NO time

I have no time, or energy to really post.
 My mom spent a week at Sacred Heart, a week bedridden at home and a week at Baptist Hospital.  She is now at a rehab / nursing home until Dec 2. The only one that would take her, because of her weight, was in Fairhope. She is not happy with the care there (she wouldn't be happy anywhere I am sure, but this place is pretty bad).  They are going to discharge her even if she is still unable to stand... just send her home with a hospital bed, hoyer lift and home care.


   Rio had his ACL surgery and I don't know how it is going. He carries that leg a lot. He launched himself vertically  into the persimmon tree for a possum (twice).  With my folks out of town he stays inside while I am gone out or to work... I now have sedatives for him.


   Family is family.  I don't have energy to say more.


Today is Thanksgiving. We are taking dinner to Fairhope to eat with my folks. Of course my dad says we are stupid, etc.   I thought by now I would be used to hearing that... but I guess it never gets old.  :(


 3 months out from WLS... I've lost a total of 103lbs since February.  Walked in 2 5ks.  Training with the personal trainer once a week, may go to 2x.  See Counselor once a week, going to 2 until after the first of the year.  Struggling with depression and a touch of paranoia... I want to matter.   *sigh*




Just some pics... just because I can

Back Again

Last night we called again for an ambulance to take my mom to the ER. We went to Baptist this time and she was admitted again.  It has, so far, been a completely different experience than what we had at Sacred Heart.  They did new knee x-rays in the ER and said her knee is still fractured and she was displaying symptoms of her CHF.  We knew about 1am they were going to admit her, but a room didn't come available until 3. Her ER nurse came in and chatted whenever she had time -even showing us pics of her kids lol.
   The doctor saw my mom today and said his plan is to keep her until Monday or Tuesday and then send her to rehab for 7-10 days.  I am thrilled and praying and hoping and begging that the rehab helps her at least stand on her own again.

    When she was admitted at 3am, they told her she would have to stay in the ER bed for about an hour and half because they special ordered a bed for her.  Around 4 or so the bed showed up, they moved her and got her some pain meds for her knee.  I left a few minutes after 5, to bed a few after 6. Didn't sleep well due to texts, calls and forgetting to turn off my alarm.  When I got up  I fed the animals and went to see my mom. She was still in pain but seemed to have a little better outlook. A little.   The ortho doc came in while I was there and said he thinks what the other docs are calling a fracture is actually bonespurs breaking off. I don't know the difference, she hurts - thats what matters to me.  He did give her an exercise or 2 to do until physical therapy comes in.

 Rio has his consultation and possibly surgery on Tuesday 11/8.

**Knock Knock**

Ok  I'm back..  I'm not able to post here from work so it is hard to remember it when I am home.  Again, I do blog at obesityhelp.com under lj1972, so I can go there to catch up.

  In general - I struggled with depression for a bit.  Then, on 10/23 my mom went to the ER for shortness of breath. She was admitted for CHF at Sacred Heart Hospital (the medical abyss).  They kept her there, in bed constantly, from Sunday until Thursday evening. The staff had to help her move around on the bed and they mauled her fractured knee.  She was never even allowed to sit on the edge of the bed, I assume because it would have been a hassle for the nurses to get her back in bed.
  At any rate, when they were ready to discharge her on Thursday evening my mom was completely unable to stand. The nurses basically picked her up and put her in her wheelchair and told my dad to call the fire department to help get her in bed!  I was furious!!!
   Ensley fire department came and helped us get her in bed, and there she has stayed for about 8 days. She is unable to stand to go to the bathroom so my dad cleans her up and we change her sheets. Most days she can stand a few seconds so we can drag the sheets out from under her, but today she wasn't able to stand at all.  Home healthcare nurse came out today and ordered a hospital bed and physical therapy.. Here's praying something works.

  I have worked out 2x with the fitness trainer. Today was brutal but I think I did better than the week before.  I haven't worked out in about a month.
   October 13-16 I spent camping at Coldwater with Rio and Buddy. I had a really good time.  My horse trailer was supposed to be ready on 10/12, but I STILL don't have it.  The trainer took Buddy out for me and then brought him home.  I want to camp again - soon! It was so much fun to just sit with Buddy and Rio.



  I see Dr. Friedman next week for official weight stuff, but last week the trainer did measurements and I weighed 266....  87lbs lost since February!  A total of 30.25 inches!

Forearm -
July   -  13.5
August - 13.5
September - 12.75
October - 12.0
Total to date - 1.5 inches

Arm (upper) -July -  21.0
August- 20.75
Sept    - 20.00
October - 18.5
Total to Date - 2.5inches
Chest -July -  52.5
August - 51.0
Sept  - 47.75
October - 45.5
Total to date - 7.5 inches
Waist -July -  47.75
August - 47.0
Sept - 43.0
October - 42.5
Total to date - 5.25 inches

Abdomen -July -  47.0
August - 47.0
Sept - 45.5
October - 44.5
Total to Date - 2.5 inches

Hips
July - 60  (I actually don't think the 60" measuring tape went all the way around, she was being nice)
August - 58.75
Sept  - 56.0
October - 53.5 
Total to date 6.5 inches!! YAY!
Thigh -
July -  35.0
August - 35.0
Sept  - 33.25
October - 32.0
Total to date - 3 inches
Calf -July - 22.5
August - 22.0
Sept  - 21.25
October - 21.00Total to date - 1.5 inches





 According to the gym Tanita scale my BMI is 42.9 (down from 51.7 first weigh in at the gym with the trainer) and my Fat % is 49.1% compared to a start of 55.1%.  I'll wait to make it official with Dr. Friedman. My sessions with my counselor are tough some times. There are days I wonder why I am still going?  I figure that is the depression though, which is improving and would probably be fine if my mom was doing better.

  I work with Buddy most days. He is doing so great. Rio is supposed to have his 2nd ACL surgery on Tuesday 11/8.

 Friday 10/28 I met pet photographer Allison Shamrell and had photos made with Rio and Rags. I am so happy with the "sneak peek" !!

The photos were done at The Bluffs - LOTS of stairs!! Then, the next morning I walked my first ever 5k!! It went pretty well except my foot was sore from the Bluffs.  I have already signed up for another 5k in a couple of weeks, with more in my sights.   :)

  Things are busy and hopeful and frightening.

Barktoberfest

Every year the Humane Society puts on a "Barktoberfest" at the parks downtown.  They have one full park of about 60 vendors ranging from vet clinics (mine was there - YAY), pet stores, rescues, photographers, etc. Another park has the demos (flyball, K9, dachsund races) and another has bounce houses for the kids.

  I took Rio and Rags and we are all worn out. I paid to park thinking it would be closer. It was  - to the Ronald McDonald House fire truck pull. I made it even further away by walking the wrong street.  We walked about 6 blocks the wrong way, then had to walk a few to get corrected and to the park.
  Then we waited for friends but Rio and Rags kept pulling on the leashes and me scolding them .. I was exhausted before we even started walking the park! We wandered around a bit and before we left I had my photo made with the dogs.  The lady had an actual photography business so I thought it would be ok... but I was very disappointed.  I had both dogs with me and they were good.  She knelt down to get the photo, but then also angled up so I look like I am gargantu-woman 12ft tall!! Rio looks like a mini-Lab.  Seriously?  *sigh*

Anyway it was fun walking around, especially once the dogs settled down. Then we had to walk all the way back to the truck. It was a lot shorter when I walked the correct way!!!  We were still exhausted when we go to the truck. 

Rags still had some get up and go, but Rio's get up and go "got up and went"... but at least he was still smiling

I didn't spend much time at home before I put pon a long sleeve shirt and headed to Jrod's baseball game. He was sitting by the time I got to the first game (last couple innings) and didn't go in until the 4th in the 2nd game. He had a great hit and played well in the field. They put him in to pitch!! I wish they would practice him or he would practice at home ... they do this every season. He did fine and got the outs so it worked out ok.

  Now I am just up. No reason. Dreading work tomorrow because when I am depressed it is so hard to get motivated. I have motivation problems anyway because my moodiness, but not that the depression is settling in, I imagine it is only going to get worse.

Counselor will be back in town Monday, and I have an appointment. I have sent easy emails since he was at a conference and busy. He also was just on a laptop and I didn't figure he likes typing on it anymore than I would lol.  Hopefully sessions will work out ok. 

  Buddy is still at the trainer. I don't know when she is planning to bring him back.  If he isn't back by then I will either pick him up when I go to Crestview to get my new trailer or I will ask her to bring him to Coldwater. Either way he'll be back mid-October, I am ready for him to be home.

I have a LOT of winterizing to do now that it is cooler (58* now, low of 49).  Pat the bullied hen just roosts on an old rabbit cage under a board so she needs more shelter. I need to clean out the little hutch house for the dwarf rabbits and Bon the big rabbit needs somewhere to snuggle in for cool nights.  The 2 red roos still get up on the fence at night, so I need to block that off and make a roost inside the shelter so maybe they will use that --- Bo the BR Roo gets on the fence as well, but he gets along ok to stay with Poppy, Solo and the big flock.

 I did plant broccoli and cabbage in the raised bed yesterday. I need to do more... we'll see how that goes.

  I bought Skye some feed, just need to unload it.  I need to get another big bucket for water since Buddy likes warm apple water too :)

Lots to do... gotta get moving instead of making excuses.

Follow Ups

Yesterday was my 6wk follow up with Dr. Friedman and his dietician.  I have lost 20lbs since surgery (they were happy with that.... I am "eh...").  He said for me to keep working out at the gym even though it will mean slower weight loss. I will, and I want to... but honestly it is difficult to not just sit back and let the weight drop off first.  But, I guess being healthy is more important.  Sigh.      :)

    I was super tired yesterday so I stopped at Wendy's on the way to work and got a BLT Cobb salad.  I ate part of the chicken, some cheese and few leafs of baby spinach and romaine. No problem.  I nibbled on a little more after staff meeting and within an hour I had gas pains so bad I seriously thought I was going to have to head to the ER. I took 5 GasX strips with no relief. I walked. I sat on the toilet (sorry).   I wanted to cry.  When I finally got home, after driving doubled over the steering wheel, I tended the animals very quickly and then took a hot shower. I let it hit my cramping back and abdomen and by the time the water started running a little less warm I felt better. Mercy - no more raw leafy greens for me for a while!!

  Today I have a nagging depression.  I need to go work in the garden. I HAVE to go work in the garden, but I really just want to go back to bed.  I am going to a football game for a friend's nephew - not excited but it is hanging out with my friends so I'll go.  Tomorrow is the Humane Society's Barktoberfest, so I will be going to that as well. It is supposed to be very cool (low 50's) tonight with a high around 78 tomorrow.  Maybe after Barktoberfest I will go the Farmer's Market and then take the dogs on down to the Bluffs ... see how Rio and I handle the stairs.

 Speaking of Rio - I told them at the vet as soon as I get his knee surgery paid off I am going to drop him off on a Monday morning and not pick him up until the find out why he is lame.  It kills me to watch my 3yr old dog not able to get up off the floor.  I am so scared he will end up like my old Matilda and be in arthritic misery for the last half of his life.

What a week... it's only Wednesday!

Sunday night  I worked out at the gym so after I tended to the animals it was around 1-130 before I got to bed.   I woke up at 530 and headed out to meet Robyn so I could follow her to Jrod's golf tournament out at NAS - we met at 615, J had to be there at 7, the tourney was supposed to start at 8.  Robyn rented a golf cart and we went to Jared's 1st tee to wait for him and his group. And we waited. And waited. I think they finally got there / started around 830 or so.
   I didn't have a clue what was going on, so Robyn gave me play by plays.  It wasn't TOO hot and there was a nice breeze, lots of shade under huge old oaks dripping in Spanish Moss. It was nice.  There were jets flying over - including the Blue Angels.
Jrod said my pics are fine, but would be so much cooler if there was a jet behind him in this first pic lol
(I would be SOOOO much happier if I could figure out how to rotate the stupid pics!)



  I left the golf course when they finished at 1 (exhausted from riding on the cart for 5hrs) and went straight home to shower off , change and head out for my appointment with Jim at 2.  It was a tough one.

  I left there and made a run by Publix, home to change again and then to work.  When I got to work I felt sore and tired, but ok.  As the night went on I started feeling like a big construction worker was kicking / stomping me with his heavy work boots. Even my elbow joints hurt. My head hurt, neck and back...

  I actually left work early. I couldn't take it.   I slept fitfully all night, then had to get up and take Tvo to school.  I ran by and got chicken feed then fed them once I got home, and went back to bed. I just dozed off and on.  Tried lunch, then slept a couple of hours.  I felt better overall, but I was still achy and tired last night.

  I worked out at the gym and according to that scale I am 281 "point" something.  I slept great last night and don't feel the same pain in my joints, but I am still exhausted. I guess I need to check my protein and fluid intake, because I know they h ave to be low.

 Jim is going to a conference out of town and for the most part I am fine ... even after tough sessions.

Tomorrow I see the nutritionist and Dr. Friedman.  I hope I remember to print out my measurements to take so they can see I really am trying to work this thing.   *sigh*

Yay! Farm day!

  It has been a long time (even before surgery) since I have worked hard outside. I gave up on my garden early and the lot has grown over with grass just like it was before I started last year. Today I slept late and then started moving my landscape timbers from my front gate to the garden.  I'd only moved 1 and Tvo came over to help me plant fruit trees.   He helped me dig 2 nice holes in my parents front yard where we put the plum trees.  J-rod showed up and we came in to play Wii Fit and have lunch> I haven't seen J since before surgery!! I missed my guys.
   J left and then me and Tvo dug a hole and planted a rabbiteye blueberry bush in the extra lot where the old pecan tree was that Ivan took out.  Just as we finished, Sister showed up and took Tvo home, so we timed it out right!

   I rested  a minute, then carried some more timbers to the garden and , after laying out a layer of newspapers, I "framed" up a  raised bed garden.  I dumped about 60lbs of potting soil in and then went to get compost.  When the wheelbarrow was full I tried to move it and it wouldn't even wiggle! Now, I have lost some strength and stamina since surgery, but seriously??  I looked around and the tire was completely so flat it was warped. So THEN I had to shovel the compost into a 5 gallon bucket. I carried the first one around the fence, the next couple I set over the fence. After about 3 buckets I was able to shove the wheelbarrow over to the raised bed and finish up that way.  I still need plenty more compost / soil before I can plant, so that will probably be what I do next week if I find a day off.

  Monday morning Jrod has a golf game (18holes) , then I have a 2pm counseling appointment, then work 430-1!!! Yikes.    Thursday I go to Dr Friedman and the nutritionist. Friday help friend with vet and then out of town football game for a kid I don't even really know lol.   Saturday is the Heart Walk 5k .. folks are trying to get me to do it but I am scared to death of not being able to finish it - it is at UWF and has that monster hill at the ballpark.

  I am excited and scared to go to the surgeon's office. I haven't lost any weight really to speak of... and tehy don't do measurements.  I think I might go see the trainer again and get new measurements to take in with me, so they see I AM trying.



**Please note there are no pictures of my day. Too tired and impatient to deal with them not rotating :)  **

Rain Delays

 I had big plans today.  For the first time in at least 20yrs I was going to voluntarily step in FRONT of a camera.  I was going to trust this honor to Allison Shamrell, the pet photographer who took Buford and Rio's photos back in January.

We were going to meet this afternoon at the Bluffs and get photos on the boardwalk,  railroad tracks and bay. I took the dogs to get baths at the vet and I went shopping! True story. I even went to Dillards and had the girl at the Clinique counter put makeup on me!

*dramatic pause while you recover from fainting*

So I picked up the dogs, got my photo duds on, grabbed some toys and treats and headed into the grey horizon. And Allison called with a weather report - it was a downpour at the Bluffs. So all "did" up and nowhere to go.  Allison and I did talk about working out a plan so we can get studio photos one day and location photos another - because of my weight loss (or lack thereof... still at 13lbs).

  Having time on my hands and photos on my mind is a bad thing for poor Rio

 Of course I can't get the stupid blogger to post the pic rotated correctly , and THIS stupid blogger doesn't know how to edit the pic. grrr
 Oh well here they are anyway



Frustration and Discouragement

Saturday I spent the morning going to the 2 farmer's markets directly across town from each other. The only "farmy" stuff they had was honey and some homemade soap. I bought some rosemary mint made with honey and bees wax and grits... I like it!
  Then I went to the feedstore and to a big box DIY store and bought 2 plum trees, a lemon tree, a blueberry bush and 2 muscadine vines. I also bought some started cabbage, 2 kinds of lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli and strawberries! 
     By the time I got home it was lunch so I ate and then went to help my dad finish up the handicap lift for my mom.  I had planned to go to the Escambia Search and Rescue open house, but I was running late to go to my friend, K's house and I completely forgot to stop in.  I was so frustrated! I really want to do SAR and that was a great chance to casually get info.
  
   At K's house we played games, played with her G Dane puppy and had burgers (I had 1/2 a patty with some cheese and a little mayo / mustard, 1/2 an onion ring and later about 2 Tbs of NSA banana pudding).  I was late getting home and tending to the animals so I just slept in and skipped church.

  Sunday after work I went to the gym and weighed in.... back to 287!!!! I gained 5lbs!! Only I can gain 5lbs after weight loss surgery!  I worked out and went home, disgusted and tired.

  Monday I went in to work early so I could talk to my manager about a contest for the branch, and I stayed until 1, my regular leave time.  I worked out at the gym and actually had enough energy to finish a little workout that had me sweating some. The last few weeks I wore out before I even broke a sweat.  Maybe there is hope of getting my endurance and strength back. Even if I'm not losing weight    *grrrr*

  I also ordered my horse trailer yesterday.  It is being built by a company in Crestview and he has said it will be done in time for the October trail ride.

  Today I was supposed to take Rio to the vet to have his knees checked AGAIN... but I cancelled. I don't see the point in taking him, spending money on an exam and either A) them saying nothing is wrong  or B) they actually find what is wrong, but I don't have the money to get it fixed.
    When I was out feeding the chickens and rabbits, I sent Rio into the horsetrailer / shed to entertain himself... and he did! He found a big , fat shiny rat that had been livign happily on my spilled feed and bags of sunflower and grass seeds!!  He died happy and full.

  Tomorrow I am going to visit Buddy. I have no idea when he is coming home.. his 30 days are way up and I have no intention on paying more than that.   Then on Friday I am taking Rio and Rags to get baths at the vet and then meeting Allison Shamrell Photography out at the bluffs for photos. I am even going to TRY to look decent myself so I can have some photos with Rio.   (another frustration with not losing weight)

Next week I am going to one of J-rod's golf matches. It will be the first time I have seen him since before surgery over a month ago.  :(
 Also next week is follow up with the surgeon - maybe if I am still at 11-13 lbs he will help me.... or maybe it is just the way things are going to be for me.  Typical.


Maybe it is just a melancholy kind of day.... today, I miss Buford and wish I could cuddle his sweet old face.

Good Day!

So today has been a good day so far. I would guess that not being at work in the midst of the drama happening there right now is probably part of it. I LOVE my job, but this week has been really tough.

 Anyway, on to the good stuff.

I was really tired / drained last night, so I didn't workout. I tried hard to not feel guilty about it, and for the most part I succeeded.   I slept well and then got up early to go meet with the trainer.  We redid my measurements and weight. I won't update my ticker until I weight at Dr. Friedman's, but according to this scale (which I have been using and it runs close to the surgeon's) I have lost 5lbs since Tuesday night.  Maybe there is something to getting my fluids and extra protein in  :)

 After I weighed, I sat down to put on my shoes -not even noticing the arms on the chair.  I bent over and pulled on my left shoe and sock.  Then, as I was tying the shoe on my right foot I had a shocking, almost tear inducing realization -  I had my right foot propped on my left knee so I could put on my shoe. I haven't done that in many years! I told the trainer I needed just a minute.... WOW.

   Then we went into the assessment room  and she did my measurements.  I'll list them July, August and today.          

 Forearm -July   -  13.5
August - 13.5
September - 12.75

Arm (upper) -
July -  21.0
August- 20.75
Sept    - 20.00

Chest -
July -  52.5
August - 51.0
Sept  - 47.75

Waist -
July -  47.75
August - 47.0
Sept - 43.0

Abdomen -
July -  47.0
August - 47.0
Sept - 45.5

Hips
July - 60  (I actually don't think the 60" measuring tape went all the way around, she was being nice)August - 58.75
Sept  - 56.0

Thigh -
July -  35.0
August - 35.0
Sept  - 33.25

Calf -
July - 22.5
August - 22.0
Sept  - 21.25



A Smile for the day

So overall I am very pleased! A total of 17lbs and several inches in very happy places.

The trainer did give me a fair warning about when I come back to workout.... she said she has some workouts already planned out for me!!  She said one is to do the stairwells, and at the top landing do pushups on the rails, then down, back up, pushups.
 I told her we may be looking at November before I go back AHAHAHA

  I don't know what we are going to do with my mom's lift. I can do the actual work, but I need my dad to tell me WHAT to do and he doesn't seem to really be buying into the lift thing.
   I have a lot of my "farm" chores to do ... I had some seeds come in for cool weather planting.  My garden lot has been very neglected so I am going to make containers and raised beds.  I also have chickens and rabbits to start getting ready for cooler weather.  My little Buddy horse should be coming back from the trainer next week. I sent her a text but haven't heard back from her.  I'll be working on his stall and the feed / hay room at some point (Buddy can open all of the gates and doors).  The Fair is coming up the end of October... that might present some food challenges because I am used to a philly cheesesteak and fried oreos.... and / or a funnel cake.

Regardless.... I LOVE this time of year

 I talked to my counselor about the Search and Rescue open house this weekend.  He suggested I go just as a member of the community interested in what they do, rather than someone interested in joining. He said that way it is non-threatening, I don't have to worry about them judging me as unfit for volunteering, and I can still get info and such. 

I hate logical people.  HAHA

More Catching Up

 September 11, 2001.  I was driving home from an overnight shift at work, stopped at a traffic light when the DJs said "apparently there has been an accident, a small bi-plane has hit the World Trade Center". I went on home and to bed before they learned the truth.

Those words would later haunt me as I watched rolling news footage of the hijacked airliners crashing into the World Trade Center towers, the rubble of the Pentagon, and the smoking field in Pennsylvania.
This year is the 10th "anniversary" of the attacks. I can remember the  "we're in it together" feeling in '01, compared to the "it's all about me" of today.  The Congress singing "God Bless America" on the Capitol steps, vs it being illegal for a teacher to have a Bible in school.  The times have changed, and I am not convinced it is for the better. Maybe that is the real reason we have avoided terrorist attacks - they hate us for freedom and we are losing it (mandatory healthcare insurance) and they hate us for Jesus - and we have abandoned Him for the god of ourselves.

Work is all drama all the time. It isn't fun anymore, but I still love my job and believe things will settle down at some point.  I hope.

   I have lost about 13lbs.  Kind of ridiculous considering I am just over 4wks out from surgery, but I went to support group Tuesday night and Dr. Friedman said to not worry about it. He said since I am working out I shouldn't even be stepping on the scale because my measurements are what will change most.  I am not sure I am ok with that.... weight is what has to change for me to ride Buddy, to stop worrying about if a chair will hold me, to not have a panic attack if J-Rod wants to show off by picking me up.  
  Mostly it is my fault, I am not getting in even close to 64oz of fluids because drinking makes me nauseous.  I need to just suck it up and get my fluids in.  I also am not getting enough protein.  I might get 60grms some days, but the nutritionist said since I am in the gym I should be getting around 80.  So, I ordered $100 worth of protein shake stuff.  I think the ready-to-drink kind are best for me since I don't like to stop long enough to mix one up.
   I went Monday and bought "real" running shoes.  They are comfortable enough when I am working out, but my feet hurt in the morning.  *shrug* They were $107 so I will just have to suck that up too.
  This week I started increasing the weights on my strength training. I feel so weak and I have NO endurance at all. I guess that is needing the protein.... but it is frustrating and discouraging.

   This past Friday my super-morbidly-obese mom fell in the van. We drove to the fire department and they helped her up. Saturday she couldn't stand on her own at all and only for a few seconds with help, then her knees would collapse.  We called an ambulance and after one regular unit showed up, they called the bariatric ambulance - with its big framed stretcher, ramps and winch for loading the patient. I don't want to be there.
  Anyway, the doctor said she has pretty much zero  joint space in her knees because of all the arthritis. She gave my mom shots in each knee.  My mom has been doing better, but the steroids knocked her diabetes into a tailspin (I don't want to be there).   I ordered a lift for her to go in the pool.  I am hoping and praying it will work and has a long enough reach to get her out. We'll try it out a few times before she goes in. Hopefully we'll get that in this weekend.

Tomorrow I go to get measurements with the trainer at work. I'll try to remember to update them here.

Labor Day

 Today has been a relatively easy day.   I slept late and stayed around my folks house most of the day.  I even had some pureed rib meat w/o BBQ sauce.  hehe
  I went to the gym and walked on the treadmill for about 30min, ending up about 1.25 miles.  I did pushups on the weightbar and plank pulls too. Then I used 5 lb weights for concentrated bicep curls, overhead tricep and lateral raises. Then I did .75 miles on the bike for a cooldown.

  After the gym I headed to Publix for vitamins, Mio water flavoring and Greek yogurt.  I left $140 later!!! I did get some more vitamin c, some liquid calcium (that may not work for me), some biotin (hair help), eggs, and other stuff.

I told myself I wasn't going to weigh except at Dr. Friedman's but I did.... I have only lost 8 lbs since surgery almost 3 weeks ago - and this is the stage (3 wks post op) where people hit stalls. I have to step up  my protein, calorie and water intake.  I bought some ready to drink protein at Publix so maybe I will do better about getting started with protein in the morning.  And it will count towards my liquids.


  This afternoon I had to seperate the dwarf rabbits... Oops was being a little aggressive.  I need to get them scheduled to visit the vet for neutering, hopefully they would be able to stay together after that.

Rio isn't doing real well as far as his knees are concerned. Saturday night he and Rags chased down a 'possum and attacked it. I called them off  - the possum was ok, Rio is not. Sometimes he just barely sets his left toes on the ground. He seems lame on the right knee as well. I am really worried about him, he is too young to have all of these problems.   If he is still lame tomorrow I will have to reschedule him with either the surgeon or Dr. Coy and get him checked out.   Lots of $$ going there, and he is still hurting. Makes me angry and sad.



I have a ton of things I want / need to buy:
horse trailer, pool lift for my mom, Rio another surgery, rabbits neutered.....

I was able to wear some of the jeans S gave me, and as the day went on and they stretched out they were too big.  I can't quite get into the next size down so I don't know what to do. I guess the one pair of dress type pants that fit I will wear all week lol. I have been looking at an equestrian website and still just can't buy into me being able to wear clothes from a regular store like that (especially at 8lbs lost).
 I really really want to go to the charity tril ride for the horse assistance council in October. I would take Buddy just to expose him to the activity and I would dream of fitting in... and of being able to buy a T-shirt without the lady looking at me like I had 3 heads like she did last year.

Ok... tired and sore, gotta take T-vo  to school in the morning so I need to go to bed.

Hello? (hello...helllo...helllo)

Ok... ok... I haven't been here but I have been blogging at obesityhelp.com under LJ1972, so I can catch up there.
   The short story - had problem free RNY Gastric bypass surgery at 0730 on Tusday, August 16.  I was up walking in less than 2hrs and had zero problems.  Dr. Friedman (and the nurses, and my visitors) said I didn't even look like I'd had surgery - no bent over in pain walking (except when my drain started hurting me Wednesday night), no paleness or dark shadows under my eyes, no nausea or unexplainable pain (as in, no pain that wasn't caused by outside forces - drain, driving over railroad tracks, etc).  On the day after my 1 week post-op I walked a mile, did the same the next day.
  Post-op followup with Dr. Friedman was uneventful - he was pleased with my progress and told me he would release me to general activity and gym workouts. He said to use good judgement and common sense as far as what to do - if it caused discomfort or pain to stop.
    Of course, I am too stubborn to admit I need rest after surgery so I have done too much. No pain, no soreness or issues, but just taking too much energy being taken away from healing because I am doing so much.  Had a reality check from my counselor who scolded me for the first time in the years I have been seeing him, and also someone online. They reminded me the first month my body is concentrating on healing from the trauma of major surgery and any extra energy I use working out is being taken away from the healing process.  Soo I am resting a little more.  It does feel good because I have spent the last week exhausted.
   I am also having to work on getting my water and protein in. It is so hard to remember without an appetite.

Today we have Tropical Storm Lee out in the Gulf. It is headed to Louisiana but we are expecting lots of rain and wind.  Right now it is just a steady light rain and occasional breeze.

  "Farm" notes"
The "woosters" have hit puberty so I have them in the old meatie run and Pat has the run of the backyard. I don't mind her being out there but it isn't ideal for her safety.  My friend gave me a nice rabbit hutch with a big house attached so yesterday my dad helped me divide the inside of the house in half so I can make a nesting area for Pat.  I just need to put up a some fencing to make her a small pen. I am also going to fence under the hutch - I put a platform of privacy fence panel underneath in case she is more inclined to go there in hot weather.
  The dwarf rabbits (Cheeto and Oops) are in the new hutch and Bon, the big rabbit , is in the cage my dad made for me. It is under the shelter in the meatie pen

   The day before surgery I sent Buddy off for 30 days of training.  I wish I had asked for more than just ground training, but I guess I need to start slow for both of our sakes. Trainer says he is smart and willing, and she is going to teach me to work with him.  Hopefully he will grow some more so I can ride him after he is 3 and trained (April at least).  I really really want to take him to the charity trail ride for the Horse Assistance Council, even though I can't ride him.  I think the exposure to the new environment (woods) and all of the activity would be good for him.  And I can wear jeans now and probably even fit into one of the Tshirts.  Non-Scale victory #1??

    Before surgery I worked out with CM - the trainer at the gym at work. She busted me up! IT was awesome!  I have 7 paid for sessions waiting for me once I get some energy and endurance back- probably October . I want her to help get me ready to RUN a 5k in the spring. Crazy huh?
 I am also trying to work up my nerve to go to the Escambia Search and Rescue membership meeting.... but I don't have anything to offer right now except just me.  *sigh*

Anyway... lots going on, lots of "hope" on the horizon.  I am ready to live life.   At least... I think I am.

Workouts , etc

Yay me, staying on top of this blogging thing! hehe
   So yesterday afternoon I had my first 30 minute session with the fitness trainer at work. I'm not gonna lie - I was scared to death going in!  It wasn't bad. It was a good, hard workout but I was able to do everything, I just had to set my mind to it.  She was encouraging - I had expected I guess for her to yell or something LOL- maybe I watch too much "Biggest Loser' and "Heavy"
   I am going back each Friday until the week before my surgery. In addition, I'll also be working the plans she gave me at night after work.  I want to do my part to be healthy and ready for surgery.


  My sister's friend brought me SEVEN bags of clothes yesterday. I am going to go buy a couple of tote bins so my mom and I can go through them and seperate what I won't wear. No point taking those home, just send them on to the church mission sale.  I still have to do my errands from yesterday as well (R and the boys came over so I stayed with them).  THAT means I have to leave Rio with my parents who are now napping.  I just can't get a routine.

He is doing pretty well. This pic is from Thursday night, his surgery was Wednesday. The swelling and most of the bruising are gone now.

Catching Up

I am so glad I am here writing consistently LOL.


Ok... I have been approved for my RNY gastric bypass surgery and I am scheduled for August 16.... 4 days before my 39th birthday. Hmm.   I have a 6 day clear liquid diet (protein shake for bfast, lunch and dinner and all the water, crystal lite, G2 and broth I can stand wahoooo) before surgery - it starts 8/10.  I see Dr. R on 8/2 and have various other appts throughout until surgery day (pre op education, pre-surg registration and visit with anesthesia, pre-surg consult with Dr Friedman).  I am mostly excited at this point. Dr. F's nurse assures me the anxiety will be taken care of. In fact they called in a scrip for xanax for me to start taking 8/2 twice a day and I haven't gone to get it yet - I think it has been a week. OOPS
 I also have to take my FMLA paperwork because I have to have it back within 15 days.


 But I can't just go charging out the door to get it - Rio had his TPLO surgery on his right knee yesterday. I was able to get him this morning (and that clinic reminded me how much I love my vet).  He has to have assistance (sling) to get around but he didn't get that memo - I am constantly having to make him lay back down. He does not stay well when I leave even when I tied him to my dad's chair.  I went to the vet and got him some sedatives because I have tons of stuff coming up over the next couple of weeks, not counting work!
   The ortho surgeon called yesterday to let me know Rio did ok through the surgery and he also told me that he believes I will have to be back in the fall to get Rio's left knee done.  I don't know if I can do this again - maybe I should get sedatives for ME!!!


   I have been working out very regularly, following the plan the trainer made for me. I don't think I have lost any weight, but maybe inches? *shrug*  at any rate, last night I was restless and I stretched / tightened my leg and I thought I was going to pass out... I felt a muscle in my thigh!!! (the top, not the back where all the flab is :)    ).




I need to write down my to do list for tomorrow! It is growing!
 I see Jim at 11, have to go back to the vet surgery center (they forgot to fill out my insurance stuff), go to Baptist to drop off the FMLA and pick up my scrip on the way back.  Also at 2 I have a "personal trainer" session in the gym and I feel pretty sure I will be in traction along with Rio afterwards!

Visit with Fitness Trainer and Nutritionist

  Tuesday July 5, I went to see the fitness trainer at work.  I wanted to get measurements and such before my surgery (probably early August).  I told her I was so humiliated to have someone see my size in inches - but turns out she used to work at a resort type place that did adult weight loss programs for super morbidly obese (in fact, where the show "Heavy" is filmed).   She also came up with a custom workout plan for me and emailed it to me on Wednesday.  She sent 3 different routines for 3 days a week for 3 weeks, then I will go back for more measurements.  I did the 1st circuit Wednesday night and it was great! Hard, but doable. I left drenched in sweat but very happy with my effort - it was the perfect combination of pushing myself and being able to go the distance.


   Wednesday morning I saw the nutritionist for my final visit of 6.  Now Dr. Friedman's office will send in my info to the insurance and see if I get approved.  Once I have approval it will be a quick turn around to scheduling pre-op education class (a 2hr Monday evening) and then scheduling the surgery. I am hoping for around Aug 8-9 so that my sister will be off work and can stay at the hospital at least the very first night with me. Also, my counselor J will be out of town the end of July - 2nd of August and I want him to be in town in case I have a panic attack in my hospital room.


Anyway, these were my "stats" from the trainer Tuesday:


Weight 316.3
% Body fat - 55.10%  (ugh )


Measurements:
Waist  - 47.75
Bicep - 21
Chest - 52.5
Hip - 60 (baby got back... and back... and more back)
Thigh - 35 (she measured way different than I thought, my upper thighs are def bigger than that)
Calf - 22.5  (you notice my upper arm is almost as big as my calf? I'm thinking there will be need for PS there)






I'm not getting upset or down on myself for the measurements - I am working too hard to fix them so there is no point in getting all worked up. They do reaffirm my need for help, though.

Copy / Paste

Since I have fallen behind here, I will just copy / paste from my OH blog  :)
----------------------------
June 25
 Last night I was thinking about surgery and about how I had an anxiety attack waking up from my wisdom teeth surgery.  I was thinking (worrying) about being "tied down'  by IV tubes and compression socks, etc.  About going sooo long without anything to drink and how that dry scratchy throat triggers panic attacks for me.... and right there last night I had horrible anxiety. I had to get up after a while and take some meds because it was like there was electricity all under my skin.

  If I freak out just THINKING about those things, what is going to happen when they are reality?
I have told my surgeon's nurse about my anxiety, but I just don't know how to impress on them how much of a problem it can really be.  I see my PCP but not until Aug 2 so I don't know if that will be time for him to help me through it or not. My counselor will be in town and available, but that isn't going to do me much good in recovery.   *sigh*  I am afraid.  Not of pain (not looking forward to it, but not afraid of it), not of dying (I am a Christian and know where I will be).... I am afraid of being afraid!!  sheesh.  
------------------------

July 1
I had my session with J, my counselor today. I have been seeing him for years because of PTSD, depression, etc and he will be my counselor through the WLS as well.  I am buddies with him and his wife... not "Grill out and watch the game" kind of friends, but  "wave hello at church and give me a call sometime" buddies.  He is very excited for me having WLS and has been reading mental health sites so he will be brushed up / fresh on the info.... that means a lot to me.

   We talked some about my anxiety attack last Friday night.  He wants me to continue to picture myself going through the pre-surgery admission process but to be more aware of when I start feeling anxious.  I will call him as soon as I am halfway coherent after surgery - my sister will call him and let him know how I am doing. He said he and his wife may come visit if it is ok with me - I am thinking who cares if he hears me "toot",  I will love to have a grounding visit from him. 

   I have a busy day tomorrow. I keep planning to do so much towards exercising and I always seem to get through the day without it.  I did do a lot of hard work outside in the 98* heat today for about an hour.  Tomorrow morning I am doing maternity photos for a friend and my nephew has a 3pm baseball game, then back to work on Sunday (and July 4). 

Next week I see the NUT for the final time (6th visit) on Wednesday.  I have also emailed the fitness trainer who works in my employer's gym and she is going to do measurements, a fitness assessment and help me come up with a workout plan for the next few weeks pre-op.  We'll see where to go with it once I am cleared for working out again.

 Each payday I buy a little something for my post-op kitchen. RIght now I don't cook at all, but I know that will have to change post-op.  I have printed some seemingly simple recipes from Nik and a few from eggface.  I bought a mini-chopper, a blender, a stick mixer (is that what it is called?  LOL ), a mini-loaf pan and today a mini-muffin pan.   Now I really need to clean and organize my kitchen so I have somewhere to put this stuff (along with the 3 bottles so far of SF syrup).

Catching up

Work was so stressful the last few months - always looking over your shoulder and expecting to see a glowing target on  your back  Thankfully the reign of terror has ended and we are entering a much more peaceful time.
   I was awarded the Sustained Superior Performance award and bonus again. I was very surprised and very happy.  I have made some adjustments for the future - many of them easier to do since I no longer have such a boulder of stress hanging from my neck.

  We finally had some rain. The pasture grass was brown and crunchy.  The horses have pawed until there are bare patches of dirt and sand.  After the rain we have a little green grass, but nothing to get too excited about. I am still running the sprinkler every now and then so hopefully in a couple of days it will be good enough to turn the horses out on it.

I had my #5 nutritionist vist of the required 6.  I go back on July 6 and then they will submit to my insurance for approval.  The lady said "end of July" but I am going to ask to wait until August. Princess and J-Rod have birthdays the end of July (28 and 29), and while there is only a .00001% chance of something really bad happening at my surgery, I'm not willing to take even that much of a chance on / at their birthdays.   "Princess what did you do for your 21st birthday?"  "I visited my aunt in ICU, she stroked out on the operating table".... "JRod - why are you sad on your birthday?"  "MY aunt died on my 16th birthday".   Yeah - no thanks, not gonna ruin their days!!!

 Besides that gives me more time to get some weight off. I didn't lose anything this past month and I had all kinds of excuses (Losing Buford, trip to Texas, being very gastro-intestinally challenged for 2 wks)... but the fact is I didn't exercise, at all.  I have to get going on intentional workouts.  I have been swimming the last few days in a row... really swimming, not just floating. And I do some exercises and play around so that I am moving.

  

 I would like to start walking in the early mornings, but since Rio didn't have his knee surgery I am hestitant to take him with me, and I don't want to walk alone. I guess I can take Rags lol

I did tell the nurse that I will require some anxiety meds - no exceptions. I can just see me freaking out in recovery and doing to my new surgery tubes what I did to the CPAP (shredding it across the room in my sleep!). She assured me they will stay ahead of the anxiety and take care of me.   I sure hope so.

Don't Pay the Ransom

 I haven't been abducted by aliens, it has just been a crazy few weeks.
First and worst - On May 24 I had to say goodbye to Buford. I have cried most days since then. I was unable to dig his grave because of insane back pain (where I pulled something quite some time ago carrying him), so I had him cremated. Oh Lord it hurt me so much to leave him there.   He is home now, but it breaks my heart to see the urn. I don't know what I am going to do.  :(

(More bad news, the last few days Elmo the cat has been missing. I don't think he is coming home this time around.  :(   )

 On May 26 I left at 330am going to Texas for my nephew's graduation.  Spent that evening (thursday) with my niece, Friday with niece and nephew then at graduation and then Saturday we visted a couple of BBQ places that have been on "Man vs Food" TV show.  I left around 5pm and drove 10 1/2 hours back, getting home around 330am.

Memorial Day, Monday 5/30, I was sick with a stomach bug - fever and such.  I have had stomach issues everyday since then and it is becoming a real problem for me (no details, this IS the Net, even if nobody reads here lol).

 Work is looking up, bad boss is leaving... WOOT!

I see the nutritionist (NUT) on Monday 6/13 for my 5th weigh-in of 6.  I am really nervous, but I don't know what else I can do... I am tired of little kids walking by saying "Why is she so fat?"  etc

Rio was supposed to have knee surgery on 6/7 but he was doing really well so the ortho doc said he didn't feel comfortable putting him through such a major surgery if it wasn't really necessary - I was fine with that decision!  Now I am nervous Nellie about everything - scared he will reinjure his knee and end up having to have surgery anyway.

Funny look of Progress

Well, I finally got the store bought chicks out of the wire kennel and into the chicken yard - but only because yesterday morning leaving to take the boys to school I found a little female Lab.  She is really sweet, not very well trained except for crate trained. She must spend most of her time in a kennel.  Anyway, yesterday I spent 2 hours going up and down the roads closest to where I found her, knocking on doors and asking if anyone was missing her or knew of someone who might be missing her. No joy.
  I made signs and posted them yesterday but didn't get any bites. Last night I printed color signs (the print only goes to 72 font, but I printed them in red) and put them up this morning. I even expanded my sign area.  I called my vet and animal control to list her as found, still need to contact a few other vets.
  At first I thought it would be cool to keep her  - but for the first time in my life I have a single dog that fulfills that companionship void completely. In fact, with Rio it overflows.

  This morning I did the pointless act of running the sprinkler on the garden. I am really disappointed the peas aren't coming up - may scatter the remainder of seeds and just see what happens.

  I go back to the nutritionist on Monday 5/16. I still don't have my act together as far as what I am eating and when.   Aggravating.
Then on 5/17 I take Rio to the specialist. I am more nervous about his surgery than my own.... I just don't see flambouyant Rio being happy with a month's strict rest.  My parents did say he could stay inside with them while I am at work, so that helps some.

 Well - off to call some vets and hopefully get a nap now that Buford is sleeping soundly. I don't know why 5am has become his magic hour to need to get up and bark until 7. This morning I almost lost my patience.... too tired!

Hamster wheels

Ever run so hard and fast but when you look around  you have made zero progress?  Hamster wheels.


  Work has me on edge constantly - very very unusual.


Buford is doing well - had to take him to the vet today to have a patch of hair shaved because he has a hotspot coming on.


Took Rio to the vet this past Wednesday  and they sedated him to check his knee. He has a partially torn ACL in his right knee.  Since he is so big (111 lbs) and active (think K9 version of MMA) my vet said his medical recommendation is to take Rio to a specialist. Financially I'd rather keep it at my vet - but realistically the specialist is going to be the best option for a great outcome. I am trying to keep Rio inside with me as much as possible until we go to the consultation with the specialist on 5/17.  The surgery will probably be the first week in June, since I will be gone the end of May to B's graduation in Texas.
  I am really hoping my parents will let Rio stay inside with them while I am at work - after the surgery he has to have 4-6 weeks of strict rest.


 Chicken news - none really.  Took the 2 little bought chicks outside today and put them in the big wire kennel. I need to figure out how to start introducing them to the bigger chicks and Pat, because that is probably where they will end up.
   Rabbits have been staying outside. I need to put a few more water bottles  / jugs in the freezer because it is already starting to get too hot for them.  I may end up bringing them in for the summer.  Blech


 Garden.  *sigh*  My garden.  Not doing much. A few scattered peas here and there, about a dozen or so corn stalks, some radish and tomatoes. Squash only about 3 of 11 have come up, no sign of mustard or green beans (think it was too late to plant beans).  Kind of aggravating and makes it very difficult to find the motivation to go out and pull weeds / grass.  Especially when my back is still giving me horrible fits of pain.


   I think I am going to have to just start cooking and eating at home. I really don't have the money to support groceries and Rio's surgery, but if I plan to make a go at this surgery thing I dang well better get on the ball with eating like the nutritionist tells me to and exercising. I also need to get on a schedule and start writing everything down.  It is too easy to skip writing when I am at my mom's.  I thought she would help more than she really has as far as menu.... she started out seeming committed to help, but now we have a lot of stuff like hot dogs, breaded steak, etc.


  Some of my depression and doubts have come up again. There are areas in my life that I feel keep me from developing the walk with God that I had at one time.... I know I either need to let them go cold turkey or work through them with Jim.  Neither one of those options is very appealing at the moment.   *sigh*

Just Checking In

My back is still bothering me, but I had to pull grass out of the garden. I did as much as I could but finally gave up. I ran the sprinkler for about an hour yesterday evening and this morning there was a whole new crop of grass.  *sigh*
   I decided yesterday was a good day to see if all of the rabbits would get along in the same cage - they got along much better than I anticipated and I discovered Bon Bon is indeed a male! Hopefully his little rendezvous was harmless because I would worry about a baby dwarf having a big rabbits kits.

  Today I pulled several onions and dug up some tiny potatoes.  I have a little sunflower growing out of the compost pile, along with a few squash plants and a random zuchinni plant. So far my tomato plants are doing ok (except the original 5 that died!) and my one big Early Girl plant has a lot of tomatoes. My peach tree has about 15 hard knot peaches.

  I have been spending a lot of time at http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/ and enjoying all of the recipes and ideas for WLS meals.  I have ordered a stick blender, a mini-chopper and a bento box. I think I'll end up getting some DaVinci flavored syrups since they are evidently good to change up greek yogurt, cottage cheese, etc.
  I also have been reading on obesityhelp.com , studying the blogs of those who have been through surgery and are now thriving. I read the good and the bad... got scared, excited and afraid of failing.  It is going to be a big change trying to work out meals since what  my mom makes won't work anymore.

What's Happening (not much)

 I strained the small of my back carrying Buford out a couple of weeks ago when he was "stoned" on his valium.  Now, stooping over in the garden, squatting to pick blackberries and even standing while working shoulder level causes me a lot of pain. I suppose the answer is to rest my back but I have too much to do!  I still have tomato transplants to get in the ground, 4 bell peppers to put in the ground and I guess I will still try planting okra even though it is probably way too late.

   The boys helped me move the new big rabbit cage my dad built and we put it inside Pat the bullied hen's pen.  She is keeping company with 8 of the 7wk old chicks - Melvin came and got 3. 

I put Bon Bon the black rabbit in the new pen, and keep the dwarfs (Oops blk/wht and Cheeto) in their pen set on top.

  My meal planning is a flop. I have absolutely got to get a handle on counting, measuring and journaling. It may mean staying home and doing for myself, but if that is what it takes that is what I will do. I so want to succeed at this.


  No real news. I am trying to put money aside for the $250 admin fee for the surgery, as well as some funds for traveling to Texas at the end of May for B's graduation.

Working and working out

 Each morning I meet my friend at the gym. We have been doing the video from "The Biggest Loser" with Bob Harper. This week we stepped up from the first cardio level to "Strength and Sculpt".  Mercy! My shoulders and legs are so tired and sore!

  Today I brought the "My Meal Plan" brochure that the nutritionist gave me down for my  mom to look at. She is going to be my biggest help, advocate, etc in this, I am really depending on her to help me through. I asked another friend about staying with me the first night after my surgery... I may regret it but everybody says you need someone there, I don't have anyone else.

 One of Yankee's chicks got into the big water tub and drowned. :(

I picked black berries yesterday - just a couple of cups worth but they are still growing like crazy. I also picked a big salad bowl full of english peas ... YUM!

I am tired and sore. Still have to tend the horses then I may try to get a nap before work. I know this was a very informative post, but I just want to stay in the habit of coming here!

Starting over.... again

I hope that now I will be more aware and reliable as far as posting here. I have decided to have the RNY gastric bypass surgery. My insurance requires 6 months of supervised weight loss, and I have done 3.  I am working out in the gym some, and out in the yard a lot. I changed to Dr. Jeffrey Friedman at Baptist Hospital's "Bariatic Center of Excellence" and they are great - much friendlier and more informative than the guy at SHH.
  A friend had the surgery on 4/12 and is doing well. She said she will take notes (literally) for me so I can know more of what to expect. Some days I still get pretty scared, but I think at this point the surgery is my only hope. The majority of the time I am really excited about being able to get active and involved.
 I want to buy normal sized jeans from a normal store, ride horses, bikes and amusement park rides. I want to go to a waterpark and do something besides watch. Watching was fine when that was the only option - I love "my" kids and if they are having fun I am happy.... but to even consider riding for myself gets me so excited!  I want to go canoeing, and hiking. I want to do a 5k - even a walking one. Maybe I will even book a flight somewhere, just to fit in the seat.
   I will take "before" photos soon, and I will post everything (weight, measurements, photos) when I know for sure I am having the surgery.So far I think I have lost 20lbs dieting /exercise.

  Last week I got the results from the required psych eval. Despite all differing opinions from my friends and family I am NOT crazy! Woot!  I did rank above average, but still in the normal range, for anxiety and "social isolation" (paranoia). I also ranked above average for creativity and way below average for rash actions / racing thoughts etc.   :)

  Sorry this is so long, but some "farm" notes:
March 6-7 hatched 11 chicks in an incubator borrowed from my neighbor. They are 6 wks old now and I think I have 2 roos and 9 pullets. No idea for sure though lol.  I put them with Pat in her "solitary" pen and they all get along ok so far.

Over the past week or 2 my Jersey Giant hen, Yankee, has hatched 3 chicks and still has a few eggs she is setting on from time to time.

I bought 3 rabbits (yes, I know, 3 rabbits).  1 is a smoky black "floppy" (aka mutt) and the other 2 are dwarfs - a cinnamon and a black/white one.  My dad is building a hutch and I will have furry compost makers.

Speaking of compost - my potato baskets may not make the first potato, but  there is some black gold working in the straw / poo / compost / leaves I have been putting in there.

Yesterday I pretty much finished up my garden:
2 kinds of cukes in one row
white tip radish
11 yellow squash (crook and straight neck)
3 butternut squash
4 zukes
1/2 row mustard
1/2 row white icicle radish
3 rows Mississippi Silverskin peas
4 rows pinkeye purple hull peas
2 rows "Blue Lake Bush peas"
2 rows Golden Queen corn
1 row of Peaches n Cream corn (scattered the rest - I was tired!!)

I still have a little okra I want to plant, as well as some marigolds and sunflowers. I will be buying landscape timbers to put flower beds in around the trailer. Also want to get my pixie gardenias this year!!

Ok that is long enough for now. I really hope to get my act together and record my weight loss journey here, as well as my gardening adventures!!