Friday, June 17, 2011
School and such
So, I've been in the teaching program for a little over a week now and it's going great. One of the things we learned about recently was online presence, and how to make it school/work appropriate. As my teacher said "if you don't think your grandma would like it, don't put it online". Pretty good advice, especially for me, as my grandma was the prim and proper sort. My facebook definitely needed some tweaking. I'm going to me reviewing my blog in the next week or so. I think its mostly pretty boring, but if I find anything even possibly questionable, I'm going to put it on private settings. I kinda doubt anyone reads it anyway ;)
Monday, May 30, 2011
Garden happy!
Last year my container gardening didn't go so well; the "Topsy Turvy" tomato planter didn't really work out. This year I planted tomato, bell pepper, and mint plants. The mint I actually planted in three different pots, 2 inside, 1 outside. The outside one is thriving, while one of the inside ones is dead and the other isn't doing so hot. I have 2 golf ball sized tomatos so far (I think it may be all I get; I don't see any other buds) and several little buds of a bell pepper. :)
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Happy Dance Time and Other Nonsense
I FINALLY hit 80! Woot! I immediately went to Vashj'ir, and pretty much immediately decided that I hate it. Seriously, I have to fight underwater, but I'm not allowed to eat or drink?! That SOO does not fit my playstyle. I'll try it out a bit longer, but I may skip this zone.
On a totally unrelated note, I finally went to the eye doc here and got new glasses (transitions!) and contact prescription. Only after I arrived at wally world to get my scrip thru 1800contacts did I realize that the scrip said "good for 8 boxes". Say what? They limited the amount of contacts I can get?? Okay, 3 pair of lenses per box times 8 boxes = 24 pairs, times two weeks wear per pair = 48 weeks. Ok, so they gave me one pair in the office, so tack on another 2 weeks. 50 weeks. That's less than a years worth of contacts. And what if a contact tears? Or I drop it down the sink? Or I lose my contact case?? WTF am I supposed to do then, go back to the doc and pay for another scrip when its out of pocket (no insurance), there is nothing really wrong with my eyes (just near-sighted) and my scrip hasn't changed recently. Believe me, I'll go the the eye doc if I can tell my vision is changing, but its ridiculous to have to go back every year (or less than!) just so I can get some freaking contact lenses!!
Ahem.
So I called them, asking what this was about, as I have NEVER had a doc put a limit on the amount of contacts I can get. They said that's enough for a year. I bring up the tearing/dropping/losing. They said that if that happens I can call them and they can see about getting me another box or two. Great.
They are NOT going to get any repeat business from me. I don't care if I have to drive to the metroplex or even all the way to my parents.
Personally, I think he did it because I wanted the scrip written out and wasn't going to buy the contacts from him.
I know the reasoning is probably something about the health of your eyes, yadda yadda. Well, guess what? It's kinda like my reasoning towards BC pills. It's just a thing that the healthcare industry has going for them so they can make more money. I think a reasonably healthy person should not have to go to the doctor every flippin' year to get a scrip that really has nothing to do with my health.
BC pills? Not taking them for my health (I actually prefers how my body feels NOT on them); I'm taking them so we don't have a kid before we're financially and emotionally ready to handle one. Yes, there are alternatives. And just like the alternatives, the BC pill doesn't actually have a lot to do with getting a pap smear.
Contact lenses? Once again, not for my health (shit, if I HAD a medical issue with my eyes, I wouldn't be nearly as opposed to going to the eye doc, especially as it would be covered under MEDICAL insurance). I just can't see anything more than 6 inches in front of my face. And yes, there are alternatives (I'm in fact wearing my "alternatives" right now). Guess what? Limiting the amount of contacts I can get in a year is NOT going to improve the health of my eyes, because I'm just going to stretch out the lifespan of each pair. I WILL NOT go back to the eye doc in a years time; I figure I can make it until July/August of next year, because at the very least I can wear my glasses instead (which I really only bought as backups). And I WILL NOT be going back to the same guy. I will go the the city and go to one of the places in the mall or I will go to the place I went as a kid, as neither of those places has every limited the amount of contacts I can get.
On a totally unrelated note, I finally went to the eye doc here and got new glasses (transitions!) and contact prescription. Only after I arrived at wally world to get my scrip thru 1800contacts did I realize that the scrip said "good for 8 boxes". Say what? They limited the amount of contacts I can get?? Okay, 3 pair of lenses per box times 8 boxes = 24 pairs, times two weeks wear per pair = 48 weeks. Ok, so they gave me one pair in the office, so tack on another 2 weeks. 50 weeks. That's less than a years worth of contacts. And what if a contact tears? Or I drop it down the sink? Or I lose my contact case?? WTF am I supposed to do then, go back to the doc and pay for another scrip when its out of pocket (no insurance), there is nothing really wrong with my eyes (just near-sighted) and my scrip hasn't changed recently. Believe me, I'll go the the eye doc if I can tell my vision is changing, but its ridiculous to have to go back every year (or less than!) just so I can get some freaking contact lenses!!
Ahem.
So I called them, asking what this was about, as I have NEVER had a doc put a limit on the amount of contacts I can get. They said that's enough for a year. I bring up the tearing/dropping/losing. They said that if that happens I can call them and they can see about getting me another box or two. Great.
They are NOT going to get any repeat business from me. I don't care if I have to drive to the metroplex or even all the way to my parents.
Personally, I think he did it because I wanted the scrip written out and wasn't going to buy the contacts from him.
I know the reasoning is probably something about the health of your eyes, yadda yadda. Well, guess what? It's kinda like my reasoning towards BC pills. It's just a thing that the healthcare industry has going for them so they can make more money. I think a reasonably healthy person should not have to go to the doctor every flippin' year to get a scrip that really has nothing to do with my health.
BC pills? Not taking them for my health (I actually prefers how my body feels NOT on them); I'm taking them so we don't have a kid before we're financially and emotionally ready to handle one. Yes, there are alternatives. And just like the alternatives, the BC pill doesn't actually have a lot to do with getting a pap smear.
Contact lenses? Once again, not for my health (shit, if I HAD a medical issue with my eyes, I wouldn't be nearly as opposed to going to the eye doc, especially as it would be covered under MEDICAL insurance). I just can't see anything more than 6 inches in front of my face. And yes, there are alternatives (I'm in fact wearing my "alternatives" right now). Guess what? Limiting the amount of contacts I can get in a year is NOT going to improve the health of my eyes, because I'm just going to stretch out the lifespan of each pair. I WILL NOT go back to the eye doc in a years time; I figure I can make it until July/August of next year, because at the very least I can wear my glasses instead (which I really only bought as backups). And I WILL NOT be going back to the same guy. I will go the the city and go to one of the places in the mall or I will go to the place I went as a kid, as neither of those places has every limited the amount of contacts I can get.
Friday, April 29, 2011
mmmm... salad
For something different, we ate salad with chicken strips yesterday. Today, I took the salad, added some leftovers, and stuff I had on hand and made myself a delicious dinner.
Sauteed diced bell paper (which I had in the freezer), canned diced tomato, added some steak seasoning. Added some small chunks of leftover turkey, and when it was all cooked, a couple handfuls of salad greens. After the greens were wilted, poured the mixture over fresh greens and added some mozzarella and my homemade red wine vinegrette.
Sauteed diced bell paper (which I had in the freezer), canned diced tomato, added some steak seasoning. Added some small chunks of leftover turkey, and when it was all cooked, a couple handfuls of salad greens. After the greens were wilted, poured the mixture over fresh greens and added some mozzarella and my homemade red wine vinegrette.
Monday, April 25, 2011
I haz a happy... and a sad
Happy: I finally came across a female orc and got my "Noble" title!
Sad: The cowboy brothers were kicked off "The Amazing Race" last night. I really hate most 'reality' tv, bust TAR is my weakness. The husbeast and I watch it together and we were really rooting for the cowboys to win it this time. They were doing so well at the beginning, but then they started making stupid mistakes (like choosing to take the later flight in the previous episode. WTF boys?). I guess now I'm gonna be rooting for the father/daughter team.
Sad: The cowboy brothers were kicked off "The Amazing Race" last night. I really hate most 'reality' tv, bust TAR is my weakness. The husbeast and I watch it together and we were really rooting for the cowboys to win it this time. They were doing so well at the beginning, but then they started making stupid mistakes (like choosing to take the later flight in the previous episode. WTF boys?). I guess now I'm gonna be rooting for the father/daughter team.
Dreamy
Last night, I had a dream that I was pregnant. It was so real that when I woke up, I was almost shocked to NOT have a big belly. :(
Totally unrelated:
It's Noblegarden time in WoW!! It's one of the few holidays where I really have time to spend, because we don't do a lot for easter. Turns out, I've already completed most of the achievements. The only thing left to do is to throw some bunny ears on a female orc (which are apparently ridiculously hard to find), eat about 50 more chocolates (easy-peasy) and get a lovely dress from an egg (sheer luck required).
I was fixing to spaz out over finding a female dwarf (ally version of a female orc, lol) but someone was advertising in Stormwind, so I got it! Also got the blushing bride achieve that way. And once I get the title, I'm gonna save up enough chocolates to get the bunny polymorph :)
Also totally unrelated:
I think I have either some kind of weird stomach virus/food poisoning that is only affecting my lower GI (no puking) or my lactose intolerance is really getting out of control. Serious stomach issues today and last night, and no dairy since yesterday morning (which was 2 biscuits with margarine, so minimal dairy, and I took a lactaid). Grrr
Totally unrelated:
It's Noblegarden time in WoW!! It's one of the few holidays where I really have time to spend, because we don't do a lot for easter. Turns out, I've already completed most of the achievements. The only thing left to do is to throw some bunny ears on a female orc (which are apparently ridiculously hard to find), eat about 50 more chocolates (easy-peasy) and get a lovely dress from an egg (sheer luck required).
I was fixing to spaz out over finding a female dwarf (ally version of a female orc, lol) but someone was advertising in Stormwind, so I got it! Also got the blushing bride achieve that way. And once I get the title, I'm gonna save up enough chocolates to get the bunny polymorph :)
Also totally unrelated:
I think I have either some kind of weird stomach virus/food poisoning that is only affecting my lower GI (no puking) or my lactose intolerance is really getting out of control. Serious stomach issues today and last night, and no dairy since yesterday morning (which was 2 biscuits with margarine, so minimal dairy, and I took a lactaid). Grrr
Monday, April 11, 2011
I love small town schools!
So, as part of the program to get my teaching certificate, I have to do 30 hours of observation in the classroom.
First, I called the local middle school. Got a secretary which sent me to the principals voice mail - never heard back.
Contacted the middle school of the next town (smaller). Got a secretary, which sent me to a teacher that handles that kind of thing. Had to go out there and sign some paperwork, done.
Contacted an even smaller school (they only go up to 8th grade). Got the superintendent, who told me that the principal usually handles that, and to just come out whenever. Awesome!
First, I called the local middle school. Got a secretary which sent me to the principals voice mail - never heard back.
Contacted the middle school of the next town (smaller). Got a secretary, which sent me to a teacher that handles that kind of thing. Had to go out there and sign some paperwork, done.
Contacted an even smaller school (they only go up to 8th grade). Got the superintendent, who told me that the principal usually handles that, and to just come out whenever. Awesome!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
March
My birthday was pretty good. Went to see the parents. Dogs had a ball getting all gross in the creek. Not only did my parents buy us a new freezer, but my mom also got me a new sewing machine, and when we went shopping she paid for a new dress and shirt.
I went to the doc the day after my birthday about my shoulder. Turns out its not my rotator cuff. My mom just assumed that, and I guess my human anatomy knowledge isn't all that great. When I say that my shoulder hurts, I was referring to my shoulder-blade (scapular) area, not the socket joint. Doc says that its likely an injury to my trapezius that never healed; how it hasn't healed in 10 years is beyond me, and he didn't have an explanation for that. He said he could give me a cortizone injection to reduce inflammation, which should help with the pain, and it would kick in in about 30 minutes.
I almost cried in the exam room as I really felt that this was not a permanent fix (which its not; but it is a longer-term solution than taking ibuprofen for inflammation and pain). I suppose its a better diagnosis, as surgery is not required, but I just really wanted something to fix it for good, and it doesn't seem like that is going to happen. BTW, it did not kick in in 30 minutes, and has not reduced my pain as far as I can tell. Because my mom and husband were in the exam room and running their mouths, I forgot to mention the "popping" feeling that occurs sometimes and is often followed by the worst pain. I go back next month, and will try to mention it then; I am keeping a log of symptoms to bring with me as well.
I went to the doc the day after my birthday about my shoulder. Turns out its not my rotator cuff. My mom just assumed that, and I guess my human anatomy knowledge isn't all that great. When I say that my shoulder hurts, I was referring to my shoulder-blade (scapular) area, not the socket joint. Doc says that its likely an injury to my trapezius that never healed; how it hasn't healed in 10 years is beyond me, and he didn't have an explanation for that. He said he could give me a cortizone injection to reduce inflammation, which should help with the pain, and it would kick in in about 30 minutes.
I almost cried in the exam room as I really felt that this was not a permanent fix (which its not; but it is a longer-term solution than taking ibuprofen for inflammation and pain). I suppose its a better diagnosis, as surgery is not required, but I just really wanted something to fix it for good, and it doesn't seem like that is going to happen. BTW, it did not kick in in 30 minutes, and has not reduced my pain as far as I can tell. Because my mom and husband were in the exam room and running their mouths, I forgot to mention the "popping" feeling that occurs sometimes and is often followed by the worst pain. I go back next month, and will try to mention it then; I am keeping a log of symptoms to bring with me as well.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
F-ing Hell!!
Grr.. My shoulder hurts!! Tuesday I moved it in a weird way and it really hurt - sharp shooting pain. I tried not to use it, Took a hot shower, Marcus rubbed some Ben-gay on it and I took some ibuprofen and Wednesday morning it seemed fine. Well, by that evening it was hurting again - I suppose I used it too much. Shower, bengay, ibuprofen, a shot of whiskey in my tea, bedtime. Still hurts this morning, but it did lessen after ibuprofen. I'm glad I'll be going to the doctor, because I'm really getting tired of this, especially as its hurt so many days in a row.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Update
Ok, so I know I was very late in posting the last half of our China trip. What can I say? I'm a bit of a procrastinator.
On January 21st, we went to the eye doctor. Marcus's peripheral vision has improved significantly, moreso in the left eye (dominant) than the right. His overall center vision has also improved. In August, his corrected vision was 20/100, now it is 20/60. His eye doctor wants to see him about every 6 weeks for the next 6 months, to monitor his progress, so his next appointment is March 7th. She's super nice and gave him a sample pair of contacts so he won't have to buy a new box every time his prescription changes. Also got him a new hand-held electronic magnifier since his other one died. Also he got new glasses.
On January 21st, we went to the eye doctor. Marcus's peripheral vision has improved significantly, moreso in the left eye (dominant) than the right. His overall center vision has also improved. In August, his corrected vision was 20/100, now it is 20/60. His eye doctor wants to see him about every 6 weeks for the next 6 months, to monitor his progress, so his next appointment is March 7th. She's super nice and gave him a sample pair of contacts so he won't have to buy a new box every time his prescription changes. Also got him a new hand-held electronic magnifier since his other one died. Also he got new glasses.
China Trip: Last few days and coming home!
January 14:
Briefly met the new people. They're from Georgia. Jacob, mom Ashley and grandpa. Jacob has ONH and autism.
Last treatment today! Going to eye hospital later, but preliminary tests today indicates that Marcus's vision has doubled!
Had the fried shrimp from the Japanese place today - pretty good.
January 15:
Went to the eye hospital downtown today. Said both eyes have improved, the right eye (the one that got the retro) more than the left. Ate a late lunch from McDonalds, curtesy of Beike. Chatted with Erin a little bit. Susan, Sherry, and Linda went to get massages. Saw the new people (from Venezuala). Had most everything packed and ready to go, but Joyce told us we could stay in our room.
January 16:
Skipped trip into town because Marcus didn't feel good. Moved rooms. Hung out with Charles, got his email addy. Ate dinner at Doubletree with Sherry, Susan, Ashlynn, Joyce, Amanda and Lucy. Leaving tomorrow!!
January 17:
Left around noon from Qingdao, had spicy shrimp and rice for lunch.
Left Seoul around 4:30. Watched two movies; didn't sleep much.
Got in early to LA.
From LA to Dallas got kinda sick. Marcus's parents picked us up from the airport. Went to bed around 9pm
Briefly met the new people. They're from Georgia. Jacob, mom Ashley and grandpa. Jacob has ONH and autism.
Last treatment today! Going to eye hospital later, but preliminary tests today indicates that Marcus's vision has doubled!
Had the fried shrimp from the Japanese place today - pretty good.
January 15:
Went to the eye hospital downtown today. Said both eyes have improved, the right eye (the one that got the retro) more than the left. Ate a late lunch from McDonalds, curtesy of Beike. Chatted with Erin a little bit. Susan, Sherry, and Linda went to get massages. Saw the new people (from Venezuala). Had most everything packed and ready to go, but Joyce told us we could stay in our room.
January 16:
Skipped trip into town because Marcus didn't feel good. Moved rooms. Hung out with Charles, got his email addy. Ate dinner at Doubletree with Sherry, Susan, Ashlynn, Joyce, Amanda and Lucy. Leaving tomorrow!!
January 17:
Left around noon from Qingdao, had spicy shrimp and rice for lunch.
Left Seoul around 4:30. Watched two movies; didn't sleep much.
Got in early to LA.
From LA to Dallas got kinda sick. Marcus's parents picked us up from the airport. Went to bed around 9pm
China Trip: Week Four
January 7:
Dr Sunny and Dr Lisa came in today with the revised treatment plan. Marcus will be getting a retrobulbar injection on Monday and an IV on Friday. They tested his eyes using an "E" chart. They said his vision has improved a little bit. He says his glasses do seem a bit blurry. It's still early though. Ashlynn has a retro today. The new kid is a 6 year old boy with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. Not only was their flight delayed for 12 hours, but their luggage was left in Beijing.
January 8:
Ate at JQY noodles (Japanese food) at the mall and shopped around for a little bit. Ate dinner at Holiday Inn (again). Changed plans to go to the polar ocean world instead of the zoo because of the weather report for tomorrow (20% chance of snow, temps -1 to -11C / 12-30 F)
Invited the Hendersons to to with us as well - the van is gonna be packed!
January 9:
Snowing when woke up; Charlie wants to wait until 9:30 to see if the snow stops.
Slowed down enough to go. Ate at Diner and went to Polar Ocean World. Very fun - took lots of pics.
January 10:
Marcus had his 2nd retro today. Because of the valium, he slept until about 6pm.
At 3:00, I went to Lottemart with Sherry and Ashlynn - the lines were ridiculous and we didn't get back to the hospital until 5:00.
Started watching Robin Hood, but didn't finish it. Too tired, will finish tomorrow.
January 11:
Went to McDonalds for lunch with Charles, Ashlynn, Erin, Brandon and Marcus (Sherry, Susan and Linda went to Jimo this morning)
Made muffins this morning, almost knocked them all onto the floor; managed to save all but one.
Gonna finish Robin Hood and knit. My goal is to finish mama's socks and start on daddy's before we leave. A week from now we'll be home!
An American Beike rep who lives in China came by today to talk to us. He does video and web design and is going to interview Marcus about his experience here.
January 12:
Another boring day. Marcus slept between his treatments since he didn't take a nap yesterday. Ashlynn got her last lumbar today. Poor Brandon was sick with a stomach-bug type thing.
Talking to my mom today, she told me how she was reading the Outlander series (was on the 3rd one) and said I should read it. Told her I had just read the first one on the way here, so she is going to bring the books to me when she comes up to visit when we get back!
January 13:
Ate lunch at JQY noodles with Sherry, Ashlynn and Susan. Marcus stayed at the hospital and I brought him back KFC. Brandon is still sick so the Hendersons stayed in today. The new people arrived around 10:30 this morning; and 8 year old boy, I believe.
Dr Sunny and Dr Lisa came in today with the revised treatment plan. Marcus will be getting a retrobulbar injection on Monday and an IV on Friday. They tested his eyes using an "E" chart. They said his vision has improved a little bit. He says his glasses do seem a bit blurry. It's still early though. Ashlynn has a retro today. The new kid is a 6 year old boy with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. Not only was their flight delayed for 12 hours, but their luggage was left in Beijing.
January 8:
Ate at JQY noodles (Japanese food) at the mall and shopped around for a little bit. Ate dinner at Holiday Inn (again). Changed plans to go to the polar ocean world instead of the zoo because of the weather report for tomorrow (20% chance of snow, temps -1 to -11C / 12-30 F)
Invited the Hendersons to to with us as well - the van is gonna be packed!
January 9:
Snowing when woke up; Charlie wants to wait until 9:30 to see if the snow stops.
Slowed down enough to go. Ate at Diner and went to Polar Ocean World. Very fun - took lots of pics.
January 10:
Marcus had his 2nd retro today. Because of the valium, he slept until about 6pm.
At 3:00, I went to Lottemart with Sherry and Ashlynn - the lines were ridiculous and we didn't get back to the hospital until 5:00.
Started watching Robin Hood, but didn't finish it. Too tired, will finish tomorrow.
January 11:
Went to McDonalds for lunch with Charles, Ashlynn, Erin, Brandon and Marcus (Sherry, Susan and Linda went to Jimo this morning)
Made muffins this morning, almost knocked them all onto the floor; managed to save all but one.
Gonna finish Robin Hood and knit. My goal is to finish mama's socks and start on daddy's before we leave. A week from now we'll be home!
An American Beike rep who lives in China came by today to talk to us. He does video and web design and is going to interview Marcus about his experience here.
January 12:
Another boring day. Marcus slept between his treatments since he didn't take a nap yesterday. Ashlynn got her last lumbar today. Poor Brandon was sick with a stomach-bug type thing.
Talking to my mom today, she told me how she was reading the Outlander series (was on the 3rd one) and said I should read it. Told her I had just read the first one on the way here, so she is going to bring the books to me when she comes up to visit when we get back!
January 13:
Ate lunch at JQY noodles with Sherry, Ashlynn and Susan. Marcus stayed at the hospital and I brought him back KFC. Brandon is still sick so the Hendersons stayed in today. The new people arrived around 10:30 this morning; and 8 year old boy, I believe.
China Trip: Week Three
December 31:
At 1:30, Marcus got his 4th stem cell treatment (retrobulbar). He has a yellow area under his eye, like a faded bruise. Thanks to the valium, his BP is the lowest its been since we got here (133/80). He said the injection didn't hurt and he didn't feel any pressure.
Went to Lottemart to get chicken for dinner and ended up having to use the public toilet. it was... interesting.
Had chicken and peas for dinner. Didn't stay up til midnight, but there was a big fireworks display (more than usual).
January 1:
Didn't do much today. Marcus got his regular therepies. Went to eat at a new restaurant called "Wehome Beefsteak". It was the worst place to eat that we've been to thus far. But the coffee was excellent. :)
January 2:
Went downtown with the Dunns. Bought 7 more strands of pearls at Jimo, plus 2 "Coach" purses (700rmb=$118US). Also got a lighter that looks like a pack of gum (120rmb=$20US) and a little purse and compact for Em (40rmb=$6.50US). Ate at the Diner, went to Zhan Shan Temple. Got an incense burner for Yale (280rmb=$47US) and lastly, went to Marys Market.
January 3:
Lazy day; got up about 8:45. Marcus had regular treatments. Hung out with the Dunns and showed Ashlynn how to shuffle cards. She was very amused by the sound and held her hands over mine so she could feel me doing it. Talked to Marcus's parents and decided to get an extra treatment (after much debate).
Went with Sherry, Ashlynn and Susan to Holiday Inn for supper; Charles chose not to go. Ever since yesterday, Ashlynn has decided I'm her new best friend and clings to me and wants to hold my hand and sit by me. Very cute :)
January 4:
Went to Lottemart for soda, juice, ham, sugar, chicken and fruit. Made meatless spaghetti and brownie cupcakes. Hung out with the Dunns for a little while. Watched "In the Electric mist" and "The Illusionist"
January 5:
Today is Marcus's 2nd lumbar injection. While they were cleaning our room this morning we went to visit Sherry and Ashlynn. Ashlynn started fussing and crying (for no good reason, really), then the nurse cane in to give her an IV and she really starting crying and screaming. We left. Then Marcus got his IV and waited for his lunch to arrive (KFC). I ate leftover spaghetti, then we went back to visit Ashlynn - she was calm again. The schedule said 3:00, but they took him up around 2:00 and it was about 2:30 when he came back (BP: 149/89)
Knitted and watch Avatar while he slept.
At 8:30 both Marcus and Ashlynn were awake and doing fine and eating. Marcus says his back is slightly sore, but nothing like last time. We'll see what tomorrow brings.
January 6:
Late last night, Marcus's back started hurting him pretty bad, but a heat pack, ibuprofen and sleep seems to have fixed most of it. It's doing better this morning and there's no sign of a headache. Supposed to be getting an American family in today (with a little boy), but their flight was delayed until 10:30 pm.
About 10:30am: Marcus started getting a headache.
About 1:00: Doc came in and gave him some ibuprofen and is started getting better in about an hour or so.
Made mac-n-cheese for dinner.
At 1:30, Marcus got his 4th stem cell treatment (retrobulbar). He has a yellow area under his eye, like a faded bruise. Thanks to the valium, his BP is the lowest its been since we got here (133/80). He said the injection didn't hurt and he didn't feel any pressure.
Went to Lottemart to get chicken for dinner and ended up having to use the public toilet. it was... interesting.
Had chicken and peas for dinner. Didn't stay up til midnight, but there was a big fireworks display (more than usual).
January 1:
Didn't do much today. Marcus got his regular therepies. Went to eat at a new restaurant called "Wehome Beefsteak". It was the worst place to eat that we've been to thus far. But the coffee was excellent. :)
January 2:
Went downtown with the Dunns. Bought 7 more strands of pearls at Jimo, plus 2 "Coach" purses (700rmb=$118US). Also got a lighter that looks like a pack of gum (120rmb=$20US) and a little purse and compact for Em (40rmb=$6.50US). Ate at the Diner, went to Zhan Shan Temple. Got an incense burner for Yale (280rmb=$47US) and lastly, went to Marys Market.
January 3:
Lazy day; got up about 8:45. Marcus had regular treatments. Hung out with the Dunns and showed Ashlynn how to shuffle cards. She was very amused by the sound and held her hands over mine so she could feel me doing it. Talked to Marcus's parents and decided to get an extra treatment (after much debate).
Went with Sherry, Ashlynn and Susan to Holiday Inn for supper; Charles chose not to go. Ever since yesterday, Ashlynn has decided I'm her new best friend and clings to me and wants to hold my hand and sit by me. Very cute :)
January 4:
Went to Lottemart for soda, juice, ham, sugar, chicken and fruit. Made meatless spaghetti and brownie cupcakes. Hung out with the Dunns for a little while. Watched "In the Electric mist" and "The Illusionist"
January 5:
Today is Marcus's 2nd lumbar injection. While they were cleaning our room this morning we went to visit Sherry and Ashlynn. Ashlynn started fussing and crying (for no good reason, really), then the nurse cane in to give her an IV and she really starting crying and screaming. We left. Then Marcus got his IV and waited for his lunch to arrive (KFC). I ate leftover spaghetti, then we went back to visit Ashlynn - she was calm again. The schedule said 3:00, but they took him up around 2:00 and it was about 2:30 when he came back (BP: 149/89)
Knitted and watch Avatar while he slept.
At 8:30 both Marcus and Ashlynn were awake and doing fine and eating. Marcus says his back is slightly sore, but nothing like last time. We'll see what tomorrow brings.
January 6:
Late last night, Marcus's back started hurting him pretty bad, but a heat pack, ibuprofen and sleep seems to have fixed most of it. It's doing better this morning and there's no sign of a headache. Supposed to be getting an American family in today (with a little boy), but their flight was delayed until 10:30 pm.
About 10:30am: Marcus started getting a headache.
About 1:00: Doc came in and gave him some ibuprofen and is started getting better in about an hour or so.
Made mac-n-cheese for dinner.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
China Trip: Week Two
December 24: Today is a treatment day for Marcus (lumbar puncture) and he has no acupuncture, so we slept in (or tried to - nurse came in at 7am to check his temp and 3 more people came to the door before 10am, wanting to change sheets, clean room and doc to ask questions). Lucy came by to take lunch orders, I'm getting Chinese food and Marcus is getting KFC, hopefully it will get here before 11:30 because he can't eat after that. Nurse is starting his IV right now (BP:140/99) April and Josh invited us to go to the hotsprings (40 min away) with them tomorrow morning, but Marcus has treatments until 2pm tomorrow so we had to decline.
1:50pm: Marcus just got out of his lumbar puncture (BP: 140/87; pulse 81) he had a valium and is woozy.
Had an interesting Christmas Eve dinner:turkey and dressing, sushi and noodles, tacos and beans, mac-n-cheese and cake. Marcus is doing very well, just a bit of a backache.
December 25: Merry Christmas! Marcus' back is still sore today. I fixed pancakes for breakfast this morning - that was an adventure! Lucy gave us our schedule for next week - they changed it a little. Instead of having a retrobulbar on Wednesday, he's going to have another lumbar on wednesday and a retro on friday. Marcus' back has been hurting him a little. I gave him some crushed up ibuprofen in his applesauce. Spoke with his parents and mine, wished them a Merry Christmas.
April and Josh called when leaving the hotsprings wanting to know if we wanted to join them for dinner at the Doubletree. It was still early (4:30) so the buffet wasn't out yet. so we ordered off the menu. Marcus got a ribeye - said it wasn't as good as the steak at either the holiday inn or the UNDC coffee house. I had a tuna steak, which was pretty good except it had a lot of pepper. We're thinking about staying there next weekend just to get away.
December 26: Started last night - a stuffed up and runny nose. Not any better this morning, took some pseudoephedrine and ibuprofen as I'm afraid I might be running a fever. Gonna relax and not go outside today.
Haven't felt good all day. Marcus' back is better, but he's had a bad headache all day and a mild fever (37.5 C). Have done nothing but read and watch movies all day. Marcus slept. I started mama's socks.
December 27: Still don't feel great today. Went to Lottemart to get some juice. Ate at KFC and got some McDonalds coffee. Marcus is feeling 100% better. He gets another IV treatment on Wednesday and his first retrobulbar on Friday. Josh gets his last treatment (IV) today and they leave on Wednesday. Ashlynn gets her first lumbar treatment today. Poor kid was puking earlier (not sure why) but it doens't look like they are going to postpone treatment. Elizabeth and her parents also leave this week, but there are supposed to be 2 or 3 more American families arriving before we leave. Marcus' doctor wasn't here today but we're gonna talk with her tommorow about the possibility of getting a 2nd retro - but we may have to pay for an extra treatment for that to happen.
December 28: Feeling slightly better so far today. Marcus gets his third treatment, an IV, tomorrow at 1:30. Today we were lazy again. April and Josh leave tomorrow, as well as the Venezualan people. We went with Josh and April to the Doubletree to eat again.
Ashlynn was sick earlier, but seemed to be feeling better towards the evening.
While we were sitting in the common area, a Chinese boy from upstairs peed on a fake plant in the corner of the room and also behind the nurses station!!
December 29: Marcus got his 3rd stem cell treatment today (IV). April and Josh left today (as well as the Venezualans). They gave us the pads off their bed, as well as excess foodstuffs. I made chocolate peanut-butter-chip cookies. Delish! I decided to make spaghetti for dinner tonight (I actually remembered to thaw out the meat). I used Hunts spaghetti sauce out of a package. I've never used that brand before. It wasn't great. Kinda sweet and watery.
December 30: After going to the OT room for electrowave today (Owen is on vacation, so Forrest has been doing Marcus' therapy) he went to get his IV taken out. But his doctor came by and told him to leave it in because he has another treatment tomorrow. This is all well and good, except he hasn't had a shower since Tuesday night, so we're gonna have to figure out how to give him a sponge bath without getting his right hand wet.
I went with Sherry and Susan to get a massage. It was interesting. The back and shoulder part was really good. The stomach part we weird. And the whole experience was verging on pain part of the time as they used their cupped fists to tap you with, making a popping sound.
1:50pm: Marcus just got out of his lumbar puncture (BP: 140/87; pulse 81) he had a valium and is woozy.
Had an interesting Christmas Eve dinner:turkey and dressing, sushi and noodles, tacos and beans, mac-n-cheese and cake. Marcus is doing very well, just a bit of a backache.
December 25: Merry Christmas! Marcus' back is still sore today. I fixed pancakes for breakfast this morning - that was an adventure! Lucy gave us our schedule for next week - they changed it a little. Instead of having a retrobulbar on Wednesday, he's going to have another lumbar on wednesday and a retro on friday. Marcus' back has been hurting him a little. I gave him some crushed up ibuprofen in his applesauce. Spoke with his parents and mine, wished them a Merry Christmas.
April and Josh called when leaving the hotsprings wanting to know if we wanted to join them for dinner at the Doubletree. It was still early (4:30) so the buffet wasn't out yet. so we ordered off the menu. Marcus got a ribeye - said it wasn't as good as the steak at either the holiday inn or the UNDC coffee house. I had a tuna steak, which was pretty good except it had a lot of pepper. We're thinking about staying there next weekend just to get away.
December 26: Started last night - a stuffed up and runny nose. Not any better this morning, took some pseudoephedrine and ibuprofen as I'm afraid I might be running a fever. Gonna relax and not go outside today.
Haven't felt good all day. Marcus' back is better, but he's had a bad headache all day and a mild fever (37.5 C). Have done nothing but read and watch movies all day. Marcus slept. I started mama's socks.
December 27: Still don't feel great today. Went to Lottemart to get some juice. Ate at KFC and got some McDonalds coffee. Marcus is feeling 100% better. He gets another IV treatment on Wednesday and his first retrobulbar on Friday. Josh gets his last treatment (IV) today and they leave on Wednesday. Ashlynn gets her first lumbar treatment today. Poor kid was puking earlier (not sure why) but it doens't look like they are going to postpone treatment. Elizabeth and her parents also leave this week, but there are supposed to be 2 or 3 more American families arriving before we leave. Marcus' doctor wasn't here today but we're gonna talk with her tommorow about the possibility of getting a 2nd retro - but we may have to pay for an extra treatment for that to happen.
December 28: Feeling slightly better so far today. Marcus gets his third treatment, an IV, tomorrow at 1:30. Today we were lazy again. April and Josh leave tomorrow, as well as the Venezualan people. We went with Josh and April to the Doubletree to eat again.
Ashlynn was sick earlier, but seemed to be feeling better towards the evening.
While we were sitting in the common area, a Chinese boy from upstairs peed on a fake plant in the corner of the room and also behind the nurses station!!
December 29: Marcus got his 3rd stem cell treatment today (IV). April and Josh left today (as well as the Venezualans). They gave us the pads off their bed, as well as excess foodstuffs. I made chocolate peanut-butter-chip cookies. Delish! I decided to make spaghetti for dinner tonight (I actually remembered to thaw out the meat). I used Hunts spaghetti sauce out of a package. I've never used that brand before. It wasn't great. Kinda sweet and watery.
December 30: After going to the OT room for electrowave today (Owen is on vacation, so Forrest has been doing Marcus' therapy) he went to get his IV taken out. But his doctor came by and told him to leave it in because he has another treatment tomorrow. This is all well and good, except he hasn't had a shower since Tuesday night, so we're gonna have to figure out how to give him a sponge bath without getting his right hand wet.
I went with Sherry and Susan to get a massage. It was interesting. The back and shoulder part was really good. The stomach part we weird. And the whole experience was verging on pain part of the time as they used their cupped fists to tap you with, making a popping sound.
China Trip: Week One
December 17: Went to bed around 6pm last night. Was woken up at 6:00 today when they came in to draw Marcus' blood. At 10:30 the physical therapist came by to discuss acupuncture treatment. We stopped by the other American patients rooms and introduced ourselves. There is Elizabeth, a 30-year-old woman, with her parents, from San Antonio. She has optic nerve atrophy (she also was born with hydrocephaly and has stents and so therefore cannot receive lumbar treatments). She has received retrobulbar injections and says it does not hurt, only pressure.
There is also Josh, a 17-year-old from Colorado here with his mother. He has Ushers Syndrome and 2 years ago was diagnosed with RP. His is not near as bad as Marcus (20/40).
At 12:30, we went to downtown Qingdao to the eye hospital and had 8 tests done. We finally arrived back at the hospital at 5pm. We then went to the holiday in with Josh and April to eat dinner. It was pretty decent food. We also received our schedule.
December 18: Slept in a little today. Went down to see Josh and April. He was in the middle of his acupuncture treatment and later we saw him get the fire cup treatment. It was Lucia's (Elizabeth's mom) birthday, so we went to LotteMart and got her a cake (which was an ordeal) also some chicken, potatoes, and salad fixings and April cooked some garlic chicken. It was delicious. Marcus was feeling sniffly, so he took a benedryl and slept through dinner. I stayed in the common room with the other Americans, plus the two families from Canada and the one from Venezuala. I had two Tsingdao beers. They are similar in taste to Budlight. Then Josh and I played ping-pong for about 30 minutes. Tomorrow we are going downtown to shop.
December 19: A long day today. Got up around 8 and at 9:30 left for downtown Qingdao. We went to Jimo road market and got pearls for 100 rmb ($16.50 USD), "Rolex" watches for 200 rmb ($32 USD) and some sunglasses and two sets of chopsticks (80 rmb = $12USD). We then all ate at The Diner. I had parmesan chicken, it was pretty good. The we went to Polar Ocean World (kinda like their version of Seaworld). Then Mary's Market to get American food (chicken noodle soup: 25rmb= $5USD, and DP: 15rmg= $2USD) and Jusco to get meat and cheese hat aren't available at LotteMart. Spent a total of 1006 rmb at Mary's Market.
December 20: First day of treatment. Acupuncture at 8:40 (30 min), electrowave at 9:10 (20 min). Dr Sunny came in with translator Amanda and talked to Marcus for a little bit. We also talked to our dads, Nick, and Bob-chris today. Marcus got his IV put in around 10:30, but his treatment isn't until 12:10.
December 21: Acupuncture and electrowave this morning. Got two needles in his ankles in addition to the face ones. In the afternoon got acupressure (facial massage) and firecups. Left 4 on his back for about 10 minutes, and now he has big hickey-like bruises on his back. Lucy told us about a Christmas Eve potluck, so I need to think of something to bring. Went to Lottemart with April, got more juice and coke, plus some smell-good stuff for the bathroom - it seems to be helping quite a bit. Was gonna get milk, but it was all out of date. Read some and helped Marcus read some of his CCNA stuff.
December 22: Not much going on today. Owen, the physical therapist, left 4 more firecups (this time on his lower back) so how Marcus has 8 bruises on his back. Talked a bit with the new Americans. Ashlynn, 5 years old, has optic nerve dysplasia (due to be shaken as a baby by a babysitter) her mom Sherry, step-grandma Susan and grandpa Charles came with her. Susan is going to come with April and me to Jimo Road tomorrow.
December 23: Went to Jimo road today. Bought 3 more pearl necklaces (long ones this time) for 100rmb a piece. The lady at the shop remembered me and when I asked how much for a bracelet, she gave it to me, and also gave one to Susan and April (it is the smaller, irregular pearls, so not worth that much). Got a gold rolex and a Omega watch for 500rmb (down from 900 rmb). Also got a lighter for Nick that looks like a pack of gum for 10rmb. Ate at Subway - was pretty good, although they didn't have mozzarella cheese. Went to Mary's market, got more soup and mac-n-cheese, along with stove top stuffing for the Christmas Eve potluck.
There is also Josh, a 17-year-old from Colorado here with his mother. He has Ushers Syndrome and 2 years ago was diagnosed with RP. His is not near as bad as Marcus (20/40).
At 12:30, we went to downtown Qingdao to the eye hospital and had 8 tests done. We finally arrived back at the hospital at 5pm. We then went to the holiday in with Josh and April to eat dinner. It was pretty decent food. We also received our schedule.
December 18: Slept in a little today. Went down to see Josh and April. He was in the middle of his acupuncture treatment and later we saw him get the fire cup treatment. It was Lucia's (Elizabeth's mom) birthday, so we went to LotteMart and got her a cake (which was an ordeal) also some chicken, potatoes, and salad fixings and April cooked some garlic chicken. It was delicious. Marcus was feeling sniffly, so he took a benedryl and slept through dinner. I stayed in the common room with the other Americans, plus the two families from Canada and the one from Venezuala. I had two Tsingdao beers. They are similar in taste to Budlight. Then Josh and I played ping-pong for about 30 minutes. Tomorrow we are going downtown to shop.
December 19: A long day today. Got up around 8 and at 9:30 left for downtown Qingdao. We went to Jimo road market and got pearls for 100 rmb ($16.50 USD), "Rolex" watches for 200 rmb ($32 USD) and some sunglasses and two sets of chopsticks (80 rmb = $12USD). We then all ate at The Diner. I had parmesan chicken, it was pretty good. The we went to Polar Ocean World (kinda like their version of Seaworld). Then Mary's Market to get American food (chicken noodle soup: 25rmb= $5USD, and DP: 15rmg= $2USD) and Jusco to get meat and cheese hat aren't available at LotteMart. Spent a total of 1006 rmb at Mary's Market.
December 20: First day of treatment. Acupuncture at 8:40 (30 min), electrowave at 9:10 (20 min). Dr Sunny came in with translator Amanda and talked to Marcus for a little bit. We also talked to our dads, Nick, and Bob-chris today. Marcus got his IV put in around 10:30, but his treatment isn't until 12:10.
December 21: Acupuncture and electrowave this morning. Got two needles in his ankles in addition to the face ones. In the afternoon got acupressure (facial massage) and firecups. Left 4 on his back for about 10 minutes, and now he has big hickey-like bruises on his back. Lucy told us about a Christmas Eve potluck, so I need to think of something to bring. Went to Lottemart with April, got more juice and coke, plus some smell-good stuff for the bathroom - it seems to be helping quite a bit. Was gonna get milk, but it was all out of date. Read some and helped Marcus read some of his CCNA stuff.
December 22: Not much going on today. Owen, the physical therapist, left 4 more firecups (this time on his lower back) so how Marcus has 8 bruises on his back. Talked a bit with the new Americans. Ashlynn, 5 years old, has optic nerve dysplasia (due to be shaken as a baby by a babysitter) her mom Sherry, step-grandma Susan and grandpa Charles came with her. Susan is going to come with April and me to Jimo Road tomorrow.
December 23: Went to Jimo road today. Bought 3 more pearl necklaces (long ones this time) for 100rmb a piece. The lady at the shop remembered me and when I asked how much for a bracelet, she gave it to me, and also gave one to Susan and April (it is the smaller, irregular pearls, so not worth that much). Got a gold rolex and a Omega watch for 500rmb (down from 900 rmb). Also got a lighter for Nick that looks like a pack of gum for 10rmb. Ate at Subway - was pretty good, although they didn't have mozzarella cheese. Went to Mary's market, got more soup and mac-n-cheese, along with stove top stuffing for the Christmas Eve potluck.
China Trip: Getting There
December 14: Went to dinner at Saltgrass with Mama, Daddy, Matthew, Eugenia and Walter. Went to airport. Flight to LA was ok. LA airport was hell. No signs and had to ask half a dozen people before we got to the correct terminal for international flights.
December 15: 14 hour flights suck!!! I took a mecklizine before boarding and then a dramamine after dinner (very bland roast, carrots, and potatoes; decent cheesecake). I slept good for about 5-6 hours then woke up feeling sick. Used my barf bag and Marcus'. Somewhere on this hellish flight we crossed the international date line.
December 16: After I got over my pukiness things looked up. We got breakfast, choice of either pancakes or fish and rice, both served with raspberry yogurt, fruit, and a muffin. I ate my muffin and Marcus'.
Spent 5 hours in the Seoul airport. Although it's more like a shopping mall that happens to also have an airport in it. Ate a mocha latte and a chocolate covered SOY donut at Dunkin Donuts. Found an internet cafe and skyped our parents. Ate dinner at KFC.
Quick, easy flight to Qingdao. Minor issue going through customs with Marcus' passport. Met Lucy, did a hospital tour, a few quick tests, went grocery shopping and now unpacking and settling in. Still kind unreal.
December 15: 14 hour flights suck!!! I took a mecklizine before boarding and then a dramamine after dinner (very bland roast, carrots, and potatoes; decent cheesecake). I slept good for about 5-6 hours then woke up feeling sick. Used my barf bag and Marcus'. Somewhere on this hellish flight we crossed the international date line.
December 16: After I got over my pukiness things looked up. We got breakfast, choice of either pancakes or fish and rice, both served with raspberry yogurt, fruit, and a muffin. I ate my muffin and Marcus'.
Spent 5 hours in the Seoul airport. Although it's more like a shopping mall that happens to also have an airport in it. Ate a mocha latte and a chocolate covered SOY donut at Dunkin Donuts. Found an internet cafe and skyped our parents. Ate dinner at KFC.
Quick, easy flight to Qingdao. Minor issue going through customs with Marcus' passport. Met Lucy, did a hospital tour, a few quick tests, went grocery shopping and now unpacking and settling in. Still kind unreal.
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