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Journey  2003

Dec 18
Been very hectic with the holidays fast approaching. I've been drawn to get out every day even in poor weather since making my decision. I've told those closest to me of my situation. It was very hard telling my folks and best friend. But now that is done and I am continuing to get things in order as best I can ahead of time.. I'm going to make an appointment with my PMD to get things rolling on this end for continuity of care and selection of specialist. I will not go back to SCOPE and if I do, I will not see the same guy. He didn't want to work for me, he was doing it for the money and I don't need someone like that in my corner. Not with what I'm facing ahead of me. If he can't seem to fit a pair of shoes he doesn't strike me that he's going to do the job fitting a prosthetic limb either. Left a bad impression what can I say.  I'm sleeping pretty good, not that much of an appetite and I'm learning how and what I can eat while on the road doing errands. I keep my fiber intake up and always lots of water ;o)  Yes, there have been some moments that things seems overwhelming or difficult .. that's to be expected, right?  I'm still sleeping pretty good, not having major stomach attacks and so if you ask me. Life is very very good at this point ;o) even with what I know is laying ahead. 

Dec 8
I've reached the end of one level of treatment and am approaching the next sooner then expected. Two large joints are showing signs of major deterioration and severe arthritic changes per the CT scan results. Meaning, I refuse to have more fusions... it's to the point that the benefits just aren't there anymore. so, amputation is going to be needed to alleviate the current pain and improve my future quality of life. In many ways my foot is holding me back from doing things because of either pain or restriction due to damage. We've already set pre exam for March with target removal of my lower leg set for next summer.  I'm delaying till next summer to give my digestive track a chance to further recover, continue weight loss and once again strengthen core muscle groups that will be needed.

I have many mixed emotions at this point. I can't believe this 'time' is here already, yet I know full well there were no guarantees when I was hurt back in 88. It's kind of a relief, yet, still, I feel a bit sick to my stomach when I think about it.

I'm going to rest, It's been a tough morning.
blessings, Elle'
Elle'

My thoughts and prayers are with you and that you know you are loved. Have a Wonderful Holiday ...

Nov 26
Hi Folks, busy day ;o)...  Here is what my OS dxd/ordered via CT scan today: Post hindfoot fusion, w/residual pain over talo-navicular & neighboring joints. Please eval for arthrosis of hindfoot/midfoot joints. He's also checking to see how the calcification is progressing with my Achilles tendon.  It was interesting the way they moved the machine to get the right angle for their films, it was difficult  because of my fused ankle, the view needed and the restrictions of the machines opening... but we got it finally ;o) I'll see them in a couple weeks and be able to decide more then as to my time frame and surgery.

Nov 25
I see my OS this morning for follow up.  I have a lot of mixed emotions, as you might imagine. I'm feeling tense about this visit. I know it's me. I'll have new films to post and a better idea of what is pending. Yep, I'm nervous ;o/   Overall my diet consists mainly of 'alkaline' foods that I'm not allergic or toxic to. I'm getting there ;o) 
post OS visit
I go for a CT scan to check the Talo-Navicular joint tomorrow then back to see my OS in two weeks... Looks like the next step may of come much sooner than expected. We'll see.

Nov 20
I have come to understand why I've felt 'stuck' and not able to move on. Sometimes we're too injured and need to give that part of ourselves over to that which we believe cares of the injured, inconsolable parts of us that are not able to recover.  Some things aren't fixable. We learn to live and adapt. I have anyway.

 I have been learning how to eat and feeling better compared to where I was just 6 months ago !  My energies are focused on my health, family, prayer, friends, running the memorial and light a candle websites, offering support where I can on the broken leg website and those who contact me via email. I can get overextended if I'm not careful.  I've come a long way in being able to do those things, let alone on a daily basis again!

As the Holidays fast approach, reach out to someone and lend a kind hand and remember to NOT drink and drive... Arrive Alive !!

Nov 8
I have been taking care of me, this has involved listening to all my body cues not just GI track which has been doing better. Sleeping more, resting now and again when the body says so.  With the barometer shifting as winter approaches my aches and pains from the wreck are making themselves known more. Overall the ankle fusion is evening out and I know what will/won't aggravate it, what some of my limits are and how to live with them. Quality of life is greatly improved and I can't wait for warmer weather to get a Kite tail in the air again! My neck is about the same, easily susceptible to strain and overuse. I've backed off  kite flying and internet work as you know, but in the long run it's best. That way I can rebuild back from the last 3 years of surgery and sickness which has taken it's toll on already overworked muscles. ;o)  I'm sleeping much better now, eating and playing too ;o) Doing chores regularly, errands around town and even handling the drive to San Diego again .. The ride is hard on my body in more ways than 1.  The meds I'm on are working better thanks to Dr. Mary and VT. The depression has been lifting as I've been able to eat and keep food down and regain strength after being laid up so long between my foot and GI track.. gesh ! 

The holiday means many things to each one of us.  For some a joyous time, others a sad time of loved ones missed, some are lonely and feeling lost, and some not. What ever the holidays mean to you, I pray for your safety and well being, for your health and happiness.  Please, Don't Drink and Drive !

Sept 17
where to begin? Lets see, the new bed has been tested, delivered and installed. Sleep is getting better, less intrusions, the sound machine helps drown out the constant sound of the freeway which has increased along with the amount of traffic traveling it. The bedroom is no longer a place that I lay down and wake up sick. I rest before sleep at night and get up when the body says it is ready. No more 2-4am wake ups from runny nose, nausea or pain. I'm listening to the cues my body is giving me and following them. My food intake  is increasing as tolerated. I'm still testing and adding one food at a time to avoid toxins and allergic responses. My appetite is returning as my GI track recovers. I found a fiber product that doesn't cause excess gas or taste like uck.. Benefiber. I've taken meds for spasms 1x in the past two months. Great improvement as at one point in time in so much pain and distress that nothing was helping.  My mental state has improved as my ability to increase intake of calories,  better sleep and ability and energy to go out, let alone get dressed has improved. Yes, I'd say there have been a great many changes, and from where I'm sitting for the better. I still have a long way to go as I learn to live with Celiac Sprue disease, IBS and a stomach that shuts down. I am keeping a log at home of my foods, sleep and other activities so track my progress and should I have pain or don't feel well be able to trace it back to the source faster. Things are getting there but after being sick for so long know it's going to take time.. But boy, what an improvement !!!  Hugs and blessings my friends, Elle'

Sept 9
I'm taking my meds and they are helping along with diet changes due to the Celiac/SPRUE disease and my overall digestive disorders. I'm doing much better with the help of the counselor and Dr. Mary who does the VT.  We found that the bed I've been sleeping on is very toxic for me and was part of the problem so we are looking at new bed with her help.  My energy is very slow in returning as I was sick for a very long time and didn't realize what was going on.  On suggestion from the psychiatrist who is treating me for depression, he suggested ear plugs to help with the night interruptions. I tried them but they made my ears sore and were more of a problem than a help. So, while out looking for new bedding yesterday, we looked into one of the background 'sound' machines that play ocean waves, birds and things of the such. We thought what have we got to lose and picked up one that we were pleased with the wide selection of water sounds. It has 20 in all. Well, all I can say is I didn't want to get up !!! I slept soundly and for the most part woke up feeling good. Not shaky from lack of sleep or multiple disruptions. It's great!! I'll be sure to let you know how the sleep progresses because that can mess up your day light hours, digestion and thought processes.   On another note, my thoughts and prayers are with you all and miss you my dear friends. Thank you for your emails of support and encouragement to not lose sight of our Lord or that this too shall pass.  Amen dears.. Angels over you always.

Aug 13
It's been difficult but with the help of TFT and VT we are narrowing down the toxins that are keeping me ill.  I've been sick since the previous posting. My body has taken as much as it can handle and hence the breakdown in my system. I've been in a lot of pain but with the treatments of Voice technology, I am noticing a marked relief of the abdominal pain I've been living with. I'm exhausted but I know that will improve as the toxins clear and I get the right foods in my system. Turns out half the stuff I was eating though healthy for most is causing trouble for me. Today, though tired and sore, it is the best day I've had since early in the month. This technology is also helping the medications work more effectively even if they too are toxic to my system. ;o))  I've lost another 10 lbs since June, not like I couldn't stand to lose but not like this, really ... I'm sleeping sounder, going to bed at a normal hour instead of passing out between 7-8pm and waking at 3am. I've even slept in till 7am !!! Hey, that's LATE for me.. ;o))) I've always been an early morning person myself.  It's nice to know I'm mending, I was beginning to lose hope actually and that is what sent me back to my TFT specialist/counselor.

Aug 6
I had the start of an attack last night. Though it's not painful like before the nausea bout knocked me off my feet. I took my dinner time dose and ate light. I slept all night and had a rough morning and afternoon. It feels as though this attack is diminishing at this point though. It is going to take time to resolve some of the problems I'm having. I didn't get like this over night and it's more then 1 disorder/disease I'm dealing with regarding my digestion. Having relief from the abdominal pain is helpful as I don't take pain meds for my leg and having both flare can be a bit much to deal with. I have been getting out every day driving short distances and running errands. The Sun is out bright and warm today. I've been enjoying it greatly and hope you are all having as blessed and joyful day as you deserve.  blessings and hugs.. ;o)

Aug 4
I've been doing my food plan with not eating wheat, rye, barley, malt and oats. Ive ordered gluten free breads and crackers. I've been eating 3 fruits a day for breakfast when able, biggest meal at lunch time with two salads a day, but the last two weeks have not been the easiest with diminished appetite. I've still got strong symptoms (nausea, cramping, bloat, pain) with the Reglan even though it does seem to help keep my stomach moving I still had 3 attacks in the past 30 days. The last of which my husband said left me 'white faced' again meaning PAIN.  I saw the GI specialist on the 1st, and she sees an improvement as I do as I'm keeping food down again, but some of the symptoms are unchanged or worsened. We are trying to get the Zelnorm approved because she feels is it exactly what my stomach needs to keep it working.  When I have an attack it's not just my GI track going into spasms, my stomach shuts down completely and even water won't move through my system. The Zelnorm is 160.00 with out insurance coverage, and with being in pain and sick for at least the past 16 months we opted this month to pay for the script to see if the med at least helps. Then we'll know and have more info armed to fight the insurance carrier.

 I've taken two doses (1 day) of Zelnorm and let me tell you... I've taken ZERO meds for break through pain for the abdomen, my appetite returned for the first time in nearly 3 weeks and my food didn't keep repeating on me. I didn't wake in the night with pain nor did I need to take break through meds at night either... If the next 29 days go like the first...then We've found the right Med for me !!!

July 15
 I'm doing much better since the new med plan has been started. The test results are in, I definitely have Celiac disease. That means not only no lactose (dairy) it also means no wheat, malt, barley, oats or rye grains. I'm going to order some products from the Gluten Free Pantry as they have a great selection of non wheat alternatives. I already have a few cookbooks and I know I've got still more to learn. All I know is that I can wear clothes again, go outside and not live in constant stomach and GI pain. Big change. It is also dxd that I have IBS as well which adds to the GI distress and aggravates the whole system. Motility is better and I'm sleeping through the night without attacks at this point. Now to manage the two diseases is my next goal.  With the right information and tools I can manage both of these and live a full life. Thank you Lord, is all I can say.  Knowing is half the battle and now they are listening because the tests don't lie.  Its officially documented and so recorded so no one can just brush my concerns and pain aside.  If you suspect something isn't right, keep pushing and asking questions. Don't give up .. it could very well save your life!!

July 3rd

Update: The insurance wants me to try Reglan first. I used it from April 13 to May 5 and had a raging attack during that time.  We are still tracking why the small intestine is inflamed and as to why my white blood cell count is elevated.
*
Informative and hopeful. That's how I'd describe my appointment with GI specialist last night.  Motility and IBS. We are hoping insurance approves the new prescription for Zelnorm which she feels will stop the system from shutting down from 3 days to two weeks at a time. The two ulcers will resolve with treatment and that my diet is such, that when I can eat, I am to continue with my preferences. Ezekiel bread, salads x2 a day, rice, beans, fruits and vegetables. She didn't see it in the record so I am to be sure have a blood test for SPRUE which is a digestive disorder with the allergic response to gluten and wheat products. Those of you who know your foods realize that means no sauces, crackers, cereals, snack bars, dips, pasta, and breads as gluten is hidden in many forms in our foods as well as used for flavoring purposes. Malt, dextrin, Modified food starch are all alternative names for wheat/gluten based ingredient.

Yesterday went really well as far as pain, appetite and eating but by nighttime things had shifted and I'm going to take it easy today. Oh, and as to what the 'very pale face' means when I have an attack... She said it's my blood pressure dropping from the pain and the concern would be that I should lay down as I could pass out.  Not dangerous really unless you have an already broken leg like mine... could be a bit risky ... Otherwise.. I'm waiting on a call for the med, but don't expect with being close to holiday weekend I may not get word on the med till next week sometime. Oh, why the delay? insurance wants more detailed information as to the need for the medicine because it costs $160.00. 

Happy Independence Day Everyone ! Long may Old Glory Wave !!

June 29
I just spent the past week having another attack and completed the swallow study test (June 24). It made me pretty sick to say the least. It took 9 hours in all for the test which normally takes only 4-5 hrs !! They had me come back the following day to be sure the dye was passing all the way through and out of my body to rule out an obstruction. They had me drink a little water, that didn't help, then at 1pm they sent me to eat something and drink fluids, that didn't help it move either. Then they had me lay on my right side which made the pain worse but I had to do this to try to get the test done. They finally had me drink some hot tea at the 8th hour. My stomach never completely emptied during the entire test and I threw up just before the final films were taken, also appears my small intestine wasn't moving because that was the hold up. It just wouldn't move into/through the small intestine.. No wonder I feel so ugh.. I see the specialist July 2nd and hope to have more definitive answers to what is going on and what can be done.  I miss my life !! This has been going on since Nov. 2002 with regularity and it really taking its toll on everyone, not just myself.

June 11
Thus far I've kept food down and not had any night bouts of illness or the continual debilitating intestinal pain. PHEW !! I'm still sore but that will improve as I gain strength and get my health improves. I got results on the 5 polyps and it was all Negative for cancer. So that's two biopsies that have come back clean. Thank you Lord... I have a swallow study test on the 24th which takes up to 4 hours to definitively dx the IBD. I take Prevacid and Librax daily and Yesterday I completed my first walk of 2 miles. I walked the mall a couple days ago but was so tired could only do 3 of the 4 laps. It's good to be up and about again albiet it's at a slow pace with rest when I overdo it. 

June 4
If I told you it's been a crazy ride and Mr Toad has nothing on me, I'd not be far off !!  In this short period of time I've had just about every blood test run, when they could get blood out of me, been treated for allergies, x-rayed, ultra sounded, illuminated and had CT scan done, scoped and biopsy for cancer and lost 25lbs.  After years of Ibuprofen, anti inflammatory preps for the injury to my leg and all the meds from surgeries. I've no stomach lining left to speak of. Yep, 2 ulcers, a hiatal hernia from all the puking (this should clear up now), a liver biopsy because of the golf ball sized mass they found, a few polyps were removed and all because of meds I needed to relieve pain from injuries from the wreck. My family sat down and figured out that in the past two months I was only upright and out of bed for 1 week in that time. Yes, I was that sick. Not anymore though, with the Prevacid and Librax for IBS I'm feeling like a new woman !!! Food and water are staying down and I'm able to do normal things again!!!  One thing for certain, after anesthesia they can't leave me sick like they have in the past. It's not uncommon for me to puke for up to 3 days afterwards. My gut just can't take the stuff.  Part of me is afraid the pain is going to come back and I'll be sick in bed again but the meds really do seem to be working and I've got to trust the Doc found what the cause was. Thank you Dr. Gujral !!

So listen Gang, ulcers can hide themselves in many ways. I didn't have reflux or the burning or any of the signs of most NORMAL ulcer sufferers. It appears that instead of everything coming UP it went down into my GI track and that was what was causing the night sweats, diarrhea and eventually puking when it worsened near the end. If you feel that something is wrong, keep at them, trust your instincts. I did and look what was finally found !!!  Granted I'm not into Golf and am not happy about the mass in my liver but I'm praying about it. It could be from scar tissue from injury during the wreck, birth control pills and IBUPROFEN... time will tell. (oh yeah, I don't drink and booze doesn't cause FNH)

Blessings my friends

May 22
I spoke too soon and have relapsed. 1 more week till the tests are done. I've been laying down, taking meds and resting. Its all I can do when this starts up. The pain takes everything out of me. At least it wasn't as bad as the last round. I knew it when it was coming and called the GI asap to learn what she wanted to have me to do treat what symptoms we can treat.  I slept 6 hours last night which is really good so Im on the mend again. I've not had solid food since day before yesterday and I have no appetite at this point.  In the meantime we are prepping for our daughter's baptism and family coming to visit. I couldn't make it through the day without my Lord's help, my  family and the friends I didn't know I had till recently.. Thank you everyone of you for your encouragement, support, nudging and cajoling when needed.... bless you all

May19
I'm keeping food down now ! ;o) I feel much stronger and am back to doing my daily walks. My abdomen is sore but it's been chronic for 6 months now and going on sporadically for a year. Hopefully full resolution with definitive dx soon, as the GI doc stated this could very well be IBS with changes. More tests will reveal the cause of the elevated white blood count and why I've had this GI distress.

May15
IT IS BENIGN Focal Nodular Hyperplasia of the Liver.
 It is believed to be related to injuries from the wreck.
I'm going to go watch the Lakers Game ;o)
Walk @ Mall 2 miles  ;oD  

May 15, 5am
cup of tea? Temps are to be in 70s today and I plan on spending part of it outdoors today. I finally got the potted plants cleared out of weeds and hope to pick up some Impatiens to plant today.  What I like most about early mornings? It's my time alone with the Lord with little interruptions, it's so quiet and peaceful. Right now, I can see the nearly full moon setting over the Pacific Ocean. Everything is bathed in its luminescent glow.  WOW

May 14
What am I doing to keep busy? Reading a new book.  'Praying God's Word', *thanks Candy, visiting with my daughter and relaxing after doing chores. It's dry out now after a very wet morning with air that was thick with fog. Hubby is distracted so I'll try to get pics later.  Anyone for a cup of tea?

May 13
I plan on going to the Chiropractor today, ;o)   more pampering... I will know the news as soon as the Oncologist calls me. He has been instructed to leave a message or release the information to my family if they are here and pick up.

 Life goes on while you're making other plans.

May 12
Saw oncologist but results of pathology were not ready when he phoned them. He'd call me as soon as he heard tomorrow is the plan. Went to look for my friend the hairstylist and got the Doo fixed ;o) Old stylist did a 7 dollar cut and it was showing !! I'm not a snob, I do hair myself and it's not about how much you charge but the job you do for your client. Well, this stunk and I wanted not just a fix but someone who understood my vision. I know my own hair and what it will do.  'Lupe listened as I knew she would and I walked out of her salon feeling great .... bless you dear ...  it was well worth the cost. ;o)

May 9 
2:30 pm Mission Hospital Liver Biopsy  Results Pending 
 2 traumas were flown in so my case was delayed a bit while
waiting on the table. The Doc was a hoot !! and Mia the RN a gem. She gets a medal in my book. She has 6 kids ages 9 to 14 months !!! She looks great and showed a beautiful heart.  ;o)

May 6
My visit with the oncologist/hematologist was at 9am today. I found out that he doesn't come in to the office on Tues. mornings. He came in just to take my case !!!  After my dealings with the office all I can say is WOW.  The office is heavily staffed as they do all levels of cancer service and studies on site. Every single employee was pleasant and I made it a point to thank them before I left and when they called later for my liver biopsy. Very nice people.  Knowing I have a medical support staff like that working with me sure made me feel a bit more at ease.  So, This Friday the biopsy is scheduled at 12:30 pm, She said since they are a trauma unit if something comes up I may get bumped, but they will get to me on friday. The post op recovery is 4-5 hours so the soonest I'll be home is 5pm.   It is a short stay unless complications, I go back to the oncologist Monday hopefully to learn of the findings and I see the GI specialist the following Friday. 

You are wondering what if anything the Doc said about the mass?  He said the same things I did. It could be any number of things so lets get the tests we need and take it from there.  We spent nearly an hour doing a physical and answering his questions and he a few of mine. Right now we are still in the she has a mass and what is it stage. By next week we will know more after the results of the biopsy come in. In either case I'm in the Lord's hands and trying to remain calm for the most part. Last night was hard. finding out you have a mass like that isn't easy and it surely was not expected. But its a good thing as it was found and can be taken care of. 

 May 5
what was thought to be the problem has been effectively ruled out with a contrast ct scan this morning in the ER.  my second trip in 1 week as the pain has been beyond my ability to deal with.  I do NOT have diverticular disease nor diverticulitis. What they found though is a mass in my liver the size of a golf ball. 6cm. Yes, this can mess up your entire GI track.  I see the Oncologist/Hepatologist at 9 tomorrow morning.  no waiting .. When I told the nurse how long I've been sick and how big the mass was and she got me right in..  I want to find out what this is, what I can do and and get it done.  No waiting. stay tuned ... more to come..  

April 17
Keeping food and water down again and half way through antibiotics. The pain is only 40% of time now but the meds and hot pack help. I'm hungry but can only eat small portions at a time as my digestive track slowly recovers. This past year I've had symptoms that were believed to be allergies and IBS. The night sweats and puking was my bodies response to the intestinal pain I was dealing with I found out when I went to the ER this weekend. They did an ultrasound and blood tests and everything was clear except WBC was up. I've stopped the allergy medicine as I don't need it. Molds only bother me mildly and I don't get stuffed up often so I felt it best as I have enough my system is trying to deal with and I don't believe in overmedicating as a prevention.  If I need something later for molds Doc said to let him know. So, no more nuts or seeds for this lady... boy it's been a LONG year !! Yep, been that long we've been trying to figure out what was doing this to me. 

April 13
I've been having digestive issues for years that was 'thought' to be IBS but was never tested.  I was very sick this weekend (my wedding anniversary) and had to go to ER the pain got so bad and I couldn't keep water down. I was thought to have a serious infection in my lower intestine. I learned they felt, I was misdiagnosed all these years with what was believed to be IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) but actually had Diverticulosis. Need more tests to confirm this so it's not written in stone as yet to be the cause. 

April 10
2 mile early beachfront walk. The area is still drying out from the last big high tide and storm. A lot of beach erosion and it appears a new delta is forming along Doheny beach even. We keep hearing the big ocean motors of the cigar racing boats getting ready for the season. You can't miss their rooster tails in the distance or the roar of those engines. 

April 9
Ran errands and took break from walk. Gave blisters chance to recover and went to San Diego to see chiro and try my hand at flying my kites.  Been so long this ought to be interesting.

April 7
Beach side walk. I wish by the water but that will come soon enough. Real hot but completed the 2 miles. nightmares but was able to get back to sleep.

April 6
I'm back. It's been a long 6 weeks but the foot is healing. I still have a broken foot but I am cleared to full weight bear as long as I remain in the 'boot'.  Today for the first time I walked a full two miles today!!! I'm tired but thankful for each step. The break didn't hurt, the 'ankle' and hips did. I've been lifting weights while unable to walk this time to keep myself in good spirits.  The PTSD is an issue and I suspect will be on occasion between now and then end of the month. It is different every year and it's not something you can understand easily. I'm living it and I don't always get it. But what happened to me in that wreck seems to have a life of it's own in ways.. I'm privileged enough to get to be a part of the blessings that spring forth now and then. ;o)

blessings Elle'

March 3
with repeated bouts of IBS/Gastritis and sick to my stomach another run of liver detox was begun with immediate results. I began having liver pain after my two surgeries in 2001-2002.  (my liver has been injured from the meds and multiple surgeries) Indomethicin is a known problem cause for the liver but great in the treatment of Osteoarthritis. Ask the Shaq... he was on it and now having issues with his liver and had to go off it!! ;o/   More weight lifting again today.  Two weeks down 4 to go in the boot. I sure hope this break is healing Lord Willing ;o)  amen

Feb 27
I've been lifting weights at home every other day and doing leg exercises laying down on my bed since breaking my foot again. As not to hurt my back or leg getting up. I'm tired from my day out yesterday. Been restless nights and long days. This too shall pass

Feb 21
Cleaned and cooked what I could while kneeling on a chair. I'm going to the beach tomorrow to get out for a while. Not walking 6 weeks. OS called: As long as no complications and MD can treat current injury then don't worry bout spending more money to see him. Any problems though and I get into him asap.  It pays to have your own Orthopedic Surgeon for 14 yrs.. lol.. 

Feb 20
Since I'm partial weight bearing only I opted for weight lifting this morning to help with the need to exercise, tone up and release stress. 

Feb 19
Mental Health Day  read, prayed, played. Hope you have a great productive day ;o) blessings

Feb 18
Where to start? Allergies? broken foot? ok ok, I broke my foot. Yes, it hurts... Anyway, back in cam walker for 6 weeks min. I'm waiting on a return call from my Orthopedic Surgeon. ahhh reality.. ;o/

 Feb 16
Finally a bit warmer today with a bit of change in walking scenery. We walked at Dana Point Harbor. It was busy but set a steady pace and enjoyed the view. ;o) Life is Good ...

Feb 15
Weather is overcast and gloomy today and the coastline was none too inviting. Errands and chores took priority rather then coastal haze and soreness.

Feb 14
Still very wet out and lungs are tight. I opted to try my life cycle again. I've not ridden as the vibration from the movement causes increased pain in my foot. Partly due to impaired nerves. ;o/
A Very Happy Valentine's Day to all ...

Feb 13
Allergy testing... All Molds positive reading

Feb 10 -12
Walks were out because of the rain  alternative means for exercise but not to increase pain due to weather important.

Feb 9
I ran errands and did a few more things around the home. I finally went for a walk later in the day. I know not the best time but the temp was good for it. It was shorts weather today ;o) fankle sure is sore. We have rain in the area but only enough to mess with my friend the barometer.

Feb 8
cleaning and dusting I stop meds on Monday so I needed to do a few things now. Spent good part of afternoon doing this so won't be walking today. Already got a heck of a workout ;o)

Feb 7
walked 2 miles but sure was sore. I'm not giving up though. It was a bit cool so I actually had to wear pants!! I really want to walk along the water but my 'fankle' can't take it.  ;o/

Feb 6
It warmed up long enough to get a walk in at the water ;o) I'm sore more places then I'd like to think of but I'm sure the allergies and lack of sleep play a part in that.
Feb 4 -5
Allergies

Feb 3
I walked closer to the water with out being in the sand today. I needed to hear the soothing beating of the waves upon the shore. My ankle is still sore from my venture into the sand last week so I am I have to give it time to recover. Another hot, dry windy southern California winter's day.
 Rest in Peace Columbia.

Feb 2
Still tired but went for a walk. The sound of the water was soothing and a balm for my nerves. The park was crowded as it seems, we're having SUMMER in the middle of winter here !

Feb 1
After witnessing the horrible loss of 7 Astronauts I went down to the water and thanked them for their dedication, their insight and their dreams. Rest in Peace Columbia.

Jan 31
Tests done and showed inconclusive. They did the surface patch test. A couple came up red but not enough details I have to go back and have the serum injected under the skin

Jan 30
The fog clung to the coastline this morning and gave off such a spectacular sight before dawn. It broke long enough to get a short walk as I am sore from the sand excursion yesterday. I see the Doc at 9am for the allergies. I have been doing my puffer 2x a day but off all other meds.

Jan 29
It was a day of FIRSTS! I was able to balance on the curb and walk heel to toe!  I ventured over to the shoreline feeling daring and walked a distance along the waters edge until I could go no further, first time in over 2 years !! What a blessing !!

Jan 28
What a walk!  It was hot already by the time I got out there so I took a steady pace and tried to stick to it the entire 2.3 miles. This was a good walk and Sure felt good. ;o)

Jan 27
Allergist appointment went as expected, Stop meds and come back for scratch/patch test on Friday. Long day but did chores and errands instead of the walk. It was warm and sticky by the time I got done with the Doc so opted out of the planned walk as not to overheat.

Jan 26 Super Sunday
OK, it was 73 degrees at 10am this morning and when I got done with my walk it was up to 80 already! It's going to be a hot one today! I wore shorts with a thin tank top for my 2mile walk at the shore. I find it amazing how the ocean can nearly look like a lake it's so smooth and calm at times. The skin breakdown is ok and I see the allergist in the morning !!   YEAH ! 

Jan 24
After over 2 hours getting tax papers in order I was more then ready for a walk. I have been wheezing but nothing the puffer couldn't help. I'm keeping the walk at 2 miles until I can complete a full week with no problems. That month of being sick took a lot out of me! My body is willing but I know better. The patch of skin break down has cleared too. We've got a heat wave coming this week end but we are hoping that the winds don't kick up too much dust and pollen.

Jan 23
There was a slight chill in the air and plenty of fog and haze, but a 2 mile walk at the beach was just what I needed. It's been 14yrs. since the bone graft but my hip sure was sore today!  I see the allergist on Monday.. finally. Knowing is half the battle...

Jan 22
I was tired from broken sleep last night. I opted for the 2mile walk today along the shoreline of So. Cal. No shorts today ! It was pants, t shirt and sweat shirt for most of the walk. The sun peaked through about 3/4 of the way through. skin breakdown on calf size of dime.

Jan 21
2.3 miles at the beach today with the sun breaking through the morning coastal haze. The birds were hunting along the shoreline, diving for their meals. What a sight! I was tired but it sure felt good to be outside.

Jan 20
2.3 miles at the beach was a great stretch of the legs after nearly a month of allergies. My strength is slowly returning and I'm being diligent not to push too hard. I was sore and took two Advil to help with pain in my hip and foot. Rain passing nearby didn't help with barometric changes that's for sure.

Jan 17
Finally, A day out and a walk! It was warm almost 70 at 9am. I did 2 miles today. To say the residual of the accident had far greater after affects than ever expected would be an understatement. I got a call from the Allergist and go for my first Appt. Jan 27th.

Jan 14
It's been difficult trying to deal with allergies that have cropped up with worsening symptoms over the past two years. It is suspected that all the meds and anesthesia has taken a toll on me and is causing some of the issues. I've not been able to walk but I'm doing what I can when I can.  I'm going for testing soon.

Jan 11, 2003
I walked 2.3 miles today ! It was a bit cool by the Pacific Ocean today but not enough to wear pants. My leg gets pretty toasty in the brace.  I kept a steady pace for a good deal of the first half but slowed especially towards the last 1/4 mile. I'm pacing myself as not to cause skin break down or further aggravate injuries. I still have to monitor my gait as not to stress the arch and ankle area. I must say, it sure feels great walking outside with the salt breeze in my face, listening to the waves crash against the shoreline while seagulls and pelicans hunt for their meal. Life is Gooooooooood.