wondered if they would believe I had contracted swine flu !!!! although by this time i did have a bad case of the "screaming abdabs" and had to lock myself in the loo for an hour, and my head was pounding too.
Arrived at the hospital car park in good time and chain smoked four ciggies to steady my nerves, then lightheaded from no food and too much nicotine I wobbled over to the dentistry department.
It was actually quite nice in there, no indication of the tortures that went on behind the closed doors, comfy chairs, decent mags, water cooler, and not a drill to be heard (i found out why later).
First stop was x-ray department, not scarey ar all, apart from the fact that it was a trainee doing it, and she nearly ripped my head off when she got me clamped in the machine, then hit the raise button !!! still my ears are still there, just a bit pink lol. You have to do a big cheesy grin when they take the x-ray so they get a good view, I looked at mine afterwards, and I looked like Wallace out of Wallace and Grommit around the mouth.
Then off to see the surgeon. Apart from the fact that she looked about 16 !!! she was a sweet little thing we had a chat and discussed my problems. She then dropped the first bombshell !!!
All they do is remove the required teeth in order to treat the infected jawbone. They dont do fillings, replace teeth or make bridges to fill the gaps they have made, for this i need to see my own dentist !!!
Bombshell 2: they cant do it by general anesthetic because of my heart condition, it is too risky. It will be done in theatre by local anesthetic, with anethetists and cardiologists on standby just in case.
Bombshell 3: they expect to call me back quickly for the treatment (within 3 months)!!!!! I would hate to see slow !!!
Bombshell 4: A total of 10 teeth need to be removed in order for them to clear the bone infection, including 3 roots which require cutting and stitching.
Bombshell 5: when all of the above is done and the healing complete, only then can I think of getting a bridge to span the gaps.
So now you know why I am not such a happy bunny today.
Wednesday 22 April 2009
Farewell to the Ozone Layer !!!
It was with some trepidation that I read the news this week that Orlistat (aka xenacol) the magical fat shifting pill is from today freely available from your chemist , without prescription, at the exorbitant price of £49.00 per months supply. This miracle pill wraps any fat contained in your food and rushes it through your digestive system at such a rate that you lose weight just by doing a sub 4 minute mile in order to reach the bathroom in time lol.
Did you know that if you tie a bit of pork fat to a length of string and feed it to a duck, it passes straight through, the next duck then eats it and it does the same, so that is how to make a living duck necklace (no I didnt try it, but I know a man who did) Anyway same effect as this fat busting pill if you get my drift. Did they consider the effect all this build up of gas would have on our planet?
Budget day today, I havent as yet analysed what the Darling man has done to my living expenses. I did get a rise in benefits this month, and it was quickly eaten up by the rise in rent, so no better off there, thank you.
The garden is looking lovely, neat and tidy and I am hunting for new green shoots every morning. The greenhouse is a great success and the tomatoes and peppers are springing up, and the weeds are also growing like weeds !!!!! Matt has cut back and cleared the front garden so I can now see out of the kitchen window again, but he now does a morning patrol and is becoming a young Victor Meldrew as he keeps coming in ranting that he has found another crisp packet or choc wrapper.
Went to the council dump today and got rid of a lot of paraphanelia from the shed, so that is almost clear now. It was really funny to see the council workmen being so helpful and sorting the stuff as we got it out of the car. Admittedly some of it ended up in the rubbish bays, but most of it was salted away into neat piles for their own profit !!! I was really sick to see the vehicle in front of me unloading a lovely brass bedstead which the workers were ever so obliging in helping him with, needless to say that didnt go over the wall into the rubbish bay either lol.
Hopefully my computer is now working tip top again, it has been quite sick for the past week, I got my pet engineers on the job this morning, and it only took them 3 hours to sort (2 hours 45 mins to repair the problems I had created trying to mend it, and 15 mins to sort the underlying problem). Its so reassuring to have them just a click away for when I get in a muddle, and worth every penny I pay them. (which isn't much!!!!)
Got home and even hoovered the car, in preparation for its shampoo tomorrow) and did a load of washing, so I am whacked now.
More ramblings soon take care xxxx
Did you know that if you tie a bit of pork fat to a length of string and feed it to a duck, it passes straight through, the next duck then eats it and it does the same, so that is how to make a living duck necklace (no I didnt try it, but I know a man who did) Anyway same effect as this fat busting pill if you get my drift. Did they consider the effect all this build up of gas would have on our planet?
Budget day today, I havent as yet analysed what the Darling man has done to my living expenses. I did get a rise in benefits this month, and it was quickly eaten up by the rise in rent, so no better off there, thank you.
The garden is looking lovely, neat and tidy and I am hunting for new green shoots every morning. The greenhouse is a great success and the tomatoes and peppers are springing up, and the weeds are also growing like weeds !!!!! Matt has cut back and cleared the front garden so I can now see out of the kitchen window again, but he now does a morning patrol and is becoming a young Victor Meldrew as he keeps coming in ranting that he has found another crisp packet or choc wrapper.
Went to the council dump today and got rid of a lot of paraphanelia from the shed, so that is almost clear now. It was really funny to see the council workmen being so helpful and sorting the stuff as we got it out of the car. Admittedly some of it ended up in the rubbish bays, but most of it was salted away into neat piles for their own profit !!! I was really sick to see the vehicle in front of me unloading a lovely brass bedstead which the workers were ever so obliging in helping him with, needless to say that didnt go over the wall into the rubbish bay either lol.
Hopefully my computer is now working tip top again, it has been quite sick for the past week, I got my pet engineers on the job this morning, and it only took them 3 hours to sort (2 hours 45 mins to repair the problems I had created trying to mend it, and 15 mins to sort the underlying problem). Its so reassuring to have them just a click away for when I get in a muddle, and worth every penny I pay them. (which isn't much!!!!)
Got home and even hoovered the car, in preparation for its shampoo tomorrow) and did a load of washing, so I am whacked now.
More ramblings soon take care xxxx
Tuesday 14 April 2009
I wish it was time to get up
Dont you just hate it when everyone is asleep except you ? Its 2.24 a.m. I have been to bed three times and not slept a wink yet. Raging toothache, angina and coughing fits, if I was a horse they would shoot me, in fact I might just shoot myself and save them the trouble.
The toothache is an ongoing problem, due to the fact that my diabetes is so out of control, I get abcesses. I have had several in my mouth, with the result that the infection has damaged the jawbone and given me a few wiggly teeth. I have an appointment with the maxiofacial surgeons at the end of the month and hopefully they will knock me out and do what is required while I am oblivious, my fear of dentists is a very real and terrible thing.
Darling son returned from his house/cat sitting today (he got paid in Easter eggs Grrrrr ) expecting to see the fence painted and ready for erecting. Oh no it wasnt lol. He gave me one of his withering looks when I explained that I couldnt get the lid off the paint, but I did redeem myself by showing him all the trays of seeds that are adorning the windowsills. Anyway feeling masterful, he did attempt to give me a lesson on opening plastic 5 litre paint pots, I murmered appreciatively whilst slyly watching Jeremy Kyle.
Tomorrow, well its today really, is supposed to be wonderful weather, perfect for having a fence erecting day, I might even fire up the BBQ in celebration and make it a real event, might as well add food poisoning to the festivities.
Mum is off out for the day with the wicked witches (her 3 sisters) so no doubt I will get regaled with tales of how many times they nearly tipped her out of her chair, and how clumsy they are, in fact all the things she moans at me for. She told me that when she is being pushed she has to clench the cheeks of her bum very tightly to stop herself falling out !!!!! (surely its safer to hold the arm rests, bless her.
The pills have kicked in now, so I am going to try and get a couple of hours kip before the sparrows start coughing their way through the dawn chorus. Take care my lovely friends xxx
The toothache is an ongoing problem, due to the fact that my diabetes is so out of control, I get abcesses. I have had several in my mouth, with the result that the infection has damaged the jawbone and given me a few wiggly teeth. I have an appointment with the maxiofacial surgeons at the end of the month and hopefully they will knock me out and do what is required while I am oblivious, my fear of dentists is a very real and terrible thing.
Darling son returned from his house/cat sitting today (he got paid in Easter eggs Grrrrr ) expecting to see the fence painted and ready for erecting. Oh no it wasnt lol. He gave me one of his withering looks when I explained that I couldnt get the lid off the paint, but I did redeem myself by showing him all the trays of seeds that are adorning the windowsills. Anyway feeling masterful, he did attempt to give me a lesson on opening plastic 5 litre paint pots, I murmered appreciatively whilst slyly watching Jeremy Kyle.
Tomorrow, well its today really, is supposed to be wonderful weather, perfect for having a fence erecting day, I might even fire up the BBQ in celebration and make it a real event, might as well add food poisoning to the festivities.
Mum is off out for the day with the wicked witches (her 3 sisters) so no doubt I will get regaled with tales of how many times they nearly tipped her out of her chair, and how clumsy they are, in fact all the things she moans at me for. She told me that when she is being pushed she has to clench the cheeks of her bum very tightly to stop herself falling out !!!!! (surely its safer to hold the arm rests, bless her.
The pills have kicked in now, so I am going to try and get a couple of hours kip before the sparrows start coughing their way through the dawn chorus. Take care my lovely friends xxx
Monday 13 April 2009
No The Fence is Still Not Painted
The best laid plans, I tried to paint the fence panels. honestly I did, but couldnt get the lid off the paint !!! so I brought them indoors so they kept dry for son to do when he gets back from cat sitting.
The cat sitting has been an ongoing fiasco, he went on Friday late afternoon, so I locked the doors, had a long soak and a pampering session it was bliss. I then got a call requesting playstation, food and ciggies on Saturday morning, so had to change out of my comfy nightie and dressing gown to run errand of mercy, then to top it all he popped home last night for tea and sugar (no wonder I darent have a love life) .
This is the first year I have attempted to plan my garden without the help of a dog. My German Shepherd was adept at weeding, in fact if it was green she would remove it !!! so this year I have no excuse not to have a pretty as a picture garden, I might even sell pictures for chocolate boxes. one thing I must remember is to leave a patch of dandelions and chickweed as the canary loves it so much.
The sun is trying to break through now, but it is still very chilly, if it warms up I may go and potter, if not i will sow a few more seeds in trays for the windowsill and just slummock around watching crap bank holiday TV.
The cat sitting has been an ongoing fiasco, he went on Friday late afternoon, so I locked the doors, had a long soak and a pampering session it was bliss. I then got a call requesting playstation, food and ciggies on Saturday morning, so had to change out of my comfy nightie and dressing gown to run errand of mercy, then to top it all he popped home last night for tea and sugar (no wonder I darent have a love life) .
This is the first year I have attempted to plan my garden without the help of a dog. My German Shepherd was adept at weeding, in fact if it was green she would remove it !!! so this year I have no excuse not to have a pretty as a picture garden, I might even sell pictures for chocolate boxes. one thing I must remember is to leave a patch of dandelions and chickweed as the canary loves it so much.
The sun is trying to break through now, but it is still very chilly, if it warms up I may go and potter, if not i will sow a few more seeds in trays for the windowsill and just slummock around watching crap bank holiday TV.
Friday 10 April 2009
Where did the sun go !
Yesterday we had clear blue skies and temperatures of 18 C , today we have normal grey overcast Bank holiday weather.
Did some more clearing of weeds yesterday and had a trip to the garden centre. I needed to repair my raised beds, and found some ideal log roll edging just tall enough to save me having to bend pictures will be published later (of the garden, not my backside tending the plants) . At the moment they are being painted with blue cuprinol to weatherproof them and make them look girlie and pretty. I also bought some mixed sweet pea seeds and Jalapino peppers to go with the sweet peppers and tomatoes which are waiting to germinate. See pretty plants too lol. The tomato seeds were a gift from mum, she put them in 2 envelopes labeled "big ones" and "little plums" the mind boggles !!!
Bedding plants I will beg borrow and steal of various aunts and uncles, I have no plans, just love to see a riot of colour, and so what if there is a cabbage onion or leek shoved in amongst them lol.
I am hoping that this grey day dosent turn to drizzle, so I can get out and finish painting the edging, be good to get it done so that Matt can put it up when he gets back from his house and cat sitting (goodness its quiet here).
Anyway I must away to see mother and see what pearls of wisdom she is dishing out today. Be back soon xxx
Did some more clearing of weeds yesterday and had a trip to the garden centre. I needed to repair my raised beds, and found some ideal log roll edging just tall enough to save me having to bend pictures will be published later (of the garden, not my backside tending the plants) . At the moment they are being painted with blue cuprinol to weatherproof them and make them look girlie and pretty. I also bought some mixed sweet pea seeds and Jalapino peppers to go with the sweet peppers and tomatoes which are waiting to germinate. See pretty plants too lol. The tomato seeds were a gift from mum, she put them in 2 envelopes labeled "big ones" and "little plums" the mind boggles !!!
Bedding plants I will beg borrow and steal of various aunts and uncles, I have no plans, just love to see a riot of colour, and so what if there is a cabbage onion or leek shoved in amongst them lol.
I am hoping that this grey day dosent turn to drizzle, so I can get out and finish painting the edging, be good to get it done so that Matt can put it up when he gets back from his house and cat sitting (goodness its quiet here).
Anyway I must away to see mother and see what pearls of wisdom she is dishing out today. Be back soon xxx
more ramblings !!!
Due to popular demand and a serious sense of boredom I have decided to restart blogging. Since AOL decided to remove the blog from their service I became demotivated, and now wish so much that I had saved my original 2 years of ramblings, but hey ho, no point blubbering over it now.
I am now into my third year of leisure, and it looks like I have been written off as regards working again, but now that all the benefits and insurances are in place life is not too bad, only thing is I seem to be having so many bad days that I dont get out much.
A brief history of my illness, then I will say no more about it. I have cardio-pulmonary disease, unstable angina, a non existant thyroid function, diabetes and the most disabling condition chronic arthritis. I was admitted to hospital in December 2007 for a minor heart repair which resulted in a massive heart attack 6 hours after getting home (the paramedics were lovely) I was then in coronary intensive care for 2 weeks while I fretted as to how to get my christmas shopping and worrying that they would sell out of turkeys !!!!
I live with my son who is also my carer, and an aging canary called charlie who still lights up my life by singing joyfully every day. I would love another kitten, but the thought of it outliving me puts me off. My disabled mum also plays a large part in my life, she is a absolute tartar, a cross between Hyacinth Bucket and the mad granny out of the Royle Family, but of course I love her dearly.
Easter weekend has heralded the need to get the garden sorted and son has already broken the rake, the brush and removed everything green !!!! he has also removed my 30 foot lilac tree and left it in the garden for a week before shredding it, so my tiny garden was unaccessible. I now have a 6ft pile of shredded tree waiting to be used as mulch. We had a taste of summer this week, and the nights are now drawing out, cant wait for the nice weather, it makes me feel so much better.
This year I am promising myself a grand tour of the UK, first stop will be glorious Devon where I have a long overdue visit to a lovely lady Heather, from there I will play it by air, several on line friends have offered me accommodation, so I intend to just drive and stop off where the fancy takes me. I got a new car last June and so far I have only managed 1700 miles, so I think a long run will do us both good.
Yesterday, my plans for this easter weekend were originally to be bed, painkillers and icecream, but today I feel quite
a lot better. My fingers are loosening up and I can at least type again. Might even face the bank holiday traffic and go for a trip to the seaside.
Anyway that is the boring catch up done, I hope my next post will give someone a smile take care xxx
I am now into my third year of leisure, and it looks like I have been written off as regards working again, but now that all the benefits and insurances are in place life is not too bad, only thing is I seem to be having so many bad days that I dont get out much.
A brief history of my illness, then I will say no more about it. I have cardio-pulmonary disease, unstable angina, a non existant thyroid function, diabetes and the most disabling condition chronic arthritis. I was admitted to hospital in December 2007 for a minor heart repair which resulted in a massive heart attack 6 hours after getting home (the paramedics were lovely) I was then in coronary intensive care for 2 weeks while I fretted as to how to get my christmas shopping and worrying that they would sell out of turkeys !!!!
I live with my son who is also my carer, and an aging canary called charlie who still lights up my life by singing joyfully every day. I would love another kitten, but the thought of it outliving me puts me off. My disabled mum also plays a large part in my life, she is a absolute tartar, a cross between Hyacinth Bucket and the mad granny out of the Royle Family, but of course I love her dearly.
Easter weekend has heralded the need to get the garden sorted and son has already broken the rake, the brush and removed everything green !!!! he has also removed my 30 foot lilac tree and left it in the garden for a week before shredding it, so my tiny garden was unaccessible. I now have a 6ft pile of shredded tree waiting to be used as mulch. We had a taste of summer this week, and the nights are now drawing out, cant wait for the nice weather, it makes me feel so much better.
This year I am promising myself a grand tour of the UK, first stop will be glorious Devon where I have a long overdue visit to a lovely lady Heather, from there I will play it by air, several on line friends have offered me accommodation, so I intend to just drive and stop off where the fancy takes me. I got a new car last June and so far I have only managed 1700 miles, so I think a long run will do us both good.
Yesterday, my plans for this easter weekend were originally to be bed, painkillers and icecream, but today I feel quite
a lot better. My fingers are loosening up and I can at least type again. Might even face the bank holiday traffic and go for a trip to the seaside.
Anyway that is the boring catch up done, I hope my next post will give someone a smile take care xxx
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