Genuine January, 2016

[dill]

Hello Friends,

I googled the question of highest mortality rate by month and sure enough, the death rate rises at the middle of December and throu the middle of January. The death rate is lowest in July-August. The birth rate is highest in August. Sad about Grizzly Adams. Who's next?!

Lav, you take a lot of sleep meds! I read once that bendryl, like alcohol, has a sedative effect and helps one fall asleep, but that it causes middle of the night wakefulness. I take it sometimes, but I try not to, for that reason, plus bc as Star pointed out, it has a drying effect. I suffer from dry eyes and dry mouth. Have fun with your granddaughter on Sunday night. I will be having my gd here tonight. I hope gs comes too, but he is 10 years old and loves to be with his dad.

Cyn, I had not heard of the Extra Sleepy Time. I see the added ingredient is valerian, which I found worked for me in the past. I shall buy some and keep it on hand. Thanks for the tip. Does it taste good?

Pauly, yes, I heard about Celine Dione's hb. Sad. How is your daughter's job going? Is she actively looking for a new one now that the holidays are over?

Star, thanks for the tip about the app! It could be all I really need. I suppose paying for WW adds to incentive to lose tho. But I will try the free app first. Mr. D needs to lose weight so I am looking for something he can do with me. I know he won't go to WW meetings, but the online stuff might work for him. I hear that the WW website has lots of recipe ideas for members.

Cloudy here today, but not terrible cold. Have a great AF Saturday all!

[Lavande]

Good morning friends, happy Saturday to all!
We had heavy rain overnight & now the sun is popping out, nice.
I have a friend who winters on Fort Myers, FL. Just heard on the news that an EF-1 tornado blew thru there last night & did a good bit of damage. I hope I hear from her today, geez!

My insomnia started exactly 20 years ago when my hormones suddenly dropped to near zero
I am so sick & tired of dealing with it I will try just about anything. I have not gone to Rx meds yet, just don't want to go there yet. Despite being on HRT I am still bothered by frequent hot flashes overnight. Ridiculous

I've done WW online a few times. It is a good program, their recipes are great.
Dill, you & your husband need to create your own profiles according to height weight, activity levels, etc. That's how they calculate how many points you get/day. Myfitness Pal is good too for keeping track of calories & activity levels. I really think at our age we need a whole lot more exercise than we realize to get our metabloisms in gear.

Hello to Star, Cyn & Pauly!
I hope everyone has a wonderful AF day. I'm off to pick up our weekly farm share aka the mystery box of Amish veggies

Lav

[paulywogg]

Morning friends, Lav,what other symptoms did your hormones dropping cause? I don't care for benadryl makes me twitchy sometimes,Kells looking but there's not much yet,I wish my shop wasn't full of jealous trolls and she could work with me I used my fitness pal before I got the fitbit,I tell ya its hard to be honest on it! The other day I was punching in my food intake and forgot the coconut oil in my coffee and the 2 Roches I ate,I just kind of left it the way it was cuz I'm bad! don't feel like working today but I need cash so I'll power through, I'm gonna start a book tonight, not your guyses kind of book but a romantic,funny ,fiction kinda book,I used to like Terri McMillan but I haven't seen anything new,haven't been looking though,back in the day I used to read romance novels! How embarrassing, I used to fold the cover down so people wouldn't know,oh well,I hope we all have a safe,sober,Saturday

[treegirl]

Hi all - good saturday afternoon.

Things have stabilized for the moment (x fingers), but it has been a tough 24 hours... just as I was getting off the phone with the vet at lunchtime yesterday, girl doggy showed hyper-salivation and signs of nausea. She was in discomfort on and off every hour or two from then until 9 AM this morning. Now the diagnosis may be megaesophagus - whatever, I'm just keeping it all simple for right now. I'm doing broth with gelatine (warm) and just pulsed that with a little rice congee. So far so good - hoping it will stay that way! HB is thankfully home, and so ran to the vet to get some meds to get us through today and tomorrow.

Star - I just started the 'conscious breathing' part of MBSR, and haven't even managed the 15 minutes per day yet - but I swear it is keeping me calm and aware during all of this. I got maybe a couple of hours of sleep last night, but I am up and at'em and was even civil to the dogs and HB, so something must be working!

Dill - Alan Rickman is famous for the Harry Potter movies, but he was an incredible actor, with decades of wonderful films to his credit. If you remember Sense and Sensibility (with Emma Thompson), he was the Colonel - his first entrance in the film when he hears Marianne singing at the harpsichord is one of my favorite film moments. But one of my top ten movies is 'Truly, Madly, Deeply' the british original version of the american 'Ghost', but a 1000 times better. Grab a hanky if you watch it! (Star, this one is maybe not for you right now...)

Lav - I remember when I first got my hormones tested, since I was a wreck and not sleeping, etc. The doc looked at me and said 'basically, you're not a woman anymore'!!! Nice bedside manner. Have fun with gdaughter.

Pauly - any reading is great!! Better than watching most of the trash on TV. The only better thing is walking! Because of the whole dog issue here, I have been sitting waaaaaay too much this week. I need a hike!

Wishing all a good AF Saturday.

[SnoopyC]

Good morning...

Speaking of sleep disruption, I am up at 3 am, after waking up feeling very warm. Lovely. I tried to go back to sleep, but finally just got up, plugged in the coffee and started reading posts! I had a great day yesterday, got alot done, but fell asleep kind of early, so that might be my problem. I have a feeling that I will have to take a nap after waking up in the middle of the night.

Cyn, what a week you have had. I agree that the conscious breathing is very helpful. I know that just taking time to relax in a concentrated way is very helpful. What a good thing you started this when under so much stress. It is hard for me to accept that a doctor told you you're not a woman anymore. What an idiot and how hurtful for you. This menopause thing is hard to deal with sometimes, and kindness and respect are needed. Jeeze! I just read a great book downloaded on my kindle, Recipes for a Perfect Marriage, by Kate Kerrigan, a story about a grandmother and granddaughter and their experiences with love, relationships, and great recipes. Very deep book, gave me alot to think about: reasons people get married, what love is, and important characteristics in a partner.

Dill, I like My Fitness Pal but do like the Weight Watcher's recipes if you join. I am finding that I need to track what I eat because it is always a little too much. It would make sense to me that more people die in the winter, it is a hard time with the harsh weather. Still sad though. I am missing my friend alot, there is an empty space in my life, so keeping busy and cheerful is important for me not to lose it or sink into a depression. My grandson is coming over today and I am really looking forward to his cuteness. There is a train at a mall near me and I want to buy tickets and go around the stores. I know he will never want to get off. It is supposed to get really cold today, so keep warm.

Lav, I don't want to go to RX meds either, for anything, unless there is no other option. The side effects of Ambien, Lunestra, etc., are worse than insomnia in some cases. I went to a Grand Opening of a grocery store of natural foods and there was a foot reflexologist there and I had a little introductory session, right there in the store. It was very relaxing. Wondered what you thingkof reflexology? There were also acupuncturists too, and I would like to try that but the cost is prohibitive. I wish insurance covered alternative, non-invasive treatments.

Pauly, I read all kinds of books, including romantic fiction, it is feel good stuff, nothing wrong with that. Hope your daughter finds a better job soon. My son is moving here next week and will be looking too. Good luck to both of them.

Have a good Sunday and keep warm!

[Lavande]

Greetings friends!

I ended up keeping my oldest grandson EB overnight. Tonight will be my granddaughter's turn. Busy,busy here.

Star, I have reflexology charts on my Pinterest page. I love all the alternative, non-invasive therapies,why not try?
I think the sleep issue (at least for me) is multi-faceted. I doubt that a Rx sleeping pill would really fix much & I don't want to deal with the damn hangovers they cause.
The hardest thing for me was to learn to NOT get upset about a sleepless night or two. Sooner or later you will get a decent sleep, right?

I have to run now, will check in later if I can
Have a great AF Sunday Star, Dill, Cyn & Pauly.

Lav

[SnoopyC]

Hey, it is really cold here, below zero, whew! Some hot coffee is in my hand and I need it. Had a busy day yesterday, it was fun. Today after the kids leave I will be on my own as my husband has to work. Exercise, grocery shopping again, and clean up are on the schedule. Wishing you all a great Monday.

[dill]

Hello All, Sorry I missed posting yesterday. Gdaughter was here and that changed my schedule up a bit.

Star, I'm glad you had some good family time yesterday and time with your grandson especially. I hope it soothed your soul. I think of you often and the grief you are feeling, Mr. D's cousin who is a regular guest here during footbal season is very ill and I am afraid he may not live to see another footbal season. He couldn't come yesterday or the week before because he was not feeling up to it. I always enjoy my talks with him about world events. For some reason he has always held a special place in my heart.

Lav, you have a full schedule with grandchildren! How old is EB now? He must be growing and changing.

Cyn, I knew Alan Rickman was a good actor and had a long career apart from being Snape. I put a couple of his movies in my queue the other day but I had not heard of Truly, Madly, Deeply. I googled it and saw where people had blogged about how it was one of the best movies with Alan Rickman and it was "the one to watch" to get a real sense of his talent.

Pauly, coconut oil in your coffee? I've never tried that. Do you do it for the flavor or for a health reason?

It's horribly cold here today too. I'm done with winter already!

[paulywogg]

Morning friends,Dill I guess for flavor and I'veread aabout health benefits from coconut oil but sometimes I think these supplement bandwagons are all b.s! I've been using turmeric capsules cuz when you read about it, its basically a "miracle spice" all it does is give me headaches and crazy bowels haha,seems to help a tiny bit with mood but not like the claims I've read,never got around to starting my book we've had Lou all weekend and I can't read when he's here I get to into the book and he needs my attention, everyone sounds good,I hope we all have a peaceful Monday

[Lavande]

Greetings friends!

Happy Monday to all.
I had an 'interesting' night with my granddaughter. She was up between 2:30 & 4:00 am, ugh. She has a slight cold & had a bad dream or some such thing.
I'm trying to get a bit of work done but keep getting interrupted, ha ha!

Pauly, I use the coconut oil for cooking & baking. I will not wreck a perfectly good cup of coffee with coconut oil. I saw a recipe years ago for making toothpaste with coconut oil. It totally gagged me, yuck.

It was 16 degrees here this morning Dill & Star. It's a balmy 23 degrees now
Dill, sorry to hear about your ailing cousin. I'm afraid we are all getting to that age & stage. I just don't want anyone to suffer needlessly.

Hi there Cyn, hope you are staying warm.
I have the woodstove & the fireplace both going to help warm this place, Brrr!!!!

Have a great AF Monday everyone!

Lav

[treegirl]

Hi all - sorry to miss posting yesterday. The beat goes on here with doggy care...she is a trouper, but a real mystery, even to the vets and specialists. Just got back from the vet where they wanted to do a barium xray to see if this was caused by megaesophagus...the stomach looked so weird from the non-barium xray that she stopped right then and is calling the surgeon for information. But I guess it was good that she checked - there's a pneumonia, probably from aspiration. sigh.

Really, I'm about to say, no more xrays, no barium, stop. My girl is getting skeletal, and all I want to do is fix the 'slurry' meals that I know she will keep down, and give her love and let her rest. I found the cure for her nausea - Pepto Bismol!!! I might consult a doggy psychic at this point. Anything not to leave the house again in the cold, poor little tyke.

Anyway, that's about all that's been going on for me. I'm managing to get in a little paperwork, and I meditate... That's about it.

Take care all - I'll write some more personal notes next time around - I'm at least keeping up with you all ---

[SnoopyC]

Good morning...

Cyn, hearing about your ailing doggie and the efforts to help her breaks my heart. You are doing everything you can and I get the piece about stopping the invasive and painful medical procedures at some point, if you need too. It is so hard when a pet is ill. I know my kittie is happy to be inside right now, cuddled up on someone's lap keeping warm. This is a tough time of year. Hugs to you.

Pauly, I bought coconut oil before and I am not quite sure what I think. I had to laugh when Lav said she would not put it into coffee. I heard about tumeric too, but stay away from most supplements, not sure if they are good for you or not. The powers that be seem to change their minds alot about what is good for you.

Lav, you are so sweet to watch the grandkids over night on your own. My daughter asked me to watch my grandson when they go out of town,but I really don't want to as I would be exhausted afterwards and have to go to work. So, setting limits, doing what is right for me. Short visits, maybe the occasional over night. By the way, it is 4 degrees here. It is a two pair of sock kind of day.

Dill, I have been missing my friend, talked to her husband last night, he is doing the best he can. We all are, and it is not easy. I was on my own yesterday, excercised which I find is helping, shopped and got a really cool fruit basket from Pier One. It is weaved and on a stand. I was excited about it, something different. I know what you are talking about with getting older, found out a family member is getting a stress test today. Just moving forward with this news. To keep warm I am taking my favoritte tea to work to enjoy. Hope you have something warm to keep you going today.

Have a good one.

[Lavande]

Good Tuesday morning friends!

It's a sunny 12 degrees here Star so I guess I shouldn't complain, ha ha!!
Looks like we are in for a foot or more of snow on Friday, ugh. I hope your friend's husband is OK, that's rough.

I don't mind the kids sleepovers provided they actually sleep. I am definitely getting too old & sleep deprived for the nighttime awakenings though. Sleep has become such a precious commodity for me - I don't want any interruptions.

Cyn, I hope your girl dog has settled down. I have absolutely no problem saying NO to some of the outrageous testing & treatments these modern day vets suggest. I think it's all just too much to put our fur friends through :hug:
Get yourself ready for a big snow storm this weekend.

Dill & Pauly, hello to you!
I hope everyone has a good AF Tuesday!

Dr Oz has a list of 99 uses for coconut oil - just in case anyone is interested
99 Amazing Uses for Coconut Oil | The Dr. Oz Show

Lav

[paulywogg]

Morning friends, I can't do sleep over,I think when he gets bigger cuz he sleeps with his parents and I'm afraid he'll wake up and freakout! Tired this morning but i will survive hey,hey(love that song) 2 note dead celebs,Glen Fry and someone from "Tower of power" I know the songs but can't think of the names ATM,hope we all have a nice Tuesday

[dill]

Geez! and now Glenn Fry! I was a big Eagles fan in the 70's.

Cyn, you sound exhausted and so does your girl. :hug: I think you are quite right to want to move to just making her as comfortable as you can and getting what nutrition you can in her. I hope things turn around for her. You take such good care of her! She's a lucky girl.

Lav, Are you getting nervous for yourself as related to YB's impending retirement? It is a huge adjustment, to say the least. Mr. D retired before I did and it used to drive me nuts to have him around when I left in the morning and in many cases, waiting for me to return in the afternoon. I felt like I never had a minute to myself! My gf in the same boat had the same complaint. She used to say she just wished he would give her an hour of silence when she would get in from work. Lucky we had each other to complain to, that helped a lot and we would have a good laugh over it at times. Now that both Mr. D and I are retired, I feel I do get enough alone time bc he is often off in his workshop and I am in the house or out with friends. Life is good.

Star, very good of you to realize your needs and to set limits regarding child care. It definitely makes a difference that you are still working. When I was still working and we had the children here with us, it was very hard. It was necessary, so we had to cope. My saving grace was that Mr. D was able to do a lot of the care because he did not have work to go to. I love my son and grandchildren dearly, as you know. But being under one roof was a strain. I am so glad he has managed to be on his own again!

Pauly, I have gone through phases with various supplements but I have come to a point where I just don't buy it anymore. I try to eat healthy foods and let my body take in what it needs from that. I have a friend who takes so many supps that I don't know how she keeps it all straight or how she even can afford it! LOL. But to each their own, eh?